| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08216070B2 |
Computer-readable storage medium storing information processing program and information processing device
A repeated determination of a magnitude of a change amount vector with respect to a first threshold value is made. When it is determined that the magnitude is equal to or larger than the first threshold value, predetermined processing is executed, a swinging direction in which an input device is swung is calculated, and intersection of the swinging direction with a second threshold value is determined. After it is determined that the change amount vector intersects with the second threshold value, further, whether or not the magnitude of the change amount vector is smaller than a third threshold value is determined. After the magnitude of the change amount vector is determined to be equal to or larger than the first threshold value, the first threshold is not tested again until the magnitude of the change amount vector is smaller than the third threshold value. |
| US08216069B2 |
Computer-readable storage medium having game program stored therein, game system, and game display method
In a game system, a position coordinate calculation section calculates a position coordinate of each object. Then, a coordinate determination section determines whether or not the position coordinate of a missile is located on a side of the virtual camera relative to a player object. For the missile determined to be located on the side of the virtual camera, a correction coordinate calculation section calculates a correction coordinate which is obtained by shifting the position coordinate of the missile to a side of the player object relative to the position coordinate of the missile. In this case, an image of the virtual game space, in which the player object is located at the position coordinate thereof and the missile is located at the correction coordinate thereof, is displayed on a liquid crystal television. |
| US08216066B2 |
Game device, game device control method, program, and information storage medium
To provide a game device capable of expressing, through a relatively simple process, a picture showing a first character object grabbing and pulling a clothing object of a second character object. According to the present invention, a direction from the position of the second character object to the position of the first character object is obtained, and based on the obtained direction, the positions of at least some of the vertexes of the clothing object are changed (S205). Further, the position of a predetermined portion of the first character object, which is used to pull the clothing object, is changed, based on the obtained direction (S206). |
| US08216065B2 |
Gaming system having multiple adjacently arranged gaming machines which each provide a component for a multi-component game
A gaming system including a plurality of adjacently arranged gaming machines which are linked by a multi-component game. Each of the gaming machines includes a base or primary game which is operable upon a wager by a player. Upon the occurrence of a component triggering event at one of the gaming machines, that gaming machine generates one or more components of the multi-component game. Upon an evaluation triggering event at one of the gaming machines, that gaming machine determines a multi-component game outcome to provide to the player based on that generated components of other gaming machines. The gaming system determines an award, if any, for that player based on the multi-component game outcome. |
| US08216064B1 |
Casino cashless ticket identification system
A slot machine gaming device and method to target advertisements and promotions on cashless tickets. Players can be identified by their player's card, and a record associated with a ticket can be associated with the identified player. Upon redemption, the player, based on his or her player profile, can be presented with a targeted message and/or a special bonus offer. |
| US08216063B2 |
Degressive bonus system
Embodiments of the invention include a mystery degressive bonus system. Instead of a bonus that increases its value as the likelihood of winning the bonus increases, embodiments of the invention disconnect the likelihood of winning a mystery bonus from the amount awarded for triggering the mystery bonus. In some embodiments as the likelihood of winning the mystery bonus increases, the award for winning the mystery bonus decreases. Some embodiments include a minimum value for winning the mystery bonus. Additional embodiments are directed to an indicator system to show to the player a present amount of the mystery bonus award as well as the likelihood of winning the award. Further embodiments include a gaming device that includes a bonus game in which the amount awarded to the player decreases over time. |
| US08216060B2 |
Gaming system having multiple gaming machines which provide bonus awards
A gaming system including a central server linked to a plurality of gaming machines and a plurality of bonus awards. The central server monitors wagers on the gaming machines. Based at least in part on the wagers the central server determines when bonus events will occur and which gaming machine(s) will provide the bonus awards. In one embodiment, the central server determines which gaming machine will provide a primary bonus award and any secondary bonus awards. In one embodiment, the number of secondary bonus awards is determined based on the number of active gaming machines. The selected gaming machine then determines a component of or the amount of the bonus award to be provided to the gaming machine selected by the central server. |
| US08216056B2 |
Card picks for progressive prize
In various embodiments, players around the casino may predict cards to be dealt in a game of blackjack. |
| US08216053B2 |
Wagering game with single-symbol reel for enhancing winning combinations
A system and method for conducting a wagering game providing an opportunity to earn an increased award is disclosed. A randomly selected outcome from a plurality of possible outcomes is displayed. The plurality of possible outcomes each including a plurality of symbols arranged in an array. An additional symbol is displayed separate from the array. If the displayed randomly selected outcome includes a winning symbol combination resulting in a first award, a determination is made whether the displayed additional symbol can be combined with the winning symbol combination to yield a second award being larger than the first award. The first award is provided if the additional symbol cannot be combined with the winning symbol combination to yield the second award. The larger second award is provided if the additional symbol can be combined with the winning symbol combination to yield the second award. |
| US08216051B2 |
Slot machine with alterable reel symbols
A mechanical reel system with alterable reel symbols. Pivoting reel symbol members are provided at predetermined locations about a reel, each member having two, three, or six sides, for example. On each surface, a different symbol (or a blank symbol) is disposed thereon. A transmissive LCD is positioned over the reels, and when the reels display blanks, images are displayed on the LCD over the blanked area(s) during, e.g., a video bonus game played on the LCD. The symbol members can be altered within a game to display a different set of symbols on the reels, or they can be altered to convert the game from one theme to another. In another embodiment, a bellow-like reel strip, which is folded accordion-style, is retracted or extended relative to the periphery of the reel, allowing a symbol set or subset to replace a corresponding symbol (sub)set displayed on the underlying reel. |
| US08216050B2 |
Gaming system with modifiable prize distribution assignment method
A gaming system is disclosed wherein an outcome probability is determined for each of a number of possible outcomes achievable in a wagering game. Different subsets are then associated with each different prize level in a desired prize distribution. The possible outcomes and their respective probability are assigned or mapped to the different subsets so that the probability of achieving a possible outcome included in a subset comprises a value approximating the desired probability of an award of the prize level with which the subset is associated. |
| US08216048B2 |
Gaming apparatus
Gaming apparatus including a plurality of gaming machines (2) for providing respective players with a respective primary game and for providing primary game information to a gaming server (11) in communication with each of the gaming machines. The gaming server is responsive to the primary game information for providing a secondary game in which prizes are allocated to gaming machines selected from among the plurality of gaming machines, the probability of a prize being allocated to a gaming machine being dependent upon gaming activity at that gaming machine. The value of any prize allocated to a gaming machine is also dependent upon gaming activity at that gaming machine. |
| US08216045B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing a lottery
A process provides a first price category and a second price category in which a lottery ticket can be purchased for a lottery game. The first price category is distinct from the second price category. The first price category corresponds to a first known portion of a linear prize and a first known portion of a non-linear prize associated with the lottery game. Further, the second price category corresponds to a second known portion of a linear prize and a second known portion of a non-linear prize associated with the lottery game. The second known portion of the linear prize is more than the first known portion of the linear prize, the second known portion of the non-linear prize being more than the first known portion of the non-linear prize. |
| US08216044B1 |
Method and apparatus for calculating game outcomes
Among other things, methods and apparatus are disclosed relating to fairer and easier accurate calculations useful in games having tables of odds used to determine the outcome of a battle or other contest. Strength values for two sides are obtained, and calculations are made to determine which odds-value in the table should be used for the contest. If the values do not match with a particular odds-value, then probabilities for using the nearest odds-values can be generated so that the player(s) can determine themselves which odds-value to use, or a random number can be generated to automatically determine which odds-value to use. |
| US08216042B2 |
Method for card game betting based on burn cards
A method of poker side betting based on burn cards is disclosed. The method enhances enjoyment of a poker game and increases house revenue, without slowing or detracting from the game itself. Before a poker round is dealt, players make bets predicting the identity of a burn card poker hand that will be produced by combining the burn cards of the poker round. After the round is played, the burn cards are revealed. Winnings are distributed for all bets that meet specified winning requirements. Bets can be placed into a side pot to be distributed among winners, or placed directly against the house according to house-established odds. In preferred embodiments, bets are made electronically via touch screens and locked before play begins, the burn cards are electronically scanned after play of the round and displayed on the touch screens, and winnings are distributed electronically. |
| US08216039B2 |
Gaming system and method for providing improved element setting options
A gaming system having a game with game elements is provided. The game includes a number of game elements provided to the player and the dealer, where the game elements are subsequently divided into two or more groups or hands. The gaming system sets the dealer game elements to form a first dealer hand and a second dealer hand, according to a set of “House-Way” game element setting rules. The gaming system enables the player to either manually set the player game elements to form the first player hand and the second player hand, or elect to have the gaming system automatically set the player hands according to one of several different “House-Way” and/or “Expert-Way” methods. If the player elects to manually set the player hands, the gaming system indicates to the player whether the player's game element setting selections are in accordance with any of the “House-Way” or “Expert-Way” rules. For the player and dealer hands, the first hand must have a rank greater than or equal to the rank of the second hand. If the first and second player hands both beat the corresponding dealer hands, the player wins an award. If only one of the player hands beats the corresponding dealer hand, the outcome of the game is a push. If both of the player hands lose to the corresponding dealer hands, the player loses the round of play of the game. |
| US08216033B2 |
Low pressure blow-off assemblies and related methods
A low pressure blow-off assembly provides converging airflow around a length of material moving through the assembly. The assembly generally includes a body having an interior wall and an exterior wall. The interior wall defines a bore extending through the body for receiving the material through the body, and the exterior wall surrounds the interior wall and defines an air reservoir within the body generally between the exterior wall and interior wall. A cap is configured to be coupled to the body to cover at least part of the air reservoir. The bore includes a generally tapered end and the cap includes a generally tapered inner lip, where the tapered end of the bore and the tapered inner lip of the cap define an opening therebetween for discharging air from the air reservoir through the opening in a generally converging airflow pattern around the material passing through the body. |
| US08216032B2 |
Coin dispensing device and coin processing machine
A coin dispensing device having a mechanism to reliably dispensing a predetermined number of coins. Coins are accommodated on a surface side of a rotary disc rotating at a position tilted at a predetermined angle. A dispensing and transporting passage guides coins dispensed by rotation of the rotary disc to a coin inlet/outlet. A gate member for opening/closing the coin inlet/outlet is provided at the coin inlet/outlet. A projection is provided at the dispensing and transporting passage. When coins are dispensed, the projection retracts under the dispensing and transporting passage according to opening operation of the gate member, allowing the coins to be transported. When no coin is dispensed, the projection projects from the dispensing and transporting passage according with closing operation of the gate member to regulate transportation of coins. |
| US08216025B2 |
Profile grinding machine
The profile grinding machine includes: a base; a work unit disposed on one side on the base and including a work table for gripping a work; and a stone unit disposed on the other side on the base and including a stone rotating mechanism for holding and rotating a grinding stone on its axis. The work unit includes first to third moving device for supporting and moving the work table in an X-direction and a Y-direction perpendicular to each other in a horizontal plane, and in a Z-direction normal to the horizontal plane, respectively. The stone unit includes turning mechanism for turning the grinding stone about a vertical axis substantially coinciding with the leading end portion of the grinding stone. |
| US08216021B1 |
Engineered push up insert
Kidney-shaped push up insert including first lobe and second lobe is provided. Notch is formed in top side between first lobe and second lobe. Insert has depression formed adjacent top side extending towards notch. Second main surface opposes first main surface. Second main surface is substantially smooth arcuate-shaped surface. First lobe has narrower width between top side and bottom side than second lobe, and second lobe is thicker between first main surface and second main surface than first lobe. Ratio of maximum thickness between first main surface and second main surface to maximum length between opposing ends of first lobe and second lobe is less than about 9 and/or ratio of depth of notch from a straight line connecting first lobe and second lobe along top side of insert to width of insert from top side to bottom side at depth of notch is less than about 4. |
| US08216020B2 |
Foldable vehicles
A vehicle reconfigurable between an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration includes a body having opposing upper and lower parts extending between lateral sides and ends of the body. A first wheel and a second wheel are each operatively mounted to the body to at least partially support the body for movement. A first suspension assembly and a second suspension assembly pivotally connect each wheel to the body and a linkage assembly connects the body to each wheel. The linkage assembly is adapted to pivot each wheel with respect to the body. A linear compression bias member is mounted between the upper and lower parts of the body to bias the upper part of the body away from the lower part of the body. The vehicle transforms from the unfolded configuration to the folded configuration by compression of the upper part and lower part together to actuate the linkage and compress the linear compression bias member. |
| US08216019B2 |
Magnetic box call
A game call having variable tonal qualities wherein one or more sound boards have a ferromagnetic material carried in a selected region and wherein a second ferromagnetic material is mounted for selective movement relative to the ferromagnetic material carried on the sound board to vary the tones created on the sound board. |
| US08216015B2 |
High thread ground shield
A method of forming a spark plug for an internal combustion engine is provided, the method including the steps of: separately securing a ground electrode to a ground shield, the ground shield having an elongated base section being configured to substantially surround a first insulator section of an insulator configured to substantially surround a center electrode, the insulator having a substantially cylindrical body with at least the first insulator section and a second insulator section, the first and second insulator sections having first and second diameters respectively and being separated by an insulator shoulder; and the elongated center electrode having a center electrode tip at one end and a terminal proximate another end of the center electrode, wherein the ground shield has a frustoconical flange protruding from a first end of the elongated base section, the frustoconical flange being configured to engage the insulator shoulder, and wherein the ground electrode extends from a second end of the elongated base section to define a spark gap with respect to the center electrode tip; and securing the ground shield to the spark plug after the ground electrode has been separately secured to the ground shield. |
| US08216012B1 |
Automatic mooring line brake
Deployment of a moored undersea device is achieved by fixing a mooring line to an anchor, and allowing the mooring line to unwind from a winding reel. A winding reel control mechanism is responsive to underwater hydrostatic pressure to release the mooring line when the hydrostatic pressure exceeds a predetermined level. When the hydrostatic pressure falls below the predetermined level, the winding reel control mechanism prevents further pay out of the mooring line. |
| US08216010B2 |
Outboard motor
An outboard motor includes an engine and a catalyst. The engine includes a cylinder and a cylinder head. The engine includes an exhaust port, a catalyst housing portion, a first exhaust passage, and a passage defining member. The exhaust port is provided in the cylinder head. The catalyst housing portion is provided at a side portion of the cylinder head. The first exhaust passage is arranged to guide exhaust discharged from the exhaust port into an interior of the catalyst housing portion. The passage defining member defines a second exhaust passage. The second exhaust passage is arranged such that exhaust that has passed through the interior of the catalyst housing portion flows into the second exhaust passage. The catalyst is held by the engine in a state in which at least a portion of the catalyst is housed in the interior of the catalyst housing portion. |
| US08216003B2 |
Terminal device having a support surface perpendicular to a contact surface
An electronic apparatus includes a terminal holding mechanism that holds a terminal portion configured to conduct power from an external terminal, a terminal base that forms a part of the terminal holding mechanism, a partition wall having an open portion on a side, the partition wall separating the terminal portion and the terminal base, and a contact surface facing the open portion of the partition wall and provided integrally with the terminal base, the contact surface being electrically connected to the terminal holding mechanism. |
| US08216002B2 |
Wire containment cap
A wire containment cap includes a first side having a plurality of retainers for retaining wires, and a second side opposite the first side. Two sidewalls extend between the first side and the second side, and a support rib extends between the two sidewalls. The support rib includes two pair separators for separating wire pairs. In one embodiment, a plurality of sloped pair splitters is located between two of the retainers and includes a sharp point for cutting through insulation material on a pair of bonded wires. A communication jack assembly including a front portion and the wire containment cap is also described. |
| US08215994B2 |
Card edge connector having less resonance
A card edge connector for use with a daughter board, and comprises an insulative elongated housing extending along a longitudinal direction, and defining opposite first and second side walls and a central slot formed therebetween for receiving the daughter board therein, a plurality of contacts each defining a retention portion retained in the housing, a resilient contact portion extending into the central slot from an upper portion of the retention portion for contacting with the daughter board, and a solder tail extending out of the housing form a lower portion of the retention portion. Wherein the contacts include a first row of contacts disposed in the first side wall, and a second row of contacts disposed in the second side wall. The first row of contacts have at least two adjacent grounding contacts electrically connected with each other during the contact portions of the contacts are contacting with the daughter board. |
| US08215989B2 |
Audio jack with EMI shielding
An audio jack for an audio plug for use in an electrical device, comprising a non-conductive enclosure having a front side and defining a cavity having an aperture within the front side for receiving the audio plug, the aperture having a first diameter, the cavity extending along a longitudinal axis; a conductive shielding formed from sheet metal folded over at least five sides of the enclosure including the front side, the shielding defining a shielding aperture centered on the enclosure aperture and having a second diameter larger than the first diameter; and a ground contact connected to the conductive shielding. |
| US08215988B2 |
Waterproof electrical connector
The present invention provides a connector having a seal member for sealing around an electrical wire. The connector includes a connector housing, the seal member, and a rear holder. The connector housing has a layer-by-layer arrangement of plate-shaped housings which each have terminal receiving channels to receive terminals. The seal member has a seal main body surrounding the electrical wire and a tube portion projecting from the seal main body in the lengthwise direction of the electrical wire. The rear holder includes a plurality of holders to pinch the tube portion of the seal member. Each holder has a groove to pinch the tube portion of the seal member and the groove compresses an inner diameter of the tube portion when the holders pinch the tube portions therebetween. |
| US08215982B2 |
Electrical connector having reliable connection between LED devices and printed circuit board
An electrical connector (100) mounted on a printed circuit board (200), the electrical connector includes an insulative housing (1) having a number of conductive members (32) and a LED device (2) disposed therein. Each conductive member includes a conductive pad (321) electrically connected with the printed circuit board. The LED device includes a LED (21) and a number of tail portions (221, 222) electrically interconnected with the LED. The tail portions are soldered on the conductive pads of the conductive members. |
| US08215980B1 |
Connector having a housing with partition walls with hooked portions and pivotally coupled cover shells
A keystone jack based on a punch down type keystone jack architecture, having a wire layout cover attached to the rear side of the jack body and two cover shells pivotally connected to the jack body for closing/opening the wire layout cover. The IDC housing at the back side of the jack body has a wire-bonding block panel formed of multiple partition plates and a retaining hook located on the distal end of each partition plate to minimize the gap between each two adjacent partition plates, allowing installation of the core wires of the inserted network cable by a punch down type technique or a tool free type technique. |
| US08215979B2 |
Lever-type connector
A lever (40) is rotatable about shafts (19) between a projecting position where side plates (42) project to a large extent from the rear end of a housing (10) and a retracted position where the side plates (42) do not project far the rear end of the housing (10). Projecting pieces (61) project forward on front end edges of the side plates (42) and leading ends of the projecting pieces (61) overlap the rear end of the housing (10) in forward and backward directions at the projecting position. At the projecting position, spaces (63, 64) are formed by the opposite side edges of the projections (61), the front edges of the side plates (42) and the rear end of the housing (10). These spaces include escaping spaces (63) that receive cam followers (85) on the mating housing (80) at the retracted position. |
| US08215975B2 |
Waterproof insulated connector
The invention relates to a waterproof insulated connector, which modifies any electrical connection of a power supply, a USB, a VGA, a socket of electric equipment, an SD, an MS, an MMC and the like into a connection that is completely waterproof and insulated. Whether a connector of the electric equipment is connected or not, the plug and the socket are waterproof and can be completely and directly connected in water or other media without damaging the electric equipment and causing electric shock accidents, and multiple electric passages can be insulated from each other. The waterproof performance is realized by an isolating cavity consisting of a gating isolate component made of a dielectric elastomer, a shell and a hollow waterproof ring. The waterproof isolation connector and the method thereof have innovation in technology and lead users to an electric world with high safety and humanization. |
| US08215974B2 |
Power plug and power plug assembly
A power plug is configured for connecting a power adaptor to a power supply socket. The power plug includes a first portion and a second portion. At least two prongs are disposed on the first portion and are capable of being coupled to the power supply socket. The second portion is configured to be electrically coupled to the power adaptor. The second portion defines a receiving housing capable of accommodating the power adaptor. |
| US08215973B2 |
Conductive hook and loop attachment with metal scrim layer for a printed circuit board
The present disclosure is directed to conductive connector attachments for use in electrically connecting printed circuit boards to absorbent products such as diapers, training pants, incontinence products, feminine hygiene products, and the like. Specifically, various configurations and methods of securely attaching conventional conductive hook and loop attachments to printed circuit boards are disclosed. |
| US08215971B2 |
Coupling arrangement
The invention relates to a coupling arrangement (6) for releaseably connecting a first line segment (26) provided on a first unit (2) to a second line segment (28) provided on a second unit (4), comprising connecting means that can be applied to the first unit (2) complementary connecting means that can be applied to the second unit (4) and that can be fixed to the connecting means, and a control device (32) that can be positioned between the first line segment (26) and the second line segment (28) and that can be switched between a blocking position, in which the connection between the first line segment (26) and the second line segment (28) is blocked, and a flow position, in which the connection between the first line segment (26) and the second line segment (28) is open. The control device (32) comprises a control body (30) rotatably support between the blocked position and the flow position that can be positioned at a distance between the first line segment (26) and the second line segment (28) and in which an intermediate line segment (38) is embedded, by means of which the first line segment (26) can be connected to the second line segment (28). |
| US08215970B2 |
Connector
A connector has a housing (10) from the rear surface of which wires (200) are to be drawn out, and a cover (70) to be mounted on the housing (10) for specifying a draw-out direction of the wires (200) at a position facing the rear surface of the housing (10). A plurality of spaced apart legs (77) are formed on a peripheral portion of the cover (70) and project toward the housing (10) for engaging the housing (10). Spaces (60) for exposing the wire (200) drawn out from the rear surface of the housing (10) are defined between the legs (77) with the cover (70) mounted on the housing (10). |
| US08215962B1 |
Waterproof swiveling electric cord slip coupling connector
A waterproof, swivel feature secondary plug and socket device suitable for use within a construction setting, for placement within an extension cord between an originating power source and a user end tool. The device allows a rotational movement between the plug and socket components such that cord twisting and buckling is eliminated, and strain on an operator is reduced. The device provides protection against cord damage or operator injury because, when too great a longitudinal traction force is applied along the cord, as when a cord becomes entrapped during use, the frictional fit between the plug and socket component allows an automatic separation of the unit with immediate withdrawal of electrical power from the cord. |
| US08215954B2 |
Methods for effecting oral treatment of teeth or gums
A method for effecting an oral treatment of teeth and/or gums using an intra-oral device that has a mouthpiece in which is embedded a flexible circuit board and arrays of spaced apart lamps. The mouthpiece has a curvature. The lamps may be light emitting diodes that generate electromagnetic radiation, preferably in the white and blue light spectrum and the infrared and ultraviolet light spectrum. The arrays are positioned to expose the facial and lingual sides of the teeth and/or gums for effecting the treatment when the mouthpiece is positioned to fit upper and lower rows of teeth within accommodating recesses. The flexible circuit board is flexed to exhibit a curvature that follows a curvature of the mouthpiece. Treatments include whitening teeth, desensitizing teeth, and treating gums to prevent periodontal disease. |
| US08215949B2 |
Combustion stabilization systems
Systems for stabilizing combustion while minimizing NOx generation by using high-flame-speed additives to stabilize the flame front in combustors operating at relatively low temperatures and/or under oxygen constraints. The system is adapted for use in coal-fired boilers, oil-fired boilers, and gas turbine engines. The methods stabilize the flame front to permit stable combustion under an expanded range of part-load conditions. The system provides substantially complete combustion of coal in coal boilers resulting in ash saleable for use in concrete manufacturing. |
| US08215948B2 |
Moulding device for the production of containers made from a thermoplastic material
The invention relates to a molding device for producing vessels by blowing or stretch-blowing from preforms of a heated thermoplastic material, the device including at least one mold that has at least two half-molds and a driving mechanism for moving the half-molds between an open position and a closed position. The two half-molds are hinged together for rotation about a hinge axis included in the junction plane and perpendicular to the axis of the molding cavity, the hinge axis being located under the half-molds, while a mechanism for locking the half-molds in their closed position are also provided. Each half-mold includes an outer surface area capable of abutment with an inner surface area of the mechanism for locking the half-molds in their closed position. The locking mechanism is in the form of a clamp capable of clamping the two half-molds in their closed position. |
| US08215939B2 |
Tire vulcanization forming mold
In a tire vulcanization forming mold which is circumferentially divided into a plurality of segment molds, a plurality of circumferential grooves are formed on each segment mold with spaces in a tire width direction; arc-shape mold blocks are detachably fitted respectively in the plurality of circumferential grooves; a plurality of slit grooves are formed on each mold block to open on side surfaces of the mold block; tread pattern forming blades are detachably inserted into these slit grooves in the tire width direction; and coming-off prevention engaging portions are provided on the slit grooves and the blades. Thus, the tire vulcanization forming mold is capable of enabling the blades to be replaced easily with respect to the segment molds. |
| US08215938B2 |
Tire forming mold
A tire forming mold is disclosed in which letters and lines having different colors are formed in a side wall portion of the tire. |
| US08215936B2 |
Screw compressor
In screw compressors for extremely high discharge pressures, the geometrical centers of all coaxial holes or housing bores are all located in one single housing section on the male rotor side at a certain first straight line and the geometrical centers of all coaxial holes or housing bores are all located in one single housing section on the female rotor side at a certain second straight line. The diameter of all coaxial holes in the housing on the male rotor side, and the diameters of all coaxial holes in the housing on the female rotor side, decrease from the open to the closed end of the housing section. Based on this construction, the bearings and the components adjacent to the bearings are guided at their periphery in one single housing section so that there will be no coaxial deviations caused by assembly and no coaxial deviations in long term operation. |
| US08215934B2 |
Pneumatic vane motor with improved sealing
A pneumatic vane motor includes a stator with a cylinder, an inlet connectable to a pressure air source and an outlet connectable to an exhaust passage, a rotor journalled in the stator, and an output shaft. The stator has a front opening forming a clearance seal relative to the output shaft and an annular front cover with at least one elastic annular seal element encircling the output shaft at a distance from the clearance seal, wherein a low pressure chamber is formed between the clearance seal and the seal element or elements and communicates with the exhaust passage. |
| US08215933B2 |
Scroll compressor and refrigerating machine having the same
A scroll compressor and a refrigerating machine including the same are provided. In the scroll compressor, an oil supply hole formed in an orbiting scroll guides oil from a space between a frame and the orbiting scroll to a space between a fixed scroll and the orbiting scroll, and an oil supply groove formed at the fixed scroll maintains communication with the oil supply hole, thereby rapidly supplying oil to a bearing surface between the fixed scroll and the orbiting scroll before the oil is introduced into a back pressure chamber. This enhances compressor efficiency by effectively preventing frictional losses and refrigerant leakage in such a compressor, and enhances energy efficiency for a refrigerating machine using such a compressor. |
| US08215927B2 |
Fluid pressure pump unit
The present invention provides a technology for downsizing fluid pressure equipment including a fluid pressure pump and a radiator. The hydraulic pump unit 3 includes: a hydraulic pump 4; a motor 5 which drives the hydraulic pump 4; a cooling fan 7 which is connected to an output shaft 5a of the motor 5 and generates a flow of cooling air 6 to cool the motor 5; and a radiator 8 which receives heat from the hydraulic oil. The motor 5 and the radiator 8 are overlapped with the cooling fan 7, when viewed from the axial direction of the output shaft 5a of the motor 5. |
| US08215923B2 |
Clutch control system and method for operating a clutch control system
A system includes a compressor, a control unite and a clutch assigned to the compressor. The control unit is suitable for opening and closing the clutch in order to economize energy. The control unit is suitable for carrying out a monitoring routine during which the clutch is opened or closed in order to prevent the clutch, the compressor and the components arranged downstream of the compressor from being damaged. A method for controlling the system, including the compressor, the control unit and the clutch associated with the compressor, is also provided. |
| US08215920B2 |
Ceiling fan
A ceiling fan comprising bracket components which are easily and conveniently attachable in a suitable position by one person thru simple operation and adjustment of mechanical parts. Attachment components are removably secured to a ceiling plate connected to a house circuit in an initial room then capable of easy removal therefrom and attachable to a ceiling plate installed in another room. A fan circuit is connectable to a house circuit by simple plug members and fan unit is quickly positionable into a secure position by position against and rotation of cooperable components with ceiling plate. |
| US08215912B2 |
Wind turbine generator
There is provided a wind turbine generator that includes an improved grease supply and discharge system of lubricant oil used in a blade rotating ring bearing of a wind turbine blade, and can reliably recover discharged grease. The wind turbine generator includes a pitch control mechanism that can adjust a pitch angle of the wind turbine blade via the blade rotating ring bearing provided between the wind turbine blade and a rotor head, a grease supply and discharge device is provided in the rotor head, and the grease supply and discharge device includes a grease supply device that pumps lubricant oil in a supplied grease tank with a grease supply pump and supplies the lubricant oil to the blade rotating ring bearing, and a grease discharge device that forcibly sucks and recovers the discharged grease from the blade rotating ring bearing. |
| US08215911B2 |
Wind power plant with lightning protection arrangement
A wind power plant (1) having a lightning protection arrangement comprises a plurality of blades (2) extending radially outwards from a hub (3) and together with said hub forming the rotor. An electrically conductive lightning protection means (4) is arranged between two adjacent blades (2). |
| US08215910B2 |
Aircraft turbomachine fan comprising a balancing flange concealed by the inlet cone
An aircraft turbomachine fan is disclosed. The fan includes a turbomachine inlet cone that has an exterior surface intended to be closely followed by a flow section of the turbomachine, and an annular balancing flange that rotates as one with a fan disk about an axis of rotation and is equipped with a plurality of weight-fixing holes. The fan also includes one or more balancing weights mounted fixedly on the annular balancing flange. The annular balancing flange is positioned inside the inlet cone in such a way that its weight-fixing holes are isolated from the flow section. The flange is produced as a single piece with a fan blade retaining ring. |
| US08215907B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling acoustic emissions of a wind turbine
A method and an apparatus for monitoring an acoustic emission of a wind turbine that includes a rotor blade. The apparatus includes at least one sensor operatively coupled to the wind turbine. The sensor is configured to detect an atmospheric condition. A control system is communicatively coupled to the sensor, and configured to control operation of the wind turbine to adjust the acoustic emission of the wind turbine based on the atmospheric condition. |
| US08215896B2 |
Apparatus and method for operation of an off-shore wind turbine
A method for operating an off-shore wind turbine and a wind-turbine is provided. The off-shore wind turbine is at least temporarily situated in water and includes a rotor with at least one rotor blade and a pitch drive system coupled to the at least one rotor blade. The pitch drive system is adapted for pitching the at least one rotor blade, wherein the wind turbine further includes a wind turbine control. The method includes determining at least one of a water condition; in dependence of the outcome of the determining, defining peak shaver settings; and pitching the at least one rotor blade according to the peak shaver settings. Furthermore, the wind turbine has a sensor adapted for measuring one of the water current-speed, the water current direction and the water level at or close to the wind turbine. |
| US08215895B2 |
Vapor phase lubrication system
Embodiments of the present invention include a method and system for carrying out vapor-phase lubrication of a component, such as a bearing for example. The method and apparatus can be applied to a turbine engine. The method includes the step of directing a first stream of fluid containing atomized lubricant to the component at a first velocity. The system provides a first fluid injection system configured to perform the first step. The method also includes the step of directing a second stream of fluid at a second velocity less than the first velocity to the component. The second stream is for controlling a temperature of the component. The system provides a second fluid injection system configured to perform the second step. Both of the directing steps are carried out concurrently. |
| US08215893B2 |
Motorcycle lift device
The present invention relates to a motorized device that can be operated by one person to load and unload a motorcycle onto and off of a truck bed or similar cargo area of a motor vehicle or trailer. The device taught herein may be employed to lift a motorcycle to the level of the truck bed then moved within the bed for transport and storage. |
| US08215890B2 |
Semiconductor wafer robot alignment system and method
A method and system for aligning robotic wafer transfer systems provides a wafer cassette having one or more wafer slots having portions covered with an electrically conductive material and a sensor that is in electrical communication with the electrically conductive material. When a wafer is loaded into a wafer cassette such as may be contained within a wafer transfer module such as a FOUP, an indication of position is delivered to the sensor which detects the alignment and indicates if the loaded wafer undesirably contacts either or both of the opposed grooves that form the wafer slot of the wafer cassette. An indication of the wafer's position may be provided from the sensor to a controller that delivers a signal for aligning the wafer transfer blade of the wafer transfer robot responsive to the signal indicative of position. |
| US08215889B2 |
System and method for high current recovery cursor
A high current cursor comprises a outer frame in which a center carriage travels. The center carriage travels between the top and bottom of the outer frame. Movement of the center carriage is limited within the outer frame constraints and its own locking mechanism. Center carriage carries a bend restrictor for an umbilical or lift line. When the center carriage travels down to a predetermined position within the high current cursor, equipment is allowed to exit the high current cursor or is retrieved back into the high current cursor when the bend restrictor reaches a predetermined position within the outer frame, e.g. at its lowest point, allowing dispersal and/or retrieval without obstruction back to a fixed recovery point. |
| US08215887B2 |
Pipe-handling apparatus and methods
A pipe-handling apparatus adapted to move pipe to and from a drilling floor of a drilling rig including a ramp extendable between a main support structure and the drilling floor, a pipe carrier mounted on the main support structure configured to move between lower and elevated positions over the ramp, a lift arm including a first end and a second end and being pivotally connected at its first end adjacent the far end of the carrier and operable below the carrier to lift and support the carrier's far end to an elevated position, a track on the main support structure for supporting the carrier and the lift arm, and a drive system that pivots or moves the lift arm up about a track stop to lift the far end of the carrier and moves the near end up and over the ramp. |
| US08215886B2 |
Coupler bolt termination system
A termination system which attaches a conventional threaded rod or bolt to a cable. An anchor is attached to an end of a cable using known techniques—such as potting. A threaded rod or bolt is placed on the anchor, pointing away from the direction of the cable. The rod or bolt is mechanically attached to the anchor using several different techniques. The result is an anchor assembly including a threaded protruding shaft. Because the assembly uses an inexpensive prior art rod or bolt, the machining operations are confined to small components needing relatively little material removal. |
| US08215883B2 |
Method for machining crankshaft, apparatus for machining crankshaft, control apparatus and program
To increase precision in straightness on a journal thrust surface relative to an outer peripheral surface of a journal in a crankshaft, a control system is provided for controlling movement of a cutter in axial directions by running a control program transferred from an automatic programming apparatus. The automatic programming apparatus corrects machining data on the basis of data for correcting the straightness gained through a comparison between results of a measurement of machining dimensions of the journal thrust surface in the workpiece on which a cutting process has been carried out and target machining dimensions for the journal thrust surface. A control program is prepared on the basis of the corrected machining data after correction of the machining data. |
| US08215882B2 |
Helical multilevel cutting tool
A helical multilevel cutting tool has high heat emission efficiency, great strength and excellent durability, and can be positioned easily during drilling operation. The cutting tool includes a cutter shank and a cutter head which are integrally formed, wherein the cutter head is provided with several helical pieces integrally, each helical piece has a cutting blade thereon, a heat emission platform is formed along the cutting blade, a second cutting blade which faces forwardly as viewed in the direction of the cutting operation is formed in front of the heat emission platform, and a cutting blade outer surface is formed between the heat emission platform front surface and the second cutting blade. An outer front cutting blade is formed on the top surface of the cutter head at a position where the blade meets the heat emission platform front surface, and a front cutting blade is formed between the second cutting blade and the center of the cutter head top surface. |
| US08215881B2 |
Rotary cutting tool and method for manufacturing such a rotary cutting tool
A rotary cutting tool is provided which is less likely to cause chips to get stuck, and which can be manufactured at a low cost. The rotary cutting tool includes a body having a relief surface (6) and a rake face (7) which is connected to the relief surface (6). An oxide film (9) is formed on the rake face (7) by oxidizing the surface of the body, and a hard film (8) is formed on the relief surface (6) and the oxide film (9), The hard film (8) is made of a metal carbide, a metal nitride, a metal carbonitride, or a solid solution thereof. |
| US08215874B2 |
Modular foundation designs and methods
Designs and methods for a modular foundation provide a strong and secure foundation in a time efficient and cost efficient manner. The modular foundation can include a cap structure having one or more pile guides coupled together. The modular foundation can further include piles that extend through the pile guides and into the ground. The cap structure and pile guides can be configured to use both vertical and angled piles. A plurality of connectors can connect the cap structure to the piles. The resulting foundation can be used to support various superstructures. |
| US08215870B2 |
Systems and methods for protecting subterranean structures
Systems and methods for protecting a subterranean structure. The method can include, but is not limited to, removing at least a portion of earth disposed above a subterranean structure to provide a foundation; depositing an isolation layer above the subterranean structure; and depositing at least a portion of the removed earth, a fill material or both to at least partially cover the isolation layer. |
| US08215869B2 |
Reinforced soil arch
A reinforced soil arch having an archway form, a combination of alternating and interacting layers of compacted mineral soil and geosynthetic reinforcement material placed over and adjacent to the archway form, and a plurality of shear resisting devices secured to the exterior surface of the archway form. The shear resisting devices cause the archway form and the combination of alternating layers of compacted mineral soil and geosynthetic reinforcement material to act as an integral unit when static or dynamic loads are placed on the reinforced soil arch. Methods for constructing a reinforced soil arch are provided. |
| US08215865B2 |
Anti-ram system and method of installation
An anti-ram system and method of construction having a shallow mounted base pad from which extend a plurality of bollards. Very little or only a shallow excavation is required for the base of the bollard system, which can be partially or fully assembled prior to bringing it to the installation site. The shallow mounting pad or base of the bollard system of this invention may be formed or constructed in various ways and of various materials, and in various configurations. The shallow mounting pad or base is constructed so as to have considerable mass. |
| US08215863B2 |
Connector for stick
A locking mechanism includes a support rod, inserted into a first unit shaft at a first end thereof and locked to a second unit shaft at a second end thereof, with threads formed around the outer circumferential surface thereof; and a pressure locking unit movably engaged with the threads of the support rod and having longitudinal slits formed to open in one direction and at least two pressure parts formed in a longitudinal direction. The locking pressure of the pressure locking unit is imposed on the unit shafts at multiple longitudinally spaced points, thus dispersing or distributing the locking strength in the longitudinal direction and increasing both the locking strength and the resistance against both longitudinal compressive force and longitudinal tensile force, thereby preventing the locked unit shafts from suddenly slipping towards each other. |
| US08215860B2 |
Cosmetic storage type applicator
In the cosmetic storage type applicator having a structure for supplying a cosmetic to an applying part from the interior of a barrel cylinder, a cap removably attached to the front part of the barrel cylinder for covering the applying part and plastic mouthpiece is provided; an inner sleeve having a tapered inside diameter toward the front end is arranged inside the body of cap and integrally formed with the cap body; and the inner peripheral surfaces and from the inner sleeve to the cap body are formed with a smooth surface without any step. |
| US08215859B2 |
Dispensing applicator for fluids
A hand-held dispensing applicator comprising a source of fluid, a frangible applicator tip attached to the fluid source, and an absorbent member attached to the frangible applicator tip. When the frangible applicator tip is broken, fluid flows from the source to the absorbent member, whereby the fluid is applied and spread on a surface. Preferably, the frangible applicator tip comprises a support element permanently connected to the fluid source, a relatively rigid tongue element extending outwardly of the support element, and a frangible region therebetween. Preferably, the tongue element comprises ribs for reinforcing the tongue element to resist unintentional breaking of the frangible region. More preferably, the applicator tip comprises a semi-permeable or non-permeable cover disposed around the frangible region to control the speed and direction of the dispersion of the fluid in the absorbent member. Adaptive embodiments allow the generation of designs applicable to a particular medical purpose. |
| US08215858B2 |
Toggling cosmetic lacquer dispenser and delivery
A toggling dispenser is disclosed with a reservoir capable of containing substances and an integrally placed applicator which, at the user's election, enters and exits the dispenser by shifting or shaking the dispenser. While inside the dispenser, an amount of contained substance collects on the applicator so that when the applicator exits the enclosure, the collected substance may be delivered to a target via contact with the applicator. |
| US08215854B2 |
Printer cartridge, cartridge installation detection method and printer apparatus
A cartridge detachably attached to a printer apparatus includes a casing, an ink ribbon provided in the casing, a supply spool provided in the casing for supplying the ink ribbon, and a take-up spool provided in the casing for retrieving the ink ribbon. The printer apparatus includes a locking member rotatably supported on the printer apparatus and locking the cartridge to the printer apparatus, a detection device for detecting an installation of the cartridge by detecting a locked state of the locking member, a locking portion for locking the locking member when the cartridge is installed in the printer apparatus, and a guide forcefully and rotatingly displacing the locking member from a locking position when the cartridge is pulled out from the printer apparatus. |
| US08215852B2 |
Printing control method and apparatus
This invention relates to a printing control method and apparatus, a computer program product, and the like in which printing data is held in a hierarchical structure and a printing job is issued to a printer to cause the printer to print. In the printing control method according to the present invention, different setting values can be set in the lower and upper layers of the hierarchical structure as printing setting data containing double-sided printing or single-sided printing setting. When a setting value different from that of the upper layer is set in the lower layer of the hierarchical structure, the printer is instructed on a setting in the lower layer for each printing data to which the setting value is applied. |
| US08215847B2 |
Communications connectors and methods of using the same
Communications connectors communicatively and physically join a plurality of network elements. Communications connectors are substantially flangeless so as to provide a substantially continuous surface between the connector and network elements joined thereto. Communications connectors may include or be modified with a grounding surface or a seating member. Communications connectors include a variety of communicative contact surfaces and joining mechanisms, including those compatible with known 7/16 DIN connections. Methods include installing network elements to connection interfaces on connectors without the use of a flange or other exterior part. Methods optionally include applying an adhesive to connection interfaces to provide a breakable, locked connection between network elements and connectors. |
| US08215846B2 |
Wheel support bearing assembly
A wheel support bearing assembly includes an outer member (1), which serves as a stationary member and has an inner periphery formed with a plurality of rows of raceway surfaces (3), an inner member (2), which serves as a rotatable member and has an outer periphery formed with respective raceway surfaces (4) opposed to the previously described raceway surfaces (3), and a plurality of rows of rolling elements (5) interposed between the respective opposed raceway surfaces (3, 4). The outer member (1) is thermally refined by means of a quenching and a high temperature tempering process so that a layer of at least 2 mm in depth from a surface of the outer member is rendered to have a micro-pearlite structure. |
| US08215845B2 |
Tandem stack angular contact bearing for rotary wing aircraft
A tandem set of angular contact ball bearings each having an inner ring, an outer ring and balls therebetween, wherein each bearing contains balls that are spaced from each other by slug ball separators. A rotary wing aircraft rotor head assembly includes a rotor head member, a plurality of spindles attached to the head member at equal interval around the center of the head member, and a stack of ball bearings mounted on each spindle. Each bearing has an inner ring, an outer ring, and a plurality of balls between the inner ring and the outer ring, and slug ball separators between adjacent balls, and there is a mounting collar on the ball bearings. |
| US08215843B2 |
Fluid dynamic bearing device
A fluid dynamic bearing device includes a bearing sleeve including a radial bearing surface, a shaft member to be inserted to an inner circumference of the bearing member, and a radial bearing part for non-contact supporting the shaft member in a radial direction by a dynamic pressure action of a fluid generated in a radial bearing gap between the radial bearing surface of the bearing member and an outer circumferential surface of the shaft member. Additionally, a plurality of bearing sleeves are axially arranged, and each bearing sleeve is formed having different axial length with respect to one another. |
| US08215842B2 |
Dynamic fluid pressure bearing, spindle motor, disk drive apparatus and method for manufacturing the dynamic fluid pressure bearing
A fluid dynamic pressure bearing includes a shaft arranged along a central axis, an annular member fixed to the shaft, a sleeve, a lubricant, and a lubricating film. A stepped surface is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the shaft. The annular member preferably includes a lower surface extending radially with respect to the central axis and arranged to make contact with the stepped surface in the inner edge portion of the lower surface. The sleeve preferably includes an upper surface axially opposed to the lower surface of the annular member. The lubricant is provided between the shaft and the sleeve and between the annular member and the sleeve. The lubricating film is provided on the lower surface of the annular member at least over a region lying radially outwardly of the inner edge portion of the lower surface. |
| US08215840B2 |
Self-lubricating mechanism of slide member
A self-lubricating mechanism of slide member, including a slide assembly and a lubricating section. The slide assembly has a linear guide section, a slider linearly slidably mounted on the guide section and reciprocally movable between a first position and a second position and at least one rolling section positioned in a space defined between the slider and the guide section. The lubricating section has a main body fixedly disposed on one side of the slider. The main body is formed with an internal oil reservoir and at least one passage in communication with the oil reservoir. The passage has an opening formed on a first side of the main body in communication with the space. A push body is retractably disposed on the main body. A stopper body is fixed in a position adjacent to the first position for retracting the push body to drive the oil into the space. |
| US08215839B2 |
Multistep occluding zipper with sealing features
A closure device for a thermoplastic bag which includes two opposing, longitudinally extending interlockable male and female fastening strips having respective male and female closure elements or profiles with outside wings that are deformed when the closure device is fully occluded. |
| US08215833B2 |
Diagnostic apparatus for vehicle cooling system
When the driving wind and the cooling wind are generated, based on the phenomenon in which the temperature difference is generated between the front surface and the rear surface of the radiator (14), the temperature difference between the detection value of the rear temperature sensor (22) and the detection value of the front temperature sensor (21) is compared with the abnormality determination value so that it is determined whether the front temperature sensor (21) and the rear temperature sensor (22) are properly fixed on the radiator (14), whereby it is determined whether the abnormality (unauthorized alteration) exists. By setting the abnormality determination value according to the ambient temperature and the vehicle speed, corresponding to a variation in temperature difference between the front surface and the rear surface of the radiator (14), the abnormality determination value is varied to be set at a proper value. |
| US08215830B2 |
Apparatus and method for measuring local surface temperature of semiconductor device
An apparatus and method is described for measuring a local surface temperature of a semiconductor device under stress. The apparatus includes a substrate, and a reference MOSFET. The reference MOSFET may be disposed closely adjacent to the semiconductor device under stress. A local surface temperature of the semiconductor device under stress may be measured using the reference MOSFET, which is not under stress. The local surface temperature of the semiconductor device under stress may be determined as a function of drain current values of the reference MOSFET measured before applying stress to the semiconductor device and while the semiconductor device is under stress. |
| US08215828B2 |
Breguet overcoil balance spring made of micro-machinable material
The invention relates to a Breguet overcoil balance spring (1) that includes a hairspring (3) mounted in a single part, made of micro-machinable material, and coaxially with a collet (5). According to the invention, the balance spring has a terminal curve (7) made of micro-machinable material and an elevation device (9) made of micro-machinable material between the outer coil (15) of the hairspring and the terminal curve to improve the concentric development of the balance spring. The invention also relates to the method of manufacturing the balance spring. The invention concerns the field of timepiece making. |
| US08215827B2 |
Chronograph timepiece
When it is judged that a chronograph second counter and a chronograph minute counter have measured a maximum measurement time, a maximum measurement control unit controls a drive pulse generation circuit so as to drive and stop a motor such that chronograph hand stops at predetermined positions. When, in this state, a restarting operation is performed on a start/stop button, a normal chronograph measurement operation is restarted. At this time, a mechanical structure has been restored to a reset state, so that even at the time of restarting after the measurement of the maximum measurement time, the load at the starting operation is the same as that of the normal operation, thus generating no sense of incongruity. |
| US08215822B2 |
Ultrasonic treatment chamber for preparing antimicrobial formulations
An ultrasonic mixing system having a treatment chamber in which antimicrobial agents, particularly, hydrophobic antimicrobial agents, can be mixed with one or more formulations is disclosed. Specifically, the treatment chamber has an elongate housing through which a formulation and antimicrobial agents flow longitudinally from a first inlet port and a second inlet port to an outlet port thereof. An elongate ultrasonic waveguide assembly extends within the housing and is operable at a predetermined ultrasonic frequency to ultrasonically energize the formulation and antimicrobial agents within the housing. An elongate ultrasonic horn of the waveguide assembly is disposed at least in part intermediate the inlet and outlet ports, and has a plurality of discrete agitating members in contact with and extending transversely outward from the horn intermediate the inlet and outlet ports in longitudinally spaced relationship with each other. The horn and agitating members are constructed and arranged for dynamic motion of the agitating members relative to the horn at the predetermined frequency and to operate in an ultrasonic cavitation mode of the agitating members corresponding to the predetermined frequency and the formulation and antimicrobial agents being mixed in the chamber. |
| US08215820B2 |
LED night-light
An LED night-light includes a housing with a threaded, cylindrical opening having an interior surface adapted to receive a threaded end of a light bulb. First and second prongs are supported in parallel by the housing. The prongs have interior ends extending into an interior of the housing and exterior ends extending out of the housing such that the exterior ends are configured to engage an electrical outlet. A disk is received in and supported by a groove in the interior surface. A light-emitting diode (LED) is mounted on the disk. The night-light further includes a circuit board including an LED driver circuit electrically connected to the LED. The driver circuit energizes the LED when the first and second prongs are plugged into an electrical outlet connected to a power source. |
| US08215819B2 |
Clip and backlight assembly
A clip provided by the present invention includes an insert portion that is inserted into an insertion hole formed in a flat-shaped chassis and that engages with the chassis, and a collar portion that is formed in a flat shape around the circumference of the insert portion. When the insert portion is inserted into the insertion hole, the collar portion and the chassis clamp at least one light emitting board that is positioned in contact with the chassis, and the thickness of the collar portion is set to be equal to or less than an amount of protrusion of a light emitting portion formed protrudingly from the light emitting board. |
| US08215818B2 |
LED light box with photodetector control
A box includes a lightguide in the form of a thin plate having two opposed main faces and at least two edges, the lightguide having a light-diffusing optical structure on one of the faces. Light-emitting diodes are placed linearly along at least one of the edges of the lightguide, the light emitted by the light-emitting diodes illuminates the lightguide via the edge, and is being diffused by that face of the lightguide having the optical structure. The light emitting diodes placed along each of the edges of the lightguide are organized in at least two rows and in such a way that a light-emitting diode in one row supplied by an electric power supply is immediately followed by a light-emitting diode in the other row supplied by another electric power supply. |
| US08215814B2 |
Solid state optical illumination apparatus
An optical system having a solid state light source, such as an LED of any spectrum, includes a lens that provides an output illumination pattern of uniform distribution over a remote and larger target. The lens does not have an axis of revolution. The lens has a generally non-circular outer shape in cross section and on top views, where the outer optical surfaces are angled one relative to another. The lens includes refractive and reflective active optical surfaces to split, direct and shape the incoming beam from the light source towards the target in the form of several angled beams of prescribed energies calculated as a function of the shape of the target and distance to the target. The lens has an inner primary and partially open optical cavity of a polygonal cross section facing the light source. This optical cavity has a number of refractive optical surfaces whose shape and number is determined by the number of and shape of the illumination beams generated in conjunction with the other surfaces of the lens. This novel optical system may include an array of white LEDs that generate the input illumination to an array of these lenses to insure the proper illumination level and uniformity at particular remote targets. |
| US08215811B2 |
Lighted exterior rearview mirror system
A lighted exterior rearview mirror system includes an exterior rearview mirror assembly including a reflective element and an electrically-operable actuator. The exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a breakaway joint assembly. The reflective element has an electrically powered heater operable to remove ice or dew from the reflective element. The exterior rearview mirror assembly includes a turn signal indicator lamp that has a light source. The lamp is included in the exterior rearview mirror assembly and unaffected by operation of the actuator. The breakaway joint assembly includes a wire-way through which a wire cable passes. The wire cable includes wires for operating the actuator, the heater and the lamp. The light source includes at least one light emitting diode. |
| US08215810B2 |
Interior components having illumination features
An interior component having an illuminated portion comprises a trim cover positioned over a substrate. At least one light conductive element is in communication with an illumination source. A carrier engages the trim cover. The carrier further secures the light conductive element to the trim cover. The carrier has a plurality of windows formed therethrough such that the light conductive element is visible through the plurality of windows. The illuminated portion may further include an emblem in communication with the light source. The illuminated interior component may be formed by a method that includes the steps of forming a light conductive element that includes extruding an optical guide and a carrier having a mounting tab thereon. |
| US08215806B2 |
Cooling device for lamp with power light emitting diode
The present invention refers to a cooling device for lamp with power light emitting diode comprising of a number of cooling water containers containing a circulating pump and a temperature sensor installed to a particular body with lighting installed. Cooling water incoming pipe and extruding pipe connected to the cooling water container above are connected to a cooling water circulation passage of power light emitting diode, so that cooling water flows in circulation within the circulation passage. When the temperature of the circulating cooling water rises to a certain point, the circulation of the particular cooling water container stops operating, and another cooling water container is operated to keep the thermal power light emitting diode at room temperature, so that the durability of the power light emitting diode is lengthened, and maximizes the cooling effectiveness and power-saving. |
| US08215803B2 |
Cover sleeve for CFL bulb
A one-piece translucent but not transparent flexible plastic cover sleeve has a generally bulbous body and a downwardly extending neck that terminates at a bottom edge, and the neck has upwardly extending slits that terminate in respective orifices, so that the neck resiliently outwardly extends over a CFL bulb and then flexes inwardly to frictionally engage the CFL base. The cover sleeve substantially covers or hides the CFL bulb illumination, and provides a different illumination effect from the illuminated CFL bulb. |
| US08215801B2 |
Lighting apparatus
Disclosed is a lighting apparatus. The lighting apparatus includes: a first and a second light emitting diode (LED) module including a plurality of LEDs disposed on one side of a substrate respectively; a heat radiating body which radiates heat from the plurality of the LEDs, includes a space for housing the first and the second LED modules, and includes an opening allowing light emitted from the plurality of the LEDs of the first and the second LED modules to be emitted; and, a reflector being disposed on the heat radiating body and reflecting the light emitted from the plurality of the LEDs of the first and the second LED modules to the opening. |
| US08215800B2 |
Semiconductor radiation source
The invention relates to a semiconductor radiation source comprising a base body which is connected to at least one LED chip thermally connected to an end side of the base body and a pliable flexible printed circuit board fitted on the same end side of the base body. The flexible printed circuit board at least partly surrounds the LED chip, has at least one printed-on conductor track (20) electrically connected to the LED chip and, in the peripheral region of the base body, has an angled-away section (27) extending at least partly along a side wall of the base body. At least one part of the section of the flexible printed circuit board (14) extends at least partly in an in particular lateral cutout (34) into the base body (12). |
| US08215797B2 |
Input/output device for display apparatus
An input/output device used for connecting at least one external wire with a display apparatus, comprises a case, at least one I/O connector, a flip cover, and a lighting device. The case embedded in the case of the display apparatus has a wiring slot to provide the wire passing through the case. The I/O connectors embedded on the case are electrically connected to the display apparatus. The flip cover is pivoted on the case. The lighting device having a light source and a switch is associated with the flip cover to turn on or turn off the light source. |
| US08215784B2 |
Backlight device
A backlight device includes a chassis which is box in shape and having a bottom part and four side walls, a light source arranged on the bottom part of the chassis, a diffuser panel supported by a top end surface of each of the side walls of the chassis, and an optical sheet arranged on the diffuser panel, wherein the top end surface of each of the side walls is downward sloping so that height becomes continuously low toward inside the chassis. |
| US08215782B2 |
Moving head light
The present invention discloses a moving head light included a light source group having a plurality of light sources, a reflector group slantwise arranged at a circumference of the light source group, and a rotary drive device for driving the reflector group to rotate relative to the light source group. Each reflector corresponds to each light source one by one, and the reflector group includes a plurality of reflectors. The reflectors are rotated around the light sources, so that the lights sent out from the light sources are projected to the space after being reflected by the reflectors, and the faculae are divided into two from one and jointed into one from two. Accordingly, the stage rendering effect is better and a sort of fantasy feel is produced for persons. |
| US08215778B2 |
Projector apparatus
The invention provides a projector apparatus incorporating a prism optical system of positive refracting power working for size reductions, which apparatus comprises a display device 1, a prism optical system 3 that has positive refracting power and is adapted to enlarge and project an image on the display device, and a stop 4 located on a projection side thereof. The prism optical system 3 comprises an internal reflecting surface 12 concave on the image display plane 2 side, a combined optical surface 11 to transmit a light beam from the image display plane 2 and reflect a light beam reflected off at the internal reflecting surface 12, and an exit surface 13 through which a light beam entering the prism optical system 3 leaves. A light beam coming out of the image display plane 2 enters the prism optical system 3 from the combined optical surface 11, is then reflected off at the internal reflecting surface 12, and then leaves the exit surface 13, arriving at an image 5 to be projected through the stop 5. This light beam satisfies a specific condition in terms of a length fB, as calculated on an air basis, from the combined optical surface 11 of the prism optical system 3 to the image display plane 2. |
| US08215775B2 |
Method for analyzing tear film thermograph of contactless tear film thermal imager
A method for analyzing tear film thermograph of contactless tear film thermal imager has steps of sequentially loading multiple thermographs of a tear film, recording a maximum and a minimum of temperatures for a region of interest of each one of the thermographs, dividing the thermograph into at least one temperature zone in accordance with the maximum and minimum temperatures recorded in the last step, and recording a size, a location and a bordering temperature of each one of the at least one temperature zone, analyzing a pattern and temperature variation of each one of the at least one temperature zone, and classifying stability of the tear film. The patterns of the temperature zones can be identified through circularity computation, mosaic and temperature gradient analysis. Accordingly, tear film break up patterns can be classified with the method to facilitate doctors to diagnose a dry eye patient. |
| US08215774B2 |
Ocular surface interferometry (OSI) devices and systems for imaging and measuring ocular tear film layer thickness(es)
Ocular surface interferometry (OSI) devices, systems, and methods are disclosed for measuring a tear film layer thickness (TFLT) of the ocular tear film, including lipid layer thickness (LLT) and/or aqueous layer thickness (ALT). The measured TFLT can be used to diagnosis dry eye syndrome (DES). In certain disclosed embodiments, a multi-wavelength light source can be controlled to illuminate the ocular tear film. Light emitted from the multi-wavelength light source undergoes optical wave interference interactions in the tear film. An imaging device can be focused on the lipid layer of the tear film to capture optical wave interference interactions of specularly reflected light from the tear film combined with a background signal(s) in a first image. The imaging device can also be focused on the lipid layer of the tear film to capture a second image containing the background signal(s) present in the first image. The second image can be subtracted from the first image to reduce and/or eliminate the background signal(s) in the first image to produce a resulting image. The resulting image can be processed and analyzed to measure a tear film layer thickness (TFLT), including lipid layer thickness (LLT) and/or aqueous layer thickness (ALT). |
| US08215766B2 |
Optical article and method for producing the same
A method for producing an optical article. A first layer that is light-transmissive is formed on an optical substrate directly or with an additional layer in between. A silicide material, light-transmissive thin film is formed on the surface of the first layer. |
| US08215764B2 |
Ink jet recording method and record
An ink jet recording method for recording an image having a metallic luster on a recording medium with an ink jet recording apparatus includes forming an underlayer on the recording medium by applying droplets of a first ink composition containing a first thermoplastic resin to the recording medium and also includes forming a metallic luster layer on the underlayer by applying droplets of a second ink composition containing a metal pigment and a second thermoplastic resin to the underlayer. The glass transition temperature of the first thermoplastic resin is lower than or equal to the glass transition temperature of the second thermoplastic resin. The underlayer is formed at a temperature higher than the glass transition temperature of the first thermoplastic resin. |
| US08215762B2 |
Recording apparatus that forms ink receiving layer(s) on an intermediate transfer body and recording method thereof
There is provided a recording apparatus including: an intermediate transfer body; a forming unit that forms an ink receiving layer on the intermediate transfer body, the ink receiving layer including a first solution layer containing a curable material that cures when irradiated with ultraviolet radiation, and a second solution layer, on the first solution layer, containing a curable material that cures when irradiated with ultraviolet radiation, and a liquid absorbing component, and in the case in which the first solution layer contains a liquid absorbing component, the content of the liquid absorbing component in the second solution layer being larger than the content of the liquid absorbing component in the first solution layer; an ink supplying unit that supplies ink droplets onto the ink receiving layer; a transferring unit that transfers the ink receiving layer from the intermediate transfer body to a recording medium; and an ultraviolet irradiation unit that irradiates the recording medium with ultraviolet radiation. |
| US08215761B2 |
Inkjet printer and printing method using the same
An ink jet printer includes a medium supporter to support a print medium. A print head is configured to eject ink droplets toward the print medium. An ultraviolet light irradiation device is configured to irradiate the print medium with ultraviolet light to cure ink deposited on the print medium. On a carriage, the print head and the ultraviolet light irradiation device are mounted to face the medium supporter. The carriage is reciprocally movable relative to the print medium in a first direction and movable relative to the print medium in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The ultraviolet light irradiation device is arranged on a side in the first direction of the print head. The print head is arranged to project toward an upstream side of a feeding direction in the second direction by a predetermined length relative to the ultraviolet light irradiation device. |
| US08215758B2 |
Damper device, damper unit, liquid jetting apparatus, and method of manufacturing damper device
A damper device includes a storage chamber storing a liquid, and formed: of a substrate; a pair of supporting portions which are arranged to face each other in a predetermined facing direction, which project from the substrate, and peripheral portions of which have shapes substantially same with each other; and a film which is flexible and which has a sheet shape. The film is connected to the peripheral portions of the pair of supporting portions, and the storage chamber is formed as a space having a curved surface defined by the film. Accordingly, there is provided a damper device which is capable of stably exhibiting high damper performance, and in which the layout of channels which are connected to the damper device is simple. |
| US08215753B2 |
Piezoelectric material, method for producing piezoelectric material, piezoelectric device and liquid discharge device
A piezoelectric material of the invention includes a perovskite oxide (P) (which may contain inevitable impurities) represented by the formula below: Pba(Zrx,Tiy,Mb-x-y)bOc (P) (wherein M represents one or two or more metal elements; wherein 0 |
| US08215750B2 |
Method of manufacturing liquid discharge head
A liquid discharge head includes a member which is provided with a discharge port for discharging a liquid and made of a resin. Here, the member contains a plurality of inorganic particles. In addition, in a surface of the member on which the discharge port is opened, a density of the particles in a circumference of the discharge port is higher than that of the particles in the vicinity thereof. |
| US08215748B2 |
Ink-jet recording device and ink-jet recording method
An ink-jet recording device capable of recording an image with no conspicuous joint line between bands each being formed by multiple horizontal scanning. A band having a width corresponding to a predetermined amount M of movement is formed by (n+1)-times record scanning. The ink-jet recording device has a controller which allows a second group of nozzles to perform recording at the time of the (n+l)+lth horizontal scanning and beyond where the relations L=Mx(n+l)+a and M>a are satisfied, where L is a row length of all the nozzles of a recording head and α is a low length of a second group of nozzles and allocate recording data to each of the nozzles so that the border in the region recorded by the horizontal scanning on the upstream side of the relative vertical scanning direction may be formed within the width of the band formed by the first to (n+l)-th horizontal scanning. |
| US08215744B2 |
Image forming method and image forming apparatus
An inkjet recording apparatus records an image onto a recording medium by using an ink containing a coloring material, and the inkjet recording apparatus has: a first treatment agent deposition device which deposits a first treatment agent having a function of suppressing permeation of liquid into the recording medium, onto the recording medium; a second treatment agent deposition device which deposits a second treatment agent having at least one of a function of aggregating the coloring material contained in the ink and a function of increasing viscosity of the ink, onto the recording medium; an image processing device which converts input image data into dot data; and an ink droplet ejection head which ejects droplets of the ink onto the recording medium in accordance with the dot data. |
| US08215743B2 |
Recording apparatus and non-transitory computer-readable recording medium storing a recording program
A recording apparatus includes a carriage; a first head group including a recording head and disposed on the carriage; and a second head group including a recording head and disposed on the carriage adjacent the first head group in a staggered manner with respect to a sub-scan direction. The carriage is configured to move in a main scan direction in order to record an image on a recording medium. The recording apparatus further includes a forming unit configured to form plural test patterns including a first pattern formed by the recording head of the first head group and a second pattern formed by the recording head of the second head group. The test patterns are spaced apart from one another in the sub-scan direction. The position of the second pattern relative to the first pattern in the sub-scan direction is varied successively from one test pattern to another. |
| US08215742B2 |
Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus includes: a driving unit that drives the transporting unit; a phase detecting unit that detects a phase origin of the transport roller rotating in accordance with the driving of the driving unit and a rotational phase indicating an amount of rotation from the phase origin; a recording unit that performs recording on the sheet transported with the transporting unit; and a control unit that controls the driving unit such that the transport roller rotates within a certain transport range based on a preliminarily set reference phase, forms a first pattern by controlling the recording unit at a first rotation phase at a control start point of the driving unit, forms a second pattern by controlling the recording unit at a second rotation phase at a control end point of the driving unit, and then forms a correction pattern including the first and second patterns. |
| US08215734B2 |
Liquid consuming system, liquid consuming apparatus, liquid supply unit, and method of supervising a remaining amount of liquid contained in a liquid supply unit
A liquid supply unit is detachably installable in a liquid consuming apparatus. The liquid supply unit includes a receptacle containing a liquid; a memory device having a first memory area for storing first liquid information for use in identifying a remaining amount of the liquid contained in the receptacle; a sensor that is used to detect whether the remaining amount of the liquid contained in the receptacle is equal to or less than a prescribed value; and a memory control section that carries out write-prohibition control whereby writing to the first memory area in the memory device is prohibited in response to a write lock command from the liquid consuming apparatus. |
| US08215733B2 |
Process and device for ink quality control
An apparatus and process of controlling ink quality are provided. The process includes providing an imprinted polymer microbalance in an inkjet printer, whereby the microbalance presents an equilibrium setpoint vibratory characteristic when in contact with a setpoint ink containing at least one target compound compatible with the imprinted polymers; placing the microbalance in contact with a supply ink printer; measuring a vibratory characteristic of the microbalance; and issuing a warning when the vibratory characteristic is different from the setpoint characteristic. |
| US08215728B2 |
Storage enclosure
A storage enclosure includes a housing and first and second doors. The housing defines a front opening for permitting access to an interior of the housing. The first door is connected to the first and second side walls and is upwardly pivotable and inwardly slideable from a closed position covering a lower portion of the front opening to an open position uncovering the lower portion of the front opening. The second door is connected to the housing and is upwardly pivotable from a closed position covering an upper portion of the front opening to an open position uncovering the upper portion of the front opening. |
| US08215727B2 |
Carrierless storage system enclosure with ejection mechanism
A carrierless storage system enclosure includes an ejection mechanism to permit installation and removal of data storage devices (e.g., hard disk drives) without tools, carriers, and manual cabling. |
| US08215726B1 |
Apparatus and method for seamless rigid countertop
The method of construction of seamless countertops of the present invention enables the user to advantageously combine cabinet making with metalworking and powder coating to produce novel seamless countertops. The improved countertops are constructed by making a template of the countertop to create a countertop pattern. Discrete metallic sheets are then shaped according to the countertop pattern and joined together by welding to form a metal core. The metal core is then smoothed and powder coated to form a unitary, seamless countertop. |
| US08215723B2 |
Hydraulic braking circuit
In order to prevent a vehicle fitted with braking assistance and trajectory correction devices and having a highly placed center of gravity from overturning in a bend when there is a sudden turn of the steering wheel at the same time as a sudden braking action, a hydraulic braking circuit comprising a hydraulic pump (3) which sucks a fluid contained in a reservoir (3) through a master cylinder (1), is provided with a bladder (10). The bladder, placed between the master cylinder and the hydraulic pump, reduces the duration of flow of the hydraulic fluid to the pump, ensuring a sufficient suction pressure at the entrance of the pump in order to cram the brake and cause the wheel having the most pressure to skid. |
| US08215709B2 |
Vehicle seat having active head restraint system
A vehicle seat assembly having a seatback frame, an upper armature that is movable relative to the seatback frame and a head restraint mounted on the upper armature. A linkage assembly operatively interconnects the upper armature and an impact body such that movement of the impact body relative to the seatback frame acts on the linkage assembly to move the upper armature relative to the seatback frame to cause the head restraint to move toward the occupant. The linkage assembly includes a linkage and a coupler movably connected to the linkage. The coupler includes a first member movably connected to the seatback frame and a second member movably connected to the first member at a location below the upper end of the impact body. |
| US08215708B2 |
Roof construction of a vehicle body
A body of a motor vehicle includes a lateral roof region that has an outer skin, an outer roof frame, and an inner roof frame, wherein the outer roof frame is arranged under the outer skin and the inner roof frame is arranged under the outer roof frame, and the outer skin, the outer roof frame, and the inner roof frame have a common welded flange, by means of which the outer skin and the outer and inner roof frames are connected to one another, and which is configured to receive an adhesive layer for a roof module having a roof module frame. An aspect of the invention is to provide an accident-optimized vehicle body at little expense that prevents a tearing off of the roof module, and is achieved in that the outer roof frame of the body is configured as a locking element for the roof module frame. |
| US08215705B2 |
Shock-absorber assembly and corresponding motor vehicle
A front shock-absorber assembly for a motor vehicle includes, at each of the right-hand and left-hand sides thereof, at least a lower longitudinal structural element (6, 7) and an upper longitudinal structural element (4, 5). The shock-absorber assembly includes a high-energy impact absorption structure (12) which includes an elongate right-hand plate (18) and left-hand plate (19), each plate being fixedly joined to a lower longitudinal element and an upper longitudinal element located at the same side of the vehicle; and a deformable right-hand element (30) and left-hand element (31) for absorbing medium-energy impacts, a rear surface of a deformable element moving into abutment against the majority of a front surface of an associated plate. |
| US08215698B1 |
Adapter plate for a tarp system for a side-dump trailer or truck
A front adapter plate has its upper end mounted on the pivot pin which pivotally secures the rod end of a front hydraulic cylinder of a side-dump body. A front mount is adjustably vertically secured to the front adapter plate and has a pivot pin extending forwardly therefrom. A rear adapter plate has its upper end mounted on the pivot pin which pivotally secures the rod end of a rear hydraulic cylinder of the side-dump body. A rear mount is adjustably vertically secured to the rear adapter plate and has a pivot pin extending rearwardly therefrom. The inner ends of front and rear swing arms of a tarp system are pivotally mounted on the pivot pins of the front and rear mounts respectively. |
| US08215697B1 |
Sunshading apparatus mountable on a rear window of a vehicle
A sunshading apparatus includes a sunshade cloth having top and bottom ends respectively connected to a cross bar and a winding shaft. The cross bar has two opposite end pieces connected respectively to two track rails. The sunshade cloth passes through the passage opening. Two cover units close openably two opposite end portions of a passage opening formed in a rear window shelf of the vehicle. Each cover unit has two cover plates disposed pivotally at two transversely opposed sides of the passage opening and movable toward each other to a closing position that covers the corresponding end piece, or away from each other to an opening position that permits passage of the corresponding end piece. |
| US08215694B2 |
ATV having arrangement for a passenger
An ATV includes a removable passenger seat. The passenger seat is selectively added or removed from the ATV by way of a latch assembly. The passenger seat is supported by a pivot support link and a suspension coupling. The pivot support link and suspension coupling may be positioned rearward of a straddle-type seat for a driver. The entire pivot support link can be attached to the ATV in a dampened manner by way of the suspension coupling. The suspension coupling is comprised of at least one element acting in a linear direction and moving in at least a partially vertical travel component. The positioning of the suspension coupling provides greater vertical clearance, and therefore, maximum vertical stroke. |
| US08215692B2 |
Adjustable length delivery vehicle
A vehicle is constructed of three modules including a front end module having a monocoque one piece body, a tail module having a monocoque one piece body and a power train module adapted for installation under at least one of the front end module and the tail module. The front end module has a trailing edge and the tail module has a leading edge along which the tail module and front end module may be temporarily connected for service use. A power train module is provided adapted for installation under at least one of the front end module and the tail module. An expansion band formed in a monocoque one piece section and having a leading edge and a trailing edge is provided allowing temporary installation between the front end module and the tail module to adjust the length of the vehicle. |
| US08215690B2 |
Pick-up style utility vehicle with expandable cargo bed
A pick-up style utility vehicle including a front seat, a rear seat and a cargo bed in order from the front side to the rear side of the vehicle, and a screen for partitioning the cargo bed and ride space on the front side of the cargo bed. The cargo bed has at least a stationary bottom plate and an expansion bottom plate, and is changeable between an expanded state where the cargo bed is expanded forward into the ride space and a non-expanded state where the cargo bed does not occupy the ride space. Also, the expansion bottom plate is pivotable on a horizontal shaft in the right and left direction relative to the stationary bottom plate and the screen. |
| US08215689B2 |
Modular system and production process for motor vehicles
A modular system is provided for producing motor vehicles having at least first and second vehicle variants that differ from one another by having different space requirements in an accessories compartment that is separated from a luggage compartment by a partition wall. The system has a first partition wall that is secured to a side of an upper crossmember facing the accessories compartment to produce a small accessories compartment on the first vehicle variant. The system also has a second partition wall that is secured to a side of the upper crossmember facing the luggage compartment to produce a large accessories compartment on the second vehicle variant. |
| US08215688B2 |
Vehicle floor console
In one embodiment, a vehicle floor console is provided that includes a support structure and a retaining feature pivotally biased toward the support structure. The retaining feature is configured to secure cargo between the support structure and the retaining feature. |
| US08215686B2 |
Fascia energy absorber, bumper system and process
The present invention provides for various embodiments of a unitary fascia energy absorber including an aesthetic appearance while also providing improved energy management. In one embodiment the fascia energy absorber includes an outer member and an inner member joined together. The inner member has a base including a plurality of crush lobes and at least one of the plurality of crush lobes includes a projected wall spaced a distance from the base and at least one sidewall which extends from the base to the projected wall of the crush lobe. The plurality of crush lobes are spaced apart from one another and separated by a portion of the base. In another embodiment a process for producing a fascia energy absorber includes heating and forming a polymer sheets to form an outer member and heating and forming a second polymer sheet to form an inner member. The inner member and the outer member are then joined to form a fascia energy absorber. |
| US08215685B2 |
Double draw bar spring mechanism
A double slide arm spring mechanism for biasing a primary mechanism to home position after operation and retaining the primary mechanism in the home position pending further operation. The double slide arm spring mechanism includes a pair of slideably interlocking arms each having a longitudinal frame member and a spring engaging flange at each end. The frame members are a disposed to engage one another while permitting relative sliding of the arms. The slide arms are interlocked such that one flange of each arm is situated between the two flanges of the other arm. Two compression springs are retained between the flanges of the arms such that sliding of either arm toward the other necessarily compresses both springs. Potential energy stored in the springs returns the slide to its neutral position when the operator is released thereby also returning the operator to its neutral position. The slide arms produce twice as much force to return operator to it neutral position as would be possible using springs of the same length operated independently. |
| US08215684B2 |
Vehicle stowage assembly having electromagnetic closure
A vehicle stowage assembly is provided that includes a compartment having an opening to allow access to the opening and a door proximate the opening. A ferrous member magnets are disposed on the compartment and the door to magnetically couple the magnets to the ferrous member when the door is in the closed position. A crash sensor is provided for detecting an expected vehicle crash event. An electromagnetic coil electromagnetically is coupled to the ferrous member, wherein the coil is electrically energized by current to create a polarity on the ferrous bar to create an increased force closure to the door relative to the housing when an expected vehicle crash is detected. The coil generates an opposite polarity on the ferrous member to open the door in response to a user actuated input. |
| US08215682B2 |
Unlocking structure and connector holding structure
An unlocking structure including a board element, a locking element, and a guiding element is provided. The board element has a first surface, a second surface, and at least one first opening. The locking element with at least one hook and at least one first elastic arm is disposed on the first surface of the board element. The hook is connected to the first elastic arm and passes through the first opening to protrude from the second surface of the board element. The guiding element is slidingly disposed on the first surface of the board element and is located between the board element and the locking element. The guiding element has at least one guiding inclined plane. The guiding inclined plane is suitable to structurally interfere with the first elastic arm, so as to drive the hook to exit from the second surface towards the first surface. |
| US08215681B2 |
Jewelry loom
A jewelry loom for assisting in jewelry knotting comprising: a base; a knotting bow, where said knotting bow extends vertically from the base; a hook, where the hook extends downwardly from a top end of the bow; and a plurality of advancement knobs along the length of the bow. In the one particular embodiment, the bow extends from the base at an angle. The base may also include a cleat, where the cleat is used as a further mounting piece for the twines during the knotting process. The bow may also include a connecting wedge, where the wedge slides into a receiving slot in the base. |
| US08215678B2 |
Connector for a pipe and bonding means for use therein
A pipe connector having two connector elements each arranged for interconnection and connection to a respective pipe, a retaining member for maintaining interconnection of the connector elements and a ring member arranged for capture by the retaining member and biased into contact with both connector elements of the pipe connector, the ring member being formed as a single piece of electrically conductive material so as to provide electrical bonding directly between the two connector elements of the pipe connector. |
| US08215676B2 |
Marking device for scooter and removable marking cartridge
A scooter having a marking device that is movable from a first position, in which the marking device does not contact the surface on which the scooter is being operated, and a second position, in which the marking device contacts the surface on which the scooter is being operated. The scooter includes a scooter body which rotatably supports the marking assembly. The marking assembly includes a marking portion which creates markings on a riding surface when in frictional contact with the riding surface. The marking assembly also includes a foot actuation portion which is accessible to the user and allows the user to activate the marking assembly while riding. In one arrangement, the marking portion includes a removable cartridge with marking elements that create markings on the riding surface when in frictional contact with the riding surface. |
| US08215674B2 |
Vehicle structure arrangement provided with pressurizable reinforcement element
A vehicle structure arrangement includes a pressurizable reinforcement element that may be arranged interiorly a beam, such as an A-pillar to reinforce the beam. The reinforcement element may be a tubular element having a flexible wall portion, The tubular element may be adapted to be self-stiffened when in a pressurized active state. In the pressurized state, the material and dimension of the tubular element wall portion are adapted to withstand actual stresses along longitudinal direction of the wall portion. The reinforcement element may be activated by a pre-crash unit. |
| US08215671B2 |
Air-bag for a motor vehicle
An air-bag for use in a safety arrangement in a motor vehicle includes a front panel and a rear panel. The two panels are superimposed and attached to one another around their peripheries in order to define an inflatable chamber. The front panel is provided with an aperture within which is secured an additional panel. The additional panel has an area greater than the aperture and is configured so as to define a plurality of adjacent substantially wave-shaped projections which extend forwardly from the front panel when the air-bag is inflated. |
| US08215664B2 |
Vehicle air bag device
A vehicle air bag device may include an air bag having an integrally formed inflator insertion portion 4 into which an inflator 5 for discharging a gas is inserted. A bracket that is formed to attach the inflator to a vehicle body includes an inflator side mounting portion 8 mounted onto an outer side of the inflator insertion portion so as to partially cover the inflator insertion portion partially. A strip-form body 10 is disposed over and attaches the bracket, the inflator insertion portion, and the inflator such that the strip-form body. The strip-form body and the inflation insertion portion are displaced from each other by a step formed by the bracket, thereby forming a gap disposed between the strip-form body and said inflation insertion portion. A seal portion formed on the bracket is sealingly aligned with the strip-form body and seals the gap. |
| US08215663B2 |
Airbag device
The operation efficiency is improved by enabling a gas rectifying member of an airbag device to be easily disposed in a folded airbag. An airbag in a folded state is accommodated around an inflator of an airbag device, and a gas rectifying member (12) for guiding gas is disposed between the airbag and the inflator surrounded by the airbag. The gas rectifying member (12) includes a retained portion (12A) retained, together with the airbag, around the inflator and a free-standing tubular gas-flow guide portion (12B) standing upright from the retained portion (12A), which are formed as a single part from a base fabric. The airbag is folded in a state in which the retained portion (12A) is retained inside the airbag. At this time, the gas-flow guide portion (12B) is less likely to be sandwiched between the airbag, because it is standing in the airbag. |
| US08215662B2 |
System and method for coupling multiple carts
A system for engagement and disengagement of carts to form a train of multiple carts. Each cart has a spring-loaded hitch that is held in a storage position when the carts are disengaged. A lever coupled to the hitch is operated to position the hitch for insertion into a receiver pocket of the next cart. A leading edge of the hitch deflects a spring-loaded lockpin. An angled guide member positions the hitch vertically within the pocket so that the lockpin comes into alignment with an aperture in the hitch. When aligned, the lockpin snaps into place and engages the aperture to lock the carts together. The close tolerance of the hitch within the pocket prevents transverse articulation of adjacent carts. Structures within the hitch and the pocket allow slight rotation in a longitudinal articulation axis about the lockpin and torsional articulation of the hitch within the pocket. |
| US08215659B2 |
Ski
The invention relates to a ski having a ski blade, the ski being configured in layers, the ski blade having at least one material recess, and the ski comprising at least one strap made of a high-strength opaque material, particularly metal, such as aluminum, and at least one strap made of a rigid translucent material, characterized in that the material recess (4) of the ski blade (2) is formed by cutouts of the strap(s) (7, 10) made of a high-strength opaque material, and that the at least one strap (6, 9) made of the rigid translucent material covers the material recess (4). |
| US08215658B2 |
Removable safety chain tie down apparatus
A tie down apparatus that may be utilized for securing an item, such as a safety chain, wherein the tie down apparatus may be used with a hitch mounting system. In one embodiment, the tie down apparatus may include a receiving member, a tie down member, and a clocking member. The receiving member may include an opening located there through. The tie down member may include at least one aperture, wherein the tie down member may be capable of being located and rotated within the receiving member. The tie down member may be rotated either clockwise or counterclockwise. The locking member may include at least one leg capable of being housed within the aperture. The locking member may engage the receiving member once the tie down member is rotated, thereby trapping the item within the tie down apparatus. |
| US08215647B2 |
Journal seal for rolling bearings
A journal seal for rolling bearings, wherein the journal seal includes a ring-shaped sealing body, which is rotatably fixed to a roller journal with the bearing surface coaxially oriented in relation to the bearing axis and with at least two spaced webs facing away from the bearing axis. The webs being directly or indirectly in contact with an annular projection. A reinforcing element for that reinforces the sealing body. The reinforcing element has a width that is greater than the outer distance of the two webs. |
| US08215645B1 |
Floating air seal for a turbo machine
A floating air seal to seal a lower pressure chamber from a higher pressure chamber and allow for both axial and radial shifting of the rotor with respect to the stator while maintaining the sealing capability. The floating seal includes an annular piston that slides within an annular groove formed within the stator in an axial direction with an annular flange secured to it that forms an annular manifold between the piston and the flange. The annular piston includes a plurality of feed holes that open into the annular manifold, and the annular flange includes a plurality of baffle holes that open into the annular manifold but offset from the feed holes so that Helmholtz excitations of the rotor disk do not occur. The baffle holes open into an outer annular groove that forms an air cushion against the rotor disk surface due to the air flow. |
| US08215644B2 |
Shaft sealing device
A shaft sealing device includes a gland having a flange with an axial hole, a coolant inlet, and a coolant outlet. A shaft sleeve is extended through the axial hole and mounted around a rotary shaft. A plurality of flexible elements extend through a plurality of through-holes in a retainer and each include two ends respectively presaging against two friction ring assemblies, allowing joint rotation of the shaft sleeve and the rotary shaft. The retainer further includes a first tangent groove having an inner end in communication with the axial hole and an outer end in communication with the coolant inlet. The retainer further includes a second tangent groove having an inner end in communication with the axial hole and an outer end in communication with the coolant outlet. Each of the first and second tangent grooves has a width decreasing from the inner end toward the outer end. |
| US08215641B2 |
Trading card game including trading card having a selectively unexposed section
A trading card game (10) includes a first card (212) having only one immovable section (234). The game (10) also includes a second card (314) including a first section (352) and a second section (354). The second section (354) can be slidable relative to the first section (352) so that the second card (314) moves between a first position and a second position. In the first position, a portion of the second section (354) is unexposed to the players. In the second position, the portion of the second section (354) is exposed to the players, and influences the outcome of at least a portion of the game (10). |
| US08215637B2 |
Sheet conveying apparatus, image forming apparatus and method of controlling a sheet conveying apparatus
A sheet conveying apparatus has a conveyance portion configured to convey a sheet along a conveyance path; a skew-feed correction member positioned in the conveyance path such that a leading edge of the sheet conveyed by the conveyance portion contacts the skew-feed correction member to correct a skew-feed of the sheet; a receiving portion configured to receive information indicative of the width of the conveyed sheet, the width being in a direction orthogonal to a sheet conveyance direction; and a control portion configured to adjust a skew-correction conveyance amount of the conveyance portion applied to correct the skew-feed of the sheet by the skew-feed correction member. The skew-correction conveyance amount is adjusted on information which the receiving portion receives such that the skew-correction conveyance amount is set to be larger for a sheet of smaller width compared to a sheet of greater width. |
| US08215635B2 |
Manual sheet feeder and image forming apparatus provided with the same
A sheet feeder has a tray on which a sheet to be fed is to be placed. A lift plate is at a feeding end of the tray and has a first end at an upstream side in a feeding direction connected rotatably to the tray. The lift plate is displaceable between a feeding posture where a second end at a downstream side in the feeding direction is lifted up and a retracted posture where the second end is lower than in the feeding posture due to its own weight. A biasing member gives a biasing force to an elevating member in a direction to lift the lift plate to the feeding posture. A lowering mechanism gives a pressing force against the force of the biasing member to lower the lift plate to the retracted posture. |
| US08215632B2 |
Pick roller retraction method in a carriage printer
A method of automatically pivoting a pick arm assembly away from a media support in a printer by providing a printhead carriage with a sloped feature and providing a linking assembly coupled to the pick arm assembly with a ramped feature wherein pivoting the pick arm assembly away from the media support occurs when the printhead carriage travels along the carriage scan path. |
| US08215631B2 |
Pick roller retraction in a carriage printer
An inkjet printing system comprising a media input support and a pivotable pick arm assembly including a pick roller. The assembly is biased to pivot toward the media input support. A rotatable arm is linked to the pivotable pick arm assembly and includes a ramped feature. The printing system further includes a carriage that includes a sloped feature that is in line with the ramped feature of the rotatable arm. When the sloped feature of the carriage is engages with the ramped feature of the rotatable arm the pick arm assembly is pivoted in a direction away from the media input support. |
| US08215624B2 |
Jig pallet
A jig pallet for conveying a workpiece that is placed on it and has a portion to be worked. The jig pallet has a conveyance carriage (A) movable along a production line, a workpiece receiving member (B) provided on the conveyance carriage (A) and on which the workpiece is placed, a pressing mechanism (E) to be placed so as to face a peripheral section of a to-be-worked portion of the workpiece placed on the workpiece receiving member (B), and an opening/closing member (D) on which the pressing mechanism (E) is provided. When the opening/closing member (D) is closed, the pressing mechanism (E) presses a peripheral section of the to-be-worked portion of the workpiece from above, and when being opened, the pressing is released, enabling the opening/closing member (D) to be opened and closed, with one end of the conveyance carriage (A) functioning as the support point, and allowing the workpiece to be taken out. |
| US08215619B2 |
Guardrail assembly, breakaway support post for a guardrail and methods for the assembly and use thereof
A breakaway support post for a guardrail includes an upper post member and a lower post member. The upper and lower post members are overlapping and configured such that the upper and lower post members are non-rotatable relative to each other about an axis extending in an axial impact direction. In one embodiment, a tensile fastener extends in the axial impact direction and connects overlapping portions of the upper and lower post members. In another embodiment, a shear fastener extends transversely to the axial impact direction and is the only connection between the upper and lower post members. In another aspect, a guardrail assembly includes first and second rail sections, with a deforming member deforming the first rail section as it moves relative to the second rail section. Methods of using and assembling a guardrail assembly are also provided. |
| US08215615B2 |
Wedge-formed lifting cushion
The invention relates to a lifting cushion (20) that is wedge-shaped and is formed by a top part (1) and a bottom part (2) with connecting walls (3-33), and which is arranged to be tillable with fluid, e.g., air, gas or liquid. The top part (1) and the bottom part (2) are joined to a common unit (21) in the forward edge (4) of the cushion, and said forward edge (4) is extended in relation to the front wall (3) of the lifting cushion and forms thereby a thin fore extended part (21) in front of said front wall (3) and that is active during the insertion but passive during operation. Said fore part (21) of the wedge-shaped lifting cushion is arranged in such a way that when the lifting cushion (20) is filled with fluid, the fore extended top part (1) and the bottom part (2) are expanded without preventing the fore wall (3) of the lifting cushion from smoothing out and forming the fore part of the lifting cushion in a filled state. |
| US08215614B2 |
Two position actuator impact limiter
A valve actuator for controlling a valve is provided. The valve actuator includes a torque transfer arrangement interposed between a return spring and a drive gear, the drive gear being biased by loading provided by the return spring. A drive coupling is interposed between the drive gear and the return spring and transfers load of the return spring to the drive gear. A torque transfer arrangement between the drive gear and drive coupling permits limited relative angular movement of the drive coupling relative to the drive gear. |
| US08215613B2 |
Virtual variable valve intake and exhaust for the internal combustion engine
A cylindrical housing assembly with an adjustable aperture or orifice using an iris shutter system to control the volumetric flow of fuel mixture or exhaust gas by movable blades or leaflets arranged inside a sealed enclosure which is operated by external actuators connected in series. |
| US08215612B2 |
Sliding valve
A sliding valve including a valve body (1) with a wall having a valve opening (3) and a valve seat (4) surrounding the valve opening (3), a valve plate (5), at least one valve rod (8) that can move in the axial direction and can be moved for closing the valve starting from a first position in which the valve plate (5) assumes its open position, to a second position in which the valve plate (5) assumes an intermediate position covering the valve opening (3) but lifted from the valve seat (4), into a third position in which the valve plate (5) assumes its closed position. At least one lifting element (10, 11) moves the valve plate (5) from its intermediate position into its closed position, and at least one support unit (12) with at least one front and at least one rear support element (14, 13) that interact in the closed position of the valve plate (5) with at least one valve-body-fixed, front support element and at least one valve-body-fixed, rear support element (16, 15). In the second position of the valve rod (8), either the rear support elements (13, 15) or the front support elements (14, 16) are in engagement and the other of these support elements (14, 16; 13, 15) are spaced apart from each other. When moving the valve rod (8) from its second to its third position, the support unit (12) pivots about a rotational axis (17) from a starting position in which the other support elements (14, 16; 13, 15) are spaced apart from each other into an end position in which the other support elements (14, 16; 13, 15) contact each other. |
| US08215610B2 |
Bi-directional electromechanical valve
A bi-directional electromechanical valve comprising a cylindrical upper cover, two semi-cylindrical permanent magnets, two semi-cylindrical cases, a reverse U-shaped coil set, a cylindrical armature, a valve stem, a first spring and a second spring. The electromechanical valve can be opened and closed bi-directionally in a quick and powerful manner. With an integrated round-shaped design, the electromechanical valve not only reduces the dimensions, but also equalizes the valve wear caused by rotating valve during engine operations. The specially designed cylindrical armature and its button-shaped bottom provide a stronger magnetic holding force to improve the strokes of the armature. The design of a single coil set and permanent magnets reduces the coil volume and the driving power effectively. The armature will stop at a fail-to-safe position at a power failure to provide a better driving way for an engine intake/exhaust valve. |
| US08215605B1 |
Magnetic mounting apparatus
A magnetic mounting apparatus, comprising a first modular support member having an interchangeable first module configured to slide onto a second module, and a second support member. The first module includes a first receptacle having a first channel of a first width and a second channel of a second width greater than the first width. The first and second channels form a cavity with an opening at a first surface of the first module and which proceeds toward a second surface of the first module opposite to the first surface. The first module also includes a keyed housing channel and a catch. The second module includes a first magnet and a key for attachment to the first module. The second support member includes a second magnet that is oriented to mate with the first magnet of the first modular support member. |
| US08215604B1 |
Conex box antenna mount
An antenna mount is provided for securing an antenna at a conex enclosure. The mount includes a box bracket having a plurality of flanges, a base plate disposable beneath the box bracket, and a tensioner plate disposable beneath the base plate. The box bracket has a top surface with an orifice to receive the antenna. The base plate is securable to the flanges by a first plurality of fasteners. The tensioner plate is securable to the base plate by a second plurality of fasteners. The box bracket forms a sheet metal plate folded to form a box with fore, aft, lateral and top sides. |
| US08215603B2 |
Tree stand
The present invention relates to a tree stand having a first stand section including a central tube, the central tube having a first circumference, the central tube of the first stand section having at least one leg affixed to the tube, the leg having a u-shaped slot at an end of the leg proximate to the tube; and a second stand section including a central tube having a second circumference, the second circumference being larger than the first circumference, the central tube of the second section having at least one leg affixed to the tube, the central tube of the second section having a pin in corresponding relationship with the u-shaped slot on the leg of the first stand section such the slot is disposed over the pin when the tube portion of the first stand section is slid over the tube portion of the second stand section to create the stand. |
| US08215602B2 |
Longitudinal adjustment apparatus for a vehicle seat
A longitudinal seat adjustment apparatus for a vehicle seat includes a first seat support member that is attachable to a vehicle. A second seat support member that is movable with respect to the first seat support member and configured to support the seat such that the seat is movable with the second seat support member is also provided. A locking member that is movable generally vertically with respect to the first and second seat support members between a locked position and an unlocked position for locking and unlocking the second seat support member with respect to the first seat support member is additionally provided. The locking member is a substantially planar two-part locking member and includes a first part generally horizontally movable with respect to a second part. |
| US08215600B2 |
Connection structure between lifting device and lifted body
A connection structure between a lifting device and a lifted body is provided wherein lifted body side portions are connected to a pair of lifting bodies moving up and down on the lifted body outer sides. Gripping means provided in each side of a lifted body grip a lifting arm of each lifting body and include a first gripping piece swingably connected to a base rack and a second gripping piece swingably connected to the first gripping piece. When the lifting arm is separated from the lifted body, the first gripping piece is located outwardly of the lifting arm and a gripper is located within a vertical projective space of the lifting arm, and the first gripping piece is lifted via the second gripping piece, by which a gripper abuts against the lifting arm from below. |
| US08215597B1 |
Electrical box support tab construction
An improved construction and method of constructing a field-bendable stud-engaging tab for electrical box supports that can be formed with less tool wear and bent in the field (for example, to conform to particular electrical box depths) with less force than previously required, and when necessary, straightened and re-bent. Scores are formed in the tab during the manufacturing process by applying shear force with a punch to the sheet metal of the tab, typically by a method in which the punch is applied to a portion of the sheet metal that rests over a cavity in the die, creating a sheared edge in each score wherein the metal is at least partially fractured, said fracture coinciding with at least part of a corresponding bend line. The bend lines also comprise unscored areas. In the field, the tab can be bent and re-bent along the bend lines. |
| US08215591B2 |
Guideway switching mechanism
According to one embodiment, a guideway switching mechanism includes an elongated section of flexible guideway coupled to a switch plate. The flexible guideway has a first end that may be coupled to a first elongated guideway and a second end that may be selectively coupled to one of a multiple quantity of alternative guideways. The switch plate provides selective coupling of the flexible guideway to multiple alternative guideways by movement through an arcuate path such that the automated transport vehicle may selectively move from the first elongated guideway to either of the alternative guideways. |
| US08215590B2 |
Aerofoil with leading edge projection
An aerofoil is provided having an upper surface, a lower surface, a leading edge between the upper and lower surfaces at the front of the aerofoil, and a trailing edge between the upper and lower surfaces at the rear of the aerofoil. The leading edge has projection where it meets the lower surface of the aerofoil, and a cove between the projection and upper surface of the aerofoil. A flow vortex is formed in the cove which exhibits increasingly axial flow that retains flow attachment to higher angles of attack. |
| US08215588B2 |
Steering unit for free flying, confined wing element
The invention relates to a steering unit for a wind propulsion system, the steering unit comprising a first fixed attachment means for securing a first end of a tractive cable the second end of which is secured to a device or a vehicle to which a tractive force shall be transferred, a second attachment means for attaching a number of tractive lines, the second end of which being secured to an aerodynamic wing element, a mechanical support frame connecting the first attachment means to the second attachment means for transferring a tractive force. The invention aims at providing such a steering unit with improved design for better maneuverability and stability. According to the invention the second attachment means of the improved steering unit comprise at least one upper fixed attachment point, a left moveable attachment point, a right moveable attachment point, and steering actuator means for varying the distance between the upper fixed attachment point and the left moveable attachment point and for varying the distance between the upper fixed attachment point and the right moveable attachment point. |
| US08215586B2 |
Evacuation slide systems
Evacuation slide systems having extendable portions are detailed. The extendable portions of slides may be inflated separately from the main portions and actuated manually if desired. Consequently, attitude changes of, for example, an aircraft subsequent to inflation of the main portion of a slide would not necessarily defeat its use, as inflation of the extendable portion could still occur. |
| US08215581B1 |
Advanced cargo ramp
A method and apparatus for operating a cargo ramp system. A ramp having a first end and a second end may be moved between a deployed position and an undeployed position using a movement system. The ramp may be maintained in a substantially horizontal position when the ramp is in the deployed position using a hinge system associated with the first end. |
| US08215580B2 |
Attachment of a multiflow turbojet engine to an aircraft
A suspension of a multi-flow turbojet engine provided with an intermediate casing and an exhaust casing from a pylon that can be attached to the structure of an aircraft is disclosed. The suspension includes a forward attachment device between the hub of the intermediate casing and the pylon, a rear attachment device between the exhaust casing and the pylon, and a connection device rigidly connecting the intermediate casing to the pylon. The rear attachment device includes an actuator for compensating for the variations in diameter of the exhaust casing so as to keep the axis of the exhaust casing coaxial with the axis of the intermediate casing through the various phases of flight of the aircraft. |
| US08215578B2 |
Device for maintaining a yarn in a spooler
A winder including a frame. The frame includes at least one spindle configured to support at least one package, the spindle rotating about a first axis approximately perpendicular to the diameter of the package so as to draw and wind at least one strand in the form of a package, and at least one positioning and guiding device configured to position and guide at least the strand on the rotating spindle. A keeper is configured to keep the strand in contact with the positioning and guiding device. |
| US08215575B2 |
In-line milling system
The present invention provides an in-line system for milling sorbent material to be used in a pneumatic conveying system. The system provides for optimal particle size in a duct injection system, regardless of the original sorbent particle size, and is designed to prevent clogging of the milled material through the system. Methods of operation for milling, as well as cleaning the mills while providing various sorbent material by-pass configurations to minimize system down-time while enhancing material throughput and that support the unique aspects of the system, are also described in detail below. |
| US08215574B2 |
Pulper with a torque motor
The invention relates to a pulper and to its method for recycling wastes and/or product residuals. The pulper comprises a tank is which a rotor is provided for defibrating the stock mixture to be recycled, as well as a screen for drawing off the defibrated outfeed from the tank, the rotor being powered by an electric motor comprising a drive shaft in active transmission with the rotor. In accordance with the invention the electric motor is configured as a three-phase synchronous motor for operation in a speed range from 0 to 1000 rpm. It is connected to the output of a frequency inverter controlled by a controller, the output of the drive shaft being directly connected to the rotor. |
| US08215572B2 |
Fuel injection system
A fuel-injection system for direct injection of fuel into a combustion chamber through a combustion-chamber top arranged opposite a piston has a fuel injector which includes an actuable valve-closure member. The valve-closure member cooperates with a valve-seat surface to form a sealing seat. A multitude of spray-discharge orifices generates a spray cloud, each spray-discharge orifice generating a fuel jet, and the multitude of fuel jets generating the spray cloud in the combustion chamber. A first opening angle of the spray cloud in a first plane is greater than a second opening angle in a second plane extending perpendicular to the first plane. |
| US08215570B2 |
Wireless sprinkler control
The present invention provides a system and method to control the flow duration and the flow rate of each individual sprinkler head wirelessly in each zone of an automatic sprinkler system. The system comprises a plurality of sensors, preferably wireless, to control the sprinkler heads, either directly or through a controller. The system enables precise control over irrigation times for the areas covered by each sprinkler head. The system also enables each sprinkler head to control its on/off and duration decisions based on receiving data from a sensor within an irrigation zone of an automatic sprinkler system. |
| US08215568B1 |
Device for providing traction for a tire and method of use
A device for providing traction for a tire of a vehicle includes a pad which is fabricated from non-woven fibers which include an abrasive material. When the pad is placed in abutting relationship with the tire and a slippery surface of snow and/or ice, the abrasive material enhancing friction between said pad and the tire. Because the pad has an open non-woven construction, the snow or ice penetrates the pad and tends to hold it in place. In an embodiment of the invention, one end of the pad is convex and the opposite end is concave. |
| US08215565B2 |
Apparatus and method for securement of two-dimensional bar codes with geometric symbology
An apparatus and method are disclosed for tamper-proofing two-dimensional, optical, computer readable bar codes, including QR Codes. QR Codes, like traditional bar codes, contain computer readable content not cognizable by the human mind. The present invention teaches means of securing this content from would-be thieves and forgers motivated to overlay authorized, original content with unauthorized, replacement content. |
| US08215561B2 |
Antenna and reader/writer device
An antenna includes a substrate made of a dielectric substance, and a conductor pattern formed on the substrate and including a feeding point, an open end, an extension part extending from the feeding point, and a spiral part extending spirally from an opposite end of the extension part to the open end. The spiral part includes a part juxtaposed with the extension part. A distance along length directions of the conductor pattern, from a zero point at which a current is zero in the part upon feeding power to the feeding point, to a point at which a line perpendicular to the part and passing through the zero point intersects the extension part, is set to a second distance at which an electric field strength generated as a combination of electric fields generated at these points upon the feeding of power enables communications with the wireless tag. |
| US08215559B2 |
Secure core material for documents
Particles conveying a code are incorporated into polymer matrix to form a core document substrate. These particles may be colored to create a distinctive look of the document that makes it unique for a particular document issuer and enables visual authentication. Addition of a covert attribute to the particle, such as a UV pigment or hidden layer of material, allows a covert, forensic characteristic and it also allows a mathematical description to be calculated describing the random distribution of a specific area on a document and then captured on it (e.g., in the bar code or magnetic stripe or digital watermark on an ID document). |
| US08215558B2 |
Integrated SIM holder with backcase and rotating door
An apparatus for holding a SIM (subscriber identification module) card for an electronic device. The electronic device is implemented using integrated circuits on a PCB (printed circuit board) contained within a device housing. A SIM connector mounted on the PCB may electrically connect a SIM card to the PCB. The SIM card is releasably held in position by a SIM card door. The SIM card door may engage the SIM card with the SIM connector when in a closed position. The SIM card door in open position may slidably accept the SIM card. The SIM card door is releasably engageable with the housing and is rotatably attached to the housing in order to swing to the closed position from the open position. Holding the SIM card with the SIM card door provides for a smaller SIM connector and thus a minimum amount of PCB area for mounting the SIM connector. |
| US08215556B2 |
Color barcode producing, reading and/or reproducing method and apparatus
A color barcode can record much more amount of information than black white barcode. However, the problem of the color barcode is that it is easy to lose integrity or authenticity in printing and copy generation. This invention provides an apparatus and a method to keep the integrity or authenticity of the color barcode. Such is accomplished by the color information portion of the color barcode representing the color information about what colors are used for color tiles of data portion of the color barcode and an apparatus and a method for producing and reproducing such color barcode. |
| US08215552B1 |
Concealed RFID reader
A housing for concealing a RFID system is provided including one or more radio frequency antennas, one or more RFID readers, and a central frame. The central frame is attached and concealed within body of a store mannequin providing an exterior shell that is aesthetically pleasing and that can be dressed in store merchandise, thus advertising the store goods and protecting the structure from damage. |
| US08215551B1 |
Efficient inventory and information management
Methods and computer-readable media provide for efficient inventory and information management over a wireless network. An updated electronic data input form corresponding to an account representative of a business is received a wireless data input device along with a current geographic location of the wireless data input device. A determination is made that the current geographic location is within a pre-defined perimeter of the business. As a result, the updated electronic data input form is accepted and stored. |
| US08215547B2 |
Data communicating apparatus and method for managing memory of data communicating apparatus
An IC card has a mechanism to securely manage information for each of a plurality of service providers in a memory area of the IC card. The IC card is shared by the plurality of service providers. File systems of the service providers are allocated in the memory area, and a single information recording medium is shared by the plurality of service providers. The memory area is separated into the file systems. A border between the file systems functions as a firewall, thus appropriately preventing one of the file systems from being intruded by the other file systems. Furthermore, by using a function of separating the memory area into a plurality of file systems together with a security code verification function of each file system, the security of each file system is independently managed. |
| US08215544B2 |
Receipt printing processing method and receipt printing processing system
When a customer places a special order that changes the content of a product or processing thereof (non-standard order information), a receipt printing processing method and system also produces a special order seal in connection with printing the sales receipt. The receipt printing processing system has a receipt printer and a label printer that is in communication with the receipt printer. When the system receives transaction processing data generated by a POS register used to take orders, a control unit determines if non-standard order information is contained in the transaction processing data. If so, the control unit controls the generation of seal printing data for printing a special order seal, along with controlling the processing of receipt data and the printing of the receipt. |
| US08215543B2 |
Methods for filling prescriptions to fulfill a customer order
Methods for filling prescriptions in a customer order. Each of the products is marked with a product barcode containing information relating to a contained pharmaceutical. Prior to loading into a machine, each of the products is free of markings relating to patient prescriptions in the customer order. The method includes using the machine to read the product barcode on each of the products loaded into the machine. In response to reading the product barcode on each of the products, at least some of the products are labeled with information relating to a respective one of the prescriptions. |
| US08215541B2 |
Automated proximity-related network authorization
Systems and methods for inputting configuration and network authorization information into a media device such that the media device may interface with media content providers and wireless networks. A service center collects configuration and network authorization information for a media device and generates a configuration module based thereon. The configuration module is then converted into the form of barcode which is provided to a media device capable of reading a barcode. The media device decodes the barcode and extracts the configuration module. The extracted configuration module is installed on the media device, configuring the device to access predetermined media content providers and/or wireless networks. |
| US08215537B2 |
Expandable holder
The pad holder is constructed with an expandable pocket to receive a pad of paper or the like and with a fold over front ply to retain the pad of paper in place. A pad of paper may be retained wholly within the pocket while the front ply is secured to the pocket to retain the pad in a secure condition. In another embodiment, the expandable holder is formed to receive photo prints. |
| US08215529B2 |
Pneumatic device
An improved pneumatic device includes a body having a hollow cavity, defining an X axis and having a first end and a second end. The body includes a movable cylinder, a nail-firing piston rod and at least one exhaust hole. The movable cylinder and the nail-firing piston rod reciprocate along the X axis in the body by performing a forward stroke to the second end, and a return stroke back to the first end. The movable cylinder presents an open status when completing the forward stroke and presents a closed status when completing the return stroke. The movable cylinder has an exhaust hole and an exhaust valve disposed at an outer periphery thereof. When the nail-firing piston rod has not completed the return stroke yet and the cylinder is in the closed status, an exhaust channel is thereby formed to facilitate exhausting of air. |
| US08215528B2 |
Drive tool
A drive tool includes an ejector, a press member, a press detection switch, an operation member, an operation detection switch, a control unit, an operation state detector, and a report unit. The control unit makes the ejector carry out ejection of a fastening tool when the press detection switch and the operation detection switch are turned on. The operation state detector detects a case where the drive tool comes into one of a plurality of kinds of preset operation states which include at least one operation state other than a state of a battery. Report patterns different for each of the plurality of kinds of operation states are set in the report unit. When one of the operation states is detected by the operation state detector, the report unit reports the detection using the report pattern set corresponding to the detected operation state. |
| US08215526B2 |
Air-cushion backpack
A backpack has a pocket and at least one shoulder strap for supporting the backpack on a shoulder of a user. A generally rigid plate and a flexible inflatable bladder are in the pocket with a load bearing bag connected to the pocket for holding a load. A tubular extension extends from the bladder and into the shoulder strap for inflating and deflating the bladder and a mouth-inflatable check valve is connected to the tubular extension at a location spaced from the bladder and positioned so as to be accessible to the user for inflating the bladder by blowing into the check valve. A curved semirigid liner inside the material of the shoulder strap near the bladder forms a semirigid channel for receiving the tubular extension. |
| US08215524B1 |
Device for pulling on and removing socks
A mechanical device for pulling on and removing socks which does not require any excessive bending or other extraneous body movement by the user. The device is primarily comprised of a triangular shaped sock mount attached to one end of an elongated shaft that terminates on a second end in a u-shaped handle containing hand operative controls. By engaging the hand operative controls the device can secure a sock to the sock mount while the user places their foot inside the sock. Disengaging the controls allows the user to remove the device from the sock while keeping their foot inside and enables the sock mount to rotate 180 degrees to expose the stationary elevated tongue that can then be used to remove the sock from the user's foot, can be used as a shoe horn, or to place the device in a storage position. |
| US08215523B2 |
Manual dispenser with electrical generator
A dispensing apparatus including a product dispenser in which product is dispensed by manual movement of an activation mechanism as, for example, by moving a lever with a person's hand, arm or foot. The dispensing apparatus includes an electrical generator for generating electrical energy as a result of the manual movement of the activation mechanism, preferably by electromagnetic induction or electrochemistry. The electrical energy from the generator is utilized in the dispensing apparatus to power a data communication unit for receiving information about the product dispenser and transmitting the information to a receiver, preferably but not necessarily wirelessly. |
| US08215522B2 |
Trigger release mechanism for fluid metering device
A hand-held flow metering device for dispensing a pressurized fluid comprises a valve, a flow meter, a trigger lever, a trigger release mechanism and meter electronics. The valve is connected to the pressurized fluid to regulate flow of the pressurized fluid through the device. The flow meter is disposed within the flow of pressurized fluid to measure volumetric flow of the pressurized fluid. The trigger lever is configured to be manually displaced to mechanically open the valve. The trigger release mechanism is connected to the trigger lever and is selectively actuated to mechanically prevent the trigger lever from opening the valve when the trigger lever is displaced. The meter electronics is connected to the flow meter and the trigger release mechanism to actuate the trigger release mechanism based on output of the flow meter. |
| US08215520B2 |
Secure merchandising system
Systems for deterring theft of retail products. Systems of this invention provide theft deterrent dispensing modules for dispensing products and may incorporate theft deterrent measures including mechanical deterrents, time delays and sound. The dispensing modules may include one or more pusher assemblies for dispensing product. Certain systems of this invention may also include a lockout feature, so that one only pusher assembly may be activated to dispense a product at one time. In some embodiments, a door assembly may be provided as an additional theft deterrent mechanism so that access to additional product not yet dispensed by the pusher assembly is restricted. |
| US08215517B2 |
Compressed gas cylinder having conductive polymeric foot ring
A compressed gas cylinder assembly is disclosed which includes a metallic cylinder body having an upper end portion with handles and a flow control valve, and a lower end portion with a convex surface from which depends a lower support ring. A non-conductive annular collar surrounds the lower support ring of the cylinder body, and a conductive foot ring connects the annular collar to the lower support ring of the cylinder body, providing a conductive path to ground for the metallic cylinder body. |
| US08215509B2 |
Soft PET bottle with a rigid top and bottom portion
Disclosed herein is a plastic bottle suitable for vending from vending machines and for storing food or beverage products having comparatively high viscosities. A bottle is provided with a mouth, a flexible main unit having a tubular body section in fluid communication with the mouth, a base forming a bottom of the main unit and configured to support the bottle to stand upright, and a rigid portion located above the main unit and having greater traverse strength than said main unit. The mouth, main unit, and base define a retention space with a central axis. The rigid portion includes regions facing each other across from the central axis at the most distant position from the central axis. Moreover, the tubular body section of the main unit deforms into a substantially flat shape when an external force is applied in a transverse direction without the rigid portion undergoing plastic deformation. |
| US08215504B2 |
Sucker for drinking purposes
A bottle teat of an elastic material includes a hollow suction nipple and a circumferential mounting edge for fixation to the bottle opening of a drinking bottle. A hollow transition zone is disposed between the mounting edge and suction nipple as well as at least one drinking slot oriented in the longitudinal direction of the suction nipple and extending from the outside up to the inside of the suction nipple in an outwardly bulged external end region of the suction nipple. The bottle teat further includes at least one ventilation valve with a valve slot which is extended from the outer wall of the transition zone up to the inner wall of the transition zone. |
| US08215499B2 |
Pipeline pig storage rack apparatus
A pipeline pig support rack apparatus includes a frame having a plurality of supports mounted thereon, each extending upwardly from the frame. Each pipeline pig support includes clamps that are comprised of first and second u-shaped members that are attached with a hinge. A bolted connection opposite the hinge is provided for holding the u-shaped members together in a closed position when securing a pipeline pig. Lifting eyes on the frame are provided for enabling the frame, its pig supports and any contained pipeline pigs to be lifted as a unit. A basket receptacle optionally is provided that receives the frame. The frame and basket receptacle are each independently liftable. The basket receptacle prevents spillage of hazardous materials that might be residing upon the pigs after they have been used to clean a particular pipeline. |
| US08215496B2 |
Polynorbornene pervaporation membrane films, preparation and use thereof
Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide forming polynorbornenes useful for forming pervaporation membranes, the membranes themselves and methods of making such membranes. |
| US08215492B2 |
Water treatment devices and cartridges therefor
A cartridge for treating water capable of releasably engaging a water treatment device. The cartridge includes a housing, an inlet for introducing untreated water into the cartridge, an outlet port for egress of treated water from the cartridge, and a treatment media for treating untreated water that is in fluid communication with the inlet and the outlet port. The cartridge includes a first tube and a second tube, wherein each of the tubes comprise an inside surface, an outside surface, a proximal end, and a distal end, where the inside surface and/or the outside surface is a sealing surface. The first tube extends from the housing and surrounds the outlet port. At least a portion of the first tube or the second tube surrounds the other such that a gap is formed between the first tube and the second tube. |
| US08215489B1 |
Method and apparatus for physical separation of different sized nanostructures
The present application provides apparatuses and methods for the size-selective fractionation of ligand-capped nanoparticles that utilizes the tunable thermophysical properties of gas-expanded liquids. The nanoparticle size separation processes are based on the controlled reduction of the solvent strength of an organic phase nanoparticle dispersion through increases in concentration of the antisolvent gas, such as CO2, via pressurization. The method of nanomaterial separation contains preparing a vessel having a solvent and dispersed nanoparticles, pressurizing the chamber with a gaseous antisolvent, and causing a first amount of the nanoparticles to precipitate, transporting the solution to a second vessel, pressurizing the second vessel with the gaseous antisolvent and causing further nanoparticles to separate from the solution. |
| US08215487B1 |
Inflatable packaging with self-sealing air bubbles
Inflatable packaging with self-sealing air bubbles includes a bubble layer, a valve layer and a valve cover layer. A plurality of bubble cell patterns are formed on the bubble layer with adhesive, glue or heat sealing. The valve layer is attached to bubble layer. A plurality of check valves are formed on the valve layer. An air opening is formed through each one of the plurality of check valves to inflate the plurality of bubble cells. The valve cover layer is attached to the valve layer. A row with at least one bubble cell is filled with air through the check valve. Inflation of the bubble cells cause the valve layer and valve cover layer to contact each other to seal the check valve. |
| US08215485B2 |
Display and storage container
A container comprises a clamshell-like shape. The container includes a hinge positioned low on a viewing face and opens high on the rear end. The interior of the container is shaped so as to present its contents at a desirable viewing angle, the container intended to provide an unobstructed view through the viewing face. The container may comprise a closing mechanism at the rear end to hold the container closed. The container can contain products for sale, including cookies, slices of pound cake, other baked goods, and other products. |
| US08215484B2 |
Package member for flat panel display apparatus
A package member includes a first cushioning member coupled to one end of a flat panel display apparatus, and a second cushioning member coupled to the other end of the flat panel display apparatus. The package member further includes a reinforcing pad formed of a plate-shaped member and having both ends supported by the first cushioning member and the second cushioning member. The reinforcing member increases the strength of the first and second cushioning members, enabling more safe protection of the flat panel display apparatus packaged in the package member. |
| US08215481B1 |
Container closure for retaining an additive material
A container closure is disclosed for retaining an additive material to mix with a container material within a container. The container closure comprises a reservoir having a sleeve and a plunger for retaining the additive material. A resilient seal is located at a first end of the sleeve and a frangible wall is located at a second end of the sleeve. The plunger is slidably received within the sleeve with the resilient seal interacting between the sleeve and the plunger. A severable member coacts between the base and the plunger for spacing a plunger projection from the frangible wall. The severable member is removable for enabling the plunger to be moved into a depressed position to fracture the frangible wall to permit the additive material to enter the container. |
| US08215476B2 |
Correlator for introducing vehicle tires into a conveyer of a vehicle washing system
Described is a correlator for introducing vehicle tires into a conveyor of a vehicle washing system. The correlator includes a frame with two laterally and freely rotatable belts. A set of angled curb rails resides over one of the belts to direct the vehicle's tires into a set of guide rails. As a roller pushes the rear tire of the vehicle onto the belts, the angled curb rails provide a lateral force to the tires. Because the belts are free-rolling, they are capable of rotating to move the tire laterally and shift the position of the vehicle to align the vehicle with the conveyor. |
| US08215472B2 |
Banknote handling machine
A banknote handling machine has a taking-in unit that takes in banknotes one by one, a transport unit that transports the banknote taken in by the taking-in unit, a transport state detection unit that detects the transport state of the banknote taken in by the taking-in unit, a recognition unit that recognizes a kind of the banknote transported by the transport unit, first to third stacking units including stackers in which the banknotes transported by the transport unit are stacked, and a control unit that determines an abnormally transported banknote based on the detection result of the transport state detection unit and determines a specific normal banknote, an abnormal banknote, or a non-specific banknote based on the recognition result of the recognition unit, the control unit controlling the transport unit to transport the banknote determined as the specific normal banknote to the first stacking unit, to transport the banknote determined as the abnormal banknote to the second stacking unit, and to transport the banknote determined as the abnormally transported banknote or the non-specific banknote to the third stacking unit. |
| US08215471B2 |
Mechanical brake
A mechanical brake having an axial shifting mechanism arranged on an input drive shaft and an axial shifting mechanism arranged on an output drive shaft. The two axial shifting mechanisms are so embodied that their shifting directions are opposed and that, upon introduction of a torque via the input drive shaft and/or the output drive shaft, the axial shifting mechanism associated with the input drive shaft has precedence over the axial shifting mechanism associated with the output drive shaft. |
| US08215466B2 |
Power feeding apparatus for slidable structural body
A power feeding apparatus for a slidable structural body includes a link arm which is provided on one of the slidable structural body and a fixed structural body so as to be pivotally moved in a harness surplus length-absorbing direction of a wire harness, a harness holding portion provided on a distal end side of the link arm, and a harness fixing portion provided on the other of the slidable structural body and the fixed structural body. The link arm is formed so as to be expanded and contracted in a longitudinal direction of the link arm. The wire harness is installed to extend from the harness holding portion to the harness fixing portion. |
| US08215464B2 |
Hydraulic unit
A hydraulic unit for a motor vehicle brake system operating on the recirculation principle, in which each brake circuit has in the region of the hydraulic unit a prefilling location which opens into the pump suction conduit between the pressure-retaining valve and the change-over valve for the purpose of receiving brake fluid. The hydraulic unit can thereby be prefilled with lower complexity and cost in terms of time and processes prior to installation in the vehicle. |
| US08215461B2 |
Pad assembly for use in a disc brake
A pad assembly includes a carrier plate, a backing plate to one side of which is secured at least one friction pad and which is mounted on its alternate side on the carrier plate, a spring acting between the carrier plate and the backing plate and allowing for limited rocking and/or linear movement of the backing plate relative to the carrier plate against the action of the spring. A plurality of transmitting members are secured to one or the other of the carrier plate or the backing plate and project to engage the other so as to enable the transmission of force between the two plates. The arrangement of the force transmitting members is such that at least two of the force transmitting members are generally equiangularly arranged about the geometric center of the carrier plate. |
| US08215457B2 |
Multifunction call buttons for an elevator system
The object of the present invention is to provide a method and elevator system (1) that substantially reduces the installation costs when adding new elevator calls to an existing elevator system, or to reduce the amount of hardware required on installation of a new elevator system. A single push button (2) or a combination of push buttons (2) can be used by a user (4) to register a plurality of elevator calls by operating the push button (2), or combination of push buttons (2), in a predetermined manner to register an elevator call. |
| US08215448B2 |
Sound damper for vehicle compressed air systems
A sound damper for compressed air systems of vehicles includes a housing, an insulator and at least one web. The housing has an air inlet and an air outlet. The insulator is located in the housing, and the web is located in the housing such that it protrudes at least partially into the insulator. Air that flows through the housing from the air inlet to the air outlet is conducted by the web into the insulator. |
| US08215447B1 |
Exhaust device of vehicle and straddle-type four-wheeled vehicle provided with the same
An exhaust device in which a portion of an exhaust pipe covered by an exhaust pipe cover is rationalized. An exhaust device of a vehicle includes a muffler disposed in a rear part of the vehicle, an exhaust pipe extending from a front surface of a cylinder of an engine to the muffler while passing along an outer side of the engine in a lateral direction, a first exhaust pipe cover covering an entire periphery of an exhaust pipe front portion located near the outer side of the engine in the lateral direction, and a second exhaust pipe cover covering an outer side of an exhaust pipe rear portion located behind the engine. |
| US08215443B2 |
Exhaust pipe structure of vehicle and vehicle
An exhaust pipe structure for a vehicle includes a vehicle body frame, a pair of occupant seats, and an exhaust pipe. The occupant seats include a driver's seat and a passenger seat and are disposed side by side in a vehicle width direction in a center frame portion. An internal combustion engine is disposed behind the occupant seats and supported substantially on a center line of the vehicle body in a rear frame portion. The exhaust pipe is connected to the internal combustion engine behind the occupant seats. The exhaust pipe extends outward in the vehicle width direction from the internal combustion engine, thereafter, is bent substantially in a U-shape to extend inward in the vehicle width direction, and then extends substantially onto the center line of the vehicle body. A muffler is connected to the exhaust pipe. |
| US08215436B2 |
Hybrid trailer system
A system and related method for a regenerative braking system on a towed vehicle, such as a trailer or semi-trailer. The system provides power and braking to the respective trailer wheels, as needed, to help stabilize the trailer. Power is regenerated during braking. While batteries may be used to store the energy, the system also may use capacitive storage units, which charge and discharge large amounts of energy at a fast rate. A multiple-axis sensor system in conjunction with wheel sensors, load sensors, and proportional control of the brakes and motor power to the axles and wheels, is used to achieve superior load stabilization. The invention can be easily retrofit into new or used trailers, and is self-contained with low maintenance. |
| US08215433B2 |
Automobile over-bulkhead air intake system
An automobile air intake system is provided that channels air from outside the automobile engine compartment to the engine. The automobile air intake system according to an embodiment of the invention includes an intake enclosure coupled to a bulkhead across the front of the engine compartment. The automobile grille, radiator, and a front portion of the hood in front of the bulkhead form a flow channel to an intake port of the intake enclosure. Aspects of the invention include a screen extending from the bulkhead to the grille for inhibiting the flow of water and particles through the flow channel. Other aspects provide an alternative air path for channeling air from the engine compartment to the intake enclosure. |
| US08215431B2 |
Small vehicle mounted with fuel battery
A small vehicle mounted with a fuel battery employs a fan that outputs a satisfactory amount of air with small power consumption. An exhaust duct reduces pressure loss and airflow resistance. Hydrogen purged from the fuel battery is discharged out of the vehicle along with water through the exhaust duct. A fan box has a fan for introducing air into the fuel battery mounted on a frame constituting vehicle body. After cooling the fuel battery, air is exhausted out of the vehicle. The exhaust duct includes two parts; i.e., a first exhaust duct connected to the rear side of the fan box for introducing the air after cooling of the fuel battery; and a second exhaust duct connected to the rear side of the first exhaust duct for exhausting the air flowing thereinto from the first exhaust duct out of the vehicle body. |
| US08215429B2 |
Generator power-based cold start strategy
A system and method for controlling engine starting in a hybrid electric vehicle that includes a battery, an engine and a generator acting as a motor control generator power during engine starting so that generator torque complements or assists the engine to develop a stable running speed throughout an engine start event, particularly a cold engine start event, without violating battery power limits. |
| US08215426B2 |
Power output apparatus, vehicle equipped with power output apparatus, and control method of power output apparatus
In a 2-motor drive mode with connection of both motors with a driveshaft by means of a transmission, a hybrid vehicle specifies one of the motors as a main motor of preferentially outputting power. Torque commands of the motors are then set to make the motor specified as the main motor preferentially output the power over the other motor specified as an auxiliary motor and to ensure output of a torque equivalent to a torque demand to the driveshaft. |
| US08215423B2 |
Stack axle assembly and transporters having the same
A stack axle assembly as used in a cask transporter or an horizontal storage module (HSM) gantry transporter. The stack axle assemblies include a slew gear; an upper bearing; a lower bearing; a vertical cylinder retained by the slew gear, upper bearing and lower bearing; an independent driver wheel and idler wheel revolving on a common shaft/trunnion assembly attached to the bottom of the vertical cylinder; a frame assembly formed on top of the vertical cylinder, the frame assembly including one or more drive motors connecting an upper drive assembly downwardly to a driven assembly mounted between the idler wheel and driver wheel; and a slew driver motor to drive the slew gear. |
| US08215420B2 |
Thermally stable pointed diamond with increased impact resistance
An insert comprises a sintered polycrystalline diamond body bonded to a cemented metal carbide substrate. The diamond body comprises a substantially conical shape with conical side wall terminating at an apex. The diamond body comprises a first region with a metallic catalyst dispersed through interstices between the diamond grains and a second region proximate the apex with the characteristic of higher thermal stability than the first region. |
| US08215418B2 |
Expandable reamer apparatus and related methods
An expandable reamer apparatus and methods for reaming a borehole, wherein a laterally movable blade carried by a tubular body may be selectively positioned at an inward position and an expanded position. The laterally movable blade, held inwardly by blade-biasing elements, may be forced outwardly by drilling fluid selectively allowed to communicate therewith by way of an actuation sleeve disposed within the tubular body. Alternatively, a separation element may transmit force or pressure from the drilling fluid to the movable blade. Further, a chamber in communication with the movable blade may be pressurized by way of a downhole turbine or pump. A ridged seal wiper, compensator, movable bearing pad, fixed bearing pad preceding the movable blade, or adjustable spacer element to alter expanded blade position may be included within the expandable reamer. In addition, a drilling fluid pressure response indicating an operational characteristic of the expandable reamer may be generated. |
| US08215417B2 |
Method, device and system for drilling rig modification
A method, device and system for augmenting a traditional drilling or workover rig with automated operational, monitoring and reporting systems. The automation system comprises integratable components of various automated operational systems, combined in a device easily adapted to install into the operational area of a drilling or workover rig, wherein the automated operational systems are dynamically selectable either or both locally or remotely. |
| US08215415B2 |
Chisel
A tool bit for a chisel or a hammer drill, in particular, a insertable chisel or insertable drill for power-driven drill and chisel hammers, has an insertion end, with a chisel shank or drill shank, and a chisel head or drill shank located opposite the insertion end. The diameter of the shank increases in the direction of the chisel head at least once from a first, small diameter to a second, large diameter and decreases again from this to a small diameter or forms at least one bead. |
| US08215412B2 |
Fire fighting method and apparatus deployed after flame collapse for extinguishing “smiley face”
Method and apparatus for extinguishing industrial tank fires of flammable/combustible liquid including achieving flame collapse, and subsequent to flame collapse achieving collapse of a remaining “smiley face”. |
| US08215409B2 |
Method and apparatus for expanded liner extension using uphole expansion
An expansion assembly is run into the well as the expandable liner is made up. A work string is tagged into the expansion assembly and run to depth. Pressure drives the swage to initially expand and move uphole with the attached work string until the liner is expanded to set at least one external packer. The balance of the expansion in the uphole direction is continued until the string is expanded into sealing support of a higher string in the wellbore and the variable swage comes out of the hole with the work string. A shoe is milled out and the process can be repeated. |
| US08215408B2 |
Actuation system for well tools
A technique facilitates control over one or more well tools coupled to one or more corresponding control modules. Actuation of the control modules and the well tools may be achieved with three control lines connected to the one or more control modules. Transitioning of the control modules to sequential stages and the consequent actuation of the corresponding well tools is achieved by applying a single pressure level selectively through the three control lines. |
| US08215403B1 |
Downhole circulating tool and method of use
A downhole circulating tool including a sleeve with a cam slot having continuous and symmetrical wishbone patterns through which a cam pin moves. The cam pin moves simultaneously through symmetrical portions of the cam slot to alternate the opening and closing of first and second fluid port openings. A first port opening is operable to communicate fluid to a drill bit when open. A second port opening is operable to communicate fluid directly into the borehole or casing wall of a wellbore when open. |
| US08215401B2 |
Expandable ball seat
Apparatus for a drop ball activated device, where a ball seat is concentrically and axially slidably disposed within an outer sleeve having a first internal cylindrical surface, wherein the ball seat comprises at least one radially extending lug, which in a first position extends radially inwards from the internal cylindrical surface, thereby defining a first ball seat diameter less than the diameter of the drop ball. The sleeve comprises at least one groove in its internal surface, and the lug may be received in the groove, thereby defining a second ball seat diameter at least as large as the diameter of the drop ball. |
| US08215400B2 |
System and method for opening a window in a casing string for multilateral wellbore construction
A system for opening a window in a casing string (42) positioned in a wellbore (32). The system includes a hydraulic pressure intensifier (116) having a housing and a piston assembly with a differential piston area. The piston assembly is longitudinally shiftable relative to the housing and is initially secured relative thereto to prevent longitudinal movement therebetween. An anchor assembly (114) is operable to longitudinally secure the hydraulic pressure intensifier (116) within the casing string (42). A window opening tool (118) operably associated with the hydraulic pressure intensifier (116) is operably engagable with the casing string (42) such that when the anchor assembly (114) is longitudinally secured within the casing string (42) and the piston assembly is unsecured relative to the housing under hydrostatic pressure, longitudinal movement of the piston assembly transmits a force to the window opening tool (118), thereby opening the window in the casing string (42). |
| US08215399B2 |
Downhole shut off assembly for artificially lifted wells
A multi-string well has an electric submersible pump (ESP) that can be removed without killing the well. A slotted liner is sealingly secured externally to casing and internally to a guide string that remains in the wellbore when the ESP is removed. A ported sub is part of the guide string and a concentric screen that can have instruments that moves relatively to the guide string can selectively allow flow in an annulus between them and to the ported sub or that annulus between the guide and concentric strings can be blocked off by manipulation of the concentric string to close the ported sub. With the lower portion of the well now blocked off, the wellhead can be removed so that the ESP can come out with the production string. The device has particular application to steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) systems as well as other downhole applications. |
| US08215397B2 |
System and method of dynamic underbalanced perforating using an isolation fluid
A system for dynamic underbalanced perforation of a hydrocarbon well includes a perforation fluid located within the hydrocarbon well. A perforation gun is suspended within the perforation fluid and a completion fluid is located within the hydrocarbon uphole of the perforation fluid. An isolation fluid is located within the hydrocarbon well uphole of the perforation fluid and downhole of the completion fluid. A method of perforating a hydrocarbon well includes a perforation fluid placed in the hydrocarbon well. A perforation gun is placed within the perforation fluid. A completion fluid is placed in the hydrocarbon well. An isolation fluid is placed in the hydrocarbon well. A local dynamic underbalance condition is created in the hydrocarbon well. A flow of the completion fluid downhole is inhibited. |
| US08215393B2 |
Method for treating well bore within a subterranean formation
The invention discloses a method of creating a polymerized composition in a well bore: providing a polymerizable composition made of a polymerization initiator and a monomer polymerizable by frontal polymerization; introducing the polymerizable composition into the wellbore; exposing the polymerizable composition to a trigger to activate the frontal polymerization; and creating the polymerized composition. |
| US08215389B2 |
Apparatus and method for formation evaluation
A method for acquiring a sample of a virgin fluid from a subsurface formation penetrated by a wellbore surrounded by a layer of contaminated fluid is disclosed. The method includes abutting a first packer against a wall of the wellbore, and extending at least a portion of a second packer beyond the first packer, wherein the second packer is at least partially disposed in the first packer. An inlet to a first flowline is at least partially defined by the first packer, and an inlet to a second flowline is defined by the second packer. The method further includes drawing one of virgin fluid, contaminated fluid and combinations thereof into the first flowline; and drawing virgin fluid into the second flowline. |
| US08215384B2 |
Bit based formation evaluation and drill bit and drill string analysis using an acoustic sensor
A drill bit having a bit body includes one or more acoustic sensors that are configured to detect elastic waves when the drill bit is used for drilling a wellbore. The acoustic sensor may be configured to detect a sonic signature associated with a failure event. In further arrangements, the acoustic sensors may be configured to receive signals from a controlled acoustic source. |
| US08215379B2 |
Feedwater debris trap
A debris filter trap to prevent potentially damaging debris carried by the feedwater entering the pressure vessel of a once through steam generator from entering into the section of tubes which are positioned within the confines of an integrally contained economizer of the once through steam generator. The trap will remove foreign material, from the feedwater flow, that is larger than the space between the tubes, and thus prevent debris particles that are large enough to get lodged in the tube spacing from entering the economizer. |
| US08215374B2 |
Peripheral microcircuit serpentine cooling for turbine airfoils
A turbine component has an airfoil portion with at least one central core element, a pressure side wall, and a suction side wall. The airfoil portion also has a serpentine cooling passageway in at least one of the walls. In a preferred embodiment, the airfoil portion has a serpentine cooling passageway in both of the pressure and suction side walls. A refractory metal core for forming the serpentine cooling passageway(s) is also described. |
| US08215372B2 |
Method and apparatus for consumable-pattern casting
A method of making a casting is disclosed. At least one support member has at least one first portion and a plurality of second portions connected to a mold core. The mold core is positioned at least in part in a sealed interior volume of a negative mold. The first portion is positioned outside the interior volume. The second portions are positioned at least in part inside the interior volume. A consumable pattern material is introduced into the negative mold to create a consumable pattern. The support member is disposed at least in part outside the consumable pattern. The consumable pattern is removed from the negative mold. A shell is formed around the consumable pattern. A casting material is introduced into an interior of the shell to create a final casting. The support member is disposed at least in part outside the final casting. A mold core is also described. |
| US08215370B2 |
Temporary window replacement apparatus and methods of use
Devices and methods for temporarily replacing a window are disclosed herein. An exemplary temporary window replacement apparatus includes a plurality of angled frame members, a plurality of elongated frame members, and a plastic film. Typically, at least one of the angled frame members can change angles within a given plane. Additionally, at least one of the elongated frame members typically can adjusted lengthwise along a longitudinal axis to connect with the ends of two angled frame members. The end of each angled frame member typically can be connected and removed from the end of each elongated frame member. Moreover, some of the frame members have attached stability flange to aid in securing the temporary window apparatus to an automobile window frame. Methods of temporarily replacing a window include constructing a temporary window frame with a heat-shrinkable plastic film and then applying heat thereto. |
| US08215365B2 |
Appliance for labelling receptacles
Appliance for applying labels to receptacles, which comprises a transport device that transport the receptacles to be labeled along a predefined transport path, and comprises a first pressing-on unit that presses the labels onto an outer wall of the receptacles, the first pressing-on unit having a brush device having a multiplicity of bristles that extend in the direction of the receptacles. According to the invention, the first pressing-on unit, at least in a partial region of the first pressing-on unit, is shorter, in the longitudinal direction of the receptacles, than the label to be applied. |
| US08215363B2 |
Automatic machine for producing corrugated sheet-like elements, particularly for packaging, thermal insulation, soundproofing, and the like
An automatic machine for producing corrugated sheet elements, particularly for packaging, thermal insulation, soundproofing and the like, comprising elements for continuously corrugating a first ribbon that moves longitudinally, a feeder for feeding a second flat ribbon in step with the first ribbon, and a device for joining one another the first and second ribbons in discrete regions. |
| US08215362B2 |
Manufacturing apparatus of absorbent article and manufacturing method of absorbent article
An apparatus for manufacturing an absorbent article includes a guide mechanism having a feeding portion for feeding an elastic member. The feed portion is alternately movable in a first direction and a second direction, and the elastic member is brought into contact with a web conveyed in a machine direction and is ananged in a waveform. The first direction is from a center portion of the web to a first end portion in a cross direction crossing the machine direction. The second direction is from the center portion to a second end portion opposite to the first end portion. A distance between the feeding portion and a nip point at which the elastic member comes in contact with the web is largest when the nip point exceeds a position in the waveform where an angle between the machine direction and a tangent to the waveform is largest. |
| US08215359B2 |
Part sensing horn
A nodal sensing horn assembly for use in ultrasonic welding a first part to a second part that includes a nodal horn, a cavity formed within the nodal horn, and a sensing device at least partially disposed within the cavity. The sensing device senses a property, such as presence and/or orientation, of the first part and outputs a sensing signal in response thereto. |
| US08215355B2 |
Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire has a belt arranged in such a manner that cords are inclined with respect to a tire circumferential direction. A quarter portion is set to a portion which is between 50 to 80% of a belt width around a tire equator line, a center portion is set to a portion which is inside than the quarter portion, and a shoulder portion is set to a portion which is outside than the quarter portion. A relation θc>θs>θq is satisfied on the assumption that a cord angle in the quarter portion is set to θq, a cord angle in the center portion is set to θc, and a cord angle in the shoulder portion is set to θs, with regard to the cord angle of the belt with respect to the tire circumferential direction. |
| US08215353B2 |
Studs for a tire
A tire includes a carcass, a tread band having a radially outer tread surface and a plurality of radially extending recesses, and an anti-slip structure disposed in one of the radially extending recesses. The anti-slip structure includes a first end portion, a second triangular middle portion, and a third triangular end portion. The third end portion includes three radially extending projections for providing traction over ice. The shape of the radially extending recess corresponds to the shape of the anti-slip structure such that the anti-slip structure is both radially and rotationally secured within the recess relative to the tread band of the tire. |
| US08215347B2 |
Apparatus and methods for controlled debarking of wood
An apparatus for determining one or more optimal operating parameters for debarking wood is provided. The apparatus has a scraper and an actuator configured to adjust the position of the scraper toward a sample portion of the wood to scrape a surface of the sample portion of the wood with a scraping force. The apparatus also has a force sensor operatively associated with the scraper for detecting the scraping force. A light source impinges light on a scraped surface of the sample portion. A light detector detects a light image defined by light from the light source reflected by the scraped surface. A controller is operatively associated with the force sensor and the light detector. The controller has processing means to determine the one or more optimal operating parameters based on signals relating to the scraping force and signals relating to the light image. The one or more optimal operating parameters are relevant to debarking wood proximal to the sample portion. |
| US08215346B2 |
Wood collection and reducing machine
A shredder for reducing material which includes a conical cutting drum rotatably positioned within a housing and having an imperforate outer surface so as to carry shredded material radially with and externally of the drum; at least one cutting implement disposed about the outer surface of the cutting drum; an anvil disposed adjacent to the cutting drum; a bellyband wrapping around and conforming to the drum; and a transition interconnecting the bellyband with a discharge port and having a cross sectional configuration that inversely mirrors the cross sectional configuration of the bellyband. |
| US08215344B2 |
Bottom fillable bottles and systems for charging the same
A bottle assembly is provided having a body portion defining a cavity therein, a top lid assembly connectable to the body portion, which includes a selectively deployable and retractable spout, a spout bottom lid; and a resilient tube having a lumen therethrough, wherein the lumen is occluded when the spout is retracted and the resilient tube is kinked, and wherein the lumen is opened when the spout is deployed and the resilient tube is not kinked; a trigger assembly for selectively moving the spout between a deployed and a retracted condition; and a bottom lid assembly selectively connectable to a bottom end of the body portion, the bottom lid assembly including a valve assembly to open and close a fluid path into the cavity of the body portion. |
| US08215337B2 |
Valve for water faucet
A valve for a water faucet includes a base, a seat unrotatably mounted on base, a valve set mounted on the seat, a disk unrotatably mounted on the first valve set, and a housing mounted on the disk. The valve set includes a pivotable valve pivotally mounted on the first portion of the seat and a rotatable valve rotatably mounted on the second portion of the seat. The disk, the rotatable valve, the pivotable valve, the seat, and the base are sequentially received in the housing. |
| US08215335B2 |
Automatic fluid flow control device
A fluid control device for a fluid supply includes a housing (31) defining a fluid supply channel (34) with a fluid inlet (35) for coupling to a fluid supply and a fluid outlet (36) for coupling to an appliance. The housing additionally defines a chamber (44) with an inlet (40) for coupling to an overflow and an outlet (41) for coupling to a drain. A valve (55) is located in the fluid supply channel (34) and is moveable from a first open position to a second closed position where fluid flow through the channel (34) is substantially restricted. An actuator (52) is provided in the chamber (44) and is moveable from a first position to a second position. The valve (55) and actuator (44) are magnetically coupled to one another such that movement of the actuator (44) from the first position to the second position causes the valve (55) to move from the open position to the closed position. |
| US08215334B2 |
Coupling assembly for plumbing fitting
A control handle assembly for a plumbing fitting has a first control member having a bore and a ledge within the bore extending radially inward to an inner dimension, and a second control member having a mounting post with a ledge extending radially outward to an outer dimension. A deformable clip is captured by the control members between the ledges and has a radial outer dimension greater than the inner and outer dimensions of the ledges so as to rotatably couple the control members.A spout coupling assembly has a lower adaptor defining a lower passageway for housing a diverter and an upper adaptor coupled to the lower adaptor defining an upper passageway. An annular recess is formed in the upper adaptor and a collar is axially restrained in the annular recess. A spout is coupled to the collar so that the spout and collar rotate simultaneously. |
| US08215329B2 |
Digital closed loop proportional hydraulic pressure controller
A digitally controlled current to pressure converter (CPC) is provided. A digital CPC utilizes a digital controller and an onboard pressure transducer to accurately control the output pressure based upon an input analog control signal. The digital controller includes an anti-silting algorithm that provides an impulse movement of the three-way rotary valve of the CPC to loosen and flush away silt contamination from the valve. A redundant seal stack including an intermediate passage to the hydraulic drain ensures a low pressure drop across the outboard seal minimizing the potential for leakage and improving reliability of the CPC. The digital controller also includes redundancy and fault management algorithms that enable the use of multiple inputs and feedback signals for control of the CPC. Master/slave operation and transitioning is also provided by the digital controller. |
| US08215322B2 |
Dishwasher with soil removal
The invention relates to a dishwasher comprising a tub in which utensils and the like are received for cleaning by the spraying of liquid, such as a wash liquid, within the tub, with a sequester located within the tub to sequester the particles removed from the utensils by the liquid and that remain in the tub near a drain outlet. |
| US08215312B2 |
Therapeutic mouthpiece for treating sleep disorders
An upper tray adapted to receive a wearer's maxillary teeth. A lower tray adapted to receive the wearer's mandibular teeth. A first upper ridge is carried on a maxillary occlusal surface of the upper tray. A second upper ridge is carried on the maxillary occlusal surface of the upper tray posterior to and spaced from the first upper ridge. A lower ridge is carried on a mandibular occlusal surface of the lower tray received between the first upper ridge and the second upper ridge. The lower tray is movable to a forward position where the lower ridge abuts the first upper ridge to limit forward movement of the lower tray in relation to the upper tray, and the lower tray is movable to a rearward position where the lower ridge abuts the second upper ridge to limit rearward movement of the lower tray in relation to the upper tray. |
| US08215310B2 |
Implant for treatment of vaginal and/or uterine prolapse
An implant suitable for treatment of treatment of vaginal and/or uterine prolapse and/or pelvic floor reconstruction. The implant comprises a vaginal support member substantially sized or shaped to the portion of the vaginal wall to be supported and at least two extension portions projecting from the support member, wherein at least one extension portion has fixation means for anchoring the extension portion into pelvic paravaginal fibro-fatty issue without being faxed into defined structural tissues. A method of treating treatment of vaginal and/or uterine prolapse and/or pelvic floor reconstruction using the implant is also provided. |
| US08215307B2 |
Airway device
An airway device for human or animal use comprising an airway tube having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end of which is surrounded by a laryngeal cuff, adapted to fit anatomically over the laryngeal structure of a patient, wherein the device optionally further comprises a buccal cavity stabiliser located on or around the airway tube between the laryngeal cuff and the proximal end of the tube, said buccal cavity stabiliser being adapted to nest with the anterior aspect of the patient's tongue, the size, shape and configuration of the buccal stabiliser being adapted to prevent rotational or side-to-side movement of the airway device in use. |
| US08215305B2 |
Cushion for ventilation interface
In accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment, a cushion for a ventilation interface is disclosed. A ventilation mask can include a mask body adapted to matingly engage with the cushion. The cushion can be a double-membrane cushion having an outer sealing membrane and an inner membrane, both of which can extend from a frame. The outer sealing membrane can have a face-contacting portion. The inner membrane can be outwardly oriented from the frame. |
| US08215298B2 |
Solar module system of the parabolic concentrator type
A solar module system includes a self-supporting structure and at least one solar module element or reflector element which can be arranged on the support structure. The support structure includes a plurality of juxtaposed support profiles in the form of self-supporting hollow chamber profiles, which have front parabolic concentrator reflector functional surfaces and solar module functional surfaces on the side facing away from the front. The system is used e.g. for photovoltaic systems outdoors or on buildings. |
| US08215292B2 |
Internal combustion engine and working cycle
Method of operating an internal combustion engine, including, at least, compressing and cooling air outside an engine chamber, supplying cooled, pressurized air to an intake port associated with the chamber, and, during each engine cycle: opening the intake port, allowing cooled, pressurized air to flow through the intake port and into the chamber during at least a portion of the intake stroke; maintaining open the intake port during the portion of the intake stroke and beyond the end of the intake stroke and into the compression stroke and during a majority portion of the compression stroke; closing the intake port at a point during travel of the piston to capture in the chamber a cooled compressed charge of the cooled, pressurized air; controllably delivering fuel into the chamber after the cooled compressed charge is captured within the chamber; and igniting a fuel and air mixture within the chamber. |
| US08215290B2 |
Marine carbon canister
A fuel tank vent system includes a carbon canister and an engine fuel system coupled to the carbon canister. Fuel vapor discharged from a fuel tank included in the engine fuel system flows during certain conditions into the carbon canister to encounter charcoal stored in the carbon canister. Hydrocarbon material associated with the discharged fuel vapor is captured by the charcoal and a stream of cleaned vapor is discharged from the carbon canister to the atmosphere. |
| US08215279B2 |
Starting device for combustion engine
In order to design a starting device for at least one combustion engine, more preferably cable-operated starting device for at least one two-stroke or four-stroke engine with at least one cable disc or cable drum rotatably mounted in a housing, which for generating a drive rotational moment for an engine shaft can be rotated by means of at least one starting handle or pulling handle, via at least one force transmission means, more preferably via a starting cable or pulling cable and which is connected via at least one elastic coupling link with at least one driver link, more preferably with at least one pawl driver, by means of which the drive rotational moment can be transmitted onto the engine shaft, the coupling link has two ends, wherein an end is engaged with the driver link, as light as possible through direct operational connection of force transmission means and elastic link/coupling link it is proposed that another end of the coupling link is engaged with the cable disc or the cable drum and the force transmission means. |
| US08215276B2 |
Compact switchable hydraulic lash adjuster with hydraulic lost motion assist
An improved deactivation hydraulic lash adjuster wherein the prior art lost motion spring or springs formerly located within the body of the DHLA and below the pin housing are either omitted completely or are reduced in length, spring force, and/or number and are augmented hydraulically, allowing a shorter, more compact lifter body and reduced overall lifter length. The prior art lost motion spring chamber becomes a hydraulic chamber connected to a new pressurized oil supply gallery containing an accumulator in the engine. An embodiment having no lost motion spring and solely hydraulic lost motion return can be even shorter than a spring-hydraulic hybrid because the potential hydraulic pressure to be brought against the pin housing is not a function of the length of the lost motion chamber, which length is limited only by the required displacement of the pin housing. |
| US08215275B2 |
Single lobe deactivating rocker arm
A deactivating rocker arm for use with a cam having at least one no-lift safety lobe is provided. Safety lobe contacting surfaces on the rocker arm are configured for contact with safety lobes during abnormal operation of the rocker arm. When the rocker arm is deactivated, the safety lobe contacting surfaces may come into contact with safety lobes when excessive pump-up of a lash adjuster brings the rocker arm undesirably close to the rotating cam. This contact limits the range of motion of the rocker arm during certain instances of abnormal operation, promoting more effective transition between deactivated and activated states and preventing damaging contact between the rocker arm and the cam lobe. |
| US08215272B2 |
Variable valve timing control apparatus for internal combustion engine
In a variable valve timing control apparatus, a hydraulic variable valve timing device adjusts valve timing by changing a VCT phase. In a lock mode, the lock pin is allowed to be displaced in a lock direction for locking the VCT phase, and the VCT phase is slightly shifted in a lock-mode VCT phase shift direction corresponding to one of an advance direction and a retard direction. A lock control unit shifts the VCT phase in a direction opposite from the VCT phase shift direction if the VCT phase is located on a lock-mode VCT phase shift direction side of the intermediate lock position when the engine becomes equal to or less than a first rotational speed, and otherwise the lock control unit allows the lock pin to be displaced in the lock direction. |
| US08215271B2 |
Hydraulic unit for a cylinder head of an internal combustion engine with hydraulically variable gas-exchange valve train
A hydraulic unit (5) is provided for a cylinder head (2) of an internal combustion engine with a hydraulically variable valve train (1). In the hydraulic unit, a high-pressure chamber (11), a medium-pressure chamber (12), and a low-pressure chamber (16) used as the hydraulic medium reservoir are formed. The low-pressure chamber communicates via a throttle point (17, 17′, 17″, 17′″) with the medium-pressure chamber, and the throttle point is formed by a displaceable valve body (19, 19′, 19″, 19′″) and has through-flow cross sections of different sizes according to a position of the valve body. |
| US08215269B2 |
Two-stroke engine
A two-stroke engine has a scavenging port for introduction of a working gas containing fuel, into a combustion chamber, and an exhaust port for discharge of gas in the combustion chamber therefrom, in which a piston connected to a crankshaft through a connecting rod reciprocates in the combustion chamber with rotary drive of the crankshaft, to control opening and closing of the scavenging port and the exhaust port, in which as the piston moves from a top dead center to a bottom dead center, the exhaust port and the scavenging port open in the order named, and in which as the piston moves from the bottom dead center to the top dead center, the scavenging port and the exhaust port close in the order named. |
| US08215264B2 |
Atomic layer deposition apparatus
The present invention relates to an ALD apparatus, and particularly relates to an ALD apparatus that is suitable for rapidly depositing a thin film on a substrate having an actual area that is larger than a planar substrate. In the reaction chamber of the ALD apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, more gas is supplied to a portion where more gas is required by having differences in the space for gas to flow rather than supplying the gas in a constant flux and a constant flow velocity such that the time required for supplying reactant gases and waste of reactant gases may be minimized to increase productivity of the ALD apparatus. The ceiling of the reaction space is shaped to provide a nonuniform gap over the substrate. |
| US08215263B2 |
Adhesive dispenser with temperature controller
An exemplary adhesive dispenser includes a container configured for supplying an adhesive, a plurality of nozzles configured for dispensing the adhesive, and a temperature controller connected between the container and the nozzles. The temperature controller has a chamber defined therein, and the chamber is configured for accommodating the adhesive. The container and each nozzle communicate with the chamber respectively. The temperature controller is configured for maintaining the adhesive therein in a predetermined temperature. |
| US08215262B2 |
Cluster tool architecture for processing a substrate
Embodiments generally provide an apparatus and method for processing substrates using a multi-chamber processing system (e.g., a cluster tool) that has an increased system throughput, increased system reliability, substrates processed in the cluster tool have a more repeatable wafer history, and also the cluster tool has a smaller system footprint. In one embodiment, a cluster tool for processing a substrate includes a first processing rack, a first robot assembly and a second robot assembly operable to transfer substrates to substrate processing chambers in the first processing rack, and a horizontal motion assembly. The horizontal motion assembly includes one or more walls that form an interior region in which a motor is enclosed. The one or more walls defining an elongated opening through which a robot support interface travels, the robot support interface supporting a robot of the horizontal motion assembly. |
| US08215261B2 |
Process and apparatus for introducing a potting composition into a filter apparatus
A method and apparatus for introducing a sealing compound into a filter device include attaching sealing caps for the purpose of producing the sealing compound, and distributing the sealing compound from a sealing chamber via the sealing caps onto the ends of the filter device. The sealing compound is passed from the sealing chamber into a rotationally symmetrical cantilevered projection of the respective sealing cap, from which the sealing compound penetrates into the housing via corresponding slots of the sealing cap. |
| US08215259B2 |
Automotive tire dressing applicator
A tire dressing applicator comprises a support and one or more foam plastic elements mounted on the support so as to contact a tire sidewall and transfer dressing onto the tire sidewall. A distribution system drips or drizzles dressing onto the element(s) after which it is spread over and into the element(s) surface. The elements can be toroidal or rectangular and have anti-distortion pins embedded therein. |
| US08215258B2 |
Alarmed chuck wrench
A novel safety-equipped chuck wrench is provided, as well as a method for using the same. The safety-equipped chuck wrench comprises a chuck wrench and a safety device associated with the chuck wrench, where the safety device comprises an alarm, a power source and an alarm activation switch. The alarm activation switch causes the alarm to activate so long as the chuck wrench is engaged in a chuck, subject to de-activation by engagement of a cut-off switch, if any. The alarm may be an audible alarm, a visual alarm, or both. The safety-equipped chuck wrench may include a mechanism for temporarily disabling the alarm, preferably through the use of a cutoff switch. |
| US08215255B2 |
Ship rudder and ship provided therewith
A twisted rudder blade for a ship having a twist that is adapted to the configuration of the flow of the water in the region of the rudder blade if no propeller in operation is disposed in front of the rudder blades in the direction of travel of the ship. |
| US08215252B1 |
System and method for dynamic stabilization and navigation in high sea states
A system is disclosed for dynamically stabilizing a ship in high sea states. A six degree-of-freedom robotic arm is attached to the ship, and a thruster is located at the distal end of the manipulator. The manipulator is be used to orient the thruster to counteract wave forces that act against the ship's hull in real time. This active balancing technique can be used to keep the ship substantially erect in rough seas by making continual corrections to the ship's body attitude. The center of gravity and the center of buoyancy of the ship are utilized, along with a precisely oriented and controlled thrust at the end of the manipulator, to optimally control the ship's state against impending waves. |
| US08215249B2 |
Sewing machine
A sewing machine having a threading path defined at a sewing machine head and being engaged with a needle thread to guide the needle thread in threading a sewing needle; a thread holder provided on the threading path and that includes a thread holding plate receiving the needle thread being introduced from outer to inner peripheral side of the thread holder to clamp the needle thread; a thread cutter provided on a faceplate covering the head and that cuts off a needle thread tip sequentially engaged with the threading path; a threader unit that passes the needle thread through a needle eye; and a passage resistance applier provided downstream relative to the thread holder and upstream relative to the thread cutter and that applies a predetermined amount of resistance on the needle thread passing therethrough to introduce the needle thread to the inner peripheral side of the needle holding plate. |
| US08215245B2 |
Vibration damping stand
A stand for supporting an article a spaced distance above a support surface and for damping vibration therebetween. The stand includes a support frame having resilient bushings engaged therewith. Each bushing defines a bore into which a first end of one of a plurality of rods is received. The rods extend downwardly from the bushings and abut the support surface. The bores are configured to permit the rods to move more in one horizontal direction than in another. |
| US08215243B2 |
Rack for a test cell
A rack for a test cell, with vertical posts and horizontal crossbars, wherein the crossbars are connected with their end sections to the posts. The posts and the crossbars have the form of box sections that are open towards the outside, are arranged in a spatial grid, and are connected with each other. The posts as well as the crossbars have passages that are associated with each other and that serve as passages for lines that are installed in the rack. |
| US08215242B2 |
Portable lap tray
A portable and environmentally-friendly lap tray to support items for a seated individual includes a storage surface surrounded by retaining walls. The lap tray includes hinged support wings on the bottom surface to extend between a user's legs. The wings are set apart from one another in an ergonomically preferable position to allow any person to comfortably use the lap tray when seated. Alternatively, the lap tray may be used as a stand. The lap tray may be personalized or customized for particular events with various indicia and add-ons. |
| US08215239B2 |
Aerodynamic pseudocontainer for reducing drag associated with stacked intermodal containers
Disclosed is an aerodynamic pseudocontainer for a train. The pseudocontainer is configured to be stacked atop an intermodal container in a lead container car at a lead end of the train, so that its aerodynamic configuration reduces drag when the train is in motion, thereby reducing fuel costs and emissions. The pseudocontainer may have connectors on its bottom so that when it is placed on top of the intermodal container, locking devices may be used for attachment. |
| US08215238B2 |
Guideway coupling system
According to one embodiment, a pair of guideway engagement members having a controller circuit is configured on a transport vehicle that travels over an elongated guideway. The pair of guideway engagement members have a corresponding pair of bearing members that are each disposed on opposing sides of the guideway. The controller circuit receives a measurement indicative of dynamic movement of the transport vehicle from one or more sensors, and adjusts the stiffness of the pair of guideway engagement members according to the measurements received from the sensors. |
| US08215233B2 |
Nut-cracking apparatus
A nut-cracking apparatus that is compact and efficient cracks nuts at high production rates. The nut-cracking apparatus includes an endless conveyor and delivers nuts from a hopper to a delivery point. The nuts are engaged at the delivery point by a nut-cracking unit which cracks the nuts. The endless conveyor includes nut pockets which are made up of separate nut pocket segments that are movable from open to closed positions. The nut pocket segments are in an open position where the nuts are cracked to provide ample room for cracking of the nut. |
| US08215232B2 |
Cooking apparatus and cleaning method for the same
A cooking apparatus for assuring easier cleaning of contaminants, such as food residue, attached to the wall surface of a cavity in the cooking apparatus is disclosed. The cooking apparatus includes a body defining the outer appearance of the cooking apparatus, and a cavity defining a space for heating and cooking an object and having an inner surface to form an oil-repellent surface by being heated. In a cleaning method for the cooking apparatus, the inner surface of the cavity is heated prior to cooking food, to have an oil-repellency. The inner surface makes it difficult for the contaminants to be attached thereto. Even if the contaminants are attached, the contaminants have a very low adhesive power and thus are easy to clean. |
| US08215231B2 |
Household food processor with food processing tools
A food processor having a food processing path accessible through a slot in which is received at least one food processing tool removably received within the slot such that food passing along the food processing path is processed by the tool. |
| US08215230B2 |
Collapsible salad spinner
A collapsible salad spinner includes a bowl, basket, and lid. Each of the bowl and basket are formed such that they are collapsible, with the bowl and basket being collapsible while nested within one another. |
| US08215227B2 |
Detecting of faults in a valve system and a fault tolerant control
In a method for controlling a valve system controlling an actuator, the first direction of motion of the actuator is controlled solely by the first and the second valve series; or, its second direction of motion is controlled solely by the third and the fourth valve series; and an error caused by a fault situation in the control of the actuator is compensated for by using, for the control of the first direction of motion, also the third valve series, the fourth valve series, or both of them; or, an error in the control of the actuator caused by a fault situation is compensated for by using, for the control of the second direction of motion, also the first valve series, the second valve series, or both of them. In the method, for searching for faults in the valve system controlling the actuator, the pressure of the inlet port of the valve system, the pressure of the first working port, and the pressure of the outlet port are determined; one or more valves of the first valve series and one or more valves of the second valve series are opened; the measured pressure of the first working port is compared with a situation corresponding to a system operating correctly; and on the basis of the comparison it is concluded whether the single valve is faulty or not. |
| US08215226B2 |
Negative pressure booster
In the negative pressure booster, when in operation, a reaction disc (35) deflects due to the reaction from an output shaft (34) and pushes a pin (28) backward, and the pin (28) pushes a vacuum valve seat member (21) backward via an arm (25). Thereafter, the vacuum valve seat member (21) pushes up a valve body (15) backward via a vacuum valve portion (17), and an atmosphere valve portion (16) moves backward relative to a valve body (4). The stroke of an input shaft (11) is shortened by an amount an atmosphere valve (20) and a vacuum valve (23) have moved backward. As the valve body (15) is pushed up backward, further, a balance position for the atmosphere valve (20) and the vacuum valve (23) shifts backward depending upon the output (input). Therefore, the stroke of the input member is shortened at the time of producing a large output. |
| US08215225B1 |
Large caliber autoloader
An air, land, or sea vehicle may include a gun and a rotatable turret ring. An autoloader may be disposed in a basket fixed to the turret ring. The autoloader may include a turntable that rotates independently of the turret ring. An elevator having a track may rotate with the turntable. A carriage may be linearly translatable on the track of the elevator in directions toward and away from the plane of the turntable. A transfer device may be rotatably fixed to a pivot of the carriage. The transfer device may include a rail and a gripper that is linearly translatable on the rail. |
| US08215222B1 |
System, method, and apparatus for improving the performance of ceramic armor materials with shape memory alloys
Ring-shaped shape memory alloys put disk-shaped ceramic materials in a state of compression. The rings are radially deformed to introduce plastic strain into the rings. The rings are sized to closely receive the disk-shaped ceramic strike plates. When the assembly is heated, the rings attempt to regain their original shape and thereby put the ceramic strike plates into uniform, two-dimensional compression. |
| US08215217B2 |
Apparatus for mounting a stop rule on the machine table of a table saw
The invention relates to an apparatus for mounting a stop rule on a machine table of a table saw by means of an adapter. In one embodiment, the adapter includes on one side a clamping bar protruding from a plate for engagement into a longitudinal groove of the stop rule, and on the opposite side means for connection to a clamping element of a rule carrier attached to the machine table. The plate of the adapter carrying the clamping bar is supported between two columns that are fastenable on the rule carrier, and carries on its back side, facing the rule carrier, a vertically adjustable clamping plate for coupling the clamping element of the rule carrier fixedly against the back side of the plate. The clamping plate is connected to the adapter plate via two releasable screws that are vertically adjustable in two vertical elongated holes of the plate. |
| US08215213B1 |
Workpiece supporting assembly
A workpiece supporting assembly, having a body member with an internal workpiece channel and a plurality of body openings communicating with the internal workpiece channel, supports a workpiece within the workpiece channel so that end portions of the workpiece extend from the body openings. The body member has a plurality of arbors, each arbor having a longitudinal axis that is coincident with a datum axis of one of the extending workpiece portions. A turning machine grips one arbor at a time and rotates the body member about the selected longitudinal axis for machining the extended workpiece portion. |
| US08215211B2 |
Method and apparatus for machning V grooves
There is provided a V-groove machining method and apparatus which, by measuring the depth of a V groove cut by a cutting tool and correcting the cutting depth of the cutting tool based on the measurement data, enables high precision machining of four-sided pyramids having vertices of a uniform height. The V-groove machining method includes the steps of: feeding a cutting tool relative to a workpiece in a first direction to create a first V groove, extending in the first direction, in the surface of the workpiece, and repeating this machining operation to create first V grooves at a predetermined pitch; moving the cutting tool along one of the first V grooves and scanning the first V groove with a distance sensor, disposed near the cutting tool, to measure the distance to the bottom of the first V groove, thereby detecting undulation of the bottom of the first V groove along the first direction; and feeding the cutting tool relative to the workpiece in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction to create a second V groove in the surface of the workpiece, and repeating this machining operation while correcting the position of the cutting tool in the machining position for each second V groove based on the results of detection of the undulation, thereby creating second V grooves at a predetermined pitch. |
| US08215210B2 |
Method of machining a face of an ophthalmic lens that is prism-ballasted at the centre
The invention relates to a method of machining a face (3) of an ophthalmic lens (1) with a main machining step in which the position of a machining tool (8) is synchronised with the angular position of the ophthalmic lens (1) which is rotated around an axis of rotation (4) that is transverse to the face (3), in order to provide the face with a machined surface that is asymmetrical in relation to the axis of rotation (4) of the ophthalmic lens (1); and a complementary machining step in which a recess (22) is machined around the axis of rotation (4) of the lens (1). |
| US08215209B2 |
Screw driving member
A screw driving member of the present invention is driven by a power tool to turn a nut with a polygonal head and a slot on its top. The screw driving member includes a shaft, a driver head and a biasing device. The shaft has an axial hole and a fitting hole. The driver head is inserted into the axial hole of the shaft for reciprocation but rotation. The biasing device urges the driver head to have a coupling end out of the shaft. In engagement of the nut, the coupling end enters the slot of the nut, and then the driver head will be turned automatically that the coupling end may fully enter the slot. At the same time, the shaft is turned also that the fitting hole may be engaged with the head of the nut when the screw driving member is pressed downward. |
| US08215207B2 |
Ratchet wrench
A ratchet wrench includes a driving end including a ratchet member, two pawls releasably and selectively engaging with the ratchet member for setting the ratchet wrench in two operation modes, and a switching mechanism disposed between the pawls. The switching mechanism includes limits urging the respective pawls such that one limit engages with one pawl to urge it to disengage from the ratchet member while the other limit disengages from the other pawl to allow it to engage with the ratchet member in one operation mode, and the other limit engages with the other pawl to urge it to disengage from the ratchet member while the one limit disengages from the one pawl to allow it to engage with the ratchet member in another operation mode. Additionally, the pawls are prevented from being mis-shifted by the switching mechanism. |
| US08215201B2 |
Adjustable steering assembly
A vehicle, such as an all-terrain or utility-terrain vehicle, includes a telescoping, adjustable, steering assembly. The steering assembly includes a steering device that is coupled to the steering assembly, which can be adjusted to increase or decrease the height of the steering device. The steering assembly may include a detent member, a steering post, a yoke, a collar, and a biasing member. The steering post includes axially spaced arcuate grooves where a detent member is seated and held in place with a collar. The collar includes a tapered internal surface for applying lateral pressure to the detent member to lock the yoke in place relative to the steering post. Without the use of tools, the collar may be moved to release the lateral pressure on the detent member, which in turn permits the yoke to be moved relative to the steering post—resulting in adjustment of the steering device. |
| US08215198B2 |
Backlash eliminator
A backlash eliminator includes an input shaft (15) coupled to a driving motor (20) and having a drive gear (52); an output shaft (14) fixing a gear (W), as an object to be cut, thereon, and having a driven gear (42); and a stationary intermediate shaft (16) and a moving intermediate shaft (17) disposed parallel to the input shaft and the output shaft, and having large intermediate gears (62, 72) meshing with the drive gear, and small intermediate gears (63, 73) meshing with the driven gear, and a switching regulating valve (31) for pressing the moving intermediate shaft in its axial direction so that an output-side backlash elimination torque (Ts) between the driven gear and the small intermediate gear (73) acts in the same direction as the direction of generation of a cutting load torque (Tw) generated in the circumferential direction of the gear during machining of the gear. |
| US08215195B2 |
Engine starter
An electromagnetic controller includes an exciting coil unit that is provided with a coil main body and an exciting piece that is positioned at a tip end side of the coil main body so as to be magnetized according to an excitation of the coil main body; and a plunger that is disposed in a ring-shaped space formed at an inner diameter side of the exciting coil unit so as to be movable in the ring-shaped space in an axial center direction, the plunger being displaceable from a non-acting position to an acting position at a tip end side under an attracting force based on magnetization of the exciting piece, wherein an urging member is provided at the inner diameter side of the exciting coil unit so as to urge the plunger to a side of the non-acting position according to demagnetization of the exciting piece. |
| US08215194B2 |
Starter
In a starter with which a pinion movable body with which a pinion gear and a one-way clutch were united moves on an output shaft, a holder is attached to the one-way clutch. A seal component having the shape of a ring is provided so that an end of an outer circumference of the seal component is fixed to a nose part of a housing and an end of an inner circumference of the seal component slidably contacts an outer circumferential surface of the holder. The holder is provided so that relative rotation to the one-way clutch is possible. Since the holder doesn't rotate relative to the housing, wear of a seal component is reduced compared with the case where the seal component contacts the one-way clutch which rapidly rotates whereby the sealability preventing a foreign substance or water from infiltrating into the inside of the starter can be maintained. |
| US08215193B2 |
Method and apparatus for simplified and hygienic access to a fluid chamber
A hygienic insert connector assembly that prevents biological contamination within food, beverage and biopharma processes includes an insert to pass through an opening into a fluid chamber, a support assembly, a seal disposed around the insert to seal the opening into the fluid chamber, and a seal compression mechanism. When the seal is axially compressed, the seal radially expands and contacts both the wall of the opening into the fluid chamber and the insert to collectively form a fluid tight seal. This eliminates the potential for product entrapment with the associated biological contamination risk, and allows efficient in-place cleaning and sterilization. The connector assembly can be installed in any orientation and functions such that positive pressure inside the fluid chamber enhances the sealing mechanism. The simple design enables the insert to be easily removed, examined, and re-inserted in conformance with international sanitary design standards. |
| US08215189B2 |
Vehicle seat apparatus having load detecting device
A seat apparatus for a vehicle, includes a seat-side fixing member, a slide rail, a load detecting device disposed between the seat-side fixing member and the slide rail and arranged at an end portion of the slide rail on a rear side of the vehicle, and a bracket arranged at an end portion of the slide rail on a front side of the vehicle, the bracket supporting the seat-side fixing member. The bracket includes a lower attachment portion attached to the slide rail, a supporting portion extending from the lower attachment portion toward an upper side of the vehicle, and an upper attachment portion connected to the supporting portion so as to extend from the supporting portion toward the rear side of the vehicle, thereby being cantilever-supported by the supporting portion, and attached to the seat-side fixing member at a free-end side of the upper attachment portion. |
| US08215187B2 |
Torque detection device
A torque detection device includes an enclosure, at least one torque-strain bar, at least one adaptor, a coupler, at least one strain gauge, and a torque display unit. The torque-strain bar is enclosed by the enclosure and has opposite ends respectively forming coupling terminals for coupling with the adaptor and the coupler in either direction. The adaptor is connectable to a torque device, such as a hand tool, an electric tool, or a pneumatic tool. The coupler is connectable to a tool piece, such as a wrench socket. The strain gauge is directly mounted to the torque-strain bar to detect the value of a torque applied thereto and to convert the torque value into a torque value signal, which can be outputted in either wired or wireless manner. The torque display unit is mounted to the enclosure and receives the torque value signal from the stain gauge, whereby the torque display unit may perform displaying of torque value, alarming, and storage according to the torque value signal. |
| US08215183B2 |
Augmented surface sensor for measuring flow velocity
A system and method for measurement of flow parameters in a sewer pipe that may be partially or completely filled. Flow parameters may include flow velocity, flow volume, depth of flow and surcharge pressure. Measurements are taken from a sensor head installed on the inside of the pipe at the top of the pipe approximately the larger of at least 1 foot or 1 pipe diameter upstream of a pipe opening. Flow velocity may be measured by two different technologies. The technology employed depends on whether or not the pipe is full. If the pipe is not full then flow velocity may be measured, for example, using a wide beam, ultrasonic, diagonally downward looking Doppler signal that interacts with the surface of the flow. If the pipe is full, then flow velocity may be measured using, for example, an average velocity Doppler sensor, a peak velocity Doppler sensor or an ultrasonic velocity profiler. |
| US08215181B1 |
Evaluation technique for bonded, dual wall static and rotating airfoil materials
The present invention provides a test specimen configured for mechanical load life characterization testing of a dual wall bonded airfoil for use in a turbomachinery device. The dual wall bonded airfoil has a spar and a skin bonded to the spar. The test specimen includes a main stress body, which includes a test spar component configured to represent the spar of the dual wall bonded airfoil; a test skin component configured to represent the skin of the dual wall bonded airfoil; and a test bond joint bonding the skin component to the spar component. The test bond joint is configured to represent the actual bond joint between the spar and the skin of the dual wall bonded airfoil. The test specimen is structured to simulate the dual wall bonded airfoil for testing in a mechanical testing machine. |
| US08215180B2 |
Apparatus for testing strength of objects
An apparatus for testing strength of a corner portion of an object includes a support platform, an installing mechanism on the platform, a force gauge, a driving mechanism connected to the slidable plate to move the slidable plate, a clamp mechanism for clamping the object in a fixed position, and a push-pull mechanism. The installing mechanism includes two opposite rail plates mounted to the platform, and a slidable plate slidably mounted between the rail plates. The force gauge is fixed to the slidable plate. The push-pull mechanism is connected to the force gauge to be pushed or pulled by the force gauge. The push-pull mechanism comprises two forcing posts to respectively abut against two sides of the object at the corner portion, thereby exerting push or pull force on the two sides of the corner portion to test strength of the corner portion. |
| US08215179B2 |
Integrated device for monitoring deformations of an electrically insulating part and method for manufacturing one such device
An integrated device for monitoring an electrically insulating part, the device having an optic fiber that includes at least one Bragg grating, the electrically insulating part being a composite material with a thermosetting matrix, and the optic fiber including a polyimide mechanical protection sleeve made. The device is integrated into an electrically insulating part or an electrically insulating enclosure. The invention also includes a method for manufacturing the device including positioning in a mold part of an optic fiber that includes at least one Bragg grating, and molding of the electrically insulating part. |
| US08215178B2 |
Sensor device to monitor deformation in structural members, such as solid structures
A sensor device comprises a sensing component adapted to be connected to a monitoring system to send signals associated with deformation of a structural member. An adhesive is adapted to bond the sensing component to a surface of a structural member. A tape has at least one adhesive surface adapted to be adhered to the surface of a structural member to be monitored, with the sensing component being positioned between the tape and the surface of the structural member. The sensor device is used in combination with a monitoring system. |
| US08215175B2 |
Quantitative evaluation device of atomic vacancies existing in silicon wafer, method for the device, silicon wafer manufacturing method, and thin-film oscillator
A quantitative evaluation device and method of an atomic vacancy, which are capable of efficiently and quantitatively evaluating an atomic vacancy existing in a silicon wafer. A quantitative evaluation device 1 is equipped with a detector 5 including an ultrasonic generator 27 and an ultrasonic receiver 28, a silicon sample 6 formed with the ultrasonic generator 27 and the ultrasonic receiver 28 on a silicon wafer 26 comprising perfect crystal silicon, a magnetic force generator 4 for applying an external magnetic field to the silicon sample 6, and a cooler 3 capable of cooling and controlling the silicon sample 6 to a range of temperatures lower than or equal to 50K. The ultrasonic generator 27 and the ultrasonic receiver 28 are each equipped with a transducer 30 including a thin film oscillator 31 formed from a high-polymer material with a physical property capable of following an expanding action of a silicon wafer 26 in association with a temperature drop in the above range of the temperatures and whose molecular axes are oriented in the direction of an electric field when decreasing temperature with the electric field applied thereto and further, including electrodes 32, 33 for applying an electric field to the thin film oscillator 31. |
| US08215173B2 |
UT method of identifying a stuck joint
An ultrasonic testing method to identify a stuck joint between two workpieces utilizing an ultrasonic probe to transmit ultrasonic (US) beams into the joint area and capture the associated US reflections. The method transmits two separate US beams fired in very close proximity to one another. The probe then captures a plurality of US reflections. The method looks for subtle variations in a high gain A-scan presentation of a high gain reflected beam, while using a low gain US beam to identify the particular region on the high gain A-scan presentation in which to look for signs of a stuck joint. Subtle variations within a particular region of the high gain A-scan presentation identify stuck joints. The method is applicable to metals and nonmetals and is not limited to fusion welding, but may also be used with solid state welds, brazed and soldered joints, and adhesively joined workpieces. |
| US08215168B2 |
Micromechanical inertial sensor for measuring rotation rates
A rotation rate sensor for sensing a rotation Ω by which the sensor is rotated has a substrate and a driving and sensing arrangement located substantially flat in an X-Y plane above a substrate surface of the substrate and having a center. The driving and sensing arrangement has a drive mass and a sense mass that are arranged at different spacings from the center of the driving and sensing arrangement symmetrically about the center. The oscillation modes of the drive mass and the sense mass are partially transmittable onto one another and are partially decoupled. The rotation Ω is sensed in that a tilting of the sense mass out of a surface plane of the driving and sensing arrangement is sensed. A first one of the drive and sense masses that has a greater spacing to the center is tilted under the effect of Coriolis force out of the surface plane The first one of the drive and sense masses is connected by symmetrically arranged external anchors to the substrate such that a restoring action for the tilting action of the first one of the drive and sense masses is assisted by the external anchors. |
| US08215167B2 |
Scoop having a parking anchor for measuring and dispensing powdered or granular material
A scoop for measuring and dispensing powdered or granular material has at least one projection, such as a fin, multiple intersecting fins, or a spike, which enable the scoop to be “parked” in the surface of a powdered or granular food product without the handle of the scoop coming in contact with the product. The projection is preferably molded unitary with the scoop and handle. Unless the container is vigorously shaken, dropped, or subjected to extreme accelerative or decelerative forces, the scoop will remain in its parked position until the container is reopened for a further dispensing of the powdered or granular food product. The scoop may be packaged as an assembly in combination with a discardable floating scoop retainer disk, that is placed on the surface of the granular or powdered product, and prevents the scoop from sinking below the surface during shipping and handling. |
| US08215163B2 |
Coating rigidity testing device
A coating rigidity testing device includes a abrading machine, a base, two racks, and a actuator. The abrading machine is disposed on the base. The abrading machine includes a receiving chamber, a supporting arm, a pressure adjusting structure, and a scratching stylus. The receiving chamber includes a front plate. The extending arm includes a supporting arm is extended outwards from the front plate. The pressure adjusting member is extended outwards from the front plate and disposed above the supporting arm. The scratching stylus is received in the supporting arm, and configured for scratching nicks on a workpiece. The base includes a supporting surface supporting the abrading machine and the workpiece, and two first sidewalls parallel to each other. The two racks are arranged on two first sidewalls. The actuator is configured for driving the receiving chamber to move along the racks on the base. |
| US08215161B2 |
Fuel state sensing device
A fuel state sensing device is applied to an injector injecting fuel, which is supplied from a fuel pump, though an injection hole. The fuel state sensing device has a fuel pressure sensor (bulk modulus sensing section) for sensing a bulk modulus of the fuel existing in a fuel passage extending from a discharge port of the fuel pump to the injection hole. The fuel state sensing device has a fuel temperature sensor (fuel temperature sensing section) for sensing fuel temperature. The fuel state sensing device has an air mixing state calculating section for calculating a quantity or a ratio of air mixing in the fuel as an air mixing quantity or an air mixing ratio based on the sensed bulk modulus and the sensed fuel temperature. |
| US08215160B2 |
Sensor structure
The present invention utilizes self-heating of electronic components to improve a humidity sensing part with low environment resistance, such as a condensation problem and the like, and also to enhance the heat radiation efficiency of electronic components. The humidity sensing part is used in an intake tube of an automobile by integrating, for example, with a heating resister type mass air flow measurement device. A humidity sensing element is mounted on an electronic circuit board in a mass air flow measurement device with the temperature thereof starting to increase immediately after a sensor has been actuated. This urges the temperature of the humidity sensing element to start increasing (being heated) immediately after the sensor has been actuated. To urge the humidity sensing element to be further heated, a base plate is composed of two types of materials, resin and metal. A part of the base plate holding an area of the electronic circuit board generating a large quantity of heat is composed of the metal. A part of the base plate corresponding to the periphery of the humidity sensing part which is to be heated is composed of the resin. |
| US08215157B2 |
System and method for measuring liquid viscosity in a fluid delivery system
The present invention includes systems and methods for determining the viscosity of a fluid within a fluid flow path. Such method may comprise flowing fluid through the fluid flow path and past a fixed flow restriction therein. The method may also comprise first sensing of a fluid pressure within the fluid flow path at a selected location upstream of the flow restriction. The method may also include limiting fluid flow in the fluid flow path upstream of such selected location. The method may further comprise second sensing of a fluid pressure within the fluid flow path at such selected location after such limiting. Such method includes determining the viscosity of the fluid based, at least in part, on any pressure difference from such first and second sensing. |
| US08215154B2 |
Method for locating pressure losses in vacuum bags
Method for locating pressure losses in vacuum bags used in the manufacturing of composite material parts, according to which the vacuum bag with a part in its interior coated by airweave at a pressure lower than atmospheric pressure, is exposed to contact with a gas dispersion at atmospheric pressure of solid suspended tracing particles, preferably tar, which in the event of there being pressure losses in the vacuum bag, are deposited in the airweave areas close to them. The contact between the vacuum bag and the gas dispersion is performed preferably through an applier of said gas dispersion over the vacuum bag through an application device, either in open surroundings or in closed surroundings such as an autoclave. |
| US08215146B2 |
Method of rolling feed products into different sized finished products
A feed product is rolled into different sized finished products in a rolling mill finishing section which comprises a plurality of modular rolling units arranged along the mill pass line. Each rolling unit includes two roll stands with work rolls configured to define successive oval and round roll passes. The roll stands are designed to effect specific area reductions on products rolled through their respective oval and round roll passes. Feed products having the same entry size are rolled into finished products having different reduced sizes by providing altered rolling sequences in which a selected rolling unit is replaced along the pass line with rolling units having roll stands designed to effect area reductions that differ from those of the roll stands of the replaced rolling unit. Rolling units downstream from the replaced rolling unit are removed from the pass line. The roll stands of rolling units upstream from the replaced rolling unit remain unchanged. |
| US08215138B2 |
Device and continuous dyeing process with indigo
A device (100) is described, together with a continuous dyeing process with indigo and reduction dyes for warp yarn chains (3) and/or fabrics. The device (100) comprising at least one hermetically sealed dyeing compartment (1), and at least one hermetically sealed compartment (2) for the diffusion and fixing of the dye on the yarn (3). The compartment (2) is situated downstream of the dyeing compartment (1) and is functionally and hermetically connected to the dyeing compartment (1) by means of a tunnel (4). Means (12) are present inside the compartments (1, 2) and tunnel (4), for the entry of inert gas or deoxygenated air. One or more means (14, 14′) for the direct application of the dye onto the yarn (3) are also present inside the dyeing compartment (1), whereas at least one tank (8) for humidifying the environment and at least one means (7) for heating the yarn (3) leaving the dyeing compartment (1), are present in the compartment (2). |
| US08215137B2 |
Laundry appliance over-molded metal porthole door frame
A laundry appliance door frame provides an integrated, flame resistant and aesthetic alternative to conventional laundry appliance door frame assemblies, with the benefits of both plastic and metal. The laundry appliance door frame assembly includes a first frame member forming a first peripheral portion of a laundry appliance door about a window pane and a second frame member forming a second peripheral portion of a laundry appliance door about the window pane. The frame members provide a seat to support the window pane on one side and interlocks with reversible hinge and latch components that become part of the frame. Each frame member includes an elongated metal bracket which is at least partially encapsulated within a casing formed of plastic material over-molded onto the metal bracket. The metal brackets form a capture mechanism that provides flame resistant structural support to the side of the window pane opposite the seat. |
| US08215134B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining laundry load size
A laundry treatment appliance includes: a drum defining a laundry treatment chamber configured to hold laundry; a motor coupled to the drum and configured to rotate the drum; and a controller coupled to the motor and configured to determine a parameter representative of a rotational speed of the laundry in the drum and determine a laundry load size based on the parameter. |
| US08215133B2 |
Fabric treating machine
A fabric treating machine is provided which supplies steam and hot air to fabric articles received in a receiving room to remove odors, wrinkles, moisture and the like remaining in the fabric articles. The fabric treating machine can control a drying process based on a level of dryness of the fabric articles determined by electrode parts provided with a hanging means and/or a rack system that supports the fabric articles in the receiving room. |
| US08215132B2 |
Article of footwear having a flat knit upper construction or other upper construction
Flat knitting allows production of textile structures (e.g., for use in footwear uppers) of a final desired shape such that textile cutting steps can be avoided. Flat knitted elements also can be formed directly in desired three dimensional shapes, which can help avoid the need to use additional support structures (e.g., in footwear construction). By selectively placing multiple different yarns and/or stitch patterns at multiple different locations in the overall structure during the knitting process, flat knitted products may have multiple different physical properties (e.g., different stretchability, different moisture management capabilities, etc.) at multiple different locations or zones within a single, unitary construction (e.g., different properties at different zones or locations within a single footwear structure). Additionally, flat knitting can be used to produce pockets, tunnels, or other layered structures in the final product. |
| US08215123B2 |
Compact grille cabinet for room air-conditioners
This invention relates to an improved compact grille cabinet for room air conditioners operable in normal and extreme climatic conditions with optimized efficiency mode comprising of: an insulated box chiller (B) with louvers, the insulated box being mounted on a window air conditioner; a hinge (C) allowing partial opening of the cabinet at angles up to 180° (120 and 130); an additional lid (A) opening upwards to accommodate an ice box compartment (210) or a tubular grille storing a liquid; an additional outlet (D) consisting of a small grilled aperture; an electronic control panel (E) adaptable with various programme modes indicating different temperatures of the cabinet and controlling the variable opening of the cabinet according to temperature to be maintained in a room; and a means to maintain opening angles of louvers proportional to the angle of the cabinet door to operate the air-conditioning device in a refrigerating, heating or air-conditioning mode facilitating heat exchange between ice tray, cooled stored matter in the cabinet and air entering the conditioner and air of the room. |
| US08215122B2 |
Air conditioner and method of controlling the same
An air conditioner and a method of controlling the same are provided. The air conditioner may include an outdoor unit, one or more indoor units operably coupled to the outdoor unit, a temperature sensor, a valve driver, and a controller. By monitoring an actual temperature and comparing the actual temperature to a desired temperature, a flow path, of flow direction, and flow capacity flowing to the one or more indoor units to adjust a heating/cooling capacity thereof as appropriate. |
| US08215120B2 |
Process for cooling a storage container
A process for cooling a storage container, in particular a mobile storage container for a cryogenic medium, is described.According to the invention, the following process steps and features are provided: a) Direct or indirect connection of the storage container (S) that is to be cooled to a refrigeration circuit (2-8, V, T, a, a′), b) Whereby a cold medium, which is identical to or different from the medium that is to be stored in the storage container that is to be cooled, circulates in the refrigeration circuit, c) Whereby the cold medium is compressed (V), cooled (E), and expanded (T) to produce cold, and d) At least a partial stream of the cold medium (5, 7) is used for the cooling of the storage container (S) that is to be cooled. |
| US08215119B2 |
Refrigerant filling apparatus of refrigerating and air conditioning apparatus and refrigerant filling method of refrigerating and air conditioning apparatus
The present invention is directed to a refrigerant filling apparatus of the refrigerating and air conditioning apparatus that can automatically finish filling of a refrigerant after filling to an appropriate amount, without a need to install an extra valve except for a valve provided at a refrigerant cylinder, in between the refrigerating and air conditioning apparatus and the refrigerant cylinder, which is necessary for filling the refrigerant. The refrigerant filling apparatus of the refrigerating and air conditioning apparatus, which includes: a refrigerant circuit having a compressor 1, a four-way valve 2, an indoor side heat exchanger 3, a pressure reducing solenoid valve 4, an outdoor side heat exchanger 3, and an accumulator 6; a refrigerant cylinder 10 connected to the refrigerant circuit; a control unit that controls filling of the refrigerant from the refrigerant cylinder 10 to the refrigerant circuit and decides refrigerant filling modes; and a display unit installed to the control unit and displays the refrigerant filling modes. |
| US08215116B2 |
System and method for air-fuel mixing in gas turbines
A system includes a fuel nozzle for a turbine engine that includes a tapered central body located at an interior base of the fuel nozzle, an air swirler, and a fuel port in the tapered central body, separate from the air swirler. |
| US08215110B1 |
Drive apparatus
A hydraulic drive apparatus having a center section assembly for mounting inside a housing is disclosed. The center section includes generally flat side edge surfaces formed adjacent and perpendicular to a cylinder block running surface, and shaped to engage a channel formed in an internal surface of the housing to secure the center section to the housing. The assembly may also include a filter using a connection member to permit the filter to slide on and engage the peripheral edge of a flange formed on the center section. |
| US08215107B2 |
Flow summation system for controlling a variable displacement hydraulic pump
A valve assembly couples a plurality of hydraulic actuators to a variable displacement pump and to a tank. A separate valve is associated with each hydraulic actuator and comprises a variable flow source orifice between the supply conduit and a summation node coupled to a pump control port, a variable metering orifice between the summation node and the associated hydraulic actuator, and a variable bypass orifice between the summation node and the tank. As a valve operates to enlarge the metering orifice, the flow source orifice also enlarges, and the bypass orifice shrinks. When the valve operates to shrink the metering orifice, the flow source orifice also shrinks and the bypass orifice enlarges. Those operations vary fluid flow in and out of the summation node, which alters pressure applied to the pump control, thereby causing the pump output to vary as required to drive the associated hydraulic actuator. |
| US08215101B2 |
Exhaust purification device of an internal combustion engine
In an internal combustion engine, an NOX purification catalyst (14) is arranged in the engine exhaust passage and an intermediate product producing catalyst (12) able to store NOX contained in the exhaust gas is arranged at the upstream of the NOX purification catalyst (14). The intermediate product producing catalyst (12) is fed with mist fuel, and intermediate products (33) comprising bonded molecules comprised of an NOX and hydrocarbon molecules more than an equivalent ratio with respect to an NOX molecule are produced from the NOX trapped in the intermediate product producing catalyst (12) or the NOX contained in the exhaust gas and the fed fuel. |
| US08215097B2 |
Rocket thruster assembly comprising load-balanced pintle valve
A rocket thruster of this invention includes a nozzle and a valve assembly. The valve subassembly includes a pintle with a head portion, which has a truncated substantially conical surface region facing and concentric with converging and throat regions of the nozzle to provide a variable effective throat area therebetween. The truncated portion of the head portion has an outer edge defining a bleed passageway opening communicating with a primary bleed passage leading through the head portion to a bleed cavity located on an opposite side of the head portion. During activation of a rocket motor to which the rocket thruster is coupled, gases imparting a load on the head portion pass through the primary bleed passage to the opposite side of the head portion for counterbalancing loads acting on the head portion. A thrust control subassembly moves the pintle axially for changing the effective throat area. |
| US08215093B2 |
Sliver for spinning, method for producing the same, and spun yarn and fiber product using the same
A sliver for spinning having a deodorizing and/or heat-generating moisture absorption function is provided, where a sliver for spinning formed as a bundle, in which staple fibers are aligned in one direction, is irradiated with an electron beam to provide an activating group and/or produce a radical on a surface of the fibers, and a compound including an ethylenic unsaturated double bond is chemically bonded to the surface of the fibers. A spun yarn of the invention is a spun yarn having a deodorizing and/or heat-generating moisture absorption function, including the above-described sliver for spinning that has been spun, or including the above-described sliver for spinning and a sliver other than the sliver for spinning that have been blended and spun. A fiber product of the invention has a deodorizing and/or heat-generating moisture absorption function, including the above-described spun yarn. |
| US08215084B2 |
Embeddable breakaway utility pole
An embeddable breakaway utility pole comprises separate upper and lower aluminum pole pieces, wherein the lower pole piece is to be embedded below ground surface. The upper and lower pole pieces are interconnected by a weld which defines a breakaway zone enabling the upper pole piece to break off the lower pole piece in response to vehicular impact. The weld can be connected to a backer ring which provides a guide surface that axially aligns the pole pieces. Alternatively, the pole can be formed of a single pole piece which is welded between its ends to form a weakened region that defines the breakaway zone. |
| US08215077B1 |
Adhesive interlocking floor tiles
A floor tile has a rectangular, wear resistant, decorated upper portion. A rectangular lower portion is affixed to the upper portion by pressure sensitive adhesive on the underside of the upper portion. The lower portion has laterally projecting tongues extending outwardly from two adjacent sides. The other two adjacent sides have inwardly directed pockets. The pockets are adapted to receive the tongues of adjacent tiles to form a continuous upper portion floor covering with minimal spacing between tiles. Certain edges of the tongues and pockets are close fitting to ensure correct positioning of adjacent upper portions. The pressure sensitive adhesive above each pocket is adapted to bond with a tongue when the tiles are connected after positioning by the tongues and pockets. |
| US08215074B2 |
Pattern formation employing self-assembled material
In one embodiment, Hexagonal tiles encompassing a large are divided into three groups, each containing ⅓ of all hexagonal tiles that are disjoined among one another. Openings for the hexagonal tiles in each group are formed in a template layer, and a set of self-assembling block copolymers is applied and patterned within each opening. This process is repeated three times to encompass all three groups, resulting in a self-aligned pattern extending over a wide area. In another embodiment, the large area is divided into rectangular tiles of two non-overlapping and complementary groups. Each rectangular area has a width less than the range of order of self-assembling block copolymers. Self-assembled self-aligned line and space structures are formed in each group in a sequential manner so that a line and space pattern is formed over a large area extending beyond the range of order. |
| US08215066B2 |
Multi-layer, revolving stadium roof
A revolving canopy roof for a stadium includes a fixed half dome and revolving half dome. The fixed half dome has an outer layer clad with a plurality of shading tents, the plurality of shading tents comprising a plurality of triangular shading panels, an inner layer clad with a plurality of triangular ethylene tetraflouroethylene panels, and a plurality of bracing elements connecting the outer layer to the inner layer. The revolving half dome includes an outer layer clad with a plurality of shading tents, the plurality of shading tents comprising a plurality of triangular shading panels, an inner layer clad with a plurality of triangular ethylene tetraflouroethylene panels, and a plurality of bracing elements connecting the outer layer to the inner layer. |
| US08215064B2 |
Shower vanity
A shower vanity for use with a wall having spaced apart framing members. The vanity includes a housing dimensioned to be recessed between two adjacent framing members in the wall and the housing is attached to the framing members by fasteners. The housing includes an open front forming a cavity dimensioned to contain bathing products. Two mirrored doors are slidably mounted to the housing which cover the housing front when closed and provide access to the bathing products when opened. |
| US08215060B2 |
Window regulator
A window regulator includes a carrier. The carrier includes a holding section and is capable slide along a guide rail with the holding section slidably contacting on the guide rail. The carrier supports a window panel. A brake mechanism is provided on the carrier. The brake mechanism prevents the window panel (the carrier) from self-weight drop by slidably contacting onto the guide rail by an urging force thereof. According to the window regulator, good down operations of the window panel can be maintained even if a slidably contacting portion(s) of the holding section that holds the guide rail becomes worn. |
| US08215057B2 |
Calyx support for stemmed flowers
An apparatus for supporting the calyx of a flower of a plant having a lockable stem clip from which extend projections for supporting the calyx of the flower. |
| US08215056B2 |
Device for preventing plant growth around posts
A device for preventing plant growth around a post, comprising an opaque sheet, an opening in the sheet, and a slit extending entirely from the opening to the perimetric edge. A fastener structure is arranged to fasten one of the edge portions to an other of the edge portions in a relationship wherein the edge portions overlap thereby effecting a slope of the sheet downwardly from the opening to the perimetric edge and wherein the opening is shaped to have a first shape when the edge portions are not overlapping and to have a second shape to conform to the post when the edge portions are fastened in the overlapping relationship. |
| US08215055B2 |
Protective guard for use with vegetation
An apparatus for covering or protecting vegetation, in particular landscaping. The apparatus includes an elongated sheet of material having an upper edge and a lower edge. Spaced along the length of the elongated sheet are a plurality of stake pockets extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the elongated sheet. The stake pockets receiving a stake used to secure the cover to a surface, typically the ground. Accordingly, the elongated sheet surrounds or is placed adjacent to the landscaping and the stakes are either inserted into the stake pockets or attached to the sheet using the stake pockets and correspondingly hold the elongated sheet upright and in place. In addition, a plurality of eyelets on the elongated sheet can be used to both hang decorations and anchor the elongated sheet to the ground surface. |
| US08215053B1 |
Method for improving seed germination efficiency
A method for improving seed germination efficiency by reducing seedling loss caused by desiccation, temperature extremes, wind and water displacement, and consumption by animal and insect predators. The method comprises covering the medium for the seed growth with a layer of material which allows light transmission and provides a thermal barrier, and in addition applies a compacting force which brings the seed in better contact with the growing medium. The material also provides a barrier to protect the seed from animal and insect predators. The layer of material used preferably consists of a clear plastic membrane supporting the presence of a sufficient amount of water to allow the transmission of light, provide a thermal barrier, compact the seeds to the growing medium, and deter access from animals and airborne insects. The technique is applicable to all forms and seed germination including grass and vegetable gardens. |
| US08215051B2 |
Pest control materials
A pest control material (11), such as mosquito netting, has a surface (12) with abrasive/absorptive microprojections (13). Insect pests such as mosquitoes suffer damage to their cuticle, resulting in dehydration and/or invasion by microbial pathogens. The material is made by coating a fabric with abrasive and/or absorptive materials. |
| US08215050B2 |
Optical sight
An optical sight is provided and may include an optical element and a reticle displayed on the optical element. A housing of the optical sight may include a base, a first post extending from the base, a second post extending from the base, and a cross member extending between the first post and the second post to define an opening receiving the optical element therein. The first post and the second post may extend above the opening and away from the base a greater distance than a top surface of the cross member. |
| US08215049B2 |
Vehicle gun stabilization platform device
A weapon stabilization platform assembly employing the action of the devices' telescoping tubular horizontal width adjustment attaching to the vertical roll over posts of a recreational off road 4×4, off road UTV, or other utility vehicle or frame vehicle by the nut and bolt compression of two bracket couplings or other attaching appliances fixed at the opposing end of each of the telescoping tubes. In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a plurality of telescoping tubes being an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve that is sized to permit it to move horizontally in telescopic relationship to the outer sleeve, both sleeves being harbored within an anti-vibration foam cushion, being then sheathed within a protective fabric sleeve. Each tube end connecting by nut and bolt compression to axial end bracket couplings, and the bracket couplings becoming then fixed to the vertical roll over posts of a UTV or other frame by nut and bolt horizontal end compression or other locking attachment device, allowing the military, civilian, or handicapped user a vibration eliminating or reducing horizontal weapon aiming and shooting, camera or other device rest. |
| US08215048B2 |
Weapon control device
A weapon control device is provided and is coupled within a weapon for controlling accessories and auxiliary components. The weapon control device includes a processor and a connector operably engaging a selector switch of a weapon. The processor receives a signal from the connector in response to movement of the selector switch. The weapon control device further includes one of a transmitter and a transceiver, wherein one of the transmitter and transceiver send a signal in response to the processor receiving a signal from the connector. The weapon control device further includes a weapon accessory, wherein the weapon accessory is activated in response to the signal sent by one of the transmitter and transceiver. |
| US08215045B2 |
Assault rifle buttstock aiming and stabilization system
A buttstock shoulder stabilizer includes a locator ball having a radially-projecting threaded cylindrical stud that screws into the sling mount of the buttstock endplate of assault rifles, and a socket assembly that mounts on a soldiers flak jacket near his shoulder. The ball can be machined from a structural metal or made of thermoplastic injection molded about the cylindrical stud. The socket assembly has an oblong horizontally-disposed socket connected to a lower approach ramp. A wall surrounds upper and side portions of the socket and the side edges of the approach ramp. When the soldier brings his weapon to firing position, the ball slides up the access ramp an into the oblong socket. The socket assembly is preferably injection molded from a tough structural thermoplastic resin. The socket assembly is provided with slots which enable it to be strapped to a soldiers flak jacket near his shoulder. |
| US08215043B1 |
Frame back retainer
A frame back retainer for a multi-use frame includes a tab-like structure and a fastening structure. The tab-like structure defines an aperture at a first end and defines a substantially flattened profile at a second end for engaging the multi-use frame. The tab-like structure includes at least one securing arm depending from the tab-like structure. The fastening structure is positioned through the aperture of the tab-like structure and mounted to the multi-use frame. The fastening structure defines a raised pedestal profile from a surface of the multi-use frame. The at least one securing arm engages an outer edge of the fastening structure to rotatably attach the fastening structure to the tab-like structure. In operation, the user rotates the tab-like structure relative to the fastening structure about an axis to engage or disengage the second end of the tab-like structure within the multi-use frame. |
| US08215040B2 |
Method of advertising in a restroom
A method for advertising in a restroom is shown and described. The method includes the use of a three-dimensional advertisement article which may attach to a wall above a urinal and at least partly cover the urinal. The advertisement article may resemble a container, perhaps a bottle or can, for a product, which may be beer or a soft drink, being advertised. |
| US08215038B1 |
Spike saver
A spike saver for attachment for protecting a spike-bearing shoe that includes a sole for protecting the bottom of the spike-bearing shoes and with two double legged elastic straps attached to the sole at each side for releasably holding the spike-bearing shoes by means of hook and loop arrangement. |
| US08215033B2 |
Article of footwear for snowboarding
An article of footwear for use in sporting activities such as snowboarding is disclosed. The article of footwear can include a flex notch and a coupled lace loop design. The article can further include an internal harness to enhance stability of the foot. The article can also include a threading layer configured to strengthen the upper and a corresponding connecting layer to bond the threading layer to the upper and to provide protection to other areas of the upper. |
| US08215031B2 |
Sole structure for a shoe
A sole structure 1 for a shoe comprises an upper sheet portion 2 disposed on the upper side of the sole structure, and a plurality of curved sheet portions 3 (31-35) that are provided on the lower surface of the upper sheet portion 2, that have downwardly convexedly curved portions 31-35, respectively, and that are disposed side by side and partially overlapped with each other in the longitudinal direction. Each of the curved sheet portions 31-35 has a first end A (A1-A5) and a second end B (B1-B5) on the opposite sides of each of the downwardly convexedly curved portions 31-35. The first end A of the curved sheet portion 3 is located on the front side of the sole structure 1 and fixed to the lower surface of the upper sheet portion 2. The second end B of the curved sheet portion 3 is located on the rear side of the sole structure 1 and fixed to the external surface of the adjacent curved sheet portion 3. |
| US08215028B2 |
Slurrification process
A system for slurrifying drill cuttings including a cuttings dryer, a pump, and a transfer line fluidly connecting the cuttings dryer and the pump, the transfer line having a fluid inlet for receiving a fluid. Furthermore, the system for slurrifying drill cuttings including a storage vessel fluidly connected to the pump for storing a slurry. Additionally, a method for slurrifying drill cuttings including drying drill cuttings in a cuttings drying to produce dry cuttings and combining a fluid with the dry cuttings to produce a slurry. Furthermore, the method includes mixing the slurry and the dry cuttings in a mixing pump and transferring the slurry to a storage vessel. |
| US08215026B2 |
Underwater foundation leveling device
An underwater foundation leveling device is capable of preventing a slack wire connected to a support element with a plumb weight from colliding with reflectors. The reflectors 5 are provided for measurement of a position of a leveling area, around an upper portion of the support element 2 supporting the plumb weight for leveling riprap surface of underwater foundation. The support element is hoisted with the wire 4 and then made fall by its own weight for leveling for the foundation surface. The reflectors reflect light toward a light receiving unit for a position detection for the leveling area. The device comprises, a protective element 8 preventing the slack wire 4 from hitting the reflectors, and a light passage located in a position allowing an optical path of the light reflected from the reflectors to travel toward the light receiving unit. |
| US08215025B2 |
Prism tripod
A Prism Tripod includes a planar base including a supported portion and a cantilever portion. Preferably the base includes a cantilever axis, and a point axis, wherein the cantilever axis within the cantilever portion and the point axis within the supported portion. The prism tripod including at least three legs supporting the base and a laser holder for supporting a locating device and a laser. The base is adapted to demountably receive the laser holder along the cantilever axis, wherein the laser and locating device mounted along the cantilever axis. |
| US08215024B1 |
Sighting device for a weapon
A sighting device for a weapon has a light gathering fiber optic that projects an image onto a partially reflective optical lens which reflects the image back to the shooter. The lens has a reticle to allow the shooter to align the image on the lens and sight the device onto the target. |
| US08215023B2 |
Method and apparatus for vehicle service system optical target assembly
A machine vision vehicle wheel alignment system for acquiring measurements associated with a vehicle. The system includes at least one imaging sensor having a field of view and at least one optical target secured to a wheel assembly on a vehicle within the field of view of the imaging sensor. The optical target includes a plurality of visible target elements disposed on at least two surfaces in a determinable geometric and spatial configuration. A processing unit in the system is configured to receive at least two sets of image data from the imaging sensor, with each set of image data acquired at a different rotational position of the wheel assembly around an axis of rotation and representative of at least one visible target element on each of the two surfaces, from which the processing unit is configured to identify said axis of rotation of the wheel assembly. |
| US08215022B2 |
Lubrication system for a food product slicer
A food product slicer includes a base and a knife mounted for rotation relative to the base. A slide rod extends in a direction past the knife. A carriage assembly is mounted for reciprocal movement back and forth past a cutting edge of the knife. At least one bearing arrangement connects the carriage assembly to the slide rod to facilitate the reciprocal movement of the carriage assembly. The bearing arrangement includes a lubricant reservoir. A bearing bracket holds a bearing that rides on the slide rod. The lubricant reservoir is fluidly connected to deliver lubricant to the slide rod in proximity to the bearing. |
| US08215017B2 |
Method of manufacturing liquid ejection head, method of manufacturing recording apparatus including the same, liquid ejection head, and recording apparatus
A method of manufacturing a liquid ejection head having a plurality of passage modules that have individual passages, a plurality of actuator modules that each include a plurality of actuators, and a drive unit, and the liquid ejection head produced by the method. The method comprising ranking the passage modules based on a magnitude of a passage resistance of the individual passages, ranking the actuator modules based on a magnitude of a capacitance of the actuators, and fixing the actuator modules to the passage modules so that the actuator modules ranked as having a capacitance not less than a predetermined capacitance correspond to the passage modules ranked as having a passage resistance not less than a predetermined passage resistance, and so the actuator modules ranked as having a capacitance less than the predetermined capacitance correspond to passage modules ranked as having a passage resistance less than the predetermined passage resistance. |
| US08215015B2 |
Method of forming a modular heat exchanger having a brazed core
A modular heat exchanger suitable for automotive applications, and methods for forming the modular heat exchanger. The modular heat exchanger construction incorporates a monolithic brazed core assembly composed of flat-type cooling tubes and sinusoidal centers. The required positional tolerances of the tubes for mating with the remainder of the heat exchanger are maintained within the brazed core assembly by minimizing core shrinkage resulting from the brazing operation during which the tubes are brazed to the centers. |
| US08215012B2 |
Thermal contact arrangement
A method of manufacturing a thermal contact arrangement. The method including the operations of providing a thermal conductor and forming a first zone having a first roughness on a first portion of a first exterior surface of the thermal conductor. The method further including the operation of forming a second zone having a second roughness on a second portion of the first exterior surface of the thermal conductor. The second portion is unique from the first portion and formed from a part of the thermal contact arrangement other than the first portion and the second roughness is rougher than the first roughness. |
| US08215007B2 |
Method of assembling a heated insulating glass panel with a fitting
A heated insulating glass panel, with a fitting, is provided. The heated insulating glass panel is formed from two dielectric sheets that are separated by a spacer, which has a spacer layer at the spacer edge. The fitting, which is made of a fitting base portion and a fitting tubular portion, is attached to the spacer layer at the spacer edge by way of, for example, two screws. Thus, the fitting provides a pathway for routing wires into and away from the heated insulating glass panel. If necessary, an elbow may be provided which attaches to the fitting tubular portion for changing the direction of the routing of the wires. In addition, conduit may be attached to the fitting to route the wiring to and from the heated insulating glass panel. |
| US08215006B2 |
Jig for probe connector
A jig for probe connector adapted for clutching a plurality of probe assemblies each of which has a connecting portion, a probing pin and a soldering portion disposed at two ends of the connecting portion respectively. The jig for probe connector has a base body. The base body has a plurality of passageways each penetrating a front end thereof. The passageway includes a first receiving recess and a second receiving recess disposed at a front of the first receiving recess. A cross section of the second receiving recess is larger than that of the first receiving recess, with a drop defined as a preventing portion formed therebetween. A side of the second receiving recess has a portion protruded inward to form a buckling lump, which is spaced from the preventing portion with a predetermined distance. |
| US08215003B2 |
Method of fabricating reactor
A method of fabricating a reactor composed of a coil, a core, and a container, capable of suppressing the core to break when a current flows in the coil to generate magnetic flux. In the method, the coil is formed by spirally winding a conductive wire. The coil is immersed in an insulating film in liquid with electrical insulation. The coil is placed in a furnace. Annealing for the coil and thermosetting for the insulating film are performed at a temperature within 250 to 320° C. for a period of time within 30 minutes to one hour before forming the core in the container. The coil is then disposed in the container. Inside and outside areas of the coil in the container is filled with a resin mixture composed of magnetic powder and resin. The resin mixture in the container is hardened to form the core. |
| US08215001B2 |
Method for manufacturing a stator for inner-rotor type rotary electric machines
A tapered cage coil is prepared, having a small-diameter top coil end 101 and a large-diameter base coil end. The tapered cage coil is axially inserted into a stator core. Then, the tapered cage coil is radially expanded to thrust slot-accommodated portions of the coil into slots of the stator core. This can eliminate the necessity of deforming the base coil end to thereby facilitate the manufacturing procedures. At the same time, possible spring back can be mitigated. |
| US08214996B2 |
Surgical needle swage tool
In a method of attaching a suture to a needle barrel, a first compression stroke compresses the radially-defined top of the barrel against a suture in the bore of the barrel while restraining the bottom and sides of the barrel against deformation. A second compression stroke compresses the bottom of the barrel against the suture while restraining the sides against deformation. In another method, the top and bottom are compressed concurrently while the sides are restrained against deformation. An apparatus for attaching a suture to a needle barrel includes two die sets, each including a die with a groove therein. In one die set, the groove protects the bottom and sides of the barrel from deformation while the top is compressed. In the other die set, the groove protects the sides of the barrel from deformation while the bottom is compressed. |
| US08214993B1 |
Method and apparatus for removing or reinstalling riser pipes of a riser bundle
A method of servicing a pipe bundle or riser bundle employs a specially configured hoist having a rail that supports multiple lifts. A selected satellite pipe/conduit of the pipe bundle is both lifted and pulled horizontally in order to remove it from a plurality of supports that hold the satellite pipes together in spaced apart positions. During removal of a satellite pipe, the lifts elevate, then travel with and hold the pipe as it moves horizontally away from the bundle. |
| US08214992B2 |
Method for manufacturing golf club head
A method for manufacturing a golf club head composed of a metal main body and a non-flat metal face member which are welded each other is disclosed. In order to make the non-flat metal face member, an in-process face material is cut out from a rolled metal plate having a constant thickness. And a turnback is formed around the in-process face material by press working. Before making the press working, the region of the in-process face material corresponding to the turnback is decreased in the thickness by a cutting work. |
| US08214991B2 |
Method of replacing a support bearing for roller by removing and replacing an inner raceway and maintaining the remaining existing bearing components
A supporting bearing is replaced with a new supporting bearing by conducting a first step and a second step. In the first step, an old inner ring before replacement is replaced with a new inner ring having an inner ring raceway diameter same as the old inner ring, and an axial length of an inner ring raceway face longer than the old inner ring so that a rolling roll is supported by this new inner ring in combination with an old outer ring and old cylindrical rollers. Thereafter, in the second step, the old cylindrical rollers are replaced with new cylindrical rollers having an axial length longer than the old cylindrical rollers, and simultaneously, the old outer ring is replaced with a new outer ring having an axial length of an outer ring raceway face longer than the old outer ring. |
| US08214986B2 |
Valve stem puller
A valve stem puller or holder, comprising an elongated handle with a clevis at one end, the clevis being formed by two side portions, and a hollow, partly cylindrical stem connector pivotally mounted between the side portions and movable between a first position in which the stem connector is coaxial with said handle and a second position in which the axis of the stem connector is at a large angle to the handle. The stem connector has an inner end in the form of a nipple configured to receive air pressure supply means, and the base of the handle between the side portions has a spring mounted detent element positioned so as to interact with the inlet of the nipple to releasably hold the stem connector in place. |
| US08214985B2 |
Method and apparatus for clamping rectangular parallelepipedic work
A rectangular parallelepipedic (cuboidal) work is fixed by clamping the opposing two edges between clamp jaws attached to a pair of clamps. With the work fixed, at least one surface of the work is machined. Then, the position of the work is changed by rotating the clamps and the work all together around the rotating axis, and the other surface is machined. The foregoing step is repeated to machine all the six surfaces of the work, during which the work is kept fixed by clamping. |
| US08214984B2 |
Method for producing a multilayer component
A method for producing a multilayer component is described. A stack of green foils, to which inner electrodes including palladium oxide are applied, is sintered. The sintered stack is provided with a silver paste on two or more sides for outer electrodes that are burned into the sintered stack in a further temperature step. |
| US08214972B2 |
Control handle of a retractable handle assembly for travel bag
A control handle of a retractable handle assembly for travel bag is disclosed to include two control rods pivotally mounted in a base member and supported on respective compression springs, two control buttons respectively affixed to the control rods and suspending in a respective opening of a top cover being covered on the base member for operation by the user to unlock inner tubes to outer tubes, and a rotary grip formed of a top semicircular shell and a bottom semicircular shell and rotatable relative to the base member and the top cover; and two torsional springs mounted in the base member and connected with respective two opposite ends to the top semicircular shell and bottom semicircular shell of the rotary grip. |
| US08214968B2 |
Vacuum accessory tool
A vacuum accessory tool comprises a nozzle body that forms a suction nozzle and that has an electrical element comprising one or a combination of an illumination element adapted to illuminate a surface to be cleaned, an ion generator or ozone generator to purify a surface to be cleaned and eliminate odors. The tool can further include a power generator for supplying power to the electrical element. The illumination element can further emit light in the ultraviolet spectrum to illuminate stains on the surface to the cleaned. |
| US08214962B2 |
Device for massaging the jaw or cleaning the teeth, and method for the production of the device
A device for massaging the jaw or cleaning the teeth of a baby. The device has a handle and a plate-shaped bite part which is curbed in such a way that it essentially corresponds to the curbed shape of the jaw. The bite part has massage or cleaning projections on at least one broad side and is of a material which is softer than that of the handle. The handle and the bite part are interconnected in a nondetachable manner. |
| US08214960B1 |
Floor sweeper
A floor sweeper is disclosed having a removable debris compartment. The compartment has a front portion that is at least partially open. A pair of counter-rotating brushes are located forward of the debris compartment for delivering debris directly through the front portion into the debris compartment. A cover that strips debris from the brushes and that also directs stripped debris extends over the brushes. The cover has an air spoiler forward of the brushes. A strip for blocking debris is located opposite of the cover and is located substantially entirely the length of and between the brushes. |
| US08214956B2 |
Dock leveler blanket
An insulative blanket is sized and shaped to cover a dock leveler deck and the gaps between the deck and a surrounding dock platform to prevent the transfer of heat through the deck or across the gaps. A batten structure is combined with the blanket such that the combination forms a relatively rigid structure which can be easily placed and maintained in its desired position. The combination is raised and lowered by an attached line and a suspended overhead container is provided to further collapse the combination as it is raised and stored within the container. |
| US08214955B2 |
Enclosed bridge
Enclosed bridge, which comprises at least one outer tube (9), which forms the outer surface of the bridge, and at least one inner tube (2) fitted inside the outer tube (9), which forms the interior space of the bridge. A truss structure (1) attached to the structure of the bridge is fitted inside the inner tube (2) and is formed of an element forming at least one node and receiving a tensile loading, which truss structure forms least one chord across the inner tube, from one point on its inner surface to the opposite side of the inner surface. |
| US08214950B2 |
Carrying sling for a person
The present invention provides a carrying sling for a person including a flexible sheet, and an elongate flexible member secured in first, second, third and fourth locations to the sheet, the first and second locations defining a first leg loop there between, the first and third locations defining a second leg loop there between, the fourth location defining a torso support, the second and fourth locations defining a first handle there between for lifting the sheet, and the third and fourth locations defining a second handle there between for lifting the sheet. |
| US08214949B2 |
Article of bedding
An article of bedding comprising a bottom sheet (11) having side walls (12) thus to form a box sheet to be placed elastically over a mattress (10), and a top cover (14) having its edges attached to those of the bottom sheet (11) by means of a gusset (16). A sliding clasp fastener or the like (15) is provided to attach the edges of the bottom sheet and top cover together respectively when the article is not in use. A pillowcase (18) is permanently or removably attached to one end of the sheet and has an opening for insertion and removal of a pillow. The entire article, possibly excluding the pillow, is preferably of machine washable materials. An article made in this way ensures that the top cover which may contain a duvet, cannot slide off the bed inadvertently and therefore the occupant, most likely a child, is kept warm and safe from falling out of bed whilst having freedom of movement within the enclosure formed by the bottom sheet and top cover. |
| US08214945B2 |
Universal patient lifting frame
The invention relates to a patient lifting frame for use with an invalid hoist for lifting and supporting an invalid patient. Such a lifting frame can be used in conjunction with a wheeled or overhead mechanical or electrical hoist unit, to assist nursing staff, healthcare staff or carers in lifting and moving disabled patients. This lifting frame may also be used in many different areas to carry able bodied people in safety for operations such as air sea rescue service. |
| US08214944B2 |
Patient lift and transfer device
A transfer device has a carriage supported on a base, movable between a home position and an extended position. A table assembly includes a lower table fixed to the carriage and an upper table coupled to the lower table, movable between a downward position in forcible contact with the lower table and an upward position having no contact with the lower table. The table assembly moves toward the extended position with the tables in forcible contact to place the table assembly underneath the object to be transferred while keeping the base stationary. The plates are separated to lift the object on the upper table while the lower table remains resting upon the support surface. The table assembly returns to the home position while supporting the object on the upper table and keeping the upper and lower tables separated. The device may operate in a bidirectional manner. |
| US08214925B2 |
Tool holding glove
Methods and apparatus for securely holding a tool are provided. The apparatus includes a glove covering a user's palm and fingers. This flap has a piece of adhesive fabric attached. An additional piece of adhesive fabric is placed on the glove over the user's thumb pad. On the back of the user's hand, over the user's fingernails are located additional pieces of adhesive fabric. In use, the user grasps the tool normally and uses the flap and the adhesive fabric pieces to secure the adhesive fabric, forming a secure grip. |
| US08214923B2 |
Multi-use garment
A multi-purpose unisex garment that can be worn in a variety of configurations on different parts of the body and for a variety of occasions. The garment includes a first sheet of material and a second sheet of material, which is positioned opposite the first sheet of material. The first and second sheets of material are secured to one another at or near two opposite ends of the sheets of material. The two other opposite ends of the sheets of material are open to allow a part of the body to pass through at least one of the openings. At least one of the open ends has a securing device positioned along at least a portion of the opening that may securely close at least a portion of the respective opening to secure the garment about the person. |
| US08214921B2 |
Flip-to-wear eye shield
A flip-to-wear eye shield is provided that is designed for compact storage and ease of use. The eye shield may be dispensed in a compact, easy-to-assemble configuration and may include a protective lens and a frame coupled with the protective lens by one or more hinges. The one or more hinges may be configured to allow the protective lens to pivot with respect to the frame from a first substantially flat position to a second position assembled and ready for use. |
| US08214919B2 |
Control device for the position of a protective helmet's visor
Control device for positioning a visor for protective helmets, wherein the visor is rotatable from a configuration fully superimposed on the front opening of the protective helmet to a configuration of partial or total disengagement from said opening. The device includes structure to reversibly lock the visor in at least one position relative to the front opening. The structure to lock the visor includes a control element anchored, with at least a degree of freedom, to the visor, coupled to which is at least one tooth or pin, for engagement with at least one stop or seat, integral with the cap of the helmet. The control element is movable between a first stable position in which it controls engagement of the tooth with the relative stop or seat, and at least a neutral position in which it controls disengagement of said tooth from the relative stop or seat. |
| US08220059B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating rights object by reauthorization
Provided are a method and apparatus for generating a rights object (RO) by reauthorization. The method includes a second device mutually authenticating a first device, which received the first authorization information from a right issuer (RI), receiving a first RO from the first device, receiving a second authorization information from the first device, generating a third authorization information based on the second authorization information, changing the first RO to a second RO using the second authorization information, and transmitting the third authorization information and the second RO to an unauthorized device. |
| US08220050B2 |
Method and system for detecting restricted content associated with retrieved content
In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for contextual information caused to be attached to data as it passes through a series of computing devices, the contextual information relating to the series of computing devices. The data and the contextual information may then be scanned to determine if the data is a target data. In response to the identification of a target data, the contextual information may be communicated to a central repository. The contextual information may then be analyzed in relation to other information stored in the central repository to determine a target source. |
| US08220046B2 |
Method and system for GNSS receiver login protection and prevention
Embodiments of the present invention recite a method and system for implementing login protection and prevention to a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver. In one embodiment, a geospatial data collection device which is communicatively coupled with a GNSS receiver is authenticated. It is then determined that the geospatial data collection device is authorized to collect data from a geographic region in which the GNSS receiver is located. The geospatial data collection device is then permitted access to a control interface of the GNSS receiver. |
| US08220041B2 |
Method and system for protecting a computer system during boot operation
A method for protecting a computer system from malicious network traffic is provided using a driver which inspects network packets. A security profile comprising packet inspection rules is compiled and stored on the computer system. During the startup or boot operation of an operating system, the driver loads the compiled security profile and inspects network packets using the inspection rules. |
| US08220037B2 |
Centralized browser management
A method and apparatus for centrally managing operation of browsers on client devices within an organization or other collection of users. A central server promulgates a central browser policy for application by agents executing on the client devices. The agents may operate in real-time as a browser executes (e.g., as browser extensions) and/or when the browser is inactive (e.g., as separate processes). The agents apply the central policy to block, remove or modify browser objects as required by the policy (e.g., to protect privacy), archive browser objects on the central server, create objects regulated by the organization (e.g., for browser pre-caching), etc. Because the policy is centrally customized but locally executed, it can be implemented on mobile devices even when those devices are remote from the organization. |
| US08220030B2 |
System and method for security in global computer transactions that enable reverse-authentication of a server by a client
A system of security for global computer transactions that provides a reverse-authentication authority system that enables a client to authenticate the server to the client first before the user of a client proceed to enter their user id and password or other personal data in the web page to assure them that the web page did indeed originate from the secure web server and not from an imposter. The system uses an authentication code that is given to the client user when they call a reverse-authentication server by an out-of-band method such as a telephone network, different than the global network and which then appears in the part of the web page for them to visually see and compare the one they have received in the telephone call to the server. |
| US08220020B2 |
Systems and methods for enhanced display and navigation of streaming video
Systems and methods for enhanced navigation of streaming video are disclosed. An exemplary method involves receiving a video as it is streamed from a server over a computer network. A first user request is received to display a first navigation video strip on the display device. The first navigation video strip includes a first plurality of video frames from the video. In response to the first user request, first instructions are obtained for displaying the first navigation video strip. The first navigation video strip is then displayed on the display device in accordance with the first instructions. |
| US08220017B1 |
System and method for programmatic generation of continuous media presentations
A method of dynamically generating a presentation sequence from a plurality of authored presentation documents includes the steps of receiving the plurality of authored presentation documents from a plurality of data sources; applying the plurality of authored presentation documents to a set of presentation rules; and generating the presentation sequence in response to the applying step. |
| US08220015B2 |
Addressing device for transmitting satellite television signal
An addressing device for transmitting satellite TV signal is electrically connected with a satellite down-converter and at least one STB installed at a subscriber end. When the subscriber activates the STB for playing satellite TV channel programs, the satellite down-converter receives satellite signals provide by a satellite system end and processes the satellite signals to generate baseband satellite TV signal for input into the addressing device. Next, the addressing device receives GPS signal indicating the position where it is installed and then addresses the GPS signal, further executing digital security processes to converting the area address into an address signal having the same transmission frequency as that of the baseband satellite TV signal. Finally, the address signal is mixed with the baseband satellite TV signal for output to the STB. |
| US08220014B2 |
Modifiable memory devices having limited expected lifetime
Embodiments of methods and systems for controlling access to information stored on memory or data storage devices are disclosed. In various embodiments, methods of retrieving information from a data storage device previously deactivated by modification or degradation of at least a portion of the data storage device are disclosed. |
| US08220011B2 |
Protection cover of pick-up head
The invention provides a protection cover of a pick-up head provided on a traverse of an optical drive. A plate flatly is positioned on an upper surface of the traverse, and the plate has a slot, with one end of the slot fastened to a spindle motor to clamp a disc and the other end of the slot forming a staying part for the pick-up head to stay in a stand-by mode. The pick-up head is disposed in the slot and has an objective lens. When the objective lens stays in the staying part out of a periphery of a 12-cm disc, the protection cover crosses over the staying part to protect the objective lens. |
| US08220009B2 |
Protection device of slot-in optical disk drive
A protection device of a slot-in optical disk drive is provided. The protection device is disposed between two linking parts of the slot-in optical disk drive. One of the two linking parts is formed with a slot, and the other one of the two linking parts is connected to an upper end of a guide pin. A lower end of the guide pin protrudes and is inserted into the slot, and a portion of the guide pin corresponding to a side of the slot is formed with a notch. As the notch engages with the slot, the situation that the guide pin slides out of the slot can be avoided. |
| US08220007B1 |
Systems and methods for extension of software features without changing the host software binary code
Systems and methods which facilitate extension of software applications, without changing the software application binary code, through use of a data channel architecture are shown. According to embodiments, a robust bi-directional data channel is implemented within the software application allowing interaction with external code to provide extension of the software application to include one or more new and/or modified feature. Embodiments adapt a software application for loading of a trigger and an extension library for interfacing a feature module with the software application. The trigger may comprise a small piece of code, such as in a scripting language, adapted to be embedded in the software application at runtime which directs processing to a corresponding extension library. The extension library may comprise a command set, such as a scripting language dynamic link library or bundle, used for implementing a robust bidirectional protocol between the software application and external code. |
| US08220006B2 |
Abstract interface for unified communications with dynamic models
A device may include a first type of modeling environment, a second type of modeling environment, and an abstract interface. The first type of modeling environment may be associated with at least one of a first toolbox or a first function. The second type of modeling environment may include a model. The second type of modeling environment may be different than the first type of modeling environment and may be incompatible with the at least one of a first toolbox or a first function. The abstract interface may interface with the first type of modeling environment and the second type of modeling environment. The abstract interface may allow the at least one of a first toolbox or a first function to be used in the model in the second type of modeling environment. |
| US08220002B2 |
Isolation of user-interactive components
The isolation of user-interactive components form the logical components of an exemplary computing application environment is provided. In an illustrative implementation, an exemplary computing application environment comprises one or more user interface (UI) elements that run on an exemplary user-interface processing thread and application logic that illustratively operatively runs asynchronously on at least one other processing thread. In an illustrative implementation an isolation boundary is provided between an exemplary user interface and the application logic of the exemplary computing application environment. In the illustrative implementation, the isolation boundary can comprise an asynchronous view contract comprising a channel between an exemplary view layer of an exemplary user interface (e.g., one or more user-interactive components) and application logic. |
| US08219998B2 |
Method and system for load balancing of computing resources
A load balancing method incorporates temporarily inactive machines as part of the resources capable of executing tasks during heavy process requests periods to alleviate some of the processing load on other computing resources. This method determines which computing resources are available and prioritizes these resources for access by the load balancing process. A snap shot of the resource configuration and made secured along with all data on this system such that no contamination occurs between resident data on that machine and any data placed on that machine as put of the load balancing activities. After a predetermined period of time or a predetermined event, the availability of the temporary resources for load balancing activities ends. At this point, the original configuration and data is restored to the computing resource such that no trace of use of the resource in load balancing activities is detected to the user. |
| US08219997B2 |
Execution the job that is divided into job tasks based on the estimated completion time
To implement job execution in which resource assignment and change of the assignment can be dynamically and autonomously performed so as to meet requirements of a job in a job and resource environment in which the operational status cannot be forecasted in advance. A job that can be divided into a selected number of tasks is provided to one computer of a plurality of computers connected via networks, and job tasks are processed with the one computer for predetermined time. A progress rate of task processing for the predetermined time is calculated, and completion time for task processing on the one computer is estimated on the basis of the progress rate and the predetermined time. It is determined whether the estimated completion time meets requirements of the job. When the estimated completion time meets the requirements, job tasks are processed with the one computer, and results are generated. When the estimated completion time does not meet the requirements, job tasks are divided into tasks to be left on the one computer and tasks to be transferred to another computer. The left job tasks are processed with the one computer for further predetermined time, and simultaneously, the tasks to be transferred are transferred to the other computer and the other computer is caused to process the transferred tasks. |
| US08219994B2 |
Work balancing scheduler for processor cores and methods thereof
A data processing device assigns tasks to processor cores in a more distributed fashion. In one embodiment, the data processing device can schedule tasks for execution amongst the processor cores in a pseudo-random fashion. In another embodiment, the processor core can schedule tasks for execution amongst the processor cores based on the relative amount of historical utilization of each processor core. In either case, the effects of bias temperature instability (BTI) resulting from task execution are distributed among the processor cores in a more equal fashion than if tasks are scheduled according to a fixed order. Accordingly, the useful lifetime of the processor unit can be extended. |
| US08219991B2 |
Consolidated launching of multiple tasks
Consolidating the launching of multiple tasks is provided. A task is launched when an associated software component is run or executed. In one embodiment, launch descriptions of individual tasks and composition parameters are respectively read. The parameters indicate relationships between the launchings of different tasks, such as launch order. A composite launch description is constructed, by selectively processing the individual launch descriptions and composition parameters, and the tasks are launched according to the composite launch description. In a further embodiment, multiple individual launch descriptions are delivered to a tool, each launch description being usable to launch a corresponding component to perform a corresponding task. The tool includes a set of launch relationships that specify the relationship between launchings of different components. The tool generates a single composite launch description that defines launching of the components in accordance with the launch relationships. |
| US08219989B2 |
Partition adjunct with non-native device driver for facilitating access to a physical input/output device
Dedicated access is provided to a physical input/output (I/O) device which is non-configurable by an initiating logical partition. Access is established by: initiating, by the logical partition, creation of a partition adjunct; invoking a hypervisor of the data processing system to instantiate the partition adjunct with resources donated from the initiating logical partition, the donated resources including a donated virtual address space of the logical partition and the physical I/O device; creating, by the hypervisor, the partition adjunct and assigning the donated virtual address space and donated physical I/O device to the created partition adjunct; and interfacing, by the hypervisor, the logical partition and the created partition adjunct, the interfacing including providing the logical partition with a virtual I/O device which replaces the donated physical I/O device, and which is configurable by the logical partition. |
| US08219987B1 |
Optimized virtual machine specification for provisioning application specific runtime environment
Systems and methods of executing an application in an application specific runtime environment are disclosed. The application specific runtime environment is defined by an application environment specification to include a minimal or reduced set of software resources required for execution of the application. The application environment is generated by determining software resource dependencies and is optionally used to provision the application specific runtime environment in real-time in response to a request to execute the application. Use of the application specific runtime environment allows the application to be executed using fewer computing resources, e.g., memory. The application specific runtime environment is optionally disposed within a virtual machine. The virtual machine may be created in response to the request to run the executable application and the virtual machine may be automatically provisioned using an associated application environment specification. |
| US08219986B2 |
Interchangeable drive element for bottle or container supports in a container labeling machine or a machine configured to print information on bottles or containers, which interchangeable drive element is capable of being used in different container labeling or container information printing machines in bottle or container filling plants
An interchangeable drive element for bottle or container supports in a container labeling machine or a machine configured to print information on bottles or containers, which interchangeable drive element is capable of being used in different container labeling or container information printing machines in bottle or container filling plants. |
| US08219982B2 |
Method for organizing the software of a fluid management system
A method and device for organizing the software of a fluid management system is disclosed. The processor system of a machine for the treatment of a patient is provided with an interface for connection to an external data storage device. The software of the processor system is divided into a treatment software for controlling and monitoring the treatment of a patient and a tool software for controlling and monitoring the service and/or production activities. In the processor system, the treatment software being stored in the processor system as resident software and the tool software being stored in the processor system as non-resident software. Moreover, updates can be performed with the external data storage device. |
| US08219980B2 |
Identifying a potential breakpoint location in a code path in a computer program based upon the frequency of execution of the code path as identified in collected profile data
An apparatus, program product and method identify a potential breakpoint location in a code path in a computer program based upon the frequency of execution of the code path as identified in collected profile data. By doing so, a potential breakpoint location may be identified for an infrequently executed code path and/or a frequently executed code path, and a breakpoint may be set at the identified breakpoint location. As such, breakpoints may be set in locations that may be more likely to assist a user in debugging the computer program and may result in more efficient debugging. |
| US08219979B2 |
Method of tracing data collection
Methods and arrangements for collecting tracing data from a plurality of threads of a program. A storage buffer is provided, a first number of units of tracing data for a first thread of the program is determined, and a second number of units of tracing data for a second thread of the program is determined. In the storage buffer, a first block of storage space is reserved for storing the first number of units of tracing data and a second block of storage space is reserved for storing the second number of units of tracing data. Tracing data are then written concurrently into the first and blocks. |
| US08219974B2 |
Enforcing legal holds of heterogeneous objects for litigation
Software for managing legal holds on objects identifies a target object to associate with a particular legal hold. The example software is further operable to automatically communicate with a lookup table to verify a hold record associated with the target object. In another example, the software for managing legal holds on objects can receive a legal hold status request for a target object associated with a business application. The software can automatically communicate with a lookup table to determine a hold record identifying a legal hold associated with the target object. The software is further operable to respond to the legal hold status request with a legal hold status based on the lookup table communication. |
| US08219967B2 |
Method and apparatus for enabling enterprise project management with service oriented resource and using a process profiling framework
A service-oriented architecture for enterprise project management integrates business processes, human resources and project management within an enterprise or across the value chain network. A representation having direction and attributes is provided to show the dependencies between a business value layer and a project-portfolio layer, and between the project-portfolio layer and resources. The representation is mapped to a Web Services representation in UDDI, Web Services interfaces, and Web Services based business processes through rope hyper-linking. |
| US08219959B2 |
Generating integrated circuit floorplan layouts
A method of generating a floorplan layout of an integrated circuit (IC) that is amenable to implementation in a computer-aided design tool. The method is capable of performing placement and routing processing for the IC while requiring very little information about the specific circuitry used in various functional blocks of the IC. For example, at the time of the placement and routing processing, one or more functional blocks of the IC can be specified as empty functional blocks and/or functional blocks that are only partially rendered in gates. |
| US08219956B2 |
Analog tile selection, placement, configuration and programming tool
An Analog Tile Selection, Placement, Configuration and Programming (ATSPCP) tool communicates a power management characteristic query over a network. The query is displayed to a user on a webpage. The query is a solicitation for desired characteristics of a Power Management Integrated Circuit (PMIC). After receiving user requirements in a response to the query, the tool selects a number of power management integrated circuit tiles having pre-defined physical structures. The pre-defined structure of each tile includes a bus portion and a memory structure for storing configuring information for the tile. When combined in a Multi-Tile Power Management Integrated Circuit (MTPMIC), the bus portions of the selected tiles automatically form a standardized bus that accommodates all signal communication required for a functioning MTPMIC that meets the user requirements. The ATSPCP tool combines the physical layout data of each selected PMIC tile to form composite physical layout data for the overall MTPMIC. |
| US08219953B2 |
Budgeting electromigration-related reliability among metal paths in the design of a circuit
Apportioning unequally contributions of different metal paths of a circuit to electromigration (EM) reliability. In an embodiment, a corresponding parameter value representing a magnitude of excess current flowing in a single direction in each metal path is determined. A desired reliability measure for electromigration (EM) is apportioned among the metal paths based on computed parameter values for the corresponding metal path. A reliability analysis for the circuit is performed based on the apportioning. In an embodiment, metal paths which predominantly carry currents with an average value less than a threshold are excluded from being considered as contributors to EM degradation. |
| US08219951B2 |
Method of thermal density optimization for device and process enhancement
The present disclosure provides an integrated circuit method. The method includes providing an integrated circuit (IC) design layout; simulating thermal effect to the IC design layout; simulating electrical performance to the IC design layout based on the simulating thermal effect; and performing thermal dummy insertion to the IC design layout based on the simulating electrical performance. |
| US08219950B2 |
Propagation delay time balancing in chained inverting devices
A circuit comprising a plurality of semiconductor inverting devices arranged in series is disclosed. Each of the semiconductor inverting devices comprise at least one NMOS transistor and at least one PMOS transistor and alternate ones of the inverting devices in the series comprise transistors having a first ratio of a width of the at least one PMOS transistor and the at least one NMOS transistor; and alternate ones of said inverting devices in the series comprise transistors having a second ratio of a width of the at least one PMOS transistor and the at least one NMOS transistor; wherein the first ratio and the second ratio are not equal and in some case, the first and second ratios are such that a sum of a delay in a rise time of a signal propagated by a first inverting device and a fall time of a signal propagated by a second inverting device is substantially equal to a delay in a fall time of a signal propagated by the first inverting device. |
| US08219939B2 |
Method of creating photolithographic masks for semiconductor device features with reduced design rule violations
A method of creating photolithographic masks for semiconductor device features with reduced design rule violations is provided. The method begins by providing preliminary data that represents an overall mask pattern. The preliminary data is processed to decompose the overall mask pattern into a plurality of component mask patterns. Next, a design rule check is performed on the plurality of component mask patterns to identify tip-to-tip and tip-to-line violations in the plurality of component mask patterns. The method continues by modifying at least one of the plurality of component mask patterns in accordance with the identified violations to obtain a modified set of component mask patterns, wherein each mask pattern in the modified set of component mask patterns is void of tip-to-tip and tip-to-line violations. Photolithographic masks are then created for the modified set of component mask patterns. |
| US08219938B2 |
Semiconductor inter-field dose correction
A method and apparatus are provided for adapting a semiconductor inter-field dose correction map from a first photolithography mask to a second photolithography mask using the same manufacturing stack and reactive ion etching processes, the method including: obtaining a first dose correction map for the first photolithography mask as a function of first chip or die identities; determining a first transformation matrix from the first chip or die identities of the first photolithography mask into an orthogonal coordinate system; determining a second transformation matrix from second chip or die identities of the second photolithography mask into the orthogonal coordinate system; and transforming the first dose correction map for the first photolithography mask into a second dose correction map for the second photolithography mask in correspondence with each of the first and second transformation matrices. |
| US08219935B2 |
Method and system for providing isolated detail information about stations which are simultaneously active in an irrigation system
A method provides information about stations in an irrigation system which are simultaneously active. An irrigation flow curve image is displayed which summarizes flow information for an irrigation system. The method interacts with a user to receive an indication from a user interface pointing device of a position within a flow curve area of the irrigation flow curve image on the display. The method retrieves detail information for stations in the irrigation system which are simultaneously active at a time indicated by the position of the user interface pointing device. Detail information is displayed isolating the stations in the irrigation system which are simultaneously active at the time indicated by the position of the user interface pointing device, wherein the detail information further individually indicates irrigation activity for stations which are simultaneously active at the time indicated by the position of the user interface pointing device. |
| US08219934B2 |
Method and code module for facilitating navigation between webpages
A method (104), operable on a processor platform (24), and a code module (38) facilitate navigation between webpages (34) of a website (32). The code module (38) is incorporated into the webpages (34), and is executed at the processor platform (24) when one of the webpages (34) is downloaded to the processor platform (24). Upon execution of the code module (38), a destination address (36) for the downloaded webpage (34) is obtained. When one or more keywords are detected in the destination address (36), a thread of navigation links (124) related to the keywords is generated and displayed within the current website. The navigation links (124) reference other webpages (34) of the website (32) pertinent to the current webpage (34), and these other webpages (34) can be downloaded when their associated navigation links (124) are activated. |
| US08219933B2 |
File system for a stage lighting array system
A file system for a stage lighting system that maintains the different files associated with the stage lighting system. Each of the files that can represent an effect are maintained within the system within a configuration file. The configuration file can be updated on each start of the system so that the system can maintain information indicative of current configuration files. A test mode can also be entered in which a pre-formed show can be tested against the current state of the configuration files. |
| US08219932B2 |
Terminal and method for displaying contents information as icons and thumbnail images in a life-diary
A terminal and method for displaying contents information is provided for showing the contents information in efficient and intuitive manner. The terminal includes a memory unit for storing contents and creation times of the contents, a display unit for displaying a life diary screen including a time axis, a date axis and contents graph in a life diary mode, a key input unit for receiving a date selection command for selecting a date on the date axis and a control unit for retrieving contents created on the selected date, counting numbers of contents per date and controlling a display of the contents graph generated based on the number of the contents per date, when a date is selected through the key input unit. |
| US08219931B2 |
Method for prompting outstanding event in screen lock state, electronic device thereof, and storage medium thereof
A method for prompting an outstanding event in screen lock state, an electronic device thereof, and a storage medium thereof are provided. In the present method, at least one outstanding event type is obtained first, wherein a corresponding occurrence time of each outstanding event type is greater than 0. Next, an amount of the outstanding event type is counted. Finally, a displaying position of an icon of each outstanding event type on a screen of the electronic device is adjusted according to the amount of the outstanding event types. As a result, a user can get the outstanding event type and the occurrence time thereof by the information shown on the screen, so as to increase the convenience of using the electronic device. |
| US08219928B2 |
Reproduction device and display control method
A reproduction device including a reproduction unit configured to reproduce content data including at least one of audio, video, and text for which attribute data is assigned for each of a different plurality of attributes; a display unit; and a control unit configured to make the display unit display a playback screen containing at least one attribute data among the plurality of attribute data assigned to the content data when reproducing the content data and, when one attribute data among the attribute data composing the playback screen is selected, switch the display content of the content from the playback screen to the list relating to the selected attribute data. |
| US08219926B2 |
Displaying a map on a handheld wireless telecommunication device
Tickers are populated with location-based information that is selected according to the geographic location of communication devices. The location of a communication device is identified based on a GPS system, proximity to transmitters in a wireless network, user input, or using other techniques. Location-appropriate content is obtained either in real-time from the network or from a local data store at the communication device. In general location-based, context-aware content can be displayed on tickers associated with a variety of communication devices, including mobile communication devices and “immobile” or stationary personal computers. When a ticker item is selected from the ticker, a location associated with the selected ticker item and/or a location of the communication device is used to generate a map that is displayed on the display of the device to the user. |
| US08219925B2 |
Formatting ticker content in a handheld wireless telecommunication device
Tickers are populated with location-based information that is selected according to the geographic location of communication devices. The location of a communication device is identified based on a GPS system, proximity to transmitters in a wireless network, user input, or using other techniques. Location-appropriate content is obtained either in real-time from the network or from a local data store at the communication device. In general location-based, context-aware content can be displayed on tickers associated with a variety of communication devices, including mobile communication devices and “immobile” or stationary personal computers. |
| US08219913B2 |
Parameter setting apparatus provided with a display unit having a touch sensor
When it is determined on the basis of the output from a touch sensor of a touch screen 5 that a touch operation is started in the area of one on/off button displayed on a display screen of the touch screen 5, the on/off state of an on/off parameter assigned to the one on/off button is reversed. When it is determined that the touched position has moved to the area of another on/off button with the touch being maintained, an on/off parameter assigned to the another on/off button is set to the same on/off state as that of the on/off parameter assigned to the one on/off button in which the touch operation has been started. Users are allowed to simultaneously set respective on/off states of on/off parameters assigned to on/off buttons by a single touch operation on the touch screen 5. |
| US08219912B2 |
System and method for producing video map
Disclosed is a system and method for providing a moving picture map, the system including: a moving picture upload part for uploading moving pictures for one or more objects; and a map provision part for forming a moving picture map showing relations to other moving pictures according to subject matters, based on indexes corresponding to the moving pictures, and providing the moving picture map to a user interface for a moving picture search. Therefore, a user can be allowed to easily retrieve a number of moving pictures, and a manual and a review about a predetermined product can be made in a moving picture format for provision of the moving picture containing the manual and the review to consumers. |
| US08219904B2 |
Meta-document and method of managing
A system includes a meta-document, i.e., a document including content information which has a set of document service requests associated with it. A document service is a process which uses a portion of the document content as a starting point to obtain other information pertaining to that content. A scheduler selects a document service request from the set, then initiates and manages managing communication with a service provider to satisfy the selected document service. Any results received from the selected document service are integrated into the document. |
| US08219902B2 |
System and method for remote update of display pages
A system and method may include a device, e.g., a cellular telephone, and a server providing for remotely updating display pages of the device. The server may: provide for display of a webpage including a first section having a visual replication of a display page of the device and a second section including a plurality of graphical objects, the webpage including interactive functionality for modification of the visual replication in response to a drag-and-drop operation of one of the plurality of graphical objects to a position in the visual replication; and, responsive to receipt of an instruction to permanently set the modification, transmit a synchronization message to the device indicating an association of the one of the plurality of graphical objects with the position. In accordance with the synchronization message, the device may update a data store used by the device for generating the display page. |
| US08219898B2 |
Document registration system, information processing apparatus, and computer usable medium therefor
A document registration system for registering a plurality of electronic documents is provided. The document registration system includes an information processing apparatus having a display unit and a storage unit. The information processing apparatus is provided with a registration unit, which can be operated to perform a registration process to register the electronic documents in an interactive processing mode, wherein the electronic documents are registered manually, and in a batch processing mode, wherein the electronic documents are registered automatically in a batch, and a first switching unit to mutually switch activation of the interactive processing mode and the batch processing mode. |
| US08219893B2 |
High-speed communication channel techniques with improved robustness to timing uncertainty
A method and system using the principle of generalized maximum likelihood estimation to resolve sample timing uncertainties that are associated with the decoding of communication signals. By using generalized maximum likelihood estimation, sample timing uncertainty can be resolved by taking multiple samples of the received signal within a symbol period and determining which sample best corresponds to the optimal sample timing. The sample which best corresponds to the optimal sample timing can be determined from a timing index which can be calculated from ambiguity indicators that are based on the samples of the received signal. |
| US08219890B2 |
Denoising and error correction for finite input, general output channel
Systems and methods are disclosed for denoising for a finite input, general output channel. In one aspect, a system is provided for processing a noisy signal formed by a noise-introducing channel in response to an error correction coded input signal, the noisy signal having symbols of a general alphabet. The system comprises a denoiser and an error correction decoder. The denoiser generates reliability information corresponding to metasymbols in the noisy signal based on an estimate of the distribution of metasymbols in the input signal and upon symbol transition probabilities of symbols in the input signal being altered in a quantized signal. A portion of each metasymbol provides a context for a symbol of the metasymbol. The quantized signal includes symbols of a finite alphabet and is formed by quantizing the noisy signal. The error correction decoder performs error correction decoding on noisy signal using the reliability information generated by the denoiser. |
| US08219889B2 |
Communication error detection apparatus
When a communication error detection apparatus according to the present invention is initially installed, it performs a detection processing of the errors based on a sampling method in which a sampling interval of packet signals at the start of detection processing is a comparatively short. If the amount of the packet signals, which are sampled and accumulated, reaches a predetermined value, the communication error detection apparatus performs a detection processing of the errors based on another sampling method. In addition, if the detection processing of the errors is temporally released, the sampling method in which a sampling interval of packet signals is a comparatively short is used. |
| US08219888B2 |
Multi-channel transmission and reception with block coding in a communication system
Techniques for transmitting and receiving multiple channels with block coding in a communication system are disclosed. In one aspect, a secondary broadcast channel is transmitted concurrently with parity information, encoded from a primary broadcast channel. In another aspect, a mobile station repurposes its receiving circuitry to receive one or more portions of the secondary broadcast channel after a sufficient portion of the primary broadcast channel is received without identified error. In another aspect, secondary broadcast channels associated with a plurality of primary broadcast channels are multiplexed onto a single secondary channel. Various other aspects are also presented. These aspects have the benefit of minimizing mobile station resources required to receive multiple broadcast channels, as well as reducing the complexity and channel resources required to transmit multiple broadcast channels. |
| US08219887B2 |
Parallel Reed-Solomon RAID (RS-RAID) architecture, device, and method
The parallel RS-RAID data storage architecture can aggregate that data and checksums within each cluster into intermediate or partial sums that are transferred or distributed to other clusters. The use of intermediate data symbols, intermediate checksum symbols, cluster configuration information on the assignment of data storage devices to clusters and the operational status of data storage devices, and the like, can reduce the computational burden and latency for the error correction calculations while increasing the scalability and throughput of the parallel RS-RAID distributed data storage architecture. |
| US08219885B2 |
Error detecting and correcting mechanism for a register file
A data processing system includes a register file having a plurality of registers storing respective register data values and an associated register value cache having a plurality of storage locations storing corresponding cache data values. There are fewer cache data values than registers. When a register is to be read, both the register data value and, if present, a cache data value from a corresponding storage location within the register value cache are read and compared by a comparator. This generates a match signal which indicates if the data values do not match that one of the data values is in error. The match signal stalls the processing and a CRC code initially stored with the cache data value and recalculated based upon the read cache data value are compared to determine whether or not the cache data value has changed since it was stored. If the cache data value has not changed, then it is correct and is output instead of the register data value. Alternatively, if the cache data value has changed, then the register data value is output. |
| US08219882B2 |
Memory card and memory controller
A memory card includes a non-volatile memory, a memory controller for controlling the operation of the memory card. The memory controller is capable of providing an interface with outside according to a predetermined protocol, and performs error detection and correction of the memory information at regular time intervals or at the timing of connection of electric power supply, independently of reading out the memory information according to external access request. Therefore, it is possible to improve reliability of data retention in the non-volatile memory without the host device reading out the memory information from the non-volatile memory of the memory card. |
| US08219881B2 |
Memory controlling method, program and device
An interleave control which accesses a plurality of memory elements. A logical address is converted into a real address composed of a memory element selection address and a memory element address. The logical address of a CPU that has a logical address space divided into N area is converted into the real address decided in a way number W, and the memory elements are accessed by the interleave control. A real address area utilization information is prepared that is common to all the way numbers by dividing the real address space formed of a plurality of memory elements into areas (N×Wmax) based upon multiplying the area number N of the logical address space and the maximum way number Wmax, and utilization prohibition information is recorded in the area including the abnormal portion of the real address area utilization information when the abnormality of the memory element is detected. |
| US08219876B2 |
Method, apparatus, computer program product and device providing semi-parallel low density parity check decoding using a block structured parity check matrix
The invention relates to low density parity check decoding. A method for decoding an encoded data block is described. Encoded data block comprising data sub-blocks are stored. Decoding is performed in a pipelined manner using an irregular, block-structured parity check matrix, where at least two data sub-block matrices of the parity check matrix are read from and written in each of a plurality of clock cycles. The reading and writing of the data sub-blocks is evenly distributed between at least two area of a memory. The decoding is performed with shift values which eliminate cycles at or below a predetermined threshold length. An apparatus, computer program product and device are also described. |
| US08219875B2 |
Packet encoding method to provide unequal error protection to users and/or applications data
Embodiments of the invention provide a packet encoding scheme to ensure unequal error protection to different bits in a packet or in multiple packets. In one embodiment, a method to process bits in a bit stream comprises scrambling the bit stream; separating the scrambled bit stream into a high priority bit stream with an order of high priority bits from left to right and a low priority bit stream with an order of low priority bits from left to right; rearranging the bits by embedding the high priority bits in the low priority bit stream while preserving the two orders, the rearranged bit stream including blocks of bits, each block including one or more high priority bits disposed left of corresponding one or more low priority bits to provide protection for the high priority bits against noise which is at least equal to protection for the low priority bits; and modulating the rearranged bit stream using Gray encoding method to produce an encoded bit stream. |
| US08219873B1 |
LDPC selective decoding scheduling using a cost function
Data is decoded by obtaining a cost function. For each of a plurality of groups of check nodes associated with low-density parity-check (LDPC) encoded data, the cost function is evaluated using information associated with a variable node and/or information associated with a check node. One of the groups of check nodes is selecting based at least in part on the evaluated cost functions. Processing related to error correction decoding is performed on the selected group of check nodes. |
| US08219866B2 |
Apparatus and method for calculating and storing checksums based on communication protocol
An apparatus determines a communication protocol for transmitting data, adds a calculation result of checksum calculation to the data and transmits the result with the data, and stores the calculation result in a memory according to a communication protocol determination. |
| US08219865B2 |
Transmitter apparatus
A transmitter apparatus wherein a relatively simple structure is used to suppress burst errors without changing the block sizes of encoded blocks even when the number of modulation multi-values is increased. An encoding part subjects transport data to a block encoding process to form block encoded data. A modulating part modulates the block encoded data to form data symbols; and an arranging (interleaving) part arranges (interleaves) the block encoded data in such a manner that the intra-block encoded data of the encoded blocks, which include their respective single different data symbol, get together, and then supplies the arranged (interleaved) block encoded data to the modulating part. In this way, there can be provided a transmitter apparatus wherein a relatively simple structure is used to suppress burst errors without changing the block sizes of encoded blocks even when the number of modulation multi-values is increased. |
| US08219864B2 |
Circuit arrangement
The invention relates to a circuit arrangement, comprising: a functional circuit with m (m=1, 2, . . . ) data inputs and n (n=1, 2, . . . ) data outputs for processing at least one m-dimensional binary data input (x1, . . . , xm) to form an n-dimensional data output (y1, . . . , yn), wherein the functional circuit comprises at least one combinatorial circuit part, at least two registers with a word length k (k=1, 2, . . . ; k≦n) which are coupled to at least some of the n data outputs of the functional circuit in order to store output values (y=y1, . . . , yk; y′=y′1, . . . , y′k) which are duplicated with respect to one another or are duplicated with bit-by-bit inversion with respect to one another, said output values being derived from the n-dimensional data output (y1, . . . , yn) of the functional circuit, at least one corrector with an input word length 2k and an output word length k, which is coupled to data outputs of the at least two registers and supplies a k-dimensional corrected data output (y[k](korr)=y1(korr), . . . , yk(korr)), and an error detection circuit for detecting errors during operation of at least one of the aforementioned circuit elements: the functional circuit, the at least two registers and the corrector. |
| US08219862B2 |
Pass/fail scan memory with AND, OR and trinary gates
A test controller applies test stimulus signals to the input pads of plural die on a wafer in parallel. The test controller also applies encoded test response signals to the output pads of the plural die in parallel. The encoded test response signals are decoded on the die and compared to core test response signals produced from applying the test stimulus signals to core circuits on the die. The comparison produces pass/fail signals that are loaded in to scan cells of an IEEE 1149.1 scan path. The pass/fail signals then may be scanned out of the die to determine the results of the test. |
| US08219856B2 |
Memory growth detection
A process for monitoring memory growth of a software application includes measuring a baseline memory usage for processes operating on a computer system. A background memory logging script is then executed to log process memory usage. At some later time, a trending script is executed which outputs a list showing how memory usage has changed for each process operating on the system. |
| US08219855B2 |
Mechanism for storing and extracting trace information using internal memory in micro controllers
This document relates to apparatus and methods to store and retrieve trace information in on-chip system memory of microcontrollers. A microcontroller comprises a microprocessor and a memory device accessible through a data bus and an address bus coupled to the microprocessor. The microcontroller includes on-chip debug logic coupled to the microprocessor. Trace data can be retrieved from system memory using a debug port of the debug logic. A system in accordance with the present invention will lower the cost of implementation of trace features in microcontrollers, and strongly reduce the cost of supporting such features in debug tools. |
| US08219853B2 |
Method for localizing faulty hardware components and/or system errors within a production plant
There is described a method for localizing faulty hardware components and/or system errors within a production plant comprising several hardware components, with the production plant and the individual hardware components thereof being managed and/or configured by means of automation software and with the production plant being visualized and/or controlled by means of HMI software. Provision is made for identification data of the hardware components and/or groups of hardware components to be detected by the automation software and for information relating to the site to be assigned to the individual hardware components and/or groups of hardware components by means of the automation software and/or HMI software on the basis of identification data such that in the event of error messages as a result of faulty hardware components or in the event of system errors, a localization of the affected hardware component and/or group of hardware components is enabled within the production plant. |
| US08219849B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling a computer over a wide area network
The present invention permits virtually the entire functionality of a computer system to be made accessible over a network such as the Internet or an Intranet. More particularly, the present invention permits a computer system to be run as a “virtual machine” through a web page provided at a web site on the World Wide Web (WWW). The apparatus of the present invention includes a plurality of computers arranged in a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet or an Intranet. At least one of the computers has at least one unique address designating a web site. A host computer system (which may or may not be one of the computers on the Internet) can be “posted” onto an “advertising” web page at the web site to permit other computers coupled to the Internet to interact directly with the host computer system. The computer “posted” on the web page is referred to as the “host” or “advertiser” computer, and computers accessing the host computer are referred to as “client” or “user” computers. Having the host computer posted on a web page creates a “virtual computer” that can be view and/or controlled by the client computers. Once the connection has been made between the host computer and one or more client computers, the web page is bypassed, i.e. the two or more computer systems communicate through the Internet without necessarily going through the web site supporting the “advertising” web page. |
| US08219848B2 |
Mechanism for recovery from site failure in a stream processing system
A failure recovery framework to be used in cooperative data stream processing is provided that can be used in a large-scale stream data analysis environment. Failure recovery supports a plurality of independent distributed sites, each having its own local administration and goals. The distributed sites cooperate in an inter-site back-up mechanism to provide for system recovery from a variety of failures within the system. Failure recovery is both automatic and timely through cooperation among sites. Back-up sites associated with a given primary site are identified. These sites are used to identify failures within the primary site including failures of applications running on the nodes of the primary site. The failed applications are reinstated on one or more nodes within the back-up sites using job management instances local to the back-up sites in combination with previously stored state information and data values for the failed applications. In additions to inter-site mechanisms, each one of the plurality of sites employs an intra-site back-up mechanism to handle failure recoveries within the site. |
| US08219845B2 |
Timer service uses a single timer function to perform timing services for both relative and absolute timers
A timer service uses a single timer function to perform timing services for both relative and absolute timers. The first timers from a sorted array of absolute timers and relative timers are used in a function that will return when the earliest absolute timer expires or will timeout when the earliest relative timer expires. The timer function may be interrupted when a new timer is added to one of the arrays. The function will operate in a predictable and consistent manner, even when a system clock is adjusted. |
| US08219840B1 |
Exiting low-power state without requiring user authentication
A method may include, in response to an idle time of a computing device meeting or exceeding a power-save time threshold value, placing the device into a low-power state; in response to receiving an input to the device after the device has been placed into the low-power state, exiting the low-power state; determining whether the idle time meets or exceeds a lockout threshold value; after having exited from the low-power state, if the idle time meets or exceeds the lockout threshold value, requiring a user to perform a successful predetermined authentication to the device before allowing the user to access applications in the device; and if the idle time does not meet or exceed the lockout threshold value, allowing the user to access applications in the device without requiring the user to perform the successful predetermined authentication to the device. |
| US08219838B2 |
Image processing apparatus with power saving
An image processing apparatus includes a plurality of functions to perform image processing, an execution frequency calculation unit that calculates an execution frequency for each of the plurality of functions on the basis of an execution history of the image processing, a first selection unit that selects a function to which power is supplied in a power saving mode from the plurality of functions based on the execution frequency calculated by the execution frequency calculation unit, and a function setting unit that sets the function selected by the first selection unit as a function to which power is supplied in the power saving mode. |
| US08219836B2 |
Methods and apparatus to monitor instruction types and control power consumption within a processor
Methods and apparatus are disclosed to control power consumption within a processor. An example apparatus disclosed herein includes logic to identify at least one instruction type and to initialize a counter value corresponding to a maximum number of instructions to be performed, the maximum number being at least partially dependent upon the identified at least one instruction type. The example apparatus also includes processing logic to be enabled or disabled based, at least in part, on the counter value. |
| US08219830B2 |
Apparatus and method for management for file aggregates and file directories
A method for accessing data in a data storage system is presented. The method includes supplying a host computer that is in communication with the data storage system, where the data storage system includes a data storage medium and a holographic data storage medium. A first request is generated to access a directory encoded in the data storage medium and includes a first encryption key. The requested directory recites a listing of data files encoded in the holographic storage medium. If the first encryption key decrypts the directory, the directory is read and a data file encoded in the holographic data storage medium is identified. A second request is then generated to access the data file and includes a second encryption key. Finally, if the second encryption key decrypts the data file, then it is read. |
| US08219826B2 |
Secure pin character retrieval and setting
Disclosing a secure personal identification number (“PIN”) associated with a financial account to an account holder. A PIN reveal application can interact with a hardware security module (“HSM”) to decrypt and disclose the PIN to the account holder one or more PIN character(s) at a time. The account holder also can set a new PIN in a secure manner. A PIN set application can interact with the HSM to encrypt PIN characters received by the PIN set application from the account holder. The HSM provides a secure platform to encrypt and decrypt the secure PIN. |
| US08219821B2 |
System and method for signature based data container recognition
A system and method for signature based data container recognition is provided. When a new data container, such as a lun, is created, a security appliance generates a signature of the data container, by, e.g., examining the contents of one or more data blocks of the data container. The generated signature is then associated with the appropriate encryption key for the data container and is stored either within a configuration database of the security appliance or on a key management system operating within a security appliance environment. To identify the encryption key associated with a data container, the security appliance generates a signature of the data container and compares the generated signature with the stored signatures. Should there be a matching signature, the security appliance utilizes the encryption key associated with the matching signature to process data access requests to/from the data container. |
| US08219819B2 |
Public key encryption with digital signature scheme
An improved encryption and digital signature system and method in accordance with the invention reuses an encryption ephemeral key pair from an encryption process in a digital signature process. The reuse of the encryption ephemeral key pair in the digital signature process advantageously results in reduced byte size of the digital signature and reduction of costly computation overhead. In a preferred embodiment, the invention is based on the El Gamal encryption scheme and the Nyberg-Rueppel signature scheme. The present invention is particularly useful for operation in conjunction with small communication devices having limited processing and storage, wherein such devices may communicate via bandwidth sensitive RF links. |
| US08219815B2 |
Information management system
An information management system is described comprising one or more workstations running applications which allow a user of the workstation to connect to a network, such as the Internet. Each application has an analyzer, which monitors transmission data that the application is about to transmit to the network or has just received from the network, and which determines an appropriate action to take regarding that data. The analyzer may consult policy data containing a supervisor-defined policy to govern the workstations in order to determine what action to take. Such actions may be extracting data from the transmission data, such as passwords and usernames, digital certificates or eCommerce transaction details for storage and record keeping; ensuring that the transmission data is transmitted at an encryption strength appropriate to the contents of the transmission data; determining whether a check needs to be made as to whether a digital certificate received in transmission is valid; determining whether a transaction about to be made by a user of one of the workstations needs third party approval before it is made; and controlling the transmission of messages, such as e-mails according to a policy. |
| US08219814B2 |
System and method of user credential management
A user credential management system and method for managing user credentials are provided. The user credential management system comprises an authentication module for authenticating a user login to a mobile device, and a message transforming module for associating a user credential to a message sent from the mobile device to a server. The method comprising the steps of authenticating a user login to a mobile device, locating a user credential associated with the user login, and associating the user credential to a message between the mobile device and a server. |
| US08219809B2 |
Method of optimizing data communication
A device and method of optimizing data communication, are discussed. In an embodiment of the method, encrypted authentication is performed to transmit and receive encrypted data to and from a display device after a default delay time has elapsed in a state in which a source device and the display device are connected to each other. If it is determined that the authentication has failed, the encrypted authentication is performed again after an additional delay time or a delay time stored in conjunction with the display device has elapsed. If it is determined that the authentication has succeeded, a required delay time in conjunction with the display device is stored or updated. Thus, the delay time, which is required before the establishment of data communication, can be optimized in consideration of the characteristics of a device connected to perform the data communication. |
| US08219808B2 |
Session-based public key infrastructure
A method and system for issuing anonymous, or user-independent, certificates for secure communication over a network, such as the Internet, to provide authentication and automated login to electronic services. A pool of user-independent certificates is generated. Once the user is identified, a user-independent roaming certificate is automatically transferred to the user's computer for encryption of communications during a single session. Once the user completes the online session or transaction, the issued digital certificate and associated key material is released back to the pool of digital certificates and can be re-used. |
| US08219807B1 |
Fine grained access control for linux services
A user requests to execute an application. The system authenticates the user and determines whether the user is authorized to execute the application. If the user is both authenticated and authorized to execute the application, the system grants the user permission to execute the application. Otherwise, the system denies the user permission to execute the application. |
| US08219805B1 |
Application identification
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including medium-encoded computer program products, for identifying applications. In general, in one aspect, a method includes: obtaining a first certificate chain from certificates corresponding to a digitally signed application, and a second certificate chain from a successful validation of the digital signature using the certificates; and generating an identifier for the application based on one or more certificate owner names found in both the first certificate chain and the second certificate chain. Generating the identifier for the application can include finding a location in one of the first and second certificate chains that corresponds to a root of the other of the first and second certificate chains, and comparing the one or more certificate owner names found in both the first certificate chain and the second certificate chain, starting or ending with the root and the location. |
| US08219801B2 |
Method of authenticating digitally encoded products without private key sharing
A method and a corresponding system for authenticating software products are proposed. A digital certificate (260) and a corresponding private key (265) required to sign each product are stored on a server computer. Whenever a user needs to sign a product, he/she logs on a client computer and transmits a corresponding request to the server computer. The server computer verifies whether the request has been received from an authorized subject; for example, an address of the client computer and an identifier of the user are compared with a predefined list (245). If the result of the verification is positive, the product is signed and returned to the client computer. For this purpose, a script (250) called on the server computer includes either an instruction passing the access password to a signing tool (255) as a parameter or an instruction causing the signing tool (255) to import the access password from a registry of the server computer. |
| US08219800B2 |
Secure neighbor discovery router for defending host nodes from rogue routers
In one embodiment, a method comprises receiving, by a router in a network, a router advertisement message on a network link of the network; detecting within the router advertisement message, by the router, an advertised address prefix and an identified router having transmitted the router advertisement message within the network; determining, by the router, whether the identified router is authorized to at least one of advertise itself as a router, or advertise the advertised address prefix on the network link; and selectively initiating, by the router, a defensive operation against the identified router based on the router determining the identified router is not authorized to advertise itself as a router, or advertise the advertised address prefix on the network link. |
| US08219794B1 |
Non-disruptive firmware upgrade of a storage shelf
A storage system includes a storage server and a storage subsystem having an I/O module coupled to disks. The storage subsystem receives new firmware from the storage server for an I/O module in the storage subsystem. The storage subsystem stores state data for the I/O module. The storage subsystem reboots a CPU for the I/O module to load the new firmware and determines after reboot that the reboot was for loading the new firmware based on the stored state data. The storage subsystem initializes the I/O module to use the new firmware. The initialization of the I/O module is based on the stored state data, does not reset I/O routing hardware on the I/O module, and is independent of the I/O module processing a request to access data stored on disks coupled to the I/O module. |
| US08219792B2 |
System and method for safe information handling system boot
Information handling system security is maintained by locking the information handling system from boot of an operating system with a service processor of the information handling system. The service processor obtains authorization for boot from a third party authentication service by providing authentication information to the authentication service and requiring a successful authentication for boot. For example, the service processor releases a token upon successful authentication to authorize boot. In one embodiment, the authentication service sends a token to the service processor for the service processor to use to authorize boot. |
| US08219791B2 |
BIOS field mapping
BIOS field mapping includes generating basic input/output system (BIOS) information by defining property identifications using a visual form code language and determining that a proprietary set-up service is accessible. The BIOS field mapping then includes converting the visual form code language to a binary format and storing the property identifications in binary format on a setup database as data hidden from an operating system. A BIOS driver may then request the property identifications causing a transfer of the property identifications to the BIOS driver. |
| US08219781B2 |
Method for managing a memory apparatus, and associated memory apparatus thereof
A method for managing a memory apparatus including at least one non-volatile (NV) memory element includes: recording usage information of at least one block during accessing pages of the block; and determining whether to erase a portion of the blocks according to the usage information. For example, the usage information includes a valid page count table for recording valid page counts of the blocks, respectively; and the ranking of a field of the valid page count table represents a physical block address, and the content of the field represents an associated valid page count. In another example, the usage information includes an invalid page count table for recording invalid page counts of the blocks, respectively; and the ranking of a field of the invalid page count table represents a physical block address, and the content of the field represents an associated invalid page count. |
| US08219775B2 |
Nonvolatile memory system
A memory system including a nonvolatile memory, and a memory control module. The nonvolatile memory includes a plurality of memory cells arranged among a plurality of physical memory blocks, wherein each physical memory block is of a predetermined size. The memory control module includes a write path module and a read path module. In response to the memory control module receiving data in a first format such that the data is evenly distributable among the plurality of physical memory blocks, the write path module modifies the first format of the data into a second format prior to writing the data to the plurality of physical memory blocks. The second format of the data is such that the data is no longer evenly distributable among the plurality of physical memory blocks. The read path module is configured to read the data from the nonvolatile memory in accordance with the second format. |
| US08219774B2 |
Storage controller and storage control method
A storage controller having a plurality of storage device and a control circuit providing a plurality of virtual volumes, to each of which a storage area in a plurality of pool volumes provided with the plurality of storage devices can be mapped for writing data in response to a write access sent from an information processing apparatus to a logical area in one of the plurality of virtual volumes, respectively. The control circuit, according to a search of the plurality of pool volumes for a certain storage area in which a certain data pattern is written, release the certain storage area from mapping to a logical area in the plurality of virtual volume, so that the control circuit can use the released certain storage area for mapping to a virtual volume of the plurality of virtual volume as a destination of another write access from the information processing apparatus. |
| US08219773B2 |
Interpreting the data value stored by memory cell using a performance characteristic value
A method and system for storing and retrieving data using flash memory devices. One example system includes an apparatus within a flash memory configuration. The flash memory configuration includes a plurality of memory cells, where each memory cell has a charge storage capacity for use in implementing digital storage. The apparatus includes a processing arrangement configured to access each of the memory cells in a write operation and a read operation. The apparatus also includes an instruction set for instructing the processor to impose target charge levels for defining a plurality of data values for each of the memory cells. The target charge levels are programmably movable with respect to the charge storage capacity. |
| US08219772B2 |
Loading secure code into a memory
A method and system of controlling access to a programmable memory including: allowing code to be written to the programmable memory in a first access mode; preventing execution of the code stored in the programmable memory in the first access mode; verifying the integrity of the code stored in the programmable memory; if the integrity of the code stored in the programmable memory is verified, setting a second access mode, wherein in the second access mode, further code is prevented from being written to the programmable memory, and execution of the code stored in the programmable memory is allowed. |
| US08219769B1 |
Discovering cluster resources to efficiently perform cluster backups and restores
A system and method for identifying properties of virtual resources to efficiently perform backups and restores of cluster data. A cluster of nodes is coupled to a data storage medium. A node receives a request for a backup or a restore of cluster data. In response to this request, the node queries a cluster subsystem and a virtual subsystem of all other cluster nodes for identification of VMs, a subset of corresponding stored data, and an identification of VMs which are highly available (HA). In response to receiving query responses, the node aggregates the results and sends them to a backup server. These aggregated results may then be used to schedule subsequent backup and restore operations. In addition, the node may use the results to complete the current backup or restore operation. |
| US08219766B1 |
Systems and methods for identifying the presence of sensitive data in backups
A computer-implemented method for identifying the presence of sensitive data in a backup may comprise identifying a backup, identifying sensitive data in the backup, creating metadata that identifies the presence of the sensitive data in the backup, and associating the metadata with the backup. In addition, a method for preventing sensitive data from being placed in a backup may comprise identifying a file, identifying sensitive data in the file, and preventing the file from being placed in a backup. Corresponding systems and computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US08219763B2 |
Structure for performing cacheline polling utilizing a store and reserve instruction
A design structure for performing cacheline polling utilizing a store and reserve instruction are disclosed. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a first process initially requests an action to be performed by a second process. A reservation is set at a cacheable memory location via a store operation. The first process reads the cacheable memory location via a load operation to determine whether or not the requested action has been completed by the second process. The load operation of the first process is stalled until the reservation on the cacheable memory location is lost. After the requested action has been completed, the reservation in the cacheable memory location is reset by the second process. |
| US08219760B2 |
Storage subsystem and its control method
Provided is a storage subsystem capable of maintaining the reliability of I/O processing to a host apparatus, even if there is an unauthorized access from a processor core to a switch circuit, by applying a multi-core system to a processor. A multi-core processor is applied to a second logical address space that is different from a first logical address space to be commonly applied to multiple controlled units such as a host interface to be accessed by the processor. The switch circuit determines the processor core that issued an access based on an address belonging to a second address space, and maps an address containing in an access from the processor core to an address of a first address space. |
| US08219743B2 |
Semiconductor device with double program prohibition control
The present invention provides a semiconductor device and a method for controlling the semiconductor device, the semiconductor device including memory regions; program prohibition information units storing program prohibition information to be used for determining whether to prohibit or allow programming in the memory regions corresponding to the program prohibition information units; a first prohibition information control circuit that prohibits a change of the program prohibition information from a program prohibiting state with respect to a memory region based on first prohibition information; and a second prohibition information control circuit that prohibits a change of the program prohibition information from a program allowing state to a program prohibiting state with respect to the corresponding memory region based on second prohibition information with respect to the corresponding memory region. |
| US08219740B2 |
Flash sector seeding to reduce program times
A non-volatile flash memory comprises a plurality of non-volatile memories where a first non-volatile memory is pre-programmed (erased) with all ones, and at least a second non-volatile memory is pre-programmed with a seed value that takes advantage of the reduced programming time for less than six zeros. When writing (programming) a data byte, the memory system looks up the data byte in one or more seed tables to determine a portion of non-volatile memory to which the memory system may write the data byte with a reduced programming time. The memory system then records the location of the data byte in an address translation table so the data byte may be accessed. |
| US08219736B2 |
Method and apparatus for a data bridge in a computer system
A configurable register method and structure included configuration logic to form a register value. A data bridge system, for connecting an interface of a computer system to a plurality of application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC), has a data bridge operatively coupled between the computer interface and the plurality of ASICs that employs the configurable registers. The data bridge has a read only memory for storing at least the initial values and mask values for each ASIC of the plurality of ASICs. The data bridge upon initialization forms base address registers and other configuration data that are queried by the computer system. When the ASICs are graphic processors, the initial values and the mask values stored in the read only memory define the base address registers in the data bridge as a function of the configuration requirements of the graphic processors. The base address registers are thus programmable as a function of the initial values and mask values in the read only memory. The read only memory is coupled to the data bridge. |
| US08219731B2 |
Data processor and control system
Provided are a data processor, and a control system, in which an interrupt controller and an event link controller are adopted. The event link controller responds to a generated event signal to output a start control signal for controlling start of an operation of a circuit module. The circuit module is able to generate an event signal. The event link controller generates the start control signal according to the correspondences between event signals and start control signals which are defined by event control information. The links between the event signals and start control signals can be prescribed by the event control information. Therefore, operations of circuit modules prescribed by such links can be controlled sequentially. The control neither involves save and return processes by CPU as in the interrupt processing, nor needs priority level control as executed on competing interrupt requests. |
| US08219726B2 |
Method for data transfer between host and device
The present invention relates to a method for data transfer between a host and a device as well as to respective apparatus. A host is seen as a communication apparatus which organizes data traffic. A device is seen as dependent on the host. In a tiered-star topology there are usually multiple devices connected to one host.A method for data transfer between a host and a device through pipes is presented. The available memory in the host is divided into multiple segments. The assignment of segments is changed between pipes in dependence on the pipe traffic. |
| US08219725B2 |
Cache optimized balanced handling of initiatives in a non-uniform multiprocessor computing system
A balancing process between I/O processor groups of a non-uniform multiprocessor system enables spreading of I/O workload across multiple I/O processor groups on a group base as soon as the I/O processor group with maximum group utilization reaches a certain high limit together with other processor groups being utilized significantly lower. The additional balancing is decreased step by step again when a certain low utilization limit is reached or the workload becomes more evenly balanced between the I/O processor groups. Checking if increase or decrease of the balancing is required is done periodically, but with low frequency to not affect overall performance. The checking and balancing happens asynchronously in predefined intervals. This solves the problem that with an increasing number of I/O processors the handling of initiatives leads to increased cache traffic and contention due to shared data structures, which slows down the I/O workload handling significantly. |
| US08219724B1 |
Flexibly managing I/O operations based on application awareness
A method is used in flexibly managing input/output (I/O) operations based on application awareness. An I/O operation that is directed to storage is received. The storage is provisioned in accordance with an application. The provisioning includes selecting one or more default options in accordance with best practices of the application. Based on the provisioning in accordance with the application and based on a rejection template that has a user configurable description of I/O acceptance criteria, evaluation of the acceptability of an I/O operation is performed. The rejection template is revised. |
| US08219722B2 |
DMA and graphics interface emulation
An emulator schedules emulation threads for DMA emulation and other emulation functions in a time-multiplexed manner. Emulation threads are selected for execution according to a load balancing scheme. Non-DMA emulation threads are executed until their execution time period expires or they stall. DMA emulation thread execution is allowed to execute indefinitely until the DMA emulation thread stalls. The DMA emulation thread prefetches additional adjacent data in response to target computer system DMA requests. Upon receiving a target computer system DMA request, the DMA emulation thread first checks to the prefetched data to see if this data matches the request. If so, the request is fulfilled using the prefetched data. If the prefetched data does not match the target computer system DMA request, the DMA emulation thread fetches and stores the requested data and additional adjacent data for potential future use. |
| US08219721B2 |
Mobile terminal and switching method for controlling data transmission via high speed or low speed interfaces based on preset threshold
A mobile terminal and switching method for controlling data transmission interface thereof are provided. The mobile terminal includes an application processor, a communication processor and data transmission interfaces thereof, the application processor including a traffic monitor unit and an interface control unit, wherein the traffic monitor unit is configured to detect data traffic of data transmission, compare the data traffic with a preset threshold to obtain a comparison result, and output the comparison result; and the interface control unit is configured to control, on receipt of the comparison result, the connection or disconnection of a high-speed data line between the application processor and the communication processor, and to transmit a corresponding interface switching command to the communication processor for switching the data transmission interface. With the present system, the power consumption of the system can be reduced and the efficiency of the data transmission can be improved. |
| US08219720B2 |
Method and architecture to support interaction between host computer and remote display devices wherein service-specific protocols for the remote devices are defined
A method and architecture for enabling interaction between a remote device and a host computer. A service provided by the remote device is discovered, and a description pertaining to the service is retrieved by the host computer. A network communication link is the established between the remote device and the host computer based on connection information provided by the description. Host-side and client-side software service modules are run on the host and remote devices to enable interaction between the devices using a service protocol that is specific to the service. Various service protocols are provided, including a display service protocol and an input service protocol. Using commands provided by each protocol, the host computer is enabled to control the service remotely by pushing data and appropriate commands to the remote device, whereupon these commands are processed by the client-side service module to perform service operations that employ the sent data. |
| US08219717B2 |
Port setting method of application system
A port setting method of an application system comprises: requesting a naming server for object information corresponding to name information of the other components upon data transmission to the other components; determining whether there exists consistent information based on the object information of the other components received from the naming server; if there exists consistent information, selecting a first and certain protocol, and otherwise, selecting a second protocol; and establishing a connection with the other components by use of the selected protocol. The actual location of the components can be sensed based on Endpoint information of IOR without adding no particular information to the domain profile (xml profile), and a more efficient protocol can be selected depending on the position of each component, thereby enhancing data transmission performance and efficiency in SCA port communications between components. |
| US08219708B2 |
Enabling simultaneous use of home network and foreign network by a multihomed mobile node
The invention relates to a method performed by a home agent serving a mobile node in a home network of the mobile node upon attachment of a mobile node to the home network as well as to the home agent. Further, the invention also relates to a method for enabling simultaneous use of a plurality of interfaces by a mobile node being attached to a home network through one of the plurality of interfaces and to at least one foreign network through at least another interface of the plurality of interfaces. Moreover, the invention provides a mobile node and a proxy acting on behalf of the mobile node. To enable a mobile node to use a home network and at least one further foreign network for communications the invention suggests the registration of the mobile node's home address or of a network node within its home network as a care-of address in the home network. |
| US08219704B2 |
Selection of content in response to communication environment
A content transfer service manager node of a computer network manages the transfer of content over the network from a content provider node to a user node. The characteristics of the configuration of the user node are determined, including the user nodes capabilities with respect to downloading content and processing downloaded content. The service manager arranges a content transfer that is particularly suited for the hardware, software, and communication capabilities of the user node. |
| US08219701B2 |
Apparatus and method for controlling communication
A communication control apparatus includes a data acquiring unit configured to acquire data to be transmitted to a receiving apparatus, a packetizing unit configured to generate packets using the data acquired by the data acquiring unit, a determining unit configured to compute a possible data transmission delay time of the data packetized by the packetizing unit and determine a transmission interval of the packets based on a result of the computation, and a transmission unit configured to transmit the packets generated by the packetizing unit at intervals that are each within the transmission interval determined by the determining unit. |
| US08219699B2 |
Efficient transform from XML to javascript objects
This disclosure describes data conversion and techniques for sending and receiving data at a mobile device. In one implementation, a proxy server may receive data from a mobile device. The proxy server may convert the data and send the converted data to a network service. In another implementation, a mobile device may convert data and send that data to a network service. The network service may generate data in response and send that data to the mobile device directly. |
| US08219698B2 |
Remote operation of process control equipment over customer supplied network
A DCS protocol message addressed to a remote DCS station is generated at a local distributed control system (DCS). The DCS protocol message is received at a local tunneling device. The local tunneling device packages the DCS protocol message into a SCADA protocol message. The SCADA protocol message is transmitted from the local tunneling device to a remote tunneling device. The remote tunneling device receives the SCADA protocol message. The SCADA protocol message is unpackaged into a DCS protocol message at the remote tunneling device, and the DCS protocol message is placed on to a remote DCS such that it flows to the remote station. The DCS protocol message is received at the remote station. |
| US08219695B1 |
Anticipatory preparation of application-layer protocol responses
Methods, systems, and computer-readable medium for latency reduction on Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) servers using User Datagram Protocol (UDP) are disclosed. In situations where a client needs to establish a new TCP connection to submit an HTTP request to a server, the client sends the HTTP request in a UDP datagram to the server while the TCP connection establishment is in progress. The server starts anticipatory construction of a response upon receipt of the HTTP request in the UDP datagram. After the TCP connection is established, the client sends and the server receives the same HTTP request in one or more data packets through the newly established TCP connection. In response to the receipt of the HTTP request through the newly established TCP connection, the server sends the pre-constructed response to the client through the TCP connection. HTTP response time can be reduced up to one round-trip time. |
| US08219694B2 |
Portable communication terminal apparatus, communication system and network address setting method thereof
A portable communication terminal apparatus which is connected to a router through a cable includes a storage which stores a plurality of allocated Internet Protocol (IP) addresses, a detector which detects information on the cable connected to the router, and an address setting part which sets one of the plurality of IP addresses as a network IP address based on the detected information on the cable. |