| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08012779B2 |
Gallium nitride-based light emitting diode and method of manufacturing the same
A vertical GaN-based LED comprises an n-electrode; an n-type GaN layer formed under the n-electrode, the n-type GaN layer having an irregular-surface structure which includes a first irregular-surface structure having irregularities formed at even intervals and a second irregular-surface structure having irregularities formed at uneven intervals, the second irregular-surface structure being formed on the first irregular-surface structure; an active layer formed under the n-type GaN layer; a p-type GaN layer formed under the active layer; a p-electrode formed under the p-type GaN layer; and a structure support layer formed under the p-electrode. |
| US08012777B2 |
Packaging process of light emitting diode
A packaging process of a light emitting diode (LED) is provided. First, an LED chip is bonded with a carrier to electrically connect to each other. After that, the carrier is heated to raise the temperature thereof. Next, an encapsulant is formed on the heated carrier by a dispensing process to encapsulate the LED chip, wherein the viscosity of the encapsulant before contacting the carrier is lower than that of the encapsulant after contacting the carrier. Thereafter, the encapsulant is cured. |
| US08012776B2 |
Methods of manufacturing imaging device packages
Methods of manufacturing an imaging device package are provided. In accordance with an embodiment a sensor die may be coupled to bond pads on a transparent substrate. Electrically conductive paths comprising bond wires are formed through the bond pads from the sensor die to an outer surface of the imaging device package. |
| US08012774B2 |
Coating process for a light-emitting diode (LED)
A light emitting diode (LED) device having a substantially conformal wavelength-converting layer for producing uniform white light and a method of making said LED at both the wafer and individual die levels are provided. The LED device includes a metal substrate, a p-type semiconductor coupled to the metal substrate, an active region coupled to the p-type semiconductor, an n-type semiconductor coupled to the active region, and a wavelength-converting layer coupled to the n-type semiconductor. |
| US08012770B2 |
Device for detection of antigens and uses thereof
Devices and methods for the detection of antigens are disclosed. Devices and methods for detecting food-borne pathogens are disclosed. |
| US08012769B2 |
Thyroid analyte detection and measurement
A non-radioisotopic method of detecting thyroid analytes comprising detecting T3, Free T3, T4, Free T4 and thyroglobulin autoantibody in a sample of a non-human species. Each one of these analytes in an assay profile includes non-radio isotopic measurement of T3, Free T3, T4, Free T4 and thyroglobulin autoantibody in the sample from the non-human species. A non-radioisotopic method detects T3AA and T4AA thyroid autoantibodies in a sample from a non-human species such as the canine species. Antibodies and autoantibodies are bound, and a precipitated or bound antigen-antigen or antibody-autoantibody complex is formed. The supernatant or surrounding fluid of the bound or precipitated antigen-antigen or antibody-autoantibody complex is then removed. The thyroid activity of the bound complex, precipitate, supernatant or surrounding fluid is measured. The thyroid analyte is at least one of T3, Free T3, T4 or Free T4. A dialysis cell can be used to separate by dialysis the T3AA or T4AA from their respective T3AA or T4AA fractions without radioisotopes. A non-radioisotopic method detects Free T3 and/or Free T4 in a sample of a non-human species. |
| US08012767B2 |
Pipette tip loading assembly
A method of loading a plurality of pipette tips on a plurality of mandrels of a pipetter is provided. A plurality of pipette tips are inserted in a plurality of receptacles of a tip loading assembly. The plurality of pipette tips are oriented with respect to each other by a plate. The tip loading assembly includes, but is not limited to, an insertion surface. The insertion surface includes the plurality of receptacles configured to accept the plurality of pipette tips. A receptacle from among the plurality of receptacles includes a receptacle wall and a beveled surface that extends from at least a portion of the insertion surface. A retention force is applied to the plate. The plurality of pipette tips are attached to a plurality of mandrels of a pipetter and are separated from the plate. |
| US08012764B2 |
Mass spectrometer
A mass spectrometer and method of mass spectrometry are disclosed wherein two separate samples are mass analysed and then the relative intensity, concentration or expression level of one or more components, molecules or analytes in a first sample is quantitated relative to the intensity, concentration or expression level of one or more components, molecules or analytes in a second sample. The relative quantitation is performed probabilistically without the need to resort to using internal calibrants. |
| US08012763B2 |
Analysis method effected with rapid analyte chemical separation and quick detection
A stationary medium is employed both to separate chemicals from a sample solution and also to generate surface-enhanced Raman scattering, so that spectral analysis of the separated analyte chemical can be performed. Applied driving force causes the sample to flow into the stationary medium and to distribute therethrough, thereby causing rapid separation of the analyte chemical, and surface-enhanced Raman scattered radiation is quickly detected, at a plurality of locations along a flow path defined by the stationary medium, for ultimate analysis. |
| US08012762B2 |
Test device, and related methods
Test device for detection and visual indication of a specific analyte in a liquid sample such as a body fluid. The device includes a biodegradable housing, a test strip and a lid. The device is configured for placement in concentrate or dilute test liquid that is for example contained in a vessel. One end of the test strip wicks the liquid being tested into the housing and across a control site and test site which provide visual indication that the device is working correctly and whether the analyte being tested is present in the test liquid. An antibody specific to the antigen being tested may be provided on the test strip. The test device for example detects specific antigens in dilute urine, such that the device may be placed in a toilet bowl after urination. |
| US08012761B2 |
Detection of formaldehyde in urine samples
A method for rapidly detecting the presence of formaldehyde in a urine sample (e.g., urine or a urinary material associated therewith, such as headspace gas located associated with urine) is provided. The method includes contacting the urine sample with a substrate on which is disposed a colorant that is capable of undergoing a detectable color change in the presence of formaldehyde. Without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that oxidation of the colorant by formaldehyde induces either a shift of the absorption maxima towards the red end of the spectrum (“bathochromic shift”) or towards the blue end of the spectrum (“hypsochromic shift”). The absorption shift provides a color difference that is detectable, either visually or through instrumentation, to indicate the presence of formaldehyde within the urine sample. For example, prior to contact with a urine sample, the colorant may be colorless or it may possess a certain color. However, after contacting the urine sample and reacting with formaldehyde, the colorant exhibits a color that is different than its initial color. The color change may thus be readily correlated to the presence of formaldehyde in the urine sample. |
| US08012759B2 |
Method and apparatus for determination of coagulant injection rate in water treatment process
Provided are a method and an apparatus that enable rapid and automatic determination of the coagulant injection rate in a process of water treatment through coagulation and sedimentation. Using a coagulation analyzer comprising sample tanks 1A to 1D each for keeping a predetermined amount of raw water, a water supply pump 7, water supply/discharge valves 4, 6 for raw water and washing water, mixers 3A to 3D, a coagulant injection unit 21, and a detector 30 for determining the particle size and the particle number of flocs, the time within which the coagulant 20 injected into the sample tanks is dispersed by mixing and the particles begin to agglomerate (agglomeration start time) is determined, and based on the thus-determined agglomeration start time, the coagulant injection rate is determined, or the amount of the coagulant to be injected is controlled. |
| US08012753B2 |
Methods and compositions for regrowth of cryopreserved conifer embryos
The present invention provides methods for regrowth of conifer embryogenic cells. The methods comprise the steps of (a) contacting cryopreserved conifer embryogenic cells with a liquid transition medium, and (b) culturing the contacted conifer embryogenic cells in a regrowth medium to generate regrowth of the conifer embryogenic cells. Generally, the cryopreserved conifer embryogenic cells are contacted with the liquid transition medium for less than about 24 hours, such as for about one hour. |
| US08012751B2 |
Differentiation of pluripotent embryonic stem cells
The invention relates to a method to induce primate embryonic stem cells to differentiate into a relatively homogenous population of mesendoderm cells by treatment with caspase-like inhibitors. Also described is a population of mesendoderm cells obtained therefrom. The embryonic stem cell derived mesendoderm cells have the general morphological and cell surface marker characteristics of mesendoderm cells. |
| US08012750B2 |
T-cell activation device
A biodegradable device for activating T-cells includes a biodegradable support and a binder attached to the biodegradable support, the binder having reactivity to one or more agents capable of binding to a T-cell surface antigen. |
| US08012748B2 |
Peripheral nervous system specific sodium channel nucleic acids
Cloning, expression, viral and delivery vectors and hosts which contain nucleic acid coding for at least one peripheral nervous system specific (PNS) sodium channel peptide (SCP), isolated PNS SCP, and compounds and compositions and methods, are provided, for isolating, crystallizing, x-ray analyzing molecular modeling, rational drug designing, selecting, making and using therapeutic or diagnostic agents or ligands having at least one peripheral nervous system specific (PNS) sodium channel (SC) modulating activity. |
| US08012741B2 |
Biogas measuring device and method for measuring biogas volumes
The invention relates to a biogas measuring device comprising a bioreactor (9); a gas volume measuring appliance (2) which is connected to the bioreactor (9) in a communicating manner by means of a gas line (11) for biogas; a stirring machine (10) guided in the bioreactor in a gas-tight manner, and a measurement, control and evaluation unit for controlling the biogas measuring device and determining the gas volume (V) produced in the bioreactor according to gas volumes (ΔV) of consecutive measuring cycles, measured by means of the gas volume measuring appliance (2). The inventive biogas measuring device is characterized in that the bioreactor (9) is outwardly sealed in a gas-tight manner in such a way that all gas volumes produced in the bioreactor (9) can be recorded by the measuring chamber (3) of the gas volume measuring appliance (2); a cooling element is provided on the gas line (11) for the biogas; and the measurement, control and evaluation unit is used, in each measuring cycle, to introduce a gas quantity into the measuring chamber (3) by opening the gas inlet valve (12) until a defined threshold gas pressure is reached, to close the gas inlet valve (12) when a defined threshold gas pressure is reached, to measure the temperature (Ti) in the measuring chamber (3), to open the gas outlet valve (14) for a relief time, and to close the gas outlet valve (14), and to control the biogas measuring device, in such a way that the cooling element is controlled in order to reduce the water vapor concentration in the biogas by condensation, and the measured gas volume (ΔV) of a measuring cycle is standardized to standard conditions. |
| US08012740B2 |
Systems for genome selection
Systems, methods, compositions and apparatus relating to genome selection are disclosed. |
| US08012734B2 |
Cellulase variants with reduced inhibition by glucose
A Family 6 cellulase variant enzyme comprising one or more than one amino acid substitution selected from a basic, polar or non-polar amino acid at position 103, a valine or isoleucine at position 136, a tyrosine at position 186, a glutamic acid or glutamine at position 365 and a glutamine at position 410 is provided (said position determined form alignment of the parental Family 6 with SEQ ID NO: 1). Genetic constructs and genetically modified microbes comprising DNA sequences encoding the Family 6 cellulase variant are also provided. Family 6 cellulases of the invention display reduced inhibition by glucose relative to the parent Family 6 cellulases. Such cellulases find use in a variety of applications in industry, e.g., in the hydrolysis of pretreated lignocellulosic feedstock, that require cellulose activity in the presence glucose concentrations that would otherwise inhibit the activity of the parental enzyme. |
| US08012730B1 |
Specific lysis of staphylococcal pathogens by bacteriophage phi11 endolysin
The Staphylococcus aureus bacteriophage phi11 endolysin has two peptidoglycan hydrolase domains (endopeptidase and amidase) and a SH3b cell wall-binding domain. In turbidity reduction assays, the purified protein can lyse untreated staphylococcal mastitis-causing pathogens, S. aureus and coagulase negative staphylococci (S. chronogenes, S. epidermis, S. hyicus, S. simulans, S. warneri, and S. xylocus), making it a strong antimicrobial protein and an effective candidate for treating multidrug-resistant staphylococci. Lytic activity is maintained at the pH (6.7) and the ‘free’ calcium concentration (3 mM) of milk. Truncated endolysin-derived proteins, containing just the endopeptidase domain, also lyse staphylococci, in the absence of the SH3b-binding domain. |
| US08012728B2 |
Thrombin preparations and process for their production
The production of a thrombin preparation which is obtained from prothrombin which is, after activation to thrombin without the addition of thromboplastin, purified by a hydrophobic interaction chromatography, it being possible subsequently also to inactivate or remove viruses, is described. Before or after the hydrophobic interaction chromatography it is also possible in addition to carry out a cation exchange chromatography. A thrombin preparation which contains as stabilizer a noncovalently binding inhibitor and to which further stabilizers can be added for stabilization in the liquid state is additionally described. |
| US08012726B2 |
Method of making bioethanol by using glucose isomerase mutants
This invention provides use of a series of recombinant Thermoanaerobacterium saccharolyticum glucose isomerases with improved catalytic activity obtained by using recombinant techniques. These mutants comprise at least one amino acid variation at position 87, position 139, position 182, position 187, position 217, position 260, position 276, or position 299, and can be used in the conversion of hemicellulose to ethanol. |
| US08012724B2 |
Production of degummed fatty acid alkyl esters using both lipase and phospholipase in a reaction mixture
The present invention relates to a method for producing fatty acid alkyl esters, such as fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) and fatty acid ethyl esters with a low level of impurities such as phospholipids. The method of the invention is simplified by combining two process steps into one single process step and is therefore economically cheaper. The method includes mixing water, alcohol, triglyceride and/or free fatty acids a lipolytic enzyme and a phospholipase. Subsequently the aqueous phase, which contains glycerine, residual enzyme and most of the hydrolyzed phospholipids, is separated from the non-aqueous phase, whereby the content of phospholipids in the non-aqueous phase is reduced. |
| US08012722B2 |
Method for producing L-amino acid
L-amino acids such as L-glutamic acid, L-glutamine, L-proline, L-arginine, L-leucine, and L-cysteine are produced by culturing in a medium a bacterium having an L-amino acid-producing ability and wherein the bacterium has been modified so that the phosphotransacetylase activity is enhanced. |
| US08012717B2 |
Method for the production of cladribine
A method for producing cladribine (2-chloro-2′ deoxyadenosine) comprising the steps of: a) reaction of 2-deoxyuridine with 2-chloroadenine, in the presence of uridine phosphorylase (UPase) and purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNPase) in an aqueous reaction medium possibly containing up to 40% v/v of an aprotic dipolar solvent, to obtain cladribine dissolved in said reaction medium; b) isolation of the cladribine by precipitation by means of concentration and alkalinisation of the reaction medium up to pH 11.5-12.5. |
| US08012716B2 |
Media for clostridium bacterium and processes for obtaining a clostridial toxin
Animal product free (APF) media and processes for the culture and fermentation of botulinum toxin producing Clostridium botulinum bacteria. The botulinum toxin obtained can be used for formulating and compounding botulinum toxin pharmaceutical compositions. The APF media can contain significantly reduced levels of meat or dairy by-products and use non-animal based products instead of the animal-derived products. Preferably, the APF media used are substantially free or free of animal derived products. |
| US08012714B2 |
Sequence diversity generation in immunoglobulins
Compositions and methods are disclosed for generating immunoglobulin structural diversity in vitro, and in particular, for reducing biases in V region and J segment gene utilization, and for generating immunoglobulin V-D-J recombination events in a manner that does not require D-J recombination to precede V-DJ recombination. Selection of advantageous combinations of immunoglobulin gene elements, including introduction of artificial diversity (D) segment genes and optimization of recombination signal sequence (RSS) efficiency, are disclosed. |
| US08012713B2 |
Enzyme production in culture medium comprising raw glycerol
The present invention is directed to a method of producing desired proteins from a host cell grown in a media comprising raw glycerol as a carbon source. |
| US08012712B2 |
Cell-free system for synthesis of proteins derived from cultured mammalian cells
Prepared is an extract composition having an improved protein synthetic activity in a cell-free protein synthesis system using a mammalian cultured cell extract. An eukaryotic translation initiation factor and/or translational regulator are added to a cell-free protein synthesis system comprising an extract prepared from cultured mammalian cells and a template mRNA. These factors are one or more selected from the group consisting of eukaryotic translation initiation factors 4E (eIF4E), 2 (eIF2) and 2B (eIF2B), and eukaryotic translational regulator p97. |
| US08012710B2 |
Methods of treating and diagnosing Parkinsons disease and related dysautonomic disorders
A method for treating a Parkinson's patient with digestive/pancreatic enzymes involves administering an effective amount of digestive/pancreatic enzymes to an individual having the disorder in order to improve a symptom of the disorder. In addition, a method is provided for determining whether an individual has, or may develop, Parkinson's disease or related dysautonomic disorders and for determining whether an individual will benefit from the administration of pancreatic/digestive enzymes to treat the dysautonomic disorder. |
| US08012709B2 |
Method for determining if a subject having type II diabetes has a kidney disorder
The present invention relates to a method for determining if a subject having Type II diabetes has a kidney disorder by measuring the level of matrix metalloproteinase 8 (MMP-8) in the urine of a subject having Type II diabetes and comparing this level to a reference sample or a sample from a healthy subject and determining if the subject has a kidney disorder base on the presence of increased levels of MMP-8 in the urine compared to the reference values or reference sample. |
| US08012707B2 |
MN gene and protein
A new gene—MN—and proteins/polypeptides encoded therefrom are disclosed. Recombinant nucleic acid molecules for expressing MN proteins/polypeptides and recombinant proteins are provided. Expression of the MN gene is disclosed as being associated with tumorigenicity, and the invention concerns methods and compositions for detecting and/or quantitating MN antigen and/or MN-specific antibodies in vertebrate samples that are diagnostic/prognostic for neoplastic and pre-neoplastic disease. MN-specific antibodies are disclosed that can be used diagnostically/prognostically, therapeutically, for imaging, and/or for affinity purification of MN proteins/polypeptides. The invention still further concerns antisense nucleic acid sequences that can be used to inhibit MN gene expression. |
| US08012705B2 |
Nonseparation assay methods
Assay methods are disclosed involving specific binding reactions which are simplified compared to known methods. A compound capable of producing chemiluminescence is immobilized on a solid support as is a member of a specific binding pair for capturing an analyte from a sample. An activator compound that activates the chemiluminescent compound and is conjugated to a specific binding pair member is added in excess along with the sample to the solid support. Addition of a trigger solution causes a chemiluminescent reaction at the sites where the activator conjugate has been specifically bound. The assay methods are termed non-separation assays because they do not require removal or separation of excess detection label (activator conjugate) prior to the detection step. The methods are applicable to various types of assays including immunoassays, receptor-ligand assays and nucleic acid hybridization assays. |
| US08012700B2 |
Assays for preimplantation factor and preimplantation factor peptides
The present invention relates to assay methods used for detecting the presence of PIF, and to PIF peptides identified using this assay. In particular, the present invention relates to flow cytometry assays for detecting PIF. It is based, at least in part, on the observation that flow cytometry using fluorescently labeled anti-lymphocyte and anti-platelet antibodies demonstrated an increase in rosette formation in the presence of PIF. It is further based on the observation that flow cytometry demonstrated that monoclonal antibody binding to CD2 decreased in the presence of PIF. The present invention further relates to PIF peptides which, when added to Jurkat cell cultures, have been observed to either (i) decrease binding of anti-CD2 antibody to Jurkat cells; (ii) increase expression of CD2 in Jurkat cells; or (iii) decrease Jurkat cell viability. In additional embodiments, the present invention provides for ELISA assays which detect PIF by determining the effect of a test sample on the binding of anti-CD2 antibody to a CD2 substrate. |
| US08012694B2 |
Assay for the detection of phosphorylated PTH
Antibodies for a variant of intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) or its fragments which have at position 17 the amino acid serine which is phosphorylated [p(17) PTH] and methods of producing the same. The invention further includes various immunoassay methods which use the described antibody alone or in combination with other antibodies to determine the circulating levels of p(17) intact PTH (1-84) or fragments thereof in biological fluids. Such antibodies and immunoassays can be used in conjunction with other antibodies to detect all biologically active forms of hPTH present in biological fluids. |
| US08012690B2 |
Bead emulsion nucleic acid amplification
Disclosed are methods for nucleic acid amplification wherein nucleic acid templates, beads, and amplification reaction solution are emulsified and the nucleic acid templates are amplified to provide clonal copies of the nucleic acid templates attached to the beads. Also disclosed are kits and apparatuses for performing the methods of the invention. |
| US08012688B2 |
Gene expression profiling from FFPE samples
Methods and compositions relating to the generation and use of gene expression data from tissue samples that have been fixed and embedded are provided. The data can be electronically stored and implemented as well as used to augment diagnosis and treatment of diseases. |
| US08012685B2 |
Detection of analytes and nucleic acids
Methods of detecting at least one analyte and at least one nucleic acid in a sample are provided. Reagents for carrying out the methods are also provided. |
| US08012683B2 |
Variants in complement regulatory genes predict age-related macular degeneration
Methods for identifying a subject at risk for developing AMD are disclosed, as are kits which can be used to practice the methods. The methods include identifying specific protective or risk polymorphisms or genotypes from the subject's genetic material, including polymorphisms in the BF, C2 and/or CFH genes. Microarrays and kits for use in these methods are also provided. |
| US08012681B2 |
Methods of modulating metastasis and skeletal related events resulting from metastases
The invention provides, inter alia, models of bone metastasis, methods for identifying agents that modulate skeletal related events and metastasis, methods for modulating skeletal related events and metastases, and methods for detecting skeletal related events and metastases. The methods and models generally comprise co-culturing cancer cells and host cells and comparing biological markers from such co-cultured cells to control cells. |
| US08012677B2 |
Evaluation and preservation solution
An evaluation and preservation solution for human and animal organs, tissues and parts thereof is described, wherein it comprises serum albumin at a concentration of 55-105 g/L, a scavenger and coating compound, preferably dextran compounds and derivatives thereof having essentially the same structure at a concentration of 1-55 g/L weight, and a physiological serum concentration of salts and nutrients in a physiologically acceptable medium. |
| US08012673B1 |
Processing a copolymer to form a polymer memory cell
Disclosed are organic semiconductor devices containing a copolymer layer that contains a polymer dielectric and a semiconducting polymer formed using actinic radiation. As initially formed, the copolymer layer has dielectric properties, but portions may selectively rendered conductive after those portions are exposed to actinic radiation. Also disclosed are methods of making the organic semiconductor devices. Such devices are characterized by light weight and robust reliability. |
| US08012671B2 |
Curable composition, image forming material, and planographic printing plate precursor
A curable composition in which polymerization inhibition due to oxygen is suppressed and which may be cured with high sensitivity by exposure to laser light or the like is provided. The curable composition includes: a polymerizable compound having an ethylenically unsaturated bond; a binder; a radical polymerization initiator; and at least one specific amine compound. Also provided is an image forming material and a negative-working planographic printing plate precursor including the curable composition. |
| US08012670B2 |
Photoresist systems
New photoresist systems are provided that comprise an underlying processing (or barrier) layer composition and an overcoated photoresist layer. Systems of the invention can exhibit significant adhesion to SiON and other inorganic surface layers. |
| US08012669B2 |
Resist composition and method of forming resist pattern
A resist composition including a base component (A) which exhibits changed solubility in an alkali developing solution under action of acid and an acid-generator component (B) which generates acid upon exposure, the acid-generator component (B) including an acid generator (B1) consisting of a compound represented by general formula (b1) shown below (wherein Q1 represents a divalent linkage group containing an oxygen atom; Y1 represents a fluorinated alkylene group of 1 to 4 carbon atoms which may have a substituent, with the proviso that the carbon atom adjacent to the sulfur atom within the —SO3− group has a fluorine atom bonded thereto; X represents a hydrocarbon group of 3 to 30 carbon atoms which may have a substituent; and A+ represents an organic cation), and the resist composition further including an organic compound (C) which generates an acid exhibiting a weaker acid strength than the acid generated from the acid generator (B1) upon exposure. [Chemical Formula 1] X-Q1-Y1—SO3+A+ (b1) |
| US08012666B2 |
Compositions and processes for photolithography
Overcoating layer compositions are provided that are applied above a photoresist composition including for immersion lithography processing as well as non-immersion imaging. |
| US08012665B2 |
Positive photosensitive composition and pattern forming method using the same
A positive photosensitive composition comprising: (A) a compound capable of generating an acid upon irradiation with actinic rays or radiation; (B1) a resin of which solubility in an alkali developer increases under an action of an acid; and (B2) a resin that has at least one group selected from (a) an alkali-soluble group and (b) a group capable of decomposing under an action of an alkali to produce an alkali-soluble group, and the resin (B2) does not have a group capable of decomposing under an action of an acid; and a pattern forming method using the same. |
| US08012658B2 |
Toner for developing electrostatic image, and image forming apparatus and process cartridge using the toner
A toner including a binder resin including a polyester resin and a vinyl resin; a wax; and a colorant, wherein the vinyl resin includes a unit obtained from a radically polymerizable monomer having an alkyloxysilyl group. An image forming apparatus including an image bearing member configured to bear an electrostatic image thereon; a developing device configured to develop the electrostatic image with a developer including the toner to form a toner image on the image bearing member; and a transfer device configured to transfer the toner image onto a receiving material. A process cartridge including an image bearing member; and a developing device configured to develop an electrostatic image on the image bearing member with a developer including the toner, wherein the process cartridge is detachably attached to an image forming apparatus as a unit. |
| US08012657B2 |
Phenol polysulfide containing photogenerating layer photoconductors
A photoconductor that includes, for example, a supporting substrate, a photogenerating layer, and at least one charge transport layer comprised of at least one charge transport component, and wherein the photogenerating layer contains a phenol polysulfide. |
| US08012655B2 |
Imaging member and methods of forming the same
The presently disclosed embodiments are directed to an imaging member having an outermost layer formulation that includes wax particles which creates a rough surface morphology for the layer and imparts increased scratch resistance, reduced torque, and improved cleaning performance to the layer. In embodiments, the outermost layer is an overcoat layer used for an improved imaging member having a substrate, a charge transport layer, and an overcoat positioned on the charge transport layer. |
| US08012653B2 |
Substrate for EUV mask blanks
A substrate that is suitable for an EUV mask or an EUV mask blank and excellent in flatness, is provided.A substrate for an EUV mask blank, which is made of a silica glass containing from 1 to 12 mass % of TiO2, wherein the surface roughness (rms) in a surface quality area of the substrate is at most 2 nm, and the maximum variation (PV) of the stress in the surface quality area of the substrate is at most 0.2 MPa. |
| US08012650B2 |
Semiconductor device manufacturing method and wafer
A semiconductor device manufacturing method allowing effective inspection at low cost of a wafer having formed thereon chips. When forming chips on the wafer, a reticle having formed thereon chip patterns, monitor element/circuit patterns and connection patterns is used according to a formation step of the chips. The reticle is constructed such that a part of the monitor element/circuit patterns and the connection patterns are formed in the inner side area of an outer peripheral dicing area and when exposing adjacent shot positions, the pattern is formed on a portion where no outer peripheral dicing areas overlap whereas no pattern is formed on a part of a portion where outer peripheral dicing areas overlap. When using the reticle, a circuit which surrounds the whole chip formation area can be formed with the chips. According to this circuit, extensive electric characteristics on the wafer can be simply measured in a short time, so that quality determination of the wafer can be effectively performed at low cost. |
| US08012648B2 |
Side spring compression retention system
A compression retention system for a fuel cell system is provided. The compression retention system includes a first end unit and a second end unit configured to hold a fuel cell stack therebetween. A spring configured to apply a compressive force to the fuel cell stack is disposed between a first spring plate and a second spring plate. The first spring plate has an aperture formed therein. The compression retention system further includes a pair of sheets coupled to the first spring plate and the first end unit, and a spring strut disposed through the aperture of the first spring plate and coupled to the second spring plate and to the second end unit. A fuel cell system and method for assembling the fuel cell system with the compression retention system are also provided. |
| US08012645B2 |
Separator of fuel cell
A differential pressure in a boundary portion between a streaked or linear fluid channel formed of a plurality of convex and concave portions disposed adjacent to one another in an undulated manner and a distribution channel for distributing a reactant gas or cooling water to be introduced into the plurality of fluid channels is reduced. In a structure of a separator of a fuel cell having a structure including streaked fluid channels formed of adjacent convex and concave portions formed on the surface of the separator, and a distribution channel which distributes, to these fluid channels, a fluid to be introduced into the fluid channels, in a boundary portion between the linear fluid channel and the distribution channel, a position of a terminal end of the convex portion constituting the fluid channel and a position of a terminal end of the concave portion are displaced in a streak direction of the fluid channel. It is preferable that the terminal end of the concave portion is positioned closer to the distribution channel than the terminal end of the convex portion. It is also preferable that the separator has a structure of such a type that front and back surfaces are integrated. |
| US08012640B2 |
Method for operating fuel-cell electricity-generating device
A stable and high reliability fuel cell electricity-generating device capable of generating electricity even in the case of sudden drop of load power. A fuel cell generating electric power from a fuel and an oxidizer, a fuel processor producing fuel to be supplied into the fuel cell from an electricity-generating material, a combustion device combusting a residual fuel gas unconsumed in the fuel cell to raise the temperature of the fuel processor, and an electric power generation instructing means of determining the electric power generated by the fuel cell, wherein when the electric power generation instructing means decreases the electric power generated by the fuel cell depending on the decrease of load power to be supplied, the rate at which the generated electric power is decreased is made different depending on the change of the temperature of the fuel processor. |
| US08012635B2 |
Fuel reforming apparatus and fuel cell system with the same
A fuel reforming apparatus which generates a reformed gas containing hydrogen by reforming a fuel and supplies the reformed gas to a fuel cell body is provided. The fuel reforming apparatus is constructed with a burner which generates a flame by burning the fuel together with the atmospheric air, a reforming reactor which receives thermal energy of the flame and generates the reformed gas through a reforming reaction between the fuel and steam, an evaporator in which a pipeline for allowing the fuel and water to flow is disposed in the direction of the flame sprayed from the burner, with the water being evaporated by using the flame and the fuel and steam being supplied to the reforming reactor, and a spraying unit which is disposed in a direction of the sprayed flame to spray additional air into the evaporator. |
| US08012634B1 |
Catalytic reaction between methanol and a peroxide
An apparatus including storage means containing methanol and a peroxide, a housing containing a catalyst comprising at least one group 7, 8, 9, 10 or 11 transition metal, and means for introducing the methanol and the peroxide into the housing. |
| US08012632B2 |
Microbial fuel cell and method of use
A microbial fuel cell comprising a cathode module, an anode module, a means for feeding source water to the anode module, and a means for feeling air to the source water after said anode module, wherein the source water is introduced in the anode module and discharged at the cathode module, a membrane is not used to transfer electrons, and the source water does not flow through a layer between the cathode and anode modules, such as glass wool or beads. |
| US08012629B2 |
Batteries containing bismuth glass compositions
Disclosed are glass compositions, glass fiber compositions, glass fiber battery separators, glass fiber filter media, battery additives and active materials formed with glass compositions disclosed, glass fiber radiation shields, and glass fiber paper compositions. Certain embodiments include, among other components, bismuth oxide. Certain embodiments include about 0.5-30% bismuth oxide of the composition by weight and silica oxide at about 54-70% of the composition by weight. Embodiments may also include other components. For example, zinc oxide can make up about 0.01-3% of the composition by weight. |
| US08012628B2 |
Polymer electrochemical device
This invention relates to an electrochemical device which comprises a molding containing as a main ingredient a copolymer (Z) and at least two mutually insulated electrodes in joint with the molding, wherein the copolymer (Z) comprises a polymer block (A) having as a main unit an aromatic vinyl compound unit and a polymer block (B) being incompatible with the polymer block (A), and has ion-conducting groups on the polymer block (A). The electrochemical device of the invention can be used particularly as an actuator device. |
| US08012627B2 |
Nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery and battery module
A nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery includes a case, a nonaqueous electrolyte provided in the case, a positive electrode provided in the case, and a negative electrode provided in the case, the negative electrode comprising a negative electrode current collector and a negative electrode layer that is carried on the negative electrode current collector and contains negative electrode active material particles, and the negative electrode current collector comprising an aluminum foil having an average crystal grain size of 50 μm or less or an aluminum alloy foil having an average crystal grain size of 50 μm or less. |
| US08012624B2 |
Sintered cathode compositions
Provided are compositions useful as cathodes in lithium-ion electrochemical cells. The compositions include particles that include transition metal oxides that have at least two distinct phases with different compositions. Each of the distinct phases comprises a layered O3 crystal structure. |
| US08012620B2 |
Structure for mounting batteries onto electric vehicles
A structure for mounting a battery onto an electric vehicle comprises: a pair of first body members extending in a longitudinal direction of the electric vehicle; a second body member, which connects the pair of first body members, extending in transversal direction of the electric vehicle; a battery case, which contains a battery, disposed between the pair of first body members and rear of the second body member; a plurality of first supporting members, which connect between the pair of first body members, fixed on a bottom of the battery case; and a second supporting member connecting between one of the first supporting members, which is disposed in the forefront of the battery case. |
| US08012619B2 |
Establishing space between end of center gas pipe in battery and bottom of battery can
The gap between the bottom of a center gas vent pipe in a battery cell and the bottom of the cell can is established to be at least a minimum distance to reduce the risk of battery damage from inadequate gas venting. |
| US08012617B2 |
Secondary battery having sealing portion of novel structure
Disclosed herein is a plate-shaped secondary battery constructed in a structure in which an electrode assembly of a cathode/separator/anode structure is mounted in a battery case, and the battery case is sealed by thermal welding, wherein the battery case is provided at a sealing portion around an electrode assembly receiving part thereof with an exhaust guide sealing portion configured in a structure in which a width of the exhaust guide sealing portion decreases from an inside of the sealing portion toward an outside of the sealing portion such that a sealing force of the exhaust guide sealing portion is first released, when high-pressure gas is generated in a battery cell, and therefore, the high-pressure gas is exhausted outside, the exhaust guide sealing portion being thermally welded with a sealing force less than that of a sealing portion located at a remaining region (‘a remaining sealing portion’), and the battery case is further provided at a middle of the exhaust guide sealing portion with a bridge sealing portion extending in parallel to the electrode assembly for interconnecting opposite sides of the remaining sealing portion with a predetermined width, the bridge sealing portion being thermally welded with a sealing force greater than that of the exhaust guide sealing portion. |
| US08012615B2 |
CID retention device for Li-ion cell
A low pressure current interrupt device (CID) activates at a minimal threshold internal gauge pressure in a range of, for example, between about 4 kg/cm2 and about 9 kg/cm2. Preferably, the CID includes a first conductive plate and a second conductive plate in electrical communication with the first conductive plate, the electrical communication between the first and the second conductive plates being interrupted at the minimal threshold internal gauge pressure. More preferably, the first conductive plate includes a frustum having a first end and a second end, a base extending radially from a perimeter of the first end of the frustum, and an essentially planar cap sealing the second end of the frustum. The first end has a broader diameter than the second end. More preferably, the second conductive plate is in electrical contact with the essentially planar cap through a weld. A battery, preferably a lithium-ion battery, comprises a CID as described above. A method of manufacturing such a CID comprises forming first and second conductive plates as described above, and welding the second conductive plate onto the first conductive plate while a temperature of the first conductive plate is controlled so as not to exceed the melting point of a surface of the first conductive plate opposite the weld. |
| US08012614B2 |
Non-aqueous electrolyte battery, and power supply unit
A non-aqueous electrolyte battery has a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a non-aqueous electrolyte. The positive electrode has a high-capacity positive electrode portion with a plate area per capacity of smaller than 200 cm2/Ah, and a high-power positive electrode portion with a plate area per capacity of 200 cm2/Ah or larger. The non-aqueous electrolyte battery is advantageous in providing a battery, with use of a single kind of non-aqueous electrolyte battery, which simultaneously satisfies the requirements on high-capacity characteristics capable of performing a long-term continuous discharge, and on high-power characteristics capable of performing a pulse discharge at a large current, without using a hybrid power supply unit which has multiple kinds of batteries and requires a complex control system. |
| US08012609B2 |
Organic electroluminescence device
An organic electroluminescent device includes a pair of electrodes; and an organic layer between the pair of electrodes, which includes a light-emitting layer and contains a compound represented by the following formula (1): wherein each of R1 to R7 independently represents a hydrogen atom or a substituent with the proviso that at least one of R1 to R7 represents a deuterium atom or a substituent containing a deuterium atom. |
| US08012608B2 |
Polymer containing sulfo group and organic electroluminescent element containing the polymer
A polymer compound suitable for use in organic electroluminescent elements; a process for producing the compound; and an organic electroluminescent element employing the compound. The polymer is a sulfo-containing polymer characterized by having a structure formed by introducing sulfo groups into a polymer comprising repeating units represented by the general formula (1): wherein, in the formula, Ar1 and Ar2 each represents a monovalent aromatic group; Y represents a divalent group comprising an aromatic group; and W represents a divalent aromatic group having 4 to 30 carbon atoms. |
| US08012607B2 |
Cyclopentaphenanthrene-based compound and organic light emitting device employing the same
Provided are a cyclopentaphenanthrene-based compound represented by Formula 1 below and an organic light emitting device employing the same. Here, Y and Ar are described in the detailed description. |
| US08012600B2 |
Material for electric contact and method of producing the same
A material for electric sliding contact comprising, on a conductive substrate, a first layer composed of a noble metal or an alloy comprising the noble metal as a major component with an arithmetic average roughness Ra of (A) μm and, as an upper layer of the first layer, a second layer composed of a noble metal or an alloy comprising the noble metal as a major component with a covering thickness of from 0.001×(A) μm or more to (A) μm or less, wherein the noble metal forming the second layer or the noble metal as a major component of the alloy forming the second layer is a different element from the noble metal forming the first layer or the noble metal as a major component of the alloy forming the first layer. |
| US08012598B2 |
Metal foam body having an open-porous structure as well as a method for the production thereof
The invention relates to metal foam bodies having an open-porous structure as well as a method for producing thereof wherein according to the set task such metal foam bodies are to be provided which achieve an increased oxidation resistance and/or an increased corrosion resistance. With the metal foam bodies having an open-porous structure according to the invention, for such metal foam bodies within the webs of the open-porous structure there are channel shaped cavities formed as being determined by the production. At the same time, the webs and cavities will be provided with a metallic protective layer made of a material differing from the metallic starting material of the foam body or the channel shaped cavities will be filled with this material. For this, an adequate metal powder or an alloy component being included in the powder will be used which becomes liquid and forms a liquid phase respectively during thermal treatment below a temperature at which the metal of the base foam body is melting. Due to the capillary action wetting the surfaces of channel shaped cavities within the webs can be achieved such that after cooling down a metallic protective layer is forming or the channel shaped cavities are filled. |
| US08012596B2 |
Photochromic lens substrate
A polymerization curable composition comprising a specific polyfunctional polymerizable monomer having a hard molecular structure with an L-scale Rockwell hardness of its homopolymer of 60 or more, a specific polyfunctional polymerizable monomer and a photochromic compound, a photochromic lens substrate composed of a cured product of the polymerization curable composition, and a lens comprising the photochromic lens substrate.The substrate and lens show excellent photochromic properties such as high color development density and high fading rate, and the cured product has excellent substrate properties such as hardness, heat resistance and impact resistance as well as strength (toughness) that allows for its use in rimless spectacles. |
| US08012588B2 |
Layered product, optical part, processes for producing these, and coating fluid
A laminated product has a multilayer structure comprising an optical base and a cured polyurethane resin layer formed thereon from a moisture-curable polyurethane resin and/or a precursor therefor. The polyurethane resin layer is formed by applying a coating fluid comprising a moisture-curable polyurethane resin and/or precursor therefor and a solvent having a boiling point of 70° C. or higher and a solubility parameter of 8 or larger. Also provided is a coating material comprising a radical-polymerizable monomer ingredient, a silicone or fluorochemical surfactant, and a photochromic compound. In producing a photochromic optical article, excellent adhesion between a base and a photochromic layer is attained. |
| US08012587B2 |
Coating for various types of substrate and method for the production thereof
The invention refers to coatings on different substrates, whereby a hydrophilic polymer layer is bound by means of a polymer adhesion promoter layer to a substrate. A method for the production of these layer systems is disclosed as well. The layers according to the invention can be used as immobilization matrix and for the suppression of non-specific protein adsorption in biosensors, MALDI targets and other bioanalytical devices. Furthermore they can be used for the bio-compatibilization of implants and for the coating of contact lenses. Optical elements, which are provided with such coatings, do not fog up any more. Beyond that the layers are dirt-deflecting and/or self-cleaning. |
| US08012586B2 |
Diamond like carbon coating of substrate housings
Embodiments of the invention include articles comprising a diamond like carbon coating or doped diamond like carbon coating on one or more surfaces of a plastic substrate or a plastic enclosure. Embodiments of the DLC or doped DLC coatings reduce the gas permeation of the coated plastic or thermoplastic to hydrogen or helium compared to the permeability of the plastic alone. The DLC or doped DLC coatings coating provides a surface resistivity of from about 107 to about 1014 ohm/square and have a transmittance that range from about 0% to about 70% less than the transmittance of the underlying plastic substrate in the range of about 300 nm to about 1100 nm. The DLC coated plastic can be used in environmental enclosures for protecting environmentally sensitive substrates such as semiconductor wafers and reticles. |
| US08012581B2 |
Bilayer pressure-sensitive adhesives
The invention relates to a bilayer pressure-sensitive adhesive. Provision is made for the bilayer pressure-sensitive adhesive to comprise an apolar layer and a polar layer, the apolar layer and the polar layer each comprising a polyacrylate pressure-sensitive adhesive having a static glass transition temperature of not more than +15° C., and the surface energy of the apolar layer differing from the surface energy of the polar layer by at least 5 mN/m. |
| US08012575B2 |
Duroplastic-bonded molded fiber parts and method for producing the same
The invention relates to thermoset-bound fiber moldings produced from fiber material based on natural and/or synthetic fibers and bound by means of a thermoset binder. To produce thermoset-bound fiber moldings which combine the good mechanical, acoustical and fire properties of phenolic-bound fiber moldings with an ideally complete absence of any odor due to phenolic resin, at least one adsorbent is embedded in the surface and/or in the interior of the fiber molding during the operation of pre- and/or end-curing the thermosetting binder. |
| US08012570B2 |
Printing paper
This invention provides printing paper which comprises an aliphatic polyester resin utilizing a plant resource-derived biomass material, is excellent, for example, in traveling stability on a printing machine, material strength, reproduction of dots, print sharpness, and waterfastness and is suitable for use in applications where sheet offset printing is carried out, for example, commercial printing applications such as outdoor posters and maps, catalogs, pamphlets, and menues, and a label using the same. The printing paper is a film formed of an aliphatic polyester resin composition comprising 40 to 90% by weight of an aliphatic polyester resin (a) comprising a binary or higher material of aliphatic diol units represented by formula (I) and aliphatic dicarboxylic acid units represented by formula (II) and 60 to 10% by weight of an inorganic fine powder (b). The film has a Gurley stiffness of 50 to 3,000 mg, a surface area S, per projected area 4,292 μm2, of the film surface of 5,000 to 50,000 μm2, and a convex part volume V, per projected area 4,292 μm2, of the film surface of 2,000 to 20,000 μm3: —O—(CH2)m—O— . . . (I) wherein m is an integer of 2 to 10; and —CO—(CH2)n—CO— . . . (II) wherein n is an integer of 1 to 12. |
| US08012568B2 |
Laminated shape-retainable sheet, core for brim of headwear using the same, brim of headwear, and headwear
The invention provides a laminated shape-retainable sheet which has such a sufficient shape retainability that a user can give a desired shape easily to the sheet, and requires no press working step for giving a curved shape, a core for a headwear brim using the same, a brim of a headwear, and a headwear.In the laminated shape-retainable sheet of the invention, shape-retainable sheets each comprising a thermoplastic resin and each having shape retainability in a monoaxial direction are laminated and bonded onto each other in such a manner that the monoaxial directions of adjacent sheets out of the shape-retainable sheets make a predetermined angle, in particular, 45 to 90 degrees. |
| US08012567B2 |
Light-collimating film
Light-collimating films as well as other microstructured film articles are described that comprise a (e.g. UV) cured light transmissive film comprising the reaction product of a polymerizable resin composition. Polymerizable resin compositions are also described that comprise aliphatic urethane(meth)acrylate oligomer(s), bisphenol-A ethoxylated diacrylate(s), and a crosslinker having at least three (meth)acrylate groups. |
| US08012560B2 |
Optical disc and method of manufacturing same
An optical disc (10) includes a substrate (11), which is formed from either a resin-impregnated paper produced by impregnating a paper with a resin, or a resin-coated paper produced by coating a surface of a paper with a resin, and a recording layer (13), wherein the resin contains at least one resin selected from the group consisting of polycarbonates, bisphenol A epoxy resins, copolymers of methyl methacrylate and styrene, and copolymers of acrylonitrile and styrene. Furthermore, a method of manufacturing an optical disc (20) includes: providing a recording layer sheet by forming tracks on a recording base material; and bonding the recording layer sheet to a resin-impregnated paper or a resin-coated paper, thereby providing a recording layer (13) formed from the recording layer sheet on the substrate (11). |
| US08012552B2 |
Smokeable sausage casing based on polyamide
The invention relates to smokable sausage casings which are based on polyamide and polymers containing polyamide blocks and polyether blocks. The said smokable, heat-shrinkable tubular sausage casings are particularly suitable for the manufacture of cooked meat sausages, scalded-emulsion sausages, cooked or rapidly fermented sausages containing fat and smoked ham. The smokable sausage casing comprises 15-85 wt % of a polyamide (i) or a combination of polyamides (i) and 15-85 wt % of a polymer (ii) containing polyamide blocks and polyether blocks or a combination of polymers (ii). |
| US08012551B2 |
Fast dry coated inkjet paper
Disclosed are a coating composition, coated article, and a method for treating one or more sides of the printable web with the composition, for providing improved printing ink dry time and gloss. The coating composition comprises: a calcium carbonate pigment component comprising a mixture high and low surface area calcium carbonate pigment; a metal salt drying agent; and a cationic dye fixing agent; a pigment binder; optionally a plastic pigment; and optionally an optical brightener; and which provides: a solids content of at least about 25%; a ratio of high to low surface area calcium carbonate in the range of from about 0.5:1 to about 20:1; and a ratio of calcium carbonate pigment component to pigment binder in the range of from about 4:1 to about 50:1. |
| US08012550B2 |
Ink receptive article
An ink receptive article including a substrate having on at least a portion of a major surface thereof an antistatic layer, and wherein the antistatic layer has on at least a portion of a major surface thereof an ink receptive layer, wherein the ink receptive layer includes a crosslinked polymer selected from the group consisting of polyurethanes, polyethers, polyesters, polyacrlylics, polyureas, copolymers thereof, and blends thereof. |
| US08012548B2 |
Flat panel display and method of fabricating the same
A flat panel display and a method of fabricating a flat panel display is provided. The flat panel display includes a first plate, a second plate facing the first plate, a pattern spacer formed between the first and the second plates, and an adhesion promoter disposed overlapping the pattern spacer to improve an adhesive strength of the first and the second plates. |
| US08012547B2 |
Pyridine compounds for liquid-crystalline mixtures
The invention relates to liquid-crystalline compounds of the formula I in which R1, R2, A1, A2, A3, A4, Z1, Z2, Z3, V, a, b and c have the meanings indicated in claim 1, and to liquid-crystalline media comprising at least one compound of the formula I and to electro-optical displays containing a liquid-crystalline medium of this type. |
| US08012546B2 |
Method and apparatus for producing semiconductor films and related devices
A method for producing a semiconductor film having a chalcopyrite structure including a Ib group element, a IIIb group element and a VIb group element including selenium, the method including cracking selenium with plasma to generate radical selenium, and using the radical selenium in the process of forming the semiconductor film. |
| US08012541B2 |
Thermally reversible cross-linked poly (aryl ether ketone) media and method for high density data storage
A method of storing information. The method including: applying a layer of one or more poly(aryl ether ketone) copolymers to a substrate and thermally curing the layer to form a resin layer, each of the one or more poly(aryl ether ketone) copolymers comprising (a) a first monomer including an aryl ether ketone and (b) a second monomer including an aryl ether ketone and a hydrogen bonding cross-linking moiety, each of the one or more poly(aryl ether ketone) copolymers having two terminal ends, each terminal end having a phenylethynyl moiety, and bringing a thermal-mechanical probe heated to a temperature of greater than 100° C. into proximity with the resin layer multiple times to induce deformed regions at points in the resin layer, the thermal-mechanical probe heating the points in the resin layer of the resin and thereby writing information in the resin layer. |
| US08012539B2 |
Method for making sulfonated block copolymers, method for making membranes from such block copolymers and membrane structures
The present invention relates to an improved method for making sulfonated block copolymers and to methods for making membranes from such block copolymers. In particular, the present invention relates to an improved method for making sulfonated block copolymers having at least two polymer end blocks that are resistant to sulfonation and at least one polymer interior block that is susceptible to sulfonation where the sulfonation agent is C2 to C8 acyl sulfate. In the improved process the residual carboxylic acid formed from the C2 to C8 acyl sulfate is converted to C1 to C4 alkyl esters by contacting the residual carboxylic acid with at least a 0.9:1 molar ratio of a C1 to C4 alcohol to residual carboxylic acid, resulting in an improved sulfonated block copolymer solution. The present invention further relates to the use of such sulfonated block copolymer solutions to prepare various membranes and other articles. |
| US08012533B2 |
Composition and method for making a proppant
The present invention relates to proppants which can be used to prop open subterranean formation fractions. Proppant formulations are further disclosed which use one or more proppants of the present invention. Methods to prop open subterranean formation fractions are further disclosed. In addition, other uses for the proppants of the present invention are further disclosed, as well as methods of making the proppants. |
| US08012531B2 |
Solar cell and method for manufacturing the same, and method for forming impurity region
Disclosed is a method for manufacturing a solar cell. The method includes forming an impurity layer on a substrate of a first conductive type, the impurity layer having impurities of a second conductive type opposite the first conductive type; forming a first emitter portion having a first impurity concentration in the substrate using the impurity layer by heating the substrate with the impurity layer; forming a second emitter portion having a second impurity concentration at the first emitter portion using the impurity layer by irradiating laser beams on a region of the impurity layer, the second impurity concentration being greater than the first impurity concentration; and forming a first electrode connected to the second emitter portion and a second electrode connected to the substrate. |
| US08012526B2 |
Electroluminescent element and manufacturing method thereof
The present invention improves luminance and light emitting efficiency of electroluminescent elements. A manufacturing method of electroluminescent elements includes forming a positive electrode on a substrate, forming an organic compound layer on the positive electrode, forming an electron injecting layer on the organic compound layer, and forming a transparent conductive film on the electron injecting layer, thus forming electroluminescent element. After forming the transparent conductive film on the electron injecting layer, by applying a voltage between the positive electrode and the transparent conductive film while heating the electroluminescent element, light emission of the electroluminescent element such as luminance and light emitting efficiency is improved. |
| US08012520B2 |
Packaging product, process for making same, and product made therefrom
A packaged product has a food product having an added liquid thereon, and a packaging article at least partially surrounding the food product. The packaging article having a seal layer comprising a member selected from the group consisting of a slip agent and a surfactant. The slip agent or surfactant causes contamination from the added liquid to bead up or wet out, respectively, thereby permitting heat sealing through the contamination with a lower leaker rate than would otherwise be the case. |
| US08012518B2 |
Step-down suckling method for minimizing weaning stress in newborn calf
A step-down sucking method is provided for minimizing the weaning stress of newborn calves. The method features feeding newborn calves with a sufficient amount of milk corresponding to 15-25% of body weight for 3-5 weeks following birth, and then with a stepwise decreased amount of milk corresponding finally to 8-15% of body weight for 3-7 days, with the differential amount replaced with water and then with gradually decreased amounts of milk from 8-15% to zero % of the body weight and with solid feedstuffs for a period from 5 weeks to 6-8 weeks after birth, thereby inducing the calves to maximally take solid feedstuff with minimal weaning stress. |
| US08012517B2 |
Inhibition of angiogenesis and destruction of angiogenic vessels with extracts of noni juice Morinda citrifolia
Noni juice and a protein-free, alcohol precipitate of Noni juice inhibited angiogenesis in in vitro human angiogenesis models. When growth medium contained Noni juice at least over the range from about 2.5% to about 33% (by volume), angiogenesis was blocked. Moreover, Noni juice and an ethanol precipitate were able to destroy a pre-existing angiogenic response as well as prevent the development of new vessels. Noni juice was effective in inhibiting the growth of angiogenic vessels from breast cancer explants. It will also be effective in treating cancers and non-cancerous diseases whose response includes an increase in angiogenesis, e.g., retinopathy of prematurity, neovascular glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and psoriasis. The primary antiangiogenic component is believed to be a carbohydrate with a molecular weight less than about 6000 Daltons. In an initial experiment, oral administration of Noni juice appeared to adversely affect the antioangiogenic component(s) in the juice. |
| US08012516B2 |
Feeds containing hop acids and uses thereof as supplements in animal feeds
Disclosed are methods for administering hop acids to alter the microbial population of the gastrointestinal tract of animals and to inhibit the growth of pathogenic organisms in the gastrointestinal tracts of animals. Also disclosed are methods of increasing weight gain, feed efficiency, milk production in mammals, and egg and meat production in poultry by administering hop acids. Also disclosed are animal feeds containing hops and hop acids. |
| US08012508B2 |
Method of targeting sustained release formulations of therapeutic agents to treat lung diseases
The present invention relates to method of targeting therapeutic agents for treating lung diseases. |
| US08012504B2 |
Sustained release of guaifenesin combination drugs
The invention relates to a novel pharmaceutical modified release formulation of guaifenesin and dextromethorphan. The formulation may comprise a hydrophilic polymer, preferably a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, and a water-insoluble polymer, preferably an acrylic resin, in a ratio range of about one-to-one (1:1) to about nine-to-one (9:1), more preferably a range of about three-to-two (3:2) to about six-to-one (6:1), and most preferably in a range of about two-to-one (2:1) to about four-to-one (4:1) by weight. This formulation capable of providing therapeutically effective bioavailability of guaifenesin for at least twelve hours after dosing in a human subject. The invention also relates to a modified release product which has two portions: a first portion having an immediate release formulation of guaifenesin and a second portion having a sustained release formulation of guaifenesin, wherein one or both portions further comprises dextromethorphan. The modified release product has a maximum guaifenesin serum concentration equivalent to that of an immediate release guaifenesin tablet, and is capable of providing therapeutically effective bioavailability of guaifenesin for at least twelve hours after dosing in a human subject. |
| US08012502B2 |
Resorbable thin membranes
Resorbable lactide polymer thin membranes are disclosed. The thin membranes are constructed of polylactide resorbable polymers, which are engineered to be absorbed into the body relatively slowly over time in order to reduce potential negative side effects. The membranes are formed to have very thin thicknesses, for example, thicknesses between about 0.010 mm and about 0.300 mm. The membranes can be extruded from polylactide polymers having a relatively high viscosity property, can be preshaped with relatively thick portions, and can be stored in sterile packages. |
| US08012499B2 |
Anthranilamides for controlling invertebrate pests
Disclosed are compounds of Formula (1), including all geometric and stereoisomers, N-oxides, and salts thereof, wherein R3 is —C(═B)C(═O)L or —C(R11R12)C(═O)L; R4 is, inter alia, H, C1-C4 alkyl or C2-C6 alkoxycarbonyl; or R3 and R4 are taken together as —C(═O)C(═O)—, —C(═NR13)C(═O)— or —C(R11R12)C(═O)—. B is O, NR13, NOR13 Or NNR14 R15; L is OH or NR14 R15; and X, R1, R2, R11, R12, R13, R14, R15 and J are as defined in the disclosure. Also disclosed are compositions containing the compounds of Formula (1) and methods for controlling an invertebrate pest comprising contacting the invertebrate pest or its environment with a biologically effective amount of a compound or a composition of the invention. |
| US08012498B2 |
Topical gel formulation comprising organophosphate insecticide and preparation thereof
The present invention provides a topical gel pharmaceutical formulation of insecticide suitable for treating an ectoparasite in a mammal, comprising: a) about 0.1-10% by weight of an insecticide; b) at least about 75% by weight of an organic solvent selected from the group consisting of a lower alkyl alcohol, a ketone, a glycol and a mixture thereof, wherein the organic solvent contains at least about 40% by weight of the lower alkyl alcohol; and c) at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of a cellulosic polymer, acrylates, methacrylates, and polyvinyl pyrrolidone. The present gel pharmaceutical formulation preferably contains malathion and optionally contains isopropyl myristate. The present invention further provides a process of preparing as well as a method of treating ectoparasites in a mammal using the same. |
| US08012496B2 |
Gastric retention controlled drug delivery system
The present invention provides a gastric retention controlled drug delivery system comprising: (a) a controlled release core comprising a drug, a highly swellable polymer and a gas generating agent, said core being capable of swelling and achieving floatation rapidly while maintaining its physical integrity in gastrointestinal fluids for prolonged periods, and (b) a rapidly releasing coat composition comprising the same drug as in the core and pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, wherein the coating composition surrounds the core such that the system provides a biphasic release of the drug in gastrointestinal fluids. |
| US08012495B2 |
Lotion-treated tissue and towel
A paper towel includes: (a) a cellulosic towel web; and (b) a lotion emulsion disposed on the towel web. The lotion emulsion is substantially liquid at room temperature and includes a polar emollient and a non-polar emollient as well as a surfactant composition comprising a nonionic surfactant; wherein the emollients and surfactant composition are selected such that the lotion emulsion is immobilized on the towel web in a semi-solid or solid state and the lotion emulsion is capable of forming an aqueous gel upon contact with water. Preferably, the lotion emulsion is a waterless micro-emulsion which is also capable of forming an aqueous micro-emulsion with water. |
| US08012494B2 |
Pharmaceutical compositions containing lipase inhibitors
A pharmaceutical composition comprises at least one inhibitor of lipases, preferably an inhibitor of gastrointestinal and pancreatic lipases, such as orlistat, at least one surfactant, and at least one dispersant. |
| US08012493B2 |
Malaria vaccines
The invention provides isolated placental P. falciparum polypeptides comprising an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs:1-4 and 6-24, and immunogenic derivatives thereof. The invention also provides isolated nucleic acid molecules encoding the placental P. falciparum polypeptides of the invention, compositions comprising one or more placental P. falciparum polypeptides of the invention, methods for inducing an immune response against the placental P. falciparum polypeptides, and methods for treating and diagnosing placental malaria. |
| US08012484B2 |
Method of treating ischemia reperfusion injury by inhibiting NKT cell activity
The present invention relates to a method for treating recurrent tumor metastases following liver resection that includes administration of an effective amount of an agonist of A2A adenosine receptors (ARs). |
| US08012482B2 |
Humanized anti-TGF-beta antibodies
Humanized anti-TGF-beta antibodies are provided, as well as methods for their preparation and use, including methods for treating TGF-beta disorders, for example, cancer. Also provided are articles of manufacture designed for various uses that contain the humanized antibodies. |
| US08012481B2 |
Composition and method for inducing or restoring locomotor functions in an animal
The present invention relates to the field of neuropathological disorders involving impaired locomotor functions. More specifically, the present invention relates to a composition and method for inducing and restoring locomotor functions, such as basic walking movements in the lower extremities of chronic spinal cord injured animals, such as paraplegic or tetraplegic individuals. |
| US08012478B2 |
Use of anti-IL-20 antibody for treating stroke
Treatment of stroke with an antibody specific to IL-20, e.g., monoclonal antibody 7E. |
| US08012477B2 |
Methods of treating multiple myeloma using IL-17 binding molecules
An IL-17 binding molecule, in particular an antibody to human IL-17, more preferably a human antibody to human IL-17 is provided, wherein the hypervariable regions of the heavy and light chains have amino acid sequences as defined, for use in the treatment of a solid or hematological malignant diseases. |
| US08012476B2 |
Molecules with extended half-lives, compositions and uses thereof
The present invention provides molecules, including IgGs, non-IgG immunoglobulins, proteins and non-protein agents, that have increased in vivo half-lives due to the presence of an IgG constant domain, or a portion thereof that binds the FcRn, having one or more amino acid modifications that increase the affinity of the constant domain or fragment for FcRn. Such proteins and molecules with increased half-lives have the advantage that smaller amounts and or less frequent dosing is required in the therapeutic, prophylactic or diagnostic use of such molecules. |
| US08012475B2 |
Use of IL-12 and IL-12 antagonists in the treatment of autoimmune diseases
Method of treating autoimmune conditions are disclosed comprising administering to a mammalian subject IL-12 or an IL-12 antagonist. In certain preferred embodiments the autoimmune condition is one which is promoted by an increase in levels of IFN-γ or TNF-α. Suitable conditions for treatment include multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune pulmonary inflammation, Guillain-Barre syndrome, autoimmune thyroiditis, insulin dependent diabetes melitis and autoimmune inflammatory eye disease. |
| US08012470B2 |
Method for ex vivo immunization using heterologous intact bispecific and/or trispecific antibodies
According to the invention there is described a method for ex vivo immunization of humans and animals comprising the following steps of: a) isolating autologous tumor cells; b) treating the tumor cells to prevent the survival thereof following reinfusion; c) incubating the thus treated tumor cells with intact heterologous bispecific and/or trisepcific antibodies showing the following properties: α—binding to a T cell; β—binding to at least one antigen on a tumor cell; γ—binding, by their Fc portion (in the case of bispecific antibodies), or by a third specificity (in the case of trispecific antibodies) to Fc receptor-positive cells. |
| US08012469B2 |
Universal GM-CSF expressing bystander human K562 cell line
The present invention provides a universal immunomodulatory cytokine-expressing bystander cell line, a composition comprising such a cell line and a cancer antigen, a method of making such a cell line, and a method of using such a composition. |
| US08012464B2 |
G-CSF-albumin fusion proteins
The present invention encompasses albumin fusion proteins. Nucleic acid molecules encoding the albumin fusion proteins of the invention are also encompassed by the invention, as are vectors containing these nucleic acids, host cells transformed with these nucleic acids vectors, and methods of making the albumin fusion proteins of the invention and using these nucleic acids, vectors, and/or host cells. Additionally the present invention encompasses pharmaceutical compositions comprising albumin fusion proteins and methods of treating, preventing, or ameliorating diseases, disorders or conditions using albumin fusion proteins of the invention. |
| US08012462B2 |
1-oxaspiro (4, 5) dec-3-ene derivatives as perfuming ingredients
The present invention relates to a spiroheterocycle derivative which is a useful perfuming ingredient. Furthermore, the present invention concerns also the compositions or articles containing this compound. |
| US08012461B2 |
Biofilm remover
A composition for the removal of biofilms from substrate surfaces formed by reacting: (a) one or more quaternary halide surfactants with (b) a source of reactive bromine ions in the ratio of 1 halide ion forming part of the quaternary surfactant to 0.05 to 8 moles of bromine ions in aqueous solution. |
| US08012460B2 |
Gel emulsions in the form of O/W emulsions having a hydrocolloid content
The invention relates to cosmetic preparations in the form of gel emulsions on preparations of the O/W emulsion type having a hydrocolloid content. Said hydrocolloids are selected from the group of preparations based on (i) hydroxyethylcellulose, (ii) xanthan gum, (iii) carbomer. Said preparations further contain (iv) one or more lipids, (v) one or more non-ionic and/or anionic emulsifiers with HLB values between 8 and 16, the overall content of the emulsifiers not exceeding 1.5% by weight. |
| US08012451B2 |
Highly photosensitive titanium dioxide and process for forming the same
A highly photosensitivity titanium oxide composition includes a plurality of nanosize particles including titanium dioxide and titanium suboxide. The particles are substantially non-stoichiometric (TiO2-x, wherein 0.1 |
| US08012450B2 |
Method for making mesoporous material
A method for making the mesoporous material includes the following steps: dissolving a nanocrystal powder in an organic solvent, and achieving a solution A with concentration of 1-30 mg/ml; dissolving a surfactant in water, and achieving a solution B with an approximate concentration of 0.002-0.05 mol/ml; mixing the solution A and the solution B in a volume ratio of 1:(5-30), and achieving a mixture; stirring and emulsifying the mixture, until an emulsion C is achieved; removing the organic solvent from the emulsion C, and achieving a deposit; washing the deposit with deionized water, and achieving a colloid; and drying and calcining the colloid, and eventually achieving a mesoporous material. The mesoporous material has a large specific surface area, a high porosity, and a narrow diameter distribution. |
| US08012449B2 |
Method of manufacturing complex metal oxide powder and amorphous complex metal oxide
A method of manufacturing a complex metal oxide powder, the method including: preparing a raw material composition for forming a complex metal oxide; mixing an oxidizing solution including an oxidizing substance into the raw material composition to produce complex metal oxide particles to obtain a liquid dispersion of the particles; and separating the particles from the liquid dispersion to obtain a complex metal oxide powder. The complex metal oxide is shown by a general formula AB1−xCxO3, an element A including at least Pb, an element B including at least one of Zr, Ti, V, W, and Hf, and an element C including at least one of Nb and Ta. The raw material composition includes: at least one of a thermally-decomposable organometallic compound including the element A, the element B, or the element C, a hydrolyzable organometallic compound including the element A, the element B, or the element C, and a partial hydrolyzate and/or a polycondensate of the hydrolyzable organometallic compound; at least one of a polycarboxylic acid and a polycarboxylic acid ester; and an organic solvent. |
| US08012448B2 |
Synthesis of metal chalcogenide nanocrystals using organodichalcogenide reagents
A method of synthesizing metal chalcogenide nanocrystals involving the steps of combining an organodichalcogenide, a metal salt and a ligand compound to form a mixture; degassing the mixture to remove air and water from the mixture; heating the mixture at a temperature below the decomposition temperature of the organodichalcogenide for a period of time sufficient to form a metal chalcogenide nanocrystal. |
| US08012447B2 |
Methods for controlling the quality of metal nanocatalyst for growing high yield carbon nanotubes
Methods are provided for the preparation of single-walled carbon nanotubes using chemical vapor deposition processes. In some aspects, single-walled carbon nanotubes having narrow distribution of diameters are formed by contacting a carbon precursor gas with a catalyst on a support, wherein the catalyst has an average diameter of less than about 2 nm. |
| US08012440B2 |
Method for operating a device having at least one electrically heatable honeycomb body and device for the catalytic conversion of exhaust gases
A method is provided for operating a device having at least one electrically heatable honeycomb body through which an exhaust gas can flow. The electrically heatable honeycomb body has at least one current distribution structure to which a plurality of short, successive voltage pulses are initially applied during activation, before a constant heating voltage is applied to the current distribution structure to heat the honeycomb body. A suitable device for the catalytic conversion of exhaust gases in an exhaust system is also provided. |
| US08012431B2 |
Closing blade for deformable valve in a microfluidic device and method
A microfluidic manipulation system is provided that includes a blade for manipulating deformable material and at least one movable support that is capable of moving the blade into contact with a microfluidic device including a deformable feature. When the microfluidic device is operatively held by a holder, a movable support can position the distal end of the blade relative to the microfluidic device and move the contact tip surface of the blade such that it deforms the deformable feature. |
| US08012430B2 |
Methods for producing microchannel chips, microchannel chips, methods for separating biomolecules using the microchannel chips, and electrophoretic apparatus having the microchannel chips
The methods for producing microchannel chips of the present invention comprise the steps of shielding substrate surfaces on which groove-like channels have been formed, using a mask that exposes the channels, and then forming polymer membranes on the exposed surfaces of the substrates; and the step of laminating cover materials onto the side of the substrate surfaces on which the channels have been formed. |
| US08012428B2 |
Analytical test strip with minimal fill-error sample viewing window
An electrochemical-based analytical test strip includes an electrically-insulating substrate, a patterned conductive layer disposed over the electrically-insulating substrate, a patterned insulating layer disposed over the patterned conductive layer, an enzymatic reagent layer disposed over the patterned conductive layer, a patterned adhesive layer disposed above the enzymatic reagent layer and a top layer disposed over the enzymatic reagent layer. In addition, the test strip has a sample-receiving chamber defined by the electrically-insulating substrate, the patterned conductive layer, the patterned insulating layer, the enzymatic reagent layer, the patterned adhesive layer and the top layer. The sample receiving chamber of the test strip has a working portion and a non-working portion and the top layer has a first portion and an opaque second portion. The first portion is configured such that a user can view the working portion of the sample-receiving chamber through the first portion of the top layer, while the opaque second portion is configured to preclude a user from viewing the non-working portion of the sample-receiving chamber. |
| US08012426B2 |
Secure knife locker and sanitizing system
The present application is directed to a knife locker and sanitizing system consisting of a unique combination of one or more knife storage lockers that can individually be locked with a pad lock by the person using that set of knives. The incorporation of a locking bar that is attached to the knife locker by the means of a locking fixture and having a separate padlock facilitates a means where by a knife maintenance employee can open all the locker doors at one time to service the knives. Adjacent to the knife lockers will be located a sanitizing chamber where the knife blades and handles along with other food processing implements can be immersed in a sanitizing liquid. An alternate embodiment of the sanitizing chamber will incorporate ultraviolet lights on either side of the unit for the sanitizing process, enabling the ultraviolet light to not only disinfect the implement blades, but also the handles. The system will be mounted on a wall by the means of a system mounting bar with top and bottom rails attached to the lockers and the sanitizing chamber, thereby enabling the scaling up or down of the number of units as required. |
| US08012424B2 |
Container for holding items to be microbially deactivated in a reprocessor
A container for holding items to be microbially deactivated in a reprocessor. The container is comprised of a generally cup shaped tray having a bottom wall and a continuous side wall extending to one side from the periphery of the bottom wall. The bottom wall and the side wall defining a cavity for receiving instruments and items to be microbially deactivated. A lid is attachable to the tray. The lid is dimensioned to cover the cavity. An inlet port is formed in the tray to communicate with the cavity. An outlet port is formed in the tray to communicate with the cavity. A barrier element is disposed within one of the ports. The barrier element controls flow through the one port. The barrier element is comprised of a material that is permeable to gas and water vapor but impermeable to liquid, bacteria and organisms. The barrier element is movable between a first position wherein fluid flow through the one port is restricted to flow through the barrier element a second position wherein fluid flow through the one port is unrestricted. |
| US08012423B2 |
Method and apparatus for protective atmosphere recycling
A recycling apparatus for spent protective atmosphere gas contaminated with fouling organic decomposition byproduct materials. The recycling apparatus includes a compressor having an inlet connected to a spent protective atmosphere gas supply line, and a solvent supply configured to supply solvent to a gas passage at or upstream of the compressor. The recycling apparatus also includes a first chamber connected to an outlet of the compressor, where the first chamber is configured to receive compressed gas from the compressor and to collect a mixture including the solvent and any contaminants entrapped or dissolved in the solvent. |
| US08012417B2 |
Solution discharging method and solution discharging device
A microinjection device includes a pressure pump and a regulator that is connected to the pressure pump and that maintains constant pressure. A regulating chamber is connected to the regulator and an internal pressure of the regulating chamber is maintained to a predetermined pressure. A valve is connected to the regulating chamber and a hollow capillary is connected to the valve. An operator opens/closes the valve in the process of injecting material in a cell. |
| US08012414B2 |
Sterilization of drugs using supercritical carbon dioxide sterilant
A sterilization method for drugs to achieve a 6-log reduction in CFUs of industry standard bacteria and bacterial spores is effective by subjecting the drugs to a chemical additive-containing carbon dioxide sterilant fluid at or near its supercritical pressure and temperature conditions and controlling the pressurization and depressurization rates. |
| US08012412B2 |
Method and device for purifying ambient air and surfaces
Described is an air and surface purifying device having a purifying cell structured for maximizing the realized photocatalytic reaction at a photocatalytic surface without using an additional ultraviolet bulb. The purifying cell positions at least three photocatalytic surfaces about a single ultraviolet bulb such that the photocatalytic surfaces substantially encompass the ultraviolet bulb and are saturated by ultraviolet light radiating from the ultraviolet bulb. Because the photocatalytic surfaces are saturated, the potential photocatalytic reaction at the photocatalytic surfaces is fully realized. Stated differently, the realized photocatalytic reaction is maximized. Because the purifying cell maximizes the realized photocatalytic reaction, the purifying cell maximizes the purifying capacity of the photocatalytic surface and, thus, the purifying cell itself. |
| US08012407B2 |
Power clamping for water boxes
A water box for use in cooling a hot rolled product in a rolling mill comprises a plurality of nozzles arranged sequentially along a first axis. The nozzles are subdivided into base and top sections, with the top sections being adjustable between closed positions coacting with the base sections to define tubular enclosures through which the product is directed, and open positions. A clamp support extends in parallel relationship to the first axis, and carries clamp members. An operating mechanism adjusts the clamp support between an open setting at which the clamp members are separated from the nozzle top sections and the nozzle top sections are adjustable to their open positions, and a closed setting at which the top sections are in their closed positions and the clamp members are in contact with and urge the top sections into their closed positions. |
| US08012404B2 |
Composition with wooden quality, and a method of its preparation
A new type of composite with wooden quality, which contains a plastic inner layer and an outer envelope is described. The plastic inner layer is crosslinked with the outer envelope, the latter of which is made up from a plastic material containing a 5-20 wt. % of wood flour. |
| US08012403B2 |
Method for producing high purity low dielectric constant ceramic and hybrid ceramic films
Porous ceramic and hybrid ceramic films are useful as low dielectric constant interlayers in semiconductor interconnects. (Hybrid ceramic films are defined as films that contain organic and ceramic molecular components in the structure, as, for example, organosilicates). This invention describes the usefulness of humidity treatments (using specific temperature/humidity treatments as illustrative examples) in increasing mechanical integrity of porous dielectric films with minimal detrimental effect on film porosity or dielectric constant and with no adverse impact on film quality. The efficacy of such treatments is illustrated using surfactant-templated mesoporous silicate films as an example. This invention also describes a specific family of additives to be used with highly pure alkali-metal-free ceramic and hybrid precursors for such dielectric films that will enable better control of the film porosity and quality and lower dielectric constants with the required mechanical integrity. The efficacy of such additives is illustrated using surfactant-templated mesoporous silicate films as a model example. The invention should be broadly applicable to any cross-linked ceramic or hybrid ceramic films (including silicate and organosilicate films, and especially highly porous forms of the films for low-dielectric constant applications). The invention has been found to be particularly effective with surfactant-templated silicate films with nanometer-scale porosity. The invention in either embodiment should also be applicable to evaporation-induced formation of other cross-linked shapes such as fibers and powders. |
| US08012397B2 |
Bladder-molded fishing rod and method of manufacturing same
A method of forming a fishing rod with at least one integrally formed support includes providing a bladder over a mandrel, wrapping a resin-impregnated material over the bladder to provide a wrapped resin-impregnated material, removing the mandrel from the wrapped resin-impregnated material, folding the wrapped resin-impregnated material onto itself at least once to form a tubular body, wherein folding the wrapped resin-impregnated material forms at least two separate bladder portions and the integrally formed support within the tubular body, placing the tubular body into a mold, and molding the tubular body to provide the fishing rod with the integrally formed support. |
| US08012392B2 |
Method for cooling golf ball cores
Methods for cooling golf ball cores are provided. The methods involve passing a matrix of hot golf ball cores through a die plate to separate individual golf ball cores from the matrix. The die plate has a plurality of holes and each hole is sized to allow a single golf ball core to pass there through. A post-cure unit is arranged to receive the hot cores for additional curing and cross-linking. The hot, cured golf ball cores are then passed through a cooling section where high velocity air is passed over the golf ball cores to achieve the desired level of cooling. The cooling section may contain a fan assembly including an air diffuser to provide sufficient air flow coverage. The cooled golf ball cores may be delivered to a pneumatic delivery system for additional processing. |
| US08012386B2 |
Method of manufacturing a lens presenting a graded tint
A method of manufacturing a lens presenting a graded tint, the lens comprising first and second layers each of which is made of a thermoplastic material, with only one of the layers being colored in the tint concerned, the method including the steps of: injecting the thermoplastic material of the first layer into a first mold cavity in order to form the first layer; and placing the first layer in a second mold cavity and injecting therein the thermoplastic material of the second layer so as to form the second layer on the first layer. |
| US08012384B2 |
Polarizing plate protective film and manufacturing method for the same
A method for manufacturing a polarizing plate protective film including the steps of: 1) mixing a cellulose ester resin and an organic additive to obtain a mixing composition, 2) placing the mixing composition in a mold to obtain an integral molding, and 3) heating to melt the integral molding so as to form the polarizing plate protective film, wherein the integral molding has a size of 1 mm×1 mm×1 mm to 20 mm×20 mm×20 mm, and the cellulose ester resin is contained in the integral molding in a state of particles. |
| US08012381B2 |
White heat-curable silicone resin composition and optoelectronic part case
A white heat-curable silicone resin composition comprising (A) a heat-curable organopolysiloxane, (B) a white pigment, (C) an inorganic filler, and (D) a condensation catalyst cures into a white uniform product having heat resistance, light resistance and minimal yellowing. The cured composition has a reflectance of at least 80% at wavelength 350-400 nm. The composition is useful for forming cases on optoelectronic parts, typically LED. |
| US08012376B2 |
Method for preparing carbon material for electrode of electrochemical devices
A method for preparing a carbon material for an electrode is provided that comprises a step for activating a mixture of a carbonous main material and a conductive additive. |
| US08012373B2 |
Anti-corrosion thread compound for seawater environment
An anti-corrosion compound including a hydrocarbon grease and an aluminum/indium/zinc powder blended into the hydrocarbon grease. |
| US08012372B2 |
Borate phosphor and white light illumination device utilizing the same
The invention provides borate phosphors composed of Ma(Mb)1-xBO3:(Mc)x, wherein Ma is Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, or combinations thereof, Mb is Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Zn or combinations thereof, Mc is Y, La, Pr, Nd, Eu, Gd, Tb, Ce, Dy, Yb, Er, Sc, Mn, Zn, Cu, Ni, Lu, or combinations thereof, and 0≦x≦0.3. The borate phosphors emit visible light under the excitation of ultraviolet light or blue light, and may be further collocated with different colored phosphors to provide a white light illumination device. |
| US08012371B2 |
Luminescent material
The invention relates to a luminescent material comprising a luminescent particle (20) for generating light (4), wherein the luminescent particle (20) has a structured particle surface for effectively outcoupling the light (4) generated within the luminescent particle (20). Furthermore, the invention relates to a light source comprising a luminescent material according to the invention and a device for exciting the luminescent material. |
| US08012370B2 |
Liquid-crystalline medium and liquid-crystal display
The present invention relates to dielectrically positive liquid-crystalline media comprising a dielectrically positive component, component A, comprising a dielectrically positive compound of the formula (I), in which the parameters have the meaning indicated in the specification, and optionally a second dielectrically positive component, component B, comprising one or more dielectrically positive compounds having a dielectric anisotropy of greater than 3 and optionally a dielectrically neutral component, component C, and to liquid-crystal displays, especially to active-matrix displays and in particular to TN, IPS, FFS and OCB displays, containing these media. |
| US08012368B2 |
Compositions comprising fluoroolefins and uses thereof
The present invention relates to fluoroolefin compositions. The fluoroolefin compositions of the present invention are useful as refrigerants or heat transfer fluids and in processes for producing cooling or heat. Additionally, the fluoroolefin compositions of the present invention may be used to replace currently used refrigerant or heat transfer fluid compositions that have higher global warming potential. |
| US08012366B2 |
Process for etching a transparent workpiece including backside endpoint detection steps
A method is provided for defining a pattern on a workpiece such as a transparent substrate or mask or a workpiece that is at least transparent within a range of optical wavelengths. The method includes defining a photoresist pattern on the top surface of the mask, the pattern including a periodic structure having a periodic spacing between elements of the structure. The method further includes placing the mask on a support pedestal in a plasma reactor chamber and generating a plasma in the chamber to etch the top surface of the mask through openings in the photoresist pattern. The method also includes transmitting light through the pedestal and through the bottom surface of the mask, while viewing through the support pedestal light reflected from the periodic structure and detecting an interference pattern in the reflected light. The method further includes determining from the interference pattern a depth to which periodic structure has been etched in the top surface. |
| US08012365B2 |
Deep anisotropic silicon etch method
A method of anisotropic plasma etching of a silicon wafer, maintained at a temperature from −40° C. to −120° C., comprising alternated and repeated steps of: etching with injection of a fluorinated gas, into the plasma reactor, and passivation with injection of silicon tetrafluoride, SiF4, and of oxygen into the plasma reactor, the flow rate of the gases in the plasma reactor being on the order of from 10% to 25% of the gas flow rate during the etch step. |
| US08012360B1 |
Pressure sensor
A pressure sensor for measuring an external pressure fabricated upon a ceramic substrate penetrated by a via extending from the top to the bottom of the ceramic substrate is disclosed. A sacrificial layer is deposited on a portion of the top of the ceramic substrate in communication with a via. A diaphragm material is then deposited on the sacrificial layer, thereby creating a diaphragm surface. A sensor element for transducing a mechanical deflection into an electrical signal is applied to the diaphragm surface. When the sacrificial layer is removed, the diaphragm is able to deflect in response to the external pressure, which is sensed by the sensor element in order to measure the external pressure. |
| US08012354B2 |
Extraction and winterization of lipids from oilseed and microbial sources
A process for purifying a lipid composition having predominantly neutral lipid components having at least one long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid is disclosed. The process employs contacting the lipid composition with a polar solvent, such as acetone, wherein the solvent is selected such that contaminants are less soluble in the solvent than is the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid. The process is typically conducted at cooler temperatures, including about 0° C. Upon precipitation of the contaminants from the lipid composition, a separation is conducted to remove the precipitated material from the lipid composition. The long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids can include ARA, DPA, EPA, and/or DHA. The process of the present invention effectively winterizes lipid compositions, thereby reducing the tendency of such compositions to become hazy. |
| US08012350B1 |
Dialysis device
A dialysis device having a dialysis tube with a closed end and an open end, the open end is provided with a dialysis reservoir having a dialysis membrane. |
| US08012346B2 |
Storm sewer insert for filtering and treating stormwater
A storm sewer insert for use in a storm water drainage system includes a collection basin that has an upper inlet opening, a lower outlet opening and at least one overflow bypass opening defined therein. A filter assembly is preferably positioned in the lower opening of the collection basin for filtering storm water that is held in the collection basin. Advantageously, adjustable mounting structure is provided for mounting the collection basin to an inlet opening of a storm sewer or catch basin. In addition, a mosquito barrier is preferably provided for reducing mosquito passage through the bypass opening. |
| US08012344B2 |
Systems for removing vanadium from low-grade fuels
A fuel preparation system includes a fractionation unit for treating fuel containing vanadium. A gas turbine is connected to the fractionation unit to receive treated fuel. The gas turbine may deliver exhaust from the gas turbine to the fractionation unit. The fuel preparation system may include a burner for burning a heavy fuel fraction from the faction unit and for delivering exhaust from the burner to the fractionation unit. The fuel preparation unit may include a boiler to receive the heavy fuel fraction for combustion and for delivering steam to the fractionation unit. |
| US08012343B2 |
Heavy feed HPC process using a mixture of catalysts
The present invention pertains to a process for the hydroprocessing of heavy hydrocarbon feeds, preferably in an ebullating bed process, by contacting the feed with a mixture of two hydroprocessing catalysts meeting specified pore size distribution requirements. The process combines high contaminant removal with high conversion, low sediment formation, and high process flexibility. |
| US08012341B2 |
Biosensor electrode mediators for regeneration of cofactors
The present invention is based on the discovery of NAD+ and NADP+ mediator compounds that do not bind irreversibly to thiol groups in the active sites of intracellular dehydrogenase enzymes. Such mediator compounds avoid a common mode of enzyme inhibition. The mediators can therefore increase the stability and reliability of the electrical response in amperometric electrodes constructed from NAD- or NADP-dependent enzymes. |
| US08012340B2 |
Method for generating electrochemically activated cleaning liquid
A method is provided, which includes moving a mobile floor cleaning device along a floor; electrochemically activating a liquid on the mobile floor cleaning device, and dispensing the electrochemically activated liquid from the mobile floor cleaning device. |
| US08012339B2 |
Hand-held spray bottle having an electrolyzer and method therefor
A hand-held spray apparatus is provided, which includes a tank for holding a supply of liquid to be treated and a functional generator carried by the hand-held spray apparatus. The functional generator receives the liquid from the tank and has an anode chamber and a cathode chamber separated by an ion exchange membrane and electrochemically activates the liquid that is passed through the functional generator. A spray output is coupled to an output of the functional generator and dispenses the electrochemically activated liquid as an output spray. |
| US08012337B2 |
Method for collection of valuable metal from ITO scrap
Proposed is a method for collecting valuable metal from an ITO scrap by subjecting the ITO scrap to electrolysis and collecting the result as metallic indium. Specifically, the present invention proposes a method for selectively collecting metallic indium including the steps of subjecting the ITO scrap to electrolysis in an electrolytic bath partitioned with a diaphragm or an ion-exchange membrane, subsequently extracting anolyte temporarily, eliminating tin contained in the anolyte by a neutralization method, a replacement method or other methods, placing a solution from which the tin was eliminated in a cathode side again and performing electrolysis thereto; or a method for collecting valuable metal from an ITO scrap including the steps of obtaining a solution of In or Sn in an ITO electrolytic bath, eliminating the Sn in the solution, and collecting In in the collecting bath. These methods enable the efficient collection of metallic indium from an ITO scrap of an indium-tin oxide (ITO) sputtering target or an ITO scrap such as ITO mill ends arisen during the manufacture of such ITO sputtering target. |
| US08012329B2 |
Dimensional control in electroforms
A method includes placing a conductive mold in a first bath of electroforming solution, the solution including metal and having a selected temperature. A current is provided to the electroforming solution so that metal deposits onto the mold, thereby forming an electroformed element on the mold, the electroformed element and the mold being a composite assembly. The method further includes removing the composite assembly from the electroforming solution and transferring the composite assembly to a second bath having the same selected temperature. Thereafter, the electroformed element is separated from the mold while the composite assembly is in the second bath. |
| US08012324B2 |
Sensor element, method of manufacturing a sensor element, and gas sensor
A sensor element including: a first solid electrolyte layer as defined herein; and a second solid electrolyte layer as defined herein, wherein the first solid electrolyte layer includes a first inner insulating layer, a first outer insulating layer, a first inner conductive layer and a first outer conductive layer as defined herein, the second solid electrolyte layer includes a second inner insulating layer, a second outer insulating layer, a second inner conductive layer and a second outer conductive layer as defined herein, and the first outer conductive layer and the second outer conductive layer are in contact with one another. |
| US08012310B2 |
Method of manufacturing a multiple layer directionally oriented nonwoven fiber material
Disclosed herein are embodiments of a multi-layer nonwoven fiber material, and related methods of manufacturing the material. In one exemplary embodiment, the fiber material includes a first layer of directionally aligned fibers together with a second layer of randomly dispersed fibers dispersed over the first layer. Consistent with one exemplary method for manufacturing a nonwoven fiber material, the method includes dispersing a first plurality of fibers horizontally in one or more predetermined directions, as well as dispersing a second plurality of fibers horizontally in random directions. In such an embodiment, the second plurality of fibers is dispersed over the first plurality of fibers. Moreover, an exemplary embodiment of a roofing shingle employing a nonwoven fiber material as described herein is as disclosed. |
| US08012307B2 |
Separating device and method thereof
A separating device for separating an electronic main body from a substrate bonded thereto comprises a platform, a conveying section, a dissolving section, a cleaning section, and a first partition plate. The conveying section is disposed on the platform for moving the electronic main body and the substrate forward. The dissolving section is disposed on the platform for spraying a solvent onto the bonded electronic main body and substrate. The cleaning section is also disposed on the platform for cleaning the electronic main body. The first partition plate is located between the dissolving section and the cleaning section and has at least one first slot, which allows only the electronic main body but not the substrate to pass therethrough, so that the electronic main body is separated from the substrate at the first partition plate. A method for separating the electronic main body and the substrate is also provided. |
| US08012306B2 |
Plasma processing reactor with multiple capacitive and inductive power sources
Broadly speaking, the embodiments of the present invention provide an improved chamber cleaning mechanism, apparatus and method. The present invention can also be used to provide additional knobs to tune the etch processes. In one embodiment, a plasma processing chamber configured to generate a plasma includes a bottom electrode assembly with an inner bottom electrode and an outer bottom electrode disposed outside of the inner bottom electrode, wherein the inner bottom electrode is configured to receive a substrate. The plasma processing chamber also includes a top electrode assembly with a top electrode, wherein the top capacitive electrode is disposed directly above the inner and outer bottom electrodes. |
| US08012304B2 |
Plasma reactor with a multiple zone thermal control feed forward control apparatus
A plasma reactor having a reactor chamber and an electrostatic chuck having a surface for holding a workpiece inside the chamber includes inner and outer zone backside gas pressure sources coupled to the electrostatic chuck for applying a thermally conductive gas under respective pressures to respective inner and outer zones of a workpiece-surface interface formed whenever a workpiece is held on the surface, and inner and outer zone heat exchangers coupled to respective inner and outer zones of said electrostatic chuck. The reactor further includes inner and outer zone temperature sensors in inner and outer zones of the electrostatic chuck and a thermal model capable of simulating heat transfer through the inner and outer zones, respectively, between the evaporator and the surface based upon measurements from the inner and outer temperature sensors, respectively. Inner and outer zone agile control processors coupled to the thermal model govern the inner and outer zone backside gas pressure sources, respectively, in response to predictions from the model of changes in the respective pressures that would bring the temperatures measured by the inner and outer zone sensors, respectively, closer to a desired temperature. |
| US08012301B2 |
Methods of manufacturing building panels
A method of making tough, water-proof building panels depositing a first fiber-rich layer onto a support, the first fiber-rich layer having a width defined by first and second side edges, a length direction, and a top surface; placing foam blocks on the first layer, lengths of the foam blocks extending generally between the first and second side edges of the first fiber-rich layer; depositing a second fiber-rich layer onto the combination of the first fiber-rich layer and the foam blocks, thereby to develop an uncured precursor to the building panel; and curing the uncured precursor to the building panel thereby to make a generally rigid structural building panel. |
| US08012300B2 |
Balloon catheter having a shaft with a variable stiffness inner tubular member
A catheter having an elongated shaft and a balloon on a distal shaft section, the elongated shaft comprising an outer tubular member, and an inner tubular member which has a bonded portion along which an outer surface of the inner tubular member is bonded to an inner surface of the outer tubular member. The inner tubular member has a proximal portion proximal to the bonded portion, and a distal portion distal to the bonded portion with higher axial compression stiffness and column strength than the proximal portion thereof. The catheter has improved trackability, axial collapse resistance, pushability, and crossability, for improved ability to position the balloon at a desired location in a patient's body lumen. |
| US08012298B2 |
Manufacturing method for organic light emitting display
A manufacturing method for an organic light emitting display includes forming a first electrode on a target substrate and forming a bank layer including an aperture region that exposes the first electrode; bonding the target substrate and a medium substrate oppositely spaced apart from a top portion of the target substrate and having an organic material layer, an absorption layer, a reflective layer, and a donor substrate sequentially arranged thereon; transferring an organic material layer onto the first electrode exposed in the bank layer by irradiating a laser onto the medium substrate to form an organic light emitting layer; and separating the target substrate and the medium substrate from each other and forming a second electrode on the organic light emitting layer formed on the target substrate, wherein the reflectivity of the absorption layer is lower than the reflectivity of the reflective layer. |
| US08012294B2 |
Method for the serial application of labels on a tape
A method for applying labels in rows on a tape, which can be driven by a tape driving mechanism, for which the labels are deposited in consecutive rows at an applicator, disposed stationary at the tape, on the tape, the tape being advanced partially after or during the deposition of a row of labels by a length section at the applicator in that, by a movable tension, a pull loop is pulled out of the path of the tape downstream from the applicator, while the section of tape, located upstream from the pull loop, is kept stationary, and the tension can be moved stepwise between a starting position and an end position and that, during the partial advance, a step is traveled by the tension roller, the length of which is adjusted by a control mechanism. |
| US08012293B2 |
TPU laminated fabric product and method for forming the product
A method for manufacturing a TPU laminated fabric product comprises the following steps. First step: preparing a roll of TPU film and a roll of releasing film. Second step: attaching the TPU film to the releasing film. Third step: printing a desirable pattern or image on a first surface of the TPU film opposite to the releasing film. Fourth step: parting the TPU film from the releasing film. Fifth step: preparing a roll of base fabric. Sixth step: applying glue to a second surface of the TPU film opposite to the first surface of the TPU film. Seventh step: attaching the second surface of the TPU film with the base fabric and getting a finished TPU laminated fabric product. |
| US08012292B2 |
Multilayer adhesive for thermal reversible joining of substrates
One embodiment of the invention includes a multilayer dry adhesive system capable of reversible joining of rigid substrates. |
| US08012291B2 |
Backing film removal system and method for fiber placement machine
The present invention provides an apparatus and associated method for removing backing film from tape or tape during the fiber placement process. The present invention uses a passive (non-powered) take-up roller to wind up the backing film that has been separated from the tape. |
| US08012290B2 |
Method and apparatus for producing a three-dimensionally molded, laminated article with transfer-printed surface decoration
An apparatus includes a heating station, a laminating and transfer-printing station, and a molding station in succession, and a transport arrangement that transports the material being processed among the stations. In the heating station, a substrate is pre-heated and consolidated. In the laminating and transfer-printing station, a decorative cover layer is laminated onto the substrate and simultaneously a surface decoration (design, pattern, image, colors, text, etc.) is transfer-printed by sublimation of inks or dyes from a transfer paper onto an outer surface of the decorative cover layer. The resulting laminated body with a transfer-printed surface decoration is then three-dimensionally deformed and molded to form a three-dimensionally contoured, molded, laminated article with the transfer-printed surface decoration. The article may be a motor vehicle interior trim component. |
| US08012289B2 |
Method of fabricating a release substrate
The invention relates to a method of fabricating a release substrate produced from semiconductor materials, the method comprising creating a reversible connection between two substrate release layers characterized in that the reversible connection is formed by a connecting layer produced using a first material as the basis, the connecting layer further comprising a nanoparticle concentrating zone of a second material disposed to facilitate release of the substrate, the first and second materials being selected to maintain the bonding energy of the reversible connection substantially constant even when the substrate is exposed to heat treatment. |
| US08012288B2 |
Method of fabricating flexible display device
A method of fabricating a flexible display device, the method including applying an adhesive layer including polyimide on a carrier substrate, laminating a flexible substrate on the adhesive layer, and separating the carrier substrate from the flexible substrate by irradiating a laser beam or light onto the adhesive layer. |
| US08012279B2 |
Labeling method and device
In a method for labeling, a label strip (20) is moved by means of an electric motor (80). Arranged on this label strip are labels (26) of predetermined length (EL) with uniform interstices (SB). The motor has associated with it a position controller (218), also a sensor (44) for sensing a predetermined position of a label (26) when the latter is moved on the label strip (20) relative to the sensor (44). The method has the following steps: in accordance with a stored profile, the label strip (20) is set in motion beginning from a start position (A), a first target position (Z) of the label strip being specified to the position controller (218); during the motion of the label strip (20), a predetermined position (M) of the label strip (20) is sensed; and subsequently thereto, a revised target position (Z) is specified to the position controller (218). This makes possible fast and precise labeling, since the target position can be reached very accurately. A corresponding device has a compact design. |
| US08012268B2 |
Dishwasher
Dishwasher including a washing tub for placing dishes therein, a sump for accommodating washing water to wash the dishes in the washing tub, and a motor having a rotor and a stator, for generating pumping power to pump up the washing water from the sump to the washing tub, wherein the stator of the motor is wound in a concentrated winding type, thereby permitting effective utilization of the washing tub and the driving part room. |
| US08012265B2 |
Concrete/asphalt wet washing system
A surface cleaning system having a storage container, debris collection apparatus and debris conduit is disclosed. Water discharged from spray nozzles configured in a circular arrangement forces debris into a debris collection ring and then a debris conduit. An auger, water pressure or air pressure is used to force the debris through debris conduit into the storage container for disposal. The design of the debris collection apparatus also facilitates the capture of most of the water used to force the debris into the debris collection apparatus. Accordingly, the system is able to reuse the water thereby extending the surface area that may be cleaned with a specified amount of water. |
| US08012262B2 |
Process for steeping corn and steeping system therefore
The present invention is directed to improvements in the steeping process of corn wet milling and a steeping system therefore. The process for steeping corn includes subjecting corn situated in a battery of no less than four steeping tanks to a countercurrent flow of steep water. The first steeping tank defines a new corn receiving tank and the last steeping tank defines a discharge tank. The countercurrent flow of steep water includes sulfur dioxide and flows in a direction from the discharge tank to the new corn receiving tank. The sulfur dioxide concentration in the steep water of the first steeping tank is greater than the sulfur dioxide concentrations in a plurality of the remainder of the steeping tanks, which maintain sulfur dioxide levels that are substantially equivalent. |
| US08012260B2 |
Apparatus and method for coating an areal substrate
An apparatus for coating an areal substrate, for example a rectangular plate comprises a vaporizer source and a distributor system for the supply of vaporized material onto the substrate. The distributor system comprises a line source, with this line source and the substrate is movable relative to one another. The apparatus serves preferably for the production of flat screens with organic light-emitting diodes. |
| US08012252B2 |
Durable hard coating containing silicon nitride
The invention relates to a slip for producing a durable hard coating on a substrate, comprising a) silicon nitride particles and b) a binder comprising nanosize solid particles and/or precursors of nanosize solid particles from production via a sol-gel process. The invention further relates to shaped bodies composed of a substrate with a durable hard coating which has been produced from a slip according to the invention. The shaped bodies of the invention are suitable for use in the field of corrosive nonferrous metal melts. |
| US08012250B2 |
Vacuum cleaner
A vacuum cleaner is disclosed. The vacuum cleaner may include a cleaner body, in which a suction motor is provided; a dust collector selectively attached to the cleaner body, in which a dust container is formed; at least one pressing element that presses dust stored in the dust container; and a drive device that drives the at least one pressing element. |
| US08012248B2 |
Centrifugal wet type air cleaner utilizing a spin vaporizer and a spiral on the basis of a labyrinth effect
This invention relates to a wet type centrifugal “filter less” air cleaner utilizing a labyrinth effect on the basis of spiral grooves for generating vortex flow, thus the separation of particular dust, mist can be absolutely, above 99.9% purified from air with the difference of specific gravity, 1:1000 between air and water under centrifugal force, 10000G-80000G after collecting pollution substances from air with an aqua viscosity of water mist. An wet type air cleaner utilizing a centrifugal impeller comprising: spiral grooves (416), a spin vaporizer (401) for large size, an ultra sonic vaporizer (482) for small size, an electric motor (433) with a centrifugal impeller 408, a drain trap (441) and humidity controller (442) installed on an exit pipe (432) etc. Therefore centrifugal wet type air cleaner make fresh air efficiently to be carried out by centrifugal force without using filters in the field of industrial cleanroom, hospital, asepsis laboratory, home appliances, military use for purifying poison gas, exhaust gas cleaner for automobiles and an industrial burner etc. |
| US08012246B2 |
Absorbent moulded bodies method for production and use
The invention relates to an absorbent moulded body, a method for production and use thereof, comprising micro- or meso-porous adsorbents. The moulded bodies serve as process heat and refrigeration sources, whereby a vapour working medium is expelled from the moulded body by the introduction of heat energy and optionally condensed and the working medium, optionally previously vaporised, is absorbed in gaseous form. The moulded body comprises crystalline powder and/or granules together with a conducting surface within a cage, connected to the surface and the powder and/or granules are bonded by the binder in the form of a random bed. |
| US08012240B2 |
Apparatus and method of providing concentrated product gas
In one aspect, a product gas concentrator is provided. In one embodiment, the apparatus may include: a first process separating absorbable components from a source gaseous mixture, a second process providing concentrated product gas in a continuous output mode, a third process providing concentrated product gas in a pulsed output mode, and a fourth process selectively switching between the continuous and pulsed output modes. In another embodiment, the apparatus may include: a first process pressurizing a source gaseous mixture, a second process separating absorbable components from the pressurized gaseous mixture, a product tank accumulating concentrated product gas for dispensing, an output path, a third process selecting a volume to be dispensed during a predetermined time, a pressure sensor monitoring pressure of the concentrated product gas, and a fourth process controlling flow of the concentrated product gas in response to the selected volume and the monitored pressure. |
| US08012239B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting leaks in bashouse bags
Methods and systems for detecting the presence of a leak in a baghouse bag installed in a baghouse system having at least one compartment. The methods include using a system to acquire electrical signals corresponding to the opacity of gas flow through an outlet of a baghouse system during a start-up of one or more compartments of the baghouse system and comparing the electrical signals corresponding to the opacity of the gas flow with electrical signals characteristic of a leak in at least one of the baghouse bags of the baghouse system. |
| US08012238B2 |
High temperature heap bioleaching process
A heap is constructed with hypogenic copper sulfide bearing ore to include exposed sulfide mineral particles at least 25 weight % of which are hypogenic copper sulfides. The concentration of the exposed sulfide mineral particles is such that the heap includes at least 10 Kg of exposed sulfide sulfur per tonne of solids in the heap. At least 50% of the total copper in the heap is in the form of hypogenic copper sulfides. A substantial portion of the heap is heated to at least 50° C. The heap is inoculated with a thermophilic microorganism, and bioleaching is carried out so that sufficient sulfide mineral particles in the heap are biooxidized to oxidize at least 10 Kg of sulfide sulfur per tonne of solids in the heap and to cause the dissolution of at least 50% of the copper in the heap in a relatively short period of time. |
| US08012236B2 |
Method and apparatus for producing reduced metal
It is an object of the present invention to provide a technique for solving the following problem by properly controlling the flow of gas such as air (oxidizing gas): a problem that the degree of reduction cannot be increased due to the air entering a feedstock-feeding zone or a discharging zone. The technique is a method for producing reduced iron. The method includes a feedstock-feeding step of feeding a feedstock containing a carbonaceous reductant and an iron oxide-containing material into a rotary hearth furnace, a heating/reducing step of heating the feedstock to reduce iron oxide contained in the feedstock into reduced iron, a melting step of melting the reduced iron, a cooling step of cooling the molten reduced iron, and a discharging step of discharging the cooled reduced iron, these steps being performed in that order in the direction that a hearth is moved. The furnace includes flow rate-controlling partitions, arranged therein, for controlling the flow of furnace gas and the furnace gas in the cooling step is allowed to flow in the direction of the movement of the hearth with the partitions. |
| US08012235B2 |
Process for producing low-oxygen metal powder
A process for producing a low-oxygen metal powder, comprising passing a raw metal powder coated by hot melting of a hydrocarbon organic compound through thermal plasma flame composed mainly of an inert gas so as to reduce the content of oxygen in the raw metal powder. Preferably, the obtained metal powder is subjected to heat treatment in vacuum or hydrogen atmosphere. Preferred example of the hydrocarbon organic compound is stearic acid. |
| US08012234B2 |
Honeycomb structural body
A honeycomb structural body includes a columnar honeycomb structural body having large-capacity through holes and small-capacity through holes extending in parallel in a length direction of the columnar structural body. The large-capacity through holes and the small-capacity through holes have a polygonal shape in a cross section perpendicular to the length direction, and the large-capacity through holes and the small-capacity through holes have R-chamfered corner portions or C-chamfered corner portions in the cross section perpendicular to the length direction. |
| US08012233B2 |
Filter cartridge for air cleaner
An air cleaner assembly is provided, which is configured for alternate installation therein of different sized filter cartridges. Features of the air cleaner assembly and components for use therewith, are described. Also methods of assembly and use are described. |
| US08012232B2 |
Filter and method of making
A filter formed by the following steps is provided. The steps including: forming a plurality of sheets of filter media, each sheet of filter media having an inlet end and an outlet end, wherein each of the plurality of sheets of filter media are formed by the steps of: thermoforming a first layer of filtration media to have a plurality of channels, the first layer having an upper surface and a lower surface; sonically welding a portion of a second layer of filtration media to the first layer of filtration media after the first layer is thermoformed to form the sheet of filtration media, wherein at least one edge of the first layer is not sonically welded to at least one edge of the second layer, wherein the sheet of filtration media has a plurality of fluid channels each having an inlet opening at the at least one edge of the first layer and the second layer and a sealed end at another end of the sheet; and securing the plurality of sheets together by applying a strip of adhesive between each upper surface of each first layer facing the second layer of another sheet of filter media stacked upon the upper surface of the first layer of the filtration media. |
| US08012231B2 |
Particulate matter analyzer, collecting filter and system for analyzing and collecting samples from fluids
A particulate collection system, including a particulate matter analyzer and collecting filter, provides a method of analyzing and collecting samples from fluids, such as collecting particulate matter from air. A mass measuring unit and composition analyzing unit can be provided for either simultaneous or immediately consecutive measurements within a single instrument. The filter material can have an antistatic electricity characteristic and can be impregnated with reference material to enable calibration of the composition analyzing unit. |
| US08012229B1 |
Liquid particulate extraction device
Extraction devices are disclosed for extracting liquid particulates from a gaseous stream. The extraction devices may have a powered or free spinning rotating extractor that may be mounted in the extraction device's source or extraction duct. During operation, liquid particulates impinging on the rotating extractor form a thin film of extracted liquid that travels due to centrifugal force to the periphery of the extractor's exterior surface where the extracted liquid may be flung to the inner surface of the extraction duct and collected. |
| US08012228B2 |
Dynamic barrier isolation chamber
The invention concerns an isolation chamber for isolating substances from the ambient while simultaneously maintaining aseptic conditions within the isolation chamber and protecting the operator from potent compounds. The isolation chamber comprises a first container surrounding and defining an isolation space of holding the substances and a second container surrounding the first container. Preferably, the pressure of the isolation space is lower than the pressure of the barrier space. |
| US08012226B2 |
Air separator and purifier device
An air separator and purifier device, structured to mainly include a main air extractor installed within a cylindrical housing, an air inlet and an air vent are provided in the upper and lower ends of the housing respectively to form a filter passageway, and filtering equipment is installed in the filter passageway. The air separator and purifier device is characterized in that: the housing includes an upper cylindrical body and a lower cylindrical body; a partition plate is located between the upper and lower cylindrical bodies; a round hole defined in the center of the partition plate connects with an air suction port of the main air extractor installed within the lower cylindrical body; and a preseparation structure and an air filter screen are installed within the upper cylindrical body and the lower cylindrical body respectively. |
| US08012224B2 |
Polishing composition
A polishing composition includes a copolymer and an abrasive. The copolymer has a constitutional unit expressed as the following formula (I) and at least one of constitutional units expressed as the following formulae (II) to (IV). Methoxypolyethylene glycol methacrylate etc. are used as monomers for forming the constitutional unit of the formula (I), stearyl methacrylate etc. are used as monomers for forming the constitutional unit of the formula (II), polypropylene glycol methacrylate etc. are used as monomers for forming the constitutional unit of the formula (III), and styrene etc. are used as monomers for forming the constitutional unit of the formula (IV). |
| US08012223B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for producing energy using an alkalai metal
An apparatus, system and method are disclosed for producing energy from the controlled reaction of an alkali metal with water. The method comprises forcing a liquefied alkali metal through a filter that separates the liquid alkali metal into alkali metal droplets. The alkali metal droplets comprise small enough particles that the alkali metal droplets completely react in water to produce heat, steam, an alkaline hydroxide and hydrogen gas before the alkali metal droplets reach the surface of the water. The filter separates the alkali metal droplets at a sufficient distance to avoid recombining of the alkali metal droplets. The alkaline hydroxide is reduced to an alkali metal and water which can be reused in the system. |
| US08012222B2 |
Method and apparatus for interconnecting electrodes with partial titanium coating
The present subject matter includes a capacitor stack having a plurality of anode layers, and a plurality of cathodic metal substrates partially coated in a titanium coating. Cathode portions lacking titanium enable weld interconnections which are substantially free of titanium, improving capacitor properties. In some embodiments, anodes are interspersed among cathodes, and are electrically separated from the cathodes, with portions of cathode material attached to the welding area of the anode. These portions of the cathode material are no longer electrically connected to the cathode. As the anode and these cathode portions are welded and aged, leakage current is reduced due to improved oxide growth in the welding area due to the absence of titanium. |
| US08012221B2 |
Process for surface colouration of paper
The invention relates to a process for the surface coloration of paper characterized in that, in a first step, the paper surface is treated with a water soluble dye and, subsequently, in a second step, the paper surface is treated with a fixing agent. |
| US08012219B2 |
System and method for preventing access to data on a compromised remote device
This invention discloses a system and method for selective erasure, encryption and or copying of data on a remote device if the remote device has been compromised or the level of authorization of a roaming user in charge of the remote device has been modified. |
| US08012217B2 |
Talar implants and methods of use
Implant devices, and method of using the same, are provided. The implant devices have a head and a stem. The head has an upper surface, an anterior surface, a posterior surface, a lateral surface and a lower surface. The anterior surface, the lateral surface, and the lower surface are approximately perpendicular to and intersect each other. The anterior surface and the posterior surface are approximately parallel to each other. Preferably, the upper surface has a general shape of at least a portion of a superior articular surface of a talus and at least a portion of a medial articular surfaces of a talus. The stem has a truncated conical portion and a cylindrical portion. The cylindrical portion is affixed to the lower surface of the head, and the truncated conical portion is affixed to the cylindrical portion. |
| US08012209B2 |
Interspinous process implant including a binder, binder aligner and method of implantation
Systems in accordance with embodiments of the present invention can include an implant comprising a spacer for defining a minimum space between adjacent spinous processes, a distraction guide for piercing and distracting an interspinous ligament during implantation, and a binder for limiting or preventing flexion motion of the targeted motion segment. The binder can be secured to a brace associated with the implant during implantation by a capture device. A binder aligner aligns the binder with the implant stabilizing the implant, binder and the adjacent vertebrae. |
| US08012206B2 |
Preformed implants for osteochondral repair
Osteochondral repair of damaged articular joint surfaces is achieved using implants in the form of cylindrical osteochondral plugs. The plugs have an articular surface formed on at least one end. If articular surfaces are provided on both ends of the implant, the articular surfaces have differently curved surfaces. The defective cartilage is removed to create a recipient socket for the implant. An implant sized to fit the recipient socket is chosen from a plurality of implants provided to the surgeon. The implants are preferably formed of a hydrogel material such as Salubria™, although metal or allograft implants can also be used. |
| US08012203B2 |
Glare reducing rough surfaces
An intraocular lens for insertion into a capsular bag in order to focus incoming light toward a retina and process for manufacturing thereof along with concomitant reduced glare and improved vision provides for a center lens portion of a lens for focusing incoming light toward the retina and the surrounding lens portion for mounting the lens within the capsular bag. A surface roughness disposed on the surrounding lens portion is provided for reducing the glare due to non-focused light directed toward the retina from the intraocular lens with the roughness having a roughness level of between about Ra 45 and about Ra 350. |
| US08012202B2 |
Mitral valve ring for treatment of mitral valve regurgitation
An active bodily ring having a housing adapted to be sutured to a bodily component and a loop disposed in the housing, the loop capable of actively expanding and compressing during the bodily components normal function. The housing defines a first chamber and a second chamber, the first chamber containing the loop and the second chamber providing a region capable of being sutured to the bodily component. In one embodiment, the housing can be a crimped-fabric housing. In another embodiment, the housing can be a woven-fabric housing having elastic properties. The housing can be made from polyester. |
| US08012201B2 |
Translumenally implantable heart valve with multiple chamber formed in place support
A cardiovascular prosthetic valve comprises an inflatable body that has at least a first inflatable chamber and a second inflatable chamber that is not in fluid communication with the first inflatable chamber. The inflatable body is configured to form, at least in part, a generally annular ring. A valve is coupled to the inflatable body. The valve is configured to permit flow in a first axial direction and to inhibit flow in a second axial direction opposite to the first axial direction. A first inflation port is in communication with the first inflatable chamber. A second inflation port in communication with the second inflatable chamber. |
| US08012200B2 |
Endovascular magnetic method for targeted drug delivery
The method for endovascular magnetic targeting drug delivery in a vascular wall and adjoining tissues, wherein an endovascular mesh stent with paramagnetic properties is preliminary implanted in the area of interest by a catheter, a polymeric magneto-responsive carrying agent in the form of particles, containing a drug, is injected, and a magnetic field is applied, characterized in that, at least, one temporary catheter is introduced in the right atrium, and/or in ventricles of heart, and/or in a coronary sinus and/or in a coronary vein, which distal end takes a position close to the implanted mesh stent, thereupon, a gradient permanent magnetic field is generated and adjusted by means of a permanent magnet and/or a solenoid with the core, connected to an electric power source, which magnet or solenoid are located at the distal end of each temporary catheter, where the maximal gradient of magnetic field is located in the implanted endovascular stent, principally on the stent mesh. |
| US08012199B2 |
Endolumenal device for delivering and deploying an endolumental expandable prosthesis
An endolumenal device (1) for delivering and deploying an endolumenal expandable prosthesis (6) at a bifurcation provided with a main conduit and at least a secondary conduit, comprises an elongated body (2) having a proximal end portion (4) and a distal end portion (3); the distal end portion (3) comprising expansion means (5) having a longitudinally extended active portion removably engageable with the prosthesis (6). Said active portion of the expansion means is longitudinally associated to the body in order to expand said prosthesis eccentrically from one side with respect to the body, in order to leave free from said expanded active portion the other side of the body. The device further is provided with guidewire tracking means (11). |
| US08012187B2 |
Techniques for spinal surgery and attaching constructs to vertebral elements
Techniques for spinal surgery include accessing at least one vertebral element of the spinal column. At least one loading member is engaged to the at least one vertebral element. The loading member is allowed to integrate with the bony structure of the vertebral element over time. The integrated loading member is accessed in a second surgical procedure, and can be loaded and/or attached to a construct. |
| US08012186B2 |
Uniplanar screw
A spinal stabilization system for surgical implantation in the spine having a bone fastener. The bone fastener is provided with a head portion and a shaft portion. A housing is also provided with a recess defined by sidewalls and an opening for receiving the head portion of the bone fastener. A seating element is disposed within the housing and positioned over the head portion of the bone fastener. An elongate rod is positioned on the seating element within the recess of the housing. The system also includes a cap capable of engaging with a top portion of the housing and capturing the elongate rod within the recess of the housing when the cap is rotated. The bone fastener articulates in a single plane with respect to the housing and the seat element. |
| US08012183B2 |
Vertebral anchoring device
A vertebral anchoring device includes connectors (2) linked to one another by connecting rods (3) and fixed on bone-anchoring screws (5) implanted in the vertebrae (4) of a vertebral column, each connector (2) being composed of a connection element (6) that includes receiving and fixing members to permit immobilization of the connecting rod (3) in translation and in rotation. Each connection element (6) includes, opposite the members for receiving and fixing the connecting rod (3), a seat (12) that cooperates with a connecting device (17) permitting assembly of the anchoring screw (5). The connecting device (17), before immobilization of the connecting rod (3) in the connection element (6), permits lateral and independent tilting movements of the connection element (6) and of the anchoring screw (5) relative to each other, and rotation of the anchoring screw (5) for fixing it in the body of the vertebra (4). |
| US08012180B2 |
Damping element and device for stabilization of adjacent vertebral bodies
A damping element includes: two spring elements which are coaxial with or parallel to a longitudinal axis and two axially end-side connectors, where the first spring element exhibits a spring rate F, the second spring element exhibits a spring rate f, and the spring rates F and f are different. A device stabilizing adjacent vertebrae, including N pedicle screws or hooks, where N is greater than or equal to 3 and where each pedicle screw or pedicle hook includes a receiving device receiving a longitudinal affixation device and where an element acting as a spring is inserted between two adjacent pedicle screws or pedicle hooks. |
| US08012179B2 |
Dynamic spinal stabilization members and methods
Devices and methods for spinal stabilization include first and second anchor assemblies engageable to respective ones of first and second vertebrae and a connecting element engageable to the first and second anchor assemblies. The connecting element includes opposite first and second anchor engaging end portions and a length along a longitudinal axis between the first and second anchor engaging end portions sized for positioning between and engaging each of the first and second anchor assemblies when the first and second anchor assemblies are engaged to the respective vertebrae. The connecting element further includes a support portion between the first and second anchor engaging end portions. The support portion includes first and second support members spaced from one another on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis, and a stabilizing member extending between the support members in a transverse orientation to the longitudinal axis. |
| US08012178B2 |
Device for elastically stabilizing vertebral bodies
A device for elastically stabilizing vertebral bodies includes at least two bone anchoring means, each having a central axis and a head segment. The device also includes elastic means that can be joined to the head segments of two adjacent bone anchoring means in such a manner that the longitudinal axis of the elastic means extends transversely to the central axes of the bone anchoring means. Under compressive loads, the elastic means has a progressive spring characteristic. The elastic means is manufactured from a metallic material and has a plurality of spring coils, of which at least two spring coils have a geometric dimension which is different from the other spring coils. |
| US08012176B2 |
Spinal prostheses
An article including a spinal prosthesis having a unitary body with at least three attachment points attachable to spinal structure, the unitary body including a flexure assembly positioned between first and second attachment members, wherein flexure of the flexure assembly permits movement of the first attachment member relative to the second attachment member. |
| US08012175B2 |
Multi-directional deflection profile for a dynamic stabilization and motion preservation spinal implantation system and method
A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient. |
| US08012171B2 |
High strength suture with PBO
A high strength abrasion resistant surgical suture material with improved tie down characteristics and tissue compliance includes poly(p-phenylene-2,6-benzobisoxazole) (PBO). The suture features a multifilament jacket formed of braided strands of PBO, optionally with fibers of polyester, silk, nylon or aramid strands as an enhancer. In one embodiment, the braided jacket surrounds a core formed of twisted strands of PBO. The suture has exceptional strength, is ideally suited for most orthopedic procedures, and can be attached to a suture anchor or a curved needle. |
| US08012169B2 |
Electrochemical wound therapy device
A disposable wound-healing device is disclosed that incorporates a housing having a fluid-impermeable material having a cavity and a perimeter that can be sealed in an air-tight manner over a wound region of a patient. The device is capable of producing a negative pressure over the wound region by either removing oxygen from within the cavity, or absorbing fluid into the cavity and then removing the fluid from the cavity. The oxygen may be removed via chemical absorption, by an electrochemical cell or by a chemical reaction that cannibalizes oxygen from the cavity. The fluid may be removed through the use of osmotic or electro-osmotic cells, or through a one-way valve. The negative partial pressure over the wound region promotes healing. |
| US08012164B1 |
Method and apparatus for creating an opening in the wall of a tubular vessel
An auger is axially fixed to and positioned within a cutter. The auger and cutter advance at the same time relative to a contact structure placed against a vessel, penetrating the wall of the vessel and cutting a tissue plug. When the auger and the cutter are retracted from the vessel wall, the tissue plug is retained by the auger and cutter and removed from the vessel wall. The auger and the cutter thus create an opening in the vessel wall, without the need for a prior incision in that wall. |
| US08012161B2 |
Surgical suturing apparatus with measurement structure
There is disclosed suture manipulating instrumentation having measuring structure to determine the length of suture during a given point in a surgery. The instrument is preferably a surgical suturing instrument capable of manipulating a suture carrying needle at the distal end. The measuring structure in the form of a scale is provided on the suturing instrument at a location remote from the distal end. The length of suture can easily be determined with the use of the scale at any point during a surgery. There is also disclosed a kit for providing the suture measuring structure on other suture manipulating instruments, as well as, methods of using suture manipulating instrumentation having the disclosed measuring structure. |
| US08012155B2 |
Apparatus and method for prophylactic hip fixation
A method and apparatus configured to strengthen and support a portion of a bone, such as the femoral head of the proximal femur, for example. The apparatus may include a housing or base member and a movable support member connected to the housing and configured to move between a first, undeployed position in which the support member is disposed proximate the housing or base such that the apparatus may be inserted into bone, and a second, deployed position in which the support member extends away from the housing or base for supporting the femoral head. The support member may be a rod, one or more wires, a leaf spring, a bladder, or an expandable mesh material, for example. |
| US08012154B2 |
Modular electrosurgical adaptors and multi function active shafts for use in electrosurgical instruments
Forceps include a body, a surgical device, and a pair of handles. The surgical device is removably disposed within the body. The handles are pivotally attached to the handle body for articulating jaws on the surgical device, or grasping the forceps. The forceps accept monopolar, bipolar, or both monopolar and bipolar surgical devices. Wires are disposed within the surgical device for performing various types of electro-surgery. Additional wires are provided within the surgical device for providing the user with the ability to monitor various aspects of the surgical procedure. Spring contacts touch rings surrounding the surgical device for maintaining electrical contact with the surgical device while allowing the surgical device to rotate within the body. |
| US08012151B1 |
Devices and methods for tissue applications
Devices and methods are described for sealing tissue such as melding the two flaps of the foramen ovale together without the need for a permanent implant or closing openings in vessels. |
| US08012147B2 |
Cryotreatment device and method
Devices and methods for cooling vessel walls to inhibit restenosis in conjunction with medical procedures such as coronary artery angioplasty. Stenosed vessel walls can be cooled prior to angioplasty, after angioplasty, or both. The invention is believed to inhibit restenosis through cooling to a temperature near freezing, preferably without causing substantial vessel wall cell death. |
| US08012146B2 |
Extending small-gauge illuminator
A variable-rigidity, small-gauge illuminator is disclosed, one embodiment being a small-gauge illumination surgical system comprising: a light source for providing a light beam; an optical cable, optically coupled to the light source for receiving and transmitting the light beam; a handpiece, operably coupled to the optical cable; an optical fiber, operably coupled to the handpiece, wherein the optical fiber is optically coupled to the optical cable to receive and transmit the light beam to illuminate an area; and a cannula, operably coupled to the handpiece, for housing and directing the optical fiber, wherein the cannula is operable to extend and retract from the handpiece to vary the length of the cannula extending from the handpiece, and wherein the optical fiber is operably connected to the cannula. |
| US08012144B2 |
Elongate medical device having an interference fit packaging member
An elongate medical device including a hub assembly located at the proximal end. The hub assembly includes an interference fit member disposed about a portion of the hub assembly, whereby the interference fit member is configured to form an interference fit with the inner surface of a tubular packaging tube when the elongate medical device is placed in the packaging tube. |
| US08012133B2 |
System for injection through or into the human skin
The invention relates to a system for injecting a fluid through or into the human skin, optionally by needle-free injection or by injection with a needle, with (i) an injection device (110) which includes an ampoule (112) with an ampoule body (114) forming a chamber for receiving the fluid to be injected; an ampoule piston (118) which is axially movable and sealingly guided in the chamber; an outlet (124) disposed at the distant end of the ampoule (112) for the fluid to be injected, wherein the ampoule (112) is rounded in the region of the outlet (124) and the rounded region forms a skin contact surface (126) for the needle-less injection through or into the human skin; and at least one first coupling element (128) of a coupling device which is arranged at the distal end of the ampoule (112) on the ampoule body (114) and configured for sealingly and reversibly attaching a needle attachment (150), and (ii) a needle attachment (150) with a cannula part (152) comprising a needle (156); and an adapter part (154) proximally connected to the cannula part, wherein the adapter part (154) has at least one second coupling element (162) of the coupling device, the coupling device configured for sealing and reversible attachment on the ampoule (112) of the injection device (110), characterized in that the needle attachment (150) is constructed in two parts, wherein the needle attachment (150) can be reversibly disassembled into the cannula part (152) and the adapter part (154). |
| US08012127B2 |
Systems and methods for gaining access around an implanted medical device
Systems for gaining access into a body of a patient around an implanted body of an elongate medical device include a sheath having a deformable wall that allows insertion of the device body into a lumen surrounded by the sheath wall. The sheath wall may include first and second edges that extend from a proximal end to a distal end of the lumen, or just extend along a distal portion of the lumen. A tool, which includes a groove sized to grasp about a circumference of the device body, may facilitate insertion of the device body into the lumen of those sheath embodiments that include the first and second edges, by spreading at least one of the first and second edges of the wall apart from the other of the first and second edges while the device body is grasped within the tool. |
| US08012123B2 |
Catheter with guidewire lumen with tubular portion and sleeve
A guidewire lumen for a catheter includes a tubular portion and a sleeve bonded over less than an entire length of the tubular portion. The tubular portion is formed of a first material and the sleeve is formed of a second material. The second material may bond better to certain materials than the first material. |
| US08012122B2 |
Elongated medical apparatus with inflatable tip
An elongated medical apparatus suitable for insertion into a bodily passageway of a patient for carrying out a medical procedure. The elongated apparatus includes an elongated tubular body having a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the distal portion terminates at a distal end. The tubular body has a plurality of lumens extending therein. An inflatable balloon member is mounted at the distal end of the tubular body and extends in a distal direction therefrom. The balloon member is inflated by receiving an inflation fluid through one of the lumens. The presence of the balloon member at the leading end of the elongated apparatus reduces the risk of puncture and trauma upon insertion of the apparatus into the bodily passageway. |
| US08012119B2 |
Medication delivery system and monitor
Systems and methods for the delivery and monitoring of a medication, such as insulin, to a recipient are provided. An exemplary feature-rich system comprises an infusion pump with a control system for controlling medication delivery by the infusion pump and a bolus estimator for estimating an appropriate amount of medication for delivery by the control system with the infusion pump. Estimating the appropriate amount of medication for delivery is based upon one or more settings which each vary according to a setting profile. In other embodiments, the control system comprises a suspend function for temporarily suspending medication delivery by the infusion pump, an alarm profile function for programming a variable alarm volume of the alarm and a simplified menu for controlling the dual wave bolus delivery function. |
| US08012117B2 |
Miniature flexible thrombectomy catheter
The present invention pertains to a miniature flexible thrombectomy catheter having one or more flexible miniature noncollapsing tubular portions including pushable and torqueable structure for introduction into the smaller vessels in neurovascular regions. A jet body having an arcuate fluid jet emanator is incorporated in order to minimize size at the distal portion of a minimally sized catheter tube. |
| US08012108B2 |
Range of motion system and method
The application is directed to devices and methods useful for expanding the range of motion of joints based on principles of stress relaxation and creep. Expanded range of motion is achieved by placing body parts near the joint in positions that stretch tissue around the joint. Even when the device is in any one position, it can impart forces on the body members to urge them to stretch surrounding tissue even further. |
| US08012104B2 |
Catalysts for body fluid sample extraction
An arrangement for producing a sample of body fluid from a wound opening created in a skin surface at a sampling site includes at least one skin-penetration member having a first end configured to pierce the surface of the skin, and a inner lumen in communication with the first end; at least one actuator operatively associated with the at least one skin-penetration member; and at least one catalyst device configured to cause perfusion of body fluid at the sampling site; wherein the at least one actuator is configured to locate the at least one skin-penetration member so as to obstruct the wound opening while transporting body fluid through the inner lumen. Associated methods are also described. |
| US08012097B1 |
Monitoring device for an interactive game
A system and method (1000) for an interactive game is disclosed herein. The system (1000) preferably includes monitoring device (20) monitoring the vital signs of a user, and a computer (1420). The monitoring device (20) is preferably an article (25) having an optical sensor (30) and a circuitry assembly (35), and a pair of straps (26a and 26b). The monitoring device (20) preferably provides for the display of the following information about the user: pulse rate; blood oxygenation levels; calories expended by the user of a pre-set time period; target zones of activity; time; distance traveled; and/or dynamic blood pressure. The article (25) is preferably a band worn on a user's wrist, arm or ankle. |
| US08012096B2 |
Surgical device and method for performing combination revascularization and therapeutic substance delivery to tissue
The present invention contemplates a surgical device for both ablating a channel in a patient's tissue and also delivering a therapeutic agent. The device includes an elongated multi-lumen tube, an elongated tissue ablating assembly, and a therapeutic agent delivery assembly. The therapeutic agent is capable of being delivered into the channel and/or to the surrounding tissue. The device may further include a second multi-lumen tube also capable of delivering therapeutic agents. Although suitable for many operations, the device is particularly well suited for transmyocardial revascularization operations. The present invention also contemplates a procedure for using such a surgical device to ablate a channel in a patient's tissue and also deliver a therapeutic agent. |
| US08012093B2 |
Ultra sound system for forming strain images with instantaneous frequency
There is provided an ultrasound system for forming strain images by decreasing decorrelation of receive signals, which vary with time or space. More specifically, the decorrelation between the receive signals obtained without and with applying stress to a target object is reduced to decrease an error, which occurs during the calculation of a delay. Also, a center frequency, which varies with depth of a target object, is compensated to form the strain image. |
| US08012091B2 |
Method and system for fetal weight estimation
A method for fetal weight estimation wherein fetal biometric parameters are ultrasonically measured and further physiological and phenomenological pregnancy parameters are determined for a plurality of sample cases. The fetal weight for each of the sample cases is then determined by precision weighing at birth. A database is then created based on the known sample cases and mathematical prediction models are generated from the database. For the case under examination for which fetal weight is to be predicted, the fetal biometric parameters are ultrasonically measured and further physiological and phenomenological pregnancy parameters are determined. The fetal weight of the case under examination is predicted by using a mathematical prediction model and a multinormal probabilistic model is used as a mathematical model. |
| US08012089B2 |
Disposable expandable cordless lighted retractor
A hand-held, surgical instrument to manipulate a patient's tissues having a grip, a first blade, a second blade, a blade actuator, at least one blade rib, a light, and a power source. The first blade and the second blade each extend from the base end of the grip. The second blade is divided longitudinally into a left segment and a right segment, which are each pivotable about a common axis. Movement of the blade actuator causes the segments of the second blade to pivot about the common axis. The light illuminates the patient's tissues proximate the blades. The device may include suction ports on the underside of the first blade to provide aspiration. The blade rib may include multiple longitudinal blade ribs extending along the length of the first blade, the second blade, or both. The blade rib may also include multiple transverse blade ribs extending along the width of the first blade, the second blade, or both. The device may also include an integral camera and wireless transmitter to provide images of the patient's tissues to a separate display. |
| US08012088B2 |
Retractor
A retractor (101) for retracting the margins of a wound opening (103) comprises an inner anchoring O-ring (105) attached to a cylindrical sleeve (106) at a distal end and a reinforcing O-ring (109) attached to a proximal end of the sleeve (106). The sleeve (106) is led between an inner ring part (110) and a corresponding recess (116) in an outer ring part (111). The outer ring part (111) has anchor formations (120) over which the proximal end of the sleeve (106) is attached to anchor the sleeve (106). To retract the wound opening (103) the sleeve (106) is pulled while the guide rings (110, 111) are moved against the tissue surrounding the wound opening (103). This pulls the inner O-ring (105) against the inside of the tissue adjacent the wound opening (103), and retracts the wound opening (103). The sleeve (106) is manipulated locally for maximum retraction efficiency. |
| US08012087B2 |
Laryngoscope blade and method of use
A laryngoscope blade for use in viewing the vocal cords of a patient in performance of an endotracheal intubation includes a laryngoscope blade portion connectable to a laryngoscope handle to lift the patient's tongue and mandible for viewing the vocal cords and aid in the insertion of an endotracheal tube; and a black light source carried by the blade portion to prompt the visible effects of fluorescence and phosphorescence with respect to the patient's vocal cords for viewing the vocal cords and passing of the endotracheal tube there between during endotracheal intubation. |
| US08012086B2 |
Sterile transcolonic access device
Devices and methods useful for transluminally accessing a body cavity are disclosed. In one embodiment, a transluminal access device adapted to be inserted through a body lumen is provided and can include an inner shaft having an opening at its distal end and adapted to be positioned adjacent to an inner wall of a body lumen. The inner shaft can include one or more sealing mechanisms, such as one or more seals with suction ports formed thereon for isolating a portion of a body lumen. The isolated portion may be sterilized and serve as an access point or otomy site for penetrating the wall of the body lumen to access a body cavity. |
| US08012084B2 |
Endoscope device and control method for the same
An endoscope device comprises: an endoscope including an insertion portion and a first balloon attached to a distal end of the insertion portion; and an insertion guide that is to be covered on the insertion portion to guide insertion of the insertion portion, the insertion guide comprising a second balloon on its distal end, wherein the insertion portion or the insertion guide is fixed in a body cavity by expanding the first balloon or the second balloon, respectively, wherein the first balloon and the second balloon are substantially equal to each other in friction resistance against the body cavity when they are expanded. |
| US08012080B2 |
Systems and methods for sling delivery and placement
Devices and methods for delivering and placing a surgical sling without resorting to an abdominal incision are disclosed. |
| US08012078B2 |
Methods and apparatus employing ionizing radiation for treatment of cardiac arrhythmia
Method and apparatus are disclosed employing ionizing radiation for forming lines of ablation or lesions in cardiac tissue to treat atrial fibrillation or other electrophysiological problems with the heart. The apparatus may include a catheter in which the radiation source is advanced hydraulically after the catheter is in place within the heart. Various fixation devices are also disclosed for fixing the location of the catheter within the heart. |
| US08012076B2 |
Method and apparatus for making bags
A machine and method for making bags is described and includes a web traveling from an input section to a rotary drum, to an output section. The rotary drum includes at least one seal bar, having a first sealing zone, and an adjacent weakening zone. The weakening zone may be a heated perforator, includes a heating wire, or be disposed to create an auxiliary sealed area. The heating wire can have, connected thereto, a source of power that is at an adjustable voltage or magnitude, and/or pulsed, and/or a feedback loop. The heating wire may be an NiCr wire and make intermittent contact with the web and be disposed in an insert. The weakening zone may create a line of weakness that is uniform or varies in intensity, is a separating zone, or includes a heat film, a toothed blade, a row of pins, a source of air, or a source of vacuum. The sealing zones may include temperature zones, cartridge heaters, cooling air, or heated air, or a source of ultrasonic, microwave or radiative energy. |
| US08012073B2 |
Fitness machine with automated variable resistance
A fitness machine is provided, which includes a base frame having a pair of vertical side members; a track assembly rotatably mounted to the base frame between the vertical side members; a drive assembly for rotating the track assembly relative to the base frame; a bench rest assembly slidably mounted to the track assembly for supporting a user in a supine position; a handle assembly and a footrest assembly fixedly attached to the track assembly; and a control system for directing the drive assembly to alter the angular orientation of the bench rest assembly to vary the resistance experienced by a user during an exercise routine. The operation may be manual, programmable, or adaptive to the user's performance, based on repetition time and/or heart rate. |
| US08012072B2 |
Abdominal bench
An improved abdominal bench having a simplified structure, a more comprehensive weight system, a multi-positional foot assembly and a more streamlined frame and pivoting linkages. |
| US08012071B2 |
Exercise device and method
An exercise device comprising a flexible band formed in a closed loop, further including at least one tension adjuster associated with the band for selectively adjusting the tension of the loop. The device further includes two handles, associated with the band, the handles being configured to facilitate gripping of the band by a user's hand. |
| US08012067B2 |
Whole body vibrator (II)
This invention relates to a whole body vibrator platform which is attachable to a treadmill. The treadmill belt provides the power to move the platform, translating the horizontal, linear, belt movement into vertical oscillations through one or more eccentrically mounted rollers which support the platform. A person standing on the vibrator platform experiences a vertical vibration at frequencies established by the linear velocity of the treadmill belt. |
| US08012062B2 |
Apparatus and method of engine torque control during power take-off operation in a motor vehicle
An apparatus and method is provided for controlling torque in a powertrain having an engine and a transmission capable of operating a power take-off unit. The apparatus includes: a controller selectively operable to send a power take-off unit activation request to a transmission control module within the powertrain; a transmission control module capable of receiving the power take-off unit activation request; and wherein the apparatus is configured to prevent the torque of the engine from exceeding a maximum defined torque value when the power take-off unit is in operation. The apparatus includes an engine control module capable of receiving commands from the transmission control module through a data link connecting them. |
| US08012058B2 |
Differential gear mechanism for vehicle
A differential gear mechanism includes a housing, first and second sun gears each including an external gear portion, and first and second planetary gears. The first and second sun gears include axial end surfaces pressed against contact surfaces provided at the housing by the first and second sun gears by means of thrust forces generated at engagement surfaces between the external gear portions and the planetary gears. Each of the sun gears includes a first portion having the external gear portion, a second portion, and a thrust force generating mechanism for generating thrust forces at the first portion and the second portion. A direction of the thrust force generated at the first portion by the thrust force generating mechanism is specified to be equal to a direction of the thrust force generated at the first portion by means of the engagement between the external gear portion and the planetary gear. |
| US08012056B2 |
Elastically extensible poly-V transmission belt for driving accessories of an internal combustion engine
Poly-V belt, particularly for driving accessories of an internal combustion engine, comprising a cord realized from a yarn composed of a plurality of filaments by means of a first twisting in which are formed at least two plied yarns each composed of at least one yarn and a second twisting in which the plied yarns are twisted together to form the cord; the first twisting and the second twisting are made in opposite directions, and the numbers of twists per meter of the two twisting steps are calculated so that in the finished cord the filaments form with the axis of the cord an angle smaller than 3.3°. |
| US08012055B2 |
Press belt
The invention relates to a press belt (1) made from an elastomer material and forming a closed loop, the belt having an inner surface (2) and an outer surface (3) and three layers of reinforcement yarns (7′, 5′, 6′) arranged inside the elastomer material. In the invention, an outermost yarn layer (7) is formed by longitudinal and transversely adjacent reinforcement yarns (7′) of the press belt (1), which absorb energy and are restored from deformation with delay in connection with deformation. |
| US08012054B2 |
Rocker joint pin type silent chain
In a rocker joint silent chain, the link plates have two different engagement pitches, and the connecting pins are composed of combinations of rocker pins and joint pins, where each rocker pin has one of two thicknesses and each joint pin has one of two thicknesses, so that the rocker joint pins of the chain have three different thicknesses. The link plates and connecting pins are arranged randomly along the length of the chain. |
| US08012050B2 |
Snowmobile with improved drive train
A snowmobile is disclosed having improved drive train including a continuously variable transmission (CVT) having a drive belt looped around a driving pulley and a driven pulley, and a transversely arranged jackshaft wherein the driven pulley is connected directly onto the outer surface of one end of the jackshaft. The transverse jackshaft is preferably made from a thin-walled hollow tube and the driven pulley is preferably press fitted thereon. A method of assembling a snowmobile drive train is also disclosed. |
| US08012048B1 |
Tennis grip reference aid
An aid for teaching players specific proper tennis grips is provided in two form factors. The aid can be provided in a wrap or a band form factor. The aid comprises a reference for each of the following grips: Continental, Eastern, Semi-Western, and Western. The references are spatially located on the aid, such that when installed onto a neck of a tennis racket, each reference aligns with the “V” formed between player's thumb and forefinger when holding the racket with the respective grip. The references can be color coded, provided in differing fonts, include unique graphical representations, and the like. |
| US08012043B2 |
Grip tape and grip for ball game racket
The present invention relates to a grip tape for ball game rackets having a conical or trapezoidal base shape in the longitudinal direction or a length and a width, wherein the width varies at least along an essential portion of the length. The present invention also relates to a replacement grip tape including the features of a grip tape of the invention, and a process for producing a grip tape of the invention. Moreover, the present invention also relates to a grip for a ball game racket including a portion facing the head region of the ball game racket and having a first cross-section and a portion facing the end of the ball game racket and having a widening cross-section for holding the grip, as well as the combination of grip and grip tape. |
| US08012041B2 |
Golf club head with variable face thickness
A face or face insert (40) for a golf club head (20) is disclosed herein. The face (40) has an interior surface (40b) with a first thickness section (200) and a second thickness region (205). The first thickness section (200) preferably has a thickness that is at least 0.025 inch greater than the thickness of the second thickness region (205). In a most preferred embodiment, the first thickness section (200) has an X shape that is rotated around the Y axis (500) by at least 10 degrees. In another preferred embodiment, the face has a first thickness section (200), a second thickness region (205), and a central region (400) having a third thickness. The face or face insert (40) with variable thickness allows for a face or face insert (40) with less mass in a golf club head (20) that conforms to the United States Golf Association regulations. |
| US08012036B2 |
Iron-type golf club set
A set of iron-type golf clubs comprising “n” pieces of golf clubs having club heads with different loft angles and having advantages that variation in spin amount at mis-shots by long irons is small and accuracy in shots of intentionally curving a ball by short irons is high, each of the club heads having face 4 provided with a plurality of face grooves 10 extending in the toe-heel direction and a plurality of auxiliary grooves 11 including a plurality of first auxiliary grooves 11a extending in at least a region between toe side line L1 and heel side line L2, the first auxiliary grooves 11a being, in this region, in the form of curved grooves convex upward such that a curve descends from peak 13 toward the toe and heel side lines L1 and L2, and average degrees of curvature θi of the first auxiliary grooves of the club heads satisfying a specific relationship. |
| US08012028B1 |
Modular table support system for gaming machines
A system and method for mounting gaming machines to a support, in a manner that enables gaming machines to be quickly and easily installed and removed. A mounting base is provided for each gaming machine. Ports are formed in the support that are shaped to receive the mounting bases. Once a gaming machine is placed on the support, the mounting base passes into a port and the gaming machine sits flush on the support. Mechanical fasteners are then used to lock the mounting bases into the ports so that the gaming machines cannot be removed from the support. The gaming machines are also connected to power cables and signal cables under the top surface of the support. |
| US08012024B2 |
Method and apparatus for simulating game accessories
A method and apparatus are disclosed for simultaneously indicating, on each of a plurality of communication terminals, instructions transmitted by each terminal and the identity of the respective terminals that transmitted the instructions. Such a feature can be used to indicate the moves of parties playing a game over a telephone line. Once a communications link is established between two or more parties, their terminals are placed in a game mode which activates inband signal detection and player identification circuitry located within the terminals. Multi-colored indicators and player identification displays at each terminal are activated, their color being dependent upon the source of received instructions. In one embodiment, player identification indicators may be incorporated into a touch tone keypad located on the terminals. The keypad's touch tone keys are modified such that each key has two or more color coded indicators incorporated within, each color representing a particular player's move. |
| US08012022B2 |
Button structure for game controller
A button structure used in a game controller in which the dimension of the contact area between a metal conducting portion and a continual resistor strip or continual carbon film is determined to control the value of the output signal subject to the biasing angle of the button or the value of pressure applied to the button. |
| US08012021B2 |
Gaming machine having a molded curved display
Gaming machines having video depictions of one or more mechanical reels projected onto a curved display are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the gaming machine includes a curved transparent material having an outer surface, an inner surface, and a radius of curvature similar to a mechanical reel. The curved transparent material further includes a glossy finish on the outer surface of the curved transparent material to provide a reflective surface. The gaming machine also includes a light emitting diode projector for projecting video images of one or more reels onto the inner surface of the curved transparent material. The gaming machine also has a liquid crystal display having an opening in which the curved transparent material extends through the opening of the opening of the liquid crystal display. |
| US08012020B2 |
Game device, game control, method, information recording medium and program
In a game device (301) for showing a past operation history to a player in comparison with the current operation status, a first moving unit (303) moves a first object in a virtual space based on a moving instruction input received by an input receiving unit (302), an input history storage unit (304) stores the moving instruction input as input history information, a second moving unit (305) moves a second object in the virtual space based on input history information stored in the past, an assessment unit (306) assesses whether or not the first object and the second object are overlapping in the virtual space, and a display unit (307) displays the second object in a case where a non-overlapping state has been identified and stops the display of the second object in a case where an overlapping state has been identified. |
| US08012019B2 |
3-D text in a gaming machine
Methods and apparatus on a gaming machine for presenting a plurality of game outcome presentations derived from one or more virtual 3-D gaming environments stored on the gaming machine are described. While a game of chance is being played on the gaming machine, two-dimensional images derived from a 3-D object in the 3-D gaming environment may be rendered to a display screen on the gaming machine in real-time as part of a game outcome presentation. The 3-D objects in the 3-D gaming environment may include 3-D texts objects that are used to display text to the display screen of the gaming machine as part of the game outcome presentation. Apparatus and methods are described for generating and displaying information in a textual format that is compatible with a 3-D graphical rendering system. In particular, font generation and typesetting methods that are applicable in a 3-D gaming environment are described. |
| US08012017B2 |
Squad command interface for console-based video game
A squad command interface for a squad-based shooter video game maps character selection and command selection to actuators on a game controller. Players can select squad characters and issue a single order to multiple characters with few controller actuations. |
| US08012008B2 |
Card gaming machine having a plurality of card decks and card game playing method
Two card decks A and B are allocated to and shared by a dealer and each of “main players 1 to 5”. Two cards to be dealt respectively to the dealer and each of the main players are determined from the two card decks A and B. On the other hand, two card decks C and D are allocated to “sub player 3”. Two cards to be dealt to the sub player are determined from the two card decks C and D. In the determination, the same cards which dealt to the dealer are excluded from the two card decks C and D. Similarly, with respect to “sub player 5”, two cards to be dealt to the sub player are determined from two card decks E and F. Further, with respect to “sub player 8”, two cards to be dealt to the sub player are determined from two card decks G and H. |
| US08012007B2 |
Video game processing apparatus, method and computer program product of processing video game
A video game, in which a player character operated by a player fights against an enemy character and one character wins by lowering a life parameter for the other character by means of an attack to a battle impossible value at which the other character cannot fight, is controlled. First and second courage points are respectively applied to the player character and the enemy character in accordance with battle content. When a predetermined operation is received from the player, it is determined whether or not each of accumulated values of the first and second courage points is a predetermined value or more. Special fighting between the player character and the enemy character is controlled in the case where it is determined that both the accumulated values are the predetermined value or more. The special fighting is different from a battle for lowering the life parameter. |
| US08012005B2 |
Storage medium storing traveling time calculation program and game apparatus
A traveling time calculation program causes a computer to function as the following: position determination mechanism which determines a position of a movable object using a velocity vector with every update of a game screen, virtual position setting mechanism which sets a virtual position between positions immediately before and after the movable object passes through a second position, and shifts the virtual position using an infinitesimal unit vector obtained by dividing a velocity vector at the position immediately before the movable object passes through the second position into predetermined numbers, and traveling time calculation mechanism which calculates a traveling time from the first position to a position immediately before or after the virtual position crosses the second position. |
| US08011997B2 |
Guard for an electric machine tool, electric machine tool, and system comprising a guard and electric machine tool
A guard for a power tool with a rotatably driven insertion tool (14) is configured to cover at least portions of the insertion tool (14). At least one blocking means (32, 40) prevents the insertion tool (14) from turning around an axis of rotation (18). |
| US08011994B2 |
Self-assembling toy, toy assembler, launcher, and track
An aspect of the present invention provides a toy assembly system comprising a central compartment configured to house a plurality of toy bodies, each toy body having magnetic hubs arranged in an outer region of the body. The system can include outer compartments that house ferromagnetic outer components (e.g., ferromagnetic spheres) separate from the toy bodies and a release mechanism configured to release during a single operation a single toy body and a set of outer components, wherein the single toy body and the set of outer components self-assemble and automatically align. Another aspect provides a toy track system comprising a launch portion configured to magnetically retain the magnetic vehicle in a launch position, a release configured to release the vehicle from the launch position, and a track portion coupled to the launch portion and configured to guide the released vehicle along a predetermined path. |
| US08011992B2 |
Transformable toy
A transformable toy which can be automatically transformed despite its appearance in which members are merely pivotably connected as in conventional transformable toys is provided. Front end portions of a first base member and a second base member, as well as rear end portions of the first and second base members, are pivotably connected by first and second link members, respectively. The second base member is urged by an elastic force of a first elastic member, provided on at least one connecting portion, to move forwardly with respect to the first base member. Figure members expressing states differing between first and second configurations are connected to the first base member and the first link member. Connecting portions of figure members have second elastic members acting against the elastic force of the first elastic member and having an elastic force set to be smaller than that of the first elastic member. |
| US08011985B2 |
Outboard motor
An outboard motor includes an engine, and a top cowling and a bottom cowling that are arranged to cover the engine. A flow-joining pipe is connected to each exhaust port of a plurality of cylinders of the engine. A first exhaust pipe, a second exhaust pipe, and a third exhaust pipe are connected to the flow-joining pipe in sequence. The flow-joining pipe and the first exhaust pipe are connected generally at the same height as a bottommost of the cylinders of the engine. The third exhaust pipe is disposed above a topmost of the cylinders of the engine. A catalyst is disposed in a connecting portion between the first exhaust pipe and the second exhaust pipe so as to be housed in an upper end portion of the first exhaust pipe and in a lower end portion of the second exhaust pipe. The outboard motor is thus able to prevent water from adhering to a catalyst while avoiding any increase in size. |
| US08011976B2 |
Waterproof connector and method for producing the same
The present invention is intended to provide a novel waterproof connector in which liquid such as water is securely prevented from adhering to the connection between a terminal fitting and an electrical conduit, and a novel method for producing the waterproof connector.The novel waterproof connector 1 comprises an electrical conduit (6), a terminal fitting (2), and a sealing member (4). The terminal fitting (2) has an electrical conduit-connecting portion (22) connected to an end portion (6a) of the electrical conduit (6). The connector housing (3) is integrally molded with both of the electrical conduit (6) and the terminal fitting (2). In this configuration, at least the electrical conduit-connecting portion (22) is embedded in the connector housing (3). The sealing member (4) comprises a synthetic polymer component having adhesion properties and elasticity. The sealing member (4) is at least partly wrapped around both the end portion (6a) of the electrical conduit (6) and the terminal fitting (2) so as to be in close contact with both the corresponding end portion (6a) of the electrical conduit (6), and the corresponding terminal fitting (2). In this configuration, wherein all of the corresponding end portion (6a) of the electrical conduit (6), the corresponding terminal fitting (2), and the sealing member (4) are embedded in the connector housing (3). |
| US08011975B1 |
Power connector having protective interior cover
Circuits, methods, and apparatus that may provide protection from exposed wires or terminals when a power plug is damaged or destroyed. One example may provide a plug having an inner cover that shields power carrying wires or terminals when an outer shell is damaged or destroyed. The inner cover may include openings to receive conductors, where the openings may lead to terminals or wires that connect to plug prongs. The received conductors may attach directly or indirectly to an outer shell, and further to a power cord, circuitry, or other electronic components. When the outer shell is damaged or destroyed, the conductors may pull out of the openings in the inner cover, thus disconnecting from the wires or terminals. The wires or terminals may thus remain protected by the inner shell, avoiding exposure to contact by users or inadvertent conductors. |
| US08011968B2 |
Electrical connector with improved contacts
An electrical connector includes an insulative housing (1) having a chamber (101, 1121); a set of contacts (2, 23) retained in the insulative housing, and having contacting portions (21, 31) exposed to the chamber and tail portions (23, 34), the contacts including a second grounding contact (351) and a third grounding contact (355) perpendicular to the second grounding contact; an electrical means (5) electrically connecting the second grounding contact and the third grounding contact; and a metal shell (4) enclosing the insulative housing (1). |
| US08011966B1 |
Structure of high speed connector
A high speed connector includes a male connector portion and a female connector portion. The male connector portion includes a male-portion housing and high-speed male terminals and other male terminals received in the male-portion housing. The female connector portion includes a female-portion housing and high-speed female terminals and other female terminals received in the female-portion housing. The high-speed male and female terminals both include a fixing section for fixing the terminals in the respective housings. The high-speed male and female terminals both include flat-structured terminals and deviated-structured terminals. The fixing section of the flat-structured terminal is located on the same plane as other sections of the terminal, while the fixing section of the deviated-structured terminal is deviated sidways with respect to the other sections. Such an alternating arrangement allows the connector to be minatruized and interference and loss of signals transmitted therethrough are reduced. |
| US08011959B1 |
High frequency micro connector
A high frequency micro connector has an insulating housing, multiple first terminals and multiple terminals. The insulating housing has a base, a first tongue and a second tongue. The first and second terminals are mounted through the base respectively on the first and second tongue. The second tongue includes pairs of high frequency signal transmission terminals each having a transverse extension section and a soldering section formed on the transverse extension section. The transverse extension sections of each pair protrude reversely and oppositely to increase the distance between the soldering sections therefore to prevent crosstalk between the high frequency signal transmission terminals. |
| US08011958B1 |
E-easy series connector assembly with shielding function
Disclosed is an electrical connector assembly with shielding function, includes a cable-end connector and a board-mount connector that are mateable with each other. The board-mount connector includes a metal shell, an insulation housing received in the metal shell, and conductive terminals mounted inside the insulation housing. The cable-end connector includes an upper metal shell member, a lower metal shell member, a cable clamp, an insulation housing received between the upper metal shell member and the lower metal shell member, conductive female terminals mounted inside the insulation housing, and resilient latches and a pull bar mounted to the lower metal shell member. The metal shell of the board-mount connector has top and bottom surfaces each forming shielding contact tabs, which are folded outward and each forming a protruding inside contact point and a protruding outside contact point and reliable contact is thus formed among the connectors and a device panel. |
| US08011956B1 |
Waterproof connector
A waterproof connector includes an insulating housing, a plurality of terminals mounted into the insulating housing, a shell wrapping the insulating housing. The insulating housing has a top wall recessed to form a first through recess having a lower portion with an outer periphery protruded inward for supporting a first sealing plate. The first sealing plate has an outer periphery portion of an upper portion exceeding that of a lower portion thereof. The engagement between the first through recess and the first sealing plate prevent water from going into the insulating housing. A lateral wall is recessed to form a receiving recess. A fixing element fixed in the receiving recess has a damping plate punched outward beyond the lateral wall. The damping plate rests against the lateral slice for stopping the water from permeating into the shell and further spreading into the insulating housing. |
| US08011955B1 |
Coaxial cable connector
A coaxial cable connector suitable for assembly with one of a series of coaxial cables having one same specification and different wire outer diameters is disclosed to use a plastic bushing for compressing by a barrel to wrap about the coaxial cable and compress an inner tube against the aluminum foil and insulation spacer of the coaxial cable, protecting the coaxial cable against weather and extending the lifespan. A short distance is left between the aluminum foil insertion hole on the left end of the inner tube and the left orifice of the barrel, facilitating insertion of the insulation spacer and aluminum foil of the coaxial cable without causing damage. |
| US08011954B2 |
Shielded connector
Characteristic impedances of a shielded connector and a shielded cable are matched by lowering that of the connector conventionally high in a connection portion of an inner conductor terminal of the connector to a signal conductor of the cable, and transmission loss by reflection of high-frequency signals is decreased. The connector for a shielded cable W comprising a signal conductor Wa, a shielded conductor Wd, an insulator Wb interposed between the conductors Wa and Wd, and a sheath covering the conductor Wd, comprises an inner conductor terminal 2 connected to the conductor Wa, and an outer conductor terminal 4 connected to the conductor Wd to house the terminal 2 interposing a dielectric 3 between the terminals. The terminal 2 comprises a connecting section 2a to the conductor Wa, and a crimping portion 5 for enlarging the outer diameter of the section 2a is crimped onto the section 2a after connection. |
| US08011952B1 |
Connector assembly with card reader
A connector assembly includes a connector, a card reader, and a housing. The housing includes a top cover and a bottom cover. The top cover includes a first receiving portion for the connector and a second receiving portion for the card reader. The top cover includes a baseboard fixed on the first receiving portion and a shutter moveably positioned on the second receiving portion covering the card reader. |
| US08011950B2 |
Electrical connector
The cable assembly may include a plug connector, a cable, and a connector. The plug connector may include a housing and a board assembly. The board assembly may include a printed circuit board. The edge of the printed circuit board may be enclosed with a material. The material may be an overmolded plastic or a coating of a material. In order to reduce the crosstalk in the areas where the cable shield is removed, a shielding assembly may be used. The shielding assembly may provide 360 degrees of shielding for the wire pair at the location where the cable shield is removed. The printed circuit board may have a trace layer, a core layer, and a ground plane layer. The ground plane layer may have a portion which is a solid layer and another portion which is a non-solid layer. |
| US08011949B2 |
Connector with simplified mounting for a multiple conductor cable
The invention relates to a connector to be mounted on a cable (K) with a plurality of insulated connectors (C), and including a comb (1), a connection terminal block (2) and assembling members (4). According to the invention, the comb (1) includes self-stripping contacts (3) associated with notches (11) for simultaneously introducing each insulated conductor (C) of the cable into a notch (11) and for engaging it into the stripping contact (3) associated with said notch. |
| US08011947B2 |
HDMI assembly and HDMI port for the same
A high definition multimedia interface (HDMI) assembly for providing an electrical connection between two electronic devices includes an HDMI port and an HDMI plug. The HDMI port includes a first connection element and a pin portion. The HDMI plug includes a second connection element. The first connection element is pivotably disposed on the HDMI port and includes a hook, and the pin portion is connected to the HDMI port for providing connection between the HDMI port and one of the electronic devices. When the HDMI plug is connected to the HDMI port, the second connection element and the first connection element contact with each other and the hook hooks the HDMI plug. |
| US08011946B2 |
Electrical connector assembly, plug, and socket
An electrical connector includes a socket and a plug. The socket includes a sidewall and defines at least one latching hole. One end of each of the at least one latching hole is defined in the sidewall. The plug includes a main body, at least one latching mechanism, and a switch. The main body includes a first surface and a second surface. The main body defines at least one receiving space, a first groove, and a second groove. The at least one latching mechanism is partially received in the receiving space. The switch is positioned in the second groove and partially external to the first groove. The at least one latching mechanism can slide to engage the switch by an external force, and the switch can cause the at least one latching mechanism to disengage from the switch by an external force. |
| US08011940B1 |
Power socket device having switches
A power socket device having switches is disclosed and has a housing, socket units, two conductive frames and switch units. The housing has bolt holes. Each of the socket units has a socket body and a pair of conductive terminals. The socket body is formed with a pair of terminal slots. The socket unit can be received in the housing, and slid upward and downward therein. The conductive terminals are inserted in the terminal slots, and selectively in contact with or disconnected from the conductive frames. The socket body has an engagement hole. The switch unit is inserted into the bolt hole, and selectively abutted against the socket body or engaged in the engagement hole, so that the socket unit can be positioned on a predetermined position on a vertical direction. Thus, it is unnecessary to unplug a plug of an external appliance when switching on or off the power. |
| US08011939B2 |
Coaxial connector
The invention relates to a coaxial connector (1) for mounting on a printed circuit board adapted to receive a mating coaxial connector in an insertion direction (I). The coaxial connector comprises a contact spring (8) having a fixed leg (16) and an deflectable switching leg (15). The switching leg (15) is moved by insertion of the mating connector from a rest position to a switching position. In rest position said switching leg electrically conductively presses against the switch portion (19) of the contact element (10). The spring force flux (F) is guided via a contact element (10) in a closed loop back to the contact spring (8). In switching position the switching leg (15) is spaced apart in an switching direction (D) from the switch portion (19) by the inserted mating connector. To provide smaller dimensions the contact element (10) is formed as a substantially C-shaped clip forming an opening (O) framed by the support portion (20) and the switch portion (19), the switching leg (15) of the contact spring (8) extending into the opening. |
| US08011936B2 |
Electrical center with a relay module
An electrical center includes a housing and a relay module that is disposed in a well of the housing. The relay module has a base, a printed circuit board assembly, plug in electronic components, a cover and means of coupling and latching of the base to the well in the housing. The base includes a tray having a depending shroud at one end portion. The end portion of the tray that has depending shroud has a plurality of apertures that extend through tie end portion of the tray. A plurality of terminals have first end portions that engage the printed circuit board for electrical connection to the plurality of relays and second end portions that plug into the apertures and terminate in free ends disposed in the space inside the shroud. |
| US08011934B2 |
Camera apparatus, portable electronic device using the camera apparatus and method of assembling the portable electronic device
A camera apparatus attached to a portable electronic device includes a camera module, a holder, and a PCB. The holder includes a socket and a resisting member secured in the socket. The PCB includes a contact portion. The contact portion and the camera module are received in the socket. The resisting member pushes the contact portion toward the camera module. |
| US08011930B2 |
Electrical power receptacle with rotatable USB jacks
Disclosed is an electrical power receptacle with rotatable USB jacks comprising a main body including at least one shaft section; at least one electrical outlet assembly being disposed on the main body; a rotating member, coupled to the main body via the shaft section, being rotatable along the shaft section, and a rotational angle thereof being determined with respect to structural designs; and at least one USB jack assembly, being disposed on the rotating member and rotatable along with the rotational movement of the rotating member. An electric plug assembly with conducting prongs is disposed on the main body for connecting with the public electrical power distribution system. Thus, by adjusting the direction of rotation in accordance with the USB jack assemblies according to the present invention, the restriction in application range thereof decreases. |
| US08011928B1 |
Mine-like explosion simulator
Mine-like explosion simulators are disclosed herein. According to aspects illustrated herein, a landmine simulator device includes a blast fixture; a lower portion of said blast fixture having a proximal end, a distal end and a hollow area therebetween, said hollow area being configured so as to direct channeling of an audio signature internally for maximum sound; and a top portion of said blast fixture having a top plate and a blast cover, said top plate having an opening for engaging and aligning with said proximal end of said lower portion, and said blast cover being configured so as to release a visible signature externally for maximum exposure. |
| US08011927B2 |
Method for pre-operative visualization of instrumentation used with a surgical guide for dental implant placement
The invention relates to manufacturing a surgical guide to be placed in a patient's mouth. The patient's mouth is scanned to obtain surgical-region scan data at a region where an implant is to be located. The patient's mouth is also scanned in the opened position to acquire dental conditions opposite from the surgical region so as to obtain opposing-condition scan data. A virtual model is developed using the surgical-region scan data and the opposing-condition scan data. Using the virtual model, a surgical plan is developed that includes the location of the implant to be installed in the patient. A virtual surgical guide is also developed based on the surgical plan. The dimensions of instrumentation to be used with the surgical guide are checked to ensure they will fit within the mouth by use of the opposing-condition scan data. After checking, final surgical-guide manufacturing information is obtained for manufacturing the surgical guide. |
| US08011922B2 |
Apparatus for decorating objects by sublimation
Apparatus and a process for the continuous cycle decoration of profiled bars for shutters and frames, or other similar objects, with a carrier film of plastic material, printed with the desired decoration with sublimable inks. The process provides for a significant number of profiled bars or decorated steel sheets to be produced per unit of time. |
| US08011916B2 |
Mold, imprint apparatus, and process for producing structure
In order to alleviate or suppress curing of a photocurable resin material in an area in which the curing of the photocurable resin material is not intended, exposure of the photocurable resin material to light is suppressed through a non-pattern portion at which a light-blocking member is provided by means of a mold having an imprint pattern portion and the non-pattern portion or is suppressed by disposing a light-blocking member so as not to irradiate the photocurable resin material with light not via the mold. |
| US08011915B2 |
Imprint lithography
A lithographic apparatus is disclosed that has a first substrate table arranged to hold a substrate and a second substrate table arranged to hold a substrate, an imprint template holder arranged to hold an imprint template, and an imprintable medium dispenser, wherein the first substrate table is moveable between a first position located at or adjacent to the imprintable medium dispenser, and a second position located at or adjacent to the imprint template holder, and the second substrate table is moveable between the first and second positions, such that the first and second substrate tables swap positions. |
| US08011910B2 |
Low noise gear set for gear pump
A low noise gear set for use generally and preferably with a power plant having an engine driving a pump connected to a low pressure fluid source, generating high pressure fluid at an output. The idle gear meshes with the drive gear along two points of the profile of the corresponding gears. The first point being the root of one gear tooth meshing with the tip of the opposite gear tooth creating an initial first contact point and a subsequent second point along the profile when the teeth are disengaging at the first point and engaging at the second point, forming a sealed area, allowing the fluid to hydrostatically escape between the points. |
| US08011909B2 |
Balanced variable displacement vane pump with floating face seals and biased vane seals
A vane pump assembly including a cam ring having an elliptical inner bore defining a hydraulic pumping chamber, the pumping chamber having an interior camming surface. The cam ring defines ports for admitting fluid into the pumping chamber. A rotor, within the cam ring, defines a plurality of radial vane slots. A vane assembly is supported in each vane slot to define vane buckets. Each vane assembly has an end dynamic vane seal for reducing leakage between the buckets. Front and rear side plates, separated by an annular spacer, enclose the pumping chamber. The pump assembly may also include floating front and rear rotor seals for reducing radially inward leakage. Each rotor seal is disposed within a groove formed in the rotor, wherein discharge pressure urges the rotor seals axially outward from the pumping chamber to create an effective seal against the respective side plate. |
| US08011908B2 |
Variable capacity pump with dual springs
A variable capacity vane pump has a pump control ring that is moveable to alter the capacity of the pump. A control chamber is formed between the pump casing and the control ring. The control chamber is operable to receive pressurized fluid to create a force to move the control ring to reduce the volumetric capacity of the pump. A primary return spring acts between control ring and the casing to bias the control ring towards a position of maximum volumetric capacity. A secondary return spring is mounted in the casing and is configured to engage the control ring after the control ring has moved a predetermined amount. The secondary return spring biases the control ring towards a position of maximum volumetric capacity. The secondary return spring acts against the force of the control chamber to establish a second equilibrium pressure. |
| US08011907B2 |
Piston pump with compact retention device for a restoring spring
A piston pump having a retaining device for retaining a spring element for restoring a closing element of a valve; the retaining device includes a receiving region for receiving and bracing the spring element and an integrally formed sealing region, in order to seal off a pressure chamber from a low-pressure region of the piston pump. |
| US08011903B2 |
Systems and methods for energizing and distributing fluids
The present disclosure provides various pumps and compressors for energizing fluids. In accordance with a preferred embodiment, pumps are provided for compressing hydrogen gas produced by electrolysis at a first location. The pump includes a bore with a piston disposed in the bore, and a magnetic drive external to the bore. The piston is moved through the bore to compress the fluid using permanent magnets or electromagnets. Using the disclosed embodiments, hydrogen compressed at a first location can be directed to a second location, such as a power plant or a fueling station. |
| US08011897B2 |
Cam driven piston compressor
A cam driven piston compressor includes one or more cams powered by a motor, the cams being adapted to rotate through 360 degrees, and one or more cam followers, each of which is in contact with one of the cams. The compressor also includes one or more pistons wherein each of the pistons is attached to one of the cam followers, one or more cylinders wherein each of the cylinders encloses one of the pistons, and a compressor head in contact with the cylinders. |
| US08011895B2 |
No water / dead head detection pump protection algorithm
A method and apparatus are provided for controlling the operation of a pump in a pumping system, featuring sensing a no water or dead head condition of the flow of a medium in the pumping system operating at a set point pressure; and dynamically reducing the set-point pressure to a lower set point pressure that allows for the flow of the medium to continue at the lower set point pressure while further monitoring the flow of the medium through the pump to protect the pump against damage due to the no water or dead head condition. |
| US08011894B2 |
Sealing mechanism with pivot plate and rope seal
A sealing system for sealing a gap between a dovetail tab of a bucket and a rotor. The sealing system may include a sealing slot positioned about the dovetail tab and a pivot plate positioned within the sealing slot. The sealing slot may include a pivot point and a rest ledge such that the pivot plate pivots about the pivot point and into the gap when the bucket rotates. |
| US08011892B2 |
Turbine blade nested seal and damper assembly
A turbine blade damper-seal assembly includes a seal nested within a damper such that both the seal and damper are disposed to provide sealing between adjacent blade platforms. The seal traverses the seal slot in the damper and seals the gap between adjacent blade platforms for the full axial length of the neck cavity between adjacent blades. The damper is located in an aft most position and includes features to facilitate vibration-dampening performance. The damper also includes features that cause entrapment between blades and therefore avoids the conventionally required protrusions on the blade to retain it in the assembled position. |
| US08011883B2 |
Gas turbine engine blade tip clearance apparatus and method
A method for controlling blade tip clearance within a gas turbine engine includes a compressor having at least one first rotor assembly, wherein the blade tips in each of at least one first rotor assembly has a mating geometry with at least one of at least one blade seal surfaces, and a clearance distance extending between the blade tips and the blade seal surfaces; a turbine having at least one second rotor assembly, wherein the blade tips in each of at least one second rotor assembly has a mating geometry with at least one of at least one blade seal surfaces, and a clearance distance extending between the blade tips and the blade seal surfaces; providing an actuator selectively operable to move at least one rotor assembly relative to the shroud; providing an electronic engine controller having a control logic for operating the actuator; and moving at least one first rotor assemblies and at least one second rotor assembly relative to the shroud using the actuator at a response rate according to the control logic to alter the clearance distance. |
| US08011880B2 |
Coating for gas bearing
The invention relates to a vacuum pump in which the gas bearing is coated with a hard layer, and to a process for preparing such gas bearing of a vacuum pump. |
| US08011879B2 |
Transition channel between two turbine stages
A transition channel between a first turbine section and a second turbine section for a gas turbine engine is disclosed. The channel includes a first radially external annular wall including ring sector elements housed inside an annular ring and orifices for injecting a fluid into the channel in order to re-energize the boundary layer thereof, a second radially internal annular wall, and a fluid supply device arranged between the space outside the ring and the injection orifices. |
| US08011874B2 |
Transfer apparatus
A transfer apparatus includes a stationary base, a lift base, a lifting mechanism for vertically moving the lift base, a rotary base mounted to the lift base, a rotating mechanism for rotating the rotary base about a vertical rotation axis, a linear moving mechanism supported by the rotary base, and a work hand supported by the linear moving mechanism. The lifting mechanism includes a slide guide mechanism for vertical movement of the lift base, and first and second screw-feeding mechanisms. Each screw-feeding mechanism includes a rotatable vertical screw shaft, and a nut member provided on the lift base and screwed onto the screw shaft. The first and the second screw-feeding mechanisms are spaced from each other, with the rotation axis of the rotary base being located between the first and the second screw-feeding mechanisms. |
| US08011873B2 |
Double cylinder tilt recovery system
The current invention is a portable wheel lift device for lifting and towing vehicles comprising a boom which pivots up and down for connecting to and raising a portion of a vehicle which is to be towed. The invention comprises a mounting frame adapted to be attached to a towing vehicle and a two-stage cylinder assembly operatively connected to the mounting frame and the boom for tilting the pivoting boom relative to the mounting frame. |
| US08011871B2 |
Devices for transporting reels of material
Reels of material are transported by being disposed on a first transport carriage which is, in turn, disposed on a second transport carriage. The second transport carriage travels between a reel storage area, that has a plurality of storage spaces, and a reel changer of a web-processing machine. The second transport carriage, together with the first transport carriage and the reel of material that is deposited on the first transport carriage then travels to an offload or unload position of the reel changer. |
| US08011868B2 |
Self-sealing fastening assembly
A fastening assembly includes a housing, a press, and a sealant material located in a chamber formed between surfaces of the housing and the press. The fastening assembly may be used to install cladding to a structure. |
| US08011861B2 |
Method and apparatus for continuously feeding and pressurizing a solid material into a high pressure system
A system for substantially continuously providing a solid material, for example pulverized coal, to a pressurized container. The system provides the solid material to a first container of a first pressure elevated above an initial pressure of the solid material. Generally, a screw conveyor augmented with a jet port is used to move the material where the jet port provides a gas to provide a make-up volume of the solid material. The system also provides the material to a second high pressure container after the material has been formed into a slurry. Therefore, the solid material may be substantially continuously provided in a system to a high pressure container. |
| US08011859B2 |
Ground reinforced structure and reinforcement members for the construction thereof
A soil reinforced structure and method of manufacturing the structure is disclosed, the structure includes fill, reinforcement strips including reinforcement sections extending in a reinforced area of the fill at the rear of a front face of the structure, and a facing along the front face, the reinforcement strips are anchored to the facing in anchoring regions, and at least one anchoring region includes a path formed for a reinforcement strip between two protruding points located on a rear face of the facing adjacent to the fill, and at least two reinforcement sections each prolong a rectilinear portion of a path beyond a protruding point and are connected together by at least one linking member and each of the reinforcement sections is a part of a reinforcement strip arranged according to the path, and the linking members are flexible strips fastened to the reinforcement strips above or underneath the reinforcement strips. |
| US08011856B2 |
Constant thrust restraint of pipeline walking
The invention is a means to eliminate thermal or pressure walking of a pipeline by applying a constant axial force to the pipeline through the interposition of a constant-thrust device between a point fixed to the pipeline and a point on a foundation, which pair of points are otherwise unconstrained relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the pipeline. |
| US08011855B2 |
Roadway-levee
A water or flood control and containment system is provided having foundations, sealed bases, supporting structure, and pumping system that gives the user control over water containment and movement either to reduce the water hazard or to store water. The bases are secured and sealed to paved surfaces with foundations that have been preset into the street or other prepared foundation. When deployed on multiple adjacent streets, the system creates a compartmented barrier containment system that mitigates flooding and storm surges. The invention is to be removed and stored off site when not in use. |
| US08011853B2 |
Fluid and nutrient delivery irrigation system and associated methods
A system and method for efficiently delivering an aqueous solution to plants includes a hydrophilic solution-channeling device having a delivery portion positionable adjacent a root system of a plant. The solution-channeling device has a lumen therethrough for channeling a solution from an inlet to the delivery portion. At least a portion of the delivery portion has a porosity adapted for permitting a flow of the solution therethrough when acted upon by at least one of a surfactant root exudate and negative root pressure generated by the plant roots, for example, when experiencing water stress and/or a need for nutrients. The system also includes a pressure regulating device for providing at least a minimum pressure value to permit fluid to flow through the lumen and at most a maximum pressure value above which fluid flows through the lumen even in the absence of surfactant root exudate or negative root pressure. |
| US08011849B2 |
Corner connector
A corner connector device has outside and inside connector components each having a length. The outside component has first and second legs integrally connected along a lengthwise seam. The outside connecter component has an outside connector that extends lengthwise along the seam and projects from an outside surface. The inside connector component has third and fourth legs integrally connected along a lengthwise seam. The inside connector component has an inside connector that extends along the seam and projects from an inside surface. The inside and outside connectors can be lengthwise connected to and disconnected from one another with surfaces of the connector components spaced a distance from one another. Panels meeting at a corner can be captured between the spaced surfaces of the two connector components. |
| US08011847B2 |
Extruding container of applying filler
To enhance customer satisfaction in use of an extruding container of an applying filler, a leading tube having a discharge port (101c) is formed as a filling member (101), and the filling member (101) having a filling region (101x) filled with an applying filler (L) is inserted and attached to a leading end side of a main body side assembly (140) formed by installing a movable body (106), an engagement portion (104c, 106b) for moving the movable body (106) and a rotation preventing portion (102d, 106e), whereby the applying filler (L) can be sufficiently filled in the region (101x) between the inner side of the discharge port (101c) of the filling member (101) and the movable body (106) of the main body side assembly (140), and the applying filler (L) can be rapidly discharged at a first applying time by a user. |
| US08011846B1 |
Pen flower
A pen flower comprises an artificial flower head attached to the cap end of a writing instrument and flower stem-like appearing material, such as floral wrap, wrapped around the writing instrument to re-design a writing instrument, such as a standard ball point pen, into the appearance of a flower. The pen flower further comprises a flower pot containing smooth spherical elements such as marbles or beads. A plurality of flower pens are placed in the spherical elements in the flower pot with the flowers on at least some of the instruments being located outside the pot whereby the writing instruments are held in the flower pot in a manner which produces an appearance of a potted flower while also allowing each writing instrument to be easily removed from the pot for use and replaced into the pot to re-establish the potted flower effect. |
| US08011843B2 |
Tape cassette and tape printer
On the back side surface of a release paper of a double-sided adhesive tape 53, sensor marks 65 each in a rectangular shape elongated in the tape width direction when viewed from its front are printed beforehand at a predetermined pitch L along the tape transferring direction to be vertical and symmetric with each other with respect to the center line in the tape width direction. Further, on the double-sided adhesive tape 53, wireless tag circuit element 32 is provided between adjacent sensor marks 65 on the center line in the tape width direction and at a position equal to the distance l1 from each sensor mark 65 in the tape discharging direction (a direction shown by an arrow A1). An antenna 33 and a reflective sensor 35 are distanced from a cutter unit 30 by a distance l1 in the tape transfer direction. The cutter unit 30 and a thermal head 9 are distanced from each other by a distance l2 in the tape transfer direction. |
| US08011838B2 |
Focal-plane shutter and image pickup apparatus
A focal-plane shutter 105 includes a leading blade driving member 4 rotatably fitted onto a first shaft 1d and driven by a biasing force of a leading blade driving spring 8, a trailing blade driving member 5 rotatably fitted onto a second shaft 1e and driven by a biasing force of a trailing blade driving spring 9, a leading blade adjusting member 6 rotatably fitted onto the first shaft 1d and adjusting the biasing force of the leading blade driving spring 8, a trailing blade adjusting member 7 rotatably fitted onto the second shaft 1e and adjusting the biasing force of the trailing blade driving spring 9, and an upper base plate 3 including a first surface 3a and a second surface 3b that are thrust position limiters. An area of the first surface 3a is larger than that of the second surface 3b. |
| US08011837B2 |
Vibrating device and image equipment having the same
A vibrating device includes a dust-screening member shaped like a plate as a whole, a first vibrating member secured to the dust-screening member and configured to cause, when driven alone, the dust-screening member to undergo first standing-wave vibration, and a second vibrating member secured to the dust-screening member and configured to cause, when driven alone, the dust-screening member to undergo second standing-wave vibration. The first vibrating member and the second vibrating member are so positioned that the first standing-wave vibration and second standing-wave vibration produced by the first and second vibrating members, respectively, overlap each other, thus producing a travelling wave propagating in one direction and having nodes regions at an outer circumferential edge of the dust-screening member, the node regions having virtually no vibrational amplitude. |
| US08011831B2 |
Zipper tape, packing bag with zipper tape and apparatus for producing packing bag with zipper tape
A zipper tape includes a pair of a male member and a female member including engagement portions and belt-like bases, continued to the engagement portions. The belt-like base includes a seal base defined by widening the belt-like base a larger width from the engagement portions to a crosswise end of the belt-like base than that of the belt-like base. A bond layer and an easy-peel layer are layered on a surface of the seal base in side of the engagement portion and heat-fused to a bag body. The seal base is formed of polypropylene. The bond layer is formed of a mixture of polypropylene and low density polyethylene. The easy-peel layer is formed of a mixture of low density polyethylene and polypropylene. A ratio of polypropylene in the easy-peel layer is smaller than a ratio of polypropylene in the bond layer. |
| US08011827B1 |
Thermally compensated dual-probe fluorescence decay rate temperature sensor
The present invention provides a dual-probe thermally compensated fluorescence decay rate temperature sensor capable of measuring the true temperature of a sample surface and its associated method of use. |
| US08011819B2 |
Light guide plate and method for manufacturing the same, and backlight module using the same
A light guide plate includes a light input surface, a light output surface adjoining the light input surface, and a reflecting surface opposite the light output surface. One of the light output surface and the reflecting surface defines a plurality of scattering microstructures. Each scattering microstructure includes a spherical protrusion having a substantially spherical surface, and a substantially ring-shaped groove defined around a periphery of the spherical protrusion. At least half of the spherical surface is as smooth as a mirror. A method for manufacturing the light guide plate and a backlight module using the light guide plate are also provided. |
| US08011816B1 |
Lighted bottle cap apparatus
A lighted bottle cap apparatus replaces a conventional threaded bottle cap to provide an entertaining light display externally of the bottle and also through the liquid contained within the bottle. The cap apparatus incorporates a battery powered lighting device that utilizes LED's to direct light energy into and away from the bottle. An optional advertising display can be formed as part of the cap apparatus to be illuminated from the lighting device. An alternative embodiment provides a central opening through the cap apparatus to allow the liquid within the bottle to be dispensed therethrough. The lighting device is oriented to direct light energy into the discharged liquid. An adaptor incorporating a translucent panel allows the standard cap apparatus to be connected to multiple bottle configurations. The adaptor has first and second sets of threads separated by the translucent panel to seal the lighting device from the liquid in the bottle. |
| US08011809B2 |
Light-emitting diode module with heat dissipating structure and lamp with light-emitting diode module
A lamp (6) includes a housing (5) mounted to a lamp post (4) and a light-emitting diode module (10) mounted in the housing (5). The light-emitting diode module (10) includes a metal substrate (21) and a plurality of light-emitting diode dies (221) mounted on a face (211) of the metal substrate (21). A jacket (11) has a coupling surface (112) engaged with the other face (212) of the metal substrate (21). A heat conduction pipe (12) includes a portion (123) received in a longitudinal hole (111) of the jacket (11). The coupling surface (112) of the jacket (11) has an opening (114) in communication with the longitudinal hole (111). A portion of an outer periphery (124) of the portion (123) of the heat conduction pipe (12) is in direct, thermal contact with the other face (212) of the metal substrate (21) through the opening (114) of the jacket (11) to absorb heat generated by the light-emitting diode dies (221). A finned heat sink (13) is mounted on another portion (121) of the heat conduction pipe (12) outside the jacket (11) to dissipate heat transferred to the heat conduction pipe (12) into the environment. |
| US08011804B2 |
Backlight unit
A backlight unit includes a bottom cover having a bottom surface and side surfaces, a plurality of light emitting diodes installed within the bottom cover for emitting a plurality of lights, a reflection plate within the bottom cover, the reflection plate having a variety of angles for mixing the plurality of lights into a white light, and a diffusion plate attached to the bottom cover for diffusing the white light. |
| US08011801B2 |
Digital picture display device
A digital picture display is disclosed. In a particular embodiment, the device includes a main body, a removable decorative faceplate adapted to be secured to a front portion of the main body, and an internal casing seated within the main body. An annular sidewall extends frontward from a periphery of the internal casing and a plurality of notches are disposed in the annular sidewall of the internal casing to receive a plurality of light emitting diodes. A liquid crystal display is housed within the internal casing, wherein the liquid crystal display is in electrical communication with electronic circuitry. The internal casing also includes a non-volatile memory that stores digital images to view on the liquid crystal display. In addition, the decorative faceplate includes at least one latch to removably secure the faceplate to the main body. |
| US08011795B2 |
Direct type backlight module
A direct backlight module includes a light optical plate, a plurality of point light sources, and a reflective member. The optical plate includes a light input surface and a light output surface opposite to the light output surface. The point light sources are positioned between the optical plate and the reflective member. The reflective element forms a plurality of curved reflective surfaces corresponding to the point light sources. Each curved reflective surface is a substantially spherical depression, and each point light source corresponds to a center of each spherical depression defined by one of the curved reflective surfaces. |
| US08011793B2 |
Wide field four mirror telescope using off-axis aspherical mirrors
A telescope has an entrance pupil region; a first concave mirror (M1) belonging to a first rotationally symmetric aspheric surface and reflecting light passing through the entrance pupil region; a second convex mirror (M2) belonging to a second rotationally symmetric aspheric surface and reflecting light reflected by the first mirror; a third convex mirror (M3) belonging to a third rotationally symmetric aspheric surface and reflecting light reflected by the second mirror; a fourth concave mirror belonging to a fourth rotationally symmetric aspheric surface and reflecting light reflected by the second mirror to an exit pupil. The first, second, third and fourth rotationally symmetric aspheric surfaces are centered on the symmetry axis of the third mirror. The first, second and fourth mirrors are centered along the first direction perpendicular to the optical axis and off-centered in a second direction perpendicular to the symmetry axis and to the first direction. |
| US08011791B2 |
Light-filtering module and projecting system applied therewith
A light-filtering module includes a light-source module, a dichroic mirror and a first image unit. The light-source module outputs a light beam. The dichroic mirror divides the light beam into a first colored light and a dual colored light. The first image unit provides the first colored light with image information. The light-filtering module includes a light-filtering unit and a driving unit. The light-filtering unit is located between the dichroic mirror and the first image unit is located at a light path of the first colored light. The driving unit includes a coupling element coupled to the light-filtering unit and a driving element utilized to drive the coupling element. The driving element drives the light-filtering unit, switching between a first status and a second status by the coupling element. A wide-wavelength spectrum and a narrow-wavelength spectrum are provided when the light-filtering unit is in the first and second statuses, respectively. |
| US08011788B2 |
Illumination system adapted for a projection apparatus and cooling air guiding apparatus thereof
An illumination system adapted for a projection apparatus is provided. The illumination system comprises a cooling air guiding apparatus, a lamp, and a cooling fan. The cooling air guiding apparatus comprises an air intake device and an adjustment device, while the adjustment device comprises an air-flow adjustment element and an air-flow guiding element. The cooling fan generates a cooling air, which flows from the exterior through the air intake device into the air-flow adjustment element. The air-flow guiding element guides the cooling air in the air-flow adjustment element out of an air-flow adjustment hole towards a specific direction. Since the adjustment device may move relatively to the air intake device, the air-flow adjustment hole is adapted to move from the first position substantially aligned with the opening to the second position constituting a substantial displacement with respect to the opening. The cooling air can cool the lamp no matter what angle the projection apparatus is disposed. As a result, the projection apparatus is allowed to be installed in any desired orientation without restrictions. |
| US08011787B2 |
Image projection and detection apparatus
An image projection and detection apparatus including an illumination system, a digital micro-mirror device (DMD), an optical detector, and a total internal reflection (TIR) unit is provided. The illumination system provides an illumination beam. The DMD is disposed in an optical path of the illumination beam, and includes a plurality of micro-mirror structures switched between an on-state and an off-state. When at least a part of the micro-mirror structures are in the on-state, they reflect the illumination beam into an image beam transmitted to an object side. When at least a part of micro-mirror structures are in the off-state, they reflect an object beam from the object side to the optical detector. The TIR unit includes a first TIR surface and a second TIR surface. The first TIR surface totally reflects the illumination beam to the DMD. The second TIR surface totally reflects the object beam to the optical detector. |
| US08011783B1 |
Hearing device connector for eye glasses
The hearing device connector for eyeglasses is a connector that attaches a hearing aid device or a hearing device ear hanger to eyeglasses. The hearing aid device can have a flexible elastic sound tube from the transmitter and the sound tube passes through the connector and the stem of the eyeglasses securing the hearing aid directly to the eye glasses. Other types of hearing devices like telephone or radio sound tube can also be attached to the connector and eyeglasses. Eyeglass holders or attachments that fit around a person's head can also be used to fasten the connector to hearing aids. |
| US08011781B2 |
Method of producing recorded product (printed product) and image forming apparatus
An embodiment of the present invention provides a method of forming an image, which allows a high quality image to be formed on an intermediate transfer body including a surface layer with an ink-repelling property, and then to be transferred at a high transfer rate, and provides an image forming apparatus therefor. In the embodiment of the present invention, an ink image is formed on the intermediate transfer body, on the surface of which an oil and a water-soluble surfactant having surface tension in a range between more than 0 times and not more than 1.1 times of that of the oil are present. Subsequently, the formed ink image is transferred to a recording medium. |
| US08011780B2 |
Drying system for web printer
A drying system for a printer is provided. The printer feeds a media web along a media path past a printhead to an exit region. The drying system has a first chamber positioned on one side of the media web between the printhead and exit region, a heating element within the first chamber, a fan positioned to direct air past the heating element to produce heated air, and a second chamber positioned on the other side of the media web opposite the first chamber, the second chamber having an opening through which the heated air from the first chamber passes. The opening is configured so that the printed media web extends from the media path as a loop to hang within the second chamber through the opening from opposite sides of the opening. |
| US08011774B2 |
Azo dye, colored composition, heat-sensitive transfer recording ink sheet, heat-sensitive transfer recording method, color toner, inkjet ink and color filter
An azo dye represented by formula (1): wherein, R11 represents a monovalent substituent, R12 represents a hydrogen atom or a monovalent substituent, Ar1 represents a specific heterocyclic group such as a group such as a group shown below, and X represents atoms necessary to form a ring; wherein, in the heterocyclic group, R61 to R63 each independently represents a hydrogen atom or a substituent. |
| US08011772B2 |
Liquid container
Liquid packs 34 provided with liquid leading members 42 are stored in a container case 31 that is constituted by fitting a case main body portion 32 and a lid case 33 in fitting portions 27 and 28, support portions 13, which positions the liquid leading members 42 so as to be opposed to liquid introducing members 71 attached to a cartridge inserting portion 13, are provided on a front surface 32a of the container case 31, the fitting portions 27 and 28 are arranged in a state in which the fitting portions 27 and 28 traverses the support portions 43, and space portions 29 and 30 having a gap larger than a gap formed in the fitting portions 27 and 28 are formed near the support portions 43 in the fitting portions 27 and 28. In this way, liquid flowing through the fitting portions 27 and 28 due to the capillarity is retained by the space portions 29 and 30 and never flows to the fitting portions 27 and 28 further extending from the space portions 29 and 30. |
| US08011770B2 |
Liquid containers
A liquid container includes a liquid chamber, a liquid supply chamber, a liquid introduction portion, and a particular liquid path. The liquid chamber is at least partially defined by at least one first wall, the liquid supply chamber is defined by at least one second wall having a first opening and a second opening formed therethrough, and the liquid introduction portion is defined by at least one third wall having a third opening formed therethrough. The particular liquid path extends from the third opening to the second opening, and the liquid introduction portion is configured to introduce fluid from an exterior of the liquid container to the liquid supply chamber via the particular liquid path. The particular liquid path is positioned externally from the liquid chamber. |
| US08011769B2 |
Seal part for ink cartridge of inkjet printer
A seal part for an ink cartridge of an inkjet printer including a seal end for sealing an ink outlet port of the ink cartridge is provided. The seal part is column-shaped, a cylindrical cavity exists inside the seal part, and a diameter of the cavity is greater than a diameter of an ink supply needle of the printer. The seal end for sealing the ink output port of the ink cartridge is a cylindrical surface, or is a cylindrical surface having at least a circle of sealing flange. One end surface is a closed plane for preventing the ink from flowing out from the ink outlet port after the ink cartridge is detached from the printer, and the other end surface is a plane with an aperture in the center. The size of the aperture is adequate to seal the ink supply needle of the printer. The seal part seals the ink supply needle of the printer after the ink cartridge is installed in the printer, and prevents the ink leakage after the ink cartridge is detached from the printer. |
| US08011768B2 |
Ink tank
An ink tank provided with a supply port for supplying the ink contained therein and an electric contact for information transmission is smoothly and securely attached to an attachment section of a printing apparatus while achieving secure connection of an electric contact section at the same time. The ink tank is configured to be attachable to the attachment section by positioning a first engagement section at a first fitting section on the attachment section, and then by rotating the ink tank around the positioned first engagement section to lock a second engagement section to a second fitting section on the attachment section. The supply port and a positioning section for the contact are disposed on the bottom face of the ink tank so as to be on the respective two sides of the center line in the width direction of the ink tank therebetween. |
| US08011766B2 |
Printhead cartridge valve assembly with diaphragm pressure regulator
A valve assembly for a printhead cartridge includes an inlet valve for engaging with an outlet valve of an ink cartridge, the inlet valve having a conical structure defining an inlet opening at a top thereof; a valve seat defined on an inner surface of the conical structure; a depressible valve member provided within the inlet valve, the depressible valve member being normally biased against the valve seat to form therewith a fluidic seal; a skirt engaging portion defined on the inner surface of the conical structure above the valve seat, the skirt engaging portion for engaging a resilient skirt of the ink cartridge, and a pressure regulator provided below the depressible valve member, the pressure regulator having a diaphragm and a regulator inlet defined through the diaphragm, the regulator inlet for facilitating flow of ink from a valve-side of the diaphragm to a printhead-side. The skirt engaging portion is dimensioned to engage the resilient skirt of the ink cartridge simultaneously with an engagement of a valve stem of the ink cartridge with the depressible valve member. |
| US08011760B2 |
Inkjet printhead with suspended heater element spaced from chamber walls
An inkjet printhead is provided having a substrate defining inlet passages, sidewalls extending from the substrate, and a nozzle plate supported by the sidewalls and defining nozzle apertures. The nozzle plate, the sidewalls and the substrate define chambers. The printhead further has a heater element suspended within each of the chambers. The heater element has a planar structure parallel to the plane of the nozzle plate, and a spacing between the heater element and each sidewall of the chamber is between 0.1 microns and 20 microns. The heater element heats a liquid in the chamber to form a gas bubble. The gas bubble causes the ejection of a drop of the liquid through the nozzle aperture. |
| US08011759B2 |
Liquid droplet transport apparatus
A liquid droplet transport apparatus, which is provided on a nozzle plate of an ink-jet head, including a first electrode and a second electrode which are arranged on a lower surface of the nozzle plate, a driver which applies electric potentials to the first electrode and the second electrode respectively, a resistor layer which is arranged on the lower surface of the nozzle plate and which makes electric conduction to both of the first electrode and the second electrode, and an insulating layer which covers the first electrode, the second electrode, and the resistor layer. Accordingly, the liquid droplet transport apparatus is provided, which makes it possible to transport liquid droplets over a long distance, while simplifying the arrangement for the liquid droplet transport. |
| US08011757B2 |
Inkjet printhead with interleaved drive transistors
An inkjet printhead includes a plurality of inkjet nozzles arranged in nozzle rows. Each nozzle row has a respective row of drive transistors. Drive transistors corresponding to one nozzle row are interleaved with drive transistors corresponding to an adjacent nozzle row. |
| US08011753B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a liquid ejecting head which ejects a liquid onto a liquid ejection surface of an ejection target member; a scanning unit which scans the liquid ejecting head relative to the ejection target member; and a driving force transmission mechanism which transmits driving force of a rotary driving force source to the scanning unit through a belt, wherein a liquid absorbing material which absorbs and retains mists of a liquid floating in an inner space of the liquid ejecting apparatus is disposed on the belt. |
| US08011750B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting missing nozzle in thermal inkjet printhead
Provided is a method of detecting a missing nozzle in a thermal inkjet printhead. The method includes: applying an input energy high enough to eject ink to a heater corresponding to a target nozzle, and applying an input energy not high enough to eject ink to a heater corresponding to a nozzle adjacent to the target nozzle; when a predetermined time passes, detecting a difference between temperatures which are measured at points spaced by a predetermined distance from each of the two heaters; and determining whether the target nozzle is missing. |
| US08011747B2 |
Printer controller for controlling a printhead with horizontally grouped firing order
A printer controller for controlling a printhead comprising at least one monolithic printhead module, the at least one printhead module having a plurality of rows of nozzles configured to extend, in use, across at least part of a printable pagewidth of the printhead, the nozzles in each row being grouped into at least first and second fire groups, the printhead module being configured to sequentially fire, for each row, the nozzles of each fire group, such that each nozzle in the sequence from each fire group is fired simultaneously with respective corresponding nozzles in the sequence in the other fire groups, wherein the nozzles are fired row by row such that the nozzles of each row are all fired before the nozzles of each subsequent row, wherein the printer controller is configured to provide one or more control signals that control the order of firing of the nozzles. |
| US08011740B2 |
Idler recoil assembly and machine using same
A track type tractor includes a modular track roller frame made up of easily assembled sub-components. Among these sub-components are an idler recoil assembly that may slide into, and then fastened to a housing as a unit to create a track roller frame assembly. The idler recoil assembly includes a gas spring telescoping section and a length adjustment telescoping section located between a housing contact end and a yoke contact end. Although suspended above a floor of the housing, the idler recoil assembly may only be attached to the housing in a plane via an array of fasteners that surround a shaft axis. The housing encloses the idler recoil assembly against debris entry, but includes an access cover for servicing the gas spring and/or adjusting track tension via the length adjustment feature. |
| US08011739B2 |
Replaceable wear pad
A replaceable wear pad apparatus for a crawler track of a construction machine includes an elongated reinforcing element having first and second sides. The reinforcing element includes first and second holes disposed therethrough and includes first and second polygonal cross section sockets defined therein on the first side of the reinforcing element co-axial with the first and second holes, respectively, each socket including a socket floor and multiple sides. First and second polygonal cross section nuts are received in the first and second sockets, each nut having a threaded bore co-axial with one of the holes. A wear pad is molded from a wear pad material, the reinforcing element and the nuts being embedded in the molded wear pad material so that the wear pad material holds the nuts in place within the sockets. |
| US08011737B2 |
Wheel for toy vehicle
A wheel for a toy vehicle includes a rim, a tire, and a ballast. The rim includes an outer circumferential surface. The tire is attached to the outer circumferential surface of the rim. The tire and the rim cooperatively define a ring-shaped receiving channel therebetween. The ballast is received in the ring-shaped receiving channel, and slidably connected to the outer circumferential surface of the rim. The weight of the ballast is greater than the frictional force between the ballast and the rim. |
| US08011736B2 |
Collapsible wheel
A collapsible wheel includes a rim formed of a number of arched rim elements pivotally connected into an endless series, a connector with a shaft for connection to a golf bag carrier, pushcart or baby cart, a hub sleeved onto the shaft of the connector, first spokes each having one end connected to the rim and the other end for stopping against the periphery of the hug, and second spokes each having an outer spoke segment connected to the rim and an inner spoke segment that has one end hinged to the outer spoke segment and the other end hinged to the hub. |
| US08011735B2 |
Wheel for omni-directional vehicle
A wheel assembly kit for a Mecanum wheel is provided. The kit includes a convex hub having a central axis and a perimeter. The perimeter comprises a plurality of flat spoke faces extending therearound. A spoke is releasably couplable to each spoke face. The spoke is alignable on the spoke face in a first orientation for one of left-handed and right-handed drive. When the spoke is rotated ninety degrees about its respective spoke face, the spoke is alignable in a second orientation for the other of the left-handed and the right-handed drive. A method of assembling the wheel assembly is also provided. |
| US08011730B2 |
Soldier platform system
A soldier platform system and method includes a soldier platform system in a vehicle. In an embodiment, the soldier platform system includes a seat assembly. The seat assembly includes a seat and straps. The soldier platform system also includes a restraint harness belt. The restraint harness belt is secured to the seat assembly. In addition, the soldier platform system includes mounting assemblies. The straps attach the seat to the mounting assemblies. The soldier platform system further includes a ratchet platform that has a platform upper assembly and a platform lower assembly. |
| US08011718B2 |
Rear vehicle body structure
A pair of rear floor frames extend in a fore-and-aft direction in a lower part of a vehicle body. A pair of rear horizontal frames extend in the fore-and-aft direction above corresponding rear wheels. A door beam extends in the fore-and-aft direction in each side door in alignment with the corresponding rear horizontal frame. A pair of rear vertical frames each extend vertically behind the corresponding rear wheel and join rear ends of the corresponding rear floor frame and rear horizontal frame to each other. In a rear end crash with a vehicle having a front bumper at a relatively high position, the rear vertical frames allow the impact energy of the rear end crash to be evenly distributed, and deformation of the passenger compartment is minimized. The rear horizontal frames allow the impact energy to be transmitted to the door beams, contributing to reinforcement of the passenger compartment. |
| US08011708B2 |
Robot gripper and method for its manufacture
The invention relates to a robot gripper having a fixing flange for detachably attaching it to a robot manipulator arm, and at least one actuator element which is supported in a frame, that actuates at least two gripper jaws indirectly or directly kinematically via at least one articulated unit. At least the fixing flange, the frame and the actuator element are manufactured integrally using a generative manufacturing method, and the actuator element is in the form of a bellows, enclosed an internal volume, which can be filled with a medium via at least one opening, and is capable of expanding, when filled with a medium, along a linear axis predetermined by the bellows design of the actuator element and of contracting, when the volume is emptied, in the opposite direction. |
| US08011703B2 |
Lever handle door furniture
A handle assembly has a handle, a handle spigot to which the handle is attached, a biasing member to bias the handle to a naturally closed position, an operating plate which is rotatable by the handle spigot, a mounting stock, and a housing, the spigot, the biasing member, operating plate and a majority of the mounting stock being positioned within the housing, the mounting stock being securable to the housing to hold all the components within the housing. In this manner, the handle assembly can be made as a “complete” unit with all the internal components being in position and with the handle being rotatably attached relative to the housing. Thus, no separate rose is required. Another advantage is that the unit can be assembled using a substantially concealed fixing arrangement to improve security and also to improve the aesthetic appeal of the assembly. |
| US08011696B2 |
Bent pre-tensioner tube
A pre-tensioning device for a seat belt with a piston which is guided in a bent tube, and which in case of triggering is influenced by gas generated by a gas generator located in one section of the tube, to which a cable led into the tube by a cable opening is attached. The gas generator section (12) of tube (10) which accommodates gas generator (16) is offset from the piston path section (11) of tube (10) which accommodates piston (17) by creation of a narrowed cross-section inside the tube with a defined gas flow path (29, 41). |
| US08011695B2 |
Car body substructure
There is provided an underbody structure capable of exactly distributing and transmitting a front collision load to front and back skeleton portions of an underbody even in a case where the front collision load to be input from the front of a vehicle is concentrated on one side in a vehicle width direction. When a power unit 1 moves rearward due to an offset collision load of a right front face of a vehicle, a right connecting arm 7G of a sub-frame 7, an engine rear mount 7E, and right and left stoppers 7H and 7I receive an offset collision load from the power unit 1, thereby suppressing generation of an unintended rotative force in the power unit 1. The sub-frame 7 distributedly transmits an offset collision load to a rear portion 4A of a right front side member 4, and right and left tunnel reinforcements 5 and 5 mainly through four paths of a right beam 7D, a right load transmission beam 7J2, and right and left load transmission beams 7J3 and 7J4 of an intermediate portion. |
| US08011694B2 |
Steering member unit
A steering member unit includes a metal steering member body disposed to extend substantially in a vehicle width direction; metal side brackets that are fixed respectively to both ends of the steering member body and are attachable respectively to vehicle body side parts; and a metal stay that is fixed to an intermediate part of the steering member body and is attachable to a vehicle body floor. In an intermediate part of the steering member body, multiple ground current connecting members connectable to a vehicle body metal part are provided at intervals in a longitudinal direction (vehicle width direction) of the steering member body. Thereby, a resonance frequency of a wavelength depending on the distance of a magnetic field generated by a current flowing into the steering member body can be changed and adjusted. |
| US08011693B2 |
Thermoregulatory unit for small human transport system
The designed invention relates to a temperature regulation device for both hot and cold climates primarily for occupants of human transport mediums such as strollers, wheelchairs, and scooters and secondarily for the caregivers who use these mobile mediums. The invention comprises of an enclosed compartment to hold the occupant, and at least one thermoregulatory unit, comprising at least one thermoelectric element, connected to the compartment. |
| US08011692B2 |
Secure accessory and ballast system for vehicles
A system to provide ballast weight and to secure accessories on a vehicle load bed includes a plurality of hollow planks placed on the load bed adjacent to each other with end edges of the planks substantially aligned with each other and with side edges of the planks adjacent to each other such that top surfaces of the planks form a substantially flat load surface. At least one plank includes a filling orifice with a removable cap to allow filling with ballast. Recesses at corners of the planks are configured to form a substantially horizontally oriented lobe on each corner of the planks, and adjacent planks are connected at right and left ends thereof by a clip extending into the corresponding recesses of the adjacent planks, and fastened to the lobes on the adjacent planks. At least one clip is fastened to the load bed. |
| US08011691B2 |
Air bag
An air bag deployed from a mounted member mounted with the air bag toward an occupant by an insertion of a gas, the air bag includes a front surface portion confronting the occupant, the front surface portion being arranged to be deployed toward the occupant. The front surface portion includes a lower expansion portion arranged to inflate to abut on a breast portion of the occupant, a pair of side expansion portions arranged to inflate to left and right sides of a head portion of the occupant to avoid the head portion of the occupant, and a recessed portion surrounded by the lower expansion portion and the side expansion portions, and recessed toward the mounted member. |
| US08011689B2 |
Airbag apparatus for vehicles
Disclosed herein is an airbag apparatus for vehicles, which is capable of minimizing the loss of pressure of an airbag cushion. The airbag housing of the airbag apparatus accommodates an airbag cushion which is deployed through an opening. An airbag deployment door is placed to face the opening and separated from the cut notch of a crash pad cover when the airbag cushion is deployed. A chute is connected to a surface of the airbag deployment door through a curved hinge portion which is placed to be parallel to the sidewall of the airbag housing. |
| US08011684B2 |
Trailer towing-control apparatus
The invention relates to a trailer towing-control apparatus comprising a towing means connectable between a trailer and a towing vehicle; the towing means having a first connection means at its operative forward end pivotably connectable to a towing vehicle and a second connection means pivotably connectable to the trailer on the other side of the axis of the trailer relative to the first connection means; and a restraint means to selectively allow for articulation of the first connection means relative to the towing vehicle or to prevent articulation of the towing means relative to the towing vehicle in a horizontal plane. |
| US08011682B2 |
Transportation system cradle, intermediate product comprising a transportation system cradle and a transportation system structure, assembly plant for manufacturing assembly of a transportation system structure, and method for manufacturing assembly of a transportation system
A transportation system cradle cradles and moves a transportation system structure of a transportation system in an assembly process. The transportation system cradle contains a drive unit connectable to the transportation system structure to move or transport the transportation system structure. The transportation system cradle also has at least one first and second cradle units that are designed to cradle a first or second foot area of the transportation system structure. Intermediate products, formed of a transportation system structure and a cradle, may be moved between assembly stations in an assembly plant. |
| US08011681B2 |
Vehicle structure
A vehicle side panel step structure includes a step, a mounting structure and a sub-side body panel. The mounting structure movably couples the step to the structural support for movement of the step between a retracted step position and an extended step position relative to a structural support of the vehicle. In the extended step position the step is approximately horizontally oriented relative to a main side body panel of the vehicle. A sub-side body panel is coupled to the mounting structure to move between a fascia mating position when the step is in the retracted step position and a non-fascia mating position when the step is in the extended step position. The sub-side body panel includes a contoured edge configured such that in the retracted step position the contoured edge of the sub-side body panel and a contoured edge of the main side body panel at least partially define the wheel well. |
| US08011680B2 |
Wheelchair suspension system
A wheelchair suspension system includes a suspension member which clamps to longitudinal bars of the wheelchair frame located below the seat of the wheelchair. The suspension member is elongate with upper and lower parallel leaf springs extending between the opposing ends of the suspension member. An axle support member is hinged to each end of the suspension member, by pivotal connection to each of the leaf springs. Each axle support member receives the axle of one of the opposing large rear wheels of the wheelchair. As the large wheels encounter uneven areas on the ground surface on which the wheelchair moves, the leaf springs flex reducing vibrations and shock to the wheelchair occupant. The axle support members maintain their generally upright orientation as the leaf springs flex so that camber angle of the rear wheels does not change. |
| US08011674B2 |
Metal laminate gasket
A metal laminate gasket to be arranged between two members includes a first metal plate and a second metal plate laminated together. The first metal plate has a first hole to be sealed, a first bead around the first hole, and a plurality of second holes around the first bead as bolt holes. The second metal plate has a third hole and fourth holes corresponding to the first and second holes, respectively, and depressions formed at a side facing the first metal plate around the third hole. Each of the depressions is formed on two sides of a line connecting a center of the third hole and a center of each of the fourth holes so that a compressing force of the bead when the gasket is compressed becomes substantially equal around the first hole. |
| US08011669B2 |
Valve stem seal with gas relief features
A valve stem seal can include an elastomeric component having a first portion for having a sealed engagement with a valve stem, a second portion for engaging a valve guide, and a pressure relief lip extending from the second portion. The first portion can be configured to extend away from or within the second portion, and the second portion can have a channel formed therein. The pressure relief lip can have a sealing configuration and a venting configuration. The venting configuration can allow excess exhaust gases to vent from a combustion chamber. After the venting of excess exhaust gases, the pressure relief lip can close to the sealing configuration to prevent oil from entering the combustion chamber. |
| US08011667B2 |
Upset resistant mechanical seal
A mechanical seal face has a significant increase in the ability of the seal to tolerate poor lubrication conditions such as dry running. The mechanical seal employs a thin, non-corrugated flat sheet of flexible thermally conductive graphite material placed between one of the mechanical seal faces and a metal surface such as a metal surface defined by a shaft sleeve or gland serving as a seal ring holder. The graphite sheet is located axially between a back face of the more thermally conductive mechanical seal ring and the metal face holder part. The conductive seal face material preferably is a ceramic or cermet material such as silicon carbide, tungsten carbide, silicon nitride, aluminum oxide, or a metallic material such as stainless steel. Fluid pressure and spring forces are used to create a compressive load between the seal face, graphite sheet, and metal part to maximize continuous contact between the opposed faces of these parts and the opposite sides of the graphite sheet, and heat buildup at contacting seal faces flows away therefrom to the metal part through the thermally conductive sheet. |
| US08011666B2 |
Dynamic brush seal
A seal capable of providing a seal for an air gap between a rotor and a stator. The seal incorporates a container for the textile insulators fixed on the rotor or the stator. The textile insulators are subjected, on one side, to an upstream pressure and, on another side, to downstream pressure, the upstream pressure being greater than the downstream pressure. The textile insulators are supported on the stator or the rotor so as to be at an angle to the side of the seal where the pressure is lower, namely the downstream pressure. |
| US08011663B2 |
Game of chance
A method of playing a game of chance comprising the steps of defining a set of wagers on the outcome of a plurality of differentiable random events, said random events defining an aggregate event, defining a set of payout odds associated with said wagers, accepting at least one player wager for at least one wager in said set of wagers, generating said plurality of differentiable random events, and paying winning wagers according to said payout odds. |
| US08011660B1 |
Lawn game using rolling disks
A lawn game uses a pair of markers toward which each player rolls a disk while standing proximate the other maker. Once all disks have been rolled, the disk closest to the marker determines which player scores points for that round. For the player scoring points, all of that player's disks that are within a certain distance from the rolled to marker score, with each disk laying flat, the number showing on the side of the disk equals the points gained for that disk, the sum of the numbers on each side of a disk remaining on its outer edge equals the points gained for that disk, and the number showing on the side of the disk laying against the rolled to marker multiplied by a multiplier equals the points gained for that disk. A rope removably attachable to the markers helps with measurements. |
| US08011658B2 |
Exit shaft damping device to improve print quality
A damping device for a media feed mechanism for a peripheral device includes a media feedpath having a feed shaft and a downstream exit shaft. In one form a damping hub is mounted on said exit shaft, a resilient biasing member extending between the damping hub and the feed shaft to create a damping force on the damping hub. In another embodiment damping is provided by a brake structure engaging said damping hub. In yet another embodiment, a brake structure is pivotably mounted. |
| US08011655B2 |
Sheet feeding apparatus with mechanism for detecting sheet feeding state and sheet feeding method
A sheet feeding apparatus includes first and second sheet sensors provided in order from upstream to downstream sides in feeding direction on a paper feed path, sheet conveyor roller sets arranged along the path, and a roller controller individually controlling groups of rollers on the upstream and downstream sides of the first sheet sensor, in response to a change in values of output signals from first and second sheet sensors. The roller controller includes an overlapped feeding determining device outputting a determination signal assuming a first value when overlapped feeding occurs and a second value otherwise, in response to the change in values of the output signals from the sensors, an overlapped feeding eliminating device eliminating overlapped feeding by controlling the roller controller upon receiving the determination signal of the first value, and a conveyor roller stopping device stopping the sheet conveyor rollers if the overlapped feeding eliminating process should fail. |
| US08011651B2 |
Original-feeding device
An original-feeding device includes an original tray, a pickup roller configured to be lowered onto originals stacked on the tray and to feed one of the originals, the pickup roller configured to be lifted up after the feeding, a conveyor configured to convey the fed original, a length detector configured to detect a length of the conveyed original, an original sensor configured to detect a trailing edge of the conveyed original, and a controller configured to control the pickup roller either in a first mode in which the pickup roller is lowered in accordance with a detected length of the original or in a second mode in which the pickup roller is lowered at the detection of a trailing edge of the original. The controller changes the first mode to the second mode if lengths of the originals detected by the length detector vary. |
| US08011649B2 |
Sheet processing apparatus and sheet processing method
A sheet processing apparatus includes a first detector configured to detect a leading edge of a sheet conveyed in a conveying direction, a second detector provided on a downstream side of the first detector in the sheet conveying direction to detect the leading edge of the sheet conveyed, a punching portion, in the downstream side of the first detector in the sheet conveying direction, to move in a sheet width direction crossing the sheet conveying direction and perform a punching process for the sheet, an edge detector configured to move in the width direction together with the punching portion and detect the edge of the sheet conveyed in the width direction, and a controller, on the basis of at least either of information of a conveying speed of the sheet and a sheet length in the conveying direction, when the edge detector starts movement in the width direction after the first or second detector detects the leading edge of the sheet, to judge whether the edge detector can detect the edge of the sheet or not, as a result of the judgment, selecting the detector positioned on the most downstream side in the conveying direction among the first and second detectors which can be used, and when the selected first or second detector detects the leading edge of the sheet conveyed, permitting the edge detector to start movement to detect the edge of the sheet in the width direction. |
| US08011647B2 |
Kit for assembling a modular bracket
A kit is provided for assembling a modular bracket (1) used, in particular for placing gripping and clamping devices or clamping components, in particular metal sheets on an assembly line. The kit has a base part (3) fixable on a solid support or a carrier, a tube (4) fixable to the base part (3) and a head part (5) which is fixable to the tube (4). The head part includes connecting surfaces for fixing the gripper on the clamping device. According to the invention, the head part (5) is continuously height-adjustable with respect to the tube (4), is pivotable about the central longitudinal axis thereof and, afterwards, frictionally and form-fittingly connectable to the tube (4). |
| US08011642B2 |
Cruising aerator
A cruising aerator includes a raft, a motor mounted on the raft, a shaft driven by the motor, a first impeller mounted on the shaft, a second impeller mounted on the shaft, and a common chamber. The cruising aerator further includes a sequential controller connected to the motor for controlling the motor to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. The motor, the shaft and impellers are installed inside of the common chamber. The common chamber has a common inlet disposed under a water surface. A first outlet and a second outlet of the common chamber are arranged to face in opposite directions. The first impeller and second impeller are assembled to have opposite normal rotating directions to each other according to a rotating direction of the motor. |
| US08011641B2 |
Carburettors
A carburettor includes a flow duct (4) including rich (8) and lean (10) passages in parallel, through which, in use, air flows and which are separated by a substantially planar partition (6). At least one fuel jet (12, 14, 16) communicates with the rich passage (8). The partition (6) includes a circular aperture (20). A butterfly valve (24) is mounted on a pivotal shaft (22) to be pivotable between a closed position, in which the flow duct (4) is substantially closed, and an open position, in which the flow duct is substantially open. The pivotal shaft (22) extends perpendicular to the plane of the partition (6). The pivotal shaft (22) carries a circular obturator disc (26), whose diameter is substantially equal to that of the aperture (20) and which is received in the aperture (20) and substantially closes the aperture (20) at all positions of the butterfly valve (24). |
| US08011640B2 |
Air valve adjusting switch assembly
The present invention relates to an air valve, including a valve body, an air valve adjusting pipe, an adjusting bolt, an airtight ring and a screw cap. With the geometric shapes of the air valve adjusting pipe and the adjusting bolt, the airtight ring installed onto the adjusting bolt is in contact with the internal wall of the air valve adjusting pipe to achieve a totally airtight effect and adjusting the level of airtightness. |
| US08011638B2 |
Marking device
A marking device comprises an outer shell in a cylindrical shape with a bottom surface attached to a molding device, a rotatable tube provided inside of the outer shell, an indicator connecting to the bottom of the outer shell and a support mechanism pushing up the rotatable tube from the internal space of the outer shell while the indicator and the outer shell are engaged with each other. The head of the indicator is formed in a frusto-conical shape tapered into the inside of the outer shell. The rotatable tube comprises an inner surface contacting to the outer surface of the head of the indicator, and an outer surface forming a frusto-conical head tapered into the inside of the outer shell from a second carved marks. The outer shell comprises an inner surface contacting to the outer surface of the head of the rotatable tube. |
| US08011636B2 |
Electronic apparatus with a stand
A telephone with a stand has a rear case and a stand leg swingably connected to the rear case. The rear case includes an embossed portion disposed in the center of a back wall thereof, two swing pivots protrudingly arranged in respective lateral faces of the embossed portion, and V-shaped grooves formed in the back face adjacently to the pivots. The stand leg has two main legs and an auxiliary leg connecting the main legs to each other. Each of the main legs has a locking claw protruding from a tip end thereof and engaged with one of the V-shaped grooves, and a guide groove formed in the distal end of the main leg. The guide groove includes a main groove portion extending in the longitudinal direction of the main leg and a sub groove portion orthogonal to the main groove portion. |
| US08011631B2 |
Vibration resistant fastener
A fastener having a capture body including a cavity formed therein and a retainer clip including an elongate capture support and a pawl for engagement with the capture body. The fastener being resistant to vibration and able to be installed and removed without the use of special tools, while providing consistent fastening through thermal expansion cycles, and supporting assembly “stack-up” tolerances is disclosed. |
| US08011629B2 |
Clamping device
A clamping device for attaching a piece of first moveable equipment to a piece of second moveable equipment comprising a body, a mounting portion, and an attachment portion. The attachment portion comprising an attachment recess disposed within the body for receiving the piece of first movable equipment, and a latch plate rotatably attached to the body at a pivot disposed on one side of said attachment recess, wherein the latch plate may be pivotally disposed between an open position and a closed position. The latch plate further having an attachment lock disposed within the latch plate. The attachment lock is configured to produce a force against the piece of first moveable equipment when the latch plate is in the closed position. |
| US08011614B2 |
Bird vortex flying machine
The present invention comprises, in one embodiment, an inexpensive, lightweight flying vehicle using fixed pitch helicopter blades powered by ramjet engines mounted to a power-ring which transfers torque to the lifting rotors. The use of fixed pitch blades eliminates the need for a tail boom and tail rotor, as well as for variable incidence control of blade pitch and/or cyclic and collective rotor-pitch controls. An optional ballistic parachute may be deployed for emergency landings. A radial shroud encloses the ramjet engines to act as a sound shield. Since the rotor has a fixed pitch, lift may be controlled by rotor speed, where increased speed results in ascent, and decreased speed, descent. |
| US08011612B2 |
Method and machine for the production of logs of web material
The rewinding machine includes a winding system and a feed path for a web material towards the winding system. Along the feed path is a channel for insertion of the cores and an interruption member which acts on the web material. |
| US08011611B2 |
Roll paper type recording medium transporting mechanism and image forming apparatus
In a recording medium transporting mechanism, a flange member is attached on either side of a roll paper and the flange member has a diameter smaller than a maximum outer diameter of a roll paper. Support rollers support a corresponding one of the flange members in a rotatable manner. The support rollers are moveable along the axis of rotation of the roll paper. The sum of an outer diameter of corresponding one of the flange members and the support rollers is greater than a maximum outer diameter of the roll paper. A rewinding roller of at least a length equivalent to a distance between both sets of support rollers when the sets of support rollers are farthest apart is engaged with a support roller within the set of support rollers and can rotate the flange member in a rewinding direction over a desired amount of continuous time. |
| US08011610B2 |
Fishing reel handle assembly
A fishing reel handle assembly has a handle shaft, handle knobs, first and second handle arms, and an arm attachment. The handle knobs are respectively rotatably attached to the attachment ends of the first and second handle arms. The arm attachment is configured to rotate integrally with the handle shaft. The arm attachment includes a first attachment portion that allows the base end of the first handle arm to be detachably attached to the first attachment portion. The first attachment portion prevents the base end of the first handle arm from rotating about a first axis. The second attachment portion allows the base end of the second handle arm to be detachably attached to the second attachment portion. The second attachment portion prevents the base end of the second handle arm from rotating about a second axis. |
| US08011608B2 |
Silage pile defacer
A silage pile defacer includes a frame having a rear end and a front end. A transverse beam carrying a plurality of downwardly projecting tines is coupled to the front end of the frame. A quick connect coupler is mounted to the rear end of the frame for mounting the defacer to a quick hitch coupler on the lift arm mechanism of a tractor. The tines are oriented at an angle relative to the frame, allowing the tines to be generally vertically oriented relative to the ground when the defacer is elevated above a silage pile. The tines of the defacer are configured to contact the silage pile and to skive off a face layer of the silage pile when the defacer is lowered to the ground by the tractor lift arm mechanism. |
| US08011607B1 |
Size and metal separator for mobile crusher assemblies
A mobile bucket assembly for crushing objects includes a frame configured as a bucket that can carry a screen and/or a magnet. The mobile bucket assembly can be attached to a piece of construction equipment such as a front end loader or an excavator for example. |
| US08011605B2 |
Liquefying de-watered sludge preparatory to drying
Sewage sludge that has been de-watered to 25% solids is subjected to a combination of shearing and heating that liquefies the sludge, and drops its viscosity to below 12,000 cP. The fact of liquefaction prepares the sludge such that subsequent drying can be done more cost-effectively than hitherto. After drying, the dried sludge can be incinerated. |
| US08011604B1 |
Pop-up water jet assembly
A pop-up water jet assembly comprises a housing having a vertical, central axis, an upper end, a top surface, a lower end, an interior and a water inlet adjacent to the lower end communicating with the interior of the housing. A pop-up member having an upper portion, a top surface, a lower portion and an interior in communication with the interior of the housing, is movable relative to the housing between a raised position in which the upper portion of the pop-up member extends from the upper end of the housing and a lowered position in which the top surfaces of the housing and the pop-up member are substantially flush. The upper portion of the pop-up member carries a water outlet nozzle communicating with the interior of the pop-up member and having an axis at an angle to the axis of the housing to discharge water directed in a trajectory away from the pop-up jet assembly, the pop-up member being movable to its raised position in response to water flow admitted into the housing through the inlet and to its lower position under gravity bias upon termination of the water flow. The water discharged from the outlet nozzle may be illuminated by an optical fiber or LED light source mounted within the housing. Also disclosed is a water reservoir system such as a spa incorporating a pop-up water jet assembly in accordance with the invention. |
| US08011603B2 |
Liquid storage system, liquid container, and liquid lead-out control method
A liquid storage system includes a liquid container having a plurality of through holes of a nano-size from which volatile liquid contained in the liquid container is led outside by capillary action, and photocatalytic films provided on surfaces of the through holes, the photocatalytic films being hydrophilic during light irradiation, an irradiation unit configured to irradiate the photocatalytic films with light, and a control unit configured to control the irradiation unit in accordance with an amount of the volatile liquid to be led outside. |
| US08011598B2 |
SOFC power system with A/C system and heat pump for stationary and transportation applications
An improved CHP system combining a VCCHP system with an SOFC system for application as a combined CHP system wherein the compressor motor of a heat pump is powered by a portion of the electricity generated by the SOFC, and wherein the thermal output of the heat pump is increased by abstraction of heat from the SOFC exhaust. This integration allows for complementary operation of each type of system, with the benefits of improved overall fuel efficiency for the improved CHP system. The heat pump is further provided with a plurality of flow-reversing valves and an additional heat exchanger, allowing the heat pump system to be reversed and thus to operate as an air conditioning system. |
| US08011596B2 |
Machine readable 2D symbology printable on demand
An optically readable two dimensional symbology employed to encode a string of characters belonging to a source string alphabet. The two dimensional symbol can comprise an ordered plurality of printable elements. The printable elements can be arranged in a rectangular array. The printable elements can be positioned on a grid diagonal to the longitudinal axis of the rectangular array, and sequenced according to a pre-defined pattern. Each character of the character string can be encoded into a sequence of printable elements using an encoding scheme comprising at least one code set. A code set can include a plurality of bit sequences. Each bit sequence can correspond to a group of one or more characters of the source string alphabet. Each bit sequence can comprise one or more binary digits. The first binary digit can be encoded by a printable element printed in a printable element position, and a second binary digit can be encoded by a vacant printable element position. |
| US08011594B2 |
Radio frequency identification (RFID) payment terminal with display-embedded RFID antenna
The subject matter described herein includes an RFID payment terminal with a display-embedded antenna. According to one aspect, an RFID payment terminal with a display-embedded antenna includes a display for graphically displaying payment information to a user. An RFID antenna is embedded in a portion of the display used for displaying the payment information to a user and for communicating with an RFID device of the user to receive transaction information form the RFID device. An RFID payment module is coupled to the antenna for receiving the transaction information and for effecting the payment transaction. |
| US08011593B2 |
Smart apparatus for making secure transactions
The disclosed invention relates to an apparatus and method for making secured transactions. Such an apparatus may include a smart card device configured with a display for display a static or dynamic number for making a secured transaction. The display is configured to display a valid card number after the user's identify has been verified using a biometric verification process. The device may further comprise a programmable magnetic strip that is programmed with user data after the user's identify has been verified. The apparatus may further include a cloning process to allow a second device to perform secure transactions. One such second device is a smart module associated with a vehicle. |
| US08011590B2 |
Assembly consisting of a micro-module and a reproducing device which is equipped with contact-free near-communication means
A portable communication device for at least mono-directional communication with a terminal is disclosed. The portable communication device includes a micro-module including a chip that has an antenna allowing the micro-module to communicate with the terminal when the antenna is placed in the immediate vicinity of the terminal. The portable device further includes a reader receiving the removable micro-module, and the antenna is held by the reader such that the micro-module is removable relative to the antenna. |
| US08011588B2 |
Electronic wallet device and method of using electronic value
There is provided an electronic wallet device using electronic value concerning a prescribed service by means of a non-contact type IC card capable of non-contact communication with an external unit, which includes a holding section to hold a plurality of non-contact type IC cards, an external communication antenna to perform non-contact communication with the external unit, a card communication antenna to perform non-contact communication with the non-contact type IC cards held in the holding section, a value storing section capable of storing electronic value, and a control section to receive a transaction request concerning the service from the external unit via the external communication antenna and, in response to the transaction request, transfer electronic value between the value storing section and at least one of the plurality of non-contact type IC cards via the card communication antenna. |
| US08011584B2 |
Graphical code readers that are configured for glare reduction
A method for glare reduction may be implemented by a graphical code reader. The method may include illuminating a target area using a plurality of light sources. The method may also include capturing images of the target area using at least one image sensor. The method may also include determining that glare is present in at least one captured image. The method may also include determining glare information that indicates which of the light sources are responsible for the glare. The method may further include taking corrective action to reduce the glare in subsequent images based on the glare information that is determined. |
| US08011576B2 |
Automated banking machine system and method
A card actuated automated banking machine (152, 198, 200) includes a plurality of transaction function devices. The transaction function devices include a card reader (170), a printer (174), a bill dispenser (176), a coin dispenser (178), a display (182), a check imaging device (186), and at least one processor (190). The machine is operative responsive to receiving a check and certification data to dispense cash in exchange for the check. The person presenting the check need not provide user identifying inputs through input devices in order to receive cash for the check. A check recipient prior to presenting the check for payment is also enabled to verify that the check will be paid through communication with at least one computer (204) through at least one consumer interface device (208). |
| US08011572B2 |
Banking transaction machine that operates responsive to data bearing records
A cash dispensing banking transaction machine that operates responsive to data bearing records includes a card reader that reads identifying data from a user card. The machine dispenses cash from a cash dispenser for a financial account without causing the card reader device to read data from a card corresponding to the financial account, when a determination indicates that a voice of the user included in an audio input signal to audio input device corresponds to a particular recognized user stored in a data store in correlated relation with the financial account. |
| US08011571B2 |
Self-service terminal
A self-service terminal comprises a plurality of devices, each device having a unique device identifier. The terminal also has a fascia including a plurality of apertures, each aperture having a corresponding indicator and being associated with a device in the self-service terminal. The terminal executes a control application for identifying and energizing an indicator corresponding to an aperture to be used by a customer. The terminal also includes a mapping component for allowing an authorized user (i) to display the current mapping of indicators to device identifiers, and (ii) to modify the current mapping to associate an indicator with a different device identifier. |
| US08011566B2 |
Hinged lid for a food container with plastic lower ring
A hinged lid structure is provided that is configured for attachment to a paperboard receptacle. The lid structure includes a tamper evident shield structure that requires breaking at least a portion of the shield structure away to effect exposure of a portion of the lid structure to a user to effect opening of the lid structure. The lid structure also includes a plurality of peripherally spaced apart webs for providing structural rigidity to the lid structure and therefore additional strength the upper open end of the receptacle it is attached to. |
| US08011564B2 |
Easy opening carton having improved stacking strength
A carton having a dispensing opening. The carton can be formed from a paperboard blank so it has six corners and two corner panels and has perforations formed therein to provide an easy opening feature for dispensing product. In addition, the formed carton has improved stacking strength. |
| US08011561B2 |
Method of mounting electronic components on printed circuit boards
A method of mounting electronic components on a PCB, includes following steps. The PCB is placed with a first side of the PCB facing upwards. A plurality of solder is applied on bonding pads of the first side. A plurality of electronic components is stuck on the bonding pads of the first side. The PCB is turned over with a second side of the PCB facing upwards and the first side of the PCB facing downwards. A plurality of solder is applied on bonding pads of the second side. A plurality of electronic components is stuck on the bonding pads of the second side. The PCB is placed in a reflow oven to weld the electronic components on the first side and the second side of the PCB. |
| US08011560B2 |
Apparatus and method of solid-state welding
The present invention provides an apparatus and improved method of friction stir spot welding that assures a predetermined bottom thickness and a reduction in variation in a series of resultant spot welds. The advantage of the present invention lies in that the plunge distance is controlled from the top plane of the anvil against which the bottom thickness is specified, and systematically adjusted to account for changing system parameters, such as, but not limited to, deflection and thermal expansion of the weld gun. The present invention also provides for improved and controlled weld quality through implementation of a dwell operation or dwell operations, whereby weld heat input is manipulated by causing the weld tool to dwell in a dwell region or at a desired depth or depths within the workpiece(s) for a predetermined time interval to achieve desired mechanical properties of the resultant weld joint. |
| US08011559B2 |
Active material-augmented vibration welding system and method of use
A method for controlling welding forces of a weld tip to a work piece during a vibration-welding process includes positioning an Active Material (AM) element adjacently to a welding interface, and varying a property of the AM element to regulate the welding force. The AM element may be disposed between the weld tip and a weld face thereof, or between the work piece and an anvil. The property may be varied as a function of heat generated by the welding process. A property of each of a plurality of AM elements may be independently and selectively varied via an energy source, or passively. A vibration welding system includes a weld tip and an AM element connected adjacently to a welding interface. The system regulates a welding force applied by the weld tip to a work piece during the welding process by varying a property of the AM element. |
| US08011558B2 |
Turntable welding method with light curtain protection
A robotic welding system and method includes multiple welding cells equidistantly spaced in a circular arrangement, multiple perimeter light curtains to provide safety protection around the welding cells, a turntable centrally located in the circular arrangement, and multiple welding robots attached to the turntable. The welding system and method further includes a first welding process and a second welding process whereby both the first welding process and the second welding process each include a primary welding operation and a secondary welding operation whereby the turntable rotates between the welding cells to perform the primary and secondary welding operations. |
| US08011557B1 |
Automatic soldering machine
An automatic soldering machine for soldering wires, each exposing at least one core wire and electronic components with at least one soldering portion respectively is disclosed. The automatic soldering machine comprises an equipment, a delivery mechanism, a plurality of clamps, a feeding mechanism, an insulation removing mechanism, a soldering mechanism, an unloading mechanism and a programmable control system. The delivery mechanism delivers the wires. The clamps locate the wires. The feeding mechanism conveys the electronic components. The insulation removing mechanism cuts the core wires and strips insulations at tops of the core wires. The soldering mechanism solders the core wires and the soldering portions of the electronic components. The unloading mechanism separates the soldered electronic components and core wires off from the clamps. The programmable control system is connect to the aforesaid mechanisms and controls thereof with high production efficacy and stable production quality. |
| US08011556B2 |
Device for the connecting of strips
The invention relates to a device (100) for the connecting of strips to an endless strip with a clamping arrangement (110, 120) with a clamping device (110-r, 120-r) on the inlet side and a clamping device (110-l, 120-l) on the outlet side, a cutting arrangement (155) with an upper cutter (150) and a lower cutter (130) and with a joining arrangement, in which at least the clamping device (110-r, 120-r) on the inlet side and/or the clamping device (110-l, 120-l) on the outlet side is constructed as a premountable unit. |
| US08011552B2 |
Surgical fastener applying apparatus with controlled beam deflection
A surgical fastener applying apparatus including an anvil half-section having a distal end and a longitudinal axis; a cartridge receiving half-section having a distal end and operatively couplable with the anvil half-section such that the distal ends of the half-sections are in juxtaposed relation; and a deflection control system operatively engaged with and reinforcing the distal end of the anvil half-section when a force is applied to the distal end of the anvil half-section in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis. |
| US08011550B2 |
Surgical stapling apparatus
A loading unit for use with a surgical stapling apparatus is provided and includes a tool assembly having a cartridge assembly and an anvil assembly that are movable in relation to one another; a surgical buttress releasably secured to a tissue contacting surface of the anvil assembly and/or the cartridge assembly, wherein each surgical buttress is secured to the anvil assembly and/or the cartridge assembly by at least one anchor; a release assembly associated with the anvil assembly and/or the cartridge assembly; and a drive assembly slidably translatable through the tool assembly between proximal and distal positions, wherein the drive assembly actuates the release assembly to thereby release the anchor to free the surgical buttress from the anvil assembly and/or the cartridge assembly. |
| US08011549B2 |
Flywheel configuration for a power tool
A driving tool with a flywheel, a driver, an actuator and a roller that is moveable between an unactuated position and an actuated position. Positioning of the roller in the actuated position forces an engagement surface on the driver into contact with a rotating edge of the flywheel to transfer energy from the flywheel to the driver so that the driver will translate along an axis. The actuator at least partially initiates movement of the roller from the unactuated position to the actuated position. |
| US08011546B2 |
Scribing and breaking apparatus and system therefor
A separation apparatus comprising a first and a second scribing portions for scribing front and rear surfaces of a first mother substrate made of a brittle material along first predetermined scribing lines previously provided on the front and rear surfaces of the first mother substrate, the first and second scribing portions being opposed to each other on an upper side and a lower side, and a holding and transferring portions for holding and transferring the first mother substrate so that the first predetermined scribing lines of the first mother substrate are located between the first and second scribing portions. |
| US08011545B2 |
Carrier system
A system for carrying articles from a belt worn on the body of a person or other animate bearer comprises a belt or elongated member (20) with a substantially planar rail (30) borne on the outside surface of the belt and a carrier (50) for articles attached to the rail by a sleeve sewn to the body of the carrier. The carrier (50) may be free to slide along the rail (30) or may be secured at least temporarily to the rail. The carrier (50) thereby can be moved along the rail when worn on the belt so that the bearer can place the carrier (50) in a more comfortable or useful position with respect to the body of the bearer and secure it in that position at least temporarily. |
| US08011544B1 |
Hinged pocket
A pocket for an article having oppositely facing sides, comprising a front component cooperating in a nested relationship with a back component to define a chamber having an open upper end sized to receive the article. The front and back components, when in their nested relationship, having confronting front and back walls and overlapping bottom walls closing the lower end of the chamber. The bottom walls are interconnected in a manner accommodating movement of the front component relative to the back component between a closed position at which the sides of an article received in the chamber via the open upper end are tightly confined between the front and back walls, and a release position at which the front wall is deflected away from the back wall to accommodate removal of the article from the chamber via the open upper end. A back mounting bar extends across and cooperates in spaced relationship with the exterior of the back wall to define parallel back channels. A pair of flexible mounting straps have lower ends and upper ends joined by a transverse web. The mounting straps extend downwardly through the back channels along the exterior of the back wall. The lower ends of the mounting straps are detachably connected to one of the bottom walls. The mounting straps cooperate with the exterior of the back wall to define a belt receiving slot. |
| US08011541B2 |
Tool containment system
A tool containment system provides various configurations of a flexible member each of which can engage a part of the external surface of a tool to provide connection means for a tether to limit travel of the tool, or to oppose disassembly of tool components, or both. |
| US08011540B1 |
Aerator bottle pourer
An aerator bottle pourer for smoothing the taste of certain liquids such as wine and preventing dripping of the liquid after being poured from a bottle. The aerator bottle pourer includes a pouring assembly being removably engaged to a bottle for pouring liquid from the bottle, and also includes an aerating assembly being attached to the pouring assembly for aerating the liquid as it is being poured from the bottle. |
| US08011539B1 |
Bulk tank cryogenic safety system
A bulk tank source of pressurized gas supplies gas to a consumption device, such as a beverage dispenser. A control valve is located between the bulk tank and the consumption device. A pressure monitoring system is connected to monitor the gas pressure between the bulk tank and the control valve. The pressure monitor system closes the valve when pressure drops below a first predetermined threshold, and opens the valve when the monitored pressure exceeds a second predetermined threshold greater than the first predetermined threshold. |
| US08011538B2 |
Dispensing tool
An apparatus for dispensing material is provided having a body portion and housing for supporting cartridges filled with materials for dispensing. The housing includes a dispensing end, an attachment end, and an elongated opening for receiving the cartridges. The apparatus further comprises an attachment assembly located at an end of the body portion for attaching the housing to the body portion. The attachment assembly includes a first set of threads located about the perimeter of the attachment assembly. A second set of threads are located about the perimeter of the attachment end of the housing for engaging the first set of threads, forming a threaded connection and attaching the housing to the body portion. |
| US08011537B2 |
Dispensing system and method for dispensing fluid in an appliance
A dispensing system for an appliance has a main tank for holding a fluid. The main tank controls the temperature of the fluid. A dispenser outlet fluidly is connected to the tank by a dispenser fluid line. An auxiliary tank holds a volume of the fluid. A flow control device selectively moves the fluid held in the auxiliary tank to the main tank then through the dispenser fluid line to the dispenser outlet and selectively removes the fluid remaining in the dispenser fluid line after dispensing. |
| US08011535B2 |
Process for closing a fill passageway into a container
A process for closing a fill passageway into a container with a closure unit comprising a pour spout and a closure cap. The pour spout is mounted to a neck finish associated with a container in an anchored position on the neck finish without blocking later removal of the closure cap from the pour spout by a consumer to expose the fluid-discharge outlet of the pour spout to permit discharge of fluid material from the interior region of the container through the exposed fluid-discharge outlet while the pour spout remains in the stationary anchored position on the neck finish. |
| US08011531B2 |
Enhanced container system
Food containers formed of sheet plastic are latchably stackable on one another. Each container has base (14) and lid (16) elements, with one of them having an outer rim part with a pair of long handle sections (80, 82) that can be pivoted up to form a handle assembly for carrying the container. The sections that form handles are formed in the lid element (16) rather than in the base element (14), so a person does not have to contend with long bouncing sections if the person eats a meal out of the base. One of the elements has vertically undercut grooves (50) and the other element has horizontal projections (52) that slide into and along the grooves. The grooved element has vertical passages (120) along which the projections can move vertically until they can slide into and along the grooves. |
| US08011527B2 |
Can end with countersink
A can end for a two-piece beverage can is described. The can end has a center panel positioned about a vertical center axis. The center panel has a stay-on tab opening assembly located on a public side. A reinforcing bead surrounds the center panel. The reinforcing bead has an inner curved portion having a radius of curvature located radially inwardly from an outer curved portion having a radius of curvature. The radius of curvature of the outer curved portion is greater than the radius of curvature of the inner curved portion. |
| US08011514B2 |
Modified amine-aldehyde resins and uses thereof in separation processes
Modified resins are disclosed for removing a wide variety of solids and/or ionic species from the liquids in which they are suspended and/or dissolved. These modified resins are especially useful as froth flotation depressants in the beneficiation of many types of materials (e.g., mineral and metal ores), including the beneficiation of impure coal comprising clay impurities, as well as in the separation of valuable bitumen from solid contaminants such as sand. The modified resins are also useful for treating aqueous liquid suspensions to facilitate the removal of solid particulates, as well as the removal of metallic ions in the purification of water. The modified resins comprise a base resin that is modified with a coupling agent, which is highly selective for binding to solid contaminants and especially siliceous materials such as sand or clay. |
| US08011512B2 |
Child-resistant package with latch and retaining feature
A child-resistant but adult-friendly package package comprising a sleeve having top and bottom walls, opposite side walls, a closed end, and an open end. A blister card insert configured to be movable into and out of the sleeve through the open end. A first latch element on the insert and a second latch element on the sleeve, the first and second latch elements are interengageable when the insert is fully inserted in the sleeve to latch the insert against withdrawal from the sleeve. A biasing member on the insert is configured to be in contact with the top and bottom walls of the sleeve, urging the first latch element into engagement with the second latch element. The biasing member also forming a first portion of a retaining means to prevent complete withdrawal of the insert from the sleeve and a second portion of the retaining means is formed on the sleeve for cooperation with the first portion to retain the insert against complete withdrawal from the sleeve. |
| US08011506B2 |
Tray for handling syringes
A tray is provided for receiving a plurality of pre-filled syringes each having a tubular body defining an outer surface and a chamber having an open first end sealed with a plug and an open opposite second end configured to establish fluid communication with a hypodermic needle, wherein a flange extends from the tubular body at the first end. The tray includes a plate defining a plurality of through-going ridges and a plurality of through-going grooves parallel to the ridges, wherein the ridges are interconnected with the grooves. A multitude of open apertures is defined at the ridges, wherein the apertures are configured for (a) receiving the flange of a syringe received between two adjacent ridges, and (b) permitting the passage of a gas through the plate to contact the outer surface of the syringe. |
| US08011505B2 |
Vapor hydrated collapsible sleeve hydrophilic catheter package
A vapor hydrated packaged catheter assembly includes a gas impermeable package housing a catheter within a catheter-receiving cavity. The catheter assembly has a hydrophilic coating on at least a portion of the outer surface of a catheter tube which may be surrounded by a sleeve. The catheter assembly is disposed within the catheter receiving cavity of the package with a vapor donating liquid provided as a source of vapor to activate the hydrophilic coating. The amount of vapor donating liquid is less than the amount that would otherwise be sufficient to cause a spill hazard. The catheter assembly is ready to use due to exposure of the hydrophilic coating to a vapor produced by the vapor donating liquid. |
| US08011503B2 |
Modular optical disc media storage system
Protective modular holders for CDs and DVDs can be assembled into a storage assembly from which each disc and its accompanying literature can be removed without opening an individual holder. Two outer elements and an inner element form a module which receives two components, such as a pair of discs, or a disc and a booklet. Each side of the inner member cooperates with the corresponding outer element to form a disc receiving opening with openings aligned or at 90° or 180° offsets. The units are connected at the corners to adjacent units with the openings in selected alignments to form a storage assembly. The assembly may be expanded by connecting additional holder units. The outer elements and inner members cooperatively form a slot and label rail for receiving a label when the elements are joined together. The inner holder member surfaces may include a disc cleaner. |
| US08011501B2 |
Package of tobacco articles
A package (1) of tobacco articles, having a group (2) of tobacco articles; a collar (16) surrounding the group (2) of tobacco articles and having a number of lateral walls (17, 18, 19, 20); and an outer package (3) surrounding the group (2) of tobacco articles and the collar (16), and having a top wall (12), a bottom wall (13) parallel to the top wall (12), and a number of lateral walls (8, 9, 10, 11) which are perpendicular to the top and bottom walls (12, 13), and are parallel to and rest on respective lateral walls (17, 18, 19, 20) of the collar (16). A lateral joining wall (8; 10) of the outer package (3) is defined by two panels (8′, 8″; 10′, 10″), which are separate, coplanar, and side by side with no overlap, and are both glued to an underlying lateral joining wall (17; 19) of the collar (16). |
| US08011493B2 |
Device for changing the pitch between articles being conveyed and rotating these articles
A device for carrying out a repitching operation, i.e., for changing the pitch between articles (A) comprised in a flow of moving articles, includes one or more conveying elements (12) for the articles (A) that are to follow a path of orbital movement about a principal axis (X10) between a position of picking-up (T) and a position of release (G) of the articles (A) themselves. The speed of said orbital movement is selectively variable (39, 37, 36) in the passage between the aforesaid positions of picking-up (T) and of release (G) so as to modify the pitch between the articles (A) carried by the conveying elements (12). Said conveying elements (12) are likewise orientable about a respective axis (X12) oriented in a radial direction with respect to the principal axis (X10) so as to modify the orientation of the articles (A) in the passage between the position of picking-up (T) and the position of release (G). There is present at least one cam formation (160), the cam profile of which follows the path of orbital movement of the conveying elements (12) about the principal axis (X10). The conveying element or each conveying element (12) is provided with a cam-follower element (158a, 158b) that can co-operate in a relationship of following with the aforesaid cam formation (160) for determining the orientation assumed by the respective conveying element (12) in the position of picking-up (T) and of release (G), irrespective of the speed of the aforesaid orbital movement. |
| US08011490B2 |
Portable low profile drive-over truck dump conveyor system
A portable truck dump comprises a conveyor system mounted on an elongate frame to transport material from a first end of the frame to a second, opposite end of the frame. A grate is positioned over the conveyor system and is supported by first and second sides of the frame. A ramp extends generally perpendicular to the frame on each side of the frame next to the grate to provide a drive-over access for a material transport vehicle to deposit its load over the grate and onto the conveyor system. A first end of each ramp immediately adjacent to the frame is pivotally connected to the frame to allow the frame to be articulated towards the grate. A second end of each ramp spaced from the frame is supported above but in close proximity to the ground. A support frame is associated with each ramp for supporting the second end of each ramp. A drive-on ramp contacts an end portion of the support frame. |
| US08011486B2 |
Electromagnetically actuable clutch and water pump having an electromagnetically actuable clutch
An electromagnetically actuatable clutch for a water pump in a cooling water circuit of an internal combustion engine, having a drive wheel rotatably mounted relative to the water pump, and an armature disk, which interacts with a coil. The armature disk and a functional component of an eddy current clutch are connected to the drive wheel so that the drive wheel, armature disk and first functional component run synchronously when they rotate. The armature disk can be moved axially with the first functional component by energizing the coil. A second functional component of the eddy current clutch is provided arranged in a fixed fashion on a shaft coupled to the water pump. A friction mechanism is provided between the first and second functional components to provide a frictional locking engagement between the two functional components that is released by energizing the coil. |
| US08011481B2 |
Method for monitoring operating states of an elevator unit by sensing movable brake part
A method for monitoring the operating state of an elevator drive having a brake includes the mounting of a sensor on a movable brake part. The sensor generates an output proportional to the extent of relative movement between the brake part upon which it is mounted and a fixed brake part. The sensor output is monitored to provide an indication of the operating state of the drive and may be combined with other data to provide indications of a variety of drive states. |
| US08011479B2 |
Electrical signal application strategies for monitoring a condition of an elevator load bearing member
An elevator load bearing member (30) monitoring device includes a controller (42) that applies a selected electrical signal to tension members (32) of the load bearing member (30). In one example, connectors (40) are associated with ends of the load bearing member (30) to establish an electrical interface between the controller (42) and the tension members (32). The connectors (40) facilitate establishing electrical circuit loops along the tension members (32) such that only non-adjacent tension members are energized at a selected time. A variety of circuit configurations are disclosed. The applied electrical signal in one example has a potential that is negative compared to a ground potential of a hoistway in which the elevator belt is used. In another example, the electrical signal comprises a plurality of pulses and has a duty cycle that is on the order of about one percent. |
| US08011470B2 |
Compressor silencer for hyperbaric oxygen therapy system
A hyperbaric oxygen therapy system includes a pressure vessel containing a gas, an oxygen concentration measurement apparatus for monitoring the concentration of oxygen in the gas, an environmental control apparatus for controlling the temperature of the gas in the vessel, and a pressure/ventilation control apparatus for controlling the pressure of the gas in the vessel. The pressure vessel is capable of accommodating a patient. The oxygen concentration measurement apparatus includes an oxygen concentration analyzer and a plurality of gas lines connecting the oxygen analyzer to the pressure vessel. The pressure/ventilation control apparatus includes a pressure controlling valve, a pressure sensor, a ventilation valve, and a controller having a programmable pressure profile. The environmental control apparatus includes a scrubber, a heat exchanger and a blower located within the pressure vessel. A compressor for the system includes a compressor silencer. An airlock providing access to the pressure vessel includes a safety mechanism. |
| US08011467B2 |
Vehicle power supply system
In a vehicle power supply system including a battery, an inverter unit for converting DC electric power of the battery into AC electric power and supplying it to a rotating electric machine to drive it, an AC wiring line for connecting the rotating electric machine and the inverter unit, and a DC wiring line for connecting the inverter unit and the battery, the inverter unit is placed in a vicinity of the battery so that the DC wiring line becomes shorter than the AC wiring line. By this, a voltage drop due to the DC wiring line is reduced, and a torque characteristic of the rotating electric machine can be improved. |
| US08011466B2 |
Utility vehicle, in particular an agricultural tractor
A vehicle, in particular an agricultural tractor, is disclosed with a vehicle chassis, which is formed at least partly from two laterally spaced side members (1, 2) with C-shaped profile, comprising a vertical bar (1a, 2a) and two horizontal flanges (1b, 2b) and containing hydraulic lines in the space between the flanges, and with a radiator sub-assembly (5), fitted to the vehicle chassis, which consists of a carrier plate (6) fitted to the side members and several oil coolers (8, 9) supported by the carrier plate. In order to improve the routing of the hydraulic lines to the oil coolers and to provide unhindered assembly and simple subsequent maintenance, it is proposed that the open sides of the C-profile of the side members (1, 2) should point to the vehicle exterior, that at least one subsection (6b) of the carrier plate (6) extends into the region between the side members (1, 2) and that ducts (6g, 6h, 6j, 6k), connected to the oil coolers (8, 9) are integrated into the at least one subsection (6b) of the carrier plate (6) and flow into lateral ports (6l, 6m, 6n, 6p) turned towards the vertical bars (1a, 2a) and can be connected through recesses (1c, 2c) in the bars (1a, 2a) to hydraulic lines (12, 13, 14, 15) laid between the flanges (1b, 2b). |
| US08011457B2 |
Downhole hammer assembly
A drill bit assembly comprises a bit body intermediate a shank and a working face. The shank is adapted for connection to a drill string. The drill string comprising a fluid passage at least partially disposed within the body. A hammer assembly is movably disposed within the fluid passage along it central axis, the hammer assembly comprises a proximal end stabilized by a centralized upper bearing and a distal end stabilized by centralized a lower bearing. The distal end protrudes out of the working face and the hammer assembly comprises a carrier between the upper and lower bearings. Wherein, under normal drilling operations the carrier is adapted to resist a fluid pressure within the fluid passageway such that the fluid pressure will further extend the distal end of the hammer assembly from the working face by pushing on the carrier. |
| US08011456B2 |
Rotationally indexable cutting elements and drill bits therefor
A cutting element for use with a drill bit includes a substrate having a longitudinal axis, a lateral surface substantially symmetric about the longitudinal axis and one or more key elements coupled to the lateral surface. The lateral surface lies between an insertion end and a cutting end of the substrate. The one or more key elements are substantially axially aligned with the longitudinal axis and configured to selectively rotationally locate the substrate in a pocket. A drill bit configured for retaining a cutting element having one or more key elements is also disclosed. |
| US08011449B2 |
Method and apparatus for directional drilling
The present invention is directed at a pullhead/reamer for use in digging a hole in the ground; comprising a first end (22) shaped to receive a mandrel struts, connecting the first end to the second end, the struts defining a set of open flutes (48) therewithin; and a set of slurry jets (50); wherein when the pullhead/reamer is in use, the set of slurry jets release a pressurized liquid to mix with the ground producing a slurry which enters the pullhead/reamer via the open flutes. |
| US08011446B2 |
Method and apparatus for a monodiameter wellbore, monodiameter casing, monobore, and/or monowell
An assembly and methods for constructing a MONOWELL include a monodiameter casing disposed in a monodiameter wellbore having diametric efficiency with a monobore production delivery system disposed within the monodiameter casing. An assembly for constructing a monodiameter wellbore includes a bottomhole assembly having a overgauge hole drilling member, a directional steering assembly, a measurement while drilling tool, and a logging while drilling tool; a work string attached to the bottomhole assembly and extending to the surface; drilling fluids flowing through the work string and bottomhole assembly; chemical casing casing the borehole; expandable casing disposed in the wellbore; and a sealing composition disposed between the expandable casing and the wellbore. |
| US08011444B2 |
Spindle locking assembly
A locking assembly for the spindle of a tool includes a locking member, a biasing member interconnected with the locking member, and a collar surrounding a portion of the spindle. The spindle includes a spindle slot that receives the locking member to lock the spindle with respect to the tool housing. The collar may be rotated into an unlocked position in which the biasing member holds the locking member out of engagement with the spindle slot. The collar may also be rotated into a locked position in which a cam surface in the collar acts on the biasing member to apply a biasing force on the locking member toward engagement with the spindle slot. The biasing member may deflect to accommodate rotation of the collar into the locked position with the spindle slot not aligned with the locking member. |
| US08011443B2 |
Striking mechanism for a handheld power tool
The invention is a striking mechanism for a handheld power tools in particular electric hammer. A piston is arranged in an axially bidirectionally movable manner in a guide tube. A striker is provided which acts on a striking pin and which is held in a movable manner in the guide tube. A compression space is delimited by the piston and the striker such that an air cushion is enclosed therein. It is proposed that at least one spring element is provided between the striker and the striking pin. |
| US08011441B2 |
Method for controlling a fastener driving tool using a gas spring
A portable linear fastener driving tool is provided that drive staples, nails, or other linearly driven fasteners. The tool uses a gas spring principle, in which a cylinder filled with compressed gas is used to quickly force a piston through a driving stroke movement, while a driver also drives a fastener into a workpiece. The piston/driver is then moved back to its starting position by use of a rotary-to-linear lifter, and the piston again compresses the gas above the piston, thereby preparing the tool for another driving stroke. The driver has protrusions along its edges that contact the lifter, which lifts the driver during a return stroke. A pivotable latch is controlled to move into either an interfering position or a non-interfering position with respect to the driver protrusions, and acts as a safety device, by preventing the driver from making a full driving stroke at an improper time. |
| US08011439B2 |
Marker assembly having spring linkage to limit momentum in marker assembly during marker assembly deployment
A marker assembly includes a first linkage section interconnected to a second linkage section by a pivoting joint. The pivoting joint also includes a spring linkage that limits momentum in the second linkage section before a marking disc carried by the second linkage section engages the ground. The spring linkage may be comprised of a spring that is retained by a pair of washers within a housing or canister. A linkage rod passes through the canister and has a set of nuts that are sized to catch the washers. Thus, if the spring linkage is compressed or extended, the catch nuts press up against the washers thereby compressing the spring. By compressing the spring, a force is applied in the opposite direction as the momentum in the marker assembly, which reduces the collective momentum in the marker assembly during deployment. |
| US08011433B2 |
Bidirectional gravel packing in subterranean wells
Systems and methods for bidirectional gravel packing of wells. A gravel packing method includes flowing a gravel slurry in one direction in an annulus formed between a wellbore and a gravel packing assembly, and flowing another gravel slurry in an opposite direction in the annulus. A well system includes a gravel packing assembly positioned in a wellbore; one or more well screens interconnected in the gravel packing assembly; a flow control device, interconnected in the gravel packing assembly, and which selectively permits and prevents flow of a gravel slurry outward from the gravel packing assembly to an exterior of the well screens; another flow control device, interconnected in the gravel packing assembly, and which selectively permits and prevents flow of another gravel slurry outward from the gravel packing assembly to the exterior of the well screens; and the well screens being positioned between the flow control devices. |
| US08011423B2 |
Heat sink with a centrifugal fan having vertically layered fins
A heat sink with a centrifugal fan comprising: a cover of a prescribed shape including an air intake port and an air discharge port; a heat receiving block thermally connected to a heat generating part to be cooled; a bottom portion which is excellent in heat transferability, thermally connected to one face of said heat receiving block, and engaged to said cover to form a space portion; a heat dissipating fin portion comprising a plurality of fins, received within the space portion, thermally connected to said bottom portion, and having a prescribed shape including at least an air inflow portion; and a centrifugal fan, a rotating shaft of which is arranged in a vicinity of the air inflow portion of said heat dissipating fin portion, which intakes air from the air intake port, generates an air flow through spaces formed between adjacent fins of said heat dissipating fin portion, and generates another air flow along an inner wall of said cover toward said air discharge port. |
| US08011420B2 |
Condenser attachment bracket
A mounting arrangement for a heat exchanger in a vehicle includes a bracket having a main body. A first portion is secured to the heat exchanger and a second portion includes a mounting feature adapted to be secured to another component of the vehicle. A foot is formed on the first portion of the bracket. The foot defines an interface surface brazed to the heat exchanger in an installed position. |
| US08011416B2 |
Apparatus, mold, and method for manufacturing metal-ceramic composite member
To provide a manufacturing apparatus that is capable of manufacturing metal-ceramic composite members in various shapes with high productivity, and a mold member and a manufacturing method therefore. An apparatus for manufacturing a metal-ceramic composite member was made, the apparatus including: a plurality of process regions, namely, an atmosphere replacing/heating part 11, a molten metal push-out part 21, and a cooling part 31; and a guide 48 for allowing a mold to pass through these plural process regions, molds 60 having ceramic members 86 placed therein are successively inserted into a mold inlet 43 provided in this guide 48 to pass through the guide 48 practically in a shielded state from the atmosphere, a molten metal 53 is poured thereto in the molten-metal push-out part 21, and the molten metal 53 is cooled and solidified in the cooling part 31 to join a metal and a ceramic, thereby manufacturing the metal-ceramic composite member. |
| US08011414B2 |
Roll-up shutter with tiltable slots
The invention relates to improvements in a roll-up shutter. More particularly, the invention provides an electrically-driven shutter which can be electrically deployed or retracted, and the slats may be electrically tilted for ventilation or vertically closed for maximum security, all by use of a single electric motor. The invention achieves the above objects by providing an electrically driven roll-up shutter, comprising a plurality of upper pivoted link elements each of which supports all lower components, the linkage pivots being arranged to allow roll-up on a shutter shaft or tube, the lowest of the link elements being attached to a slat tilt mechanism, the upper pivoted link elements when in tension with only the highest of the link elements in contact with the shutter shaft or tube form a substantially straight line. |
| US08011413B2 |
Retractable screen door housing handle balancing system
A horizontally extending screen door system having balancing cords that pull in a direction that opposes the force on a handle by the screen exerted by the wind up mechanism of the screen. |
| US08011408B2 |
Labeling apparatus
There is disclosed labeling apparatus including a portable labeler having a handle that can be suspended using a hanger assembly. The hanger assembly suspends the labeler so that the labeler is in a position ready to apply a label and with the handle at an attitude to be conveniently grasped to maneuver and operate the labeler. |
| US08011406B2 |
Apparatus for producing RFID label and editing apparatus for label
There are provided a cartridge to which a first roll around which a base tape with a plurality of RFID circuit elements arranged is wound can be detachably attached, an antenna for transmission/reception of information with the RFID circuit element, a signal processing circuit and a transmitting portion that generate access information to an IC circuit part of the RFID circuit element, transmit the information to the RFID circuit element and carry out information writing in the IC circuit part or information reading from the IC circuit part, a print head for printing on a cover film, and a control circuit provided with a determination portion that determines matching between parameter data provided at the cartridge and instruction data relating to the print input by an operation portion. |
| US08011404B2 |
Pneumatic tire for motorcycle
A pneumatic tire for a motorcycle in which partial abrasion is suppressed by making the slip component of a tread lubber in the circumferential direction of tire as uniform as possible in the ground contacting plane. A cushion rubber layer 38 having elastic modulus lower than that of the tread rubber 30 is arranged on a spiral belt layer 22, and an inclination belt layer 24 including a cord inclining at an angle of 45 to 90 degrees to the circumferential direction of the tire is arranged on the cushion rubber layer 38. Consequently, shear deformation of the cushion rubber layer 38 during traveling can be transmitted to the tread rubber 30 after being smoothed by the inclination belt layer 24. As compared with a case not provided with the cushion rubber layer 38 and the inclination belt layer 24, shear deformation of the tread rubber layer 30 can be reduced relatively because shear deformation occurs in the cushion rubber layer 38 in place of the tread rubber 30; and since the slip component of the tread rubber 30 in the circumferential direction of the tire becomes substantially uniform in the ground contacting plane, partial abrasion can be suppressed. |
| US08011397B2 |
Case clamp
A case clamp (20) for clamping carcass parts to furniture carcasses, such as tail cupboards, top or bottom cupboards, having a base frame (1), a lower compression beam (1′) provided on the base frame (1), at least two supports (2, 3) disposed on the base frame (1), of which at least one is traversable horizontally on the base frame (1), at least two pairs of horizontal compression beams (6, 7) disposed on the supports (2, 3) so as to be horizontally traversable, and an upper compression beam (4) disposed on the supports (2, 3) so as to be vertically traversable, wherein in each case the supports (2, 3) are supported exclusively on the base frame (1) in the vertical direction at least and are free at the opposing end (2′, 3′). |
| US08011395B2 |
Tablet feeding device
The present invention relates to a tablet feeding device for supplying tablets accommodated in a tablet feeder to vials by supplying a power source from a surface side of the tablet feeder to a rotor of the tablet feeder and further allowing many tablet feeders to be mounted with high density.The tablet feeder 21 has a stationary guide member 119 having a stationary tilt plate 119c and a movable guide member 121 having a movable tilt plate 121c. The stationary tilt plate 119c is disposed adjacent to a tablet outlet 112 of the tablet feeder 21 and guides the tablets discharged from the tablet outlet 112 to the vials 4. The movable tilt plate 121c is movable between a receiving position and an operating position in association with an attachment and detachment of a driving means 202 with the tablet feeder 21. The movable tilt plate 121c overlaps with the stationary tilt plate 119c at the receiving position and continues to the stationary tilt plate 119c at the operating position. The tablet feeder 21 positioned below is formed with a cutout 118 into which the movable member guide member 121 enters when the movable guide member 121 of the tablet feeder 21 positioned above is moved to the operating position. |
| US08011391B2 |
End protector device for tubular structures
A protector device for the ends of the tubular goods, such as tubes for the oil industry, OCTG, line pipes and the like is provided. The protector device may include two pieces, a generally elongate protector body and a bumper reinforcement that may be reversibly connected to the protector body. The protector body may be configured in a cylindrical geometry having a first end and a second end interconnected by lateral walls and defining a socket. The second end of the body further comprises a shoulder and an opening defining a socket in which a tubular good may be inserted. The bumper reinforcement includes an external curved or conical surface, capable of deforming in reaction to an external force in order to protect an enclosed tubular good. |
| US08011385B2 |
Valve assembly and method of assembly
A valve assembly is provided that has a valve body defining first and second valve seats and a fluid chamber between the valve seats. The valve assembly includes a first valve that has an extension portion and a plug portion. The plug portion is configured to be selectively seated at the first valve seat. The extension portion is configured to extend within the fluid chamber past the second valve seat when the plug portion is seated at the first valve seat. A second valve is configured to interfit with the extension portion to connect to the first valve for common movement therewith. The second valve is configured to be selectively seated at the second valve seat. Fluid flow through the fluid chamber past the valve seats is controlled by the common movement of the connected first and second valves. |
| US08011379B2 |
Portable and compact umbrella
The present invention relates to a portable and compact umbrella capable of being folded compactly without exposing umbrella ribs and umbrella cloth thereby being easily carried and stored. A portable and compact umbrella according to the present invention includes an extendable umbrella stick extended and retracted to change its length, wherein the extendable umbrella stick has a sheltering means provided at one side thereof and a fixing protrusion provided at the other side thereof; and a handle member having both ends communicating with each other and a receiving space defined therein, wherein the receiving space is partitioned by a cylindrical winding unit, the winding unit has an inner space formed inside thereof so that the extendable umbrella stick is retracted and received in the inner space, and the winding unit has an outer space formed outside thereof so that the sheltering means is wound around the winding unit and received in the outer space. |
| US08011377B2 |
Cleaning device and a lithographic apparatus cleaning method
A cleaning tool to clean a surface of a component of a lithographic apparatus is disclosed. The cleaning tool includes a sonic transducer, a liquid supply device configured to provide liquid to a reservoir between the surface to be cleaned and the sonic transducer, and a liquid outlet configured to remove liquid provided by the liquid supply device, the cleaning tool constructed and arranged such that, in use, liquid flows into the outlet under the influence of gravity. |
| US08011369B2 |
Connector for a respiratory mask and a respiratory mask
A connector includes a mask end for connecting with the interior of a respiratory mask, a supply conduit end, and a gas washout vent passage having an inlet adjacent to, or forming part of, the mask end in fluid communication with the interior of the respiratory mask and an outlet in fluid communication with atmosphere. The vent outlet of the vent passage is disposed on the side of the connector remote from the mask end. A respiratory mask includes a mask shell, a mask inlet for connecting with the outlet of a breathable gas supply conduit, and a gas washout vent passage. A vent outlet is disposed on the side of the mask remote from the mask interior and is adapted to direct the washout gas in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the mask inlet and away from the mask inlet. |
| US08011366B2 |
Method for acclimating a CPAP therapy patient to prescribed pressure
A method for acclimating a CPAP therapy patient to a prescribed pressure while the patient falls asleep. During an initial startup period, the CPAP apparatus applies a therapeutic IPAP pressure to the patient's airway and a lower initial EPAP pressure to the patient's airway. The EPAP pressure is ramped up to the IPAP pressure over a sufficient time for the patient to fall asleep. In a modified embodiment, both the initial IPAP pressure and the initial EPAP pressure are less than the prescribed therapeutic pressure. The IPAP and EPAP pressures are then independently ramped up to the prescribed therapeutic pressure. |
| US08011365B2 |
Mechanical ventilation in the presence of sleep disordered breathing
A method for controlling operation of a CPAP apparatus. The apparatus has a blower (2), a patient interface (6), an air delivery conduit (8) for delivering air from the blower (2) to the patient interface (6), a sensor (4p) for determining the pressure in the patient interface (6), and a control mechanism (15) that causes air to be delivered at a desired pressure to the patient interface (6) and that detects transitions between inhalation and exhalation of a respiratory cycle of a patient in order to synchronise the blower output with the patient's efforts. In one form the CPAP apparatus provides pressure in accordance with a bi-level waveform with at least one characterising parameter of the waveform being automatically adjusted in accordance with indications of sleep disordered breathing. The indications of sleep disordered breathing can be one or more of snoring, apnea, hypopnea, and flow limitation. |
| US08011363B2 |
Exhalation valve for use in a 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 in order to reduce the overall work of underwater breathing. The exhalation valve includes a plate defining an exhalation port. The exhalation valve also includes a flexible membrane that is sealable against a surface of the plate and is sized and positioned to be capable of sealing the exhalation port. The flexible membrane is configured to have a sealed position in which the flexible membrane seals the exhalation port such that substantially no exhaled air escapes the snorkel. The flexible membrane is also configured to have an unsealed position in which exhaled air escapes the snorkel. |
| US08011362B2 |
Compact continuous positive airway pressure apparatus and method
A compact continuous positive airway pressure apparatus and method provide a flatter profile and more compact thickness, including a larger lateral dimension in order to be accommodated in conventional luggage designed to stow laptop computers having a smaller aspect ratio of thickness to length or thickness to width. Air tubing may be coiled within a case or coiled as about a spool-like configuration in the base unit of the device. |
| US08011360B2 |
Vented, gas-fired air heater
A vented, gas-fired air heater especially designed for temporary heating applications includes an improved burner design providing effective air and gas mixing and efficient burning in the combustion chamber. Highly efficient heat exchanger including corrugated heat exchanger panels provides enhanced heat transfer characteristics. |
| US08011352B2 |
Gas introducing structure of intake path
A gas introducing structure of an intake path includes a gas introducing path introducing a gas into an intake airflow in the intake path of an internal combustion engine, wherein an inner peripheral surface of the gas introducing path is made of a bottom surface appearing as a straight line at a lower side of a perpendicular cross section of the inner peripheral surface and a curved wall surface appearing as a convex curved line, connecting with each end of the straight line at an angle, at an upper side of the perpendicular cross section of the inner peripheral surface. |
| US08011350B2 |
High pressure fuel pump control apparatus for an internal combustion engine
In a high pressure fuel pump control apparatus for an internal combustion engine which has a high pressure fuel pump of an engine driven type capable of pressure feeding a controlled amount of fuel by driving a fuel suction valve to close at predetermined timing in a fuel delivery stroke, fuel pressure in an accumulator is swiftly raised by reliably pressure feeding a maximum amount of fuel from a fuel delivery stroke immediately after engine starting while avoiding heat generation by a solenoid for controlling the fuel suction valve, whereby deterioration of a combustion state and exhaust emissions at engine starting can be prevented. A starting time control section continuously energizes the solenoid over a period from the beginning of engine starting until when it becomes possible to perform valve closing timing control on the fuel suction valve based on the rotational position of the engine after completion of cylinder identification. |
| US08011337B2 |
Valve timing adjusting apparatus
A valve timing adjusting apparatus includes a first rotor, a second rotor, and a bias mechanism. The bias mechanism is provided to one of the first and second rotors. The bias mechanism includes a resilient member and a projection portion that is rotatable together with the one of the first and second rotors. The projection portion is rotatable relative to the other one of the rotors and contacts a contact part of the other one. Restoring force of the resilient member is applied to the other one of the first and second rotors through the projection portion. The contact part includes an inclination portion that is configured to increase and decrease restoring force of the resilient member. |
| US08011336B2 |
Variable valve opening property internal combustion engine
In a variable valve opening property internal combustion engine, a roller link (22) is provided with a cam roller (31) at a free end thereof which engages a cam (3) of a camshaft (4) and a pressure surface (47) of a spring device (41). The roller link is pivotally supported by a bearing portion of a control link (21) which can be adjusted in position by using an actuator (14). The roller link is additionally provided with a roller shaft (31) that engages a slipper surface of a rocker arm (6). The pressure surface of the spring device may be contoured or otherwise inclined so that the direction of action of the spring device on the cam roller can be directed in an optimum direction irrespective of the adjusted position of the pivot point of the roller link. |
| US08011333B2 |
Vehicle and propulsion system including an internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine for a vehicle, such as a motorcycle, includes a crankcase, two banks of cylinders projecting from the crankcase in a 56-57 degree V-configuration, a plurality of pushrods, and a plurality of camshafts supported by the crankcase. The two banks of cylinders include a first cylinder bank that projects from the crankcase to a first cylinder head, and a second cylinder bank that projects from the crankcase to a second cylinder head. The plurality of intake and exhaust valve pushrods extend between the crankcase and the first and second cylinder heads, driven by one intake camshaft and two exhaust camshafts. |
| US08011331B2 |
Eight-stroke engine cycle
An eight-stroke engine cycle may include a first stroke forming an intake stroke and including opening an intake valve and providing a first fuel mass to the combustion chamber. The second stroke may form a first compression stroke and the third stroke may form a first expansion stroke including a first power stroke. The fourth and sixth strokes may form a second and third compression strokes and the fifth and seventh strokes may form a second and third expansion strokes. A second fuel mass may be provided to the combustion chamber during the fourth or sixth stroke. The intake valve may be in a closed position during the second and third expansion strokes and an exhaust valve in communication with the combustion chamber may be in a closed position during the second and third compression strokes. The eighth stroke may form an exhaust stroke including opening the exhaust valve. |
| US08011327B2 |
Variable voltage electronic pet training apparatus
A variable voltage electronic pet training apparatus. The variable voltage electronic pet training apparatus controls the intensity of the stimulation by the controlling the voltage level present at the primary side of the transformer while maintaining a fixed signal to the correction pulse switch. A trigger signal contains information about the desired stimulus intensity level. A controller interprets the trigger signal and produces a voltage control signal associated with the desired energy level. Application of the voltage control signal to a power converter keeps the voltage level applied to an energy storage capacitor sufficient to produce the desired stimulation intensity. |
| US08011324B1 |
Pet watering apparatus
Apparatus for providing drinking water to an animal includes inner and outer annular walls which define a water supply reservoir. The inner wall forms a draw reservoir that is in communication with the water supply reservoir to replenish water in the draw reservoir and maintain the level of water in said draw reservoir equal to the level of water in said water supply reservoir. |
| US08011317B2 |
Advanced mixing system for integrated tool having site-isolated reactors
An integrated processing tool is described comprising a full-wafer processing module and a combinatorial processing module. Chemicals for use in the combinatorial processing module are fed from a delivery system including a set of first manifolds. An output of each first manifold is coupled to at least one mixing vessel. An output of each mixing vessel feeds more than one of a set of second manifolds. An output of each set of second manifolds feeds one of multiple site-isolated reactors of the combinatorial processing module. |
| US08011316B2 |
Systems and methods for producing a medical device
A machine and process useful for processing a delicate workpiece, e.g., an implantable medical device, includes a carrier having a mandrel and wheels. The workpiece is positioned on the mandrel, which is free to roll by gravity on rails which cooperate with the wheels to self-align the travel of the carrier. The carrier can move the workpieces through a series of processing steps by gravity feed and without human intervention. A laterally movable carriage receives the rolling carriers and moves the carrier for processing, and returns the carrier to the rails to again roll by gravity to another processing substation for additional processing. An elevator, which can including processing units itself, is positioned along the rails to receive carriers and raise them so they can continue to roll for further processing. |
| US08011315B2 |
Thin film forming apparatus
A thin film forming apparatus such that a substrate can be easily fixed/removed to/from the outer circumferential surface of a drum type substrate holder through a simple arrangement.The drum type substrate holder (5) is supported in a horizontal posture rotatably about a horizontal rotational shaft in a film deposition chamber A jig (13) holding a substrate (12) fixedly is transferred by an arm horizontally onto the outer circumferential surface of the drum type substrate holder (5), and an end part (13b) of the substrate fixing jig (13) can be secured by a securing device (14) provided at the corner part (5a) of the outer circumferential surface of the drum type substrate holder (5). |
| US08011314B2 |
Personal dive device with electronic speed control
A personal dive device includes a body having a power source that is disposed in the body with a voltage of the power source being greater than or equal to about 37 volts. A controller is in electrical communication with the power source. A rotary device is in selective electrical communication with the controller and a propeller assembly is engaged with the rotary device. A method for controlling the speed of a personal dive device includes providing a personal dive device having a power source disposed within a body and an electronic controller. A signal from a trigger mechanism is received. An effective power output from the power source is varied based on the signal from the trigger mechanism. The effective power output from the power source is provided to a rotary device that is in selective electrical communication with the electronic controller. |
| US08011309B2 |
Planter with direct hydraulic seed drive
The invention provides an innovative yet straightforward approach to driving the seed distribution system in planters which feature hinged winged extensions. The flexibility of the hinged winged extensions may allow the planter to adjust to the contours of a field and to fold to facilitate transport of the planter. In one embodiment, for example, the invention may provide a mechanical coupling between several sections of a seed drive shaft which may support and be driven by a hydraulic motor for each of the winged sections. The seed drive system may also be coupled to row units to synchronize and power the distribution of seeds by the planter. |
| US08011307B2 |
Retractable antifriction bearings device for a loading bed and loading bed equipped with such a device
A retractable antifriction bearing device (10a) that can be housed in a standardized groove of a loading bed. Each ball (30) is mounted directly in a housing (21a) of the profile (20a) by a guide and sealing ring (50) provided with a spherical cavity (53) that complements the ball (30) to hold the ball in position with respect to the housing (21a). A bearing guide (60a) is also mounted directly in the housing (21a) and is provided with a cup (61) guiding the ball (30) in rotation via a bed of small balls (62). This bearing guide (60a) is spring-loaded by spring elements (40a) so as to urge the ball (30) into the working position in which the ball bears the load (2). |
| US08011306B2 |
Rail road car and truck therefor
A railroad car truck for a railroad freight car, such as an autorack car, has a bolster mounted cross-wise between two sideframes. The bolster ends are mounted on respective spring groups carried by the sideframes. The bolster can translate laterally relative to the sideframes. The side frames are mounted to swing laterally relative to the wheel sets, and hence relative to the rails. Resistance to lateral deflection is provided by the resistance of the sideframes to the pendulum swinging motion, and by shear in the spring groups. The truck has a doubled damper arrangement of dampers in a four-cornered layout at each end of the bolster, giving a flexing resistance to yaw between the sideframes and the bolster ends. The doubled damper arrangement works against large wear plates mounted on the sideframe columns. The large wear plates are mounted normal to the dampers and square to the sideframes. |
| US08011303B2 |
Gas generator
A gas generator includes, a housing defining a first combustion chamber and accommodating an enhancer chamber cup member, defining an enhancer chamber, and a combustion chamber cup member provided outside the enhancer chamber cup member and defining a second combustion chamber. The enhancer cup member accommodates a first gas generating agent ignited by a first ignition device, and has an enhancer hole for communicating the enhancer chamber with the first combustion chamber during activation. The combustion chamber cup member accommodates a second gas generating agent ignited by a second ignition device, and has a through-hole for communicating the second combustion chamber with the first combustion chamber during activation. A top plate of the enhancer chamber cup member is positioned higher than a top plate of the combustion chamber cup member, and the enhancer hole is positioned higher than the top plate of the combustion chamber cup member. |
| US08011301B1 |
Cartridge for a firearm
A cartridge case for a firearm is formed to contain a .338 caliber bullet. The case includes a cylindrical body portion with a central aperture in the head end for receipt of a primer and a cartridge extraction groove formed around the periphery of the body portion adjacent the head end. A frusto-conical shoulder portion tapers radially inwardly from the body portion and a generally cylindrical neck portion extends longitudinally from the shoulder portion. The length of the body portion is approximately 1.8813 inches and the outside diameter of the body portion at the shoulder portion is 0.5709±0.0059 inches. The length of the shoulder portion is 0.2727 inches. The length of the neck portion is 0.3381 inches and the outside diameter of the neck portion is 0.3669 inches. The case encloses a volume designed to receive an amount of propellant in a range of 82.0 grns to 97.8 grns. |
| US08011300B2 |
Method for high speed variable printing
Systems and methods for high-speed variable printing are provided. Ink jet technology and lithographic systems may be combined in such a way to create a fully variable and high-quality print system. Ink is applied to a printing cylinder. An aqueous solution is then applied on top of the ink to produce a negative image. A positive image is then transferred in ink to a print medium. The systems and methods described herein may be used to create high-quality one-to-one marketing applications. |
| US08011296B2 |
Supercritical fluid-assisted direct write for printing integrated circuits
High resolution patterns provided on a surface of a semiconductor substrate and methods of direct printing of such high resolution patterns are disclosed. The high resolution patterns may have dimensions less than 0.1 micron and are formed by a direct writing method employing a supercritical fluid comprising nanometer-sized particles, which may be optionally electrically charged. |
| US08011290B2 |
Apparatus for preparing a beverage suitable for consumption, such as coffee
A beverage preparation apparatus with a three-way valve that includes an inlet; a first outlet; a second outlet; a first member movable between first and second extreme positions under the influence of liquid flow from the inlet to the first and/or second outlets from the first extreme position towards the second extreme position which closes off the first outlet so that the liquid flow then extends from the inlet to the second outlet; a second member which is freely moveable under the influence of a liquid flow from the inlet to the second outlet between a third and fourth extreme position wherein under the influence of the liquid flow from the inlet to the second outlet, moves from the third extreme position to the fourth extreme position and in the third extreme position blocks a liquid flow from the second outlet in the direction of the inlet. |
| US08011287B2 |
Pin bosses of a piston for an internal combustion engine
Pin bosses (1) are proposed for the piston (2) of an internal combustion engine, having in each case one pin bore (3) which has a zenith-side ovality in the region (15) of the bore center (7), wherein the zenith-side ovality of the pin bore (3) increases starting from the bore center (7) radially to the outside and radially to the inside, and the nadir-side ovality increases starting from the bore center (7) radially to the inside. As a result, the shape of the pin bore (3) is adapted to every load-dependent deformation of the piston pin. As a result of this, in addition, the lubrication of the piston pin is improved in the region of the bore center (7). |
| US08011282B2 |
Sheet processing device, image forming apparatus, and sheet processing method
A sheet processing device having punch processing device(s) for punch-processing on a conveyed sheet member and a punch-scrap storage box for storing punch scraps therein that are produced by the punch processing and dropped from the punch-processing device(s) having an increased storing capacity of punch scraps, including a punch-scrap storage box constituting an air distribution duct having a punch-scrap suction inlet and an air discharge outlet; and air-sucking device(s) (fan) arranged on the most downstream side in the air discharge outlet of the air flowing direction for conveying the punch scraps produced by the punch processing device(s). Air is sucked by the fan so as to catch the punch scraps with punch-scrap separating device(s) arranged on the upstream side of the air flowing direction of the fan so that the punch scraps are heaped within the punch scrap storage box. |
| US08011280B2 |
Rotary cutter for trimming printed products conveyed in an overlapping flow
A rotary cutter for trimming printed products conveyed in an overlapping flow. The rotary cutter including a first knife that rotates and a second knife that rotates counter to the first knife. The second knife is arranged to operate jointly with the first knife. At least one of the knives includes a plurality of blades distributed over a circumference. A conveying device conveys the overlapping flow between the first knife and the second knife. A control unit controls the rotational speed of at least one of the first knife and the second knife. The rotational speed of at least one of the knives is predetermined based on at least one of the speed value for the conveying device or a thickness value of the overlapping flow. |
| US08011278B1 |
Punching apparatus
A punching apparatus for forming a series of slots in a board, comprising: an upper wheel and a lower wheel, wherein the upper wheel is opposed to the lower wheel, and further wherein: the upper wheel comprises a series of punches disposed on a frame of the upper wheel, wherein each punch comprises a shearing portion that extends from the frame, and which is configured in the shape of a slot; and the lower wheel comprises a series of mating dies, wherein each mating die of the series of mating dies comprises a cavity, wherein the shearing portion of a particular punch is gradually disposed within the cavity of a particular mating die of the series of mating dies as the upper wheel and the lower wheel move in relation to each other. |