| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08012612B2 |
Interlayer for laminated glass and laminated glass
The present invention provides an interlayer for laminated glass which comprises at least one layer composed of an opaque ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer resin composition or opaque polyvinyl acetal resin composition, and also provides the laminated glass using such interlayers. The interlayer for laminated glass and the laminated glass according to the present invention can offer excellent privacy protection. |
| US08012611B2 |
Surface-coated cutting tool
The present invention relates to a surface-coated cutting tool comprising a substrate and a coating formed on the substrate, the coating includes a first coating of TiCN and a second coating of α-type Al2O3, the first coating is located between the substrate and the aforementioned second coating, and the second coating has compressive stress S1 in an area A1 spreading from an insert ridge portion in the direction of a rake face and the direction of a flank face with distances of at least 0.5 mm respectively and has tensile stress S2 in an area A2 other than this area A1, while compressive stress S1 and tensile stress S2 are defined by the following expression (I): 400 MPa≦|S1−S2|≦3500 Mpa (I). |
| US08012610B2 |
Visible-light-responsive photoactive coating, coated article, and method of making same
An article includes a substrate having an inner surface and an outer surface. A coating is deposited directly on at least a portion of the substrate outer surface. The coating consists essentially of titania and at least one additional photoabsorption band modifying material selected from vanadium (V), manganese (Mn), magnesium (Mg), scandium (Sc), yttrium (Y), niobium (Nb), molybdenum (Mo), ruthenium (Ru), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), rhenium (Re), and mixtures thereof. The coating is a substantially non-porous CVD or MSVD coating and an outer surface of the coating is exposed to the environment. |
| US08012606B2 |
Heterocyclic compound and organic electroluminescent device using the same
Disclosed is an organic electroluminescent device (organic EL device) which is improved in luminous efficiency, fully secured of driving stability, and simple in structure and also disclosed is a heterocyclic compound useful for the said device. Specifically, the heterocyclic compound is represented by the following general formula (I) and the organic EL device comprises an organic layer containing the said heterocyclic compound. In general formula (I), X1 and X2 respectively denote O, S, or N—R, R denotes a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, or a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, Ar1, Ar2, Ar3, and Ar4 respectively denote a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, Ar1, Ar2, and the nitrogen atom bonded thereto or Ar3, Ar4, and the nitrogen atom bonded thereto may form a nitrogen-containing hetero ring, and m and n respectively denote an integer of 1 or 2. |
| US08012605B2 |
Organic light-emitting compound and organic electroluminescent device using the same
Provided are an organic light-emitting compound represented by Formula 1 and an organic electroluminescent (EL) device using the same: The organic light-emitting compound has thermostability and photochemical stability in addition to superior electrical features. The organic EL device using the organic light-emitting compound has low driving voltage, high efficiency, and superior color purity. |
| US08012601B2 |
Cold gas spraying method
In a cold gas spraying method, a gas jet (15) into which particles (19) are introduced is generated with the aid of a cold gas spray gun (20). The kinetic energy of the particles (19) results in a layer being formed on a substrate (13). The substrate is provided with a structured texture (24) which is transferred to the layer (20) that is formed. The method makes it advantageously possible to produce a high-temperature superconducting layer on the substrate (13) by selecting an appropriate particle (19) composition. The process can be additionally supported using a heating device (25) in a subsequent thermal treatment step. |
| US08012599B2 |
Surface-treated steel sheet with excellent corrosion resistance and method for manufacturing same
The surface-treated steel sheet has a zinc-based plated steel sheet, a surface-treatment coating being formed on the surface of the zinc-based steel sheet by applying and drying a surface treatment coating composition thereon, and a top coating being formed by applying and drying a coating composition for top coating on the surface-treatment coating. The surface treatment coating composition contains a water-epoxy resin dispersion, a silane coupling agent, and phosphoric acid and/or a hexafluorometal acid. The coating composition for top coating contains a high molecular weight epoxy group-containing resin having number average molecular weights ranging from 6000 to 20000. |
| US08012597B2 |
Cast product having aluminum-based film and process for producing the same
In a throttle body, a passive film and a corrosion-resistant film are stacked in that order on a substrate of aluminum. The passive film has a concave part on its corrosion-resistant film side. A metal layer is provided in the concave part. In shot blasting, upon collision of a blasting material against the corrosion-resistant film, a part of the blasting material is separated and adhered onto the resultant concaves to form the metal layer. For example, aluminum having a purity of not less than 98% is selected as the blasting material. |
| US08012593B2 |
Textile coating formulations comprising crosslinkable liquid silicones, metal alkoxides and functional coreactants
Crosslinkable liquid silicone compostions suited, on curing, for the long-lasting protective and/or applicational coating/treatment of textile substrates, for example, for imparting softness, hydrophobicity, oleophobicity, hydrophilicity or antistatic properties thereto, comprise a formulation of (a) at least one particular polyorganosiloxane (POS) resin, (B) at least one metal alkoxide and/or polyalkoxide, or combination thereof with at least one optionally alkoxylated organosilane and/or at least one organosilicon compound bearing at least one epoxy, amino, ureido, isocyanato and/or isocyanurate substituent, (C) at least one functional coreactant therefor, (D), optionally, at least one nonreactive additive and (E), also optionally, at least one auxiliary agent other than an additive (D). |
| US08012584B2 |
High-performance pressure vessel and carbon fiber for pressure vessel
A pressure vessel includes a vessel body and a fiber reinforced plastic layer formed on the surface of the vessel body, wherein the fiber reinforced plastic layer include fiber reinforced plastic in which reinforcing fibers are impregnated with plastic, a strand elastic modulus of the reinforcing fiber is 305 GPa or higher, and a tensile elongation of the reinforcing fiber is 1.45 to 1.70%. A carbon fiber for a pressure vessel has a strand elastic modulus of 305 GPa or higher and a tensile elongation of 1.45 to 1.70%. |
| US08012582B2 |
Sintered proppant made with a raw material containing alkaline earth equivalent
A method of making a proppant is provided, wherein the method includes the steps of: (a) forming a particulate comprising: (i) a binder; and (ii) a filler; and (b) sintering the particulate to form a sintered proppant, wherein the sintered proppant comprises: (i) at least 20 wt % of alkaline earth oxide equivalent; and (ii) at least 20 wt % of silicon dioxide equivalent. A method of treating (e.g., fracturing) a subterranean formation is provided, the method including the steps of: (a) suspending the sintered proppant in a treatment fluid; and (b) introducing the sintered proppant into the subterranean formation. The sintered proppant is made with a raw material selected from the group consisting of: unhydrated cement, hydrated cement (e.g., construction cement or concrete waste), kiln dust, fly ash, limestone, lime, talc, olivine, dolomite, clay that contains a substantial concentration of alkaline earth oxide equivalent, and any combination thereof in any proportion. |
| US08012578B2 |
Method for producing composite materials
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of composites from thermoplastic polymers and (semi)metal oxides, in particular silicon dioxide, wherein at least a part of the (semi)metal oxides is dispersed in the polymers in nanodispersed manner (nanocomposites). The invention relates to the composites obtainable by this process and their processing to give molded articles. |
| US08012577B2 |
Composite article made by a process
Disclosed herein is a consolidated or densified composite article comprising polymer, particularly fluoropolymer, and carbon fiber. |
| US08012576B2 |
Roof coverings having improved tear strength
A roof covering includes a roofing mat formed from fibers of a fiber material. The fibers are coated with a sizing. The roof covering also includes a coating material that coats the mat. The coating material is based on an organic material. The sizing includes a sulfur-containing material that bonds to the fiber material. The sulfur-containing material has sulfur groups that form cross-links with the organic material. In another embodiment, the coating material contains sulfur added to the organic material. The sizing includes a bonding material that bonds to the fiber material and that bonds to the sulfur. The sulfur forms cross-links with the organic material. |
| US08012574B2 |
Carbon fiber Ti-Ai composite material and method for preparation thereof
To provide a carbon fiber Ti—Al composite material having hardness, heat resistance and abrasion resistance, having reduced weight and improved strength and thermal conductivity and being excellent in uniformity of the quality.A carbon fiber Ti—Al composite material which is prepared by pressure impregnating a molded product containing fine carbon fibers having a fiber diameter of from 0.5 to 500 nm and a fiber length of at most 1,000 μm and having a hollow-structured central axis and a titanium powder or a titanium oxide powder, with aluminum or an aluminum alloy by molten metal forging. |
| US08012572B2 |
Multilayer, heat-shrinkable film comprising a plurality of microlayers
A multilayer, heat-shrinkable film generally includes at least one bulk layer and a microlayer section comprising a plurality of microlayers. The ratio of the thickness of any of the microlayers to the thickness of the bulk layer ranges from about 1:2 to about 1:40. |
| US08012566B2 |
Microneedles formed by electroplating and selectively releasing temperature sensitive layers
Methods and structures including a release mechanism for use with the formation and then separation of a multi-layered structure are provided. The methods and structures provide for a master substrate on which is formed a temperature-sensitive release layer. A releasable structure is then formed on top of the temperature-sensitive release layer. The releasable structure can be freed from the master substrate by exposing the temperature-sensitive release layer to a temperature sufficient to soften or melt of the release layer. |
| US08012564B2 |
Nanoparticle dispersions with low aggregation levels
An apparatus comprising a substrate having a surface and a dielectric layer comprising a distribution of particles. The layer is located over the surface and has a dielectric constant of seven or more. Each particle has a particle core and a polymer shell that is chemically bonded thereto and located around the associated particle core. Each particle core includes a material having a dielectric constant of about fifteen or more. Aggregates of the particle cores having diameters of about 0.5 microns or more are substantially absent from the layer. |
| US08012563B2 |
Large-size substrate
A large-size substrate adapted for light exposure is of a plate shape having a diagonal length or diameter of 500-2,000 mm, a thickness of 1-20 mm, and a peripheral surface with a roughness Ra of 0.05-0.4 μm. The number of particles released from the substrate periphery during cleaning is minimized, leading to an improved yield in the cleaning step. The substrate can be manually handled, achieving an improvement in substrate quality without a need for a handling mechanism. |
| US08012562B2 |
Wear-resistant coating
The present technology generally relates to a wear-resistant coating, especially for gas turbine components, comprising a horizontally segmented or multilayered structure, i.e. at least one relatively hard, ceramic layer and at least one relatively soft, metallic layer. The ceramic layer and the metallic layer are alternately arranged on top of each other in such a way that an external layer forming an external surface of the wear-resistant coating is embodied as a ceramic layer. According to the invention, at least the external, ceramic layer is segmented in a column-type manner in a vertical direction. |
| US08012561B2 |
Fiber-reinforced resin and method for manufacturing the same
A fiber-reinforced resin is provided which includes a fiber bundle 2 comprising a plurality of monofilament layers 20, 21, and 22 being laminated, each of the monofilament layers comprising a plurality of monofilaments 23 arranged in one direction and an adhesive 3 for adhering the monofilaments 23 of the fiber bundle 2 together, and the fiber bundle 2 has a honeycomb-shaped cross section. |
| US08012557B2 |
Label assembly and method of using the same to label articles durably yet removably
A label assembly and method of using the same to label articles durably, yet removably. In one embodiment, the label assembly is used to label fabric articles, such as clothing, and comprises (a) an image forming laminate for forming an image on the fabric article, the image forming laminate comprising an ink layer, the ink layer being bondable to the fabric article; and (b) an image removing laminate for removing the image from the fabric article, the image removing laminate comprising a remover layer, the remover layer, upon being activated by heat and/or light, being bondable to the ink layer of the image forming laminate; (c) whereby, upon bonding of the image removing laminate to the ink layer, the bonding between the image removing laminate and the ink layer is stronger than the bonding between the ink layer and the fabric article. |
| US08012543B2 |
Use and method for reduction of corrosion
The invention relates to a use of a composition containing polyorganosiloxane S and a method of reducing corrosion on steel reinforcement in reinforced concrete constructions, and also a concrete structure which is produced using such compositions. It is highly suitable for the renovation of old concrete but also for inhibition of corrosion of reinforcing iron in fresh concrete. |
| US08012542B2 |
Fluoropolymer coating compositions containing adhesive polymers and substrate coating process
A liquid fluoropolymer coating composition and a process for using the composition to make fluoropolymer coated polymeric substrates. The liquid fluoropolymer composition comprises fluoropolymer selected from homopolymers and copolymers of vinyl fluoride and homopolymers and copolymers of vinylidene fluoride polymer, solvent, and compatible adhesive polymer comprising functional groups selected from carboxylic acid, sulfonic acid, aziridine, amine, isocyanate, melamine, epoxy, hydroxy, anhydride and mixtures thereof. In the process, the composition is applied to a polymeric substrate comprising functional groups on its surface that interact with said compatible adhesive polymer to promote bonding of said fluoropolymer coating to said substrate. The solvent is removed from the coating composition applied to the substrate to form a fluoropolymer coating on the substrate. |
| US08012540B2 |
Aqueous emulsion comprising a functionalized polyolefin and carbon nanotubes
Aqueous emulsion comprising: (i) at least one functionalized polyolefin (gPO), obtained by grafting, on at least one unfunctionalized polyolefin (PO), acid and/or anhydride groups, the acid and/or anhydride groups being optionally completely or partially neutralized by at least one neutralizing agent; (ii) at least one emulsifier; (iii) at least one dispersant containing water; and (iv) carbon nanotubes. |
| US08012537B2 |
Controlling the vaporization of organic material
A method for controlling the deposition of vaporized organic material onto a substrate surface, includes providing a manifold having at least one aperture through which vaporized organic material passes for deposition onto the substrate surface; and providing a volume of organic material and maintaining the temperature of such organic material in a first condition so that its vapor pressure is below that needed to effectively form a layer on the substrate, and in a second condition heating a volume percentage of the initial volume of such organic material so that the vapor pressure of the heated organic material is sufficient to effectively form a layer. |
| US08012535B2 |
Method for producing a coated substrate body, substrate body comprising a coating and use of the coated substrate body
The invention relates to a method for producing a coated substrate body by chemical vapor deposition at least on one layer made of a carbonitride of a metal of IVa-Vla-groups of the periodic table, wherein a monocyclic hydrocarbon is used in the gas atmosphere during the deposition, in addition to a nitrile. According to the invention, the thus produced coated substrate body has a high degree of hardness and is used, preferably, in cutting operations where the cutting speeds are ≧250 m/min. |
| US08012532B2 |
Methods of making crystalline tantalum pentoxide
There is disclosed a method of forming crystalline tantalum pentoxide on a ruthenium-containing material having an oxygen-containing surface wherein the oxygen-containing surface is contacted with a treating composition, such as water, to remove at least some oxygen. Crystalline tantalum pentoxide is formed on at least a portion of the surface having reduced oxygen content. |
| US08012528B2 |
Composition for conductive materials comprising tetra acrylate functionalised arylamines, conductive material and layer, electronic device and equipment
The object of the present invention is to provide a composition for conductive materials from which a conductive layer having a high carrier transport ability can be made, a conductive material formed of the composition and having a high carrier transport ability, a conductive layer formed using the conductive material as a main material, an electronic device provided with the conductive layer and having high reliability, and electronic equipment provided with the electronic device. The composition for conductive materials of the present invention comprising a compound represented by the following general formula (A1): wherein eight Rs may be the same or different and each independently represents a hydrogen atom, a methyl group or an ethyl group, Y represents a group containing at least one substituted or unsubstituted aromatic hydrocarbon ring or substituted or unsubstituted heterocycle, and X1, X2, X3 and X4 may be the same or different and each independently represents a substituent represented by the following general formula (A2): wherein n is an integer of 2 to 8 and Z1 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group. |
| US08012523B2 |
Permanent filtering pod for brewing beverages
A permanent, resilient filtering pod for brewing beverages which negates the necessity and costs of purchasing filters after each brewed cup provides an enclosed vessel to hold the brewed substance and prevents the brewed substances from spilling over the beverage brewing machine basket or clogging the spray nozzle of the beverage brewing machine yet allows the user to fill the pod with brewing substances purchased in bulk and to control the strength of the beverage brewed. |
| US08012521B2 |
Method for controlling water content with decontamination in meats
Disclosed is a method for producing treated meat having a predetermined proportion of water in a container. The method includes treating meat that has lost water content through evaporation with an agent capable of killing bacteria together with an amount of water, wherein the amount of water corresponds to the amount of water that is lost through evaporation. The method provides meat being treated with a bactericidal agent as well as also providing meat with the predetermined amount of water for packaging. |
| US08012519B2 |
Granulated monocalcium phosphate product containing abrasivity and lubricity additives
A granulated monocalcium phosphate composition that provides sufficient nutritional value as well as enhanced pelleting benefits, such as abrasiveness and lubricity, compared to other granulated phosphate feed products. The granulated monocalcium phosphate composition includes one or more additives such as lubricity and abrasivity additives. The lubricity additive can include a sodium additive that lubricates the die during a feed milling or pelleting process. The abrasivity additive can include silica or sand that scours the die during the pelleting process. The increased lubricity and abrasivity attributes of the composition benefits die throughput and efficiency in the pelleting process, without compromising nutritional value in the final feed product. |
| US08012515B1 |
Method for preparation of herbal beverage
A process for the preparation (decoction) of an herbal beverage from China Root (Smilax domingensis Willd), Bejuco indio (Gouania polygama) and Pimento leaves (Pimenta dioica Merr) and a modulation effective amount of Ginger root (Zingiber offiicinale); and the product prepared in accordance with this process. |
| US08012514B2 |
Breath freshening and oral cleansing product with Magnolia Bark Extract
A chewing gum composition for oral cleansing, breath freshening, and anti-microbial benefits includes Magnolia Bark extract. In a treatment process, effective amounts of Magnolia Bark extract are delivered to the oral cavity by the chewing gum composition for convenient oral cleansing and breath freshening benefits. A method of making the chewing gum composition includes forming blend of Magnolia Bark extract and a flavoring agent. |
| US08012512B2 |
Purification of inositol from plant materials
Phytate and/or phytin and/or phytic acid in an aqueous slurry of plant material is partially hydrolyzed by incubating the slurry with an enzyme product enriched in phytase. The soluble fraction of the slurry is separated into anionic and neutral fractions. The anionic fraction is then hydrolyzed further, and the hydrolyzate is separated into second ionic and neutral fractions. The second neutral fraction thus obtained is rich in inositol, and does not contain significant quantities of other sugars which would be hard to separate from it. |
| US08012507B2 |
Preservation of bioactive materials by spray drying
This invention provides methods and compositions to preserve bioactive materials in a matrix of powder particles. Methods provide high-pressure gas spraying and/or near supercritical spraying of formulations followed by drying in a stream of conditioned gas to form stable powder particles containing bioactive materials. |
| US08012505B2 |
Dosage form having a saccharide matrix
The present invention provides a non-compressed fast-dispersing solid dosage form suitable for oromucosal administration of a pharmaceutically active substance comprising (a) a first matrix forming agent in the form of maltodextrin having a dextrose equivalent (DE) of between 1 and 20, (b) a second matrix forming agent in the form of sorbitol, and (c) the active substance. |
| US08012501B2 |
Flexible bone composite
The present invention relates in general to implantable flexible bone composites, and method for preparing the same. The flexible bone composite includes at least one polymeric layer and at least one calcium-containing layer. The polymeric layer can be a polymeric layer including a synthetic polymer. The calcium-containing layer can include a calcium compound such as β-Ca3(PO4)2. The flexible bone composites of the invention are useful as bone void fillers and have improved handling characteristics. |
| US08012500B2 |
Implantable device
Apparatus is provided including a chamber, which is adapted to be implanted in a body of an individual, the chamber including functional cells and chlorophyll-containing elements comprising chlorophyll of an obligate photoautotroph. |
| US08012497B2 |
Cleansing lotion with moisturising, protecting and odor controlling agents and cloth comprising said lotion
The invention relates to a soothing lotion, which cleanses, moisturizes and protects the skin and controls odor from feces and urine on skin. The invention also relates to a cloth comprising said lotion. |
| US08012492B2 |
In vitro model of latent mycobacterial infection
A method of inducing latency in Mycobacterium permits preparation of an in vitro model system of latent mycobacterial infection. Latency is induced in a pure culture of Mycobacterium by exposing it to multiple stress conditions, including a low nutrient culture medium without glycerol, a low pH, a relatively high level of carbon dioxide and a relatively low gas phase oxygen level. An in vitro model of mycobacterial infection employs macrophages induced from THP1 cells which are then infected with Mycobacterium. The infected macrophages are grown under hypoxic conditions to induce latency in the mycobacteria. The in vitro model of infection is useful in evaluating compounds for activity against latent mycobacteria. |
| US08012491B2 |
Recombinant toxin fragments
A single polypeptide is provided which comprises first and second domains. The first domain enables the polypeptide to cleave one or more vesicle or plasma-membrane associated proteins essential to exocytosis, and the second domain enables the polypeptide to be translocated into a target cell or increases the solubility of the polypeptide, or both. The polypeptide thus combines useful properties of a clostridial toxin, such as a botulinum or tetanus toxin, without the toxicity associated with the natural molecule. The polypeptide can also contain a third domain that targets it to a specific cell, rendering the polypeptide useful in inhibition of exocytosis in target cells. Fusion proteins comprising the polypeptide, nucleic acids encoding the polypeptide and methods of making the polypeptide are also provided. Controlled activation of the polypeptide is possible and the polypeptide can be incorporated into vaccines and toxin assays. |
| US08012487B2 |
Synthetic peptides and DNA sequences for treatment of multiple sclerosis
Synthetic unaltered and altered peptides comprising sequences of at least one immunogenic epitope cluster (IEC) of at least one human autoantigen related to multiple sclerosis (MS) and at least one nonameric core sequence which fits into the MS-relevant HLA-DR/DQ molecule and is flanked by 2-5 amino acids at its N- and C-termini, are provided. The alteration is preferably by substituting 1 to 3 TCR contact residues by Ala. The autoantigen is preferably MOG, MBP, OSP, MOBP and PLP. Polypeptides comprising at least two such peptides of a sole autoantigen or at least one peptide of two different autoantigens, and synthetic genes encoding them, are also provided, as well as pharmaceutical compositions for treatment and diagnostic of MS. |
| US08012480B2 |
Detection of proteins from circulating neoplastic cells
The protein EGFR, ERCC1, RRM1, thymidylate synthase, or beta-tubulin from cancer cells is detected in a blood sample by enriching the cancer cells from the blood sample followed by performing on the enriched cancer cells an immunoassay capable of detecting the proteins mentioned above. Cancer patients overexpressing EGFR are treated with an anti-EGFR agent, for example cetuximab, panitumumab, erlotinib or gefitinib. |
| US08012479B2 |
Recombinant toxin fragments
Antigenic compositions are provided comprising a single chain polypeptide comprising first and second domains, wherein said first domain is a clostridial neurotoxin light chain or a fragment or a variant thereof and is capable of cleaving one or more vesicle or plasma membrane associated proteins essential to exocytosis; and said second domain is a clostridial neurotoxin heavy chain HN portion or a fragment or a variant thereof, wherein said second domain is capable of (i) translocating the polypeptide into a cell or (ii) increasing the solubility of the polypeptide compared to the solubility of the first domain on its own or (iii) both translocating the polypeptide into a cell and increasing the solubility of the polypeptide compared to the solubility of the first domain on its own; and wherein the second domain lacks a functional C-terminal part of a clostridial neurotoxin heavy chain designated HC thereby rendering the polypeptide incapable of binding to cell surface receptors that are the natural cell surface receptors to which native clostridial neurotoxin binds. Antibodies that bind to the polypeptides, and compositions comprising these antibodies, are also provided, as are DNA vaccines comprising polynucleotides that encode these polypeptides.The antigenic and antibody compositions, and the DNA vaccine compositions, can be used in methods of immunising against, or treating, clostridial neurotoxin poisoning in a subject by administering to that subject a therapeutically effective amount of the composition. |
| US08012473B2 |
C3b antibodies and methods for the prevention and treatment of complement-associated disorders
The present invention concerns antibodies to C3b and the prevention and treatment of complement-associated disorder using such antibodies. |
| US08012467B2 |
Multivalent vaccines comprising recombinant viral vectors
The invention relates to vaccines comprising recombinant vectors, such as recombinant adenoviruses. The vectors comprise heterologous nucleic acids encoding for at least two antigens from one or more tuberculosis-causing bacilli. The invention also relates to the use of specific protease recognition sites linking antigens through which the encoded antigens are separated upon cleavage. After cleavage, the antigens contribute to the immune response in a separate manner. The recombinant vectors may comprise a nucleic acid encoding the protease cleaving the linkers and separating the antigens. The invention furthermore relates to the use of genetic adjuvants encoded by the recombinant vectors, wherein such genetic adjuvants may also be cleaved through the presence of the cleavable linkers and the specific protease. |
| US08012466B2 |
Immunogenic compositions for activating γδ T cells
Disclosed are compositions, kits, and methods for activating, expanding, or stimulating γδ T cells that include recombinant attenuated microbes. The compositions may include pharmaceutical compositions that are used as γδ T cell stimulating immunogenic compositions. |
| US08012454B2 |
Embolization
A particle includes a ferromagnetic material, a radiopaque material, and/or an MRI-visible material. |
| US08012452B2 |
Nanocrystalline composite for storage of hydrogen
The invention relates to a method for preparation of a material adapted to reversible storage of hydrogen, including steps consisting of providing a first powder of a magnesium-based material, hydrogenating the first powder to convert at least part of the first powder into metal hydrides, mixing the first hydrogenating powder with a second powder additive, the proportion by mass of the second powder in the mix obtained being between 1% and 20% by mass, wherein the additive is formed from an alloy with a centred cubic structure based on titatnium, vanadium and at least one other metal chosen from chromium or manganese, and grinding the mix of first and second powders. |
| US08012445B2 |
Method and apparatus for manufacturing of a calcium carbonate product, the product and its use
A method and apparatus for producing a calcium carbonate product formed of small <100 μm sized separate calcium carbonate particles. Calcium hydroxide is fed through a disintegration and spraying apparatus (14), operating on the principle of a pin mill, into a gas which contains carbon dioxide for precipitating calcium carbonate particles and which is inside a precipitation reactor (10). The temperature in the precipitation reactor is maintained at <65° C. |
| US08012444B2 |
Process and apparatus for generating hydrogen
A solution is to be created, with a method and a device for generating hydrogen, in which silicon and/or an alloy that contains silicon is reacted in a reaction vessel (1), with an alkaline solution as a catalyst, so that the process, after starting, runs continuously and catalytically in the presence of silicon dioxide as a nucleating agent, without further addition of lye and without using higher pressures and temperatures (hydrothermal conditions).This is achieved in that the alkaline solution is used in a strongly sub-stoichiometric amount with reference to the entire reaction, whereby the silicon dioxide that is formed is precipitated onto crystallization nuclei. |
| US08012443B2 |
Spherical calcium carbonate and method of producing the same
When spherical calcium carbonate is produced by blowing a carbon dioxide gas or a carbon dioxide-containing gas into an aqueous suspension containing calcium hydroxide to react them, after start of the reaction, an aqueous solution or suspension of a water-soluble phosphoric acid compound or a water-soluble salt thereof is added to the reaction mixture when carbonation ratio reaches 2 to 10%, and the reaction is further allowed to continue at a low gas blowing rate of 1.0 NL/minute or lower (step (a)). Subsequently, an aqueous suspension containing calcium hydroxide and an aqueous solution or suspension of a water-soluble phosphoric acid compound or a water-soluble salt thereof are added to the reaction mixture, and a carbon dioxide gas or a carbon dioxide-containing gas is introduced to allow to react and thereby produce spherical calcium carbonate having a mean particle diameter of 10 μm or larger. This production method is performed under high velocity revolution from the start of the reaction to the end of the step (a). This method provides calcite type spherical calcium carbonate showing high brightness and small friction coefficient, and having a shape comparatively close to a true sphere and a mean particle diameter of 10 μm or larger. |
| US08012441B2 |
Method for isolating hydrogen sulphide from coke oven gas with the subsequent recovery of elemental sulphur in a Claus plant
The invention relates to a method for isolating hydrogen sulphide from coke-oven gas with the subsequent recovery of elemental sulphur in a Claus plant. The hydrogen sulphide is eliminated from the coke-oven gas by gas washing using an absorption liquid. During the regeneration of the loaded absorption liquid, hydrogen sulphide is accumulated in concentrated form and is fed to the Claus plant. Said Claus plant comprises a Claus boiler, a waste-heat boiler, in addition to a reactor, which forms an additional catalyst stage. According to the invention, the Claus plant is operated with a single reactor, which operates at a working temperature of below 250° C. The process gas that exits the reactor is returned after the deposition of elemental sulphur with a non-reacted residual concentration of hydrogen sulphide to the coke-oven gas that is to be cleaned, prior to the gas washing stage. |
| US08012437B2 |
Process for separating iron from other metals in iron containing feed stocks
The invention is a method of separating metals such as zinc, lead and cadmium from iron in secondary feed stocks such as EAF Dust, BOF Sludge, mill scale, iron fines, tire dust and other iron and zinc containing residues and dusts. The method includes the steps of reduction roasting the feed stocks at a volatizing temperature sufficient to volatilize the zinc and other metals into metal fumes but insufficient to volatize iron and then collecting the metal fumes as a metal dust. The metal dust is then leached with a leaching liquid to form a leach liquor and a leach residue. The leach liquor is then purified by zinc dust cementation to form a purified liquor and a zinc dust cement residue. The purified liquor is then separated from the zinc dust cement residue, and a zinc recovery step is then performed on the purified liquor. |
| US08012433B2 |
Device for dispersing dry powders
A device for dispersing a sample of dry powder onto a surface in a dispersion chamber. The device includes a dispersion chamber situated in an environment, and a pressure source that provides a pressure difference between the environment and an inside of the dispersion chamber. The surface is positioned in the dispersion chamber. The sample of dry powder is introduced into the dispersion chamber through a membrane that is interposed between the environment and the inside of the dispersion chamber and on which the sample is disposed. The membrane is rupturable so as to open into the dispersion chamber when a predetermined pressure difference across the membrane is exceeded. This permits entry of a fluid in the environment through the ruptured membrane, and movement of the dry powder sample in an evenly dispersed manner without producing an ordered movement of powder grains in the dispersion chamber. |
| US08012429B2 |
Simplified analyzer
There is provided a simplified analyzer including a see-through hermetic container having powdery or granular color reaction reagent, and a tap member partially inserted in the hermetic container in an extractable state. The tap member is provided at one end with a finger stopper larger in diameter than another portion, so as to be drawn out while holding the finger stopper with user's fingers to form a through hole for letting air out of the hermetic container and applying suction to the testing liquid to be analyzed. By using the tap member prepared in advance, the through hole having a suitable diameter for applying suction to the testing liquid to be analyzed can be formed at the appropriate point in the container. According to the analyzer of the invention, differences among individuals in performing an analyzing test do not occur. |
| US08012422B2 |
System and process for injecting catalyst and/or additives into a fluidized catalytic cracking unit
A preferred embodiment of a system for loading catalyst and/or additives into a fluidized catalytic cracking unit includes a bin for storing at least one of the catalyst and/or additives, and a loading unit in fluid communication with the storage bin and the fluidized catalytic cracking unit on a selective basis. The loading unit is capable of being evacuated so that a resulting vacuum within the loading unit draws the catalyst and/or additive from the bin. The loading unit is also capable of being pressurized so that the catalyst and/or additive is transferred from the loading unit to the fluidized catalytic cracking unit. |
| US08012420B2 |
Robust low resistance vapor sensor materials
Compositions for sensor films used for detecting chemical analytes within sensors, such as polymer-absorption chemiresistors (i.e., conductometric sensors) are provided. Robust sensor film compositions that have low resistance, high conductivity, and greater temperature stability and sensitivity to chemical analytes are provided, as well as methods of making these sensor films. Such sensor film compositions include a matrix having a polymer resin and a plurality of conductive particles comprising an axial-geometry conductive particle. Exemplary axial-geometry conductive particles comprise graphene, such as a carbon nanotube. Blends of conductive particles are also contemplated, including blends of axial-geometry conductive particles, such as carbon nanotubes, and carbon black. |
| US08012419B2 |
Temperature-controlled incubator having rotatable door
An automated analyzer for performing multiple diagnostic assays simultaneously includes multiple stations, or modules, in which discrete aspects of the assay are performed on fluid samples contained in reaction receptacles. The analyzer includes stations for automatically preparing a specimen sample, incubating the sample at prescribed temperatures for prescribed periods, performing an analyte isolation procedure, and ascertaining the presence of a target analyte. An automated receptacle transporting system moves the reaction receptacles from one station to the next. The analyzer further includes devices for carrying a plurality of specimen tubes and disposable pipette tips in a machine-accessible manner, a device for agitating containers of target capture reagents comprising suspensions of solid support material and for presenting the containers for machine access thereto, and a device for holding containers of reagents in a temperature controlled environment and presenting the containers for machine access thereto. A method for performing an automated diagnostic assay includes an automated process for isolating and amplifying a target analyte. The process is performed by automatically moving each of a plurality of reaction receptacles containing a solid support material and a fluid sample between stations for incubating the contents of the reaction receptacle and for separating the target analyte bound to the solid support from the fluid sample. An amplification reagent is added to the separated analyte after the analyte separation step and before a final incubation step. |
| US08012418B2 |
Apparatus for and method of processing substrate subjected to exposure process
A specified time is determined which is a worst-case (or the longest) time period assumed as a time interval required between the instant at which an interface block receives an exposed substrate from an exposure unit and the instant at which a post-exposure bake process of the substrate starts in a heating part. A waiting time is calculated by subtracting a transport time from the specified time. The transport time is a time interval actually required between the instant at which the interference block receives the substrate from the exposure unit and the instant at which the substrate reaches the heating part. The post-exposure bake process of the substrate starts in the heating part after a lapse of the above-mentioned calculated waiting time since the arrival of the substrate at the heating part. |
| US08012416B2 |
Thawing biological material using a sealed liquid bladder
A method and apparatus are provided for thawing and heating biological material such as plasma, bone marrow or stem cells. The apparatus includes a housing containing a fluid-filled, sealed bladder for receiving a bag of the biological material. An agitator is provided which is operable to inflate an actuator pillow causing a support plate to compress the fluid-filled bladder, thereby promoting movement of the fluid within the bladder to agitate the biological material. A heater is provided which heats the fluid while contained in the bladder. |
| US08012413B2 |
Gaseous sterilization of impermeable containers through use of porous material
A gas-impervious container having a gas-permeable porous insert, wherein the insert contacts a flowable biomedical material, for improving access of the sterilant gas to the material. |
| US08012409B2 |
Apparatus for injecting gas into a vessel
An apparatus for injecting particulate and/or gaseous material into a metallurgical vessel is disclosed. The apparatus includes a duct through which to inject the material, inner and outer water inflow and outflow passages extending through a wall of the duct and an annular duct tip disposed at the forward end of the duct. The duct tip is of annular formation and includes an annular inner end component, an annular outer end component, and an annular central component located between the inner and outer components. The duct tip also includes a plurality of radially extending dividers to divide a space between the outer end component and the central component into discrete radial passages to serve as the internal water flow passages of the tip. |
| US08012408B2 |
Metal powder manufacturing device, metal powder, and molded body
A metal powder manufacturing device for manufacturing a metal powder includes a feed for supplying a molten metal, a fluid spout unit, and a course modification unit. The fluid spout unit further includes a channel and an orifice. The channel is provided below the feed, allowing passing of the molten metal supplied from the feed. The orifice is opened at a bottom end of the channel, spouting a fluid into the channel. The above course modification unit is provided below the fluid spout unit, and forcibly changes the traveling direction of a dispersion liquid. This dispersion liquid is composed of multiple fine droplets dispersed into the fluid. The above droplets are a resultant of a breakup caused by a contact between the molten metal and the fluid ejected from the orifice. Here, the dispersion liquid is transported so that the droplets is cooled and solidified in the dispersion liquid in order to manufacture the metal powder. |
| US08012406B2 |
Method of arranging and setting spray cooling nozzles and hot steel plate cooling apparatus
The present invention relates to an apparatus for cooling a hot steel plate which is processed and constrained by constraining rolls and a method of arranging and setting spray nozzles enabling uniform cooling in a direction perpendicular to processing. In the apparatus and method of the invention, the spray nozzles are arranged so that a value of n power of the impact pressure of the cooling water on the cooling surface integrated in the processing direction between pairs of constraining rolls becomes within −20% of the highest value in the direction perpendicular to processing, where 0.05≦n≦0.2. |
| US08012405B2 |
Regulation method for melt throughflow through a melt throughflow aperture
A method for regulating metal melt throughflow through a melt throughflow aperture in a bottom nozzle of a metallurgical vessel is provided. The bottom nozzle has an upper nozzle arranged in a floor of the metallurgical vessel and a lower nozzle arranged below the upper nozzle. The method includes introducing inert gas through at least one inert gas inlet aperture into the melt throughflow aperture in the bottom nozzle, arranging a temperature sensor on or in the lower nozzle for determining a temperature in a wall of the bottom nozzle, and regulating an inert gas supply into the bottom nozzle using measurement signals from the sensor. A decrease in the temperature signals an increase of metal clogging and an increase in the temperature signals a decrease of metal clogging. |
| US08012402B2 |
Tube expansion process for semicrystalline polymers to maximize fracture toughness
Methods of fabricating a polymeric stent with improved fracture toughness including radial expansion of a polymer tube along its entire length at the same time and fabricating a stent from the expanded tube are disclosed herein. |
| US08012396B2 |
Method and apparatus for stretching and crystallizing the neck finish of a molded plastic article
Apparatus and method for making a molded plastic article having a stretched and crystallized neck finish. In one embodiment, a series of platforms are carried by a conveying apparatus for transporting a series of molded plastic articles along a predetermined path of travel through one or more treatment stations. At a finish widening station, the molded article, having a relatively wide and thin-walled blow-molded body portion, and a relatively narrow and thick-walled unexpanded neck finish portion, is positioned to enable insertion of a mandrel into an open top aperture of the finish portion to widen the finish. The mandrel may include a lower heated tapered portion for expanding the finish, and an upper cooled body portion on which the expanded finish may be cooled. The article may then be sent to a finish crystallizing station having a heating device that heats the widened finish portion for a time and temperature selected to crystallize at least a portion of the widened finish. A sizing mechanism positionable in the widened finish supports the finish during crystallization. |
| US08012393B2 |
Method for manufacturing a multi-shot molded component
A method for manufacturing a multi-shot interior trim component within a mold tool, comprising the steps of moving a first mold portion adjacent a second mold portion to define a potential cavity volume; modifying the potential cavity volume to define a first reduced cavity volume; depositing a first material in the first reduced cavity volume; further modifying the potential cavity volume to define a second reduced cavity volume, wherein at least a localized portion of the first deposited material is utilized to define, with the mold tool, the second reduced cavity volume; providing a rib on one of the first and second mold portions; exposing the rib to one of the first and second reduced cavity volumes; depositing a second material in the second reduced cavity volume; attaching the second deposited material to the first deposited material at least proximate the localized portion of the first deposited material, wherein one of the first and second materials defines a substrate portion having an outboard surface, an inboard surface, a chute portion extending from the outboard surface, wherein the chute portion defines an axial opening, and, wherein, the other of the first and second materials defines an inflatable restraint door that closes-out the axial opening formed in the substrate portion to define an interior trim component of a vehicle; and defining the inflatable restraint door to include a pre-weakened portion corresponding to the rib of one of the first and second mold portions. |
| US08012391B2 |
Process for the production of reinforced and cast, cellular or foamed concrete bodies and reinforcement support frame for the use in such a process
The invention relates to a process for the production of cellular or foamed, cast concrete bodies that are reinforced with metallic reinforcements, and to a reinforcement support frame for use in the production of cellular or foamed, cast concrete bodies that are reinforced with metallic reinforcing bars. |
| US08012390B2 |
Elastomer composite materials in low density forms and methods
A bale of elastomer composite is formed of elastomer and filler, the bale having a void volume of at least 3%. In another aspect, a container is provided, at least a portion of the container being occupied by elastomer composite pieces of elastomer and filler, wherein the occupied portion of the container has a void volume of at least 3%. |
| US08012389B2 |
Method for producing wood fibre composite products
A process for producing a thermoformable fibre-plastics composite product comprising lignolcellulosic or natural fibres, particularly but not exclusively useful as an intermediate product in subsequent manufacture, comprises conveying the fibres in a dry or wet air stream and applying to the fibres a thermoplastic binding agent, and forming the fibres into a solid or semi-solid product such as a panel, which is thermoformable. In at least a preferred embodiment the process may be carried out in known plant for manufacture of medium density fibre board. |
| US08012388B2 |
Method for producing stretchable sheet
A stretchable sheet having a large stretch amount is produced by increasing a drawing amount given to the nonwoven fabric. A method for producing the stretchable sheet from a nonwoven fabric containing a plurality of types of fibers, that is the nonwoven fabric having a longitudinal direction, a width direction and a thickness direction. The method includes a first drawing step of drawing the nonwoven fabric in the longitudinal direction by applying a tension in the longitudinal direction of the nonwoven fabric, and a second drawing step of drawing, in the longitudinal direction, the nonwoven fabric that has been drawn in the first drawing step with a plurality of teeth formed on outer circumferential faces of each of a pair of gear rolls, the drawing being performed by passing the nonwoven fabric through a gap between the gear rolls that rotate while the teeth are being engaged with one another. |
| US08012387B2 |
Silicone vesicles
A process for preparing a vesicle composition based upon mixing an organopolysiloxane having at least one hydrophilic substituent group, a water miscible solvent, and water is disclosed. The vesicle compositions produced by the method are useful in various personal, household, and health care applications. |
| US08012383B2 |
Method for producing polarizing film
A method for producing a polarizing film comprising the step of dipping a polyvinyl alcohol film in/on which iodine is adsorbed and oriented in an aqueous solution containing boric acid wherein the aqueous solution has an absorbance of 0.13 or less at a wavelength of 450 nm. The produced polarizing film has a high contrast. |
| US08012380B2 |
Proton conducting ceramic membranes for hydrogen separation
A multi-phase proton conducting material comprising a proton-conducting ceramic phase and a stabilizing ceramic phase. Under the presence of a partial pressure gradient of hydrogen across the membrane or under the influence of an electrical potential, a membrane fabricated with this material selectively transports hydrogen ions through the proton conducting phase, which results in ultrahigh purity hydrogen permeation through the membrane. The stabilizing ceramic phase may be substantially structurally and chemically identical to at least one product of a reaction between the proton conducting phase and at least one expected gas under operating conditions of a membrane fabricated using the material. In a barium cerate-based proton conducting membrane, one stabilizing phase is ceria. |
| US08012379B2 |
Electroconductive bonding material and electric/electronic device using the same
A conductive bonding material having an improved preservation stability, and hardens when desired, preferably immediately hardens at a low temperature is provided. In one invention, the conductive bonding material comprises a conductive particle ingredient, an epoxy resin ingredient, and a hardening agent ingredient for said epoxy resin and the hardening agent ingredient for said epoxy resin further comprise a reforming agent having a thiol group. In another invention, a conductive bonding material comprising an epoxy resin hardening ingredient, wherein said epoxy resin hardening ingredient contains a sulfur-containing compound having an end group which can coordinate with a surface of the metallic particles, and the sulfur-containing compound comes to perform as a hardening agent for the epoxy resin by dissociating from the surface of the metallic particles. The conductive bonding material may contain fragrance. |
| US08012369B2 |
Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal composition is described, which satisfies at least one characteristic among high maximum temperature of a nematic phase, low minimum temperature of a nematic phase, small viscosity, large optical anisotropy, large dielectric anisotropy, large specific resistance, high stability to ultraviolet light, high stability to heat and so on, or is properly balanced regarding at least two of the characteristics. To provide an AM device having short response time, large voltage holding ratio, large contrast ratio, long service life and so forth, the liquid crystal composition has a nematic phase and contains a specific three-ring compound having a large optical anisotropy as a first component, a specific four-ring compound having a large dielectric anisotropy as a second component, and a specific two-ring compound having a particularly small viscosity as a third component. A liquid crystal display device containing the liquid crystal composition is also described. |
| US08012364B2 |
Ink jet recording head, producing method therefor and composition for ink jet recording head
A method for producing an ink jet recording head having high durability and high ink resistance can enabling enable high-quality image recording by employing a material capable of reducing the internal stress and having satisfactory patterning characteristics. Such an ink jet recording head can be produced with high precision. A cationically photopolymerizable resin composition containing a condensate of a hydrolysable organosilane compound, employed as a material for forming a flow path forming member, enables a reduction of internal stress and a highly precise pattern in the flow path forming member, thereby providing an ink jet recording head having high durability and high ink resistance and capable of high-quality printing over a prolonged time. |
| US08012358B2 |
Mobile systems and methods of sufficiently treating water so that the treated water may be utilized in well-treatment operations
A system is provided that includes: (a) a mobile platform; (b) an input pump operatively connected to be capable of pumping a treatment stream through the system; (c) a centrifugal separator operatively connected downstream of the input pump to centrifugally treat the treatment stream; (d) a borate filter operatively connected downstream of the centrifugal separator to filter the treatment stream capable of removing at least some of a borate when the treatment stream is at a pH of 8 or above; and (e) a chemical-additive subsystem operatively connected to be capable of: (i) selectively adding one or more chemical agents to the treatment stream upstream of the centrifugal separator, wherein the chemical agents can be selected to be capable of precipitating dissolved ions selected from the group consisting of: sulfate, calcium, strontium, or barium, magnesium, iron; and (ii) selectively adding a chemical agent to the treatment stream upstream of the borate filter to increase the pH of the treatment stream to 8 or above. |
| US08012357B2 |
Magnetic field and field gradient enhanced centrifugation solid-liquid separations
This invention relates to a continuous or batch centrifugation solid-liquid separation process comprising simultaneously subjecting the solid-liquid mixture to localized magnetic field gradients and the centrifugation and to improved centrifugation solid-liquid separation processes wherein the improvement comprises simultaneously subjecting the solid-liquid mixture to a homogeneous magnetic field, a magnetic field gradient or both prior to and/or during the centrifugation. |
| US08012356B2 |
Method for separating and recovering lignin derivatives
An object of the present invention is to provide a technique for separation/collection of a lignin derivative which is useful for the separation of a lignin derivative having a 1,1-diphenylpropane unit and/or a unit derived from the 1,1-diphenylpropane unit from a mixture system containing the lignin derivative. In the Present invention, a lignin derivative having a 1,1-diphenylpropane unit and/or a unit derived from the 1,1-dipheylpropane unit is allowed to contact with a metal oxide in a liquid medium, thereby separating the lignin derivative in the form retained on the metal oxide. |
| US08012355B2 |
Molecular separator
The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for separating particles and dissolved matter from an untreated fluid stream. Specifically, the present invention includes a first pressure source which transports untreated fluid or contaminated aqueous fluid into a separator annulus with a filter element disposed therein. The untreated fluid is placed under appropriate pressure sufficient to produce turbulent flow, increased particle kinetics and/or cavitation allowing the desired fluid to penetrate and pass into and through the filter media. The treated fluid is then transported to a collection tank. The contaminant matter retained by the filter media may be removed by the nearly instantaneous reverse pressurization of the separator annulus by a second pressure source thereby removing the contaminant particles away from contact with the filter media, and which may then be transported to a waste collection tank or a separator for further treatment. |
| US08012353B2 |
Method and apparatus for simultaneous clarification and endogenous post denitifrication
A method for treatment of nitrified wastewater, the method including supplying wastewater to be treated to a tank having a layer of biomass supporting media near or at the top thereof, retaining biomass on and below the biomass supporting media for a sufficient time such that the biomass hydrolyses and supplies organic carbon to the wastewater in the tank; denitrifying and simultaneously clarifying the wastewater by providing an upward flow of the wastewater in the tank through the layer of biomass supporting media and discharging excess sludge from the bottom of the tank at a rate which is selected to maintain nitrate and ammonia concentrations below selected thresholds. |
| US08012349B2 |
Small volume unitary molded filters and supports for adsorbent beds
Methods and devices are provided for preparing and separating biological analytes. In one embodiment, one or more filtration devices or filter plate wells can be formed by clamping a filter sheet between first and second plates having at least one connecting cavity. First and second moveable core pins positioned on opposed sides of the sheet can be moved to remove portions of the sheet. A molten plastic can be injected to fill the volume between the cores and cavities and to form a liquid-impermeable sleeve wall or walls, each being separately sealed at the bottom to the perimeter of the sheet portion, each having liquid permeable regions of said removed and sealed sheet portion, and each remaining open at the top. Various exemplary configurations for filtration devices or filter plate wells are also disclosed. |
| US08012345B2 |
Pool cleaning vehicle having side vents and ducts
Disclosed herein is an improved pool cleaning vehicle. The vehicle includes a housing, a bottom frame and a filter bag between the housing the bottom frame and attached to the bottom frame. The vehicle includes an intake system for causing water to enter the vehicle housing and to trap dirt and debris in the filter bag. The intake system includes more than one intake, which are typically mounted front and aft of the vehicle. The vehicle includes an outlet for flowing water passing through the filter bag back into the pool. Of course, both of the intake and outlet ports are in communication with the filter bag. The housing typically includes a bottom frame. Both the housing and the bottom frame have side openings defining vents, which serve as side intake ports. In an exemplary embodiment, the intake ports include a duct attached thereto. The duct has an open duct intake. In another exemplary embodiment, the front and/or aft intake port include a duct. |
| US08012342B2 |
Lubricant base oil and method of producing the same
This invention relates to lubricant base oil having high viscosity indexes and low pour points, and particularly to lubricant base oil consisting essentially of a normal paraffin and an isoparaffin, wherein (a) an average carbon number Nc in one molecule is not less than 28 but not more than 40, and (b) an average branch number Nb in one molecule calculated from a ratio of CH3 carbon to total carbon determined by 13C-NMR analysis and the average carbon number Nc in one molecule is not more than (0.2Nc−3.1) but not less than 1.5. |
| US08012332B2 |
Plating apparatus and method
An apparatus forms a plated film in fine trenches and plugs for interconnects and in the openings of a resist formed in the surface of a substrate such as a semiconductor wafer, and forms bumps (protruding electrodes) on the surface of a semiconductor wafer. The apparatus includes a substrate holder capable of opening and closing for holding a substrate such that the front surface of the substrate is exposed while the backside and the edge thereof are hermetically sealed. A plating tank accommodates a plating liquid in which an anode is immersed. A diaphragm is provided in the plating tank and disposed between the anode and the substrate held by the substrate holder. Plating liquid circulating systems circulate the plating liquid to respective regions of the plating tank, separated by the diaphragm. A deaerating unit is disposed in at least one of the plating liquid circulating systems. |
| US08012331B2 |
Probe and method of making same
Disclosed herein are a probe and a method of making the same, and more particularly to a probe having a minute pitch, with which a probe card corresponding to arrangement of pads formed with a massed shape or other various shapes on a wafer is made, and a method of making the same. The probe having a prescribed thickness and formed in the shape of a flat plate. The probe comprises a body part bent at the middle thereof so that the body part is elastically tensioned or compressed when a tension force or a compression force is applied to the body part at the upper and lower ends thereof, a connection part integrally formed with the lower end of the body part, the connection part being fixed to a substrate, and a tip part integrally formed with the upper end of the body part, the tip part contacting a pad of an element. |
| US08012330B2 |
Plating method and plating apparatus
A plating method, employing a face-down manner of plating and using a resistor body between a substrate and an anode, can securely bring an entire surface to be plated of the substrate into contact with a plating solution without permitting intrusion of air bubbles to the surface to be plated. A resistor body is disposed above the anode and immersed in the plating solution, allowing the plating solution to flow along an upper surface of the resistor body from the periphery toward the center of the resistor body. Thus, a raised portion of the plating solution is created in the center of the upper surface of the resistor body. The substrate is then lowered with the surface facing downwardly so as to fill the space between the surface to be plated of the substrate and the upper surface of the resistor body with the plating solution. |
| US08012328B2 |
Non-fluidic micro-detection device and uses thereof
The present invention provides a microchip for performing electrophoresis with pulsed amperometric detection (PAD) for the separation and detection of underivatized carbohydrates, amino acids, sulfur-containing antibiotics, etc. PAD allows for the direct detection of amines, thiols, alcohols and carbohydrates and therefore is a useful technique for the development of electrochemical detection for microchip electrophoresis. |
| US08012327B2 |
Capillary electrophoresis apparatus and electrophoresis method
An object of the present invention is to provide a capillary electrophoresis apparatus in which simultaneity can be ensured between sensitivity and data acquisition to decrease a pull-up signal while spectral data acquisition is eliminated in each capillary exchange. The invention relates to a capillary electrophoresis apparatus in which capillary position shift is detected in each capillary exchange by detecting a capillary position. A capillary position measuring light source is provided in the capillary electrophoresis apparatus of the invention. The capillary is irradiated with light emitted from the capillary position measuring light source, a capillary image is detected with a two-dimensional detector, and thereby a position deviation of the capillary is determined. On the basis of the position deviation of the capillary, a data acquisition area is set in the two-dimensional detector, or a reference fluorescent light spectrum determined from the capillary at the standard position is corrected. |
| US08012323B2 |
Compact electrochemical bifunctional NOx/O2 sensors with internal reference for high temperature applications
A bifunctional total NOx and O2 sensor assembly with an internal reference for high temperature sensing. Two electrochemical total NOx(NO+NO2) measuring systems and method were coupled with a metal/metal oxide internal oxygen reference to detect O2 and NOx simultaneously in a combustion environment using a single sensor. A Pd/PdO-containing reference chamber was sealed within a stabilized zirconia superstructure by a high pressure/temperature bonding method. An amperometric and potentiometric NOx sensor assembly was built on the outside of the Pd/PdO chamber. Pt-loaded zeolite Y was used to obtain total NOx capacity and also to cover the Pt electrodes for detecting oxygen in the presence of NOx. |
| US08012319B2 |
Multi-chambered metal electrodeposition system for semiconductor substrates
A multi-chambered system for electroplating metal layers on a semiconductor substrate. The system comprises a fluid reservoir having at least a first chamber and a second chamber. A cathode is located in the first chamber, an anode is located in the second chamber, and a shield is located between the cathode and anode. The cathode is configured to be electrically coupled to a semiconductor substrate locatable in the first chamber. The anode is configured to oppose a first major surface of the semiconductor substrate. The shield is configured to deter electrolytic fluid communication between the first and second chamber, other than through predefined openings in the shield. |
| US08012318B2 |
Process for multiple stage direct electrowinning of copper
A system and process for recovering copper from a copper-containing ore, concentrate, or other copper-bearing material to produce high quality cathode copper from a leach solution without the use of copper solvent/solution extraction techniques or apparatus. A process for recovering copper from a copper-containing ore generally includes the steps of providing a feed stream containing comminuted copper-containing ore, concentrate, or other copper-bearing material, leaching the feed stream to yield a copper-containing solution, conditioning the copper-containing solution through one or more physical or chemical conditioning steps, and electrowinning copper directly from the copper-containing solution in multiple electrowinning stages, without subjecting the copper-containing solution to solvent/solution extraction prior to electrowinning. |
| US08012317B2 |
Front electrode including transparent conductive coating on patterned glass substrate for use in photovoltaic device and method of making same
This invention relates to a photovoltaic device including an electrode such as a front electrode/contact. In certain example embodiments, the front electrode of the photovoltaic device includes a multi-layered transparent conductive coating which is sputter-deposited on a textured surface of a patterned glass substrate. In certain example embodiments, a maximum transmission area of the substantially transparent conductive front electrode is located under a peak area of a quantum efficiency (QE) curve of the photovoltaic device and a light source spectrum used to power the photovoltaic device. |
| US08012316B2 |
FCC-like trilayer AP2 structure for CPP GMR EM improvement
A method of forming a CPP-GMR spin valve having a pinned layer with an AP2/coupling/AP1 configuration is disclosed wherein the AP2 portion is a FCC-like trilayer having a composition represented by CoZFe(100-Z)/Fe(100-X)TaX/CoZFe(100-Z) or CoZFe(100-Z)/FeYCo(100-Y)/CoZFe(100-Z) where x is 3 to 30 atomic %, y is 40 to 100 atomic %, and z is 75 to 100 atomic %. Preferably, z is 90 to provide a face centered cubic structure that minimizes electromigration. Optionally, the middle layer is comprised of an Fe rich alloy such as FeCr, FeV, FeW, FeZr, FeNb, FeHf, or FeMo. EM performance is improved significantly compared to a spin valve with a conventional AP2 Co50Fe50 or Co75Fe25 single layer. MR ratio is also increased and RA is maintained at an acceptable level. The coupling layer is preferably Ru and the AP1 layer may be comprised of a lamination of CoFe and Cu layers as in [CoFe/Cu]2/CoFe. |
| US08012315B2 |
Lanthanoid aluminate film fabrication method
A method of fabricating by co-sputtering deposition a lanthanoid aluminate film with enhanced electrical insulativity owing to suppression of deviation in composition of the film is disclosed. Firstly within a vacuum chamber, hold two separate targets, one of which is made of lanthanoid aluminate (LnAlO3) and the other of which is made of aluminum oxide (Al2O3). Then, transport and load a substrate into the vacuum chamber. Next, introduce a chosen sputtering gas into this chamber. Thereafter, perform sputtering of both the targets at a time to thereby form a lanthanoid aluminate film on the substrate surface. This film is well adaptable for use as ultra-thin high dielectric constant (high-k) gate dielectrics in highly miniaturized metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) transistors. |
| US08012312B2 |
Cellulose-based fibrous materials
The present invention aims to provide cellulose-based fibrous materials for obtaining papers and sheets having low density, high surface quality, good size stability despite of high strength, and high opacity. Cellulose-based fibrous materials having external fibrils consisting of an assembly of scale-like microfibrils exhibit a higher fiber stiffness, a lower water retention value and a higher specific surface area as compared with fibrous materials having filamentous external fibrils at the same freeness. Papers and sheets having low density, high surface quality, good size stability and high opacity can be obtained by using such fibrous materials. |
| US08012309B2 |
Method of making wet embossed paperboard
A process for manufacturing an embossed paperboard comprising the steps of: forming a wet mat including more than 60 wt % of cellulose fibers; pressure molding, with at least one embossing roll, the wet mat having 20 to 70 wt % solid to create a nested surface texture thereon; and drying the embossed wet mat to obtain the embossed paperboard with a grammage ranging between 125 and 1500 grams per square meter. |
| US08012308B2 |
Manufacturing method of mechanical pulp from cornstalk cellulose
The present invention relates to a manufacturing method of mechanical pulp from stalks of corn, an annual plant, by adding a digesting agent and, prior to, during or following addition of the digesting agent, completely separating fibrous material from the cornstalks by mechanical refining. The method of the present invention comprises: (1) a first digesting process of adding 0.5-5 parts by weight of a digesting agent selected from caustic soda, sodium carbonate, sodium sulfite, sodium bisulfite, sodium sulfide, sodium oxide and sodium sulfate, or a digesting agent selected from a mixture of more than one of each to 100 parts by weight of crushed cornstalks, and of separating and digesting the solid substance after impregnating of the mixture; (2) a second digesting process of adding 5-10 parts by weight of more digesting agent to the digested solid substance obtained from the first digesting process, and of separating and digesting the solid substance after impregnating of the mixture; and a refining process of separating the solid substance to be digested and refining it mechanically, which is performed prior to, during or following the second digesting process. |
| US08012303B2 |
Container cleanliness measurement apparatus and method, and substrate processing system
A container cleanliness measurement apparatus capable of preventing particles from being adhered to substrates, while improving the operation efficiency of a container for housing substrates. An FOUP inspection apparatus includes a particle-separation promoting nozzle for promoting separation of particles adhered to an inner wall of an FOUP and to carries for holding peripheral portions of wafers inside the FOUP, a particle collecting nozzle for collecting particles separated from the inner wall of the FOUP, etc., and a particle counter for measuring an amount of collected particles. The particle-separation promoting nozzle and the particle collecting nozzle constitute a probe nozzle which is adapted to enter inside the FOUP. |
| US08012302B2 |
Moisture-curing compositions containing silane-functional polymers and aminosilane adducts with good adhesive properties
Moisture-curing compositions include at least one silane-functional polymer P with at least two terminal groups of formula (I) and at least one reaction product R which is produced from at least one aminosilane AS with at least one primary amino group and at least one silane group-free alkene M which is capable of entering in 1,4 addition reactions with primary amino groups. The compositions have improved adhesive properties and are especially suitable for use as adhesives, sealing materials or coatings, especially as elastic adhesive or sealing materials. |
| US08012299B2 |
Assembly tool and a method of manufacturing a blade
The invention provides a method of manufacturing a wind turbine blade comprising a spar and at least one airfoil section, where both the spar and the airfoil section comprise an outer surface which forms part of an aerodynamically active surface of the blade. The method comprises steps of providing a support structure, placing the spar at the support structure, providing a clamp adapted to be fixed to the outer surface of both the spar and the airfoil section, arranging the airfoil section relative to the spar, fixing the clamp to the outer surface of the spar and the airfoil section, and assembling the at least one airfoil section an the spar by a process including adhesion. |
| US08012297B2 |
Laminate material element for a hook and loop closure, particularly a diaper closure
A laminate material element (1) for a hook and loop closure, particularly a diaper closure, has a carrier film (2) and a textile material (3) laminated onto the carrier film (2), which has a surface structure that is suitable for forming a connection with the hooks of a hook and loop closure. The carrier film (2) and the textile material (3) are bonded together over their entire surface in an edge region that extends along the edges of the laminate material element and has the shape of a frame. A bond between the carrier film (2) and the textile material (3) that does not cover the entire surface is provided in the region within this frame. |
| US08012295B1 |
Tattoo cover and related method
There is provided an adhesive composite cover and method of use in which the cover is well suited to effectively cover a temporary tattoo utilized in radiation therapy treatments. The cover includes a transparent, flexible layer with a rigid layer releasably adhered thereto. The first, flexible layer has a lower adhesive surface, an upper low-adhesion surface and a predefined peripheral edge. The second, rigid layer has a lower surface releasably adhered to the upper low-adhesion surface of the first layer, an opposing upper exposed surface, and a peripheral edge cooperative with the predefined peripheral edge of the first layer to preserve the integrity of the first layer during handling and application. The second layer is removed from the first layer only after the first layer is adhered to a patient's skin. |
| US08012286B2 |
Apparatus and method for making a tubular composite barrel
A 360° tool for making a one-piece composite tubular structure, such as a skin of an acoustic liner, is adjustable between a molding position and a non-molding position. The tool includes a base, a fixed segment mounted to the base, first and second doors hingedly connected on either side of the fixed sector, and third door hingedly connected to the second door. The third door has a circumferential extent that is less than one-fourth that of either the first or second door. Sealing members are provided between the doors. Collectively, the fixed sector, and the first, second and third doors have a predetermined shaped surface that corresponds to a portion of the contour of the tubular structure to be formed. After composite material is applied on the outer surfaces of the fixed sector and the doors, a vacuum bag is formed to surround the composite material and also the joint areas on the inner surface of the tool. The entire tool may be placed in an autoclave for curing. The tool may also be used for the layup and bonding of an acoustic core sandwiched between pre-cured skins. |
| US08012284B2 |
Method and apparatus for fabricating roll good fuel cell subassemblies
Fabrication methods for making a gas diffusion layer incorporating a gasket (GIG) fuel cell subassemblies via roll-to-roll processes are described. A material processable by one or both of heat and pressure having spaced apart apertures is transported to a bonding station. A first gasket layer having gas diffusion layers arranged in relation to spaced apart apertures of a first gasket layer is transported to the bonding station. The heat/pressure processable material is aligned with the first gasket layer and the gas diffusion layers. At the bonding station, the heat/pressure processable material is bonded to the first gasket layer and the gas diffusion layers. After bonding, the heat/pressure processable material forms a second gasket layer that attaches the gas diffusion layers to the first gasket layer. |
| US08012282B2 |
Method for fabricating drive belt
A method for fabricating a drive belt includes: a cylindrical rubber formation step of forming a cylindrical rubber by roundly joining an uncrosslinked rubber sheet (31); and a mold covering step of covering a cylindrical mold with the cylindrical rubber formed in the cylindrical rubber formation step. A mark hot-transfer sheet (35) is adhered by hot pressing to the juncture of the cylindrical rubber to cover the juncture on the inside of the cylindrical rubber. |
| US08012281B2 |
Feed unit for feeding elastomeric material to a user unit
A feed unit for feeding elastomeric material, extruded by at least one extruder, to at least one user unit, and wherein a variable-length conveyor is supported by a first and a second supporting device located at an input end and an output end of the conveyor respectively; and wherein the first supporting device is connected to the conveyor to allow the conveyor to rotate about a vertical first axis and a horizontal second axis, both crosswise to a travelling direction of the elastomeric material along the conveyor; the second supporting device is extensible vertically and connected to the conveyor by a first releasable joint; and the conveyor is connectable to the user unit by a second releasable joint. |
| US08012270B2 |
Soft magnetic iron/cobalt/chromium-based alloy and process for manufacturing it
A soft magnetic alloy consists essentially of 5 percent by weight≦Co≦30 percent by weight, 1 percent by weight≦Cr≦20 percent by weight, 0.1 percent by weight≦Al≦2 percent by weight, 0 percent by weight≦Si≦1.5 percent by weight, 0.017 percent by weight≦Mn≦0.2 percent by weight, 0.01 percent by weight≦S≦0.05 percent by weight where Mn/S is >1.7, 0 percent by weight≦O≦0.0015 percent by weight, und 0.0003 percent by weight≦Ce≦0.05 percent by weight, 0 percent by weight≦Ca≦0.005 percent by weight and the remainder iron, where 0.117 percent by weight≦(Al+Si+Mn+V+Mo+W+Nb+Ti+Ni)≦5 percent by weight. |
| US08012269B2 |
Nd-Fe-B rare earth permanent magnet material
A rare earth permanent magnet material is based on an R—Fe—Co—B—Al—Cu system wherein R is at least one element selected from Nd, Pr, Dy, Tb, and Ho, 15 to 33% by weight of Nd being contained. At least two compounds selected from M-B, M-B—Cu and M-C compounds (wherein M is Ti, Zr or Hf) and an R oxide have precipitated within the alloy structure as grains having an average grain size of up to 5 μm which are uniformly distributed in the alloy structure at intervals of up to 50 μm. |
| US08012266B2 |
System and method for scrubbing CMP slurry systems
A system and apparatus for cleaning particle deposits from slurry distribution system components by injecting gas bubbles into the slurry solution having a geometry and interval such that an optimal cleaning power and cleaning rate is obtained. The method provides efficient cleaning of the buildup of abrasive particles deposited from the slurry solution without requiring the operator to disassemble or flush the slurry distribution system. The system cleaning potential is optimal when the diameter of the bubbles and the fluid slug length is approximately equal to the pipe diameter. |
| US08012263B2 |
Process for the evapocrystallization of maltitol
A process for preparing maltitol crystals by evapocrystallization, includes preparing a maltitol solution with a maltitol richness of at least 85% based on dry matter, preferably a maltitol richness of between 89% and 99% based on dry matter, and even more preferably a maltitol richness of between 93% and 95% based on dry matter; concentrating under vacuum maltitol solution in the evapocrystallizer so as to obtain a maltitol syrup whose degree of maltitol supersaturation is within the metastable zone of maltitol; seeding the supersaturated maltitol solution with a maltitol seed crystal in dispersed form; performing the crystallization while keeping constant the degree of maltitol supersaturation within the metastable zone of maltitol by controlling the conditions of temperature, the conditions of vigorous stirring by pumping of the evaporation vapors, and the conditions of feeding in of the maltitol syrup to be crystallized; and recovering the crystals thus obtained. |
| US08012261B2 |
ALD apparatus and method
An apparatus and method for atomic layer deposition with improved efficiency of both chemical dose and purge is presented. The apparatus includes an integrated equipment and procedure for chamber maintenance. |
| US08012259B2 |
Substrate processing apparatus
A substrate processing apparatus having a support for holding a wafer, a processing chamber for accommodating the wafer, a gas supply hole for supplying desired processing gas in a parallel direction to the surface to be processed of the wafer to be accommodated in said processing chamber, an adjustment plate to be arranged with facing the surface to be processed of the wafer accommodated in the foregoing processing chamber, and an exhaust means for exhausting atmosphere in said processing chamber. A substrate processing apparatus wherein distance between the surface to be processed of wafer and the center part of the adjustment plate is narrower than distance between the surface to be processed of wafer and the circumference part and the midway part of the adjustment plate, in a direction perpendicular to a supply direction of processing gas. |
| US08012258B2 |
Melt surface position monitoring apparatus in silicon single crystal growth process
The liquid surface position of the melt in the crucible in the silicon single crystal growth process utilizing the Czochralski method is monitored using the melt surface position on the occasion of seeding as a reference position and an estimated melt surface position can be calculated according to every situation, so that the distance between the melt and the thermal shield or water-cooling structure can be controlled with high precision. When the estimated melt surface position passes a preset upper limit and approaches the thermal shield, an alarm goes off and, further, when the melt comes into contact with the thermal shield or approaches the water-cooling structure, an alarm goes off if desired and, at the same time, the crucible is forcedly stopped from moving, so that a serious accident such as steam-incurred explosion resulting from the melt coming into contact with the water-cooling structure can be prevented. Accordingly, the apparatus can be widely applied as a melt surface position monitoring apparatus making it possible to safely operate any silicon single crystal growth apparatus utilizing the Czochralski method. |
| US08012257B2 |
Methods for controllable doping of aluminum nitride bulk crystals
Fabrication of doped and undoped stoichiometric polycrystalline AlN ceramics with high purity is accomplished by, for example, reacting Al pellets with nitrogen gas. Such polycrystalline AlN ceramics may be utilized in the fabrication of high purity AlN single crystals, which may be annealed to enhance a conductivity thereof. |
| US08012251B2 |
Electroless plating bath and method for producing high-temperature apparatus member using the bath
There is provided an electroless plating bath which makes it possible to form a diffusion barrier layer of a Re-based alloy, having a uniform thickness regardless of the shape and size of a workpiece, on the surface of a Ni-based alloy by a relatively simple method. The electroless plating bath for forming a Ni—Re—B alloy, containing not less than 50 at % of Re, on a substrate by electroless plating, has a pH of 6 to 8 and includes a metal supply source component containing Ni2+ and ReO4− at an equal equivalent in the range of 0.01 to 0.5 mol/L, a complexing agent component containing citric acid and at least one other organic acid, and a reducing agent component containing dimethylamine-borane. |
| US08012249B2 |
Range hood with liquid filter
A range hood for a kitchen range or other similar appliance is disclosed. The range hood is adapted to be coupled to a blower to draw the contaminated effluent stream from the range into the hood. The effluent stream is drawn through a substantially horizontal perforated liquid support or impingement tray that is filled with a working liquid, and is then passed through a high-efficiency mist eliminator. The range hood offers a substantially straight airflow path from a point just inside the inlet to the outlet. The range hood also has a low profile, and offers direct access to its interior components for easy inspection and cleaning. |
| US08012244B2 |
Method of removing particulates from exhaust gases, and corresponding fiber layer, particulate filter, exhaust system and vehicle
A method for removing particulates from a gas stream includes providing a gas-permeable filter layer having subregions with a parameter of differing magnitudes in the direction of the layer thickness. This parameter relates at least to the porosity, the fiber diameter of fibers or the fiber type content of the filter layer. The gas stream is divided into partial gas streams which are each passed through different subregions of the filter layer. Fiber layers, particulate filters, exhaust systems and vehicles based on this method are also provided. |
| US08012242B2 |
Adsorbent mediated reduction of organic chemicals from solid building materials
A method of removing pollutants from building materials using an externally applied adsorbent. The adsorbent has a high affinity to common pollutant chemicals. The pollutants are transferred from the contaminated microporous building materials onto the adsorbent until sufficient amounts of pollutant chemicals are reduced to make the building materials acceptable and safe to use. The adsorbent may be regenerated and reused or treated as a waste. |
| US08012227B2 |
Filter for cleaning a fluid
A filter for filtering a fluid has a filter housing and a filter element arranged in the filter housing. A cyclone preseparator is arranged upstream of the filter element, wherein a fluid to be cleaned is guided through the preseparator to the filter element. The cyclone preseparator has at least two cyclone cells that have a different diameter, respectively. |
| US08012218B2 |
Medical bone prosthetic material and process for producing the same
There is disclosed a bone substitute material for medical use which satisfies all the requirements of (1) no histotoxicity, (2) osteoconductivity, (3) bone replacement capability, and (4) mechanical strength necessary for a bone reconstruction operation. The bone substitute material for medical use is predominantly composed of carbonate apatite and produced through the formation of carbonate apatite by contacting a block of calcium compound with a phosphate-containing solution, wherein the calcium compound block contains substantially no powders, and at least one of said calcium compound block and said phosphate solution contains a carbonate group, without any sintering. The block of calcium compound is preferably one prepared using an artificially synthesized calcium compound, most preferably a foamed calcium compound. |
| US08012216B2 |
High flexion tibial tray
Various assemblies for replacing at least a proximal portion of a tibia are provided. One assembly includes a tibial tray including a superior bearing engaging surface and an inferior bone engaging surface and having a truncated posterior region; a bearing including an articulating surface, a tray mating surface, and an overhang. The tray mating surface of the bearing is in mating engagement with the inferior bone engaging surface of the tibial tray such that the overhang of the bearing extend beyond the tibial tray truncated posterior region. Related surgical methods are also provided. |
| US08012215B2 |
Tibial prosthesis convertible in vivo to a modular prosthesis removal of permanently secured primary bearing
A nonmodular tibial prosthesis having a retainer for a modular bearing on the superior surface of a tibial base, a nonmodular primary bearing directly molded to the base, and a mechanical release member mounted on the tibial base in contact with the nonmodular primary bearing. The release member includes a wedge portion with a superiorly posteriorly inclined face, and is designed to be driven anteriorly upon actuation so as to force the primary bearing off of the tibial base, after which the primary bearing and release member are removed and replaced with a modular bearing. |
| US08012213B2 |
Apparatus and method for supporting vertebral bodies
An apparatus and method for supporting upper and lower vertebral bodies, including first and second end members adapted for engagement with the vertebral bodies, and at least one elongate support member coupled between the end members to maintain an axial space between the vertebral bodies. In one aspect of the invention, each of the end members has a parametrical or horseshoe-shaped configuration extending about an open inner region and defining a lateral passage communicating with the open inner region to facilitate insertion of the apparatus or the individual end members into the intervertebral space via a posterior surgical approach. In a further aspect of the invention, a fusion member is positioned within the axial space to promote bony fusion between the upper and lower vertebral bodies. |
| US08012210B2 |
Implant frames for use with settable materials and related methods of use
Intervertebral implant system for intervertebral implantation, are disclosed. An intervertebral implant system according to the present disclosure includes a frame having a peripheral wall defining a space therein, and a settable material introducible into the space of the frame. The settable material is a biocompatible load bearing material including and not limited to bone, composites, polymers of bone growth material, collagen, and insoluble collagen derivatives. The settable material is injectable into the space defined by the frame. The settable material may have an initial fluid condition wherein the fluid settable material cures to a hardened condition. |
| US08012208B2 |
Implant for intervertebral space
An implant for an intervertebral space with a shaped body. The implant has a top contact surface to be placed on a base plate of a body of the vertebra adjoining the implant from above, a bottom contact surface to be placed on a cover plate of a body of the vertebra adjoining the implant from below, two lateral surfaces, a front lateral and a rear lateral surface as well as a central axis that intersects the two contact surfaces, a longitudinal axis that intersects the front and rear lateral surfaces and a transverse axis that intersects the lateral surfaces. The implant also has a central plane situated between the contact surfaces and at right angles to the central axis of the body. The contact surfaces have a plurality of macroscopic teeth with central axes, where the central axes of the plurality of teeth are inclined relative to the central plane in such a manner, that a rotation of the body of 90° about the longitudinal axis is facilitated in one direction and impeded in the other direction. The distance between the two lateral surfaces is smaller than the distance between the two contact surfaces. |
| US08012207B2 |
Systems and methods for posterior dynamic stabilization of the spine
Devices, systems and methods for dynamically stabilizing the spine are provided. The devices include a radially expandable spacer having an undeployed configuration and a deployed configuration, wherein the spacer has axial and radial dimensions for positioning between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae. The systems include one or more spacers and a mechanical actuation means for delivering and deploying the spacer. The methods involve the implantation of one or more spacers within the interspinous space. |
| US08012205B2 |
Cartilage repair and regeneration device
A cartilage repair device comprises a scaffold, for example a naturally occurring extracellular matrix material, and a biological lubricant. The biological lubricant is applied to the naturally occurring extracellular matrix material. |
| US08012204B2 |
Accommodative intraocular lens system
A two optic accommodative lens system wherein at least one of the optics is deformable. When compressed by the capsular bag, the two optics press against each other, deforming at least one of the optics. As a result, the interface where the two optics meet changes shape, thereby altering the refractive power of the lens system. |
| US08012198B2 |
Venous valve, system, and method
A venous valve with a frame and a cover on the frame for unidirectional flow of a liquid through the valve. |
| US08012195B2 |
Intravascular stent
A stent in a non-expanded state has a first column expansion strut pair. A plurality of the first column expansion strut pair form a first expansion column. A plurality of second column expansion strut pair form a second expansion column. A plurality of first serial connecting struts form a first connecting strut column that couples the first expansion column to the second expansion column. The first expansion column, the second expansion column, and the first connecting strut column form a plurality of geometric cells. At least a portion of the plurality are asymmetrical geometric cells. |
| US08012194B2 |
Selective adherence of stent-graft coverings
An endoluminal prosthesis including a first polymer member bonded to a second polymer member to selectively encapsulate a stent. Selective bonding between the first and second polymer members results in unbonded regions or pockets that accommodate movement of the stent, permitting compression of the prosthesis using minimal force and enabling collapse of the prosthesis to a low profile. The pockets are believed to encourage enhanced cellular penetration for rapid healing and may contain bioactive substances. |
| US08012193B2 |
Introducer for an iliac side branch device
An introduction arrangement for a fenestrated or branched stent graft (13) intended for deployment into the lumen of a vessel having a blind vessel extending from it. The introducer (1) has a distal end intended to remain outside a patient in use and a proximal end with a nose cone dilator (11) and an arrangement to retain the branched stent graft distally of the nose cone dilator. A sheath (15) on the introducer extends over the branched stent graft to the nose cone dilator. An indwelling catheter (22) extends from the distal end of the introducer and enters the fenestration or side arm and through to the nose cone dilator, the indwelling catheter has a guide wire (29) extending through it. The guide wire can be extended beyond the nose cone dilator in use before the sheath is withdrawn from the branched stent graft so that it can be snared from the contra-lateral artery. |
| US08012192B2 |
Multi-stent delivery system
A catheter assembly comprises a catheter having a catheter shaft with a first rotatable sheath rotatably disposed thereabout. A first guidewire housing which defines a first guidewire lumen for passage of a first guidewire therethrough is engaged to the first rotatable sheath. A first stent, which when in the reduced stent state, is disposed about at least a portion of the first rotatable sheath. A second stent, which when in the reduced stent state, is positioned adjacent to the first stent. |
| US08012191B2 |
Therapeutic pack
A therapeutic pack provides effective therapeutic heating or cooling to an area of a body. The therapeutic pack comprises a fabric bag and a plurality of therapeutic modules within the bag. The bag consists of taffeta or a spandex such that the bag drapes. The therapeutic modules are capable of freely moving within the bag relative to one another. The therapeutic modules may include a material that repeatedly provides a prolonged cooling or heating, such as a phase change material. |
| US08012190B2 |
Device for the treatment of chemically damaged hair and its method of use
A device that treats chemically damaged hair by stimulating the circulation of blood and nutrients to the scalp while simultaneously promoting an environment that is not favorable for the propagation of bacteria. The device is composed of a blower that is attached to an air chiller. The blower houses a blue LED that irradiates a blue light outward from the mouth of blower. The device simultaneously blows cold air out of the mouth of the blower and irradiates the hair and scalp of the person being treated. |
| US08012188B2 |
Spinal implants and methods with extended multi-axial anchor assemblies
Systems and methods are provided that include a plate member engageable to the spinal column with an anchor assembly. The anchor assembly includes a coupling member having a post extending through at least one opening of the plate member and an anchor member pivotally captured in a receiver member of the coupling member below a lower surface of the plate member. A locking member secures the plate member to the coupling member. The coupling member includes an extended post with a proximal removable portion. The extended post facilitates placement of the plate member in position relative to the anchor assembly when engaged to the patient and be employed to reduce the plate member toward the anchor assembly when engaged to a vertebra. |
| US08012184B2 |
Device for stabilizing bones
A device pivotally connects two stabilizing parts to a bone. The device comprises at least one bone fixing element with a central axis, an anchor part designed to be fixed in or onto the bone, and a head part that can be attached to both stabilizing parts. The two stabilizing parts are located axially one below the other. Each stabilizing part has a cavity there through running coaxially to the central axis. A clamping element, which can be elastically deformed transversely to the central axis, is rotatably mounted in each cavity. The clamping element has a central bore running coaxially to the central axis for receiving the head part. The device comprises at least one wedge or cone that can be axially clamped in the central bores, enabling the head part of the bone fixing element to be removably fixed in at least one of the stabilizing parts. |
| US08012173B2 |
Surgical suture material with an antimicrobial surface and process for providing an antimicrobial coating on surgical suture material
A surgical suture material with an antimicrobial surface is described, the surface exhibiting a coating containing a) at least one fatty acid, b) octenidine dichloride and/or dequalinium chloride and c) optionally oligomeric lactic acid esters. In addition, a process for coating surgical suture material is described which is characterized by the fact that the thread material is wetted with a homogeneous methanolic solution of octenidine dichloride and/or dequalinium chloride and subsequently the methanol is evaporated, a coating forming on the thread surface. |
| US08012170B2 |
Device and method for controlling compression of tissue
A method and device for controlling the compression of tissue include clamping tissue between a first clamping member and a second clamping member by driving at least one of the clamping members with an electric motor toward a predetermined tissue gap between the clamping members and, during the clamping, monitoring a parameter of the electric motor indicative of a clamping force exerted to the tissue by the clamping members. The method and device include, during the clamping, controlling the electric motor, based on the monitored parameter, to limit the clamping force to a predetermined maximum limit. |
| US08012166B2 |
Laparoscopic instrument tip and method of specimen collection
A unique laparoscopy instrument tip and method which allows simultaneous gasping, cauterization, dissection, containment, enclosure and removal of body tissue. Mechanisms for grasping, holding, manipulating, cauterizing, dissecting, encasement in an enclosed cavity and removing the tissue are provided in one implement allowing easy, safe and quick performance of the procedure. |
| US08012163B2 |
Occluding and stabilizing medical device
A method for occluding a blood vessel at a compression site is provided. Suction is applied to stabilize a surgical location adjacent the compression site. A first compressor is positioned proximal the surgical location and adjacent the blood vessel. The blood vessel is occluded with the first compressor in response to the positioning. Systems and apparatuses for using the method are also provided. |
| US08012160B2 |
System and method for releasably holding a surgical instrument
The invention is directed to a system and method for releasably holding a surgical instrument (14), such as an endoscopic instrument configured for delivery through a small percutaneous penetration in a patient. The instrument comprises an elongate shaft (100) with a pair of mounting pins (116) laterally extending from the shaft between its proximal and distal ends. An instrument holder comprises a support having a central bore (202) and an axially extending slot (204) for receiving the instrument shaft and the mounting pins. A pair of locking slots (206) are cut into the support transversely to and in communication with the axial slot so that the mounting pins can be rotated within the locking slots. The instrument support further includes a latch assembly for automatically locking the mounting pins within the locking slots to releasably couple the instrument to the instrument holder. With this twist-lock motion, the surgeon can rapidly engage and disengage various instruments from the holder during a surgical procedure, such as open surgery, laparoscopy or thoracoscopy. |
| US08012159B2 |
Putamen grid
The present invention makes a grid array, for use in the transplantation of materials into the brain, in the shape of a predetermined structure, such as the putamen, based on anatomic analysis the structure. Alternatively, a smaller grid array is used which only includes the putamen target and not the caudate target, and also has two windows within the grid array. Because of the smaller size of this grid array as well as the two cutouts in the middle, it is possible for the first time to observe the brain as the needle enters the brain through the grid array. The previous solid and larger grid array made the passage of the needle into the brain a blind maneuver. Therefore if there was cortical bleeding at the time of needle insertion, it would not be known until after the transplant was done. |
| US08012157B2 |
Internal bone fixation sizing device and methods
An internal bone fixation sizing device and methods for using this device during a procedure for repairing a weakened or fractured bone are disclosed herein. A medical device for determining a depth and a diameter of a medullary cavity of a bone includes an outer shaft having a proximal end engaging an activation mechanism, a distal end having a first opening at an upper surface and a second opening at a lower surface, and a longitudinal axis between the proximal end and the distal end, wherein the longitudinal axis of the outer shaft includes a plurality of markers; and an inner shaft having a proximal end engaging the activation mechanism, a distal end terminating in two sizing arms, and a longitudinal axis therebetween, wherein the two sizing arms are able to move from a retracted position to an extended position extending beyond the outer shaft. |
| US08012148B2 |
Reinforced high strength microwave antenna
High-strength microwave antenna assemblies and methods of use are described herein. The microwave antenna has a radiating portion connected by a feedline to a power generating source, e.g., a generator. Proximal and distal radiating portions of the antenna assembly are separated by a junction member. A reinforcing member is disposed within the junction member to increase structural rigidity. |
| US08012145B2 |
Medical hub having transparent observation section
A medical hub for connecting a tubular member to a fluid source has a first structure for connecting to the fluid source, a second structure for connecting to the tubular member, and a transparent portion formed between the first and second structures. The transparent portion in one embodiment has a generally spherical shape that allows visual monitoring of a fluid flowing through the hub from a wide viewing angle. The transparent portion can be formed of clear plastic or other suitable optical material that magnifies an image of the fluid flowing through the hub. Other embodiments are described in which the transparent portion has a cylindrical shape, a square shape, a multifaceted shape, and a combination of such shapes. The tubular member can be a catheter or other intravenous tubing. |
| US08012142B2 |
Multi-lumen endoscopic accessory and system
The embodiments of the present invention relate to an endoscopic system and accessories. In particular, the various embodiments relate to endoscopic systems in which an accessory comprises a multi-lumen device that is capable of quantitatively delivering at least a catheter, a balloon, and a needle to a site. The accessory is configured to allow for individual, independent control of its components. For example, in some embodiments, the needle and guidewire can be independently controlled. In addition, the needle may be retracted back into an inner lumen of the catheter body. Accordingly, during use, the accessory of the embodiments allows the user to maintain access to an incision site without having to exchange or remove accessories for various parts of the procedure. |
| US08012140B1 |
Methods of transmural attachment in the gastrointestinal system
Disclosed herein is a method of treating a patient, that includes providing a gastrointestinal sleeve device having an elongate tubular body, with a proximal opening and a distal opening; and positioning the gastrointestinal sleeve device in the patient's digestive tract such that the proximal opening of the tubular body is positioned at the native gastroesophageal junction to receive ingested food and liquids from the patient's esophagus and the distal opening of the tubular body is positioned in the patient's jejunum. The tubular body can then be attached near its proximal opening to the patient at the native gastroesophageal junction. |
| US08012138B2 |
Nursing pad
A nursing pad has a first folding portion, which serves as a folding axis that allows the nursing pad to be folded therealong, provided such that it passes near an apex of the nursing pad, and extends up to the perimeter thereof. Furthermore, the nursing pad includes a fastening element, which allows the nursing pad to be fastened to the wearer's clothing, provided to a portion other than the first folding portion and the linear portion orthogonal to the first folding portion. |
| US08012136B2 |
Ophthalmic fluid delivery device and method of operation
The present invention provides an ophthalmic fluid delivery device adapted to deliver an ophthalmic fluid in the form of a mist to an ocular region of a patient. The ophthalmic fluid delivery device comprises a nozzle defining an aperture through which the ophthalmic fluid can flow and at least one shutter positioned proximate to the aperture of the nozzle. The shutter is mounted for movement with respect to the aperture of the nozzle between an open position permitting flow of the ophthalmic fluid through the aperture of the nozzle and a closed position at least partially covering the aperture. A shutter actuator is positioned proximate to the shutter. The shutter actuator is mounted for movement with respect to the nozzle, and the shutter actuator is coupled to the shutter such that the movement of the shutter actuator moves the shutter between the open position and the closed position. |
| US08012135B2 |
Attachment cuff for gastrointestinal implant
The present invention provides devices and methods for attachment of an endolumenal gastrointestinal device, such as an artificial stoma device, a gastrointestinal bypass sleeve or other therapeutic or diagnostic device, within a patient's digestive tract. In one application of the invention, an endolumenal bypass sleeve is removeably attached in the vicinity of the gastroesophageal junction to treat obesity and/or its comorbidities, such as diabetes. The bypass sleeve may be at least partially deployed by eversion. |
| US08012134B2 |
Dialysis valve and method
A dialysis valve includes a tube attached between an artery and a vein which, when elongated, simultaneously narrows in diameter at at least one location. The narrowed portion of the tube decreases the volume and velocity between the arterial and venous side of the patient to prevent damage or intimal hyperplasia on the venous side between dialysis treatments. When the valve is opened for dialysis, an unrestricted blood flow exists between the arterial and venous side, permitting a controlled, open blood flow during dialysis. |
| US08012132B2 |
Luer-snap connection and luer-snap syringe
Syringe having a snap-fit mechanism for attaching a needle hub to a syringe barrel in a snap-fit relationship and packaged medical device comprising a syringe with a snap-fit mechanism and a needle hub are provided. An exemplary syringe includes a barrel with a collar and a rotatable arm which allows connection of a needle hub to the barrel in a snap-fit relationship. Additional features of the collar and rotatable arm may also permit disconnection of the needle hub from the barrel without the use of relative rotation of the needle hub and barrel. In a specific configuration, the syringe utilizes a torsional snap-fit element to connect the needle hub to the barrel in a snap-fit rotation. In a more specific configuration, the syringe utilizes a collar with differing interior surfaces which permit snap-fit assembly and disassembly of the needle and the barrel. |
| US08012129B2 |
Surgical portal apparatus with waffle seal
A surgical portal apparatus includes a portal housing, an elongated portal member connected to the portal housing and depending therefrom, and a seal member comprising a resilient material and being mounted to the portal housing. The portal housing and the portal member have an axial bore for reception and passage of a surgical object. The seal member includes leading and trailing faces and has inner portions defining a passage to permit passage of a surgical object. One of the leading and trailing faces defines a plurality of recessed cells formed within interconnected struts. The interconnected struts are relatively flexible to flex upon radial offset manipulation of the object to permit corresponding movement of the passage while substantially maintaining a seal about the surgical object. At least some of the recessed cells define a generally rectangular arrangement. Preferably, the leading end face of the seal member has the recessed cells. |
| US08012126B2 |
Infusion set
The application relates to an infusion set comprising an infusion part (1) comprising a base part (3) having a main plane, a head part (6) extending from the main plane of the base part and a cannula (12) extending from the base part, first fastening means, a connector (2) having a plane being parallel to and above the main piano of the base part, and having one or more arms (15), said arms being fastened to the connector at a first end, and being free in a second opposite end, and a tube (14), guide means (7, 16) second fastening means (8, 17) being in the form of projecting connector retention devices (17) positioned on the arms of the connector adapted to engage with retention devices (8) extending from the base part, where the plane of the connector can be tilted to a distance from the base part causing the second to be displaced to a distance from that is larger than the height (h) of the retention devices. |
| US08012125B1 |
Front loaded medical fluid syringe mounting
Various sealing structures are used in a front-loading injector, for preventing leakage of spilled fluid from an external surface of a syringe into the vicinity of the drive ram. For example, a sealing gasket may be incorporated into the front face of the injector housing, for mating to the rearward circular edge of the cylindrical body of a syringe. Alternatively, sealing and locking functions may be performed by a single structure on the rearward end of the syringe. Further, leakage may be prevented by including a non-planar sealing flange on the syringe, positioned on the syringe forward of the locking structure, or by a two-piece structure, including a syringe and a separate leakage stopping washer for surrounding the syringe to halt the flow of fluid along the exterior of the syringe. As part of this aspect, or as an independent feature, the syringe may include an annularly discontinuous flange forward of the locking structure, for providing mechanical support for the syringe against the injector. Alternatively, an iris-like structure may be incorporated into the front surface of the injector, for closing about the syringe upon insertion of the syringe into the injector. |
| US08012121B2 |
Method and apparatus for selective material delivery via an intra-renal catheter
Two renal delivery members have two distal ports that are adapted to be positioned within two renal arteries via their corresponding renal ostia at unique locations along an abdominal aortic wall. A proximal coupler assembly is outside the body and is coupled to deliver material to the two distal ports for bi-lateral renal therapy. One or both of the delivery members may be self-cannulating into the corresponding renal ostium, or may be controllably steered into the respective ostium. Non-occlusive anchors may be coupled with one or both of the delivery members at anchoring positions in the renal artery or abdominal aorta to secure the renal delivery member within the renal artery. Renal-active fluid agents are coupled to the bi-lateral delivery system. Another renal therapy system cannulates a renal vein from the vena cava and controls a retrograde delivery of agents to the respective kidney. |
| US08012120B2 |
Device and method for the automatic initiation of an injection
A system and method to automatically initiate an injection procedure of a medicament into a patient. In the system, a delivery assembly includes an injector for infusing the medicament into the patient. Further, the system includes a monitor for detecting a parameter characteristic of the procedure, for instance, a pressure indicative of a partial vacuum between the injector and the injection site, a pressure exerted by the patient against the delivery assembly, a conductance, a capacitance, or an optical blood reading. Also, the system includes a timer for determining compliance of the parameter within a predetermined range during a first time interval. In response to the timer, an actuator initiates the injection procedure at the expiration of the first time interval. Further, the actuator may stop the injection procedure if the parameter is outside the predetermined range during a second time interval. |
| US08012116B2 |
Device to reduce brain edema by surface dialysis and cooling
We have developed a novel method of brain surface dialysis that reduces intracranial pressure and modifies movement of extracellular fluid in a rat model of brain injury. A chamber with a semipermeable membrane at the site of brain contact is perfused with a hyperosmolar solution (e.g. 15% dextran, inulin, hydroxyethyl starch). It is also capable of providing local brain cooling. In principle, osmotic forces draw water and small molecules from the injured brain into the dialysis chamber thereby reducing brain swelling. The dialysate does not move into the brain. |
| US08012115B2 |
Optic nerve implants
Methods and devices for delivering therapeutic substances into the eye. An implant containing the therapeutic substance is implanted at least partially within the optic nerve and the therapeutic substance then elutes from the implant. The implant may have a lumen or it may be solid. |
| US08012114B2 |
Hemodialysis unit comprising emergency activation means
A haemodialysis device having an emergency activating function is provided. In order to avoid critical drops in blood pressure during a dialysis treatment, the emergency activating function makes it possible for the operating staff to initiate with a single control function a blood pressure measurement and a delivery of substance into the patient's blood in the event of a hypotensive episode and at the same time to have the introduction of these measures by the haemodialyser confirmed clearly through a display having an outward appearance different from that displayed during normal operations. In addition, further automatically introduced process steps can be provided. The emergency activating function speeds up the implementation of the measures to be introduced and, at the same time prevents incorrect operation and makes it possible for the operating staff to attend directly to the patient. |
| US08012113B2 |
Spinal brace
A spinal brace includes a flexible air injectable band configured to be disposed about a torso of a user and to provide traction to a spine of the user, at least one support panel configured to provide support by compression to at least a region of the torso, the at least one support panel being less flexible than the air injectable band, and at least one means of associating the at least one support panel with the flexible air injectable band. |
| US08012111B2 |
Oral hygiene device
An oral hygiene device for use with a sink having hot and cold water lines includes a storage mount and a housing removably coupled thereto. The housing includes hot and cold water inputs and an outlet. The housing also includes first and second channels coupling the inputs to the outlet. The device includes piping tees and flexible tubing for connection to a sink's water lines. The device includes adjustable temperature valves in the first and second channels, respectively, for regulating amounts of hot and cold water passing through the channels. An adjustable volume valve is included for determining a volume of water exiting the outlet. The storage mount may be installed on a sink adjacent the faucet so that the oral hygiene device is a permanent fixture. |
| US08012109B1 |
Shoulder massage apparatus
A shoulder massage apparatus includes a shoulder covering with an outer wall and an inner wall. An interior space is defined between the outer and inner walls. The covering includes a back wall, a front wall, a pair of side walls and a top wall that are integrally attached together. The top wall has a neck opening therein for receiving a neck of a person. The front wall has a front break therein. A plurality of massaging assemblies is provided. Each of the massaging assemblies is configured to oscillate and massage a portion of the person when the massage assemblies are turned on. Each of the massage assemblies is positioned within the interior space. An actuator is electrically coupled to the massaging assemblies to selectively allow the massaging assemblies to be turned on or off. A power source is electrically coupled to the plurality of massaging assemblies. |
| US08012107B2 |
Methods and apparatus for rehabilitation and training
A method of rehabilitation comprising: providing a first actuator that includes a movement mechanism capable of applying a force that interacts with a motion of a patient's limb in a volume of at least 30 cm in diameter, in at least three degrees of freedom of motion of the actuator and capable of preventing substantial motion in any point in any direction in said volume; coupling said first actuator to a first point on a human body; providing a second actuator that includes a movement mechanism capable of applying a force that interacts with a motion of a patient's limb in a volume of at least 30 cm in diameter, in at least three degrees of freedom of motion of the actuator and capable of preventing substantial motion in any point in any direction in said volume; coupling said second actuator to a second point on a human body; and applying different forces to said points using said actuators. |
| US08012106B2 |
Lumen measuring devices and methods
A lumen measuring device generally includes a central member dimensioned to extend into a lumen and an elongate outer member having a flexible region configured to flex outward from the central member in response to retraction of the central member. In measuring a lumen, the flexible region is caused to contact the lumen. The lumen may be contacted by linear segments that hinge or by members that bow arcuately. A polygon, such as a triangle, may be defined by portions of the outer member and the central member. A handle assembly may be provided by which the disposition of the central member relative to the outer member may be adjusted. Indicators may be defined by the central member and outer member by which the disposition of the central member and by which the diameter of a lumen may be determined. |
| US08012101B2 |
Punching tool for taking biological samples
The invention relates to a punching tool for taking a biological sample from a filter using punching, the punching tool comprising a punch and a die provided with a punching channel for conveying the sample from the upper surface of the die towards the lower end of the die that includes a guidance means of the sample comprising a guidance channel arranged as an extension of the punching channel for receiving the sample from the punching channel, the diameter of the guidance channel is 1.02 to 2× the diameter of the punch and is greater than the diameter of the punching channel, and at the connecting point with the punching channel the guidance channel forms a shoulder and broadens towards the free end of the guidance means. In order to reduce the number of mistakes when taking samples, while the structure of the punching tool still remains simple at the end of the guidance means that faces towards the punching channel of the die, the diameter of the guidance channel is constant at a portion of the length thereof and the walls of the shoulder are placed at an angle from 170 to 300 degrees in relation to one another. |
| US08012100B2 |
Fluid pressure-actuated medical device
An apparatus and method are described for actuating a minimally invasive medical device using fluid pressure. The invention involves a medical device that includes a fluid source, such as a compressible bladder that may apply positive fluid pressure into a sheath to controllably deploy an end-effector from a distal end of the sheath. In some embodiments, the fluid source may apply negative fluid pressure into the sheath to controllably retract the end-effector into the distal end of the sheath. Typical end-effectors for use with the medical device of the invention include biopsy devices and retrieval devices, including basket-type retrieval devices and grasper retrieval devices. Generally, the fluid that is used to actuate the device may be a liquid or a gas, including air. |
| US08012098B2 |
Determining a patient's posture from mechanical vibrations of the heart
A system for determining a patient's posture by monitoring heart sounds. The system comprises an implantable medical device that includes a sensor operable to produce an electrical signal representative of heart sounds, a sensor interface circuit coupled to the sensor to produce a heart sound signal, and a controller circuit coupled to the sensor interface circuit. The heart sounds are associated with mechanical activity of a patient's heart and the controller circuit is operable to detect a posture of the patient from a heart sound signal. |
| US08012094B2 |
Immersion bag system for use with an ultrasound probe
An immersion bag system for use with an ultrasound probe to overcome near field artifact includes a flexible thin wall thickness immersion bag with an attached flexible collar having an integral internal seal. The immersion bag contains a gel or other ultrasound transmission medium and is sealingly and removably attached to the tip end of an ultrasound probe by use of the flexible collar having the integral internal seal. The immersion bag is able to conform to a cornea as well as to other surfaces whether flat or irregular, thereby enabling an ultrasound probe to be used easily on such surfaces. An ultrasound probe in use with the immersion bag system is maintained at a distance above the contact surface of the immersion bag and is positionable about the vertical axis while the immersion bag maintains stationary conformal contact with the structure against which it is in contact. |
| US08012085B2 |
Method for collecting/transporting a medical capsule and endoscopic apparatus for the method
The present invention provides a method for collecting/transporting a medical capsule by holding the medical capsule using an endoscopic apparatus comprising: an endoscope having an inserting section to be inserted in a body cavity with a distal end including an observation section to observe a subject and an suction opening; a sucking device in communicated with the suction opening; and a generally cylindrical hood member which is attached to the distal end of the inserting section, the method comprising: a sucking step of making an inside of the hood member vacuum by actuating the sucking device to suck the inside of the hood member through the suction opening; and a holding step of attracting and holding the medical capsule to the hood member sucked by the sucking step. |
| US08012082B1 |
Telephone-actuated wireless sexual stimulating system
A sexually stimulating system includes a device insertable within a body cavity of a recipient, a signal generated by a non-recipient, and a controller attached to a recipient body. The controller is in wireless communication with the device and includes a mechanism for toggling the device between active and inactive modes based upon instructions from the activation signal. The mechanism generates and transmits a control signal to the device. An internal power supply source and a switch are intermediately seated between the power supply source and the device toggling mechanism. A first communications link transmits the activation signal to the controller and a second communications link transmits the control signal to the device. Each device includes a switch and an internal power supply source electrically mated thereto. A receiver is coupled to a digital to analog converter and a transducer is electrically coupled to the converter. |
| US08012081B2 |
Adjustable surgical sling
The invention, in one embodiment, is directed to systems and methods for adjusting support to an anatomical location using an expandable chamber. |
| US08012079B2 |
Method and apparatus for long-term assisting a left ventricle to pump blood
A method and apparatus for long-term assisting the left ventricle of a heart to pump blood is disclosed which includes at least one transluminally deliverable pump and a transluminally deliverable support structure which secures the at least one pump within the aorta for long-term use. |
| US08012077B2 |
Blood separating device
A device for separating components of a composition according to density. The device includes a rotatable chamber and a plurality of buoys. The rotatable chamber has an axis of rotation. The plurality of buoys are positioned within the rotatable chamber and about the axis of rotation. The buoys are radially movable between an expanded position in which the buoys are at a first location relative to the axis of rotation and a contracted position in which the buoys are at a second location relative to the axis of rotation. The first location is further from the axis of rotation than the second location is. The buoys are movable in response to force generated during rotation of the rotatable chamber. |
| US08012075B2 |
Tamper evident reclosable package
A tamper evident package has a first wall and a second wall facing the first wall. A zipper is provided at a top of the package. The first and second walls include portions that extend over the zipper and the first wall extension portion has a line of weakness that extends parallel to the zipper. A peel seal joins the first wall and the second wall above the interlocking members of the profiles and sections of the first and second walls extend beyond the peel seal. If the zipper has a slider, a pocket is formed in one of the walls to accommodate the slider. The slider pocket extends parallel to the zipper. Methods of forming the package on various types of form, fill and seal equipment as well as the equipment are also disclosed. |
| US08012074B1 |
Stability ball control device with radial control surfaces of increasing widths
An exercise device includes a body having rib-like structures and an annular band. Each rib-like structure has an exterior surface defining a longitudinal extent, terminates at a radiating end, and has at least one wing formed substantially parallel to the longitudinal extent and protruding away from the exterior surface to a given distance that increases along a direction towards the radiating end. The rib-like structures overlap at a central point to comprise a central base. The annular band is connected to the radiating end of each rib-like structure such that the rib-like structures and the band together form a cup-shaped enclosure operable to seat therein a bottom portion of an exercise ball. The at least one wing of each rib-like structure is operable to provide an incremental resistance against a rolling movement of the exercise ball along a substantially flat surface when the exercise ball is seated therein. |
| US08012069B2 |
Selectorized dumbbell having or convertible into kettlebell configuration
A selectorized dumbbell has nested stacks of left and right weight plates, a handle that can be disposed between the two stacks of weight plates, and a selector that couples selected numbers of the left and right weight plates to left and right planar ends of the handle. The handle has at least one loop type hand grip located above the ends of the handle and above the weight plates to allow the dumbbell to be used as a kettlebell. This loop type hand grip can be replaced with a bar type hand grip if the dumbbell is to be used like a standard dumbbell, or the handle can be provided in kettlebell or standard versions thereof. Alternatively, the loop type hand grip can be movably disposed on the handle for movement between operative and non-operative positions. |
| US08012066B1 |
Wire trampoline enclosure
A trampoline has an enclosure which includes a wire ring; a plurality of connectors connected to the wire ring; and a plurality of support poles. The support poles have a top end. The support poles have a top bend that bends inward at the top end. The wire ring is substantially inflexible during trampoline use. The trampoline also includes trampoline frame. The plurality of support poles are rigidly connected to the trampoline frame. A trampoline enclosure net is suspended from the wire ring at an upper portion of the trampoline enclosure net. A trampoline mat is included and the trampoline enclosure net is bounded by the trampoline mat at a lower portion of the trampoline enclosure net. A bounding surface is supported by a plurality of springs connecting between the bounding surface and the trampoline frame. |
| US08012065B2 |
Coupler
Embodiments of hollow generally T-shaped couplers suitable for coupling respective ends of two tubular members to an upright member for a trampoline support are disclosed. Neither manufacture of the coupler nor the manner of its coupling between the tubular members and the upright member requires welds. The coupler has a hollow cross piece for coupling with the respective ends of the two tubular members. It also has a hollow upright piece extending from an underside of and intersecting the cross piece that receives in female fashion a male end of the upright member. Both the underside of the cross piece and sides of the upright piece are of split form along their respective lengths. The upright piece is provided with location regions that cooperate with corresponding location regions on the male end of the upright member to locate the upright member longitudinally of the upright piece. The coupler is provided with fixings to draw the splits together, thereby tightening the upright piece about the located upright member. |
| US08012064B2 |
Exercise system with graphical feedback and method of gauging fitness progress
A system and method for providing visual feedback to a user of an exercise machine for gauging fitness progress of the user. The system provides a user of an exercise machine with a virtual competition in which the user competes against virtual competitors based on his past performances or those of other users, either as an individual or as a member of a team. The team may also be part of a league. For an individual competing against his own past performance(s), the system may raise the level of performance required to win the virtual competition, and may also lower the level of performance required if the user is not performing well on a particular day. For an individual competing against others in either real-time or against designated results, either as part of a team or a league, the system may reduce the isolation, disconnection, and tedium often experienced by users of cardiovascular exercise equipment and provide a social outlet. The system attempts to keep the user engaged and motivated to achieve desired fitness goals by providing real-time performance data and historical performance data displayed in a graphical manner coupled with the entertainment and excitement of competition and social interaction. |
| US08012063B2 |
Pressure assisted park servo
A pressure assisted park servo assembly for an automatic transmission includes a servo or spool valve which receives pressurized hydraulic fluid from various sources including two solenoid valves and transmission ports. The servo valve controls two flows of pressurized hydraulic fluid to a servo assembly to place the transmission in or release it from park. The improved park servo assembly exhibits enhanced operating speed. |
| US08012061B2 |
Vehicle overspeed system implementing impeller clutch lockout
An overspeed system for a vehicle is disclosed. The overspeed system may have a power source, a transmission unit, and a torque converter assembly operatively coupling the power source to the transmission unit. The overspeed system may also have a travel speed sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of a vehicle speed, and a controller in communication with the torque converter assembly and the travel speed sensor. The controller may be configured to prevent a decoupling of the torque converter assembly in response to the signal. |
| US08012057B2 |
Drive device for motor vehicles
A drive assembly for a motor vehicle generally consisting of a first planetary gear set including a rim gear drivingly connected to an input shaft, a planetary gear carrier mounted on a first output shaft and a sun gear mounted on a second output shaft; a second planetary gear set including a planetary gear carrier mounted on the second output shaft and a planetary gear set drivingly connected to the planetary gear carrier of the first planetary gear set; and a selectively engergizabe electric motor including a rotor mounted on the sun gear of the second planetary gear set. |
| US08012053B2 |
Combination dust cover and bearing retention member
A rotatable device, such as a pulley, includes an annular rotatable member having a bore extending therethrough and an outer surface disposed about the bore. A bearing is located in the bore. The bearing is operably connected to the annular rotatable member to form an axis of rotation about which the annular rotatable member can rotate relative to an inner race of the bearing. A combination dust cover and bearing retaining member spans the bore at a location spaced axially from the bearing. The cover includes a flange received by a groove extending outwardly from the bore in a direction toward the outer surface of the rotatable member to attach the combination dust cover and bearing retaining member to the rotatable member. |
| US08012052B2 |
Low profile rear derailleur with cable guide
A bicycle rear derailleur comprises a base member; a movable member that supports a chain guide including a first pulley that rotates around a first pulley axis, wherein the pulley has a pulley plane; a first linking member coupled between the base member and the movable member so that the chain guide moves laterally relative to the base member between a first lateral position and a second lateral position, and a cable guide supported to the base member to guide a shift control cable. The pulley plane intersects the first linking member when the chain guide is located at a first position between the first lateral position and the second lateral position. |
| US08012049B1 |
Novelty dart with foam suction cup
A projectile device having a suction cup head made of a novel foam. The foam used in the suction cup head has an open cell density within the foam of between five percent and twenty percent. The suction cup head has a face surface of a first diameter. A shallow concavity is formed in the face surface. The concavity has nearly the same diameter as the face surface, however, the depth of the concavity is no more than one-tenth of that diameter. Furthermore, the face surface of the suction cup head is proportionally large, being at least twenty-five percent as wide as the entire projectile device is long. The combination of a large suction cup head, a shallow concavity and a soft, semiporous foam enables the suction cup head to adhere to both smooth surfaces and rough surfaces. |
| US08012046B2 |
Basketball return apparatus with mounting stand
A basketball return apparatus includes a frame, netting, and a ball return mechanism. The frame is adapted to mount on a rim support bracket of a basketball hoop and defines an orifice through which shot basketballs can descend. The netting is collapsible and extensible and is attached to the frame to form open funnel shaped enclosure that directs basketballs downward therethrough. The ball return mechanism is mounted to the frame below the orifice and netting to direct the basketballs back to the shooter. |
| US08012039B2 |
Golf club head
A golf club head with an increased moment of inertia (MOI) about the X axis and the Z axis. Generally, the MOI about the Z axis is at least about 4400 g·cm2 and the MOI about the X axis is at least about 2500 g·cm2. The radius of the bulge of the club face is increased while the radius of the roll is reduced to compensate for the gear effect produced by the increased MOIs. The bulge curvature is generally between about 0.016 cm−1 and about 0.028 cm−1, and the roll curvature is between about 0.033 cm−1 and about 0.066 cm−1. The roll curvature is greater than the bulge curvature. |
| US08012037B2 |
Golf club with removable components
A golf club having removable components includes a club head, a shaft, and a connection assembly. The club head includes a hosel having an upper treaded portion and a lower portion with a faceted cross-section. The connection assembly includes a sleeve mounted on the tip end of the shaft and a screw-cap. The sleeve, which has an aperture for receiving the tip end of the shaft, includes a lower section that has a multi-faceted surface for engaging the lower portion of the hosel. The screw-cap is mounted over the sleeve and includes a body having an upper area and a threaded area, the latter of which is capable of engaging the upper threaded portion of the hosel to removably secure the shaft to the club head. |
| US08012033B2 |
Golf swing trainer apparatus and method
The subject invention is comprised of a striking member adapted to emulate a specific selected sport, such striking member having removable indicator appendages that enable the user to feel by vibration and replicate by sight where the striking member is during the striking movement, and a target member adapted to emulate the playing object of the same selected sport, the target member including flexible, elongate momentum elements selectively attachable to the target member to provide progressive resistance and accurately simulate the characteristics of an actual ball or playing object. |
| US08012030B2 |
Connecting assembly between a shaft journal and a constant velocity universal joint
The invention relates to a connecting assembly which is used, more particularly for use in the driveline of a motor vehicle. The connecting assembly comprises a shaft journal 3 with an outer journal groove 34; a constant velocity universal joint 4 with an inner joint part 6 which, for the purpose of transmitting torque, is connected to the shaft journal 3 in a rotationally fixed way, wherein the inner joint part 6 comprises a sleeve-like portion 20 with an inner annular groove 35; a radially elastically widenable axial securing ring 30 which is provided for axially fixing the inner joint part 6 and which is positioned in the journal groove 34 of the shaft journal 3; and securing means 41 which are fixed to the sleeve-like portion 20 and prevent the axial securing ring 30 from being radially widened. |
| US08012029B2 |
Shuffling apparatus and method
A card shuffling device reads suit and value of individual cards that are moved through the card shuffler. Reading of the cards is effected after cards have been received into a card holding area and before cards have been delivered into a card collection area from which cards are removed from the device for use. |
| US08012026B2 |
Gaming machine and a method of supplying a flexible architecture gaming machine
A gaming machine (10) is provided having a plurality of modules. The gaming machine (10) may be used to provide a flexible architecture gaming machine. The plurality of modules include a play module (12) containing a display device (14) and a computational device (100) for controlling the operation of the gaming machine (10), and a base module (24) shaped and dimensioned to either directly or indirectly support the play module (1 2). The play module (12) includes a communication interface device (104) operable to communicate with a transaction handler that may be a transaction handling module (16). Also described and claimed is a method of supplying and a method of manufacturing a flexible architecture gaming machine. |
| US08012025B2 |
Video game controller hub with control input reduction and combination schemes
A video game controller hub receives a number of control input sets from an equal number of video game controllers, and provides a preferably smaller number of control input sets to a video game console. Each of the control input sets provided to the video game console by the controller hub is used to control a distinct on-screen entity, e.g. vehicle, character, or team. A number of players therefore collectively control a single on-screen entity. The reduction in the number of control input sets is performed according to reduction and combination schemes that are preferably specified by the user to suit a particular video game. The reduction in the number of control input sets increases the number of players that may concurrently participate in a video game without requiring support from the video game console or software, and the collaborative nature of the control of on-screen entities provides for exciting variations in game play. |
| US08012023B2 |
Virtual entertainment
Systems and methods that provide for a virtual reality entertainment system that supplies immersive entertainment and creates a sensation for a user similar to having guests in a remote location to be physically present as virtual guests. Such virtual reality entertainment system can supply a graphic and/or audio; wherein interconnected computers, video and audio processing devices, supply a live interaction between a user and a guest(s). Although guests are only present virtually (e.g., electronically present with other objects/user within the environment) such virtual invitation enables a user and guests to concurrently experience the entertainment together (e.g., a live sporting event, spectator game). In a related aspect, the subject innovation can implement holographic avatars, and a plurality of communication interfaces, to imitate (and/or transform) a relationship between the user and the virtual guests/surrounding environment. |
| US08012015B2 |
Verifying whether a gaming device is communicating with a gaming server
A gaming server provides activities and/or services to a player through a gaming device. To verify whether the gaming device is communicating with the gaming server, a verification server may send an indicator to the gaming device, via the gaming server, and also send the indicator to a verification device. Alternatively, the verification server may send an indicator, via the gaming server, to the gaming device, for example, which indicator may then be sent back to the verification server from a verification device. |
| US08012011B2 |
Gaming device and method having independent reels and multiple ways of winning
A gaming device including a plurality of unisymbol reels which are each selectively activated to generate a symbol at an active symbol position. After a plurality of symbols are generated by the unisymbol reels (wherein the number of generated symbols is based on a wagered on number of ways to win), the gaming device analyzes any associated symbols which are generated in active symbol positions over a requisite number of adjacent reel columns to determine whether the generated symbols form part or all of a winning symbol combination (i.e., a combination of associated or related symbols). The gaming device determines any outcomes associated with any formed winning symbol combinations and provides any determined outcomes to the player, wherein unlike a gaming device with paylines, any outcomes provided to the player are not determined based on the number of paylines which may pass through any displayed winning symbol combinations. |
| US08012006B2 |
Game program product, game apparatus and game method indicating a difference between altitude of a moving object and height of an on-earth object in a virtual word
A game apparatus includes an LCD. An on-earth object existing in a virtual game space is reproduced on the LCD from a viewpoint of capturing ahead of a flying object moving in the virtual game space. A velocity parameter and a direction parameter which defines the movement parameter of the flying object are changed in response to a button operation by a player. An altitude where the flying object will reach after a lapse of a time T (T>0) is predicted on the basis of the movement parameter of the flying object. A height above the sea level of the on-earth object existing in the predicted point is detected with reference to map data. Difference information indicating a difference between the detected height above the sea level of the on-earth object and altitude of the flying object is output to the player through the LCD. |
| US08012001B2 |
Methods and systems for increasing protein food safety
Methods, systems, and devices for increasing protein food safety are provided. According to one embodiment, a method in a computer system for increasing protein food safety includes steps: (a) receiving contamination level data; (b) accessing from a database stored data comprising prior contamination level data, prior interventions associated with the prior contamination level data, and prior actual results associated with the prior contamination level data; (c) selecting a subset of the prior contamination level data, the prior interventions, and the prior actual results, where the prior contamination level data is similar to the contamination level data; (d) determining if an effective intervention is set forth in the subset based at least partially on the prior actual results in the subset; and (e) if an effective intervention is not set forth in the subset, causing an intervention to be output that is increased relative to the intervention in the subset. |
| US08012000B2 |
Extended pad life for ECMP and barrier removal
A method and apparatus for extending a polishing article lifetime on a polishing tool with multiple platens is described. The apparatus includes an advanceable roll to roll platen with multiple embodiments of a polishing article to be used thereon. The polishing article is adapted to perform a polishing process by removing conductive and dielectric material from a substrate while minimizing downtime of the polishing tool. In some embodiments, the polishing article may be a dielectric material or a conductive material and is configured to include a longer usable lifetime to minimize replacement and downtime of the tool. |
| US08011998B2 |
Expansible sanding block exhibiting oblique extending surfaces
A sanding block for supporting an exteriorly mounted looped sanding belt having an elongated and planar shaped base. A planar shaped cover exhibits first and second oblique extending surfaces and, upon engaging with the base by a plurality of mating tabs and slots, collectively defines a three-dimensional article for supporting thereupon the looped sanding belt. A trigger exhibits a three-dimensional rectangular shape and extends laterally across a widthwise defined opening in the base in communicating fashion with an end surface associated with the cover, such that the trigger is positioned between the base and cover. The trigger is displaced in a first lateral direction to lengthwise displace the cover away from the base, the trigger displacing in a second and opposite lateral direction to reverse displace the cover inwardly towards the base. |
| US08011993B1 |
Diving toy
A diving toy that is comprised of a housing with a motor, battery and magnetic reed switch positioned inside the housing. A propeller is attached to an axle of the motor protruding through the rear end of the housing. A ballast is arranged inside the housing to provide positive buoyancy and a front end down attitude. A plurality of fins protrude from the housing surrounding the propeller for improving directional stability. A lever having one end rotatably mounted to the outside of the housing and another end provided with a magnet. When the toy is dropped or thrown front end first into a body of water, or when pushed in a downward motion from a submerged state, hydrodynamic forces rotate and then hold the lever and accordingly the magnet in a rearward position so long as there is downward motion, aligning the magnet adjacent to the reed switch, thereby actuating the reed switch to close a circuit between the battery and motor activating the motor, and forces generated by the spin of the propeller overcome the toys positive buoyancy propelling the toy in a continuous dive until it collides with a bottom of the body of water or another object stopping the dive, whereby gravity rotates the lever and magnet forward away from the reed switch to shut off the motor, the positive buoyant toy then floats to a surface of the body of water where it can be launched into another dive. |
| US08011983B1 |
Marine drive with break-away mount
A marine drive has a break-away mount mounting first and second sections of the drive and breaking-away in response to a given underwater impact against the second section to protect the first section and the vessel. |
| US08011982B1 |
Outboard motor support system
A support system for an outboard motor provides a restricted member that is attached to a bottom portion of the outboard motor and a restricting member that is attached to a support structure that is, in turn, attached to a transom of a marine vessel. The restricted member is prevented from moving in a starboard or port direction by a magnitude greater than a preselected magnitude that is defined by a gap between restricting and restricted surfaces that move into contact with each other when forces on the outboard motor cause a lower portion of the outboard motor to move by a magnitude greater than a predefined limit in either the port or starboard directions. Preselected gaps between restricting and restricted surfaces are sized to allow nominal vibration at low operating speeds of the outboard motor while restricting excessive lateral movement during operation at high speed. |
| US08011981B2 |
Boat
A boat includes a steering load detector arranged to calculate an output value of a steering motor necessary for steering an outboard motor in a traveling state, a motor output detector arranged to detect a possible output value that can be output by the steering motor, a prediction determination unit arranged to compare the necessary output value from the steering load detector with the possible output value from the motor output detector, and an electric power load control unit arranged to perform a control operation so as to increase a battery charge amount and/or to reduce the electric power load when the necessary output value is determined to be larger than the possible output value. As a result, the boat that can effectively perform steering when a motor output becomes small as a result of a reduced battery charge amount. |
| US08011977B2 |
Connector with retainer projections integral with connector housing
A connector has first and second housings (10A, 30A) that can be fit together along a fit-on direction. A female terminal (14) is mounted in a cavity (12) of a first housing (10A). A lance (19) is formed inside the first housing (10A) and locks the female terminal (14) in the cavity (12). The lance (19) can deform elastically in the flexibility allowance space (22) to unlock the female terminal (14). A retainer projection (34) is provided in a second housing (30A) and projects along a fit-in direction of the first and second housings (10A, 30A). The retainer projection (34) penetrates into the flexibility allowance space (22) as the first and second housings (10A, 30A) are fit together to prevent the lance (19) from flexing in an unlocking direction. |
| US08011973B2 |
Connector and a method of manufacturing the same
The invention discloses a connector that comprises an insulation body and one or more conductive terminals within the insulation body. The one or more conductive terminals comprise at least one clamping portion to clamp onto the insulation body. The invention further discloses an endoscope, which comprises a telescope, an imaging means, an image sensor that transforms optical signals from the imaging means into electrical signals and a PCB board that organizes and outputs the electrical signals, the imaging means, image sensor and PCB board being located in the telescope, wherein the endoscope further comprises the connector that electrically connects the image sensor and the PCB board to form a first assembly. The invention further discloses a method to make the connector. |
| US08011972B2 |
Connector with crosstalk compensation
A jack with a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) is provided. The FPC is connected to the plug interface contacts and has a compensation circuit to compensate for near-end crosstalk (NEXT) and far-end crosstalk (FEXT). Capacitive and inductive compensation in the compensation circuit are of opposite polarity and are substantially equal in magnitude. The compensation circuit has a FEXT compensation zone containing compensation for the FEXT. Inductive and capacitive compensation in the FEXT compensation zone are distributed. |
| US08011971B2 |
Adjustable plug and earphone utilizing the same
A plug assembly includes an insulation housing and an insertion pole fixed to the insulation housing. The insertion pole is made of elastic material and includes at least two insertion portions extended along an extension direction of the insertion pole. |
| US08011970B2 |
Systems and methods for providing a trimless electronic device port
This invention is directed to systems and methods for providing a port in an electronic device housing that is electrically isolated from a conductive portion of a connector inserted in the port. In some embodiments, the connector may include a non-conductive flange or ring operative to contact the housing and the portions of the housing within the port. In some embodiments, a thin layer of non-conductive material may be applied to the portions of the housing within the port to prevent conductive portions of the connector from coming into contact with the housing (e.g., and grounding the conductive portion). This invention may be of particular interest when the conductive portion that may come into contact with the housing is not used to ground the connector. |
| US08011969B2 |
Electrical connector with contact modules
An electrical connector includes an insulative housing including a base portion and mating tongue plate protruding forwardly from the base portion; two contact modules being retained with each other and each including an insulative block, and a row of contacts being insert molded in the insulative housing, and a metal shell enclosing the insulative housing and the contact modules. A receiving space is formed between the shell and the tongue plate. The insulative blocks each defines a front portion inserted in the cavity of the insulative housing for the contact modules being retained with the insulative housing reliably. |
| US08011967B2 |
Watertight connector and method of manufacturing the same
A waterproof connector with sealing capability includes a connector housing with a plurality of conductive terminals mounted therein. The terminals are arranged around the perimeter of a circle with contact portions exposed at the radial outermost extents along the circle. The housing has a central opening around which the terminals are arranged and the terminals are each bent into a circular arc in their mounting on the housing. The housing is over molded around the terminal at intermediate portions thereof to provide a liquid proof barrier. |
| US08011964B2 |
Smartconnect flash card adapter
A multi-memory media adapter having a plurality of ports, each having at least one set of contact pins adapted to connect to different types of flash cards. Signals are mapped to the contact pins depending upon the type of flash card. In one embodiment, a controller has signal lines connected to an interconnection means which connects wires, cables or traces to the sets of contact pins. Signals are mapped on the signal lines depending upon the type of flash card inserted. |
| US08011963B2 |
Filtered power connector
An improved power connector provides improved signal integrity in an interconnection system. The connector includes a filter element between a supply contact and a return contact. The filter element may be primarily capacitive, but may also include a resistance and a ferrite member. For connectors that include multiple sets of supply and return contacts, a single filter element may be included, or multiple filter elements may be included between multiple pairs of power and return contacts. The filter element may be formed within a connector housing or otherwise incorporated when the connector is manufactured. Alternatively, the filter element may be inserted into a receptacle such that filtering may be selectively incorporated as the connectors are used. When connected to a conducting loop for carrying power supply, the filter element provides substantially zero attenuation at frequencies below about 50 MHz and in excess of 10 dB of attenuation over a range that extends above 500 MHz. |
| US08011962B2 |
Clamping part with conducting body in the form of an overturned L for connecting electric wires
A wire clamp for connecting electric wires includes a conducting body having a horizontal portion and a vertical portion in the form of an overturned L. The vertical portion includes an opening adapted to receive the bare end of a wire for clamping and the horizontal portion includes an engagement element adapted to engage an actuating element, such as a screw, for actuating the conducting body in the vertical direction to clamp the wire against a horizontal element. The horizontal portion can include a free end that is folded downward, extending in a vertical direction. The folded free end can interfere with the actuating element causing the actuating element to lock. |
| US08011961B2 |
Cable assembly with grounding pieces
A cable assembly comprises an insulative housing defining a first and second receiving room therein, and a mounting platform disposed at one side of the insulative housing. A first and second electrical connectors are respectively received into the first and second receiving rooms, the first electrical connector defines a metallic shell. At least one cable is electrically connected with the first and second electrical connectors. And a grounding piece is assembled to the mounting platform of the insulative housing and has a contacting arm received into the first receiving room and electrically contacted with the metallic shell of the first electrical connector. |
| US08011957B2 |
Press-fit mounted electrical connector
An electrical connector (100) includes an insulating housing (240) and a number of plate wafers (200) vertically stacked behind the insulating housing (240). Each of the plate wafers (200) includes a frame (22) and a plurality of conductive contacts (23) secured by said frame (22). The conductive contacts (23) of each plate wafer (200) have press-fit portions (236) disposed along a first length. The frame (22) forms a rib (221) extending over the first length along said lower edge of the frame (22) so that a tooling (600) can press on a top face of the rib (221) when the electrical connector (100) is mounted onto the printed circuit board. The insulating housing (240) forms a plurality of engaging portions (244) extending a second length backwardly from the rear face (248) above said rib (221). The second length does not overlap the first length in a vertical direction, so that the tooling (600) can be downwardly inserted between adjacent wafers (200) and press on a top face of the rib (221) of the frame (22). |
| US08011948B2 |
Electrical connector assembly wth improved latching mechanism
An electrical connector assembly (1) for connecting with a cable (7), comprises a metallic housing (2) defining a receiving room (23), a pair of receiving spaces disposed at two sides of the receiving room and a pair of slits formed at two sides of the housing and respectively communicated with the pair of receiving spaces. A printed circuit board (3) is received into the receiving room and has a mating portion (31) extending forwardly from a front surface of the housing. A pair of latches (4) received into the corresponding receiving spaces, each latch having a base portion (41) disposed in the receiving space, an engaging portion (42) formed at a front end thereof and engaged with the housing and a pressing portion (43) extending rearwardly from the base portion and out of the housing, a latching portion (411) extending outwardly from the base portion and passing through the slit for latching with a complementary connector, an elastic portion (412) extending inwardly and rearwardly from the base portion to urge the latching portion extending out of the housing. |
| US08011938B2 |
Electrical connector having linear actuator
An electrical connector assembly is shown having a housing member with a mating assist which rotatably draws complementary connectors together. The mating assist is actuated by way of a linear actuator which rotates the mating assist member. |
| US08011935B2 |
Cable connector assembly with an improved ring member
A cable connector assembly (100) comprises a mating member (3), a printed circuit board (2), a LED (24) attached to the printed circuit board, a cable (6), a light pipe (4) having a visible area (431), an insulative shell (1), and a ring member (5). The cable has a positive wire (61) and a negative wire (62) connected with the mating member (3), and a strain relief portion (64) molded on the wires and neighboring to said light pipe. A detective contact (631) is connecting with the cable. The insulative shell encloses the printed circuit board, the cable and the mating member. The visible area (431) is exposed out of the insulative shell. The ring member has a slick loop portion (51) located in said light pipe and a retaining portion (52) with a rugged exterior surface, and said strain relief portion is molded on the retaining portion. |
| US08011933B2 |
Substrate connecting connector and semiconductor device socket, cable connector, and board-to-board connector having substrate connecting connector
An electrode terminal supporting body fixed on a printed wiring board and an anisotropic conductive sheet which is positioned on the electrode terminal supporting body and on which a semiconductor device is placed are provided between first and second stiffening plates. The first and second stiffening plates are fastened by machine screws with the electrode terminal supporting body, the anisotropic conductive sheet, and the printed wiring board interposed therebetween. |
| US08011932B2 |
Method for contacting partially conductive textile materials
A method for electrically connecting conductive thread (40) at any number of termination locations of a textile material (5) with an termination element preferably formed in a circuit board with the following steps being provided: placing the circuit board in a respectively formed recess of a support plate of a tool with the termination locations (122) of the circuit board (12) facing upwardly; arranging the material (5) on the circuit board (12) such that in the area of the termination locations of the circuit board (12) a termination location of the material (5) which is to be connected is being placed. Fixedly mounting, preferably by clamping the material adjacent to and on a side of the termination locations of the circuit board, preferably stretching the material (5) in longitudinal direction wherein the direction of the extension of the conductive threads. Fixedly clamping the material in an area opposite to the first clamping area and adjacent to the desired termination location. Soldering the blank conductive threads (40) to the termination locations of the circuit board (12). |
| US08011931B2 |
Probe connector
A probe connector includes a barrel, a plunger, an elastic element, at least one first magnet, and at least one second magnet. The barrel defines an enclosure surrounding a chamber. An opening is formed at one end of the barrel. The elastic element is arranged in the chamber of the barrel. The plunger has a basic portion received in the chamber and against one end of the elastic element, and a contact portion extending out of the chamber through the opening. The first magnet is disposed on the enclosure of the barrel. The second magnet is disposed on the basic portion of the plunger. When the plunger is pressed inward, the plunger is leant towards one side with the basic portion against the enclosure because of the second magnet approaching the first magnet to produce a magnetic force interaction therebetween. |
| US08011923B2 |
Method for operating a laser system for bleaching teeth
In a method for operating a laser system for bleaching teeth, a water-containing bleaching agent applied onto teeth is heated by a laser beam, wherein the laser beam has a wavelength in a range of 2.6 μm, inclusive, to 3.1 μm, inclusive, or in a range of 9.0 μm, inclusive, to 11.0 μm, inclusive. The laser system is operated in pulse mode with individual pulses of the laser beam, wherein the individual pulses each have a fluence that is below a vaporization threshold fluence of the bleaching agent. |
| US08011921B2 |
System and control method for detecting an abnormal burning situation using air pressure sensing and flame detection
Disclosed is a method for detecting a combustion state of a boiler, and more particularly to a boiler and a method capable of exactly detecting an abnormal combustion state of a gas boiler using an air pressure sensor and a flame detection unit, thereby improving efficiency of the boiler. The method comprises the steps of (S1) supplying air to a burner through a fan, (S2) detecting whether an optimum amount of air is supplied through step (S1) by using the air pressure sensor, (S3) continuously detecting a status of a flame through the flame detection unit if the flame is made by an ignition part, (S4) converting a size of the flame into a corresponding voltage value, inputting the voltage value into a microcomputer, and comparing the voltage value with a preset target voltage value, (S5) stopping a combustion process if the microcomputer determines that the air pressure sensor erroneously operates based on a fact that a difference value between the voltage value and the preset target voltage value exceeds a reference value, and (S6) displaying an error message indicating an abnormal combustion state if the microcomputer determines that the air pressure sensor erroneously operates. |
| US08011918B2 |
Device for applying filler material
A compact, flexible device capable of receiving a human finger which allows a person to easily and efficiently smooth filler material into a desired space, while also allowing the user to handle other objects and/or complete other tasks without removing the device from his or her person. |
| US08011912B2 |
Positionable gas injection nozzle assembly for an underwater pelletizing system
A positionable gas nozzle assembly for injecting and directing pressurized air or other gas having an inert nature into a pellet slurry so as to increase the velocity of the slurry from a pelletizer to and through a dryer. The variably positionable nozzle can be inserted, retracted and/or intermediately positioned to facilitate start-up of the pelletization process, reduce or eliminate pellet hang-up points, maximize and optimize the velocity of the pellet slurry throughput, and to adjust the aspiration level of the pellet slurry such that the internal heat of the pellets is retained for improved degrees of crystallization and/or drying. |
| US08011906B2 |
Piston pump
A piston pump includes a pump mechanism for changing a volume of a pump chamber to move a piston in a housing, and a feed mechanism that has a feed ring attached to a circular groove portion of the piston to be slaved with a movement of the piston. The feed mechanism is located in a suction passage from a suction port to a pump chamber, and the piston has a flange portion protruding radially outwardly. An inner peripheral surface of the feed ring has an inner-diameter enlarged portion extending radially outwardly to have an enlarged passage portion between the inner peripheral surface of the feed ring and the outer peripheral surface of the piston, and a valve portion for opening and closing a suction passage is constructed of an end portion of the inner diameter enlarged portion of the feed ring and the flange portion. |
| US08011900B2 |
Hermetic compressor with a heat dissipation system
A heat dissipating system for a hermetic compressor includes a thermal energy transfer duct having a heat absorbing end mounted to the cylinder block of the compressor to absorb the heat generated by the compression of the refrigerant fluid in the cylinder block and a heat releasing end positioned away from the heat absorbing end and away from the cylinder block in order to release the heat conducted from the cylinder block by the transfer duct. |
| US08011899B2 |
Compact pump arrangement
A compact water pump assembly has a shaft extending from a first end to a second end. An annular groove is located on the shaft. A housing member is located about the shaft and intermediate the first and second ends. An impeller is coupled to the second end of the shaft. A plurality of bearing members are arranged in a single-row within the groove. The bearing members rotatably support the shaft in the housing. In addition, each bearing member includes a radial centerline. A pulley is coupled to the first end of the shaft. The pulley is capable of engaging a drive belt such that the centerline of the belt driving surface is in substantial alignment with the bearing centerlines. |
| US08011898B2 |
High pressure radial pump
A pump (100) includes a pump block (102) including a heater (140), a middle block member (120) and an upper block member (122). Cylinder sleeves (130) are disposed between the middle and upper block members, and a piston assembly (160) is disposed in the block with pistons (162) reciprocatingly disposed in the cylinder sleeves. A drive motor (90) drives a twin gear assembly (170) and slave gears (168) to drive the pistons. Headers (104, 105) channel fluid from an external source to the cylinder sleeves, and from the cylinder sleeves to the heater. The heater includes a plurality of heaters such as cartridge heaters (150) that heat the received fluid. In the preferred device, A-side and B-side component are simultaneously pumped. The heater includes A-side and B-side flow paths for heating the components. The pressurized fluid(s) is dispensed through outlets (108, 110). |
| US08011896B2 |
Fan system
A fan system is electrically connected with a driving source generator and includes a first fan, a second fan and an energy storage element. The second fan is rotated by the first fan for generating an electric energy. The energy storage element is electrically connected with the second fan for storing the electric energy and keep supplying power when the driving source generator is out of order or the fan is rotating in lower rotation speed. |
| US08011893B2 |
Module of a nacelle of a wind turbine, nacelle of a wind turbine, wind turbine and method for the assembly of a nacelle of a wind turbine
The invention concerns a module of a nacelle of a wind turbine, which is separately designed, manageable and comprise a housing part. The module is connectable to at least one further module of the nacelle, which is also separately designed, manageable and has a housing part, wherein the housing part of the module builds in the assembled status of the nacelle, which comprises several modules, a part of the housing of the nacelle. The invention concerns also a nacelle comprising several such modules, a wind turbine comprising such a nacelle as well as a method for the stepwise assembly of such a nacelle aloft. |
| US08011891B2 |
Centrifugal multiblade fan
A centrifugal multiblade fan according to the present invention sucks air from one end side of an axial direction of a rotation axis to a radial inside, and blows the air to a radial outside. The centrifugal multiblade fan includes a plurality of blades located around the rotation axis. Each blade has a leading edge positioned at the radial inside, and a trailing edge positioned at a radial outside. The leading edge of each blade has an edge shape with a radius of curvature of 0.2 mm or less, for example. |
| US08011886B2 |
Method and apparatus for increasing lift on wind turbine blade
A lift device for a wind turbine blade. The lift device includes a first sidewall and an opposing second sidewall. The lift device is configured to be coupled to the wind turbine blade along a leading edge of the wind turbine blade, and to generate lift when airflow is directed across a surface of the lift device. |
| US08011882B2 |
Vane assembly
A vane assembly for a gas turbine engine, the assembly including a plurality of vanes 14 with an asymmetric organic metal/ceramic matrix composite lay up, such that when the vanes 14 are placed in tension or compression the profile of the vane 14 will alter by twisting or untwisting. Other materials may be provided for the vanes 14, and/or other methods may be used for placing the vanes 14 in tension or compression to provide positive changes to the profile thereof. |
| US08011870B2 |
Multi level automated car parking system
A structure having floors for receiving and delivery of cars, and parking floors. Receiving and delivery floors have slat conveyors with platform carriers placed in slots in the conveyor. Cars are parked by patrons on the platform carriers. After the patron exits the car the conveyor conveys the carrier on which the car is parked to the front of an elevator. A power arm in the elevator draws the carrier into the elevator, and the elevator rises to a parking floor. On the parking floor the elevator power arm pushes the platform carrier with the car on top onto a waiting transfer module, which moves laterally to the front of an allotted parking slot. A power arm on the transfer module pushes the platform carrier with the car on top into the parking slot. Upon the patron's return the car is retrieved as described above but in reverse order. |
| US08011869B2 |
Method and assembly for binding a book with adhesive
An adhesive application assembly is configured for use in a book binding station that includes a saddle for supporting a plurality of sheets. The adhesive application assembly includes an adhesive applicator, a movable support arm supporting the adhesive applicator, and a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism is coupled with the support arm and is configured to move the support arm and the adhesive applicator toward the saddle to apply adhesive to an outermost sheet on the saddle. |
| US08011866B2 |
Locking fastener assembly
A locking fastener assembly comprising a nut and a washer. The nut and washer each have opposed load bearing surfaces which include a series of annularly extending, slightly inclined faces forming shallow undulations around each surface. The load bearing surface on the nut is generally spherically convex and the load bearing surface on the washer is generally spherically concave. The nut rotates as it is installed while the washer is prevented from rotating so that the undulating bearing surface on the nut slides over the undulating bearing surface on the washer against ever increasing resistance until the assembly is properly seated and the nut is effectively prevented from counter-rotating by interference between opposed, inclined faces. A concave clamping surface is formed on the outer end of the washer on a radially extending flange. The flange flexes when the assembly is installed and resiliently urges the washer against the nut. |
| US08011865B2 |
Railroad car coil restraint system
A transverse railroad coil car coil restraint apparatus or system which includes a plurality of coil restraints attachable to each trough in a transverse railroad coil car to reduce the sideways shifting of coils positioned in the troughs. In certain embodiments, the coil restraints are attached in each trough and extend across the transverse coil car. In other embodiments, the coil restraints are attached in each trough along the length of the trough. In certain embodiments, when a coil is positioned in the trough, the coil compresses certain of the coil restraints and does not compress other of the coil restraints which prevents the sideways shifting of the coil during movement of the transverse coil car. In other embodiments, when a coil is positioned in the trough, the coil compresses certain of the compression members and does not compress other of the compression members which prevents the sideways shifting of the coil during movement of the transverse coil car. |
| US08011860B2 |
Ground anchor
An earth anchor of the pivoting type having an essentially cylindrical body, a blind bore extending thereinto from a trailing axial end of the cylindrical body and a leading edge projecting from a leading end of the body, the leading edge being formed as a rounded surface adapted for penetration through reinforcement paths while minimizing severing of the strands of the mat. |
| US08011851B1 |
Manhole cutting and removing device
A device to secure, cut and sequentially remove a manhole from a street environment. The manhole removing device is supported and rotatably driven hydraulically by a mobile operation equipment. A circular disk assembly has adjustable pavement cutters adjustably positioned from there within an inter-related manhole centering and a locking alignment and engagement plate assembly define a one-step cutting and removal of an existing manhole from the street for replacement. |
| US08011850B1 |
Device for arresting a moving motor vehicle and method of use
A device for arresting a motor vehicle which is moving on a support surface includes an enclosure with is shaped and dimensioned to receive the motor vehicle. The device is releasably connectable to a helicopter, so that the device can be (1) positioned over the motor vehicle by the helicopter, (2) disconnected from the helicopter, and (3) dropped onto the support surface wherein the enclosure encloses the motor vehicle. |
| US08011848B2 |
Quick change adapter for mounting brushes
A quick change adapter for removeably mounting a finishing tool to a rotary drive shaft. The quick change adapter includes a shaft hub mount designed to be mounted to a rotary drive shaft, and a tool hub mount designed to hold a finishing tool and to be removably secured to the shaft hub mount. The shaft hub mount includes a shaft sleeve with an annular sleeve ring on it. An annular locking ring is biased against the sleeve ring and includes a locking tab that slides into a locking slot in the sleeve ring. The tool adapter includes a lock sleeve adapted to slide between the annular locking ring and the shaft sleeve. The lock sleeve has a locking finger this slides into a recess slot in the locking slot when the tool adapter mount is engaged with the shaft hub mount. |
| US08011845B2 |
Marking instrument
A marking instrument including a body portion having an internal cavity disposed therein with a rotation means disposed within the interior cavity of the body portion. The marking instrument also includes a marking platform having at least one marking element disposed thereon and a cap element having an opening that corresponds to a geometric shape of a mark to be produced or the geometric shape of an answer space. |
| US08011844B2 |
Printer having detecting arm for detecting near-end state of paper roll
A printer is disclosed. The printer includes a main body which contains a paper roll container where a paper roll is loaded, a lid for closing an opening section of the main body through which opening section the paper roll is loaded in the paper roll container, a letter printing mechanism which is formed when the lid is closed, and a detecting arm disposed on a rear surface of the lid for detecting a near-end state of the paper roll. When the paper roll is loaded in the paper roll container and the lid is closed, an arm main body of the detecting arm contacts an outer circumferential surface of the paper roll. When the paper roll reaches the near-end state, the detecting arm does not contact the outer circumferential surface of the paper roll and is moved, and a switch disposed at the main body becomes OFF. |
| US08011841B2 |
Re-transfer printing machine and method thereof
A re-transfer printing machine 60 uses an ink film 33 having a sublimation-ink area of sublimation inks Y, M, C and an invisible-ink area of an invisible ink UVS and an intermediate-transfer film 11 having a protecting layer 11c and an ink receptor layer 11d enabling the sublimation inks and the invisible ink to be received. The machine includes an overlap detecting part 76-5 for detecting whether a print image contains an overlapping between a sublimation-ink image 18 and an invisible-ink image 20 and a controller 6 for controlling a transfer operation corresponding to detection by the overlap detecting part. If the overlap detecting part detects that the print image contains the overlapping, the controller allows the machine to transfer the sublimation-ink and invisible-ink images to different areas in the receptor layer. If not, the controller allows the machine to transfer the sublimation-ink and invisible-ink images to an identical area 212 in the receptor layer. |
| US08011840B2 |
Warning notification at cover open in printer
In a case where temperature of a print head mounted on a head carrier becomes a specified temperature or higher during use, a head carrier is retracted to a retracting section in a housing of a printer, so that it is hardly touched by a user's hand. The retracting to the retracting section can also be linked to opening of a printer cover. |
| US08011836B2 |
Spliced fiber tray soft durometer material (SDM) manifold
A manifold for holding spliced optical fibers and their protective plastic coatings in a secure and motionless manner. The manifold includes a “clamp” made from a soft durometer material (SDM) such as a high strength silicone mold-making rubber or a dry polymer gel that has been partially sliced to a depth of about 75%. The manifold permits ease of insertion of a spliced optical fiber into, and removal of that spliced optical fiber from, an SDM-slice without disturbing other fibers that are held in other slices in the manifold. In a particular embodiment the gel or rubber SDM fills a four-sided plastic box to overflow. Slices in the SDM are parallel to each other and to front and back walls of the box which has a hinged cover to exert pressure on the overflow SDM material when the cover is closed to increase holding force on splice-junctions of embedded bare-glass optical fibers, those fibers within their respective protective coatings exiting the box, left and right, via cut-outs in the side walls of the box. |
| US08011835B2 |
Apparatus and method for thermal connection of optical waveguides
A splicer comprises a positioning device, in which the fiber ends in general have a residual offset. A memory stores a predetermined relationship between the possible offset and a parameter which controls the application of heat. The parameter which controls the application of heat, for example the splicing time for a predetermined splicing current, is defined on the basis of an actual offset which can be recorded by means of cameras. |
| US08011834B2 |
Optical connector plug
An optical connector plug includes an approximately square cylindrical rear cover of an insulating member fitted over an outer surface of a stop ring, and a cylindrical front cover which is urged frontward by an elastic member and is slidable back and forth at an outer surface of a plug frame. The front cover has a flexible plate-like shutter on an inner wall, which blocks the tip of a ferrule. The shutter has an upright curved portion formed by curving a tip side in an arc shape. When the front cover moves backward, the curved portion of the shutter is pressed against a tip of the plug frame to become flat and is pressed against the inner wall of the front cover to be retained in a plate form, thereby releasing a light-shielding state of the optical fiber. |
| US08011833B2 |
Retainer for roller bearing, and rolling bearing
A retainer for a rolling bearing, which is used for a food machine or a vacuum apparatus, containing an increased amount of a lubricating oil and enhancing a use efficiency of the lubricating oil and rolling bearing is described. The retainer consists of a molding, of a synthetic resin composition, which holds a rolling element of a rolling bearing. The molding is composed of a resinous porous article having an interconnected hole porosity not less than 30% and a lubricating oil which impregnates the resinous porous article. The resinous porous article has an interconnected hole are formed by molding a resin containing a pore-forming substance having a melting point higher than that of the resin and can be used as a food material, and by extracting said pore-forming substance from the molding with a solvent which dissolves the pore-forming substance and does not dissolve the resin. |
| US08011832B2 |
Linear guide
A linear guide, which has a guide carriage that is mounted in a longitudinally moveable manner on a guide rail and to which an additional component, for example a measuring head, can be fastened by a fastening device. The fastening device has a pin which is fastened to the guide carriage at the end side. The pin has a fastening section to which the additional component can be fastened, that projects from the guiding carriage at the end side. |
| US08011830B2 |
Method and system for calibrating an X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurement
A method and a system for calibrating an X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurement are described. The method includes using an X-ray beam to generate an XPS signal from a sample and normalizing the XPS signal with a measured or estimated flux of the X-ray beam. The system includes an X-ray source for generating an X-ray beam and a sample holder for positioning a sample in a pathway of the X-ray beam. A detector is included for collecting an XPS signal generated by bombarding the sample with the X-ray beam. Also included are a flux detector for determining a measured or estimated flux of the X-ray beam and a computing system for normalizing the XPS signal with the measured or estimated flux of the X-ray beam. |
| US08011829B2 |
Compact and lightweight X-ray device
An X-ray device for irradiating a beam of X-rays on an object to capture an X-ray image of the object is smaller in size and weight than conventional ones. The X-ray device includes an X-ray tube for generating the beam of X-rays and irradiating the beam of X-rays on the object, a shutter arranged around an X-ray irradiation axis for regulating an X-ray irradiation region on which the beam of X-rays is irradiated through the object, and a visual indicator unit arranged on the shutter for movement together with the shutter, the visual indicator unit being designed to visually indicate the X-ray irradiation region. In the X-ray device, the X-ray irradiation region is visually indicated by laser light without having to use a lamp otherwise provided between the X-ray tube and the shutter. |
| US08011825B2 |
Smoothing motor speed during mixing
A mixing system comprising a bowl, mixing element and motor. A mixing element is located within the bowl and is driven by a motor to impart mechanical energy to the foodstuff being mixed upon contact. A method for increasing the power to the motor comprises introducing additional current in advance of instantaneous loading. |
| US08011822B1 |
Plastic frame, backlight module, display device and method for assembling the same
A plastic frame includes a main body and a protruding portion protruding from the main body. The main body has a first horizontal surface, a second horizontal surface, a first recess and a second recess, wherein the first horizontal surface is opposite to the second horizontal surface. The protruding portion has a first vertical surface and a second vertical surface, wherein the first vertical surface is opposite to the second vertical surface. The first recess connects the first vertical surface and the first horizontal surface and the second recess connects the second vertical surface and the second horizontal surface. |
| US08011820B2 |
Wireless communication device and light guide employed therein
A wireless communication device includes a plurality of light sources and a light guide including a light guiding element and a light shielding element. The light guiding element includes a plurality of guiding portions. Each guiding portion includes an expander having a first end corresponding to a respective one of the light sources and a second end opposite to the first end. The second ends of the expanders collectively form a continuous end surface. At least one cavity is defined between each two neighboring guiding portions. The light shielding element includes at least one shielding portion received in the at least one cavity to prevent light interference between the plurality of guiding portions. |
| US08011817B2 |
Method and apparatus for vehicle opaque see-through attachment
The attachment for a vehicle and the method for providing the attachment to the vehicle includes mounting a housing on the outside of the vehicle. The housing includes a back attachable to the vehicle, a compartment within the housing, and a lens visible from outside the vehicle. At least one or more lights is contained within the compartment between the lens and the outside of the compartment. The lens is opaque when the lights are turned off so as to conceal the lights within the compartment and the lens is visible from outside the vehicle when the lights are turned on. |
| US08011814B2 |
Illuminating device
An illuminating device includes a circuit board, a light source, and a thermoelectric cooler. The circuit board has a first surface and a second surface at an opposite side of the circuit board to the first surface. The light source is electrically mounted on the first surface of the circuit board. The thermoelectric cooler is attached on the second surface of the circuit board. |
| US08011813B2 |
Actuator system for a lighting system
An actuator system for a lighting system includes a shape memory alloy coupled to a component of the lighting system to control an actuation of the component and thereby produce a plurality of light patterns and an electrical control circuit in electrical communication with the shape memory alloy to selectively provide an electrical current to the shape memory alloy for controlling a physical property of the shape memory alloy and thereby the motion of the component of the lighting system. |
| US08011812B2 |
Illuminating tower
A tower includes a base configured to sit upon a surface. A light source is coupled to the base and is positioned a first horizontal distance from a center of the base. The light source is configured to produce light therefrom when energized. The tower includes a cylindrical outer body that is coupled to and positioned a second distance from the center of the base, wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance. The outer body is oriented to extend vertically from the surface and is configured to allow light from the light source to pass therethrough. A plurality of leaves are coupled to an outer surface of the outer body and are configured to hang therefrom. The leaves are configured to freely move with respect to the outer body when air flow is applied thereto, wherein light from the light source is viewable through the outer body when the leaves move. |
| US08011811B2 |
Aspherical LED angular lens for central distribution patterns and LED assembly using the same
The present invention discloses an aspherical LED angular optical lens for central distribution patterns and an LED assembly using the same. The optical lens comprises a concave surface on a source side and a convex surface on an project side. The LED assembly comprising the optical lens can accumulate light emitted from the LED die and generate a peak intensity of the central angular circle distribution pattern which is greater than 72° and smaller than 108°. The present invention only uses a single optical lens capable of accumulating light and forming a required distribution pattern to satisfy the requirement of a luminous flux ratio greater than 85% and the requirement of an illumination, a flash light of a cell phone or a flash light of a camera. |
| US08011806B2 |
Lighting fixture using strip-shaped luminous body
According to a lighting fixture of an aspect of the present invention, only by holding the first and second strip-shaped luminous bodies on the strip-shaped luminous body holding device with the first and second strip-shaped luminous bodies being curved into a predetermined shape, the plurality of point light sources of the first strip-shaped luminous body and the plurality of point light sources of the second strip-shaped luminous body can be mounted at predetermined positions in appropriate postures (for example, such positions and postures as to illuminate a predetermined area of the front of the lighting fixture) at once. That is, each of the point light sources can be stereoscopically disposed at a predetermined position in an appropriate posture in a most expeditious manner. Also, the lighting fixture of novel visual quality capable of producing a stereoscopic effect by the real image can be provided. |
| US08011802B2 |
Optical film, lighting device and display unit
A display unit capable of reducing luminance irregularity when using a point light source is provided. The display unit includes: a panel driven based on an image signal; a plurality of point light sources arranged in a region facing the panel; and an optical sheet arranged between the panel and the plurality of point light sources. The plurality of point light sources are arranged in a first direction and also in a second direction intersecting with the first direction, and the optical sheet has a tridimensional configuration that includes a first ridgeline extending in a third direction intersecting with the first and second directions, and a second ridgeline extending in a direction intersecting with the first, second and third directions. |
| US08011800B2 |
Device for producing isotropic ambient light
The invention concerns a device for producing isotropic ambient light, comprising: at least one extended light source including several punctual light sources spaced apart along two orthogonal axes; a waveguide for propagating by total reflections in a propagating direction perpendicular to the plane, the light beams produced by the punctual light sources; and means for scattering the light in the waveguide output. The dimension of the waveguide along said propagating direction is further sufficient to allow the light intensity curve which is detected, for each light source, in the waveguide output along one of the two axes and in a detecting range corresponding to the waveguide output section along said axis, to have a maximum value (Imax) and a minimum value (Imin) which satisfy the following criterion of quasi-uniformity (Imax-Imoy) ≦0.3Imoy and (Imoy-Imin) ≦0.3Imoy, Imoy being the average value of the light intensity levels detected along said axis. |
| US08011799B2 |
Thermal management of LED-based lighting systems
An LED-based lighting system includes a printed circuit board (“PCB”) having conductors on a front-side thereof, one or more LEDs mounted with the conductors, and a structural element. The PCB is mounted with the conductors near to the structural element so that heat dissipation from the LEDs is primarily through the conductors and the structural element. A method of dissipating heat generated by an LED-based lighting system includes configuring a PCB with conductors on a front-side of the PCB, such that when one or more LEDs mounted to the conductors generates heat, the heat dissipates from the one or more LEDs to the conductors. The method also includes integrating a structural element such that at least portions of the conductors face the structural element, and the heat dissipates from the conductors to the structural element. |
| US08011798B2 |
Halogen incandescent lamp
The invention relates to a halogen incandescent lamp for motor vehicle headlamps with two incandescent filaments (21, 22), which are arranged within a lamp vessel (10), wherein a first incandescent filament (21) is designed for operation with a higher electrical power than the second incandescent filament (22), wherein the incandescent filaments (21, 22) are constructed in such a way that their dimensions and/or their geometry are in each case matched to an operating voltage of at least 20 volts, and at least the second incandescent filament (22) is an incandescent filament in the form of a single coil. Preferably, both incandescent filaments (21, 22) are in the form of incandescent filaments with a single coil, wherein the first incandescent filament (21) is used, for example, for producing the upper beam or lower beam and the second incandescent filament (22) is used for producing the daytime driving light or foglight. |
| US08011797B2 |
Boom barrier
Boom-type barrier (1) comprising a boom (2) mounted on a bracket or stand (3) for movement between open and barring positions. The boom (2) is designed as a tubular member transmissive of light and has therein a band (7) on which are mounted light emitting diodes (6) extending substantially the full length of the boom (2). The light emitting diodes (6) are controlled by an electronics module (12). |
| US08011794B1 |
Data cable powered light fixture
A light fixture can be affixed within a wall and powered using the same cable along which data signals are transmitted. The LED lights in the light fixture are sufficiently bright to be used for illumination and are powered by a voltage derived from power delivered via the data cable. The light fixture may be used in conjunction with a building automation system. The light provided by the LED lights may be modified based on control signals received via the data cable. Modifications may include changes to the perceived brightness and/or color of the light. |
| US08011792B2 |
Lighting unit and projection display apparatus
A lighting unit includes: a light source unit 10 having a plurality of solid state light sources, a liquid crystal panel 30 displaying an image in accordance with an image input signal, a light source controlling unit 260 controlling, in accordance with the image input signal, a light amount of color component lights emitted from light source unit 10, and a speckle degree calculating unit 250 calculating a speckle degree that indicates a degree to which the color component lights generate a speckle displayed in accordance with the image input signal. The light source controlling unit 260 changes a control ratio between a first control mode and a second control mode, in accordance with the speckle degree acquired by the speckle degree calculating unit 250. |
| US08011782B2 |
Elongate hand-held printer device with an optical encoder wheel
An elongate hand-held printer device for printing on a medium when a user moves said device over the medium. The device includes an upper and a lower moulding configured to complementarily receive each other to define a housing, said housing defining an ink ejection slot along, and a printhead module housed in the housing. The module has a plurality of micro-electromechanical ejection devices for operatively ejecting ink via the ink ejection slot. The device also includes an ink supply cartridge housed in the housing, the cartridge for supplying the printhead module with ink, as well as an optical encoder wheel to facilitate regulation of a printing rate of the printhead module as the device is moved along the medium. |
| US08011779B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes: a supporting member that supports a target; a liquid ejecting head that ejects liquid to a liquid ejecting surface of the target supported by the supporting member; an air blowing device that blows air to the liquid ejecting surface of the target supported by the supporting member; and a guide member that has an opposed surface which is closely opposed to the liquid ejecting surface of the target supported by the supporting member and forms a gap for passing the air, which is blown by the air blowing device as laminar flow along the liquid ejecting surface, between the opposed surface and the liquid ejecting surface. |
| US08011776B2 |
Inkjet-recording ink set, inkjet-recording ink and inkjet image-recording method
The present invention provides an inkjet-recording ink set including multiple kinds of liquid including at least first and second liquids, wherein the first liquid contains a metal compound dissolved therein, and at least one of the multiple kinds of liquid contains a polymerizable compound. The invention also provides an inkjet-recording ink including at least a high-boiling-point organic solvent and a metal compound. The multiple kinds of liquid contain substantially no water and no low-boiling-point organic solvent. |
| US08011773B2 |
Printer with minimal distance between pressure-dampening structures and nozzles
An inkjet printer is provided. The printer comprises an inkjet printhead having a plurality of nozzles; at least one ink reservoir; and an ink supply system for supplying ink from the reservoir to the plurality of nozzles, the ink supply system comprising at least one pressure-dampening structure for dampening pressure fluctuations experienced by the nozzles. A distance between the pressure-dampening structures and at least one of the nozzles is less than 100 microns. |
| US08011771B2 |
Remanufactured inkjet printer cartridge, system and process
Systems, methods and structures for remanufacturing inkjet printer cartridges and inkjet printer print heads by removing the print head and adhesive holding the print head to a used inkjet printer cartridge, preparing the cartridge housing for a new print head by routing out the used print head and used adhesive to create a new mounting surface for new adhesive and a new print head, placing the adhesive and new print head on the new mounting surface, curing the adhesive and assembling a re-manufactured cartridge from the cartridge housing having a new print head positioned thereon. |
| US08011765B2 |
Liquid feeding member for liquid ejection head, liquid ejection device, and image forming apparatus
A liquid ejection device ejects liquid droplets from a liquid ejection head. The liquid ejection device includes a liquid feeding member that feeds liquid to the liquid ejection head. The liquid feeding member is connected to a liquid ejection head to feed liquid to a common liquid chamber of the liquid ejection head, which liquid ejection head includes the common liquid chamber that supplies the liquid to plural individual liquid chambers communicating with plural nozzles that eject liquid droplets. The liquid feeding member includes a liquid circulation path through which the liquid circulates in a direction parallel to a direction in which the nozzles of the liquid ejection head are aligned. |
| US08011763B2 |
Droplet ejecting apparatus
A droplet ejecting apparatus, including: a head unit having a generally planar shape and including nozzles through which droplets are ejected, a holder holding the head unit, a reinforcing plate via which the head unit is held by the holder and which has an adhesion surface as at least a part of one of opposite surfaces thereof to which an adhesion surface of the head unit as at least a part of one of opposite surfaces thereof is adhered with an adhesive layer interposed between the adhesion surfaces, and an adhesion portion constituted by the adhesion surfaces and the adhesive layer, wherein the adhesion portion has a special region in which (a) first sections in each of which respective parts of the adhesion surfaces are opposed to each other with a part of the adhesive layer interposed therebetween and are adhered to each other and (b) second sections in each of which a part of the adhesion surface of one of the head unit and the reinforcing plate is opposed to a space and is not adhered to the adhesion surface of the other are alternately arranged. |
| US08011762B2 |
Droplet discharging head and method of manufacturing the same, and droplet discharging device and method of manufacturing the same
A droplet discharging head comprises: a cavity substrate including a discharge chamber having a bottom wall serving as a vibration plate; and an electrode substrate including an individual electrode that faces the vibration plate with a gap and drives the vibration plate, and a driver integrated circuit (IC) that couples with the individual electrode and applies a voltage to the individual electrode. The cavity substrate includes a first opening that penetrates the cavity substrate and serves to house the driver IC, and an insulation film formed on a wall face of the first opening. |
| US08011756B2 |
Imaging method and inkjet recording apparatus
An imaging method is disclosed for realizing full color printing using an ink head configured to discharge black ink and a plurality of color inks. The imaging method involves printing a monochrome image portion by printing a plurality of first rasters using black ink and an arbitrary number of the color inks, and printing a second raster in between the first rasters using pseudo black ink that is realized by the remaining number of the color inks. |
| US08011755B2 |
Molded ink manifold with polymer coating
A printhead assembly includes a molded ink manifold, a plurality of printhead integrated circuits, and an adhesive film sandwiched between the ink manifold and the printhead integrated circuits. A manifold bonding surface of the molded ink manifold includes a polymer coating. The polymer coating plugs fissures resulting from a molding process used to mold the ink manifold. |
| US08011754B2 |
Wide format pagewidth inkjet printer
A print assembly (14) for a wide format pagewidth inkjet printer (10) includes an elongate carrier (187) that is mountable on a support structure (12) of the printer and is positioned an operative distance from a platen (106) of the printer (10). A number of printhead chips (186) are provided in a number and configuration such that the printhead chips define a printing zone (120) between the carrier (187) and the platen (106), the printing zone (120) having a length of at least 36 inches (914 mm). Each printhead chip (186) is of the type that incorporates a plurality of nozzle arrangements (210) and being in the form of a micro electromechanical system to achieve the ejection of ink from the nozzle arrangement (210). Control circuitry (190) is positioned on the carrier (187) and is operatively connected to the printhead chips (186) to control operation of the printhead chips (186). |
| US08011746B2 |
Image-forming system, image-forming apparatus, computer program, and image-forming method
When a DNA ink printing mode is selected, a serial number and a pattern data of DNA is read from an IC tag of a DNA ink cartridge and a fingerprint of a printing person is read by a fingerprint authenticating unit. The pattern of the fingerprint and DNA which have been read are verified with the pattern data of fingerprints and DNA in a memory and personal authentication is carried out. Thereafter, a DNA ink is jetted on to a recording paper, and printing of an image by an image forming ink is carried out. By carrying out printing by such a method, it is possible to specify the printing person who has created the printed matter. |
| US08011743B2 |
Device for influencing the movement of furniture parts which can be moved relative to one another, and drawer guide, and method of producing the device
The invention proposes a device for influencing the movement of furniture parts (1, 2) which can be moved relative to one another, having a movement-influencing unit which comprises an installation housing, in which movement-influencing coupling means are accommodated such that they can be displaced at least in a translatory manner, and having a coupling element, to which the coupling means are connected in the operating state. In order to provide a device which is of space-saving construction and is comparatively straight-forward to install, the movement-influencing unit is designed such that, by virute of a relative movement between the coupling means and the coupling element in a displacement direction of the coupling means, the coupling means can be coupled to the coupling element to produce a connection which has a predeterminable coupling force. Also proposed are a drawer guide and a production method. |
| US08011742B1 |
Tilt-out shelf guide mechanism suitable for rack mount computing systems
Tilt out shelf guide mechanism suitable for rack mount computing systems are disclosed. The mechanism generally includes a slidable shelf and two opposing shelf tracks configured to support and guide the shelf. The slidable shelf incorporates a storage or component mounting region and a rear catch mechanism at the rear end of the shelf. The rear catch mechanism has a shelf-mounted pivot. The two opposing shelf tracks incorporate a pivot support at the front end of the tracks configured to engage the pivot of the shelf when the rear end of the shelf is approximately adjacent to the front end of the tracks, whereupon the pivot of the shelf is supported by the rear catch mechanism of the guides and the shelf is pivotable about the pivot. |
| US08011738B2 |
Fabricated bead seat attached vehicle wheel, wheel disc for such wheel and method for producing same
A fabricated bead seat attached vehicle wheel includes a wheel rim and wheel disc joined together. The wheel rim includes an inboard tire bead seat retaining flange, an inner tire bead seat, a well, an outer tire bead seat, and an outboard tire bead seat retaining flange. The wheel defines a wheel axis and includes a generally centrally located wheel mounting portion and an outer annular portion which defines a wheel disc outer flange The wheel disc outer annular flange is segmented around a circumference thereof and includes at least a first plurality of segments and a second plurality of segments. The first plurality of segments extending a first axial distance relative to an adjacent outer surface of the wheel disc and the second plurality of segments extending a second axial distance relative to the adjacent outer surface of the wheel disc which is less than the first axial distance. |
| US08011734B1 |
Variable rolling resistance wheel for rolling vehicle
A wheel for an in-line skate or other wheeled vehicle is disclosed that may be modified to alter the rolling resistance of the wheel. The wheel may be disassembled to change a tire on the outer surface of the wheel to one made of a harder or softer material, and to insert or change a grease of a chosen viscosity into a chamber inside the wheel. The two changes may be utilized singly or collectively to help set the rolling resistance of the wheel. The wheel may be retrofit onto existing in-line roller skates. |
| US08011731B2 |
Collapsible tabletop head cradle for seated users
Disclosed is a portable head cradle for use by a seated user on an upwardly-facing top surface of a support that has a peripheral edge around the top surface. The portable head cradle includes a support structure configured to be placed on the top surface of the support and shaped and dimensioned for overlying engagement by a seated person's head. The support structure has a first substantially rigid portion and a second substantially rigid portion, the first substantially rigid portion and the second substantially rigid portion joined along at least one edge by a substantially flexible portion. A cradle portion is substantially inverted-U shaped when viewed by a user and dimensioned for engagement by the user at the forehead and cheeks of the user. At least one hook is extendable from the support structure and configured to engage the peripheral edge of the upwardly-facing top surface. |
| US08011728B2 |
Vehicle seat with a seat depth adjustment device
The invention relates to a vehicle seat having a backrest and a seat surface device that forms a seat surface and that is provided with a pad cover, in particular an outer pad cover, wherein the seat depth of the seat surface is adjustable. A seat depth adjustment device facilitates seat depth adjustment, the seat depth adjustment device including a first deflection device for deflecting the seat pad cover in the end region of the seat surface remote from the backrest, a flexible part that is coupled to the pad cover, and at least one second deflection device for deflecting the flexible part, the second deflection device being arranged at a distance from the first deflection device. |
| US08011727B1 |
Thermal child seat blanket apparatus
The thermal child seat blanket apparatus provides snug, removable fit to an exiting child seat. The choice of battery power or power via the cigar plug of an auto yields widespread user choices. After setting the initially desired temperature of the heating elements, the temperature is easily moved up or down via the touch control temperature increase and temperature decrease. The seat cover can be used with or without the blanket. While the apparatus is ideally suited for fit to a portable child seat, it may nonetheless by used in any desired application to warm and shelter a child, whether in or out of a seat. The flexible seat cover, blanket, and collapsible accordion shield provide compact portability. |
| US08011723B2 |
Aircraft seating and seating arrangements
A seating arrangement for an aircraft cabin is disclosed which includes seats having a backrest (16) which is pivotally moveable from an upright position to a flat position. A side ottoman (22) having a front portion (42) is located beside the seat base (14) of the seat. The seat has a footwell (32) into which the front portion of the side ottoman locates so that when the seat (16) is in the flat position a bed is formed by the rear surface (17), the front portion (42) located in the footwell of a front seat in front of the said seat and a base (34) of an open space (30) behind is the backrest (16) when in an upright position. |
| US08011722B2 |
Foldable frame with detachable infant carrier
A foldable frame comprises a front leg frame and a rear leg frame, each having one or more leg units foldable or detachable with one another. The front leg frame and the rear leg frame are rotatable with each other such that the foldable frame can be folded to a small size. The foldable frame also utilizes a receiving frame pivotally or steadily configured on the frame body for receiving the detachable infant carrier. A recliner apparatus is further configured between the receiving frame and the frame body for adjusting the receiving frame together with the infant carrier to different reclining angle for convenient use. |
| US08011721B2 |
Vehicular side body structure
Side sill includes a side sill body formed of a steel plate, and a side sill reinforcing member formed by extruding an aluminum alloy and provided inside the side sill body. Reinforcing bracket formed by casting an aluminum alloy covers the outer surface of the side sill body. The reinforcing bracket has protruding portions projecting, through through-holes formed in the side sill body, generally toward the interior of the side sill to be fixed to portions of the side sill reinforcing member, so that the side sill reinforcing member is restrainedly held by the reinforcing bracket. |
| US08011719B2 |
Body structure for a motor vehicle
An inner gusset plate is connected, in each case in the region of the C pillar, to a roof frame cross-member, to a lateral roof frame member and to a rear sealing channel cheek of a motor vehicle or of a rear part of a motor vehicle. The inner gusset plate is arranged opposite a further, outer, connected gusset plate. The two gusset plates form a pillar profile and are connected to a wheel box of the body structure. The inner gusset plate is supported via adjoining inner brackets on a longitudinal member of the vehicle, which longitudinal member is adjoined by two cross-members in the vehicle floor, which cross-members are arranged in the region of the supporting base of the inner bracket on the longitudinal member. |
| US08011717B2 |
Automotive interior component
There is provided an automotive interior component including an impact absorber mounted to an interior side of a side wall panel of a vehicle, and the shape and structure of the impact absorber that can undergo buckling deformation and absorb an impact load in a side collision are improved to increase an impact absorbing function. The impact absorber 30 mounted on a back surface of an impact area IA in the automotive interior component (door trim) 10 is formed as a hollow box body having an opening 31 on one side and a bottom surface wall 32 on the other side, and improvement such as providing corner cut portions 34 at four corner portions of the bottom surface wall 32, forming a chamfered portion 333 at a corner portion of a side wall 33, or forming a cam groove portion 334, a triangular rib 36, or an inner surface rib 321 is made to adjust a reaction force in a side collision to increase an impact absorbing function. |
| US08011711B2 |
Tonneau cover device for vehicle
In a tonneau cover device for a vehicle, an interlocking mechanism (interlocking means) 40 comprises a pair of pulleys 45, 46 disposed separated in a vertical direction at each of the left and right sides of a cargo compartment, a first linking wire 51 wrapped around the pulleys 45, 46 and connected to the rear end of a tonneau cover, a rotary member 50 whereabout the first linking wire 51 is wrapped or wound between the pulleys 45, 46, and a second linking wire 53 having an end thereof connected to the back door, another end thereof wrapped around and engaged with the rotary member 50, and rotating the rotary member 50 interlocked with opening and closing of the back door. |
| US08011709B2 |
Trim panel attachment assembly with anti-rotation flange
An attachment assembly for connecting an interior trim panel to a structural pillar of a vehicle includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion. The first connecting portion is connectable to the second connecting portion such that a first engagement structure of the first engagement portion is in engagement with a second engagement structure of the second engagement portion to secure the first connecting portion with respect to the second connecting portion. When the first and second connecting portions are connected, a base surface of the first connecting portion is in engagement with a shoulder of the second connecting portion, and a flange of the first connecting portion is in engagement with an upstanding wall of the second connecting portion to restrain movement of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion with respect to one another. |
| US08011707B1 |
Coupling assembly for transporting wheeled chairs and associated method
A manually-operable coupling assembly may include a primary coupling and auxiliary couplings. Both the primary and auxiliary couplings preferably include an elongated strap with a clamp attached to a distal end thereof. Each clamp may include a first and C-shaped region with a cavity and socket formed therein. A second C-shaped region may be pivotally mated to the first C-shaped region and may have a male finger with a ball bearing protruding outwardly from a distal tip thereof. The ball bearing may penetrate into the socket and become interlocked so that the first and second C-shaped regions may remain in a closed position. A spring-actuated stop block is calibrated to withstand varying pulling forces during transport as needed. |
| US08011706B2 |
Suction gripper
There is provided a suction gripper. An exemplary suction gripper comprises at least one needle adapted to grip an object. Also provided is a method of gripping an object. An exemplary method of gripping an object comprises gripping the object with a suction gripper comprising at least one needle adapted to grip the object to a suction gripper body. |
| US08011704B2 |
Bumper system providing storage and accessory functions
A bumper system includes a structural polymeric reinforcement beam and one or more trim components covering visible portions of the beam. The beam has a center section forming a step, and end sections that form corners of the vehicle. The trim component(s) is a thin, lightweight component surface finished for aesthetics. The beam includes functional features, such as a storage pocket with lockable cover, lighting and accessory mounts, electrical connectors for connection to trailer wiring, remote vehicle electrical power, and/or a hidden tow hook. The bumper system is configured to provide a class II hitch, but via add-on components, can be made to be Class III or IV. |
| US08011700B2 |
Door lock system
A door lock system includes a ratchet, a latch, a ratchet lever that disengages the ratchet from the latch when a disengaging operation is performed, a first link lever that moves to and from a transmitting position and a non-transmitting position, wherein when the first link lever is at the transmitting position, the ratchet lever is allowed to disengage the ratchet from the latch, and when the first link lever is at the non-transmitting position, the ratchet lever is inhibited from disengaging the ratchet from the latch, a second link lever that is pivotally coupled to a base end of the first link lever at a base end of the second link lever and that moves in response to a locking operation and an unlocking operation. A distal end of the first link lever and a distal end of the second link lever constantly overlap each other. |
| US08011699B2 |
Cable actuated latch system
An operating mechanism for a movable closure element to releasably engage a strike assembly on a frame support and thereby releasably maintain the movable closure element in a predetermined position relative to the frame support. The operating mechanism has a base with a wall extending around a first axis and defining an elongate tubular passageway. The operating mechanism includes a latch system having: (a) a latched state; and (b) a released state. An actuating system on the base is changeable from a first state into a second state to thereby change the latch system from the latched state into the released state. The actuating system has an elongate flexible cable with a length residing at least partially within the passageway and made up of an elongate sheath and a movable core. An actuating system has an actuating assembly for the elongate flexible cable that is mounted to the wall. The wall is configured so that the cable cannot be extended in a straight line through the passageway between first and second connecting locations. |
| US08011698B2 |
Sealed tubular joint with plastic expansion and at least one inclined surface
A tubular joint in which radial expansion caused by the passage of an expander, inclined shoulder fittings formed respectively on a peripheral surface of the female element facing radially inwards and on a peripheral surface of the male element facing radially outwards, are subjected to a relative axial displacement towards each other to be urged into sealed mutual contact with radial interference. The tubular joint is, for example, useful in hydrocarbon wells. |
| US08011685B2 |
Interchangeable hitch ball assembly
An interchangeable hitch ball assembly that may be easily interchangeable with the hitch of a towing vehicle and that may prevent a trailer socket from being connected to the hitch ball prior to securing the hitch ball to the hitch bar. The hitch ball assembly may include a ball member, a body, a passageway, at least one locking member, an elongated member located within the passageway and biased toward the at least one locking member, and a plunger capable of being moved by the elongated member between a locked position and an unlocked or release position. The plunger may be moved toward the locking member to force at least a portion of the locking member outside of the body to lock the assembly. The plunger may be moved away from the locking member to allow the locking member to retreat into the body and unlock the assembly. |
| US08011683B2 |
Watercraft trailer
A watercraft trailer has a releasable connector for releasably connecting a watercraft to the trailer. The releasable connector has a lever pivotally connected to a connector support and a hook connected to the lever. Pivoting of the lever towards a front of the trailer moves the releasable connector to a locked position and pivots the hook towards the front of the trailer. A locking mechanism prevents the releasable connector from moving to an unlocked position by applying forces to any one of the lever and the hook that would otherwise pivot the lever and the hook towards a rear of the trailer. Unlocking the locking mechanism moves the releasable connector to the unlocked position and pivots the hook towards the rear of the trailer. A method of securing a watercraft to a watercraft trailer and a method of releasing a watercraft from a watercraft trailer are also disclosed. |
| US08011679B2 |
Multi-link suspension device and method for suspending wheels
A wheel suspension device for a vehicle includes a wheel supporting member rotatably supporting a wheel. The wheel supporting member is linked to a vehicle-body side by a first link and a second link, with the second link arranged substantially parallel to the first link in a vehicle width direction. The first link has a projecting portion, and at least one elastic linking portion links the projecting portion to the second link. |
| US08011678B1 |
Steering system for a zero-turn radius vehicle
A steering apparatus for a zero-turn radius vehicle using a steering mechanism coupled to a first set of wheel assemblies by a plurality of cables. User input to the steering mechanism causes the cables to turn the first set of wheel assemblies about a vertical axis. Specifically, the cables link the steering mechanism to cam mechanisms that are attached to each wheel assembly. The design of the cam mechanism, which preferably includes two cams of varying radii, enables the two wheel assemblies to rotate about their vertical axes at varied degrees of rotation and greater than ninety degrees from the forward facing position, thereby resulting in zero-turn radius capability. |
| US08011676B1 |
Snowboard assembly
A snowboard assembly includes an elongated panel has a top side, a bottom side, a front end and a back end. One of foot engaging member is positioned nearer to the front end and one foot engaging member is positioned nearer to the back end. Each of the foot engaging members comprises a first rail and a second rail each attached to the top side. A plate is positioned on the top side and extends between and engages the first and second rails. The plate is selectively slidable along the first and second rails. A foot covering is couplable to the plate to releasably secure a person's foot to the plate. A resistance apparatus engages the plate to increase or decrease a frictional force between the first and second rails and the plate to selectively alter ease of movement of the relative to the first and second rails. |
| US08011673B2 |
Dynamic seal
A dynamic shaft seal assembly is provided including a dynamic seal for engaging a rotary shaft. The dynamic seal includes a base portion that is mounted within a casing and has an axially extending barrel portion extending from a radially inner end of the base portion. The axially extending barrel portion terminates in a radially extending leg portion which extends inwardly from an end of the axially extending portion. A generally conically shaped seal portion extends from an end of the radially extending portion and the seal portion includes a radially inner face engaging the shaft and a radially outer face having a stiffening bead integrally formed thereon. The stiffening bead reduces the seal's propensity for “bell mouthing” while the axially extending barrel portion provides improved shaft followability for the dynamic seal. |
| US08011665B2 |
Bottle cap golf apparatus and method
A target apparatus adapted to receive projectiles such as bottle caps tossed or otherwise launched towards the target. Three vertically aligned catch structures are disposed to receive and retain the bottle caps. The three catch structures have different sizes resulting in different degrees of difficulty in projecting a bottle cap into the respective structures. The lowest catch structure is the largest, the middle catch structure being the smallest, and the uppermost catch structure being sized between the lower and the middle structures. Chains completely surround the middle and upper catch structures. Chains only surround the sides and rear of the lowest catch structure. An opening in the front of the lowest catch structure is adapted to receive a projectile therein that is routed to a special basket. A scoring system is provided that awards points depending upon which of the catch structures retains a bottle cap. |
| US08011664B2 |
Ring toss skill game
A multi-player ring toss game is described. The game includes multiple arms extending from a support stand. Players toss rings or similar objects that are tethered to the arms and attempt to hook them on hooks. In specific implementations, the ring toss game is foldable and portable using a folding mechanism to convert the apparatus from a playing position to a storing position. |
| US08011661B2 |
Shuffler with shuffling completion indicator
A playing card shuffling device has a visual display in information communication with the playing card shuffling device. At least one processor is programmed to provide displayable information to the visual display indicative of an amount of time remaining or time expired in a procedure performed by the shuffling device. |
| US08011654B2 |
Sheet stacking apparatus and image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a sheet stacking apparatus including: a sheet stacking portion on which a sheet is stacked; a sheet conveying portion which conveys the sheet onto the sheet stacking portion; a first aligning member moving along a sheet conveying direction to align the position of the sheet stacked on the sheet stacking portion; and second aligning members which move in a width direction crossing the sheet conveying direction to align the position in the width direction of the sheet stacked on the sheet stacking portion, wherein the second aligning members align the sheet stacked on the sheet stacking portion, and the first aligning member aligns the sheet aligned by the second aligning member, and the sheet conveying portion conveys the next sheet onto the sheet stacking portion while the first aligning member is moving for aligning the sheet. |
| US08011652B2 |
Sheet feed device and image forming apparatus
A sheet feed device includes an air flow generating part that generates an air flow for floating a sheet; a feed member that feeds a sheet by rotating, while applying a load to the top one of sheets stacked; and a transport condition sensing unit that is positioned not to obstruct an air flow generated by the air flow generating part and senses a transport condition of a sheet fed by the feed member. |
| US08011646B2 |
Structure of vacuum chuck for absorbing substrate
A structure of a vacuum chuck for absorbing a substrate and usable in the fabrication of a liquid crystal display device is provided. This structure includes an absorbing plate absorbing a surface of the substrate, and a plurality of vacuum lines in an oblique line shape on the absorbing plate. |
| US08011645B2 |
Two stage hood lift spring assembly
A lift spring assembly has a compression spring rod with a housing having a longitudinal axis and axially opposite ends, and having a rod member coaxial with the axis and having an inner end in the housing and an outer end axially outwardly of one of the opposite ends. A guide member is provided on the inner end of the rod member for supporting the rod member during movement of the rod member. A first stage spring assembly extends between one of the opposite ends of the housing and the guide member. A second stage spring assembly extends between the other of the opposite ends of the housing and the guide member. A mounting member extending from one of the opposite ends of the housing for mounting the spring rod assembly to a hood assembly. A locking member is pivotally connected to the mounting member and pivots into locking engagement with one of the ends of the housing. |
| US08011643B2 |
Diffuser assembly with buoyancy vessel
A diffuser assembly with a buoyancy vessel and a chamber for buoyantly raising the diffuser assembly for maintenance work. The diffuser assembly has a support structure, diffusers connected to the frame, and a buoyancy vessel positioned on the frame, capable of alternating between a state of buoyancy or ballast. |
| US08011635B2 |
Adjustable wall-hanger assembly
An adjustable wall-hanger assembly comprises a hanger adapted to be secured to a wall and defining an opening, a body section, an upper section, a top level, and a bottom level. A hanger slide is mounted to the hanger, is adapted to slide continuously in a substantially horizontal or vertical direction in the opening, and defines a slot extending in substantially the other of the horizontal or vertical direction. A mounting fastener is received through the slot and adapted to slide continuously therealong and be fastened to the wall to mount the assembly thereto. A combination of the continuous horizontal and vertical sliding of the hanger slide and mounting fastener allows for substantially infinite placement of the mounting fastener in the opening. A hanger hook is fixedly connected to and extends outwardly from the hanger and substantially overlies the opening for supporting an object hung on the hanger hook. |
| US08011633B2 |
Hook structure
A hook structure includes a base and a movable hook which is fixed on the base and is provided with a hook board and a hook board seat that are mutually assembled. An elastic member is provided between the hook board and the hook board seat. By the elastic member, when the hook is collided by an external force, the elastic member will operate the hook board to be ejected back, allowing the present invention to be provided with an advantage of a hidden-type and collision-proofed hook. |
| US08011630B1 |
Hardware display clip
A hardware accessory display clip is provided that enables hardware accessories to be displayed on a number of different products without damage to the hardware accessories or products. An integrally connected exterior leg, interior leg, and bridge portion are provided that enables the hardware accessory display clip to be removably attached to a variety of products. An accessory connector member is integrally formed in the exterior leg of the hardware accessory display clip that can be removably received in a variety of hardware accessories. |
| US08011624B2 |
Stand attachment structure
A stand attachment structure includes a front cabinet, a rear cabinet and a pair of screws. The front cabinet has a pair of right and left bosses and a holder support. The holder support is formed on an outer peripheral face of each of the bosses at a location spaced from a distal end face of each of the bosses by thickness of a tilting stand holder of a tilting stand. The rear cabinet has a pair of right and left retainers. The retainers are formed at locations opposite the bosses of the front cabinet. Each of the retainers has an end face and a screw insertion hole that is formed on the end face. The screws are disposed through the screw insertion holes of the retainers and threaded into the threaded holes of the bosses to fasten the rear cabinet to the front cabinet. |
| US08011623B2 |
Monitor apparatus
A monitor apparatus, includes a monitor main body in which an image is formed; an upper link rotationally coupled to the monitor main body; a lower link rotationally coupled to the upper link; and a base including a link accommodating part to which the lower link is rotationally coupled and which accommodates the upper link and the lower link in a folded state. |
| US08011621B2 |
Snap-in cable hanger clip
A clip for a snap-in cable hanger with a top from which at least two clip arm(s) extend and at least one of the clip arm(s) formed with a clip tab projecting proximate a distal end. The top having a length greater than a diameter of the mounting hole and a width dimensioned to fit within a spring space when the snap-in cable hanger is seated upon the mounting hole. The clip arm(s) spaced apart proximate the diameter of the mounting hole, having a length longer than a depth of the mounting hole. |
| US08011620B2 |
Fuel pickup with wicking material
A fuel pickup includes a fuel pickup tube having a plurality of holes for receiving fuel from inside a fuel container; and a wicking material enveloping at least one of the plurality of holes. Aircraft fuel systems including a fuel pickup comprising a wicking material are also disclosed. |
| US08011619B2 |
Insulation package arrangement for insulating the interior of an aircraft fuselage
The design and attachment of an insulation package near the fuselage structure to protect the cabin region of an aircraft against fire acting on the insulation package from outside the aircraft environment, thus clearly facilitating evacuation of the passengers from the vehicle. The insulation package arrangement may comprise several fuselage insulation packages of an elongated form. These packages may adjoin the aircraft fuselage structure in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the aircraft. They may be completely enclosed by a burn-through-proof foil which is arranged in a space enclosed by interior paneling and by the panels of the outer skin. The longitudinal end of the fuselage insulation package continues outward with a flat insulation end section is attached which is attached to a rib-attachment region arranged below the respective longitudinal sides of a rib and near the stringer by means of burn-through-proof attachment elements arranged on the inside of the aircraft with respect to the insulation. |
| US08011618B2 |
Storage device for baggage for an aircraft cabin
A storage device for baggage for an aircraft cabin includes a compartment having a lower face and an upper face, an open face allowing access to the compartment for the depositing and removal of baggage inside same and a back, opposite the open face of the compartment. The lower face of the compartment is substantially plane on the side of the open face and rises up near the back. A groove, the concavity of which is positioned toward the upper face of the compartment, is implemented in the joining zone between the raised portion of the lower face and the back. |
| US08011617B2 |
Compact cargo lift for commerical aircraft
An apparatus for transferring cargo between an upper, passenger deck and a lower, cargo deck of an aircraft. A lift platform raises palletized cargo from the lower deck through an opening formed in the upper deck. The drive mechanism is housed entirely within the lift platform itself. The platform is stabilized by flanking, scissors-action leg assemblies, that nest alongside the platform when stowed. The platform is stowed in the raised position, within the opening formed in the upper deck. Locking assemblies attach the lift platform to the sides of the opening so that the platform becomes a load-bearing structural component of the upper deck when stowed. A recess is formed in the lower deck for receiving the lift platform when lowered. A translating floor assembly having folding floor sections lowers to clear the recess, and then raises to define a floor surface over the opening when the lift platform is not in use. |
| US08011609B2 |
Pepper mill
A pepper mill includes a receiving unit, a grinding unit, a coupling unit and a closure unit. The receiving unit includes a container body defining a receiving space for receiving peppercorns, and a driving member disposed movably in the receiving space. The coupling unit is disposed in the receiving space and is driven rotatably by the driving member. The grinding unit is disposed in the receiving space and is coupled co-rotatably to the coupling unit for grinding the peppercorns to result in ground pepper. The closure unit includes a closure member movable relative to the grinding unit between a closed position so as to block discharge of the ground pepper through a discharge end of the container body, and an opened position so as to permit discharge of the ground pepper through the discharge end. |
| US08011600B2 |
Fuel injector nozzle
A fuel injector nozzle for use with an internal combustion engine utilizes arrangements of nozzle openings that are designed to increase fuel contact with oxygen within a combustion chamber. Nozzle openings are positioned in more than one plane substantially parallel with the cylinder head surface, with the planes preferably at least 2 millimeters apart, and with the respective pluralities of nozzle openings oriented to provide diverging injection angles in relation to the cylinder head surface. The fuel injector is particularly designed for use with oxygen-dilute (e.g., high EGR) controlled temperature combustion, direct injection compression ignition engines. |
| US08011597B2 |
Auto A/C solar compensation control
A method of controlling an HVAC system to more effectively cool a vehicle cabin when the solar azimuth is large. A solar azimuth, an outside air temperature, a set temperature, a cabin temperature, and an ignition time are communicated to a controller that determines how to best operate the HVAC system. When the vehicle has only been running for a short period of time, the cabin temperature is elevated, and the solar azimuth is large, the measured solar azimuth is corrected to a corrected solar azimuth. The corrected solar azimuth is smaller than the measured solar azimuth and yields a large sun temperature. The controller then calculates a TAO based upon the large sun temperature and the TAO is used to control the HVAC system. |
| US08011595B2 |
Coding pattern with replicated local tag data in each tag
A substrate having a coding pattern disposed on a surface thereof. The coding pattern comprises a plurality of target elements defining a target grid. The target grid comprises a plurality of cells, wherein neighboring cells share target elements. A plurality of data elements are contained in each cell. Tags are defined by a plurality of contiguous cells and each tag comprises respective local tag data encoded by a respective set of the data elements. Each tag comprises a plurality of replications of the local tag data. Any tag-sized portion of the coding pattern is guaranteed to contain the local tag data irrespective of whether a whole tag is contained in the portion. |
| US08011591B2 |
Multi-application IC card with secure management of applications
A multi-application IC card may include a runtime environment for managing executions of a plurality of stored application. Each application may include a set of rules, to be satisfied by their execution, and a corresponding set of reactions, to be taken if the rules are not satisfied. The runtime environment may include security and reaction registers to reference, respectively, the set of rules and reactions associated with the applications. A security policy manager may initialize, for each application, a reference between the security registers and the rules set between the reactions register and the reactions set. Checking the rules set and/or an activation of the reactions set is controlled by the security policy manager through the security registers and reaction registers. The security policy manager may include a registration function for initializing the security and reaction registers. The registration function may be called from the applications or an administrative user. |
| US08011589B2 |
Wireless IC device and manufacturing method thereof
A wireless IC device includes a radiation plate, a wireless IC chip, and a substrate provided with a feed circuit that includes a resonant circuit and/or the matching circuit including an inductance element and that is electromagnetically coupled to the radiation plate. The substrate is made of a resin material. A recess is provided in a first main surface of the substrate. The substrate is provided with a wiring electrode arranged along a bottom surface and an inner circumferential surface of the recess and the first main surface of the substrate and electrically connected to the feed circuit, and a wedge member made of a different material from the resin material and extending between the bottom surface of the recess and a second main surface of the substrate spaced apart from the wiring electrode. The wireless IC chip is mounted in the recess and coupled to the wiring electrode. |
| US08011586B2 |
Apparatus, method, program, and storage medium
An object of the present invention is to reduce a processing time and make a printed image look better in appearance in processing of printing a two-dimensional code again. In order to achieve the above-described object, an apparatus according to the present invention includes decoding unit for decoding a non-upright two-dimensional code in a manuscript image, and synthesis unit for creating a two-dimensional code by using information obtained by the decoding, to synthesize the two-dimensional code in an upright state onto the manuscript image. |
| US08011582B2 |
Voting system
This system includes modified ATM machine, resetting machine and voter's log. This system integrates the stages of voter's verification, casting, collecting votes, prevents voter's fraud, has safeguard in place to prevent multiple voting, creates hard copy for possible recount, and verifies that every vote counts and counts correctly without exposing the selection of candidate to any person other than the voter. This system tracks and verifies votes in four different ways. 1st by hard copy of the votes, 2nd by ATM machine 3rd by resetting card machine and 4th by voters log. This system also provides security and prevents voting fraud by taking picture of the voter while voting. It also places a flag on the record of voter after casting a vote which prevents duplicate voting. This system will also print a hard copy which will be kept as a backup for possible recount. The voter selects the language to be displayed for voting therefore will be less confusion while voting. |
| US08011578B2 |
Voucher system and method of use
A system for managing voucher use includes a database, a voucher, and a processor. The database stores an account defining at least one approved item available for purchase and a financial balance. The voucher includes an identifier linking the voucher to the account. The processor is in communication with the database and is adapted to use the identifier to access the account. The processor is adapted to determine if an item selected for purchase is an approved item and to apply at least a portion of the financial balance toward the purchase of the selected item only if the selected item is an approved item. Other voucher systems and associated methods are also disclosed. |
| US08011577B2 |
Payment cards and devices with gift card, global integration, and magnetic stripe reader communication functionality
A payment card (e.g., credit and/or debit card) or other device (e.g., mobile telephone) is provided with a magnetic emulator operable to communicate data to a magnetic stripe read-head. Gift cards may be inputted by a user into such a payment card or other device such that a user can combine gift cards. Similarly, a user be provided with a global payment account that can be utilized in multiple countries that have different standards for formatting data. A user may be provided with a default country (e.g., United States) but may have a way to select that the user is in a different country (e.g., Japan). Accordingly, a user may select that a Japanese data structure be transmitted through a magnetic stripe reader when the user is in Japan. |
| US08011565B2 |
Multi-sided tray bliss container
A multi-sided container comprising a bottom wall, a top wall, opposite side walls, opposite end walls, a longitudinal axis and a plurality of diagonal corner walls all are cooperating with one another to form an interior space. At least one of the plurality of diagonal corner walls defined by at least one diagonal corner panel and at least one reinforcement flap overlapping one another and wherein a portion of the bottom wall projects under and beyond a bottom edge of the at least one diagonal corner wall. The at least one reinforcement flap extends from longitudinal ends of the respective opposite side walls. At least one end flap extends from long side of the reinforcement flap and the at least one end flap projects beyond an entire surface of the at least one diagonal corner wall terminating its edge at the end wall. |
| US08011563B2 |
Compliant mold fill head with integrated cavity venting and solder cooling
A mold fill head includes a solder delivery head and an interface portion having a compliant portion secured to the solder delivery head and a dispensing region associated with the compliant portion. The dispensing region is formed with at least one aperture configured to interface with cavities in a mold plate, the at least one aperture being in fluid communication with the solder delivery head. The compliant portion is configured and dimensioned to urge the dispensing region against the mold plate when held a predetermined distance therefrom and to substantially tolerate variations in flatness of the mold plate, variations in the predetermined distance, and/or variations in an angular orientation of the interface portion and the mold plate. |
| US08011554B2 |
Raised boss for staple guide
A surgical stapling device including a handle assembly, a body portion, and a head portion is disclosed. The handle assembly includes a firing trigger. The body portion extends distally from the handle assembly. The head portion includes an anvil assembly and a shell assembly. The anvil assembly is movable in relation to the shell assembly between spaced and approximated positions. The shell assembly includes a pusher and an inner guide portion. The pusher includes at least one slot therein and is movable in relation to the anvil assembly between retracted and extended positions. The inner guide portion is disposed adjacent at least a portion of the pusher and includes a raised boss extending therefrom. The raised boss is configured to shroud the slot in the pusher when the pusher is in the retracted position. |
| US08011543B2 |
Load carrier mounted at the rear of a motor vehicle
A load carrier including a fixing system on a rear part of a vehicle including: a longitudinal arm with one end to interact with a sleeve joined to a structural element of the vehicle; a lever with one end mounted to rotate relative to the arm about a transversal pin supported by the end of the arm; a device placed between the lever and the arm and exerting a force in a direction; and a lock for the fixing system. The lock includes a handle having a gripping part and a cam part mounted to rotate relative to the lever about a transversal pin supported by the free end of the lever between: (1) an unlocked state in which movement of the handle about the pin is free between a position in which it abuts against the free end of the lever and a position in which a point of a leading surface of the cam is in contact with the arm; and (2) a locking state in which movement of the handle about the pin and interaction of the handle with the arm causes the lever to rotate about the pin in a clockwise direction until reaching a locked end position of the lever at which the lever is stressed and joined to the sleeve. |
| US08011542B2 |
Motorcycle sissy bar luggage mounting system
A piece of luggage that includes a main body portion having a front and a back and a system for mounting the piece of luggage on an object. The system includes at least first and second receivers attached to the front of the main body portion, a horizontally oriented band and first and second rods. The horizontally oriented band includes a plurality of vertically oriented passages defined therethrough. The first receiver and one of the passages cooperate to define a first path and the second receiver and one of the passages cooperate to define a second path. The first and second rods are each respectively removably received in the first and second paths. In a preferred embodiment, the band includes a middle section having a vertically oriented slot defined therein and two adjustment sections extending outwardly from the middle section. A plurality of vertically oriented passages are defined through each of the adjustment sections and the mounting system also includes a vertically oriented strap extending from the front of the main body portion that is adapted to be received in the vertically oriented slot. |
| US08011536B2 |
Device for providing a cooled or heated liquid onboard an aircraft
A dispenser of cooled or heated liquid which in one embodiment is a server cart for an aircraft. To avoid the need for a pump, the reservoir has a cooling or heating heat exchanger that helically coils around the main reservoir, which cools from the top down or heats from the bottom up, forming a counter current. The reservoir is connected to at least two conduits, one near the cooler top of the reservoir and one near the relatively warmer bottom of the reservoir. The two conduits connect to one another at a distance from the reservoir forming a dispensing passage, thereby allowing fluid to constantly circulate through the dispensing passage due to difference in the specific gravity in the fluid caused by the temperature difference. The elimination of the pump device is especially desirable for weight sensitive environments such as an aircraft. |
| US08011534B2 |
Flavoring component holding dispenser for use with consumable beverages
A dispenser for a bottle that is adapted to contain a consumable beverage. The dispenser may be reusable to facilitate easy use and last minute selection of flavoring component for a consumable beverage. |
| US08011533B2 |
Fluid-containing system with inclined sleeve
A fluid-containing system includes an enclosure that houses a fluid that is contained in a bladder coupled to a spigot and houses a sleeve that is inclined relative to the bottom of the enclosure. The spigot protrudes through a spigot opening in the enclosure, while the sleeve contains dispensable items that can be fed through a dispensable item opening in the enclosure. |
| US08011530B2 |
Articulating handle for space-saving cookware and method for using same
An articulating handle for an item of cookware is provided. The articulating handle is configured for connection with the cookware through a hinge assembly. The handle may be locked into substantially horizontal position such as for use of the cookware, or a substantially vertical position for storage. As such, cookware including such a handle can be stacked in a space-saving manner. A method for stacking cookware and a stack of cookware incorporating such a handle are also provided. |
| US08011529B2 |
Mouth piece assembly
A mouth piece assembly includes a mouth piece unit having a pivot which is pivotably connected to a first connector so that the mouth piece unit is pivotable about an axis of the pivot relative to the first connector. The first connector is pivotably inserted into a second connector so that the first connector is pivotable about an axis of the second connector. The two respective axes are perpendicular to each other. A locking key is connected to the second connector and engaged with the first connector inserted into the second connector. The mouth piece unit can be pivoted in two different directions and the volume of liquid sucked from the container is not changed. |
| US08011526B2 |
Loosening prevention device for plug
A loosening prevention device (1) for a plug includes: a first sleeve (11) engaged with and surrounding a first plug (70) attached to a lid of a liquid tank (60); a second sleeve (21) engaged with and surrounding a second plug (80) attached to the lid; and a connection means (24) for connecting and fixing the first sleeve and the second sleeve with each other. At least one flat surface (75, 85) is formed on an outer circumferential surface (74, 84) of both or either one of the first plug and the second plug, and at least one flat surface (12, 22) in surface contact with the flat surface of both or either one of the first plug and the second plug is formed on an inner circumferential surface of both or either one of the first sleeve and the second sleeve. With this arrangement, a plug for supplying pressurized-gas and a plug for discharging liquid can be firmly held. |
| US08011524B2 |
Microwaveable packaged good article overcap
A microwaveable packaged good article is described. The microwaveable packaged good article includes a container and an overcap. The container includes a base and a continuous wall extending from the base terminating in a chime. The overcap includes a panel, a neck extending from the panel terminating in a drip bead, and a skirt radially spaced from the drip bead to define a channel between the skirt and the drip bead. In this regard, the chime is received within the channel upon assembly of the overcap to the container. |
| US08011522B2 |
Synthetic closure with multiple internal layers, each layer having a variable cross section (VCS) along the closure length
A container closure includes an inner core having a non-cylindrical profile created by a variable longitudinal cross-sectional area. One or more outer layers concentrically surround the core and have a cross-sectional area inversely correlated to the inner core so that the overall container closure has an essentially cylindrical profile. |
| US08011521B2 |
Fluid container
A fluid container may include a body, a grip element, a cap, and a nozzle. The fluid container may be capable of containing and dispensing fluid, such as water. The body may contain the fluid and the grip element may be shaped for a user's hand. The cap may be attachable to the body and may be tapered as it extends away from the body. The grip element may provide a user with traction and gripping ability. The cap may be attachable to the body and may be detached to expose an opening through which the body may be filled with fluid. The nozzle may be capable of selectively dispensing fluid. The fluid container may be a sports water bottle shaped to fittingly engage a user's hand. The sports water bottle may be portable and may be used during such activities as athletics and travel. |
| US08011519B2 |
Mullite module for liquid filtration
The disclosure relates to a material suitable for forming a honeycomb monolith for liquid filtration and, more particularly, to a mullite material for forming a cross-flow filtration device for separating a feed stock into filtrate and retentate, methods for forming the filtration device, and filtration devices formed from the material. |
| US08011518B2 |
Crystalline polymer microporous film, manufacturing method of the same, and filtration filter
To provide a crystalline polymer microporous film including: a laminate consisting of two or more crystalline polymer layers formed of crystalline polymers; and multiple pores penetrating through the laminate in the thickness direction thereof, wherein an average pore size of each of the crystalline polymer layer changes along the thickness thereof. |
| US08011517B2 |
Composite membranes with performance enhancing layers
A composite membrane includes a filtration membrane with a surface; and a layer on the surface of the filtration membrane. The layer includes a polymer including a poly(ethylene glycol) moiety cross-linked with an ammonium salt or a precursor of an ammonium salt. |
| US08011516B2 |
Method and device for sorting objects
An apparatus and a method for sorting objects. The apparatus has an input conveyor, an output conveyor, two loading devices, two unloading devices and a drive. Each loading device is configured to fill the input conveyor with at least one object. Each unloading device enables an object to be removed from the output conveyor. The apparatus can be switched between an input optimized mode and an output optimized mode. In the input optimized mode, both loading devices and one unloading device are activated. The apparatus guides the input conveyor past both loading devices and the output conveyor past the activated unloading device. In the output optimized mode, one loading device and both unloading devices are activated. The apparatus guides the input conveyor past the activated loading device and the output conveyor past the two unloading devices. |
| US08011513B2 |
Semiconductor workpiece carriers and methods for processing semiconductor workpieces
Semiconductor workpiece carriers and methods for processing semiconductor workpieces are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a semiconductor workpiece carrier assembly includes (a) a support structure having an opening sized to receive at least a portion of a semiconductor workpiece, and (b) a replaceable carrier positioned at the opening. The replaceable carrier includes a base and an adhesive layer on the base. The base has a surface, and the adhesive layer covers only a section of the surface of the base. The adhesive layer releasably attaches the replaceable carrier to the support structure. |
| US08011511B2 |
Packing material and method
A packing material is made of a thin plastic bag with compressible beads inside, and with the pressure inside the bag being sufficiently less than the ambient pressure outside the bag to keep the beads in a non-free-flowing state, the packing material being generally flat, with a generally constant cross-sectional thickness and having at least one trough of lesser cross-sectional thickness to serve as a bend line. |
| US08011507B2 |
Methods and apparatus for collecting and disposing of sharps
A receptacle for holding a meltable sharps container during a sterilization process in which the meltable sharps container and any contained sharps are heated. The receptacle includes a side wall and a bottom wall having respective interior surfaces defining a space for receiving the meltable sharps container. The receptacle also includes a plurality of recessed areas in the interior surface of the bottom wall, and a plurality of elevated areas on the interior surface of the bottom wall, whereby as the sharps container melts, material from the sharps container flows into the recessed areas and the elevated areas hold the contained sharps above the recessed areas, so as to inhibit the contained sharps from protruding through the melted sharps container. |
| US08011504B1 |
Disposable sterile protective cover for optical devices used in ophthalmology
The device of the invention comprises a protective cover for an optical device such as a gonioscope, capsulatomy lens, wide-angle lens, or any other lens having an eye-contacting surface. The cover is made sterile and disposable for allowing multiple use of the protected optical device. The cover is made from a soft material biologically acceptable for contact with a human eye. According to one aspect, the gonioscope protective cover is used merely for physically protecting the eye-contacting surface from direct contact with the eye. According to another aspect, the gonioscope protective cover combines the protective function with an optical function that changes the direction of light so that it becomes possible to observe the light emitted from the pupil at angles that are close to the angle of full internal reflection from the pupil medium. |
| US08011500B2 |
Reusable bag with fastening system and methods of use
A reusable bag with a fastening system is disclosed. The reusable bag having at least one panel, but typically having a first panel and a second panel with a first loop handle and a second loop handle, the first and second handles coupled with and extending from the first and second panels respectively. The fastening system of the reusable bag comprises at least one of, but typically both a first strap and a second strap. The first strap having one of a hook material and a loop material, while the second strap having another of the hook material. Further disclosed are a looped third strap of the fastening system and a pocket adapted to receive the first and second straps. Methods relating to the reusable bag and fastening system, such as a method comprising folding and/or rolling, stacking, wrapping, and securing one or more reusable bags are additionally described herein. |
| US08011499B2 |
Suture tray package
A novel suture tray package is disclosed. The package has a floor member and a plurality of curvilinear walls extending up from the top of the floor member and forming suture tracks. The walls extend in a spiral manner from the central section of the floor member to the periphery. Extending radially outwardly about the periphery are platform sections in communication with the tracks and optionally containing needle park members and pledget park members. |
| US08011497B2 |
Seal chain having greaser
A greasing through hole is perforated through one outer link plate, and greasing device is attached to the through hole. Degreasing through-holes are perforated through an outer link plate or an inner link plate on the side distant from the outer link plate with a bearing section A between the link plates, and degreasing device 22 is attached to those through-holes. Lubricant injected from the greasing device is supplied to the bearing section A through a gap c between the sealing device and the outer link plate, and used lubricant within the bearing section A is discharged out of the degreasing device through another gap c. |
| US08011495B2 |
Transfer device metering apparatus and methods
A product metering apparatus (10) includes a first product conveyance mechanism (12) conveying product in a continuous stream. A platform (42) supports product and is movable along a closed path between a loading position adjacent to the first product conveyance mechanism (12) and a transfer position adjacent to an output in the form of a second product conveyance mechanism (22) spaced from the first product conveyance mechanism (12) in the conveying direction. The platform (42) in the loading position receives the product in the continuous stream from the first product conveyance mechanism (12) and is then accelerated to a speed greater than the first product conveyance mechanism (12) creating a gap between the product supported on the platform (42) and the product remaining in the continuous stream on the first product conveyance mechanism (12). A sweep bar (52ba) is inserted into the gap and abuts with the product on the platform (42) for assisting transfer of the product on the platform (42) to the output. |
| US08011491B2 |
Conveyance apparatus for an assembly line
A conveyance apparatus has a conveyance carriage for conveying a vehicle body, a vehicle-body support, a synchronous traveling carriage capable of traveling in synchronization with the conveyance carriage from a start point position to an end point position, a lifter provided with an elevating base that ascends via an aperture arranged on a floor surface of the conveyance carriage, and an elevating table for supporting an engine of an engine carrying-in carriage that stops at a fixed stop position and is lifted up to a predetermined height by the elevating base of the lifter. |
| US08011487B2 |
Clutch outer member for multi-plate clutch
A clutch outer member (1) for a multi-plate clutch is provided that includes an end wall (7), a large number of fins (30) extending axially from the outer peripheral part of the end wall (7) and arranged at equal intervals in the peripheral direction so as to define spline grooves (20B) therebetween, and an annular connecting part (31) formed on the outer periphery at the extremity of this group of fins (30) and connecting the fins (30) integrally to each other, the fin (30) having an axially-extending weight-cutting bottomed groove (33) formed, wherein the annular connecting part (31) is provided, on a part of its outer end face corresponding to each of the spline grooves (20B), with a reference notch (32) indicating the position of the spline groove (20B), and spline teeth (20A) of a friction plate (3) are fitted into the spline grooves (20B) corresponding to the reference notches (32). This enables differentiation between the weight-cutting bottomed groove and the spline groove of the clutch outer member to be carried out quickly and appropriately and an operation of fitting the spline teeth of the friction plate into the spline grooves to be carried out quickly. |
| US08011485B2 |
Hydraulic oil supply structure and vehicle drive apparatus provided with the same
The hydraulic control apparatus includes a separating plate that is interposed between an upper valve body and a lower valve body. The separating plate and the lower valve body provide a projecting portion that projects toward a discharge opening side of the oil pump with respect to the upper valve body. A first oil feed path is provided at the projecting portion, is formed between the separating plate and the lower valve body, and receives the hydraulic oil from the oil pump and guides the hydraulic oil to an upper valve body disposition side. |
| US08011483B2 |
Ventilation device for a combined spring accumulator and operating brake cylinder
A ventilation device provided which includes a valve arranged in a combined spring accumulator and operating brake cylinder. On depressurization of a pressure medium chamber in the spring accumulator brake cylinder, ventilation of a spring accumulator chamber of the spring accumulator brake cylinder, from the pressure medium chamber of the operating brake cylinder, is effected. A chambers is provided on the side of a valve piston in the valve, facing away from a control chamber, which, with an open valve, connects a first working connections to this chamber and, hence, to a second working connection, arranged axially on the front side of the valve, by means of a passage provided in the valve piston. |
| US08011480B2 |
Load sensor apparatus and method for an elevator car
An elevator installation and a method for arranging a load sensor in the elevator installation includes a car, a support device for supporting the car, the load sensor and a deflecting roller unit. The deflecting roller unit is arranged at the car and has at least two deflecting rollers which are rotatable about a common axle. The load sensor is arranged on the common axle between the two deflecting rollers. |
| US08011478B2 |
Elevator vibration damping system having damping control
A vibration damping system for an elevator is provided with a damping device (5) that is provided between a cab (1) and a car frame (2) for supporting the cab (1) and whose damping coefficient can be changed. A speed detector detects the traveling speed of a reference elevator car, and a calculation unit (15) receiving the traveling speed detected by the speed detector calculates a control signal for the damping device (5), and outputs the control signal to the damping device. The calculation unit (15) controls the damping device (5) in such a way that, in the case where the traveling speed exceeds a predetermined value, the damping coefficient of the damping device (5) is larger than that in the case where the traveling speed is the same as or smaller than the predetermined value. |
| US08011475B2 |
Ladder
An extension ladder, including multiple ladder sections, each including a pair of pin holes, a pair of columns, and a rung, including a pair of pins, a pair of springs, a gear, a pair of gear racks, and a pair of mounting rings, wherein the columns of adjacent ladder sections are fit with each other, diameters of the columns of the ladder sections increase from the top to the bottom, the pin holes are disposed on the columns, and operate to receive the pins, the pins are coaxial, the gear is disposed on a side wall of the rung and engaged with the gear rack, one end surface of the gear sticks out from the side wall of the rung, a key hole is disposed on the end surface of the gear, the mounting ring operates to fix the pin, and the spring is contacted with the pin. |
| US08011474B2 |
Powered access device
A device for accessing an elevated entry position on a machine including an operator position includes a platform, which includes a step surface, configured to ascend and descend between a base position and the elevated entry position, wherein the platform remains within an existing envelope of the machine throughout ascent, descent, and storage of the platform, and wherein the ascending and descending proceeds along an axis substantially orthogonal to the step surface. The device may further include a lifting mechanism operatively connected to the machine and the platform. |
| US08011472B2 |
Sound absorbing structure and vehicle component having sound absorbing property
A sound absorbing structure is constituted of a housing having a hollow portion and an opening and a vibration member composed of a board or diaphragm. The vibration member is a square-shaped material having elasticity composed of a synthetic resin and is bonded to the opening of the housing, thus forming an air layer closed inside the sound absorbing structure by the housing and the vibration member. In the sound absorbing structure, when the lateral/longitudinal dimensions of the air layer and characteristics of the vibration member (e.g. a Young's modulus, thickness, and Poisson's ratio) are set such that the fundamental frequency of a vibration occurring in a bending system falls within 5% and 65% of the resonance frequency of a spring-mass system, a vibration mode having a large amplitude occurs in a frequency band lower than the resonance frequency of the spring-mass system, this improving the sound absorption coefficient. |
| US08011469B2 |
Tunable sound transmission device for a motor vehicle
A tunable sound transmission device for transmitting an engine rumble sound into an interior of a motor vehicle includes a transmission line having a first end in acoustic communication with an air intake tract of an engine. A flexible membrane is positioned to sealably close off a portion of the transmission line thereby dividing the transmission line into two portions that are airflow isolated from each other. A receptacle is arranged at the second end of the transmission line and a user changeable sound characterization device is replaceably installed into the receptacle. The sound characterization device is configured and adapted to provide an intended frequency dependent sound attenuation characteristic and an overall sound dampening level for the transmitted engine sound. |
| US08011463B1 |
Flexible and efficient energy source
An energy source includes an internal combustion engine with a cooling jacket in which a vapor of a working medium (steam in the case of water) is generated; a turbine connected to receive the vapor from the cooling jacket and having a rotating component rotated by the passage of the vapor; a generator rotated in response to rotation of the rotating component to generate electricity; and a heating coil powered by electricity produced by the generator, the heating coil being disposed to heat the medium in the cooling jacket to assist in providing vapor. The energy source may be used in a motor vehicle, and the steam (when water is used as the working medium) and the generated electricity can be used as energy sources for external loads, such as heating and powering a building. |
| US08011461B2 |
Hybrid electric conversion kit for rear-wheel drive, all wheel drive, and four wheel drive vehicles
This invention relates to a parallel hybrid electric conversion kit for a vehicle with an internal combustion engine, a driveshaft and a transmission, such as, rear wheel drive vehicles, four-wheel drive vehicles, heavy duty multiple-driven-axle vehicles and/or all-wheel drive vehicles. The conversion kit includes a motor-generator, a torque coupler, a battery, a power electronics module and a controller. Suitable torque couplers include transfer cases and/or rear-through differentials. The conversion kit provides an aftermarket solution to increased performance, fuel economy and/or reduced emissions by modifying the drivetrain after the transmission. According to one embodiment of this invention, the control scheme of the installed conversion kit receives input signals from the engine and the motor-generator, but only sends control signals to the motor-generator, facilitating installation of the conversion kit. |
| US08011459B2 |
Inverted wheel type moving body and method of controlling same
To provide an inverted wheel type moving body capable of improving the operability, and a method of controlling the same. An inverted wheel type moving body in accordance with one aspect of the present invention includes motors 34 and 36 for rotationally driving a right driving wheel 18 and a left driving wheel 20 respectively, a passenger seat 74 rotationally supported on mounts 26 and 28 through swing arms 17 and 19, a passenger seat drive motor 70 for driving the passenger seat 74, a control portion 80 for determining whether the manipulation amount exceeds the threshold value or not, and a motor driver 70a for control the passenger seat drive motor 70 such that the passenger seat 74 is moved in accordance with the manipulation amount when the manipulation amount does not exceed the threshold value and the movement of the passenger seat 74 is restored after the manipulation amount exceeds the threshold value. |
| US08011455B2 |
Down hole hammer having elevated exhaust
A percussive assisted rotary drill includes a top sub for connection with a drill pipe. The drill pipe imparts torque to the drill and also supplies motive fluid to the drill. The drill includes a shank adapter to facilitate affixing a rotary drill bit to the drill. The motive fluid is divided between a bit flow which flows through the bit to clear debris at the bottom of the drill, and an actuator flow. An actuator, which may be in the form of a reciprocating piston, moves within the drill under the influence of the actuator flow to impart cyclical blows to the shank adapter. At least a portion of the actuator flow portion of the motive fluid is exhausted through the top end of the drill. |
| US08011454B2 |
Apparatus and methods for continuous tomography of cores
A method of estimating a property of interest downhole according to one aspect of the disclosure may include continuously receiving a core drilled from a formation into an open end of a chamber while removing the core distal from the open end of the chamber. The method further includes obtaining a measurement relating to property of interest of the core using at least one sensor; and estimating the property of interest of the core using the obtained measurement. |
| US08011451B2 |
Ranging methods for developing wellbores in subsurface formations
A method for forming two or more wellbores in a subsurface formation includes forming a first wellbore in the formation. A second wellbore is directionally drilled in a selected relationship relative to the first wellbore. At least one magnetic field is provided in the second wellbore using one or more magnets in the second wellbore located on a drilling string used to drill the second wellbore. At least one magnetic field is sensed in the first wellbore using at least two sensors in the first wellbore as the magnetic field passes by the at least two sensors while the second wellbore is being drilled. A position of the second wellbore is continuously assessed relative to the first wellbore using the sensed magnetic field. The direction of drilling of the second wellbore is adjusted so that the second wellbore remains in the selected relationship relative to the first wellbore. |
| US08011447B2 |
Automated drill string position survey
A method of surveying drill holes, typically for use in underground mining situations where the holes are bored using a top hammer drill rig (10), utilizes a survey tool located adjacent the drill bit (1) which is used to log position readings as the drill string is withdrawn from the hole after the drilling operation. In this manner, it is possible to log the actual hole bored by the drill string (3) in real time as the drilling operation proceeds, and show deviation from intended hole positions (5) or (6). The survey tool typically includes an inertial survey package, a power source, and a data logger with the survey package selected from the group comprising commercially known inertial known survey packages, for superior characteristics of resistance to vibration and impact. The survey tool is maintained in a sleeping mode while drilling is undertaken, and activated to provide position data as the drill string is progressively withdrawn from the actual hole path (3). |
| US08011445B2 |
Portable power tool, in particular a drilling hammer and/or impact hammer
A portable power tool has a housing, a rotating sleeve provided for rotatably driving a tool and a rotatably supported in the housing by at least one bearing, a driving gear-wheel installed on the rotating sleeve in a freely rotating manner and drivable by a motor, a safety clutch that couples the driving gear-wheel with the rotating sleeve in a rotation-proof manner, the safety clutch having two clutch members that are slippable, with one of the clutch members being assigned to the driving gear-wheel and the other clutch member being assigned to the rotating sleeve in both cases in a rotation-proof manner, and with a coupling sleeve providing a force against which the clutch members are slippable when a limit torque is exceeded, the bearing being seated on the rotating sleeve in an axially displaceable manner and loaded by the coupling sleeve of the safety clutch against an axial stop of the rotating sleeve. |
| US08011440B2 |
Precision hoe opener assembly with adjustable packer wheel location
A precision hoe opener assembly is provided with improved accuracy of seeding as well as improved control over the opener and packer wheel assemblies. The opener assembly features a hydraulically-driven parallel linkage assembly, a ground engaging tool, and an adjustable packer wheel assembly. The design provides improved seeding accuracy by providing a variable distance between the ground engaging tool and the packer wheel. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention allow for adjustment of the distance between the ground engaging tool and wheel elements. |
| US08011438B2 |
Downhole flow control with selective permeability
An apparatus includes a base pipe and a fluid control material. The base pipe includes openings, and the fluid control material is mounted to the pipe to control fluid communication through the openings of the pipe. The fluid control material has a permeability that may be changed to selectively control the communication of well fluid through the openings. |
| US08011436B2 |
Through riser installation of tree block
A subsea well assembly has a tubing hanger that lands and seals in a wellhead housing. A tree block is lowered through the drilling riser into engagement with the tubing hanger. The tree block has a lower portion that inserts and latches into the bore of the wellhead housing. The drilling riser is disconnected, and a module is lowered onto the tree block, the module having a choke and controls for controlling the well. The master valve for production is the downhole safety valve in the tubing. The wing production valve is a ball valve located in the flow passage of the tree block. |
| US08011435B2 |
Subsea lateral drilling
A method for drilling a borehole in a producing subsea wellbore wherein a flexible conduit is connected at one end to a surface vessel and at the other end via a pressurized subsea wellhead to the producing wellbore such that a remotely operated electrical drilling device (RODD) can be deployed down the flexible conduit, the method comprising: directing a RODD to the location for drilling in the wellbore; and drilling a further wellbore section with the RODD; wherein the drilling comprises drilling in underbalanced conditions with respect to the formation; and using fluids produced from the formation to transport the drill cuttings away from the drilling device. |
| US08011434B2 |
Subsea securing devices
A securing device comprises an axially reciprocable drive shaft which has a head adapted to pass forwards through a detent plate. The head is adapted to engage the plate after rotation. A cam slot is defined in a drive housing and is engageable by a cam follower carried on the drive shaft. The cam slot has two end portions extending parallel to the axis of the drive shaft and an oblique intermediate part such that the drive shaft is rotated when the follower moves along the intermediate part and the drive shaft moves only axially when the follower moves along either of the end portions. A subsea assembly including the securing device includes a fixed stab plate including a central collar, and a free stab plate having an aperture through which said collar extends, the collar including an chamber defined by the detent plate. |
| US08011431B2 |
Process and system for creating enhanced cavitation
A system and method for cavitating a producible formation is disclosed to improve hydrocarbon production and to increase a production rate without an concurrent co-production of formation particulate. The method and system include conglomerating the producible formation using a conglomerating composition. Once the producible formation is conglomerated, the conglomerated, producible formation is produced above its critical draw down pressure to form a cavity surrounding the wellborn in the conglomerated, producible formation and placing the cavitated, conglomerated, producible formation on production below a higher maximum sand free rate (MSFR). |
| US08011430B2 |
Method to measure injector inflow profiles
A method of determining the inflow profile of an injection wellbore, comprising stopping injection of fluid into a formation, the formation intersected by a wellbore having a section uphole of the formation and a section within the formation, monitoring temperature at least partially along the uphole section of the wellbore and at least partially along the formation section of the wellbore, injecting fluid into the formation once the temperature in the uphole section of the wellbore increases, and monitoring the movement of the increased temperature fluid as it moves from the uphole section of the wellbore along the formation section of the wellbore. The monitoring may be performed using a distributed temperature sensing system. |
| US08011428B2 |
Downhole decelerating device, system and method
Disclosed herein is a decelerating device. The device includes, a body movably engagable within a tubular, a mandrel longitudinally movably disposed at the body, and at least one deceleration element disposed at the body in operable communication with the mandrel such that longitudinal movement of the mandrel with respect to the body causes controlled radial movement of the at least one deceleration element to decelerate the decelerating device in relation to the downhole tubular. |
| US08011426B1 |
Method of gripping a tubular with a tubular gripping mechanism
A method for gripping a tubular with a tubular gripping mechanism includes the steps of moving the tubular gripping mechanism adjacent the tubular, positioning a jaw assembly of the tubular gripping mechanism around the tubular, applying a force by an actuator onto the jaw assembly of the tubular gripping mechanism such that the jaw assembly moves so as to clamp onto the tubular, removing the force from the actuator onto the jaw assembly such that the jaw assembly remains clamped onto the tubular. The clamping force is directed to surfaces of the tubular gripping mechanism away from the actuator. |
| US08011421B2 |
System and method that dissipate heat from an electronic device
The electronic system includes an electronic device and a liquid holding section that is thermally coupled to the electronic device. The electronic system further includes an impermeable section that engages the liquid holding section. The impermeable section includes a channel and a plurality of passages that provide fluid communication between the liquid holding section and the channel. The electronic system further includes (i) a first fluid that flows through the channel in the impermeable section to facilitate heat transfer from the electronic device to the first fluid; and (ii) a second fluid that flows from the liquid holding section through the plurality of passages into the channel when the second fluid boils within the liquid holding section due to heat transfer from the electronic device to the second fluid. In some embodiments, the first and second fluids are different types of substances. |
| US08011417B2 |
Process for the continuous casting of flat metal products with electromagnetic stirring and implementation installation
A process for continuous casting of slabs or other metal products of elongate cross section, for example made of steel, in which a molten metal is poured into a cooled mold, and the externally solidified product is continuously extracted from the mold and guided in a secondary cooling zone downstream of the mold. To obtain a cast product exhibiting predominantly equiaxed solidification, the product extracted from the mold is subjected to electromagnetic stirring in segment zero of the secondary cooling zone by at least two stirrer-rolls incorporated into the segment zero. |
| US08011415B2 |
Flaskless molding apparatus for an upper and a lower mold
A flaskless molding apparatus for an upper and a lower mold that can produce molds comprised of molding sand with a substantially uniform density. The apparatus includes a match plate having patterns held between a cope flask and a drag flask, a squeezing mechanism having a plurality of upper and lower segmented-squeeze feet, wherein the upper and the lower segmented-squeeze feet are insertable into openings of each of the cope flask and the drag flask respectively, which openings are opposite to the match plate, and wherein the squeezing mechanism can support and rotate the cope flask and the drag flask so that the mechanism allows the cope flask and the drag flask to be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise in a perpendicular plane about a supporting shaft and so that the cope flask and the drag flask can be positioned perpendicular or horizontal, and a device for moving the segmented-squeeze feet, wherein the device can control positions of the upper and the lower segmented-squeeze feet, which positions determine the condition of the molding sand in the molding spaces, according to intervals between the match plate and each of the upper and the lower segmented-squeeze feet opposite to the match plate. |
| US08011412B2 |
Tire removal aid for large tires to minimize / eliminate scuffing of the wheel
An apparatus for protecting the exterior or polished surface of wheels as tires are removed and placed on the wheel. The apparatus includes a substantially flat base having a plurality of stanchions extending out from the base. Each stanchion has a collar positioned adjacent to the base that includes a diameter greater than the stanchion. The stanchions are sized to fit through the bolt holes of the wheel in order to generally align each stanchion with one of those holes. Each collar is sized to be preferably slightly larger than the average bolt, or lug, hole on the wheel. Additionally, each collar is sized to cover substantially the same area as the lug nut or nut that normally attaches the wheels to the vehicle upon which they are used. |
| US08011411B2 |
Pad for embossing device
For transferring an image-forming layer from a transfer foil a printing sheet, an adhesive layer is first applied to the sheet to be printed. The transfer foil provided with the image-forming layer is guided past the printing sheet under pressure, in a coating module (2), such that the image-forming layer adheres to the adhesive and an image is created. The present invention provides a foil transfer device that includes a substrate on the press cylinder that has a reduced adhesiveness relative to the transfer foil. |
| US08011409B2 |
Splicing device to join together two web materials, unwinding device comprising said splicing device
A splicing device to join a first web material coming from a reel being fed (BA), to a second web material (NB), coming from a reel standing by (BB), comprising two heads (107A, 127A; 107B, 127B), each of which comprises: a roller (129A; 129B) associated with a clamping bar (143A, 145A; 143B, 145B) to hold an initial edge of the second web material (NB); a counter-pressure member (109A; 109B) cooperating with said roller (129A; 129B) to press said first and second web material (NA, NB) against each other; a cutting member (111A; 111B); a moving unit (113A; 113B), on which said counter-pressure member (109A; 109B) and said cutting member (111A; 111B) are carried. A first common control member (121) is provided to cause, by the movement it imparts to the moving unit of one or other head alternately: pinching of the first and second web material between the roller (129A; 129B) and the counter-pressure member (109A; 109B); cutting of the first web material; and release of the second web material. |
| US08011401B1 |
Toilet bowl protecting method and assembly
A toilet bowl protecting assembly includes a flexible toilet bowl covering with a top wall having a front edge, a pair of lateral edges and a rear edge. A vertical wall is attached to and extends downwardly from the top wall. The vertical wall is attached to and is coextensive with each of the front and lateral edges. The top wall is positioned on top of a toilet lid and seat of the toilet and the vertical wall extending downwardly over a toilet bowl of the toilet. A flexible tank covering including an upper wall and a perimeter wall is attached to and extending downwardly from the upper wall, the tank covering is positionable on and covering a tank of the toilet. |
| US08011400B2 |
Compressed wood product and electronic device exterior material
A compressed wood product includes a wood whose shape is taken while a volume decreased by compression is previously added, wherein a direction intersecting a fiber direction of the wood is set to a compression direction, and the wood is formed by being subjected to compressive force. |
| US08011396B1 |
Multipurpose funnel system
An improved multipurpose funnel system for filling a container, which prevents liquid from overflowing, is self venting and is capable of filling hard to reach container locations. The system has a funnel removably coupled to a bottle cartridge which holds bottles therein. A pair of parallel rods hingedly connected to the bottle cartridge and having at least one hollow cone shaped spike extending outwardly therefrom. The funnel has a downspout having venting tubes, and a cap having an elongated threaded tip. The cap and downspout each include semi-circular plates which work in conjunction together as a check valve mechanism for controlling the flow of liquid therethrough. The check valve mechanism includes a closed first position, intermediate second position, and opened third position. |
| US08011394B2 |
Methodology and apparatus for storing and dispensing liquid components to create custom formulations
The invention includes a material dispenser that further includes a container containing material, a press plate or puck for exerting pressure on the material, a sensor for detecting the material discharged from the container, and a scale for detecting the amount of material discharged from the container. The sensor and scale provide feedback to a computer which controls the amount of pressure exerted on the material. The computer controls the pulsing of additional material from the container until a targeted amount of material has been discharged from the container. The invention permits the dispensing of a specific amount of material in a controllable, metered fashion. |
| US08011392B2 |
Piping having fluid-mixing region
An object is to prevent thermal fatigue, resulting from variations in temperature interfaces, of piping having a fluid-mixing region where fluids of different temperatures are mixed. Piping 1 having a fluid-mixing region M includes a reducer 5 including an end portion 5e disposed substantially on a central axis of a main pipe 2. Low-temperature water flows through the reducer 5 at a lower velocity than high-temperature water flowing outside the end portion 5e. The low-temperature water and the high-temperature water have different temperatures. The low-temperature water and the high-temperature water are mixed in the fluid-mixing region M downstream of the reducer 5. The reducer 5 has a weld line 5f formed to connect the end portion 5e and an elbow portion 5d together. The distance between the weld line 5f and a downstream end 5a is equal to or larger than the inner diameter D of the main pipe 2. |
| US08011389B2 |
Manifold valve
A manifold valve having two valves, which enables operation of one valve while disables operation of the other valve, is compact, and facilitates installation in and detachment from a pipeline, that is, a manifold valve provided with a main passageway, a branch passageway split off from the main passageway, a main passageway valve opening and closing the main passageway, and a branch valve opening and closing the branch passageway, the main passageway, the branch passageway, the main passageway valve, and the branch valve being integrally formed, wherein the main passageway valve and the branch valve are each a manual valve having a valve element, a stem connected to the valve element, and an operating lever connected to the stem, the operating lever pivoting in an axial direction of the stem to open and close the passageway, the main passageway valve and the branch valve each converting pivoting motion of the operating lever to linear motion of the valve element and pressing the valve element against and separating it from a valve seat to open and close the passageway, an interlock mechanism further provided wherein when one valve between the main passageway valve and the branch valve is in an open state and the other valve is in a closed state, the operating lever of the one valve disables pivoting motion of the operating lever of the other valve. |
| US08011382B2 |
Bi-modal bleed valve assembly for gas turbine engine
A bi-modal bleed valve assembly is provided. In one embodiment, the bi-modal bleed valve assembly includes a housing assembly having a bleed inlet, a bleed outlet, a control servo port, and a control chamber therein. A main flow control valve is fluidly coupled to the control chamber and configured to move between an open position and a closed position to regulate fluid flow from the bleed inlet to the bleed outlet. The main flow control valve is configured to move from an open position to a closed position when the pressure within the control chamber surpasses a predetermined threshold. A switching valve is fluidly coupled between the bleed inlet, the servo control port, and the control chamber. The switching valve is configured to route fluid flow into the control chamber from: (i) the bleed inlet in an autonomous mode, and (ii) the servo control port in a servo-controlled mode. |
| US08011381B2 |
Balanced purge slit valve
Methods and apparatus for providing a gas to a slit valve opening are provided herein. In one embodiment, a slit valve is described. The slit valve includes a housing having an opening, the opening defined by a plurality of interior sidewalls and sized to allow a substrate to pass therethrough, a door adapted to selectively seal the opening, a gas inlet formed in the housing, and a plurality of nozzles disposed in or on at least one of the plurality of interior sidewalls, each of the plurality of nozzles in fluid communication with the gas inlet and the opening. |
| US08011378B2 |
Megasonic cleaning module
Disclosed herein is a megasonic cleaning module. The megasonic cleaning module includes a vibrator having a piezoelectric element mounted therein for generating ultrasonic waves by the vibration of the piezoelectric element, a first vibratory rod having a diameter gradually decreased to concentrate the longitudinal ultrasonic waves generated from the vibrator, and a second vibratory rod for progressing the longitudinal ultrasonic waves, generated from the first vibratory rod, in the transverse direction. The size of the second vibratory rod at one side thereof where the second vibratory rod is coupled to the first vibratory rod is less than that of the second vibratory rod at the other side thereof, with the result that the longitudinal ultrasonic waves are not prevented from affecting the wafer. |
| US08011371B2 |
Surgical drape with patient-oriented window and method of production
A surgical drape includes a flexible opaque sheet configured to satisfy barrier performance requirements of AAMI PB70:2003, and a flexible transparent sheet disposed within the opaque sheet to form a window sized and shaped to permit the patient to view the surgical procedure therethrough. The window is configured to satisfy the barrier performance requirements of AAMI PB70:2003, and a flexible, opaque cover is sized and shaped to substantially match that of the window. One or more releasable fasteners are configured to releasably dispose the cover in superposed relation with the window, to selectively cover and uncover the window. |
| US08011368B2 |
Respirator fit-testing apparatus and method
Improved respirator fit-test methods and apparatus featuring an automated, respirator wearer-controlled, air-leak measurement system. For fit testing of a respirator positioned on a test subject's face and connected to a controlled negative pressure testing apparatus, the test subject simply holds his breath and then activates a switch in electrical connection with said apparatus, which results in the automatic closure of the breathing port on the respirator and the initiation of a complete fit-testing protocol. The fit-testing apparatus includes a single, self-contained, automated unit that includes a vacuum source (30), an air-flow measuring device, and an air-pressure transducer (32) for connection to a respirator (10) being tested. By measuring the rate of air exhausted from the respirator in order to maintain a constant challenge pressure, an air leakage rate is determined. |
| US08011364B2 |
Exhalation valve for use in an underwater breathing device
An underwater breathing device, such as a snorkel, may include an exhalation valve. The exhalation valve is configured to produce positive end-expiratory pressure in the airway of a user of the underwater breathing device. The exhalation valve includes a plate defining an exhalation port and at least one chamber port, an exhalation conduit connected to the exhalation port, and a flexible membrane that is sealable against a surface of the plate. A lower portion of the exhalation conduit is divided by a septum which divides the exhalation conduit and the exhalation port into a first exhalation port connected to a first exhalation conduit and a second exhalation port connected to a second exhalation conduit. The flexible membrane is sized and positioned to be capable of sealing the first exhalation port and the second exhalation port. |
| US08011361B2 |
Solar power system with tower type heat dissipating structure
A tower type heat dissipating structure is applied to dissipate the heat of a solar power system. The solar power system is provided with a reflector having a hemispheric surface for reflecting the sunlight to a solar cell. The heat dissipating structure comprises a heat-conducting plate, a plate type heat pipe and a plurality of heat dissipating fins. One side of the heat-conducting plate is connected with the solar cell, and the other side is provided with a groove for being embedded an end of the plate type heat pipe. The heat dissipating fins is arranged with an inclination angle against the plate type heat pipe that can promote the heated air within the gaps to rise. The heat is rapidly conduced to prevent the solar cell from being destroyed by overheating for reducing the repairing costs. |
| US08011359B1 |
Auxiliary smoke arresting unit
Smoke escaping from an outdoor wood burning furnace may be effectively arrested with a smoke arresting unit. By mounting a smoke gathering manifold above the furnace door operatively connected to a vacuum source for drawing smoke discharging from the furnace chamber through an open furnace door, the gathered and arrested smoke may be discharged through a separate discharging chimney. The vacuum source may be activated when the furnace fan is switched off and the furnace door is opened for refueling. |
| US08011358B2 |
Double flame perimeter burner
A burner for range covers or similar, to allow a broad range of calorific capacities, and a better burner distribution in the cover, with a generally semi-rectangular form, and containing a plurality of ports and a plurality of manners to ignite it, wherein the burner is capable of interacting with other burners at determined length and height distances, creating discontinuous flames between the burners. |
| US08011357B2 |
Cutting and dust collecting assembly and working machine with such assembly
A cutting and dust collecting assembly comprises a rotatable, circular saw blade (4) having a first side (20), a second side (21), and a cover device (6) with a terminal member (52). The bottom surface (36) of the cover device extends in a plane. A longitudinal passage (45, 46) for the saw blade extends through the cover device from its top surface to its bottom surface. The terminal member comprises a terminal chamber (60) having an inlet (45a), the mouth of which coincides with the plane of said bottom surface. An outlet (58) can be connected to a vacuum source. The direction of rotation of the operating blade is such that the rear part (4a) of the saw blade which has passed beyond the bottom surface of the cover device will move in a direction upwards-rearwards towards the bottom surface. The invention also concerns the cover device, a sealing body belonging to the cover device and a working machine which is provided with the cutting and dust collecting assembly. |
| US08011348B2 |
Method for igniting, intensifying the combustion or reforming of air-fuel and oxygen-fuel mixtures
A method for intensifying combustion of gas-fuel mixtures consists of stimulating the combustion mixture in a combustion chamber by a pulsed high-voltage discharge of nanosecond duration, wherein the discharge amplitude is set up according to a condition of maximising a heat input in electronic degrees of freedom and in a gas dissociation and preventing the passage of plasma electrons to an escape mode at a main discharge stage, the high-voltage pulse leading edge build-up time is limited by the condition of obtaining a homogeneous filling of a discharge gap by plasma and a pulsed energy efficient transmission to the plasma, a high-voltage pulse time is limited by the condition, wherein a highly-unstable plasma state is attained, the discharge gap resistance is reduced, the discharge gap is better matched to a generator, and an efficient electric power input into the plasmas is obtained. |
| US08011347B2 |
Apparatus and method for pressure relief in an exhaust brake
An exhaust brake has a body with a passageway for exhaust gases therein. A valve member is movably located within the passageway for selective movement between an open position where the valve member opens the passageway and exhaust gases are free to move through the passageway and a closed position where the valve member blocks the passageway and the passage of exhaust gases through the passageway. The valve member has an aperture therethrough to permit a limited flow of exhaust gases through the aperture when the aperture is open. An exhaust valve actuator mechanism is coupled to the valve member for moving the valve member between the open position and the closed position. A closure member is positioned adjacent to the aperture. The closure member has an open position where the closure member is spaced apart from the valve member and permits a flow of exhaust gases through the aperture and the closure member having a closed position where the closure member contacts the valve member about the aperture and inhibits a flow of exhaust gases through the aperture, An actuator member operatively engages the closure member. There is a relief actuator mechanism, the relief actuator mechanism including an actuator member that operatively engages the closure member. The relief mechanism brings the closure member into operative engagement with the valve member with sufficient force, when the valve member is closed, to maintain the closure member in the closed position when the exhaust gases are below a predetermined pressure. |
| US08011335B2 |
Continuous variable valve lift apparatus
A valve lift may be continuously varied by an apparatus that includes: an input cam provided on an input shaft; a mediating lever that moves upwards or downwards by the input cam and is formed with an output cam; a valve unit operated by the output cam; and a control device that is coupled to the mediating lever and is capable of changing a contact point between valve unit and the output cam of the mediating lever. |
| US08011330B2 |
Systems and methods for engine emissions reduction on ships
The present invention relates to the reduction of harmful exhaust emissions on ships using diesel engines equipped with a wet emissions reduction system. In particular, the invention relates to a large diesel internal combustion engines installed on a ship and fitted with a wet emissions reductions system that is supplied water by an onboard advanced wastewater treatment system (AWTS). |
| US08011329B2 |
Automatically controlled outdoor pelletized bio-fuel-burning hydronic heater
A heating system has a heating unit with a combustion chamber for burning wood pellets or other pelletized fuel. The heating unit is controlled by a process control module that automatically keeps all operating functions within predetermined limits for safe, efficient and easy operation. The unit also includes a combustion air distribution assembly with a stir shaft that rotates within the combustion chamber and introduces combustion air through orifices along the length of the shaft to enhance fuel combustion. A thermo cycle plumbing assembly serves as a safety feature by preventing overheating in the event of a power failure or pump failure. Also included in the unit is a removable insulated firebox burn chamber that provides a high temperature combustion atmosphere and a heat/particulate recovery module which provides maximum heating efficiency and reduces emissions, meeting EPA requirements and contributing to a cleaner environment. |
| US08011321B2 |
Teatcup liner
A teatcup liner adapted to be mounted in a shell to form a teatcup to be applied to a teat of an animal, and a method of mounting a teatcup liner. The liner defines an inner space for receiving the teat and a longitudinal center axis. The liner has a head portion, a tubular barrel portion and, a tubular lower portion defining a milk channel having a cross-section area perpendicular to the center axis. The tubular lower portion has a primary engagement member to be engaged by a secondary engagement member of the shell. The liner includes a grip member extending from the tubular lower portion to be gripped by an operator when the liner is to be mounted. The grip member defines a force application zone on which a pulling force is to be applied and which seen along the center axis is located within the cross-section area. |
| US08011319B2 |
Method for oxidizing a layer, and associated holding devices for a substrate
A holding device is presented in which a layer which is to be oxidized is processed, in a single-substrate process. The process temperature during the processing is recorded directly at the substrate or at a holding device for the substrate. The process includes introducing a substrate, which bears a layer to be oxidized uncovered in an edge region in a layer stack, into a heating device, passing an oxidation gas onto the substrate, heating the substrate to a process temperature, which is recorded during the processing via a temperature of the holding device which holds the substrate, and controlling the substrate temperature to a desired temperature or temperature curve during the processing. |
| US08011313B2 |
Hull structure
A hull structure has a chine serving as a boundary between a broadside and a bottom of a hull. The hull has a configuration in which the hull has a maximum depth in a vicinity of a central position of the hull, the chine is provided so that its level position becomes gradually lower from a bow side toward a stern side, and the bottom has a cross-section having a substantially V-shape from the bow toward the stern, the V-shape having an inner angle becoming gradually smaller within a range of from about 80° to 100° from the bow toward a central portion of the hull and becoming gradually larger from the central portion thereof toward the stern. |
| US08011312B2 |
Floating oil storage system and method
A floating oil storage system and associated methods for storing oil are disclosed. In some embodiments, the floating oil storage system includes a storage cell, a floating member disposed within the storage cell, whereby the storage cell is divided into a first compartment and a second compartment disposed below the first compartment, a pump operable to deliver oil under pressure into the first compartment, whereby the first compartment expands and the second compartment contracts expelling seawater from the second compartment, and a suction tank operable to receive oil expelled from the first compartment under hydrostatic pressure of seawater in the second compartment, whereby the first compartment contracts and the second compartment expands receiving seawater. |
| US08011311B2 |
Apparatus and method for inhibiting fouling of an underwater surface
An apparatus for inhibiting and removing marine deposits from a submerged portion of a boat or yacht include a submersible stainless steel frame having a plurality of sections extending longitudinally and transversely under the submerged portions of a watercraft and a plurality of nozzles disposed on said sections of the frame to direct a stream of air bubbles toward and against the submerged portion of the watercraft. The apparatus also includes an air compressor, a battery and a solar source of energy for charging the battery to power the air compressor. A plurality of valves and hoses are also provided for connecting each of the nozzles to the air compressor through one of the valves to thereby control the flow of air to each of said nozzles on each of said sections of the frame. A mechanism for positioning the frame and nozzles at about 40 cm away from the lowest point of a watercraft is provided as well as a timer for periodically starting and stopping the flow of air to the nozzles. |
| US08011310B2 |
Ship with reduced frictional resistance and its operation method
Micro-bubble generators attached to a ship hull below the waterline decrease frictional resistance during navigation and improve fuel efficiency. Each micro-bubble generator is supplied with air and has a wing positioned outside the hull for generating negative pressure. The negative pressure created by the wing increases with an increase in ship's speed, which pushes the air-liquid interface outwardly toward the wing. As the air and the water move at different speeds due to difference in their densities, micro-bubbles are generated in the micro-bubble generator according to the Kelvin-Helmholtz Instability mechanism and discharged downstream to move closely along the outside surface of the hull. |
| US08011308B2 |
Telescopic table support
A telescopic support is disclosed and has outer and inner leg parts. The outer leg part has: a tubular body defining a longitudinal axis and having an interior passage through which the axis extends centrally. The inner leg part has: a shuttle body part disposed at least partially in the tubular body; and rollers rotably mounted to the shuttle body to support the inner leg part for longitudinal reciprocating movement in the tubular body. The support can be secured to a base and topped with a work-surface defining member to form a height-adjustable table, as also disclosed. |
| US08011305B2 |
Symmetrical multi-unit railroad car
The present invention relates to symmetrical arrangements in multi-unit articulated rail road cars. A multi-unit railroad car has an odd number of railcar units joined end to end by articulated connectors supported by railcar trucks. The railroad car has a transverse centerline. The arrangement of articulated connectors about the transverse centerline is symmetrical. |
| US08011297B2 |
Printing machine system
A printing system includes a first printing machine that is provided in the form of a newspaper printing machine and which comprises at least two first printing units that are provided in the form of printing towers and with a number of printing machines arranged one above the other for effecting double-sided printing of a substrate in multiple colors. A first folding funnel is arranged in a machine exit of these first printing units. A second printing machine is provided with at least one second printing unit and with a dryer that is situated in the machine exit of the second printing unit. The at least one second printing unit is positioned with respect to its printing location, and when viewed from above, is arranged next to the machine exit of the first printing units provided in the form of printing towers. A web, or a partial web, which has been printed by the second printing unit, and which has passed through the dryer, can be diverted by 90° from a direction of conveyance that is perpendicular to a machine exit and can be guided in a direction of conveyance that is parallel to the machine exit. |
| US08011292B1 |
Insulated cooking utensil
An insulated cooking utensil has upper and lower substantially planar sheet members secured together with an air chamber interposed therebetween for insulating the upper sheet member from direct heat during cooking. Spaced detents are provided in the lower sheet member to support and maintain the upper and lower sheet members in a spaced relationship. The detents have dome-shaped configurations with relatively large dimensions and a flat spot at the peak to prevent deforming the upper sheet member locally where the detents contact the upper sheet member during use. The upper sheet member is made of aluminum and has a clear anodized coating on its upper surface. An angular disposed flange with an elongated thumbgrip extends along one side of the cooking utensil to facilitate gripping and handling. An expansion space between the outer edges of the sheet members accommodates a relatively greater expansion of the lower sheet member during cooking. |
| US08011291B2 |
Machine for preparing an infusion
A machine for preparing an infusion includes: an infusion chamber (14) delimited by a lower vessel (3) and an upper packing head (6) that can move relative to one another; a supply of hot pressurized water to the infusion chamber, the packing head (6) having an inner conduit (26) having an inlet (27) that communicates with the infusion chamber and enabling the infusion to pass through the packing head (6) in an upward direction toward the distribution outlet, and; elements (30) located inside the conduit (26) in the vicinity of its inlet and configured for forming the foam in the infusion when passing through the packing head (6) and for preventing the infusion from returning into the infusion chamber. These elements are formed by a deformable flexible piece (30) passed through by at least one hole (35) calibrated for forming the foam and for preventing the infusion from returning. |
| US08011289B2 |
Half-sleeved and sleeveless plastic piston pumps
In one aspect, a brake pump assembly with a hydraulic block and a pumping element including a polymer piston that is received in a piston bore. A circumference of the polymer piston defines a high-pressure seal slideably engaging adjacent structure. The polymer piston may include a peripheral sealing lip projecting primarily longitudinally from the polymer piston for sealing engagement with the piston bore. In another aspect, a brake pump assembly with a hydraulic block, a straight bore polymer piston, a peripheral sealing lip projecting from a proximal portion of the polymer piston, and a elastomeric seal mounted to a distal portion of the polymer piston, where the peripheral sealing lip selectively acts to depressurize fluid accumulating between the peripheral sealing lip and elastomeric seal. |
| US08011288B2 |
Piston, especially cooling channel piston, comprising three friction-welded zones
A piston, especially a cooling channel piston of an internal combustion engine, has an upper part and a lower part which can be produced separately from each other and subsequently be assembled. The upper part has at least three radially peripheral joining webs and the lower part likewise at least three radially peripheral joining webs. During assembly, the webs are put together and connect the upper part firmly to the lower part. |
| US08011286B2 |
Field gun aim
A howitzer suitable for deployment on a ground plane, the howitzer comprising a barrel for firing a projectile, the barrel defining a barrel axis and having a muzzle towards the front end of the howitzer and a breech towards the back end of the howitzer; a cradle for holding the barrel at an azimuth and an elevation; a recoil accommodating mechanism such that the barrel can move along the barrel axis relative to the cradle; a bearing for varying the azimuth of the cannon; and a linkage for varying the elevation of the bearing. |
| US08011283B2 |
Desk-top cutting machine
A desk-top cutting machine which includes a base that supports a wood material W and a turntable that has a rotating shaft part and is carried and supported on the base rotatably around the rotating shaft part. The desk-top cutting machine further includes a cutting part having a swinging shaft part. The cutting part is disposed on the turntable and supports a cutting blade, and swings the cutting blade approachably to and separably from the turntable. The desk-top cutting machine further includes a scale part and an indicator part which display a rotary angle of the turntable with the base, and an irradiation unit near the indicator part emitting light that illuminates the indicator part. |
| US08011281B2 |
Punching device, conveying device, finishing device, and image forming apparatus
A punching device includes a detecting unit, a punching unit, a moving unit, a storage unit, and a controlling unit. The detecting unit detects a lateral edge position of a recording medium to obtain edge position data. When the edge position data does not indicate an error value, the edge position data is stored in the storage unit as reference data. The controlling unit determines, when the edge position data indicates an error value, a movement amount of the punching unit based on reference data previously obtained and stored in the storage unit. The moving unit moves the punching unit by the movement amount in a direction perpendicular to the conveying direction of the recording medium. |
| US08011279B2 |
Power equipment with systems to mitigate or prevent injury
Woodworking machines are disclosed having cutting tools for cutting workpieces. The machines include a detection system adapted to detect one or more dangerous conditions between a person and the cutting tool. The machines also include a mechanism having a moveable component adapted to move upon detection of the dangerous condition by the detection system. Movement of the moveable component contributes to one or more of the following actions to mitigate or prevent injury to the person: deceleration of the cutting tool, retraction of the cutting tool, and placement of a barrier over at least a part of the cutting tool. An actuator is adapted to move the moveable component at a high acceleration when the dangerous condition is detected. |
| US08011277B2 |
Hand tool with multiple bit storage and a method for using the same
A hand tool and bit storage device configured to allow easy storage and access to a wide variety of bits. The hand tool comprises a body portion, a stem portion and a bit interface. The hand tool couples with the storage device. The storage device holds one or more tool frames or bit inserts each comprising a plurality of bits. The bit inserts are deformable to allow easy access to the bits contained therein. In some embodiments, the bit inserts may be locked in the storage device. |
| US08011276B2 |
Winch-type corkscrew assembly
An auger-type corkscrew is housed in a body with an opening for communicating with the cork in a wine bottle or the like. An auger tip is carried in the body and is adapted to be rotated and extended into and rotated and withdrawn out of contact with the cork. The drive mechanism is mounted in the body for rotating and extending and withdrawing the auger tip. A winch-type handle is mounted outside the body and in driving communication with the drive mechanism, whereby rotation of the winch-type handle activates the drive mechanism for rotating and extending and withdrawing the auger tip. |
| US08011273B2 |
Wave generator, wave gear device, and method of preventing reduction in efficiency of wave gear device
A wave generator (4) of a wave gear device (1) is formed from a material in which only the minor axis-side portions (51, 52), which include the two end portions (51a, 52a) of an elliptical minor axis Lmin, has a larger coefficient of linear expansion than the other portions. When the temperature of a rigid cam plate (5) increases during high-speed rotational input, the minor axis-side portions (51, 52) thermally expand considerably more than the other portions do, and balls (10) other than several balls (10b) on a minor axis Lmin of a wave bearing (7) enter a tight state and form a locked state in which the wave bearing (7) rotates integrally with the rigid cam plate (5). Since the generation of agitation resistance of the lubricating agent due to the high-speed rolling movement of the balls (10) during high-speed rotational input can be avoided or reduced, a reduction of the torque transmission efficiency caused by the agitation resistance can be prevented or inhibited. |
| US08011272B1 |
Dual flywheel axially compact epicyclical drive
The epicyclical drive incorporates a dual flywheel carrying a pinion in a balanced axially compact assembly. The assembly includes a counterweight for the pinion nested between the flywheels, which also connects the flywheels and transfers loading conditions therebetween, to reduce and distribute torsional and eccentric loading conditions and reduce vibrations. The use of a second flywheel also provides an improved rotary seal capability for keeping out dust, debris and moisture. The drive is adapted for incorporation into a floor of a header of an agricultural harvesting machine for reciprocatingly driving a sickle thereof, advantageously jointly with a mirror image companion drive in a side by side relationship and timed such that forces generated by the reciprocating actions are cancelled. |
| US08011270B2 |
Integrated pedal assembly having a hysteresis mechanism
A pedal assembly including a pedal support and a pedal member rotatably coupled to the pedal support to allow pivotal movement of the pedal member about a pivot axis. The pedal assembly further includes a friction member having a bearing surface, and a clamp member engaged with the pedal member and having an engagement surface abutting the bearing surface of the friction member to define at least two separate and distinct surface contact regions. The pedal assembly also includes a biasing member arranged to bias the clamp member to provide frictional engagement along the separate and distinct surface contact regions to resist pivotal movement of the pedal member. In one embodiment, the clamp member is engaged with the pedal member by a sliding pivot configured to allow the clamp member to be pivotally and slidably displaced relative to the pedal member during pivotal movement of the pedal member. |
| US08011265B2 |
Modular power actuator
A power actuator assembly includes a torque transmission device, a motor mounted to the torque transmission device extending along a motor axis, and a screw coupled to the torque transmission device and extending along a screw axis. An adjustment mechanism interconnects the screw and the torque transmission device and permits selective rotational adjustment between the adjustment mechanism and the torque transmission device to rotate the motor relative to the torque transmission device. A connecting device releasably interconnects the adjustment mechanism to the torque transmission device to permit repeated re-positioning of the motor relative to the torque transmission device. |
| US08011263B2 |
Injection-molded resin face gear
An injection-molded resin face gear that can suppress deterioration of gear accuracy caused by shrinkage of resin material after injection molding and allow accurate and smooth rotation transmission is provided.An injection-molded resin face gear 1 includes a boss 3, a disk-shaped web 4, and a teeth section 5. The boss 3 has an axis hole 2. The web 4 is formed on an outer circumferential side of the boss in an outward radial direction. The teeth section 5 is formed on an outer circumferential edge of the web 4. The teeth section 5 includes a cylindrical section 13, a disk-shaped section 14, and a plurality of teeth 15. The cylindrical section 13 is connected to the outer circumferential edge of the web 4. The disk-shaped section 14 is formed on one end side of the cylindrical section 13 in the outward radial direction. The teeth 15 are formed evenly spaced on an outer circumferential side of the cylindrical section 13 such that one side surface of the disk-shaped section 14 is a bottom land 16. The web 4, the cylindrical section 13, and the disk-shaped section 14 have almost the same thicknesses. The outer circumferential edge of the web 4 is connected between an end surface 19 and an end surface 22 of the cylindrical section 13, in almost the center in a direction along a rotational center axis CL. |
| US08011262B2 |
Multipurpose combined machine
A multipurpose combined machine, such as compressor-pump or similar, includes motor elements (M) and a plurality of operating machines (H, C, V) that can be powered in an independent manner by the motor elements, wherein the operating machines are powered through a transmission box (1) having freewheel bearings (5a-5c) and members (S, D) are provided for reversing the rotation direction of the motor elements (M). |
| US08011261B2 |
Multi-speed transmission with countershaft gearing arrangement
A transmission is provided having a dual clutch to achieve torque flow through a countershaft gearing arrangement. The countershaft gearing arrangement includes a plurality of co-planar gear sets having gears that are selectively connectable to a countershaft. A transfer gear set transfers torque from the countershaft to an output shaft. The output shaft is connected to a final drive unit that has a final drive unit output shaft that is transverse to an input member connected at one end to a torque converter and at the other end to the dual clutch. |
| US08011260B2 |
Double chain linear actuator
A linear actuator comprises a pair of chains. Each chain has a first link and a second link. The second link of each chain is adjacent to the first link of the chain. A pivotal connection pivotally connects the first and second links. The first link is pivotable about a pivot axis which is non-perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the first link. A chain connecting member connects the chains at distal ends thereof. A drive mechanism moves the chains between an extended position and a retracted position. At least a portion of each chain is helically wound when the chains are in the retracted position. |
| US08011253B2 |
Stress-wave sensor module, stress-wave sensor, and method for detecting a vehicle collision event utilizing the stress-wave sensor
A stress-wave sensor module, a stress-wave sensor, and a method for detecting a vehicle collision event utilizing the stress-wave sensor are provided. The stress-wave sensor has first and second support members and a diaphragm member coupled between the first and second support members. The stress-wave sensor further has first and second strain gauge sensors coupled to both the first support member and the diaphragm member. The first and second strain gauge sensors generate first and second signals, respectively, in response to the first and second strain gauge sensors detecting deflection of the diaphragm member due to stress waves propagating through the diaphragm member. |
| US08011245B2 |
Sensing element of coriolis force gyroscope
A gyroscope includes a ring-shaped resonator mounted in a housing, and a bottom plate attached to the resonator. A plurality of openings arranged substantially circumferentially on the bottom plate, and a plurality of grooves between the openings. A plurality of piezoelectric elements are located in the grooves. The resonator is substantially cylindrical. The plurality of openings are arranged substantially symmetrically. The piezoelectric elements can be outside the resonator, or inside the resonator. A cylindrical flexible suspension connecting the bottom to the resonator to the ring shaped resonator, wherein an average radius of the cylindrical flexible suspension and the ring shaped resonator, accounting for variation thickness of wall, is the same throughout. |
| US08011240B2 |
Flow sensor with thermocouples
The flow sensor comprises a heater arranged between two sensing thermopiles. In addition, at least one monitoring thermocouple is provided for measuring the temperature of the heater. The signal from the monitoring thermocouple can be used to improve the accuracy of the device in several ways. In particular, the signal from the monitoring thermocouple depends on changes of the Seeback constant and other inherent properties of the thermopiles in the same way as the signal from the sensing thermopiles, which allows a compensation of such effects. The signal from the monitoring thermocouple can also be used as a reference voltage to an A/D converter for converting the signals from the sensing thermopiles. |
| US08011238B2 |
Method for correcting the measured concentrations of gas components in drilling mud
A method of characterizing formation fluid present in a subsurface earth formation during drilling using methods for correcting the measured concentrations of gas components in drilling mud. Gas trap values for the gas components of interest, light hydrocarbons, are measured during mud logging and are corrected using relative response factors, determined from laboratory fluid analysis values and relative extraction efficiency values. The relative response factors for each gas component of interest can be used for correcting additional gas trap values measured in the same well or for correcting gas trap values measured in surrounding wells utilizing a similar drilling fluid. The corrected gas trap values for each of the gas components of interest can be utilized to calculate gas/oil ratios for characterizing the formation fluid from the volume of drilling mud. |
| US08011234B2 |
Sensor system for a steering wheel of a motor vehicle
A sensor system for a steering wheel of a motor vehicle is provided, characterized in that, in one form, in and/or on a steering wheel rim at least one sensor device for recording the effects of an acceleration is arranged. Rapid and effective reactions can thus be made to impact events, for example. |
| US08011231B2 |
Control apparatus for internal combustion engine
The control apparatus for the internal combustion engine includes: a unit for detecting the change in the alcohol concentration of a fuel supplied to the internal combustion engine including a plurality of cylinders; a unit for detecting an air-fuel ratio variation between the plurality of cylinders; a unit for making the failure diagnosis when the air-fuel ratio variation between the plurality of cylinders exceeds a predetermined threshold value; and a unit for inhibiting the failure diagnosis executed based on the air-fuel ratio variation between the plurality of cylinders when the change in the alcohol concentration is detected. |
| US08011226B2 |
Leakage detection method using micromachined-thermal-convection accelerometer
A method and device for identifying leaks in or a leakage rate of an integrated circuit package. The method and device include integrating a micromachined-thermal-convection accelerometer in the integrated circuit package and evaluating the initial and subsequent sensitivities of the accelerometer. A change in sensitivity with time provides indicia of a leak and a measure of leakage rate. |
| US08011225B2 |
Assembly for measuring the specific gravity and level of a liquid
An assembly for measuring both the level and specific gravity of a liquid in a container includes a first sensor arrangement for sensing the level of the liquid in the container, and a second sensor arrangement for sensing the specific gravity of the liquid. The first sensor arrangement measures and then independently outputs at least one signal relating to the liquid level in the container. The second sensor arrangement measures and then independently outputs at least one signal relating to the specific gravity of the liquid in the container, thereby providing an integrated device to measure both parameters of the liquid. |
| US08011222B2 |
Impact detection device
An impact detection device, as well as a system that includes such a device for simulation of a combat sport, or more generally for use in a sport in which the user creates an impact by striking an adversary or an object. This device includes a sensor that detects an impact and its intensity, which is mounted on a printed circuit, together with an indicator that activates when the detector detects an impact and/or in order to indicate to a user that the user must generate an impact. The indicator is imbedded in a protective covering so that it is located near the surface of its embedding material. The indicating means are mounted directly on the printed circuit, so that the embedding material also covers the printed circuit and the sensor. |
| US08011220B2 |
Backward extrusion process for inner profiles
A process of producing an inner profile (18)in a tube or hollow profile (11) includes inserting the tube or hollow profile (11) into a supporting sleeve (12), with a first tube end (19) being axially supported; placing a pressure-loaded annular die 16 on to the other tube end (20); pressing a forming die (15) with an outer profile into the tube or hollow profile (11) from the latter tube end (20) for producing the inner profile (18); allowing a return of the annular die (16) under a pressure load in the opposite direction of that of pressing in the forming die (15). |
| US08011211B2 |
Drum assembly in washing machine and method for fabricating the same
Drum assembly, and method for fabricating the same is disclosed, for making a capacity larger and enhancing stiffness and strength. The drum assembly includes a drum for holding laundry, a connector attached to an outside surface of a bottom of the drum, and a driving member coupled to the connector for rotating the drum, wherein the bottom includes an expansion region unoccupied by the connector, the expansion region being protruded toward an outside of the drum, to expand a capacity of the drum. The method includes a first time pressing for pressing a plate for forming a bottom of a drum, for securing a space for expanding a capacity of the drum, and a second time pressing for forming a seat for attaching a connector connecting a driving member and the drum. |
| US08011206B2 |
Cap and cap system for ornaments, charms and accessories
A charm is provided including a body formed from a pliable material including an opening. A first member is at least partly inserted into the opening and is secured to the body. A cap is connected to the first member and is located external of the body. A method for securing such a cap to the charm is also provided. |
| US08011202B2 |
Auger in ice bin and refrigerating machine having the same
Disclosed is the auger in an ice bin mounted in a refrigerator, and the like. The auger in the ice bin is configured to rotate an auger having spiral-shaped transfer blades and to dispose ice in each space between the transfer blades of the auger for transfer. Accordingly, a certain amount of ice can always be discharged without simultaneously discharging a great amount of ice, and a user may select the number of ice, thus to diversity functions of an ice dispenser. In addition, since the auger is made of a flexible material, the ice can be prevented from being crushed during transfer, thereby enhancing the reliability of the ice dispenser. |
| US08011201B2 |
Refrigeration system mounted within a deck
A refrigeration system is provided for use with an ultra-low temperature freezer having a deck and a refrigerated cabinet supported above the deck. The system has a first refrigeration stage and a second refrigeration stage. The first stage defines a first fluid circuit for circulating a first refrigerant. The first stage has a first compressor, a condenser and a first expansion device that is in fluid communication with the first fluid circuit. The second stage defines a second fluid circuit for circulating a second refrigerant. The second stage has a second compressor, a second expansion device and an evaporator that is in fluid communication with the second fluid circuit. The system includes an insulated enclosure supported within the deck and a split-flow heat exchanger that is in fluid communication with the first and second fluid circuits and which is located within the insulated enclosure. |
| US08011198B2 |
Method of preheating inverter-driven compressor and device therefor
To reduce a leakage current when a motor for driving a compressor is energized, with the compressor unoperated. Setting the carrier frequency of an inverter at a value lower than that used during normal operation to cause phase interruption electrification of the motor. |
| US08011192B2 |
Method for defrosting an evaporator in a refrigeration circuit
Method for defrosting an evaporator in a refrigeration circuit (2) for circulating a refrigerant in a predetermined flow direction, the refrigeration circuit (2) comprising in flow direction a compressor unit (4), a heat-rejecting heat exchanger (6), an expansion device (12) and an evaporator (14), wherein the evaporator (14) comprises at least two refrigerant conduits (42; 44) and the method comprises the following steps: (a) operating the refrigeration circuit (2) in the normal cooling mode where the refrigerant exiting the heat-rejecting heat exchanger (6) flows through the expansion device (12) and through the evaporator (14) and towards the compressor unit (4); (b) terminating the cooling mode by interrupting the flow of the refrigerant exiting the heat-rejecting heat exchanger (6) into the evaporator (14); and (c) directing hot gas refrigerant through only a portion of the refrigerant conduits (42; 44) of the evaporator (14) for defrosting the evaporator (14). |
| US08011190B2 |
Product cooling
A cooling system for beverage dispense has a circuit 5 in which binary ice is circulated. A modular heat exchange unit 13 for a plurality of beverage lines 25,27,29,31,33 is connected to the circuit 5 for cooling beverage prior to dispense from a dispense tap 35 in a serving area such as a bar. The ice fraction in the binary ice provides a thermal store that can absorb heat without increasing the temperature of the binary ice and enables the system to respond quickly to changes in the cooling requirements in the circuit 5. |
| US08011189B2 |
Retrofit of simple cycle gas turbine for compressed air energy storage application having expander for additional power generation
A Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES) system includes a first combustion turbine assembly (42) having a shaft (52) coupled to a motor (54), a compressor (44) and a debladed turbine element (46). A second combustion turbine assembly (68) has a shaft (74) coupled to an electrical generator (80), a turbine (70) and a debladed compressor (72). A first interconnection (58) is from an output of the compressor (44) of the first combustion turbine assembly to an air storage (66). A second interconnection (87) is from the air storage to the turbine (70) of the second combustion turbine assembly for producing power. An expander (88) and an electrical generator (94) are provided. A third interconnection (90) is from the air storage (66) to the expander (88). A source of heat preheats compressed air in the third interconnection. A fourth interconnection (96) is from the expander to the turbine (70). |
| US08011188B2 |
Augmentor with trapped vortex cavity pilot
A gas turbine engine augmentor includes an annular trapped vortex cavity pilot having a cavity forward wall, a cavity radially outer wall, and a cavity aft wall, an annular cavity therebetween, and cavity fuel injector tubes operably disposed through the outer wall into the cavity. Circumferentially spaced apart radial flameholders with integral spraybars and/or radial spraybars interdigitated with the radial flameholders radially inwardly into an exhaust flowpath of the augmentor just forward and upstream of the trapped vortex cavity pilot at a radially outer portion of a combustion zone of the exhaust flowpath. An annular trapped dual vortex cavity pilot version is operable for producing trapped dual counter-rotating inner and outer vortices of fuel and air mixtures. |
| US08011183B2 |
Resonant stator balancing of free piston machine coupled to linear motor or alternator
A beta-type free-piston Stirling cycle engine or cooler is drivingly coupled to a linear alternator or linear motor and has an improved balancing system to minimize vibration without the need for a separate vibration balancing unit. The stator of the linear motor or alternator is mounted to the interior of the casing through an interposed spring to provide an oscillating system permitting the stator to reciprocate and flex the spring during operation of the Stirling machine and coupled transducer. The natural frequency of oscillation, ωs, of the stator is maintained essentially equal to ω p 1 - α p k p and the natural frequency of oscillation of the piston, ωp, is maintained essentially equal to the operating frequency, ωo of the coupled Stirling machine and alternator or motor. For applications in which variations of the average temperature and/or the average pressure of the working gas cause more than insubstantial variations of the piston resonant frequency ωp, various alternative means for compensating for those changes in order to maintain vibration balancing are also disclosed. |
| US08011182B2 |
Vertical gravity/buoyancy power generator
A power generator utilizing gases and the gravitational force as efficiently as the buoyant force which act on an apparatus in a natural or man-made liquid medium and convert such forces into mechanical energy. The power generator includes methods for a plurality of weighted uniquely configured variable density containers which ascend and descend in a primarily vertical plane and which drive one or more chains, belts or conveyances with rotating sprockets or pulleys on horizontally aligned shafts in primarily a vertical arrangement upon such apparatus. The chains, belts or conveyances driven by the movement of the containers rotate the sprockets or pulleys (FIG. 1) and their associated shafts in both the ascending and descending motion creating mechanical power. Such power can be used to turn electrical generators or other mechanical machines which necessitate such power input. |
| US08011177B2 |
Exhaust particulate filter
A method and system is disclosed for regenerating a particulate filter for an exhaust system. A source of hydrocarbon is injected into the exhaust flow upstream of the filter. The injected hydrocarbon within the filter is caused to oxidize and a temperature within the filter to rise, the temperature rise being initiated at a downstream end of the filter. A temperature change at the filter is sensed in response to the oxidation of the hydrocarbon. The amount of hydrocarbon being injected into the filter is adjusted to increase the temperature within the filter above a defined threshold from the downstream end to an upstream end of the filter, the defined threshold temperature being sufficient to oxidize soot. An operational parameter indicative of the filter regeneration being complete is sensed, and further injection of the hydrocarbon into the exhaust flow is prevented in response to the sensed operational parameter. |
| US08011166B2 |
System for conveying odd-shaped containers
A process for efficiently conveying containers along a table-top conveying system includes the steps of temporarily securing a transfer stabilizing support (1a, 1b) to a bottom end of a formed container (14) so that the container can freely move along a production line using the table-top conveying system where the transfer stabilizing support has a bottom surface (2a, 2b) with an opening (4a, 4b), a sidewall (6a, 6b) extending substantially perpendicular to the bottom surface, and a ridge area (10b) surrounding the opening and inside the sidewall of the support; and after the container has gone through operations of the production line, the transfer stabilizing support is removed so that aesthetic qualities of the formed container shape are revealed. |
| US08011164B2 |
Tile alignment and leveling device
A device for aligning and leveling tiles as they are laid in floors, walls, countertops, or the like. The device has a locking assembly and a bottom plate. The components are combined with a shaft that extends from the bottom plate through the locking assembly so that the locking assembly is movable along the length of the shaft. In use, the device is placed between adjacent tiles so that the locking assembly and bottom plate hold adjacent tiles at a desired height as the setting bed dries. |
| US08011163B2 |
Methods and apparatus for laying marble tile flooring
Methods and apparatus for laying marble tile flooring utilizes a form and method for using the form. The form provides for applying layers of a sealant, mud and thin set to a height determined by the form for laying the first tile in a horizontally level position. Second and subsequent tiles are laid relative to the first laid tile by gauging off the first laid tile and fixing the height of sealant, mud, and thin set such that the second and subsequently laid tiles are level with the first tile and parallel to the edges of the first laid tile. The result is a completely horizontal tiled floor with each tile level to an adjacent tile and parallel and or perpendicular relative to each other tile. |
| US08011160B2 |
Bracket and bridging member for metal stud wall
The present invention is directed to a bracket for use in a metal stud wall having internal bridging members for tying the metal studs and bridging members together. The bracket is an L shaped bracket having a leg for overlying the bridging member joined to an upright for overlying the metal stud. The outside corners of the leg and upright of the L shaped bracket are truncated so that the bracket may be inserted within the channel of a metal stud and rotated to the proper position for attaching to the bridging member and metal stud. |
| US08011153B2 |
Deck fastener and method of use
A clip device for fastening first and second structural members typically decking members. The clip device has a base portion with first and second opposed ends and a thickness a first vertical leg portion integral with the leg base portion is horizontally spaced apart from a second vertical leg portion integral with the base portion. Arm flange portions integral to the first and second vertical leg portions are horizontally spaced from the base and aligned respectively towards said first and second opposed ends. A fastener receiving hole in the base is used to attach the clip device to the joist. The base portion, vertical leg portion and arm flange portion define diametrically opposed U-shaped jaw elements for holding the structural member to the joist. |
| US08011151B2 |
Multi-layer building insulation and wallboard sheet with multi-layer insulation
A multilayer insulation material is provided. The insulation material preferably includes a plurality of substantially air-impermeable material layers joined together, with at least one space being provided between a pair of adjacent material layers thereof. At least one layer of a foam material and/or aerogel material can be interposed between a pair of adjacent material layers. At least one reflective layer can be provided for inhibiting radiative heat transfer across the insulation material. In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a construction panel is provided, having a structural panel portion having predetermined material properties for performing a predetermined function, and a plurality of substantially air-impermeable material layers joined to the structural panel portion, at least one space being provided between a pair of adjacent material layers thereof. |
| US08011150B2 |
Modular building roof-rim parapet structure
Modular, selectively employable building parapet roof-rim structure including (a) gravity-docking reception structure deployed along and adjacent at least a portion of the perimeter of a building roof structure which is adjacent the top of a building frame, and (b) a dockable, modular parapet unit including gravity-docking structure removably and replaceably dockable, under the influence of gravity, with the reception structure to dispose the parapet unit as at least a part of an outwardly visible parapet roof-rim structure associated with the building roof structure. The parapet structure may be associated with moisture-barriering flashing structure which becomes locked into place along the rim of a building roof between inter-engaging components in the parapet structure. |
| US08011149B2 |
Post sleeve assembly
A post sleeve includes a reinforced concrete body preformed around a liner that defines a cavity extending longitudinally within the body, sized to receive a post. Standoff ribs run lengthwise within the cavity and extend inward from inner walls of the cavity. A post in the cavity is supported laterally by the standoff ribs. Drain channels between the ribs permit water to flow past the post and exit the cavity via a lower aperture. A drain tube is coupled to the lower aperture, and extends downward where it is covered with gravel at the bottom of a post hole. Concrete is poured around the post sleeve in the hole. The cavity is adaptable to receive posts of varying sizes, and at various depths. A collar closes a space between the post and the top of the cavity, permitting air circulation within the cavity while shedding water and substantially preventing insects from entering the cavity. |
| US08011143B1 |
Manufactured home/safety shelter system
A slab is fabricated of concrete positionable adjacent to a side wall of a manufactured home. The slab has a periphery. The periphery forms a lower flange. A dome is positioned upon the slab. The dome has a flat face. The flat face is positionable in contact with the side wall. The flat face is formed with an opening in facing contact with the side wall. The dome has a peripheral flange remote from the opening. The peripheral flange of the dome is concentric with and smaller than the peripheral flange of the slab. |
| US08011127B2 |
Merchandise labeling
Disclosed is a unitary sheet-like merchandise labeling article that has a labeling tag flatly conjoined along a unifying flat bond zone with a flexible elastic layer that extends away from the tag and includes an elastic fastening loop. The loop sides that define the loop are wider than the thickness of the elastic layer. Further, the flexible elastic layer that extends away from the tag has a thickness greater than the thickness of the tag and has a dispersion zone adjacent the unifying flat bond zone. The dispersion zone allows dissipation of elastic loop in-line stretching forces sufficiently to reduce transmission of such forces into the bond zone. |
| US08011126B2 |
Price and information tag construction
A price-and-information tag includes front and rear surfaces both having product and price information. The tag includes a pre-fold line and a perforated line dividing the sheet into spaced-apart first and second sections. When bi-folded, the first section fits into an upwardly-open pocket of an extruded tag holder, with the second section in front of the tag holder and hiding the first section. Further, the second section can be torn off along the perforated line to reveal the information on the first section with minimal labor. A picture on the tag allows a non-reading installer to place the tag. Methods related to same are also shown, including double folding the elongated sheet and then using the first section to engage a tag holder with only the information on the second section being visible, the second section being later torn off to reveal the information on the first section. |
| US08011124B1 |
Bracelet identification system and method
A bracelet identification system including a band or bracelet with a locking mechanism that is adjustable, a pocket receptacle for placement of an identification card, and an identification card including an identification number specific to a wearer of the system, a bar code storing additional information about the wearer, a security device, and/or printed information about the wearer. |
| US08011121B2 |
Spread-style coupler with supplemental safety lock
A coupler for a backhoe or other excavator includes a frame with a lock system including a first safety lock that moves relative to a first hook between an engaged position for capturing the first associated attachment pin in the first hook and a disengaged position for releasing the first associated attachment pin from the first hook. An actuator moves the first safety lock between its engaged and disengaged positions. At least a first lock arm is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The first lock arm engages and retains the first safety lock in its engaged position when the first lock arm is in its locked position. The first lock arm is movable to its unlocked position by contact with the associated backhoe or excavator arm when the frame is moved to a curled position relative to the associated backhoe or excavator arm. |
| US08011118B2 |
Article of footwear with circular tread pattern
An article of footwear is disclosed. The article of footwear includes an outsole with a circular tread pattern. The circular tread pattern provides sufficient traction in all directions but also allows the wearer to pivot about a pivot portion. The circular tread pattern is generally large, and in some cases, the first and smallest circular tread extends less than 360 degrees. The pivot portion can include a slot that aids in flexibility. The outsole can also include a different tread pattern for the heel portion, or the circular tread pattern may also extend into the heel portion. |
| US08011116B2 |
Substrate proximity drying using in-situ local heating of substrate
A method is provided for removing a residual fluid remaining at a point of contact between a substrate support member and a back surface of a substrate being prepared by a proximity head. According to the method, the proximity head is applied onto the back surface of the substrate and the substrate support member being held by a carrier. The substrate support member is heated after the substrate support member passes the proximity head. The heating of the substrate support member is discontinued once the residual fluid has substantially evaporated. |
| US08011113B2 |
Hot gas generator and drying or dehydration facility implementing such a generator
The subject of the invention is a hot gas generator (8), particularly for a dehydration or drying unit, the generator comprising a burner or hearth (9) and being characterized in that it comprises at least one exchange circuit (10) comprising at least one pipe through which the gas to be heated flows, the pipe comprising a cool gas inlet end (11) and a hot gas discharge outlet (12), the pipe having a surface for heat exchange between the combustion gases generated by the burner or hearth (9) and the gas to be heated which flows through the pipe, the pipe also providing a physical barrier between the heated gases and the combustion gases generated by the burner or hearth. Application to producing a drying or dehydration installation. |
| US08011104B2 |
Cutting members for shaving razors
Cutting members for razors are provided that have been subjected to a localized heat-treating process, e.g., application of laser energy. In some cases, the cutting members include a bent portion, and the localized heat-treating process is used to enhance ductility and thereby facilitate formation of the bent portion. |
| US08011101B2 |
Replacement cartridge for a razor assembly
A replacement cartridge for a razor assembly is provided that includes a shaving aid body for use with the razor assembly. The shaving aid body includes an aperture disposed within a contact surface. The aperture is sized to receive a razor cartridge. Some embodiments of the present replacement cartridge include a base. In some of those embodiments the base includes one or more features for attaching the replacement cartridge to the razor assembly. |
| US08011100B2 |
Method for producing electroplated plastic sanitary articles
In a method for producing plastic sanitary articles having surfaces metallized by electroplating, the sanitary article has at least one electrically nonconductive component, before said article is metallized by electroplating using an external current source. This component at least partially decouples the water-bearing regions of the sanitary article from the current flow during metallization by electroplating using the external current source. The component is preferably a separate component which can be reversibly connected to the sanitary article.The invention also includes the component for decoupling the current itself, and a sanitary article which is provided with the component. |
| US08011097B2 |
Method, system, and computer software code for repairing a transition section of an engine
A method for restoring a crack formed within a turbo charger engine transition section, the method including preparing a crack in the transition section to receive a material within the crack, applying the material within the crack, and retaining structural integrity of the transition section proximate the crack while at least one of preparing the crack and applying the material. |
| US08011094B2 |
Method of converting diesel engine to natural gas engine
A method of converting a diesel engine to a natural gas engine comprising inserting a spark plug into a diesel fuel injector opening in a cylinder head; installing a throttle body on the diesel engine; installing a throttle body adaptor between a throttle body and an intake manifold of said diesel engine; and modifying a piston, whereby the compression ratio of said piston is decreased during operation of said piston. The method also includes installation of a waste gate and waste gate adaptor and a timing mask. |
| US08011092B2 |
Methods of providing semiconductor components within sockets
The invention includes methods of utilizing removable mechanical precising mechanisms and/or optical-based precising mechanisms to align chips within sockets. The sockets can be configured so that compression of the sockets opens a clamping mechanism. A chip can be placed within a socket with a manipulator and aligned during compression of the socket. Subsequently, the compression of the socket can be released while the manipulator remains in contact with the chip to hold the chip in place until the clamping mechanism is retaining the chip in the socket. The chip can then be released from the manipulator. The invention also includes systems for utilizing removable nests to align various chip geometries within generic socket designs. |
| US08011090B2 |
Method for forming and planarizing adjacent regions of an integrated circuit
Various pattern transfer and etching steps can be used to create features. Conventional photolithography steps can be used in combination with pitch-reduction techniques to form superimposed, pitch-reduced patterns of crossing elongate features that can be consolidated into a single layer. Planarizing techniques using a filler layer and a protective layer are disclosed. Portions of an integrated circuit having different heights can be etched to a common plane. |
| US08011089B2 |
Method of repairing segmented contactor
A method of fabricating a large area, multi-element contactor. A segmented contactor is provided for testing semiconductor devices on a wafer that comprises a plurality of contactor units mounted to a substrate. The contactor units are formed, tested, and assembled to a backing substrate. The contactor units may include leads extending laterally for connection to an external instrument such as a burn-in board. The contactor units include conductive areas such as pads that are placed into contact with conductive terminals on devices under test. |
| US08011086B2 |
Method of manufacturing a component-embedded printed circuit board
A method of manufacturing a component-embedded printed circuit board is disclosed. By using a method of manufacturing a component-embedded printed circuit board, which includes: mounting a component on a first copper foil, on which a pattern is formed, such that the component is electrically connected with the pattern; stacking an insulation layer, which has a cavity formed in a position corresponding to the component, on a second copper foil, on which at least one conductive protrusion is formed; stacking together the first copper foil and the second copper foil such that the component is embedded in the cavity and the first copper foil and the second copper foil are electrically connected by the conductive protrusion; and removing portions of the first copper foil and the second copper foil to form circuit patterns, the circuit pattern formed from the first copper foil may be given a buried form, so that it is possible to manufacture a thin printed circuit board, when embedding a flip chip type component. |
| US08011083B2 |
Process of manufacturing a transducer assembly for an ultrasonic fluid meter
Replacement of a transducer assembly for an ultrasonic fluid meter. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are methods including: disconnecting a wiring harness that electrically couples electronics of an ultrasonic meter to a transducer assembly; removing the transducer assembly as a single unit from a transducer housing; inserting a replacement transducer assembly as a single unit into the transducer housing; and reconnecting the wiring harness. |
| US08011081B1 |
Bedknife for reel cutting unit and manufacturing method for same
A method of manufacturing a bedknife for a reel cutting unit comprises providing a base having a tool steel insert that forms a cutting edge of the bedknife. The base comprises a heat treatable steel. Both the base and the insert are heat treated prior to joining the insert to the base. The insert is then integrally joined to the base by brazing the two together using a silver based filler between the two. |
| US08011080B2 |
Hinged wall and ceiling anchor with fins and hinge
An anchoring fastener comprises, in one embodiment, a shaft (100) with straight and tapered portions, a tip (105) at the front end, cam follower surfaces (110, 111) at the rear end, a body (120) with a bore, a head (125) with a hole collinear with the bore in the body, and a pair of fins (115). The shaft and the body are joined at a bendable region by the fins. The anchor is fully inserted into wallboard (600) until the head comes into contact with the outer surface of the wallboard (610). The length of the body is approximately equal to the thickness of the wall. The fins slice into the wallboard, thereby preventing rotation of the anchor during and after insertion. An activating member (900), such as a screw or a pin, is inserted into the hole and bore and urged against the cam follower surfaces, thereby forcing the shaft to rotate until it comes into contact with the inner surface (615) of the wallboard. An object-holding washer (905), restrained by the activating member, is secured to the anchor which in turn is secured to the wallboard. |