| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08187245B2 |
Absorbent article, belt structure, manufacturing method for a belt structure and manufacturing method for an absorbent article
The disclosure relates to an absorbent article including a top-sheet having an inner side and an outside and a back-sheet having an inner side and an outside and the inner side of the back-sheet being directed towards the inner side of the top-sheet. At least one elongate belt is provided which has a free end portion for fastening the absorbent article around the waist of a wearer and an attachment end portion that is fixedly attached to the outside of the back-sheet or to the outside of the top-sheet, whereas the free end portion is arranged within the boundaries of the top-sheet and/or the back-sheet. |
| US08187242B1 |
Absorbent body for an absorbent product and methods of producing an absorbent body
An absorbent article, such as a sanitary napkin or an incontinence diaper, has an absorbent body having at least one fold line formed therein defining at least two segments of the absorbent body. The segments formed by the at least one fold line are generally foldable relative to each other along the at least one fold line to facilitate conformance of the absorbent article to the wearer's body. In a method of forming the absorbent body, a first cut-out from a first web material is passed through a nip along with a second web material whereby the cut-out from the first web material overlays the second web material. A fold line is then formed in the second web material at the peripheral edge of the cut-out of the first web material as the cut-out and second web material pass through the nip. |
| US08187241B2 |
Disposable absorbent articles having multiple absorbent core components including replaceable components
A disposable absorbent article adapted to be worn about a lower torso of a human body and having a chassis, a non-removable absorbent core component disposed in a crotch region of the chassis, and a replaceable absorbent core component disposed in capillary liquid communication with the non-removable absorbent core component. The replaceable absorbent core component may be removed and a like component may be substituted in place of the removed component without the removal of the absorbent article from the wearer. The replaceable absorbent core component may be disposed inside an openable chassis pocket, with access for its removal and replacement provided by an aperture in a backsheet, an openable end of an external pocket, or an openable end of an internal pocket formed at an area of a waist end edge where the backsheet and a topsheet may be separated. Additional replaceable absorbent core components may also be incorporated. |
| US08187234B2 |
Pressure activated safety valve with anti-adherent coating
A pressure activated valve comprises a valve housing defining a lumen for receiving bodily fluids therein and a flexible membrane disposed in the valve housing. The flexible membrane includes a slit extending therethrough so that the flexible membrane may be moved between an open and a closed configuration based on fluid pressure within the lumen. A nonthrombogenic coating may be formed on fluid contacting surfaces of the flexible membrane. |
| US08187233B2 |
Medication delivery device
The present invention relates to a medication delivery device, to dosing mechanisms suitable for use in medication delivery devices, in particular in pen-type injectors, preferably having dose setting means and a drive device enabling the administration of a medicinal product from a single- or multi-dose medication cartridge, to a use of such device, and to a method of manufacturing or assembling such device. |
| US08187225B2 |
Fluid injection system and pressure jacket assembly with syringe illumination
The fluid injection apparatus for use with a syringe includes an injector and a pressure jacket assembly associated with the injector. The injector includes a housing defining a central opening and a drive piston extendable through the central opening for imparting motive forces to a syringe plunger disposed within the syringe. The pressure jacket assembly includes a pressure jacket and at least one support arm associated with and extending outward from the housing. A syringe retaining member is attached to the at least one support arm. The syringe-retaining member defines a syringe receiving slot for receiving at least a portion of the syringe. A light source is located on the support arm and faces the pressure jacket for illuminating the syringe. |
| US08187224B2 |
Methods performed by medicine injection apparatuses
Operations performed by a medicine injector having a barrel with a receiving cavity to slidably receive a syringe subassembly for axial movement therein. Upon removal of a safety and release of a syringe driver, the syringe driver moves forward and injects the syringe needle. One or more penetration controls are shown for controlling injection needle penetration depth. In some forms of penetration control a sleeve and spring are used in the methods performed. This construction and a cushioning piece or pieces may be used to reduce the forces experienced by the syringe subassembly. A load distribution ring may further be used with a cushion, spring and guide ring which may be used to help distribute deceleration loading experienced by the syringe subassembly. |
| US08187222B2 |
Devices and systems for delivery of therapeutic agents to body lumens
In accordance with one aspect, the invention provides medical devices that comprise an elongated drug delivery member, which is adapted to take on a radially expanded configuration upon actuation in vivo. |
| US08187220B2 |
Seal structures for wet/dry automatic injectors
An automatic medicament injector has a first compartment for a first medicament component and a second compartment for a second medicament component. The two compartments are separated by a seal structure that converts from a sealing condition to a mixing condition when the device is activated. The seal structure has a plug that opens a flow path through the seal structure to allow the second medicament component to mix with the first medicament component in the first compartment when the seal structure is in the mixing condition. |
| US08187218B2 |
Gastrointestinal lavage system
An apparatus having a tube section and an expanded end. The tube section is flexible while the end section is rigid. The apparatus has a central bore, large enough to loosely receive an endoscope tube, and the end section has two peripheral bores which communicate with the central bore. There is a collar around the central bore which allows formation an air- and water-tight seal with the head of an endoscope. The tube may be fenestrated at its proximal end and may include medial pleats. This apparatus is mainly used by: sliding an endoscope into the central bore until the endoscope head forms an air- and water-tight seal with the central bore; connecting a lavage tube to one peripheral bore and a vacuum tube to the other peripheral bore; inserting the endoscope and the apparatus into a GI tract; and manually controlling the apparatus to apply lavage and vacuum. |
| US08187212B2 |
Pain-alleviating orthopaedic appliance
An orthopaedic appliance includes a body, a protrusion extending inwardly from the body, positioned on the body to apply pressure on a proximal portion of the soleus muscle, and means for applying pressure to the protrusion. |
| US08187210B2 |
Abdominal wound dressing
An abdominal wound dressing and methods of use are described that enable the application of negative pressure to the wound site in a healing manner while also limiting the formation of adhesions that would prevent the removal of the dressing. The method comprises providing a flexible film having a plurality of holes therein and placing the flexible film in the wound. The flexible film has a first, patient-facing side and a second side. The method includes placing a porous pad on top of the second side of the flexible film. The flexible film and porous pad are sealed within the wound with a drape that is positioned in contact with an area of skin surrounding the wound. A negative pressure is provided to the porous pad for drawing a flow of exuded fluids from the wound. |
| US08187208B2 |
Methods for assessment of pelvic organ conditions affecting the vagina
Methods for assessment of pelvic floor conditions based on tactile imaging are described. The vaginal wall is deformed using a transvaginal probe equipped with tactile pressure sensors and a motion tracking sensor. The vaginal wall coordinates and pressure patterns are obtained during the examination and used to build 3-D tactile image of the vagina and to calculate elasticity modulus profiles and spacing profiles along selected lines inside 3-D tactile image. The profile values at specified locations are then compared with thresholds or profiles for normal conditions of vagina and its support structures. Methods of the invention are disclosed to be used in assessing a risk of pelvic organ prolapse development, estimating an extent of pelvic floor organ traumatic damage after childbirth and estimating an improvement after an interventional procedure. |
| US08187207B2 |
Devices, systems, and methods for reshaping a heart valve annulus, including the use of magnetic tools
Implants or systems of implants and methods apply a selected force vector or a selected combination of force vectors within or across the left atrium, which allow mitral valve leaflets to better coapt. The implants or systems of implants and methods make possible rapid deployment, facile endovascular delivery, and full intra-atrial retrievability. The implants or systems of implants and methods also make use of strong fluoroscopic landmarks. The implants or systems of implants and methods make use of an adjustable implant and a fixed length implant. The implants or systems of implants and methods may also utilize a bridge stop to secure the implant, and the methods of implantation employ various tools. |
| US08187206B2 |
Guide wire
A guide wire includes a member with a core wire. The guide wire may have a marker-forming layer which partly encircles the outer surface of the member and differs in color from the member, and a coating layer which covers the marker-forming layer and the member at least in the region where the marker-forming layer is formed and has such transparency as to make the marker-forming layer visible. The marker-forming layer and the coating layer can be formed from mutually miscible resins, while the marker-forming layer functions as a visible marker. |
| US08187204B2 |
Surgical device and method for using same
A method of using a surgical system that includes an outer cannula is disclosed. The method includes removably mounting a surgical device to an adapter. The adapter is secured to a stage. The surgical device and adapter is positioned at a predetermined location for inserting the outer cannula toward a target site in a body. Once positioned in the body, the outer cannula is fired to the target site. At least one tissue sample is taken using the surgical device and tissue samples are harvested from the surgical device. |
| US08187202B2 |
Method and apparatus for acoustical outer ear characterization
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for characterizing acoustical properties of an outer ear 130, the method comprising the steps of: transmitting a first acoustic signal 125 towards the outer ear 130, receiving a second acoustic signal 150 from the outer ear 130, and characterizing acoustical properties 165 of the outer ear on the basis of the second acoustic signal 150. The method is characterized in that the first acoustic signal 125 comprises at least one of the following elements: music, and speech. The present invention further relates to a method and apparatus for enrolling, authenticating and identifying a person on the basis of acoustical properties of an outer ear 130. |
| US08187200B2 |
Method and apparatus to detect and monitor the frequency of obstructive sleep apnea
The present invention provides a method and apparatus for detecting and monitoring obstructive sleep apnea. The apparatus includes an intracardiac impedance sensor to measure intracardiac impedance, a movement sensor to measure an amount of movement of a patient, and a controller operatively coupled to said intracardiac impedance sensor and said movement sensor, said controller adapted to receive at least one of an intracardiac impedance and the amount of movement of the patient and detect obstructive sleep apnea based upon said intracardiac impedance and said movement. |
| US08187198B2 |
Rapid thermal detection of cardiac output change
An improved system for measuring changes in blood flow, particularly in the context of an automatic arrhythmia treatment device. The system includes a heater, exposable to a bloodstream, a driver providing power to the heater, a temperature sensor, isolated from the blood stream and thermally coupled to the temperature of the heater and a measurement circuit coupled to the temperature sensor, providing signals indicative of blood flow. The system may include an intravascular lead having a lead body wherein the heater is mounted to the lead body so as to dissipate its generated heat into the blood. The heater and temperature sensor may be thermally insulated from the lead body and the heater and the temperature sensor may be on substantially a single isotherm during operation. |
| US08187197B2 |
Cerebral perfusion monitor
A method of estimating cerebral blood flow includes obtaining a measure of time-varying blood volume in the head, using an impedance plethysmography (102 and 104), obtaining a measure of time-varying blood volume in the scalp, and using the time-varying blood volume in the head and scalp to estimate cerebral blood flow. |
| US08187193B2 |
Miniature actuator mechanism for intravascular imaging
The present invention relates to a new intravascular imaging device based on a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) actuator mechanism embedded inside an elongate member such as a guide wire or catheter. The present invention utilizes a novel SMA mechanism to provide side-looking imaging by providing movement for an ultrasound transducer element. This novel SMA actuator mechanism can be easily fabricated in micro-scale, providing an advantage over existing imaging devices because it offers the ability to miniaturize the overall size of the device, while the use of multiple transducer crystals maximizes field of view. Also disclosed are methods of using the same. |
| US08187190B2 |
Method and system for configuration of a pacemaker and for placement of pacemaker electrodes
Ultrasound imaging methods and systems for assisting a clinician in configuring the operation of a pacemaker and for determining an optimal site for the pacemaker electrode are presented. The methods and systems provide a toolbox for analyzing and optimizing the effectiveness of the pacemaker and proposed electrode sites. The method includes a function which evaluates one or more electrode sites and pacemaker configurations. The function may be based, for example, on the activation voltage of the pacemaker, on an estimate of the volume of blood ejected from the heart and/or on the cardiac dysynchrony. The ejection volume and the dysynchrony may be estimated using an imaging cardiac catheter ultrasound transducer array and ultrasound unit. |
| US08187186B2 |
Ultrasonic diagnosis of myocardial synchronization
An ultrasonic diagnostic imaging method and system are described for detecting abnormalities in the synchronicity of heart wall stimulation. Points on opposite sides of a chamber of the heart are identified in a starting ultrasound image, then tracked through at least a portion of the heart cycle. The changing positions of lines extending between pairs of the points are accumulated and displayed in a color kinesis display in which each color depicts the location of a line at a particular point in the cardiac cycle. In an illustrated example the points are tracked through the cardiac cycle by speckle tracking of the speckle pattern of the adjacent myocardial tissue, tracking specific anatomy, or tracking tissue texture. |
| US08187184B2 |
Access disconnect system with optical and other sensors
An optical access disconnect system is useful for detecting the presence of blood. The optical access disconnect system includes one or more optical sensors placed near an access site of a patient, the optical sensors suitable for detecting the presence of blood, especially by detecting a difference in light reflected or absorbed by blood. The optical access disconnect system may also be used as an interlock to assure compliance. A detector may be placed adjacent the access site to detect the access needle, or an object or mark on the access needle or fluid line. A therapy machine, such as a dialysis machine, may be programmed not to start or continue operation unless the needle or fluid line is detected. The detector may be one of the optical sensors, calibrated or adjusted to detect a mark on the needle or access line, or may be another type of detector. |
| US08187178B2 |
Instrument access device
An instrument access device comprises at least a first instrument seal 71 to effect a seal around a first instrument extended through the device and a second instrument seal 72 to effect a seal around a second instrument extended through the device. The instrument seals 71, 72 are configured to be arranged in a sealing relationship to a body of a patient. The device also comprises a distal anchoring ring 401 for location within a wound interior and a retractor member 402 extending proximally from the distal anchoring ring 401 to retract laterally the sides of a wound opening. |
| US08187177B2 |
Surgical instrument access device
A surgical access device includes a single valve that forms a seal with a body wall and provides an access channel into a body cavity. The valve has properties for creating a zero seal in the absence of an instrument as well as an instrument seal for an instrument having a diameter up to about 37 mm. The valve can include a gel material and the access channel can include a protective sleeve to provide for wound protection during insertion and withdrawal of a sharp surgical instrument. The valve further comprises a cap ring which may be inserted or molded with the gel material. The protective sleeve may be bonded or molded around an inner diameter of the cap ring. The protective sleeve may be a single tubular member, or may comprise a plurality of axially extending sleeve members having a plurality of axial slits. The protective sleeve and the cap ring may comprise of the same or different materials. The surgical access device further comprises at least one support ring disposed circumferentially of the valve forming a hollow space, and a wound retractor operatively placed in the hollow space. The wound retractor includes an inner ring, an outer ring, and a flexible sleeve connecting the inner ring and the outer ring. |
| US08187174B2 |
Detection of when a capsule camera enters into or goes out of a human body and associated operations
A method for detecting a capsule camera entering into or exiting the GI tract, includes (a) taking a first test image under the condition that an illumination system of the capsule camera is disabled; (b) taking a second test image under the same condition as the first test image; (c) comparing selected corresponding pixel values of the first test image and the second test image to determine if a significant change in pixel values has occurred; and (d) upon detecting the significant change in pixel values, determining if the capsule camera has entered or exited the GI tract, and performing operations appropriate to follow such determination. The appropriate operations performed after detecting the capsule camera's exit from the GI tract includes stopping further taking or storing of images and, optionally, activating an audio signal to indicate the capsule camera has exited the GI tract. The appropriate operations performed after detecting the capsule camera's entering into the GI tract includes entering into an imaging mode for a next section of the GI tract, which may be the esophagus. |
| US08187173B2 |
Apparatus for advancing an endoscope and method for manipulating the apparatus for advancing an endoscope
In a region where an intestine is movable in the abdominal cavity, conventional endoscope apparatus have suffered from a difficulty in moving an endoscope advancing portion toward a deep intestinal portion. An apparatus for advancing an endoscope is provided, which can be easily manipulated to advance medical instruments having endoscopic functions toward a deep portion. The apparatus includes first and second medical instruments, each having, at a distal end portion thereof, a balloon portion that can be fixed to an intestinal wall. In a fixed state, the balloon portion of the first medical instrument is configured to form a gap for enabling a distal end portion of the second medical instrument to advance therethrough. In a fixed state, the balloon portion of the second medical instrument is configured to form a gap for enabling a distal end portion of the first medical instrument to advance therethrough. |
| US08187171B2 |
Video endoscope
A video endoscope comprises an elongate shaft having a longitudinal axis, and a handpiece at the proximal end of the shaft, a distal end of the shaft being provided with a lens and, in the proximal direction from the lens, with an electronic image pickup. The image pickup is connected, via an electrical connection extending along the shaft, to an electrical connector piece arranged on the handpiece. The image pickup and the connector piece can rotate relative to each other about the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The electrical connection comprises at least one flexible, elongate circuit board, which is able to twist about its longitudinal direction and has at least one conductor track. |
| US08187170B2 |
Overtube and endoscope system suitable for treatment such as submucosal dissection
An overtube includes: an endoscope insertion portion passing hole through which an insertion portion of an endoscope is passed; and at least one manipulator passing hole through which a manipulator insertion portion of a manipulator apparatus is passed. The manipulator insertion portion includes a driving portion which has at least one first joint and one second joint rotating clockwise and counterclockwise. The endoscope insertion portion passing hole includes an endoscope protrusion amount determination portion which determines a length of a protrusion of the endoscope; and an observation optical system observation direction determination portion which determines an observation direction of the endoscope. The manipulator passing hole includes a manipulator protrusion amount determination portion which determines positions of the first joint of the manipulator within the observation optical system; and a joint driving direction determination portion which determines rotating directions of shafts of joints within the observation direction. |
| US08187166B2 |
Minimally invasive medical system employing a magnetically controlled endo-robot
A system for the implementation of minimally invasive diagnoses and interventions in the inside of the body of a patient has an endo-robot that has a linear magnet and carries measurement instruments and/or instruments for taking specimens and/or for treatment. The endo-robot is freely mobile within the body of a patient. A magnet system accepts the examination region of the patient and generates a 3D gradient field for remotely-controls movement and orientation of the endo-robot in the patient's body by interaction with the linear magnet. |
| US08187165B2 |
Portable sphincter training tool
Disclosed is a portable sphincter training tool in that the general male can wear on his body and naturally exercise his sphincter at recess or in the course of daily life, whereby improving physically and spiritually in vitality and confidence. The portable sphincter training tool comprises a penis induction pipe for receiving a penis; an adhesive plate coupled to the penis induction pipe, adhered to an user's body during wear and having a vacuum pump for making the penis induction pipe vacuous; and a sphincter tension necklace coupled to one side of the adhesive plate and hanged on an user's neck in order to stably adhere the penis induction pipe to the adhesive plate and apply a tension to the sphincter according to a predetermined movement during adhesion; wherein an insertion portion of the penis induction pipe is bent inward in such a manner that the penis is stably received upward. |
| US08187164B2 |
Methods and apparatus for treating body tissue sphincters and the like
A plurality of structures that resiliently attract one another are provided for implanting in a patient around a body tissue structure of the patient. For example, the body tissue structure may be the esophagus, and the plurality of structures may be implanted in an annulus around the outside of the esophagus, the annulus being substantially coaxial with the esophagus. The attraction may be between annularly adjacent ones of the structures in the annulus, and it may be provided, for example, by magnets or springs. The array of structures is preferably self-limiting with respect to the smallest area that it can encompass, and this smallest area is preferably large enough to prevent the apparatus from applying excessive pressure to tissue passing through that area. |
| US08187163B2 |
Methods for implanting a gastric restriction device
Various exemplary methods are disclosed for implanting a restriction device for forming a restriction in a patient. The methods can be used with a variety of restriction devices, but in an exemplary embodiment the methods are used for implanting a gastric restriction device. |
| US08187162B2 |
Reorientation port
Various methods and devices are provided for reorienting an implantable port. In one embodiment, an implantable port is provided and includes a base adapted to be anchored to tissue, and a housing pivotally mounted on the base and having a septum formed therein and adapted to receive fluid and to provide access to a fluid reservoir formed within the housing. In an exemplary embodiment, the housing can be pivotally mounted to the base using a ball and socket joint. For example, at least one of a distal surface of the housing and a proximal surface of the base is convex, and the other one of the distal surface of the housing and the proximal surface of the base is concave. |
| US08187161B2 |
Self-referencing communication in implantable devices
Various aspects of the present invention enable robust, reliable control functionality for effectors present on intraluminal, e.g., vascular leads, as well as other types of implantable devices. Aspects of the invention include implantable integrated circuits that have self-referencing and self-clocking signal encoding, and are capable of bidirectional communication. Also provided by the invention are effector assemblies that include the integrated circuits, as well as implantable medical devices, e.g., pulse generators that include the same, as well as systems and kits thereof and methods of using the same, e.g., in pacing applications, including cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) applications. |
| US08187160B2 |
Device for proactive modulation of cardiac strain patterns
A direct cardiac assist device which may aid in ventricular recovery. The device proactively modulates cardiac strain pattern to produce a contraction strain pattern that induces beneficial growth and remodeling of the myocardium or prevents or reduces apoptosis of the myocytes. The device may include an outer shell. membrane, or mesh and an inner membrane. The space between the outer member and the membrane may be filled with fluid that is pressurized during contraction. The device prescribes a beneficial strain pattern during heart contraction. This strain pattern does not invert the curvatures or grossly alter the curvatures of the heart and may assist in myocyte regrowth and healing of the failing heart. |
| US08187159B2 |
Therapeutic member including a rail used in brachytherapy and other radiation therapy
A therapeutic member for use in brachytherapy deliverable to an implant site by way of a needle comprises a single radioactive source encapsulated by a bio-absorbable material having an outer surface including one or more ribs encircling the single radioactive source, a leading edge endcap rib and a trailing edge endcap rib. The one or more ribs reduces a tendency of the member to migrate and rotate within a patient's body after implantation. The encapsulating material further includes a first rail formed from the bio-absorbable material extending at least from opposite sides of the outer surface of the encapsulating material along the longitudinal axis of the therapeutic member, and a second rail formed from the bio-absorbable material extending at least from opposite sides of the outer surface of the encapsulating material along the longitudinal axis of the therapeutic member, the second rail arranged in a plane substantially perpendicular to a plane in which the first rail is arranged. |
| US08187158B2 |
Paper folding station
A paper folding station with a paper-feeder and a first pair of motorized rollers supported at a delivery end of the paper-feeder about respective parallel axes to draw sheets of paper from the feeder. One of the rollers is mounted on a first adjustable support. A folding buckle is provided to receive the sheets from the first pair of rollers through an inlet mouth. The buckle has a barrier causing the sheets to stop and bend into the shape of a groove below the inlet mouth. A second pair of rollers is supported near the inlet mouth about respective parallel axes to pinch the groove and to make a transverse fold on the sheet. The paper-folding station further comprises at least one transverse beam to guide the sheet near the inlet mouth. |
| US08187157B2 |
Microtome blade changing apparatus for a knife holder of a microtome, and microtome
A microtome blade changing apparatus for a knife holder (1) of a microtome comprises a blade dispenser (4) storing unused blades and a blade container (5) for receiving used blades. The blade dispenser (4) and blade container (5) are respectively arranged adjacent to the knife holder (1). To reduce the risk of injury to an operator in the context of a blade changing operation, enable operation of the microtome blade changing apparatus reliably and in simple fashion, and allow economical manufacture of the microtome blade changing apparatus, the microtome blade changing apparatus is characterized in that an entraining element (13) manually actuable by an operator is provided, and is configured in such a way that an unused blade is transferable with the entraining element (13) from the blade dispenser (4) to the knife holder (1), and a used blade is thereby conveyable into the blade container (5). |
| US08187156B2 |
Wheelchair gym
A wheelchair gym having a support bar releasably connected to the frame of the wheelchair. A vertical post is attached to the support bar and hand grips are slidably mounted on the vertical post. The hand grips are resiliently biased and may be moved conjointly or opposite to one another to provide arm exercise for a patient in the wheelchair. The gym also has leg supports on which resiliently biased foot rests may be moved conjointly or opposite to one another. The leg supports may be moved up and down or may be splayed laterally. |
| US08187155B2 |
Training machine
A training machine is provided comprising a base (6) arranged for placement on the floor (4), a movable member (32) provided on the base (6) to be moved by the training action, and a load exerting means (8) for exerting a load to control the movement of the movable member (32). The load exerting means (8) has a weight assembly (22) thereof arranged to be lifted vertically by the movement of the movable member (32) as resisting the gravity and particular is accompanied with a counter-force exerting means (70) arranged at the weight assembly (22) and/or the movable member (32) for exerting a returning force on the movable member (32) at the timing of shift from the upward movement to the downward movement of the weight assembly (22). The counter-force exerting means (70) comprises, for example, coil springs (72, 74) and movement stoppers (76, 78) for restricting the movement of the coil springs (72, 74). |
| US08187152B2 |
Rehabilitation system and method using muscle feedback
There is provided a machine for rehabilitation or exercise, comprising: a frame; a first arm movably secured to the frame via a first actuator; a first force sensor for measuring a force exerted by a user on the first arm; and a control unit adapted for controlling a displacement speed for the first arm via the first actuator as a function of the force and for increasing the displacement speed of the first arm via the first actuator when the force is superior to a target force. In one embodiment, there is further provided an electromyograph for location on the exercised muscle for measuring an electrical potential generated by the muscle and for lowering the target force when the electrical potential is superior to a predetermined maximum electrical potential. There is further provided a method for operating an exercise machine and a system for exercising a muscle. |
| US08187148B2 |
Clutch system
A clutch system for producing and interrupting a force flow between the engine and transmission of a motor vehicle, with a clutch, which is disengaged unless actuated, and one or more valves, which regulate the flow of pressure medium and which are electrically actuated by a control and regulation unit. If there is electrical failure while driving and when a gear is engaged or when the vehicle is stationary, the engine is running and a transmission gear is engaged, unintended clutch engagement is prevented. The valves are designed such that if there is a failure of the voltage supply and consequently also of the actuation of the valves by the electronic control and regulation system, the operating condition of the clutch existing at the time of failure, namely the disengaged or engaged operating condition, remains as it is. |
| US08187142B2 |
Bevel friction ring gear mechanism
In order to absorb loadings on friction faces in bevel friction ring gear mechanisms in an improved manner, the invention proposes a bevel friction ring gear mechanism having at least two friction cones which are arranged spaced apart from one another and a friction ring which is arranged displaceably in the spacing and transmits a torque from one of the two friction cones to the other of the two friction cones, wherein at least one friction face varies axially and the axial variation of the friction face has a radius above 0.1 mm in at least two convex regions. |
| US08187141B2 |
Planet pinion carrier for a gearset
A carrier assembly for an automatic transmission includes a first plate, a second plate spaced along an axis from the first plate, a third plate spaced axially from the first plate and the second plate by angularly spaced legs, the third plate being formed with angularly spaced recesses. Short pinions, supported on the first plate and the third plate, each has a major diameter sized to move between at least two of the legs along a chordal path into one of the recesses during installation in the carrier. Long pinions, supported on the first plate and the second plate, each has a major diameter sized to move between at least two of the legs along a radial path into one of the recesses during installation in the carrier. |
| US08187138B2 |
Multi-speed transaxle for a front wheel drive vehicle
A front wheel drive transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes a sun gear member, a planet carrier member, and a ring gear member. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes arranged within a transmission housing. |
| US08187137B2 |
Transmission having at least eight speeds
A transmission of the present invention has an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes. The torque transmitting devices are selectively engageable in combinations of at least three to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio. |
| US08187133B2 |
Fatigue resistant transverse lubrication passage for transmission shafts
A lubrication system for transporting lubrication oil in an automatic transmission includes a radial lubrication passage opening at a hole in an outer peripheral surface of a shaft. The hole has a cross section that is elongated only along a first axis offset from a central axis the shaft so as to follow angular deformation caused by unidirectional torque applied to the shaft whereby stress produced around the hole by torque transmitted through the rotating shaft is reduced, thus minimizing fatigue and increasing a useful life of the automatic planetary transmission. Preferably cross sections of the radial passage taken sequentially along the transverse axis are elongated near outer peripheral surface of the shaft but become circular towards the central axis. With this arrangement stress produced around the hole by torque transmitted through the rotating shaft is reduced thus reducing fatigue and increasing a useful life of the transmission. |
| US08187130B1 |
Multi-speed transmission with integrated electric motor
A multiple speed transmission for a motor vehicle includes an input member, an output member, four planetary gear assemblies, each with first, second, and third members, a plurality of torque transmitting devices, an electric motor, and a switching device that selectively couples the electric motor to the input member and selectively couples the electric motor to one of the members of one of the planetary gear assemblies. The electric motor can be employed for regenerative braking. Further, the electric motor can be employed to launch and drive the motor vehicle with each of the gear ratios of the multi-speed transmission. |
| US08187124B2 |
Batting swing trainer and method
A baseball batting swing trainer teaches proper bat swinging and ball hitting technique. The swing trainer includes a first handle attached to the first end of a shaft. The second end of the shaft includes a head having a diameter greater than the shaft diameter and less than the diameter of the head of a conventional baseball bat. A cylindrical second handle slidable between the first and second shaft ends. The second handle is sized to accommodate all five fingers on one of the user's hands in a batting grip. A process for teaching a person the proper technique for swinging a baseball bat using the swing trainer is also provided. When performed properly, the process produces an audible sound by striking the second handle against the stop while the head of the bat is passing through the user's strike zone and directly over the user's forward foot. |
| US08187121B2 |
Casing layer for polyurethane-covered and polyurea-covered golf balls
This invention is related to multi-layer golf balls having at least one layer containing a neutralized high acid ionomer linked to a grafted metallocene copolymer, where the golf balls exhibit improved performance characteristics and properties. |
| US08187120B2 |
Wedge type golf club head
A wedge type golf club head is disclosed herein where the wedge type golf club head has enhanced performance characteristics such as improved backspin, ball speed, and launch angle. More specifically, the present invention relates to a wedge type golf club head having a lower center of gravity, where the center of gravity is located substantially behind the hitting surface and substantially along a neutral axis behind the point of impact. |
| US08187115B2 |
Set of constant face center metal woods
Golf equipment including a set of golf clubs having a substantially constant distance from the shaft axis to the central point of the club face for each club in the set. The central point may be the geometric center of the face or the impact point, which may be the same or different. |
| US08187107B2 |
Push button quick disconnect yoke
A quick disconnect yoke assembly is provided that includes a yoke having a cylindrical hub and a splined bore passing through the hub. A disconnect lever may be pivotably secured to the hub and may include an first arm and a second arm. The disconnect lever may be biased in a first position by a return spring. In the first position, the first arm may be positioned in a circumferential groove formed between a first splined portion and a second splined portion of a shaft that is received in the bore. When an inward radial force is applied to the second arm, the disconnect lever pivots to a second position in which the first portion is outside of the circumferential groove, thereby allowing the shaft to be inserted or removed from the bore. |
| US08187104B2 |
System and method for creating, editing, and sharing video content relating to video game events
Systems and methods are provided for at least partially automating generation of video clips chronicling a character's interaction with a video game. The same may combine automatic video clip generation with automatic or user-generated and/or user-edited or created narrative. Multiple video clips may be combined into a video reel prior to or subsequent to uploading the same to a file-sharing site. The video game may be a massive multiplayer online role-playing game. |
| US08187103B2 |
Gaming method and apparatus utilizing secondary software applications
In a gaming method for facilitating game play via a gaming apparatus, the gaming apparatus comprising a controller and a first display unit, the controller communicatively coupled to the first display unit, a game software application may be executed, and value input data may be received. The first display unit may be caused to display a game image representative of one of the following games: poker, blackjack, slots, keno, or bingo. A secondary software application may be executed, and an icon associated with the secondary software application may be displayed simultaneous with the display of the game image, wherein a foreground of the game image is substantially unobstructed by the icon, and wherein the icon is substantially unobstructed by the foreground of the game image. Information may be conveyed using the secondary software application upon detecting an event, and a value payout associated with an outcome of the game may be determined. |
| US08187102B2 |
Gaming system obtaining time-of-day data from a plurality of terminals and providing games matching customer preferences at respective times-of-day
A gaming system 10, composed of a server 11 and a plurality of gaming terminals 13, submits selection information including a game type to be executed in a gaming terminal 13 and a picture type, selected by a player in the gaming terminal 13, and operational information indicating operational status to the server 11. The server 11 aggregates the information received from the plurality of gaming terminals 13, and submits the game type and the picture type most selected, as configuration information, to the plurality of gaming terminals 13. In addition, operational information and processing results of the server 11 are displayed on a monitor 16. The gaming terminal 13 changes a stand-by screen in accordance with the configuration information and displays the stand-by screen on liquid crystal displays 30 and 40. |
| US08187101B2 |
System and method for collecting and using player information
A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. |
| US08187095B2 |
Universal game console controller
A universal game console controller that has an LCD presenting, depending on what type of game console a user has input, a controller key layout for a first type of game console or a controller key layout for a second type of game console. |
| US08187094B2 |
Game program
In the game program, a computer 100 is operated as means for moving a game character in a game field, based on an input signal inputted from an operation unit 114 and outputting the motions to display means 110. The game program comprises the processing of setting a player character PC which moves, based on an operation signal inputted from an operation unit 114 by a game player and a partner character PT which moves, based on a prescribed movement algorithm, and judging whether or not a first input signal has been inputted from the operation unit, and the processing of restricting a range where the player character PC is movable to a prescribed range with a present position of the partner character PT in the gate field as a reference when it is judged that the first input signal has been inputted. The game program permits a player character a player operates and a partner character which supports the player character to make various cooperative motions. |
| US08187092B2 |
Wagering game with multiple viewpoint display feature
A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes an input device for receiving a wager to play a wagering game. The gaming system further includes at least one display for displaying a plurality of game elements. The at least one display is adapted to display a first three-dimensional view of the plurality of game elements from a first viewpoint and a second three-dimensional view of at least one of the plurality of game elements indicating a randomly-selected outcome from a second viewpoint. The first three-dimensional view and the second three-dimensional view are rendered in real-time. |
| US08187090B2 |
Conjuring assisting toy
The invention provides a conjuring assisting toy which can make a viewer feel the supernatural force and interestedness which are inherent in a conjuring trick by displaying the result of a conjuring trick through simple operations, there is provided a conjuring assisting toy including a display means for displaying an image, a coordinate inputting means for designating coordinates relative to a display area of the display means, and a central control means, wherein the central control means includes a main control unit, a conjuring data storage unit, an input analyzing unit and an operation unit, an operation result storage unit, an inputted diagram storage unit, and an image data forming and outputting unit, an inputted position signal is analyzed by the input analyzing unit, the main control unit causes position information based on the inputted position signal to be stored in the inputted diagram storage unit, causes the display means to display a line image, determines specific feature information from information stored in the conjuring data storage unit based on an input order, and causes part or the whole of the line image which is caused to be displayed on the display means to be changed to display a time-varying image. |
| US08187088B2 |
Gaming system having wagering features funded by extra-casino activities
A method of funding features of a wagering game, comprises receiving a first sum of money generated from extra-casino activity associated with at least one person and depositing the first sum into a feature fund. The method further comprises allocating the first sum to at least one account of the feature fund in accordance with a first rule set. The method further comprises, in response to a triggering event, withdrawing a second sum of money from the at least one account. The method further comprises funding at least one feature associated with the wagering game from the second sum of money and activating the funded feature. |
| US08187084B2 |
Electronic amusement device and method for operating a game offering continuous reels
A gaming device and method for controlling operating the gaming device is disclosed. The gaming device initiates a paid play, and determines an outcome of the play. The outcome is visually displayed using at least two graphical displays. The graphical displays comprise a first and second visual continuum, without discrete reel stops. The outcome is represented by the relative positions of the first and second visual continuums. The outcome may also be based on the relative position of the first and second continuums to a payline. A payout corresponding to the outcome is determined by the device, and is awarded to the player. |
| US08187077B2 |
Wagering game having multiple award components
A multiple bonus modifier game includes a base game and two or more base award modifiers operating independently or simultaneously of each other. The multiple bonus modifier game comprises a base game that includes a plurality of spinning reels, a first base award modifier that includes at least one spinning reel, and a second base award modifier that includes at least one additional spinning reel. The outcome of the spinning reels in the base game defines a base game award. The outcome of the spinning reel in the first base award modifier defines a first modifier award, which adjusts the base game award. The outcome of the additional spinning reel in the second base award modifier defines a second modifier award. |
| US08187072B2 |
Instant lottery game
An instant lottery game system (10) includes a game play defining element (12). A symbol display zone (14) is carried on the game play defining element (12), the symbol display zone (14) containing a plurality of symbols related to gaming machine games. A masking medium (20) covers the symbols of the symbol display zone (14) prior to use. A symbol interpretation zone (16) is also carried on the game play defining element (12), the symbol interpretation zone (16) carrying a plurality of indicia with the indicia being used in interpreting symbols revealed after removal of the masking medium (20) to determine a prize outcome. |
| US08187067B2 |
Automatic transformation of inventory items in a virtual universe
An approach that automatically transforms an inventory item of an avatar that is online in a virtual universe without requiring manual changes is described. In one embodiment, there is an avatar locator component configured to locate an avatar that is online in the virtual universe. An inventory item transforming component is configured to automatically transform an inventory item associated with the located avatar that is visual, functional, security or linguistic in nature. |
| US08187065B1 |
Video card gaming system for simulating a football game
A video card gaming system for simulating a football game comprising a processor. At least one input device, display device, monetary acceptance feature, and database are in communication with the processor. The database comprises an electronic deck of playing cards comprising offensive play cards and defensive play cards, and an electronic deck of special teams cards. Computer instructions in the database instruct the processor to permit input of primary and secondary bets, electronically deal cards from the electronic decks, designate offense and defense players, permit selection of cards by players, determine game outcomes based on the selected cards, and award winnings based on bets and game outcomes. |
| US08187062B2 |
Shackle with pivot feature and log chain drive mechanism
A device for retaining an animal on a transport system for moving the animal in a forward direction includes a lower portion operable to retain the animal and an upper portion operable for conveyance by the transport system. The upper portion is attachable to the lower portion, and the upper portion includes a connector for connecting the device to a drive mechanism. The connector has a longitudinal axis. The lower portion is operable for movement between a first position in which a longitudinal axis of the lower portion and the longitudinal axis of the connector are in substantially straight orientation relative to each other, and a second position wherein the longitudinal axis of the lower portion and the longitudinal axis of the connector are in substantially angled orientation relative to one another. The lower portion is substantially inhibited from moving in a rearward direction beyond said first position. |
| US08187058B2 |
Power-driven hand tool
A power-driven hand tool comprises a drive spindle adapted to drive a tool, that can be driven to oscillate about its longitudinal axis, which tool can be fixed on a retaining section of the dive spindle by a securing element, and further comprises a displacing device that serves to displace the securing element between a releasing position in which the securing element can be released from the drive spindle and a clamping position in which the securing element is clamped on the retaining section by a spring element, the securing element comprising a clamping shaft adapted to be inserted into the securing element, which is axially fixed in the drive spindle for clamping the tool in the clamping position, and which can be detached in the releasing position. For clamping of the tool a split chuck is provided which is clamped on the retaining section by the securing element in the clamped position and is connected with the retaining section in form-locking engagement. |
| US08187057B2 |
Blast nozzle with blast media fragmenter
A media blast nozzle for cleaning a surface with compressed air and ejected particles of a sublimating blast media comprises a media size changer to change a size of the blast media particles. The media blast nozzle has an entrance and an exit and a throat therebetween. A converging passageway extends from the entrance to the throat, and a diverging passageway extends from the throat to the exit. The media size changer is operably located in the diverging passageway and has one or more media size changing members to fragment moving blast media particles by impact therewith. The blast media particles are provided to the media blast nozzle in an initial consistent size, and when a moving blast media particle impacts with one or more media size changing members, two or more fragments of reduced size are created from the initial blast media particle for ejection from the nozzle device. The media size changer can be adjusted by an operator to eject whole particles or fragments of particles. The size of the ejected particle fragments can also be adjusted with the media size change |
| US08187056B2 |
Process and apparatus for surface-finishing
A processing apparatus is provided to surface-finish or otherwise process features of a workpiece, such as a lumen of a stent. The fluid jet apparatus can have a nozzle system and a holder for holding and positioning the workpiece with respect to the nozzle system. A fluid jet outputted from the nozzle system is used to form a desired surface-finish. |
| US08187053B2 |
Breast support system for recumbant woman and methods of use
A breast support system for a recumbent female human includes medial and lateral support padding for each breast. |
| US08187050B1 |
Toy-building elements having sidewall grooves formed between outwardly extending flexible ridges
A toy building element has sidewalls that include grooves and tongues by which the toy building element can be interconnected with a like building element. Each groove is formed between a pair of outwardly extending flexible ridges. The tongue does not extend outward beyond the virtual plane of the sidewall that includes the tongue. The virtual plane is defined as a plane that passes through a midpoint of a line that connects a central point on an outer surface of the sidewall that includes the at least one tongue to a central point on an outer surface of the sidewall of the other building element that includes the at least one pair of ridges and is perpendicular to a line that passes through the central points of said interconnected building elements when said building elements are interconnected in a centered configuration. |
| US08187046B2 |
Marine power splitting gearbox
A power splitting gearbox is provided that allows a single prime mover to distribute power, for example torque, to multiple final drive assemblies, such as surface drives or other final drives. The power splitting gearbox can be provided downstream from a marine transmission and can be mounted directly to a transom of a marine vessel. The gearbox can have a back wall that accepts and supports mounting surfaces of the multiple final drive assemblies such that the gearbox bears the weight of the multiple final drive assemblies. The gearbox has two outputs that rotate in opposing directions so that a pair of final drive assemblies mounted to the gearbox will counter-rotate a pair of propellers for providing a propulsive force that moves the marine vessel. |
| US08187044B2 |
Watercraft propulsion device including a linkage and a horizontal propulsion fin
A watercraft propulsion device 10 has a linkage comprising a vertical drive link (20), a support link (12), an upper control link (50) having a forwardly extended handle bar (52), and a lower propulsion link (30) having a horizontal propulsion fin (32) backwardly extended therefrom. The control and propulsion links (50, 30) are interconnected by said drive link (20), which is capable of conveying propulsive oscillatory motion to the propulsion link (30) by means of a linear power actuator (90), and by the support link (12), which is pivotally connected a transom bracket (60) about a substantially vertical axis. |
| US08187042B2 |
Waterproof connector that can be designed to be short in overall length
A retainer is incorporated into a fitting portion of a housing so as to be movable between a preset position and a set position in a direction crossing terminal receiving holes. Further, a seal member is attached to an outer periphery of the fitting portion. The seal member is brought into close contact with an inner periphery of a fitting hole of a mating connector for sealing when the fitting portion is fitted to the fitting hole. The retainer has projections which retreat to the sides of the terminal receiving holes to allow insertion of terminals into the terminal receiving holes when the retainer is at the preset position and which project into the terminal receiving holes to engage with the terminals so as to hold the terminals in a come-off preventing state when the retainer is at the set position. The retainer and the seal member are provided at positions which overlap each other in a direction of fitting to the mating connector. |
| US08187040B2 |
Mounting feature for the contact array of an electrical connector
A contact sub-assembly is provided for an electrical connector. The contact sub-assembly includes a base having a mounting opening, and an array of mating contacts. Each mating contact includes a mating interface. A support block extends a length along a central longitudinal axis. Openings extend through the support block. The openings are spaced apart from one another along the length of the support block. The mating contacts extend through corresponding openings. A mounting post extends outwardly from the support block in a direction that is non-parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the support block. The mounting post is received within the mounting opening of the base. |
| US08187038B2 |
Card edge connector and method of manufacturing the same
A card edge connector for electrically connecting harnesses to contact electrodes that are located in different positions on a surface of an electronic substrate in an insertion direction includes a housing, harness terminals, and relay terminals. The housing defines a substrate insertion hole for receiving the electronic substrate. The harness terminals are separately connected to the harnesses and located in different positions in a height direction perpendicular to the insertion direction. The relay terminals separately connect the harness terminals to the contact electrodes upon insertion of the electronic substrate into the substrate insertion hole. |
| US08187033B2 |
Electrical carrier assembly and system of electrical carrier assemblies
A male coaxial connector includes at least one termination device having a tubular shield surrounding and isolated from a pin that is configured to electrically connect with a socket of a female termination device, and a plate extending from one of a leading end of the tubular shield and a leading end of the female termination device. Upon electrical interconnection, the plate forms a ground circuit extending between the at least one termination device and a ground of the female termination device. |
| US08187030B2 |
Device connector
A device connector has a housing main body (10), a device-side housing portion (12) to be accommodated in a connector mounting hole, a reinforcing plate (30) including an opening (31) for permitting the passage of terminal fittings, and a flange (11) formed by insert molding using the reinforcing plate (30) and synthetic resin, and terminal fittings 15. An outer peripheral end surface of the reinforcing plate (30) is exposed. The device connector is produced with a reduced cost by insert molding using a metal reinforcing plate as an insert while preventing a crack from being created in a synthetic resin portion covering the reinforcing plate (30). |
| US08187027B2 |
Telecommunications patch panel with angled connector modules
A telecommunications patch panel is provided having a plurality of connector modules rotatably mounted to a frame member. Each connector module has a front face and an opposite facing rear face, and each front face includes a plurality of connector jacks. Each rear face includes a plurality of wire termination blocks. The wire termination blocks are electrically connected to the connector jacks. Each connector module is rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the frame member. A lock selectively locks each connector module to the frame member as desired. The connector jacks and the connector modules are arranged in linear arrays perpendicular to the axis of rotation. |
| US08187023B1 |
Wire connector with two spring plates
A wire connector with two spring plate parts comprises a box, a spring plate, a fixing base, and a conductive plate. The spring plate is integrally formed and fixed inside the box. The spring plate has first plate parts on its first extension part and second plate parts on its second extension part. The exposed end of a wire is inserted via the holes of the fixing base and held by the first plate parts and the second plate parts. The exposed end of the wire is thus in electrical contact with the conductive plate on the bottom part. |
| US08187021B2 |
Lighting connector devices and uses thereof
A lighting connector which includes (a) an upper housing having plural connector pins, and one or more interlocking grooves; and (b) a lower housing, the lower housing having a plurality of connector pin guide holes, and one or more interlocking tongue portions. The lower housing is connectable with the upper housing to form the lighting connector by coupling at least one of the one or more interlocking grooves with at least one of the one or more interlocking tongue portions, and by coupling at least one of the plural connector pins with at least one of the connector pin guide holes. |
| US08187019B2 |
Connector with integrated latch assembly
A connector utilizes a latching assembly that has a structure that connects horizontal movement of an actuator to vertical movement of a latching arm. A latching member is provided that grips the exterior of the connector and has a cantilevered latching arm that extends from the member over a mating portion for connection. In its simplest form the latching member includes a continuous retaining collar that fits over the exterior of the connector and exerts a clamping force on the connector so as to retain the latching member in place. |
| US08187017B2 |
Electrical power contacts and connectors comprising same
Electrical connectors and contacts for transmitting power are provided. One power contact embodiment includes a first plate that defines a first non-deflecting beam and a first deflectable beam, and a second plate that defines a second non-deflecting beam and a second deflectable beam. The first and second plates are positioned beside one another to form the power contact. |
| US08187015B2 |
Electrical connection apparatus
An electrical connection apparatus includes an electrical connection contact and an adjustment component within an interior of the electrical connection apparatus. The electrical connection contact is operatively coupled to the adjustment component so that the electrical connection contact adjusts between an insertion position and a contact position in response to rotating the adjustment component. A slider movably arranged within the interior of the electrical connection apparatus causes the electrical connection contact to move in response to rotation of the adjustment component. The electrical connection apparatus includes one or more blocks, and the adjustment component, electrical contact and slider are arranged within an interior of the one or more blocks. |
| US08187014B2 |
Lanyard connector
Lanyard connectors for release of an ordinance are provided. The lanyard connectors include a coupling sleeve and locking ring movable between a first position and a second position. The lanyard connectors also include a latching spring and a reset spring. The latching spring is partially disposed within a groove in the locking ring in the first position, and removed from the groove in the second position. The reset spring is held in place by a connector cover and interfaces with a second groove in the locking ring. The reset spring is compressed in the second position. The lanyard connectors allow for release of an ordinance receptacle when in the second position. Methods of using the connectors are also provided. |
| US08187009B2 |
High density electrical connector
An electrical connector includes an insulative housing and a number of electrical contacts secured to the insulative housing. Each of the contacts includes a flat plate engaging with the insulative housing, a spring arm bending and extending upwardly from a side edge of the flat plate and a solder tail extending downwardly from a lower portion of the flat plate. The spring arm has a first vertical portion connected with the body plate, an arc portion bending and extending upwardly from the first vertical portion, and a contact portion at a free end of the spring arm. Said arc portion and contact portion are located at same side of the first vertical portion. |
| US08187007B2 |
Electrical pressfit plug connector having a laterally bent power pin
An electrical pressfit plug connector for fastening to a printed circuit board includes contacts, which on the front side and back side of the plug connector are each situated as a single or multi-row male multipoint connector, and which are configured on the front side of the plug connector as contact pins for contacting a counterplug, and are configured on the back side as pressfit pins for pressfitting into metallized bores in the printed circuit board, according to the present system, either the contact pin or the pressfit pin of at least one contact of the male multipoint connectors being situated laterally offset with respect to its associated pressfit pin and contact pin, respectively, in the longitudinal direction of the male multipoint connectors. |
| US08187004B1 |
System and method of education administration
A system including electronic data collection for school officials, staff, and administrators is described. The data collection system can be integrated onto school management systems to interconnect information regarding data such as student academic records, student merits, student progress, student and teacher biographies, etc. The system assesses student, teacher, classroom, individual school, school district, and state performance in a variety of educational area; associates imputed educational data; and permits the cross-application querying of the educational data and access of the educational data in real-time. The system is intended to help school systems accomplish tasks such as managing work, monitoring student progress in real-time, and determining education trends, via data linkage in real-time. |
| US08187003B2 |
Method and apparatus for rapid surveying of static structures
An apparatus to facilitate field assessment of static structure sites to provide data in a predetermined format acceptable to a taxing authority, including a personal computing device having a graphic display screen, a user interface, and application software. The user interface is arranged to accept alphanumeric data provided by a user of the apparatus and also accept graphic input from the user representative of structural features of the static structure. The application software is arranged to provide a real-time display on the graphic display screen of dimensional data associated with the graphic inputs as they are entered by the user. The application software is also arranged to compute dimensional attributes of enclosed polygons resulting from the graphic input by the user. |
| US08187002B2 |
Method for cleaning the oral cavity
A method for cleaning an oral cavity by positioning a device suitable for detecting and removing plaque from a surface within the oral cavity having applied thereto a fluorescent agent capable of binding to plaque on the surface, substantially simultaneously cleaning and irradiating the surface with a light of a wavelength effective to provide a fluorescent emission when contacted with the fluorescent agent, collecting at least a portion of the fluorescent emission over a predetermined first time period (PTP1), determining an average plaque value (APV) based on the fluorescent emission collected over the PTP1, comparing the APV to a predetermined plaque value (PPV), and continuing to substantially simultaneously clean and irradiate the surface within the oral cavity for a predetermined second time period (PTP2). |
| US08187000B2 |
Impression cap
A two-part impression cap for manufacturing a model for a dental implant, comprising: a cylindrical body and a cap-shaped part pluggable onto the cylindrical body, the cylindrical body and the cap-shaped part having a common central axis, the cap-shaped part being provided with elastic elements extending in the direction of the central axis, which elements are adapted to be bent towards the central axis and thus to create a tension in the elastic elements for engaging a groove in the interior of an abutment, adapter or the like, and the cylindrical body being adapted to fit tightly on the outside of the abutment, adapter or the like. |
| US08186995B2 |
Survival tool fire starter with mischmetal flint rod
A fire-starter device for survival or emergency use has a handle portion and case portion that twist together, to sheath a mischmetal flint rod inside the case, and a seal ring protects the flint rod from environmental moisture. The case has a steel strike plate and a guide channel. The mischmetal flint rod favorably has a composition of cerium—50%, lanthanum—26%, magnesium—10%, praseodymium—3%, neodymium—1%, and iron—10%. |
| US08186992B2 |
Micropattern transfer device
In a micropattern transfer device, a stamper on which a fine indented pattern is formed is brought into contact with a material to be transferred, and the fine indented pattern on the stamper is transferred onto a surface of the material to be transferred. The micropattern transfer device includes a holding mechanism which holds an entire outer circumferential portion of the material to be transferred. The holding mechanism holds the material to be transferred such that a distance between the material to be transferred and the stamper is substantially equal to or shorter than a distance between the holding mechanism and the stamper. |
| US08186988B2 |
Powder press
A powder press, with a press frame, which comprises an upper and lower frame section, an upper linear drive attached to the upper frame section and a lower linear drive attached to the lower frame section, wherein the drives are connected to an upper and lower punch plate or a die table, respectively, wherein the punch plates have a clamping system for an upper or a lower punch, a die clamping system on a die table with a die, and at least one force measuring device for measuring the pressing force on at least one punch, characterized in that at least one force measuring device is disposed between a punch plate and the associated clamping system. |
| US08186986B2 |
Device for drawing filaments
A device for drawing melt-spun filaments for forming a spunbonded fabric includes at least one guide member. The filaments are guided through a slot-shaped nozzle, onto which compressed air is applied, and which conveys the filaments through the drawing nozzle. Guide members are provided on both sides of the slot on the base of the slot-shaped outlet, which cause a uniform structure of the fabric due to their shaping. This is achieved when a guide member has a plurality of notches parallel to the conveying direction, and the opposite guide member has a plurality of bores, which passively connect the space between the guide member with the environment. |
| US08186985B2 |
Mold apparatus for forming grooves in tire shoulder
A mold device is described for use in a mold having a plurality of tread molding segments. Each tread molding segment has an end face for mating with an adjoining segment. The mold device includes a piston located on the segment end face and is actuated by the opening and closing of the mold. Each of the mold segments further includes a retractable blade assembly having a first and second chamber; wherein the piston is positioned within the first chamber and having a plunger end in communication with a temperature sensitive block of material and a spring. The first chamber is in fluid communication with a second chamber, wherein said second chamber further comprises a retractable blade mounted within a blade collar wherein the blade collar is slidably received within said second chamber; said second chamber further comprises a temperature sensitive block of material and a spring. |
| US08186984B2 |
Tire mold and tire with internal grooves in tire tread
A tire mold is described that includes a plurality of tread molding segments having an inner surface for molding the tire tread. The mold further includes a plurality of sidewall plates having an inner surface for molding the tire sidewall. The tread mold segments together with the sidewalls cooperate to form a tire molding cavity. The sidewall plate further comprises a slot that extends from the outer surface of the tread segment to the inner mold surface, and has a pin extending from the outer surface of the tread segment. The pin is mounted to a rotatable body which can swivel. The rotatable body further comprises a guide pin which cooperates with a working member to rotate the body into a desired position in order to position the pin in the tire tread to be molded. The working member actuates the rotatable body into various positions. |
| US08186982B2 |
Adjustable rotary pump with reduced wear
A rotary pump having a variable delivery volume, comprising: a casing; a delivery chamber formed in the casing; at least one delivery rotor which is rotatable in the delivery chamber; an actuating member which is arranged facing a front face of the delivery rotor or surrounds the delivery rotor, and is moveable in the casing for adjusting the delivery volume; the actuating member chargeable with an actuating force which is dependent on a fluid requirement; a track which is formed in the casing and guides the actuating member on an actuating member sliding surface in a sliding contact; and a sliding material which forms at least one of the track and the actuating member sliding surface. |
| US08186981B2 |
Scroll compressor having a spring member pressing an eccentric shaft onto a slide face of a slide bush
There is disclosed a scroll compressor having an object of stabilizing the moving of an orbit scroll while suppressing the start load of the scroll compressor. In the scroll compressor, a slide bush having a slide face forming a predetermined angle with respect to the direction of gas load of a gas in a compression chamber is interposed on an eccentric shaft of a shaft for driving the orbit scroll, so that when the load of the gas in the compression chamber is applied, the eccentric amount of the eccentric shaft increases. The scroll compressor includes a spring member interposed between the slide bush and the eccentric shaft and configured to constantly urge the eccentric shaft to decrease the eccentric amount of the eccentric shaft, and this spring member urges the eccentric shaft to press the eccentric shaft onto the slide face of the slide bush. |
| US08186980B2 |
Scroll-type fluid machine that reduces centrifugal force of an orbiting scroll
A scroll-type fluid machine comprising: a casing; a fixed scroll; an orbiting scroll; and an auxiliary crank device in which to prevent the orbiting scroll from being rotated, wherein the auxiliary crank device comprises: a fixed-side bearing body provided on either a casing side or a fixed scroll side; an orbiting-side bearing body provided on an orbiting scroll side; and an auxiliary crank shaft in which a fixed-side shank is rotatably supported with the fixed-side bearing body, and an orbiting-side shank is rotatably supported with the orbiting-side bearing body; a tip of the fixed-side shank of the auxiliary crank shaft is fixed in a radius direction, and a tip of the orbiting-side shank of the auxiliary crank shaft is fixed in a radius direction; and a deformative portion is provided between the tip of the fixed-side shank and the tip of the orbiting-side shank of the auxiliary crank shaft. |
| US08186975B2 |
Low profile pump with first and second rotor arrangement
Pumps with low profile disk-type motors can incorporate an impeller into one or both rotors. Alternately, a separate impeller can be attached to a rotor. The pumps can be contained in housings without seals as the rotors need not be mechanically attached. |
| US08186974B2 |
Fan and fan housing which drains moisture in the fan housing
A fan includes a fan housing, a motor and an impeller. The fan housing includes a first pressure area, a second pressure area and a guiding portion. The pressure of the first pressure area is higher than the pressure of the second pressure area. The guiding portion has a first end and a second end, the first end of the guiding portion is disposed at the first pressure area and the second end of the guiding portion is disposed at the second pressure area for draining moisture gathered in the fan housing away from the first pressure area to the second pressure area. The motor is disposed in the fan housing, and the impeller is connected with the motor. |
| US08186970B2 |
Scroll compressor including a fixed scroll and a orbiting scroll
The present invention relates to a scroll compressor. The scroll compressor is configured to have bypass holes communicated with compression chambers so as to bypass a part of a compressed refrigerant and thus to modulate a capacity of the compressor, a middle pressure chamber and a valve. Accordingly, it is capable of simplifying a capacity modulation apparatus of the scroll compressor, thereby miniaturizing the compressor and reducing a fabrication cost. And, as the bypass holes are disposed to be adjacent to each other, an operating capacity of the compressor can be easily modulated with only one bypass valve, accordingly it is capable of reducing the number of bypass valve and of enhancing reliability. |
| US08186969B2 |
Variable displacement pump
A variable displacement pump includes: a pump section arranged to be driven by an internal combustion engine, and to discharge a lubricant introduced from an induction portion to a plurality of hydraulic chambers, through a discharge portion, by volume variations of the hydraulic chambers; a variable mechanism arranged to move a movable member by using the discharge pressure of the lubricant, and to vary volumes of the hydraulic chambers which are opened to the discharge portion; and an urging section arranged to urge the movable member in a direction to increase quantities of the volume variations of the hydraulic chambers, the urging section having a spring constant which increases as a movement distance of the movable member in a direction to decrease the quantities of the volume variations of the hydraulic chambers increases. |
| US08186968B2 |
Compressor unit including a detection device to identify non-gaseous fluid in the suction line
A compressor unit including a compressor is provided. The compressor unit includes a suction line and a discharge line, a control unit which controls the compressor and/or adjacent modules. A method to operate a compressor unit is also provided. To avoid any damage caused by non-gaseous fluid amount at least one detection device is disposed in the suction line to identify non-gaseous fluid amounts in the fluid to be compressed before entering the compressor. The detection device is connected to the control unit in a signal transmitting manner. |
| US08186967B2 |
Fail-safe control method for oil pump control unit of hybrid vehicle
A fail-safe control method for an oil pump control unit of a hybrid vehicle directly connects an automatic transmission control unit and an oil pump control unit via a hard wire to control an oil pump driver in the event of a failure of the CAN communication line of the oil pump control. It enables the rotation speed of a motor of the electric oil pump to be controlled by a motor control unit (MCU) or a underdrive brake (UD_BRAKE) to be controlled in on/off mode or in slip mode by the automatic transmission control unit until a mechanical oil pump is driven, in the event of a failure of the oil pump control unit or the electric oil pump. |
| US08186960B2 |
Repair of rotor blade roots
A method for repairing a wind turbine is described. The method may include preparing the surface of the blade, removing a plurality of mounting bolts, and replacing the mounting bolts with rod members. The rod members may be bonded to the blade root thereby strengthening the blade root and/or repairing any damaged or weakened regions. This repair may be performed on blades and blade coupling regions of various characteristics as well in modular fashion using pre-molded sections attached together around the blade root. The method of repair may be performed while the blade is still attached to the turbine hub. Wind turbines repaired according to these methods are also described. The method may also be used for attaching and otherwise handling new turbine blades and new wind turbines. |
| US08186958B2 |
Fan
A fan includes a main plate and at least one or more blades connected to the main plate. At least a portion of a boundary portion between the main plate and a pressure surface of the blade is provided as a curved boundary portion such that the blade and the main plate are connected to each other at a curvature. |
| US08186954B2 |
Gas turbine engine rotor and balance weight therefor
A balance weight for a rotor includes: (a) an arcuate body including a front wall and a rear wall interconnected by an end wall, the front, rear, and end walls collectively defining a generally U-shaped cross-sectional shape; and (b) a projection extending outwardly from the rear wall, the projection being adapted to engage an aperture extending through a flange of the rotor. |
| US08186952B2 |
Blade arrangement
With regard to gas turbine engines it will be appreciated that blades are typically cooled in order to ensure that the materials from which the blades are formed remain within acceptable operational parameters. Coolant is judiciously used in order to maintain engine operational efficiency. Unfortunately with regard to rotor blades horseshoe vortices tend to increase heating towards a pressure side of a blade resulting in localized overheating. Such localized overheating may result in premature failure of the blade component. Traditionally coolant flows have been presented over a forward projection of a blade platform. In such circumstances coolant flow will not be used as efficiently as possible with regard to protecting a pressure side of a platform in a blade assembly and arrangement. By provision of a deflector element on the forward blade platform coolant flow can be proportioned either side of a leading edge of the blade. In such circumstances generally asymmetric coolant flow is provided normally biased towards the pressure side in order to enhance cooling efficiency. A suction side in an adjacent blade assembly is cooled by spent coolant and hot gas flow from the pressure side of a neighboring blade upstream in the assembly. |
| US08186948B2 |
Wind energy plant with a central control device and a control unit in the rotor and method for the operation of such a wind energy plant
A wind energy plant with a nacelle, a rotor, which features at least one rotor blade adjustable in its blade pitch angle, a central control device for controlling the wind energy plant and a control unit disposed in the rotor for controlling the blade pitch angle of the at least one rotor blade, wherein the central control device and the control unit in the rotor can exchange data with each other via a data link, which comprises at least one first sending and receiving device at the nacelle side and at least one second sending and receiving device at the rotor side, wherein a wireless network connection with a safety-oriented communication protocol is provided between the at least one first sending and receiving device and the at least one second sending and receiving device, and that one monitoring- and communication device at a time is associated to the first and/or the second sending and receiving device, which can monitor the function of the sending and receiving device and initiate a predetermined action in the case of an error. |
| US08186944B2 |
Turbocharger comprising adjustable guide blades, blade lever and adjusting ring therefor
A turbocharger (1) with a variable turbine geometry (VTG), includes a guide baffle (18), which has a blade bearing ring (6) with a plurality of guide blades (7), each of the latter having a blade shaft (8) that is mounted on the blade bearing ring (6). The guide baffle also has an adjusting ring (5), which interacts with the guide blades (7) by means of associated blade levers (20), which are fixed to the blade shafts (8) by one of their ends (21). The other end (22) of each blade lever (20) is provided with a lever head (23), which can be engaged in an associated engagement recess (24) of the adjusting ring (5). Each blade lever (20) is asymmetrical and has a bearing lug (25) in the form of an arched segment on only one side of the central section (26). |
| US08186939B2 |
Turbine disc and retaining nut arrangement
A turbine rotor for a gas turbine engine including a disc having a hub defining a central bore for receiving an engine shaft. A nut retains the disc on the shaft. The disc retaining nut has at least one cooling passage defined therein and disposed for directing a flow of cooling air passing through the bore of the disc. |
| US08186933B2 |
Systems, methods, and apparatus for passive purge flow control in a turbine
Systems, methods and apparatus for passive purge flow control in a turbine are provided. Various embodiments of the invention include providing a path for air to flow to a bore of a rotor with a plurality of stacked wheels. The air flow path includes at least one inlet hole on a rotor structure and a plurality of holes in at least some of the stacked wheels. The method further involves control of air flow to the at least one inlet hole based at least in part on axial deflection between the rotor and an associated stator during the gas turbine operation. Additionally, a portion of the air flowing into the inlet hole is directed through the plurality of holes in the at least some of the stacked wheels to purge the rotor. |
| US08186932B2 |
System and method for storing products in a storage rack
The invention relates to a method of storing storage products in a storage rack, the storage rack comprising several rack units providing a plurality of storage spaces for the storage products. The storage rack comprises a transport shaft, a transport device being traversable on the transport shaft to transport the storage products between a service opening and a storage space. A first rack unit has the service opening and a second rack unit is spaced from the first rack unit by the transport shaft. In the method, a first storage product is transported into a buffer area spaced from the service opening of the first rack unit by the transport device for intermediate storage. A second storage product is supplied to the transport device via the service opening. The second storage product to be stored is transported into the buffer area using the transport device. Furthermore, the first storage product is to be retrieved from the buffer area and is supplied to the service opening using the transport device, and the second storage product to be stored from the buffer area is supplied to a predetermined storage space using the transport device. The invention also relates to a storage rack of this type. |
| US08186931B2 |
Powered hand truck
The powered hand truck has a chassis supported at one end by a single axle with two independently operable drive wheels. A prime mover is provided generally medially on the chassis, driving the drive wheels and powering the forklift mechanism. There is no operator console housing for the powered hand truck, as it is intended to be remotely controlled. A transmitter provides for specific and precise control of each drive wheel independently of the other, by using two drive wheel control switches. The powered hand truck has a caster wheel actuation strut housing over the caster wheel end of the chassis. A storage rack and dolly may be installed upon a suitable transport vehicle for transporting the powered hand truck. The hand truck forks engage the storage rack dolly, with the dolly translating along the rack to allow the truck to be deployed from, or loaded onto, the transport vehicle. |
| US08186927B2 |
Contained object transfer system
A transfer chamber is partitioned into a second chamber in which a transfer robot moving through an opening portion which can be opened/closed by a door is arranged, and a minute first chamber which serves as a FIMS system and includes a door capable of retaining a lid of a pod. The second chamber maintains a state in which an inert gas constantly circulates owing to minute nitrogen while having a pressure higher than that inside the first chamber. The first chamber is normally sealed while an oxide gas is suppressed in advance. In addition, at a time of transferring wafers, a partial pressure of the oxide gas is lowered with use of a downflow which is caused by the inert gas. Further, the first chamber and the second chamber are communicated with each other after a level of the partial pressure is confirmed with use of an oxygen level meter. As described above, an existing amount of the oxide gas is reduced in the so-called transfer chamber in semiconductor processing equipment in which the FIMS system is secured. |
| US08186922B2 |
Multi-piece locating pin
An exemplary multi-piece locating pin for a turbocharger assembly includes a screw piece with a nub and a securing feature to secure the screw piece in a housing of a turbocharger assembly and a pin piece with a receptacle configured to receive the nub and a locating surface to locate a bearing in a bore of the housing. An exemplary turbocharger assembly includes a housing with a bore, a bearing positioned in the bore where the bearing has a wall opening and a multi-piece locating pin secured to the housing and inserted at least partially in the wall opening to axially locate the bearing in the bore. Other exemplary pins, arrangements and methods are also disclosed. |
| US08186918B2 |
Resin anchor with a compressible envelope containing curable products, at least one of which is sacheted
The resin anchor comprises an apertured tubular envelope designed to be compressed by a traction element, characterized in that it includes, on the inside of the envelope, a resin component and a hardener component that are intended to be mixed together and to cure under the action of the compression of the envelope (1), in order to fasten the anchor, at least one of the two components being sacheted, the mix formed from the two components being expelled out of the envelope via its apertures, during its compression. The traction element may be a screw that cooperates with the end element of the bushing CD forming a nut. The anchor is fastened both mechanically and chemically, for either solid material or hollow material. |
| US08186917B2 |
Partitioning cargo spaces
Some embodiments of a system for partitioning cargo spaces in a temperature-controlled cargo container can include one or more longitudinal panel assemblies with a user-selectable height feature. In such circumstances, a user can readily adjust the overall height of each longitudinal panel assembly while the longitudinal panel assembly is in the trailer so as to accommodate the interior height of the trailer (which might vary from trailer to trailer). |
| US08186916B2 |
System and method for transporting wind turbine tower sections on a shipping vessel
In a system and method for transporting wind turbine tower sections on a shipping vessel a pair of support members is secured to a first wind turbine tower section generally at opposite ends of the first tower section. Another pair of support members is secured to a second wind turbine tower section generally at opposite ends of the second tower section. A pair of elongate mounting members is secured on a support surface of the shipping vessel in spaced relationship with each other. One of the support members of the first tower section and one of the support members of the second tower section are secured to one of the elongate mounting members. The other one of the support members of the first tower section and the other one of the support members of the second tower section are secured to the other one of the elongate mounting members. |
| US08186915B2 |
Spiral tap
A helical flute has a constant lead part and a gradually increased lead part. The constant lead part has an axial length ranging from 0.3×LA to 1.2×LA and includes at least entirety of a leading part, so that the cutting performance of a cutting edge at the leading part and shape of chips (curled shape, etc.) are stable. In the constant lead part, because a lead is the smallest and a helix angle is large, a rake angle of the cutting edge is large, so that an excellent cutting quality is obtained and the chips become curled well. Meanwhile, in the gradually increased lead part, because of the lead gradually increased toward a shank, the chips are rapidly discharged toward the shank. |
| US08186914B2 |
Rotary cutting tool
There is provided an exceptionally practical rotary cutting tool allowing the life of the tool to be prolonged. The rotary cutting tool has a plurality of helically shaped swarf discharge flutes (2) formed on a periphery of a tool body (1) from a leading end towards a trailing end, and a peripheral blade (4) formed on an intersecting ridgeline of a rake surface (3) of the swarf discharge flutes (2) and the peripheral surface of the tool body (1). A back taper part (B), on which an outside diameter (D1) of the peripheral blade (4) and an inside diameter (D2) of the tool body (1) gradually decrease from the leading end of the tool towards the trailing end, is provided to the leading end of the tool body (1). |
| US08186913B2 |
Systems and methods for particle focusing in microchannels
Various systems, methods, and devices are provided for focusing particles suspended within a moving fluid into one or more localized stream lines. The system can include a substrate and at least one channel provided on the substrate having an inlet and an outlet. The system can further include a fluid moving along the channel in a laminar flow having suspended particles and a pumping element driving the laminar flow of the fluid. The fluid, the channel, and the pumping element can be configured to cause inertial forces to act on the particles and to focus the particles into one or more stream lines. |
| US08186911B2 |
Power umbilical comprising separate load carrying elements of composite material
A power umbilical for transfer of large amounts of electric power, fluids and electric current/signals from the sea surface to equipment deployed on the sea bed, in particular in deep waters, is disclosed. The power umbilical comprises a number of electric power conducting cables (5), pipes (4) and electric conductors/wires (6, 6) collected in a bundle, a filler material (10, 2, 3, 3′) lying at least partly around and between the pipes (4), cables (5) and the conductors/wires (6, 6), and a protective sheath (1) enclosing the pipes, cables conductors/wires and filler material. The load carrying elements (7) of the power umbilical are light weighted rods (7) of composite material that can either be collected in bundles or appear individually or in a combination thereof. |
| US08186908B2 |
Method of operating a shiplift
A platform includes main transverse beams (“MTBs”), each supported by at least one hoist. It is determined whether a load on any MTB is different from the load on any other MTB by more than a predetermined amount. An MTB which has a load different from the load on any other MTB by more than a predetermined amount is selected and then vertically moved with respect to the other MTBs within a predetermined safety limit to transfer load between the selected MTB and the other MTBs while monitoring the loads on each MTB and the position of the selected MTB as vertical movement of the selected MTB proceeds. The monitored loads and position are compared with the safety limit; and the movement of the selected MTB stopped when either the desired load transfer is completed or the safety limit has been met. |
| US08186904B2 |
Combination mounting ring
A combination mounting ring of resilient material, for connecting a shaft within a bore of a housing, has a hollow cylindrical part having radially extending projections. This part is for locating between the outer surface of the shaft and the inner surface of the bore, the radially extending projections being under compression and thus securing the shaft within the bore. The combination mounting ring further has an axial spring element extending radially inward from the cylindrical part and having two portions at different axial positions. The axial spring element is for locating between the shaft and a body axially displaced from the shaft, and serves to minimize axial movement of the shaft within the bore of the housing. The axial spring element may either be an annular part or a tab extending from an axial edge of the cylindrical part. |
| US08186903B2 |
Fastener assembly
The invention is related to a fastener assembly of the kind used to secure a gas turbine engine rotor disc assembly on a shaft in a situation which otherwise would required the use of a trapped nut. It thereby removes a design constraint limiting bore diameter of the disc assembly to permit access to a securing nut on the shaft, and avoids the use of a trapped nut. One of the rotors hubs is adapted to be mounted on the shaft and the securing nut is engaged with a thread on the shaft to trap the hub. In the improvement of the invention the hub is provided with an axial keyway through which the securing nut is passed into the limited access space. Once the shaft is engaged with the hub the nut is then engaged with the thread on the shaft and tightened using a special tool extending through the centre of the shaft. The tool is withdrawn after use. The nut may be undone and retrieved in an opposite operation. |
| US08186902B2 |
Means for disabling a safety catch on a screw-threaded component
A disabling tab (100) for disabling an anti-disengagement or safety catch (80) such as on a connector (20) of a pedestal for elevated floors having mating internally and externally threaded components is disclosed. The safety catch (80) is a pivoted wedge shaped block defined at the lower end of an externally threaded component which defines a ramped portion (84) extending to a buttress end (86) facing the start of the external thread. In the internally threaded components, one thread also defines a buttress end (92). When the components are screwed together, the ramp (84) of the safety catch deflects inwards and passes the buttress end (92). When the components are unscrewed, the end (86) of the catch abuts the end (92) of the thread preventing the components from being unscrewed. The tab (100) includes a v-shaped end portion (106) comprising two arms—a thin ramped bridge portion (110) which in use fits over, the safety catch (80), and a second arm 108 which locates between the threads at the start of the thread of the externally threaded component. A shaft (100) extends away from end portion (106). In use, the bridge portion (110) disables the safety catch by guiding the buttress end (92) of the internal thread over the safety catch (80) while deflecting the safety catch inwards. The arms (110, 108) of the bridge portion are thin enough to pass between the external and internal threads without jamming. |
| US08186901B2 |
Liftglass to strut retention device with built-in locking feature
An inline strut retention assembly includes a glass sheet having first and second surfaces and a single hole formed through the first and second surfaces. An isolator is positioned proximate the first surface of the glass sheet. The isolator includes a keyed slot formed therein. A ball stud member includes a threaded shaft extending in one direction and a post extending in an opposing direction. The threaded shaft extends through the keyed slot formed in the isolator. An attachment button is positioned proximate the second surface of the glass sheet. The attachment button includes a ferrule portion having an inner surface receiving the threaded shaft of the ball stud member and an outer surface shaped to mate with the keyed slot of the isolator preventing rotation of the attachment button relative to the isolator. |
| US08186896B2 |
Apparatus and method for printing and dispensing a web
An apparatus for dispensing a web from a plurality of rolls of serrated bags, includes first and second web printer/web feeders, each adapted to advance and print first and second webs from a first and second roll of serrated bags respectively, the first and second web printer/web feeders including a first and second printer, and a first and second set of nip rollers respectively; first and second accumulator guide plates located downstream of the first and second printers; a set of dispensing nip rollers located downstream of the first and second accumulator guide plates; a web accumulation area; a web sensor for sensing an end of the first or second web; a first and second seal sensing device; a dispensing guide plate located downstream of the web sensor; and a bag handling mechanism for advancing a leading bag to a bag loader. |
| US08186895B2 |
Impulse actuated MEMS devices
An apparatus, useful in, for example, a miniature camera, includes an object, e.g., an optical element such as a shutter blade, an actuator operable to apply an impulse to the object such that the object moves from a first position to a second position, and at least one flexure coupled to the object and operable to confine movement of the object to movement along a predefined trajectory extending between the first and second positions. |
| US08186894B2 |
Lens barrier unit
A lens barrier unit that can further reduce the retraction space of lens barriers is provided. The lens barrier unit includes a barrier case having an opening; and multiple spherical barriers provided so as to pivot about a pivotal axis. The barriers can be shifted between a first state for closing the opening and a second state for opening the opening. In the second state, the barriers are all stored in the lower part of the barrier case. |
| US08186890B2 |
Fiber connector and adapter
Fiberoptic connector and adapter assembly includes a fiberoptic connector received within an adapter. The connector has a cover on the connector housing. The cover pivots between open and closed positions to expose or cover, respectively, a optical fiber contained within the connector. Longitudinal guides of the connector are received cooperating with longitudinal guides of the adapter to direct the connector into the adapter in a prescribed alignment. A cam pin is carried on the adapter to engage a cam pin receiving slot on the cover to urge the cover to the open position as the connector is inserted into the adapter. |
| US08186884B2 |
Rolling bearing having two inner rings and a seal arrangement for sealing the parting joint between the inner rings
The seat adjustment mechanism has a housing with an outer ring and an inner ring. The rings are arranged concentrically. Clamping bodies interact with double clamping ramps on the rings and are arranged in an annular space between the rings. Spring supports pivot in relation to each other, interact with a stop on the housing, are arranged concentrically with the rings, and engage in each case both in the annular space and in an inner space arranged radially within the inner ring. The spring supports are braced in relation to each other by a spring, which is arranged in the inner space to secure the clamping bodies in the center of the double clamping ramps. Stop surfaces of the spring supports are acted upon by a force in the direction in which they are minimally spaced apart. |
| US08186882B2 |
Gas bearing and fabrication method
A method of fabricating a bearing surface for a gas or air bearing is described. The method comprises taking a bulk bearing portion having at least one bearing surface region and providing a coating on the bearing surface region to define at least one gas pocket). The at least one gas pocket has a depth substantially equal to the thickness of the coating. In one example, laser ablation is used to remove part of the coating to form the gas pockets. The coating may be an anodized coating and the bulk bearing portion may be formed from aluminium. An air bearing component formed using the method is also described. |
| US08186878B2 |
System and method for providing temperature data from a memory device having a temperature sensor
A circuit and method for providing temperature data indicative of a temperature measured by a temperature sensor. The circuit is coupled to the temperature sensor and configured to identify for a coarse temperature range one of a plurality of fine temperature ranges corresponding to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and generate temperature data that is provided on an asynchronous output data path. |
| US08186876B2 |
Calibrated assembly for IR thermometer apparatus
A tip assembly for an IR thermometer apparatus includes a heat sink having a heat sink cavity and a tip section and a fluid path and at least one hydraulic port. The tip assembly also includes an IR sensor mechanically seated in the tip section and thermally coupled to the heat sink. The tip assembly also includes an electrical connector configured to provide an electrical connection to the tip assembly. A fluid having a fluid temperature is introduced into the fluid path via the hydraulic port. The fluid causes the heat sink and the IR sensor to substantially reach one or more pre-determined temperatures by thermal conduction during calibration of the tip assembly. Another tip assembly having an internal heat source is described. Another tip assembly having an internal heat pump is described. A method to calibrate a tip assembly is also described. |
| US08186871B2 |
Device for preparing a dispersion of water-soluble polymers in water, and method implementing the device
Device for dispersing a water-soluble polymer comprising: a chamber for grinding and draining of the dispersed polymer comprising a rotor and a stator, and on all or part of the periphery of the chamber, a ring fed by a secondary water circuit. The ring communicates with the chamber for spraying of pressurized water on the blades of the stator. A method implementing the device is also provided. |
| US08186868B2 |
Wire fixing structure and backlight module
A wire fixing structure for fixing a wire includes a fixing portion, a first side wall, a first positioning portion, a first protruding portion, a second side wall and a blocking wall. The first side wall is connected to the fixing portion. The first protruding portion is connected to one end of the first positioning portion, and the second side wall is connected to another end of the first positioning portion. There is a first accommodating space between the second side wall and the first protruding portion. The blocking wall connects the first and second side walls. There is a second accommodating space between the blocking wall, the first side wall and the second side wall. The wire winds around the first protruding portion and passes through the first and second accommodating spaces, so as to be fixed. |
| US08186866B2 |
Metallic panel assembly having multilayer arrays of micropores
A metallic panel assembly having multilayer arrays of micropores includes a backlight module and a panel body. The backlight module is constituted of a first and a second light-guiding plate. First and second light-guiding microstructures are provided on the first and second light-guiding plates. A first and a second set of light-emitting units are disposed on one end of the first and second light-guiding plates, respectively. A first and a second shielding unit are disposed on the first and second light-guiding plates and the first and second sets of light-emitting units respectively. The panel body is disposed on one side surface of the first light-guiding plate. The panel body has thereon a plurality of hollowed portions with the hollowed portions encircling a key body. The key body has thereon a plurality of micropores. The plurality of micropores is arranged to form a pattern of each key body. When the first or second set of light-emitting units are lighted up, the light enters one side of the first or second light-guiding plate. The light is reflected by the first or second light-guiding microstructures on the corresponding key panel, so that the user can see the position of each key clearly. |
| US08186865B2 |
Color light guide panel and liquid crystal display
A color light guide panel, suitable for differentiating an incident light into multiple color lights is provided. The color light guide panel includes a substrate and a color light output structure. The substrate has multiple pixel regions, and the color light output structure is disposed in each of the pixel regions. The color light output structure includes a first nano-pattern, a second nano-pattern and a third nano-pattern. The incident light is scattered by the first nano-pattern for producing a first color light, scattered by the second nano-pattern for producing a second color light, and scattered by the third nano-pattern for producing a third color light. The color light guide panel can output uniform and high luminous first, second and third color light. Moreover, a liquid crystal display device having the above color light output structure is also provided. |
| US08186857B2 |
Energy conserving solar or other powered retractable landscape light
The current inventive technology relates to methods and apparatus for a providing an energy efficient and durable landscape lamp. The lamp can retract when not in use to prevent damage. The high efficiency retractable landscape lamp of this invention may be powered by conventional distributed low voltage or by a solar photovoltaic (PV) source. In some embodiments the lamp may be powered by low voltage, it may be individually interchangeable with a conventional low voltage landscape lamp or may be installed in a low voltage lighting complete system. This lamp may house the electrical components and gearmotor in an upper dry compartment making it reliable in outdoor installations, even in wet environments. This invention can also relate to operation without the need for unreliable limit switches for the raising and lowering of the lamp. |
| US08186854B2 |
Headlight module for motor vehicle, reflector for such a module, and headlight equipped with this module
In a headlight module for a motor vehicle, a light source having a planar surface, is immersed in a volume of transparent material, which has a refractive index greater than 1. A reflector having a focus is disposed relative to the light source so that the focus of the reflector is at a point of the light source. Accordingly, light rays emitted by light source are refracted by the transparent volume and reflected by the reflector so that such light rays become parallel to a predetermined direction. |
| US08186852B2 |
Opto-thermal solution for multi-utility solid state lighting device using conic section geometries
A light assembly 1100 includes a cover 18, a housing 16 coupled to the cover 18 and a lamp base 14 coupled to the cover 18. The light assembly 1100 also includes a first circuit board 30 disposed within the housing 16. The first circuit board 30 has a plurality of light sources 32 thereon. A heat sink 210 is thermally coupled to the light sources 32. The heat sink 32 includes a plurality of spaced-apart layers 1140 having outer edges and openings therethrough. Each of the outer edges 1144 are in contact with the housing 16. The light assembly also includes an elongated control circuit board assembly 1110 electrically coupled to the light sources 32 of the first circuit board 30 and the lamp base 14. The control circuit board 1110 extends through the openings 1170. The control circuit board 1110 has a plurality of electrical components 1112 thereon for controlling the light sources 32. |
| US08186851B2 |
Full angle LED illumination device
A full angle LED (light-emitting diode) illumination device comprises at least three copper base plates, a plurality of LED chips, and a flexible circuit layer. Each copper base plate is electroplated with a layer of silver thereon and the copper base plates are arranged in a crisscross pattern to form the backbone of a three-dimensional globe. Each LED chip is provided on the external surface of the three-dimensional globe at a site where any two copper base plates are crisscrossed. The flexible circuit layer is provided on the peripheries of the copper base plates and electrically connected with the LED chips for controlling the LED chips. Accordingly, it is able to provide full angle illumination range and to improve the thermal conductivity and heat dissipation capability in order to prolong effectively the lifetime of the LED chips in use. |
| US08186846B2 |
Multipurpose lighting device with electronic glow stick
A multipurpose lighting device comprises a module including a first light source for a flashlight function and a second light source for a lantern or omnidirectional glow stick function. A button on the module is operative to selectively alternating between the first and second light sources. An elongate housing is coupled to the second light source so that the second light source illuminates along the length of the housing. Finally, a whistle portion is formed on one end of the elongate housing so that the multipurpose device includes flashlight, glow stick, and whistle functions. |
| US08186842B2 |
Backlight module
A backlight module including a back plate, a frame, a light guide plate, and a light bar is provided. The back plate has a carrying portion and at least one holding portion, and the frame is leaned against the holding portion. The light guide plate is disposed on the carrying portion of the back plate, and one side of the light guide plate is accommodated between the holding portion and the carrying portion. The light bar includes a flexible substrate and a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs). The flexible substrate is disposed between the back plate and the light guide plate. The LEDs are disposed on the flexible substrate and located on the carrying portion of the back plate and by the light guide plate. Each of the LEDs has a first canopy which is located between the carrying portion and the light guide plate. |
| US08186840B2 |
Standard illuminant apparatus capable of providing standard LED light
A standard illuminant apparatus suitable for providing a standard optical property of LED for measurement is provided. The standard illuminant apparatus comprises an illuminant module and light shape control module, wherein the illuminant module is capable of providing light, and the light shape control module is capable of receiving the light and transforming the light shape of the light to a predetermined light shape as a LED light shape. |
| US08186839B2 |
Optical module for observing event or object
An optical module that effectively observes a rapidly moving event or object is provided. The optical module includes first and second mirrors, and an optical signals detector, which are installed in a body thereof. The first mirror has a wide field of view and detects the event or object over a wide observing region. The second mirror observes the event or object detected by the first mirror at a high resolution. The focal length of the second mirror is greater than that of the first mirror. The optical signal detector detects an optical signal in light transmitted from the first mirror or the second mirror. The body forms apertures which correspond to the first and second mirrors, respectively and provides an optical path from the first and second mirrors to the optical signal detector. Therefore, the optical module can observe the event or object detected by the first mirror at a high resolution. |
| US08186838B2 |
Optical lens
The invention discloses an optical lens for a light-emitting device. The optical lens includes a translucent body which has a concave inner surface to which light is incident. The inner surface includes a first region and a second region opposite to the first region. The first region and the second region are both substantially straight planes and extend inclinedly from the edge of the inner surface to the center of the inner surface respectively, so as to connect with each other. Thereby, the optical lens of the invention is capable of contributing to an elliptic light field. |
| US08186832B2 |
Projector having polarization conversion element array and light shielding sections provided thereon
A projector includes: a light source; a polarization conversion element array having an entrance surface on which an effective entrance area and an ineffective entrance area are disposed to form stripes; a modulation device adapted to modulate a linearly polarized light beam emitted from the polarization conversion element array in accordance with an image signal; a projection device adapted to project the modulated light beam; a first light shielding section, a part of the entrance surface being provided with the first light shielding section adapted to shield a part of the incident light beam to the effective entrance area; and a first opening section, the first opening section being another area of the entrance surface than the part provided with the first light shielding section, at least a part of the first opening section reaches an end of the entrance surface. |
| US08186825B2 |
Printing apparatus
A printing apparatus, having at least two platens, at least one print head, at least one print head drive unit to drive the print head in a main scanning direction, at least two platen drive units to drive the platens in an auxiliary direction, at least one ink cartridge, at least two operation input units to be operated by an operator to instruct the printing apparatus to activate a first printing process and a second printing process respectively, and a cooperation controller system to control the print head, the print head drive unit, the first platen drive unit, and the second platen drive unit to behave in cooperation with one another so that the second printing process is started one of after and during the first printing process when an instruction to start the second printing process is entered whilst the first printing process is in progress, is provided. |
| US08186823B2 |
Inkjet recording method and inkjet recording apparatus
An inkjet recording method including: (i) exposing a surface of a recording medium to non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma so as to hydrophilize the surface of the recording medium, and (ii) applying a stimulus to an ink composition so as to eject the ink composition to form an image on the recording medium, wherein the ink composition contains at least one of a pigment/water-dispersible resin particle mixture in which a pigment is dispersed along with water-dispersible resin particles and colored water-dispersible resin particles each of which is a water-dispersible resin particle which is colored. |
| US08186820B2 |
Image forming method and apparatus
The image forming method forms an image on a medium by using ink and treatment liquid. The ink contains coloring material and thermoplastic resin particles in a solvent, and the treatment liquid contains a component which aggregates the coloring material. The image forming method includes: a treatment liquid deposition step of depositing the treatment liquid onto the medium to form a treatment liquid film on the medium; an ink droplet deposition step of ejecting and depositing droplets of the ink onto the medium to form an ink film on the medium on which the treatment liquid film has been formed; and an ink film drying step of heating and drying the ink film under conditions where T |
| US08186818B2 |
System for maintaining temperature of a fluid in a conduit
A fluid transport apparatus maintains temperature of a fluid transported through a conduit. The fluid transport apparatus includes a fluid transport conduit that is selectively deformed by a pressure within a compressor conduit and allowed to return to its original shape by venting the pressure through a venting valve. The alternating pressurization and release of pressure from the compressor conduit moves fluid through the fluid transport conduit. A thermal conductor is associated with the fluid transport conduit to maintain the temperature of the fluid in the fluid transport conduit within a predetermined range. |
| US08186816B2 |
Liquid container, board, and method of rewriting liquid information
A liquid container adapted for installation in a liquid jetting device includes an installation status notifier portion. The installation status notifier portion, in an installed state wherein the liquid container is installed in the liquid jetting device, is able to make the liquid jetting device determine that there exists the installed state, and alternatively to make the liquid jetting device determine, even in the installed state, that there exists a non-installed state wherein the liquid container is not installed in the liquid jetting device. |
| US08186803B2 |
Method for inspecting droplet discharge head, device for inspecting droplet discharge head, and droplet discharge device
A method for inspecting a droplet discharge head includes discharging a plurality of droplets on an inspection workpiece from a nozzle row of the droplet discharge head at least twice in different positions on the inspection workpiece thereby forming a plurality of dot pattern rows each including a plurality of dot patterns, inspecting each of the dot patterns included in a first dot pattern row among the dot pattern rows by sequentially acquiring, using an image processing, a predetermined inspection value of the each of the dot patterns determined based on a shape of the each of the dot patterns, and initiating inspection of a second dot pattern row among the dot pattern rows when inspection of the first dot pattern row is interrupted upon one of the predetermined inspection values sequentially acquired exceeding a predetermine threshold established in advance according to a type of the predetermined inspection value. |
| US08186802B2 |
Liquid ejection devices
A liquid ejection device includes a liquid ejection head and a cartridge mounting portion configured to selectively mount an initial liquid cartridge and a replacement liquid cartridge The liquid ejection device also includes a controller configured to determine whether a mounting action of the liquid cartridge to the cartridge mounting portion has occurred, determine whether the liquid cartridge mounted by the mounting action is the initial liquid cartridge or the replacement liquid cartridge, and determine whether liquid has been initially introduced to the liquid ejection head. When the controller determines that the mounting action has occurred and the liquid cartridge mounted by the mounting action is the initial liquid cartridge after liquid has been initially introduced to the liquid ejection head, the controller prevents the initial liquid cartridge from being used or gives warning. |
| US08186801B2 |
Image forming device
An image formation device that inspects for image irregularities caused by joining of inkjet head modules. The image formation device is equipped with a belt conveyance unit, a recording head, a print sensor and a system controller. The belt conveyance unit moves paper in a conveyance direction. At the recording head, modules including plural recording elements that eject ink droplets are joined up to a length corresponding to the width of the paper. The recording head ejects ink droplets at the paper being conveyed to form an image. The print sensor reads the image recorded on the paper, while moving in the width direction of the paper. On the basis of the image that is read, the system controller inspects the quality of the image recorded on the paper. |
| US08186795B2 |
Liquid droplet jetting apparatus and program for controlling jetting a liquid droplet
A data generating circuit incorporated in an ASIC includes a first jetting mode memory circuit which stores information related to a plurality of first jetting modes, a time-sequence information memory circuit which stores time-sequence information of a jetting mode which associates one of the plurality of first jetting modes, for each jetting timing of the nozzle, a second jetting mode memory circuit which stores information related to a plurality of second jetting modes, which are more than types of the plurality of first jetting modes, and a jetting mode selecting circuit which selects a jetting mode at an arbitrary jetting timing among the plurality of second jetting modes, based on the first jetting modes at the arbitrary jetting timing and at least one of the previous and subsequent jetting timings. |
| US08186794B2 |
Method of correcting alignment error of array inkjet head
A system and method of correcting an alignment error of an array inkjet head having a plurality of head chips to print a main scanning line can include determining a reference head chip, printing a plurality of reference lines in the main scanning direction to be separated from one another at a reference interval in a sub-scanning direction using the reference head chip, and printing a plurality of test lines which can be offset by a multiple m, where m is an integer, of a test interval with respect to the reference interval using other head chips, and determining one of the plurality of test lines that matches any of the plurality of reference lines of each of the head chips, and determining an amount of offset of the determined test line as an amount of offset of each head chip. |
| US08186793B2 |
Image processing method, program, image processing apparatus, image forming apparatus, image forming system
An image forming method is disclosed in which an image is formed on commercial printing paper using a high penetration pigmented ink by performing image processing which makes use of dot patterns corresponding to an output halftone level. |
| US08186788B2 |
Printhead, printing apparatus, and printhead driving method
A printhead includes a driving unit configured to drive a plurality of heaters, a register configured to input data of a plurality of bits corresponding to the number of heaters, a latch configured holding the data transferred from the register; a generation unit configured to generate a control signal of the driving unit for each heater based on a value of the data and a change in a level of an enable signal including a plurality of pulse signals; and an output unit outputting the control signal generated by the generation unit to the driving unit in synchronism with the pulse signals. |
| US08186786B2 |
Printer
A printer includes: a recording head which records an image on a recording medium; a carriage which carries the recording head and is movable in a scanning direction; a guide member which extends in the scanning direction and guides a movement of the carriage in the scanning direction; an angle-controlling member which is supported by the carriage to be pivotable relative thereto and controls an angular position of the carriage relative to the guide member in a state in which at least one contact surface of the angle-controlling member is in contact with a surface of the guide member that extends in the scanning direction; and a pivotal-position adjusting device which adjusts a pivotal position of the angle-controlling member relative to the carriage. |
| US08186785B1 |
User adaptable ink status conveyance system
An ink status conveyance system comprises a maximum monitored ink level sensor operable with respect to an ink source for holding a supply of ink and delivering the ink to a printhead. The ink level sensor is configured to detect when an available amount of ink in the ink source corresponds to an ample ink level. A notification controller is configured to track the available amount of ink in the ink source between an ample ink level and an ink out level. The notification controller is configured to compare the user designated low ink notification set point to the available ink volume value to generate a low ink notification when the available ink volume value corresponds to the user designated low ink notification set point. |
| US08186779B2 |
Slide assembly with security device
A slide assembly with a security device includes a first slide member, a second slide member, first and second stop members and an elastic member. The first slide member has a guiding passage. The first and second stop members are located on the first slide member. The first and second stop members each include an engaging portion and a stop portion. The engaging portions and the stop portions of the first and second stop members are in the guiding passage. The elastic member is connected to the first and second stop members. The stop portions contact against first and second stop walls. The first and second stop members are moved from the guiding passage when the second slide member is inserted in the first slide member via the guiding passage, so that the second slide member may be connected to the first slide member correctly. |
| US08186761B2 |
Suspended pixelated seating structure
A suspended pixelated seating structure provides ergonomic, adaptable seating support. The suspended pixelated seating structure includes multiple cooperative layers to maximize global comfort and support while enhancing adaptation to localized variations in a load, such as in the load applied when a person sits in a chair. The cooperative layers each use independent elements such as pixels, springs, support rails, and other elements to provide this adaptable comfort and support. The suspended pixelated seating structure also uses aligned material to provide a flexible yet durable suspended seating structure. Accordingly, the suspended pixelated seating structure provides maximum comfort for a wide range of body shapes and sizes. |
| US08186759B2 |
Locking device for a vehicle seat
A locking device (1), particularly for a vehicle seat, for the detachable locking of two components (5, 8) that can be displaced relative to each other, includes a first locking element (11) that is supported on the first component (5) in a displaceable, particularly a pivoting manner about a first bearing pin (13) and a second locking element (12) that is associated with the second component (8) and that interacts with the first locking element (11) in a locked state of the locking device (1). A first safety element (15), that can be displaced relative to the first locking element (11), secures the locked state of the locking device in the normal case by acting on the first locking element (11). A second safety element (17) is provided that can be displaced relative to the first locking element (11). The safety element supports the first locking element (11) at least in the case of a crash. At least one spring (25) applies a force (K) to at least one of the two safety elements (15, 17), which is supported on a second bearing pin (19) pivotally about the center (Z) thereof, at a point (P) and pretensions the element against the first locking element (11) or against a stop (23). The force (K) travels through the center (Z) in at least an angular position of the safety element (15, 17) acted on by the spring (25). |
| US08186757B2 |
Child restraint system including a stationary seat support and a removable juvenile vehicle seat on the seat support
A child restraint including a seat support and a juvenile vehicle seat removably coupled to the seat support. The juvenile vehicle seat may be reclined with respect to the seat support. |
| US08186752B2 |
Vehicle body structure
A vehicle body structure having improved roof support characteristics is provided. The structure includes a roof rail integral to an A-pillar and a support pillar. The structure further includes a cross member. The A-pillar includes an inner surface, an outer surface, and a wall therebetween. The roof rail extends downwardly at a front end of the roof rail and extends downwardly at a rear end of the roof rail. The roof rail is integral to a one piece hollow A-pillar at the front end of the roof rail. The support pillar also includes an inner surface, an outer surface, and a wall therebetween. The support pillar also includes a tubular lower section that extends upwardly from the rocker. The upper section of the support pillar is integral to the rear end of the roof rail. |
| US08186751B2 |
Pivotal fan/grill unit for a work vehicle
A work vehicle comprises a tractor and a fan/grill unit. The fan/grill unit comprises a fan and a grill providing a portion of the exterior of the work vehicle. The fan and the grill are separately pivotally mounted to the tractor. The fan and the grill are coupled to one another in a four-bar linkage arrangement with the tractor such that the fan/grill unit is configured to pivot relative to the tractor between a closed position and an opened position. |
| US08186750B2 |
Automobile comprising a crossbar, a technical front surface and a convergent element attached to each other
An automobile that includes: a lower crossbar including longitudinal arms connected by links to vehicle side rails located above the arms; a technical front surface defining a plate, the plate including an inner face and an outer face and being adapted to be attached to a structural member of the vehicle; a shield convergent element including two absorption members capable of absorbing by deformation thereof the energy of a shock to the vehicle; each longitudinal arm of the crossbar being attached by a first fastener to the inner surface of the plate; and each absorption member being attached by a second fastener to the outer face of the plate so that the two absorption members are capable of deformation along a longitudinal axis of the vehicle upon a shock; the inner surface including ribs. |
| US08186749B2 |
Cowl-top cover
A cowl-top cover 6 is provided which is arranged across a lower end part 2a of a front window panel 2, a rear end part 3a of a front hood 3, and an upper end part 4a of a dash panel 4, of a vehicle. The cowl-top cover is formed by a seal loading portion 8 supporting the rear end part 3a of the front hood 3 with a sealing member 7, a longitudinal wall portion 9 formed so as to extend downwardly LWR from a rear end part 8a of the seal loading portion 8, and a panel loading portion 10a supported at the upper end part 4a of the dash panel 4. The longitudinal wall portion 9 is comprised of: a first oblique face portion 12 formed at a predetermined angle θ1 at a rear portion side PR on the basis of a perpendicular line 11 with the rear end part 8a of the seal loading portion 8 being a start point 5; and a second oblique face portion 13 bent and formed at a front side FR of the first oblique face portion 12. In this manner, even if a rear end part is deformed and moves to the lower side due to an impact load from above applied to an front hood, the cowl panel approaching the front hood never become rigid, and the load can be efficiently absorbed. |
| US08186744B1 |
Recreational vehicle with a convertible bed
A convertible bed for a recreational vehicle has a sliding section and an inclining section. The sliding section is engageable with a frame for sliding movement relative to the frame between an extended position and a retracted position. The inclining section is pivotally combined and slidable with the sliding section. The inclining section is positioned for movement relative to the frame between a substantially flat position when the sliding section is in the extended position and an inclined position when the sliding section is in the retracted position. |
| US08186743B2 |
Vehicle sliding door structure
A vehicle sliding door structure includes an inner door panel, an outer door panel, a reinforcing bracket and a first bulkhead. The inner door panel has a vertically oriented reinforced section extending along an outboard facing surface thereof adjacent to a rearward side of an outer peripheral edge thereof. The reinforced section has a latch mechanism supporting part proximate a mid-region of the rearward side of the outer peripheral edge. The outer door panel is fixed to the outer peripheral edge of the inner door panel. The reinforcing bracket is fixedly attached to the outboard facing surface of the inner door panel along a region of the reinforced section that extends from below the latch mechanism supporting part to above the latch mechanism supporting part. The first bulkhead is fixedly attached to the reinforcing bracket and extends from the reinforcing bracket toward the outer door panel. |
| US08186736B2 |
Hinge mechanism and automotive luggage board structure using the same
A hinge mechanism 29 that rotatably provides a luggage board 27 and an auxiliary board 28 continuously with each other while interposing an integral hinge 13 therebetween, in which a space portion S is provided between mutually opposite end surfaces 20 and 21 of the luggage board 27 and the auxiliary board 28, wherein a restoring force generation portion 30a of a spring member 30 is housed in the space portion S, and in addition, both end portions 31 and 32 of the spring member 30 are fixed to the luggage board 27 and the auxiliary board 28, respectively. |
| US08186735B2 |
Modular vehicle floor system
A modular vehicle floor system is provided that has a floor pan with integrated storage compartments. A floor is defined by a deck and compartment lids that overlie the floor pan and can provide a waterproof seal for the storage compartments. The deck and compartment lids together define a substantially flat surface that is covered by a vehicle carpet. The deck can include basket-like liners extending downwardly therefrom that nest within the storage compartments and define the inner surface(s) of usable spaces within the storage compartments. The deck includes a raceway system with one or more troughs or ports that house lengths of vehicle wiring, under the deck surface. The deck can further include flanges and/or tabs for serving as mounting substrates, against which sills and other hard trim components are mounted, allowing trim components to be mounted to the deck and not mounted directly to the vehicle body. |
| US08186731B1 |
Tamper indicating seal
Seals have a flexible wire that can be looped through a hasp-like device. The seals include a body having a recess, a plug insertable into the recess and a snap ring for fastening the plug to the body. The plug and/or body can have access holes for inserting the wire into the recess. “Teeth” on the outer diameter and through-holes through the thickness of the snap ring allow for passing the ends of the flexible wire from the recess through the snap ring. The ends of the wire can be folded back over the snap ring and into engagement with the teeth. Assembly of the seal causes the ends of the wire to be securely fastened between the teeth of the snap ring and the sidewall of the recess. Seals can include a plug and/or body made of a frangible material such as glass, ceramic, glass-ceramic or brittle polymer. |
| US08186729B2 |
Traplock for bi-swing gate
A bi-swing gate lock uses an electric actuator to unlatch the gate on request, and a failsafe mode that automatically unlatches the gate during emergencies or power failures. The traplock uses two swing arms that pivot retractable door stops in and out on either side of a closed gate from a stationary 4″ post. Loads trying to force open a locked gate are redirected through polyurethane pads on the sides of the retractable door stops directly to the insides of matching pockets within the post. Such loads can flex the swing arms, but significant loads will not reach the swing arm pivot bearings. Keeping the gate locked requires electric power applied to a lock actuator, and the loss of power automatically unlocks the traplock. Power applied to a retraction actuator pushes out the retractable door stops. A sensor detects when the gate returns to a closed position and the lock actuator can be energized once again. |
| US08186727B2 |
Variable bolt length door latch
The present invention is a door lock that eliminates the need for an additional deadbolt lock on a door. The present invention has a deadbolt built into the doorknob assembly. The deadbolt is put into place every time the door is closed. This eliminates the need of having to separately lock and unlock two locks, the first being the doorknob and the second being the deadbolt. |
| US08186724B2 |
Connecting head structure for high-pressure fuel injection pipes
A thick-wall small-diameter high-pressure fuel injection pipe has a spherical seat surface, an annular flange, and a conical surface continued from the seat surface at a connecting end of the pipe. If the pipe is configured so that t (thickness)/D (outer diameter)<0.3, then an axial distance from the connecting head end to the back face of the annular flange is 0.38D to 0.6D, a spherical radius of the seat surface is 0.45D to 0.65D, the annular flange outer diameter is 1.2D to 1.4D, and an inner peripheral surface of the head has a substantially flat cylindrical surface or a conical surface. If the pipe is configured so that t (thickness)/D (outer diameter)≧0.3, then the axial distance from the connecting head end to the back face of the annular flange is 0.38D to 0.7D. |
| US08186719B2 |
Pipe connecting structure of heat exchanger
A pipe connector (60) configured to be attached to a tubular connecting port (63, 64) extending from a connector-mounting surface (54) of a heat exchanger body (1a) includes a plate-like or block-like shape base (65), an insert portion (61a, 62a) projecting from one side (65F) of the base (65) facing to the connector-mounting surface and configured to be fit in and connected to the connecting port (63, 64), and a leg portion (70) projecting from the one side (65F) and configured to be abut on the connector-mounting surface (54). |
| US08186715B2 |
Airbag, airbag device, and vehicle
An airbag comprises a right half airbag to be inflated on a front right side of an occupant, a left half airbag to be inflated on a front left side of the occupant, and a base-end chamber that communicates with base-end sides of the right half airbag and the left half airbag. A vertically extended concave portion exists on a surface of the inflated airbag that faces the occupant. The upper parts of the right half airbag and the left half airbag, and the lower parts of the right half airbag and the left half airbag are stitched together by seams, and the intermediate parts of the right half airbag and the left half airbag are stitched together by a seam. The seam is provided at the deepest location. The concave portion is shallow in the upper part and lower part thereof. |
| US08186713B2 |
Vented air bag
An apparatus (10) helps protect an occupant (20) of a vehicle (12). The apparatus (10) includes an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (14) that includes panel (100) of material that helps define an inflatable volume (54) of the protection device. A vent opening (104) vents inflation fluid from the inflatable volume (54). A pleat (120) is folded in the panel (100). The pleat (120) is positioned against a vehicle surface (62) while the protection device (14) is in a normally deployed condition to help block inflation fluid from venting through the vent opening (104). |
| US08186698B2 |
Tricycle
A tricycle includes a frame and a front wheel. The tricycle includes a first rear wheel coupled to the frame. The tricycle includes a second rear wheel coupled to the frame. The tricycle includes a front suspension system and a rear suspension system functionally coupled to the frame. The tricycle includes a drive system coupled to the frame and a wheel hub fixedly coupled to the first drive shaft. The drive system includes a transmission system coupling a first drive train to a second drive train. The tricycle includes a locking device configured to lock the relative position of the wheel hub and the rear axle, wherein the locking device is selectably adjustably between a first mode and a second mode. The first mode includes the wheel hub and the rear axle locked together, and the second mode includes the wheel hub and the rear axle shaft independently rotatable. |
| US08186691B2 |
Composite seal and coupling
A seal and coupling, wherein the seal has a thin profile including a primary sealing element that provides both a face and radial seal, and a secondary or backup sealing element that provides a face seal. The secondary or backup sealing element seals against leakage past or through the primary sealing element, and the retainer may be made of a fluid impervious material for blocking permeation of fluid from the primary to the secondary seal. The retainer may also function to prevent over-compression of the sealing elements, while also maintaining a radial spacing between the sealing elements. |
| US08186687B2 |
Cartridge seal device
A cartridge seal device includes a sleeve, a gland unit, a first seal unit, a pumping ring, and a second seal unit. The gland unit includes a first gland and a second gland. The first seal unit includes a first rotary ring disposed around the sleeve and rotatable along with the sleeve, a first stationary ring abutting against the first rotary ring, a compression ring abutting against the first stationary ring, and at least one first spring disposed within a retaining slot of the first gland and abutting against the compression ring. The first stationary ring has one end in abutment with the first rotary ring, and an opposite end formed with at least one notch. The compression ring has aligned guide pieces extending respectively into the notch of the first stationary ring and an engaging recess of the first gland. |
| US08186685B2 |
Seal
An annular sealing element to seal between metal surfaces for use in flanges, joints, packers and the like, located in oil and gas exploration and production equipment. The sealing element has inner and outer metal deformable surfaces joined at ends, defining an interior volume which is entirely filled with a plastic deformable material. The surfaces are arranged such that on compression of the element from the ends, the element will deform in a controlled manner on a cantilever principle. The volume of filler and the interior volume remain substantially equal during compression so that delamination does not occur. Thus the sealing element provides a seal combining the flexibility of elastomer seals with the integrity of a metal to metal seal. |
| US08186682B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing advice regarding gaming strategies
Methods for providing gaming advice are provided. For example, regarding a blackjack game, one or more first player cards are identified for a first player and one or more second player cards are identified for a second player. The first and second player cards are displayed to the first player. A probability associated with a first one of the plurality of playing options is determined based at least on a set of predetermined statistical blackjack data, the one or more first player cards, and the one or more second player cards. It is then determined, based at least on the determined probability associated with the first playing option, whether to display a first indication corresponding with first advice regarding the first playing option, a second indication corresponding with second advice regarding the first playing option, or a third indication corresponding with third advice regarding the first playing option. |
| US08186681B1 |
Method of using decks of playing cards
A method of using a deck of playing cards that has a different number of cards than is needed for a game. If the number of cards needed is less than the number of cards in a deck, one deck is used. If the number of cards needed is greater than the number of cards in a deck, multiple decks are combined until the total number of cards exceeds the number needed. Then cards are removed from the combined deck, either randomly or predetermined, until the number of cards remaining is the same as the pool size. |
| US08186673B2 |
Optimised guidance of documents in self-service systems
A roller storage system for storing sheet-type objects, in particular bank notes, is proposed, comprising a first film drum (3), which can be rotatably driven by a motor, with a first strip-shaped film (7) as a storage strip, comprising a second film drum (4), which can be rotatably driven by a motor, with a second strip-shaped film (11) as a cover strip, and comprising a winding drum (1), which can be rotatably driven by a motor. The films (7, 11), for the reception of the sheet-type objects (20), can be wound from the two film drums (3, 4) onto the winding drum (1) and, for the dispensing of the sheet-type objects (20), can be wound from the winding drum (1) onto the two film drums (3, 4). A first deviating roller (9) between the first film drum (3) and the winding drum (1) serves for the diversion of the first film (7). A second deviating roller (13) between the second film drum (4) and the winding drum (1) serves for the diversion of the second film (11). The second deviating roller (13) is here arranged offset relative to the first deviating roller (9) in the direction of transport of the films (7, 11). |
| US08186672B2 |
Currency cassette capacity monitoring and reporting
An indicator, such as an alarm or warning, is generated to indicate that a document storage cassette attached to a document handling device (e.g., a currency validator) has reached a particular capacity or is approaching its full capacity. |
| US08186670B2 |
Sheet supply apparatus
A sheet supply apparatus includes a supply portion with a sheet bundle supplied via an opening portion, a take-out portion to move the sheet bundle supplied to the supply portion to a take-out position and take out sheets one by one starting from a sheet on an uppermost surface of the sheet bundle, a first door with the opening portion arranged openably which is opened when the sheet bundle is supplied to the supply portion, a second door arranged openably on a middle position when the sheet bundle supplied to the supply portion moves to the take-out position, and a controller to control the first door and second door to open or close. |
| US08186666B2 |
Conveying device and image forming device
A conveying device includes: a main body; a holding unit that holds media that is attached and detached to and from the main body; a third conveying member that conveys a single medium among the media held in the holding unit; a first conveying member that conveys the single media; a second conveying member that faces the first conveying member to pinch the media so as to conveys the single media with the first conveying member; a feed unit that feeds the single medium to the main body; an attaching part that is provided at the feed unit and enables the feed unit to attach to the holding unit; a positioning mechanism that positions the main body and the feed unit so that the second conveying member is located at a predetermined position relative to the first conveying member when the holding unit is loaded on the main body. |
| US08186665B2 |
Locking device of paper feed tray and image forming apparatus
A locking device locks or separates a first paper feed tray to a second paper feed tray in a state where the first paper feed tray and the second paper feed tray being arranged in parallel at a storage position of an image forming apparatus. The locking device includes an engaging mechanism that can be set to an interlocked state. When the engaging mechanism is in an interlocked state, and when a drawing tray is drawn out from the storage position, a drawn tray is drawn out after the drawing tray is drawn out for a predetermined distance from the storage position. |
| US08186662B2 |
Sheet monitor for folding machine
A folding machine includes: pairs of upper and lower downstream-side conveying belts (18B), the pairs being provided at intervals in a direction perpendicular to a conveying direction of a signature (Wb) and conveying the signature while holding the signature therebetween; stoppers (32) provided between the downstream-side conveying belts and stopping the signature conveyed by the downstream-side conveying belts by contacting therewith; and a chopper blade (19a) folding the signature stopped by the stoppers (32) in a direction parallel to the conveying direction. In the folding machine, a pair of right and left cameras (30A and 30B) are provided, which take images respectively of ranges where a conveying direction leading edge of one side edge and a conveying direction leading edge of the other side edge, the side edges being parallel to the conveying direction of the sheet, are decelerated or stopped by contacting with the stoppers (32). |
| US08186661B2 |
Wafer holder for supporting a semiconductor wafer during a thermal treatment process
A wafer holder for holding a semiconductor wafer during a thermal wafer treatment process. The wafer holder includes at least three wafer supports. Each wafer support includes an upright shaft and a plurality of flexible fibers supported by the shaft in positions such that at least some of the fibers engage the semiconductor wafer when the wafer rests on the wafer supports. |
| US08186660B2 |
Lens holding apparatus with suction
An exemplary lens holding apparatus includes a pipe, a number of hollow lens holding units, and an air pump. The pipe has an airtight end and an air vent end. The lens holding units each are in communicate with the pipe and each include a number of first portions and a number of second portions. The first and second portions are alternately arranged and each have an inner space for communicating each other. The second portions each have a top wall and a bottom wall. The top wall has a first through hole defined therein and in communicate with the inner space of the second portion. The air pump is connected to the air vent end and configured for pumping air from the pipe, such that lenses received in the first through holes are releasably held in position. |
| US08186658B2 |
Scissorless suspension system for a seat assembly and machine using same
A suspension system for a seat assembly of a machine includes an upper support member and a lower support member. A plurality of vertically aligned guide pins interconnect the upper and lower support members, and are telescopically movable to adjust a distance between the upper and lower support members. A plurality of suspension devices are operatively connected to the upper and lower support members for biasing the upper support member away from the lower support member. |
| US08186655B2 |
Adapters and methods for aeration applications
Adapters and methods related to aeration applications. An adapter for use in water treatment applications. The adapter includes a generally circular member for conversion of an aeration diffuser holder from a membrane diffuser element holder to a ceramic diffuser element holder. The generally circular member includes a top adapted to receive a retaining ring, a bottom adapted to receive an aeration diffuser holder, a diameter adapted to receive a ceramic diffuser element, and a height adapted to receive a ceramic diffuser element. |
| US08186653B2 |
Fine bubble generating apparatus
This invention provides a fine bubble generating apparatus which can efficiently generate fine bubbles on the nanometer level. This apparatus includes a cylindrical member having a cylindrical inner peripheral surface, a first end wall member configured to close one end of the cylindrical member, and a second end wall member configured to close the other end of the cylindrical member. The cylindrical member and the first and second end wall members define a fluid swirling chamber. The cylindrical member has a fluid inlet hole at a position close to the second end wall member to supply a gas-liquid mixed fluid in the tangential direction of the peripheral surface of the fluid swirling chamber. The second end wall member has a fluid outlet hole extending therethrough along the center axis of the inner peripheral surface of the fluid swirling chamber. The gas-liquid mixed fluid is introduced into the fluid swirling chamber at a position close to the second end wall member. Most of the fluid is directed toward the first end wall member while swirling along the inner peripheral surface of the fluid swirling chamber, reversed from the first end wall member toward the second end wall member and discharged through the fluid outlet hole. |
| US08186652B2 |
Gas and liquid mixture generation apparatus
An apparatus constructed in a simple structure and capable of generating fine air bubbles and includes an apparatus body having a circular column-like internal space defined by a cylindrical inner surface and circular inner surfaces. At least one internal cylindrical member can be disposed within the internal space away from the cylindrical inner surface. A first fluid introduction section can inject a first fluid into a tubular space between the cylindrical inner surface and the internal cylindrical member toward a circumferential direction. A second fluid introduction section and a gas and liquid mixture discharge port can be disposed in the circular inner surfaces, respectively. |
| US08186644B2 |
Concrete block mold with movable liners with master bar
A mold assembly for use with an automated dry cast concrete machine including a plurality of mold cavities, each mold cavity formed by a plurality of liner plates, wherein at least one liner plate of each mold cavity is moveable between an extended position and a retracted position relative to an interior of the mold cavity. The mold assembly further includes a master bar in mechanical communication with the at least one moveable liner plate of each of the mold cavities, and an actuator configured to drive the master bar in a first direction and a second direction, which is opposite the first direction, to respectively direct movement of the at least one moveable liner plate of each of the mold cavities between the extended and retracted positions. |
| US08186641B2 |
Shaft retaining bracket assembly
A shaft retaining bracket assembly (100) and a method (400) of assembling the same is disclosed. A bracket assembly (100) may include an isolator (104) that receives a shaft and absorbs vibrations transmitted therethrough, and an integrally formed bracket (102). The bracket (102) may include a base portion (108) having at least one attachment hole (110) for securing the bracket (102) to a structural member, and a hoop (112) integrally formed with the base portion (108). The hoop (112) receives the isolator (104) such that the isolator (104) and the shaft are generally concentric about an axis (A) of the hoop (112). The bracket (102) further includes at least one retention flange (120) formed in the hoop, the retention flange (120) being configured to retain the isolator (104) within the hoop (112). |
| US08186640B2 |
Portable drawing apparatus
A portable drawing apparatus configured to act as an easel and/or desk includes a pair of upper support members each pivotally connected to a respective lower support member, and also each pivotally connected to a respective rear support member. In an operational configuration, the rear support members can project rearwardly in a plane substantially normal to a plane defined by two mutually parallel upper support members. A lower cross frame and upper cross frame are each connected to respective lower support members, and upper support members, and each further connected to the non-removable portion. A hinged lateral member, when configured in a locked position, defines the apparatus width. In a collapsed configuration, the distal portions of the upper and lower support members are configured to point in the same direction and form a bundle whose length is substantially less than that of the apparatus length in operational configuration. |
| US08186635B2 |
Support hooks for use with pegboards
A support for mounting so as to project from the front face of a panel having an array of holes therethrough. The support includes a support body having a distal end spaced from the panel when the support is mounted thereon, with a pair of legs extending from the proximal end of the support body. The legs each have an ear spaced from the support body proximal end to define a shoulder facing the rear face of the panel when the support is mounted thereon. Support flanges on the support body proximal end define mounting surfaces facing the shoulders defined on the leg ears, and a biasing flange on the support body proximal end includes a flexible portion projecting beyond the support flange mounting surfaces toward the shoulders defined on the leg ears. |
| US08186629B2 |
Method and a device for optimizing the operation of propulsive propellers disposed on either side of a rotorcraft fuselage
A method of optimizing the operation of left and right propellers disposed on either side of the fuselage of a rotorcraft including a main rotor. Left and right aerodynamic surfaces include respective left and right flaps suitable for being deflected, yaw stabilization of the rotorcraft being achieved via first and second pitches respectively of the left and right propellers, and the deflection angles of the left and right flaps are adjusted solely during predetermined stages of flight in order to minimize a differential pitch of the left and right propellers so as to optimize the operation of the left and right propellers, the predetermined stages of flight including stages of flight at low speed performed at an indicated air speed (IAS) of the rotorcraft that is below a predetermined threshold, and stages of yaw-stabilized flight at high speed performed at an indicated air speed of the rotorcraft greater than the predetermined threshold. |
| US08186627B2 |
Attitude control data creating method, and attitude control system applying the method
In order to control an attitude of a movable object having a flexible member (50) through an attitude maneuver, first, based on vibration of the flexible member at the time of the attitude maneuver, for example, a sampling function including no frequency components equal to or higher than a particular frequency is obtained. With the use of the sampling function, a control target value is created as a previously-frequency-shaping-type feedforward control law. Based on the control target value, attitude control data is created. The attitude control data can be used for the attitude maneuver with respect to the movable object. |
| US08186625B2 |
Flexible vessel
A flexible vessel includes a restraint structure and a barrier structure. The restraint structure further includes a first portion, and a second substantially rounded end cap portion that is attached to the first portion. The restraint structure also includes an array of tendons. The barrier structure is positioned within the restraint structure. When the barrier contains a fluid, a portion of the load is carried by the restraint structure and another portion of the load is carried by the barrier structure. The flexible vessel is collapsible to occupy a first volume and distended to occupy a second volume. The flexible vessel is part of a system when used in various applications with respect to a craft. |
| US08186624B2 |
Aerial delivery system
An aerial delivery system is configured to allow delivery of one or more releasable items after the system is extracted from an aircraft. One or more linear guidance devices and releasable securing mechanisms allow the aerial delivery system to deploy one or more releasable items at an appropriate time. The one or more releasable items may be deployed simultaneously, or in a staged or staggered fashion. Through use of drag or lift-producing devices, the system may be recovered and reused. The attitude and/or azimuth orientation of the system may be varied prior to, during, and/or after release of a releasable item. |
| US08186620B2 |
Adjustable landing gear system
A landing gear system includes a shock strut assembly and a linkage member coupled to an aircraft. Preferably, the shock strut assembly and linkage member are oriented or angled relative to one another in a non-parallel relationship. Actuation of the linkage member moves the shock strut from a de-hiked to a hiked configuration or vice-versa. In addition, the orientation of the linkage member relative to the shock strut assembly permits it to automatically move the shock strut assembly to the de-hiked position during retraction of the landing gear system and prevents the shock strut assembly from exceeding a desired length during retraction. The linkage member may take the form of a hydraulic actuator having a lower end portion coupled to an inner cylinder of the shock strut assembly and an upper end portion coupled to the aircraft aft of where the shock strut assembly is coupled to the aircraft. |
| US08186619B2 |
Airplane engine pylon comprising at least one protruding element to generate a vortex of the airflow
A wing arrangement of an aircraft has a wing and at least one pylon for suspending an engine below the wing. The wing has a leading edge with a high-lift device, which is able to move between a deployed position in which the high-lift device projects forward of the leading edge, and which is interrupted in a forward intermediate region of the wing located at the leading edge, the pylon having a forward edge extending forward of the leading edge of the wing between a forward upper portion connected to the wing in the forward intermediate region and a forward lower portion connected to a nacelle of the engine. An element of narrow elongate shape protrudes longitudinally from the forward edge and, during flight at a high angle of attack of the aircraft, generates a vortex of aerodynamic flow that is propagated toward the forward intermediate region above the wing. |
| US08186618B2 |
Device for attaching an aircraft engine
A device for attaching an aircraft engine including a rigid structure forming a structure box, and a device for absorbing thrust loads including a main fitting fixedly mounted on one of the spars forming the structure box, by a fixing mechanism. The fixing mechanism includes a fixing peg mounted on the spar and including a main portion located on the outside relatively to the box, the fitting being crossed by the portion of the peg and pressed against the spar by a bell-shaped supporting washer surrounding the main portion and stressed by a screw crossing it, the latter being screwed into a barrel nut housed in a bore made within the main portion. |
| US08186617B2 |
Aircraft having a lambda-box wing configuration
An aircraft having a lambda-box wing configuration includes, a fuselage, a propulsion system, a first pair of swept-back airfoils, connected to the top forward portion of the fuselage, a second pair of swept-forward airfoils, connected to the lower rear portion of the fuselage at a point of the said fuselage aft of the connection of the swept-back airfoils, and a third pair of substantially vertical airfoils, the tips of the swept-forward airfoils being connected to the lower side of the swept-back airfoils at an intermediate point of the span of the said swept-back airfoils, by the substantially vertical airfoils, the swept-back airfoils having a higher aspect ratio than that of the swept-forward airfoils, which makes the swept-back airfoils have a reduced induced drag without penalizing their weight. |
| US08186614B2 |
Protection against direct lightning strikes in riveted areas of CFRP panels
A metalization structure of aircraft panels and process for obtaining such structure including a panel made in composite material, the panel including a metal mesh or foil in its outer part, said panel further including a bore which in turn comprises a shank and an upper countersinking, such that the mentioned panel is fixed to another structural aircraft element by means of metal fixing elements. The structure includes a metallization layer arranged on the upper countersinking, extending in the adjacent area of the metal mesh or foil, such that it is ensured that electrical continuity exists between the upper countersinking and the metal mesh or foil during the time that the lightning bolt strikes the structure of the panel, further ensuring that most of the current discharged by the lightning bolt is conducted over the surface of the structure of the panel. |
| US08186612B2 |
Method and device for gluing the free edge of a log of web material in a rewinding machine
A rewinding machine for producing logs of web material is described which includes a winding unit; a feed path of the web material towards the winding unit; a severing device to sever the web material upon completion of winding each log; and a glue dispenser to apply a glue to the web material. The machine also includes a diverter member disposed and controlled to temporarily divert the web material towards the glue dispenser. |
| US08186606B2 |
Deodorant/fragrant device, volatilizing material for use in the same, process for producing the volatilizing material, and method of deodorizing/perfuming
The present invention is directed to a deodorant/fragrant device with reduced adsorption of the fragrance and other ingredients contained in a fragrant liquid, having both excellent deodorizing function and perfuming function, wherein a fragrant liquid contained in a container is absorbed by a wick and the fragrant liquid absorbed is volatilized and released from the container through a volatilizing material placed in contact with the wick, wherein a zinc compound is carried on the volatilizing material. |
| US08186601B2 |
Non-volatile memory charge pump for radio frequency identification (RFID) system
A charge pump is incorporated into circuitry of an RFID tag. The charge pump takes advantage of an antenna voltage phase to eliminate the need for a charge pump clock generator. Placement of the charge pump in the RFID circuitry reduces the number of pump stages and eliminates drivers used in each pump stage. In some implementations, an RFID tag comprises antenna circuitry, including a tuned antenna, for receiving an RF signal. Voltage conversion circuitry in the RFID tag is coupled to the antenna circuitry and operable for converting a varying magnetic field produced in the antenna to a voltage source. A charge pump is coupled to output voltage signals of the antenna circuitry which provide the charge pump with a high starting reference voltage and a two phase pump clock. |
| US08186600B2 |
Chip card with simultaneous contact and contact-less operations
A chip card receives and processes what-ever combination of contact data and contact-less data is available to allow multiple functionalities for the chip card. A micro-computer of the chip card is adapted to simultaneously receive and process contact data from a contact interface and contact-less data from a contact-less interface. In addition, the chip card includes a power voltage selector for selecting a contact bias to supply power to the micro-computer when-ever the contact bias voltage is available since the contact bias voltage is more stable than a contact-less bias voltage. |
| US08186599B2 |
Collectable gift cards
A collectable gift card having a primary monetary value acceptable as legal tender for economic transactions and a secondary value providing a non-cash economic benefit to a consumer enhances the overall value of the card to both merchant and consumer. The primary value of the collectable gift card may be implemented through a standard gift card architecture or through other cash equivalent instruments such as credit cards, debit cards, cash cards or the like. The secondary value of the collectable gift card may be embodied as a gaming card for board games or other games of chance, or one card of a collectable set of cards, or as a puzzle piece forming a valuable image or game board. The collectable gift card may be a tangible object or a virtual card existing and tradeable in electronic form in devices such as cell phones, mp3 players, or on the Internet. |
| US08186596B2 |
Apparatus, method and system for selective reading of pixels from an image capture device
A device, methods and system for outputting selective rows of pixels from an image capture device. A command implemented by the image capture device of the form “Skip N, Out M” causes the image capture device to cycle through the all rows of pixels in the image capture device, outputting “M” sequential rows and skipping “N” sequential rows until all rows in the image capture device have been processed. |
| US08186593B2 |
Colored barcode decoding
In an exemplary embodiment, a method is employed to read an overprinted barcode. An RGB pixel map is obtained from an overprinted color barcode that contains a plurality of disparate colors. A pixel map is allocated for each of the colors detected and each pixel is classified in the one or more pixel maps according to color. One or more barcodes are extracted from the overprinted barcode that correlates to each color detected. Each of the extracted barcodes are then filtered, decoded and read. |
| US08186585B2 |
Integrated on-line door control system with standardized interfaces
A door access control system includes a pair of housings. One housing is mounted in the door. The other is mounted adjacent to the door in the surrounding frame. The one housing includes an inductor, control circuits coupled to the inductor and a door side interface. The other includes an inductor, control circuits coupled to the inductor and a frame side interface. The door side interface can be coupled to door mounted devices including a card reader, a request for exit interface and a lock interface. The frame side interface can be coupled to frame side communication links which in turn are coupled to a displaced door access control unit. Communication between housings can be carried out via the inductors. |
| US08186581B2 |
Device and method to assist user in conducting a transaction with a machine
A device for assisting a user to perform a transaction on a machine is described. The device receives data that specifies a transaction mode to use for processing an image and accesses a knowledge base to provide data to configure the device for the transaction mode, the data including data specific to the transaction mode. The device receives an image or images of a portion of a machine that the user will use to perform the transaction and processes the image or images to identify a pattern of controls on the machine and to detect the presence of a user-controlled pointing item over controls on the machine. The device announces to the user the name or function of the control closest to an end of the user-controlled pointing item. |
| US08186580B2 |
Biometric identification device with smartcard capabilities
A smartcard-enabled BPID Security Device integrates a smartcard reader with a biometric authentication component to provide secured access to electronic systems. The device allows for an individual to insert a smartcard into an aperture in the physical enclosure of the BPID Security Device, allowing the smartcard and the BPID Security Device to electronically communicate with each other. The smartcard-enabled BPID Security Device is based on a custom application specific integrated circuit that incorporates smartcard terminals, such that the BPID Security Device can communicate directly with an inserted smartcard. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the smartcard-enabled BPID Security Device is based on a commercial off-the-shelf microprocessor, and may communicate with a commercial off-the-shelf microprocessor smartcard receiver using a serial, USB, or other type of communication protocol. The device allows for enrolling a user's credentials onto the smartcard-enabled BPID Security Device. The device also allows for authenticating an individual using the smartcard-enabled BPID Security Device. |
| US08186578B1 |
ATM transaction authorization based on user location verification
An automated banking machine transaction request is authorized based on a determined location of an authorized user relative to the machine. Identification of an authorized machine user is linked to a remotely locatable item (e.g., a cell phone) of the authorized user. A banking machine receiving the user identification causes the location of the cell phone to be determined. A comparison is then made of the cell phone location and the banking machine location. If the locations correspond, then the current machine user is recognized as the authorized user and machine transactions are permitted. If the locations do not correspond, then the current user is denied transactions at the banking machine. The security arrangement helps prevent an unauthorized person from using a fraudulent card to access a financial account. |
| US08186575B2 |
Controlling card-based mortgage computing
An electrical digital computer machine and a data processing system, methods of making and for using the machine, products produced thereby, as well as data structures and articles of manufacture pertaining thereto, and all necessary intermediates of that which is discussed herein, all in the field of computerized aspects of card crediting to mortgages and the like. A computer system applying a card debit to a mortgage, a first computer system enabling a debt to be incurred in connection with usage of a card, such as a debit, credit, or Sharia-compliant card. A second computer system can enabling a mortgage, such as a first mortgage, and apply debit from the card to the mortgage. |
| US08186574B2 |
Image-forming system
An image-forming system includes: a data-reading unit, an image-forming unit, and a restricting unit. The data-reading unit reads first additional data from a first storing member of a sheet member. The image-forming unit forms a first image based on the read first additional data by the data-reading unit. The restricting unit gives a restriction to the first additional data stored in the first storing member after the first additional data is read, in order to restrict the first image from being formed based on the first additional data stored in the first storing member subsequently. |
| US08186572B2 |
Systems and methods for animating barcodes
Methods and systems are described for communicating encoded information using barcodes. Symbologies that permit linking of two or more barcodes may be used to create animated linked barcodes, in which successive barcodes in the series that encodes a string of information are displayed within a display area of a dynamic medium. Barcode animations may be displayed in webpages, television broadcasts, video media, favicons, etc. |
| US08186570B2 |
Package for food product
A package for holding a food product that has a tray and a lid. The tray has a central panel for supporting a food product. The package includes various closing and opening features. |
| US08186568B2 |
Assembly of two parts of an integrated electronic circuit
A process for assembling two parts of an integrated electronic circuit has two successive steps. During a first step, the two circuit parts are made into a single unit by molecular bonding, realized on respective application surfaces of the two parts. During a second step, electrical connections are formed from connection portions already present in the application surfaces of the two circuit parts. The connections formed extend across the bonding interface, and are compatible with a high reliability and a high level of integration of the circuit. |
| US08186563B2 |
Automatic soldering device and carrier device
To enable the circuit board to be fixed on a predetermined position and to be conveyed to the solder processing portion.Conveying hooks 10 that hold the printed circuit board W1 therebetween, conveying chains 15a, 15b that drive so that the conveying hooks 10 are movable from a heater part 4 to a solder bath 5, first frames 9A that guide the conveying chains 15a, 15b along the heater part 4, second frames 9B that guide the conveying chain 15 along the solder bath 5, and an absorbing member 124 that is provided between each of the first frames 9A and each of the second frames 9B and absorbs an expansion and contraction based on difference of any thermal expansion between the frames 9A, 9B and the conveying chains 15a, 15b are provided. Since the absorbing member 124 absorbs the expansion and contraction based on difference of any thermal expansion between the frames 9A, 9B and the conveying chains 15a, 15b, it is possible to prevent the conveying chains 15a, 15b from being deviated from the frames 9A, 9B. This enables the printed circuit board W1 to be fixed on the predetermined position and to be conveyed to the heater part 4 and the solder bath 5. |
| US08186559B1 |
Expanding parallel jaw device for use with an electromechanical driver device
A cutting and stapling device for use as an attachment to an electromechanical device driver comprises an upper jaw and a lower jaw which separate and close against one another in a continuously parallel alignment. The upper jaw includes a series of staple guides corresponding to one or more staples in a removable staple tray disposed within a lower jaw, whereby a blade and wedge having a threaded bore travel upon a matching threaded shaft in a channel disposed in the lower jaw below the staple tray, such that rotation of the threaded shaft causes movement of the wedge through the channel while a sloped surface of the wedge contacts the staples to push the staples against the staples guides, closing the staples. |
| US08186552B2 |
Stapler with leg-flatting and anvil-guiding capability
A stapler has a supporting base, a magazine assembly, a trigger assembly, a leg-flatting device and a rail assembly. The magazine assembly and the trigger assembly are connected pivotally to the supporting base. The leg-flatting device is mounted on the supporting base and has a moving base and an anvil element. The moving base is connected operationally to the supporting base and has an anvil hole. The anvil element is mounted moveably in the anvil hole and has a functional segment and a non-functional segment. The rail assembly mounted on and protrudes from the bottom face of the supporting base and has at least one rail bracket protruding from the bottom face of the supporting base. Each one of the at least one rail bracket has a rail in which the non-functional segment of the anvil element is slidably mounted. |
| US08186549B2 |
Double strap carrying system and base stand for golf bags and other shoulder-borne articles
Dual-strap carrying assemblies and devices including such assemblies are provided herein. The carrying devices may be embodied in dual carrying strap golf bags that allow the bearer to more easily don and remove the bag. The secondary strap of the dual strap assembly is connected to the primary strap by a movable engagement assembly, such as an assembly that rotates to allow the secondary strap to more easily become within the reach of the bearer of the bag. In some embodiments, the movable engagement assembly may include a movement limiting device that prevents the secondary strap from moving too far out of the bearer's reach. The strap assemblies may be used in combination with a flexible base stand to make a self-standing carrying device that is easy to don and doff. |
| US08186547B2 |
Adjustable width hanger
An adjustable width hanger having a main body defining a central neck, and two shoulders of a generally hollow three sided inverted channel shape of thermoplastic material, a plurality of locking seats formed in each of the shoulders, respective extension arms of hollow inverted channel shape formed of thermoplastic material, joint portions formed on the arms dimensioned to be received in the shoulders, locking tabs on the joint portions adapted to interlock with the locking seats in the shoulders, flexible hinges joining said locking tabs to the joint portions, and finger abutments on the locking tabs whereby they may be engaged by a finger and swung between locked and unlocked positions. |
| US08186546B2 |
Adjustable dress form
An adjustable dress form has a plurality of body panels and adjustment mechanisms securing between each of the body panels. There are a total of at least four body panels, and the adjustment mechanisms include preferably twelve adjustment mechanisms. A neck girth adjustment mechanism has four extension loops. The four extension loops are attached to an upper portion of each body panel. A turn button is mechanically connected to a plurality of gear teeth on four gear tooth arms that make up the four extension loops. The four gear tooth arms are attached to the upper portion of each at least four body panel. The four extension loops comprise the plurality of gear teeth on the four gear teeth arms. The gear teeth arms engage at about 90° angle to each other and are vertically staggered. |
| US08186540B2 |
Universal lid for large solid waste containers
A universal lid for industrial or commercial large size solid waste containers, has a ribbed single layer central portion and a peripheral edge having a hollow double wall boxed configuration. The boxed perimeter may have a predetermined height such as approximately one inch, and the lid is provided with hinge lugs having a vertical extent substantially more but not more than twice than said predetermined height. In addition, the lids have substantial symmetry so that the lids may be stacked and nested with alternate lids oriented in opposite front-to-back directions. With this type of lid, the advantages of both single layer and double layer lid constructions may be realized. |
| US08186536B2 |
Molding process of liner with divided boss adapter
A boss for use with a vessel is disclosed. The boss includes a first component adapted to be formed in an opening of the vessel, wherein the first component includes a first coupling element, and a second component including a second coupling element, wherein the second coupling element engages the first coupling element to secure the second component to the first component, and wherein a liner of the vessel is disposed therebetween. |
| US08186535B2 |
Tank assembly
A storage device for retaining fluids is provided. The storage device includes a first container for retaining a first fluid, wherein the first container has a first end and a second end. The storage device further includes a first end container for retaining a second fluid, wherein the first end container is generally annular in shape and is at least partially received within a portion of the first end of the first container. |
| US08186534B2 |
Stackable low depth tray
A tray includes a base, a pair of opposed side walls extending along side edges of the base and a pair of opposed end walls extending along end edges of the base. A central lateral divider extends between the side walls. The central lateral divider has a width approximately twice a width of the side walls to permit cross stacking. The central lateral divider includes a pair of spaced-apart divider walls and at least one center rib between the divider walls. |
| US08186530B2 |
Food tray
A tray is disclosed herein, for supporting food and/or drink upon the lap of a user. The underside of the tray has a bowed stand, which is contoured to fit between the thighs of a seated user. The bowed stand provides optimal support, and is especially advantageous for use in a moving vehicle, to prevent sliding of the tray and spillage. |
| US08186529B2 |
Channel features for pressurized bottle
A pressure resistant thermoplastic container. The container may include a sidewall and a number of indentations formed in the sidewall. One or more of the indentations may include one or more reinforcements formed therein. |
| US08186526B2 |
Child resistant closure with a stacking position
A child resistant closure having an outer cap and an inner cap combined together. The caps are provided with complementary engaging ratcheting teeth making it possible to turn the caps as a unit in a closing direction but permits relative rotation of the caps upon rotation of the outer cap in an opening direction unless the outer cap is simultaneously deflected axially relative to the inner cap. Complementary load bearing surfaces are provided on the caps to prevent axial deflection when the caps are in a predetermined position and the caps resist rotation from this predetermined position. |
| US08186518B2 |
Self powered water purification system
A water purification unit to purify potentially contaminated water is provided. The water purification unit is in fluid communication with a water source and has a pump to draw water from the water source. The water is passed through at least a main filter to purify the water and dispensed through an outlet. Power is provided to the water purification unit by a battery bank and a non-grid power source. |
| US08186512B2 |
Low waste packaging
Low waste packaging for use with a consumer product includes a planar tag element of a generally rectangular configuration having front and back planar surfaces upon which advertising indicia may be printed and a cut-out into which a portion of the consumer product is received. The packaging includes first and second semi-annular ring portions that may be assembled around the consumer product when received within the cut-out and affixed to each other through the planar tag element. The method for packaging a consumer product includes receiving the consumer product within a cutout formed in a lower portion of a planar tag element; and assembling two halves of a retaining member about an upper shank of the consumer product so that annular portions of the retaining members contact the consumer product and laterally extensive tags of the retaining members sandwich the tag therebetween. |
| US08186510B1 |
Screwdriver kit
A screwdriver kit includes a recessed base comprising a divider wall for dividing an internal space into first and second compartments, the divider wall including an opening; a spring biased cover hingedly secured to the base and having a latch; two spring biased receiving structures in the first compartment, each receiving structure comprising screwdriver head receiving slots; a spring biased pivotal structure in the second compartment and comprising a top slope and a lock pin inserting through the opening into the first compartment to be locked by the latch; and a spring biased push button on the pivotal structure and comprising a bottom protrusion engaged with the slope. In response to pressing the push button the projection slides downward along the slope to pivot the pivotal structure and disengage the lock pin from the latch, thereby unlocking the cover and upward pivoting the receiving structures. |
| US08186508B2 |
Apparatus for holding electronic devices
An apparatus for holding an electronic device is provided, including a carrier seat, an upper lid and at least a resilient element. The shape of the holding apparatus is constituted by the upper lid at the top and the carrier seat at the bottom. The carrier seat and the upper lid are engaged by coupling on one side so that the upper lid can rotate along the coupling side to open or close. The both ends of the resilient element are engaged to the upper lid and the carrier seat, respectively, to provide a force so that the upper lid and the carrier seat can incline towards each other. The facing surface of the carrier seat has a positioning element and the facing surface of the upper lid has a maintaining element. The bottom of the carrier seat includes an anti-slip layer. |
| US08186506B2 |
Packaging system for transdermal drug delivery systems
A device and method for stabilizing a drug, particularly a chiral drug or the active enantiomer(s) thereof, in a carrier composition of a transdermal delivery system prior to the systems use by providing a product packaging system to prevent or control degradation reactions that can result from certain packaging materials and moisture contamination, while at the same time providing a child-resistant wrapping for the transdermal system. |
| US08186504B2 |
Curved belt conveyor
Roller-guided conveyors are described herein. An example roller-guided conveyor comprises a first holder and a second holder and a first guide roller and a second guide roller. The first guide roller has a first axis of rotation and pivotally coupled to the first holder about a pivot axis that is eccentric relative to the first axis of rotation. The first guide roller is spaced a distance from the second guide roller to guide a conveyor belt therebetween. |
| US08186500B2 |
Machine for handling flat articles
In a mail-handling machine having a conveyor path for conveying the mailpieces, which path is defined by a longitudinal referencing wall and by a top referencing wall, there is provided a conveyor and jogger belt formed of a continuous strip having two opposite faces, namely an inside face provided with a set of teeth suitable for cooperating with drive cogs for driving the belt, and an outside face provided with a plurality of flexible blades spaced apart at a predetermined distance, the free ends of the flexible blades providing both support for the flat articles while they are being conveyed and also jogging for jogging them against the top referencing wall. |
| US08186499B2 |
Modular wireless conveyor interconnection method and system
A modular conveyor system is disclosed in which components of each conveyor module is designed for wireless mesh communication. The communications may be within a module or between modules. Certain of the components may be powered by battery, such that the components may be completely wireless. The network may be entirely self-configuring such that the modules may be assembled and the network established in a straightforward manner. |
| US08186498B2 |
Handrail for passenger conveyor
There is provided a handrail for passenger conveyor in which it is possible to give a prescribed strength to a junction of a canvas and it is possible to prevent vibrations and noises which might be generated when a driving roller passes by the junction of the canvas. For this purpose, a canvas is provided along an inner surface of an annular core body having a C-shaped cross section, which is formed from a thermoplastic elastomer material, and a surface of each of adjacent end portions of the canvas in a junction is formed to be indented toward the core body side compared to surfaces of other portions which form an inner surface of a handrail. An application cloth is provided between the end portions of the canvas so as to cover a gap formed between the end portions of the canvas. A surface of a portion of the application cloth corresponding to a flat portion of the core body is arranged to be flush with an adjacent surface of the canvas, whereas a surface of a portion corresponding to a curved portion of the core body is arranged to be indented with respect to the adjacent surface of the canvas. |
| US08186497B2 |
Unloading conveyor suspension system
A suspension system for an unloading conveyor of an agricultural harvester vehicle, has a first support configured to hold the unloading conveyor in a vertical unloading position; a second support configured to hold the unloading conveyor in a horizontal unloading position; a control circuit coupled to the first and second supports, wherein the control circuit is configured to selectively engage at least one gas charged hydraulic accumulator to one of the first support and the second support to thereby spring-load the unloading conveyor in the vertical or the horizontal direction (or both). |
| US08186496B2 |
Smart card customization
The invention concerns a method for reducing factory customizing time in a smart card (CPn), wherein a pre-customizing manager (GM) into a customizing machine loads post-customizing data (AP, OP1-OP1, DOP1-DOP1) in the smart card. Then a post-customizing application (AP) included in the smart card is enabled after delivery of the card to a user following a connection of the smart card to a terminal to process the loaded post-customizing data so as to make the smart card operational. |
| US08186493B2 |
Clutch for motor vehicle
A clutch vehicle includes a driving wheel driven by output of an engine of a motor vehicle. An actuator plate is jointly rotatable with the driving wheel and includes a side plate having a peg. Shoes mounted on the side plate pivot outward when the side plate rotates, allowing joint rotation of the actuator plate and a clutch hub surrounding the actuator plate. A block is movably mounted to the disc. An elastic element is mounted between the block and the clutch hub. The block is located in a first position not located in a circumferential path of the peg under action of the elastic element when the clutch hub does not rotate. The block is moved to a second position in the circumferential path of the peg by centrifugal force of the clutch hub when the clutch hub exceeds a preset speed. |
| US08186487B2 |
Vehicle disc brake device
A vehicle disc brake device for preventing snow, ice, and mud from adhering to a caliper includes a body-anchoring part provided in a cylinder of a caliper, the body-anchoring part for securing a wire guide used to support a brake wire. The body-anchoring part has a first surface oriented along the longitudinal direction of the brake wire, and a second surface located on the side opposite the first surface. A wire-guide-anchoring part is secured to the second surface. The first surface is a flat, inclined surface. |
| US08186482B2 |
Oil spraying apparatus
An oil-spraying apparatus includes: a base frame provided with a guide rail on an upper surface thereof; a mounting plate movably mounted on the guide rail by a rail block; a moving unit mounted at one side of the base frame so as to reciprocate the mounting plate on the base frame; and an oil-spraying unit mounted on an upper portion of the mounting plate, receiving compressed air and oil respectively from an air compressor and an oil distributor connected to an oil tank through an oil hose and an air hose. The apparatus can spray the oil to both the oil seal mounting hole and the one end portion of the crankshaft. |
| US08186476B2 |
Straddle type vehicle
A snowmobile includes an engine, a handle, an operation portion, an operation input detector, an operation amount detector, and a control portion. The handle includes a grip grasped by the rider. The operation portion is provided near the grip to control driving of the engine. The operation input detector is provided near the grip to detect whether operation of the operation portion has been carried out by the rider. The operation amount detector electrically detects the operation amount of the operation portion. The control portion controls driving of the engine based on the operation amount detected by the operation amount detector when operation of the operation portion by the rider is detected at the operation input detector. |
| US08186475B2 |
Suspended operator platform
A suspended operator platform for use with a ride-on lawnmower or the like is connected to a rigid chassis of the ride-on lawnmower by a suspension system that has a parallelogram linkage. The operator platform supports an entire body of the operator and isolation mounts connect a seat assembly to the operator platform. Steering controls of the ride-on lawnmower are connected to the operator platform so that the steering controls move with the operator platform and are suspended and/or isolated from the chassis. The suspension system includes a course-stiffness adjuster and a fine-stiffness adjuster that adjust the suspension stiffness to correspond to a particular operator and/or terrain. |
| US08186473B2 |
Hydrostatic ground drive control system for a work machine with smooth transition between speed ranges
The control system allows selecting from multiple speed ranges for the ground drive of a work machine without a mechanical transmission. The system does this by controlling a variable displacement fluid pump supplying fluid to variable displacement fluid motors driving ground wheels of the machine. When a speed range is selected, the system automatically controls displacement of the pump and motors to provide operability within the range by movement of a speed input device. When another range is selected, the system provides a seamless transition, including to and from reverse, as no disengaging and engaging of mechanical gears, or change in the speed input position, is required. The system can also automatically adjust ground speed for the new speed range for the current speed input position. |
| US08186468B2 |
Vehicle load floor support with integral air duct
A porous, sound absorbing structural foam load floor support is provided that defines an integral duct. The duct is configured as a ventilation air passage from the air outlet of a heat-emitting component, such as an energy storage system in a hybrid vehicle, so that the load floor support serves both to support the load floor as well as to provide a route for heat dissipation. By integrating the duct within the load floor support, a separate duct, which would have to route around other vehicle components located under the load floor, is not required. The structural foam load floor support is configured to absorb noise of a cooling system for the energy storage system. A porous expanded polypropylene foam is especially well-suited for noise attenuation and load floor support. |
| US08186464B2 |
Method for operating a parallel hybrid drive
In a method for operating a parallel hybrid drive of a vehicle, in particular of a motor vehicle, having an electric machine and an internal combustion engine, the internal combustion engine is started in the driving state of the vehicle with the aid of the electric machine by engaging a disconnecting clutch. It is provided that at least one performance quantity of the parallel hybrid drive is detected and compared with an appropriate model performance quantity of a model of the parallel hybrid drive, the model not including the internal combustion engine, and that a deviation resulting from the comparison is compensated for, at least partially, by the electric machine. |
| US08186463B2 |
Wheelchair with middle wheel drive
A wheelchair has two central wheels that can be separately driven by a motor. In order to allow the wheelchair to turn around in narrow spaces, the central wheels can be driven in opposite directions of rotation. When the wheelchair is turned around, the front wheels and rear wheels do not constitute a hindrance because they are kept at a distance from the ground by the swiveling wheel. All three wheels are coupled together on each side by a chain. When the front wheels run against an obstacle, the wheelchair climbs over the obstacle with the driven front wheels. This causes the fork of the swiveling wheel to swivel about the rotational axis in the direction of arrow, against the force of a spring, bringing the rear wheels in contact with the ground and also driving the wheelchair's rear wheels. This all-wheel drive allows the wheelchair to overcome relatively high obstacles both forwards and backwards, even when driving slowly and without losing its maneuverability. |
| US08186460B2 |
Hard material insert and core bit
A segmental hard material insert for a working tool has a planar polycrystalline diamond layer (13) having, in its layer plane, a main cutting element (16, 36) and a contact edge (15) located opposite the main cutting element, with the main cutting element (16, 36) having two, facing outwardly, convex cutting sections (17, 27; 37, 47) and a smooth, facing outwardly, concave transitional region (19; 39, 49) connecting the two convex cutting sections (17, 27; 37, 47), and with the apex (20; 40) of the transitional region (19; 39, 47) being located on a central line of the main cutting element (16; 36). |
| US08186459B1 |
Flexible hose with thrusters and shut-off valve for horizontal well drilling
A flexible hose and a method of well drilling are provided herein. In embodiments, the hose includes a forward end, a rearward end, a thruster port and a shut-off valve. The rearward end is configured to be in fluid communication with a source of high pressure drilling fluid. The thruster port is located upstream of the forward end. The thruster port is configured to emit drilling fluid in a substantially rearward direction. The shut-off valve is located between the forward end and the thruster port and is configured to shut off flow of drilling fluid downstream. |
| US08186456B2 |
Methods of using a particle impact drilling system for removing near-borehole damage, milling objects in a wellbore, under reaming, coring, perforating, assisting annular flow, and associated methods
A particle impact drilling system and method are described. In several exemplary embodiments, the system and method may be a part of, and/or used with, an apparatus or system, methods, to excavate a subterranean formation. The system can including, for example, removing near-borehole damage, casing, window milling, fishing, drilling with casing, under reaming, coring, perforating, effective circulatory density management, assisted annular flow, and directional control. Embodiments of associated systems and methods are also included. |
| US08186455B2 |
Simultaneous tubular handling system and method
A system and method for building and handling oilfield tubular stands while drilling operations are simultaneously and independently occurring with one drilling deck, one derrick, and one rotary system. An offline guided path horizontal to vertical arm lifts and moves in the same plane tubulars stored horizontally on the catwalk and positions the tubulars vertically directly into a preparation hole for assembling and disassembling tubular stands while online drilling operations are simultaneously being conducted. A stand arm lifts and lowers the tubulars into and out of the adjustable preparation hole, and transports the tubulars for storage to an auxiliary tubular racking station in the upper part of the derrick. A bridge racker crane moves tubular stands from the auxiliary tubular racking station to the top drive or another tubular racking station. |
| US08186454B2 |
Apparatus and method for electrocrushing rock
The present invention provides for pulsed power breaking and drilling apparatuses and methods. The present invention comprises two pulsed power systems coordinated to fire one right after the other. The first pulsed power system, comprising a spiker, may create a high voltage pulse that breaks down the insulative properties of the substrate and may create an arc channel in the substrate. It is designed for high voltage but low energy, at high impedance. The second pulsed power system, comprising a sustainer, is designed to provide high current into the arc, but at low voltage, thus better matching the impedance of the arc and achieving much more efficient energy transfer. |
| US08186452B1 |
Clamping systems and methods for piledriving
A clamp system for an elongate member, comprising first and second clamp members, an actuator member, and an actuator system. The actuator member defines an actuator cam surface and is supported for movement between first and second actuator positions. The second clamp member defines a clamp cam surface and is supported for movement between first and second clamp positions. The actuator system displaces the actuator member between first and second actuator positions. As the actuator member moves from the first actuator position to the second actuator position, the actuator cam surface engages the clamp cam surface to cause the second clamp member to move towards the first clamp member, thereby clamping a portion of the elongate member between the first and second clamp members. |
| US08186449B2 |
Agricultural implement walking beam assembly
An implement wheel assembly includes two individual wheel arms tied together by a linkage that pivots about a fore-and-aft extending axis at a location above the wheels and generally above the plane of the implement frame. The linkage constrains the wheel arms to pivot in opposite vertical directions as the implement moves over irregular ground surfaces to improve weight distribution on the wheels. Spring structure may be interposed between the ends of a pivoting linkage and the individual wheel arms to lower frame impact forces. The structure allows two wheels to be placed side-by-side with their axes generally aligned and reduces under-frame hardware to improve crop and soil and trash flow. |
| US08186447B2 |
Horse orthotic
Embodiments of this invention include orthotic devices for treating hoof ailments, including laminitis and founder, and methods of treating the hoof ailments using an orthotic. In one embodiment, the hoof orthotic includes a platform having a heel end, a toe end, an inside and an outside edge, the heel end comprising a center section of the platform. The toe end includes a first tip and a second tip having a space therebetween such that the toe end is not enclosed. The platform includes an upper hoof contact surface and a lower surface, the upper surface being elevated at the heel end of the platform and sloping such that the heel end has a greater vertical height than the toe end. The orthotic also includes attachment means that extend vertically from the platform for attaching the orthotic to the animal hoof. The orthotic can be made from a resilient and/or elastomeric material that may also provide cushioning and fitting advantages. |
| US08186445B2 |
System, method and apparatus for thermal wellhead having high power cable for in-situ upgrading processing
A thermal wellhead having a high voltage cable for in-situ upgrading and processing unconventional oil reservoirs is disclosed. An electrical cable has a power umbilical with an electrical heater on a lower end and an electrical connector opposite the heater. An upper portion of the cable has a second electrical connector for connection with the first connector and is connected to a transformer. A well control device is installed at the wellhead and the umbilical is extended through the device in the well. The first connector is landed in the wellhead such that the umbilical extends downward through the well. The well control device is then removed from the wellhead, and the second connector is secured in a tubing bonnet. The bonnet is landed on the wellhead to make electrical connections between the connectors. |
| US08186433B2 |
Methods of gravel packing long interval wells
Changing concentrations of brine in a gravel pack carrier fluid gelled with a viscoelastic surfactant (VES) increases the fluid efficiency for gravel packing long interval wells, such as wellbore producing interval greater than about 100 feet (about 30 m). VES-gelled fluids used as gravel packing fluids herein also include surfactants, fluid loss control agents, internal breakers and brine in addition to the grave. The viscoelasticity of fluid system can suspend and deliver high concentration of the gravels while reducing carrier fluid volume. |
| US08186431B2 |
Method of fracturing a subterranean formation at optimized and pre-determined conditions
Prior to a hydraulic fracturing treatment, the requisite apparent viscosity of a transport fluid, μfluid, containing a proppant for a desired propped fracture length of a fracture, DPST, may be estimated in accordance with Equation (I): μfluid=(1/A)×qi×(1/DPST)B×(CTRANS)×(ΔSGPS)×(d2prop) (I) wherein: A is the multiplier and B is the exponent from the Power Law equation of velocity of the transport slurry vs. distance for the fracture geometry; qi is the injection rate per foot of injection height, bpm/ft; CTRANS is the transport coefficient; ΔSGPS is SGprop−SGfluid, SGprop being the specific gravity of the proppant and SGfluid being the specific gravity of the transport fluid; and dprop is the median proppant diameter, in mm. |
| US08186429B2 |
Wellbore method and apparatus for completion, production and injection
Apparatus associated with the production of hydrocarbons comprising a joint assembly comprising a main body portion having primary and secondary fluid flow paths, wherein the main body portion is attached to a load sleeve assembly at one end and a torque sleeve assembly at the opposite end. The load sleeve may include at least one transport conduit and at least one packing conduit. The main body portion may include a sand control device, a packer, or other well tool for use in a downhole environment. Included is a coupling assembly having a manifold region in fluid flow communication with the second fluid flow path of the main body portion and facilitating the make-up of first and second joint assemblies with a single connection. |
| US08186428B2 |
Fiber support arrangement for a downhole tool and method
A fiber support arrangement for a downhole tool includes a tubular; at least one end ring positioning the tubular spaced radially from a downhole tool and lacking contact therewith; and a fiber supported at the tubular and method. |
| US08186424B2 |
Charge air cooler
A charge air cooler comprises at least one tubular element with an internal flow duct for guiding compressed air, and a tank for receiving the compressed air before it is led through the flow duct. The compressed air is cooled by a first cooling medium of ambient air as it passes through the flow duct. A cooling element at least partly situated inside the tank provides the compressed air in the tank with a first step of cooling before the air is led to the flow duct wherein the air undergoes a second step of cooling. |
| US08186422B2 |
Method for the continuous casting of thin metal strip and continuous casting installation
A method for the continuous casting of thin metal strip in a continuous casting installation, in which metal is discharged vertically downward from a mold, the metal strip is deflected from the vertical direction to the horizontal direction, and the metal strip is supported and/or conveyed and/or plastically deformed by a number of pairs of drive rolls. At least one pair of drive rolls plastically deforms the metal strip without significantly changing the mean thickness of the metal strip, namely with a change in the mean thickness of the metal strip of less than 5%, such that the deformation in the pairs of drive rolls produces material flow exclusively in the direction transverse to the direction of conveyance of the metal strip. |
| US08186421B1 |
Coreless pole mold and method of making same
A utility pole mold including an elongated, hollow mold body having an internally tapered end and a reservoir extending radially out therefrom. A reusable barrier member is detachably secured to the at least one wall opposite the tapered end for containing a molten metal within the reservoir. In use, a lance is inserted into the mold body and a pouring end of the lance is positioned about the reservoir. The mold body and reservoir are then rotated, and the molten metal is poured from the pouring end at a constant rate. As the lance travels along the length of the mold body at an accelerating rate, a continuous layer of the molten material is deposited within the mold body and the reservoir. Following casting, the barrier is removed from the reservoir, and the newly formed utility pole is removed from mold. That portion of the pole that was formed within the reservoir portion is then removed to provide a pole having a bottom end with a desired wall thickness and interior taper. |
| US08186417B2 |
Saving energy and optimizing yield in metal casting using gravity and speed-controlled centrifugal feed system
Molten metal is introduced into the cavity by a combined gravity feed and centrifugal force feed using a rotating turntable under electrical or electronic control. The centrifugal force is controlled to be substantially constant until the metal has solidified. This is accomplished by controlling the ramp-up acceleration of the turntable where rotational velocity is a time-dependent function of rotational radius and molten metal mass and taking into account the flow rate and cooling rate of the liquid metal. The process reduces waste and the attendant energy consumption associated with the quantity of metal required to be melted for the initial pour and associated with reprocessing and reusing the waste component. |
| US08186414B2 |
Method for forming an object
A method for forming an object, including providing at least a first material having a melting point at a first temperature and a second material having a melting point at a second temperature; heating at least a portion of the first and second materials above the first and second temperatures to form a substantially molten alloy, the molten alloy having a solidifying point at a third temperature, the third temperature being less than the first temperature and the second temperature; and providing substantially solid further material to at least a portion of the molten alloy, the further material having a melting point at a temperature greater than the third temperature. |
| US08186409B2 |
Tag ablation mechanism and tag-and-tape combination apparatus using the same
The present invention provides a tag ablation mechanism and a tag-and-tape combination apparatus using the same, wherein a driving gear is actuated to rotate by a rotating device by way of a lever to drive a driven gear to rotate so as to ablate a tag from a bottom paper extended from a tag roll on the driven gear. In the present invention, an ablated tag is capable of being combined with a tape so that the tag attached to the tape can be adhered to a packaged object. The mechanism and apparatus of the present invention are capable of adjusting a rotating arc length so as to handle various tags with different sizes and lengths and to complete tag ablation and tag-and-tape combination in each driving operation. |
| US08186406B2 |
Apparatus for sealing a polymer coated paper or board
The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for jointing members made of plastic-coated paper or board. In accordance with the invention, the sealable members are retained in position with clamps and sealing is performed with a laser sealing means moving along the sealing line, a means for opening the seal point pressing the members apart to continue keeping the seal point open, a laser beam being directed to the open seal point for melting the coating plastic and a means for closing the seal pressing finally the members against each other, the plastic jointing the members when solidified. The method is applicable to lateral sealing of bag or container packages formed of blanks, among other things. |
| US08186404B2 |
Medallion assembly secured to a tire sidewall
A medallion assembly for a pneumatic tire, in accordance with the present invention, includes a protruding portion, a fastener, and a medallion. The protruding portion is integrally formed with a sidewall of the tire and extends away from the sidewall of the tire. The protruding portion has an annular tapered outer surface. The fastener has an annular tapered inner surface and an annular outer surface. The annular tapered inner surface engages the annular tapered outer surface of the protruding portion. The medallion has an annular inner surface for engaging the annular outer surface of the fastener such that the medallion is secured to the fastener and both the medallion and the fastener are secured to the protruding portion of the sidewall of the tire. |
| US08186399B2 |
Automated floor board texturing cell and method
An automated floor board texturing cell includes a programmable robot that stores, or has access to, a plurality of patterns. The robot automatically selects a stored pattern for at least one of the floor boards introduced into the cell. The robot textures the floor boards to exhibit the selected pattern. The robot may select a pattern for a batch of floor boards or for each individual floor board. Pattern selection can be random or based on stored information such as a production schedule. |
| US08186397B2 |
Hardwood texturing apparatus and methods for using same
Texturing apparatuses and methods are provided for forming a textured surface on a panel. An exemplary texturing apparatus has a bed and a mount having at least one cutting blade that can be configured to impart a cut to a top structural surface of the panel as the panel is moved along the bed. The bed is configured to receive the panel and can define one or more openings. The mount is operably positioned in the opening and can be articulated in one or more directions with respect to the plane of the bed. |
| US08186396B2 |
Aviation refueling filter inspection apparatus
A time and labor saving device used in the aviation refueling process for holding an aviation style fuel nozzle in place over a open vessel with a support base so that the filter screen may be easily inspected while additionally providing for the collection and recycling of fuel that is lost while inspection is made. |
| US08186393B2 |
Fluid coupler including valve arrangement for connecting intake conduit of sprayer to transfer conduit of nurse tank during refill operation
A nurse vehicle carries a supply of liquid chemicals or fertilizer for being applied by a sprayer vehicle. A fluid transfer conduit of the nurse vehicle has an end defined by a receptacle that is selectively connected to a complementary dimensioned insert defining an end of a fluid intake conduit of the sprayer vehicle. The receptacle and insert define a coupler assembly that includes an inflatable seal that surrounds the insert and locks the insert and receptacle together when inflated. Flow through the coupler assembly is controlled by first and second poppet valves, which are normally closed preventing flow through valve bodies of the receptacle and insert. Selective inflation of the seal and opening and closing of the poppet valves is automatically controlled in accordance with sequencing logic of an electronic controller so the seal is inflated before the valves are opened and remains inflated until the valves are closed. |
| US08186392B2 |
Device for filling of a container of collapsible type
A device for filling a container with a liquid product, the container having a compartment which communicates with the surroundings via a filling duct. The device comprising a filling tube with an end portion, which is insertable into the filling duct. The device includes a clamp which is adapted to grasp the end portion and the filling duct when said end portion is inserted into said filling duct to provide a seal. The clamp has gripping surfaces which are arranged to cooperate with the end portion when the clamp grasping the filling duct. Each gripping surface has opposite edge portions, a bead being arranged in each edge portion. The end portion has a circumferential surface which is formed of two opposite partial surfaces which each comprise a convexly curved central portion and a concavely curved side portion arranged on each side of the central portion. |
| US08186381B2 |
Selection valve
A rotary selection valve where different components can be selected in different rotation positions of the valve and furthermore the flow through the components can be reversed by rotating the rotary valve. |
| US08186376B2 |
Liquid purge valve
A liquid purge valve comprising a housing for sealingly fitting at an uppermost end of a substantially vertical pipe, an outlet tube extending from the housing and projecting into the pipe, an outlet port fitted with a sealing boundary and sealable by a sealing member pivotally secured within the housing so as to pivotally displace between a closed and an open position, a biasing member biasing the sealing member into its open position, and a mass articulated to the sealing member and extending downwards into the pipe. The mass applies a force at an opposite direction of the biasing member such that the resultant force acting on the sealing member determines its position such that when water level rises within the pipe the sealing member displaces into the open position. |
| US08186375B2 |
Retainer assembly for swivel spout
A swing spout assembly is disclosed which has a spout having a channel extending from an inlet end to a discharge end. A radially extending groove is formed adjacent the inlet end of the spout, and a snap ring is received in the groove of the spout. A pair of glides in the form of wear washers sandwich the portion of the snap ring extending out of the groove to form a bearing sub-assembly. An escutcheon is positioned around at least part of the inlet end of the spout. A stationary body has a portion that extends into the channel of the spout and a portion extending around an outer radial periphery of the inlet end of the spout. The portion extending around the outer periphery of the inlet end and the escutcheon defining a pocket that retains the bearing sub-assembly. |
| US08186374B2 |
Fuel cell valve and fuel cell system using the valve
A valve for a fluid passage in a vehicle fuel cell system. A housing includes an inflow passage connected to an upstream side of the fluid passage and an outflow passage connected to a downstream side of the fluid passage. A valve body is disposed in the housing and includes an intermediate fluid passage configured to provide fluid communication between the inflow passage and the outflow passage. A heating element is configured to apply heat directly to the valve body. |
| US08186373B2 |
Rotatable dual head inflation device
An inflation device includes a central tube, a first mounting unit mounted onto an outside of a reception end of the central tube and a second unit connected to a connection portion on the other end of the central tube. The first mounting unit includes a first casing and an end cap, and the reception end includes a valve mouth and a core tube received therein. The second mounting unit includes inner threads that are connected with the connection portion. A groove is defined in the second mounting unit and an O-ring is engaged with the groove. The first and second mounting units can be connected with an American style tire valve and a French style tire valve, respectively. The first and second mounting units each have outer threads with the same diameter so as to be connected with a tire pump. |
| US08186367B1 |
Foldable walker
A foldable walker includes upstanding legs arranged in a generally square pattern, each of which is capped by a fixed joint member and each of which has a slider member slideably disposed on it. Two forward legs are interconnected by two rigid links arranged in a scissors arrangement with the uppermost end of each link pivotally connected to a fixed joint member and the lowermost end of each link pivotally connected to a slider. Each forward leg is interconnected to its associated rearward leg in the same way. Each pair of rigid links is interconnected to one another by a pivot pin. The linkage enables the width and the depth of the walker to be reduced to a very small space and telescoping legs reduce the height dimension of the walker. Handles are folded when the walker is stored and pivoted into their operable position when the walker is deployed. |
| US08186365B2 |
Cosmetic case
Disclosed herein is a cosmetic case. The cosmetic case opens a discharge port of a main body by a support unit that is pushed backwards when a puff is pressed, and closes the discharge port when the puff is released, thus stopping discharging powder. The cosmetic case for containing powder is constructed so that a control unit controls the discharge of powder to the puff, using the simple support unit having thin legs, thus allowing the powder to be discharged only when necessary. Further, the cosmetic case has the simple support unit, so that the manufacture and assembly of the cosmetic case is easy, and the smooth flow of powder is permitted, and has no part in which the powder may be caught or accumulated, thus allowing the support unit to perform an excellent support function for a lengthy period of time. |
| US08186364B2 |
Handle free claw clip
A hair clip that opens and closes using an elastic band. The band holds the jaws in an open position (which eliminates the need for the levers) and the band also urges the jaws together to close the clip (eliminating the need for a metal spring). The clip has a length of material that is attached either across its top or around it. Because the jaws have no attached protruding levers for opening and closing them (like the ones in a traditional ‘butterfly’ clip), the length of material lays relatively smooth across the top of the clip, which not only hides the hinge and elastic band (improving the aesthetic appearance of the clip), it makes it possible to decorated the material or add a companies logo thereto. |
| US08186363B2 |
Applicator for improved application of a hair treatment composition to a bundle of hair strands
The present invention relates to an applicator (1) which allows for precise, non-messy and even application of a hair treatment composition to a hair strand. The applicator (1) comprises a plate (10) movably joined by a connection (30) to a well (20), a first fin (70) and a second fin (71) which project from the internal surface (101) of the plate (10) and point to one another and a fluid metering element comprising a lower metering portion (50) positioned on the internal surface of the wall (202) of the well (20) adjacent the rim (222). When said applicator (1) is in a closed state, the lower metering portion (50) and the first fin (70) are substantially juxtaposed to provide said fluid metering element. |
| US08186362B1 |
Concave finger nail file
A concave finger nail file includes a retention base and an abrasive surface. The retention base may have any suitable shape, such as a cube, a cylinder or a D-shaped tube. The retention base may be solid or hollowed-out. A concave cavity is formed in a top of the retention base. The abrasive surface is applied to the concave cavity. The abrasive surface may also be applied to a bottom or to a side wall of the retention base. The retention base is held between a forefinger and thumb of one hand; a finger or thumb of the other hand is inserted into the concave cavity; and the retention base is pivoted about the finger or thumb of the other hand to file the end of a nail. A second embodiment of the concave finger nail file includes a removable peel and stick abrasive surface. |
| US08186360B2 |
Cigarette comprising dark air-cured tobacco
A cigarette is provided that includes a rod of smokable material circumscribed by an outer wrapping material and a filter element, which may include an adsorbent material such as activated carbon, attached to one end of the rod of smokable material. The smokable material includes at least about 5 percent by weight of a dark air-cured tobacco, based on the dry weight of the smokable material, blended with additional tobacco materials such as flue-cured tobacco, burley tobacco, Oriental tobacco, Maryland tobacco, and mixtures thereof. |
| US08186359B2 |
System for analyzing a filter element associated with a smoking article, and associated method
A system and associated method for analyzing a filter element of at least one of a filter rod and a smoking article is provided. At least one sensor element is adapted to interact with the filter element so as to determine an object insertion status with respect thereto and to generate an output signal in response. The object insertion status includes at least one of an object presence within the filter element, an object absence from the filter element, a proper insertion of an object into the filter element, a defective insertion of an object into the filter element, a proper object within the filter element, and a defective object within the filter element. An analysis unit is in communication with the at least one sensor element and responsive to the output signal therefrom to generate an indicia corresponding to the object insertion status. |
| US08186357B2 |
Control device for a surgical laser
The invention concerns surgical lasers and their controllers as well as methods for the treatment of an eye lens, especially for the treatment of presbyopia. |
| US08186356B2 |
Mouth guard
A mouth guard for a human adult which minimizes or eliminates teeth grinding. The mouth guard includes a tray having an arcuate trough opening at each end and dimensioned to receive at least the bicuspids of the human adult. The tray is constructed of a rigid plastic material. A dental impression material is disposed in the tray so that a portion of the impression material extends outwardly from each end of the tray by an amount sufficient to cover the canines or first bicuspids of the human adult when the tray is positioned over the bicuspids. |
| US08186354B2 |
Orthotic device for preventing and/or correcting deformational posterior plagiocephaly
The present invention is a simple, adaptable orthotic device that can correct and/or prevent deformational posterior plagiocephaly, especially if used before the infant is 4 months of age. The manufactured article provides an anatomically correcting, adjustable, concave-shaped resting surface for an infant's head in a manner that effectively eliminates uneven pressure on the infant's occiput. The orthotic device has a modular design which permits easy adjustments of the devices' head cavity to accommodate differences in individual infant head size and shape, thereby providing the infant's head with a custom fit. Also, as the infant continues to grow in size, the adjustable head cavity and torso recess features of the orthotic device allow the contoured spatial volume and dimensions of the molded supporting surfaces to expand as the infant's calvaria grow; and thereby facilitate a progressive, normalization and rounding of the infant's occiput. |
| US08186346B2 |
Self-automated titration system and method
A method of titration using a combination continuous flow and pulse flow portable oxygen concentration system (system) with a patient includes: a) providing the system in a continuous flow mode and titrating the patient to a predetermined blood oxygen saturation using the system at one or more predetermined conditions in the continuous flow mode; b) providing the system in a pulse flow mode and titrating the patient to the same predetermined blood oxygen saturation as step a using the system at the same one or more predetermined conditions as in step a in the pulse flow mode; c) determining an Individualized Pulse Dose Equivalent (IPDE) correlation based on data obtained from steps a and b; d) providing the system with the IPDE correlation; and e) using the IPDE correlation to operate the concentrator in a more efficient manner. |
| US08186345B2 |
Apparatus for supplying gases to a patient
The gases temperature supplied to a patient when the patient is undergoing treatment such as oxygen therapy or positive pressure treatment for conditions such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is often measured for safety and to enable controlling of the humidity delivered to the patient. The invention disclosed is related to measurement of properties, particularly temperature, of gases flowing through a heated tube, supplying gases to a patient, which utilizes the heating wire within the tube. |
| US08186340B2 |
Score and form solar reflector
A curved surface structure for reflecting solar light, heat or electromagnetic radiation is made by scoring two opposing pairs of curved bend lines along one pair of opposing edges of a sheet of bendable material, dividing it into a center section joined by curved bend lines to curved ribs, joined by curved bend lines to respective curved edges; bending the curved ribs down and curved edges up along the bend lines to nominally right angles to form a curved surface supported by two curved ribs and two curved edges. Two straight ribs and respective straight edges may be scored and formed on the other pair of opposing edges of the sheet. A backside sheet may be applied to the four edges. A widthwise corrugated, elongate right angle reinforcement member may be employed for strengthening the formed bend lines. |
| US08186338B2 |
Pneumatic paintball marker
A novel and unique pneumatic paintball marker having a variety of novel features, the first being an on/off compressed air control valve, positioned at the front of the marker below the barrel and adjacent to an in-line pressure regulator. Major innovations have been made in reducing the size and weight of the body of the marker, along with the construction of a new bolt assembly consisting of just four components and only one moving part. An anti-chop eye electronic system insures that the paintballs are in proper position, and rubber ball detents are optionally added to hold the paintballs in place prior to firing the marker, so that the paintballs will not roll out the barrel. |
| US08186331B2 |
Spark suppression for a genset
A method for operating a four-stroke internal combustion engine including a crankshaft coupled to a piston, which includes moving the piston in accordance with a sequence of four different strokes; mechanically driving an electric power generator with the crankshaft during the operating of the engine; generating a first sensor signal indicative of each revolution of the crankshaft with the crankshaft rotating twice during the sequence of four different strokes; providing a second sensor signal corresponding to a working fluid characteristic of the engine, the working fluid characteristic changing during the sequence of four different strokes of the piston; and timing ignition of the engine as a function of the first sensor signal and the second sensor signal. |
| US08186327B2 |
Oil supply system for internal combustion engine with dual mode pressure limiting valve
A lubricating oil supply system for internal combustion engine includes an oil reservoir and oil pump connected with a lubrication distribution network including a piloted pressure relief valve which selectively controls the pressure within the distribution network to at least one pressure value that is less than the maximum pressure produced by a primary pressure relief valve associated with the oil pump, while also protecting the lubrication distribution network from an unwanted overpressure condition. |
| US08186325B2 |
Heat shield having locating and retention features
A heat shield assembly includes shroud or housing fabricated from a heat shielding material having at least one pair of spring arms extending from side walls of the shroud for engaging a member to which the heat shield assembly is to be attached, and one or more retention tabs projecting into a longitudinal channel in position to limit longitudinal movement of the assembly relative to the member when the member is attached to the spring arms. |
| US08186319B2 |
Concentric cam with check valves in the spool for a phaser
A camshaft assembly for an internal combustion engine has a hollow outer shaft with slots along its length and an inner shaft with holes along its length. The holes on the inner shaft are aligned with the slots on the outer shaft. A first set of cam lobes are fixed to the outer shaft and a second set of cam lobes are placed on the slots of outer shaft with a clearance fit. A means fixes the second set of cam lobes to the inner shaft, while simultaneously allowing the second set of cam lobes to be a clearance fit to the outer shaft. The means fixing the second set of cam lobes to the inner shaft may be a hollow pin which is hydroformed or a rivet insert which is expanded by insertion, pulling, and removal of a threaded rod. |
| US08186312B2 |
Control system for modulating water heater
A control system is provided for a modulated heating system including at least one modulating water heater and a controller. A deadband control scheme provides for reduced cycling of the modulating heater when total system heat demand falls between the maximum output of one heater and the sum of the maximum output of that one point and the minimum firing point of the next subsequent heater. Condensation of flue gas products is prevented by monitoring flue exhaust temperature for each heater and controlling the modulation of each heater to maintain a minimum heater output sufficiently high to prevent condensation of flue gas products from that heater. Rapid reaction to changes in system heat demand is provided by sensing changes in flow rate in a primary loop of the system and anticipating resulting changes in temperature thus allowing for change in heater output prior to the time the change in flow rate has fully impacted system temperature. |
| US08186309B2 |
Pet toy
A pet toy may include an outer covering and a bladder assembly. The bladder assembly may include a bladder and a squeaker assembly. The squeaker assembly may include one or more ribs. The bladder may include a body and a neck. The neck may have one or more grooves. A rib may engage a groove. The engagement of the rib with the groove may prevent the squeaker assembly from exiting the opening of the bladder when the bladder is compressed. The body of the bladder may have a shape which allows the body to return to the uncompressed state after the body has been compressed. The body may be made of a material which allows the body to return to the uncompressed state after the body has been compressed. |
| US08186307B2 |
Portable device and process to automatically cleanse and dry pets
Portable grooming and spray devices and processes to automatically cleanse (wash, rinse, and purify) and dry pets are disclosed. A portable grooming device comprises a housing container and situated inside the housing container is a portable spray device having a pet-shape body with four legs. The four legs of the portable spray device safely constrain pets' movements inside the portable spray device throughout various processes to cleanse and dry the pets. The portable spray device comprises plurality of connectors for connecting various apparatus for supplying water, liquid composition, air flow, and the like to the portable spray device. The portable spray device comprises a spray device cavity and plurality of spray nozzles where the spray device cavity channels the water, liquid composition, and air flow to the plurality of spray nozzles and the spray nozzles spray the water, liquid composition, and air flow on a pet's neck, body, tail, and four legs to cleanse and dry the pet. The portable spray device can be used separately or as part of the portable grooming device. The portable grooming device and the portable spray device are formed by rectangular or cylindrical shape sheets of light fiber glass and plastic materials. The processes to automatically cleanse and dry a pet comprise wash, rinse, purify, and dry cycles where the spray nozzles of the portable spray device spray the water, liquid composition, and air flow on the pet's neck, body, tail, and four legs from all directions to ensure the pet's neck, body, tail, and four legs are thoroughly clean and dry. |
| US08186304B2 |
Automatic liquid dispensing device for animals
A liquid dispensing device includes a container removably mounted to a tray such that an orifice in the base of the container is below a fill line of the tray. A flat-shaped cap that includes an opening is removably attached to the orifice. A cap adjustment member forces the cap into a concave shape when the container is removably mounted to the tray. If the cap is in the flat shape, surface tension of the liquid in the container prevents the container from dispensing liquid. However, forcing the cap into the concave shape disrupts the surface tension of the liquid and allows the container to dispense the liquid if the liquid is not already above a fill line. These features allow the orifice to be wide enough for cleaning while the cap is narrow enough for operation without the cap causing surface tension that hinders operation. |
| US08186303B1 |
Multiple station animal feeding apparatus
A multiple station feeding apparatus for nursing young domestic pets, providing a hands-free feeding means thereof, is herein disclosed. The apparatus comprises an angled textile covered base ramp upon which the pets stand or lie in a linear arrangement. At the top of the ramp is a bottle holding panel which supports standard pet feeding bottles by inserting them through a circular opening in the frame and securing the bottles with a slip-on locking panel. At this point the pets can feed in much the same arrangement as would be found when nursing from their mother. When completed, the bottles are easily removed and cleaned. These features provide for a rapid simultaneous feeding of pets compared thereto feeding pets individually. |
| US08186294B2 |
Device for cutting out and opening/closing an orifice in a wall at the bottom of the sea
The present invention relates to a method of cutting (1) a small first orifice (1-1) in a wall (6) at the bottom of the sea and of opening/closing said first orifice, the method comprising anchoring a base (2) that includes a large second orifice (2-1) and a cutter device comprising: a said base, a deformable stopper (3) connected to said base and enabling said large second orifice to be opened or closed depending on the position of the stopper on the base, circular cutter means (4) secured to said base, and anchor means (5) secured to said base and suitable for anchoring said base reversibly on said wall (6). The present invention also provides a method of recovering a viscous fluid that is lighter than water, such as a polluting effluent, and that is contained in a tank of a sunken and/or damaged vessel resting on the sea bottom. |
| US08186292B2 |
Liquefied natural gas storage tank for floating marine structure
Disclosed is a floating marine apparatus including a liquefied natural gas (LNG) tank. The apparatus includes a first LNG containing compartment and a second LNG containing compartment next to the first compartment. The apparatus further includes a bottom passage interconnecting bottom portions of the first and second compartments for fluid communication therebetween. |
| US08186291B1 |
Pontoon boat
A pontoon boat having enhanced handling characteristics includes a deck, a central pontoon mounted to said deck, two outer pontoons mounted to said deck on respective opposite sides of said central pontoon, and a motor, wherein the central pontoon extends below the outer pontoons to create a V-shaped hull, and the motor is capable of causing said center and outer pontoons to plane during normal operation. |
| US08186286B2 |
Wood fired boiler
A bio-mass fueled boiler operating at delivered efficiencies in excess of 90%. Pre-heated, pressurized primary combustion air is supplied to a primary burn chamber via horizontal and vertical orifice containing conduits. Exhaust gases are directed past a reflective secondary burner supplying pre-heated, pressurized secondary combustion air into a secondary burn/ash collection chamber. Exhaust gases are directed from the secondary burn chamber via exhaust conduits having axial and cross-sectional shapes and wall geometries that promote internal turbulence and heat transfer. One or more gas/oil fired burners are fitted to or between the primary and secondary combustion chambers. Several operating modes are provided via associated blowers, air baffles, liquid and gas fuel conduits, pumps and sundry stove sensors and servos coupled to microprocessor control circuitry. |
| US08186284B2 |
Student desk with book box
The present invention is related to a desk structure. The desk structure comprises a writing surface, and a book box which is secured to the writing surface. A plurality of receiver sleeves are integrally molded with the book box. Each receiver sleeve has an outer wall and an inner wall. The inner wall of the receiver sleeve has a slot and a plurality of radially spaced ribs. The inner wall defines an opening. The desk structure further comprises a plurality of legs. Each leg has an upper leg portion. The upper leg portion of each leg is received by the inner wall opening of a corresponding receiver sleeve. Additionally, each upper leg portion includes a detent. The detent is adapted to engage a corresponding inner wall slot when the upper leg portion is received by the inner wall opening of the corresponding receiver sleeve. Thus, the detent both secures the leg to the book box and positions the upper leg portion within the opening. |
| US08186280B2 |
Load bearing robotic turntable
A load bearing robotic turntable includes a first rotating sine table, a second rotating sine table, and a rotating and tilting workpiece table. A motor rotates the first rotating sine table. The second rotating sine table is rotatable with respect to the first rotating sine table to change a tilt of a top surface of the second rotating sine table. The workpiece table is rotatable with respect to the second rotating table to present different faces of a workpiece mounted to the workpiece table. A first actuator cooperates with the second sine table to change the tilt of the top surface of the second sine table with respect to the horizontal. A second actuator cooperates with the workpiece table to rotate the workpiece about a tilted axis. Rotation and changes to the tilt are obtained solely by positions of the actuators and rotation of the first sine table by the motor. |
| US08186277B1 |
Lead-free bullet for use in a wide range of impact velocities
A bullet comprising a lead-free body having a tail section and a nose section. The nose section has an ogived outer surface and a forward terminus. The body further has an opening at the terminus, and a cavity in the nose section. The cavity extends rearward from the opening to an intermediate section of the body. The cavity includes a forward sidewall having at least a generally frusto-conical shape that converges rearward from the opening to a transition area. The cavity further includes a rear sidewall extending rearward from the transition area at a different angle than the forward sidewall. |
| US08186270B2 |
Tampon pad printing system and method of operating
In one embodiment, a pad printing system configured to print a work piece having at least a first print area and a second print area distal from the first print area is provided. The pad printing system may include a first print station and a second print station, wherein each print station is independently operable and configured to transfer a fluid image from an ink tampon to a work piece at least once during a printing cycle. The pad printing system may further include a moveable platform and a work piece holder supported by the platform having a first orientation and a second orientation. The first orientation may be configured to align the first print area with an ink tampon in the first print station and the second orientation may be configured to align the second print area with an ink tampon in the second print station. |
| US08186269B2 |
Stamp-type printer
The stamp-type printer includes: a stamp-type printer comprising: a receiving section for receiving image data including character information; a transfer member; a print head for printing an image on a portion of the transfer member with ink based on the received image data; and a transport member for transporting the printed portion of the transfer member to a contact transfer position, wherein a stamping operation is performed by causing the printed portion to come in contact with a desired recording medium at the contact transfer position. |
| US08186268B2 |
Roller press for embellishing sheet media
A new and improved roller press for embellishing media includes a pair of spaced apart roller press members supported for rotation by bearing blocks. A handle having a ratchet mechanism is connected to a first roller for turning the roller during pressing. A gear set connects the rollers for turning a second roller in a rotational direction opposite of the first roller for moving the media between the rollers for pressing. A feed bed and exit bed are disposed between the bearing blocks to provide a stable base for supporting the press. |
| US08186265B2 |
Device to efficiently cook food
Deep fryers and associated accessories providing increased efficiency and convenience in the production of deep-fried, steamed and boiled foods. Multiple cooking cycles and versatile food support means to fully cook foods are provided. Special advantages for larger unitary foods, such as for example, a large turkey, are provided. Advantages include without limitation minimizing countertop usage; reduction in the use of frying oil; compact storage; reduced shipping costs; reduced warehousing and manufacturing costs; and being lighter and more easy to handle in the kitchen. Accessory items simplify and facilitate production of deep fried foods, including cutting foods into shapes appropriate to produce French fries and blooming onions. Other accessories facilitate the transference and maintenance of frying oil including: returning frying oil to original containers for storage and disposal; and filtering frying oil to prolong its useful life. Methods are disclosed which help purify oil for extended life without use of filtration. |
| US08186259B2 |
Perforating gun gravitational orientation system
A perforating gun gravitational orientation system includes a perforating gun and a swivel device connected to the perforating gun to permit rotation of the perforating gun within casing, and the perforating gun spaced apart from the casing by the swivel device. Another perforating gun gravitational orientation system includes the swivel device having an axis of rotation which is spaced apart from a center of gravity of the perforating gun. Yet another perforating gun gravitational orientation system includes the swivel device having an axis of rotation which is spaced apart from a center axis of the perforating gun. |
| US08186258B2 |
Table saw with actuator reset mechanism
A power tool in one embodiment includes a work-piece support surface, a swing arm assembly movable along a swing path between a first swing arm position whereat a portion of a shaping device supported by the swing arm assembly extends above the work-piece support surface and a second swing arm position whereat the portion of the shaping device does not extend above the work-piece support surface, a latch hold pivotable between a first latch hold position whereat the swing arm assembly can be supported by the latch hold in the first swing arm position and a second latch hold position whereat the swing arm assembly cannot be supported by the latch hold in the first swing arm position, an actuator chamber configured to receive at least one actuator, an opening in the actuator chamber, and a plug aligned with the opening and connected to the latch hold. |
| US08186256B2 |
Power tool safety mechanisms
A sensing mechanism (12) for detecting user contact with an active portion (26) of the power tool (10) is provided. In addition, a safety mechanism (14) for preventing prolonged user contact with the active portion (26) of a power tool (10) is provided. The safety mechanism (14) is configured to actuate upon receipt of a signal from the sensing mechanism (12). According to a first aspect, the safety mechanism (14) is arranged to rapidly displace the active portion (26) away from a user extremity. Alternatively, according to a second aspect, the safety mechanism (14) is arranged to rapidly urge an extremity of the user away from the active portion (26) of the power tool (10). |
| US08186255B2 |
Contact detection system for power equipment
A woodworking machine having one or more dangerous portions is disclosed. The machine also includes a safety system configured to detect accidental contact between a person and at least one of the dangerous portions by electrically coupling a signal to the person's body, and detecting if the signal becomes coupled to the dangerous portion. |
| US08186249B2 |
Three point turning machine
A turning machine having: a machine frame with a longitudinal axis; a rotary part driver for rotating a part about the longitudinal axis; three tools mounted on the frame, each tool having a radial tool axis transverse the longitudinal axis and each radial tool axis being disposed in a circumferential array spaced apart by substantially 120°; wherein each tool has an independent radial actuator and an independent longitudinal actuator, wherein each tool is movable radially and longitudinally relative to the part and relative to the other two tools. |
| US08186248B1 |
High speed extension breaker bar
A combination ratchet wrench extension tool that provides an integrated extension that can be used with a ratchet wrench or independently as a spinner for manual socket manipulation. A pair of flexible joints on a main body bar, one of which has a square socket head for use with common sockets and an oppositely disposed pivotally secured finger hole engagement spinner fitting with a female port extension or ratchets, extensions and breaker bars. |
| US08186242B2 |
Steering column system
Paired distance pieces (51, 52) disposed between two sidewall portions (41,42) of a vehicle body-side bracket (4) and an outer tube (31) are separated from each other, and have press protrusions (51b,52b) protruding from inner side surfaces (51c, 52c) of the distance pieces (51, 52), respectively, the press protrusions (51b,52b) configured to be brought into pressure contact with the outer side of an inner tube (32). In addition, abutment portions (51g, 52g) configured to abut on the outer side of the outer tube (31) are formed in upper ends (51c, 52c) of the inner side surfaces (51c, 52c), respectively. Furthermore, a rotation prevention part (9) is provided between a first distance piece (51) and the outer tube (31), and a second distance piece (52) is provided in a manner rotatable relative to the outer tube (31). Thereby, a clamping effect is enhanced while reducing a force needed to operate an operation lever (7), and the vibration characteristic is enhanced. |
| US08186239B2 |
Origin restoration mechanism for operating member and multi-direction input apparatus using the same
An origin restoration mechanism includes a base unit arranged in X-Y directions to cross the axis of an operating member body of an operating member, a link mechanism arranged on the upper surface of the base unit and a pair of urging devices for urging a rotary unit of the link mechanism. The link mechanism includes the rotary unit arranged around the axis of the operating member body and our movable members arranged equidistantly around the axis of the operating member body inside the rotary unit on the surface of the base unit and having rear ends coupled rotatably to the rotary unit. Via urging forces, the portions inside of the distal end of the four movable members come into contact with different portions, respectively, of the outer surface of the operating member body located at the original position C, to hold the operating member body. |
| US08186235B2 |
Method and device for the collection of airborne particles and their concentration in small amounts of liquid
A method and its possible embodiments are presented for collecting airborne biological and non-biological agents and concentrating them into small amounts of liquid. Airborne particles are drawn into the sampler and by the action of an electrostatic field are deposited on the collection electrode covered with superhydrophobic substance (surface contact angle >150°). At the end of the sampling period a small liquid droplet (5-60 μL) is injected at the top of the sampling chamber. Since the sampler is positioned at an angle to the horizontal, the droplet rolls-off of collection electrode's surface under the force of gravity and removes the deposited particles. The droplet is then collected by a liquid capture system. The particles concentrated in such small amounts of liquid facilitate sample analysis by various techniques. The suggested sampler's embodiments achieve sample concentration rates higher than 1×106/min which will allow detection of very low particle concentrations. |
| US08186228B2 |
Strain measuring device
A strain measuring device includes a bridge circuit comprising a p-type impurity diffused resistor as a strain detecting portion and a bridge circuit comprising an n-type impurity diffused resistor as a strain detecting portion in a semiconductor single crystalline substrate, Sheet resistance of the p-type impurity diffused resistor is 1.67 to 5 times higher than that of the n-type impurity diffused resistor. Furthermore, the impurity diffused resistor is configured to be a meander shape including strip lines and connecting portions. |
| US08186226B2 |
Pressure sensor with on-board compensation
The present disclosure relates generally to pressure sensors, and more particularly, to methods and apparatus for compensating pressure sensors for stress, temperature and/or other induced offsets and/or errors. In one illustrative embodiment, a pressure sensor may include a pressure sensing die mounted to a substrate of a pressure sensor package. The pressure sensor die may include on-board compensation. In some instances, the on-board compensation may include an on-board heating element and an on-board zener diode trim network, both situated on or in the pressure sensing die. The zener diode trim network may include one or more zener diodes and one or more resistive elements, where the zener diodes can be selectively activated to “trim” the resistive network to compensate for one or more offsets and/or errors of the pressure sensor. The on-board heating element may be configured to heat the pressure sensor assembly to various temperatures so that temperature related offsets and/or errors may be identified, and then compensated for with the zener diode trim network. |
| US08186224B2 |
Sensor and method for its manufacture
The invention relates to a sensor with a transducer unit, which is located at a measurement end in a housing sleeve, with connection means at a connection end of the housing sleeve opposite to the measurement end, with a module carrier received in the housing sleeve and on which is placed a sensor electronics and which extends along an axis of the housing sleeve, with illuminants for the optical signaling to the outside of operating and/or switching states of the sensor. The sensor is characterized in that there is a separate, plate-like illuminant carrier, that a plurality of illuminants are placed on the illuminant carrier and that the illuminant carrier is positioned transversely to the module carrier in the vicinity of the transducer unit. The invention also relates to a method for the manufacture of a sensor. |
| US08186219B2 |
Method of determining a speed of rotation of an axially symmetrical vibrating sensor, and a corresponding inertial device
A method and device of determining a speed of rotation of an axially symmetrical vibrating sensor. The sensor has a vibrating member associated with control electrodes and with detection electrodes for generating a vibration presenting an elastic line possessing periodicity of order n and having a position that is variable as a function of the rotation of the sensor. The method includes performing successive evaluations of the speed for a predetermined number of positions of the vibration relative to the electrodes. The positions are geometrically offset relative to each other and the vibration is moved from one position to another by applying a precession command using a pre-established scale factor. The method also includes determining a speed of rotation in function of the evaluations. |
| US08186218B2 |
Physical quantity measuring apparatus and electronic device
A physical quantity measuring apparatus includes an oscillation drive circuit that forms an oscillation loop together with a physical quantity transducer and excites a drive oscillation of the physical quantity transducer, and a detection circuit that detects an analog detection signal outputted from the physical quantity transducer using a detection circuit first and then converts the signal that has been detected into a digital signal using an A/D converter to output the digital signal. The oscillation drive circuit has a drive amplitude detection circuit that detects amplitude of the drive oscillation. A voltage level of a reference of the A/D converter included in the detection circuit is controlled on the basis of a detection output signal of the drive amplitude detection circuit. |
| US08186210B2 |
Surface evaluation employing orthogonal force measurement
A method for evaluating a performance of a substrate surface including applying a normal force with a probe to a surface of a substrate, the normal force being substantially perpendicular to the surface, and moving the probe across the surface to generate a force against and to scratch the surface, the force being substantially parallel to the surface and comprising a coaxial force along the scratch and an orthogonal force perpendicular to the scratch. The method further includes measuring a magnitude of the orthogonal force as the probe moves across the coating, and determining a fracture point of the surface by the probe based on changes in the magnitude of the orthogonal force. |
| US08186209B2 |
Valve with radiating structure for a tire pressure monitoring system
A valve for a tire pressure monitoring system in which the valve acts a coaxial conductor to transmit a signal to a receiver presented. A valve stem electrically isolated from a valve pin form the coaxial conductor. In a tire pressure monitoring system, a tire pressure measurement module is positioned inside a tire. In one embodiment, a conductive radiating structure is electrically connected or coupled to the valve pin to receive the tire pressure information signal and transmit it to a receiver. The above configuration further permits a rechargeable battery in the tire pressure measurement module to be recharged via the tire valve. The valve pin and valve stem, being electrically isolated from one another, are used as recharging paths for the battery. |
| US08186207B2 |
Strut assembly for transfering load from a movable belt
A test system and method includes a platform having a movable endless belt. A test article is disposed on the belt has wheel assemblies rotated by the endless belt. At least one strut has a first end coupled to the test article and a second end configured to engage the belt as it moves so as to transfer force between belt and the test article. |
| US08186206B2 |
Polymer base for hybrid powertrain and NVH test installations
A powertrain test installation is disclosed that includes a polymer base, which is supported on a concrete slab, for example. A dynamometer is mounted on the polymer base. A frame is mounted to the polymer base and is configured to support a powertrain component to be coupled to the dynamometer. The powertrain test system is installed, for example, by providing a floor, which is a concrete slab, for example. The floor is cut to provide a gap between a support floor and an adjacent floor that is arranged about the support floor. A polymer base is arranged on the support floor interiorly of the gap so that the polymer base is isolated from the adjacent floor. A dynamometer is secured to the polymer base. A frame is secured to the polymer base and is configured to support a powertrain test component, such as an electric motor. |
| US08186205B2 |
Procedure and device for diagnosing the dynamic of an exhaust gas sensor
The invention concerns a procedure and a device for diagnosing the dynamic of an exhaust gas sensor, which is arranged in an exhaust gas duct of a combustion engine and with which a parameter of the gas mixture that is supplied to the combustion engine is regulated by a control loop. It is thereby provided according to the invention that during a diagnosing period a temporal deflection of a regulation correcting variable for the parameter that is derived from an output signal of the exhaust gas sensor or a temporal course of the output signal of the exhaust gas sensor is used for the diagnosis and that the dynamic of the exhaust gas sensor is assumed in an evaluation algorithm. Thereby an improvement of the on-board diagnosis of the dynamic of the exhaust gas sensor can be achieved and in particular lambda probes, which provide a slowing down of their responding behavior, can be detected early on. |
| US08186204B2 |
Method and device for dynamically determining a segment for an angular spread, inside which fuel is injected into an internal combustion engine
In a method and a device for dynamically determining a segment for an angular spread, fuel is injected into an internal combustion engine and the useful injection range (IRu) and/or the relative position of the segment comprising the angular spread, in which a fuel injection can be carried out especially during a multiple injection, are variable. A corresponding adaptation of the useful injection range (IRu) can advantageously trigger a subsequent injection impulse, as required, for example, for a regeneration module of a diesel particle filter. The adaptation is carried out according to an operating parameter, for example according to the rotational speed gradient. |
| US08186203B2 |
Device of testing robustness of photovoltaic module terminal
A terminal is tested for its robustness. The terminal is for a photovoltaic module. The photovoltaic module is put on a frame unit and is connected with a load unit. The present invention reduces human errors, improves test accuracy and achieves easy operation. |
| US08186202B2 |
Pressure testable tubing connection
An apparatus for sealing tubing to a device, the apparatus including: a first seal configured to seal the tubing to the device, the first seal having a device side in contact with the device and an interior side opposite the device side; a test sleeve configured to surround the first seal and to seal to the device using a second seal; a third seal disposed at the test sleeve and configured to seal the tubing to the test sleeve wherein the test sleeve, the second seal, and the third seal form a pressure boundary about the first seal; a test port disposed at the test sleeve, the test port being in communication with seals, wherein the test port is configured to connect to a seal test device to test the integrity of the seals in communication with the test port; and a plug configured to seal the test port. |
| US08186201B2 |
Multi-sensor gas detectors
A multi-sensor gas detector includes a solid state heatable gas sensor, and at least one, different, infrared gas sensor. Emitted radiant energy from a heated surface of the solid state gas sensor, incident on the infrared gas sensor generates an output signal indicative thereof. The output signal and a signal from the solid state gas sensor can be coupled to evaluation circuits. The evaluation circuits can be implemented with a programmable processor and associated, executable control software to establish the presence of a target gas. One or more gas detectors can be incorporated into a regional monitoring system that includes a control unit coupled to a plurality of fire, smoke or gas detectors. |
| US08186197B2 |
Adjustable flange forming apparatus
A flange-forming apparatus allows a user to automatically adjust the device's roll forming stations, concurrently together, for changing the height of a flange formed into a metal web by the roll forming stations, e.g., for ductwork. The height is adjustable within an infinite range between set maximum and minimum limits. Each roll forming station includes upper and lower roll forming pairs, which cooperate for forming the flange or portion thereof. Each roll forming pair includes a first roll forming portion, and a second, coaxial roll forming portion that is axially moveable towards and away from the first roll forming portion. (The portions are in effect a laterally split roll forming die.) The second roll forming portions are rotatably supported on a plate-like adjustment linkage assembly, which can be shifted, using an array of motor driven screw members, towards or away from the first roll forming portions. |
| US08186194B2 |
Cylinder lock and auxiliary locking mechanism
A tumbler pin lock includes an auxiliary locking mechanism including an auxiliary locking pin to provide enhance locking in addition to the locking provided by the tumbler pins so that the lock remains locked even if the tumblers are picked or bumped into their unlocked positions. |
| US08186191B2 |
Remotely operated locking paddle handle latch assembly for closures and the like
A locking paddle handle assembly for closures has a housing with a paddle handle pivotally mounted therein, a latch which latches and unlatches the closure upon rotation of the paddle handle, and a exterior key lock with a movable member that shifts between locked and unlocked positions. A deadbolt lock selectively engages the closure frame in the locked position to positively retain the closure closed. The deadbolt lock is operably connected with the movable key lock member, such that movement of the latter between the latched and unlatched positions contemporaneously shifts the deadbolt lock between the locked and unlocked positions. A remotely operable controller is operably connected with the deadbolt lock to power shift the same between the locked and unlocked positions from a remote location. |
| US08186187B2 |
Dual custody privacy padlock
A dual function lock having a body, a shackle and a frangible element extending from the body is disclosed. The dual function lock also includes a first locking mechanism within the body wherein when the first locking mechanism is locked, the shackle is in a first position where the toe of the shackle is located within the frangible element so that the shackle cannot be rotated and wherein when the first locking mechanism is unlocked, the shackle can be lifted from the first position so that the toe of the shackle is not within the frangible element so that the shackle can be rotated. Methods of using the lock and a refillable insert of frangible elements are also disclosed. |
| US08186183B2 |
Washer extractor door lock
A latching and locking mechanism for a door includes a locating pin passing through a portion of a door frame and a handle. A tapered portion formed at an end of the locating pin mates with a tapered opening formed in a casing of the machine to position the door frame relative to the casing. A cam surface defined on the casing engages a latching pin connected to the locating pin and extending radially therefrom adjacent to the tapered portion such that the latching pin pulls the door frame toward the closed position when the handle is rotated. |
| US08186177B2 |
Systems for reducing cooling water and power consumption in gasification systems and methods of assembling such systems
An integrated gasification combined cycle system is provided. The integrated gasification combined cycle system includes an air compressor coupled in flow communication to an air separation unit, a condensate heater coupled in flow communication with the air compressor, and a condenser coupled in flow communication with the condensate heater. The condensate heater and the air compressor are coupled such that a portion of compressed air generated by the air compressor is channeled to the condensate heater. A method of assembling an integrated gasification combined cycle system is also provided. |
| US08186176B2 |
Ice bank for refrigerator
Disclosed is an ice bank for a refrigerator including: an inner case and an outer case forming one storage space having an opened top by being coupled to each other; and a coupling unit coupling the inner and outer cases to each other so that either one is relatively movable with respect to the other one so as for the capacity of the storage space to be variable. The ice bank for a refrigerator includes the inner and outer cases coupled to each other so that either one is relatively movable with respect to the other one, whereby accordingly the capacity of the ice bank is variable depending on the amount of ice that a customer needs, thereby enhancing the customer's product satisfaction. Further, when the customer needs a small amount of ice, the capacity of the ice bank can be reduced, accordingly enabling to effectively utilize the storage space of the refrigerator. Further, the ice bank stores as much ice as the customer needs, accordingly preventing deterioration of the ice resulting from long-time storage in the ice bank. |
| US08186173B2 |
Refrigerator unit and/or freezer unit
The present invention relates to a no-frost refrigerator unit and/or freezer unit comprising a fan for the generation of an airflow in a compartment of the unit to be cooled, wherein the unit comprises detection means for the detection of at least one parameter as well as a control or regulation unit which is made such that it varies the speed of the fan in dependence on the at least one measured parameter. |
| US08186171B2 |
Method for controlling high-pressure in an intermittently supercritically operating refrigeration circuit
A method is provided for controlling an intermittently supercritically operating refrigeration circuit. A control valve (12) is controlled: (a) in the subcritical mode, so that a predetermined “subcritical pressure” ensuring a predetermined sub-cooling of the liquid refrigerant at the outlet (14) of a heat-rejecting heat exchanger (10) is maintained; (b) in the supercritical mode, so that a predetermined “supercritical pressure”, which is optimized for optimum efficiency, of the supercritical refrigerant at the outlet (14) of the heat-rejecting heat exchanger (10) is maintained; and (c) in a border mode in a border region next to the critical point, dependent on a “continuity pressure” which is determined on the basis of the predetermined “subcritical pressure” and the predetermined “supercritical pressure” of steps (a) and (b). |
| US08186167B2 |
Combustor transition piece aft end cooling and related method
A transition duct for a gas turbine includes a tubular body having a forward end and an aft end; a plurality of cooling channels formed on an exterior surface of the tubular body at the aft end; a closure band surrounding the aft end, covering at least a portion of the cooling channels; and a seal attached to the closure band, surrounding the aft end of the tubular body. |
| US08186166B2 |
Hybrid two fuel system nozzle with a bypass connecting the two fuel systems
A hybrid fuel combustion nozzle for use with natural gas, syngas, or other types of fuels. The hybrid fuel combustion nozzle may include a natural gas system with a number of swozzle vanes and a syngas system with a number of co-annular fuel tubes. |
| US08186165B2 |
Turbine fuel nozzle having heat control
In one embodiment, a system includes a turbine engine fuel nozzle having an air path, a fuel path, and a surface along the air path. The fuel path may be directed toward the surface. The turbine engine fuel nozzle also may include a heating element configured to heat the surface. |
| US08186164B2 |
Turbine engine fuel injector
A gas turbine engine is piloted with a pilot flow of fuel delivered to a combustor as a liquid. A first additional flow of the fuel is also delivered to the combustor as a liquid. A second additional flow of the fuel is vaporized and delivered to the combustor as a vapor. A fuel injector may have passageways associated with each of the three flows. |
| US08186157B2 |
Supercharging system
A supercharging system (40) is disclosed which comprises a supercharging device (28) having at least one inlet port (42) and at least one outlet port (44), and at least one idle valve (30) in fluid communication with the supercharging device (28). The idle valve (30) is disposed adjacent the outlet port (44) and is arranged to selectively restrict fluid flow during use in a direction through the idle valve (30) towards the supercharging device (28). A corresponding supercharging kit and an internal combustion engine including a supercharging system are also disclosed. |
| US08186153B2 |
Engine compartment arrangement for cleaning diesel particulate filter
An engine compartment arrangement for an agricultural harvester comprises an engine (10), a diesel particulate filter (12) coupled to the engine (10) to receive and filter hot exhaust gases therefrom, a fan (14), a radiator (16) disposed in a cooling airflow path in front of the fan (14) and coupled to the engine (10) to cool said engine (10), a cleaning air duct (18) having a first end (20) disposed immediately behind the fan (14) to receive a portion of the air ejected from the fan (14), and having a second end (22) disposed adjacent to the top of the diesel particulate filter (12) to exhaust a jet of the ejected air at a sufficient speed and in sufficient volume across the top surface (24) of the diesel particular filter (12) to prevent an accumulation of agricultural debris on top of the diesel particulate filter (12). |
| US08186151B2 |
Method to monitor HC-SCR catalyst NOx reduction performance for lean exhaust applications
A method for initiating a regeneration mode in selective catalytic reduction device utilizing hydrocarbons as a reductant includes monitoring a temperature within the aftertreatment system, monitoring a fuel dosing rate to the selective catalytic reduction device, monitoring an initial conversion efficiency, selecting a determined equation to estimate changes in a conversion efficiency of the selective catalytic reduction device based upon the monitored temperature and the monitored fuel dosing rate, estimating changes in the conversion efficiency based upon the determined equation and the initial conversion efficiency, and initiating a regeneration mode for the selective catalytic reduction device based upon the estimated changes in conversion efficiency. |
| US08186150B2 |
Exhaust tract for an internal combustion engine
An exhaust tract for an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle includes a first exhaust gas line, which conducts exhaust gases from the internal combustion engine to an exhaust-gas treatment device, and a second exhaust gas line, which forms a bypass line bypassing the exhaust gas treatment device. In order to ensure sufficient treatment of the exhaust gas even in the lean operating mode of an internal combustion engine, at least one first valve and one second valve are provided in series in the bypass line. An exhaust line is provided between the first valve and the second valve to reduce the pressure between the first and second valves. The pressure upstream of the second valve and the pressure downstream of the second valve, or the ambient pressure of the motor vehicle, are determined and negative pressure is applied to the exhaust line such that an exhaust gas flow via the second valve to the outside into the environment of the motor vehicle is prevented. |
| US08186149B2 |
Method for controlling NOx reduction system
A NOx reduction system comprises NOx treatment catalyst and air-fuel ratio control switch for changing the air-fuel ratio of an exhaust gas to a lean or rich state. The NOx treatment catalyst comprises at least a first catalyst layer containing a solid acid catalyst capable of adsorbing ammonia and a second catalyst layer containing a noble metal and a cerium oxide material. The second and the first catalyst layer are stacked in that order on a carrier, and the first catalyst layer constitutes the uppermost layer. NOx is passed through the first catalyst layer in the lean state and is temporarily stored in the second catalyst layer. Thereafter, in the rich state, NOx is converted to NH3 and is restored in the first catalyst layer. When the state is again returned to the lean state, NH3 is converted to nitrogen which is finally released from the first catalyst layer. |
| US08186146B2 |
After-treatment component detection system
An after-treatment component detection system may include an exhaust system configured to include an after-treatment component configured to remove one or more constituents of the exhaust gases. The detection system may include an upstream temperature sensor configured to measure temperature upstream from the after-treatment component, a downstream temperature sensor configured to measure temperature downstream from the after-treatment component, and a controller. The controller may be configured to receive signals indicative of upstream temperature measurements from the upstream sensor and signals indicative of downstream temperature measurements from the downstream sensor and determine an upstream rate of temperature change and a downstream rate of temperature change. The controller may also be configured to compare the upstream rate of temperature change to the downstream rate of temperature change and generate a fault if the upstream rate of temperature change and the downstream rate of temperature change differ by less than a predetermined amount. |
| US08186145B2 |
Rocket nozzles for unconventional vehicles
Improved rocket nozzle designs for vehicles with nozzles embedded in or protruding from surfaces remote from the desired thrust axis. The nozzle configurations are for rocket vehicles where the nozzles are not located at the optimal thrust axis of the vehicle. Two examples include nozzles located on the forward end of the vehicle (also called tractor nozzles) and attitude control nozzles located on the periphery of the vehicle. More particularly, the disclosed nozzle shapes enhance the axial thrusts and/or maneuver torques on the vehicle. These unconventional nozzle shapes improve vehicle performance. |
| US08186140B1 |
Adjustable rake for feed material with multiple width adjustment
An adjustable rake for raking agricultural products includes a wheeled cart configured to be pulled in a direction of travel on a surface of travel and first and second rake arm positioners coupled to the wheeled cart and configured to translate in a direction transverse to the direction of travel of the wheeled cart. First and second front rake arm assemblies are pivotably coupled to the first and second rake arm positioners, respectively. First and second inner rear supports are included, and each of the first and second inner rear supports is pivotably coupled to the wheeled cart and is configured to pivot as a result of translation of the first and second rake arm positioners in the direction transverse to the direction of travel of the wheeled cart. The rake may include optional splitter wheels. |
| US08186139B1 |
Mower with longitudinal baffles
A rotary mower with a plurality of cutting blades is provided. The deck comprises two longitudinal baffles that direct grass clippings to the rear of the mower. The longitudinal baffles, in conjunction with right and left side blade guards, form three channels. A cutting blade is disposed within each channel. A lift frame assembly comprises swiveling linkages that allow rotation of the deck with respect to the trailer hitch. |
| US08186137B2 |
Crop baffle arrangement
A baffle arrangement is provided for a harvested crop recovery machine such as a baler. The baffle arrangement has two baffles that follow each other in the direction of the flow of the crop. The upstream baffle is configured in the form of a rake and permits harvested crop lying upon it to fall back into the flow of the crop. A second baffle following the above baffle is configured as a deflector plate having a substantially closed surface and extends above an overshot conveyor in order to conduct harvested crop lifted by it with a minimal amount of friction and prevents the harvested crop from leaving the flow of crop. |
| US08186135B2 |
Electrically-powered combination lawn mower, trimmer and edger
An electrically powered two wheel mowing, trimming and edging apparatus is disclosed. A rotating cutting head is cantilevered in front of the wheels, with a battery positioned behind the wheels to act as a counterweight to the cutting head. A caster below the battery allows easy maneuverability and permits trimming in corners. The cutting head contains both metal cutting blades and filament line, and the operator selects which cutting tool he wants based on the type of foliage to be cut. The cutting head easily rotates from the horizontal to the vertical, allowing the apparatus to be used as an edge trimmer. |
| US08186134B2 |
Packaging machines and methods
Packaging machines are disclosed including a web transport conveyor transporting a web of flexible packaging material from upstream to downstream locations through a series of stations. Packaging apparatuses are disclosed including a forming station and a closing station, each having movable die members that are counterbalanced. Methods of operating the packaging apparatus are disclosed. |
| US08186132B2 |
No-through-metal structural panelized housing system for buildings and enclosures and economical process for manufacture of same
A metal panel generally constructed from sheet material, such as sheet metal, and assemblies thereof which can be used to construct an enclosure, and specifically a no-through-metal enclosure. There is also provided methods for constructing a floor, walls, and roof of a no-through-metal enclosure utilizing such panels or construction techniques. The construction can still utilize metal fasteners such as rivets, bolts, or screws for maintaining strength which still maintaining the no-through-metal construction. |
| US08186131B2 |
Door panel
The present invention provides a door panel that comprises an outer panel and an inner panel joined together at adhering portions and, regardless of whether rib portions are formed on the adhering portions in order to prevent deformation of the adhering portions or for other purpose, can be modified to withstand severe heat by means of formation of large ventilation openings in the adhering portions without significantly impairing the shape or the strength of the door panel. |
| US08186125B2 |
Method of forming a jump pit
A is provided for constructing a jump pit with a sand area. The form is constructed in sections. Each section has an inside wall and an outside wall. A support member is located between the outside wall and the inside wall. The sections are secured together onsite. Caps are mounted on the support members. The caps include an inclined surface which slops upwardly and away from the sand area forming the inclined surface. A cover over the sand area is supported by the inclined surface. Optionally, a chamber is located adjacent the outside wall. A grate covers the chamber and the grate is supported by a brace. A mat covers the grate. Openings in the grate and in the mat permit sand through them, thrown from the sand area to drop into the chamber. |
| US08186122B2 |
Flush joist seat
A support structure is provided for supporting the one end of a floor joist using a flush joist seat. The flush joist seat generally includes a generally horizontal plate having a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The first portion is welded to the top of the floor joist and the third portion rests on the top of the support structure. The second portion is located beyond the end of the floor joist, between the first portion and the second portion. A generally vertical plate extends downward from the second portion of the generally horizontal plate and is welded to a portion of the end of the floor joist. |
| US08186120B2 |
Steel support frame for a photovoltaic system usable as a carport
A base frame for a parking lot roof equipped with photovoltaic modules is proposed, wherein two mirror-symmetrically constructed halves are provided, with each half having an inner arc constructed of three inner struts and an outer arc constructed of three outer struts, which are connected with each other by cross struts. The structure is light-weight and can be easily manufactured. |
| US08186117B2 |
System for creating a decking/flooring and a method for installing same
A decking/flooring system includes a substrate, a layer of sealing material applied over and in contact with a surface of the substrate, a texture layer applied over and in contact with the sealing material layer, an adhesive layer applied over and in contact with the texture layer, and a finish layer. A method for installing the decking/flooring system is also described. |
| US08186114B2 |
Adjustable door threshold
A door threshold may comprise a main body formed from two feet. In certain example embodiments, a male-female connection between the feet may be used to adjust the depth of the door threshold. In certain other example embodiments, a center bridge insert to be used in connection with two female feet to adjust the depth of the door threshold. In still further example embodiments, one or more center layers may be disposed between two feet, with the size of the center layer(s) determining the depth of the door threshold. Also, the door threshold may include upper and lower members for sandwiching carpet and/or carpet padding therebetween which, in certain example embodiments, may grip the carpet to reduce the ease with which it may be pulled out from between the upper and lower members. Thus, certain example embodiments may reduce and/or eliminate the need for tacks proximate to the threshold. |
| US08186112B2 |
Mechanical header
A mechanical header is provided for spanning a corridor in a building and for hanging mechanical equipment therefrom. The mechanical header includes a first angle member comprising a first horizontal portion and a first vertical portion, where the first horizontal portion extends away from the first vertical portion in a first direction. The mechanical header further includes a second angle member comprising a second horizontal portion and a second vertical portion, where the second horizontal portion extends away from the second vertical portion in a direction opposite the first direction. A spanning beam is coupled to the first vertical member and to the second vertical member. The first horizontal portion is configured to rest on top of a first wall structure, and the second horizontal portion is configured to rest on top of a second wall structure, such that spanning beam spans the corridor and hangs just at or below the level of the top of the first and second wall structures. |
| US08186107B2 |
Cable drive and control system for movable stadium roof panels
A convertible stadium includes a playing field, a seating area, a stationary roof structure and a large, heavy roof panel mounted for movement with respect to the stationary roof structure, A plurality of cable drums are mounted for movement together with the roof panel. Each cable drum has at least one cable wound thereabout. The cable is secured to the stationary roof structure and is payable from the respective cable drum. The system is designed so as to minimize movement between the cable and the roof panel, so there will be no possibility of frictional engagement therebetween. |
| US08186105B2 |
Retractable load-bearing cover
A retractable load-bearing cover apparatus is selectively deployable and retractable along a track defining a path of travel between first and second terminus points. The load-bearing cover apparatus includes a plurality of sections that are deployable along the track in a first direction, and retractable along the track in a second, opposite direction, wherein adjacent ones of the plurality of sections are releasably engagable to one another. The cover apparatus includes a drive system for deploying and retracting the sections along the track, and a storage system for disengaging the sections and arranging such disengaged sections into a vertically stacked orientation. |
| US08186099B2 |
Method for producing propagating material to be used in tree cultivations of double-trunk type
The present invention relates to a method for producing propagating material, in particular whole plants, to be used in tree cultivations of double trunk type and the obtained material. |
| US08186097B2 |
Fish culling system
The present invention is a culling device that comprises a cable element, a retainer element and a floating element. When in use, the device is attached to a fish by way of the retainer element, which may be a clip, hook or other suitable element. The cable element is the link between the retainer element and the floating element. The floating element provides buoyancy to the device as a whole, and serves the purpose of indicating the weight of the fish to which the device is attached. The present invention further comprises a kit, the kit potentially including a plurality of devices, a scale, or some combination thereof. The present invention further comprises a method of using a device or kit. The present invention further comprises embodiments where a device disclosed herein is used on an animal other than a fish. |
| US08186096B2 |
Fishing lure with line attachment structure
A fishing lure comprises a hook structure including a hook portion for engaging the mouth flesh of a fish, a shank portion connected to the hook portion, and a line securing portion for securing a line to the hook structure. The line securing portion forms an unsecured loop so that a portion of fishing line is movable into the eye of the loop without threading. The lure also comprises a body structure mounted on the hook structure. The body structure has an anchor notch formed thereon and configured to receiving a portion of a looped fishing line. |
| US08186093B1 |
Dot sight device of plurality of calibers
A dot sight device is discussed, which includes a window frame enclosing a transparent lens; a body plate extending from the window frame; a light emitter disposed on the body plate, and configured to emit a light that forms a pattern on the transparent lens; two bolts to mount the dot sight device on various fire arms without tools; a large water drainage hole disposed on the body plate; multiple rails installed on the window frame to accommodate various equipment; an IR detector disposed at the front of the body plate; a caliber adjustment knob disposed on the body plate, and configured to enable targeting by firearms of different calibers; and a dual bullet drop compensation wheel disposed in the body plate for an accurate aiming and hitting targets using various firearms. |
| US08186090B1 |
Adjustable buttstock assembly
An adjustable buttstock assembly for a hand carried weapons, wherein an inner stock extends from and slidably moves into an outer stock to provide the length adjustment and where a set of opposed spring loaded engagement pins, located in the end of the inner stock, extend through a set of discrete, opposed openings in the outer stock to securely hold the stocks in position one relative to the other. One of the engagement pins, engages into one of a series of discrete holes located in the lower side of the outer stock, while the other engages into one of a series of partial oval opening, opposed thereto, the series of partial oval openings located on the upper side of the outer stock separated by flat teeth, to form a rack, with each partial oval opening into an open channel running the length of the rack. Such that when the lower engagement pin is compressed into the lower opening in which it may be and the upper engagement pin then rotated out of the partial oval opening into the channel—the inner and outer stocks are then free to move one with respect to the other to extend or compress the adjustable buttstock. Further, the inner stock is fixed to a backplate that engages with the receiver of the weapon, and provides protection for a hydraulic buffer that engages with the receiver of the weapon and extends into the inner stock. |
| US08186089B2 |
Grip enhancer assembly for handguns
An exchangeable adapter assembly for a handgun includes a handle frame having a trigger and a handle, into which a magazine can be inserted. A quick changeover is ensured by the assembly in that in the rear and front regions of the handle frame at least one adapter element is provided which cooperates with a rear and front adapter piece of a grip enhancer for attachment of the grip enhancer 100 to the handle frame. In the rear part of the handle frame there is also provided an eyelet device which, when the grip enhancer is attached to the handle frame, positively engages a bore in the grip enhancer. A securing pin can be releasably inserted into the eyelet device in order to releasably connect the grip enhancer to the handle frame. |
| US08186084B2 |
Nozzle display
A nozzle display for use for holding advertising is integrated into the structure of the nozzle guard, is elevated therefrom, but secured by tabs integrally into the plastisol forming the guard, with an expansive transparent cover holding the advertising material or placard in place upon the display base, and firmly adhering the ad to the base by means of the expandable lip of the cover as it tightly embraces the edges of the display base. |
| US08186080B2 |
Bomb toe cap and method of forming the same
An article is provided and includes a first ballistic particle impenetrable material, which is formable into a pack and a second material, which is formable into an enclosure for the pack, the enclosure having an interior facing surface in abutment with a substantial entirety of an exterior of the pack. |
| US08186077B2 |
Heating apparatus, heating method, and computer readable storage medium
A disclosed heating apparatus for heating a substrate on which a film is coated includes a process chamber having a gas supply opening for supplying a first gas to the process chamber and a gas evacuation opening for evacuating the first gas from the process chamber; a heating plate that is arranged in the process chamber and includes a heating element for heating the substrate; plural protrusions arranged on the heating plate so as to support the substrate; plural suction holes formed in the heating plate so as to attract by suction the substrate toward the heating plate; and a gas inlet adapted to supply a second gas to a gap between the heating plate and the substrate supported by the plural protrusions. |
| US08186075B2 |
Forced air flow electric shoe dryer
A small, portable electric shoe dryer that includes an elongated, narrow outer housing with three longitudinally aligned heating elements and a fan and motor assembly mounted on one end. Formed on the outer housing and around the fan and motor assembly is a fan vent opening. Formed on the opposite, distal end of the outer housing is a plurality of front and side body vent openings. In one embodiment, a three pole manual switch is mounted inside the outer housing that connects to the fan and motor assembly which draws dry air into the shoe from the top opening or forces moist air out of the shoe. In another embodiment, a pair of longitudinally aligned, upward extending wing elements are formed on the top surface which maintains air space when the inside of the shoe is adjacent to the top surface. |
| US08186074B2 |
Fluid level gauge having swivel blade
A fluid level gauge for use with an engine is provided. The fluid level gauge may have a blade, a handle having a protrusion, and a swivel rigidly connected to the blade and having a recess to receive the protrusion. The fluid level gauge may also have a retention member configured to inhibit the protrusion from exiting the recess. The swivel can rotate independent of the handle when the fluid level gauge is fully assembled. |
| US08186071B2 |
Co-ordinate measuring machine with a device for balancing the weight of a vertically mobile member
A measuring machine comprising a measuring column, which can move vertically with respect to a carriage, and a device for balancing the weight of the column, which is provided with a pneumatic cylinder having its liner fixed to the column and the stem constrained to a supporting structure, carried by the carriage via an elastic-suspension assembly that enables the stem to follow the liner in the case of adhesion and to return into a position of equilibrium when the elastic reaction of the elastic-suspension assembly overcomes the force of friction between the piston and the liner; stick-slip phenomena are thus neutralized. |
| US08186070B2 |
Method and machine for lowering a track
For the controlled lowering of a track, a longitudinal inclination of the track is determined at a rear tracing point of a measuring system and stored. For a length reaching back at least 10 meters, a current vertical profile is formed, and a rear compensation straight line is calculated which is superimposed upon the vertical profile and renders a target track position. The rear tracing point is guided by calculation along the rear compensation straight line, so that a compensation value for the position of the measuring chord ensues at a middle tracing point positioned between the rear tracing point and a front tracing point. |
| US08186069B1 |
Multi-beam laser optical alignment method and system
A laser collimator for collimating optical elements of a viewing device, such as a telescope. The laser collimator includes three or more lasers positioned on a plane in front of the optical elements of the viewing device for generating three or more respective incident laser beams directed towards the optical elements to simulate a large aperture coherent light; a reflecting mirror positioned at an eyepiece of the viewing device for reflecting the three or more incident laser beams; and a target display on the same plane or a plane parallel to the plane on which the three or more lasers are positioned for displaying the three or more incident laser beams reflected from the reflecting mirror and the optical elements of the viewing device, as three or more respective dots. |
| US08186068B2 |
Bow sight and eye alignment assembly with phosphorescent fiber
A bow sight and eye alignment assembly with phosphorescent fibers. The bow sight includes at least one sight pin mounted to a frame. At least one phosphorescent optical fiber is attached to the sight pin. At least a portion of the phosphorescent optical fiber is exposed to ambient light that is transmitted to a sight point on the sight pin. The eye alignment assembly includes a sight point of a phosphorescent optical fiber positioned a distance behind an alignment indicia on a lens. An adjustment system is provided to reposition the sight point of the eye alignment assembly relative to the alignment indicia on the lens. The eye alignment assembly preferably provides an indication of orientation of the user relative to the bow sight in at least two degrees of freedom. |
| US08186065B2 |
Double-pivot folding knife
A folding knife having a handle, a blade pivotably coupled to the handle, and a liner includes a liner lock and a first pivot member that is a post, pin, rod, or other structure having a shape adapted to be slidably received in the second arcuate opening of the blade. The liner further includes a first arcuate opening that has an enlarged end portion and an axis approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the handle adapted for slidably receiving the second pivot member of the blade. A tang of the blade includes the second pivot member, and the second arcuate opening that has an enlarged end portion and an axis approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis of the blade. An extended tang portion, or flipper, extends downward from the tang. The handle also includes an opposing liner arranged alongside the liner in the handle with the blade positioned therebetween. |
| US08186061B2 |
Manufacturing method of bearing, bearing unit, rotary apparatus, and manufacturing method of sliding member
A manufacturing method of a bearing according to the present invention includes a bearing forming member preparing step S10 for preparing a bearing forming member W made of AlSi alloy containing 5 weight % to 40 weight % of Si, a pressure sizing step S20 which decreases a maximum crest height Rp of a bearing surface 132 by performing pressure sizing of the bearing surface 132 of the bearing forming member W, and an aluminum oxide film forming step S30 for forming an aluminum oxide film 36 on the bearing surface 132 of the bearing forming member W by anodizing the bearing surface 132 of the bearing forming member W in this order. According to the manufacturing method of a bearing of the present invention, it is possible to manufacture a bearing which can maintain the bearing performance over a long period. |
| US08186060B2 |
Method to provide initial tension for coil spring and its application
A method for enhancing an initial tension by changing a wound direction of a coil spring. A large and precise initial tension is provided to the coil spring. An actuator having an excellent function is prepared by using a shape memory alloy. Each shape of the coil spring at high and low temperatures can be controlled by a flexible shape memory effect. |
| US08186059B2 |
Method of manufacturing an internal gear and cap assembly
An internal gear and cap assembly includes a gear having a base that extends about an axis between a first and second end. The first end defines a groove that extends to a floor and the groove surrounds the axis. Teeth extend from the base. A lip extends from the first end and also surrounds the axis. A cap has a flange that is inserted into the groove. The lip is deformed toward the groove such that material from the lip flows to trap the flange between the lip and the floor of the groove to retain the cap to the gear in the axial direction. Slots may be defined in the flange such that the material from the lip flows into the slots to provide a key-lock between the cap and the gear to prevent rotation of the cap relative to the gear about the axis. |
| US08186051B2 |
Method for fabricating package substrate and die spacer layers having a ceramic backbone
Methods for fabricating a layer or layers for use in package substrates and die spacers are described. In one implementation the layer or layers are fabricated to include a plurality of ceramic wells lying within a plane and separated by metallic via with recesses within the ceramic wells being occupied by a dielectric filler material. |
| US08186046B2 |
Method for manufacturing a multilayer printed wiring board for providing an electronic component therein
A multilayer printed wiring board and method for manufacturing a multilayer printed wiring board. One method include a method for manufacturing a multilayer printed wiring board having an electronic component housed therein. The method includes forming a conduction circuit on a core substrate and forming an alignment mark on the core substrate separate from the conduction circuit. Also included is forming a concavity in the core substrate, the concavity being formed in an area of the core substrate not including the conductor circuit and alignment mark, and inserting the electronic component into the concavity in the core substrate by using the alignment mark on the core substrate to align the electronic component with the concavity. |
| US08186045B2 |
Multilayer printed circuit board and multilayer printed circuit board manufacturing method
A method of manufacturing a multilayer printed circuit board, including providing a substrate, embedding an electronic component having a die pad on a surface of the component into the substrate such that the component has the surface and pad exposed from a surface of the substrate, forming a metallic layer including metallic film layers such that the surface of the substrate and the pad and surface of the component are covered with the metallic layer, providing a resist on the metallic layer such that a portion of the metallic layer on the pad is exposed from the resist, forming a thickening metallic layer on the portion of the metallic layer exposed, removing the resist from the substrate and surface of the component, and etching to remove the metallic layer such that a mediate layer including the portion of the metallic layer is formed between the pad and the thickening layer. |
| US08186041B1 |
Soldering fixture
A soldering fixture is disclosed having a unitary base member configured to maintain a printed circuit board and an electrical connector in a particular orientation during soldering. The unitary base member includes a lateral channel dimensioned to maintain a plurality of wire leads associated with the electrical connector in a spaced relationship with the printed circuit board. The unitary base member further includes a wire alignment tool configured to align the plurality of wire leads in the particular orientation such that the plurality of wire leads are in juxtaposition with a plurality of solder pads affixed to one or more surfaces of the printed circuit board. |
| US08186037B2 |
Method of fabricating an irrigated tip electrode
An irrigated tip electrode design includes a shell generally surrounding a plug which jointly define a chamber that is fed with fluid by a lumen. The fluid is distributed to the outer surface of the tip electrode through fluid passages. The chamber is advantageously isolated from a region of the tip electrode occupied by electrical and/or electromagnetic components in the tip electrode. Lumens occupied by the these components terminate in blind holes that have no communication with the chamber. A method of fabricating includes providing a shell configured from a rod to provide an open interior cavity, sealing and partially filling the cavity with a plug to form a chamber, then forming fluid passages between the cavity and an outer surface of the tip electrode, and providing a lumen through which fluid can enter the chamber and exit therefrom through the fluid passages. |
| US08186035B2 |
Method for manufacturing an endoscopic instrument
An endoscopic instrument according to the present invention includes: a wire disposed in a flexible sheath and capable of freely projecting relative to the flexible sheath, the distal end of the wire expanding in radius to form a loop section or a basket section upon being projected from the sheath; and a fixture cylinder for fixing the inserted proximal end of the wire, wherein the fixture cylinder is provided with a wire-radius-increasing-direction-regulating section for regulating the direction in which the radius of the wire increases; and a wire-fixing section, disposed in the vicinity of the proximal end relative to the wire-radius-increasing-direction-regulating section, for fixing the wire. |
| US08186034B2 |
Installation apparatus for an automobile entertainment system
An apparatus is provided for drawing cables having a connector shroud at a distal end thereof through a back of an automobile seat in the installation of an automobile entertainment system. The apparatus includes an eyelet shaped and dimensioned for selective attachment to the connector shroud. The eyelet includes a housing shaped and dimensioned to fit over the connector shroud. The housing includes a coupling member shaped and dimensioned for engagement with a wire puller. |
| US08186032B2 |
Tool arrangement for the production of helical teeth in gear wheels
Tool arrangement for the production of helical teeth in gear wheels, wherein a roughing hob (20), at least one deburring cutter (16, 18) and a finishing hob (12) can be fastened on a common mandrel (14) in a predetermined rotational position relative to one another, and the teeth of the finishing hob, which are situated along a helical line, each have a different cross section such that the engagement angle of the right or left flanks decreases continuously starting from a maximum value of the first tooth up to the last tooth, and the maximum engagement angle of the right flanks of the first or last tooth coincides with the minimum engagement angle of the left flanks, and vice versa. |
| US08186029B2 |
Method for producing piezoelectric actuator and method for producing liquid discharge head
A method for producing a piezoelectric actuator having a diffusion-preventive layer and a piezoelectric layer stacked on a vibration plate includes providing the vibration plate having a surface on which a groove is formed; and blowing an aerosol containing ceramics particles toward an area, on the surface of the vibration plate, in which the groove is formed from a first direction and a second direction different from the first direction by using an aerosol deposition method to form the diffusion-preventive layer on the vibration plate. The aerosol is blown toward the vibration plate in the first and second directions. Therefore, the material particles contained in the aerosol can be collided with the inner walls of the groove formed on the vibration plate as well, and thus the diffusion-preventive layer can be formed on the vibration plate without causing any unevenness. |
| US08186027B2 |
Method of fabricating a piezoelectric vibrator
Piezoelectric vibrators may be fabricated by forming a piezoelectric body of piezoelectric sheets, of which thickness is controlled, and simultaneously sintering the sheets along with cover layers, on which grooves are formed, and may be fabricated by laminating the piezoelectric sheets, of which the thickness is controlled, providing internal electrodes between the sheets, and forming external electrodes insulated from the internal electrodes. |
| US08186026B2 |
Technique for maintaining secure network connections
A technique for maintaining secure network connections is disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the technique may be realized as a method for maintaining secure network connections. The method may comprise detecting a change of address associated with a first network element. The method may also comprise updating at least one first security configuration at the first network element. The method may further comprise transmitting at least one secure message from the first network element to a second network element, wherein the at least one secure message comprises information associated with the change of address. And the method may comprise updating at least one second security configuration at the second network element based at least in part on the at least one secure message. |
| US08186021B2 |
Conspicuity devices and methods
The invention provides conspicuity devices and methods. A first embodiment includes a tool band and an electroluminescent lamp adapted and configured to admit light having an advantageous spectral energy distribution. The device can have many additional and/or alternative passive and/or active conspicuity features, such as lasers, lamps, photoluminescent and retroreflective materials, among others. |
| US08186012B2 |
Pole grip with storage compartment
A grip for an extension pole has an opening at one end sized to receive the inboard end of the extension pole, and another opening at the other end communicating with a storage compartment inside the grip for storing at least a portion of an adaptor. A gripper inside the grip engages the adaptor when inserted into the storage compartment to prevent the adaptor from inadvertently falling out of the storage compartment. |
| US08186011B2 |
Adjustable door stop
An adjustable door stop (1) having a bracket (2), which may be mounted to the base of a door (3), and a tubular section (4) that may be pivotally or hingedly attached to the bracket so that the tubular section may be folded up into the bracket when the adjustable door stop is not in use and down when the adjustable door stop is in use. Clips (5) located on the bracket hold the tubular section in place while the tubular section is folded up into the bracket. An extendable rod (6) inserts into the tubular section and may be extended out of the tubular section to accommodate various heights of step downs or retracted into the tubular section when the tubular section is folded upward for storage. A lever (7) on the tubular section engages a series of ridges (8) located on the extendable rod to set the extendable rod to a desired length. |
| US08186007B2 |
Upright vacuum cleaner
An upright vacuum cleaner for cleaning a surface. The vacuum cleaner includes an upper body having a dust collection container, a base unit having a suction mouth and a carriage for moving the base unit on the surface. A motor-fan unit is included and is disposed outside the upper body. The motor-fan unit is operable to create a partial vacuum on the surface. A combined coaxial conduit is disposed in a transition region to the upper body. The combined coaxial conduit includes a first air conduit from the suction mouth to the upper body and a second air conduit from the upper body to the motor-fan unit. |
| US08186002B2 |
Device for the pivoting connection of a wiper blade to a wiper arm of a windscreen wiper
The invention relates to a device (10) for the pivoting connection of a wiper blade (14) to a wiper arm (12) of a windscreen wiper, comprising a connector element (52, 84, 100) fixed to the wiper arm (12) and a connector element (24) fixed to a support element (20) on the wiper blade (14), which supports a bearing element (32), forming a pivoting bearing with a bearing element (34) on an adapter (38, 80) made from plastic. The adaptor (38, 80) is fixed in the profile of the connector element (52, 84, 100) open in the direction of the connector element (24) by clip elements (40, 78, 82) and retainer elements (62, 64, 86, 90, 104). According to the invention, the connector element (52, 84, 100) is an essentially rectangular hollow body, open on the side facing the connector element (24), with a fixing element (60) molded on a longitudinal side thereof which covers the longitudinal side and is fixed to the end of the wiper arm (12) and at least the front walls (54, 56) and a cover wall (58) of the connector element (52, 84, 100) are essentially sealed. |
| US08186001B2 |
Cleaning element and cleaning tool
It is an object of the present invention to provide effective technique for a higher cleaning effect and higher operability of a cleaning element. According to a representative cleaning tool, bonding thickness of the fusion bonded part 117 in a thickness direction of the cleaning element 111 of the cleaning tool 110 is smaller than the bonding thickness of the fusion bonded part 114. |
| US08185999B2 |
Oral care implement having tissue cleaning elements with directional cleaning
An oral care implement or toothbrush 100 includes a head 104, a tooth cleaning element region 116 and a tissue cleaning element region 114. The tissue cleaning element region 114 includes a plurality of flexible, angled projections 120. The projections 120 are configured to flex from an at-rest position to a substantially flat position when the tissue cleaning element region 114 is in contact with the tongue and is pushed into the mouth. The projections 120 are also configured to flex to a substantially upright position when the tissue cleaning element region 114 is in contact with the tongue and is pulled out of the mouth. This arrangement aids in preventing debris from being pushed into the mouth and in removing debris from the mouth and tongue. The flexible projections 120 may be used in conjunction with rigid projections 122 having a generally vertical configuration to aid in removing debris from the mouth and in engaging the cheek to improve saliva production during brushing. |
| US08185997B2 |
Method and apparatus for cleaning the interior cannula of laparoscopic and endoscopic access devices
A trocar cleaning device includes a connecting rod having a first end and a second end. A first sponge is coupled to the first end of the connecting rod, and a second sponge is coupled to the second end of the connecting rod. An X-ray detectable element is coupled to at least one of the connecting rod, the first sponge, and the second sponge. |
| US08185996B2 |
System and method of solid ink removal for substrate re-use
A system for removing ink from a substrate. The system includes an ink separator configured to separate the ink from the substrate; and a substrate conveyor configured to provide the substrate to the ink separator. Accordingly, the ink can be removed from the substrate such that the substrate can be re-used. |
| US08185991B2 |
Electric toothbrush and toothbrush head
A toothbrush head of an electric toothbrush, the toothbrush extending longitudinally and having a hand part, the toothbrush head including a drive rocker, a brush-head carrier coupled to the drive rocker, a main bristle carrier and an additional bristle carrier, both carriers bearing a bristle arrangement and moveably attached to the brush-head carrier and driven in oscillation by the drive rocker, and a drive-coupler affixed to at least one of the bristle carriers and coupled to the drive rocker. The head can include two separately mounted bristle carriers, supporting bristle arrangements, which are driven about different movement axes by the drive rocker to enhance the cleaning action of the toothbrush. |
| US08185990B1 |
Swimming pool brush with hydrofoil
A swimming pool brush includes a brush head having a pair of apertures formed in the brush head and a plurality of bristles secured in depending relation to the brush head in surrounding relation to each aperture. A first plurality of clips is formed in a top wall of the brush head on a first side of the apertures. A hydrofoil plate has a first edge adapted to be hingedly engaged by the first plurality of clips, an extended position when the brush head is immersed and pushed downwardly against a swimming pool sidewall and a retracted position when the brush head is pulled upwardly against the sidewall. A venturi effect is created by the plate when in its extended position but the apertures minimize the venturi effect. The plate may be mounted to a second plurality of clips so that the brush head can be reversed and re-used. |
| US08185989B2 |
Bridge deploying apparatus and bridge transporting vehicle incorporating such apparatus
An apparatus for carrying a bridge on a vehicle and deploying the bridge to the ground is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a mounting bracket for mounting the apparatus to a vehicle, and a foot pivotable relative to the mounting bracket between a first position in which the foot engages the ground for supporting a bridge and a second position in which the foot is separated from the ground to permit movement of the vehicle. A bridge engaging probe is pivotable relative to the foot between a third position in which the bridge is on the ground and a fourth position in which the center of gravity of the bridge is raised relative to the third position. First and second cylinder actuators pivot the probe between the third and fourth positions. Third and fourth cylinder actuators pivot the foot between the first and second positions. The first and second cylinder actuators, and the third and fourth cylinder actuators, are arranged such that the sum of the turning moments produced by the first and second, and by the third and fourth actuators, is never zero when each pair of cylinder actuators pivots between said positions. |
| US08185988B2 |
Grid spring mattress
Various embodiments of this invention disclose a mattress with two cover layers that enclose a spring grid array core wherein the springs are mounted back to back on a single grid support. The spring array is surrounded by a frame layer and is divisible into separate recumbence areas by supportive flanges. |
| US08185987B2 |
Bed organizer
An apparatus that facilitates storage of items for convenient access while in bed is provided. The apparatus offers a new and improved way to address the special needs of this type storage by utilizing a foam body portion having a variety of specially designed cavities therein. The body is held in place using a fastener and paddle arrangement. The caddy can rest atop a mattress, and therefore does not interfere with a person getting into or leaving the bed. |
| US08185978B2 |
Bedpan
A bedpan for collecting waste includes a seating area and a plurality of cavities. The seating area is located in a main body of the bedpan. The plurality of cavities is formed within the seating area and includes a first cavity for collecting liquid waste and a second cavity for collecting solid waste. The first cavity and the second cavity are separated by a divider. |
| US08185973B2 |
Series of underwater vision articles
The invention concerns a series of underwater vision articles comprising two optical elements (1, 3), two sealing elements placed in contact with the face via their right and left contact areas (2, 4), having the following characteristics: the optical elements are placed flatly on a plane on the side opposite the contact areas: P1, P2 represent respective points that are the lowest and to the furthest left from the inner edge (5) or outer edge (6) of the left contact area (4); P3, P4 represent respective points that are the lowest and the furthest right from the inner edge (7) or outer edge (8) of the right contact area (2). Independent of the size, the ratio between PP2,4 and PP1,3 is constant, and/or the ratio between, on the one hand, PP2,4 and a constant and, on the other, PP1,2 is constant or PPi,j is the distance between Pi and Pj for any i and j. |
| US08185972B2 |
Head scarf and method of making it
A head scarf with a crown portion and a tail portion is made by stitching together overlying front margin areas of body and lining pieces. This stitching is done along oppositely convex lines on both pieces, and these lines are brought into registry for sewing. One of the pieces is then folded to provide a convex edge of the stitched-together assembly, to place the pieces in face-to-face relation, and to give the assembly a three dimensional forehead-receiving shape in the vicinity of the front margin areas. A semicircular drawstring channel is formed, and the upper regions of the tail portion are drawn together while drawing the crown portion into a shape conforming to a wearer's head. |
| US08191164B2 |
Method for managing access rights in a smart card
A method of managing access rights in a smart card, to subordinating execution of a command (Cmd1, Cmdk) such as reading or writing to an event (Evt1′, Evtk′) being valid, such as authentication by verifying a code. The state of validation events is stored in a register, and the access rights are stored in a command list (List_Cmd) made up of couples (Cpl1, Cplk), each associating a command with an event. On receiving a request to execute a command, a search is made in the command list (List_Cmd) for the couple (Cpl1, Cplk) that includes the requested command, and execution is refused if the search is unsuccessful. If the search is successful, then it is determined from the register (referred to as the card security state register) whether the event associated with the command is or is not valid, in order to authorize or refuse execution thereof. The invention is for use in any smart card application that involves access rights. |
| US08191159B2 |
Data security for digital data storage
A computing system includes data encryption in the data path between a data source and data storage devices. The data storage devices may be local or they may be network resident. The data encryption may utilize a key which is derived at least in part from an identification code stored in a non-volatile memory. The key may also be derived at least in part from user input to the computer. In a LAN embodiment, public encryption keys may be automatically transferred to a network server for file encryption prior to file transfer to a client system. |
| US08191154B2 |
License management in a media network environment
Acquiring a license in a hub network, including: sending a license request from a client to a server through an intermediary device; sending a connection confirmation from the client to the server through the intermediary device; and receiving license data at the client from the server through the intermediary device in response to the license request, wherein the client and the server are not connected in a hub network, wherein the license request identifies a sub-copy version stored on the client, wherein the sub-copy version includes sub-copy locked content data, and wherein the license data is bound to the hub network. |
| US08191151B2 |
Privacy protection device, privacy protection method, and recording medium recorded with privacy protection program
A privacy protection device acquires provider location information and browser location information indicating the current location of a browser terminal used by a browser who intends to browse the content. The privacy protection device stores determination data for determining whether to mask privacy information included in the content. The privacy protection device determines whether to mask the privacy information by comparing the distance, which is calculated based on the current location of the provider terminal indicated by the provider location information and the current location of the browser terminal indicated by the browser location information, to the determination data stored in the determination data storage part. Finally, the privacy protection device edits the privacy information included in the content so that the privacy information is concealed from the browser when the privacy masking determination part determines to mask the privacy information. |
| US08191150B2 |
Method and arrangement relating to a communication device
The present invention relates to a novel method for handling applications in a device by associating an application signed by a domain certificate to a pre-defined entity in a device, said device comprising: a module reader for reading subscriber identity, a virtual machine for running at least one application, a memory containing a root certificate, the method comprising: using a data set for aggregating a sub set of data, modifying portion of said data set such that said portion includes reference to said entity. The invention also relates to a device for implementing the method. |
| US08191148B2 |
Classifying a message based on fraud indicators
Systems, methods, and media for classifying messages are disclosed. A plurality of fraud indicators are identified in the message. A signature of the message is generated. The generated signature of the message is compared to a stored signature. The stored signature is based on a statistical analysis of fraud indicators in a second message associated with the stored signature. A determination as to whether the message is fraudulent is made based on the comparison. The message is processed based on the determination that the message is a fraudulent message. |
| US08191144B2 |
Network infrastructure validation of network management frames
A detection-based defense to a wireless network. Elements of the infrastructure, e.g., access points or scanning-only access points, detect intruders by detecting spoofed frames, such as from rogue access points. Access points include a signature, such as a message integrity check, with their management frames in a manner that enables neighboring access points to be able to validate the management frames, and to detect spoofed frames. When a neighboring access point receives a management frame, obtains a key for the access point sending the frame, and validates the management frame using the key. |
| US08191140B2 |
Indicating a security breach of a protected set of files
Embodiments include a system, an apparatus, a device, and a method. An embodiment provides an apparatus that includes a marker circuit for saving a tripwire file in a protected set of files that includes at least one normal file. The apparatus also includes a monitor circuit for detecting an indicium of an activity related to the tripwire file. The apparatus further includes a notification circuit for generating a signal indicating an occurrence of an unauthorized activity related to the protected set of files in response to the detected indicium of an activity related to the tripwire file. |
| US08191139B2 |
Intrusion detection report correlator and analyzer
A computer/computer network security alert management system aggregates information from multiple intrusion detectors. Utilizing reports from multiple intrusion detectors reduces the high false alarm rate experienced by individual detectors while also improving detection of coordinated attacks involving a series of seemingly harmless operations. An internal representation of a protected enclave is utilized, and intrusion detection system (IDS) information is correlated to accurately prioritize alerts. In one embodiment, the system is capable of utilizing data from most existing IDS products, with flexibility to add further IDS products. |
| US08191138B1 |
Addressee-based whitelisting
In some embodiments, techniques for filtering electronic messages may include receiving an email message, determining a non-recipient email addressee associated with the email message, wherein the non-recipient email addressee has an address that is unaffiliated with a recipient for which the email message has been received, determining whether the non-recipient email addressee is associated with a whitelist; and processing the email message preferentially, when it is determined that the non-recipient email addressee is associated with the whitelist. |
| US08191135B2 |
Secured web based access of failed flows in an integration server
A method for accessing failed events in an integrated server environment is disclosed. The method comprises providing a thin client in an application server within the environment, wherein the thin client provides role-based access to a failed event, and wherein the role-based access is based upon a user's ability to access critical data. A thin client referred to as the failed event manager aids the user via a web browser, to manage events that failed during an integration scenario. Apart from being web-based, the failed event manager application also provides role-based access wherein users with certain roles are restricted in their ability to access critical data. The web-based failed event manager uses the security of the underlying application server, thus providing a secure environment. A system and method in accordance with the present invention takes advantage of the distributed computing capabilities of the underlying application server. As a result, remote users can simply log into the server via a web-portal from any location, and the familiar Windows environment is visually replicated on the screen. Moreover, a thin client provides higher security as all data including logs are stored and backed up only on the server. Thin clients lessen the danger to confidential information as no data is stored locally. |
| US08191134B1 |
Lockless distributed IPsec processing
According to one embodiment of the invention, a plurality of IPsec packets belonging to a single IPsec tunnel are received. Different ones of the plurality of IPseck packets are distributed to different ones of a plurality of processing cores of a network element. At least some of those IPsec packets are processed in parallel and without taking a lock on a Security Association (SA) data structure storing a SA associated with the plurality of IPsec packets. The SA is atomically accessed and atomically updated. |
| US08191132B1 |
Scalable transparent proxy
A facility for proxying network traffic between a pair of nodes is described. The facility receives packets traveling between the pair of nodes that together constitute a distinguished network connection. For each packet of the connection that is part of a transport protocol setup process, the facility updates a representation of the status of the setup process to reflect the packet, and forwards the packet to its destination without proxying the packet. For each packet of the connection that is subsequent to the setup process, the facility proxies the contents of the packet to the packet's destination. |
| US08191131B2 |
Obscuring authentication data of remote user
A system and method in which authentication data, such as a password, which is sent to a server/firewall as part of an authentication request, for example a logon request, is received at the server/firewall in a plurality of messages at a plurality of logical ports from the user, thus improving protection against replay attacks. In one embodiment, a plurality of user authentication data parts is obtained from a remote user device as part of an authentication request, the plurality of user authentication data parts is assembled into user authentication data; the authenticity of the authentication request is checked using the user authentication data; and communication with the remote user device is enabled if the authentication request data is determined to be authentic. |
| US08191129B2 |
Apparatus and method for processing digital rights object
An apparatus and a method that transmit and receive a converted format of a digital rights object between a device and a portable storage device. The apparatus for processing a digital rights object includes a transmitting/receiving module for receiving the rights object expressed in a Markup language from a rights issuer, a rights object converting module for converting the rights object into a frame having a format for communicating with a portable storage device, an interface for connecting with the portable storage device, and a control module for providing the frame to the portable storage device through the interface and receiving the converted format of the rights object from the portable storage device through the interface. |
| US08191126B2 |
Methods and devices for pattern-based user authentication
Methods, devices, and systems are presented that facilitate pattern-based user authentication. In a first embodiment, a user may request registration from an authentication server. The authentication server may provide at least one image to the user, wherein the image may comprise a matrix of cells. The user may choose a sequence of cells in the matrix as his or her secret, and may provide a userid and this secret to the authentication server. The authentication server may then validate and store the userid and/or secret. After this registration step, the user may request authentication from the authentication server. The authentication server may provide another image of a matrix of cells to the user. The user may then enter a sequence of symbols associated the sequence of cells that comprise his or her secret. The authentication server may compare the entered sequence of cells to the sequence of cells represented by the stored secret. If the two sequences match, then the user may be authenticated. |
| US08191117B2 |
Location-targeted online services
Described are various implementations of location-targeted online services. When a user accesses the Internet from a supported location, he'll be able to use premium or exclusive online services (premium content, member-only discounts etc.) for free and without going through an elaborate subscription process. The location owner may promote these services before the user enters the location. Example: in addition to mentioning “free Internet”, the hotel owner can attract new customers by mentioning “free Netflix movies” or “free access to premium content, from Zagat reviews to stock reports”. It allows the location owner to utilize a network (WIFI) service provider as a means of increasing its core business and not just as a source of incremental advertisement income. |
| US08191113B2 |
Trusted network connect system based on tri-element peer authentication
A trusted network connect (TNC) system based on tri-element peer authentication (TePA) is provided. An network access requestor (NAR) of an access requestor (AR) is connected to a TNC client (TNCC), and the TNCC is connected to and integrity measurement collector (IMC1) through a integrity measurement collector interface (IF-IMC). An network access controller (NAC) of an access controller (AC) is connected to a TNC server (TNCS) in a data bearer manner. The TNCS is connected to an IMC2 through the IF-IMC. A user authentication service unit (UASU) of a policy manager (PM) is connected to a platform evaluation service unit (PESU) through an integrity measurement verifier interface (IF-IMV). Thus, the technical problems in the prior art of poor extensibility, complex key agreement process, and low security are solved. TePA is adopted in both the network access layer and the integrity evaluation layer to implement mutual user authentication and platform integrity evaluation, so that the security of the entire TNC architecture is improved. |
| US08191108B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing security for an internet protocol service
A method and apparatus for providing security to an endpoint device are disclosed. For example, the method receives a signaling message by the endpoint device. The method processes the signaling message, if the signaling message is received from a device associated with one of one or more Internet Protocol (IP) addresses in an Access Control List (ACL), and discards the signaling message, if the signaling message is received from a device not associated with one of the one or more IP addresses in the ACL. |
| US08191107B1 |
System and method for lost contact response
A lost contact policy response system and related method for adjusting the operation of one or more network infrastructure devices upon detection of a loss of contact with a policy server function. The response system includes a policy enforcement function (“PEF”), a policy manager function, and either or both of policy set(s) and policy enforcement rule (“PER”) set(s). The PEF implements stored or generated PER set(s). The policy manager function includes a monitoring function and an analysis function. The monitoring function monitors for continuing connectivity or signal exchange contact with a network policy server function. The analysis function selects a designated policy, policy set, PER or PER set, and instructs the PEF to implement the selected policy, PER or set. The policy and/or PER sets may be pre-installed, updated, re-installed, revised, or otherwise changed when and as desired. The related method includes corresponding steps for implementing the operations of the functions described. |
| US08191104B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing interactive program guide (IPG) and video-on-demand (VOD) user interfaces
An apparatus for providing multiple session-based services at a terminal, an exemplary apparatus includes a memory configured to support a plurality of software layers including a service layer communicating with terminal resources via a root layer disposed therebetween; and a processor, for executing instructions associated with a plurality of service layer applications, a root layer application and a control mechanism; each of the service layer applications communicating with terminal resources to provide thereby a respective user interface; wherein the control mechanism selectively causing at least one of the service layer applications to enter an active state, the user interface associated with a service layer application being adapted in response to the service layer application entering the active state. |
| US08191103B2 |
Real-time bookmarking of streaming media assets
A method for real-time bookmarking of streaming media assets is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes dynamically changing a presentation segment of a plurality of segments based one or more bookmark signals from a viewer. |
| US08191102B2 |
Method of transmitting interactive television
A method (1) of transmitting interactive television, whereby interactive television applications are transmitted inside application-modules. These modules are transmitted in a broadcast stream. Recording systems cannot decide which modules are to be recorded. Therefore storage related information of said modules is signalled in the broadcast stream. Module identification information related is implemented in the Application Information Table (AIT) and/or in the Download Information Indication (DII) message. Thus information is included in the broadcast stream concerning categories stating whether application modules are mandatory, optional or forbidden to record. Alternatively properties of a module are chosen from Code/Data/Both and/or Fixed/Variable. Recording systems use this information do decide if application modules are to be recorded or disregarded. Alternatively, application module identification information is transmitted in said broadcast stream. A module identification number is used to avoid multiple recordings. Application modules having the same category are preferably grouped together. |
| US08191099B2 |
Automated analysis of collected field data for error detection
Included are embodiments of a method for detecting errors in a set top terminal (STT). At least one embodiment of a method includes receiving error data related to at least one error that occurred in at least one STT and comparing the received error data to at least one signature file, the at least one signature file including a pattern related to at least one documented error. Additional embodiments of the method may also include in response to determining that the received error data does not match the pattern related to at least one documented error, creating a new signature file, the new signature file including at least one pattern associated with the received error data. |
| US08191098B2 |
Multi-source bridge content distribution system and method
A multi-source bridge content distribution system links multiple content owners with access network operators or content distribution providers leasing space on access networks so that multi-media content can be provided from multiple content owners to consumers through a multi-source bridge or data center. Content files and associated content owner preference settings are provided from a plurality of content sources or providers to the multi-source data center. Files stored at the data center or locally at an access network are provided to subscribers through the local access network Content files are provided if the content owner preference settings are a sufficient match with service provider access network preference settings set up by the service provider using the access network to provide content to subscribers. |
| US08191097B1 |
Method and apparatus for hierarchical distribution of video content for an interactive information distribution system
A method and apparatus for storing and distributing video information in an interactive information distribution system by storing video information on either a centralized or de-centralized secondary storage partition in a network of provider and subscriber equipment, and therein distributing the video information to a subscriber having made a request for such video information. |
| US08191095B2 |
Backup communication modes
Systems and methods for implementing a communication mode for a communication terminal are provided. An embodiment of a method for implementing a communication mode includes receiving a first type of data over a first type of communication channel, determining that the first type of data is subsequently not available over the first type of communication channel, and responsive to determining that the first type of data is subsequently not available over the first type of communication channel, receiving the first type of data over a second type of communication channel. |
| US08191088B2 |
Apparatus and method for managing media content
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a set top box having a controller to present media content to a user, and provide the user with access to related media content based upon access information, where the related media content is determined based upon monitoring of the media content, where the related media content is retrieved based on a query of a plurality of sources over the Internet, and where the access information is associated with each of the plurality of sources. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08191086B2 |
Computer program code and method for delivering external data to a process running on a virtual machine
A method and system for delivering external data to a process running on a virtual machine, the virtual machine running on an operating system. The method includes the steps of executing instructions on the virtual machine that obtain state data related to the process; querying the virtual machine to obtain component data related to the state data; and manipulating the component data to deliver the external data to the process. In one example, the system provides a single sign-on application that passes user credentials to a Java applet running on a Java virtual machine. |
| US08191084B1 |
Techniques for supporting application operation
A technique supports application operation. The technique involves discovering a set of applications running on an electronic system, and querying a user to identify which of the set of applications the user wishes to manage. The technique further involves, for each application identified by the user, providing an application service to that application to support operation of that application, the application service being separate from operating system services and security protection services provided by the electronic system. |
| US08191079B2 |
Data transfer across a network
Requests for retrieval of data items from another data processing apparatus include embedded objects having executable class functions for performing operations at the target data processing apparatus. This has the advantages of the request implicitly sending data as well as requesting data and allows the request to perform a test on data within an object (such as a comparison with parameters of the request to determine whether the request may be satisfied). Objects within the request may be embedded within each other with different encryption and compression applied to the different objects. As well as achieving communication efficiencies, the ability to selectively encrypt components of a request may be used to provide greater security. For example, a store may be able to interpret the request, while credit details may be separately encrypted such that only a bank may decrypt that subcomponent of the request. |
| US08191077B2 |
Method for providing stand-in objects
A method for providing stand-in objects, where relationships among objects are automatically resolved in an object oriented relational database model without the necessity of retrieving data from the database until it is needed. A “fault” class is defined, as well as fault objects whose data haven't yet been fetched from the database. An object that's created for the destination of a relationship whenever an object that includes the relationship is fetched from the database. When an object is fetched that has relationships, fault objects are created to “stand-in” for the destination objects of those relationships. Fault objects transform themselves into the actual enterprise objects—and fetch their data—the first time they're accessed. Subsequently, messages sent to the target objects are responded to by the objects themselves. |
| US08191075B2 |
State management of operating system and applications
A method and a processing device may be provided for state management of an operating system and applications. A framework may be provided for separating behaviorless state information from code or instructions for executing a method. Applications may have instances of state information derived from, or completely different from, instances of state information of an operating system. Instances of state information for an application may be layered over corresponding instances of state information of the operating system, such that the application and the operating system may have different views of the instances of the state information. At least one policy may be defined, which may include rules for resolving conflicts, information for providing a merged view of data from multiple repositories, default values for instances of data, as well as other information. In various implementations, referential integrity of state information may be guaranteed. |
| US08191074B2 |
Method and apparatus for automatic debugging technique
A first code module in a computing device detects an event that constitutes an automatic start debug session condition. The detected event is an occurrence of significance to the first code module and the condition is a set of one or more start criterions of which the detected event is a part. One or more actions for that condition are determined, wherein each action includes properties of a different debug session. At least one of the action(s) are sent to a second code module in the computing device upon determining that the second code module should automatically start at least one debug session. One or more debug flags are set according to each action to start the debug session corresponding to each action and a set of debug messages corresponding to the flags that are set are generated. |
| US08191068B2 |
Resource management system, resource information providing method and program
To provide a resource management system capable of stably providing most recently updated resource information at a high speed. A resource information update unit collects resource information from a plurality of agents by means of agent connection management unit according to an update schedule of resource information stored in a schedule storage unit, and stores the same in a resource information storage unit. A retrieval processing unit accesses the resource information storage unit to acquire retrieval results of resource information. A static schedule generation unit selects update interval for each of resource information, generates a static schedule, and store the same in the schedule storage unit. |
| US08191066B2 |
Continuously loading series of data whether data is requested or not, in response to end command unloading the data in descendent order of reference probability
In response to an activation of a data processing system, a request for processing is accepted in parallel with loading a series of data (a data body) from an external storage into a main memory independent of whether the processing of individual data is requested or not, and if target data of the request for processing is not loaded into the main memory, apparent system starting time is reduced by executing processing corresponding to the request after the target data is loaded into the main memory. |
| US08191065B2 |
Managing virtual machine images
A method and system for managing images of virtual machines hosted by a server. The server maintains a base virtual machine image in a common data store for sharing by the virtual machines. When the server identifies an image modification for at least one of the virtual machines, the server determines whether the image modification includes data common to images of the other virtual machines. If so, the common data is copied to the base virtual machine image in the common data store, and a pointer to the copied data is added to an image of the virtual machine in an individual data store. |
| US08191063B2 |
Method for migrating a plurality of virtual machines by associating files and state information with a single logical container
A logical container may be created to facilitate the quick and efficient migration of one or more virtual machines from a source server to a destination server. The logical container may contain all of the files and state information related to the one or more virtual machines. The one or more virtual machines may be migrated by dismounting the logical container from a source server and mounting the logical container to a destination server. A management service may be include to facilitate batch migration of multiple virtual machines from a source server to a destination server. |
| US08191061B2 |
Method for managing internal software of terminal through device management server
A method for managing software of a terminal in a device management system is provided. The device management server identifies if the memory area required for downloading and installing software is ensured in the terminal when the device management server has the software to be downloaded to the terminal. Then, the device management server acquires at least one among a usage rate during a predetermined period of time, a last use time, and a total number of times of usage for each software installed in the terminal when the required memory area is not ensured in the terminal. Next, the device management server selects software to be removed based on the usage rate, the last use time, etc., and notifies the terminal of the selected removal-targeted software. Then, the terminal removes the removal-targeted software when the terminal receives a removal acceptance input of the removal-targeted software from the user, and notifies the device management server of a result of the removal. Thereafter, the device management server transmits the software to be downloaded to the terminal. |
| US08191059B1 |
System, method and computer program product for installing at least a portion of a program utilizing a workflow that models an installation process
A system, method and computer program product are provided for installing at least a portion of a program. In use, an installation process is modeled as a workflow. Further, at least a portion of a program is installed utilizing the workflow. In one optional embodiment, at least the portion of the program may include an upgrade to a pre-existing program. |
| US08191058B2 |
Computer processing system for realizing data upgrade and a data upgrading method
A computer processing system for implementing data upgrade includes a communication interface device, at least two application servers and a database server for storing data, wherein the communication interface device detects in real-time a connection state of the communication interface device and each of the application servers, and sends data received from external to an application server connected with itself for processing; all the application servers are connected with the database server to process data and store the processed data in the database server, the data upgrade is implemented in batch for the application servers requiring the data upgrade by disconnecting the application servers from the communication interface device and reestablishing the connection of the application servers with the communication interface device after the data upgrade is completed. During the data upgrade, upgrade may be implemented without shut-down of the system. Most importantly, all the servers available in the system always work at the same time and share the burden in switching, thus improving the working efficiency of the whole system. |
| US08191053B2 |
Computerized data warehousing
A system and method for transforming data from a first format to a second format. A pre-existing set of software instructions may be used to transform the data from the first format to the second format. A user may document a set of format parameters for the first format of data, which can be used to determine which portion of the pre-existing software instructions are used to transform the data from the first format to the second format. |
| US08191051B2 |
System and method for developing and processing building system control solutions
A system automatically generates building system application solutions. The system includes a system design verifier and a system design converter. The system design verifier is configured to verify an application definition. The system design converter is coupled to the system design verifier, and is configured to convert verified application definitions into computer statements that are executable on a processor to implement a building system application solution that corresponds to the application definition. |
| US08191049B2 |
Method and apparatus for maintaining performance monitoring structures in a page table for use in monitoring performance of a computer program
A method and apparatus in a data processing system for measuring events associated with the execution of instructions are provided. Instructions are received at a processor in the data processing system. If a selected indicator is associated with the instruction, counting of each event associated with the execution of the instruction is enabled. In some embodiments, the performance indicators, counters, thresholds, and other performance monitoring structures may be stored in a page table that is used to translate virtual addresses into physical storage addresses. A standard page table is augmented with additional fields for storing the performance monitoring structures. These structures may be set by the performance monitoring application and may be queried and modified as events occur that require access to physical storage. |
| US08191046B2 |
Checking transactional memory implementations
A transactional memory implementation is tested using an automatically generated test program and a locking memory model implementation which defines atomicity semantics. Schedules of the test program specify different interleavings of read operations and write operations of the test program threads. Executing the schedules under the locking memory model implementation provides legal final states of the shared variable(s). Executing the schedules under the transactional memory implementation produces candidate final states of the shared variable(s). If the candidate final states are also legal final states, then the transactional memory implementation passes the test. |
| US08191045B2 |
Mining library specifications using inductive learning
A system and method for mining program specifications includes generating unit tests to exercise functions of a library through an application program interface (API), based upon an (API) signature. A response to the unit tests is determined to generate a transaction in accordance with a target behavior. The transaction is converted into a relational form, and specifications of the library are learned using an inductive logic programming tool from the relational form of the transaction. |
| US08191040B2 |
Application program interface for network software platform
An application program interface (API) provides a set of functions that make available support for processing XML documents for application developers who build Web applications on Microsoft Corporation's .NET™ platform. |
| US08191037B1 |
Customized control building
A system and method is disclosed for creating a reusable control from various applications or portions of applications. Using a pre-existing application or one specifically developed for the control, a developer programmatically declares which functionalities of the original application are to be included in the new control. This control building logic becomes a part of the application code. On execution of the application with the added control building logic, the native code that will re-create the control functionality is automatically generated. The control developer may now extend the generated code using simple Object Oriented Programming (OOP) inheritance to add properties and parameters that will control its behavior. The resulting control may then be referenced by other developers when creating a new software application. |
| US08191036B2 |
Mechanism to support orphaned and partially configured objects
Mechanisms to support orphaned and partially configured objects are provided. A project includes a variety of objects. At least one object is designated as an orphaned object. The orphaned object lacks complete configuration details. Other objects of the project depend on the orphaned object and yet the other objects can load and process within the project as if the orphaned object was fully configured and available. |
| US08191032B1 |
Budgeting global constraints on local constraints in an autorouter
Local constraints on placement of routing objects for direct connections between terminals in a circuit layout are determined from global constraints on the placement of the routing objects in a process referred to as global constraint budgeting. An autorouter finds paths in the layout to satisfy the local constraints and ignores the global constraints. The local constraints are updated before each routing pass to ensure that routes are completed on individual direct connections while also satisfying the global constraint. |
| US08191031B2 |
Apparatus for giving assistance in analyzing deficiency in RTL-input program and method of doing the same
An apparatus for giving assistance in analyzing deficiency in a RTL-input program, includes a partial RTL creator which creates partial RTL description data containing logic description identical with logic description extracted from successive portions of input RTL description data, and having correspondence in signals identical with the same in the input RTL description data, an estimator which receives the partial RTL description data to execute a RTL-input program, and creates error-judgment data indicative of whether the RTL-input program contains deficiency, and an execution controller which controls a volume of logic description contained in partial RTL description data to be next created by the partial RTL creator, based on the error-judgment data, and outputs partial RTL description data causing the same deficiency as deficiency of the input RTL description data, and having a minimum volume of logic description. |
| US08191029B2 |
Timing error sampling generator, critical path monitor for hold and setup violations of an integrated circuit and a method of timing testing
A timing error sampling generator, a path monitor, an IC, a method of performing timing tests and a library of cells. In one embodiment, the timing error sampling generator includes: (1) a hold delay element having an input and an output and configured to provide a hold violation delayed signal at said output by providing a first predetermined delay to a clock signal received at said input, said first predetermined delay corresponding to a hold violation time for a path to be monitored and (2) a hold logic element having a first input coupled to said input of said hold delay element, a second input coupled to said output of said hold delay element and an output at which said hold logic element is configured to respond to said first and second inputs to provide a clock hold signal when logic levels at said first and second inputs are at a same level. |
| US08191026B2 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit and switch arranging and wiring method
A semiconductor integrated circuit includes: a circuit block having a first power supply line to which one of a power supply voltage and a reference voltage is applied, an internal voltage line, and a circuit cell connected between the first power supply line and the internal voltage line; and a plurality of switch cells each including two voltage cell lines each connected electrically to the internal voltage line, two power cell lines each connected electrically to a second power supply line to which another of the power supply voltage and the reference voltage is applied, a control cell line electrically connected to a switch control line, and a transistor electrically connected between the internal voltage line and the second power supply line. |
| US08191025B1 |
Redundancy structures and methods in a programmable logic device
An embodiment of the present invention provides a programmable logic device (“PLD”) including a redundancy architecture adapted to selective route signals via first or second staggered vertical lines. Other embodiments provide configuration logic and programs for determining routing selections. Other embodiments provide proximate grouping of vertical lines driven from a same row. Other embodiments provide definition of spare row locations once defective row locations are known. |
| US08191017B2 |
Site selective optical proximity correction
Techniques for performing optical proximity correction on a layout design or portion thereof are provided with various implementations of the invention. With various implementations of the invention, movement and simulation of selected edge fragments is disabled during the optical proximity correction process. The operations of the optical proximity correction process, such as for example simulation and displacement of edge segments, is then performed for the edge fragments that remain enabled. With further implementations of the invention, a simulation site is defined for ones of the edge fragments. The operations of the optical proximity correction process, such as for example simulation and displacement of edge segments, is performed for each simulation site. Additionally, during the optical proximity correction process, the simulations sites may be moved and or removed individually based on various conditions. |
| US08191010B2 |
Method, system, and computer program product for providing enhanced dropdown selection lists and combination boxes
The present invention provides enhanced dropdown selection lists and combination boxes. A method in accordance with an embodiment includes: providing a graphical user interface (GUI) control that displays a dropdown list when actuated, and displaying indicia in the GUI control indicating a number of entries in the dropdown list, wherein a user can visually determine from the indicia the number of entries in the dropdown list prior to display of the dropdown list. A method in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention includes: providing a GUI control having an entry field; and displaying indicia in the GUI control indicating whether the entry field of the GUI control is writable, wherein a user can visually determine from the indicia whether the entry field of the GUI control is writable before placing a cursor in the entry field. |
| US08191007B1 |
Organizing a browser environment
Methods, computer-readable storage mediums encoded with computer programs executed by one or more processors, and systems, for organizing browser windows are disclosed. A selection of one or more tabs of a plurality of tabs arranged on one or more windows of a browser may be received, wherein each of the plurality of tabs corresponds to a web page. The tabs may be grouped based on the selection. The grouped tabs may be arranged on a grouped window of the browser. The grouped window comprising the grouped tabs may be tagged with an identifier that differentiates the grouped window from a remaining one or more windows of the browser not associated with the grouped tabs. |
| US08191005B2 |
Dynamically generating visualizations in industrial automation environment as a function of context and state information
A visualization system that generates customized visualization(s) in an industrial automation environment includes an interface component that receives input concerning displayed objects and information, a context component that can detect, infer or determine context information regarding an entity, and a visualization component that dynamically generates a visualization from a set of display object to present to the entity that is a function of the received information and inferred or determined entity context. |
| US08191004B2 |
User feedback correlated to specific user interface or application features
A user interface display for software has a user satisfaction portion displayed on each page. The user satisfaction portion includes a user selectable element which allows a user to provide a user satisfaction score (or level) with a single mouse click. In response to receiving the user satisfaction level, the context of the software which the user is using is recorded, and the user satisfaction level is correlated to that context. The captured data can be provided to application designers and developers directly or via computed metrics. |
| US08191003B2 |
Managing transparent windows
Methods and arrangements to manage transparent windows are described herein. Embodiments may comprise logic such as hardware and/or code to select one or more windows to make transparent and to switching the active window between source and target windows via the position of the mouse. Many embodiments provide a right click, pop-up menu (i.e., pressing the right mouse button generates a pop-up menu), a pull-down menu, or a button associated with windows. These features may allow a user to select individual or all windows to be transparent. A transparent window provides some view of windows or objects below the transparent window while providing some view of the contents such as graphics and/or text in the transparent window. Embodiments may also include management logic such as hardware and/or code to facilitate selection of a transparent window to make the window active. |
| US08191001B2 |
Shared virtual area communication environment based apparatus and methods
Improved systems and methods for navigating and interacting in virtual communication environments are described. At least some of these systems and methods provide a framework that includes one or more virtual areas and supports realtime communications between the communicants. At least some of these systems and methods provide an interface that includes navigation controls that enable a user to navigate virtual areas and interaction controls that enable the user to interact with other communicants in the one or more virtual areas. |