| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08277606B2 |
Method of providing paper-making fibers with durable curl and absorbent products incorporating same
A process for producing high bulk cellulosic fiber exhibiting a durable elevated curl index includes: (a) concurrently heat treating and convolving cellulosic fiber pulp at elevated temperature and pressure at high consistency under conditions selected so as to preclude substantial fibrillation and attendant paper strength and fiber bonding development; and (b) recovering the pulp wherein the length weighted curl index of the treated fiber is at least about 20% higher than the length weighted curl index of the fiber prior to the heat treatment and convolving thereof. The curl imparted to the fiber persists upon treatment for 30 minutes in a laboratory disintegrator at 3000 rpm at 1% consistency at a temperature of 125° F. Moreover, the curl may be imparted to the fiber in a disk refiner at very short residence times, on the order of several seconds or less. In general, the process is carried out in the presence of saturated steam at a pressure of from about 5 to about 150 psig. |
| US08277605B2 |
Thermosetting solution composition and prepreg
A thermosetting solution composition composed of a biphenyltetracarboxylic acid compound containing a partial lower aliphatic alkyl ester of 2,3,3′,4′-biphenyltetracarboxylic acid and/or a partial lower aliphatic alkyl ester of 2,2′,3,3′-biphenyltetracarboxylic acid, an aromatic diamine compound in a molar amount larger than a molar amount of the biphenyltetracarboxylic acid compound, a partial lower aliphatic alkyl ester of 4-(2-phenylethynyl)phthalic acid compound in a molar amount as much as 1.8-2.2 times a molar amount corresponding to a difference between the molar amount of the aromatic diamine compound and the molar amount of the biphenyltetracarboxylic acid compound, and an organic solvent composed of a lower aliphatic alcohol is of value for manufacture of a prepreg. |
| US08277591B2 |
Tubular slat for coverings for architectural openings
A slat or vane for use in a covering for an architectural opening is suitable for use in either a horizontal or vertical orientation and in a horizontal orientation will not sag or droop, and in a vertical orientation will rotate uniformly along its length when rotated from end thereof. The slat is formed in a tubular configuration and has a base material of glass fibers bonded together in a thermoformable resin so as to maintain the arcuate curvature desired for the tubular slat or vane. The slat can be repeatedly deformed and will always return to its original configuration. |
| US08277588B2 |
Method of adhering an object to the exterior of a motor vehicle
Dissolving paper (22) covers pressure sensitive adhesive (20) on a mounting face (18) of an object (16) to be mounted on an exterior surface of a body panel (10) of a motor vehicle by a mechanical fastening system (24). The mounting is exposed to a water wash. Water begins to be absorbed by the dissolving paper through the edge of the paper's outer perimeter. As the paper increasingly absorbs water, it dissolves in the water exposing the adhesive which then adheres to the panel. |
| US08277587B2 |
Continuous method and system for manufacturing liquid-crystal display elements
A continuous manufacturing method and system for liquid-crystal display elements which enhances accuracy, increases speed and improves in yield in the continuous production of liquid crystal elements. The continuous method and system performs steps of, defining a plurality of defective and normal-polarizing-sheet slitting positions on a continuous web of optical film, based on positions of defects existing in the optical film, and applying only normal polarizing sheets to a liquid-crystal panel. The polarizing sheet includes the defective and normal-polarizing-sheet slitting positions recorded as encoded information which is used to determine whether the polarizing sheet defined between slit lines sequentially formed in the continuous web, is a normal polarizing sheet, peeling the normal polarizing sheet from the carrier film and applying the normal polarizing sheet to the liquid-crystal panel. |
| US08277584B2 |
Extremely insensitive detonating substance and method for its manufacture
The present invention provides an explosive composition of substantially reduced sensitivity and low flammability, being definable as an extremely insensitive detonating substance (EIDS) according to UN Regulations for the Transport of Dangerous Goods and comprising one or more explosive material 42-58% vol., one or more fire retardant material 15-26% vol. and a binder 20-36% vol. |
| US08277582B2 |
Hydrogen absorbing alloy, hydrogen absorbing alloy electrode, secondary battery, and production method of hydrogen absorbing alloy
The present invention provides a hydrogen absorbing alloy containing a phase of a Pr5Co19 type crystal structure having a composition defined by a general formula A(4−w)B(1+w)C19 (A denotes one or more element(s) selected from rare earth elements including Y (yttrium); B denotes an Mg element; C denotes one or more element(s) selected from a group consisting of Ni, Co, Mn, and Al; and w denotes a numeral in a range from −0.1 to 0.8) and having a composition as a whole defined by a general formula R1xR2yR3z (15.8≦x≦17.8, 3.4≦y≦5.0, 78.8≦z≦79.6, and x+y+z=100; R1 denotes one or more element(s) selected from rare earth elements including Y (yttrium); R2 denotes an Mg element, R3 denotes one or more element(s) selected from a group consisting of Ni, Co, Mn, and Al; the numeral of Mn+Al in the z is 0.5 or higher; and the numeral of Al in the z is 4.1 or lower). |
| US08277580B2 |
Al-Zn-Cu-Mg aluminum base alloys and methods of manufacture and use
A rolled or forged Al—Zn—Cu—Mg aluminum-based alloy wrought product having a thickness from 2 to 10 inches. The product has been treated by solution heat-treatment, quenching and aging, and the product comprises (in weight-%): Zn 6.2-7.2, Mg 1.5-2.4, Cu 1.7-2.1. Fe 0-0.13, Si 0-0.10, Ti 0-0.06, Zr 0.06-0.13, Cr 0-0.04, Mn 0-0.04, Mn 0-0.04, impurities and other incidental elements ≦0.05 each. Alloys per se and aircraft and aerospace uses, as well as methods of making products are also disclosed. |
| US08277578B2 |
Rare earth permanent magnet and its preparation
A rare earth permanent magnet is prepared by disposing a powdered metal alloy containing at least 70 vol % of an intermetallic compound phase on a sintered body of R—Fe—B system, and heating the sintered body having the powder disposed on its surface below the sintering temperature of the sintered body in vacuum or in an inert gas for diffusion treatment. The advantages include efficient productivity, excellent magnetic performance, a minimal or zero amount of Tb or Dy used, an increased coercive force, and a minimized decline of remanence. |
| US08277576B2 |
Steel material composition for producing piston rings and cylinder lines
A steel material composition, in particular for producing piston rings and cylinder sleeves, contains the following elements in the cited fractions relative to 100% by weight of the steel material: 0.5-1.2% by weight C, 0-3.0% by weight Cr, 72.0-94.5% by weight Fe, 3.0-15.0% by weight Mn and 2.0-10.0% by weight Si. It can be produced by melting the starting materials and casting the melt into a pre-fabricated mold. |
| US08277573B2 |
Process for the production of a grain oriented magnetic strip
A process for the production of a grain oriented magnetic strip, made of steel containing 2.3 to 5.0% of silicon, obtained by producing a hot-rolled sheet containing a distribution of second phases capable of controlling the secondary recrystallization by means of a two-step hot-rolling with an intermediate annealing, and by changing it into the final product. |
| US08277572B2 |
Drive unit in particular for use in connection with tank cleaning equipment
To ensure that liquid and/or vapors do not escape from a tank space during cleaning by means of cleaning equipment, a housing (2) is provided with magnetic coupling equipment according to the invention, comprising two cooperating pole elements (8,9) which extend hermetically isolated from each other with pole parts extending in the turbine housing (3) on the tank space side and the gear housing (1) itself outside the tank space, respectively. This provides a considerable degree of security against liquid and gas leakage, while making it possible to achieve a compact structure with easy access for service and maintenance. |
| US08277571B2 |
Methods and apparatus for detecting pump cavitation in a dishwasher using frequency analysis
Water fill level detection techniques are provided for a dishwasher system. A dishwasher system includes a tub; a fluid circulation system for circulating water in the tub and a controller. The fluid circulation system includes at least one motor and at least one fill valve. The controller monitors a current drawn by the motor to control an operation of the fill valve. The controller performs a frequency analysis on the current to detect a water fill level in the tub. |
| US08277569B2 |
Substrate treating apparatus and substrate treating method
A substrate processing apparatus and a substrate processing method are capable of restraining or preventing the generation of streaky particles on a substrate surface by excellent removal of a rinsing liquid therefrom. The substrate processing apparatus has a substrate inclining mechanism for inclining a substrate held by a substrate holding mechanism. After a rinsing liquid has been supplied onto a substrate to form a liquid mass, the substrate is inclined at a small angle by the substrate inclining mechanism. Then, the liquid mass is downwardly moved without being fragmented and then falls down without leaving minute droplets on the substrate top. Thereafter, the substrate is returned to a horizontal posture and then dried. |
| US08277568B2 |
Rinse aid
A method of washing ware in an automatic ware washing machine, is disclosed, using a rinse aid composition containing a polysaccharide. The polysaccharide adsorbs on the ware resulting in a sheeting action of the rinse solution leading to improved drying of the ware. |
| US08277562B2 |
Continuous vacuum pan and internal insulation arrangement thereof
This invention relates to a continuous vacuum pan (also sometimes referred to as an evaporative crystallizer) for use in the sugar processing industry, and to a heat exchanger used inside the continuous vacuum pan. The invention also relaters to the heat exchanger as used in other applications in the sugar processing industry. The heat exchanger includes a massecuite flow path for conveying massecuite therethrough, and a heat transfer medium flow path for receiving a heat transfer medium to enable heat transfer to the massecuite flow path. The heat exchanger is characterized therein that a periphery thereof is surrounded by an insulated zone in order to prevent heat transfer from the heat transfer medium flow path to the environment. |
| US08277560B2 |
CVD apparatus and method of cleaning the CVD apparatus
A CVD apparatus cleaning method that efficiently removes by-product such as SiO2 or Si3N4 adhered to and deposited on surfaces of an inner wall, an electrode, and the like in a reaction chamber at a film forming step. In the cleaning method the discharged cleaning gas amount is very small, environmental influences such as global warming can be lessened, and cost can be reduced. A CVD apparatus supplying reactive gas into a reaction chamber and forming a deposited film on a surface of a base material provided in the reaction chamber includes an exhaust gas recycling path recycling an exhaust gas reaching the reaction chamber from downstream of a pump on an exhaust path for exhausting a gas from an inner part of the reaction chamber through the pump. |
| US08277557B2 |
Agglomerated particulate lignosulfonate
An agglomerated particulate lignosulfonate material may be made by introducing or forming lignosulfonate microparticles in a fluidized bed agglomerator, and introducing sufficient heated gas and lignosulfonate liquid in the agglomerator to convert the microparticles to lignosulfonate granules of enlarged size. The granules may have an average size of at least 0.1 mm, and may be used to make a dry-blended cement additive or oil well cement that may be dustless, easily poured and stored, and rapidly dissolved in water. |
| US08277556B2 |
Articles made from cementitious foam and slurry
Lightweight cementitious foams of the invention have excellent dynamic and dimensional stability due to use of foaming system comprising polycarboxylate surfactant foam generating agent, foam stabilizer (e.g., PVOH), and shrinkage reducing admixture to inhibit plastic shrinkage and micro-cracking of cement. The foaming system can be used in conventional cement mortars or concretes as well as with exemplary cementitious slurry systems of the invention, which include an expansive agent, a cross-linking agent for the foam stabilizer. Microfibers can be used in the foam, slurry, or both, to prevent micro-cracking. Cementitious foams can be made without use of autoclave or lightweight aggregates to achieve enhanced compressive strength and thermal insulation properties that compare favorably with conventional foams and insulation materials at comparable densities. |
| US08277555B2 |
Coating composition
A coating composition which is excellent in crack resistance, alkali resistance and solvent resistance while having a high hardness and which is excellent in recoatability, anti-graffiti property, and removability of graffiti is provided. The coating composition according to the present invention comprises as the essential components, (a) a liquid organosiloxane compound which is a mixture of (a-1) a liquid organosiloxane compound having an alkoxy group content of 20 to 60% by mass and (a-2) a liquid organosiloxane compound having an alkoxy group content of 5% by mass or more and less than 20% by mass, in which an (a-1)/(a-2) mass ratio is 10/90 to 60/40, (b) an organometallic catalyst, (c) at least one compound selected from among alkoxy group-containing organosilane compounds having a primary or secondary amino group, amino-modified silicone oils, and amino group-containing organosiloxane compounds, and (d) at least one compound selected from among compounds having two or more glycidyl groups in one molecule, glycidyl group-containing silane compounds and glycidyl group-containing silicone oligomers. |
| US08277553B2 |
Plastics material
The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a plastic material from a protein source, the method characterized by the following steps; i) treating a protein source such as blood meal with at least one denaturing agent, such as a combination of urea, sodium sulfite and sodium dodecyl sulfate, to break interactions between proteins or portions thereof, and ii) treating the denatured protein source with sufficient pressure and temperature to consolidate the denatured protein source into a plastic material. |
| US08277550B2 |
Yellow inkjet ink having improved print quality with porous photo media
The present invention relates to yellow dye-based inkjet inks having improved permanence when jetted onto porous photo media. The inkjet ink includes a mixture of at least two yellow dyes, at least three co-solvents comprising about 18% to about 24% of the composition of the ink by weight, a penetrant, at least one wetting agent, and water. |
| US08277548B2 |
Combined exhaust gas aftertreatment/air cleaner dust and ejector unit
A combined exhaust gas aftertreatment/dust ejector unit (10) is provided for use with a combustion process (14) and an air cleaner (16) of the combustion process (14). The unit (10) includes an elongate housing (30) containing an exhaust gas aftertreatment device (40) and having a radial exhaust gas outlet (34) to direct an exhaust gas flow (12) radially from the housing (30), and a dust ejector (60) including an ejector outlet (62) positioned in the exhaust gas outlet (34). The exhaust gas outlet (34) and the ejector outlet (62) have elliptical shaped cross sections (68,70), with the ejector outlet cross section (70) spaced inwardly from the exhaust gas outlet (34) to define a reduced flow area (72) for the exhaust gas flow (12) to accelerate the exhaust gas flow (12) past the ejector outlet (62). |
| US08277545B2 |
Method of reducing an amount of mercury in a flue gas
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to a method of reducing an amount of mercury discharged to an environment in a flue gas (12) generated by combustion of a fuel source. The method includes contacting the flue gas with a moist pulverous material upstream of a particle separator (24), mixing powdered activated carbon (PAC) in an amount between about 0.5 lb/MMacf and 10 lbs/MMacf with the flue gas (12) upstream of the particle separator (24), wherein the PAC interacts with at least a portion of mercury containing compounds in the flue gas (12), and separating the mercury containing compounds from the flue gas (12) containing the moist pulverous material and PAC, thereby reducing an amount of mercury in the flue gas (12). |
| US08277540B2 |
Apparatus and method for gas separation
Herein disclosed is an apparatus comprising (1) a porous rotor symmetrically positioned about an axis of rotation and surrounding an interior space; (2) an outer casing, wherein the outer casing and the rotor are separated by an annular space; (3) a motor configured for rotating the rotor about the axis of rotation; (4) a feed inlet positioned along the axis of rotation and fluidly connected with the interior space; and (5) a first outlet, wherein the first outlet is fluidly connected with the interior space. Herein disclosed is a system, comprising at least one disclosed apparatus. Herein disclosed is also a method of separating a feed gas into a first fraction and a second fraction, wherein the first fraction has an average molecular weight lower than the average molecular weight of the second fraction. |
| US08277537B2 |
Method of manufacturing ultra low carbon ferritic stainless steel
A method of manufacturing a ferritic stainless steel containing an ultra low level of carbon concentration in molten steel within time shorter than existing technology by controlling content, appropriate composition, and liquid-state fraction, etc., of Cr2 O3 in slag to maximize vacuum decarburization refining efficiency, the method comprising: tapping molten steel to a ladle in a non-deoxidized state after pre-decarburization and denitrification in an ARGON OXYGEN DECARBURIZATION refining furnace and then removing non-deoxidized slag; placing the ladle in a vacuum furnace, reducing pressure and then blowing-in oxygen gas from the upper of the molten steel through a lance; creating Al2 O3 by injecting Al at point of time of beginning of oxygen blowing; forming CaO—Al2 O3 —Cr2 O3 —MgO-based slag by injecting calcium oxide at point of time of completion of the oxygen blowing; and supplying inert gas through a porous plug on a bottom of the ladle. |
| US08277532B2 |
Air filter arrangement; assembly; and methods
An air filter arrangement is (300) disclosed. The air filter arrangement includes strips of media comprising corrugated sheets secured to facing sheets and forming inlet and outlet flutes secured to one another in a stack. Media pack arrangements including such stacked media with a molding arrangement to secure and seal opposite side edges of the media strips, are described. Also described are filter cartridges including such media pack (301) and air cleaners including the filter cartridges. Methods of assembly and use are also provided. Also, systems of use are described. |
| US08277531B2 |
Filter element
A filter element, and filter apparatus, include a filter pack, a seal member, and a seal support frame operatively connecting the seal member to the filter pack. The seal support frame includes an annular extension, which is preferably canted at an oblique angle to a longitudinal axis, for supporting the seal member. The seal support frame also preferably includes a first end thereof including the annular extension, and a second end thereof spaced from the first end thereof along the longitudinal axis, with the first and second ends of the seal support frame joined by a hub of the outer peripheral sidewall of the seal support frame to define a cavity within the seal support frame for receiving the filter pack. The first and second ends of the seal support frame, and the filter pack are preferably joined and sealed to one another by a single bead of adhesive. |
| US08277529B2 |
Filter medium and breather filter structure
Thermoplastic bicomponent binder fiber can be combined with other media, fibers and other filtration components to form a thermally bonded filtration media. The filtration media can be used in filter units, such as breather caps. Such filter units can be placed in the stream of a mobile fluid and can remove a particulate and/or fluid mist load from the mobile stream. The unique combination of media fiber, bicomponent binder fiber and other filtration additives and components provide a filtration media having unique properties in filtration applications. |
| US08277526B2 |
Filter dust collector
A filter dust collector is disclosed. The filter dust collector includes a housing, filter cloths fixed to an inside of the housing, a filter body part disposed inside the housing and having filter insertion holes, a compressed air supply part coupled to peripheries of the filter insertion holes, a transfer part connected to the filter body part to move the filter body part and the compressed air supply part in a longitudinal direction, a duct suction port formed on a side surface of the housing to suck air to be filtered, a supply port formed on a side surface of the housing to discharge filtered air, and a dust discharge port formed on a side surface of the housing, wherein the filter cloths are positioned at the filter insertion holes, the filter body part and the compressed air supply part move in the longitudinal direction, and the compressed air supply part sprays compressed air to the filter cloths. |
| US08277522B2 |
Mixed alcohol fuels for internal combustion engines, furnaces, boilers, kilns and gasifiers
Mixed alcohol formulas can be used as a fuel additive in petroleum, synthetic or bio-derived gasoline, diesel fuels, jet fuel, aviation gasoline, heating oil, bunker oil, coal, petroleum coke or as a neat fuel in and of itself. The mixed alcohol formulations can also be utilized as a thinning agent to improve the transportation of heavy petroleum crude oils or bitumen produced from tar sands. The mixed alcohol formulations can contain combinations of two or more, three or more alcohols, or blend of C1-C5 alcohols, or C1-C8 alcohols or higher C1-C10 alcohols in order to boost energy content. The primary benefits of mixed alcohols are increased combustion efficiencies, improved fuel economies, reduced emissions profiles and low production costs. These improved combustion efficiencies result in increased miles per gallon of blended fuel. |
| US08277521B2 |
Mixture of furfural and 5-(alkoxymethyl)furfural derivatives from sugars and alcohols
Accordingly, the current invention provides a method for the manufacture of a mixture of a furfural and a 5-(alkoxymethyl)furfural derivative by reacting a C5 and C6 sugar-containing starting material with an alcohol in the presence of an acid catalyst, followed by the hydrogenation and/or etherification of the mixture of furfural and 5-(alkoxymethyl)furfural to convert the aldehyde function of both 5-(alkoxymethyl)furfural and furfural into an alkoxymethyl function or methyl function. |
| US08277520B2 |
Method for producing negative electrode for non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery, and negative electrode for non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery
One aspect of the present invention pertains to a method for producing a negative electrode for a non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery, which comprises a paste preparing step of kneading a mixture containing a negative electrode active material, a binder resin having a glass transition temperature within a range from 20 to 40° C. and a dispersion solvent to prepare a negative electrode material mixture paste, a paste applying step of applying the negative electrode material mixture paste controlled to a temperature which is at least 10° C. higher than the glass transition temperature of the binder resin on a current collector to form a coating film, a coating film drying step of drying the coating film to form a negative electrode precursor, and a rolling step of rolling the negative electrode precursor to prepare a negative electrode having a negative electrode material mixture layer. |
| US08277519B2 |
Hair treatment methods
A method of colouring a material, the method comprising the steps of: a)applying to the material a composition comprising a sulphur-containing nucleophile; and b)applying to the material a composition comprising a dye compound selected from a dye class other than the class of reactive dyes. |
| US08277517B2 |
Lightening agent having cationic acylpyridinium derivatives and certain amino acids
Method for lightening keratinous fibers, wherein a cosmetic carrier comprises (i) at least one oxidation agent, (ii) at least one acylpyridinium derivative of formula (I) and (iii) at least one amino acid comprising hydroxyl groups and/or the physiologically compatible salts thereof and/or the alkyl esters thereof. |
| US08277514B2 |
Fixing assembly
A component, e.g. a prosthetic ball and socket joint like an acetabular cup of a prosthetic joint, having a male or female location feature in a surface thereof for mutual interfit with a fixing member of a fixing assembly for securing the fixing member to the surface of the component and optionally for securing the component to a second component by means of a fixing screw. |
| US08277505B1 |
Devices for providing up to six-degrees of motion having kinematically-linked components and methods of use
The subject invention provides a modular six-degrees-of-freedom spatial mechanism for spinal disc prosthesis, with up to three independent rotational and up to three independent translational degrees-of-freedom. The prosthesis can maintain non-separable, and non-restrictive, mechanical linkage by establishing a linked series, or chain, of kinematic pairs (joints) between components. In embodiment, a superior plate links to a planar pair (two independent degrees of translational freedom), which links to spherical pair (three independent degrees of rotational freedom), which links to a prismatic pair (one independent degree of translational freedom), which links to an inferior plate, completing the jointed kinematic chain. The kinematic pairs can be lower (surface contact) or higher (point, line, and/or curve contact) order pairs, or combinations. The subject invention can enforce the kinematic constraints to realize the kinematic pairs and can also limit the range of operation of the degrees of freedom for each pair. |
| US08277501B2 |
Bi-stable bifurcated stent petal geometry
A stent has a substantially cylindrical tubular body with at least one expandable side branch that has a plurality of members. The plurality of members includes at least one first member having a first width and at least one second member having a second width, where the first width is greater than the second width. Each of the at least one first members and each of the at least one second members define a cell that has at least two stable cell geometries. |
| US08277495B2 |
Method and apparatus for treating a diseased nail
The invention generally relates to treating diseased nails, and more particularly to treating diseased nails using radiation and/or another form of energy to substantially deactivate the source of the disease. A nail treatment can be performed by a medical professional without the use of a dying agent or an exogenous chromophore, and the treatment can be effective at eliminating the source of the disease without subjecting a patient to adverse side effects or causing substantial unwanted injury to surrounding tissue. |
| US08277494B2 |
Bone anchoring device
A bone anchoring device includes an anchoring element having a shank to be anchored in a bone or a vertebra, a rod for connecting at least two anchoring elements, the rod being made of an elastic material. The bone anchoring device further includes a receiving part being connected to the shank for receiving the rod, a seat for the rod being provided in the receiving part the seat having a rod contacting surface, and a locking device cooperating with the receiving part for fixation of the rod in the seat. The locking device includes a rod contacting surface, wherein the rod contacting surface of the seat and/or the rod contacting surface of the locking device includes an engagement structure for engaging the rod, the engagement structure having an asymmetric cross section. |
| US08277491B2 |
Methods and devices for minimally invasive spinal fixation element placement
Minimally invasive methods and devices for introducing a spinal fixation element into a surgical site in a patient's spinal column are provided. In one embodiment, a dissection tool is provided for separating muscles along a muscle plane without causing damage to the muscles. The dissection tool can also include a lumen extending therethrough for receiving a guide wire. The tool allows the guide wire to be positioned relative to a vertebra, and once properly positioned, the tool can be removed to allow a spinal anchor to be delivered along the guide wire and implanted into the vertebra. |
| US08277484B2 |
Suture anchors
A suture anchor includes an outer sleeve having a longitudinal throughbore and defining leading and trailing ends and an insert positionable within the longitudinal throughbore of the outer sleeve. The insert defines at least one suture track for slidably supporting a suture whereby opposed free ends of the suture extend from the at least one suture track through the longitudinal throughbore to extend beyond the trailing end of the outer sleeve to be tensioned and secured relative to the tissue. The outer sleeve may include an external thread for threaded rotation and advancement into the tissue. |
| US08277480B2 |
Catch member for PFO occluder
Delivery (and recovery) devices and techniques for delivering an implant into a desired location within the body and catch systems for such implants. The devices and techniques relate particularly to, but are not limited to, a patent foramen ovale (PFO) occluder made from a polymer tube. A catch system maintains an occluder in a deployed configuration by holding it in a reduced axial length position. Some embodiments have a compressible tip. Some embodiments have temporary catching mechanisms. |
| US08277479B2 |
Self-opening filter with wire actuation
A distal protection device that may include a guidewire having a proximal end and a distal end, a filter disposed on the guidewire, the filter including filtering material and an expandable hollow coil, and a wire at least partially disposed within the coil, wherein the filter is actuatable from a closed position to an open position by reducing tension on the wire and methods of use thereof. |
| US08277477B2 |
Mechanically deployable upper airway stent
A mechanically deployable upper airway stent is disclosed along with a method of using same. The stent comprises a central tube having an inner chamber and openings on its surface. A linkage rod is housed within the central tube and is provided with branched spokes that pass through the openings. In the un-deployed state the branched spokes are contained within the central tube. Deployed spokes are preferably aligned in groupings along the central tube. The outer ends of the spokes of each grouping connect to a rib. The un-deployed stent is inserted into the nasal passageway and positioned relative to occluding anatomic structures. Upon deployment, the ribs along with web members extending between the ribs move outwardly from the central tube and press upon the tissues of the pharyngeal cavity. Spaces between the extended spokes permit the passage of air along the stent and maintain airway patency. |
| US08277476B2 |
Surgical instruments and procedures for stabilizing the beating heart during coronary artery bypass graft
The invention is methods and devices which a surgeon may use to stabilize the beating heart during a surgical procedure on the heart. Pursuant to the invention, a stabilizing device is introduced through an opening in the chest and brought into contact with the beating heart. By contacting the heart with the device and by exerting a stabilizing force on the device, the motion of the heart caused by the contraction of the heart muscles is effectively eliminated such that the heart is stabilized and the site of the surgery moves only minimally if at all. Typically, in separate steps, the surgeon contacts the heart with the stabilizing means, assesses the degree of movement of the anastomosis site, and exerts a force on the stabilizing means such that the contraction of the beating heart causes orgy minimal excess motion at the surgery site. By fixing the position of the stabilizing means in a configuration where the motion of the beating heart is effectively eliminated, the surgeon is able to stabilize the beating heart for the duration of the procedure. The stabilizing means may be attached to a rigid support or may be attached to a semi-rigid support which is rendered motionless mechanically, chemically, or by human intervention. In certain preferred embodiments, the stabilizing means is affixed to a semi-rigid support which is caused to become rigid, by any of a variety of techniques, such that the position of the stabilizing means becomes fixed by the support, and the heart remains substantially motionless for the duration of the procedure. |
| US08277475B2 |
Laparoscopic scissors
A laparoscopic scissor instrument can include a scissor assembly pivotally coupled to an elongate shaft. The scissor assembly can be formed of scissor blades having pivot posts thereon. The pivot posts can engage apertures on the elongate shaft, thus eliminating the need for a through-pinned pivot connection of the scissor blades. The scissor blades can also include actuation posts thereon. An actuation mechanism can include a slot to engage the actuation posts and open or close the blades of the scissor assembly. The scissor assemblies described herein can have a relatively low operational height such that they do not extend beyond a diameter of the elongate shaft during opening and closing of the scissor assembly. |
| US08277472B2 |
Deflector shield for use with multiple wound care devices
This invention discloses deflector shields to protect an operator from splashing from the use of hand-held ultrasound wound care devices. The deflector shield is for use with an ultrasound generator, ultrasound tip with a radiation surface and a fluid to serve as a coupling medium between the radiation surface and wound surface. The deflector shield is used to protect the operator from splashing fluid and removed tissue. The deflector shield consists of a hub portion and conical portion. The deflector shield is preferably transparent, disposable and easily installed. The deflector shield is preferably useable on several hand-held ultrasound wound care devices. |
| US08277468B2 |
Tissue reconfiguration
A medical instrument for engaging tissue includes a flexible shaft, a tissue piercing coil at a distal portion of the shaft, and a tissue stabilizer positioned over the shaft and biased in a distal direction such that as the tissue piercing coil enters tissue, the tissue stabilizer is urged against a surface of the tissue. A medical instrument for reconfiguring tissue includes a flexible shaft defining a lumen housing actuating controls, and a distal actuating assembly with a sealing portion configured to substantially seal the shaft lumen from contact with bodily fluids. A cartridge assembly includes first and second members configured for releasable attachment to a medical instrument, and a holder configured to receive the first and second members and to be released from the first and second members upon action of the first and second members attaching to the medical instrument. |
| US08277464B2 |
Bone suture
Devices and methods useful for suturing soft tissue to bone are disclosed. In one embodiment, a bone-suturing device is provided and can include a delivery needle, a delivery needle driving element, a capture needle, and a capture needle driving element. The delivery needle driving element and capture needle driving element can advance the delivery needle and the capture needle through soft tissue and into bone, respectively, and the paths of the delivery needle and the capture needle can intersect therein. The delivery needle can be adapted for holding a suture and the capture needle can be adapted for receiving the suture held by the delivery needle. An injection device can be provided to deliver an adhesive material into bone. |
| US08277463B2 |
Medical device and method of fixing internal organ
A medical device (1) includes a main body (2); a first piercing needle (4) provided slidably with respect to the main body (2); a first holding plate (61) adapted to hold the first piercing needle (4) and provided slidably on the main body (2); and a second holding plate (62) adapted to hold a second piercing needle (3) and detachably and movably mounted on the first holding plate (61), wherein the second holding plate (62) is mounted so as to move to the first holding plate (61) in a predetermined direction. |
| US08277462B2 |
Phacoemulsification device and method for operating the same
The invention relates to a phacoemulsification device, comprising: —a hand piece having a cutting tip for emulsifying a lens, wherein the tool holder is provided with piezoelectric elements for deflecting the cutting tip, —a regulator, the input of which is electrically connected to the tool holder, for receiving an actual value that is proportional to the voltage induced on the piezoelectric elements of the tool holder that is constantly oscillating on the natural frequency thereof, said regulator being suitable for comparing the actual value with a predetermined target value, thus determining an actuating variable, —a power amplifier, the input of which is connected to the regulator in order to receive the actuating variable, and the output of which is connected to the tool holder, wherein the tool holder may be actuated simultaneously with the receipt of the actual value and a power output to the tool holder being able to occur, such that a direct feedback coupling may be attained, thus enabling the tool holder to constantly oscillate at the natural frequency thereof with a deflection of the cutting tip corresponding to the actuating variable. |
| US08277459B2 |
Methods and devices for treating a structural bone and joint deformity
The various embodiments disclosed herein relate to implantable devices for the treatment of a structural bone and deformity. More specifically, the various embodiments include systems, devices, and methods for implantation of a flexible or tension band for treating such a deformity, including hallux valgus. |
| US08277456B2 |
Spinal-column distractor
A spinal-column distractor (10) comprises a first pusher plate (1) intended to bear on a vertebra, a second pusher plate (2) intended to bear on an adjacent vertebra, and a slide (3). The slide (3) is connected to the first pusher plate (1) via a scissor linkage (4), and shiftable by a threaded spindle to change a spacing between the first pusher plate (1) and the second pusher plate (2), while the second pusher plate (2) forms a track for the slide (3). |
| US08277455B2 |
Universal positioning device for orthopedic surgery and method of use thereof
A positioning device assembly for positioning a tool guide block for use in an orthopedic surgery on a bone element includes a positioning device having a block body with a reference surface adapted to abut the bone element, and first and second adjustment mechanisms that are independently operable. The first adjustment mechanism permits rotation of a tool guide block about a medial-lateral extending axis such as to provide flexion-extension angle adjustment and the second adjustment mechanism permits rotation of a tool guide block about an anterior-posterior extending axis such as to provide varus-valgus angle adjustment. The second adjustment mechanism includes both a coarse and a fine adjustment mechanism integral therewith. A tool guide block assembly mounted to the positioning device, the tool guide block assembly including a platform portion which is engaged to the block body of the positioning device and the tool guide block which is releasably engaged with the platform. |
| US08277449B2 |
Orthopedic external fixator and method of use
An orthopedic apparatus is provided for bridging a first bone unit to a second bone unit. The apparatus is demonstrated on a finger joint, wherein one of the bones and/or ligaments and/or tendons of the joint is/are injured. A method for implanting and using the apparatus also is presented. The apparatus includes a reformably deformable span portion which is generally circular and preferably rhombic. By deforming or reforming the span portion, it can be repositioned laterally, and/or it can be rotated to allow range of rotary motion so as to promote healing. |
| US08277448B2 |
External fixation
An orthopedic external fixation system may include a distal bar having a curvature that varies along its length, an uncurved proximal bar, a plurality of proximal embedding members, and a plurality of distal embedding members. The proximal and the distal embedding members, sized and shaped for embedding in bone, may attach directly or indirectly to the proximal bar and the distal bar, respectively. |
| US08277447B2 |
Single action tissue sealer
An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing and a shaft, the shaft having an end effector assembly at its distal end. The end effector assembly includes two jaw members for grasping tissue therebetween. The jaw members are adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source which enable them to conduct energy through the tissue to create a tissue seal. A drive assembly is disposed within the housing which moves the jaw members. A switch is disposed within the housing which activates the electrosurgical energy. A knife assembly is included which is advanceable to cut tissue held between the jaw members. A movable handle is connected to the housing. Continual actuation of the movable handle engages the drive assembly to move the jaw members, engages the switch to activate the electrosurgical energy source to seal the tissue, and advances the knife assembly the cut the tissue disposed between the jaw members. |
| US08277441B2 |
Piezoelectric transducer
Devices and systems for transmitting information within a body are disclosed. An example system includes a signal generator configured for transmitting an acoustic interrogation signal, a sensor for sensing at least one parameter within the body and generating an electrical sensor signal, an acoustic transducer coupled to the sensor and configured to convert a received acoustic interrogation signal into an electrical signal, and a switching element adapted to modulate a reflected acoustic wave from the acoustic transducer based on the electrical sensor signal. The switching element is configured to controllably change the mechanical impedance of the acoustic transducer based a parameter of the electrical sensor signal, such as frequency. |
| US08277440B2 |
Implantable device for controlled, extended delivery of parathyroid hormone
Method and devices are provided for extended and controlled delivery of parathyroid hormone to a patient. The method includes implanting a medical device into the patient, the medical device comprising a substrate, a plurality of reservoirs in the substrate, a release system contained in each of the reservoirs, wherein the release system comprises parathyroid hormone; and controllably releasing a pharmaceutically effective amount of the parathyroid hormone from the reservoirs. The parathyroid hormone can be released intermittently, such as once daily over an extended period (e.g., two months, ten months, or more.). The device can further include reservoirs containing a bone resorption inhibitor or other drug for release. The devices are useful in delivering PTH for the treatment and prevention of bone loss, such as associated with osteoporosis. |
| US08277433B2 |
Ampoules
An ampoule made of plasties material, for liquid or suspension pharmaceuticals, has a reservoir linked to a removable head by a channel in a neck portion. The channel has a trap, thus located between its reservoir and the head, in the form of an elongated restriction and/or a bend to trap liquid or suspension which may settle during storage, and prevent either reaching the head. |
| US08277431B2 |
Absorbent article with multiple elastic areas
An absorbent articles, such as diapers, training pants, adult incontinence articles, feminine protection articles and the like having a specific elasticated topsheet comprising multitude of elasticated areas and one or more openings to receive e.g. feces, the elasticated areas being typically straight, but the elasticated areas operating jointly to provide a diverting-like elastic behavior, and the elasticated areas having optionally different elastic properties. |
| US08277430B2 |
Absorbent garment with strand coated adhesive components
An absorbent garment includes a body panel having a terminal waist edge, at least first and second layers terminating at the terminal waist edge and at least one elastic element disposed between the first and second layers. The body panel has at least first and second adhesive regions. The first adhesive region is defined by the at least one elastic element, which is strand coated with a first adhesive. The second region is defined by a control coating of a second adhesive applied between the first and second layers. In one embodiment, the first region has a greater sensory softness than the second region. In one embodiment, the body panel, in an unstretched condition, has a surface softness with a mean deviation of coefficient of friction less than about 0.020 in the first adhesive region. |
| US08277424B2 |
Needle-less syringe adapter
A needle-less syringe adapter has a tube, a resilient valve, a piercing member and an injection member. The tube has a body has a cavity and an outlet hole. The resilient valve is mounted in the cavity and has a chamber, a top slit and a bottom slit. The piercing conduit is mounted in the chamber, is driven to move when the resilient valve is compressed, selectively extends out through the top and bottom slits and has a through hole defined through the piercing conduit. The injection member is mounted on the tube and is selectively sealed by the resilient valve. The needle-less syringe adapter has excellent hermetical characteristics to prevent air infiltration and backflow of bloody and liquid medicine in a patient's blood vessel. |
| US08277423B2 |
Dosing device for an infusion system and method thereof
A dosing device for an infusion system comprises a dosing unit having a variable volume and at least one opening in fluid connection with the variable volume, through which opening the variable volume can be filled with a substance or the substance can be dispensed from the variable volume. The dosing device is operable in a first state for filling the substance from a supply conduit, in a second state for preventing filling and dispensing, or in a third state for dispensing through a dispensing conduit. No direct fluid connection exists between the supply conduit and the dispensing conduit at any time. Methods for dosing a substance with the dosing device. |
| US08277419B1 |
Catheter securement assembly
An assembly structured to secure a catheter, such as an IV tube to a predetermined portion of a patient's body such that the IV tube is anchored adjacent an entry site. A base is structured and configured to engage the predetermined body portion and includes an opening for exposure of and access to the entry site. A support member is selectively positionable at variable locations relative to the opening in adjacent relation to the entry site such that the IV tube is mounted on an exterior or exposed portion of the support member so as to access the entry site through the opening and eliminate any type of adhesive strip or like connector contacting or being secured to the patient's skin. |
| US08277418B2 |
Ophthalmic valved trocar cannula
In various embodiments, a trocar cannula may be configured for insertion into an eye to facilitate insertion and removal of instruments during surgery. The cannula may be affixed to an overcap (to inhibit rotation of the overcap relative to the cannula) that includes a seal. In some embodiments, the seal may be overmolded into the overcap or may include a wafer that is fixed between the cannula and the overcap to inhibit rotation relative to the cannula and the overcap. In some embodiments, the cannula and overcap may snap together through a tab/slot interface in a permanent fashion such that the cannula and overcap may not be separated without damaging the cannula or overcap. In some embodiments, a vent cannula may be receivable in the slit of the seal for allowing fluids to vent from the eye through the cannula (which may include an indentation to frictionally engage the vent). |
| US08277416B2 |
Powerhead of a power injection system
A contrast media injection system includes detects the absolute position of the syringe ram using a non-contact sensor. A series of magnets and Hall-Effect sensors may be used or an opto-reflective system. Illuminated knobs that are connected to the drive mechanism for the syringe ram rotate with the drive and provide visual feedback on operation through the illumination. Analog Hall-Effect sensors are used to determine the presence or absence of magnets that identify the type of faceplate being used. The faceplates include control electronics, connected to the powerhead through connectors, which may be interchangeably used by the two faceplates. The faceplate electronics include detectors for automatically detecting the capacity of pre-filled syringes. Additional features include using historical data to provide optimum pressure limit values during an injection protocol, a removable memory device for storing and transferring information such as injection protocols and injector statistics, and password protection of such protocols. |
| US08277412B2 |
One shot injector with dual springs
The present invention relates to a medical delivery device comprising a generally elongated housing, a container containing medicament to be delivered, a drive means capable of acting on said container for expelling said medicament, wherein said drive means comprises at least two force spring means arranged between a fixed part of the device and a movable part of the device. |
| US08277411B2 |
Needle device
A needle device for penetrating body tissues while substantially reducing the risk of damage to blood vessels and body organs by using visual control of the operative tip during insertion and the procedure, is disclosed herein. The needle device of the present invention has a large and diverse applicability to a number of medical procedures by enabling internal visual inspection of body tissues and cavities during treatment without open surgery or supplemental penetrating or visualization devices. |
| US08277410B2 |
Methods and apparatus for inhibiting introduction of air into the vasculature during a percutaneous procedure
Apparatus and methods for inhibiting the introduction of air into the body during a percutaneous procedure. The apparatus may include an instrument passage lumen defining a degassing region with a degassing region distal end and a degassing region proximal end, a fluid inlet port at the degassing region distal end, and a fluid outlet port at the degassing region proximal end. So configured, fluid will flow only from the degassing region distal end to the degassing region proximal end. |
| US08277405B2 |
Post-coital feminine hygiene device
A feminine hygiene device to wipe seminal and other fluids from the vagina after sexual intercourse. |
| US08277395B2 |
Lumen measurement devices and related methods
Various embodiments of a measurement device used to measure a size of a lumen and related methods of use are disclosed. For example, the device may include a proximal handle, a distal member including a radially expandable portion, a control member connecting the proximal handle to the distal member, and a measurement indication member for displaying a value indicative of a size of the expandable portion. The radially expandable portion may be configured to expand from a contracted state to an expanded state to measure the size of a lumen. |
| US08277394B2 |
Multi-button biopsy device
A handheld biopsy device comprises a needle, cutter, and body. The cutter is movable relative to the needle to sever tissue protruding into a transverse aperture of the needle. The body includes a cutter actuation mechanism, at least two trigger buttons, and a control module. The biopsy device is configured such that the at least two trigger buttons are selectively enabled and disabled. A selectively enabled trigger button is operable to activate the cutter actuation mechanism. A selectively disabled trigger button is not operable to activate the cutter activation mechanism. The enabled trigger button may be selected electronically, such that the control module receives a user's button selection input and enables or disables the trigger buttons accordingly. Alternatively, the body may include movable covers to selectively cover or expose trigger buttons in accordance with the user's preference. The biopsy device may thus accommodate different operators having different gripping styles. |
| US08277393B2 |
Biopsy apparatus
A disposable tissue removal device comprising a cutting element mounted to a handpiece. The cutting element includes an outer cannula defining a tissue-receiving opening and an inner cannula concentrically disposed within the outer cannula. The outer cannula has a trocar tip at its distal end and a cutting board snugly disposed within the outer cannula. The inner cannula defines an inner lumen that extends the length of the inner cannula and terminates in an inwardly beveled, razor-sharp cutting edge. The inner cannula is driven by both a rotary motor and a reciprocating motor. At the end of its stroke, the inner cannula makes contact with the cutting board to completely sever the tissue. An aspiration vacuum is applied to the inner lumen to aspirate excised tissue through the inner cannula and into a collection trap that is removably mounted to the handpiece. The rotary and reciprocating motors are hydraulically powered through a hydraulic circuit. The hydraulic circuit includes a foot pedal that initiates aspiration vacuum, rotary motion and reciprocation of the inner cannula. The hydraulic circuit is configured so that the inner cannula closes the tissue-receiving opening before the foot pedal is depressed and automatically after the foot pedal is released. |
| US08277390B2 |
Method for automatic non-cooperative frequency specific assessment of hearing impairment and fitting of hearing aids
A method and device for automatically assessing loss of hearing sensitivity and compression (recruitment) with user defined frequency resolution by means of extrapolated DPOAE I/O functions and ABRs as well as for automatically fitting hearing aids without any cooperation of the subject tested using a device having a display screen attached to a handheld device generating and collecting otoacoustic emission signals and brain stem response signals into a programmed with a clinical audiogram with fitting parameters for hearing aids calculated on the basis of assessed hearing threshold and compression and identifying the type of hearing required for the individual. |
| US08277388B2 |
Blood rheology measuring apparatus
A blood rheology measuring apparatus has a measuring portion for measuring a flow velocity of the blood flowing in a blood vessel of a person in a mode of a Doppler shift signal by transmitting and receiving a wave to and from a surface of the person's skin. An information processing portion calculates an intensity at each of frequency components of the Doppler shift signal, extracts a maximum frequency in a signal at an intensity level equal to or larger than a threshold in the histogram or a maximum frequency when an integrated value from a low frequency component reaches a predetermined rate of a total thereof in the histogram, and provides a temporal change waveform of the extracted frequency. The blood rheology is analyzed by an area value of a portion at and above a line connecting a minimum value of one pulse waveform and a minimum value of a successive pulse waveform of the frequency waveform. |
| US08277384B2 |
System and method for in vivo measurement of biological parameters
A system, method and medical tool are presented for use in non-invasive in vivo determination of at least one desired parameter or condition of a subject having a scattering medium in a target region. The measurement system comprises an illuminating system, a detection system, and a control system. The illumination system comprises at least one light source configured for generating partially or entirely coherent light to be applied to the target region to cause a light response signal from the illuminated region. The detection system comprises at least one light detection unit configured for detecting time-dependent fluctuations of the intensity of the light response and generating data indicative of a dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurement. The control system is configured and operable to receive and analyze the data indicative of the DLS measurement to determine the at least one desired parameter or condition, and generate output data indicative thereof. |
| US08277379B2 |
Methods and apparatus for the treatment of menometrorrhagia, endometrial pathology, and cervical neoplasia using high intensity focused ultrasound energy
A probe having a high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) transducer is positioned in a female patient. The HIFU transducer is deployed within the vagina of the patient outside of the cervix and uterine cavity and is configured to direct HIFU energy to a treatment site within the uterus of the patient. An imaging component positioned relative to the patient images a portion of the patient's uterus that includes the treatment site to help guide the delivery of the HIFU energy to the treatment site. A liquid medium may be infused into the uterine cavity of the patient where it is maintained during imaging and delivery of the HIFU therapy. The HIFU transducer produces a thermal heating of tissue at a focus within the treatment site to initiate necrosis of the tissue. The location of the focus is controlled in accordance with an image obtained by the imaging component. |
| US08277376B2 |
Process and a device for surgical treatment of rectal and haemorrhoidal prolapse
A process for surgical operations on a rectal/haemorrhoidal prolapse comprises stages of realising, in the anal canal, at least a first circular stitching at a first portion of a haemorrhoidal prolapse; realising at least a second circular stitching in a second portion of the haemorrhoidal prolapse, and nearing the first circular stitching and the second circular stitching in order to create a constriction of the haemorrhoidal prolapse. The invention also relates to a device, preferably for actuating the process, which comprises a hollow divaricator (17) having a prevalent development direction along a longitudinal axis (Z) and being insertable in a patient's anal orifice. The device further exhibits a window (29) defining an operational area and creating a communication between a cavity (17b) internal of the divaricator (17) and a portion of haemorrhoidal prolapse. The device further comprises means for opening and closing (31) the window (29). |
| US08277369B2 |
Bearing and bearing assembly for umbilicus of a fluid processing system
A one-piece bearing is provided for use with a fluid processing assembly of the type having an umbilicus, a bearing support, a gimbal received within the bearing support, and a liner at least partially received within the gimbal. The bearing is secured to a midsection of the umbilicus and adapted to be at least partially received within the liner. An inner surface of the bearing engages the umbilicus while an outer surface of the bearing engages at least a portion of the liner for rotation relative to the liner. |
| US08277364B2 |
Clutch control device for hydraulically driven vehicle
A first motor 3 and a second motor 4 of variable displacement type are in parallel to each other connected to a hydraulic pump 2 in a closed circuit, through which the output torque from the first motor 3 is transmitted to an output shaft 6. A clutch control unit 10 controls a clutch device 15 as: when the engine speed is N1, which is the case where the accelerator pedal is fully depressed, the clutch is disengaged at the vehicle speed v1. When the engine speed is N3( |
| US08277363B2 |
Method and apparatus to control temperature of an exhaust aftertreatment system for a hybrid powertrain
An internal combustion engine is fluidly connected to an exhaust aftertreatment system and operatively connected to an electro-mechanical transmission to transmit tractive power to a driveline. The engine is controlled during an engine operating cycle by determining a temperature of the exhaust aftertreatment system and adjusting power output of the engine based upon the temperature of the exhaust aftertreatment system and a preferred temperature range of the exhaust aftertreatment system. The electro-mechanical transmission is controlled to transmit tractive power to the driveline to meet an operator torque request based upon the adjusted power output of the engine. |
| US08277361B2 |
Control apparatus for transmission
A control apparatus of a transmission for a vehicle, which includes an electric generator provided between an engine and the transmission and regenerating electricity when torque is transmitted from a drive shaft of the vehicle via the transmission in a braking condition, includes a releasing speed measuring unit, an up-shifting operation allowing unit and an up-shifting operation restraining unit. The releasing speed measuring unit measures a releasing speed of an accelerator pedal. The up-shifting operation allowing unit is applied to allow an up-shifting operation under the accelerator pedal being released when a releasing speed of the accelerator pedal is lower than a first threshold value. The up-shifting operation restraining unit is applied to restrain the up-shifting operation under the accelerator pedal being released when the releasing speed of the accelerator pedal is equal to or lower than the first threshold value. |
| US08277358B2 |
Epicyclic reduction gear with multiple modular stages for tubular motor reducers operating winding roller shutter, roller shades and the like
The present invention relates to an epicyclic reduction gear with multiple modular stages (M1, M2, M3) for tubular motor reducers operating winding roller shutters, roller shades and the like. Each reduction stage is provided with a central toothed hub (1) on one side and a central splined hub (5) on the other side, in compliance with the said hub, the hub (8) of a stage being designed to be coupled with a pin (5) of the adjacent stage. |
| US08277357B2 |
Multi-speed transmission having three planetary gear sets
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes. |
| US08277354B2 |
Multi-speed transmission
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and a brake. The torque transmitting mechanisms are selectively engageable in combinations of at least two to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio between the input member and the output member. |
| US08277353B2 |
Transmission system
A sun gear of a first planetary gear train is connected to an input shaft. A carrier of the first planetary gear train is connected to a sun gear of a second planetary gear train and to a first pump/motor. A ring gear of the first planetary gear train is connected to a second pump/motor, and a ring gear of the second planetary gear train is connected to an output shaft. A first clutch is provided for engaging and disengaging a carrier of the second planetary gear train and the ring gear of the first planetary gear train with and from each other, and a second clutch is provided for engaging and disengaging the carrier of the second planetary gear train and a fixed end with and from each other. |
| US08277351B2 |
Device for an electromechanical hoisting machine, especially for use when drilling oil and gas wells
A device for an electromechanical hoisting machine (10) with driving gears (6) in engagement with rack rails (5) fixed to a steel structure (1). The hoisting machine is driven by electromotors (8) which transmit torque to the driving gears (6) through the gearing (11), the shaft (15) and further the bevel gear drives (14, 16, 17) and gears (18, 19) to the driving gears (6) in engagement with rack rails (5). To achieve flexible load distribution on the driving gears (6), differential gears (12) supported on projecting shaft journals (20) connected to the main shaft (15) are arranged between the bevel gear drives (16). |
| US08277349B2 |
Actuation system
An actuation system includes a prime mover, a mechanical option module, an actuator, and a controller. The prime mover includes a drive shaft. The mechanical option module includes a housing, an input shaft coupled to the drive shaft, an output shaft, and a planetary gear module. The planetary gear module includes a sun gear coupled to the input shaft, a planet carrier coupled to the output shaft, an outer ring, and planet gears meshed with the sun gear and the outer ring. The application-specific module is connected to the housing and configured to selectively influence movement of the outer ring of the planetary gear module. The actuator includes an actuator input shaft coupled to the output shaft of the mechanical option module. The controller controls an operation of at least one of the prime mover, the mechanical option module, and the actuator. |
| US08277348B2 |
Clutched damper for a belt tensioner
A tensioner including a support structure defining a pivot axis, an arm coupled to the support structure for rotation about the pivot axis, and a damping mechanism. The arm includes a cup having the damping mechanism seated therein. The damping mechanism includes a first tensioner component that is generally cup-shaped and has first ramp features on the rim thereof, a second tensioner component having second ramp features, and a damper spring coupling the first tensioner component to the second tensioner component. The first tensioner component is rotatable with the arm and the second tensioner component is non-rotatable. The damper mechanism has the first ramp features aligned with the second ramp features and rotation of the first tensioner component in a first direction moves the first ramp features relative to the second ramp features and translates the first tensioner component into damping engagement with the arm. |
| US08277347B2 |
Tensioner
The present invention is directed to decrease the impact sound of the ratchet mechanism generated at the time of piston retraction. The tensioner includes a piston 3 slidable in the piston bore 2a of the housing 2 and an expandable circlip member 5 engageable with the engagement groove 3a of the piston 3. The piston bore 2a has a guide groove 20 formed therein that has front and rear stop surfaces 20a, 20b adapted to contact the circlip member 5. The engagement groove 3a is formed by a round seat portion S0 that the circlip member 5 is adapted to seat, a piston-retraction restricting portion S0S1 that is formed on the front side of the round scat portion S0 and a piston-advance permitting portion S0S2 that is formed on the front side of the round seat portion S0. The piston-retraction restricting portion S0S1 permits the circlip member 5 to travel a short distance toward the front side along the rear side stop surface 20b to allow for an enlargement of the circlip member 5 and to restrict retraction of the piston 3 when the piston 3 retracts and the circlip member 5 contacts the rear side stop surface 20b of the guide groove 20. |
| US08277346B2 |
Low profile rear derailleur
A bicycle rear derailleur comprises a base member; a movable member that supports a chain guide including a first pulley that rotates around a first pulley axis, wherein the pulley has a pulley plane; and a first linking member coupled between the base member and the movable member so that the chain guide moves laterally relative to the base member between a first lateral position and a second lateral position. The pulley plane intersects the first linking member when the chain guide is located at a first position between the first lateral position and the second lateral position. |
| US08277343B2 |
Bat constructed for striking a ball
A hybrid material bat comprises an elongate shaft, a reinforcing member, a barrel body and a grip body. The shaft is made of rigid materials and includes a front portion, an intermediate portion and a rear portion. The barrel body is made of materials with good striking performance and includes a striking section for striking, impacting, or hitting and a mid-section. The grip body is made of resilient materials with good shock absorbing property, and has a front end and a terminal end. The reinforcing member is made of rigid materials and disposed on a distal end of said front portion of said shaft. The barrel body intimately surrounds the front portion of the shaft and the reinforcing member. The grip body intimately surrounds the rear portion of the shaft. |
| US08277338B2 |
Golf ball and method for designing same
A golf ball includes noncircular dimples having smooth bottom surfaces; a method for designing the golf ball is disclosed. A noncircular dimple DNC has a border line which is a boundary line on the surface, the boundary line formed by connecting segments at some connecting points. The segments include at least one type of line segments LS and smoothly curved segments CS. A bottom surface BS of the noncircular dimple DNC includes at least five facets formed of at least five curved reference lines RC, each connecting a reference point A and one of at least five border points B, and each being tangential, at the reference point A, to a reference plane RP inside a virtual sphere having the radius of the ball, the reference point A set on the reference plane RP, the border points B set respectively at positions on the boundary line excluding the connecting points. |
| US08277337B2 |
Iron head
An iron head is provided with a recess portion provided in an upper portion of a backside surface thereof, and a protruding portion provided at a lower portion of the backside surface. A first hollow portion is provided on a heel side from a bottom surface of a recess portion to a sole surface; and a second hollow portion is disposed on a toe side. The first hollow portion and the second hollow portion do not exist behind a sweet area. The first hollow portion and the second hollow portion may be filled with a shock absorber formed of a rubber or an elastomer. |
| US08277330B2 |
Connecting arrangement between shaft journal and constant velocity rotary joint
A connecting arrangement between a shaft journal and a constant velocity rotary joint having a joint inner part and a joint outer part, in which the shaft journal engages in a rotationally fixed manner in one of the joint parts, and the shaft journal and the constant velocity rotary joint are two components. At least one clamping sleeve is provided which is axially secured on one of the components, and which includes at least one elastic element which can lock in place in a contour of the other component. |
| US08277328B2 |
Electromuscular incapacitation device and methods
Incapacitation of a mammalian subject results from the application of a pulsed, low-power electric waveform. The waveform is applied to the subject at a frequency and over a time period sufficient to induce involuntary muscular contraction. Additionally, the contraction causes limited lactic acid production and is non- or minimally-injurious to the subject's tissues. A device utilizing such a waveform is designed to control or otherwise subdue an individual. |
| US08277326B2 |
Removable player station and locking mechanism for electronic games
A removable player station and locking mechanism. In one implementation, a removable player station allows quick and secure replacement, swapping, and upgrade of a modular player station component for electronic games. In one context, an electronic game table may employ multiple of the removable player stations, each secured with a locking mechanism and a common or a unique lock. In one implementation of a latching mechanism, a pivotable cradle attaches to the electronic game or game table and seats the removable player station through a pivoting motion that also brings the cradle into a locking position. When the pivotable cradle is opened from the locking position, the cradle lifts the removable player station from the game or tabletop for easy manual removal. The accessible part of the locking mechanism may be located under an electronic game tabletop away from view of the players. |
| US08277325B2 |
Game achievements system
Systems and method for providing a game achievements system where players are rewarded with game achievements based on mastering certain in-game facets of the games they play. Each game achievement may be conveyed in a profile as a badge or trophy, title, description, date, etc. Players may also accumulate points based on game achievements. A display interface may be made available such that a player may see his achievements and total points, as well as those of others. |
| US08277324B2 |
System and method for collecting and using player information
A distributed computer system is provided for collecting player information. Further, a scoring system is provided that rates a player based on one or more elements of the collected information. Players may be rated with respect to a number of characteristics. Responsive to a determined rating or score, action may be taken by the distributed system with regard to the player. For instance, the player may be provided a complimentary offer, provided an award, and invitation to come to a gambling location, presented an advertisement, or other action may be performed involving the player. Further, the distributed computer system may permit a player to manage their frequent player accounts and receive complimentary offers based on a set of criteria specified by the player. |
| US08277315B2 |
Game simulation based on current events
A video game includes: (i) a graphic user interface that presents a user a simulation of real-life events; (ii) a content database containing a collection of actual photos and videos of real-life events; (iii) a simulation engine that, presents a plurality of possible actions to the user, receives a selection of at least one of the actions from the user, identifies at least one photo or video in the database that is associated with the user-selected action, and presents the user with a result in response to the selection, wherein the result includes the identified photo or video; (iv) a content update module that receives updated photo or video content from one or more content distributors, creates an association element for the updated content and an available action in the game, and includes the updated content and association element in the content database; and (v) a scoring module. |
| US08277314B2 |
Flat rate wager-based game play techniques for casino table game environments
Various techniques are disclosed for operating, at a live casino gaming table, a table game having a flat rate play session costing a flat rate price. In one embodiment, the flat rate play session may span multiple plays on the gaming table over a pre-established duration. In at least one embodiment, a given gaming table may be operable to simultaneously or concurrently host both flat rate game play and non-flat rate game play to different players at the gaming table. In one embodiment, the gaming table may include an intelligent multi-player electronic gaming system which is operable to identify price parameters, and/or operable to determine a flat rate price of playing a flat rate table game session based on those price parameters. Additional aspects relate to automated start/stop/suspend/end of flat rate table game sessions. |
| US08277313B2 |
Gaming machine and playing method thereof, which qualifies player to join special game through chance game run at the same time base game is run
A gaming terminal includes a base game offering a chance of winning a payout according to a predetermined combination; a chance game offering a chance of obtaining a chance flag which qualifies a player to join a special game offering a chance of winning a higher payout than the base game; a terminal storage unit storing the number of chance flags; a terminal display which displays images of the base game, the chance game, and the special game; and a terminal controller. The terminal controller performs the steps of: running the base game and the chance game at the same time; determining and awarding a payout according to a result of the base game; determining and awarding the number of chance flags according to a result of the chance game; accumulatively storing in the terminal storage unit the number of chance flags awarded; awarding a payout determined according to a result of the special game which is run when the number of the chance flags stored in the terminal storage unit equals or surpasses a predetermined number; and awarding a determined special payout, when a value obtained by subtracting a sum of one or more payouts of the special game from a sum of one or more game values inserted from the game value insertion unit equals or surpasses a predetermined value. |
| US08277308B2 |
Gaming device having independent reel columns
A gaming device having unisymbol display reels, wherein each symbol on a display of the gaming device represents or is included on a different reel. The structure of the paylines of the gaming device is such that the gaming device can include different reel strips having different winning symbols or different proportions of winning symbols, while still maintaining payout symbols and payout combinations that have uniform odds and uniform payouts. |
| US08277303B2 |
Method of operating and displaying a meter feature using evolving symbols in a line game
Method of operating a line game wherein the values of a meter are displayed as different statuses of an evolving symbol. The meter gathers symbols, combinations of symbols, events that are dependent of the game outcome (like winning or losing outcomes, prizes, etc.), or events that are independent of the game outcome (like spins, bet values, lengths of time, etc.). The evolving symbol statuses are used in the line game to trigger features ranging from a wild symbol to a bonus payout which can take the form of a progressive jackpot. |
| US08277302B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing a bonus to a player
A method, system, device and computer readable medium are described, in which a wagering game and a secondary game may be provided at a gaming device, wherein the secondary game comprises detecting an occurrence of a trigger; determining, responsive to the trigger, a player number based on a first criterion; determining, responsive to the trigger, a match number based on a second criterion; and determining if the match number meets a third criterion with respect to the player number. |
| US08277300B2 |
Poker game system and method with cards selection
A method of playing a poker game comprising the steps of: providing a number N of card-boxes at a player's instance; providing for selection of at least one of a predetermined number n of card-boxes from said number N of card-boxes as a player's card-box selection; dealing a card to each of the number N of card-boxes; determining a player's hand based on the cards of the player's card-box selection; dealing as dealer's cards a number of cards determined by the number of player's card-box selection; determining a dealer's hand based on the dealer's cards; and determining a winning hand over the player's and dealer's hand according to a predetermined paytable. |
| US08277295B2 |
Ventilation member and ventilation structure
A ventilation member (1) comprises a support body (2), a ventilation membrane (10), and a cover part (3). The support body (2) includes a bottom surface portion (4) connected to the casing (50) and a side surface portion (5) on which the ventilation membrane (10) is installed. A first opening (4h) is formed in the bottom surface portion (4), and a second opening (5h) is formed in the side surface portion (5). The ventilation membrane (10) is installed on the side surface portion (5) so as to close the second opening (5h). The cover part (3) has a cylindrical side wall part (3b) that circumferentially surrounds the support body (2) in such a state that the support body (2) is assembled therein. The position of the second opening (5h) to be formed in the side surface portion (5) of the support body (2) is adjusted so that the ventilation membrane (10) is protected when the membrane faces the cylindrical side wall part (3b). |
| US08277294B2 |
Method and device for slitting a chicken leg
A method and device for slitting a chicken leg which is suspended at its ankle joints from a carrier that forms part of a train of carriers that are movable in a processing line that passes the device is provided. A positioning step is applied for placing the leg in a suitable position for cutting the leg. Subsequently in a stabbing step a knife is brought into engagement with the leg. The stabbing step is followed by a slitting step in which the knife is moved along the leg so as to provide a slit in the longitudinal direction of the leg in order to enable a subsequent deboning step of the leg. In the positioning step a first pressing organ engages the leg in the vicinity of the knee joint so as to press the leg against a movable supporting surface for the leg that is positioned opposite to the pressing organ. A second pressing organ engages the leg from the side so as to push the leg into a substantially straight orientation of the drum and the thigh with respect to each other. |
| US08277292B2 |
Inline handheld power tool
A powerhead for a hand held power tool includes a powerhead assembly, the powerhead assembly being operably couplable to a hand held motive source, the powerhead assembly having a rotatable implement, the implement being selectively rotated by the motive source when the motive source is operably coupled to the powerhead assembly, the implement further being rotatable about an implement axis, the implement axis being disposed transverse to a powerhead assembly longitudinal axis, the implement axis intersecting the powerhead assembly longitudinal axis. A hand held power tool and a powerhead of forming a powerhead for a hand held power tool are further included. |
| US08277291B2 |
Abrasive slotted disc with controlled axial displacement of a workpiece
Apparatus and method for sharpening a workpiece, such as a cutting tool. An abrasive disc is rotatable about a disc rotational axis and includes a plurality of spaced apart, radially disposed apertures extending therethrough from a first surface to an opposing second surface of the disc. The first surface is configured to facilitate sharpening of a workpiece by contacting engagement of the workpiece against an abrasive layer adjacent the first surface between adjacent first and second apertures of said plurality. The first surface further induces controlled axial displacement of the workpiece away from the disc as the second aperture approaches the workpiece during disc rotation. The first surface is preferably concave so as to extend into the disc between each adjacent pair of the apertures. Alternatively, the first surface is provided with different compressibilities to induce the controlled axial displacement of the workpiece. |
| US08277290B2 |
Polishing pad and polishing device
A polishing pad used in semiconductor polishing process is provided in the present invention and a pressure sensitive adhesive is used to couple the polishing pad. The polishing pad includes a substrate, and the substrate includes a polishing surface and a reverse surface corresponding to the polishing surface. The polishing pad is characterized by: a pressure sensitive adhesive formed on the reverse surface of the substrate and used to couple with a bottom layer, and the horizontal adhesion of the pressure sensitive adhesive is higher than the vertical adhesion of the pressure sensitive adhesive. |
| US08277285B2 |
Method of maintaining a constant grinding process
Method of grinding cylindrical gears with a threaded grinding wheel wherein the amount of grinding wheel material utilized during shifting remains constant as the wheel diameter decreases, for example, due to dressing. The amount of grinding wheel shifting is adjusted as the grinding wheel diameter decreases. |
| US08277282B2 |
Ultrasonic trimming apparatus and ultrasonic trimming method
An ultrasonic trimming apparatus is composed of an articulated robot, a cutting apparatus, and a grindstone. The cutting apparatus is composed of an ultrasonic oscillator which is supported by the end portion of the articulated robot, a cutter blade which is supported by the ultrasonic oscillator, and a workpiece securing portion which secures a workpiece. The grindstone serving as a grinding member is disposed within the movable range of the cutter blade driven by the robot and is placed in a position at which the cutter blade can pressure contact the cutter blade. The cutter blade is ultrasonically vibrated by the ultrasonic oscillator and is ground while being pressed against the grindstone by means of the articulated robot. The ultrasonic trimming apparatus efficiently cuts a sheet material composed of soft material such as plastic, fabric, or rubber, a composite material, or a material containing glass fiber by means of an environmentally conscious method even when the material has a three-dimensional shape. |
| US08277277B2 |
Blasting method and blasting machine
In blasting with an abrasive containing liquid to confer elasticity, the abrasive from which liquid evaporates in the course of continuance use is uniformly supplied with liquid. Liquid for swelling an elastic abrasive is sprayed in an air flow for transporting the abrasive in a blasting machine 1 including an abrasive-recovery duct 91 communicating between a bottom of a cabinet 2 and an abrasive-recovery tank 3, the abrasive-recovery tank 3, a compressed gas before being introduced into a blasting gun 8, and so forth. Since the abrasive being transported in the air flow is separated into individual particles, each abrasive can be uniformly supplied with liquid. |
| US08277274B2 |
Apparatus and methods for use of refractory abhesives in protection of metallic foils and leads
A device having a quartz or glass body forming a chamber hermetically sealed by one or more pinch seals formed in the body wherein a metallic foil provides an electrical connection through a pinch seal. A method is provided for protecting a portion of the metallic foil from corrosion prior to forming the pinch seal by coating at least a portion of the foil with a film comprising silica, and applying a refractory abhesive to at least a portion of the film. |
| US08277272B1 |
Flotation apparatus
A flotation apparatus including a frame configured to support a snorkeler lying in a prone position. A plurality, preferably six, of elongated arms are each pivotally attached at a proximal end thereof to the frame with a buoyant float positioned on a distal end of each arm for enhanced stability. Preferably, a propulsion apparatus is mounted to the frame and a control apparatus for operating the propulsion apparatus in a prone position is provided. |
| US08277264B2 |
Contact having independently deformable spring portions and connector including the contact
A contact is formed of a single metal sheet. The contact includes an upper spring portion configured to press an upper surface of a plate-like connection target in a downward direction and a lower spring portion configured to press a lower surface of the plate-like connection target in an upward direction. The lower spring portion is deformable independently of the upper spring portion. |
| US08277262B2 |
PCB connector
The invention relates to a PCB connector (1), comprising a housing (2) and a plurality of contact elements (3), every contact element (3) having a contact for connection to wires and a contact for connection to a printed circuit board. housing (2) is configured as one piece, the contact elements (3) being captively snap-locked in the housing (2). |
| US08277261B2 |
Electrical connector
An electrical connector includes a signal blade including a first base member formed of an insulation material and a signal circuit portion formed on the first base member; a power source blade including a second base member formed of an insulation material and a power source circuit portion formed on the second base member, said power source blade further including an engaging protrusion; and a holding member formed of an insulation material and including a blade holding hole so that the engaging protrusion engages an inner surface when the power source blade is inserted into the blade holding hole. |
| US08277255B2 |
Interconnect member for an electronic module with embedded components
An interconnect member is provided for electrically connecting an electronic module to a printed circuit. The interconnect member includes a substrate having a module side and an opposite circuit side. Module contacts are held by the substrate. The module contacts are arranged within an array along the module side of the substrate. The module contacts include module mating interfaces that are configured to be electrically connected to the electronic module. Circuit contacts are held by the substrate. The circuit contacts are arranged within an array along the circuit side of the substrate. The circuit contacts include circuit mating interfaces that are configured to be electrically connected to the printed circuit. Electrical components extend between and electrically connect corresponding module contacts to corresponding circuit contacts to provide electrical paths for electrical signals transmitted between the module and circuit contacts. At least one of the electrical components modifies the corresponding electrical signal transmitted along the electrical path between the corresponding module and circuit contacts. |
| US08277253B2 |
Electrical connector and circuit board assembly
An electrical connector adapted to electrically connect with a plug-type electrical connector of the periphery equipment of the computer. The electrical connector includes a housing, an insulating body, a plurality of first conductive terminals, and a plurality of second conductive terminals. The insulating body having a frame and a terminal block positioned within the frame. The plurality of first conductive terminals positioned along a first surface of the terminal block, while the plurality of second conductive terminals are positioned along a second surface of the terminal block. The plurality of first conductive terminals include a first ground terminal, while the plurality of second conductive terminals include a second ground terminal, and the first ground terminal and the second ground terminal share one free end leading out of the electrical connector. |
| US08277252B2 |
Electrical connector assembly
An electrical connector assembly is provided with a shielding cage member having an upper port and a lower port configured to receive pluggable modules therein. The cage member has a front mating face that has openings to receive the pluggable modules. The cage member has side walls along the sides of the upper and lower ports and a separator member extending between the side walls between the upper and lower ports. The separator member has an upper plate and a lower plate with a channel therebetween. An RF absorber is positioned within the channel that reduces an amount of EMI emitted from the channel. |
| US08277251B2 |
Electrical connector assembly with improved PCB engaging with a case
An electrical connector assembly (100) includes a case (1) defining a chamber therein; a connector (2) received in the chamber, the connector having a metallic shell (22); a printed circuit board (23) enclosed in the case, the printed circuit board having main portion and side portion laterally projecting from the main portion, the side portion having a conductive layer (230) on a top surface thereof, and a hole (231) defined in the side portion through the conductive layer, the hole further aligning with a through hole defined in the case; and the metallic shell of the connector soldered to the main portion of the printed circuit board. |
| US08277250B2 |
Wire harness and method of manufacturing the same
A wire harness includes a plurality of cables arranged in parallel, and a connector including a housing to which end portions of the plurality of cables are connected. Air-tightness between an air-tight block and the cables is maintained by inserting a melting member into cable insertion holes through a first insertion part, vibrating the melting member and pressing the melting member against a first press receiving part formed at an inner wall surface of the cable insertion holes such that a front end portion of the melting member in contact with the first press receiving part is melted into a melt resin to allow the melt resin to be poured into a gap between the cables and the air-tight block and a periphery of the cables to be covered with the melt resin. |
| US08277247B2 |
Shielded grip ring for coaxial connector
A grip ring for a coaxial connector couples with a coaxial cable with a solid outer conductor. The c-shaped ring is provided with a gap between a first end and a second end. A shield portion extends from the first end and a slot portion dimensioned to receive the shield portion provided in the second end. The shield portion keys with the slot portion as a diameter of the grip ring is reduced. An inner diameter of the grip ring is provided with a grip surface. Further, the grip ring may be provided with a flange edge at the cable end projecting from the outer diameter. |
| US08277245B2 |
Methods and systems for forming discrete wire ribbon cables
Methods and systems for forming discrete wire ribbon cables for use in electronic networks are provided. In some embodiments, the organizer may include an upper bracket and a lower bracket. The lower bracket may be configured to mate with the upper bracket. The upper bracket and the lower bracket may combine to define a plurality of holes. The plurality of holes may be sized to at least partially enclose a set of discrete conductors. Each of the set of discrete conductors may be individually insulated. |
| US08277244B2 |
Electrical connecting element and window pane provided with such an element
Electrical connecting element (2) that is designed to be welded or soldered onto an electrically conductive component (11) of a window pane, comprising an electrically conductive body (20), of which one section is designed to be welded or soldered onto the component (11) for its electrical connection, and of which another if section is designed to be connected in the direction of the outer side of the window pane, characterized in that the body comprises an electrically conductive foil (21) with a thickness between 1 and 500 μm and intermediate means (5, 6) that serve as shock-absorbing means between the stiff section of the body of the connecting element and the window pane. |
| US08277243B1 |
Connector position assurance device
A connector assembly is provided, and includes a first connector, a second connector, and a CPA device. The first connector has a stopper feature, a first end and a second end that generally opposes the first end. The stopper feature has a recess provided therein and a stopper surface. The second connector is received by the first connector. The second connector includes a shroud that slides over the first end of the first connector in a first direction. The CPA device is slidingly engaged with the second end of the first connector in a second direction that is generally perpendicular to the first direction. The CPA device has a flexible arm that is selectively deformable. In a pre-stage position, the flexible arm abuts against the stopper surface to restrict relative movement of the CPA device in the second direction. |
| US08277242B1 |
Connector retaining device having clamping plates sandwiching each other
A connector retaining device includes a first retaining frame and a similar second retaining frame. The first retaining frame includes two parallel first clamping plates, a first front opening at a front side thereof between the first clamping plates, a first rear plate at a rear side, a first side plate at one lateral side, and a first side opening at another lateral side. The first rear plate defines a first slot exposed at said another lateral side. The first clamping plates are configured for sandwiching a first connector. The first front opening is configured for allowing insertion of a second connector into the first retaining frame to engage with the first connector. The first side opening is configured for allowing insertion of the first connector into the first retaining frame. And the first slot is configured for allowing the first cable to extend and slide therethrough. |
| US08277235B2 |
Socket and motherboard with the same
A socket for selectively mounting on a board includes a housing and a latch. The housing includes a first side plate and a second side plate parallel to the first side plate. The first and second side plates define an elongated slot therebetween for reception of the board. The latch includes an axle, a body and a fastening portion. The axle is pivotably coupled to the housing at one end of the slot. The body has one end joined to the axle and the other end to the fastening portion. The fastening portion is constructed for engagement with the board. In addition, the lateral width of the body of the latch in the direction along the width of the first side plate is smaller than that of the axle in the same direction. |
| US08277233B2 |
Electrical outlet with changeable sockets
An electrical outlet includes a housing and a prong fitting member detachably connected to the housing. The housing includes two end surfaces and side surfaces between the two end surfaces. Each side surface defines a two-opening or three-opening socket for inserting a plug. |
| US08277227B2 |
Feedthrough for electrical connectors
A method (10) of forming an electrically conducting feedthrough. The method (10) comprises a first step (11) of forming an electrically conductive structure (21) comprising a sacrificial component and a non-sacrificial component. At least a portion of the non-sacrificial component can then be coated with a relatively electrically insulating material (35) prior to removal of at least a portion of the sacrificial component from the electrically conductive structure. The structure of the feedthrough provides electrical connection through the wall of a housing of an implantable component while preventing unwanted transfer of materials between the interior of the component and the surrounding environment. |
| US08277225B2 |
Kit for teaching the composition of blood
A kit for fabricating various visual models is used to teach students about blood, blood pathology, and the quantitative concepts associated with blood pathology. The kit includes various sized containers that hold colored beads that resemble red blood cells and the various types of white blood cells. |
| US08277222B2 |
Method and device for diagnosing and applying treatment for the emotional, physical, and cognitive development of a child for a multicultural society
The present invention relates to a method and device for diagnosing and applying treatment for the emotional, physical, spiritual, and cognitive development of a child by presenting illustrations having social and emotional attributes so the emotional, physical, spiritual, and cognitive levels of the child can be further developed in our multicultural society. This is a pyramid with hand/finger puppets, emotional faces, intellectual, educational and physical attributes. |
| US08277221B2 |
Talking plush novelty toy and interactive story book for teaching a reader desired behavioral patterns to protect oneself from sexual predators
A portable talking toy having an audio signal producer is provided with an educational book, which contains indiciums noted on at least one of the pages that are the same words or phrases uttered by the talking toy. The book has a plurality of numbered pages containing parts of a story. The story is used to teaching desired behavioral and psychological patterns that will aid the reader in learning how to self protect from sexual predators. The talking toy is provided with a pressure switch in the form of a button attached externally to the toy causing a sound to be emitted from the electronic voice box stored inside the toy. It will may have memory capable of storing and emitting words and sounds/words associated with indiciums noted in the story book and a microphone device for providing audible signals that enable sound, including music stored with each specific sound as background. The specific words communicate messages related to desired behavioral patterns. The books will contain multiple illustrations and indicium prompts indicating when the reader should press the button on the toy to hear the word or sound. Interaction between the characters in said book is purposed to encourage self-awareness in a reader encouraging him/her to pull cord or press the button on the toy thereby reinforcing the learning of the desired behavioral patterns. |
| US08277217B2 |
Dental instrument for cutting soft tissue
Disclosed is a dental instrument for cutting soft tissue. The dental instrument for cutting soft tissue according to the present invention includes: a main body having an inlet portion for inserting soft tissue to be cut into the main body; a cutter blade arranged in the main body such that at least a part of the cutter blade is exposed outwardly through the inlet portion; and a lid for covering the upper portion of the main body. The cutter blade includes a first cutter blade having a first cut depth, and a second cutter blade arranged in the vicinity of the first cutter blade, and which has a second cut depth shallower than the first cut depth. The dental instrument of the present invention makes it possible to cut the soft tissue in the deep part of a mouth in an easy and simple process, thereby improving the convenience of soft tissue implantation. |
| US08277216B2 |
Method and apparatus for preparing denture
A dental impression tray assembly includes an upper tray and a lower tray operable with the upper tray, and the lower tray includes a first piece configured to measure jaw relations of a patient's mouth and a pair of second pieces detachably attachable to the first piece. The first piece of the lower tray is inserted into the patient's mouth independently of the pair of second pieces of the lower tray to measure the jaw relations and to obtain a bite registration. After the first piece is connected to the pair of second pieces, the assembly allows a final gum impression of the patient's lower gum to be obtained. |
| US08277214B2 |
Device for intensifying a flame
A device for intensifying a flame, comprising an object intended to be placed in front of the burner head, at a distance from said burner head, so that it is placed at least partly inside a flame extending from the burner head, and furthermore, said object being arranged to glow, heated by said flame. An apparatus for applying the device, for heating a liquid or air, comprising a burner and a combustion chamber, wherein the apparatus comprises an object in the combustion chamber. In the method, the device is installed in front of the burner head, or in an apparatus for heating a liquid or air, comprising an opening for the burner head, and a combustion chamber. |
| US08277208B2 |
Split discharge vane pump and fluid metering system therefor
A split discharge vane pump is disclosed having a pump body that includes an interior pumping chamber having a central axis and defining a continuous peripheral cam surface, the cam surface including four quadrantal cam segments, wherein diametrically opposed cam segments have identical cam profiles, and each cam segment defines an inlet arc, a discharge arc and two seal arcs. A rotor is mounted for axial rotation within the pumping chamber and a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart radially extending vanes are mounted for radial movement within the rotor, wherein the plurality of vanes define an equal number of circumferentially spaced apart buckets which extend between the rotor and the cam surface of the pumping chamber for carrying pressurized fluid. |
| US08277206B2 |
Device and method for maintaining a static seal of a high pressure pump
A pressure enclosure includes a first component having an opening, a second component coupled to the first component in a position over the opening, a third component positioned between the first and second components and covering the opening, and a load chamber defined by a space between the second and third components and configured such that pressure in the load chamber biases the third component against the first component to seal the opening. The pressure enclosure may be a cylinder of a pump for pressurizing fluid or gas, with the first component a cylinder body, the second component an end cap and the third component a valve body, with the load chamber biasing the valve body against the cylinder body. |
| US08277205B2 |
Active electric accumulator
The present invention provides an active, electrically powered hydraulic fluid accumulator. The accumulator includes an electric motor having its output coupled to a mechanical rotation to linear translation transducer such as a lead screw, ball spline or similar device. The output of the mechanical transducer is coupled to a piston disposed within an accumulator cylinder. The accumulator cylinder preferably communicates with a pair of inlet and outlet check valves disposed in hydraulic supply and feed lines from the system pump or sump and to the system, respectively. |
| US08277204B2 |
Reciprocating motor and a reciprocating compressor having the same
A reciprocating motor and a reciprocating compressor having the same are provided. One side of each of outer and inner cores forming a stator are connected to each other, to prevent a magnetic flux generated by the coil and a magnet from leaking out of the stator. Hence, it is possible to fabricate components of the reciprocating compressor employing such a reciprocating motor by using a relatively low-cost magnetic substance, resulting in a decrease in fabricating costs of the compressor. Also, a length of the magnet may be reduced, which results in a reduction of the cost for the magnet, thereby decreasing fabricating costs of the reciprocating motor and the reciprocating compressor employing the reciprocating motor. |
| US08277202B2 |
Multicylindrical rotary compressor
There is disclosed a multicylindrical rotary compressor capable of improving an operation efficiency during a small-capacity operation, the compressor comprises a controller as a control unit which adjusts a rotation number of an electromotive element as a driving element and which controls an operation of a power saving mechanism, and the controller operates the power saving mechanism to connect a high-pressure chamber side of a first cylinder to a low-pressure chamber side of a second cylinder during the small-capacity operation of a refrigerant circuit constituted in a rotary compressor (the multicylindrical rotary compressor). |
| US08277198B2 |
Fan motor control systems
A control system for a fan includes a control housing that is external to a fan housing for the fan. At least one fan control module is within the control housing and communicates remotely with terminals within the fan housing via at least one wire. The at least one fan control module includes a detection module. The detection module detects induced voltages in at least one of a plurality of stator coils within the fan housing via the at least one wire without receiving signals from a sensor in the fan housing. |
| US08277197B2 |
Installation for high pressure compression with several stages
A multi-stage compression installation is formed of a main pipe (2) emerging in a baffle plate (3), where at least two compressors (4, 5) are mounted in series each having its own drive member (9, 10). The installation is equipped with a system for determining the pressure at the output of the main pipe (2), the installation being connected to a control box (8). Typically, the control box (8) is connected to at least two of the drive members (9, 10) of the compressors (4, 5) and ensures monitoring of the compressors such that the latter rotate jointly whether charged or uncharged. Thus, the compressors (4, 5) are jointly charged based on the pressure prevailing in the baffle plate (3), such that the charging of the compressor representing the overpressure stage, the compressor(s) of the lower compression stages are automatically and jointly charged. |
| US08277195B2 |
Coated turbine component and method of coating a turbine component
Turbine components with different types of coatings on different parts thereof are described. The coatings are chosen such that they are especially adapted to the thermal and corrosive conditions being present on the parts of the component during use. A method to coat a turbine component is also described. |
| US08277194B2 |
Component to be arranged in the flow channel of a turbomachine and spraying method for producing the coating
The invention relates to a component for arrangement in the duct of a turbine engine. The component is provided with a coating, which has a surface structure with scales which overlap each other in the direction of flow of the turbine engine. The invention also relates to a spraying method for generating a coating on a component. |
| US08277188B2 |
Turbomachine rotor disk
A turbomachine rotor disk including inter-blade platforms fixed to ribs delimited by cavities in which blade roots are retained, and protective liners mounted between the flanks of the cavities of the disk and the blade roots is disclosed. The protective liners have a C-shaped cross section so that they can be fitted translationally and retained radially on the ribs of the disk and constitute a locking device which locks the platforms on the ribs of the disk. |
| US08277187B2 |
Radial compressor rotor
A radial compressor rotor is provided for stabilizing the flow behavior of a delivery gas, consisting of a wheel disc and blades arranged uniformly in the circumferential direction, wherein the generatrix of the surface of the blades is designed as a curved line at least in a curved section, such that the surface is curved in two directions in this section. |
| US08277186B2 |
Turbine blade assembly and steam turbine
A turbine blade 10a which is a stop blade is provided with a cutout portion 50 which is formed in one circumferential side surface 22a of a shank portion 22 at the center in the axial direction of a turbine rotor 100, a cutout portion 60 which is formed in one circumferential side surface 22a of the shank portion 22 from one end portion 22b to the cutout portion 50 in the axial direction of the turbine rotor 100, and a through passage 70 which is formed to pass from the cutout portion 50 to an effective blade part and in which a moving member 170, which moves a stopper member 160 to the effective blade part in the cutout portion 50, is inserted. |
| US08277184B2 |
Tilt adjustment system
A wind energy system is provided with said wind energy system including a hub pivotable about a rotation axis, a first bearing connected to said hub, a tapered adapter, a second bearing connected to said first bearing by said adapter, wherein said first and second bearings and said adapter are arranged such that the tilt angle of said rotation axis of said hub is adjustable. Further, a tilt adjustment system for a wind energy system and a method for operating a wind energy system is provided. |
| US08277183B2 |
Systems and methods for monitoring wind turbine operation
A method is provided for monitoring a wind turbine using a combined supervisory command and data acquisition (SCADA) and video monitoring system. The method includes receiving video data from at least one video camera, wherein the video data is related to operating conditions of the wind turbine. The method also includes storing the video data in a memory, and receiving a command from a remote monitoring server relating to at least a portion of the video data, wherein the portion of the video data is associated with at least one SCADA data point. The method also includes retrieving the portion of the video data from the memory, and transmitting the portion of the video data to the remote monitoring server for presentation to a user. |
| US08277179B2 |
Turbine or compressor stage for a turbomachine
A turbine or compressor stage for a turbomachine is disclosed. The stage includes a blade wheel surrounded by a sectorized ring carried by a casing. Each ring sector includes a circumferential rim that is clamped radially a casing rail by two clamps of C-shaped section that are engaged on the circumferential end portions of the rim of the ring sector and on the corresponding portions of the casing rail. |
| US08277172B2 |
Apparatus for turbine engine cooling air management
An exemplary embodiment of the invention is directed to a turbine engine having a first, rotatable turbine rotor assembly, a second, stationary nozzle assembly disposed adjacent thereto and a wheel space which is defined between the first, rotatable turbine rotor assembly and the second, stationary nozzle assembly. The wheel space is operable to receive cooling air therein and includes a sealing feature located on the first rotatable turbine rotor assembly that extends axially into the wheel space to terminate adjacent to a sealing land positioned on the second, stationary nozzle assembly. The sealing feature and the sealing land operate to control the release of cooling air from within the wheel space and the sealing land is constructed of shape memory alloy. |
| US08277170B2 |
Cooling circuit for use in turbine bucket cooling
A system and a method to supply a coolant to a turbine bucket of a turbine. The system includes an extraction system configured to extract air from a main compressor airflow, a supply circuit, at least a part of which is disposed at an exterior of the gas turbine, coupled to the extraction system and configured to transport the extracted air, as an ingredient of the coolant, from the extraction system to a coolant insertion region, and a cooling system, disposed proximate to the coolant insertion region of the gas turbine and coupled to the supply circuit at a position on-board the gas turbine, the cooling system being configured to supply the turbine bucket with the coolant, including the extracted air. |
| US08277169B2 |
Turbine rotor cooling flow system
Disclosed herein is an apparatus comprising a disk coverplate for a turbine rotor, the disk coverplate comprising a plurality of cooling holes, wherein the distance between the centers of any two adjacent cooling holes is greater than twice the average diameter of the two adjacent cooling holes. A method to control turbine cooling air flow is also disclosed. |
| US08277165B2 |
Transfer mechanism with multiple wafer handling capability
An integrated robotic mechanism is disclosed for improving transport equipment, integrating an object movement with other functionalities such as alignment or identification. The disclosed integrated robot assembly can comprise a multiple end effector for moving a plurality of workpieces, a single end effector for moving a single workpiece, a rotation chuck incorporated on the robot body to provide alignment capability, and an optional identification subsystem for identify the object during transport. The present invention robot assembly can be used in a sorter or stocker equipment, in processing equipment, and a transfer system. |
| US08277163B2 |
Substrate transfer apparatus, substrate process system, and substrate transfer method
A substrate transfer apparatus includes forks that are vertically spaced apart from each other with a predetermined distance. When the forks take out the substrates from the first substrate containing part, each of the forks lifts the substrate and supports the same by moving upward from a pre-loading position located below the substrate to be taken out by a predetermined unloading stroke amount. A value of the predetermined distance is set to be equal to the sum of the distance between the substrates contained in the first substrate containing part and the unloading stroke amount. |
| US08277160B1 |
Protective wire fastening apparatus
An apparatus for protecting and fastening a wire to a mounting object includes a molded unibody having a first section connected to a second section, wherein the first section includes a surface that operates to receive a fastener, such as a staple, therethrough to secure the wire in place against the mounting object, and the second section protrudes from the surface of the first section and extends away from the surface of the first section for a user to safely hold the first section in place as the user mounts the apparatus and the wire to the mounting object. |
| US08277159B2 |
Manx fastener
A splayable fastening device comprises a fastener engagable element having a screw-threaded element, at least one flexibly springable arm member which is at least in part wrapable about a screw-threaded axis of the screw-threaded element, and a retainer for retaining the said flexibly springable arm member in its wrapped or coiled condition. The retainer is movable relative to the flexibly springable arm member whereby the flexibly springable arm member is unfurlable in a clockwise or anticlockwise direction. A method of fastening to a hollow wall using such a splayable fastening device is also provided. |
| US08277155B2 |
Railroad car coil restraint system
A transverse railroad coil car coil restraint apparatus or system which includes a plurality of coil restraints attachable to each trough in a transverse railroad coil car to reduce the sideways shifting of coils positioned in the troughs. In certain embodiments, the coil restraints are attached in each trough and extend across the transverse coil car. In other embodiments, the coil restraints are attached in each trough along the length of the trough. In certain embodiments, when a coil is positioned in the trough, the coil compresses certain of the coil restraints and does not compress other of the coil restraints which prevents the sideways shifting of the coil during movement of the transverse coil car. In other embodiments, when a coil is positioned in the trough, the coil compresses certain of the compression members and does not compress other of the compression members which prevents the sideways shifting of the coil during movement of the transverse coil car. |
| US08277152B2 |
End mill
An end mill having a gash formed in a top portion of a flute. In a cross-section perpendicular to an intersecting ridgeline between an end cutting edge rake face and a gash bottom face of the gash, the gash bottom face and the end cutting edge rake face, and the gash bottom face and the gash wall face are respectively connected together by first and second connecting faces. The connecting faces have a form which either is a concave curve or a substantially concave curve formed with straight lines. A radius of curvature of the concave curve or the radius of a circle inscribed within straight lines forming the substantially concave curve about the front connecting face is larger than a radius of curvature of the concave curve or the radius of a circle inscribed within the straight lines forming the substantially concave curve about the second connecting face. |
| US08277148B2 |
Re-tensionable cable bolt apparatus and related method
A re-tensionable cable bolt and related methods are provided. In one aspect of the invention, the bolt includes a sleeve for connecting or securing to a cable. The sleeve includes a lower end having a bore adapted for receiving a threaded shank for associating with a tension nut. A plurality of facets along a peripheral portion of the sleeve create corners that prevent the cable from rotating within the borehole during installation. The sleeve may be secured to the cable using resin, which forms another aspect of the invention. |
| US08277146B2 |
Wave power plant
An improved wave energy collecting apparatus comprising a frame (1) including at least one hinged (2) vertically tilting or rotating surface (3), such as a barrier in the form of a panel or a sail, for collecting energy from passing wave pressure fronts via a tilting or rotating motion within the frame (1), wherein the hinge (2) is positioned below the surface of the fluid at the trough of the passing waves, said barrier (3) being connected to a device capable of transforming the tilting or rotating motion into different types of energy, wherein the apparatus is located at a depth such that the tilting or rotating barrier (3) breaks the surface of passing waves at the crest of the waves. Such an apparatus may also include vertically positioned side walls (4) for directing the pressure fronts from passing waves towards the tilting barrier (3). |
| US08277143B2 |
Surface mount vehicle anti-ram security systems
Anti-ram systems according to embodiments of the invention comprise at least one bollard section comprising a base of limited height and a plurality of spaced bollards extending upwardly from the base. An anti-ram system according to embodiments of the invention may be erected or installed on a paved surface such as asphalt, concrete, paver stones, etc., or on an unpaved surface such as soil, and need not be partially of fully buried, and yet can qualify for Department of State crash ratings previously assigned to buried bollard systems. Disclosed anti-ram system also comprise a plurality of bollard sections and one or more connectors for interconnecting two or more of the bollard sections, and may also include an anchor or anchor system engaging at least each end of a bollard section not connected to another bollard section. The bollard sections may be filled with ballast and high friction structure may be attached to the bottom of the bollard sections to resist sliding after impact. |
| US08277142B2 |
Shaft connection structure
A tightened shaft portion 51a of a shaft 51 and a tightened portion 42b of a lower joint yoke 42 are coupled with each other such that a required torque can be transmitted therebetween by inserting the tightened shaft portion 51a of the shaft 51 into a shaft insertion hole 42b2 of the lower joint yoke (a coupling member) 42, and inserting a bolt 44 into a bolt insertion aperture 42b3 of the lower joint yoke 42 and a bolt engagement groove 51a1 of the shaft 51 and tightening the bolt in the condition (the regular position condition) that the bolt engagement groove 51a1 of the shaft 51 and the bolt insertion aperture 42b3 of the lower joint yoke 42 are axially aligned with each other. An insertion restriction portion 51b having a diameter smaller than that of the tightened shaft portion 51a is provided at the tip end of the tightened shaft portion 51a of the shaft 51 for restricting the insertion of the bolt 44 through the bolt insertion aperture 42b3 of the lower joint yoke 42 in the condition (the non-regular position condition) that the insertion restriction portion 51b axially overlaps the bolt insertion aperture 42b3 of the lower joint yoke 42 when the tightened shaft portion 51a is inserted into the shaft insertion hole 42b2 of the lower joint yoke 42, and the insertion restriction portion 51b can be rotated relative to the shaft 51 by a set torque smaller than the required torque. |
| US08277140B2 |
Loose-leaf binder
A binder for releasably retaining loose-leaves. The binder has a front cover that lies flatly beneath its back cover when the binder is open 360 degrees. The rings of the binder can rotate around an edge of the flatly-folded cover to enable loose-leaves to lie flat above and below the cover. The binder also has a skeleton with a minimal cross-section spine which may be partially or completely embedded in a cover and rotates in relation to parallel front and back covers when the binder is open 360 degrees. The front cover, middle cover and back cover are connected in a way so that they do not interfere with the rotation of the rings. Mechanisms to open and close the rings of the skeleton to allow addition or removal of loose-leafs, and ring shapes to optimize or stabilize the capacity of the binder during operation are also disclosed. |
| US08277133B2 |
Focal plane shutter for cameras
A focal plane shutter for cameras includes: a shutter blade assembly; an electromagnet assembly; driving means that includes a mounting member mounted with an iron scrap member that cooperates with an iron core member of the electromagnet assembly; and a setting member that operates the driving means to a set position. The iron scrap member includes a shaft fitted in a mounting hole of the mounting member, an iron scrap portion provided at one end of the shaft and brought into contact with the iron core member, and a removal preventing flange provided at the other end of the shaft, a collar member is fitted to the shaft between the mounting hole and the flange, an edge of the mounting hole is formed to have an arcuate surface protruding toward the collar member, and the collar member is formed to have, on the edge side, an arcuate surface protruding toward the flange and substantially perpendicular to the arcuate surface. |
| US08277126B2 |
Fluid dynamic bearing device
A protrusion (7b3) directed axially downwards is provided at a bottom portion (7b) of a housing (7), and an outer peripheral surface (7b31) of the protrusion (7b3) is fixed to an inner peripheral surface (6a) of a bracket (6). When a thrust load is applied to the bottom portion (7b) of the housing (7), a part of the load is supported by the bracket (6) via the protrusion (7b3). Thus, a strength of a boundary portion (P) between a side portion (7a) and the bottom portion (7b) of the housing (7) increases, making it possible to prevent rupture of the boundary portion (P) due to an excessive thrust load. On the other hand, a wall thickness of the bottom portion (7b) can be made invariable, so it is possible to suppress deformation through molding shrinkage of a thrust bearing surface formed on an inner end surface (7b1) of the bottom portion (7b). |
| US08277125B2 |
Bearing apparatus, spindle motor, and disk drive apparatus
In a bearing apparatus, a first cup portion defining a portion of a stationary portion of a bearing apparatus includes a circular plate portion and a cylindrical portion projecting downward from an outer edge portion of the circular plate portion. A rotating portion of the bearing apparatus includes an annular recessed portion arranged to accommodate at least a lower end portion of the cylindrical portion. Accordingly, it is possible to limit the axial dimension of the bearing apparatus while also enabling both a radial dynamic pressure groove array and a pumping groove array to have a sufficient axial dimension. Additionally, one end of a through hole defined in the rotating portion is arranged to open into the annular recessed portion, so that any air bubbles introduced into a lubricating oil by the pumping groove array can be efficiently caused to flow downward through the through hole and out of the bearing apparatus. |
| US08277123B2 |
Fluid bearing structure and method of forming bearing concaves in fluid bearing structure
A fluid bearing structure with uniform depths of bearing concaves and a method of forming the bearing concaves in the fluid bearing structure. Pipe parts are inserted into through holes formed in the bearing base to form fluid spout holes for spouting fluid between confronting bearing surfaces. Bearing concaves are formed around the fluid spout holes. The bearing base and the pipe parts are made of different materials. A coating layer is formed on the bearing base and the pipe parts by an anodic oxidation process. Thickness of the coating layer on the bearing base is different from thickness of the coating layer on the pipe parts since the base member and the pipe members are made of different materials. The material on which a coating layer grows quickly is selected for the bearing base and the material on which a coating layer grows slowly is selected for the pipe parts. |
| US08277121B2 |
Bag construction with flat bottom having removable layer
A bag construction filled with dispersible material. The bag construction has first and second panel sections, first and second side gusset sections and a bottom gusset panel section. The various panel sections are fastened together to form a generally rectangle shape with a flat bottom. The bottom gusset panel section has one or more distribution apertures in it. A removable panel layer is provided for covering the one or more apertures. When the removable panel layer is removed, the bag can be held so that the dispersible material disperses through the apertures as appropriate. |
| US08277119B2 |
Fiber optic temperature sensor
A temperature sensor, capable of operating in electromagnetic and/or electric environments such as electrical generators, motors and transformers and/or in environments where vibratory conditions are frequent or continuous, contains at least one light emitting optic fiber and one light receiving optic fiber and an electrically non-conductive dilatable object which variably occults the emitted light as the object's temperature varies. The light receiving optic fiber transmits light intensity and light intensity changes to an electronic device that may include a photometer and light-to-temperature computing equipment. |
| US08277116B2 |
Fluidic mixer with controllable mixing
In one embodiment of the disclosure, a fluid mixing device comprises a flow duct, with a wall having an inner surface defining a fluid flow path for a primary flow, and at least one deployable and retractable projection. The projection is adapted to controllably generate at least one secondary flow adjacent the inner surface. In other embodiments, methods are provided of controllably mixing at least one fluid within a fluid mixing device. |
| US08277113B2 |
Adhesive dispenser apparatus having a mixing device with a corrugated conveying plate
A dispenser apparatus for dispensing an adhesive containing at least two components includes a mixing device and a header. The mixing device comprises a conveying plate having first and second grooved surfaces each overlaid by a respective cover plate. The conveying plate and opposed cover plates cooperate to define a plurality of separated channels extending through the mixing device. The discharge ends of the channels are interdigitated. First and a second distribution manifolds are defined within the mixing device. A supply port adapted to receive one adhesive component extends through a respective cover plate into fluid communication with one of the distribution manifolds. |
| US08277101B2 |
LED headlight cooling system and LED headlight thermal conducting device
An LED headlight cooling system includes a vehicle air conditioner, a thermal conducting device and an LED headlight. The vehicle air conditioner has a cooling device. The thermal conducting device is thermally connected to the cooling device of the vehicle air conditioner. The LED headlight is thermally connected to the thermal conducting device. |
| US08277099B2 |
Vehicle lighting system
A vehicle lighting system according to the present invention is provided, and includes: a pivot portion for optical axis adjustment; an optical axis adjustment mechanism mounting portion for vertical direction; and an optical axis adjustment mounting portion for horizontal direction, which are integrally provided at a heat sink member having a semiconductor-type light source mounted thereon. As a result, the vehicle lighting system becomes capable of efficiently radiating a heat generated in the semiconductor-type light source by means of the pivot portion for optical axis adjustment and the optical axis adjustment mechanism mounting portions for vertical and horizontal directions, which are integrally provided at the heat sink member. |
| US08277091B2 |
Abuse-resistant light fixture
An abuse-resistant light fixture housing having a mounting plate with mounting brackets, a frame having an opening for a-non opaque cover, and a plurality of fasteners affixing the mounting bracket to the frame is provided. When the mounting plate and frame are assembled together the frame is suspended apart from the mounting bracket such that impacts against the frame are absorbed by the suspension elements allowing the frame and light elements to survive generally undamaged. Elements of the fixture are made so as to resist damage while providing illumination. |
| US08277083B2 |
Discharge tube, lighting device, display device and television receiver
A discharge tube 17 of the present invention includes a glass tube 60 and ferrules 70 disposed around ends of the glass tube 60. Outer leads 61 for receiving power from an external power source project from ends of the glass tube 60. Each ferrule 70 includes a body 71 that is fitted onto the glass tube 60 and an insertion portion 73 that is disposed near the end of the body 71 and into which the outer lead 61 is inserted. The outer lead 61 includes a loop portion 62 at the end thereof. The outer lead 61 is electrically connected with the ferrule 70 when the loop portion 62 is inserted in the insertion portion 73. |
| US08277075B2 |
Illumination device using solar energy
An illumination device includes a reflection disk, a positioning frame, a solar cell module, an illumination member and a driving device. The positioning frame is located at the focus of the curved reflection surface of the reflection disk. The solar cell module and the illumination member are respectively connected to the front and back of the positioning frame. The driving device is used to drive the positioning frame to rotate relative to the reflection disk. When the solar cell faces the curved reflection surface, the solar cell absorbs the reflected sun light to generate electric power. When the illumination member faces the curved reflection surface, light emitted from the illumination member is reflected by the curved reflection surface. |
| US08277074B2 |
Portable light apparatus and method of attachment
An organic light emitting diode system is sufficiently thin and poser efficient to permit its attachment to different configurations such as pocketbooks, brief bags, suitcases and the like. At least one side of the OLED material can have an attachment mechanism to facilitate attachment to a surface in the area to be lighted. The system may include a portable power source that provides electrical power to actuate the OLED material, causing it to generate light. A switch connected to the battery can control power to the OLED material to switch the light on and off. The switch can be manually operated or automatic. The low power consumption of embodiments of the OLED apparatus also provides for unique applications and uses. |
| US08277072B2 |
Multi-function solar-powered lighting system
A solar-powered lighting system includes a substrate, wherein at least one solar chip is disposed on one lateral side of the substrate, and at least one light source is disposed on one lateral side of the substrate. Solar light enters the substrate and propagates therein. Solar light energy is collected by the at least one solar chip which transforms the solar light energy into electrical power for the at least one light source to emit light to the substrate, before propagating therein and leaving the substrate. |
| US08277069B2 |
Entertaining and promotional head gear
A head gear that provides entertainment and effective advertising with a main body and an attached visor body having an upper portion and a lower portion pivotably connected to each other. The main body fits over or around a wearer's head. The upper portion of the visor body has an area for receiving markings, and along the perimeter of the area is a plurality of light source for illuminating the entire area. A user can make different markings in the area. In an open position, the upper portion is at a substantially right angle relative to the lower portion such that the area with the markings is displayed to a viewer in a forward position. In a closed position, the area is concealed and protected by the lower portion. Use of ultraviolet light emitting diodes and phosphorescent or fluorescent markings provide enhanced entertainment and advertisement value. |
| US08277065B2 |
Illumination system for cavities
A system to light a cavity 19 in an appliance. A source or light emitter 27 is mounted on a circuit board 32, so that the light emanating from said source or light emitter 27, is concentrated into a light beam using an optical collimator system 28 or in some cases a Fresnel arrangement; wherein the foregoing elements may be found outside a door 14, which allow access into the cavity; thus the light beam exiting the optical collimator 27 or Fresnel arrangement travels a distance though air between the optical collimator system 27 or Fresnel arrangement and the upper face of the light guide 29 which is placed on the door 14, the light guide 29 transports the luminous flux towards a notch which diverts said luminous flux directing into the cavity's 19 interior. |
| US08277058B2 |
Optical structures including polyurea
Optical structures and sheeting that include polyurea and method for forming same are proposed in accordance with aspects of the present invention. One and two-component layers can be used to form the optical structures. The optical structures can include microstructures formed from polyurea. The sheeting can include at least one of cube-corner prisms, open-faced cube-corner prisms, linear prisms, lenticular lenses, moth-eye structures, lenses, Fresnel lens arrays, lenses, and fish-eye lens arrays. |
| US08277057B2 |
Projection display apparatus
A first detection unit and a second detection unit detect the light that is incident from the direction where a screen is to be located. A controller determines whether the screen is located at a recommended position based on output signals from the first detection unit and the second detection unit. When the screen is located at the recommended position, the controller controls the projection display apparatus so as to be in the state where a significant image can be projected. The controller may determine whether the screen is located at the recommended position and in a normal state based on the output signals. When the screen is located at the recommended position and in a normal state, the controller may control the projection display apparatus so as to be in the state where a significant image can be projected. |
| US08277055B2 |
Multiple view display system using a single projector and method of operating the same
A system and method to display a plurality of different images at multiple distinct locations using a single image projector and an image propagation control means to control a propagation pathway from the projector to a display at each location. |
| US08277045B2 |
Tri-colored lens for spectacles
A specially tinted lens, a tri-colored lens for spectacles and sunglasses for use in flying airplanes. A far field of vision has a first tinting, such as green, to reduce the light from a sunlit sky, over sunlit cloud tops, or in clouds, which enables an aircraft pilot to easily see out of the cockpit into highly illuminated environments. An intermediate field of vision has a second tinting, such as yellow, to enable the pilot to easily see a dimly illuminated instrument panel as compared to outside the aircraft. A near field of vision has a third tinting, such as neutral in color, to enable said pilot to easily view maps and other information. |
| US08277044B2 |
Mobile telephonehaving internal inkjet printhead arrangement and an optical sensing arrangement
A mobile telephone includes an optical sensing arrangement enabling the telephone to decode tags of coded data printed on media fed through the telephone via internal and external media pathway defined by a body of the telephone; a beam splitter deflecting incoming light onto an image sensor of the telephone; a first infrared LED directing light onto media present in the external pathway; a filter and lens arrangement receiving and directing light reflected from the external media onto the beam splitter; a second infrared LED directing light onto media present in the internal pathway; and a mirror arrangement directing light reflected from the internal media into the beam splitter. The coded data contains printing instructions for the printhead, and the filter and lens arrangement includes an infrared filter for removing non-infrared ambient light, whereby a signal to noise ratio of the reflected light is improved. |
| US08277043B2 |
Handy printer and mobile phone provided with the same
A handy printer and a mobile phone based on the use of the same are provided, wherein the printing can be performed on recording paper sheets having various sizes. The handy printer comprises a cover member which is movable between an exposure position at which an ink discharge surface of an ink discharge head is exposable to the outside and a cover position at which the discharge surface is hidden from the outside. When the cover member is positioned at the cover position, the recording is permitted on a recording paper sheet accommodated in a recording paper-accommodating mechanism. When the cover member is positioned at the exposure position, the recording is permitted on a recording medium disposed outside a handy-printer body casing. |
| US08277041B2 |
Ink-jet recording apparatus
An ink-jet recording apparatus, including: a first recording head and a second recording head each having a plurality of ejection openings from which ink is ejected; a conveying mechanism which defines a conveyance path through which a recording medium is conveyed so as to pass a first position at which the recording medium is opposed to the ejection openings of the first recording head and a second position at which the recording medium is opposed to the ejection openings of the second recording head; and a bypass conveying mechanism which defines a bypass path that is connected to the conveyance path at a position thereof between the first position and the second position, for permitting the recording medium to be conveyed so as to bypass the second position. |
| US08277039B2 |
Inkjet printer and a paper transportation method
An inkjet printer prevents the paper from lifting away from the platen when the suction action of the platen is stopped, and thereby prevents paper jams and other printing problems. The printer 1 conveys the printing paper 12a while holding the paper 12a to the surface of the platen 19 by a suction mechanism 50. After the automatic paper cutting operation is completed, the leading end part 12b of the printing paper 12a is retracted from the cutting position B to the printing start position A on the platen 19, and the printer 1 waits for the next print job with the printing paper 12a held against the platen 19. When a power conservation mode or power off mode is entered, the control unit 61 of the printer 1 advances the leading end part 12b of the printing paper 12a from the printing start position A to the cutting position B so that the paper is held by the downstream-side paper feed roller 34 and pressure roller 35, and then stops the power supply to the suction mechanism 50 of the platen 19. The printing paper 12a can thus be prevented from rising away from the platen 19 while the vacuum action of the suction mechanism 50 is stopped. |
| US08277029B2 |
Printhead integrated circuit having low mass heater elements
A printhead integrated circuit includes: a plurality of nozzle chambers disposed on a substrate; a heater element positioned in each nozzle chamber; drive circuitry for supply power to each heater element; and a plurality of ink supply channels defined in the substrate for supplying fluid to the nozzle chambers. Each heater element consists of solid material having a mass of less than 10 nanograms. In use, the solid material is heated to cause formation of a gas bubble inside each nozzle chamber. |
| US08277023B2 |
Inkjet printhead and method of manufacturing the same
Disclosed are an inkjet printhead and a method of fabricating the same. The inkjet printhead can include a substrate; a chamber layer formed on the substrate and a nozzle layer formed on the chamber layer. The chamber layer defines one or more ink chambers in which ink to be ejected may be accommodated. The nozzle layer includes one or more nozzles through which the ink from the ink chambers are ejected. The nozzle layer may be formed of a cured product of a photosensitive dry film that includes an light absorption material. |
| US08277018B2 |
Tilt angle maintaining apparatus and recording apparatus
A first ratchet claw and a second ratchet claw are formed on a lock member which is provided in a reciprocating manner with respect to a guide member, wherein a plurality of first and second ratchet recesses for being fitted to the first and second ratchet claw and the first and second ratchet claw are provided on the guide member along a sliding direction of the guide member, and wherein when a lever member which is slidably provided on the guide member is in the unlocked position, the first and second ratchet recesses are continuously formed along a sliding direction of the guide member arranged in an relationship in which at least one of the first and second ratchet recess does not face the first ratchet claw in the case of the first ratchet recess or the second ratchet claw in the case of the second ratchet recess. |
| US08277017B2 |
Image forming and image cutting apparatus
An image forming and cutting apparatus has an inkjet head with a first coupling member having a hole, a cutting head with a second coupling member having a hole, and a coupling pin that is received by the holes of the coupling members to couple the first and second coupling members to each other. The coupling pin has first and tapered portions with a columnar portion interposed therebetween. The hole of the first coupling member has a tapered surface for receiving the first tapered portion, and the hole of the second coupling member has a tapered surface portion and a columnar surface portion for receiving the second tapered portion and the columnar portion, respectively. The first coupling member is made of an elastic material and is configured to be pressed and deflected by the coupling pin due to elasticity of the elastic material when the coupling pin is moved in the first direction and is received by the holes of the first and second coupling members so that the first and second coupling members are coupled to one another with a gap therebetween while the columnar portion of the coupling pin protrudes from the hole of the second coupling member. |
| US08277011B2 |
Liquid ejecting head unit and liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting head unit includes: a liquid ejecting head which includes a nozzle row formed by nozzles arranged in series so as to eject a liquid onto a printing medium; and a base plate which retains the liquid ejecting head, wherein a linear expansion coefficient of the base plate in a first direction as a relative moving direction between the printing medium and the liquid ejecting head is larger than that in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. |
| US08277006B2 |
Controllable maintenance operations for efficient ink use
A method of controlling in a printer the maintenance of an inkjet printhead supplied with fluid from a plurality of fluid sources, the method includes the steps of (a) monitoring the usage of the plurality of fluid sources; (b) identifying a preferred fluid source for use in a maintenance operation based on the monitored usage of the plurality of fluid sources; and (c) performing the maintenance operation using a first quantity of fluid from the preferred fluid source. |
| US08277003B2 |
Undermount drawer slide
A drawer slide for coupling a drawer to a cabinet includes an intermediate rail partially housed within the drawer rail and web and first and second legs which are connected to the web. A flange extends from the first leg toward the second leg. Bearings housed in bearing cages placed between the rails allow sliding movement therebetween. A cabinet rail partially housed within the intermediate rail includes an upright wall and a flange extending away from the upright wall and toward the first leg. Ball and roller bearings housed in bearing cages couple the flanges. Grooves in the flanges are engaged by the ball bearings. Roller bearings housed in bearing cages couple the web of the intermediate rail and the flange of the cabinet rail, and the second leg of the intermediate rail and the upright wall of the cabinet rail. |
| US08276998B2 |
Motorcycle with control unit for controlling operation of a brake pressure regulating unit
A motorcycle includes a liquid pressure-generating unit, a pressure-regulating unit interposed between the liquid pressure-generating unit and a wheel brake, and a control unit for controlling operation of the pressure-regulating unit. The motorcycle also includes a support case, supportively containing the control unit and disposed on a lateral side of an engine body mounted on a body frame of the motorcycle, with the support case interposed between the control unit and the engine body. Further, a running airflow leading-in part for permitting traveling airflow to pass toward said control unit is formed at a front part of the support case, and a traveling airflow leading-out part is formed at a rear part of the support case for leading out the traveling airflow after the airflow has passed through at least one lateral side of the control unit. This arrangement lessens the influence of the heat from an engine upon the control unit while disposing the control unit in the vicinity of the engine body. |
| US08276995B2 |
Control device for a rail vehicle
A control unit for a rail vehicle, comprising a braking control unit that contains an electronic braking control device for emitting control commands to brake actuators and/or comprising an anti-skid device, which controls the wheel slip of the wheels of at least one axle in accordance with at least one rotational speed signal from an anti-skid sensor. The control unit also comprises a roll monitoring unit with an electronic roll monitoring control device and at least one roll monitoring sensor for detecting the rotational speed of at least some wheels in the form of a rotational speed signal, and comprises a rolling gear monitoring unit for monitoring and/or diagnosing critical conditions of and damage to the rolling gear. The monitoring unit comprises an electronic control device for monitoring the rolling gear. The electronic control device for monitoring the rolling gear and/or the electronic anti-skid control device and/or the electronic braking control device and/or the electronic roll monitoring control device are combined to form a structural unit. |
| US08276993B2 |
Park system with high/low trip pressure for added failure protection with work brake application
A pneumatic brake system for a heavy duty vehicle is provided. The work brake system is operably dependent on a predetermined high trip brake system pressure and a predetermined reset brake system pressure. Upon actuation of the work brake system, when brake system pressure is greater than the predetermined high trip pressure, the work brake system is configured to deliver a pneumatic control signal to the second control valve to activate the service brake assembly. When brake system pressure is less than the predetermined high trip pressure, the work brake system is configured to deliver a pneumatic spring brake signal to the first control valve to activate the spring brake assembly and remove the pneumatic control signal to the second control valve. The delivery of the pneumatic control signal to the second control valve via the work brake system is prevented until brake system pressure exceeds the predetermined reset pressure. |
| US08276992B2 |
Removable wheel cover
A universal wheel cover assembly for covering a variety of different vehicle's wheels. The universal wheel cover assembly comprises: (a) a covering disc sized to cover the vehicle's wheel, (b) a universal bolt pattern plate, the universal bolt pattern plate including (i) a series of sections, each of the sections having a plurality of engagement members, wherein the sections are adapted for matching a pattern of threaded rods welded on the vehicle's axle hub used for attaching the vehicle's wheel, and (ii) a retaining system for connecting the universal bolt pattern plate to the covering disc, and (c) a spring biasing base comprising of a plurality of coil units, each coil unit for coupling one bolt in the pattern of bolts to the engagement members of the universal bolt pattern plate. The removable wheel cover assembly may be used in a variety of different vehicle tire rims and is aesthetically pleasing. |
| US08276988B2 |
Child car seat
A child car seat is adapted for use in an automobile, and includes a seat assembly and a backrest unit connected to the seat assembly and including a backrest body, a pair of safety belts, and a guide component. The backrest body has opposite front and rear surfaces, and a plurality of spaced apart pairs of belt slots. Each belt slot has opposite front and rear open ends formed respectively in the front and rear surfaces. Each safety belt has a free end portion. The guide component is coupled to the rear surface of the backrest body and covers the rear open ends of the belt slots. The free end portions of the safety belts are extended respectively through a selected one pair of the belt slots, and along a predetermined route behind the rear surface of the backrest body through guidance of the guide component. |
| US08276986B2 |
Seat pad that promotes cooling and ventilation
A seat pad that is injection molded out of plastic with various combinations of holes and pathways that promote air flow to ventilate and prevent the build-up of perspiration on a person's back, upper legs, and rear end as they sit on it for an extended period of time. The seat pad also has multiple beads that provide acupuncture-type pressure for relaxation and comfort of the person. The design of the seat pad is such that it provides some flexibility for cushioning effect and some rigidity so that it is not collapsed or crushed under the weight of the person sitting on it for an extended period of time. |
| US08276984B1 |
Furniture assembly
A furniture assembly maneuverable from a first position to a second position has a first seat portion having a channel formed in an end thereof, a second seat portion positioned below the first seat portion, a first back portion positioned adjacent the end of the first seat portion, and a second back portion having a front surface positioned adjacent a back surface of the first back portion when in the first position. The second seat portion has legs extending from a bottom surface thereof adjacent a side thereof. The second seat portion has legs extending from the bottom surface thereof adjacent an opposite side thereof. The first back portion has keyholes on the back surface thereof. The second back portion has mushrooms on the front surface thereof. The mushrooms are removably placed in the keyholes when the first position. |
| US08276982B2 |
Detachable-body vehicle frame
Described herein is a frame for a motor vehicle having a first body and a second body, which are rigidly connected to one another in such a way that they can be taken apart; the first body has a first connection bar set in a transverse direction, and the second body has a second connection bar set in a transverse direction, which is set parallel to, faces, and is in direct contact with the first connection bar and is bolted to the first connection bar itself by means of a number of bolts arranged vertically. |
| US08276979B2 |
Clip tower for energy absorption
A vehicle body panel having an integrated mounting device for mounting the body panel to a vehicle substrate is provided. The integrated mounting device includes a tower portion with a U-shaped base and an extended portion, and a U-shaped spring clip. The base has an open front and back and includes two opposing side walls and an upper portion. The upper portion is a two-tiered top where a first tier has a width greater than a width of the second tier. The extended portion has an inverted U-shape and is an extension of the second tier and is adapted to receive the spring clip. |
| US08276974B2 |
Noise reduction member and system
There is disclosed a noise reduction member. Preferably, the noise reduction member is employed for sealing or baffling within a pillar or other structure of an automotive vehicle, although not required. |
| US08276973B2 |
Airflow deflector apparatus for vehicle
An airflow deflector apparatus for a vehicle that protrudes downward from a vehicle body in front of a wheel housing that houses a wheel includes a flap portion having a front surface portion extending substantially in a lateral direction of a vehicle and a vertical direction, and a protrusion portion that protrudes toward a front of the vehicle from the front surface portion of the flap portion and is formed so as to have a shape that tapers toward a protrusion end portion side, in which the front surface portion of the flap portion, when the vehicle is running, changes a moving direction of airflow that flows along a surface of the protrusion portion into a direction away from components that are disposed rearward. |
| US08276972B2 |
Undercarriage fairing
The present disclosure provides an airstream deflector fairing comprising a front or fore end having a leading edge attached to an undercarriage of a wheeled vehicle. The fairing further includes a rear or aft end and a lower bottom portion of the fairing includes a panel facing the ground at an angle which in turn directs an airstream passing thereunder downwardly and outwardly relative to the undercarriage and substantially at an area below a trailing axle downstream from the fairing. The lower bottom panel includes an angle of declination relative to the undercarriage from about 12 degrees to about 24 degrees. |
| US08276969B2 |
Fuel door assembly with vibration damper
A fuel door assembly may use a vibration damper made as a single part with a contact surface of the vehicle body or a contact surface of the fuel door. In one embodiment, when the fuel door is moved to an open condition a contact surface of the fuel door contacts a contact surface of a vehicle body to dampen vibrations thereby. |
| US08276965B2 |
Space saving automobile loading ramp system
A space saving automobile loading ramp system is disclosed. The present invention attaches to the hitch of a truck or similar automobile to allow the user to load cargo. The present invention does not require any alteration of the automobile. Additionally, the present invention does not take up any space in a truck bed or require components be stored in the cab, and can be disassembled for transport while the tailgate of the truck remains down even if cargo has been loaded onto the tailgate using the present invention. |
| US08276959B2 |
Magnetic pad for end-effectors
Embodiments of the invention relate to apparatus and method for supporting and transferring large area substrate in a vacuum condition. One embodiment of the invention provides an apparatus comprising one or more end effectors having a plurality of end effector pads disposed thereon without mechanically joining to the one or more end effectors. In one embodiment, a plurality of end effector pad assemblies are coupled to one or more end effectors by magnetic force. |
| US08276958B2 |
Bidirectional tendon terminator
A bidirectional tendon terminator that has particular application for terminating a tendon that actuates a finger in a robotic arm. The tendon terminator includes a cylindrical member having an internal channel through which a single continuous piece of the tendon extends. The internal channel of the tendon terminator includes a widened portion. A ball is placed in the tendon strands, which causes the tendon to expand, and the ball is positioned within the widened portion of the channel. Pulling on the tendon operates to either open or close the finger of the robotic arm depending on which direction the tendon is pulled. In one specific embodiment, the cylinder includes two cylindrical pieces that are coupled together so that the ball can be positioned within the channel and the cylindrical member has an entire circumference of material. |
| US08276956B2 |
Trailer mounted crash attenuator
A trailer-mounted crash impact attenuator for attachment to a host vehicle includes an anti-rotational attachment system having an internal support tube and a plurality of external support tubes. The internal support tube has a connector on its front end for attachment to a suitable receptacle on the host vehicle, and the plurality of external support tubes each have an anti-rotation support pad on their front ends. At least one of the internal support tube and the plurality of external support tubes is comprised of a telescoping construction. A backup frame is disposed on a rear end of the attachment system, and a crash attenuator unit is disposed on an axle and pair of wheels for mobility. When the crash attenuator is impacted by an errant vehicle, the anti-rotational attachment system is actuated to prevent the trailer mounted crash impact attenuator from rotating relative to the host vehicle. |
| US08276946B2 |
Threaded joint for steel tubes
A threaded joint for steel tubes has a contact surface (30) including a threaded portion and a non-threaded metal-to-metal contact portion. The contact surface of at least one of a pin and a box of the joint is coated with a first plating layer (34) made of a Cu—Zn alloy or a Cu—Zn-M1 alloy (wherein M1 is at least one element selected from Sn, Bi, and In). An undercoat (32) of one or both of a Ni plating layer (32a) and a Cu plating layer (32b) and an overcoat of a Sn-M2 alloy plating layer (36) (wherein M2 is one or more elements selected from Bi, In, Ni, Zn, and Cu) may be formed below and above the first layer, respectively. A solid lubricating coating (38a) and a viscous liquid or semisolid lubricating coating (38b) may also be formed atop the plating layer as a lubricating coating (38). |
| US08276945B2 |
Security element provided with an optically-variable layer and method for the production thereof
The present invention relates to a security element for securing valuable articles, having an optically variable layer (20) that imparts different color impressions at different viewing angles. According to the present invention, in a covering area (32), a semi-transparent ink layer (34) is disposed on top of the optically variable layer (20), the color impression of the optically variable layer (20) being coordinated with the color impression of the semi-transparent ink layer (34) in the covering area (32) when viewed under predefined viewing conditions. |
| US08276944B2 |
Evaporated fuel treatment apparatus in motorcycle
Shorter charge and purge lines are provided in a compactly built motorcycle having an engine disposed downwardly of a rider seat, a fuel tank disposed forwardly of the engine and storing fuel to be supplied to the engine, and a canister adsorbing fuel vapor evaporated in the fuel tank. A fuel tank integrates a tank main portion with a tube portion that joins to a front side upper portion of the tank main portion so as to protrude upwardly of an upper wall of the tank main portion and that has a fuel filler port disposed at an upper end portion thereof. Further, a canister is disposed at a position that is lower than an upper end of the tube portion, rearward of the tube portion, and upward of the tank main portion. |
| US08276943B2 |
Systems and methods for pole impact force damping
The present invention relates to systems and methods for damping the impact and rebound forces associated with the use of elongated poles. One embodiment of the present invention relates to a supportive pole system including an elongated shaft, hand receiving member, tip, and force absorbing system. The force absorbing system includes a damping member externally disposed on the elongated shaft between the elongated shaft and either the hand receiving member or the tip. The damping member includes an elastic material such as elastomer that rebounds in response to a compression force. The damping member may include a plurality of stages configured to include independent damping force response characteristics. The force absorbing system may further include a rebound air dampener within the hand receiving member for controlling the rebound force characteristics of the damping member. |
| US08276939B2 |
Airbag for a vehicle occupant protective system
An airbag for a vehicle occupant protective system comprises an inflatable cushion, a cinch tube circumventing a vent aperture disposed in the cushion, and a draw element guided in a circumventing channel of said cinch tube and being coupled to a surface of said cushion such that deployment of said cushion causes said draw element to contract said cinch tube. The airbag comprises a contraction limiting arrangement adapted to limit the contraction of said cinch tube by said draw element to a predetermined minimum free diameter d of at least 20% relative to the free diameter D of the open cinch tube. |
| US08276935B2 |
Foldable stroller
A stroller includes laterally spaced apart hubs that interconnect upper, middle and front frame member assemblies of a chassis of the stroller. The hubs are disposed one each along opposite sides of the stroller, and include mounting structures for coupling two or more of the strollers together in a side-by-side fashion. The hubs further include other mounting structures for mounting a seat assembly to the stroller chassis and for supporting both rearward facing and frontward facing orientation of the seat assembly as well as selectable inclination positions. Each of the hubs includes a folding mechanism for supporting folding of the stroller, such as for transport in a vehicle or for storage. Other laterally spaced apart hubs are provided along the upper frame members for providing a second point of attachment between two coupled strollers and for mounting of accessories. |
| US08276932B2 |
Multi-task trailer hitch assembly
The multi-task trailer hitch assembly of the present invention provides receiving tubes for the attachment of one or more trailer hitch-mounted receiver-type accessories while retaining a trailer hitch for pulling a trailer in the single hitch receiver provided on many trucks and ATVs. This permits the simultaneous use of multiple accessories while retaining the concurrent ability to tow. Multiple receiver tubes can be provided, both horizontal and vertical, and oriented not only toward the rear but also at right angles from the ball mount. This permits fastening one or more attachments from not only the rear but also from the top and inward from both sides toward the ball mount. Extra hitch ball mounts and other towing accessories may also be conveniently stored in the receiver tubes of the present invention while towing with a particular Class II or Class III hitch ball mount in the appropriate vehicle-mounted hitch receiver. |
| US08276931B2 |
Dual tow ball coupling apparatus
A coupling apparatus includes a base, an arm extending from the base, a first tow ball extending from a first side of the arm, and a second tow ball extending from an opposite second side of the arm. The base is configured to be removably attached to a vehicle in opposite first and second positions such that the first tow ball is in an upright orientation when the base is attached to a vehicle in the first position, and the second tow ball is in an upright orientation when the base is attached to a vehicle in the second position. Each of the first and second end portions of the base includes a respective post, and a retainer assembly is configured to be removably attachable to each post. |
| US08276924B2 |
Golf bag carrier
A golf bag carrier comprising a vertical bar, foldable wheels installed on the vertical bar; a fixing band installed on the vertical bar to fix the golf bag, a supporting plate that is coupled to a lower end of the vertical bar such that it is unfolded when the golf bag is loaded thereon and folded when the golf bag is unloaded therefrom, a first support that is fixed at an upper portion of the vertical bar to support the golf bag, an elevating bar that is coupled to an upper end of the vertical bar by a height adjusting unit, and a second support that is installed to support an upper end of the golf bag. |
| US08276923B2 |
Mobile gimbaled 5-gallon bucket dolly
A single handled two-wheeled gimbaled bucket dolly or hand truck is configured to lift, transport and pour the contents of a bucket or container with minimal operator effort. The dolly or hand truck may use a horizontal “C” shaped frame cross member and two rigid vertical gimbaled columns to support a pivoting bucket or container. This apparatus allows the bucket to tilt a full 180 degrees on its horizontal axis in order to effortlessly dispense its contents and to transport the bucket across uneven terrain. A second gimbaled bucket or container holder can be combined into one unit allowing for lifting, transporting and pouring the contents of containers or buckets. |
| US08276916B2 |
Support for bullet traps
A bullet trap is disclosed which is formed without intervening sidewalls to enable cross-shooting and the like with reduced risk or ricochet or damage to the bullet trap. Furthermore, the bullet trap can be configured in a variety of ways to eliminate the need for facing plates while providing a removable attachment mechanism, to enable repair on the trap, to reduce bullet adhesion to the trap and to provide improved containment of lead and improved access to the trap. |
| US08276914B2 |
Doll of football game table
A doll of football game table for mounting on an operation rod of the football game table is disclosed. The doll includes a first main body and a second main body. Bottom ends of the two main bodies are detachably latched with each other. A connecting member detachably connects top ends of the main bodies. Accordingly, the main bodies are detachably mounted on the operation rod. The doll further includes at least one fixing member for engaging at least one of the main bodies with the operation rod. By means of operating the operation rod, the doll can be driven to move or rotate. The doll can be directly mounted on or taken off from the operation rod. In case of damage of the doll, the main bodies of the doll can be unlatched from each other to take off the doll from the operation rod so that the doll can be easily replaced. |
| US08276912B2 |
Medium path converting unit, image forming apparatus including the same and control method thereof
A medium path converting unit to reduce electrical stress, an image forming apparatus including the same and a control method thereof. The medium path converting unit to convert a moving path of a print medium can include a guiding member movable to a first position to guide the print medium to a first path and to a second position to guide the print medium to a second path, an actuator to move the guide member from the first position to the second position, an actuator solenoid to drive the actuator, and a locking unit to lock the actuator to allow the guiding member to maintain the second position. |
| US08276911B2 |
Inertial flattening apparatus for note processing
According to an illustrative embodiment, an apparatus for guiding a document includes a curved, document guide having a receiving end and an outgoing end. The receiving end is adapted to receive a moving document. The curved document guide is to guide the document along a curved path such that the document experiences a centrifugal force causing the document to substantially flatten against a concave surface of the curved document guide as the document moves toward the outgoing end of the curved document guide. At least a portion of the curved document guide has a radius of curvature. The curved document guide further includes an apex of the curvature at which one or more instruments are approximately directed. |
| US08276908B2 |
Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus includes a tray in which a recording material is to be set, the tray being reciprocated between a first position where the tray is exposed to allow the recording material to be set therein and a second position shifted from the first position in a first direction, where the tray is stored; a transporting mechanism that applies transportation force for reciprocating the tray; and a transportation-force transmitting member that is connected to the tray to mediate transmission of the transportation force to the tray and is capable of increasing or decreasing a space occupied by the transportation-force transmitting member in the direction of reciprocation. |
| US08276896B2 |
Positioning device for cutting tools in tool cases
A positioning device for chip removing tools includes a tool holder receiver aligned with a positioning mechanism such as an engagement or index groove. A tool holder is aligned with the tool holder receiver at an angular position. A tool is aligned with the tool holder at another angular position. |
| US08276894B2 |
Insulator for a vehicle suspension system
A wheel suspension system for a vehicle includes a mounting base and a striking base spaced from each other and moveable relative to each other along an arced line of motion. An insulator is coupled to and extends from the mounting base. The insulator is formed of an elastomeric material for compression between the mounting base and the striking base when the striking base contacts the insulator during movement of the mounting base and the striking base relative to each other. The insulator is compressed along the arced line of motion between the mounting base and the striking base. The insulator includes an impact portion extending at an acute angle relative to the base plane for distributing compressive forces within the insulator as the insulator is compressed along the arced line of motion. The distribution of the compressive forces within the insulator increases the durability and reliability of the insulator. |
| US08276892B2 |
Humidity controller
According to a humidity controller (10), a first heat exchanger chamber (37) and a second heat exchanger chamber (38) are arranged next to each other in the left-to-right direction in the casing (11). A first adsorption heat exchanger (51) is accommodated in the first heat exchanger chamber (37), and a second adsorption heat exchanger (52) is accommodated in the second heat exchanger chamber (38). The humidity controller (10) alternately performs an operation in which outdoor air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51) and room air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52), and an operation in which outdoor air passes through the second adsorption heat exchanger (52) and room air passes through the first adsorption heat exchanger (51). In the humidity controller (10), dampers (45, 47) which face the first heat exchanger chamber (37) near a supply fan (26), are positioned at locations close to the second heat exchanger chamber (38), and dampers (46, 48) which face the second heat exchanger chamber (38) near an exhaust fan (25), are positioned at locations close to the first heat exchanger chamber (37). This structure reduces a difference between pressure losses of the air in the casing (11) during the respective operations. |
| US08276889B2 |
Diverse bubble size generation
Method and apparatus for producing a bubble curtain with a diversity of bubble diameters for purposes such as modifying the characteristics of a seismic source used in marine seismic surveys. Bubble generating elements are used that combine porous wall material with discrete holes (91) to create a curtain of diverse-sized bubbles (92). |
| US08276888B2 |
System and method for dissolving gases in fluids and for delivery of dissolved gases
Apparatus and methods are disclosed for facilitating dissolution of one or more gases into a liquid. Preferred gases for use with the apparatus are oxygen, air, and ozone. An apparatus of the present invention comprises a dissolution tank that includes a pressure vessel, at least one liquid spray nozzle, and a fluid outlet. The apparatus also comprises a gas source, means for passing fluid into the pressure vessel, and a discharge device connected to the fluid outlet, which discharge device is provided with at least one orifice. Preferred applications include wastewater treatment, treatment of drinking water, fermentation, and bioremediation. |
| US08276883B2 |
Cable installation
A method, for use in connection with installing a cable into a conduit (4) having a first end and a second end (12), of detecting whether air is flowing from the first end to the second end, the method including the steps of: —providing a movement sensor (10) within or proximate to the conduit; —providing an air flow (14) into the conduit from the first end; and —detecting that the air is flowing to the second end when the air flow disrupt the movement sensor. |
| US08276879B2 |
Beverage faucet lever, tap marker mounting device using beverage faucet lever and associated beverage faucet and method for using the same
A beverage faucet lever comprising: an upper shaft, wherein the upper shaft comprises a tap marker alignment member, and wherein the upper shaft comprises a lip for engaging a tab of a tap marker mounting device, and further wherein the upper shaft is at least partially positionable within a tap marker mounting device; a lower shaft, wherein the lower shaft comprises an actuator and wherein the lower shaft is at least partially positionable within a beverage faucet; and a ball joint positioned between the upper shaft and the lower shaft, wherein the ball joint is at least partially positionable within a beverage faucet. |
| US08276875B2 |
Plate clamp
A plate clamp where clamp resistance when a tube is slid from an insertion hole to a slit section is low, where clamping operation is easy, and where the tube being clamped at the slit section is less likely to unintentionally slide to the through-hole side. The clamp for a tube has the slit section for clamping and holding the tube at plate-like members, a tube lead-in section as a groove forwardly expanding from the forward end of the slit section, and the tube insertion hole continuously formed with the tube lead-in section. A stopper section is provided only on one side of the boundary between the tube lead-in section and the slit section. |
| US08276873B2 |
Instrumented platform for vibration-sensitive equipment
A vibration damper assembly that can be attached and moved about a payload surface of a table. The vibration damper assembly includes a sensor and a damper located within a housing. The housing can be attached to the payload surface by one or more fasteners. An operator can move the vibration damper assembly to different locations of the payload assembly to optimize the damping function of the assembly. |
| US08276872B2 |
Computer retail display stand
A computer retail display stand includes a base with an adjustable rear locking bracket assembly that can be engaged with an in-store locking bar, adjusted as necessary for the particular configuration of the in-store locking bar. A support platen on which a computer can be disposed for display is rotatingly coupled to the base. Informational material can be supported on a brochure tray that slides into and out of the base at the front of the stand. |
| US08276871B1 |
Universal turntable for christmas tree stands
A method of rotatively displaying a Christmas tree with a universal display stand turntable having a stationary base, a rotatable platform having a plurality of concentric annular steps, each step having a bottom portion, a wall portion and a frictional surface on the bottom portion of the steps, and a ball bearing raceway rotatably connecting the base and the platform. The view of the Christmas tree can be adjusted by placing a Christmas tree display stand in the platform, resting on one of the steps, affixing a Christmas tree to the stand, and rotating the platform to display the Christmas tree as desired. |
| US08276868B2 |
Seat adjuster for sports equipment
A seat adjuster for an article of sports equipment includes a base, a locating frame pivotally connected with the base for connection of a seat, a first locating plate mounted with the base, and a second locating plate pivotally connected with the locating frame so as to be pivotable between a first position where a second teeth portion of the second locating plate is engaged with a first teeth portion of the first locating plate such that the locating frame can't be pivotable relative to the base for fixing the seat in position, and a second position where the second teeth portion of the second locating plate is disengaged from the first teeth portion of the first locating plate such that the locating frame can be pivotable relative to the base for allowing the angle of inclination of the seat to be adjustable. |
| US08276864B2 |
Mounting bracket for display
A mounting bracket for a display includes a first rail and a first clamping mechanism. The first clamping mechanism is slidably mounted to the rail along a first direction. The clamping mechanism includes a first and a second clamping members. The first and second clamping members are telescopically mounted to each other along a second direction, which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. Each of the first and second clamping member includes a clamp assembly. Each clamp assembly extends along a third direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction. The two clamp assemblies can cooperatively clamp the display. |
| US08276861B2 |
Clips for mounting a panel to a vehicle
One aspect according to the present invention includes a base portion and a clamp portion. The base portion can be joined to a first member of a vehicle. The clamp portion is formed integrally with the base portion and can joined to a second member of the vehicle. The clamp portion includes a first jaw and a second jaw defining a receiving space therebetween. The receiving space can receive a part of the second member. A support portion is formed on one of the first and second jaws and is positioned within the receiving space. The support portion is resiliently deformable and can apply a pressing force against the part of the second member in a direction toward the other of the first and second jaws during and after insertion of the part of the second member into the receiving space. |
| US08276854B2 |
Clamp for circular objects
A clamp includes first and second parts, each of the parts having a circular central section and a pair of straight extensions extending away from the circular central section in opposite directions. In the first part the holes are closed holes, while in the second part the holes are open holes, connected by slots to an upper edge of the part. Bolts may be pre-located through the closed holes, with nuts threaded onto the bolts, but not tightened. The pre-placed bolts may be received through the slots and into the open holes of the second part. The nuts may then be tightened against the second part to clamp the circular central sections on opposite sides of a circular object, such as a vertical pipe run, between the parts. According to a variant, the bolts are permanently secured to the first part so as to prevent rotation of the bolts. |
| US08276853B2 |
Air hose support clip to prevent lateral loading
Apparatus for suspending a device such as the end of a depending air brake hose from a railcar. A flexible strap of a synthetic resin such as moldable polyurethane is suspended from the railcar body, for example, by attachment to an apertured fitting on the railcar coupler. Elongated resilient wire clips are provided to attach the free end of the air hose. The wire clips are generally configured with a latching end including interlocking end portions for connection to the strap through a selected attachment aperture, a pair of flexibly resilient, elongated manually compressible elongated arms extending away from the latching end portions and a return portion joining the arms. The clip is further provided with a retainer operative when the arms are interlocked for maintaining the attachment aperture fitting within the confines of the return portion and out of position in which loading of the clip is exerted laterally of the clip arms. |
| US08276851B2 |
Control of aerodynamic forces by variable wetted surface morphology
Systems and methods for providing dynamic control to a vehicle in a dynamic fluid. The systems and methods of the invention relate to one or more morphable surfaces that can be controlled by a controller and an actuator in an active manner to provide asperities that interact with a fluid moving across the morphable surfaces. By controlling the size, shape and location of the asperities, one can exert control authority over the motion of the vehicle relative to the fluid, including a speed, a direction and an attitude of the vehicle. Examples of materials that provide suitable morphable surfaces include ionic polymer metal composites and shape memory polymers, both of which types of material are commercially available. Useful morphable surface systems have been examined and are described. |
| US08276847B2 |
Cover for an aircraft structure
A cover for an aircraft structure, in particular for nose parts of the vertical tail, horizontal tail or the wing, including a skin and support structure. The skin is arranged on the support structure and the support structure includes a plurality of ribs and a plurality of stringers. The plurality of stringers are arranged on the plurality of ribs to support the skin. Also provided is an aircraft having such a cover. |
| US08276845B2 |
Advanced aircraft cockpit
An aircraft cockpit that includes comfort and/or security adjustable equipment in which the adjustments are controlled by an adjustment management system so that, by the unique selection of a position desired by the pilot from at least two positions, the adjustment of each of the aforementioned members is modified from a current value to a predetermined value characteristic of the selected position and depending on the pilot. The data characteristic of the members adjustments controlled by the adjustment management system and depending on the pilot are stored in a mobile medium and read by a means for recognizing the aforementioned management system. The adjustments controlled by the adjustment management system can relate to piloting seats, piloting rudder bars, piloting armrests, individual aeration systems and individual lighting systems. |
| US08276843B2 |
Variable stroke rear landing gear strut
A rear landing gear for an aircraft includes a strut configured to have a variable height at a lowered position. The strut is variable between a maximum height at which the aircraft has a substantially horizontal trim and a minimum height at which the aircraft has a nose-up trim, and includes a barrel and a shock absorber. The shock absorber bears a set of wheels and is slidably mounted in a passage of the barrel, the passage defining a variable-volume internal fluidic chamber. A source of fluidic power connects to the variable-volume internal chamber via a controllable shut-off member and is configured to fill or empty the variable-volume internal chamber with fluid, varying the height of the strut between the maximum height and the minimum height. |
| US08276842B2 |
Dual actuator drive assembly with synchronization shaft
A drive arrangement comprising first and second actuators (24) arranged to drive respective output members (22) for movement, first and second synchronization arrangements (34) associated with respective ones of the first and second actuators (24), and a synchronization shaft (36) interconnecting the synchronization arrangements (34). |
| US08276841B2 |
Hydraulic actuator with end position damping
A hydraulic actuator includes, but is not limited to a first outflow and a second inflow and outflow as well as a closure device for closing the second inflow and outflow in the direction of outflow. The first outflow an outflowing hydraulic fluid is subjected to flow resistance. When a switching position is reached, the second inflow and outflow is closed in the direction of outflow so that the hydraulic fluid has to be discharged through the first outflow while overcoming the flow resistance. This damps the movement of the hydraulic actuator in the region of an end position. |
| US08276839B2 |
Handle cover dispenser
Disclosed herein is a device for dispensing and collecting handle or armature cover material or covers for use, by way of example, with door handles, knobs, and the like. In one embodiment, the device is an automated handle cover dispenser that can include a dual use handle cover refill cartridge for both supplying and collecting handle cover material, or alternatively, a plurality of reels or cartridges (e.g., a supply reel and a take-up reel). The material, when supplied, at least partially covers a handle (e.g., door handle) during use by a consumer. |
| US08276837B2 |
Method and devices for detaching a charge stuck to the inner wall of a grinding pipe
In a method for detaching a charge (5) which is stuck to the inner wall of a grinding pipe (1), the grinding pipe (1) is rotated in a targeted manner such that the charge (5) that is stuck is removed from the inner wall of the grinding pipe (1) as a result of multiple modification of the rotational speed of the grinding pipe (1) and, optionally, as a result of abrupt braking of the grinding pipe (1). Generally speaking, the material-dependent maximum angle of rotation F of the grinding pipe is not exceeded in order to avoid the charge that is stuck from falling in an uncontrolled manner. The invention supercedes labor-intensive and protracted methods for detaching such charges (5) since the tasks can be carried out by the same motor of the drive device (2) which is used to drive the grinding pipe (1) during the grinding process. |
| US08276835B2 |
Aerosol product comprising an aqueous composition
The design of the spray nozzle in an aerosol dispenser controls the characteristics of the spray that is produced. In a nozzle that comprises the elements of a multiplicity of inlet channels leading to a swirl chamber and an outlet orifice, the perception of wetness of a spray, such as an aqueous alcoholic deodorant spray, can be reduced by dimensioning the respective elements so that the sum of the widths of the inlet channels is less than the diameter of the swirl chamber and at least 1.5 times the diameter of the outlet orifice and the outlet orifice has a diameter of at least 0.3 mm together with the inlet channels being short, such as less than 0.5 mm. The new nozzle is especially suitable for spraying compositions having a low volatile organic carbon content and compositions comprising a significant proportion of water. |
| US08276833B2 |
Handheld and multi-section water distributor
A handheld and multi-section water distributor contains a body including an inlet end, an outlet end, and a chamber defined between the inlet end and the outlet end; a pressing element including a push segment and a press segment integrally connected on a bottom end of the push segment; a plugging member including a plug segment and a retaining segment integrally extending from a bottom end of the plug segment; the plug segment being formed in a cone shape and extending downward decreasingly to define an outer sealing wall so as to closely engage with the inner sealing wall of the closing room; the retaining segment including a number of protrusions arranged around a bottom end thereof to be retained in the recesses respectively; a resilient element fixed between the inflow room and a top fence of the plugging member to push the plugging member. |
| US08276831B2 |
Motor vehicle having built-in generator and air compressor
A box truck for supplying sufficient electrical power and compressed air flow to enable spray foam contractors to use specialized equipment to foam insulate buildings. Such a truck has the necessary generator and air compressor systems mounted within the chassis of the vehicle and said systems do not take up valuable cargo space within the truck box, while utilizing components present in normal box truck designs to assist in their operation. The generator system is hydraulically powered and utilizes a PTO (Power Take-Off) mechanism to use power from the truck power train to drive the hydraulic system. The air compressor is a screw type compression system and is belt driven off the truck engine. |
| US08276830B1 |
No leakage or dripping air-scenting device
An air-scenting device, which can be mounted vertically, horizontally or at any orientation, including upside down, without any leakage or dripping is disclosed in which there is no free-to-flow fluid under gravitational force, thus causing no spillage at any orientation. The device comprises a barrel containing an open-cell porous mass which contains air-scenting liquid within its pores and a porous wick surrounded by a cage, having perforations, and allowing evaporation of air-scenting fluid transferred to it by capillary action. |
| US08276817B2 |
Information media processing device
An information media processing device may include a transport passage in which an information medium having MICR characters printed in a predetermined print position is transported, a magnetic head arranged in the transport passage, an image reading means arranged in the transport passage, a transporting means arranged in the transport passage, which has a shifting mechanism for shifting the information medium into an area in which the magnetic head can make magnetic detection, and a controller which detects the reference edge of the information medium based on the image read by the image reading means to judge if the print position is distanced by a predetermined amount or more from the magnetically-detectable area of the magnetic head based on the reference edge; when the print position is distanced by a predetermined amount or more, the transporting means shifts the information medium into the magnetically-detectable area while transporting the information medium. |
| US08276808B2 |
Methods of two-sided printing
An application or print driver on a point-of-sale terminal determines the break point of a transaction record to be printed on two sides of media. The print data is sent to the printer in a particular amount of print data for print on the front side followed by a particular amount of print data for print on the back side. The application or print driver then alternates between the print data on the front and the print data on the back until the end of the transaction record is transmitted. When all print data for the front is transmitted, an end of front data indicator is sent. When all print data for the back is transmitted, an end of back data indicator is sent. When both indicators are sent, the printer is allowed to cut the transaction record. |
| US08276807B1 |
System and method for collecting containers
An apparatus is illustrated for collecting containers and that includes a storage receptacle having an access door and a support tray. The storage receptacle has an opening through which a container is inserted for receipt on the support tray. The support tray has an initial substantially horizontal position. A scanner detects the presence of the container on the support tray. A collection bag is supported in the storage receptacle at a bottom thereof and for receiving a plurality of containers. The collection bag is accessible via the access door. A mechanism is responsive to the scanner detecting the presence of the container for releasing the container from the support tray to enable the container to fall into the collection bag. The container is released by the support tray pivoting from the substantially horizontal position to an angled position to thus enable the container to fall into the collection bag. |
| US08276805B2 |
Method and system for brazing
This invention provides methods and systems for brazing. One aspect of the invention provides a method of brazing cutter teeth. The method includes providing a bit body, pressing at least one cutter against the bit body with a spring device, placing the bit body and the at least one cutter in an inert gas filled chamber with about 10% H2, and heating the chamber to a temperature above the melting point of the filler metal thereby melting the filler metal. A quantity of filler metal is held between each of the at least one cutters and the bit body. |
| US08276801B2 |
Surgical stapling apparatus
A surgical stapling apparatus is provided and includes a housing having an actuator; an elongated member extending from the housing; an end effector disposed on an end of the elongated member, the end effector having a first jaw and a second jaw, the first jaw having a staple cartridge and the second jaw having a plurality of staple forming recesses; the staple cartridge having at least a first segment and a second segment, the first segment and the second segment each having a tissue contacting surface and staple receiving slots defined in the tissue contacting surface, the first segment and the second segment being biased toward the second jaw and movable; a biasing members for each of the first segment and the second segment; and a pressure sensor for each of the first segment and the second segment. |
| US08276799B2 |
Front-depression stapling device
A stapling device includes a device body to which a depressing bar is pivotally mounted. Through a link plate, the depressing bar selectively drives a staple striking assembly downward for striking out staples. The depressing bar has a depressing end that is located at the same side as the portion of the device body where the staple striking assembly is mounted. The link plate has an end to which a lifting member that selectively engages and lifts the staple striking assembly is mounted. . . . The staple striking assembly includes a guide board that can be set in engagement with and thus driven by the lifting member. The staple striking assembly, when lifted to a predetermined height level, is released to strike out staples and the lifting member is caused to transversely shift to allow for the instantaneous downward movement of the staple striking assembly for striking out staples. |
| US08276795B1 |
Modular ammunition restraint system for ambush protected vehicles
Flexible restraint devices (MARS units) are provided for holding ammunition and ammunition packaging containers, mounted through wall mounting rails onto the interior of an ambush protected vehicle, or the like. |
| US08276794B2 |
Vehicle article carrier having releasable and stowable cross bars
A vehicle article carrier system that may have a pair of support rails and at least one cross bar. The cross bar may have an end support at each opposing end thereof. Each of the support rails may include an elongated recess extending parallel to a longitudinal axis thereof, where the elongated recess may be shaped generally in accordance with the cross bar, for receiving the cross bar when the cross bar is placed in a stowed orientation. Each of the support rails may further have at least one primary locking bar for supporting said cross bar in an operative position extending generally perpendicularly between the support rails, and at least a pair of secondary locking bars for supporting the cross bar in said elongated recess when the cross bar is placed in the stowed orientation in one of the support rails. Each of the end supports may include a locking assembly for securing the cross bar to either one of said primary or secondary locking bars, to thus place said cross bar in either the operative position or the stowed position. |
| US08276791B2 |
Feed hopper having rotatable sleeve
An exemplary feed copper, configured for introducing plastic granules into a heating cylinder of an injection molding machine, includes a feed duct, a guiding duct communicated with the feed duct, and a sleeve. The sleeve movably wraps around the guiding duct, and have a lateral through hole for conforming with the lateral opening, such that the plastic granules can be accessible via the guiding duct when the lateral through hole is aligned with the lateral opening. |
| US08276784B2 |
Pressure activated automatic source switching dispenser system
A dispenser includes a housing that holds first and second refill units, each including a product container and a valve assembly that receives product from the product container. An actuator mechanism associates with the first refill unit and is actuated to force air into the associated valve assembly and dispense product from the valve assembly until such time as the product container associated with that valve assembly is empty. When empty, a float valve of the valve assembly prevents the actuation of the actuator mechanism and forces the actuator mechanism to associate with the second refill unit. While so associated, the first refill unit can be replaced, thus, helping to ensure that the dispenser does not run out of product. |
| US08276782B2 |
Cushioning structure
A cushioning structure includes a main body and two first cushioning elements. The first cushioning elements clip two ends of the main body, respectively, to form a containing space. Each of the first cushioning elements has two symmetrical cushioning portions for sandwiching the main body. Each of the cushioning portions has an inclined plane extending inward from an edge of the main body. |
| US08276779B2 |
Baffle for automotive fuel tank
A baffle for an automotive fuel tank that can be firmly fixed in the fuel tank and prevent flow noises effectively. The baffle is established in a fuel tank in which touching portions are formed in such a manner that a predetermined portion of an upper wall protrudes down and inward and a predetermined portion of a lower wall protrudes up and inward in the corresponding position. A fixing baffle plate and a pressing baffle plate are provided including fixing portions formed on both sides of plate portions having a plurality of holes. A baffle filter is disposed between the plate portions of the baffle plates and fixed as the baffle plates are assembled with each other. The baffle is fixedly established by suspending the fixing portions of the two baffle plates on both sides of the touching portions such that the baffle stands vertically in the fuel tank. |
| US08276777B2 |
Closure with tamper evident strip for container
The present invention is a tamper evident closure for containers. The tamper evident closure is a perforated strip that is releasably attached to lids on the base. When the lid of the closure is opened, the strip is torn from the lids, thereby indicating that the item has been tampered with. The invention is manufactured to be employed on commonly available containers for food and personal care items. |
| US08276775B2 |
Container with at least one groove of variable depth
Container, made of a thermoplastic such as PET, having a body oriented along a longitudinal axis with a wall enclosing the axis defining two faces separated from each other by two connecting regions. The body is provided with one groove extending partly over the two faces of the body and one of the two connecting regions, wherein the one groove extends approximately in a plane at right angles to the axis of the body with a depth which is variable between a first depth P1 in the two faces of the body and a second depth P2 in the connecting region. The ratio P1/P2 between the two depths is between zero and a value less than or equal to 0.5. |
| US08276774B2 |
Container base structure responsive to vacuum related forces
A plastic container has a base adapted for vacuum pressure absorption. The base portion includes a chime extending from a body portion to a contact ring which defines a surface upon which the container is supported. The base further includes a central portion defined in at least part by a pushup having a generally truncated cone shape in cross section located on a longitudinal axis of the container, and an inversion ring having a generally S shaped geometry in cross section and hinge means formed therein, and circumscribing the pushup. The truncated cone has an overall general diameter that is at most 30% of an overall general diameter of the base and a top surface generally parallel to a support surface. |
| US08276770B2 |
Rotatable organizer
A rotatable organizer comprising: a base; a first grooved wheel in rotatable communication with the base, the first grooved wheel comprising a first groove; an exposed turntable fixedly attached to the first grooved wheel, the exposed turntable having a center; a second grooved wheel in rotatable communication with the base, second grooved wheel comprising a second groove; a second turntable fixedly attached to the second grooved wheel, the second turntable having a center; a belt attached to the first groove and the second groove, and configured to rotate the second grooved wheel when the first grooved wheel rotates; a rail attached to the base and extending up orthogonally to at least one of the turntables, wherein the rail encloses at least a portion of the perimeter of the rotatable organizer; a central divider located on a plane that contains an imaginary line that extends from the center of the exposed turntable to the center of the second turntable, the plane being generally orthogonal to the surface of the exposed turntable and the surface of the second turntable; where the exposed turntable and the second turntable are configured to be rotatable with respect to the base. |
| US08276768B1 |
Magnetic knife guard device
A magnetic knife guard that attaches to one side of a knife and enables a user to safely and easily store individual knives in a drawer or hang individual knives on kitchen utensil racks without damaging or dulling the cutting surface of the knife. An embedded magnet within the guard holds the guard to the blade while a plurality frictional contact pads prevent slipping or rotation of the guard on the blade. |
| US08276767B2 |
Sliding type tool storage structure
A sliding type tool storage structure comprises an open-close switching unit clamped between a first storing element and a second storing element that can slide relative to each other. When the first storing element slides relative to the second storing element to change their relative position, stopping portions on the open-close switching unit will open or close tool storing grooves on the respective storing elements. Being a simple structure, the sliding type tool storage structure is easy to carry. Furthermore, since the tool storage structure can be operated simply by sliding of the first and second storing elements, it is very convenient to use. |
| US08276763B2 |
Filter cartridge with flow passage in end plate
A filtration system, for example a fuel filtration system in an engine, that helps prevent engine operation when there is no filter cartridge installed or a non-recommended and/or inferior filter cartridge is installed. The filter cartridge includes first and second endplates, one of which includes a fluid flow passage therein through which fluid can flow. The flow passage connects the clean fluid from the filter to a clean fluid outlet. |
| US08276762B2 |
Method and system for performing a magnetic separation procedure
Methods, systems, and apparatus are provided for automated isolation of selected analytes, to which magnetically-responsive solid supports are bound, from other components of a sample. An apparatus for performing an automated magnetic separation procedure includes a mechanism for effecting linear movement of a magnet between operative and non-operative positions with respect to a receptacle device. A receptacle holding station within which a receptacle device may be temporarily stored prior to moving the receptacle to the apparatus for performing magnetic separation includes magnets for applying a magnetic field to the receptacle device held therein, thereby drawing at least a proton of the magnetically-responsive solid supports out of suspension before the receptacle device is moved to the magnetic separation station. An automated receptacle transport mechanism moves the receptacle devices between the apparatus for performing magnetic separation and the receptacle holding station. |
| US08276760B2 |
Serpentine structures for continuous flow particle separations
An improved technique for particle separation is provided. A serpentine structure is utilized in a continuous fluid flow environment to allow for suitable separation of particles to occur in a manner that does not require external application of forces to initiate the separation. The geometry of the serpentine structure and associated forces generated in connection with fluid flow therein suffice. |
| US08276759B2 |
Front opening wafer carrier with path to ground effectuated by door
A front opening wafer carrier formed principally of plastic and comprising an enclosure portion and door has a path to ground with respect to the wafers, the path to ground effectuated by the door. The base “ground” may be provided at the machine interface upon which the carrier sits, or through the robotic arm that grasps, operates and moves the door. |
| US08276755B2 |
Flexible container and method of manufacturing the container, and highly viscous material charged container
The flexible container relating to the present invention comprises a cylindrical member (10) made from flexible film, a bottom plate member (12) which is harder than the flexible film, fitted into the inner side of a first end section of the cylindrical member (10) and fused-bonding airtightly; and a ring member (11) which is harder than the flexible film, fitted into the inner side of a second end section of said cylindrical member (10) and fused-bonding airtightly. According to this flexible container (2), it is possible greatly to reduce the volume of the container after discharging the highly viscous material from the flexible container, and it is possible to achieve small and inexpensive molds having excellent productivity as molding equipment for forming the bottom plate member (12) and the ring member (11), thereby achieving benefits in that the price of the equipment can be reduced significantly. |
| US08276753B2 |
Product containment, transportation, exhibiting, and dispensing packaging structure
A packaging structure for containing, transportation, exhibition, and dispensing of products at points of sale, of a type including a cubical three-dimensional frame formed by four angular beams in a rectangular or quadrangular arrangement, attached on their lower and upper ends by angular crossbeams, generating empty windows on all its faces; the angular beams and crossbeams are made of compressed rigid cardboard and have two equal arms defining an “L”, set with their vortexes facing inside this structure; the structure is set on a base or pallet, that the attachment between the angular beams and crossbeams is made through structural corner joints having an orthogonal square shaped flat surface section with round vortex, an upward projecting and fixating perpendicular tab of a substantially trapezoidal section on each exterior side of the vortex; the tabs and square shaped flat surface include holes through which fixating means are placed in order to attach arms of the beams and crossbeams; a rectangular cavity is made exactly at the exterior corner of the orthogonal square. |
| US08276752B1 |
Tool box
A tool box includes a box formed by top and bottom covers, in which the two covers are pivoted with each other so that the box can open or close; a lock member, in which one end of the lock member is pivoted on the bottom cover and another end of the lock member is used to lock with the top cover; and two handles disposed on top and bottom covers respectively. If the box is unlocking, the handle on the bottom cover is blocked by the lock member and the handle is not allowed to be bent up. Consequently, a user will be aware that the box is unlocking. |
| US08276750B2 |
Package of cigarettes having an inner package with a stiffener
A package of cigarettes, having: a group of cigarettes; an inner package enclosing the group of cigarettes and made from a sheet of wrapping folded about the group of cigarettes; and a U-shaped stiffener made of rigid material and located inside the inner package, contacting the group of cigarettes; the sheet of wrapping has two flaps which are superimposed and heat sealed to each other at a rear wall or front wall of the group of cigarettes defined by the cylindrical lateral walls of the cigarettes. |
| US08276748B2 |
Ingredient release spout
A spout for an associated container for dispensing a substance into the container. The spout may include a cap, a capsule that can be filled and sealed with a sealing layer, and a nozzle that can be screwed onto the container and carries a piercing device protruding therein such that the sealing layer of the capsule is pierced by the piercing device upon the turning of the cap. |
| US08276747B2 |
Module for a modular belt and a driving sprocket for easy cleaning
A modular conveying system with sprockets engaging the modules such that they do not cover any link gaps but are positioned between the link gaps. The module is characterized by link structures having link pairs that are spaced apart sufficiently at a distance to allow the sprockets to be located between the link pairs. Positioning the sprockets between the link pairs leaves the hinge gaps uncovered and thus allows free access to the hinge gap for cleaning. |
| US08276739B2 |
Three-dimensional automated pick module
Individual items or multiple items are stored on vertical stacks (or racks) of conveyors. The stacks of conveyors are located on both sides of a vertical transport on which cartons, totes, and/or pallets are loaded. The vertical transport is able to be vertically lifted in a fashion similar to an elevator so that the totes on the conveyor can receive items from the various levels of the storage rack conveyors. To speed up the loading process, items can be loaded in the containers simultaneously from both sides of the container and/or sequentially. In one form, a cross-belt conveyor is used to load the items. Alternatively or additionally, robotic arms can be used to load the items. One or more conveyor drivers can be used to power multiple conveyors in order to index items to a loading position on the conveyors. |
| US08276738B2 |
Drive system for escalators and moving walkways
Drive system for escalators and moving walkways, comprising a set of wheels (3) carrying free-rotating rollers (4), with parallel axes to that of the wheels, and one or more shafts (5) perpendicular to the movement direction of the belt of steps or pallets (1), in which said roller wheels are mounted. The shafts (5) and wheels (3) are arranged between the moving forward way and the return way of the belt of steps or pallets (1). The wheels (3) engage through the rollers (4) with the steps or pallets (1) through engaging formations (7) of said belt of steps or pallets (1). The shafts (5) connect to a driving assembly through a transmission mechanism. |
| US08276736B2 |
Conveyor apparatus and system for moving material
A conveyor apparatus includes a first conveyor apparatus and a second conveyor apparatus. The first conveyor apparatus is positionable adjacent to a feed conveying device. The first conveyor apparatus is configured to pivot about a position adjacent to the feed conveyor device or move laterally adjacent to the feed conveyor. The second conveyor apparatus is configured to move such that the second conveyor apparatus maintains a position substantially parallel to the first conveyor apparatus when the first conveyor apparatus moves or pivots. In some embodiments, the second conveyor apparatus may also be configured to move along a path so that the second conveyor apparatus is extendable beyond an end of the first conveyor apparatus. The path may be a linear path and may be substantially parallel to the length of the first conveyor apparatus such as a path that extends in a direction that is a few degrees off of being perfectly parallel. |
| US08276733B2 |
Sheet processing system, sheet processing apparatus, and sheet processing method
A sheet processing system has a sheet processing apparatus and a server. The server stores, as sheet, the identification data of a sheet and the result of a process performed on the sheet in association. The server transmits the sheet data to the sheet processing apparatus. The sheet processing apparatus receives the sheet data from the server and stores the sheet data. The sheet processing apparatus acquires images of the sheet fed to it and acquires the identification data of the sheet on the basis of the images acquired. The sheet processing apparatus refers to the sheet data, discriminates the sheet on the basis of the identification data acquired, and classifies and collects the sheet in accordance with the result of discrimination. |
| US08276730B2 |
Clutch
A clutch of hydraulic-pressure type comprising a linearly controlled piston (300) that is movable in a channel in the clutch and that carries a pivotally mounted support leg (208) that is spring biased into axial alignment with the piston, the side of which facing away from the support leg is loaded by the hydraulic pressure. The clutch is annular and co-operates with a shaft shank (1), and the free end of the support leg rests against a support surface carried by the shaft shank (1) upon rotation between the shaft shank (1) and the clutch (4), the support leg is turned away, whereby the piston (300) is displaced and opens a valve through which the hydraulic pressure is evacuated. |
| US08276727B2 |
Dual clutch
A dual clutch assembly which has compensating actuation forces for vehicles. |
| US08276725B2 |
Selectable one-way clutch
A clutch for transmitting torque between a first member and a second member includes a locking plate having an engagement groove, a carrier disposed adjacent the locking plate, an engagement member rotatably supported in an aperture of the carrier, an apply biasing element, a release plate, a release biasing element, and an electromagnet. The engagement member is rotatable between an engagement position and a release position. |
| US08276723B2 |
Lock-up clutch for hydrokinetic coupling device including improved connection means
A lock-up clutch (12) for a hydrokinetic coupling device (10), wherein the clutch includes rotational coupling means between a first element (44, 46) and an adjacent element (14A, 36) consisting of elastic tongues (60) adapted to transmit torque between the elements (44, 46, 14A, 36) and to be deformed elastically in the axial direction to enable movement of the first element (44, 46) relative to the adjacent element (14A, 36) about the articulation member in the form of an annular boss (50). |
| US08276722B2 |
Repeating lateral transverse support for at least one lateral electric power supply profile and for the guide rail of an electrically powered guide road vehicle
The repeating transverse support is either a one-branch or a two-branch (15, 16) sleeper which is pressed against the bed plate (8) by elements which secure the directional guide rail (2). The terminal ends of this sleeper, which are in the form of mounting plates (23, 24), each support an electrical power supply lateral profile (33, 34) by way of an electrical insulator (27, 28) and an adjustment member. This repeating transverse support is of interest to the manufacturers of tracks for electrically powered guided road vehicles. |
| US08276721B2 |
Collapsible baggage and method of collapsing and expanding a baggage
A collapsible baggage comprises structural side assemblies. The structural side assemblies comprise a plurality of interconnected panel members. When the baggage is expanded, the panel members of each side assembly are generally in plane with each other and are able to prevent the baggage from collapsing under load. The panel members can pivot relative to each other in a manner allowing the baggage to collapse. |
| US08276720B2 |
Double path torsional damper
The present invention is a double path torsion isolator for use in conjunction with a torque converter. Each of the two vibration paths includes a flange with a spring connection to each of the torque converter cover and an output connection attached to the transmission shaft. The torque converter turbine is connected to one of the flanges to provide a different frequency to the associated vibration path. When the lockup clutch is engaged, the engine vibration is divided along the two vibration paths toward the common output connection. The vibration frequency of the paths are adjusted so that the frequencies of the two paths are 180° out of phase at the output connection providing a vibration cancellation effect to the output connection. |
| US08276719B2 |
Bicycle damper
A damper for a bicycle having, in one arrangement, a primary unit and a remote unit. The primary unit includes a damper tube, a spring chamber, and a piston rod that supports a main piston. The main piston is movable within the damper chamber of the primary unit. The main piston and the damper tube at least partially define a compression chamber. The remote unit comprises a remote fluid chamber and an inertial valve within the remote unit. The inertial valve is preferably responsive to terrain-induced forces and preferably not responsive to rider-induced forces when the shock absorber is assembled to the bicycle. A fluid flow control arrangement within the remote unit utilizes compression fluid flow to delay closing of the inertial valve after acceleration forces acting on the inertial valve diminish. In some arrangements, the inertial valve and fluid flow control arrangement may reside in the primary unit. |
| US08276716B2 |
Arrangement and method for determining the position of an elevator car by inductively connecting position identifier to electromagnetic radio-frequency measuring signal from measuring apparatus
An arrangement and a method are provided for determining the position of an elevator car in the elevator hoistway. The arrangement includes a measuring apparatus fitted in connection with the elevator car. The measuring apparatus is arranged to form an electromagnetic radio-frequency measuring signal, for determining the position of the elevator car. The arrangement also includes a position identifier fitted in a selected location in relation to the elevator hoistway. The position identifier is arranged to connect inductively to the electromagnetic radio-frequency measuring signal, and also after it has connected to send a determined pulse pattern using the electromagnetic radio-frequency measuring signal. |
| US08276715B2 |
Method and apparatus for assigning elevator hall calls based on time metrics
A method for assigning an elevator car to respond to a call signal includes a controller that determines which elevator car will respond to the call signal based on certain time metrics. The controller receives a hall call signal, and based on certain time metrics that can include, e.g., an estimated wait time (EWT), and/or estimated travel time (ETT), assigns the call signal to an elevator car. In this example, EWT represents the time a passenger is waiting for an elevator car to arrive, and ETT represents the it takes for a passenger to reach their destination once having boarded an elevator car. In some versions, an estimated time to destination (ETD) is used in determining which elevator car to assign, where ETD represents the sum of EWT and ETT. In some versions, a handling capacity coefficient (HCx), which reflects current traffic conditions, is used in determining which elevator car to assign. |
| US08276710B2 |
Method for producing a lightweight, sound insulating covering for motor vehicles and corresponding covering
A method for producing a lightweight, sound insulating covering (1, 1′, 1″, 1″′) for a body component of a motor vehicle, in particular a lightweight dashboard covering, wherein the covering (1, 1′, 1″, 1″′) is produced as a foamed, sound absorbing molded part in a single-stage operation by injecting a reactive mix, comprising polyol and isocyanate, into a cavity (11) of a foaming tool (9), wherein before and/or during the injecting, at least one predetermined surface portion (17), defining the cavity (11) of the foaming tool (9), is temperature-controlled in such a manner that the foamed molded part comprises an integral substantially pore free skin (1.1) with a thickness of at least 0.5 mm on one side, and comprises an open porous surface (1.2) and/or a thinner, sound permeable skin (1.4) on its side opposite to said skin (1.1). |
| US08276709B2 |
Transportation vehicle sound insulation process and device
A sound insulation process comprises (a) providing at least one sound insulation device comprising at least one sound barrier comprising at least one substantially periodic array of structures disposed in a first medium having a first density, the structures being made of a second medium having a second density different from the first density, wherein one of the first and second media is a viscoelastic medium having a speed of propagation of longitudinal sound wave and a speed of propagation of transverse sound wave, the speed of propagation of longitudinal sound wave being at least about 30 times the speed of propagation of transverse sound wave, and wherein the other of the first and second media is a viscoelastic or elastic medium; and (b) interposing the sound insulation device between an acoustic source area and an acoustic receiving area of a transportation vehicle. |
| US08276707B2 |
Anti-noise device for the air intake conduit of a supercharged internal combustion engine
Anti-noise device for an internal combustion engine (9) equipped with a turbocompressor (10) for supercharging includes a turbine (11) placed in the exhaust gas flow and driven by these gases with the turbocompressor (10) connected by a shaft (13) to a compressor (14) mounted in the air intake conduit (3) of the engine (9). The anti-noise device includes a hinged flap (4) mounted within the air intake conduit (3) of the engine (9), upstream from the compressor (14) and capable of closing this conduit (3) under the action of a gaseous reflux coming towards it. |
| US08276706B2 |
Method and apparatus for a loudspeaker assembly
The present invention relates to a loudspeaker assembly and a method of assembling a loudspeaker assembly, comprising forming a front baffle, a first driver mounting portion, an intermediate portion, and an edge mounting portion. A port aperture formed in the intermediate portion, and a first driver installed in the first driver mounting portion. A rear baffle comprises a top portion, sidewalls, a recessed mounting portion, an edge portion and an electrical assembly. The edge mounting portion of the front baffle is attached to the recessed mounting portion of the rear baffle, and the rear baffle is secured to the back of the first driver. A back box is placed over the rear baffle provides thermal insulation, and a mounting plate securely attaches the first driver to a structural support. A perforated grille is crimped to the edge portion of the rear baffle and an edge portion of the back box. |
| US08276701B2 |
Omni-directional contiguous moving surface
An apparatus capable of omni-directional movement including a belt layer made of a plurality of interlocking flexible rings and a surface layer made of a laterally inelastic and longitudinally flexible material that surrounds the exterior of the belt layer. The device has a bladder located in the interior of the belt layer that provides structural support for the belt layer and surface layer and a hub that is in contact with the surface layer and is connected to an axle. Longitudinal motion occurs as the bladder, the belt layer, the surface layer, and the hub rotate together. Lateral motion occurs as the belt layer and the surface layer rotate around the bladder. Longitudinal motion is induced by a plurality of electromagnetic curvilinear motor drive rings that are located around the hub and are in contact with the surface layer. |
| US08276692B1 |
Electronic hand truck
The present invention consists of an electric powered, motorized hand truck having a substantially rectangular platform, at least four wheels, an electronic control panel, and a plurality of frames adapted to retain at least one cylindrical container. The frames are removably secured either horizontally or vertically to the rectangular platform. A gear axle and motor apparatus is secured to power the movement of the truck. Furthermore, a lithium ion rechargeable battery pack may be provided as an energy source for the motor, although different types of motors may be used including, but not limited to: gasoline, fuel cell, bio-diesel and diesel. |
| US08276689B2 |
Methods and apparatus for drilling with casing
In one embodiment, a method of forming a wellbore includes running a liner drilling assembly into the wellbore, the liner drilling assembly having a liner, a conveying member, one or more connection members, and a drilling member. The method includes temporarily suspending the liner at a location below the rig floor; releasing the conveying member and the drilling member from the liner; re-connecting the conveying member to the liner; releasing the liner from its location of temporary suspension; and advancing the liner drilling assembly. |
| US08276684B2 |
Machine tool with auxiliary cushion structure
A machine tool with an auxiliary cushion structure includes a machine tool having a grip portion and a trigger switch mounted on the grip portion. The grip portion has a control lever pivotally mounted thereon to enable the control lever to rotate against the grip portion, so as to press the trigger switch during rotation and drive the machine tool to operate. The grip portion further has an auxiliary cushion mounted thereon and a gap is formed between the auxiliary cushion and the control lever. The auxiliary cushion has a supporting surface which is tilted upwards from one end close to the control lever to the other end. Thus no matter the control lever is pressed by the operator or released, the operator's hand can rest on the supporting surface to alleviate or ease the fatigue. |
| US08276681B2 |
Nipper
Provided is a vibration-type nipper. The vibration-type nipper comprises a body including a vibration space and a coupling unit for coupling with a boom positioned at an upper portion or a fixing bracket of heavy equipment, a housing positioned in the vibration space and including a vibrator, a plurality of supporting member to opposite sides of the housing and the body corresponding to the housing and supporting the housing allowing the housing to vibrate, a nipper blade installed on the housing and extending downwards, and vibration-dampening member mounted on the body at an upper portion of the vibration space and distributing vibration generated when the housing collides with the body due to elevation of the housing. |
| US08276679B2 |
Roof top and attic vent water misting system
The present invention describes systems and methods which provide a moisture barrier that douses or diffuses buoyant burning debris, particularly hot embers, from a bush and/or brush fire (e.g., wildfires). By strategic placement of the devices and/or apparatus as disclosed, a method of preventing the destruction of dwellings and roof-containing structures by exploiting heat convection is provided. |
| US08276678B2 |
Support assembly for a deformable sealing element for a downhole tool
A support assembly for a deformable sealing element of a downhole tool, such as a packer or a bridge plug. The assembly comprises a first and a second support device. The first and the second support devices each comprise at least one support member which support member includes a plurality of segments located on an outer surface thereof, the segments being arranged such that when moved radially outwardly they maintain a continuous surface abutting the respective end of the sealing element. A downhole tool having a deformable sealing element and including a support assembly for a deformable sealing element is described. |
| US08276677B2 |
Coiled tubing bottom hole assembly with packer and anchor assembly
A bottom hole assembly (BHA), adapted to be positioned in a casing and to isolate a portion of a wellbore, which includes a packer assembly with a first sealing element extending between first and second portions of the packer assembly. A method of setting a BHA in a casing which includes increasing a BHA pressure to activate an anchor assembly, applying a mechanical force to mechanically deform a first sealing element to thereby establish an initial seal between the first sealing element and an interior surface of the casing, and increasing a pressure in a space between the BHA and the casing and in a cavity within the BHA to increase a differential pressure across the first sealing element and thereby establish a pressure-energized seal between the first sealing element and the interior surface of the casing. |
| US08276676B2 |
Pressure-activated valve for hybrid coiled tubing jointed tubing tool string
Embodiments of the hybrid tool string include coiled tubing and jointed tubing, as well as a means typically located at the connection of the coiled and jointed tubing for sealing the fluid flowpath through the bore of the hybrid tool string. Embodiments of the hybrid tool string may use a pressure-activated valve tool attached in series between the coiled tubing and the jointed tubing, which allows for sealing of the bore by application of pressure. Embodiments of the pressure-activated valve tool may use a flapper in conjunction with a sleeve to seal the bore. The novel hybrid tool string may be used to service a well. |
| US08276675B2 |
System and method for servicing a wellbore
A wellbore servicing system, comprising a first sleeve system, the first sleeve system comprising a first sliding sleeve at least partially carried within a first ported case, the first sleeve system being selectively restricted from movement relative to the first ported case by a first restrictor while the first restrictor is enabled, and a first delay system configured to selectively restrict movement of the first sliding sleeve relative to the ported case while the restrictor is disabled. |
| US08276674B2 |
Deploying an untethered object in a passageway of a well
A system includes a string that includes a passageway and a plurality of tools. The system further includes an untethered object that is adapted to be deployed in the passageway such that the object travels downhole via the passageway and controllably expand its size as the object travels downhole to selectively cause one of the tools to capture the object. |
| US08276672B2 |
Bimetallic diaphragm for trapped fluid expansion
A subsea well tubular member has an axial passage with upper and lower retrievable plugs releasably mounted in the passage, the plugs having ends facing each other. A cavity is formed on one of the ends of one of the plugs. A movable barrier is mounted sealingly over the cavity, the barrier being movable repeatedly between inner and outer positions in response to temperature changes. The inner position reduces a volume of the cavity and increases a volume of a trapped fluid space between the ends of the plugs. The outer position increases the volume of the cavity and decreases the volume of the trapped fluid space. The barrier has two metallic layers with different coefficients of expansion. |
| US08276669B2 |
Variable flow resistance system with circulation inducing structure therein to variably resist flow in a subterranean well
A variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber having an outlet and at least one structure which resists a change in a direction of flow of a fluid composition toward the outlet. The fluid composition may enter the chamber in the direction of flow which changes based on a ratio of desired fluid to undesired fluid in the fluid composition. Another variable flow resistance system can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows, the chamber having an inlet, an outlet, and a structure which impedes a change from circular flow about the outlet to radial flow toward the outlet. |
| US08276668B2 |
Method and device for cleaning and sealing a well
The present invention relates to a method for cleaning and possibly sealing a subsurface well. According to the method a multichannel tool string comprising an adapter on a first end of the tool string, a guide device at the second end of the tool string are run into the well, whereupon the guide device is activated in order to permit the well to be flushed by the supply of fluid through at least one of the channels in connection with the tool string and fluids and particles from the well are transported back to the surface through at least one other of the channels in connection with the tool string. The invention also relates to a device for cleaning and possibly sealing a subsurface well. |
| US08276667B2 |
Delayed breaking of well treatment fluids
An embodiment of a downhole method of breaking of a well treatment fluid relates to overcrosslinking a polymeric thickener with an overcrosslinking agent such as an excess crosslinking agent and/or an excess alkaline material, wherein either or both the agent and/or material may be encapsulated. |
| US08276659B2 |
Proppant addition system and method
An apparatus and related method for fracturing a formation penetrated by a well comprises a frac pressure pump, a frac fluid source, and a proppant supply source. The frac pressure pump is connected to the well. The frac fluid source is connected to supply a stream of frac fluid to the frac pressure pump. The proppant supply source has a proppant receiver, a positive displacement pump, and at least an inlet into the proppant supply source. The at least an inlet is connected to one or more liquid hydrocarbon sources to supply liquid hydrocarbons to proppant in the proppant supply source. The positive displacement pump is connected to pump proppant into the stream of frac fluid before the frac pressure pump. Fluid lines connecting the frac pressure pump, the well, and the frac fluid source have isolation valves spaced so that the volume of fluid containable between any set of neighboring isolation valves is less than or equal to 500 L. |
| US08276657B2 |
Well fluid sampling system for use in heavy oil environments
A technique involves sampling fluids in a well environment. An expandable packer is constructed with an outer seal layer. At least one sample drain is positioned through the outer seal layer, and a heater element is deployed in the at least one sample drain. In one embodiment, the heater element is deployed proximate a radially outlying surface of the expandable packer. Additionally, a temperature sensor may be positioned proximate the at least one sample drain to monitor temperature in the environment heated by the heater element. |
| US08276654B2 |
Core assembly with deformation preventing features
A heat exchanger assembly includes a core assembly having air passages that are closed off on at least one side by a closure bar. A reinforcing bar is received within a channel of the closure bar to create an interface with substantially no gaps that may accumulate moisture within the core assembly. The prevention of moisture accumulation at the interface between the reinforcing bar and the closure bar prevents potential damage caused by freezing. |
| US08276650B2 |
Machine having self-cleaning cooling system and method
A machine includes a heat exchanger for an engine having a heat exchanger core and a filtration system. The filtration system includes a flexible filter sheet coupled with at least one take-up roller and a filter cleaner adapted to clean the filter via compressed air. A method of operating a machine cooling system includes rotating a rotatable drive element coupled with a filter, and cleaning the filter by directing compressed air therethrough. |
| US08276647B2 |
Process and apparatus for a combined casting and rolling installation
A method and an apparatus for producing hot-rolled products in a combined casting-rolling installation. A method and a combined casting-rolling installation with which an uninterrupted continuous casting process can be maintained not only when there is a planned interruption to production but also when there is an unplanned interruption to production, occurring for example in a heating zone, a finishing mill train, a cooling zone or a storage device. These method steps are carried out to bridge an interruption in production in the part of the installation that is downstream of the cutting-up and delivering device (6): a) cutting off a strand portion (21) of the continuously produced preliminary material (3) by means of a first shears (9); b) raising the tail part of the strand portion (21) from the roller table (4) by means of a raising device (11); c) breaking up the preliminary material (3) passing the first shears (9) into pieces of scrap (19) by means of the first shears (9) into pieces of scrap (19) by means of the first shears (9), delivering the pieces of scrap (19) and removing the strand portion (21) unit the operational readiness of the combined casting-rolling installation is restored. |
| US08276643B2 |
Roller blind system for a motor vehicle
A protection or shading system for a motor vehicle, in particular a wind deflector system for a convertible, with a base, a sheet-like structure entendable between an inoperative position and a functional position in an extension direction away from the base, a rigid end element fastened to the sheet-like structure, and an extension device fastened on one side to the base and on the other side to the end element. The extension device is designed so as to transfer the system from an inoperative state in which the sheet-like structure, the end element and the extension device are each in an inoperative position, into a functional state, in which the sheet-like structure, the end element and the extension device are each in a functional position. |
| US08276639B2 |
Plant for producing single-dose capsules for preparing beverages
A plant for manufacturing single-dose capsules for preparing beverages, comprising a conveyor (2) for advancing impermeable shells (101) in succession along a production line, which plant comprises at least: forming means (3) for forming individual beaker-shaped filters (105) of filtering material and for releasing each of the beaker-shaped filters (105) inside an impermeable shell (101), means for adjusting the level of each beaker-shaped filter (105) inside the relative impermeable shell (101), and welding means (5) for welding the upper edge of each beaker-shaped filter (105) to the upper edge of the impermeable shell (101) in which the beaker-shaped filter (105) is inserted. |
| US08276637B2 |
Apparatus and method for manufacturing sheet
An end of a sheet drawn out form a feeder is clamped by a pair of upper and lower clamping devices of two or more pairs. The sheet is drawn out from the initial position to the end position in a spread state. While the spread sheet is being tentered on pin tenters, another pair of upper and lower clamping devices at the end position is separated from each other and moved along the respective rails into the initial position. The end of the sheet drawn out from the feeder is clamped from above and below at the initial position with the upper and lower clamping devices that has returned to the initial position. |
| US08276627B2 |
Golf club head cover with snap closure
There is provided a golf club cover with a magnetized snap closure that provides a functional but convenient and attractive method for affixing and removing a cover from the head of a golf club, particularly a putter. A golfer need only align the golf club, such as by pointing the tip of a putter head toward the opening in the cover, and then quickly push the club head right through the opening and into an internal cavity of the cover. Two matching arm fasteners are disposed in opposing flaps of the cover. The arm fastener includes a flange portion and a magnet with the magnets serving to maintain the arm fasteners in a generally engaged position. Movement of the club shaft toward the interior of the cover will cause the magnetic snap closure to briefly open so as to allow the shaft to pass through the closure. Then, once the shaft has passed the closure, meaning that the head of the club has reached its resting place in the cover cavity, the snap closure then automatically (magnetically) closes so as to secure the golf club cover around the club head. In order to remove the club from the cover, the user quickly pulls the club away, which sufficiently opens the snap closure and allows the club to be extricated from the cover. |
| US08276626B2 |
Sanitary protective cover for appliance handle
A sanitary shield for preventing direct contact of a user with an exterior surface of an elongated handle includes a flexible sheet having each of a predetermined width, a predetermined length and a predetermined thickness. The flexible sheet is formed from a flexible plastic material. A first row of interposed tabs and notches is formed in a first side edge of the flexible sheet and a second row of interposed tabs and notches is formed in a second side edge of the flexible sheet, whereby each tab in one row is aligned with a notch in an opposed row. The respectively aligned tabs and notched are interlocked with each other for firmly securing the flexible sheet onto the elongated handle, whereby the interlocking tabs and notches along with the first and second side edge lie within confines of the predetermined thickness of the flexible sheet. The sanitary cover may be also provided as a tubular member. |
| US08276623B2 |
Device for automatically filling product containers with a liquid comprising one or more medicines
The invention relates to a device for filling one or more product containers with a liquid comprising one or more medicines. The device comprises a housing at least provided in a position of use with an array of medicine containers, at least some of which are provided with concentrated liquid components of the one or more medicines. The housing is also provided with an automatic machine which is adapted to manipulate a syringe for measured take-up of liquid from a medicine container. The automatic machine is adapted to rotate the medicine container transversely of its longitudinal axis. |
| US08276611B2 |
Externally adjustable pressure compensated flow control valve
An in-line fluid flow control valve includes a housing defining an inlet chamber and an outlet chamber aligned along a outlet axis. The housing further defines a bore with a flow control device and an adjustment mechanism disposed therein for regulating a fluid flow rate. The flow control device defines a fluid passage interconnecting the inlet chamber and the outlet chamber. The plane and the outlet axis define an acute angle therebetween. The angled position of the bore relative to the outlet axis permits access to and adjustment of the flow control device, as well as replacement of the flow control device, without disconnecting any fittings attached to the inlet and the outlet of the control valve. |
| US08276608B2 |
Device for securing the valves of fire posts using the control tube
The invention relates to a device for securing a fire hydrant, comprising a duct (3), a control pipe (4) having an operation end piece (5) at one end and a valve (7) at the other end capable of supplying said duct (3) with water from the main network, at least one connection (8) attached to said duct and capable of receiving fire hoses, said connection (8) including a sealing plug (9), said plug (9) including at least one first retaining means (15, 15a, 15b) capable of interacting with the control pipe (4) or with a wall of said duct (3) so as to prevent the sinking of the plug into said connection, characterized in that said plug (9) includes at least a second retaining means (13) for preventing the extraction of the plug from said connection and actuated by a locking device (12). |
| US08276607B2 |
Umbrella for automobile
A retractable umbrella includes a retractable tube, a pulling rod, a rainshade screen, and a drip water collector. The retractable tube comprises retractable reels, and it is attached on a door frame of a car. Each of the retractable reels is disposed in the retractable tube. The pulling rod is attached to a rim portion of the door accepting frame of the car. The rainshade screen comprises an outer edge, an inner edge, a front edge, and a rear edge. The outer edge is attached to the retractable reels of the retractable tube. The inner edge is attached to the pulling rod. The front edge connects front portions of the inner and outer edges. The rear edge connects rear portions of the inner and outer edges. The drip water collector collects water dripped from the rainshade screen, and is disposed at an inner portion of door of the car. |
| US08276604B2 |
Peripherally engaging electrode carriers and assemblies incorporating the same
In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, an assembly is provided comprising a multi-component electrode and a peripherally engaging electrode carrier. The peripherally engaging electrode carrier comprises a carrier frame and a plurality of reciprocating electrode supports. The multi-component electrode is positioned in the electrode accommodating aperture of the carrier frame. The backing plate of the electrode comprises a plurality of mounting recesses formed about its periphery. The reciprocating electrode supports can be reciprocated into and out of the mounting recesses. Additional embodiments of broader and narrower scope are contemplated. |
| US08276595B2 |
Lice comb
A lice comb (10) including a plurality of teeth (14) for capturing lice when the teeth (14) are passed through hair. The lice comb (10) is provided with a receptacle (22) including an adhesive inner surface and a means for moving lice captured by the teeth (14) into the receptacle (22) such that the lice come into contact with the adhesive surface, preventing escape of the lice. |
| US08276594B2 |
Knife lockout mechanisms for surgical instrument
A cartridge assembly for use with a surgical stapling instrument is disclosed. The cartridge assembly includes a channel, a cover, a staple cartridge and a knife. The channel includes a protrusion thereon. The cover is configured for mechanical engagement with the channel and includes a blocking member and a surface defining a plane. At least a portion of the blocking member is configured to move away from the plane upon contact with the protrusion. The staple cartridge is configured for mechanical engagement with the cover. The blocking member is configured to substantially prevent distal translation of the knife after the knife has been translated proximally past a predetermined position. |
| US08276593B2 |
Methods for treating eye conditions
Architectures and techniques for treating conditions of the eye, such as presbyopia, utilize sources of treatment energy, such as electromagnetic energy emitting devices, to implement non-corneal manipulations. According to these devices and methods, the sources of treatment energy are activated to direct energy onto parts of the eye, such as the conjunctiva and sclera, to treat presbyopia. The treatments can affect at least one property of the eye and enhance an accommodation of the eye. |
| US08276592B2 |
Aesthetic treatment for wrinkle reduction and rejuvenation
A dermatological treatment method includes directing laser energy having a wavelength of 2.79 μm onto skin. According to disclosed methods, the energy can function to ablate a first portion of epidermal tissue, coagulate an underlying second portion of epidermal tissue, and promote collagen formation in tissue of the underlying dermis. In an exemplary treatment apparatus, a laser using a YSGG gain medium is mounted in a handpiece. The handpiece may include a two-axis scanner to allow for uniform scanning of the energy over the tissue surface. |
| US08276590B2 |
Thermally mediated tissue molding
A method and device to modify tissue in a manner such that it will take on a permanent new shape. Subdermal tissue is heated to approx 60° C. at which point it becomes pliable and moldable and will take on a permanent new shape if allowed to cool and heal in a new position. |
| US08276587B2 |
Automated qualitative mask fit tester
A hand-held, automated qualitative fit tester (QLFT) for establishing gas mask fit integrity. The automated QLFT may be configured to utilize a pressure source in combination with a cartridge and a nebulizer to generate aerosols having size distributions and concentrations that are substantially the same as OSHA-approved manual units. The QLFT may further include a cartridge that contains the aerosol solution used to test mask integrity. The cartridge may be configured to recapture solution that collects on the interior walls of the nebulizer. The automated QLFT may also be equipped with a microprocessor for executing sequences that are in substantive compliance with 29 CFR 1910.134 and for writing to a data storage device. The automated aspects of the invention can reduce or negate the need for operating personnel to repeatedly and manually actuate a squeeze ball and record results manually, as is required with present OSHA-approved hand-held aerosol generators. |
| US08276585B2 |
Systems and methods for visualizing pressures and pressure responses to sleep-related triggering events
Systems and methods for visualizing patient treatment data collected while a patient suffering from sleep-disordered breathing is treated are provided. For example, according to certain example embodiments, a PAP device for treating a patient suffering from sleep-disordered breathing is provided. A processor may be set or programmed to generate a signal indicative of a triggering event. A flow generator may be configured to provide a supply of pressurized breathable gas to the patient based at least in part on the signal. Recording programmed logic circuitry may be provided to record in a data log pressures provided during patient treatment and triggering events occurring during patient treatment. Visualizing programmed logic circuitry in communication with the PAP device may be configured to read the data log and generate a visual depiction of provided pressures over time. Triggering events may include, for example, one or more of apnea, hypopnea, flattening, snore, etc. |
| US08276582B2 |
Respirator assembly
A respirator assembly e.g. for NBC protection is formed from two separate sub-assemblies. The first sub-assembly comprises a flexible hood (or other suitable headgear), a rigid mounting ring and a peripheral face seal. The second sub-assembly comprise a face plate with lens, oronasal mask and inlet and outlet valves, and is demountably attachable to the ring. The first sub-assembly can be worn on its own with the user breathing ambient air through the front end, the second sub-assembly being added if and when a hazard is encountered. The positioning of the face seal in the first sub-assembly means that a comfortable and reliable fit can be ensured when the sub-assembly is donned prior to a mission, but the user is relieved of the physiological burden of wearing the complete respirator unless and until protection is required. |
| US08276580B2 |
Modular transpired solar air collector
A solar air heating module provides heated air to a ventilation system. The solar air heating module includes a collector for heating and drawing in outside air and a housing. The collector includes an absorber plate for absorbing incident sunlight and includes a plurality of perforations therethrough. The perforations are distributed across the absorber plate for allowing passage of air into the collector. The collector also includes a collector tray mounted behind the absorber plate. The collector tray includes an output for allowing the passage of air out of the collector. The collector tray is spaced from the absorber plate to define a cavity therebetween in which air can to flow towards the output. The housing is mounted to the collector tray and forms a plenum therewith for receiving air from the output. The plenum is at a lower pressure than that of the outside air. The plenum is connected to the ventilation system. A plurality of modules may be combined to form a system. |
| US08276578B2 |
Skid plate for concrete saw
A skid plate for a concrete saw is integrally cast having two end mounting portions and a middle portion with a slot in the middle portion. A horizontal slot in a leading end mounting portion cooperates and a vertical slot in the trailing end portion releasably engage pins on the saw to allow the skid plate to be easily fastened to and removed from the saw. A spring loaded latch mechanism holds the pins in the slots. |
| US08276577B2 |
Boom mounted saw
A method and apparatus for a saw device mountable on a self-propelled piece of equipment, such as tractor, is described. In one embodiment, the saw device includes a gripper and cutter unit mountable on an articulatable arm or boom of the tractor. In one aspect, the gripper and cutter unit is coupled to a distal end of the boom by a frame, the frame being movable in at least an angle relative to a plane of the boom. The gripper and cutter unit comprises a material gripping device and an articulatable saw comprising a circular saw blade operably coupled to a motor, the saw blade and the motor coupled to a pivotable arm that is movable relative to the frame. |
| US08276574B1 |
Compound archery bow
A compound archery bow includes a handle having projecting limbs, and first and second pulleys mounted on the limbs for rotation around respective axes. At least a first of the pulleys includes a flat base with a bowstring let-out groove on the base and a bowstring anchor adjacent to the bowstring let-out groove. A draw module is disposed on the base, a cable groove extends along the draw module, and first and second cable anchors are disposed on the base adjacent to respective ends of the cable groove. The cable groove on the draw module is continuous in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the first pulley. A bow cable arrangement includes a bowstring cable extending from the bowstring anchor on the first pulley around the bowstring let-out groove and then toward the second pulley. A first cable extends from the first anchor on the first pulley through a portion of the cable groove on the module and then toward the second pulley. A second cable extends from the second anchor toward the second pulley. Draw of the bowstring cable away from the bow handle lets out bowstring cable from the bowstring cable groove on the first pulley and rotates the first pulley around its axis, lets out the first cable from the groove on the module and takes up the second cable into the groove on the module including a portion of such groove previously occupied by the first cable. |
| US08276571B2 |
Passive re-induction apparatus, system, and method for recirculating exhaust gas in gasoline and diesel engines
An exhaust gas re-induction apparatus and system. The exhaust gas re-induction apparatus is coupled to an exhaust system or catalytic converter of an engine. The exhaust gas re-induction apparatus includes an oxygen sensor substitute apparatus having an exhaust gas diffusion chamber disposed therein, and an exhaust gas interface housing to receive the oxygen sensor substitute apparatus. A recirculation conduit connects the exhaust gas re-induction apparatus to an air inlet of an engine. The oxygen sensor substitute apparatus includes a coupling section to attach the oxygen sensor substitute apparatus in place of an oxygen sensor apparatus. The oxygen sensor substitute apparatus also includes an exhaust gas dispersion section having a plurality of orifices for dispersing exhaust gas. The exhaust gas re-induction apparatus and the recirculation conduit have always-open passages in which the exhaust gas is recirculated to the engine at different rates depending essentially on the operating speed of the engine. |
| US08276569B2 |
Fuel vapor processing apparatus
One aspect according to the present invention includes a fuel vapor processing apparatus including an insert. The insert can determine an effective flow passage area of the adsorption material chamber without producing a non-filled region of an adsorption material, through which fuel vapor containing gas flows. |
| US08276566B2 |
Method for operating a fuel injection system of a motor vehicle in particular
A method for operating a fuel injection system of a motor vehicle in particular is described. The fuel injection system has a fuel accumulator, capable of receiving fuel via a metering unit. In the method, an actual pressure in the fuel accumulator is affected by an I regulator, among other things. A precontrol value is generated by a precontrol characteristic map, which is used for compensating manufacturing-related differences in the components of the fuel injection system. |
| US08276561B2 |
Axial thrust washers partially for unbalance shafts
Axial thrust washers are provided in the axial contact region of the bearing raceway of an unbalance shaft. The axial thrust washers do not extend beyond 360° in the circumferential direction, but extend only over a little more than the unbalance masses which extend in this region. The end sections of the axial thrust washers are bent over so that they are supported on the prominent unbalance masses, and form a funnel-like entry region for the rolling elements or for a cage of the rolling bearing which houses the rolling elements. |
| US08276558B2 |
Device for variably adjusting the control times of gas-exchange valves of an internal combustion engine
A device for variably adjusting the control times of gas-exchange valves of an internal combustion engine. The device has a drive input element and a drive output element, The drive input element is placed in driving connection with a crankshaft of the internal combustion engine, the drive output element is arranged so as to be pivotable with respect to the drive input element, and the device is fastened to a camshaft which has a hollow shaft and an inner shaft which is arranged concentrically with respect to the hollow shaft. An improved mounting arrangement of the concentrically arranged shafts with respect to one another is proposed. |
| US08276552B2 |
Opposed piston engine
An opposed piston engine includes at least one cylinder with inlet and exhaust ports and opposed pistons disposed in the cylinder for reciprocating opposed motion toward and away from each other. An auxiliary system pumps liquid coolant separately to the cylinder and pistons. Another auxiliary system controls the flow of intake and exhaust gas in the engine. |
| US08276550B1 |
Control system of internal combustion engine
A control system of an internal combustion engine enabling effect production of hydrogen and reliable promotion of burning of ammonia by a simple structure. The internal combustion engine uses ammonia as a fuel and is provided with a fuel injector injecting fuel into an intake passage and a variable operating mechanism able to change a valve opening operation of the intake valve. In the exhaust stroke, this temporarily opens the intake valve. Ammonia for hydrogen production is injected from a fuel injector into the gas flowing back at this time from the combustion chamber to the inside of the intake passage. As a result, hydrogen is produced from the ammonia. In the following intake stroke, this hydrogen is fed into the combustion chamber together with the ammonia and is burned together with the engine drive use ammonia. |
| US08276548B2 |
Low cost tankless portable water heater
A portable tankless water heater includes a heat exchanger disposed in a sealed housing with an inlet cold water line and an outlet hot water line extending outside the sealed housing. A burner, disposed in an operative relationship with said heat exchanger is provided for heating water flowing through said heat exchanger and an exhaust system induces draft of air from a housing air inlet through said heat exchanger and out of a housing flue outlet. |
| US08276547B2 |
Pet toy with therapeutic features
A pet toy includes a plurality of raised features to enhance a dental cleaning action of the animal toy within the animal's mouth. The raised features are provided in groups or sets of linearly extending and uniformly spaced protrusions. The protrusions preferably cover a majority of the outer surface of the pet toy. The distal tips of the protrusions may be roughened in order to enhance dental cleaning. A squeaker may be incorporated within the pet toy by an internal holding pocket that is integrally molded when the pet toy is manufactured. A control element may be used to activate or deactivate the squeaker. |
| US08276546B2 |
Pet washing apparatus and method
Disclosed is a pet washing apparatus having a base including a washing floor board for positioning a pet and a top part connectible with the lower base. The top part further includes a cover positionable at least partly over the floor board to define, at least partly, a contained wash space. Preferably, the washing apparatus also includes a nozzle supported on the cover and operably positioned to spray downwardly onto the base and pet positioned in the wash space. |
| US08276542B1 |
Method and structure for entrapping soils carried by pet's paws, using a bonded, porous, web forming, highloft nonwoven pad or runner
A two-layer bonded highloft nonwoven particle entrapment pad, for entrapping soils tracked by pets, comprises an open, porous, bonded highloft nonwoven top layer and an otherwise solid, impenetrable bottom layer or structure secured to its underside. The highloft top layer is manufactured from a synthetic material consisting of numerous matrices or cross-over connections which create open porous sieve-like varieties, wherein a web structure of the highloft layer comprises a distinct top, middle, and bottom that is capable of allowing the particles and the litter to enter and be entrapped therein via gravity when stepped upon. A sticky, tackified adhesive maintained on a complex of bonded fibers of the highloft, said adhesive increases its holding capacity as does mechanical abrasion to the top surface of the highloft nonwoven. The present bonded, highloft pad can be manufactured from a variety of densities, deniers and depths from an airlaid, a drylaid, or a wetlaid process. |
| US08276537B2 |
Method for manufacturing semiconductor device and semiconductor manufacturing apparatus
In one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device is disclosed. The method can include, upon attaching a bonding material containing a resin and a solvent to a second surface opposed to a first surface including a circuit pattern of a wafer, heating the bonding material to evaporate the solvent and decreasing vapor pressure of the solvent in an atmosphere faced with the bonding material and heating the attached bonding material to form a bonding layer. |
| US08276535B1 |
Seabasing ship
The density of “ready for take-off” aircraft on a flight deck of a ship is increased by orienting the aircraft at orientation angles between 20° and 180° from dead ahead. Preferred ships are modified from, or utilize a design derived from an existing ship, especially a large containership or other commercial ship. One or more payload staging decks can be advantageously located under the flight deck. All suitable types of aircraft are contemplated, including especially helicopters, tilt-rotors, and other rotorcraft. In preferred embodiments at least three, five, or ten aircraft are vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft. Also in preferred embodiments, at least five of the first plurality of the aircraft are capable of carrying a payload greater than 20,000 pounds. |
| US08276533B2 |
Methods for assembling components of a fabric-covered prosthetic heart valve
A system and method for assembling a prosthetic heart valve, including a procedure for tightly wrapping fabric around a heart valve support stent. The support stent typically includes alternating cusps and commissures that create a highly contoured undulating outflow edge. The system includes a mandrel for retaining tension without manual assistance in a tubular length of fabric wrapped over the support stent. The mandrel may include an inner clamping mechanism for holding the first end of the fabric tube, a pedestal tube on which the support stent rests and through which the fabric tube passes, and an outer clamping mechanism for holding the free end of the fabric tube. The inner and outer clamping mechanisms include discrete clamps spaced apart 120° from each other that pull the fabric only in the cusps of the support stent. The inner clamping mechanism, outer clamping mechanism, and pedestal are relatively axially movable. Once the fabric is retained over the support stent, the mandrel may be placed in a chuck of a sewing machine system for automatically forming the seam. A small shuttle with bobbin thread reciprocates within a channel inside of the support stent and cooperates with the sewing machine needle to form a lock-stitch in the fabric tube. The mechanization of the fabric covering procedure greatly enhances manufacturing throughput and reduces ergonomic strain on workers. |
| US08276529B2 |
Row unit for a seeding machine
A seeding machine row unit having a seed meter with an endless belt as a seed transport member. A pressure differential holds the seed onto the belt. The belt allows greater freedom in determining the location of the seed pick-up region and the seed release or removal region beyond the constraints of a fixed diameter seed disk. The row unit further includes a delivery system using a brush belt to move metered seed from the meter to the ground. |
| US08276526B2 |
Adjusting device
An adjusting device having an inner tubular body, an outer tubular body configured to slide concentrically over the inner tubular body such that the inner tubular body and the outer tubular body can slide telescopically from a retracted position to an extended position. An actuator is configured to move the inner tubular body and the outer tubular body along the longitudinal axis in relation to one another and a supporting tube is provided and configured to slide concentrically on the inside of the outer tubular body. |
| US08276521B2 |
Gas generator for an airbag module
The invention relates to a gas generator for an airbag module having a gas generator housing, in which a first chamber for receiving a propellant for igniting a main gas set in a second chamber, and an ignition device for the ignition of the propellant are provided. In order to simplify the production of the gas generator, the invention provides that the first chamber for receiving the propellant is limited by a pipe, on the first end of which the ignition device is disposed, and the second end of which reaches the gas generator housing at least approximately. The first and the second chamber are separated from each other such that no parts of the propellant may reach the second chamber via the second end of the pipe before the ignition of the propellant. |
| US08276520B1 |
Adaptive fragmentation mechanism to enhance lethality
A fragmentation warhead comprising manual selection means for generating larger fragments versus smaller fragments upon detonation. The warhead includes a generally cylindrically shaped fragmenting metal outer warhead within which lies a generally cylindrically shaped explosive charge. Cylindrically arranged ring mechanisms within the warhead may be rotated to select desired fragmentation patterns. |
| US08276516B1 |
Apparatus for detonating a triaminotrinitrobenzene charge
An apparatus for detonating an initiation charge that is formed of a secondary explosive, such as triaminotrinitrobenzene (TATB). The apparatus includes an exploding foil initiator, which can have a relatively small flyer that is suited to initiate a detonation event in the initiation charge. |
| US08276514B2 |
Metal fixing material bushing and method for producing a base plate of a metal fixing material bushing
A glass-to-metal bushing for ignitors of airbags or belt tensioning pulleys. A metal pin is arranged in a slot in the base plate in the fixing material, the base plate being formed by one element whereby the base geometry describing the slot is produced by at least one separation process. Structure is provided between the front and rear of the base plate for preventing relative motion of the fixing material in the direction of the base plate rear portion across from the inner circumference of the slot. |
| US08276512B2 |
Process and apparatus for treating an imaged printing form, re-imageable printing form and machine for processing printing material
A process for treating an imaged printing form, in particular a printing form covered with amphiphilic molecules or with polymers, such as saccharides, includes applying a gum, in particular a microscopic gum layer, to the surface of the printing form in the liquid state. The gum is removed or reduced down to a remaining nanoscopic covering after a short or negligible time interval, relative to the time interval until the application of lithographic liquid, for example dampening solution or printing ink, to the surface. The removal or reduction of the gum is preferably carried out in the still liquid state, i.e. before the applied gum dries on, and preferably immediately after the application. The remaining gum covering protects the printing form against contaminants and increases its hydrophily/hydrophoby contrast. An apparatus for treating an imaged printing form, a re-imageable printing form and a machine for processing printing material, are also provided. |
| US08276511B2 |
Apparatus for orienting magnetic flakes
A printing apparatus includes a magnetic rotatable roller with a smooth even outer surface for aligning magnetic flakes in a carrier, such as an ink vehicle or a paint vehicle to create optically variable images in a high-speed, linear printing operation. Images can provide security features on high-value documents, such as bank notes. Magnetic flakes in the ink are aligned using magnetic portions of the roller, that can be formed by permanent magnets embedded in a non-magnetic roller body, or selectively magnetized portions of a flexible magnetic cover of the roller. In some embodiments, the roller is assembled for a plurality of interchangeable sections, which can include spinning magnets. Selected orientation of the magnetic pigment flakes can achieve a variety of illusive optical effects that are useful for decorative or security applications. |
| US08276509B2 |
Method and apparatus for compression of lamination stack for a dynamoelectric machine
A method and apparatus are provided for compression of a lamination stack for a dynamoelectric machine. The apparatus includes a plurality of hanger brackets attached to a face frame, a plurality of force application tubes secured to the brackets, a plurality of force applying rams located beneath the force application tubes, a plurality of pressing plates located beneath the force applying rams, and a plurality of weight distribution plates located beneath the pressing plates. A compressive force is applied to the lamination stack by the force applying rams via the pressing plates and weight distribution plates. |
| US08276507B1 |
Two-piece handle design for pressure cooker
An improved pressure cooker design including a two-piece handle utilizing a common connection point to a cover to increase resistance to damage due to over tightening of connecting screws while simultaneously allowing the use of a conventional handle size with a reduction in overall packaging size. The two-piece handle design includes a cover base portion and a cover grip portion wherein a pair of nuts are mounted within the cover base portion to receive coupling screws at both ends of the nuts for joining the cover and the cover grip portion to the cover base portion. Tightening of the coupling screws provides for continuous metal on metal contact eliminating damage to weaker polymeric materials while allowing a consumer to quickly and easily attach the cover grip portion of the two-piece handle to the cover base portion at a point of use so as reduce overall packaging dimensions. |
| US08276506B2 |
Cooking assistance robot and cooking assistance method
A cooking assistance robot is capable of efficient mixing using ingredients that are unlikely to be evenly heated. The cooking assistance robot performs cooking by physically moving ingredients in a cooking container selects a mixing direction for leveling a mountain and performs a mountain leveling operation in the selected mixing direction in a presence of a mountain of a specified height or higher in the cooking container. |
| US08276505B2 |
Food preparation system
An automated food preparation system is described. It allows precise, automated control of the food preparation process, and has the ability to perform an automated cleanup. It comprises at least one manipulator to process and move ingredients, a control system, an autonomously accessible ingredient storage system, and at least one cooking receptacle. |
| US08276498B1 |
Ballistic shield system
A modular ballistic shield design includes a viewport which extends from a first lateral edge of the shield to the second lateral edge providing unobstructed viewing. The three modules are connected together in a manner enabling replacement of any particular damaged module. No fastener protrudes through to the front face in a region fronting the user. |
| US08276497B2 |
Blast attenuator and method of making same
A blast attenuator includes an enclosure defining a cavity; a core defining a plurality of interconnected pores, the core disposed in the cavity; and a shear thickening fluid disposed in the cavity, such that the shear thickening fills a portion of a pore volume of the core. A blast attenuation assembly includes a blast attenuator including a shear thickening fluid and a crushable element that omits a shear thickening fluid operably associated with the blast attenuator. A method includes the steps of providing a rigid core defining a plurality of interconnected pores and placing an enclosure about the core, the enclosure defining a filling port. The method further includes the steps of filling at least a portion of a pore volume of the core with a shear thickening fluid and closing the filling port to seal the enclosure and form a first blast attenuator. |
| US08276494B2 |
Bullet feed die assembly
Bullet feed die assemblies include a die defining an interior passage that encloses a first collet and a second collet. The first collet defines a first bullet passage bore, and the second collet defines a second bullet passage bore. The first collet and the second collet are positioned coaxially within the interior bore of the die. The collets are operably engaged to generate bore expansion of one of the bullet passage bores and bore restriction of the other bullet passage bore upon application of an axial force to the collets. |
| US08276489B2 |
Spindle apparatus
A spindle apparatus includes a rotatable first spindle (5, 32) to which a tool can be attached. The first spindle is supported in a base with high precision using an air hydrostatic bearing. The spindle apparatus further includes a second spindle (6, 33) capable of rotation about an axis substantially aligned with the axis of the first spindle, first connection means for electrically connecting a base side and the second spindle, and second connection means for electrically connecting the first spindle and the second spindle. Electrical connection between the base side and the first spindle is carried out via the first and second connection means. The first connection means is, for example, a brush (15, 36). The second connection means has a degree of mechanical freedom and is, for example, a flexible electrical wire (17, 39) or a helical spring (51). |
| US08276483B2 |
Hand-held power tool with a tool holder
The invention describes a hand power tool with a drive spindle and an integrated tool holder. The drive spindle can be connected to the tool holder in a rotationally fixed and undetachable manner, and the tool holder has at least one magnet. The drive spindle is connected to the tool holder such that at least one first section of the drive spindle is permanently connected to the tool holder and at least one second section of the drive spindle is present which is at least as long as the first section. |
| US08276481B2 |
Dual ratio shearing system
A dual drive system for driving a pair of parallel output shafts comprises a pair of idler shafts interposed between and mechanically coupled to the output shafts by a first gear train. An input shaft is aligned coaxially with and is rotatable independently of one of the idler shafts. The output shafts are driven at one speed by adjusting a clutch to directly couple the input shaft to the one idler shaft, and are driven at a second speed by adjusting the clutch to indirectly couple the input shaft to the one idler shaft via a second gear train and gears rotatable respectively on the input shaft and the one idler shaft. |
| US08276480B2 |
Torque-adjusting drive mechanism for a propellable device
A drive mechanism includes a drive assembly including a driven element, a first driveshaft, configured to be engaged with the drive assembly, the first driveshaft configured to rotate in a first direction and relate a first assembly torque to the drive assembly and a first drive torque to the driven element, and a torque adjusting mechanism operatively engaged with the drive assembly and configured to relate a second assembly torque, opposite in direction to the first assembly torque, to the drive assembly. |
| US08276477B2 |
Collapsible control lever device
A control device such as a handlebar-mounted brake includes a support structure containing a hydraulic piston, a lever pivotally connected to the support structure by a pin, and a transmission element for transmitting force from the lever to the piston during a normal actuation stroke of the lever. The lever may pivot outward substantially beyond its normal rest position. A torsion spring biases the lever in the actuation direction so that the lever and the transmission element are normally in contact. However, in the event of a fall, the lever can pivot outward from its normal rest position, out of contact with the transmission element. The hydraulic components are thereby protected from damage, as the pin and support structure bear the entire impact force applied to the lever. |
| US08276476B2 |
Joystick offset controls
A joystick including a base portion, a grip portion extending from and pivotally attached to the base portion, and an offset control portion connected to the grip portion and offset from the grip portion such that the offset control portion moves with the grip portion relative to the base portion. A gap is provided between the offset control portion and the grip portion. The offset control portion includes an input device. |
| US08276468B2 |
Piezoelectric sensors for automatic measurement of NIP width for fuser member control
According to aspects of the embodiments, an apparatus and method is proposed to detect nip width by use of at least one piezoelectric (PZT) crystal embedded into a roll at both the inboard and outboard ends. A piezoelectric (PZT) crystal generates a charge when subjected to a load and when the load is released. The PZT generate signal is channeled to the ends of the roller such as with a brush contact to be processed and used within machine control. The duration measure from application and released of the load is indicative of the dwell time and the amplitude PZT generate signal is a function of the pressure. The time and amplitude of the PZT signal can be calibrated to correlate directly to nip width or pressure and tracked in machine control. |
| US08276465B2 |
Urine flow monitoring device and method
The unique characteristic sounds produced by urine as it impacts the surface of the water in a toilet are used to monitor men's urinary flow pattern and its dynamics. By detecting the intensity at selected acoustic frequencies, it is possible to accurately and precisely measure the urine flow rate. Techniques for analyzing urine flow and its dynamics employ sound levels that are detected at two or more distinct frequency regions or channels of the sound spectrum. One frequency region that is designated the measurement channel is where the sound measurement intensity strongly depends on urine flow levels. Another frequency region that is designated the reference channel is where the sound measurement intensity is not dependent on urine flow levels. By using a combination of measurements from the measurement channel and the reference channel, the urine-flow monitoring apparatus compensates for variations in operating conditions and other factors during use. |
| US08276462B2 |
Fiber strain sensor and measurement system for repeated large deformation
A measurement system (10) for detecting repeated large deformation comprising: a fiber optical strain sensor (12) including a flexible polymer optical fiber (POF) (20) in the form of a series of extended loops (40), the loops (40) being flexible to allow rotation in the plane; and notches (41) formed on at least one side of the fiber (20); a light source (11) connected to the POF (20); and a photo-detector (13) to detect a change of the light power transmission loss through the notches (41) caused by the alteration of the shape of the notches (41) when the strain sensor (12) is strained. |
| US08276460B2 |
Packaging for chip-on-board pressure sensor
A method of packaging for chip-on-board pressure sensor that includes a buffer layer with a coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) intermediate between the transducer and a main chip-on-board substrate by which thermally induced package stresses can be greatly reduced or eliminated. Additionally, the use of a buffer layer with higher stiffness (elastic modulus) than the chip-on-board substrate further prevents or reduces flexural (bending) stresses from being transferred to the transducer. Such a buffer layer also enables a wider choice of materials for bonding and stable performance of pressure sensor in harsh media and environmental conditions. The pressure transducer can be adhesively bonded to a ceramic layer, which in turn can be adhesively bonded to an epoxy laminate chip-on-board substrate. |
| US08276459B2 |
High temperature transducer using SOI electronics
There is disclosed a high temperature pressure sensing system which includes a SOI Wheatstone bridge including piezoresistors. The bridge provides an output which is applied to an analog to digital converter also fabricated using SOI technology. The output of the analog to digital converter is applied to microprocessor, which microprocessor processes the data or output of the bridge to produce a digital output indicative of bridge value. The microprocessor also receives an output from another analog to digital converter indicative of the temperature of the bridge as monitored by a span resistor coupled to the bridge. The microprocessor has a separate memory coupled thereto which is also fabricated from SOI technology and which memory stores various data indicative of the microprocessor also enabling the microprocessor test and system test to be performed. |
| US08276456B2 |
Differential pressure sensor
A differential pressure sensor for measuring a pressure difference between two high-pressure environments is comprised of a sensor block including internal, oil-filled channels leading to an internally positioned differential pressure sensor element. Two process diaphragms are provided for transferring pressure from the high-pressure environments for isolating two distinct internal oil channels from the high-pressure environments. In order to achieve small internal oil volumes in the sensor block, additionally two separating discs, which initially separate between the two internal oil channels, are positioned in fluid communication with the high-pressure environments in order to block for the pressure from the high-pressure environments against the oil channels “from behind.” The separating discs bear against abutment faces having small openings into the internal oil channels. The separating discs are preferably given a pre-tension, and the abutment faces are then shaped correspondingly having a slightly convex shape. Preferably, separating discs with no corrugations are used. |
| US08276455B2 |
Pressure sensor with water restriction plate
A pressure sensor is provided. The pressure sensor includes a body, a sensing element, and a projection part. The body has an internal space and an introduction passage. The internal space is in communication with an outside of the body through the introduction passage. The sensing element is disposed in the internal space of the body and capable of detecting pressure of air in the internal space. The projection part is disposed in the internal space of the body or the introduction passage of the body, and inhibits liquid from entering the internal space. |
| US08276454B2 |
Monitoring system for self-supplied bearing
The present invention describes a system for taking the necessary energy for operating the electronic circuit for monitoring a bearing (A) directly from the rotation movement, namely from the kinetic energy of the bearing i.e by energy harvesting or scavenging. All information read on board the bearing (A) by the sensors (4a, 4b) are sent through radio with a wireless communication system to an external data collecting and processing unit (6), that is able to evaluate and communicate the status of the bearing (A) being analyzed. The preferred system embodiment provides that the generator (1) bases its operation on the gyroscope (or Coriolis force) effect a circuit (7) for accumulating the necessary energy for turning the system on. |
| US08276452B2 |
Ultrasonic inspection apparatus
An ultrasonic inspection apparatus is provided in which the size of the apparatus can be made compact by using laser light, the degradation and deformation of the inspected object is prevented, and a broad range of inspections can be carried out. An ultrasonic inspection apparatus (1) is provided with a laser apparatus (5) that irradiates laser light and a volumetric inspection ultrasonic wave transmitter (17) having a transmitting diaphragm (39) that is irradiated by the laser light emitted by the laser apparatus (5) and that generates ultrasonic waves (C); and the ultrasonic inspection apparatus (1) carries out volumetric inspections by irradiating the ultrasonic waves (C) that are generated by the transmitting diaphragm (39) of the ultrasonic wave transmitting portion (17) to the inspected object. In addition, the ultrasonic inspection apparatus (1) is further provided with a surface inspection ultrasonic wave transmitting portion (19), and enables the carrying out of inspections having the characteristics of volumetric inspections and surface inspections, that is, hybrid inspections. |
| US08276451B2 |
Device for improved response when measuring vibration frequency of a vibrating object
A device for measuring a vibration frequency of a mechanically vibrating string or rod, comprising a microwave transmitter for directing microwaves towards the vibrating string and a microwave receiver for receiving the microwaves amplitude modulated by the frequency of mechanical vibration. A member is arranged close to a vibration maximum of the vibrating string. The member is arranged on one side of the vibrating object and the microwave receiver is arranged on the other side thereof. The device is used for measuring temperature, pressure, torque, force or identity. |
| US08276450B2 |
Method for optimally operating transmissions
A method for optimally operating mechanically loaded, moved, particularly rotating components, such as gearboxes, wherein in the operating stage damage accumulation is used to evaluate the influence of a collective load on the lifespan of the loaded rotating components, the moving components (1) being divided into a plurality of segments (5-10) for determining individual collective loads (6; 18). |
| US08276448B2 |
Sensor device with timewise linked sensing signals
An sensor device with high detection accuracy. The sensor device includes an angular velocity sensor for outputting an angular velocity sensing signal, an acceleration sensor for outputting an acceleration sensing signal, and an output circuit for outputting the angular velocity sensing signal and the acceleration sensing signal. The output circuit outputs signals in a digital format according to the time-division system, so as to link timewise the angular velocity sensing signal and the acceleration sensing signal detected at the same timing as one signal. |
| US08276445B2 |
Holding device for an ultrasonic transducer
A holding device for an ultrasonic transformer having a diaphragm cup, in particular for a motor vehicle, includes the following: a housing to accommodate the diaphragm cup; a decoupling component to position the diaphragm cup on the housing and on a holding section in vibration-damped manner; and a filler material to connect the diaphragm cup and the decoupling component to the housing in a vibration-damped and sealing, form-fitting manner, the decoupling component sealingly filling a gap between an edge of an opening of the housing and the diaphragm cup, as well as a corresponding method. |
| US08276444B2 |
Method for ascertaining and monitoring fill level of a medium in a container using a travel time, measuring method
A method for ascertaining and monitoring fill level of a medium in a container a field device using a travel time, measuring method, wherein transmission signals are transmitted and reflection signals received. The received reflection signals are registered as echo signals in an echo function, wherein masking curve, evaluation curves and/or echo parameters of the echo signals in the echo function are ascertained or predetermined, as well as stored in a first measuring cycle. By a static echo search algorithm, through the masking curve, the evaluation curve, the echo parameters, position and/or amplitude of at least one wanted echo signal are/is ascertained, wherein, a dynamic echo search algorithm, a continuous echo tracking of positional changes and/or amplitude changes of individual echo signals and/or the wanted echo signal in the echo function is performed. On the basis of positional changes and/or amplitude changes of individual wanted echo signals, masking curve, evaluation curve and/or echo parameters of the static echo search algorithm are adjusted. |
| US08276434B2 |
Mobile device, step counting method, and gravity direction detecting method
In order to count the number of steps without involving an increase in circuit size or in computational load, a mobile phone includes a three-axis acceleration sensor to detect accelerations in three directions of X axis, Y axis, and Z axis, which are different from each other, a gravity direction detecting portion to detect a gravity direction on the basis of the detected accelerations in the three directions, a gravity direction acceleration calculating portion to calculate an acceleration in the detected gravity direction on the basis of the detected accelerations in the three directions, and a step counting portion to count the number of steps on the basis of the calculated gravity direction acceleration. |
| US08276431B1 |
Method of determining acoustic transit times for material having high acoustic attenuation properties
A method for determining time a single transit of an acoustic wave through a test material using a calibration material having known acoustic velocity characteristics and an acoustic pitch-catch system with a signal recorder for recording a received signal as a function of time. The system includes a first configuration for transmission of acoustic shear waves and a second configuration for transmission of acoustic longitudinal waves. In the first configuration, a first acoustic zero is determined when the acoustic shear waves are applied to the calibration material. In its second configuration, a second acoustic zero is determined when the acoustic longitudinal waves are applied to the calibration material. Each configuration is coupled to a test material with the respective first and second acoustic zeroes identified on the recorder. The signal recorder determines a single transit time for the acoustic waves through the test material. |
| US08276429B2 |
Hand tools and handles therefor
A hand tool includes a work portion and a user/operator interface portion comprising a handle. The handle comprises a pair of elongated members each including a generally I-shaped cross-section. Each elongated member includes a gripping portion. The gripping portion has a first surface and a primary user-interface surface having curvatures in three dimensions and preferably defined by a plurality of constant radii. As such, the handle conforms to the hands of a user/operator and reduces or eliminates undesirable pressure concentration points. The first surface of the gripping portion is provided with a finger registration portion which receives and positions the fingers of the operator around the gripping portion. The hand tool more efficiently transfers the operator input force through the hand tool to a workpiece and provides an improved comfort to the operator. |
| US08276427B2 |
Metal-forming machine in particular a forging press
A frame of a metal-forming press having upper and lower traverses interconnected by vertical columns having upper and lower ends is provided with respective sets each of a plurality of identical tension bolts at each end of each of the columns. The traverses are formed at each end of each column with an array of throughgoing holes through each of which a respective one of the bolts extends, and the columns have opposite ends each formed with an identical array of blind threaded bores each in turn aligned with a respective one of the throughgoing holes. Each bolt has an inner end seated in a respective on of the bores of the respective column end and an outer end bearing inwardly on a face of the respective traverse. |
| US08276426B2 |
Laminated magnetic cores
Laminations to be stacked as magnetic cores are produced from a very thin amorphous metal strip, using a punch press with accurate punch/die clearance. The laminations are collected on conveyor spindles or a transport rod or pipe, in either case being arranged without the need for substantial handling. Heat annealing and anti-vibration treatments can be applied along a conveying path. The laminations are grouped in a stack to define a core and are packaged or encapsulated in electrically nonconductive coverings. The finished core has advantageous electrical characteristics and low cost. |
| US08276425B2 |
Ductmaking apparatus
A ductmaking apparatus bends a metal web to form a duct blank having a lock seam with male and female portions. Prior to shearing off the duct blank, the apparatus bends the web to form a lock tab that secures the lock seam during subsequent handling of the duct blank. |
| US08276423B2 |
Rolling mill, especially a swag rolling mill, for heated operation
The invention relates to a rolling mill, especially a swage rolling mill for heated operation, said rolling mill being provided with a pair of cylinders (3, 4) which are vertically arranged with the central axes thereof (5), can be adjusted in relation to each other, and are connected to at least one rotating drive (8) by means of cardan shafts (6; 7). The aim of the invention is to render the adjustment of the cylinders more favorable with lower displaced masses, to reduce friction and to improve lever arm relations. To this end, the rotating drive (8) for both cylinders (3; 4) is fixed beneath the mill floor level (2) and is respectively connected to a fixed gearbox (9) and the cardan shaft (6, 7) in a driving manner. |
| US08276416B2 |
Master key lock, system and method
A master key lock includes a lock cylinder having a keyway for receiving a key, a sleeve about the cylinder, a plurality of wafer tumblers, a master key and a spring operable to axially move the sleeve relative to the cylinder when the master key is inserted into the keyway. A system that uses the master key lock includes a lock case wherein the sleeve is disposed between the cylinder and the lock case, the sleeve being axially movable within the case. The sleeve comprises a plurality of transversely disposed slots for engaging the plurality of wafer tumblers such that the lock is unlocked by insertion of a key or a master key. A method of using the master key lock is also disclosed. |
| US08276412B2 |
Recessed grip
The description relates to a grip trough to be installed in a rectangular opening of a thin wall such as a sheet-metal wall or door leaf of a sheet-metal cabinet. The trough has a base and four side walls proceeding therefrom, which four side walls run into a rectangular flange-like rim which surrounds the bearing surface of the opening in the thin wall in the installed state. Two shorter, oppositely located side walls extend substantially parallel to one another and extend perpendicular to the thin wall, while the two other, longer side walls are oriented diagonally at an acute angle and obtuse angle, respectively, relative to the thin wall. Wall webs project in direction of the thin wall from the side wall extending at an obtuse angle to the thin wall. According to the invention, at least one receptacle for a closure device, such as a closing cylinder with a sash fastener, is provided in the area of the side wall that extends at an acute angle to the thin wall. |
| US08276409B2 |
Glass appliance cover with bonded hardware
A cover assembly for an appliance includes a glass panel and at least one metallic attachment element bonded to an inner surface of the glass panel via a layer of cured adhesive. The at least one metallic element is configured for mounting to at least one corresponding structure of the appliance to mount the cover assembly at the appliance. The layer of cured adhesive bonds the at least one metallic element to the inner surface of the glass panel without exposure of the bonded element on an outer surface of the glass panel. A perimeter frame portion may be established around a perimeter region of the glass panel. |
| US08276407B2 |
Drum-type washing machine
A drum type washing machine is provided. The drum type washing machine may include a cabinet, a tub fixed to an inner side of the cabinet, a drum rotatably arranged in the tub, and a driving motor positioned at a rear side of the drum for generating a driving force that rotates the drum. The washing machine may also include a supporting plate to rotatably support a rotational shaft extending between the motor and the drum, and a plurality of supporters connected between the supporting plate and the cabinet. Such an arrangement may increase washing capacity by increasing a diameter of the drum without increasing an external size of the cabinet. |
| US08276404B2 |
Device for an installation of formation of fibres mattress
A device for installation for forming fiber mats, the fibers being formed from a material that can be drawn by internal centrifuging and by drawing by a gas current. The device includes a guide duct into which the fibers are designed to be channelled, with a longitudinal axis including a first portion configured to form the entrance of the duct at which the fibers are designed to be inserted into the duct, a second portion or central portion, and a third portion configured to form an exit of the duct, and an articulation mechanism to act mechanically on the third portion of the duct to cause its dimension and/or the position of at least one of its portions to vary relative to the longitudinal axis. |
| US08276401B2 |
Evaporator
An evaporator includes a refrigerant inlet header section, a refrigerant outlet header section, and a refrigerant circulation path connecting the two header sections. A refrigerant inlet-outlet member composed of a first plate, a second plate, and an intermediate plate is joined to the two header sections. The refrigerant inlet-outlet member has an inflow channel whose one end communicates with the refrigerant inlet of the refrigerant inlet header section and whose other end is opened to a rear edge of the refrigerant inlet-outlet member, and an outflow channel whose one end communicates with the refrigerant outlet of the refrigerant outlet header section and whose other end is opened to the rear edge. The first and second plates each have inflow-channel-forming and outflow-channel-forming outward swelled portions. Cutouts and a through hole are formed in the intermediate plate such that the inflow channel and the outflow channel cross each other. |
| US08276399B2 |
Docking station for a refrigerator
The present invention provides a refrigerator having a docking station for holding electronic accessories tight against the door of the refrigerator. In one aspect of the present invention, the refrigerator includes a body having one or more doors, a docking station associated with the door, and having a receiving portion adapted to receive a module, and at least one spring associated with the docking station adapted to keep the docking station and the module flush against the door to eliminate variation and fit between the module and the door. |
| US08276397B1 |
Cooling and power paths for data center
A facility is described that includes one or more enclosures defining an interior space, a plurality of power taps, a plurality of coolant supply taps, and a plurality of coolant return taps. A flow capacity of the supply taps and a flow capacity of the return taps can be approximately equal over a local area of the interior space. The plurality of power taps, the plurality of supply taps, and the plurality of return taps can be divided into a plurality of zones, with taps of each zone are configured to be controllably coupled to a power source or a coolant source independently of the taps of other zones. The taps can be positioned along paths, and paths of the power taps can be spaced from associated proximate paths of supply and return taps by a substantially uniform distance along a substantial length of the first path. |
| US08276392B2 |
Turboprop engine with an apparatus for the generation of a cooling airflow
A turboprop engine (1) includes an engine nacelle (3) and at least one bleed air line (25) on the low-pressure compressor (4) and at least one ejector (21) formed by a cooling air duct (24) and a nozzle (22) to create a cooling air flow within the engine nacelle during critical ground idle operation (controlled or uncontrolled), and without undesirably increasing fuel consumption or disturbing the work cycle of the engine (1). The ejector (21) is arranged within the engine nacelle (3) in the forward part of the turboprop engine (1), with the cooling air duct (24) appertaining to the ejector (21) connecting at least one air intake (23) disposed on the periphery of the engine nacelle (3) with the interior of the engine nacelle (3), and with the at least one nozzle (22) being arranged in the cooling air duct (24). |
| US08276391B2 |
Combustor liner cooling at transition duct interface and related method
A resilient annular seal structure is disposed radially between an aft end portion of a combustor liner and a forward end portion of a transition piece, the resilient annular seal structure configured to form a first annular cavity radially between the forward end portion of the transition piece and the aft end portion of said combustor. At least one transfer tube radially extends from the second flow sleeve through the second flow annulus to the transition piece, and is arranged to supply compressor discharge cooling air radially from an area outside the first and second substantially axially extending flow annuli directly to the resilient annular seal structure and to the aft end of the combustor liner. |
| US08276384B2 |
Ambient temperature thermal energy and constant pressure cryogenic engine
Ambient temperature thermal energy cryogenic engine with constant pressure with continuous “cold” combustion at constant pressure and with an active chamber operating with a cryogenic fluid stored in its liquid phase, and used as a work gas in its gaseous phase and operating in a closed cycle with return to its liquid phase. The initially liquid cryogenic fluid is vaporized in the gaseous phase at very low temperatures and supplies the inlet of a gas compression device, which then discharges this compressed work gas, still at low temperature, and through a heat exchanger with the ambient temperature, into a work tank or external expansion chamber fitted or not fitted with a heating device, where its temperature and its volume will considerably increase in order to then be preferably let into a relief device providing work and for example comprising an active chamber according to international patent application WO 2005/049968. |
| US08276381B2 |
Return carbon dioxide to flashed geothermal brine to control scale deposition in a geothermal power plant
Geothermal brine always contains some carbon dioxide in solution. Separating steam from geothermal brine removes the carbon dioxide, sharply increasing the pH of the brine and causing precipitation of pH sensitive minerals, including calcium carbonate, magnesium silicate and other metal silicates, clays, and metal sulfides. The binary heat exchanger in a steam-binary hybrid geothermal power plant is especially sensitive to scale deposition from flashed geothermal brine, and application of expensive scale inhibitors is required. Deposition of scale in the binary heat exchanger can be controlled by separating a small amount of gas-rich vapor from the brine before the main stage of steam separation, and combining this gas rich vapor with the flashed brine before in enters the binary heat exchanger. The carbon dioxide thus added to the brine will decrease pH, decreasing or completely blocking precipitation and deposition of pH sensitive minerals as scale. |
| US08276372B2 |
Exhaust emission control device
An exhaust emission control device including a casing, and a downstream exhaust passage, which extends substantially perpendicular to an axis of the casing and receives an exhaust gas flow from an outlet of the casing, is disclosed. The casing accommodates a particulate filter as a post-treatment device through which exhaust gas is passed for cleanup. In order to realize compactness in size of the whole structure without increasing exhaust resistance, an outer chamber encases the casing in a required range to provide required spacing for an open end and an outer periphery of the outlet of the casing. The outlet chamber intervenes between the outlet of the casing and the downstream exhaust passage. |
| US08276371B2 |
Exhaust system having exhaust system segment with improved catalyst distribution and method
An exhaust system for an internal combustion engine includes an upstream segment and a downstream segment connecting with the upstream segment. The downstream segment is a NOx reducing segment having an exhaust gas outlet and a reductant inlet disposed between the exhaust gas outlet and an exhaust gas inlet for the downstream segment. The upstream segment further includes a coating having a catalyst configured to increase a ratio of NO2 to NO in exhaust gases passing through the upstream segment. The coating includes a catalyst distribution, which may be a catalyst coating length, which is linked to a target ratio of NO2 to NO for reducing NOx in the downstream segment. The catalyst distribution in the upstream segment is adapted to increase the ratio of NO2 to NO, while limiting the ratio of NO2 to NO to a ratio optimized for reduction of NOx in the downstream segment. |
| US08276367B2 |
Exhaust gas control apparatus and method for an internal combustion engine
An exhaust gas control apparatus for an internal combustion engine, including a three-way catalyst, a NOX storage-reduction catalyst, a rich controlling mechanism performing control to make an air-fuel ratio of exhaust gas rich to reduce NOX stored in the NOX storage-reduction catalyst, and a control performing control to ensure that a NOX purifying component is present in the NOX storage-reduction catalyst when reducing the NOX. |
| US08276366B2 |
Closely coupled exhaust aftertreatment system for an internal combustion engine having twin turbochargers
A closely-coupled exhaust aftertreatment system for an engine having twin turbochargers includes a first exhaust conduit comprising a first valve operable between first and second positions, the first promoting flow within the first conduit to an oxidation catalyst (OC), the second promoting flow within a second conduit; a third conduit is fluidly coupled to the OC outlet and includes a second valve operable between first and second positions, the first promoting flow within the third exhaust conduit to a particulate filter (PF), the second promoting flow through a fourth conduit to an inlet in the second conduit. A first turbocharger is coupled to the second exhaust conduit downstream of the inlet; an SCR catalyst is downstream of the first turbocharger to receive the flow therefrom and upstream of the PF to provide the flow thereto. A second turbocharger is coupled to the third exhaust conduit downstream of the second valve. |
| US08276364B2 |
Bladder type variable area fan nozzle
A variable fan nozzle for use in a gas turbine engine includes a nozzle section, such as an inflatable bladder, associated with a fan bypass passage for conveying a bypass airflow. The nozzle section has an internal fluid pressure that is selectively variable to influence the bypass airflow. |
| US08276362B2 |
Variable fan inlet guide vane assembly, turbine engine with such an assembly and corresponding controlling method
A turbine engine includes a plurality of variable fan inlet guide vanes. Where the turbine engine is a tip turbine engine, the variable fan inlet guide vanes permit the ability to control engine stability even though the fan-turbine rotor assembly is directly coupled to the axial compressor at a fixed rate. The fan inlet guide vanes may be actuated from an inner diameter of the fan inlet guide vanes. |
| US08276361B2 |
Thermal protection system and related methods
A thermal protection system and a method of manufacturing are disclosed. The thermal protection system may be configured to protect a movable joint, for example, a flexible bearing of a rocket motor nozzle. The thermal protection system includes a series of annular shims separated by a plurality of discrete spacers. Each shim of the series of annular shims may have a larger diameter than the previous shim, and the shims may nest. The shims may comprise a thermally stable material, and the discrete spacers may comprise an elastomer. Optionally, an annular bearing protector may separate the annular shims from the flexible bearing. |
| US08276360B2 |
Dual-pump fuel system and method for starting a gas turbine engine
A dual-pump fuel system for use with a gas turbine engine comprises a fuel metering system, a mechanical fuel pump, an electric fuel pump and an engine controller. The fuel metering system is configured to dispense fuel flow to the engine based on operational needs of the gas turbine engine. The mechanical fuel pump is configured to deliver fuel to the metering system dependent on operational speeds of the engine. The electric fuel pump is configured to deliver fuel directly to the engine independent of operation of the engine. The engine controller is connected to the metering system and the electric fuel pump and is configured to cause the electric fuel pump to deliver fuel to the engine to start and operate the engine until the engine operates the mechanical fuel pump to deliver fuel to the metering system sufficient to sustain operation of the engine. |
| US08276359B2 |
Gas turbine plant
A gas-turbine plant including a fuel system coupled to combustion chambers of a gas-turbine engine; the fuel system including fuel pipelines and a device for controlling fuel to the combustion chambers, a lubrication system for friction units of the gas-turbine engine and actuating units; the lubrication system including a lubrication loop for the friction units of the gas-turbine engine and a lubrication loop for the actuating units, each lubrication loop having a fuel-oil cooling heat-exchanger, a supply pump and an oil tank; wherein a first fuel pipeline of the fuel pipelines connects the device to the fuel-oil cooling heat-exchanger of the lubrication loop of the actuating units and the fuel heater, and a second fuel pipeline of the pipelines connects the device to the fuel-oil cooling heat-exchanger of the lubrication loop of the gas-turbine engine and the fuel heater. |
| US08276354B2 |
Apparatus for securing a load to a pallet with a roped film web
An apparatus and method for wrapping a palletized load are provided. The apparatus preferably includes a film dispenser for dispensing a film web, at least one drive down roller configured to engage the width of the film web, and at least one roping mechanism. The at least one roping mechanism may be a cable rolling element configured to roll a portion of the film web into a rolled cable of film. The apparatus may also include an assembly for providing relative rotation between the load and the dispenser to wrap a roped portion of the film web around a base of the load/top portion of a pallet supporting the load. |
| US08276353B2 |
Apparatus for providing end seals on vertical stand-up packages
An apparatus for providing end seals on vertical stand-up packages that prevents pleat formation and gusset variation. A clamping device is mounted below sealing jaws. A bottom end seal is made by the sealing jaws to form an open-ended tube. The open-ended tube is moved downward. The clamping device engages the tube to prevent twisting when product is placed into the tube. Product then enters an open-ended tube of flexible film packaging and the top seal is made. |
| US08276349B2 |
Wrapping of agricultural bales of rectangular cross section
A method of applying stretch film wrapping to an agricultural bale (10) which is of rectangular cross section and using a bale wrapper apparatus which comprises: a table which supports the bale (10) and which operates to rotate the bale generally about its longitudinal axis (11) during a wrapping cycle; a dispenser reel arrangement (12, 13, 16, 17, 20, 21, 24, 25) from which stretch film wrapping is withdrawn so as to form successive overlapping windings of film which cover the bale; and means which applies relative rotation between the table and the dispenser reel arrangement about a second axis (14) which extends substantially perpendicular to said first axis during the wrapping cycle; in which: each winding of film includes a longitudinal edge strip portion and an adjoining longitudinal strip portion; and the longitudinal edge portion has different deformation properties from the deformation properties of said adjoining portion so as to be more readily extensible under a given load than said adjoining portion, and thereby to enable the winding to tighten itself around each corner (15) of the bale (10) and thereby at least minimize the generation of creases or wrinkles in the film winding at each corner region of the bale. |
| US08276341B1 |
Wall structure with either plastic or concrete horizontal interlocking siding panels
A wall structure for either a building or a stand alone wall is formed with stacked horizontal elongated panels. The upper and lower faces of each panel interlocks with its neighboring panel with a tongue and groove joint to form a continuous wall surface. |
| US08276339B2 |
Distance piece
Distance piece, preferably for the manufacture of hollow or laminated walls, with at least three rods that are connected to each other, and where each rod has at least one supporting section, and the supporting sections of the three rods are spaced apart from each other to thus form a supporting plane. |
| US08276337B2 |
Low energy consumption climate control system and method for the realization of high heat-sound insulation building
In a climate control system for buildings, a number of renewable energy sources (photovoltaic and/or eolic, geothermal and the like) are utilized to obtain a flux of constant temperature fluid to be circulated into radiating pipes placed in continuous spaces or gaps defined in the perimeter walls and floors of said buildings. A desired variable flux of air is made to circulate in said spaces or gaps, to be heated or coiled by said radiating pipes. One said flux of air reaches the desired temperature, its circulation is stopped, to obtain a thermal insulating layer of air, in thermal equilibrium with the rooms to be air conditioned.In the matters of civil, trade, industrial, and also prefabricated buildings endowed with elevated features in heat-sound insulation, it has been utilized a particular simple method for the realization of system of hollow spaces or gaps situated between the outer and inner surface of the building, mainly based on the laying of a series of panels; i.e. thin metal sheets, located.In particular, suitable hooks, joined to the structure of studs and Beams, support horizontal bars vertically lined up, around which a thin metal sheet, preferably as an interrupted ring, is laid. |
| US08276334B2 |
Cable anchor
A cable anchor has ball surfaces that permit misalignment between the cable and a stem of the anchor, and a fitting that permits the introduction of a corrosion inhibitor to the interior of the anchor. |
| US08276333B2 |
Cable assembly and method for wall-anchoring purposes
An assembly and method for anchoring a wall frame to the foundation of a building utilizes an anchor member which can be threaded upon a threaded shank which is connected to and extends upwardly from the foundation, a cable, a first cable vice which is connectable to one end of the cable and being anchorable to a top member of the wall frame which is positioned upon the foundation, a second cable vice which is connectable to the other end of the cable, and a cap member. The second cable vice is anchorable to the cap member, and the cap member is connectable to the anchor member so that when the cable is anchored between the top member of the wall frame and the cap member by way of the first and second cable vices, the cap member can be connected to the anchor member to thereby tension the cable between the top member of the wall frame and the foundation. A spring can be embodied within the assembly for providing a visual indication of the amount of tension applied to the cable upon connection of the cap member to the anchor member. |
| US08276331B2 |
Ventilated roof system with ridge vent
A roofing system in a building structure having a ridge vent includes strips of composite material having a base material adapted to form a hermetic seal with the top surface of a roofing section and recesses in a top surface in which an air permeable material can be positioned. A strip is applied to roof sections adjacent to each side of a ridge vent so that a ridge cap can overlay the strips in spaced relation from the underlying roof sections and be sealingly secured to the roof sections. The strip material establishes a barrier between the ridge cap and the roof sections through which air can pass, but through which the passage of rain and insects is inhibited. |
| US08276326B2 |
Telescopic mast system
A telescopic mast system includes a telescopic mast comprising a plurality of telescopic mast sections and a drive mechanism for extending and retracting the telescopic mast sections. The drive mechanism includes a rigid chain having one end connected to a last one of the telescopic mast sections to move the telescopic mast sections and a plurality of guide plates cooperating with the telescopic mast sections to prevent buckling of the rigid chain. |
| US08276325B2 |
Vehicle and mast mounting assembly therefor
A vehicle is disclosed having a mast assembly mounted to a sidewall of the vehicle. The mast is pivotally mounted and can be held in a first stowed position by way of a first clamp member. The mast is pivotal relative to the sidewall, to an essentially vertical and erect position, and held in the second position by way of a second clamp. |
| US08276314B2 |
Terrestrial arthropod trap
The arthropod trap has a base with a plurality of sides that angle upwardly and inwardly toward a capture area in the center of the base. Multiple outwardly-projecting fins are disposed on or adjacent to the sides of the base. The fins also angle upwardly toward the capture area so that the fins guide arthropods into the capture area. The capture area includes a pitfall so that the arthropods topple through a pitfall opening and are retained in the pitfall. A trap cover fits over and at least partially conceals the capture area. In one embodiment, the trap cover provides a platform for the placement of light emitting diodes that emit light in a wavelength that appeals to the positive phototaxis instincts of the target arthropods. |
| US08276313B2 |
Method and apparatus for trapping insects
An apparatus for catching an insect sitting on a contact surface. The apparatus includes a casing, a light source disposed in the casing for dazzling and immobilizing the insect on the contact surface, and a catch tube disposed in the casing and movable relative to the casing. The apparatus further includes a catch container disposed adjacent to the catch tube and a slider to lift the insect off the contact surface. The slider is movable relative to the casing. |
| US08276309B2 |
Fishing rod with a casting mechanism
A fishing rod with automatic casting mechanism includes an elongated fishing rod, a reel and a length of fishing line stored on the reel with one end of the line fixed to the reel and a plurality of line guides along the rod with a single line guide at the distal end thereof. The fishing line extends from the reel and through the line guides including the final line guide at the end of the rod. A weighted fishing lure is attached to an opposite end of the fishing line and includes the hook. In addition, a tubular member includes a front and rear position and spring biased mechanism including a coil spring contained within the tubular member for automatically casting the fishing lure over a body of water for a distance of 100 meters or more. A push button release for releasing the energy in the coil spring includes a gravity operated L-shaped element for blocking the movement of the button when the tip of the rod is disposed at an angle of less than 45° and allows the button to be pushed when the rod is disposed at about 45° angle or up to almost 90° to thereby automatically propel the lure and line across the water. |
| US08276308B1 |
Semiautonomous waterfowl decoy system
A waterfowl decoy comprising a waterfowl decoy body, a propulsion system, an accelerometer, and a microcontroller. In a preferred embodiment, the waterfowl decoy body has an inner cavity with an equipment mounting surface therein with the propulsion system coupled to the equipment mounting surface and configured to propel the waterfowl decoy across a surface of water. The accelerometer is coupled to the equipment mounting surface and configured to sense accelerations of the waterfowl decoy body when propelled across the surface of water, and the microcontroller is coupled to the accelerometer and configured to calculate a distance traveled by the waterfowl decoy body when propelled across the surface of water. A waterfowl decoy system and a method of manufacturing a waterfowl decoy system are also provided. |
| US08276304B2 |
Modular fore-end rail assembly for firearms
A modular fore-end rail assembly for mounting onto a firearm includes an upper hand guard, a lower hand guard and a clamping member that combines with the rear portion of the upper hand guard to encircle and clamp onto the barrel nut thereby supporting the entire assembly from the front of the upper receiver and preventing any transfer of load into the barrel. The lower portion of the hand guard is slidably received into channels formed in the upper hand guard and is retained in its installed position by a spring biased detent located in the clamping member. The lower hand guard is removable by simply depressing the detent and sliding the lower hand guard forward. By providing for the easy removal of the lower hand guard, other auxiliary devices may be mounted to the upper hand guard. |
| US08276303B2 |
Firearm hand guard rail system
A hand guard rail system is fastened to a firearm having a barrel and a barrel nut, with the hand guard rail aligned to the top rail of the firearm. The hand guard rail system includes a hand guard and a sleeve fitted into the hand guard. The sleeve and the hand guard are fastened to the barrel nut, thereby aligning the hand guard to the firearm. |
| US08276301B2 |
Link type percussion lock
Disclosed is a percussion lock installed on a firearm, and more particularly, to a percussion lock wherein the hammer is operated through a link member so that operation of the firearm is possible in a small area, making it possible to design a firearm flexibly and reducing the volume and weight of the firearm. According to the present invention, the percussion lock installed on a firearm to fire a bullet by hitting a firing pin comprises a housing mounted in fixed state to a firearm, a hammer installed on the upper part of the housing for hitting a firing pin, a link member linking the hammer and the housing so that the hammer moves on a curve maintaining horizontal state, and an elastic member supporting the link member with elastic force. |
| US08276299B2 |
Labeling plate for shipping and storage tanks for liquids and bulk materials
A labeling plate, which is to be fastened to the outside surface of the outer cage of a shipping and storage tank for liquids, has an upper and lower frame section and two lateral frame sections, which project outwardly beyond the labeling area of the labeling plate and frame the labeling surface. The labeling areas of the labeling plates of two storage tanks standing side by side on a loading surface are kept spaced apart by the frame sections, so that damage to the labels pasted on the labeling areas of the labeling plates is avoided. |
| US08276298B2 |
Wristbands with interchangeable layers allowing sizing by end user
A wearable band with an adjustable size or length. The band includes a first band element and a second band element with a planar body extending from a first to a second end. The second band element body is greater in length than the first band element body and includes a hole for receiving the first band element body. The band includes a coupling mechanism that detachably connects an outer sidewall of the first band element body to the inner sidewall of the second band element body, e.g., to allow the two band elements to be selectively disconnected and reassembled without tools. The coupling mechanism includes a first coupling component extending along the outer sidewall of the first band element and a second coupling element extending along the inner sidewall of the second band element such that the two band elements are connected along the periphery of the hole. |
| US08276294B2 |
Vapor-permeable element to be used in composing soles for shoes, sole provided with such vapor-permeable element, and shoe provided with such sole
A vapor-permeable element to be used in a composition of soles for shoes, including: a supporting frame, which delimits substantially at least one through hole; a membrane impermeable to water and permeable to water vapor and arranged above the supporting frame so as to cover at least the through hole; at least one vapor-permeable or perforated protective layer for the membrane, arranged between the supporting frame and the membrane, so as to cover at least the through hole. The membrane and the protective layer are joined, at least at their perimetric edges, to each other and to the supporting frame. The protective layer, in cooperation with a tread of the sole with which it is associated, is available for contact with the ground during use of the sole. |
| US08276292B2 |
Method for recovering heat energy released by laundry machines
The use of at least one central heat exchanger to extract and dry the heat energy released by laundry machines, in particular their gland steam. The energy thus recovered can be fed back to the laundry machines as hot air or hot water. This represents a significant reduction in the energy requirements of laundry machines as laundry machines discharge a great amount of unused energy into the environment, which, particularly in light of rising energy prices, represents an unnecessary operational cost for a laundry. |
| US08276289B2 |
System and method for preparation of solid biomass by torrefaction
Methods and systems for preparing a torrefied biomass fuel are disclosed. Moisture is initially extracted from relatively wet biomass fuel to produce a relatively dry biomass fuel. Remaining moisture is then extracted from the relatively dry biomass fuel in a final drying stage, using steam at a temperature of about 900° F. The resulting dried biomass fuel is conveyed downward using gravity and undergoes torrefaction, which produces torrefied biomass fuel and torrefaction gases. A gaseous mixture of steam and torrefaction gases is vented to a heat exchanger, where the gaseous mixture is heated by a flue gas, and the heated gaseous mixture is used to support the extraction of the remaining moisture in the final drying stage and to support the torrefaction of the dried biomass fuel. Embodiments disclosed herein efficiently use available energy resources to the benefit of manufacturers, consumers, and the environment. |
| US08276288B1 |
Pillow measurement device
A pillow measurement device and a method of using it are provided. Certain embodiments of the device include a first leg, a second leg, a first movable portion slidably affixed to the second leg, a means for affixing the first movable portion to the second leg, and a second movable portion. One or more of these components may have measurement indicia imprinted on them. The device can be used to measure various anatomical parts of a person, such as head width, neck width, shoulder width, cervical length and cervical depth. Measurements taken using the device may be used to custom build a pillow for a person. |
| US08276287B2 |
Skin and wound assessment tool
An L-shaped diagnostic tool is preferably made from paper with a backing having a contact adhesive. Each arm has a ruler, with origins co-aligned at the internal corner of the intersection of the arms. One arm has representative color images of afflictions for each of the various ranks within a classification system. The other arm contains textual descriptions of the salient features of afflictions in each rank. A photograph of the L-shaped tool placed around the affliction may be taken for diagnostic and monitoring purposes. |
| US08276285B1 |
Notepad accessory for hand tools
Notepad accessory for use with a hand tool such as a carpenter's rafter angle square having a generally planar body with an opening between major surfaces on opposite sides of the body. The notepad comprises a pair of generally planar members of greater lateral extent than the opening, a writing surface on one side of each of the generally planar members, and means engagable through the opening for securing the two members together on opposite sides of the body with the writing surfaces facing away from the tool. |
| US08276283B1 |
Reticle etched within optical lens
A reticle which does not emit a retro-reflective signature detectable using standard field detection means at the standard distance of 10 miles, which reticle is formed of a precise series of about 10 micron wide lines etched within a physically light weight, single optical blank or glass lens, using a femtosecond near IR wavelength pulsed laser. |
| US08276280B2 |
Electromotion trim scissors
The present invention provides electric pruning shears which can improve operation convenience by increasing the operating speed and eliminating hand fatigue during pruning of fruit trees.For this purpose, the present invention provides electric pruning shears which can improve safety during handling by implementing a new type of switching means having a separate safety switch capable of being separated from a main body and put on a user's finger and reduce the volume and weight by reducing the number of parts associated with the safety switch. Moreover, the present invention provides electric pruning shears which control a motor to be reversely rotated when there is an abnormality in blades of the electric pruning shears during a pruning operation, thus escaping from the overall abnormality including motor damage. |
| US08276277B2 |
Device for holding and preparing a food product
The device is for holding an edible food product such as a vegetable or piece of fruit in readiness for the preparation thereof. The device may be used for peeling or cutting vegetables or fruit in a safe manner. The device includes a body that is meant to be grasped by a user of the device and a set of prongs that are supported by the body and extend from a distal end of the body. The set of prongs preferably includes at least three prongs that are disposed in a parallel array and that are for piercing engagement with the edible product. An actuator rod assembly is supported by the body and includes a proximal end cap and a distal pusher piece that is meant to engage the edible product for dis-engagement thereof from the set of prongs. A biasing spring is disposed in the body for urging the actuator rod assembly in a proximal direction. |
| US08276275B2 |
Method for assembling an epicyclic gear train
A method is disclosed of assembling an epicyclic gear train comprising providing a carrier that includes spaced apart walls and circumferentially spaced mounts interconnecting the walls in a one-piece unitary structure. Spaced apart apertures are provided between the mounts at an outer circumference of the carrier. Gear pockets are provided between the walls and mounts extending to the apertures, and a central opening is provided in at least one of the walls. An intermediate gear is inserted through the central opening. The intermediate gear moves radially into the gear pocket to extend through the aperture. A baffle is inserted into the carrier in a space between the walls. A sun gear is inserted through the central opening to intermesh with the intermediate gear. |
| US08276272B2 |
Method for applying a connection material
The invention relates to a method for applying a connection material with a specified shape on at least one surface of at least one workpiece, wherein the connection material and the surface have complementary wetting or wettable properties, and wherein the connection material (3) is deposited on at least one of the surfaces (2) and a shaping device (10, 10′) is arranged at least for the period of a flowable state of the connection material adjacent to the connection material as well as at least partially surrounding this material on the surface (2), wherein this device has a surface (11, 12) that is non-wettable with respect to the wetting properties of the connection material and that is designed for the forced guidance of the flow of the still flowable connection material in the region of the non-wettable surface that thus assumes a specified shape; and the shaped connection material is hardened. |
| US08276270B2 |
Method for manufacturing printed circuit board
The present invention is directed to a method for manufacturing a printed circuit board in which a plurality of conductive layers forming a wiring pattern are laminated in the state where they are put between insulating layers, and a printed circuit board formed thereby. The printed circuit board manufacturing method for the present invention includes a step of forming a via fill (17) to allow electroless plating liquid to be in contact with the surface of the wiring pattern exposed to a bottom part of a via hole (14) formed at a insulating layer to laminate plating metallic film from the bottom part to a opening part of the via hole (14), to form the via fill (17), and a step of forming a wiring pattern to form electroless plating metallic film (20) serving as the wiring pattern onto a substrate where the via fill (17) is formed. |
| US08276268B2 |
System and method of forming a patterned conformal structure
A system and method of forming a patterned conformal structure for an electrical system is disclosed. The conformal structure includes a dielectric coating shaped to conform to a surface of an electrical system, with the dielectric coating having a plurality of openings therein positioned over contact pads on the surface of the electrical system. The conformal structure also includes a patterned conductive coating layered on the dielectric coating and on the contact pads such that an electrical connection is formed between the patterned conductive coating and the contact pads. The patterned conductive coating comprises at least one of an interconnect system, a shielding structure, and a thermal path. |
| US08276267B2 |
Method for mounting a component on a circuit board
Provided are a tape feeder for use in chip mounters that can reduce a chip feeding duration and prevent chips from being turned over or assuming wrong postures to feed the chips stably, and a chip mounting method. The tape feeder includes a second link having one end linked to a link shaft through which a first link and a pivot lever are combined and the other end in which a slot curved at a predetermined inclination is formed. The velocity at which a carrier tape is fed changes according to the inclination of the curve of the slot with respect to the moving direction of the first link, the curve contacting the contact unit upon the movement of the first link in a direction helping to rotate a ratchet gear. |
| US08276265B2 |
Electronic component mounting machine and electronic component loading head
A challenge to be met by the present invention is to provide an electronic component mounting machine and an electronic component loading head in which the loading head has two rows of nozzle shafts and that can promote miniaturization of the machine by minimizing the loading head. In a loading head having two rows of nozzles (L1 and L2) including a plurality of nozzle shafts arranged in rows and at a predetermined nozzle arrangement pitch, a θ rotary drive mechanism that rotates the nozzle shafts around their axes is configured so as to include driven pulleys (28) coupled to the respective nozzle shafts; a plurality of idlers (30) interposed between the two rows of nozzles (L1 and L2); and endless drive belts (29A and 29B) that transmit rotation of the θ-axis motors (27A and 27B) to the driven pulleys (28). Drive surfaces (29a) of the respective driving belts (29A and 29B) are looped around the respective drive pulleys and the respective driven pulleys, and the other sides of the respective drive surfaces (29a) are looped while guided by the idlers (30). |
| US08276255B2 |
Methods for producing and mounting balance rings to vehicular electric machines
Methods for fabricating a balance ring for a vehicular electric machine are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of providing a first metal layer having a first planar surface, providing a second metal layer having a second planar surface, cladding the second planar surface to the first planar surface to form a composite structure, and removing a portion of the composite structure to form an annular ring. |
| US08276253B2 |
Method and apparatus to remove or install combustion liners
A method and apparatus for removing and installing combustion liners in a combustion case of a turbine is provided. The apparatus includes an elongated handle having a pin disposed at one end, and a bracket attached to the elongated handle. A tower clamp, for attaching to a flange of a combustion case, includes a tower portion having a plurality of notches for receiving the pin of the elongated handle. |
| US08276251B2 |
Hand tool
A hand tool comprises: a body; a handle extending from the body; a hand-operable lever pivotally connected to the body and pivotable from a resting position towards the handle to a working position; a shaft extending through the body along a longitundal axis, and movable between forward and reverse directions along the axis relative to the body; a shaft drive mechanism mounted to the body and operatively connected to the shaft and lever such that pivoting of the lever to the working position causes the shaft drive mechanism to incrementally advance the shaft only in the forward direction; and a shaft release mechanism mounted to the body and comprising a shaft locking member operatively connected to the shaft and lever, wherein the shaft locking member is movable by the lever between a locking position and an unlocking position, and wherein movement of the lever from the resting position away from the working position moves the shaft locking member to the unlocking position and enables the shaft to be moved in the reverse direction. |
| US08276249B2 |
Device and method for widening metal elements
A device and a method for widening elongated metal elements which move in the longitudinal direction and are planar at least in certain regions are described. The device comprises at least two clamping sections which are opposite one another and of which one is arranged and designed for clamping a first longitudinal side of the metal element in place and the other is arranged and designed for clamping a second longitudinal side of the metal element in place, said second longitudinal side being opposite the first longitudinal side of the metal element. The clamping sections are each provided on a support unit by means of which the clamping sections, during the forward movement of the metal element, are automatically moved apart essentially perpendicularly to the direction of movement of the metal element. |
| US08276248B2 |
Throw assembly for casket
A throw assembly for a casket container includes a corrugated paper having a corner cutout configured to be longitudinally folded along each of two parallel longitudinal lines and transversally folded about the corner cutout, and a fabric member disposed over the corrugated paper structure, and fixedly coupled to the corrugated paper structure along at least one edge of the fabric member. |
| US08276240B2 |
Door mounted finger safety device
A door check device to be mounted to a door for selectively maintaining a gap when door closing is attempted. This prevents injuries to children's fingers and the like. The door check includes a base with a journal having action arm pivoted at its proximal end. The arm has a distal end extending outwardly to engage a doorstop. Indexing sockets are formed along the arm's proximal end. Each socket collaborates with the nose of a spring-biased detent to retain the action arm in a preselected position. The arm may be set in a first position to directly engage the doorstop to form a gap. Set in a second position the arm allows door closing but, upon next opening, the arm automatically reverts to door checking position. In a third position the arm is fully lowered to disable the check device. This device may find application to a variety of closures. |
| US08276238B2 |
Roller cover cleaner
Disclosed herein is a roller cover cleaning apparatus. The apparatus may include a handle and a wire that is coupled to the handle. The wire may form a helix that extends around an axis of the helix for more than 360 degrees. The wire may be substantially radially equidistant from the axis of the helix along the length of the wire from the proximal end of the helix to the distal end of the helix. The wire may be at least partially resiliently flexible to increase the radial distance between the wire and the axis. |
| US08276234B2 |
Foldable textile holder for a flat mop
A foldable textile holder for a flat mop includes a rectangular main board provided to be pivotally connected to a handle of the flat mop and two wing plates respectively and pivotally to two opposite ends of the main board relative to a major axis of the main board by two pivot elements. The main board and the two wing plates are situated on a same plane when cleaning the floor and form a U-shape after the two wing plates being folded, wherein each pivot element temporarily positions a corresponding one of the two wing plates when the two wing plates are upwardly folded or the main board and the two wing plates are situated on a same plane. |
| US08276232B2 |
Device and method for cleaning wheel rims
Disclosed is a device for cleaning wheel rims. Said device is used for removing sticky excess powdered pigments from the flange and hub of the rims prior to the baking process during powder coating. The inventive device comprises a first brush which can be introduced into the hub of a rim that is to be cleaned as well as a second brush which is concentrically disposed around the first brush and rests against the flange surface of the rim when the first brush is inserted in the hub of the rim. The first brush can be axially displaced relative to the second brush and is spring-mounted on the second brush. Furthermore, a drive unit is provided which rotates the first and the second brush by a specific angle, respectively. |
| US08276225B2 |
Methods and systems for patient positioning in an imaging system
Methods and systems for patient positioning in an imaging system are provided. A palette for an imaging system is provided that includes a base portion movably connected to the imaging system and an extender portion removably connected to the base portion. The extender portion together with the base portion supports an object to be imaged by the imaging system. |
| US08276222B1 |
Patient transfer kit
A patient transfer kit including an inflatable mattress, alternatively with a rigid top board with a patient restraint system on which a patient can be placed, when patient immobilization is required. A portable cart is included with a chamber for storage of a plurality of mattresses. The cart also has a gas/air blower and power supply system for powering the blower. The power system includes provision for drawing power from line AC/DC, and has a rechargeable battery and charger for maintaining the battery by connecting the supply to the line AC/DC. The mattress has a perforated bottom surface for exit of air to provide an air cushion, and is constructed with a white top surface and a dark bottom surface for optimum recognition of contamination, and identification of the bottom surface which must be placed downward. The cart is coated with an antimicrobial substance to minimize the risk of contaminants. |
| US08276220B1 |
Height adjustable seat
A height adjustable seat for a bath enclosure includes a frame first portion for supporting a person in a sitting position within the bath enclosure and a frame second portion disposed exterior to the bath enclosure. A mechanism for raising and lowering said frame first portion within said bath enclosure a guide system enables adjustment of inclination of the frame first portion as the frame first portion is raised and lowered with the bath enclosure. |
| US08276216B2 |
Maternity garment
Maternity wear of the invention accommodates the changing shape of a woman's body during pregnancy, minimizing the need for maternity clothes. In one aspect of the invention, pants or a skirt are worn with the upper end unfastened so as to conform to the shape of the swelling torso in pregnancy, and an elastic band shaped similarly to a tube top is worn generally around the waist, so as to overlap the top of the unfastened pants or skirt and retain them on the body. A top, such as a blouse or shirt, can be worn with its tail end extending over the band. In another aspect of the invention, too-large maternity clothing is worn with the band garment engaged over the upper end. If desired the band garment can be folded over on itself, thus doubling its thickness. |
| US08276215B2 |
Temperature sensing glove for automotive applications
A temperature sensing glove (101) is provided. The glove includes a temperature sensor (131); a plurality of memory locations; and an assigning algorithm (121, 123) for assigning a temperature reading made by the temperature sensor to one of the plurality of memory locations. |
| US08276214B2 |
Protective glove
A protective glove (10) is provided for use by a firefighter or other emergency worker. The glove (10) has a hand covering portion (16) with a plurality of fingers (18) extending therefrom. The protective glove (10) includes a palm face (12) to cover the palm side of the hand and fingers of a wearer, a back face (14) to cover the back side of the hands and fingers of a wearer, and at least one fourcette (22) connecting the palm face (12) to the back face (14) around a perimeter of at least one of the fingers (18) of the glove (10) to define a 3-D type construction for the at least one of the fingers (18). The palm face (12) is joined directly to the back face (14) around a perimeter of at least another one of the fingers (18) of the glove (10) to define a pancake-type construction for the at least another one of the fingers (18). |
| US08276213B2 |
Venting apparatus with no-catch mechanism
A venting apparatus with a no-catch mechanism and a method of manufacture of the apparatus are described. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention may comprise: a fastening device, a venting mechanism wherein the venting mechanism further comprises an opening, a mesh arrangement, and a no-catch mechanism. |
| US08281411B2 |
Security memory device and method for making same
A security memory device includes a memory cell array that stores a plurality of contents, including a mine, which is stored as a portion of the plurality of contents. The mine is triggered when it is accessed, typically such that the mine erases the memory contents. Also, control logic is included that controls access to the plurality of contents. In one aspect, the memory cell array can include a protected-cell zone and a free-cell zone. In this aspect, the security memory device can further include a lock that provides protection for contents stored in the protected-cell zone from access and a key that is capable of unlocking the lock. |
| US08281404B2 |
System and method for administering security in a corporate portal
A method, system, and computer program product for corporate portal security are provided, wherein security information corresponding to an external object imported into the corporate portal is automatically mapped from the object's native security system into the corporate portal system. For each external object imported, the corporate portal maps external users and external groups identified by the native security into corresponding portal users and portal groups according to a predefined mapping process, and stores the results in a manner that associates the external object with those portal users and portal groups. A plurality of database tables and maps determines the outcome of the predefined mapping process. Advantageously, when new external users or groups are added, they are detected by a synchronization agent which then automatically updates the database tables and maps. When custom group security configurations are desired, or when new domains are added, the portal administrator may manipulate a subset of the database tables and maps to achieve the desired configuration. Advantageously, manually intensive operations such as object-by-object security stampings, and/or re-manipulation of individual security settings associated with re-instantiated crawls, are avoided. |
| US08281399B1 |
Systems and methods for using property tables to perform non-iterative malware scans
A computer-implemented method for using property tables to perform non-iterative malware scans may include (1) obtaining at least one malware signature from a security software provider that identifies at least one property value for an item of malware, (2) accessing a property table for a computing device that identifies property values shared by one or more application packages installed on the computing device and, for each property value, each application package that shares the property value in question, and (3) determining, by comparing each property value identified in the malware signature with the property table, whether any of the application packages match the malware signature without having to iterate through the individual property values of each application package. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US08281393B2 |
Method and system for detecting windows rootkit that modifies the kernel mode system service dispatch table
A method, system, and computer program product for detecting a kernel-mode rootkit that hooks the System Service Dispatch Table (SSDT) is secure, avoids false positives, and does not disable security applications. A method for detecting a rootkit comprises the steps of calling a function that accesses a system service directly, receiving results from calling the function that accesses the system service directly, calling a function that accesses the system service indirectly, receiving results from calling the function that accesses the system service indirectly, and comparing the received results from calling the function that accesses the system service directly and the received results from calling the function that accesses the system service indirectly to determine presence of a rootkit. |
| US08281386B2 |
Systems and methods for automatic secret generation and distribution for secure systems
An authentication program on a network authenticator establishes a secure communication channel with an embedded device. The authentication program receives security credentials from an embedded device. The authentication program receives from the embedded device via the secure communication channel either a secret for the embedded device or a request to generate the secret for the embedded device. The authentication program registers the secret for the embedded device. |
| US08281378B2 |
Methods and systems for completing, by a single-sign on component, an authentication process in a federated environment to a resource not supporting federation
A system for distributed authentication includes a client machine, in a first domain in a federation, that receives from a user a first set of authentication credentials. The system also includes an intermediate machine in a second domain in the federation, a server, also in the second domain, a password management program executing on the server and a non-federated resource. The intermediate machine authenticates the user responsive to receiving the first set of authentication credentials and identifies a second set of authentication credentials. The server in the second domain authenticates the user, responsive to the second set of authentication credentials. The password management program, executing on the server, retrieves a third set of authentication credentials associated with the user. The non-federated resource authenticates the user, responsive to receiving, from the password management program, the third set of authentication credentials. |
| US08281375B2 |
One time password authentication of websites
A method including generating a first and second One Time Password (OTP) token from a shared clock, receiving a third OTP token, and comparing the second and the third OTP tokens. A system including a number generator residing on a first server to generate first and second One Time Password (OTP) tokens from a shared clock, a transmitter residing on the first server to transmit the first and the second OTP tokens, a receiver residing on a second server to receive the first, the second, and a third OTP tokens, and a comparator residing on the second server to compare the second and the third OTP tokens to authenticate an identity of a party who generates the third OTP token. |
| US08281369B2 |
Method and apparatus for creating secure write-enabled web pages that are associated with active telephone calls
The proposed invention provides a user-friendly way for people to turn a traditional in-progress voice-only telephone call into a multi-media call. This may be accomplished using various technologies that can be provided over the Internet or some other multi-media computing/networking platform. The multi-media aspect of the invention may be used to facilitate the sharing of additional information between the call participants as well as dynamically update security aspects (e.g., encryption keys) associated with call. |
| US08281368B2 |
Communicating a password securely
A secure (e.g., HTTPS) connection is established between a client and a server. Communication over the connection may utilize an application (e.g., a Web browser) that is not part of the client's trusted computing base. A password is sent from the client to the server over the connection such that the clear text password is unavailable to the application. For example, the password can be encrypted and inserted directly into the HTTPS stream from the client's trusted computing base. |
| US08281365B2 |
Information management method, information management system, computer-readable medium and computer data signal
An information management method includes: receiving a request for certain operation of certain electronic information associated with operation right information that defines permitted operation for each user; determining as to whether or not at least one of (i) a history of previous operations, executed by the user, of the certain electronic information and (ii) a history of previous operations, executed by the user, of a location associated with the certain electronic information meets a predetermined condition, and if it is determined that the at least one of (i) the history of previous operations, executed by the user, of the certain electronic information and (ii) the history of previous operations, executed by the user, of the location associated with the certain electronic information meets the predetermined condition, starting to execute the certain operation. |
| US08281364B2 |
Method and system for performing secure logon input on network
A trusted input technique in which switching is made between an OS environment unreliable in security and a BIOS reliable in security. Rapid switching to a secure environment, such as BIOS mode, upon request for secure input, is enabled. An OS environment of a user can be quickly resumed after the user completes the input of a cryptogram. The technique does not and will not have any influence on secure transaction architecture. The identification of a server is authenticated in a trusted secure environment, and thus it is possible to prevent such problem as “phishing” websites. The user cryptogram is present as plaintext only in a BIOS environment and server and as encrypted during intermediate transmission. Thus, it is impossible to be intercepted by any virus such as a “Trojan horse”. |
| US08281357B2 |
Network system, message processing method, service server, direct access management server, network home appliance, and computer program
A network system includes a terminal apparatus, a network home appliance, a service server that provides the terminal apparatus with a service for controlling the network home appliance through a network, and a direct access management server that performs exchange of information necessary for directly accessing the network home appliance through the network. The network home appliance includes a first storing unit that stores setting information for setting necessity of message transmission concerning an event that occurs in the network home appliance and a message transmitting unit that judges necessity of transmission of a message concerning the event and transmits the message. The direct access management server includes a first message-transmission processing unit that specifies the service server and transmits the message to the service server. The service server includes a second message-transmission processing unit that specifies a destination of the terminal apparatus and transmits the message to the destination. |
| US08281355B1 |
Method, apparatus, and system for invoking third-party call control via a cable-television host device
A method, apparatus, and system are provided for invoking third-party call control via a cable-television host device. A video signal is received into a cable-television host device, the video signal comprising an identifier associated with a first telephony endpoint. A command is received into the cable-television host device, the command requesting establishment of a communication session between the first telephony endpoint and a second telephony endpoint. A message is transmitted via a packet-switched network from the cable-television host device to a network entity, wherein the message comprises content based at least in part on the identifier, and wherein the message further comprises content for causing the network entity to invoke third-party call control to attempt to establish the communication session between the first telephony endpoint and the second telephony endpoint. |
| US08281347B2 |
System and method of receiving over-the-air television content
A method of receiving over-the-air television content is disclosed and includes receiving input indicating a requested channel at a set-top box device. The set-top box device is coupled to a television via a first connection adapted to send television content to the television and via a second connection adapted to send data to, and receive data from, the television. The method also includes sending a control command from the set-top box device to the television via the second connection. The control command indicates that the television is to tune an over-the-air tuner at the television to the requested channel. |
| US08281346B2 |
Method and apparatus for utilizing DVD content through home network
A method and apparatus for utilizing DVD content through a home network are provided. The method includes transmitting item information indicating DVD content in response to a request for a content list, and receiving a request for the DVD content in units of a sector from a client having acquired the item information, and extracting and transmitting data of the requested sector to the client. Various functions provided by the DVD video can be utilized similar to reproducing DVD content through a local DVD player while reproducing DVD content stored in a remote server through devices of a home network. Therefore, it is possible to reduce concerns of the DVD copyrighter about illegal copying of the content since encoded data is transmitted as it is, without being decoded. |
| US08281345B2 |
Personal video recorder systems and methods
Systems and methods are disclosed for providing an interactive television system for recording television programming. The interactive television system may include components for providing personal video recorder (PVR) functionality, such as an interactive television program guide (IPG), PVR extensions, PVR application programming interfaces (APIs), a PVR device, any suitable hardware or software, or a combination thereof. These components may be implemented in, for example, an arrangement having an integrated PVR-compliant device with a PVR device, or in an arrangement having a PVR-compliant device (e.g., a set-top box) coupled to PVR equipment (e.g., a remote PVR server or a PVR sidecar) with a PVR device. The PVR-compliant device may include software and hardware configured to implement the IPG. The PVR APIs may be a library of intelligent vendor-specific and vendor-independent APIs able to determine the type of PVR device being used. The PVR extensions and PVR APIs may be configured to provide a seamless integration of functionality associated with the PVR-compliant device and the PVR device. A full port of the IPG may be implemented in both the PVR-compliant device and the PVR device. |
| US08281343B2 |
Management and display of video content
A method of transmitting video content between a computing device and display device. The method includes establishing a data connection between a receiver unit and the display device, where the receiver unit includes a first wireless transceiver and an output port, establishing a data connection between a transmitter unit and the computing device, where the transmitter unit includes a second wireless transceiver and a memory and is configured to perform two-way wireless communications with only the receiver unit and is configured to not perform two-way wireless communications with any other devices, and transmitting the video content from the transmitter unit to the receiver unit. |
| US08281342B2 |
Digital broadcast receiving apparatus
A tuner part 101 for receiving broadcast waves of a channel specified, a key operation part 111 including plural channel selection buttons B corresponding to channels, and a control part 116 for performing control so as to be able to visually distinguish a channel selection button B corresponding to a channel capable of being received by the tuner part 101 from other channel selection buttons B among the plurality of channel selection buttons B are provided, so that notification of a receivable channel can be provided surely. |
| US08281340B2 |
Information processing apparatus and method, and program
In the present invention, there is provided an information processing apparatus for recommending contents. The information processing apparatus may include recommendation information generating means for generating recommendation information for presenting a recommended content to be recommended to a user to the user, and when presenting the recommendation information to the user, changing a form of presentation of at least a part of the recommendation information. |
| US08281338B2 |
Extensible encoding for interactive user experience elements
Detailed herein is a technology which, among other things, allows for storage and playback of interactive user elements in a television stream. In one approach to this technology, a content data stream, including a television program and a user experience element, is received. This content data stream is transformed, and the transformed data stream is examined, to identify which packets are associated with the user experience element. Those packets are then passed to a handler appropriate for the user experience element. |
| US08281337B2 |
System and method to display media content and an interactive display
A method of displaying an interactive display at a set top box (STB) device is disclosed. The method includes receiving a media content stream. The media content stream includes a first content segment and a second content segment, where the second content segment is received at the STB device after the first content segment. The method also includes displaying a first interactive display, where the first interactive display includes at least one field to receive user input. The method also includes displaying a second interactive display after displaying the first interactive display but before displaying the second content segment. The method also includes performing a user-designated transition with respect to the second content segment based on a user input received via the second interactive display. |
| US08281336B2 |
Targeted television advertisements based on online behavior
In a method for delivering targeted television advertisements based on online behavior, IP addresses indicating online access devices and IP addresses indicating television set-top boxes are electronically associated for a multitude of users. Using user profile information derived from online activity from one of the online access IP addresses, a television advertisement is selected, such as by using behavioral targeting or demographic information, and automatically directed to the set-top box indicated by the set-top IP address associated with that online access IP address. Preferably neither the user profile information nor the electronic association of online access and set-top box IP addresses includes personally identifiable information. |
| US08281334B2 |
Facilitating advertisement placement over video content
Systems, methods, computer-readable media, and graphical user interfaces for facilitating advertisement placement over video content are provided. Images within a video are partitioned into image regions. Upon partitioning images into image regions, an intrusiveness score is determined for each image region. Based on the intrusiveness scores, optimal placement of an advertisement within the video is determined. |