最新美国发明专利
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US08440450B2 Antibiotic-sensitive lactic acid bacteria strains
Many probiotic Bifidobacteriaceacontains an active tetW that renders the cells resistant to tetracycline. This may present a risk of a horizontal transfer of functional antibiotic genes. The present invention relates to a method of obtaining novel tetracycline-sensitive strains of the genus of Bifidobacteriacea (Bifidobacterium sp.). In particular, the present invention relates to novel antibiotic-sensitive strains obtained from antibiotic-resistant probiotic strains and the use of such novel strains for the preparation of a food or feed product or a dosage form comprising viable organisms.
US08440449B2 Transformed Saccharomyces cerevisiae engineered for xylose utilization
Recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae produced by transformation with heterologous polynucleotide sequences coding for xylulokinase (XKS) from Yersinia pestis and xylose isomerase (XI) are capable of xylose utilization. The transformants express these heterologous polynucleotides at a sufficient functional level to grow aerobically on xylose as the sole carbon source. Further transformation of the recombinant yeasts to overexpress one or more of the S cerevisiae genes PIP2, IMG2, MAK5, VPS9, COX10, ALE1, CDC7, and MMS4, permits the yeast to grow anaerobically on xylose as the sole carbon source. When grown under anaerobic conditions on a culture medium comprising both glucose and xylose, the transformed yeast exhibit increased ethanol productivity, with the yeast growing on the xylose to increase their biomass and fermenting the glucose to ethanol.
US08440448B2 Composition and method for inhibition of microorganisms
Provided are methods of treating a surface of a food processing facility which has a first population of microorganisms disposed thereon. The method includes disposing on the surface a biofilm containing a second population of microorganisms or a population of microorganisms that can form a biofilm onto the surface of the food processing facility. The growth of the second microbial population and the formation of a biofilm comprising these microorganisms can then inhibit the growth of the first population of microorganisms.
US08440442B2 Method of assaying 5-FU
The present invention provides methods, compositions, devices and kits for assaying 5-FU.
US08440440B2 Ultrasonic cavitation derived stromal or mesenchymal vascular extracts and cells derived therefrom obtained from adipose tissue and use thereof
Methods of treating using adipose tissue using ultrasonic cavitation to dissociate the fat cells and blood vessels contained within adipose tissue and thereby obtain mesenchymal or stromal vascular fractions for use in human subjects are provided. These methods preferably do not include the use of any exogenous dissociating enzymes such as collagenase and result in increased numbers of the cells which constitute the mesenchymal or stromal vascular fractions (about 10-fold greater) than methods which use collagenase to isolate these cells.
US08440438B2 Electromethanogenic reactor and processes for methane production
Increasing competition for fossil fuels, and the need to avoid release carbon dioxide from combustion of these fuels requires development of new and sustainable approaches for energy production and carbon capture. Biological processes for producing methane gas and capturing carbon from carbon dioxide are provided according to embodiments of the present invention which include providing an electromethanogenic reactor having an anode, a cathode and a plurality of methanogenic microorganisms disposed on the cathode. Electrons and carbon dioxide are provided to the plurality of methanogenic microorganisms disposed on the cathode. The methanogenic microorganisms reduce the carbon dioxide to produce methane gas, even in the absence of hydrogen and/or organic carbon sources.
US08440437B2 Combined installation for the production of biogas and compost, and method of switching a fermenter in a like installation between biogas production and composting
A combined installation is disclosed for the production of biogas and compost, including a dry fermentation fermenter for producing biogas in a batch mode, a biogas outlet, a purging gas inlet, a biogas line connected to the biogas outlet, a waste gas line, a waste gas chimney connected to the biogas outlet via a first biogas/waste gas line, a waste gas flare connected to the biogas outlet via a second biogas/waste gas line, a fresh air line connected to the purging gas inlet, a control means for connecting the biogas outlet to the biogas line or the biogas/waste gas chimney via the first biogas/waste gas line or the waste gas flare via the second biogas/waste gas line and for connecting the purging gas inlet to the waste gas line or the fresh air line, and a measurement means connected to the control means for detecting methane and carbon dioxide concentrations.
US08440436B2 Production of itaconic acid
The invention relates to the production of itaconic acid in micro-organisms by introducting into a suitable host cell a gene coding for the enzyme cis-aconitic acid decarboxylase, preferably derived from A. terreus. Further part of the invention are host cells, preferably from A. niger, provided with the above mentioned genes.
US08440434B2 Polypeptides and biosynthetic pathways for the production of monatin and its precursors
Methods and compositions that can be used to make monatin from glucose, tryptophan, indole-3-lactic acid, indole-3-pyruvate, and 2-hydroxy 2-(indol-3-ylmethyl)-4-keto glutaric acid, are provided. Methods are also disclosed for producing the indole-3-pyruvate and 2-hydroxy 2-(indol-3-ylmethyl)-4-keto glutaric acid intermediates. Compositions provided include nucleic acid molecules, polypeptides, chemical structures, and cells. Methods include in vitro and in vivo processes, and the in vitro methods include chemical reactions.
US08440432B2 Tal effector-mediated DNA modification
Materials and methods related to gene targeting (e.g., gene targeting with transcription activator-like effector nucleases; “TALENS”) are provided.
US08440430B2 Modified dicer polypeptide and methods of use thereof
A modified Dicer polypeptide is provided, which modified Dicer polypeptide exhibits enhanced catalytic activity. Also provided is a method for producing small regulatory RNAs from a dsRNA, involving contacting a dsRNA with a subject modified Dicer. Small regulatory RNAs produced by a subject method find use in a variety of applications, including research and therapeutic applications.
US08440427B2 Preparation of protective antigen
A polynucleotide sequence is provided comprising a nucleic acid sequence encoding recombinant Protective Antigen (rPA).Also provided are expression vectors and host cells comprising the polynucleotide sequence of the invention, and methods for producing rPA.
US08440419B2 Method and kit for quantitatively determining small, dense LDL cholesterol
A method for fractional measurement of small, dense LDL, which is adaptable for an autoanalyzer, and a reagent for measurement, are provided, making it possible to conduct rapid and convenient analysis with good sensitivity without pretreatment of a specimen. The method for quantitatively determining small, dense LDL cholesterol in a sample comprises the steps of: (1) eliminating cholesterol in LDL other than small, dense LDL in the presence of phospholipase; and (2) quantitatively determining cholesterol in lipoproteins remaining in step (1) above.
US08440412B2 Compositions, methods and animal models for screening therapeutics for TH2-type disease
The present invention provides a complex of an antigen and IgE binding to the antigen, a composition including an antigen and IgE binding to the antigen, and a method of using the complex or the composition to screen candidate therapeutics for TH-2 type diseases, for example in animal models.
US08440411B2 Differential gene expression in physiological and pathological angiogenesis
Methods of inhibiting pathological angiogenesis in a subject are disclosed. In particular examples, the method includes administering a therapeutically effective amount of a composition to a subject wherein the composition includes a specific binding agent that preferentially binds to one or more pathological angiogenesis marker proteins including Vscp, CD276, ETSvg4 (Pea3), CD137(4-1BB), MiRP2, Ubiquitin D (Fat10), Doppel (prion-PLP), Apelin, Plgf, Ptprn (IA-2), CD109, Ankylosis, and collagen VIIIα1. In additional examples, methods to deliver a therapeutic agent to a brain or liver endothelial cell are also disclosed.
US08440407B2 Gene expression profiles to predict relapse of prostate cancer
The present disclosure provides a method for cancer relapse prediction that provides higher resolution grading than Gleason score alone. In particular, the method provides for prediction of prostate cancer relapse that correlates gene expression of each individual signature gene and deriving a prostate cancer gene expression (GEX) score in the plurality of prostate cancer tissue samples; and correlating said GEX score with the clinical outcome for each prostate carcinoma tissue sample. A set of signature genes is provided that encompasses all or a sub-combination of GI_2094528, KIP2, NRG1, NBL1, Prostein, CCNE2, CDC6, FBP1, HOXC6, MKI67, MYBL2, PTTG1, RAMP, UBE2C, Wnt5A, MEMD, AZGP1, CCK, MLCK, PPAP2B, and PROK1.
US08440404B2 Methods and compositions for generating and amplifying DNA libraries for sensitive detection and analysis of DNA methylation
The present invention regards a variety of methods and compositions for obtaining epigenetic information, such as DNA methylation patterns, through the preparation, amplification and analysis of Methylome libraries. In particular, the method employs preparation of a DNA molecule by digesting the DNA molecule with at least one methylation-sensitive restriction enzyme; incorporating a nucleic acid molecule into at least some of the digested DNA molecules by either (1) incorporating at least one primer from a plurality of primers that have a 5′ constant sequence and a 3′ variable sequence, wherein the primers are substantially non-self-complementary and substantially non-complementary to other primers in the plurality; or (2) incorporating an oligonucleotide having an inverted repeat and a loop under conditions wherein the oligonucleotide becomes blunt-end ligated to one strand of the digested DNA molecule, followed by polymerization from a 3′ hydroxyl group present in a nick in the oligonucleotide-linked molecule; and amplifying one or more of the DNA molecules.
US08440402B2 Gene detection assay for improving the likelihood of an effective response to a HER2 antibody cancer therapy
The invention provides a method for more effective treatment of patients susceptible to or diagnosed with tumors overexpressing HER2, as determined by a gene amplification assay, with a HER2 antibody. Such method comprises administering a cancer-treating dose of the HER2 antibody, preferably in addition to chemotherapeutic agents, to a subject in whose tumor cells her2 has been found to be amplified e.g., by fluorescent in situ hybridization.
US08440399B2 Dark quenchers for donor-acceptor energy transfer
The present invention provides a family of dark quenchers, termed Black Hole Quenchers (“BHQs”), that are efficient quenchers of excited state energy but which are themselves substantially non-fluorescent. Also provided are methods of using the BHQs, probes incorporating the BHQs and methods of using the probes.
US08440391B2 Constitutively activated human G protein coupled receptors
The invention disclosed in this patent document relates to transmembrane receptors, more particularly to a human G protein-coupled receptor for which the endogenous ligand is unknown (“orphan GPCR receptors”), and most particularly to mutated (non-endogenous) versions of the human GPCRs for evidence of constitutive activity.
US08440380B2 Toner and method for producing the same
A toner containing core particles each containing at least a resin A having a polyester skeleton and a colorant; and vinyl resin fine particles each of which encapsulates a resin B having at least a polyester skeleton and an endothermic peak measured by differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) at 40° C. to 110° C., wherein the vinyl resin fine particles are attached onto each of the core particles.
US08440374B2 Colored curable composition, color filter and method of producing the same, and solid-state imaging device
A colored curable composition with which a coating film having excellent uniformity and surface planarity can be formed even when the support (substrate) has irregularities, and which exhibits excellent developability, and which is capable of forming a high-resolution colored pattern, is provided. The colored curable composition includes: (A) a polymer that contains a structural unit having a carboxyl group bonded to a main chain thereof via a linking group containing an ester group; (B) a photopolymerization initiator; (C) a polymerizable compound; (D) a pigment; and (E) a dispersant containing a phosphoric acid group.
US08440367B2 Solutions for solid oxide fuel cell seal failures
A solid oxide fuel cell that is resistant to seal delamination is disclosed. The solid oxide fuel cell comprises, either individually or in combination, a solid electrically non -conductive frame, a seal structure comprising a material capable of preventing a transfer of charge across the seal during fuel cell operation, and a seal comprising a glass frit that is substantially free of oxides of lithium, sodium, or both lithium and sodium. Methods for manufacturing a solid oxide fuel cell are also disclosed.
US08440366B2 Solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell membrane with anion exchange membrane
Disclosed is a solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell membrane comprising an anion exchange membrane that contains a hydrocarbon-based anion exchange resin, wherein the water permeability at 25° C. is 1400 g m−2 hr−1 or greater, the anion exchange capacity is 0.2 to 5.0 mmol·g−1, the percentage of water content at 25° C. is 7% by weight or greater, and the thickness is 3 to 50 μm. It is especially preferable as a solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell membrane when said anion exchange membrane is an ion exchange membrane with a 5 to 15 μm-thick porous membrane substrate, wherein the voids in said porous membrane are filled with a hydrocarbon-based anion exchange resin.
US08440362B2 Fuel cell mechanical components
A modular fuel cell system includes a base, at least four power modules arranged in a row on the base, and a fuel processing module and power conditioning module arranged on at least one end of the row on the base. Each power module includes a separate cabinet which contains at least one fuel cell stack located in a hot box. The power modules are electrically and fluidly connected to the at least one fuel processing and power conditioning modules through the base.
US08440361B2 Monopolar separator with an insulation layer for a fuel cell system
A fuel cell system with reduced volume through decreasing the thickness of a stack comprises: a stack which comprises a plurality of membrane electrode assemblies stacked so that the cathode electrodes face each other and the anode electrodes face each other, and separators that are interposed between the membrane electrode assemblies, and which have a flow path passing through from a first face to a second face on a region corresponding to a region where each cathode electrode or anode electrode is formed.
US08440360B2 Fuel cell device capable of outputting a signal representing a residual capacity, method for outputting a signal representing a residual capacity of a fuel cell device, and electronic device capable of detecting a residual capacity of a fuel cell device
This invention provides a fuel cell device which is simple in structure and easy to detect a fuel residual amount and includes a fuel tank accommodating a plurality of hydrogen storage alloys having mutually different hydrogen desorbing characteristics, a power generating section that uses the hydrogen desorbed from the fuel tank to generate electric power, a pressure sensor that detects a pressure of the hydrogen supplied into the power generating section, and an output circuit that produces a pressure variation detected by the pressure sensor.
US08440359B2 Compression fill of anode of a fuel cell system
A method for filling a fuel cell system with a fuel during start-up is disclosed, the method including the steps of providing a fuel cell stack having a plurality of fuels cells, each fuel cell having an active area, the fuel cell stack including an anode supply manifold and an anode exhaust manifold, the anode supply manifold and in fluid communication with a source of fuel; providing an anode sub-system in fluid communication with an anode side of the fuel cell stack; and supplying the fuel to the fuel cell stack substantially uniformly and substantially simultaneously to compress any fluids in the fuel cell stack into a volume between an end of each active area adjacent to the anode exhaust manifold and an outlet of the anode sub-system.
US08440358B2 Method of operating a fuel cell system on low quality by-product gases
A method of operating a fuel cell system on a by-product gas containing a fuel constituent. The fuel cell system includes a fuel reformer for forming a reformate stream, a combustor for supplying heat energy to the fuel reformer, and a fuel cell stack. The method includes the steps of separating a by-product gas into a purified gas stream and a residual stream with a gaseous fuel purifier, feeding the purified gas stream to the fuel reformer configured to transform the purified gas stream to produce a reformate stream, and feeding the residual gas stream to a combustor configured to provide heat energy to the fuel reformer. The purified gas stream contains a higher concentration of preferable fuel constituents and a lower concentration of contaminants than the residual gas stream.
US08440353B2 Lithium mixed metal oxide
A lithium mixed metal oxide containing Li, Mn and M (M represents at least one metal element, and is free from Li or Mn), and having a peak around 1.5 Å (peak A), a peak around 2.5 Å (peak B), and the value of IB/IA is not less than 0.15 and not more than 0.9 in a radial distribution function obtained by subjecting an extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectrum at K absorption edge of Mn in the oxide to the Fourier transformation, wherein IA is the intensity of peak A and IB is the intensity of peak B.
US08440350B1 Lithium-ion battery electrodes with shape-memory-alloy current collecting substrates
Lithium-ion battery electrode constructions use an array of nanowires (or of other long thin shapes) of active electrode material anchored at one end to a surface of a metal current collector sheet in an electrode assembly or construction. This form of active electrode material permits good contact with a liquid lithium-ion containing electrolyte that infiltrates the closely-spaced thin shapes. Stresses arising from volume changes in the long shapes with lithiation and de-lithiation of the active material is mitigated by strategic placement of shape memory apply forms between attachment surfaces of the active electrode material and other members of the electrode assembly.
US08440348B2 Sealed battery
The external terminal 19 has sword-guard portion 191 provided with a terminal portion 193 formed at one end thereof and a cylindrical crimping member 192 formed at another end thereof, the cylindrical crimping member 192 being inserted through openings each formed at a first insulating member 211, the opening-sealing plate 13, a second insulating member 212 and the collector 181, and being crimped in a diameter-enlarging direction, so that the sword-guard portion 191 of the external terminal 19, the opening-sealing plate 13 and the collector 181 are mechanically-fixed and a thin-walled portion made thinner than other portions formed in a tip portion of the cylindrical crimping member 192 is adhered to the collector, and the thin-walled portion 194 and the collector being welded with a high energy beam.
US08440346B2 Protection circuit board for secondary battery and secondary battery using the protection circuit board
A protection circuit board for a secondary battery includes an insulation substrate, a protection circuit part including an electrode tap connection terminal and a charge/discharge terminal, arranged on the insulation substrate, and a printed circuit board including a passive element and a positive element, connected to a printed circuit board pattern. A static electricity absorbing part is arranged at a periphery of the printed circuit board pattern.
US08440344B2 Secondary battery pack
A secondary battery pack having a connecting member connecting a secondary battery to a protection circuit module. The secondary battery pack includes at least one secondary battery; a case accommodating the battery; a protection circuit module to protecting the battery; and a connecting member connecting the at least one secondary battery to the protection circuit module. The connecting member includes a first plate having a plurality of conductive patterns spaced apart from one another; and a second plate surrounding the first plate. The second plate has at least one cut-away portion on a bent portion of the first plate.
US08440341B2 Battery pack
A battery pack that includes a holder to accommodate bare cells and a lead plate electrically connected to the holder. The lead plate includes female and male coupling members such that the holder is easily assembled with the lead plate and an error occurring when the holder and the lead plate are coupled with each other may be prevented. The lead plate may not separate from the holder after assembling the holder with the lead plate.
US08440337B2 Battery safety system
A battery safety system that includes a battery terminal configured for making an electrical connection to the system, an electrical disconnect operable to a disconnected state whereby a battery voltage is electrically isolated from the battery terminal, and a connected state, whereby the battery voltage is electrically coupled to the battery terminal. The battery safety system also includes and a terminal guard movable to an exposed position effective to allow making the electrical connection to the battery terminal, and a protected position effective to prevent electrical contact with the battery terminal other than via the electrical connection. The system is configured to prevent the electrical disconnect from being operated to the connected state if the terminal guard is not at the protected position. The system provides a double action safety interlock that makes the action of connecting and disconnecting battery voltage to and from battery terminals or battery cables separate from the action of covering and uncovering the battery terminals, and so reduces the risk of electrical shock when the battery is being manufactured, installed, serviced, or otherwise handled.
US08440328B2 Coating for improved wear resistance
In one aspect, coated cutting tools are described herein which, in some embodiments, can demonstrate improved wear resistance in one or more cutting applications. In some embodiments, a coated cutting tool described herein comprises a substrate and a coating adhered to the substrate, the coating comprising an inner layer deposited by physical vapor deposition and an outer deposited by physical vapor deposition over the inner layer.
US08440325B2 Electronic device
An electronic device containing a hole transporting semiconductive polymer comprising a first repeat unit comprising a first nitrogen of a triarylamine in the polymer backbone and a second nitrogen of an arylamine pendant from the polymer backbone, characterised in that said semiconductive polymer performs the function of transporting holes to or from a semiconductive material in said device.
US08440323B2 Coated steel stamped product
The invention relates to a process for making a hot stamped coated steel sheet product, comprising the steps of pre-coating a steel strip or sheet with aluminum- or aluminum alloy, cutting said pre-coated steel strip or sheet to obtain a pre-coated steel blank, heating the blank in a furnace preheated to a temperature and during a time defined by diagram according to thickness, at a heating rate Vc between 20 and 700° C. comprised between 4 and 12° C./s and at a heating rate Vc′ between 500 and 700° C. comprised between 1.5 and 6° C./s, to obtain a heated blank; then transferring said heated blank to a die, hot stamping the heated blank in the die obtain a hot stamped steel sheet product, cooling at a mean rate Vr between the exit of the heated blank from the furnace, down to 400° C., of at least 30° C./s.
US08440317B2 Protective film for polarizing membrane and polarizing laminate
A protective film for a polarizing membrane is provided which is prevented in light leakage generation, and excellent in moldability. The protective film contains a polyamide resin, and is subjected to an orientation (e.g., a drawing) to have a retardation value of not less than 300 nm. The polyamide resin may also contain an alicyclic polyamide resin, e.g., a resin whose monomers are an alicyclic diamine and an aliphatic dicarboxylic acid. The polyamide resin may have microcrystallinity. The Abbe number of the polyamide resin may be not less than 40.
US08440316B2 Odor transmission-resistant polymeric film
A malodor transmission-resistant plastic finding employment in cassettes housing flexible tubular material.
US08440315B2 Matte finish polyimide films and methods relating thereto
The present disclosure is directed to a base film having a thickness from 8 to 152 microns, a 60 degree gloss value from 2 to 35, an optical density greater than or equal to 2 and a dielectric strength greater than 1400 V/mil. The base film comprises a chemically converted (partially or wholly aromatic) polyimide in an amount from 71 to 96 weight percent of the base film. The base film further comprises a pigment and a matting agent. The matting agent is present in an amount from 1.6 to 10 weight percent of the base film, has a median particle size from 1.3 to 10 microns, and has a density from 2 to 4.5 g/cc. The pigment is present in an amount from 2 to 9 weight percent of the base film. The present disclosure is also directed to coverlay films comprising the base film in combination with an adhesive layer.
US08440312B2 Thermal interface materials and methods for their preparation and use
A curable composition contains (A) a polyorganosiloxane base polymer having an average per molecule of at least two aliphatically unsaturated organic groups, optionally (B) a crosslinker having an average per molecule of at least two silicon bonded hydrogen atoms, (C) a catalyst, (D) a thermally conductive filler, and (E) an organic plasticizer. The composition can cure to form a thermally conductive silicone gel or rubber. The thermally conductive silicone rubber is useful as a thermal interface material, in both TIM1 and TIM2 applications. The curable composition may be wet dispensed and then cured in situ in an (opto)electronic device, or the curable composition may be cured to form a pad with or without a support before installation in an (opto)electronic device.
US08440311B2 Silicone composition and process that is useful for improving the tear strength and the combing strength of an inflatable bag for protecting an occupant of a vehicle
The general field of the invention is that of airbags. The invention relates to a process for improving the tear strength and the combing strength of coated fabrics intended for uses in the field of inflatable bags using a silicone composition comprising an additive containing a polyorganosiloxane resin (V) and a calcium carbonate. After coating the composition onto the fabric supports and curing, the coated supports not only have optimum adhesion and crease resistance properties, but also have good properties in terms of combing strength and tear strength.
US08440310B2 Coated article with low-E coating having zinc stannate based layer between IR reflecting layers for reduced mottling and corresponding methods
A coated article is provided which may be heat treated (e.g., thermally tempered) and/or heat bent in certain example instances. In certain example embodiments, a zinc stannate based layer is provided between a tin oxide based layer and a silicon nitride based layer, and this has been found to significantly reduce undesirable mottling damage upon heat treatment/bending. This results in significantly improved bendability of the coated article in applications such as vehicle windshields and the like.
US08440309B2 Crosslinked polymers with the crosslinker as therapeutic for sustained release
Crosslinked polymers, methods for their preparation and use, are described in which the crosslinked polymers are formed from at least two polymer precursors, one of which is designed, upon degradation of the crosslinked polymer, to release the second polymer precursor in its original, unmodified chemical form.
US08440308B2 Method of manufacturing shoes and shoes
The method of manufacturing shoes of the present invention comprises a pre-step of heating a following reactive hot-melt adhesive to melt it and providing the melted adhesive on a joining surface of at least one adherend, an ultraviolet treating step of irradiating the adhesive with ultraviolet light having irradiation energy more than 100 mJ/cm2 and less than 1200 mJ/cm2 to polymerize a polyurethane prepolymer, and a joining step of overlaying a joining surface of another adherend on the adhesive to bond both adherends together.The reactive hot-melt adhesive contains a polyurethane prepolymer having an (meth)acryloyl group and an isocyanate group at the end of a molecule, and a photopolymerization initiator. The polyurethane prepolymer includes a non-crystalline polyol and a crystalline polyol, wherein the non-crystalline polyol is contained from 20% by mass to 90% by mass with respect to the whole polyols. The viscosity of the reactive hot-melt adhesive at 80° C. is 300 Pa·s or less.The method of manufacturing shoes of the present invention can simplify a work process and shorten working hours, and it is possible to manufacture shoes having excellent durability.
US08440307B2 Charging member and method for producing charging member
Provided is a charging member in which the hardness of its surface is increased while surface free energy is kept low, the surface is hard to scratch even in long-term use, and a toner or the like is hard to adhere to the surface. The charging member according to the present invention includes a conductive support, a conductive elastic layer, and a surface region containing a cured material of a compound represented by the following formula (1): wherein n represents an integer of 0-6, m represents an integer of 0-6, the total of n and m is from 2 to 6, x and y each independently represent an integer of 0-4, and R1 and R2 each independently represent a hydrogen atom or a methyl group.
US08440306B2 Conductive film
A conductive film which is excellent in moist heat resistance, conductivity, transparency and coating film strength.The conductive film comprises a base film and a coating layer formed on the base film by curing a composition comprising: (i) a conducting polymer containing a polycationic polythiophene having a recurring unit represented by the following formula (1) as the main constituent and a polyanion (component A): wherein R1 and R2 are each independently a hydrogen atom or alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms or bonded together to form an alkylene group having 1 to 12 carbon atoms which may be substituted arbitrarily; (ii) a water-soluble compound having at least one hydrophilic group selected from the group consisting of oxyethylene group and sulfonate group (component B); and (iii) a crosslinking agent having a glycidyl group (component C), and which has a surface resistance change rate after it is treated at a temperature of 60° C. and a humidity of 90% for 240 hours of 160% or less.
US08440302B2 Reinforced resin-derived carbon foam
A reinforced carbon foam material is formed from carbon fibers incorporated within a carbon foam's structure. First, carbon fiber bundles are combined with a liquid resol resin. The carbon fiber bundles separate into individual carbon fiber filaments and disperse throughout the liquid resol resin. Second, the carbon fiber resin mixture is foamed thus fixing the carbon fibers in a permanent spatial arrangement within the phenolic foam. The foam is then carbonized to create a carbon fiber reinforced foam with improved graphitic characteristics as well as increased strength. Optionally, various additives can be introduced simultaneously with the addition of the carbon fiber bundles into the liquid resol, which can improve the graphitic nature of the final carbon foam material and/or increase the foam's resistance to oxidation.
US08440300B2 Coated polyoxymethylenes
Coated polyoxymethylene moldings comprising at least one polyoxymethylene homo- or copolymer A), and also, if appropriate, further additives B), which has been coated on the surface with at least one binder C) and one formaldehyde scavenger D), wherein the binder C) used comprises a polyalkylene oxide C1 or a polyvinyl ester C2 or a graft polymer C3 composed of C1 and C2 or a mixture of these, and the formaldehyde scavenger D) used comprises at least one hydrazide compound.
US08440296B2 Shear panel building material
A shear panel building material that includes a first facing membrane, a core matrix disposed on a face of the first facing membrane, and a semi-rigid or rigid material attached to the core matrix. The core matrix can include microspheres having a size of about 200 microns to about 800 microns, sodium silicate, and ethylene vinyl acetate. In one aspect, the shear panel is substantially free from glue and cement.
US08440293B2 Laminated tape, package, and process for producing laminated tape
A laminated tape includes: an adhesive material layer; a first polyolefin layer provided on one side of the adhesive material layer; and a second polyolefin layer provided on the other side of the adhesive material layer. The laminated tape is sandwiched between opposing base films of a packaging body to be welded. The polyolefin used for the first polyolefin layer and the second polyolefin layer is of the same type. The thickness of the respective layers of the laminated tape is preferably defined so that the thickness of the first polyolefin layer and the adhesive material layer is 30 μm or more and the thickness of the second polyolefin layer is less than 30 μm.
US08440290B2 Contact media for evaporative coolers
The present invention includes a contact medium for use in an evaporative cooler, comprising a corrugated fibrous sheet material comprising at least a top layer and a bottom layer in contact at one or more regions to form at least two channels between the top layer and the bottom layer for air and fluid flow; and a water insoluble thermoplastic compound that impregnates the corrugated fibrous sheet material. The water insoluble thermoplastic compound may have between 1-35 weight percent PVC; 1-20 weight percent PAN; 1-60 weight percent PMA; 1-20 weight percent PAI; and 2-25 weight percent PBA. For example, the composition may have about 2 weight percent PVC; 18 weight percent PAN; 45 weight percent PMA; 15 weight percent PAI; and 20 weight percent PBA.
US08440289B2 Composite for geotechnics, building and the like, with impermeable layer
A composite for geotechnics and building, with an impermeable layer, comprising a sheet element that is impermeable to fluids and has, monolithically therewith, elements that protrude on the first and second faces, on at least one of the faces there being a layer that is integrally coupled to the protruding elements to form, at the first and/or second faces, two separate drainage and/or protection and/or grip systems adapted to withstand intense compression along a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the sheet element.
US08440288B2 Easily applicable adhesive sheet and method of producing the same
An easily applicable adhesive sheet includes a base sheet and an adhesive layer provided on the base sheet and which includes, in a surface portion thereof, air passages each including a plurality of grooves opening at an end edge portion of the adhesive sheet. Each groove has an opening width of 3 to 100 μm; the distance between adjacent grooves is 1 to 100 μm; each air passage has a width of 7 to 900 μm; and the distance between adjacent air passages is 200 to 3,000 μm. The easily applicable adhesive sheet can be smoothly applied to an adherend without formation of blisters (i.e., even when air bubbles are formed between the adhesive sheet and the adherend upon application thereof, air is easily released), and which exhibits excellent appearance after application thereof to the adherend.
US08440283B2 Optical information recording medium and method for producing same
The information recording medium 3 comprises an information layer having a metal layer 5 on a substrate 4, wherein concavo-convex portion is formed in the substrate to give main information such as image and voice, and the metal layer contains Al, Si and M (wherein M is at least one element selected from a group consisting of Cr and Ni) and enables sub-information to be additionally recorded therein at low cost by laser-beam 7 irradiation.
US08440281B2 Stabilized blends of polyester and polyamide
Disclosed are stabilized blends of polyester and polyamide. The polymer blends are stabilized with A) a combination of stabilizers a) acetaldehyde scavengers and b) stabilizers selected from phenolic antioxidants, organic phosphorus stabilizers and lactone stabilizers or B) a combination of c) lactone stabilizers and d) stabilizers selected from phenolic antioxidants and organic phosphorus stabilizers. The present blends exhibit reduced color formation, a high level of whiteness/brightness and acceptably low haze formation upon heat treatment. The blends are useful to make bottles, containers and films for drinks, food and cosmetics and the like. The polyester is in particular polyethylene terephthalate, PET, and the polyamide is in particular polyamide-MXD6. Heat treatment is for example melt extrusion or solid state polymerization, SSP.
US08440280B2 Multi layer film
The invention is directed to a multi layer film to be used as a flexible packaging material for enclosing and containing one or more compressible products in a sealed condition. The 5 layer film according to the invention consists of I. a first layer comprising low density polyethylene, II. a second layer comprising high density polyethylene, III. a third layer comprising linear low density polyethylene, IV. a fourth layer comprising high density polyethylene and V. a fifth layer comprising linear low density polyethylene.
US08440279B2 Structural element for a motor vehicle, and a method of fabricating such an element
This element (2) is of the type including a hollow elongate body (4) made of metal and having a closed section; and a continuous second body (6) made of plastics material overmolded on the metal first body (4), the plastics material second body (6) including at least two rings (24) surrounding the metal first body (4), the rings (24) being longitudinally spaced part. In any cross-section of the metal first body (4), the plastics material second body (6) is situated entirely outside the outline of the metal first body (4), and the ratio of the axial length of each ring (24) over the longitudinal distance between the rings (24) is less than 1. The invention is applicable to the front faces of motor vehicles.
US08440274B2 Electronic device moisture indicators
Electronic devices may have sensitive circuitry. To determine whether an electronic device has been exposed to excessive amounts of moisture, the electronic device may be provided with a moisture indicator. The moisture indicator may have a wicking layer of white paper and a red dye layer. If a portion of the moisture indicator is exposed to moisture, red dye may bleed into the white paper. The moisture indicator may be mounted in an input-output port opening or other portion of the electronic device where the state of the moisture indicator is visible. The moisture indicator may have sealed edges to reduce sensitivity to small amounts of moisture intrusion. Different regions of the moisture indicator may be provided with different sensitivities by forming structures that have altered moisture flow properties, by altering wicking layer thicknesses, or by otherwise spatially modifying moisture sensitivity.
US08440272B2 Method for forming post passivation Au layer with clean surface
A method for fabricating and testing a wafer includes forming metal traces with metal pads, wherein forming the metal traces include forming a TiW layer on a passivation layer and on pads, next forming a seed layer on the TiW layer, next forming a photoresist layer on the seed layer, next forming a metal layer on the seed layer exposed by openings in the photoresist layer, next removing the photoresist layer, next removing the seed layer not under the metal layer, and then etching the TiW layer not under the metal layer with an etchant containing H2O2 at a temperature of between 35 and 50° C., or with an etchant containing H2O2 and with ultrasonic waves applied to the etchant, next contacting probe tips of a probe card with some of the metal pads, next cleaning the probe tips until repeating the step of contacting the probe tips with some of the metal pads at greater than 100 times, and then after cleaning the probe tips, repeating the step of contacting the probe tips with some of the metal pads.
US08440271B2 Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
Providing a liquid crystal composition satisfies at least one of characteristics like a high maximum temperature of a nematic phase, a low minimum temperature of the nematic phase, a small viscosity, a suitable optical anisotropy, a large negative dielectric anisotropy, a large specific resistance, a high stability to ultraviolet light and a high stability to heat or has a suitable balance regarding at least two of the characteristics. Providing an AM device has a short response time, a large voltage holding ratio, a large contrast ratio, a long service life and so forth. The liquid crystal composition has a negative dielectric anisotropy and contains a specific compound having large negative dielectric anisotropy as a first component, a specific three-ring compound having large optical anisotropy as a second component and a specific two-ring compound having low viscosity as a third component, and a liquid crystal display device contains the composition.
US08440270B2 Film deposition apparatus and method
A film deposition apparatus which comprises: a processing chamber having a space inside which serves as a vacuum space to which a film deposition gas is supplied; a substrate supporting unit which is disposed in the vacuum space and supports a substrate; a coil which inductively heats the substrate supporting unit to thereby form a film from the film deposition gas on the substrate and which has been divided into regions; and a coil control unit which controls the coil region by region.
US08440265B2 Water- and heat-resistant scratch-and-sniff coating
A scratch-and-sniff coating is provided comprised of a first coating on a substrate having a water- and heat-resistant second coating thereon, the first coating being comprised of a non-encapsulated flavor/fragrance component and a polysaccharide component, and the second coating comprised of a shellac component. The scratch-and-sniff coating is made by forming a first coating comprised of a non-encapsulated flavor/fragrance component and a polysaccharide component and drying the first coating, and forming a water- and heat-resistant shellac-containing second coating on the first coating, and drying the second coating. An encapsulated flavor/fragrance component may optionally be present in the first coating. The scratch-and-sniff coating can be applied to a package for a consumer article.
US08440264B2 Method for preparing a brazed surface for receiving a coating
According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for preparing a brazed surface to receive a coating is disclosed. The method includes providing a brazed surface having a flux layer including a conversion coating and a powder component; and applying an aqueous solution containing a flux-removing agent to the surface to at least partially remove the powder component of the flux layer to obtain a treated brazed surface that is suitable for receiving a subsequent coating layer.
US08440263B2 Forming method of metallic pattern and metallic pattern
A method for forming a metallic pattern, which is provided with a printing process to print a pattern portion on a substrate by means of an inkjet method utilizing ink containing a precursor of a nonelectric plating catalyst and a plating process to form a metallic pattern by nonelectric plating on said pattern portion, wherein the surface of said substrate is constituted of ink non-absorptive resin and has been subjected to a plasma treatment, and said ink has a pH value at 25° C. of not less than 9.0.
US08440262B2 Fast film formation water based barrier coating
The invention relates to a composition which, when mixed with a polymer composition, allows for the formation of a continuous and cohesive film. The film is characterized in that it provides water, grease and oil resistance, provides a water vapor barrier and can be used as wax replacement treatment and a top coat for flexible packaging, but also on other substrates. This film is formed at a very fast set speed without the need of thermal energy. The composition contains i) a salt of one or more of myristic, palmitic and stearic acid; and preferably also ii) a C9-C18 fatty acid complex of a metal ion, said metal ion having an oxidation state of at least 3. The invention also provides processes and coated substrates.
US08440257B2 Methods for making fasteners
Methods of forming fasteners are disclosed. One method comprises dispersing polymer particles into a contact release surface, transforming the polymer particles into an at least semiliquid state of a suitable viscosity for a time sufficient to transform into preform projections having contact edges, contacting and fixing a front surface of the base with the terminal ends of at least some of the preform projections, removing the base, thereby separating the preform projections, from the release surface, and forming engaging projections projecting from the front surface of the base.
US08440256B2 Combustion deposition of metal oxide coatings deposited via infrared burners
Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to a method of forming a coating on a glass substrate using combustion deposition. A glass substrate having at least one surface to be coated is provided. A reagent is selected. A precursor to be combusted with the reagent is introduced. Using at least one infrared burner, at least a portion of the reagent and the precursor are combusted to form a combusted material, with the combusted material including non-vaporized material. The glass substrate is provided in an area so that the glass substrate is heated sufficiently to allow the combusted material to form the coating, directly or indirectly, on the glass substrate. The coating may be substantially uniform. In certain example embodiments, a silicon oxide coating may be deposited, which increases visible transmission of the glass substrate by at least about 1.7%.
US08440254B2 Method for preparing multilayer of nanocrystals, and organic-inorganic hybrid electroluminescence device comprising multilayer of nanocrystals prepared by the method
A method for preparing a multilayer of nanocrystals. The method includes the steps of (i) coating nanocrystals surface-coordinated by a photosensitive compound, or a mixed solution of a photosensitive compound and nanocrystals surface-coordinated by a material miscible with the photosensitive compound, on a substrate, drying the coated substrate, and exposing the dried substrate to UV light to form a first monolayer of nanocrystals, and (ii) repeating the procedure of step (i) to form one or more monolayers of nanocrystals on the first monolayer of nanocrystals. Further, an organic-inorganic hybrid electroluminescence device using a multilayer of nanocrystals prepared by the method as a luminescent layer.
US08440253B2 Droplet discharge amount measuring method and organic electroluminescence apparatus manufacturing method
A droplet discharge amount measuring method for measuring the amount of droplets of a functional solution discharged from a droplet discharge apparatus, the functional solution containing a solid component and a solvent, includes discharging droplets of the functional solution from the droplet discharge apparatus onto a test surface, drying for allowing the solvent on the test surface to evaporate from the droplets so that solid dots be left and measuring the volume of the solid dots using an imaging technique, wherein in drying, the droplets are condensed as the solvent evaporates therefrom, and thus the resulting solid dots have smaller areas than the parent droplets upon landing on the test surface.
US08440252B2 Iodized salt and a process for its preparation
The invention discloses a novel iodizing agent containing latent elemental iodine and preparation of iodized salt therefrom. The iodizing agent comprises a mixture of iodide and iodate in solution form in 5:1 molar ratio. The said iodizing agent may be prepared cost-effectively through the reaction of pure iodine crystals with a suitable alkali. Iodized salt prepared therefrom is stable in the pH range of 7.0-8.0 whereas it releases the latent elemental iodine under acidic conditions such as that which prevails in the stomach.
US08440250B2 Fat crystallization accelerator
Provided is a crystallization accelerator capable of accelerating fat crystallization a short time during a production step of a product of margarine, shortening, chocolate, or hard butter to be used for confectionery production or bread production. A phenomenon that sorbitan fatty acid ester having an esterification ratio of from 28 to 60% and a sorbitol-type content of from 20 to 40% exhibits a remarkable effect on acceleration of fat crystallization in a short time was found, and thus, the invention was completed.
US08440241B1 Alcohol metabolizing assisting supplement
A alcohol metabolizing assisting supplement includes a mixture which includes humic and fulvic acids, L-Cysteine, L-Glutamine, thiamine mononitrate, and vitamins. The mixture is ingested after the consumption of alcohol to assist the body in quickly metabolizing the alcohol and to resist the negative effects of metabolizing alcohol.
US08440240B2 Method for treating ocular demodex
The present invention relates to a method for treating a disorder chosen from ocular Demodex, Demodex-induced blepharitis, rosacea, acne, and meibomian gland dysfunction in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering to the patient a composition comprising a therapeutically effective amount of a substance chosen from at least one of an isoprenoidal essential oil such as Tea Tree Oil; Terpinen-4-ol; Carvone; alpha-Terpineol; Cardinene; d-Carvone; l-Carvone; gamma-Terpinene; alpha-Terpinene; 1,8-Cineole; alpha-Terpineol; para-Cimene; alpha-Pinene; Limonene; (R)-(+)-Limonene; alpha-Thugene; Eucalyptol; (+)-Ledene; Cuminic Aldehyde; and Myrcene; the administration comprising contacting or scrubbing an affected area of skin or hair, or eyelid margin and lashes of the patient with the composition; also disclosed are a method for treating mange and mite infestations on a mammalian animal; and kits for in-office and at home treatments of the disorders.
US08440239B2 Formulations and treatments for trichology
A formulation for trichological treatment of a patient including, in a dosage in the range of 3 g to 8 g: phytosterols in the range of 200 mg to 2500 mg; the quantitative equivalent of Polygonum multiflorum root 4:1 in 70% EW in the range of 600 mg to 2600 mg; methylsulfonylmethane in the range of 500 mg to 2000 mg; and bovine colostrum in the range of 500 m to 2000 m.
US08440235B2 Amniotic membrane preparations and purified compositions and therapy for scar reversal and inhibition
Compositions having a combination of specific biological components have been found to exert a number of useful effects in mammalian cells, including modulating TGF β signaling, apoptosis, and proliferation of mammalian cells, as well as decreasing inflammation in mice. These components can be obtained commercially, or can be prepared from biological tissues such as placental tissues. Placental amniotic membrane (AM) preparations described herein include AM pieces, AM extracts, AM jelly, AM stroma, and mixtures of these compositions with additional components. The compositions can be used to treat various diseases, such as wound healing, inflammation and angiogenesis-related diseases.
US08440233B2 Compositions against rotavirus infection and processes for producing the same
The present inventors discovered that microfiltration retentates of whey, and products obtained by treating whey using centrifugation and/or ammonium sulfate precipitation, have the activity of inhibiting rotavirus infection. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of preventing rotavirus infection, comprising administering to a subject a composition that comprises a whey cream serum obtained by treating whey by centrifugation, or a dehydrated product thereof, wherein the antiviral activity of said composition is retained after heat treatment.
US08440232B2 Methods of treatment using a gastric retained gabapentin dosage
A method of treatment for epilepsy and other disease states is described, which comprises delivery of gabapentin in a gastric retained dosage form.
US08440230B2 Formulation based on micronized natural calcite mineral as a plant booster and mineral fertilizer
The present invention is related to a formulation based on micronized natural calcite mineral consisting of: A. mineral part which is characterized: (i) by the particle size with diameter smaller than 5 μm, where the distribution of particle size is such that minimum of 10% of particles are with diameter under 900 nm, with total surface of particles greater than 3.2 m2/g, and with total porous volume greater than 0.012 cm3/g, and by composition: (ii) CaCO3, MgCO3, FeCO3, MnCO3, ZnCO3 and SiO2 in mixtures where CaCO3 is presented in amount from 10% to 99% of mineral part; and B. adjuvant selected from the group consisting of: wetting agent, drift-control agent at application by spraying, humic acid salt, amino-acids salts, complex of plant micro-nutrients, vitamin, plant hormone, nitrogen fertilizer, potassium salt, borate salt, molybdate salt, plant extract, chlorophyll, yeast extract, or mixture of these substances; where A. and B. form an aqueous suspension wherein percentage of A. and B. is lower than 5% by weight. The formulation from this invention is used as a plant booster and mineral fertilizer for stimulation of photosynthetic process in plants, stimulation of plants growth, reinforcement of plant resistance to physiological and anhydrous stress, reinforcement of resistance to different plant diseases, for improvement of nutrient absorption, for increasing crop yields, and for plant nutrition.
US08440228B2 Adsorbent for an oral administration, and agent for treating or preventing renal or liver disease
An adsorbent for an oral administration, comprising a spherical activated carbon wherein an average particle diameter is 50 to 200 μm, a specific surface area determined by a BET method is 700 m2/g or more, and a bulk density is less than 0.54 g/mL is disclosed. The adsorbent for an oral administration has a high adsorbability, and is capable of adsorbing a large amount of toxins during a retention period in an intestine, and of remarkably increasing an adsorption amount of compounds having a large molecular weight.
US08440227B2 Biodegradable, non-toxic biological adhesive and methods for use in abdominal surgery
A biological adhesive formulation comprising dextrin, at least one adhesiveness modifier agent, and at least one antibiotic is suitable for promoting healing of tissue in a patient, for example, to prevent anastomosis of a surgical wound in the digestive system of a patient, and for affixing prosthesis during a hernia operation in a patient and occluding a fistula within a patient.
US08440223B2 Sustained release pharmaceutical compositions comprising quetiapine in non-gellable polymers
A sustained release dosage form comprising Quetiapine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, polymorphs, solvates, hydrates thereof and one or more non-gellable release controlling polymer and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipient(s). A sustained release dosage form comprising first granulation comprising Quetiapine or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts, polymorphs, solvates, hydrates thereof and one or more release controlling material; and second granulation comprising one or more release controlling material which is the same or different than the one or more release controlling material of the first granulation and optionally quetiapine or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts, polymorphs, solvates, hydrates thereof. A method of preparing the sustained release dosage form by first and second granulation followed by milling; blending the said milled granules after second granulation with lubricant followed by compression to form a sustained release dosage form. A sustained release dosage form comprising immediate release core comprising Quetiapine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, polymorphs, solvates, hydrates thereof and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients; and sustained release coating comprising one or more non-gellable release controlling material.
US08440219B2 Reduced-odor thiol compositions
The present invention provides compositions for and methods of delivering a therapeutically-effective dose of a malodorous, sulfide or disulfide group-containing compound, for example glutathione (reduced) and/or glutathione disulfide, in a vehicle that is effective to reduce the unpleasant odor and/or taste of the compound. The invention further provides methods for reducing the amount of oxidation occurring when sulfide group-containing compounds, such as glutathione, are incorporated into sugar and or sugar-free hard candies without subjecting the glutathione to thermal and or moisture degradation where degradation is expressed as oxidation. The invention further provides vehicle compositions including the protected sulfide group-containing compounds and their use as medicaments. The sulfide group-containing compounds are protected from degradation by their dispersion into fats, oils, and/or fractionated or partially hydrogenated oils prior to their blending into the vehicle.
US08440212B2 Compositions for treating water systems
The present invention relates to treatment of water, and more specifically to treatment of water using a stable formulation of polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) and a liquid or solid zinc salt for the application and prevention algae in recirculated and stagnant water systems. The invention also encompasses methods of treating water that already contains PHMB.
US08440210B2 Stabilized pharmaceutical product
Use of an adsorbent and a sealed package (e.g. an overwrap) to protect a pharmaceutical product in a solid state in the presence of a reducing sugar.
US08440207B2 Live bacterial vaccines for viral infection prophylaxis or treatment
A live bacterium, having a DNA construct stabilized against transduction of other bacteria, having a promoter sequence and encoding a fusion peptide, comprising a bacterial secretion peptide portion and a non-bacterial immunogenic polypeptide portion, having a nucleotide sequence coding for the non-bacterial immunogenic polypeptide portion which has at least one codon optimized for bacterial expression. The bacterium has a secretion mechanism which interacts with at least the bacterial secretion peptide portion to cause a secretion of the fusion peptide from the bacterium, and a genetic virulence attenuating mutation. The bacterium is adapted to act as an animal vaccine, to transiently infect a tissue of the animal, and cause an immunity response to the non-bacterial immunogenic polypeptide portion in the animal to a non-bacterial organism associated with the non-bacterial immunogenic polypeptide portion.
US08440202B2 Induction of an immune response against dengue virus using the prime-boost approach
The invention relates to methods for the induction of an immune response to dengue virus. The method of inducing an immune response against dengue virus comprises administration of a non-replicating immunogen followed by a boost with a tetravalent live attenuated viral vaccine. Another aspect of the inventive subject matter is a method of inducing an immune response against dengue virus using a heterologous prime-boost regimen with the priming immunogen comprising a DNA expression system, an adenovirus expression vector or a Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus replicon system and the boosting immunogen comprising the same without the DNA expression system. Each expression system contains DNA sequences encoding dengue viral proteins.
US08440190B2 Antibody variants
This invention relates to an antibody which is modified version of a therapeutic antibody with affinity for a cell-surface antigen, the antibody having reduced affinity for the antigen compared with the therapeutic antibody as a result of a modification or modifications to the antibody molecule, wherein the antibody is capable of inducing immunological tolerance to the therapeutic antibody. The invention further relates to a method of inducing immunological tolerance to a therapeutic antibody, comprising administering to a patient an antibody which is a modified version of the therapeutic antibody and which has reduced affinity for the antigen as compared with the therapeutic antibody.
US08440187B2 Use application of sugar chain-recognizing receptor
Provided are a novel means for regulating inflammatory reactions by regulating the signaling in inflammatory responses caused by non-homeostatic cell death, specifically an anti-inflammatory agent comprising a substance that inhibits the expression of Mincle or the interaction of Mincle and SAP130 or FcRγ, a screening method for a substance that regulates inflammatory reactions, comprising contacting Mincle or a fragment containing an extracellular region thereof and SAP130 in the presence and absence of a test substance, and comparing the degrees of the interaction of Mincle or the fragment thereof and SAP130 under the two conditions, a method of detecting non-homeostatic cell death, comprising measuring the amount of SAP130 in a sample collected from a subject animal, and the like.
US08440177B2 Method of treating graft versus host disease using adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells
The present invention relates to the use of a particular type of adipose tissue derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs), which exert immunosuppressive properties, in the manufacture of a pharmaceutical composition for the prevention and treatment of the graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) produced after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
US08440176B2 Covalently grafted pharmaceutically active polymers
The invention relates to graftable polymers comprising biologically active agents and the use of such polymers in the manufacture of shaped articles, such as implantable medical devices and catheters. The graftable polymers are covalently grafted to a surface via one or more grafting moieties incorporated into the pharmaceutically-active graftable polymer. The coated articles of the invention can further comprise tie-coats, and the ratio of polymer:tie coat can be used to adjust the rate of drug elution.
US08440175B2 Hair cosmetic composition
A hair cosmetic composition which gives a feeling of light-sliding smoothness and a not-heavy feeling of not-unruliness to hair. The hair cosmetic composition contains a both terminally long-chain alkylamino group-modified polyorganosiloxane having a viscosity at 25° C. of 1,000 to 5,000,000 mPas, represented by the formula: MDxD′yM wherein M is a siloxy unit represented by the formula: R1R22SiO0.5, D is a siloxy unit represented by the formula: R22SiO, and D′ is a siloxy unit represented by the formula: R2R3SiO, where R1 is an alkyl group having 12 to 50 carbon atoms, R2 is a substituted or unsubstituted hydrocarbon group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, R3 is 3-aminopropyl group and/or N-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyl group, x is a value of 1 to 2,000, and y is a value of 1 to 50.
US08440174B2 Compositions comprising surfactants and alkyloxy-modified silicone
The present application relates to organosilicones and compositions such as consumer products comprising such organosilicones, as well as processes for making and using such organosilicones and such compositions. Such compositions comprising such organosilicones are easier to formulate, and provide more economical and superior care benefits when compared to current silicone containing compositions.
US08440172B2 Stable soluble salts of phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid at PHS at or below 7.0
The invention concerns preparations, particularly cosmetic or pharmaceutical/dermatological preparations, containing phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid (i.e. 2-phenylbenzimidazole-5-sulfonic acid) neutralised with basic amino acids such as arginine, lysine, ornithine and histidine so that the pH of the preparation can be at or below 7.0 without incurring crystallization of the phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid.
US08440170B2 Orally disintegrating tablets with speckled appearance
Orally disintegrating tablets containing colored granules of a water-soluble sugar which give them a speckled appearance are described. The orally disintegrating tablets with speckled appearance are readily and easy identifiable by physicians, nurses and patients.
US08440168B2 Image-guided therapy of myocardial disease: composition, manufacturing and applications
Compositions and methods for imaging and for chemotherapy and radiotherapy are disclosed. More particularly, the invention concerns agents comprising a targeting moeity comprising a beta-adrenergic receptor targeting compound conjugated or embedded with ethylenediamine. The present invention also concerns methods of application of such agents for imaging and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, and kits for preparing a radiolabeled therapeutic or diagnostic agent.
US08440158B2 Pre-plating solutions for making printed circuit boards and methods for preparing the same
A pre-plating solution for making a printed circuit board includes carbon nanotubes of 0.01-3 wt %, a surfactant of 0.01-4 wt %, an alkaline substance of 0.01-1 wt % and a solvent. A method for preparing a pre-plating solution comprising the steps of: providing a plurality of carbon nanotubes; purifying the carbon nanotubes; treating the purified carbon nanotubes with an acid; mixing the treated carbon nanotubes, an alkaline substance and a solvent to form suspension; and adding surfactant into suspension.
US08440155B2 Flow modulating substrates for early light-off
An exhaust gas after-treatment system includes at least first and second substrates. The first substrate has a first region and a second region circumferentially surrounding the first region. The first region of the first substrate has a higher average cell density than the average cell density of the second substrate. The system can also include at least a third substrate.
US08440154B2 Processes and uses of dissociating molecules
A process has been developed to selectively dissociate target molecules into component products compositionally distinct from the target molecule, wherein the bonds of the target molecule do not reform because the components are no longer reactive with each other. Dissociation is affected by treating the target molecule with light at a frequency and intensity, alone or in combination with a catalyst in an amount effective to selectively break bonds within the target molecule. Dissociation does not result in re-association into the target molecule by the reverse process, and does not produce component products which have a change in oxidation number or state incorporated oxygen or other additives because the process does not proceed via a typical reduction-oxidation mechanism. Target molecules include ammonia for waste reclamation and treatment, PCB remediation, and targeted drug delivery.
US08440149B2 Heat-reduction methods and systems related to microfluidic devices
The present relates to a system and method for preventing or reducing unwanted heat in a microfluidic of the device while generating heat in selected regions of the device. Current can be supplied to a heating element through electric leads that are designed so that the current density in the leads is substantially lower than the current density in the heating element. Unwanted heat in the microfluidic complex can be reduced by thermally isolating the electric leads from the microfluidic complex by, for example, running each lead directly away from the microfluidic complex. Unwanted heat can be removed from selected regions of the microfluidic complex using one or more cooling devices.
US08440147B2 Analytical rotors and methods for analysis of biological fluids
Devices for generating discrete flow of liquids in response to a driving force, for example centrifugal microfluidic devices for generating discrete flow in response to a constant driving force. The device includes a supply structure for supplying liquid at an inflow rate to a discretization structure in response to a driving force. The discretization structure is shaped to define an outlet and a level to which the discretization structure fills with liquid flowing from the supply structure before dispensing the liquid at an outflow rate through the outlet in response to the driving force. The device is arranged such that the outflow rate from the discretization structure is greater than the inflow rate into the discretization structure, thereby periodically emptying the discretization structure to create a discretized flow from the outlet. The devices find applications in liquid mixing, for example for diluting samples, such as blood plasma samples.
US08440146B2 Gas production through pulsed electrolysis
Cells and methods of producing hydrogen and oxygen from an aqueous solution at about 90% of the Faraday Limit are provided. An exemplary method includes the steps of placing a graphite electrode and a nickel electrode in an alkaline solution comprising colloidal silver, colloidal magnesium and a powdered metal such as aluminum, and applying a constant positive voltage to the nickel electrode. Further, the example includes cyclically applying a negative voltage potential to the graphite electrode by turning on the negative applied voltage for a first time period and switching off the negative voltage for a second time period. The second time period should be sufficient to permit removal of substantially all or at least some of any aluminum or zinc deposited on the graphite electrode. Graphite-containing electrodes may be pretreated to infuse with a precious metal.
US08440145B2 Sensing device and method using photo-induced charge movements
A device and method which comprises a sensing surface on a membrane, solid surface or electrode, where the sensing surface contains a dye or chromophore chosen in relation to a particular target substance to be detected and quantified. The dye or chromophore is of a type which produces an electrical signal upon illumination. The particular dye or chromophore chosen for a particular target substance is one in which the presence of the target substance causes a change in the electrical signal produced. The presence of the target substance modifies the expected photo-induced charge movements (PICM) produced by the sensing surface upon illumination. The photo-induced charge movements produce signals which are detected by electronic circuits, and the presence and concentration of the target substance is determined by analyzing the difference between the PICM of the target sample versus the PICM of a control sample lacking the target substance.
US08440143B2 Air purifier
An air purifier is provided, including a body comprising a wall defining an interior space, a first opening to the interior space, and a second opening to the interior space. In one example the body is a tubular body. An airflow pathway is provided through the tubular body defined between the first and second openings. A source of ultraviolet radiation is arranged to emit ultraviolet radiation into the interior space. A photocatalyst is arranged within the interior space and along the airflow pathway, and the ultraviolet radiation can be emitted onto at least a portion of the surface of the photocatalyst to activate the photocatalyst. In one example, the wall includes an aperture, and a cover is coupled to the body about the aperture and configured to enclose the source of ultraviolet radiation. In another example, the air purifier includes turbulence structure.
US08440142B2 Dual-mode plasma reactor
A dual-mode non-thermal plasma reactor includes an air-buffering chamber, a magnetic element provided on the air-buffering chamber, a first electrode disposed in the air-buffering chamber, a second electrode disposed in the air-buffering chamber opposite to the first electrode, a high-voltage power supply connected to the first and second electrodes and an air-swirling chamber located between the first and second electrodes. The air-swirling chamber includes a first isolating film covering on an internal side of the first electrode, a second isolating film covering on an internal side of the second electrode and an isolating tube placed between the first and second isolating films. An air passageway is defined through the first and second isolating films. An air-swirling space is defined by the first and second isolating films and the isolating tube. The isolating tube includes at least one tunnel in communication with the air-swirling space.
US08440141B2 Exhaust gas treatment system
It is intended to provide an exhaust gas treatment system, which allows for VOC removal at lower temperatures and thereby improves the durability of catalysts and suppresses carbon monoxide generation at the final outlet of the system. The present invention provides a treatment system of an exhaust gas containing a nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, and a volatile organic compound comprising: an exhaust gas treatment means for removing the nitrogen oxide by reduction with ammonia and partially oxidizing the VOC to CO; and a CO/VOC removal means for oxidizing the CO and partially unreacted VOC, in this order from the upstream flow of the exhaust gas.
US08440140B2 Sample analyzer and computer program product
A sample analyzer prepares a measurement sample from a blood sample or a body fluid sample which differs from the blood sample; measures the prepared measurement sample; obtains characteristic information representing characteristics of the components in the measurement sample; sets either a blood measurement mode for measuring the blood sample, or a body fluid measurement mode for measuring the body fluid sample as an operating mode; and measures the measurement sample prepared from the blood sample by executing operations in the blood measurement mode when the blood measurement mode has been set, and measuring the measurement sample prepared from the body fluid sample by executing operations in the body fluid measurement mode that differs from the operations in the blood measurement mode when the body fluid measurement mode has been set, is disclosed. A computer program product is also disclosed.
US08440139B2 Method of delivering liquid sterilant to a sterilizer
A method of delivering a liquid sterilant to a sterilizer involves piercing a cell of a cassette with a first needle having a first lumen, flowing a gas into the cell to pressurize the cell relative to a pressure within the first lumen and drive the liquid sterilant out of the cell through the first lumen. The liquid sterilant travels from the lumen to a vaporizer in the sterilizer.
US08440135B2 System for releasing gas into molten metal
A device for releasing gas into molten metal includes a base having a discharge. The discharge has a first section including a first cross-sectional area and a second section including a second cross-sectional area, wherein the first section is upstream of the second section and the first cross-sectional area is smaller than the second cross-sectional area. A gas-release opening is positioned so that it can release gas into one or more of the first section or the second section. As the molten metal moves from the first cross-sectional area to the second cross-sectional area gas is released into the molten metal and the molten metal flow helps to draw the gas into the flow, thereby lowering the pressure required to release gas into the molten metal. Metal-transfer conduits other than a discharge incorporated in a pump base are also disclosed, as are pumps including either a discharge or other metal-transfer conduit according to the invention.
US08440134B2 Furnace system
A furnace system has a furnace, particularly an arc furnace, for melting metal, and a cleaning device for removing and/or avoiding bulk goods from or in a furnace opening. The cleaning device has a movable thrust arm for carrying out a thrust movement, and a movement device for moving the thrust arm between a parking level and an operating level. The use of a furnace opening is further made more flexible in that a work platform forming a work level is present, from which the furnace opening is accessible and which carries the cleaning device. The work level has a recess through which the thrust arm can be guided during the movement thereof between the operating level positioning above the work level, and the parking level positioned below the working level.
US08440132B2 Method for the production of hollow bodies from thermoplastic plastic
The invention relates to a method for the production of hollow bodies from thermoplastic plastic. The method comprises the extrusion of at least two sheet-like preforms consisting of thermoplastic plastic, the introduction of the preforms into a preferably multipart molding die with a molding cavity which at least partially defines the contour of the hollow body to be manufactured, and the shaping of the preforms inside the die, using a vacuum and/or gas pressure in the first heat of the material. The method is distinguished in that at least two preforms to be shaped into a hollow body and to be connected are extruded successively, that is to say sequentially, in time and are shaped simultaneously.
US08440131B2 Synthetic resin bottle and process for molding the same
A technical problem is to fully make up for a restricted upper limit to the preform body wall thickness. An object is to provide a bottle which is narrow-mouthed and yet has a substantially expanded body. The molding process comprises steps of: (1) injection molding a preform in the shape of a test tube taller than the bottle wherein the preform has a cylindrical mouth opening portion disposed in an upper part of the preform, and wherein the mouth opening portion of the preform serves also as a mouth opening portion of the bottle product; (2) thermally shrinking the preform from an initial height so that portions other than the mouth opening portion of the preform would have a height that is smaller than that of the bottle; and (3) setting this thermally shrunk preform in a blow mold and biaxially drawing and blow molding the preform into the bottle.
US08440130B2 Manufacturing apparatus and manufacturing method for an absorbent body
The manufacturing apparatus includes: a mold member including a mold formed in a depressed shape on a predetermined face and moves along a first direction; a supply duct arranged at a predetermined position in the first direction that supplies air towards the predetermined face; a partitioned-space-forming member that is disposed at a position opposite to the supply opening forming an enclosed space; and an air intake duct. As the mold passes the supply opening, the air in the supply duct is sucked into the closed space and the liquid absorbent material in the air is deposited onto the mold. The suction opening of the air intake duct is arranged opposite to the predetermined face in the closed space. Concerning at least a pcrtion that is included in the air intake duct and is housed in the closed space, a central-axis direction of the portion has a component parallel to a moving direction in which the mold is moving at a central position of the suction opening.
US08440124B2 Single screw extruder for dryer bar manufacture
Single screw extruder for making a dryer bar.
US08440116B2 Low viscosity mono-unsaturated acid-containing oil-based dielectric fluids
Disclosed herein are a dielectric fluid composition and a method thereof. Also disclosed are viscosity modifiers and a method of lowering the viscosity of an oil-based dielectric fluid. The composition includes an oil with a high mono-unsaturated fatty acid content and one or more fatty acid alkyl esters, each having a fatty acid and an alkyl moiety, wherein the alkyl moiety of the fatty acid alkyl esters has 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and wherein both the oil and the fatty acid alkyl ester are in the range of 40%-60% v/v of the dielectric fluid composition. The viscosity modifier includes one or more fatty acid alkyl esters with an alkyl moiety and a fatty acid moiety, wherein the alkyl moiety has 1 to 4 carbon atoms. The method of lowering the viscosity includes blending the viscosity modifier and a vegetable oil-based dielectric fluid in a ratio of 40:60-60:40.
US08440115B2 Oxide sintered body and production method therefor, target, and transparent conductive film and transparent conductive substrate obtained by using the same
A target for sputtering or a tablet for ion plating, which enables to attain high rate film-formation and a nodule-less, an oxide sintered body suitable for obtaining the same and a production method therefor, and a transparent conductive film having low absorption of blue light and low specific resistance, obtained by using the same. It is provided by an oxide sintered body having indium and gallium as an oxide, characterized in that an In2O3 phase with a bixbyite-type structure forms a major crystal phase, and a GalnO3 phase of a β-Ga2O3-type structure, or GalnO3 phase and a (Ga, In)2O3 phase is finely dispersed therein, as a crystal grain having an average particle diameter of equal to or smaller than 5 μm, and a content of gallium is equal to or higher than 10% by atom and below 35% by atom as atom number ratio of Ga/(In+Ga) or the like.
US08440108B2 Chemically bonded ceramic radiation shielding material and method of preparation
A composition of matter and method of forming a radiation shielding member at ambient temperatures in which the composition of matter includes a ‘cold-fired’ chemically bonded oxide-phosphate ceramic cement matrix; with one or more suitably prepared and distributed radiation shielding materials dispersed in the ‘cold-fired’ chemically bonded oxide-phosphate ceramic cement matrix.
US08440105B2 Phosphors and white light emitting devices including same
A phosphor represented by Formula 1: (A1−(a+b)EuaLnb)1−x(B1−cMnc)2Al(6+b−2x)Si(9−b+2x)O30  Formula 1 wherein A includes at least one element selected from the group consisting of Ca, Sr and Ba, Ln includes at least one metal selected from the group consisting of a trivalent rare earth metal, B includes at least one element selected from the group consisting of Mg, Zn, Ge and Co, a is greater than 0 and equal to or less than about 0.5, b is greater than 0 and equal to or less than about 0.25, c is greater than 0 and less than about 0.8, and x is 0 to about 0.2. Also a white light emitting device including the phosphor.
US08440100B1 Method of generating hydrogen-storing hydride complexes
A ternary hydrogen storage system having a constant stoichiometric molar ratio of LiNH2:MgH2:LiBH4 of 2:1:1. It was found that the incorporation of MgH2 particles of approximately 10 nm to 20 nm exhibit a lower initial hydrogen release temperature of 150° C. Furthermore, it is observed that the particle size of LiBNH quaternary hydride has a significant effect on the hydrogen sorption concentration with an optimum size of 28 nm. The as-synthesized hydrides exhibit two main hydrogen release temperatures, one around 160° C. and the other around 300° C., with the main hydrogen release temperature reduced from 310° C. to 270° C., while hydrogen is first reversibly released at temperatures as low as 150° C. with a total hydrogen capacity of 6 wt. % to 8 wt. %. Detailed thermal, capacity, structural and microstructural properties have been demonstrated and correlated with the activation energies of these materials.
US08440097B2 Stable, concentratable, water soluble cellulose free chemical mechanical polishing composition
A chemical mechanical polishing composition useful for chemical mechanical polishing a semiconductor wafer containing an interconnect metal is provided, comprising, as initial components: water; an azole inhibitor; an alkali metal organic surfactant; a hydrotrope; a phosphorus containing agent; optionally, a non-saccharide water soluble polymer; optionally, a water soluble acid compound of formula I, wherein R is selected from a hydrogen and a C1-5 alkyl group, and wherein x is 1 or 2; optionally, a complexing agent; optionally, an oxidizer; optionally, an organic solvent; and, optionally, an abrasive. Also, provided is a method for making a chemical mechanical polishing composition of the present invention and a method for chemical mechanical polishing of a substrate, comprising: providing a substrate, wherein the substrate is a semiconductor wafer having copper interconnects; providing a chemical mechanical polishing composition of the present invention; providing a chemical mechanical polishing pad; creating dynamic contact at an interface between the chemical mechanical polishing pad and the substrate with a down force of 0.69 to 34.5 kPa; and, dispensing the chemical mechanical polishing composition onto the chemical mechanical polishing pad at or near the interface between the chemical mechanical polishing pad and the substrate; wherein the chemical mechanical polishing composition exhibits a pH adjusted to a pH of 2 to 6 through the addition of at least one of phosphoric acid, magnesium hydroxide and lithium hydroxide.
US08440095B1 Anti-corrosive corn extracts
A corrosion inhibiting deicer composition includes an aqueous extract of corn stillage. The composition may be combined with a freezing point suppression agent to exhibit a freezing point of less than −35° C. The composition may be applied as a deicer to corrosion-susceptible materials without substantial risk of corrosion.
US08440092B2 Method for selective etching
Method and device for selectively etching a first material (4) relative to a second material (2), comprising a bath (11) of a solution capable of producing at least one chemical species for etching the first material (4) but not the second (2) and a system (12) for generating ultrasound at a frequency between 100 kHz and 3 MHz in the bath in order to produce cavitation bubbles.
US08440082B2 Method and apparatus for the solid-liquid-separation of material mixtures and suspensions
Method for the liquid solid separation of material mixtures and suspensions in which the material mixture under pressure is fed into a closed chamber having at least one filter surface and a hydrostatic pressure is generated within said chamber for separating the liquid phase. After separating the liquid phase the chamber is opened and the filter surface together with the filter cake is removed from said chamber. The material mixture firstly is treated by the means of hydrostatic pressure of about up to 0.2 bar, wherein 80 to 90% of the fed volume is removed as filtrate. Thereafter the concentrated remaining volume is drawn off and is further treated in the closed chamber with a pressure of up to 5 bar. By reducing the volume of the chamber finally with a pressure of up to 50 bar the remaining filtrate is separated.
US08440079B2 Liquid filter arrangements and methods
A liquid filter arrangement is provided, as well as methods of assembly and use. Advantageous features, relating to a preferred filter cartridge and a preferred slide arrangement, are provided.
US08440077B2 Combined degassing and flotation tank
A combined degassing and flotation tank for separation of a water influent containing considerable amounts of oil and gas. A rotational flow is created in the tank which forces the lighter components such as oil and gas droplets towards an inner concentric cylindrical wall where they coalesce and rise to the surface of the liquid and are removed via the outlet. The heavier particles are forced down and sink to the lower part where they can be removed as a sludge. The water is discharged via an outlet in the lower part of the tank. The combined degassing and flotation tank is particular suited for use in oil production at sea for removal of oil and gases from water streams before the water is returned to the sea.
US08440074B2 Wastewater treatment system including irradiation of primary solids
The present invention provides a system and method for treating wastewater in which the majority of solids and biological oxygen demand compounds are separated from the wastewater feed using a primary separation process, to produce a solids phase and a water phase. The solids phase is irradiated to reduce the level of pathogens such that it is safe to use as a soil substitute and/or additive so that the solids can thus be disposed of in an environmentally-friendly manner. In additional embodiments, the solids that have been disinfected by radiation are mixed with a suitable inert filler material to produce a soil substitute, fertilizer, compost, or other soil additive. The liquid phase is treated in a substantially smaller system than would be required for treating the full-strength wastewater that can include a suspended media biological regeneration reactor system. The liquid treatment system can include a high flux adsorbent material treatment system integrated with a low flux adsorbent material biological regeneration reactor.
US08440070B2 Process and apparatus for converting high boiling point resid to light unsaturated hydrocarbons
A process and apparatus process for preparing a resid-containing hydrocarbon feedstock for use in a regenerative pyrolysis reactor, comprising (a) feeding a resid-containing hydrocarbon feedstock to a thermal cracking unit; (b) thermally cracking at least about 60 wt. % of said resid having a boiling point of at least 565° C. in said hydrocarbon feedstock to form a vapor phase containing cracked hydrocarbons; (c) separating said vapor phase from remaining non-volatiles; and (d) converting the separated vapor phase in a regenerative pyrolysis reactor system.
US08440068B2 Amino-acid biosensor, fischer-ratio biosensor and health information management system
Disclosed is a biosensor capable of measuring a total concentration of plural types of amino acids. An amino-acid biosensor (200) for measuring a total concentration of a plurality of specific amino acids, comprises a measuring electrode (202) which includes as components a mediator and an enzyme which selectively act on the plurality of specific amino acids each serving as a substrate, and a counter electrode (203). The enzyme has a substrate affinity to each of the plurality of specific amino acids. The enzyme is operable to catalyze a reaction in each of the plurality of specific amino acids as a substrate so as to form a reaction product, and the mediator is operable, during amino-acid concentration measurement, to carry electrons between the reaction product and the measuring electrode. The amino-acid biosensor is designed to apply a voltage between the measuring electrode and the counter electrode during the measurement in such a manner that, in an analytical curve representing a relationship between an applied voltage and a current value for each of the plurality of specific amino acids, the applied voltage includes a voltage allowing the variety of the current values for the amino acids at the same applied voltage to fall within a given range.
US08440066B2 Tin electroplating bath, tin plating film, tin electroplating method, and electronic device component
Disclosed is a tin electroplating bath containing a water-soluble tin salt, one or more substances selected from inorganic acids, organic acids and their water-soluble salts, and one or more substances selected from water-soluble tungsten salts, water-soluble molybdenum salts and water-soluble manganese salts. This tin electroplating bath enables to form a tin-plated coating film on components for electronic devices such as a chip component, crystal oscillator, bump, connector, lead frame, hoop member, semiconductor package and printed board, as a substitute for a tin-lead alloy plating material, while having high whisker suppressing effects.
US08440062B2 Multiparameter system for environmental monitoring
A miniature, lightweight, inexpensive, environmental monitoring system containing a number of sensors that can simultaneously and continuously monitor fluorescence, absorbance, conductivity, temperature, and several ions. Sensors that monitor similar parameters can cross-check data to increase the likelihood that a problem with the water will be discovered.
US08440061B2 System and method for plasma arc detection, isolation and prevention
A device for use with an RF generating source, a first electrode, a second electrode and an element. The RF generating source is operable to provide an RF signal to the first electrode and thereby create a potential between the first electrode and the second electrode. The device comprises a connecting portion and a current sink. The connecting portion is operable to electrically connect to one of the first electrode, the second electrode and an element. The current sink is in electrical connection with the connection portion and a path to ground. The current sink comprises a voltage threshold. The current sink is operable to conduct current from the connecting portion to ground when a voltage on the electrically connected one of the first electrode, the second electrode and the element is greater than the voltage threshold.
US08440055B2 Press section and permeable belt in a paper machine
A pressing arrangement including at least one first fabric and second fabric both being permeable. A paper web is disposed between the first fabric and the second fabric. A pressure producing element is in contact with the first fabric. A support surface of a supporting structure is in contact with the second fabric. A differential pressure is provided between the first fabric and the support surface that acts on the first fabric, the paper web, and the second fabric, whereby the paper web is subjected to mechanical pressure and experiences a predetermined hydraulic pressure so as to cause water to be drained from the paper web. The pressing arrangement is structured and arranged to allow air to flow in a direction from the first fabric through the paper web and through the second fabric.
US08440051B2 Plasma processing chamber for bevel edge processing
Chambers for processing a bevel edge of a substrate are provided. One such chamber includes a bottom electrode defined to support a substrate in the chamber. The bottom electrode has a bottom first level for supporting the substrate and a bottom second level near an outer edge of bottom electrode. The bottom second level is defined at a step below the bottom first level. Further included is a top electrode oriented above the bottom electrode. The top electrode having a top first level and a top second level, where the top first level is opposite the bottom first level and the top second level is opposite the bottom second level. The top second level is defined at a step above the top first level. A bottom ring mount oriented at the bottom second level is included. The bottom ring mount includes a first adjuster for moving a bottom permanent magnet toward and away from the top electrode. Further included is a top ring mount oriented at the top second level. The top ring mount includes a second adjuster for moving a top permanent magnet toward and away from the bottom electrode.
US08440045B2 Conformal deltoid noodle for a composite structure
A method of fabricating a conformal deltoid noodle includes providing a composite prepreg material having a predetermined length and a width, the predetermined length being aligned along a longitudinal axis; subjecting the composite prepreg material to a cutting process to form a notched section coextensive along the predetermined length; and rolling the composite prepreg material along its width to create the conformal deltoid noodle.
US08440043B1 Absorbent article process and apparatus for intermittently deactivating elastics in elastic laminates
The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatuses for assembling absorbent articles, and more particularly, methods and apparatuses for severing elastic in an advancing elastic laminate. A continuous elastic laminate may be formed by bonding elastic strands between a first continuous substrate layer and a second continuous substrate layer. As discussed in more detail below, the continuous elastic laminate may advance through a cutting apparatus that intermittently deactivates or severs the elastic strands of the elastic laminate along the machine direction.
US08440042B2 Method of manufacturing flexible shell inlay strips
A method of fabricating shell purfling strips having sufficient flexibility to be placed within a curved configuration. The shell purfling strips may be placed, as a single unit, in curved channels which require the strip to bend. The flexibility results from a laminated structure comprising a layer of binding material overlain by an organic shell layer, with a bonding agent attaching the layers together. The organic shell layer comprises a plurality of precisely placed breaks along its length. The binding material retains the individual fragments of the shell layer in the strip, but because the binding material comprises a flexible material, such as rubber, the layer of binding material is sufficiently flexible to allow the purfling strip to flex longitudinally and transversely. The shell purfling strips may be attached in parallel relationship to other perfling components allowing installation as a unit.
US08440039B2 Method for manufacturing disposable worn article
It includes: a carrying step of carrying a continuous member of a combined web in a direction perpendicular to a girth direction Y; a first folding step of folding a girth portion 3, while performing the carrying step, so that a non-skin-contact surface 3b of the girth portion 3 lies on a non-skin-contact surface 3b of one of first and second side flaps; a second folding step of folding the first and second side flaps, while performing the carrying step and after the first folding step, so that skin-contact surfaces 3a of the first and second side flaps lie on skin-contact surfaces 3a of a back portion and a front portion; a cut-off step of cutting the continuous member into individual worn articles, after the second folding step; and a third folding step of folding the individual worn articles so that a first fastener member 31 provided on a skin-contact surface 3a of the girth portion 3 lies on a second fastener member 32 provided on a non-skin-contact surface 3b of the other one of the first and second side flaps.
US08440037B2 Coated article with low-E coating including IR reflecting layer(s) and corresponding method
A coated article is provided that may be heat treated in certain example embodiments. A coating of the coated article includes a zinc oxide inclusive layer located over and contacting a contact layer that is in contact with an infrared (IR) reflecting layer of a material such as silver. It has been found that the use of such a zinc oxide inclusive layer results in improved thermal stability upon heat treatment, increased visible transmission, and/or lower sheet resistance (Rs).
US08440035B2 Method for manufacturing ceramic multi-layered interconnection substrate
A ceramic multi-layered interconnection substrate can be manufactured by using a stack including a plurality of ceramic layers with division grooves in the uppermost layer, at least one intermediate layer, and the lowermost layer. The substrate can be manufactured by forming division grooves in respective green sheets other than the uppermost and lowermost ones at adjacent package boundaries, pressing them to be stacked, forming division grooves in the uppermost and lowermost sheets at the adjacent package boundaries, firing them to be ceramic layers, and breaking the ceramic layers along the division grooves to separate individual packages, thus preventing failure and preventing the generation of burrs, chips, and the like.
US08440031B2 Nickel-titanium-rare earth alloy and method of processing the alloy
A nickel-titanium-rare earth (Ni—Ti-RE) alloy comprises nickel at a concentration of from about 35 at. % to about 65 at. %, a rare earth element at a concentration of from about 1.5 at. % to about 15 at. %, boron at a concentration of up to about 0.1 at. %, with the balance of the alloy being titanium. In addition to enhanced radiopacity compared to binary Ni—Ti alloys and improved workability, the Ni—Ti-RE alloy preferably exhibits superelastic behavior. A method of processing a Ni—Ti-RE alloy includes providing a nickel-titanium-rare earth alloy comprising nickel at a concentration of from about 35 at. % to about 65 at. %, a rare earth element at a concentration of from about 1.5 at. % to about 15 at. %, the balance being titanium; heating the alloy in a homogenization temperature range below a critical temperature; and forming spheroids of a rare earth-rich second phase in the alloy while in the homogenization temperature range.
US08440028B2 Domestic appliance with a self-diagnosing door lock position detection device
A domestic appliance having a door and a door position detector. The door position detector detects an open or closed position of the door and provides a respective signal when the door is in the open or closed position. A monitoring circuit may be connected to the door position detector to check the operability of the door position detector.
US08440027B2 Dishwasher having a compartment cover made of low-cost steel, a frame of high-grade steel and a dishwasher tray made of plastic
A domestic dishwasher includes a compartment casing comprising a corrosion-resistant metal, and a frame comprising a metal that is more corrosion-resistant than the compartment casing.
US08440024B2 Water-bearing household appliance with a periodically operated water inlet valve
A water-bearing household appliance such as a dish washing machine or washing machine is provided that has a water supply system, an electrically operable electromagnetic water inlet valve for controlling the water supply, and a control unit operating a control program that controls the water inlet valve. The water inlet valve is controlled for a first time period and it is determined when the first time period is complete whether a predetermined test amount of water has flowed through the water inlet valve. If a predetermined test amount of water has flowed through the water inlet valve, the water inlet valve is operated in a first operation mode. On the other hand, if less than the predetermined test amount of water has flowed through the water inlet valve, the water inlet valve is operated in a second operation mode with a reduced long-term load.
US08440022B2 Method for extraction of sugar
A method for extraction of sugar from a sugar containing biomass is disclosed, wherein the sugar containing biomass a) is introduced in an extraction device (1), b) is treated with steam having a temperature of between 103 and 124° C., c) is treated in one or more steps with hot water having a temperature of 65-85° C., and d) is subjected to one or more compression steps, wherein a sugar containing solution is extracted from the sugar containing biomass in each of the steps c) and d) in the extraction device (1) and is removed from the extraction device (1), said method being continuously performed at an overpressure of 0.2-1.5 bar in the extraction device (1).
US08440021B2 Apparatus and method for deposition for organic thin films
The invention provides apparatus and methods for organic continuum vapor deposition of organic materials on large area substrates.
US08440019B2 Lower liner with integrated flow equalizer and improved conductance
A plasma processing chamber has a lower liner with an integrated flow equalizer. In an etching process, the processing gases may be unevenly drawn from the processing chamber which may cause an uneven etching of the substrate. The integrated flow equalizer is configured to equalize the flow of the processing gases evacuated from the chamber via the lower liner.
US08440018B2 Apparatus for supplying source and apparatus for deposition thin film having the same
The present invention provides an apparatus for supplying a source and an apparatus for depositing a thin film having the same. The apparatus for supplying a source includes a horizontal channel extending in one direction; pumping and transfer ports extending to pass through the horizontal channel, the pumping and transfer ports being spaced apart from each other; a transfer shaft inserted into the horizontal channel to reciprocate therein; and a storage room connected to one side of the pumping port, the storage room storing and supplying a powder source, wherein the transfer shaft comprises at least one transfer hole for allowing the powder source supplied through the pumping port to be filled therein and to be transferred to an external apparatus through the transfer port. As described above, according to the present invention, a powder source filled in a transfer hole is supplied to an external apparatus by reciprocating a transfer shaft, so that the amount of the powder source supplied to the external apparatus can be quantitatively controlled as much as a fixed quantity corresponding to the internal volume of the transfer hole.
US08440016B2 Sulfate resistant ground granulated blast furnace slag, sulfate resistant cement, and method of production of same
A ground granulated blast furnace slag for sulfate resistant cement comprising a mixture of ground granulated blast furnace slag with an alumina content of 12 to 17.5 mass % and high dissolution rate gypsum of 2 to 6 mass % of gypsum converted to mass of SO3.
US08440007B2 Air filtration systems
An air filtration system is described for removing oil and grease entrained in air extracted from the region above a cooker. The system comprises a first mesh screen filter leading to a first chamber, in which two nozzles 10 create two separate continuous water curtains 15a, 15b which overlap when viewed in the direction of the air flow to form a combined curtain extending across the region through which the air passes. The extracted air then passes via a second mesh screen filter 11 into a second chamber 12, identical to the first chamber 9, in which two further nozzles 13 are provided which create two further water curtains 15c, 15d. The water curtains 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d cool and condense vaporized oil and grease within the air, which condensed oil and grease droplets fall with the water into a container. The main bore of each nozzle is of circular cross-section, but a profiled plate causes the resulting water curtain to have a width which is narrow relative to the diameter of the nozzle bore. The water contains dissolved ozone and can also be “grey water”.
US08440005B2 Active carbon filter for an internal combustion engine
An active carbon filter intended for the fuel supply system of the internal combustion engine of a vehicle consists of a housing (1), inside of which flow paths for the different operating states of the filter are established between the ports (10, 11, 12) for connection with the top space of a tank, the ambient atmosphere and the intake manifold of the internal combustion engine. Proceeding from the port (11), these flow paths are characterized by chambers situated one in back of the other for pre-warming the air, an adjacent chamber (22) equipped with a first heating unit, an adjacent chamber (23) that accommodates active carbon particles, and another, adjacent chamber (28) that accommodates active carbon particles, is equipped with a second heating unit (34), and is provided with the ports (10, 12). This yields the establishment of optimal, in particular thermal conditions for the regeneration of the active carbon particles.
US08440004B2 Advanced portable oxygen concentrator
A portable oxygen concentrator designed for medical use with a novel housing and internal component design that reduces noise and vibration while increasing durability. The improved design of the portable oxygen concentrator further facilitates easy maintenance and repair over the life of the equipment.
US08440000B2 Nitrogen-permeable membranes and uses thereof
A nitrogen-permeable structure includes a porous support and a nitrogen-permeable membrane adjacent to the porous support. The nitrogen-permeable membrane includes a first metal and a second metal, wherein the first metal is selected from niobium, tantalum, and vanadium, and the second metal is different from the first metal.
US08439997B2 Vacuum sweeper apparatus including a filter bag and a method of installation
A filter bag and an apparatus for attaching a filter bag to a vacuum sweeper are provided. The filter bag includes a top plate and a bag portion. The top plate has a key formed thereon. The apparatus includes a sled configured to receive a portion of a filter bag having a key formed thereon. The apparatus also includes a sweeper housing. The sweeper housing is adjacent the sled. The housing has a cavity for receiving a portion of the filter bag and a lock that interconnects with the key. A method for installing the filter bag in a vacuum sweeper is also provided.
US08439994B2 Method of fabricating a polishing pad with an end-point detection region for eddy current end-point detection
Methods of fabricating polishing pads with end-point detection regions for polishing semiconductor substrates using eddy current end-point detection are described.
US08439992B2 Auto ignition type autothermal reformer and fuel cell system having the same
An auto ignition type autothermal reformer (ATR) performs reproducible ignition using a catalyst that performs ignition without a separate ignition unit, such as an igniter or heating wire, and a fuel cell system having the ATR. The ATR includes a reaction container having a first opening through which a fuel is introduced into the reaction container and a second opening through which a reformate is discharged from the reaction container, the fuel having a mixture of an aqueous primary fuel solution and hydrogen peroxide; a first catalyst disposed adjacent to the first opening in the reaction container, the first catalyst being a granular catalyst; a second catalyst disposed at the rear portion of the first catalyst to promote an autothermal reforming reaction; and a third catalyst disposed at the rear portion of the second catalyst to promote an oxidation reaction.
US08439990B2 Reactor flow control apparatus
An apparatus for fuel reforming is provided that utilizes pulsed injectors for a fuel flow controller and an air flow controller, and the injectors are integrated with an atomizing mixer thereby producing a fuel-air mixture having an O/C Ratio which, in turn, is passed to a Catalytic Partial Oxidation reactor. Use of this apparatus permits beneficial long term operation of this Catalytic Partial Oxidation reactor.
US08439983B2 Sealed battery with electrode terminal welded to current collector, and manufacturing method for the same
Provided is a sealed battery that can offer excellent battery performances by having its electrode terminal and a current collector securely welded to each other, and its manufacturing method. The sealed battery is formed by hermetically sealing a casing storing an electrode assembly and the current collector, wherein: the electrode assembly formed by layering positive and negative electrode plates with a separator sandwiched therebetween is electrically connected to the current collector; and a shaft portion of the electrode terminal penetrates through the current collector. A part of the electrode terminal projecting out from a pass-through of the current collector is a (conical) frustum-shaped portion whose bottom base is in contact with the current collector. The frustum-shaped portion is pressed against the current collector, and the frustum-shaped portion and the current collector are welded together in at least one area on a perimeter of the bottom base of the frustum-shaped portion.
US08439977B2 Spinal interbody spacer
A spinal spacer for engagement between vertebrae includes a body extending between a substantially contoured first end surface and a second end surface to define side surfaces and opposing top and bottom vertebral engaging surfaces substantially symmetrical about a centerline axis. At least one opening defines a hollow inner body and includes first and second intersecting openings extending through the top and bottom vertebral engaging surfaces. The second intersecting opening extends through the side surfaces. The second end surface includes at least one aperture formed therethrough in communication with the hollow inner body. A screw opening is defined through at least one plate insert configured to be removably coupled to the second end surface to substantially align the screw opening with the at least one aperture. The bone screw is configured to be threadingly secured within the at least one plate insert.
US08439972B2 Intraocular implants and related kits and methods
Devices, methods and kits are described for reducing intraocular pressure. The devices include a support that is implantable within Schlemm's canal and that may restore or maintain at least partial patency of the canal without substantially interfering with transmural or transluminal fluid flow across the canal. The devices utilize the natural drainage process of the eye and may be implanted with minimal trauma to the eye. Kits may include a support and an introducer for implanting the support within Schlemm's canal. Methods may include implanting a support within Schlemm's canal, where the support is capable of restoring or maintaining at least partial patency of the canal without substantial interference with transmural or transluminal fluid flow across the canal.
US08439970B2 Transapical delivery system for heart valves
A delivery system for delivering a prosthetic heart valve to the aortic valve annulus. The system includes a delivery catheter having a steering mechanism thereon for delivering a balloon-expandable prosthetic heart valve to the aortic annulus in an antegrade fashion through an introducer passing into the left ventricle through its apex. The introducer may have a more floppy distal section than a proximal section to reduce trauma to the heart wall. The delivery catheter includes a deflecting segment just proximal to a distal balloon to facilitate positioning of the prosthetic heart valve in the proper orientation within the annulus. A trigger in a catheter handle may be coupled to a deflection wire that actuates the deflecting segment, while a slider in the handle controls retraction of a valve pusher. A pre-dilation valvuloplasty procedure may also be utilized.
US08439969B2 Pre-sized prosthetic chordae implantation system
A pre-sized prosthetic chordae assembly includes a male attachment unit and a female securing member. The male attachment unit includes a plurality of pre-sized prosthetic chordae fixedly connected to at least one male attachment member and a papillary muscle penetration member that is connected to and extends substantially axial to the at least one male attachment member. The female securing member is for receiving the papillary penetration member.
US08439968B2 Expandable medical device for delivery of beneficial agent
An expandable medical device having a plurality of elongated struts, the plurality of elongated struts being joined together to form a substantially cylindrical device which is expandable from a cylinder having a first diameter to a cylinder having a second diameter and the plurality of struts each having a strut width in a circumferential direction. At least one of the plurality of struts includes at least one opening extending at least partially through a thickness of the strut. A beneficial agent may be loaded into the opening within the strut. The expandable medical device may further include a plurality of ductile hinges formed between the elongated struts, the ductile hinges allowing the cylindrical device to be expanded or compressed from the first diameter to the second diameter by deformation of the ductile hinges.
US08439965B2 Angioplasty stents
An angioplasty stent comprises a body comprising a plurality of successive segments connected in pairs by bridge means so that the successive segments can be oriented relative to one another for the purposes of bending of the body in any direction defined by a linear combination of respective orientation axes defined by the bridge connection means. During the radial expansion of the stent, the axial contraction of the segments resulting from the opening-out of the respective loops is compensated by axial projection of the bridge elements from the respective concave portions. The wall of the body comprises arms for supporting a lumen as well as regions which are selectively deformable during the expansion of the stent, the arms and the selectively deformable regions having different cross-sections and/or cross-sectional areas. At least one portion of the body may have a substantially reticular structure, the branches of which define geometrical figures identifiable as fractals.
US08439952B2 Connecting rod for bone anchors having a bioresorbable tip
The invention provides a connecting rod for bone anchors such as pedicle screws. The rod is constructed to include a main shaft portion that is not bioresorbable and a tip portion that is bioresorbable. The tip facilitates percutaneous insertion into a patient's body. After placement of the rod, the bioresorbable tip is resorbed preventing post-operative complications such as impingement of adjacent spinal facet joints.
US08439951B2 Interlaminar-interspinous vertebral stabilization system
An implantable interlaminar-interspinous stabilization system is provided. The system may comprise a U-shaped implantable device having an inferior section, a superior section, a midsection extending therebetween, and pair of lateral walls for engaging a spinous process of a vertebra, each of the lateral walls including an aperture with a countersink for receiving a bone fastener. The system may also include a bone fastener comprising a threaded bolt and a threaded nut for securing the implantable device to the spinous processes. Insertion tools may be provided for aligning the threaded bolt and nut through the apertures of the implantable device.
US08439950B2 Implant to be located between adjacent spinous processes
The invention relates to an implant that can be located between adjacent spinous processes of two vertebral bodies of a vertebral column in order to separate adjacent vertebrae from each other, where the implant displays four projections and can be located in a stabilizing position in which two projections can be located on opposite sides of the vertebral column and where, on each side, one of the two projections can be located along the vertebral column, laterally to an upper and a lower vertebra. According to the invention, the implant comprises two at least essentially rigid implant parts, each of which displays two projections that can be located on opposite sides of the vertebral column, where the two parts of the implant are connected to each other in articulated fashion by a joint located in the middle area thereof, such that, referred to the direction of insertion of the implant into the space between vertebral processes, each of the two implant parts displays a front and a rear projection, between which the joint is located.
US08439948B1 Chiropractic table system
A chiropractic table system for providing effective treatment of sacroiliac joint pain in a patient. The chiropractic table system generally includes a table with an upper opening, a first support member extending through the upper opening and a second support member extending through the upper opening. The support members engage the hip portion of a patient lying upon the table. The support members are separated thereby separating the sacroiliac joints, then the support members are counter-pivoted with respect to one another thereby torquing the hip portion of the patient and then the support members are quickly lowered a distance to set the hip portion of the patient as desired.
US08439947B2 Suture anchor implantation instrumentation system
A system for implanting an anchor into bone, the system comprising a curved cannulated guide for percautaneous insertion, having a proximal end and a distal end; a flexible drill insertable through the curved guide from the proximal end to the distal end, the flexible drill having a shaft having a flexible portion; and a flexible inserter for inserting a suture anchor into a bore at the anatomical site formed by the flexible drill, the flexible inserter having a shaft having a flexible portion, wherein the flexible portions of both the flexible drill and flexible inserter include a series of discrete, interlocking segments.
US08439944B2 Self-tensioning vascular occlusion device and method for its use
Self-tensioning occlusion devices and systems provide percutaneous access and closure of vascular puncture sites. One device includes a catheter body having a proximal end and a distal end, an occlusion member, and a tensioning member. The occlusion member, for example an expansible member, is disposed on a distal end of the body. The tensioning member, such as a spring or coil, is slidably disposed over the body and proximal to the expansion member. Generally, during application, the tensioning member will be positionable against subcutaneous tissue so as to lodge and anchor the expansible member against the puncture site. In particular, the expansible member allows for sealing of the puncture site while the tensioning member applies and maintains tension to the expansible occluder so that it is seated against the puncture site at a vascular surface.
US08439942B2 Embolization device
A medical device (40) including a collagenous biomaterial (10) for causing embolus and treating an aneurysm. The collagenous biomaterial (10) includes a small intestine submucosa (12) that is configured into various components (16) for causing a vascular occlusion or a packing aneurysm lumen.
US08439941B2 Disposable lancing device
A disposable lancing device including: a lancet housed in a housing and urged by a spring member such that a puncture member provided at a distal end of the lancet is adapted to extend out from the housing so as to carry out a puncturing operation; a locking ring disposed within the housing such that the lancet is allowed to displace in an extension direction through the locking ring; a locking protrusion provided to the lancet and adapted to be engaged by the locking ring so as to hold the lancet in a puncture-ready position located deep in the housing with the spring member being compressed; and an operating member adapted to carry out the puncturing operation by rotating the locking ring so as to disengage the locking protrusion from the locking ring and displace the lancet in the extension direction by means of the spring member.
US08439940B2 Dissection handpiece with aspiration means for reducing the appearance of cellulite
A dermatological skin treatment device is provided. The device comprises a handpiece and a cutting tool, wherein the tool is inserted through the conduit and percutaneously inserted into a tissue disposed within a recessed area of the handpiece. The device and method cut the fibrous structures under the skin that cause cellulite at an angle substantially parallel to the surface of the skin and replace these structures with a non-cellulite forming structure by deploying a highly fibrous mesh through a single needle hole to create a highly fibrous layer directly or through wound healing processes. A tool is provided to aspirate excess fluid and tissue from the treatment area.
US08439939B2 Method of powering a surgical instrument
A method for powering electrically powered surgical instruments includes removably inserting a cordless battery assembly into a handle thereof, the instrument handles having a battery chamber and different types. The battery assembly comprises an energy cell powering a signal generation assembly of the instruments. A battery/handle interface has connectors mating with connectors within the chamber. A voltage-control circuit is operable to communicate with and power the signal generation assembly, detect which handle type is connected to the battery assembly, and provide different outputs in response to a detection of the handle types. As the battery assembly is inserted, connectors of the battery/handle interface are coupled with connectors within the battery chamber to communicatively couple the voltage-control circuit to the signal generation assembly and provide power thereto. The connected handle is detected and dependent upon the detected handle type a different one of the outputs are provided.
US08439934B2 Medical delivery device with a protective member
A delivery device for positioning and deploying an implantable device within a lumen is provided. The delivery device includes inner and outer tubular members slidable to each other between at least a first hold position and a second release position, a handle and a deployment mechanism adapted for an operator to use a first hand for operating the delivery device and moving the tubular members between the first and second positions. The delivery device further includes a protective member adapted for insulating at least a portion of the outer tubular member from the tendency of the operator to use his or her second hand to grab the outer tubular member during operations or from other external forces.
US08439931B2 Instrumentation and methods for inserting an intervertebral disc prosthesis
Embodiments of instrumentation and methods are provided for the insertion of intervertebral disc prosthesis. The instrumentation of the embodiments comprises a guide comprising at least two lateral faces, at least one upper plate, at least one lower plate, at least one retainer, a cage defining an insertion axis for the prosthesis, and an angle adjuster adapted to adjust an angle formed by the insertion axis and an antero-posterior sagittal axis; and at least one separator sized to maintain a gap between the upper vertebra and the lower vertebra. Methods for implanting a prosthesis using the disclosed instrumentation comprise implanting a pin in the median sagittal axis of a vertebrae; measuring the dimensions of the intervertebral space; choosing the prosthesis; choosing the guide; adjusting the angle adjuster; positioning the guide adjacent to the intervertebral space; inserting the prosthesis into the guide; and inserting the prosthesis into the intervertebral space.
US08439929B1 Method of preparing a gel matrix for grafting to a bone
A method of preparing a graft material for a bone surface at a surgical site includes providing a first syringe having continuous side wall having an inner surface and an outer surface wherein the syringe has a first end and a second end wherein the inner surface defines a chamber. An adapter is removably attached to the distal end of the syringe wherein the adapter has a throughbore in fluid communication with the chamber. A first selected amount of solid bone graft material is disposed within the chamber. A plunger is inserted into the chamber to define a selected volume between a distal end of the plunger and the second end of the first syringe. A second syringe containing a selected amount of a liquid biomaterial is attached to the adapter wherein the second syringe is in fluid communication with the adapter and the first syringe such that the liquid biomaterial is transferred from the second syringe to the first syringe. After a selected amount of time, the biomaterial forms a gel matrix containing the solid bone graft material. The adapter is removed to provide an unobstructed opening at the second end and the plunger is depressed to force the gel matrix from the chamber of the first syringe.
US08439927B2 Method of using a multi-probe laser device
A hand-held laser device that can simultaneously provide multiple types of low level laser therapy treatments to multiple areas of a patient's body simultaneously. The device enables laser light of different pulse repetition rate, different beam shapes and spot sizes to be applied to a patient's body. The device includes multiple laser sources. In the preferred embodiment, two semiconductor diode laser sources simultaneously provide two separate laser beams from separate probes, one laser beam producing laser light at a first pulse repetition rate and the other producing laser light at a second pulse repetition rate.
US08439925B2 Transiliac-transsacral method of performing lumbar spinal interventions
This disclosure is directed to minimally-invasive devices, methods and systems for treating vertebral diseases and injuries using multiple therapeutic procedures through small access portals of sufficient dimension that minimize trauma to the patient. More particularly, disclosed herein are devices, methods and systems for an intraosseous transiliac-transsacral surgical approach through the iliac ala and sacral ala that can be used for a variety of surgical procedures within the lumbar spine.
US08439924B1 Spinal implant system and method
A system includes a sleeve including first and second arms each including an outer ramp and an inward projection, each of the arms defining a cavity. First and second extensions are configured for disposal in the cavities. A fastener includes walls defining an implant cavity and a distal portion. The walls each include first and second end surfaces and a locking cavity. The extensions are configured for translation relative to the sleeve between a first orientation such that the extensions engage the respective ramps to fix the projections with a respective locking cavity in a configuration to capture the fastener with the sleeve and a second orientation such that the extensions move out of engagement with the respective ramps so that the projections are movable out of engagement with the locking cavities to release the fastener from the sleeve. Methods of use are disclosed.
US08439923B2 Poly-axial pedicle screw assembly
A clamping body for a pedicle screw assembly has an axial passage extending axially between first and second end portions thereof. The spine rod-receiving channel extends through the first end portion in a traverse direction with respect to the axial passage thereby forming upstanding leg portions of the clamping body and closed end portion of the spine rod-receiving channel. A material thickness reducing relief is provided in an outer surface of each one of the upstanding leg portions at a location between the closed end portion of the spine rod receiving channel and the first end portion of the clamping body whereby the a partial segment of the upstanding leg portions are frangibly detachable. A bridge member is frangibly connected between the upstanding leg portions at the first end portion of the clamping body. The bridge member spans across the spine rod-receiving channel.
US08439920B2 Adapter for a surgical reamer driver
An adapter for a surgical reamer driver having one of a crossbar and a crossbridge reamer driver. The adapter includes a base having an interface for connecting with one of the crossbar and crossbridge reamer drivers. The adapter further includes at least one recess on the opposite end of the base opening in an axial direction. The recess is configured to receive a reamer of a style unlike the given style interface. A pair of hooks or tabs resiliently hold the reamer in place in the recesses.
US08439918B2 Ulna fixation
An improved means for fixation of a fractured coronoid process of the proximal ulna. A substantially rigid plate is secured to the anterior aspect of the proximal ulna relative to a fracture of the coronoid process of the ulna. The plate contains a hook feature at the proximal aspect and is positioned so that it extends over the proximal/anterior aspect of the coronoid process relative to the fracture. The plate has surfaces that define a plurality of openings through which suture and/or screws can pass. The openings may contain a recess at a side of the plate opposite the ulna. At least one hole is formed in the ulna. At least one anchor may be secured to a flexible device, positioned at a side of the plate opposite the ulna, secured to another anchor on the posterior aspect of the ulna and the flexible device tensioned. At least one screw may be inserted through the plate and into the coronoid process or a bone fragment securing it to the plate.
US08439916B2 Intramedullary nail with shape memory elements
An intramedullary nail for a fractured elongated bone, comprising a cannulated rod having proximal and distal ends; an outside tubular sleeve for coaxially hosting and guiding the rod; and shape memory elements hosted in corresponding seats of the rod. Each shape memory element can be retractably housed in its respective seat in a first configuration, allowing insertion of the nail into the bone, and can project from a sleeve opening in another configuration. Proximal and distal pairs of the elements are provided at the proximal and distal rod ends. The proximal element pair lie on a same plane and are kept in their seats by a proximal cover. The distal element pair lie on an offset plane to the plane of the proximal element pair and are kept in their seats by a distal cover. This removes the need for bone screws to stabilize the nail inside the medullary canal.
US08439915B2 Apparatus and methods for magnetic alteration of anatomical features
Systems and methods are disclosed for manipulating an anatomical feature within the body of the patient. An implant such as an internal jackscrew is implanted at the anatomical and has first and second attachment points that secure to spaced-apart locations on the anatomical feature, an internal rotor coupled to the jackscrew, and is configured to drive motion of the jackscrew to manipulate the anatomical feature. The system further includes an external rotor that is magnetically coupled to the internal rotor such that rotation of the external rotor at an exterior location to the patient's body affects a corresponding internal rotation of the internal rotor to manipulate the anatomical feature.
US08439914B2 External fixation strut
The present disclosure provides an external fixation strut for an external fixation device having a ball joints that can be attached to the outer or inner surface of the ring and locked to increase overall stability of the external fixation device. Some embodiments of the fixation strut include a first ball joint coupled to a first end portion of a strut housing, the strut housing having an axial bore defined therethrough. A second ball joint is coupled to a second end portion of a threaded elongated member. The threaded elongated member is threadably coupled to an adjustment mechanism, which is rotatably coupled to an upper end portion of an adjustment sleeve. The adjustment sleeve is slidably disposed in the axial bore of the strut housing, and is used to effect coarse strut length adjustments. Gradual strut adjustments are effected by translating the elongated member.
US08439913B2 Pressure sensing sealing plate
An end effector assembly for use with an electrosurgical instrument is provided. The end effector assembly has a pair of opposing jaw members. One or more of the jaw members includes a support base, an electrical jaw lead, and a sealing plate coupled to the electrical jaw lead. The sealing plate has a stainless steel layer and one or more piezoelectric sensors. The jaw member also includes an insulative plate disposed between the support base and the sealing plate.
US08439911B2 Compact jaw including through bore pivot pin
An end effector assembly for use with a forceps includes a pair of jaw members, a knife assembly, and one or more cam assemblies. One or more of the jaw members are moveable relative to the other about a pivot from a first, open position to a second, closed position. One or more of the jaw members include a knife channel. The pivot includes a bore. The knife assembly includes a knife blade and an actuation shaft. The knife blade is disposed distally relative to the pivot. The actuation shaft is configured for slidable translation through the bore to allow selective advancement of the knife blade through the knife channel. The one or more cam assemblies are operably coupled to the one or more moveable jaw members and are actuatable to move the one or more jaw members from the first to second position for grasping tissue therebetween.
US08439903B2 Systems and methods for delivering light to a surgical site
An ophthalmic surgery system for delivering light to a surgical site includes an ophthalmic surgical console including a light source to generate light and a processor operably coupled to the light source and a surgical handpiece operably coupled to the ophthalmic surgical console via an optical fiber for delivering light from the from the light source to a surgical site. The processor is configured to adjust the light source to ensure an output light level at the surgical site is substantially consistent over a period of time.
US08439887B1 Reusable adjustable diaper
The invention, a reusable adjustable diaper, includes: a multi-ply member having a first curvilinear portion connecting by a medial portion to a second curvilinear portion; a first elastomeric member connected to a first curved segment of multi-ply member and having a first plurality of fastening areas; a second elastomeric member connected to a second curved segment of multi-ply member and having a second plurality of fastening areas; a first plurality of fasteners connected to first curvilinear portion; a second plurality of fasteners connected to second curvilinear portion and disengagably fastenable with first plurality of fasteners; a third fastener connected to multi-ply member and disengagably fastenable with first elastomeric member at each of first plurality of fastening areas; and a fourth fastener connected to multi-ply member and disengagably fastenable with second elastomeric member at each of second plurality of fastening areas.
US08439886B2 Absorbent article
An absorbent article adapted to be worn by a user includes a main body section and an absorbent body that has an absorbent member for absorbing fluid, that has a longitudinal direction, a width direction, and a thickness direction, that is superposed on a face of the main body section on a user side. The absorbent body further has one end section in the longitudinal direction joined to the main body section on a first joined section, and another end section in the longitudinal direction joined to the main body section on a second joined section. A length of the absorbent body between the first joined section and the second joined section is equal to or more than a length of the main body section between the first joined section and the second joined section.
US08439885B2 Disposable diaper having a stool passing opening
A disposable diaper is provided, including an absorber, a top sheet disposed to cover the upper surface of the absorber and at least partially formed of a liquid permeable material, a back sheet disposed to cover the lower surface of the absorber and formed of a liquid impermeable material, and a skin contact sheet disposed above the top sheet and formed with a stool passing opening capable of passing a stool therethrough. The stool passing opening is formed into such a shape that a posterior region posterior to a centerline in the anteroposterior direction of the stool passing opening is smaller in the opening area than an anterior region anterior to the centerline.
US08439882B2 System and method for using micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) to heal wounds
A system and method for treating a tissue site of a patient may include sensing one or more characteristics of exudate fluid of a tissue site of a patient. A level of the sensed one or more characteristics of the exudate fluid may be measured, and, in response to the measured at least one characteristic level, treatment may be applied or altered to the tissue site.
US08439872B2 Apparatus and method for penetration with shaft having a sensor for sensing penetration depth
An apparatus having a shaft that can sense the depth of penetration, for penetrating into an object (the substrate). The substrate being penetrated has impedance that varies according to the depth under a surface of the substrate. The shaft has a tip for penetration and has conductive ends near to the tip of the shaft. A change of impedance of material of the object between the conductive ends can be sensed to provide information on the depth of penetration. A processor can be provided external to the object being penetrated by the shaft to gather and process the impedance information to determine whether the desired depth has been achieved.
US08439871B2 Stretch resistant therapeutic device
A vasoocclusive coil is reinforced with a stretch resistant member to improve safety during retraction of the coil. The stretch resistant member is fixedly attached at one end to the vasoocclusive coil, and the other end of the stretch resistant member is detachably mounted to an elongated pusher member to allow for placement and release of the vasoocclusive coil within the patient's vasculature.
US08439869B2 Method for percutaneously implanting a medical catheter and medical catheter implanting assembly
A method for percutaneously implanting a medical catheter, such as a gastrostomy feeding tube, and a medical catheter implanting assembly. In one embodiment, the implanting assembly includes a gastrostomy feeding tube, an inner sheath and an outer sheath. The feeding tube has an internal bolster integrally formed at its distal end. The inner sheath includes a bore extending distally from its proximal end to a point prior to its distal end and a transverse window communicating with the bore. The outer sheath includes a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal bore. The outer sheath is inserted over the inner sheath, and the feeding tube is inserted into the inner sheath, with the internal bolster being folded and tucked into the window and retained therein by the outer sheath. Movement of the outer sheath relative to the inner sheath to expose the window allows the bolster to decompress.
US08439866B2 Systems and methods employing a guidewire for positioning and stabilizing external instruments deployed within the body
Systems and methods for treating a tissue region employ an expandable structure projecting beyond the distal end of a catheter tube. A distal tail projects beyond the far end of the basket assembly. The distal tail includes a guidewire lumen that accommodates passage of a guidewire without threading the guidewire through the catheter tube.
US08439865B2 Punctal plugs
Punctal plugs for delivering therapeutic agents to the eye have a body with a portion into which the therapeutic agent is loaded and a conical anchor portion at an end of the plug.
US08439863B2 Methods for controlling medical fluid injections
The present invention is directed to control of medical fluid injection systems. For instance, in some embodiments, an injection protocol may be initiated, and an actual flow rate of the medical fluid utilized in the injection protocol may be adjusted based, at least in part, on an inherent system elasticity of the injection system.
US08439862B2 Infusion apparatus with flow indicator
A device for dispensing fluid to a patient and indicating a fluid flow condition. The device includes a reservoir configured to provide a source of fluid under pressure. A continuous flow path in fluid communication with the source of fluid provides a continuous and substantially constant flow rate of fluid from the source to a patient. The device further includes at least one pre-biased indicator in fluid communication with the continuous flow path. The pre-biased indicator is configured to provide a discrete visual signal that the pressure of the fluid in the continuous flow path is different from a predetermined level of pressure, thereby indicating a fluid flow condition.
US08439860B2 Oxygen-producing bandage with releasable oxygen source
A device for delivering oxygen to a wound or injury includes a bandage, which includes a base defining an opening, a cover, and a locking mechanism for releasably securing the cover to the base. An oxygen source is in fluid communication with the cover, whereby oxygen is delivered to the opening in the base.
US08439857B2 Method and device for recognition of paravasal bleeding
A method and a device for recognition of paravasal bleeding upon a supplying of blood to a vascular access via a line and/or upon the removal of blood from a vascular access via a line is provided. A device for extracorporeal blood treatment comprising a device for recognition of paravasal bleeding is also provided. The method and the device are based on the change of arterial pressure in the arterial branch or the venous pressure in the venous branch of the extra-corporeal circuit being registered during the extracorporeal blood treatment. One aspect of the method and the device is that pressure changes that come from a pressure level exhibiting a large difference from a reference value are more strongly considered than those that come from a pressure level that exhibits only a minor difference from the reference value.
US08439852B2 Walk assistance device
A walk assistance device comprises a thigh unit configured to be arranged on a thigh of the user, a shank unit configured to be arranged on a shank of the user, a foot unit configured to be arranged on a foot of the user, a knee position joint unit configured to couple the thigh unit and the shank unit in a swingable manner, and an ankle position joint unit configured to couple the shank unit and the foot unit in a swingable manner. The shank unit comprises a first replaceable member and a second replaceable member that extend along the shank of the user, and a length of the shank unit is adjustable by replacing each of the first and second replaceable members with another one having a different length.
US08439849B2 Intestinal peristalsis detecting device and system and method thereof
An intestinal peristalsis detecting device comprises a radio frequency (RF) signal generator, an antenna, and a mixer. After the RF signal generator sends a pulse signal, the antenna receives the pulse signal and emits a pulse electromagnetic wave to an organism. Thereafter, the antenna receives a response pulse electromagnetic wave reflected from the organism to generate a response pulse signal. The mixer couples with the RF signal generator and the antenna to mix the pulse signal and the response pulse signal.
US08439842B2 Method and device for controlling transmission power of an active transducer
A method of operating an ultrasound signal generator includes generating a stimulus signal and receiving a returned signal. The Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) of the returned signal is computed. The SNR is compared to an optimal SNR range. A control signal is generated to control the transmission power of the stimulus signal. A new stimulus signal is generated at the new transmission power. A device for collecting and analyzing a quasi-periodic signal includes a SNR calculator that computes the SNR of a returned signal. A signal analysis selector selects between a first and a second signal analysis technique. A transmission power controller compares the computed SNR with an optimal SNR range for the selected technique and modifies the transmission power as a result of this comparison.
US08439838B2 Inserter for transcutaneous sensor
The invention relates to an inserter for a transcutaneous sensor comprising a sensor part e.g. for registration of the bloods content of glucose. The inserter comprises a needle unit comprising a needle hub and a carrier body, and a sensor housing. The sensor housing and the needle hub are releasably connected and when they are connected, the insertion needle is placed along the sensor e.g. surrounding the sensor wholly or partly. The carrier body guides the movement relative to the housing between a retracted and an advanced position. When released the needle unit and the sensor housing are forced by a spring unit to an advanced position where the needle and sensor are placed subcutaneously. The object of the invention is to provide a disposable inserter for a transcutaneous sensor which inserter is easy and safe for the user to handle during use and to dispose of after use.
US08439832B2 Surgical access system and related methods
A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue refraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site.
US08439831B2 Laparoscopic instrument and trocar system and related surgical method
Laparoscopic instruments and cannulas are provided for performing laparoscopic procedures entirely through the umbilicus. Generally S-shaped laparoscopic instruments placed through the C-shaped trocar sleeves or through the cannula and instrument holder unit provide markedly improved degrees of instruments' freedom during trans-umbilical laparoscopic procedures.
US08439830B2 Cannula with integrated camera and illumination
A cannula assembly includes a tubular element forming a lumen, a deployable portion of the tubular element, and an electronic component mounted to the deployable portion of the tubular element. The tubular element has a proximal end and a distal end adapted to be inserted into a body cavity. The deployable portion of the tubular element is engaged near the distal end of the tubular element so as to transition between a closed position and an open position. The electronic component is at least partially disposed in the lumen when the deployable portion is in the closed position.
US08439827B2 Endoscope system and control method for the same
In an endoscope, a solid-state image pickup device images an object, to output an image signal. In a processing apparatus, an illuminator applies normal light and specific light having spectral distribution different from the normal light to the object. A display control unit operates according to the image signal, to cause display of a normal image of the object produced by applying the normal light, and a specific image of the object produced by applying the specific light. A motion detector detects information of relative motion of the object. A controller controls the illuminator, causes alternate emission of the normal and specific light periodically at a storage period of the image pickup device if the motion information is equal to or smaller than a threshold level, and causes emission of the normal light without emitting the specific light if the motion information is greater than the threshold level.
US08439823B2 Endoscope apparatus and its control method
An imaging mode is automatically switched based on the kind of a subject. The spatial frequency of an endoscopic image obtained by imaging the subject is detected. Further, judgment is made, based on the distribution of the spatial frequency, as to whether the endoscopic image was obtained by performing close-up imaging on the subject. The condition of imaging is switched based on the result of judgment as to whether the image was obtained by close-up imaging or distant-view imaging.
US08439819B2 Fecal incontinence device, system and method
A device for treating fecal incontinence in a subject is provided. The device includes a plug configured for positioning mostly within an anal canal of the subject.
US08439816B2 Piezoelectric, micro-exercise apparatus and method
An apparatus and method for micro-exercise apply piezoelectric stress to cells of a bone mass by inducing voltages in the bone mass. Application of dynamic, electromagnetic fields passing through the conductive bone mass induce currents and voltages locally in and around cells or groups of cells. The cells respond to the combination of mechanical stress and strain by building themselves up as they would if they had been subjected to the stress and strain of conventional exercise. Thus, micro-exercise at a cellular level of the bone mass can be stimulated as if the stress and strain had been applied to the entire bone structure of which the smaller cellular portions are constituent parts. In combination with casts or splints, the sources of electromagnetic flux may be embedded in the frame or solid structure, the protective padding added for comfort, or both.
US08439815B2 Medical unit for withdrawal, calibration, dilution and/or injection of an injectable radioactive product
A medical unit includes a shielded enclosure (2) in which are accommodated:—elements (13) for supporting a container (12) including a source or a generator of injectable radioactive product (11),—elements (10) for supporting a syringe (6),—a device (3) of the activimeter type, and—a system of pipes (9, 20, 23, 24) associated with at least one valve (15). The syringe support (10), the valve (15) and the radioactive source support (13) are arranged vertically relative to one another, respectively from top to bottom, the syringe support (10) being arranged to support the syringe (6) with the plunger (8) thereof oriented upward. The valve (15) and the syringe plunger (8) can be operated so as to ensure the withdrawal, dilution and injection operations.
US08439811B2 Laser nozzle changing device
A mechanical device is used for mounting and/or dismounting a laser nozzle on and/or from a nozzle mount of a laser processing machine for processing workpieces, especially metal sheets. The mechanical device includes a nozzle magazine having a nozzle holder support on which a nozzle holder for a laser nozzle is supported. In addition, the mechanical device has a support positioning drive by means of which the nozzle holder support is positionable together with the nozzle holder in a support positioning direction. A lifting device of the mechanical device serves to position the nozzle holder, when positioned in the support positioning direction in a lifting stand-by position, relative to the nozzle holder support in a positioning lifting direction extending perpendicular to the support positioning direction.
US08439807B2 Exercise device with treadles
An exercise device employing side-by-side pivotally supported moving surfaces. In one particular example, an exercise device employs a first belt deployed about a front roller and a rear roller and an adjacent second belt deployed about a front roller and a rear roller. The rear of the belts in the area of the rear rollers are pivotally secured and the front of the belts in the area of the front roller are adapted to reciprocate in an up and down motion during use. In some implementations, the moving surfaces include an interconnection structure such that a generally downward movement of one surface is coordinated with a generally upward movement of the other surface. In other implementations, the moving surfaces are operably associated with one or more resistance elements that effect the amount of force required to pivot or actuate the moving surfaces.
US08439796B2 Methods and systems for turbocharger control
Methods and systems are provided for controlling a vehicle engine, the engine including a turbocharger and a transmission. One example method comprises, operating the transmission at a first lower gear with a first boost level, increasing the boost from the first boost level before completing a shift from the first lower gear to a second higher gear, and after completing the shift, operating the transmission at the second higher gear with the increased boost.
US08439795B2 Apparatus for controlling motor torque
In a vehicle that generates creep torque using an electric motor, a controlling means that causes, on the basis of the results of the detecting by the vehicle speed detecting means and the braking operation detecting means, the electric motor to generate the creep torque, wherein if the brake is operated when the creep torque is generated, the controlling means decreases the creep torque by a first level, if the brake is not operated when the creep torque is generated, the controlling means increases or decrease the creep torque in a level range on the basis of the speed of the vehicle detected by the vehicle speed detecting means, and the first level is a decreasing level larger than a possible maximum decreasing level in the level range.
US08439794B2 Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission includes a first planetary gear set; a second planetary gear set; a third planetary gear set; an input shaft; an output shaft; and five friction elements. A first ring gear is constantly locked. A third carrier is connected with a second ring gear to define a rotating member. The input shaft is constantly connected with a second carrier, and the output shaft is constantly connected with the rotating member. The five friction elements are adapted to selectively connect among the carriers, ring gears and sun gears. Each of at least seven forward speed-ratios and one reverse speed-ratio is achieved by an engaged state of two friction elements selected from the five friction elements.
US08439793B2 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.
US08439792B2 Planetary gear mechanism for a bicycle
A planetary gear mechanism for a bicycle, and more particularly to a planetary gear mechanism comprising a first planetary mechanism connected coaxially in series to a second planetary mechanism, which second planetary mechanism is connected coaxially in series to a third planetary mechanism, the second planetary mechanism output is a step up in speed from the first planetary mechanism output, the third planetary mechanism output is a step up in speed from the second planetary mechanism output.
US08439790B2 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.
US08439784B2 Braking system
The present invention relates to a braking system (1). The system comprises an annulus gear (3) having a fluid contained therein and at least one planet gear (4), arranged within the annulus gear and rotatably engaged therewith. The system further comprises means (10) for controlling the flow of fluid within the system to control relative rotational motion between the planet gear and the annulus gear.
US08439776B2 Hockey stick
A hockey stick shaft includes an elongate, rectangular tube having a length and a plurality of side walls. The plurality of side walls define an elongate inner chamber of the tube. The chamber extends along the length of the tube. The plurality of side walls includes a first side wall, a second side wall opposite the first side wall, and a pair of opposite third and fourth side walls separating the first side wall from the second side wall. A support member is positioned within the chamber and extends along the length of the tube. The support member divides the chamber, and connects the first and second side wall walls to one another.
US08439775B2 Soccer training apparatus and method
A soccer training apparatus comprises a net capable of being placed in a deployed position, connected to or located adjacent a soccer goal frame and above a soccer playing surface, so as to cover a portion of a target opening bounded by the soccer goal frame and soccer playing surface. The net includes a peripheral edge located relative to the soccer goal frame so as to form a gap which extends around the net in the deployed position. which permits a soccer ball to pass through and enter the soccer goal area.
US08439773B2 Basketball shooting target
The invention is directed to a novel and unique basketball shooting target removably connected to a basketball goal. The target is an object that includes a female member having a female member core and female outer layer and a male member having a male member core and male outer layer. The female member core includes female lock flanges and female contact surfaces for engaging the male member core. The male member core has buttons that each includes respective cam locks configured for releasable engagement with female lock flanges on a female core to prevent horizontal movement. The male member core has male contact surfaces for engaging the female contact surfaces of the female member to prevent vertical movement. In operation, the male and female members removably connect with one another to engage a netting of a basketball goal and prevent movement relative to one another in horizontal or vertical direction.
US08439772B2 Football training device system
A football training device and system is presented that simulates game-time conditions wherein players of the opposite team attempt to strip the ball carrier of the ball. The football training device has a football with at least one cord attached to each end of the football. The cord is connected to a housing which is attached to the player's body by a strap. As the player carries the football a remote control device is used to activate the housing to retract the cord which acts to strip the football from the players hands.
US08439770B1 Iron-type golf club head with rear cavity with undercut
An iron-type golf club head having a rear cavity with an undercut portion is disclosed herein. The undercut portion is present in less than 360 degrees of the rear cavity. Further, the undercut portion is preferably discontinuous. Further, the under portion preferably has sharp angles at segments of the rear cavity.
US08439767B2 Adjustable pendulum golf putting trainer
A swinging mechanism and a ball capturing target, used together or separately, teach putting skills and enable entertaining indoor/outdoor putting games and practice. The swinging mechanism teaches tempo, direction and distance control. The mechanism adjusts to fit most bodies and putters to achieve a repeatable eye-over-ball setup. The putter-head's backside pushes the mechanism aft and lets the mechanism pace the forward stroke. Premature head and sternum movement are eliminated by focusing on swing-thought words on the base; feeling the support rod against your sternum; and noticing the mechanism tap your cheek at the instant you see and hear the putter-ball impact. Colored ball-sets are putted through 3 different sized openings into separated capture zones to score 1, 2, or 3 points per ball. Player's uniquely colored ball-sets enable easy counting and strategy changes as games progress. After final score count, up to 75 balls are easily retrieved for a new round.
US08439762B2 Torsional damper
A torsional damper includes a torque limiter and a damper. The torque limiter includes at least two friction members, allows transmission of torque, and prohibits transmission of excessive torque. The damper absorbs torsional vibration through resilient deformation of a spring. The torque limiter is a wet torque limiter in which the friction members are arranged in an oil chamber filled with lubricating oil. The damper is a dry damper in which the spring is not immersed in the lubricating oil.
US08439759B1 System and method of facilitating external notifications for events that occur in a plurality of different virtual spaces
External notifications related to virtual spaces, such as virtual game spaces may be provided to users. The notifications may provide an indication of events that have occurred in the virtual game spaces, offers of virtual goods, and/or other information related to the virtual game spaces. External notifications may be sent, for example, via email, text message, instant message (external from the virtual space), and/or through other external communication media. This may provide centralized and/or coordinated distribution of notifications for a plurality of different virtual game spaces.
US08439758B2 Medication compliance using persuasive computing
The invention refers to a method for encouraging a user to comply with his/her medication regimen, comprising the steps of: registering a group of parameters related to a medication intake of said user, which parameters include a time parameter and a user identifier; sending said group of parameters related to a medication intake of the user to a server (40); computing a time difference between said time parameter received and a time parameter associated to said user identifier previously recorded in the server; assigning said user with a pre-established number of points depending on the value of said time difference; and providing said user with information regarding his/her points obtained for the medication intake, including a summary of their medication compliance status using appealing personal awareness. providing symbolic rewards (e.g., listening to a favorite song, being surprised with a family photo, reading a joke) to said user if he/she complies with his/her medication regimen providing means to said user to contact/remind other users in case they forget to take their medication.
US08439754B2 Impact resistant hand-gripped manual controller
A damage resistant manual controller for manipulating images or symbols on a display is made of impact resistant material such as dense foam rubber to resist damage resulting from accidental or intentional impact caused by throwing, dropping, or other insult. Damage resistance entails maintaining the operational integrity of the electronics and the structural integrity of the manual controller.
US08439753B2 Operating apparatus for game machine
An operating apparatus for game machine includes a depressing member, and a main body of the depressing member is provided with three engaging protrusions and two depressing protrusions that downwardly protrude. For example, the two depressing protrusions are provided between the three engaging protrusions. In response to a beating operation by a player, the right side of the depressing member is depressed, and then, an engaging portion of the engaging protrusion at the left side is engaged with a rear surface of an upper surface panel. Accordingly, the depressing member is sure to be depressed at the right side without being upwardly actuated, and a rubber switch depressed by the depressing protrusion is brought into contact with a board. At this time, a contact provided on the board and a contact provided on the rubber switch are brought into contact with each other, and an operation signal according to the beating operation is output to the game machine.
US08439751B2 Multi-user computer-controlled input system and a method of compressing and processing multiple input data
System and method for running a software application, such as a video game for many users. One embodiment of the invention includes a multi-user computer-controlled video gaming system, comprising: at least one display device for displaying video game motion pictures to an audience of at least two users; a plurality of user input devices, at least one for each user, providing user input data to the computer-controlled video gaming system; a processing unit receiving and processing the user input data from the plurality of input devices to generate control input data for a conjointly control of at least one object being displayed in the video game motion pictures; and at least one computing device executing a game software application controlled by said control input data for providing output to the display device to display the video game motion pictures with said at least one conjointly controlled object.
US08439748B2 Gaming device method and apparatus employing modified payouts
The invention includes a system and method for a gaming device to determine when to offer a player an opportunity to play using a “jackpot only” pay table. The player may choose to accept the gaming device's offer to switch from using a conventional pay table to using a pay table that only pays top payout amounts. Play with a jackpot only pay table may only require a small wager amount as compared to play with a conventional pay table. Play with a jackpot only pay table may be automated to generate outcomes quickly to allow a player to relatively inexpensively avoid spending time playing a gaming device perceived to be in a “cold period.”
US08439746B2 Managing limitation rules for wagering accounts
A wagering game account management system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations include presenting a graphical user interface that includes a graphical control associated with a credit account belonging to a wagering game player; detecting a selection of the graphical control that initiates a financial transaction to transfer money from the credit account to a wagering game session account; determining access information stored in a player profile, the access information to access the credit account; determining an amount to transfer from the credit account to the wagering game session account balance; determining one or more rules limiting use of the credit account; and enforcing the one or more limitation rules on the use of the credit account.
US08439740B2 Gaming system, machine and method with a scannable physical component associable with a game
A system, apparatus, and method are disclosed that include generating a scannable physical gaming component associable with a game. The disclosed method also includes identifying a game structure at a player station through a scan of the gaming component, receiving a game play request from a player at the player station, associating the game structure with the game, and awarding the player based on the game outcome. Further disclosed is a group or community game with which the player may be associated upon game play request wherein a winner may be determined based upon the game outcomes at respective player stations.
US08439739B2 Game based on speed of play
In accordance with the present invention, a gaming device such as a slot machine calculates a speed of game play, and in turn determines a pay schedule based on the speed of game play. In some embodiments, a count is adjusted throughout a multiple play session based on point values associated with symbols on the reels of a slot machine, and payouts are awarded in accordance with (i) a finishing count, and/or (ii) a “virtual average speed”.
US08439731B2 Coin separating and transferring apparatus for positioning a sorted coin at an interim stationary position
A compact inexpensive coin separating and transferring apparatus can separate coins and reliably delivering each one to a rotating transferring body. Coins or tokens are contacted by a holding surface on a pusher unit formed so as to project from an upper surface of a rotary disk to permit the coins to be sorted one by one and stored. The coins are each pushed by the pusher unit along a circumferential-direction of a fixed guiding ledge positioned above the rotary disk. The coin reaches a stationary state at a predetermined delivery position on a delivery support ledge. A holding ledge has a predetermined diameter formed at an outer perimeter edge of the pusher. The coin is removed by a rotary transferring body from the delivery position, and physical properties can be detected by a sensor while moved along a sensor-part guide.
US08439729B2 Loading caps suitable for rucking using low profile ruckers capable of rucking fixed diameter coverings
Loading caps suitable to mount to product chutes for rucking sleeves of covering material onto a chute body include a conical or frustoconical upper portion.
US08439728B2 Reticle carrier
A reticle carrier for a polishing tool capable of accommodating a reticle includes a base plate with an obverse and reverse surfaces, a retaining ring secured to the obverse surface of the base plate forming a recess defined by the obverse surface of the rigid base plate and internal edges of the retaining ring. A reticle pad supports a reticle in the recess. The base plate and the reticle pad having an array of matching, aligned passageway holes therethrough for exhaustion of air from space between the base plate and a the reticle and for supply of air to that space so a vacuum can retain a the reticle in place on the reticle carrier under vacuum conditions and application of air under pressure can eject a reticle from the reticle carrier.
US08439720B2 Shooting toy used in game for two or more players
A shooting toy used in a game for two or more players capable of allowing an opponent player to reliably receive an infrared ray signal even in an open air, e.g., under a scorching sun. The intensity of light included in a particular wavelength region around a toy is detected by an optical sensor 27. If the detected amount of light included in the particular wavelength region is large, an infrared ray signal generating section 31 increases the intensity of the infrared ray signal to be generated, whereas if the detected amount of light included in the particular wavelength region is small, the infrared signal generating section 31 decreases the intensity of the infrared ray signal to be generated. This prevents the infrared ray signal reception capability from being affected by the light included in the particular wavelength region around the toy.
US08439716B2 Marker for floating on the surface of a body of water
A floating marker for marking the location of a line in the water. The marker has a cylindrical shape and includes a pair of clips for attaching to a line while allowing the marker to move along the line. The marker includes a lighting module having a plurality of LEDs for illuminating the marker at during low visibility conditions, e.g. at night. The lighting module also includes a solar collector for charging a power source during the day. Finally, the lighting module includes a light sensor and controller allowing the amount of light emitted from the marker to be controlled either automatically or manually.
US08439715B1 Trolling motor support assembly
A support assembly for a trolling motor is disclosed whereby the trolling motor shaft is clamped into a separate threaded rack unit. A motor driving a gear engaged with the rack unit causes the trolling motor to be raised and lowered vertically. A spring is employed in the breakaway mounting assembly to allow the trolling motor propulsion unit to deflect upon striking an underwater obstacle, and thereby prevent damage to the trolling motor.
US08439712B2 Electrical connector for power cable
An electrical connector for a power cable having a lead assembly which forms electrical connections between wires in the cable and contacts to one side of the cable.
US08439711B2 Modular jack with magnetic module od reduced profile
An electrical connector (100) includes an insulative housing (11), a terminal module received in the insulative housing and a shielding shell (17) enclosing the insulative housing. The terminal module having an inner circuit board (130) and a number of magnetic coils (132). The inner circuit board defines a groove (1300). Each of magnetic coils includes a core and a number of wires wound on the core and electrically connected with the inner circuit board. Each magnetic coil is at least partially received in the groove to save space for reducing profile of the connector.
US08439709B2 Socket with improved contact array
An electrical connector, adapted for electrically connecting an integrated circuit package, comprises a plurality of contacts, a plurality of solder balls disposed on tails of the contacts and an insulative housing. The insulative housing defines a plurality of passageways receiving the contacts. Each contact has a retaining portion, an elastic arm and a soldering portion. The contacts positioned in two adjacent rows of passageways are arranged staggered in a back to back manner. Such arrangement of the contacts of the electrical connector allows much more contacts to be put in the insulative housing.
US08439708B2 Electrical connector with cantilevered arm integrally formed on metal shell
An electrical connector includes an insulative housing, a number of contacts retained in the insulative housing and a metal shell enclosing the insulative housing. The metal shell includes a top wall defining a pair of slits each extending along a transverse direction, a cutout communicating with the slits and a L-shaped cantilevered arm residing in the slits and the cutout. The cantilevered arm includes a base portion protruding along the transverse direction and situated between the pair of slits and a deformable arm extending into the cutout along a mating direction perpendicular to the transverse direction. The deformable arm comprises a locking protrusion bent upwardly for locking with a notch of a mateable connector.
US08439706B2 Plug connector with external EMI shielding capability
A shielded cable connector takes the form of a plug connector that is terminated to a plurality of wires of a cable. The wires are terminated to an edge card and a premold portion is formed thereover. An exterior shielding braid of the cable is extended over the premold and is formed with the connector housing so that a portion of it is exposed on the exterior of the connector housing. This exposed portion contacts an exterior conductive collar that is supported on the connector housing. The sleeve has a plurality of spring contact arms so as to make electrical shielding contact between the cable braid exposed on the connector housing and an exterior metal guide into which the connector is inserted when mating to an opposing connector.
US08439703B2 Connector assembly for corrugated coaxial cable
A compression connector for connecting to a coaxial cable is provided. The compression connector is provided in a first state for fitting onto an end of the cable, after which it may be compressed to a second state, thereby joining the connector to the cable to make a coaxial cable assembly. The connector is comprised of a tubular connector body and a compression cap structured to slidably engage the second end of the tubular body. The connector is further internally configured with means for collapsing the first exposed corrugation of the outer conductor of the coaxial cable in the axial direction when the compression cap is compressed onto the tubular connector body.
US08439702B2 High density jack
The present disclosure provides for electrical connectors or jack assemblies/housings for use in voice/data communication systems. More particularly, the present disclosure provides for modular jack assemblies that include a movable locking member. The present disclosure provides for improved systems/designs for jack assemblies/housings that are easily secured and/or unsecured to or from a jack panel or jack faceplate. In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides for convenient, low-cost and effective systems and methods for easily securing and/or unsecuring jack assemblies/housings to or from a jack panel/faceplate (e.g., in the field) by utilizing advantageous modular jack assemblies that include a movable locking member, and related assemblies.
US08439698B1 Low profile mechanical and electrical accessory connector
Accessories are attached to an electronic device, such as an electronic book (“eBook”) reader device via one or more low profile accessory connectors configured to provide mechanical and electrical connections. Accessories include covers, reading lights, external power sources, touchpads, diagnostic devices, and so forth. The low profile accessory connector is configured to receive a hook from the accessory and provide a mechanical engagement between the hook and the electronic device. While engaged, at least a portion of the hook engages one or more electrical contacts within the connector. Electrical power, signals, or both may then be sent between the accessory and the electronic device.
US08439697B2 Locking power connector apparatus
The present invention relates to the field of electrical power connectors, and in particular power connectors that are used to connect a source of mains power to an item of electrical equipment. A locking panel socket (1) for making an electrical connection with a line plug comprises a socket connection portion (2) having an end face (11) and the end face having a plurality of recesses (10, 10′) for receiving corresponding power pins of a line plug, a plug insertion channel (4) that extends around the socket connection portion (2) and a panel portion (6) that extends around the plug insertion channel (4). The locking panel socket (1) also includes within the socket connection portion a locking mechanism (12) for restraining a power pin of a line plug from being withdrawn from one of the recesses (10′), and a release mechanism for releasing the locking mechanism (12) to permit the power pin to be withdrawn from the recess. The release mechanism includes an actuation portion (60) and a linking portion (30, 46, 56) that links the actuation portion with the locking mechanism (12). The actuation portion (60) is manually accessible on the panel (6) and the linking portion (30, 46, 56) extends from the actuation portion (60) to the locking mechanism (12).
US08439695B2 Lever type electrical connector
A lever type connector is mated with a mating connector by operating a rotatable lever with a mating portion being received in a receiving space of the mating connector. The lever type connector includes a slider having a cam groove and is moved by rotation of the lever. The mating connector further includes a cam pin positioned on a mating housing and inserted into the cam groove. A rib that constitutes a cam pin displacement restricting body is placed between a front cover that constitutes a part of a housing of the lever type connector 1 and the mating housing in a region corresponding to the cam pin.
US08439694B2 Socket with pick up cap with a pivot having a long side and a short side
A socket comprises an insulating housing receiving a plurality of contacts, and a pick-up cap engaging with the insulating housing. The pick-up cap has a planar main body covering the insulating housing. The main body is formed with two pivots on a side thereof. The insulating housing is formed with a plurality of sidewalls, one of the sidewall is provided with a pair of mounting seats on an outside thereof, each mounting seat defines a mounting hole with a gap, and the pivots of the pick-up cap enter into the mounting holes via the gaps to pivotally assemble the pick-up cap to the mounting seats.
US08439692B1 Bus bar arrangements for multiple outlet electrical receptacles
A triplex electrical receptacle has a flexible, compact arrangement of bus bars and phase, neutral and ground contacts associated with three outlets. Two outlets are nearest two corners of the body that share a common first side, and the third outlet is between them but closer to the opposite side of the body. A common neutral bus bar (with terminal) is connected to the neutral contacts of all three outlets. The phase bus bar (with terminal) is connected to the phase contacts of at least two of the outlets. One embodiment permanently connects the phase contact of the third outlet to the phase bus bar; another embodiment permanently isolates the third outlet, connecting its phase contact to a separate phase terminal; and an additional embodiment incorporates a separate phase terminal for the third outlet and an optionally severable connection between the third outlet and the first phase terminal.
US08439689B2 Sheet connector having a terminal protruding from a conductive pattern on a substrate to engage a terminal of another connector
An FPC plug, which fits with another connector, comprises a substrate part, a conductive pattern on the surface of the substrate part, a cable part and a connecting part connected to an end of the cable part. The connecting part includes a protruding terminal engaging a terminal of the other connector. The terminal is formed integrally with, and protrudes from a surface of, the conductive pattern; and includes a base end part connected to the surface of the conductive pattern, an upper end part having a width at most equal to the width of the base end part, and a side surface part between the upper end and base end parts. The side surface part recedes toward the inner side in the width direction more than the base end and upper end parts, and includes a minimal point at which the width is at a minimum.
US08439687B1 Apparatus and method for simulated insertion and positioning of guidewares and other interventional devices
Apparatus and methods useable for simulated insertion and positioning of medical or surgical devices. The apparatus generally comprises a substantially flat structure having simulated body openings, anatomical passageways, anatomical structures and anatomical cavities formed therein. One or more windows (e.g., a transparent top panel or cover) allows the operator to observe the movement or positioning of the medical or surgical device.
US08439684B2 Method of teaching reading
A computer-based method of providing reading training to a student is provided. The method, based on a training model having individualized program streams, incorporates automatic system intervention to enhance program mastery and decrease reliance on teacher resources. This automatic intervention may accelerate a training stream for students demonstrating early mastery or it may add a review step and/or program modifications for students who are struggling with assigned tasks. Although teachers are advised of a student's progress through the multi-stage program, hands-on intervention is only required for students experiencing extreme difficulties.
US08439680B2 Ceramic/metallic dental abutment
A ceramic/metallic dental abutment for use with an implant, the abutment generally including a ceramic body portion having a base region, a transgingival region, and a supragingival region. The base region includes an anti-rotational implant interface, such as an external polygonal fitting, for engaging a cooperating internal polygonal fitting of an implant to prevent relative rotation between the abutment and the implant. The ceramic abutment body portion additionally includes a metal implant contact portion for contacting the implant and providing a load-bearing, metal-on-metal interface between the abutment and the implant.
US08439676B2 Periodontal interdental delivery tray and periodontal medicament tray syringe
The present invention relates to a periodontal interdental tray and to a periodontal medicament tray syringe that can be used in conjunction with the periodontal interdental tray of the present invention, or can be utilized by itself or in conjunction with other periodontal trays already on the market. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to treatment of periodontal disease, and in particular to a dental tray syringe and method for delivering medicaments into areas of the mouth either supragingival or subgingivally to treat the infected areas.
US08439673B2 Tracking teeth movement correction
Embodiments are provided for tracking teeth movement correction. One method embodiment includes using a set of positioning appliances shaped to move teeth through a number of successive stages of arrangements of an expected teeth arrangement model where each stage corresponds to a particular positioning appliance, mapping a current teeth position based upon positions of a number of physical markers attached to a number of physical teeth, comparing the positions of the number of physical markers with a corresponding number of virtual markers positioned on a number of virtual teeth of a stage in the expected teeth arrangement model, determining whether midcourse correction is needed.
US08439667B2 Oxygen trim controller tuning during combustion system commissioning
A method is provided for tuning an oxygen trim controller during the commissioning of a combustion control system for controlling operation of a boiler combustion system, rather than tuning the oxygen trim controller after the commissioning process has been completed.
US08439662B2 Vane air motor
A vane air motor configured to prevent uneven wear of vanes is provided. The vane air motor has a cylindrical member having a rotor chamber (19) defined by a circular cylindrical inner peripheral surface (11), and a vaned rotor. A plurality of air discharge openings (50) are provided over a predetermined length range in the axial direction of the rotor chamber. Each pair of axially adjacent air discharge openings are spaced from each other and overlap each other as seen in the circumferential direction of the rotor chamber.
US08439661B2 Power take-off for compressors
A power take-off for compressors, comprising: a first rotating element (2), predisposed to be connected on command to a motor (40); at least a second rotating element (3), kinematically connected to the first rotating element (2), which is predisposed to be connected to a first user (50); a torque limiter or clutch (4), interposed between the first rotating element (2) and the second rotating element (3).
US08439653B2 Pump for a high-pressure cleaning apparatus
A pump for a high-pressure cleaning apparatus for delivering cleaning liquid is provided. The pump has at least one pump chamber into which at least one reciprocally movable piston plunges. The pump chamber is connected via at least one inlet valve to a suction conduit and via at least one outlet valve to a pressure conduit. A bypass conduit leads from the pressure conduit to the suction conduit. A bypass valve is arranged in the bypass conduit. The valve body of the bypass valve is connected to a control member which displaces the valve body to a closed or an open position and displaces a switch plunger which is coupled to the valve body to a first or a second switch position. The valve body opens a passage upstream of the valve seat which becomes wider when the valve body is at a predetermined distance from the valve seat.
US08439649B2 Sputter ion pump with enhanced anode
A sputter ion pump including an evacuateable envelope having a chamber, first and second cathodes and an anode disposed in the chamber. The anode can have an outer layer of a non-evaporable getter (NEG) material so as to permit NEG pumping of gases by the anode. In another aspect of the invention, the anode can be formed with spaced-apart first and second sheet portions disposed in juxtaposition to each other and having a plurality of holes extending through the sheets for forming a plurality of anode cells.
US08439645B2 High pressure turbine blade airfoil profile
A two-stage high pressure turbine includes a second stage blade having an airfoil with a profile substantially in accordance with at least an intermediate portion of the Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z set forth in Table 2. The X and Y values are distances, which when smoothly connected by an appropriate continuing curve, define airfoil profile sections at each distance Z. The profile sections at each distance Z are joined smoothly to one another to form a complete airfoil shape.
US08439642B2 Pump and pump impeller
A pump assembly that includes a pump housing defining an inlet for receiving fluid to be pumped and an outlet for discharging fluid. A rotatable impeller operatively coupled to a drive motor includes a plurality of vane structures integrally formed with a shroud. Each vane structure includes a curved, axial vane segment extending axially from the shroud. A compound, multi-step auxiliary vane extends transversely from each axial vane segment. The auxiliary vane or wing includes at least first and second sections, with the second section overlying the first section in a staggered configuration such that the trailing edges of the first and second sections are spaced apart to form a step. The second auxiliary vane section includes an axial surface that also forms a working vane surface for the auxiliary vane.
US08439631B2 Shaft coupling arrangement
A shaft coupling arrangement and a corresponding method for coupling shafts are disclosed herein. The shaft coupling arrangement includes an input shaft operable to rotate about a first axis. The shaft coupling arrangement also includes an output shaft operable to rotate about a second axis. The shaft coupling arrangement also includes a gearing arrangement operable to engage the input and output shafts together for rotation in the same angular direction at different angular speeds. In one embodiment of the invention, the gearing arrangement includes a plurality of nested bevel gears. In another embodiment of the invention, the gearing arrangement can include a single layshaft.
US08439629B2 Blade outer air seal
A turbine engine blade outer air seal segment has a body having a base portion. The base portion has a transversely concave ID face, a forward end, an aft end, and first and second circumferential edges. The body has at least one mounting hook. At least one cover plate is secured to the body to define at least one cavity. The cover plate has a plurality of feed holes. A plurality of outlet holes extend through the base portion to the ID face. At least one of the base portion and cover plate comprises a protruding portion protruding into the cavity to form a partial restriction separating forward and aft cavity portions.
US08439626B2 Turbine airfoil clocking
A method of decreasing the operational stresses acting on a target airfoil row in a turbine engine; wherein the target airfoil row is bordered on each side by a first upstream airfoil row and a first downstream airfoil row; the first upstream airfoil row and the first downstream airfoil row having substantially the same number of similar airfoils and both comprising one of a row of rotor blades and a row of stator blades, and the target airfoil row comprising the other; the method comprising the step of: configuring the circumferential position of the airfoils of the first upstream airfoil row and the airfoils of first downstream airfoil row such that at least a portion of the airfoils of the first upstream airfoil row and at least a portion of the airfoils of the first downstream airfoil row comprise a clocking relationship of between 25% and 75% pitch.
US08439625B2 Inspection system for rolled products and method for assessing the surface of rolled products of a rolling installation
The invention relates to an inspection system 10 for rolled products 20 of a milling station, comprising at least one plate turning device 11 with an arrangement of transferring turning arms 12 located on a turning shaft 14 and of receiving turning arms 13 located on a turning shaft 15. According to the invention it is thereby provided that the turning shaft 15 of the receiving turning arms 13 is arranged offset with respect to the turning shaft 14 of the transferring turning arms 12. The invention relates in addition to a method for examination of the surface of rolled products 20 of a milling station.
US08439623B2 Linear semiconductor processing facilities
Methods and systems are provided for handling materials, including materials used in semiconductor manufacturing systems. The methods and systems include linear semiconductor processing facilities for vacuum-based semiconductor processing and handling, as well as linkable or extensible semiconductor processing facilities that can be flexibly configured to meet a variety of constraints.
US08439622B2 Personnel transfer system
A transfer device for transferring people and/or personal equipment from a first location to a second location, the transfer device being coupled to a lifting device and comprising an outer structure in the form of a cage connected to a base and defining an inner space. Seating elements are disposed on the device's base, arranged radially around its center. The device also comprises shock absorbing means situated on the sides of the outer structure facing each of the seating elements to protect passengers from frontal impacts.
US08439620B2 Speed nut
A speed nut for engaging a member includes a housing including a first wall having a first opening therethrough for receiving the member and a second wall facing the first inner wall, the first and second walls defining a cavity therebetween; and a plurality of engagement elements arranged in the cavity about a longitudinal axis of the housing to form an opening therebetween, at least one of the engagement elements being freely movable in the cavity between a first position wherein an inner surface of the at least one engagement element is spaced from the longitudinal axis by a first distance for engaging the member and a second position wherein the inner surface of the at least one engagement element is spaced from the longitudinal axis by a second distance greater than the first distance for receiving the member through the opening.
US08439617B2 Self-tapping and self-aligning insert to replace damaged threads
A self-tapping insert is installed in a pre-existing bore hole in a workpiece by rotating the insert, causing cutting threads on the exterior of the self-tapping insert to cut new threads. Engagement threads on the exterior of the self-tapping insert engage the new threads to retain the self-tapping insert within the workpiece. The self-tapping insert may comprise internal threads which are used to replace damaged threads in the workpiece. The means of installing the self-tapping insert may include a drive bolt having threads which make up into those of the self-tapping insert's internal threads. The self-tapping insert is aligned within the bore hole by means of a detachable pilot, which is connected to the insert with attachment means. The attachment means include the pilot being attached to the drive bolt. The pilot may be attached to the drive bolt means of left-handed threads in an axially-centered aperture of the pilot and matching left-handed threads on the end of the drive bolt.
US08439616B2 Locking threaded fastener
A locking fastener includes a fastener body and a locking band. The body includes a tangential slot. The locking band includes a coil portion and first and second tangs extending tangentially from the coil portion. The first tang extends into the slot to limit angular movement of the first tang with respect to the body. When the locking fastener is turned in a loosening direction with sufficient torque, the second tang contacts the fastener body to open the coil portion and to allow removal of the locking fastener.
US08439615B2 Assembly for mounting electronic components, methods of use and manufacture thereof
An assembly for mounting electronic components includes a face plate comprising a thermoplastic material. The face plate includes a retaining element for securing a captive screw and spring assembly for mounting an electronic printed circuit board. The retaining element includes one or more slots adapted to expand the element to permit insertion of the screw and deformation of the hole upon insertion of the screw, while locking the screw to retain the screw in place. This arrangement permits the elimination of the metal standoff frequently used in similar devices. Methods for preparing the assembly and mounting the printed circuit boards are also described.
US08439614B2 Drop-in anchor
A drop-in anchor includes a tubular sleeve having a first end and an expandable second end. The sleeve tapers in inner diameter from the first end to the second end at a sleeve taper angle. A plug is insertable in the sleeve such that when the plug is driven into an installed position in the sleeve the second end expands. The plug tapers at a plug taper angle from a head end to a tip end. A difference between the sleeve taper angle and the plug taper angle is about one degree or more.
US08439613B1 Toggle bolt device
A fastener apparatus is disclosed that features projecting locking members that extend and retract when a central drive shaft is rotated. The exterior of the connector has a body that is partially threaded to receive a nut so that two structures (eg. flanges, panels, plates, beams, etc.) can be pulled together by tightening the bolt when the locking members are in the extended position. In one embodiment, the shaft can be an eyebolt.
US08439612B2 Cargo control system adaptor
An adaptor for cargo control systems is provided that can adjust to accommodate length, width, and height variances between parallel tracks in a cargo control system. The adaptor includes a crossbar, first and second length and height adjusting mechanisms, and first and second width adjusting mechanisms. The first and second length and height adjusting mechanisms are affixed to first and second ends of the crossbar, and the first and second width adjusting mechanisms are affixed to the crossbar along the length of the crossbar.
US08439609B2 Micro-jet cooling of cutting tools
A cutting tool includes an insert defining a flank face, a rake face, and a cutting edge between the flank face and rake face. The cutting tool includes micro-nozzles formed in at least one of the tool body and the insert, and aimed at the cutting edge. Each micro-nozzle generates a micro jet of cutting fluid in close proximity to the cutting edge and adjacent to at least one of the flank face and the rake face.
US08439605B2 Apparatus for everting a liner into a pipe and pressure connector for the same
An apparatus for lining a pipe, comprising a support structure, a liner secured to the support structure and having a non-everted portion and an everted portion, and a pressure connector secured to the everted portion of the liner. The pressure connector includes a connector stud positioned in an opening of the everted portion of the liner, an inner pinch plate positioned inside the liner adjacent the opening, an outer pinch plate positioned outside the liner adjacent the opening and in opposing relation to the inner pinch plate, and a compression mechanism forcing the outer pinch plate toward the inner pinch plate. Preferably, the connector stud includes splines, and the outer pinch plate includes grooves receiving the splines. The compression mechanism can include a reaction plate coupled to the connector stud and including a threaded hole engaged with a threaded member.
US08439599B2 Sealant dispenser and spreader
The present invention is directed to a combination sealant dispensing and spreading apparatus for selectively dispending and spreading sealant upon a paved surface, the apparatus comprising a moveable frame having a lower support, a sealant tank the lower support operably connected to a V-shaped spreading means for spreading sealant from the tank upon the paved surface.
US08439594B1 Shallow flush-mounted vehicle control barrier
Systems and methods described herein provide for a flush-mounted vehicle control barrier having a shallow foundation. According to one aspect of the disclosure provided herein, a vehicle control barrier includes a sub-frame, a wedge plate, and an actuator mechanism that is coupled to the sub-frame and disposed within an interior space of the sub-frame.
US08439592B2 Locking device with catches and a rotary locking sleeve
A locking device for locking together first and second elements that are movable relative to each other in an axial direction. The device has a bushing secured to a first element and catches that are cantilevered-out in an axial direction and are elastically deformable. The device also has an anchor portion secured to a second element and an annular setback to receive hook-shaped ends of the catches. The device also has a locking sleeve mounted to move relative to the catches between a release position in which the catches are free to flex, and a blocking position in which the catches are prevented from flexing, wherein the locking sleeve is movable in rotation relative to the catches and includes a circumferential succession of gaps and of obstacles.
US08439590B2 Knuckle protector for a vehicle
The invention relates to a protection device (1) for a knuckle joint (21) e.g. for the steering and/or suspension of a vehicle, which comprises an annular flange (2) for securing a thermal screen (3) to the knuckle joint, said screen extending lengthwise substantially perpendicular to the flange (2) and widthwise substantially along the annular periphery of the flange. The screen and the flange are formed as a single part in a metal sheet that is folded in a linking area between the screen and the flange, the screen further including a surface portion in the form of a side tab (6) extending along the annular periphery of the flange, said side tab being separated from the flange by a notch (12) in the metal sheet, in the form of a slot.
US08439587B2 Joining member and ballpoint pen employing the same
The present invention provides a joining member for connecting an ink accommodating member and a ballpoint pen tip provided in a ballpoint pen, the joining member comprising, as a constituent material, a resin comprising a copolymer of polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene naphthalate. By this means, it is possible to provide a joining member for a ballpoint pen having, in particular, both sufficiently excellent transparency and gas barrier properties.
US08439583B2 Transporting a print medium
A method for transporting a print medium along a path includes controlling relative rates at which a first drive and a second drive urge the print medium downstream along the path to create a buckle in the print medium. The buckle is formed at a first zone along the path between the first and second drives. With the buckle formed in the print medium, a first operation is performed on the print medium at a second zone along the path upstream from the first zone. At the same time a second operation is performed on the print medium at a third zone downstream along the path from the first zone.
US08439582B2 Print apparatus
A print apparatus is supplied that feeds continuous paper with suppressing its swelling caused by perforations or crease. In the print apparatus, a platen is furnished opposite to a printing section; a medium support member is furnished capable of changing an interval from the platen and supports a record medium toward the platen; and a medium support auxiliary member is furnished on the opposite side to the platen in the medium support member, and when the medium support member is made to separate from the platen, the medium support auxiliary member is made to protrude from the medium support member.
US08439579B2 Single-lens reflex camera using phase difference detection method
A single-reflex camera includes a mirror box, and a focus detecting unit. The mirror box further includes a first opening on a side of the image-pickup optical system, which the light flux that has passed the image-pickup optical system enters, and a bottom plate arranged between the mirror and the focus detecting unit, the bottom plate including a plate-shaped front part that extends so as to approach to an optical axis of the image-pickup optical system from the first opening. Part of the condenser lens is located on a side of the optical axis of the image-pickup optical system with respect to a line that is made by extending, parallel to the optical axis of the image-pickup optical system, an end of the first opening on a side of the bottom plate.
US08439575B2 Connector having an floatable optical module
A connector (100) includes an insulative housing (1) having a receiving slot (141) formed therein; an optical module (3) for transmitting optical data and being movably received in the receiving slot; a compression coil spring (4) having a first end for biasing the optical module to move in the receiving slot; a metal shell (7) shielding the insulative housing; and a sleeve (40) encircling a second end of the compression coil spring (4) opposite to the first end for retaining the compression coil spring therein.
US08439568B2 Wheel support bearing assembly equipped with sensor
In a wheel support bearing assembly including double row rolling elements between an outer member and an inner member, a sensor unit is fitted to one of the outer and inner members, which serves as a stationary member. The sensor unit is made up of a sensor mounting member and at least one or more strain sensors fitted to the sensor mounting member. A sensor signal processing circuit to process an output signal from the strain sensor is provided in the sensor mounting member.
US08439567B1 Disc springs/carrier plate preload assembly
A preload assembly for a thrust bearing. The preload assembly includes a carrier plate having a central annular protrusion, wherein the annular protrusion has an inner diameter and an outer diameter; an inner disc spring; an outer disc spring; and a housing having an annular channel for housing the carrier plate, the inner disc spring, and the outer disc spring.
US08439561B2 Fluid distribution apparatus and method facilitating cooling of electronics rack(s) and simulating heated airflow exhaust of electronics rack(s)
Apparatus and method are provided for facilitating simulation of heated airflow exhaust of an electronics subsystem, electronics rack or row of electronics racks. The apparatus includes a thermal simulator, which includes an air-moving device and a fluid-to-air heat exchanger. The air-moving device establishes airflow from an air inlet to air outlet side of the thermal simulator tailored to correlate to heated airflow exhaust of the electronics subsystem, rack or row of racks being simulated. The fluid-to-air heat exchanger heats airflow through the thermal simulator, with temperature of airflow exhausting from the simulator being tailored to correlate to temperature of the heated airflow exhaust of the electronics subsystem, rack or row of racks being simulated. The apparatus further includes a fluid distribution apparatus, which includes a fluid distribution unit disposed separate from the fluid simulator and providing hot fluid to the fluid-to-air heat exchanger of the thermal simulator.
US08439549B2 Display device
A display device includes a top housing, a bottom housing, and a display module. The top housing is engaged with the bottom housing. The bottom housing includes a base and a fixing frame. The base and the fixing frame are integrally formed, and cooperatively define a receiving space. The fixing frame includes a reflective inner side surface. The display module is received in the receiving space. The reflective inner side surface reflects the light emitting from the side surface of the display module to the inner portion of the display module.
US08439540B2 Aircraft position light assembly
An aircraft position light assembly having one or more light emitting diode (LED) modules. The LED module can be installed in a variety of aircraft wing-tip cavities. An example LED module includes a support device that mounts within an aircraft wingtip, a bracket device that attaches to the support device, at least one circuit board that mounts to the bracket, and two pairs of LEDs. Each pair of LEDs is mounted on opposing major surfaces at a first end of the circuit board. A first pair of reflectors is attached to the circuit board adjacent to two of the LEDs on the opposing major surfaces. A second pair of reflectors is attached to the circuit board adjacent to the other two LEDs on the opposing major surfaces.
US08439539B2 Low-beam lamp unit
Disclosed is a low-beam lamp unit including an LED, a projector lens disposed on an optical axis, a reflector reflecting light of the LED toward the vicinity of a back focus of the projector lens on a vertical cross section, a shade having a front edge portion disposed in the vicinity of the back focus of projector lens to block a portion of light reflected by the reflector, and a re-reflection surface integrally provided in the back of the front edge portion to re-reflect the portion of reflected light blocked by the shade to the projector lens. In the low-beam lamp unit, at least a portion of the re-reflection surface has a light diffusion portion which is a continuously curved surface that is convex toward the reflector in the vertical cross section.
US08439537B2 Lighting fixture
A vehicular lighting fixture unit can include a projector lens placed on an optical axis extending in a vehicle front-rear direction. A light-emitting element can be placed between the projector lens and a rear-side focal point of the projector lens at a position lower than the optical axis so as to emit light substantially vertically upward. A phosphor can be placed so as to be closer to a vehicle rear side than the rear-side focal point. A first reflecting surface can reflect the light from the phosphor so as to condense the light toward the optical axis. A second reflecting surface can be placed substantially vertically above the light-emitting element at a position at which the second reflecting surface does not block the reflected light from the first reflecting surface. The second reflecting surface can reflect the light from the light-emitting element toward the phosphor.
US08439536B2 Vehicle headlight
A vehicle light can include a matrix type semiconductor light source, an imaging lens and a reflector. The light source can project an enlarged matrix light on the reflector via the imaging lens. The reflector can include a matrix reflex surface having horizontal curvatures. Each of the horizontal curvatures of the reflex surfaces arranged in columns can be configured such that the corresponding column light is extended gradually in a wider range as the corresponding column light approaches from a central column light toward both edge column lights. Accordingly, a magnification of light projected from the reflector can become gradually large as approaching from the central column toward both edge columns. Thus, the disclosed subject matter can provide vehicle headlights that can form favorable light distribution patterns for a low beam and a high beam having a bright central portion in a wide range of a smooth light distribution pattern.
US08439534B1 Mobile lighting apparatus
A mobile lighting apparatus includes a portable frame such as a moveable trailer or skid having a light tower thereon. The light tower is moveable from a stowed position to a deployed position. A hydrogen-powered fuel cell is located on the portable frame to provide electrical power to an array of the energy efficient lights located on the light tower.
US08439533B2 Reading lamp or spotlight
A reading device, such as a reading lamp or reading spotlight, is provided for use in a vehicle, such as a motor vehicle with immovable properties or ships. The reading device for example can be used in passenger cabins and/or cockpits of aircraft. The reading device includes, but is not limited to an LED light source with a color temperature that can be adjusted with the color “warm-white” to “cold-white”, a primary optics or lens advantageously designed as a converging lens, and a secondary optics or lens to focus the light emitted by the light source onto a surface, such as a reading plane to be illuminated.
US08439532B2 Lighting device to be installed in a panel
The invention relates to a lighting device to be installed in and/or behind a panel (3), in particular ceiling and/or wall cladding, comprising at least one fitted lamp (1, 1a, 1b) having at least one housing (4) which ends approximately flush with the panel (3), at least one light exit surface (10) and at least one LED module (10), the LED module (5) comprising at least one light-emitting diode (LED) (6). At least one ventilation opening (11, 12) is arranged between the light exit surface (10) and the housing (4) and means (13) are provided for generating an air flow through the ventilation opening (11, 12).
US08439531B2 Lighting assemblies and components for lighting assemblies
A lighting assembly, comprising a light engine assembly and a room-side element. The room-side element is in contact with the light engine assembly. The light engine assembly comprises at least one trim element and a light engine. The trim element defines a trim element internal space. The light engine comprises at least one solid state light emitter, and is positioned within the trim element internal space. Also, a lighting assembly, comprising a light engine assembly and means for dissipating heat from the light engine assembly.
US08439530B2 Method and apparatus for simulating solar light
Described herein is a method and apparatus for simulating solar light to create an ideal testing environment for solar panels and the like. The method and apparatus may also be used to test solar resistance for color fading or resistance to high levels of solar energy. The apparatus generally consists of a plurality of mirrors directed towards a multi-faceted mirror, from which the light beams converge towards a target plane. The light intensity at the target plane is, according to one embodiment, between 100 and 200 suns.
US08439529B2 Lighting device, automotive headlights and method for producing a lighting device
Disclosed is a lighting device comprising at least one LED and at least one optical element, wherein the LED and the optical element are aligned with each other by means of at least one dowel pin. A method of making such a lighting device is also specified. The described lighting device is particularly well suited for use in a vehicle headlight.
US08439524B2 Light emitting assembly with independent heat sink LED support
A light emitting assembly (10) is fabricated by forming a continuous strip of aluminum heat sink having a pair of fins (32) aligned with the side edges (20) and cutting the continuous strip into a plurality of elongated sections (18). The elongated sections (18) are disposed in spaced and generally parallel relationship to one another and separated by an elongated slot (26) so that adjacent elongated sections (18) are independent of one another. A plurality of light emitting diodes (24) are disposed on the mounting surface (14) of each elongated section (18). Bridges (28) constructed of a material different from the material of the heat sink interconnect the elongated sections (18). An independent cover (52) is adhesively secured to the mounting surface (14) around the light emitting diodes (24) on each elongated section (18). A housing (56) spaced from the fins (32) is disposed over the assembly (10).
US08439520B2 Color-configurable lighting assembly
A collimated light source with solid-state light emitters in which the solid-state light emitter is optically coupled to a high refractive index reflector optic, which reduces the cone angle of the light input to the reflector optic. Reducing the cone angle allows the reflective surface of the reflector optic to be reduced in size compared with a conventional reflector in air. The solid-state light emitter is mounted near the light output surface to further reduce the size of the collimated light source. The highly collimated light beams of different colors generated by multiple collimated light sources enable the lighting assembly to use a decussate optical filter having dichroic filter elements to combine the light beams to provide the compact lighting assembly having a configurable output light color.
US08439519B2 Lighting apparatus
Disclosed herein is a lighting apparatus. The lighting apparatus includes: a first light emitting unit including one or more main light sources radiating white light downward; one or more second light emitting units formed at the sides under the first light emitting unit and including one or more sub-light sources radiating color light that is mixed with the white light radiated from the first light emitting unit; and a light guide plate mixing the white light radiated from the main light sources and the color light radiated from the sub-light sources and radiating the mixed light downward.According to the embodiments, it is possible to remove non-uniformity of luminance of the lighting apparatus that can control color temperature by efficiently disposing main light sources radiating white light and sub-light sources radiating color light. Further, it is possible to increase efficiency of the lighting apparatus by radiating light, using all of the main light sources even at any color temperature.
US08439515B1 Remote lighting device and associated methods
A lighting device to receive solar light by a color conversion optic and convert the solar light into a powering light, increasing the efficiency of electrical power generation using a photovoltaic system. The electrical power may be stored by a battery, from which it may be drawn to drive a lighting element to emit illuminating light. The illuminating light may be received and converted by the color conversion optic into a converted light, providing illumination in a desired wavelength range. The color conversion optic may be positionable adjacent to the photovoltaic system or the lighting element to convert light. A controller may be included to control the color conversion operation. The controller may be connected to a sensor or a timer.
US08439508B2 Projector and projector system
A projector that projects an image on a screen, includes: plural image generating units that generate an image lights representing the image; a main body housing that houses the plural image generating units; and plural projection optical units that are provided in the main body housing to respectively correspond to the plural image generating units and project the image lights generated by the image generating units on the screen.
US08439506B2 Reflector mounting structure and projection display device
A reflector mounting structure includes a reflector and a fixing member. The reflector includes: a reflecting surface; a reflector body having the reflecting surface formed thereon; a pair of first connecting units provided respectively at an end face of the reflector body and having a substantially spherical first protrusion at an end thereof; and a second connecting unit provided at an end face of the reflector body. The fixing member which supports the reflector includes a pair of first supporting units respectively having a planar contact portion and bringing the contact portion into contact with an end of the first protrusion, and a second supporting unit.A contact-portion vertical distance is set such that the first protrusion moves while rolling with respect to a contact portion when the reflector deforms.
US08439504B2 Automatic mode switching between single and multiple projectors
Control of a multiprojector system having multiple projectors arranged in a projector array. It is determined whether the projector array is positioned to form one object or two or more objects. A first keystone correction mode is selected if it is determined that the projector array is positioned to form one object. A second keystone correction mode is selected if it is determined that the projector array is positioned to form two or more objects. In the first keystone correction mode, a homography transformation for each of the projectors is derived so as to accommodate keystone correction of all projectors in the projector array involved in the projection of the single object. In the second keystone correction mode, a homography transformation for each of the projectors is derived so as to accommodate keystone correction of all projectors involved in the projection of each object.
US08439503B2 Infrared imaging projection
The subject matter disclosed herein involves systems, methods, apparatuses or devices related to infrared imaging or infrared imaging projection.
US08439498B2 Toric intraocular lens with modified power characteristics
An intraocular lens for correcting or reducing the astigmatism of a cornea includes an optical element that has optical properties and characteristics that make it tolerant of rotational misalignment, when compared to a comparable lens having a uniform astigmatism orientation across its entire optical element, leading to more relaxed tolerances for a surgeon that implants the lens. The optical element of the toric ophthalmic lens has meridians associated therewith, including a high power meridian and a low power meridian orthogonal to the high power meridian. The optical element has at least one radially modulated meridian along which power monotonically varies with increasing radial position.
US08439495B2 Ink jet liquid composition, set, liquid cartridge, and ink jet recording method
An ink jet liquid composition which is used with an ink containing a pigment and which contains an ABC triblock polymer formed from an A block having an aryl group, a B block having a unit represented by the general formula (1), and a C block having a unit represented by the general formula (2), wherein an acid value of the polymer is 20 mgKOH/g or more and less than 150 mgKOH/g, the ratio of the number average molecular weight of the polymer to the acid value is 50 or more and 200 or less, the proportion of the A block in the polymer is 20.0 percent by mass or more and 80.0 percent by mass or less and is 5.0 times or more and 15.0 times or less the proportion of units derived from all acidic monomers contained in the polymer.
US08439492B2 Cartridge and method for manufacturing the same
A cartridge includes: a liquid container adapted to contain a liquid; a filler port provided to fill the liquid into the liquid container; a supply port connected with a liquid supply tube provided in the printing device; a connection port provided to communicate with the liquid container; a liquid detection chamber adapted to vary volume according to inflow or non-inflow of the liquid through the connection port; a flow path arranged to connect the liquid detection chamber with the supply port; and a member provided to have the filler port, the supply port, the liquid detection chamber and the connection port arranged on one identical surface. The surface of the member has the supply port and the filler port arranged on one direction side relative to center of the surface, and the connection port arranged on an opposite direction side to the one direction side relative to the center. The liquid detection chamber is located between the connection port and the supply port.
US08439491B2 Ink tank
An ink tank provided with a supply port for supplying the ink contained therein and an electric contact for information transmission is smoothly and securely attached to an attachment section of a printing apparatus while achieving secure connection of an electric contact section at the same time. The ink tank is configured to be attachable to the attachment section by positioning a first engagement section at a first fitting section on the attachment section, and then by rotating the ink tank around the positioned first engagement section to lock a second engagement section to a second fitting section on the attachment section. The supply port and a positioning section for the contact are disposed on the bottom face of the ink tank so as to be on the respective two sides of the center line in the width direction of the ink tank therebetween.
US08439489B2 Filter for ink supply system
An ink supply system for an ink jet printer has an ink circuit including a plurality of circuit components and fluid paths for conveying ink between components. A manifold defining the fluid paths and a plurality of ports in fluid communication with the paths. A filter module is provided adjacent to the manifold and comprises a housing that houses at least a first filter, the housing having an inlet and an outlet. The filter module is connected to the manifold such that at least one of the inlet or the outlet is in fluid communication with one of the plurality of ports on the manifold. The filter module may comprise an ink filter and a solvent filter. A second ink filter may be provided upstream of a pump. The modular nature of the filter makes for easy assembly, service and repair. It also provides for improved printer reliability.
US08439486B2 Method for assembling a printhead having an inkjet ejector with a polymer aperture plate attached to an outlet plate
A method of assembly produces a printhead having a polymer aperture plate and outlet plate that are at least 25 mm in length. The method includes bonding the polymer aperture plate to the outlet plate, which is configured with outlets. A laser is aligned with the outlets in the outlet plate to ablate apertures in the polymer aperture plate and the outlet plate is bonded to an inkjet stack to couple the outlets in the outlet plate to pressure chambers in a body plate in the inkjet stack.
US08439483B2 Liquid ejection head and method of producing the same
A liquid ejection head includes a chip having a liquid ejection pressure generating element and an electrode terminal for electrically connecting the liquid ejection pressure generating element to an external source, an electrical wiring board having a lead wiring to be electrically connected to the electrode terminal, and a lead sealing material for covering an electrical connection portion between the electrode terminal and the lead wiring. The lead sealing material contains an epoxy resin which has an average number of functional groups per molecule of more than two and is solid at 25° C., an acid anhydride curing agent having a polybutadiene backbone, a curing accelerator, and an inorganic filler.
US08439480B2 Ink jet recording apparatus, and ink jet recording method
This aims to provide an inkjet recording apparatus which prevents a beading or a color bleeding in a recording system using a line head, and an inkjet recording method. The inkjet recording apparatus comprises an ink line head equipped with nozzle rows having a plurality of nozzles arranged at a predetermined pitch for discharging inks containing coloring materials, and a fixing liquid line head equipped with nozzle rows having a plurality of nozzles arranged at a predetermined pitch for discharging fixing liquids to enhance the fixtures of the inks to a recording medium. The inkjet recording apparatus performs the records by discharging the inks and the fixing liquids from the individual line heads to the recording medium while moving the recording medium and the individual line heads relatively in predetermined directions. The inkjet recording apparatus is characterized in that the nozzle rows of the ink line head and the fixing liquid line head are arranged such that they are deviated from each other by one half of the predetermined pitch in the nozzle row direction.
US08439479B2 Liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting apparatus having a liquid ejecting unit that ejects liquid toward a target ejection medium and a target ejection medium support member that is disposed so as to oppose the liquid ejecting unit and supports the target ejection medium, includes a conductive shielding member that covers a first side of the target ejection medium, which opposes the liquid ejecting unit, at an edge area including an edge perpendicular to a feeding direction of the target ejection medium.
US08439477B2 Method of characterizing array of resistive heaters
A method of characterizing an array of resistive heaters, a first resistive heater of the array having a nominal sheet resistance, a first nominal length and a first nominal width, the method includes (a) providing a first configuration test resistor disposed proximate the first resistive heater, the first configuration test resistor including a second nominal length and a second nominal width, wherein the second nominal length is different from the first nominal length; (b) measuring a resistance of the first resistive heater; (c) measuring a resistance of the first configuration test resistor; and (d) determining the actual sheet resistance and the actual length of the first resistive heater based on the measured resistances of the first resistive heater and the first configuration test resistor.
US08439474B2 Print control apparatus and method
Whether a continuous sheet usable for printing on the basis of first print data and a continuous sheet usable for printing on the basis of second print data are the same or not is determined. If it is determined that they are the same, an image based on the first print data and an image based on the second print data are printed continuously on a continuous sheet. When an image based on the second print data is arranged at an end of a continuous sheet, the second print data is assigned to the beginning of print data to be printed on another continuous sheet.
US08439467B2 Image forming device that performs bi-directional printing while calibrating conveying amount of recording medium
An image forming device includes a print head that performs a bi-directional printing including a forward print and a reverse print, and a convey-amount determining unit that determines a conveying amount based on a value relating to an amount of offset between a first position on the recording medium at which a first test image is formed in the forward print and a second position at which a second test image is formed in the reverse print. The recording medium is conveyed the conveying amount prior to one of the forward print and the reverse print.
US08439462B2 Refrigerator
The embodiment relates to a refrigerator. The refrigerator according to one embodiment includes: a cabinet in which a storage chamber is formed; a door that is connected to the cabinet and opens and closes the storage chamber; a receiving member that is mounted in the door and receives foods; a guide unit that guides an up and down movement of the receiving member in a state where the receiving member is mounted in the door; and a fixing unit that fixes a position at which the receiving member is moved.
US08439461B2 Refrigerator and method of fabricating the same
A refrigerator is provided. The refrigerator includes a main body in which a storage chamber is provided and a door on which an image is provided. The door is pivotably coupled to the main body. The door includes a door panel defining an outer appearance of the door, a pattern processing part disposed on a side of the door panel to realize the image, and a glass member fixed to the door panel. According to the refrigerator, an elegant outer appearance of the door is realized to satisfy consumers' desires and increase consumer confidence.
US08439459B2 Apparatus for latching a drawer using a cam latch
A latch system for a sliding member and a stationary member has upper and lower bodies fixed to the sliding member; an anchor block fixed to the stationary member; a release body slidably connected to the anchor block such that the release body can move relative to the anchor block; a lower arm having a first end and a second end, the first end of the lower arm being attached to the release body; a control arm having a first end and a second end, the first end of the control arm being rotatably attached to the second end of the lower arm; and a swivel cam having a first end and a second end, the first end of the swivel cam being rotatably attached to the second end of the control arm. When the sliding member is in a closed position and the release body is in a normal position, force exerted on the sliding member in an opening direction causes the second end of the swivel cam to engage a closed position detent on the upper body and causes the release body to push against a surface of the lower body, such that the upper body is prevented from moving in the opening direction.
US08439454B2 Braking unit for a train comprising a plurality of wagons for goods transportation
A braking system for a train comprises a pneumatic brake pipe (BP), which extends along the train, and in which the pressure is controlled by a braking control apparatus (BCA) in the locomotive (L), and an electrical power supply and signal line (EL), which equally extends along the train, and which is linked to an electronic control unit (ECU) in the locomotive. Each wagon (W) in the train comprises a pneumatic brake valve (ELV) coupled with the brake pipe (BP) and suitable for applying to brake cylinders (BC) of the wagon (W) a brake pressure that is a function of a control pressure applied to a control input (CI) thereof; and an electro-pneumatic control assembly (EPC) including solenoid valve control devices (EVF, EVS), coupled with the brake pipe (BP) and with which a first pressure accumulator (DVE) is associated.
US08439451B2 Cooling a ranging arm gear case on a longwall shearer
A cooling system for the gear case in the ranging arm of a longwall shearer, the ranging arm including a plurality of single gears mounted in a row within an elongated housing. The cooling system includes a coolant injection system in each of the single gears, each coolant injection system including a longitudinal opening in the gear axle, and a coolant injection tube mounted inside the longitudinal opening. The coolant injection tube has a diameter smaller than the diameter of the longitudinal opening. A coolant supply line is connected to and in communication with the coolant injection tube, and a coolant outlet is connected to and in communication with the longitudinal opening adjacent the one end of the longitudinal opening, so that coolant leaving the end of the coolant injection tube travels back along the coolant injection tube and then out of the gear axle thereby removing heat from the single gear.
US08439446B2 Vehicle seat reclining device
A vehicle seat reclining device comprises a latch mechanism having latch holes defined in a rail along a central axial line, a slider hole penetrating through a slider so as to be alignable with the latch holes, a support portion slidably supported on the slider, and a lever coupled to the support portion so as to be pivotable about an axis that is substantially parallel to the central axial line. A latch claw is extends from the lever and is engageable with the respective latch holes via the slider hole. A first amount of play is provided between the support portion and the lever in a direction parallel to the central axial line. A second amount of play, which is less than the first amount play, is provided between the slider hole and the latch claw in the direction parallel to the central axial line.
US08439444B2 Tip slide stow seat
A seat assembly (10) includes a recliner assembly (30) operatively coupled between a seat back (12) and a seat cushion (14) for pivotal movement between a plurality of reclined seating positions and fold-flat position. A track assembly (58) operable between a locked condition and an unlocked condition allowing forward and rearward movement of said seat assembly. A stop member (54) fixedly secured to the seat cushion engages the seat back to limit forward pivotal movement. A trigger mechanism (56) pivotally coupled to said seat cushion and operatively coupled to said track assembly for releasing said track from said locked condition to said unlocked condition in response to pivoting said seat back to the fold-flat position. A pin mechanism (80, 82) slidably coupled to the seat back moves between an extended position engageable with the trigger mechanism and the stop member, and a retracted position allowing the forward pivotal movement of the seat back to the fold-flat position.
US08439441B2 Adjustable lumbar assembly for vehicle seats
A lumbar assembly has a wireframe for attachment to a frame of a vehicle seat. The wire frame has first and second spaced apart side members. First and second flexible lumbar support bands are each mounted to a wire frame side member, and each have a lateral portion extending inboard with a guide member. The guide members of the first and second lumbar support bands cooperate so that the lumbar support bands are adjusted in a fore and aft direction by translating the lateral portions relative to each other along the guide members.
US08439437B2 Seat with heating device
A seat with a heating device is provided which realizes a configuration in which the arm, palms and finger tips of a user can easily be warmed when the user uses the seat with the heating device. When the user is seated in a seat with a heating device and feels cold due to it being winter, the user controls a switch to heat the seat, whereby energization of heating elements 3a, 3b, 3c is started which are connected to a power supply via electric wires. When the energization of the heating elements 3a, 3b, 3c is started, heat generated thereby is conducted to skin materials 2a, 2b, 2c and surfaces of the skin materials are warmed. When the user places his or her arm on an armrest portion 5, the arm is warmed via the skin material 2c, whereby the user can feel the sensation of comfortableness.
US08439436B2 Arrangement structure for duct
An arrangement structure for a duct is provided, enabling formation of an air intake opening of the duct such as to be widely open on the side of a seatback and improvement in strength of a striker holding the seatback. The arrangement structure includes a vehicle seat with a seatback and a lock mechanism provided on the seatback and engaging with a striker supported on a vehicle sidewall to lock the seatback at a standing position; and the duct provided on the side of the seatback, extending in the up and down direction and flowing air. The striker has an inclined portion extending from the engaging position of the seatback and the lock mechanism toward outside with respect to a vehicle lateral direction and toward the vehicle rear side. The duct is disposed on the side of the seatback and on the front side of the inclined portion.
US08439434B2 Roof panels for an automotive vehicle
An automotive vehicle having a front end, a rear end, and a longitudinal axis. The vehicle includes a passenger compartment disposed between the front end and the rear end. A roof overlies the passenger compartment. The roof is comprised of a pair of roof beams extending parallel to the longitudinal axis adjacent opposed sides of the vehicle. A first forward transverse beam extends between the roof beams. A second rearward transverse beam extends between the first and second roof beams. A first removable roof panel closes a space between the first and second transverse beams. A second removable roof panel closes a space rearward of the second transverse beam. The roof panels can be assembled to form a shelf in a storage compartment of the vehicle.
US08439431B2 Attachment bracket for connecting peripheral devices to a vehicle
An attachment bracket in a vehicle for providing integrated support for one or more security features required by law enforcement agencies. The attachment bracket includes a first part including a horizontal cross member extending across the top of a rear panel of the vehicle body. The structure further includes a second part, connected to the first part, which includes two or more intersecting cross members. The second part is mechanically coupled to the vehicle body inside the vehicle cabin below the second row passenger seat. The structure also includes a third part, connected to the second part, which includes one or more arcuate tubular members extending along the vehicle floor panel from the second part towards the first row of seats. The third part is open at the end towards the first row passenger seats.
US08439429B2 Coupling structure between front pillar and side sill of automobile
Provided is a coupling structure between a front pillar and a side sill of an automobile, which improves the steering stability of the automobile and realizes a high productivity. A reinforcing member 8 is provided inside a front pillar 1 having a closed cross-section so as to extend in the front-rear direction of the automobile. The reinforcing member 8 is coupled to a front pillar outer 2. An end portion of the reinforcing member 8 at the rear side of the automobile is extended toward a side sill 4 to form a reinforcing member extension 8a. The reinforcing member extension 8a is coupled to a side sill outer 5.
US08439420B2 Dual stage variable load energy absorber for vehicle seating
A vehicle safety seat system includes a seat, and a frame and support surface that are movable with respect to each other between rest and attenuated positions, wherein the frame and support surface are respectively a first and second distance apart. A biasing mechanism biases the frame and support surface to the rest position between blast and slam down phases. A damper coupled between the frame and support surface has blast and rebound recovery resistance settings. The blast resistance setting is set to a predetermined value based on a weight of a seat occupant. The damper, during the blast phase, resists motion between the frame and support surface toward the attenuated position based upon the blast resistance setting, and after the blast phase and prior to the slam down phase, resists motion between the frame and support surface toward the rest position based upon the rebound recovery resistance setting.
US08439416B2 Ambulance cot and loading and unloading system
An ambulance cot loading and unloading apparatus includes a base for mounting to an emergency vehicle deck and an arm mounted for linear movement along the base, which is configured for engaging an ambulance cot. A drive mechanism is provided for raising the arm, which is configured in the presence of an applied force with a first magnitude on the arm to raise the arm at a first speed and in the presence of an applied force on the arm with a second magnitude greater than the first magnitude to raise the arm at another speed or speeds lower than the first speed.
US08439415B2 Ski boot carrier
A reusable, hand-held carrier for transporting and storing a pair of ski boots includes: (a) a handle portion; (b) a shank including two opposite longitudinal first sides, an upper shank end being attached to a base handle section of the handle portion; (c) a hanger portion extending from a lower shank end and including at least two elongate hook elements, each of the hook elements including an open topped channel and a set of corresponding shoulder portions on opposite walls of the channel that form a pinched zone at the top of the channel. The boot carrier preferably also includes at least one carrier pin for holding a sole guard ski boot accessory within a recess in the carrier shank. A carrier wall mount and boot carrier set is also contemplated. This simplified abstract is not intended to limit, and should not be interpreted as limiting, the scope of the claims.
US08439414B2 Gripper apparatus and method for containers of different sizes
A gripper apparatus for removing and replacing objects such as containers or vials in an array of containers has a gripper head which extends downward from a support arm, a planetary gear assembly mounted in the gripper head including at least three planet gears, and at least one gripping pin extending downward from each planet gear and projecting beyond a lower end of the gripper head. A drive motor drives the planetary gear assembly to rotate the planet gears in opposite directions, moving the pins inward and outward along predetermined paths to grip and carry an object and release the object when in a desired location.
US08439407B2 Conduit fitting with pull-up indication
A fitting for a tube or pipe capable of functioning a high pressures having a first fitting component adapted to receive the conduit end; a conduit gripping device such as a ferrule or ferrules and a second fitting component that can be joined to the first fitting component to cause the conduit gripping device to grip the conduit and seal when assembled. In one aspect of the invention, the first fitting component is constructed from a material that is softer than the material used to construct the second fitting component. An additional aspect of the invention include a retaining portion on the second fitting component that constrains the tube gripping device against pressure. The retaining portion can also be configured to retain the tube gripping device to the second fitting component prior to installation and in a finger-tight condition. A further aspect of the invention includes a first fitting component in which an exterior portion of the component is work hardened radially outward from the tube gripping device. The fitting may optionally be provided with a structure to effect the pull-up by torque functionality.
US08439404B2 Conduit connection with sensing function
Mechanically attached connections for conduits may include a conduit gripping member and first and second connection members. The first and second connection members may be, for example, a nut member and a body member where the connection members cause axial movement of the conduit gripping member to grip and seal the conduit when the assembly is pulled-up. The mechanically attached connection may include a sensing function for detecting or sensing a condition or characteristic of at least one of the following: the mechanically attached connection, one or more of the connection members, the fluid contained by the mechanically attached connection, or a combination thereof. The sensing function may be, for example, a sensor that is integrated with at least one of the nut member and the body member.
US08439399B2 Airbag with tethered slit
An airbag having a base end, a front panel and at least one panel opposing the front panel, the airbag having a cutout in the front panel, an inner perimeter of the cutout having first and second sides, a first panel having first and second edges, the first edge of the first panel is attached to the first side of the cutout, a second panel having third and fourth edges, the third edge is attached to the second edge of the first panel and the fourth edge is attached to the second side of the cutout, wherein the first and second panels define a slit in cutout of the front panel, and a tether attached along a backside of the slit and attached to an inner surface of the at least one panel opposing the front panel of the airbag.
US08439397B1 Airbags comprising hingedly affixed non-inflatable support members
Airbags including hingedly affixed non-inflatable support members and vehicles including such airbags are disclosed. An airbag includes a body portion, a non-inflatable support member having a proximal end and a distal end, and a tether having a support-member-end and an airbag-end. The proximal end of the non-inflatable support member is hingedly affixed to the body portion of the airbag. The support-member-end of the tether is affixed to the distal end of the non-inflatable support member and the airbag-end of the tether is affixed to the body portion of the airbag, thereby tethering the distal end of the non-inflatable support member to the airbag. When the airbag is in a pre-deployment state, the distal end of the non-inflatable support member does not extend beyond a perimeter of the airbag. The non-inflatable support member extends beyond the perimeter of the airbag in a deployed position.
US08439396B2 Airbag module
An airbag module for protecting an occupant of a vehicle comprising an inflatable curtain airbag configured to deploy between an occupant and an interior side of the vehicle; an inflator for providing inflation gas for the airbag; a housing configured to surround the airbag; and a strap configured to retain the airbag in the housing prior to inflation and deployment of the airbag; wherein at least one end of the strap is connected to the housing.
US08439389B2 Toe unit for alpine touring binding
An apparatus is provided for holding a footwear toe to a snow travel aid. The apparatus comprises jaws that grasp the toe while permitting pivotal movement of the footwear about the toe in forward and rearward directions and is for use with a heel holder that provides for lateral release. The apparatus comprises one or more resilient elements for biasing the jaws whereby the jaws are biased towards a closed position throughout the operational range of motion of the jaws. Also provided is an apparatus which comprises jaws that grasp the toe while permitting pivotal movement of footwear about the toe, wherein the apparatus is adapted for generally horizontal, forward and rearward translation relative to a longitudinal axis of the snow travel aid, selectively by a user. Also provided is an apparatus comprising jaws that grasp the toe while permitting pivotal movement of footwear about the toe, and a lock for inhibiting opening of the jaws, the lock comprising one or more resilient elements which provide resilience while inhibiting opening of the jaws.
US08439387B1 Adaptor for attaching fifth wheel hitch
An adaptor for securing a fifth wheel hitch to the bed of a towing vehicle is described. The fifth wheel hitch is typically part of a larger assembly having attachment lugs configured to be removably secured to receptacles in mounting rails permanently attached to the bed of the towing vehicle. Newer towing vehicles are provided with recessed sockets in the vehicle bed, rather than permanently mounted rails, to eliminate obstructions to placement of cargo in the bed. The present invention is, therefore, an adaptor for securing existing fifth wheel assemblies to these newer towing vehicles.
US08439381B2 Lower leg for a suspension fork
A lower leg (1) for a suspension fork has two tubes (2, 3) with, in each case, a receptacle device (4, 5) for receiving a stanchion tube displaceably mounted in the receptacle device. Two stabilizers (6, 7) connect those end regions of the two tubes which are opposite the dropouts of the tubes to one another. The lower leg (1) has a stiffening member (8, 9) which connects the two stabilizers to one another.
US08439379B2 Bicycle
A bicycle wherein the front wheel can be both steered and powered by reciprocal movement of the handle bars in a forward and rear direction. The drive system for the front wheel comprises a first linkage comprising two arms, one of which is a pivoting arm, and a second linkage comprising three arms, two of which are pivoting arms. The two arm linkage system is the primary driver in the sense of rotating a drive sprocket between two over center positions. The three arm linkage system, while also driving the drive sprocket, serves the primary function of moving the two arm linkage system over the two center positions, as the handle bars are reciprocated in forward and rear directions.
US08439378B2 System and method for positioning and restraining an air spring within a vehicle suspension
Vehicle suspension assemblies including air spring assemblies and components of the vehicle suspension assemblies are described. A vehicle suspension assembly that is attachable to a pair of vehicle frame rails includes a pair of support beams and a cross member, such as a cross tube, extending between and connected to the pair of support beams. Each support beam includes a locator-tab and each air spring assembly includes a locator-tab-slot for receiving a locator-tab of a support beam. The cross tube is fastened to the air spring assembly via a retention strap that wraps around portions of the cross tube. The locator-tabs and locator-tab-slots may be operable, alone or in combination with the retention strap, as a lateral restraint. In this regard, the lateral restraint may restrain the air spring from moving in a lateral direction between two frame rails to which the vehicle suspension assembly attaches.
US08439377B2 Structure of roll rod for vehicle
Provided is a structure of a roll rod for a vehicle which is mounted on a subframe of the vehicle and combined with a transmission or an engine. The structure includes a fastening rod having one end connected with the transmission or the engine and the other end where a sliding portion is inserted in the subframe, a mounting member fixed to the subframe in contact with the outer circumference of the sliding portion and having a protrusion on the inner circumference, a front insulator connected to the outer circumference of the sliding portion and positioned ahead of the protrusions, a rear insulator connected to the outer circumference of the sliding portion and positioned behind the protrusion, and an end plate mounted on the fastening rod, behind the rear insulator, in which the rear insulator is formed by combining two or more sub-insulators and one or more sub-insulators are spaced apart from the end plate. The structure allows efficiently carrying displacement of the power train and insulate vibration and preventing the rear insulators from being worn and broken, thereby improving durability.
US08439368B2 Articulating seal
A known gland 11 includes first and second members 12 and 13. Prior art seals 33 (FIGS. 1A and 1B), 40 (FIG. 2A and 2B) or 50 (FIG. 3) can be used to seal the gland 11. Also, a novel, double acting, over center cone, articulating compression seal 60 (FIGS. 4 and 5) can be used to seal the gland 11. The seal 60 includes a base 61, an articulating compression arm 62, and a rocker 63. The arm 62 is connected to the base 61 at one hinge region 73 and to the rocker 63 at another hinge region 83. The articulating compression arm 62 is cone shaped, and the cone inverts as the seal 60 is displaced from a relaxed position (FIG. 4) to a sealed position (FIG. 5). The rocker 63 extends radially and longitudinally in the relaxed position and extends longitudinally in the sealing position.
US08439366B2 Gasket design for molding large gaskets in a deformed shape
A gasket includes a plurality of corner sections each having a cross-section having a width of at least a first dimension. A plurality of deformable sections are disposed between a pair of the plurality of corner sections, each of the plurality of deformable sections having a cross-section having a width less than the first dimension and having a curved shape that is deformable to a straight shape in its installed condition. The deformable sections allow the gasket to be formed with a smaller molding footprint than the assembled gasket shape and the plurality of corner sections have a same angled orientation in its installed and un-installed positions.
US08439357B2 Paper transport device and image forming apparatus
A paper transport device includes a transport section that transports paper on a first transport path, and reverses a transport direction to transport the paper onto a second transport path, and a detecting section that detects that the paper has arrived at the reversal position, wherein the detecting section includes a first member that is arranged on the first transport path, and changes posture thereof among a first posture, a second posture, and a third posture, a second member that changes posture thereof between a fourth posture and a fifth posture, a detector that detects whether the second member is in the fourth posture or in the fifth posture, and a joint member that couples the first member and the second member together, allows the second member to be in the fourth posture, rotates the second member to the fifth posture, and keeps the second member in the fourth posture.
US08439356B2 Drive mechanism for stacker linkage
A cassette having a scissor type linkage for displacing a received substrate payment from an initial receiving guide to a storage arrangement is powered by a two bar drive linkage. The two bar drive linkage has one bar connected to said housing and the free end of the other bar member connected adjacent a central pivot of the scissor type linkage. A link member is connected to the pivot connection of the bars to each other with an opposite end connected to a worm driven crank arm. The drive linkage provides a mechanical advantage as a payment substrate is added to the storage arrangement.
US08439350B2 Image reading apparatus and image forming apparatus
In an image reading apparatus, the linear coefficients of expansion of conveyance drive rollers and a linear coefficient of expansion of the holding unit are determined such that the amount of change in the outer diameter of each of the conveyance drive rollers due to a change in temperature environment is substantially the same as the amount of change in the interval between the first reading unit and the second reading unit due to a change in the temperature environment. The conveyance drive rollers are attached to a rotary shaft such that the positions of head portions of screws are alternately located along the axis direction of the rotary shaft on opposite sides of the outer circumference surface in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotary shaft.
US08439343B2 Image forming apparatus with cassette configured to store various sizes of sheets
An image forming apparatus for forming an image on a sheet including: a housing; a cassette detachably accommodated in the housing and configured to store the sheet; a feeding unit configured to feed the sheet; and an image forming unit configured to form the image on the sheet fed by the feeding unit, wherein the cassette includes: a first wall along the trailing edge, a second wall along the leading edge, a first bottom plate extending from the first wall toward the second wall, a second bottom plate extending from the second wall toward the first wall, and a connecting member configured to set a first state where the first and second bottom plates are connected and a second state where the first and second bottom plates are disconnected, and the first and second bottom plates in the second state are independently withdrawable from the housing.
US08439336B2 Dual path hydraulic strut mounts and vehicular suspension systems including the same
Embodiments of a dual path hydraulic strut mount are provided, as are embodiments of a vehicular suspension system including a dual path hydraulic strut mount. In one embodiment, the dual path hydraulic strut mount includes an outer elastomeric module and an inner hydraulic module, which is mounted in the outer elastomeric module. The inner hydraulic module is configured to operate in an active damping mode for axial displacements of the dual path hydraulic strut mount less than a threshold value and in a substantially inactive damping mode for axial displacements of the dual path hydraulic strut mount greater than the threshold value.
US08439332B2 Apparatus and method for stringing aerial cables using aircraft
Apparatus and method for stringing aerial cables through tower structures using aircraft without requirement that a person be present on the tower while the aircraft is performing the stringing operation are described. An elongated needle-like threading member to which a sock line is attached and having spaced-apart projections emanating therefrom at different directions around the threading member, is directed by the aircraft pilot through a block having a pulley suspended by an insulator or other tower structure, the projections in cooperation with the block preventing the threading member from being pulled rearwardly under tension from the sock line. A device adapted for grabbing and releasing the threading member and attached to an aircraft haul line, permits the threading member to be hauled forward through the block once the aircraft flies to the other side of the tower and reattaches the grabbing device to the threading member.
US08439331B2 Manhole cover extractor
A manhole cover extractor that pulls and lifts weighty horizontal items such as manhole covers and handhold enclosure covers that are lifted perpendicular from one side and pulled from the original position, removed and on same plane able to lift and move cover back to the original setting or simply move cover as to not create a tripping hazard; the tool consists of a T-bar which gives the necessary fulcrum for effortless removal and management of cumbersome manhole covers, the T-bar is comprised with handles to control the load. A polypropylene strap which is doubled back with reinforced cross stitching and J-hook which engages the object(s) listed and the aforementioned polypropylene strap is docked to the T-bar handle. Pneumatic all-terrain tires that are attached to an axle that is secured to the T-bar handle through the A-frame of the dolly.
US08439316B2 Support collar for long articles, in particular cables, pipes and/or the like
A support collar (1) for long articles (10), in particular cables, pipes and/or the like, comprises a sheet-like structure (2) provided with: a flat top end portion (4), having an opening (5); two side portions (6) perpendicular to the top end portion (4) and each having a respective engaging element (7) for engaging the support collar (1) on a support plate (8) or on a top end portion (4) of another support collar (1). The side portions (6) and the top end portion (4) delimit an area (9) for partially housing an article (10) to be supported. The collar (1) also comprises retaining means (11) for keeping the long article (10) stably joined to the sheet-like structure (2). The retaining means (11) comprise at least one retaining clip (12) provided with two gripping arms (13) which extend inside the housing area (9). The gripping arms (13) can be elastically splayed so as to engage with the long article (10) and retain the latter inside the housing area (9). The gripping arms (13) press elastically the article (10) in directions transverse to the longitudinal extension thereof.
US08439315B2 System and method for monitoring condition of rail car wheels, brakes and bearings
A system and method for detecting failing rail car wheels, brakes, bearings, and/or other components of a rail car may include at least one thermal sensor and at least one image capture device. The thermal sensor(s) and image capture devices(s) are usable to help determine whether there is a failure or potential failure of a component of a wheel set by detecting, measuring and/or comparing a temperature of various portions of the wheel set. If the temperature is higher than expected, it may indicate, for example, a stuck brake, a failing bearing, and/or some other failure of the wheel set. If the temperature is lower than expected, it could indicate that a brake of the wheel set is unexpectedly diengaged and/or some other failure of the wheel set.
US08439313B2 Forward swept winglet
An aircraft may include a pair of wings. A forward swept winglet may be attached proximate to a wing tip of each wing. The forward swept winglet may include a leading edge and a trailing edge. The leading edge of each winglet may extend from the wing at a predetermined forward sweep angle relative to a line perpendicular to a chord of the wing tip in a direction corresponding to a forward portion of the aircraft.
US08439310B2 Aircraft presenting two pairs of wings and fuel tanks in fluid communication
An aircraft comprises: a fuselage; a front pair of wings; a rear pair of wings; and a pair of bodies, each body interconnecting, at a distance from the fuselage, the front and rear wings that are situated on the same side of the fuselage.
US08439303B2 Retractable undercarriage for an aircraft
An undercarriage for a rotary wing aircraft, includes a tubular structure (7) with skids, the tubular structure (7) being designed to be mounted under or in a bottom portion (4) of the aircraft, the undercarriage being characterized in that the tubular structure (7) includes left and right longitudinal portions that are retractable, each of which portions is suitable for moving between a retracted position in a cruising flight configuration and a deployed configuration in a landing configuration.
US08439296B2 Aircraft huffer coupling adapter and methods of use
An aircraft huffer coupling adapter comprises a flange assembly having one or more attachment members in communication with a flange ring via one or more strut members. The flange assembly is attached with a port end of an inner coupling of a huffer coupling via the one or more attachment members. The flange ring defines an inner diameter larger than an outer diameter of the huffer coupling, with at least one space between an inner wall of the flange ring and the outer diameter of the air hose coupling arranged to allow airflow therethrough.
US08439292B2 Auto-reel changer
A device for the automatic coiling and/or uncoiling on reels (28) of a flexible tape carrier of electronic components (60), the device comprising a coiling location (80) where a reel (28) can be connected to a rotation actuator, and retractable tape guides (35), consisting of articulated jaws (35) that can be closed together forming a channel to guide the flexible tape (60) and connect a free end of the flexible (60) tape (60) to a hub (29) of the reel (28), the device further having a stopper element (87) that engages with the slot in the reel hub, in order to stop the reel in a position in which the slot is aligned with the tape guide.
US08439287B2 Apparatus for fracturing polycrystalline silicon and method for producing fractured fragments of polycrystalline silicon
An apparatus for fracturing polycrystalline silicon has: a pair of rolls which are rotated in a counter direction each other around parallel axes; and a plurality of fracturing teeth protruding outward radially from outer peripheral surfaces of the rolls and having variant heights. In the apparatus for fracturing, the fracturing teeth are arranged so that higher teeth among the fracturing teeth and lower teeth among the fracturing teeth are alternately rowed at least along a circumferential direction or a width direction of the rolls; and the fracturing teeth are arranged so that a tip of the higher tooth of the one roll and a tip of the lower tooth of the other roll are opposed to each other at a position in which the fracturing teeth of each rolls are closest to each other, so that the apparatus fractures fragments of polycrystalline silicon between the rolls.
US08439286B2 Paper cleaning device for a shredder
A paper clearing device for a shredder includes a frame, a motor, a gear set, a first rotary shaft, and a second rotary shaft. The first rotary shaft and the second rotary shaft are mounted with several cutting blades and paper guides. The paper guides on at least one rotary shaft are half paper guides. When paper jams in the shredder, the user only needs to issue a paper back command, which causes the rotary shafts to rotate in a reverse direction, causing paper to back away from the cutting region between the cutting blades and instead pass over the respective shaft with the half paper guides, optionally with the assistance of a paper clearing driver, and through an opening at the back, non-cutting side of the respective shaft to fall into a trash bin from which the jammed paper can be readily removed.
US08439283B2 Fluidized bed systems and methods including micro-jet flow
Methods and systems for enhancing fluidization of nanoparticle and/or nanoagglomerates are provided. A fluidization chamber is provided with a fluidizing medium directed in a first fluidizing direction, e.g., upward into and through a bed containing a volume of nanoparticles and/or nanopowders. A second source of air/gas flow is provided with respect to the fluidization chamber, the secondary air/gas flow generally being oppositely directed relative to the fluidizing medium. Turbulence created by the secondary gas flow is advantageously effective to aerate the agglomerates and the shear generated by the jet is advantageously effective to break apart nanoagglomerates and/or reduce the tendency for nanoagglomerates to form or reform. A downwardly directed source of secondary gas flow located near the main gas distributor leads to full fluidization of the entire amount of powder in the column. The oppositely directed fluid flow facilitates powder circulation within the fluidization chamber, thereby enhancing fluidization results.
US08439282B2 Low flow irrigation emitter
An irrigation emitter is provided for delivering irrigation water from a water supply conduit, such as an irrigation supply tube, pipe, or other water supply apparatus, at a low volume or drip-like flow rate. The emitter operates generally through the use of a reduced size orifice and a relatively long tortuous flow channel that cause a pressure reduction between the water supply conduit and an emitter outlet. The emitter includes an inlet for tapping a portion of the water flow from the water supply conduit and, when the water pressure is above a predetermined minimum level, directing the flow to and through the flow channel for subsequent discharge to a desired location. The emitter also may regulate to accommodate for changes in supply pressure. The emitter also may include multiple emitter outlets.
US08439280B2 Nebulizing device for liquid substances
A nebulizing element for liquid substances for coupling to procurement elements, includes at least one membrane with a microperforated area; at least one piezoelectric element connected to an electronic circuit and coupled to the membrane to cause it to vibrate; at least one first and one second support that can be placed on top of one another and create, on their interior a compartment to contain the membrane, the piezoelectric element, and a space of limited dimension for the liquid to be nebulized, created beneath the membrane. The second support has an opening for the nebulized liquid outlet, located in correspondence with the perforated area of the membrane. The nebulizing element also includes at least one collector for the liquid that flows from the porous element to the collector itself by capillary action; at least one capillary opening to allow in the liquid to be nebulized and at least one outlet opening to aid air circulation.
US08439276B2 Aerodynamic shutter control systems and methods
A shutter control system comprises a shutter closing module and a regenerative braking control module. The shutter closing module selectively closes a shutter to decrease aerodynamic drag on the vehicle based on at least one of a brake pedal position, a state of charge of an energy storage device, and a throttle position. The shutter blocks airflow into an engine compartment of the vehicle when closed. The regenerative braking control module controls a motor generator to perform regenerative braking when the shutter is closed.
US08439275B2 Multi-resolution optical codes
A machine-readable optical code formed on a substrate includes a first code having a plurality of first elements formed on or in the substrate, the first code specifying first information, wherein one or more of the first elements includes a second code on or in the substrate, the second code including a plurality of second elements specifying second information, and wherein the first code and the second code are machine-readable optical codes.
US08439271B2 Method and system using a bitmap for passing contactless payment card transaction variables in standardized data formats
An electronic payment system is configured to process both proximity payment card type and magnetic stripe card type transactions. The magnetic stripe card transaction data is communicated between cards, readers, and transactions authorizing or approving parties in common industry ISO 7811 standard data structures or tracks. The proximity payment card transaction data such a dynamic authentication codes are placed in unused space in the same standard formatted data structures. The availability of unused space varies with card issuer or vendor. An issuer-specific bitmap provides an index to the available space in discretionary data fields in magnetic stripe tracks. The bitmap also is stored in the card's discretionary data field.
US08439269B2 Personalized release card
A method includes applying coded personal information for an individual on a rear surface of a card, printing personal information for the individual on a printed product, and adhering the rear surface of the card to an exterior surface of the printed product. The printed product can be mailed without protective packaging covering the card.
US08439266B2 Optical-information-reading apparatus
An optical-information-reading apparatus includes an imaging optical system having a varifocal lens that adjusts a focal position, a solid-state image sensing device that images a code symbol, a ranging laser that measures a distance to the code symbol, and a decoder that calculates the distance to the code symbol using the ranging laser. The apparatus controls the varifocal lens based on calculated distance information.
US08439260B2 Real-time barcode recognition using general cameras
A method, apparatus, and system for decoding and recognizing barcode information by using a general camera such as one in a mobile device is disclosed. The invention uses a set of compact point spread functions (PSF) with a squared-shape distribution to restore blurred barcode image for quick and efficient decoding and recognition. Image pre-processing methods are applied to reduce noise and normalize pixel grayscale. On each normalized image, the invention checks if the image contains barcode lines. If there is a barcode, the invention tries to identify the beginning and ending positions of the barcode. The invention selectively decodes multiple scan lines across the barcode and match against predefined barcode models. The best matched barcodes are saved in the history buffer.
US08439253B2 Carton
A blank, carton, or package including a handle formed in a top panel is described. Deformation lines can be included on the blank or carton to allow the handle to flex, thereby increasing handle strength. The blank can include corner-forming panels attached to end flaps that can be used to form corners in the formed carton or package. The corners provide reinforcement strength to allow stacking of the cartons or packages, such as on pallets or during shipment. Openings can be provided in select areas of the blank, carton, or package to allow ventilation to and from the interior of the carton or package. Connecting panels in the top panel can be removed to dispense articles from the carton or package.
US08439252B2 Method for bonding metal surfaces, method for producing an object having cavities, object having cavities, structure of a light emitting diode
A method for bonding two partially form-fitting surfaces of two metal bodies which contain the same metal is carried out by generating a first layer on the surface of a first one of the two bodies, the first layer containing a mixture of the metal and the oxide of the metal; generating a second layer on the first layer, the second layer containing the metal but less oxide of the metal than does the first layer; placing the partially form-fitting surfaces of the two metal bodies adjacent to each other; heating the bodies placed adjacent to each other to a temperature which lies in a target range below the melting point of the metal and above the eutectic temperature of the eutectic of the metal and the metal oxide; and holding the temperature within the target range over a predetermined or a controllable duration of time.
US08439250B2 Friction-stir weld-tool and method
A method for joining a tube and tube plate for use in a tube-and-shell heat exchanger is disclosed. The method enables a joint between the tube and tube plate that is substantially hermetic and substantially corrosion-resistant. The method comprises providing an anvil inside the tube, wherein the anvil supports the tube wall during a friction-stir welding process used to join the tube and tube plate. The anvil facilitates formation of a reliable weld region and enables faster friction-stir welding.
US08439247B1 Ultrasonic welding system with dynamic pressure control
An ultrasonic welding system for securing a first work piece to a second work piece includes a welding assembly and a loading assembly disposed adjacent to the welding assembly. The welding assembly includes an ultrasonic controller, an ultrasonic transducer, and a welding tip. The ultrasonic transducer is configured to impart an ultrasonic vibration to the welding tip in response to an electrical signal received from the ultrasonic controller. The loading assembly is configured to generate a pressure load between the welding tip and the first work piece, and includes a first actuator and a second actuator. The first actuator is configured to apply a substantially constant load to the welding assembly, and the second actuator is configured to apply a dynamically variable load to the welding assembly.
US08439243B2 Nailer device
A nailer device includes a housing having a nozzle portion formed in an upper end thereof. A motor and a rotary-linear motion transmission mechanism are arranged in the housing and the rotary-linear transmission mechanism functions to couple an output shaft of the motor to a striking rod disposed in the nozzle portion to thereby move the striking rod in a reciprocating manner. A bias device exerts a force on the striking rod towards the outside of the housing along a longitudinal direction of the striking rod.
US08439242B2 Fastening machine
A fastening machine 1 is provided, which prevents the tip member 131 from wear and improve its durability as well as align a material into which a fastener is to be driven. The fastening machine 1 is provided with a housing 2, a handle 2A extended from the housing 2, a nose 3 extended from the housing 2 and comprising an ejecting mouth 6 to fire a fastener 25 and a tip member 131 arranged at the tip of nose 3 in the direction of ejecting the fastener 25. The tip member 131 is characterized by comprising a super-hard material member 19 in the side facing a material into which a fastener is to be driven and in the side opposite to the direction of extending the handle 2A.
US08439239B2 Mount with anti-rotation feature
A mount for motorcycles and other vehicles is provided that resists relative rotational movement at the connection between the mount and the vehicle, and at the connection between the mount and a plate that supports a portable device such as a GPS, toll transponder, radar collector and the like, while permitting disengagement at such connections in response to the application of a force to the mount.
US08439238B1 Accessory holder system for mounting to a golf ball holder in a golf cart
An accessory holder system for securing a Personal Electronic Device (PED) for use in a golf cart whereby a golfer can easily view golf course GPS information on a display. The system includes a mount for insertion into a golf ball holder disposed in a golf cart; and an accessory holder for attachment and adjustment of the viewing angle of a PED in a variety of golf cart configurations. The accessory holder is typically composed of a mount with an attached rod for displacing an accessory away from interference with the golf cart dash board; a ball joint with a tensioning cap attached to the rod for adjusting the viewing position of an accessory; with a platform for mounting an accessory attached to the other end of the rod. The mount includes surface features which provide rotational stability for an accessory holder without relying on a friction-fit.
US08439237B2 Wig or hair piece box and form
An exemplary embodiment providing one or more improvements includes wig or hair piece boxes for both the efficient storage and display of wigs or hair pieces before sell, as well as providing simple, efficient and effective storage facilities for wigs or hair pieces for use of the consumer. The wig or hair piece boxes include a form which holds the wig or hair piece and preserves the curl, style, and one directional curl of the hair tip end on the wig or hair piece. This avoids the common problem of loss of original curl and style of the wig or hair piece which plagues conventional wig and hair piece boxes.
US08439235B2 Automatic ground-coffee dispenser
An automatic ground-coffee dispenser with a ground-coffee storage vessel designed to be mounted on an automatic coffee maker. The storage vessel includes rotary serving paddles for transferring a predetermined quantity of ground coffee through an outflow opening formed in the bottom of the storage vessel and a cone-shaped driver with rotary paddles located above the outflow opening turned by a motor about a vertical axis of the storage vessel. The internal wall of the storage vessel includes at least one longitudinal rib projecting into the storage vessel.
US08439227B2 Viscous liquid material discharging method and apparatus
A viscous liquid material discharging method and apparatus can minimize the problem of wear of a sealing member due to friction, and minimize a rotational force required at the time of starting discharge of a highly-viscous liquid material. The apparatus includes a screw having a helical blade which is axially provided over a surface of a rod-like member, a rotation driving mechanism for rotating the screw, a main body having a screw insertion bore in which the screw is inserted, a liquid material supply port formed in a lateral side of the screw insertion bore, and a liquid material supply flow passage communicating with the liquid material supply port, a sealing member which is disposed in the screw insertion bore and through which the screw penetrates, and a nozzle mounted to the main body and communicating with the screw insertion bore.
US08439222B2 Container, and selectively formed cup
A container, such as a beverage or food can is provided, which includes a first sidewall, a second sidewall and a bottom portion extending between the first and second sidewalls. The material of the bottom portion is stretched relative to the first sidewall and the second sidewall to form a thinned preselected profile, such as a dome. The material of the container at or about the dome has a substantially uniform thickness. The container is formed from a blank of material, which has a base gauge prior to being formed. After being formed, the material of the container at or about the dome has a thickness less than the base gauge. Tooling and a method for selectively forming a blank of material into a container, are also disclosed.
US08439220B2 Cross flange seal for a pressure vessel, especially for a turbomachine casing
The invention relates to a pressure vessel for a machine, especially a turbomachine, which comprises at least 3 casing shell sections, wherein the intersection region of the parting joints is sealed off by a plug which in its interior has a system of holes and passages through which a sealing compound is pressed into the region between plug and casing shell sections, so that after its setting, an elastic, leakproof and non-destructively disassemblable sealing of the intersection region of the parting joints is created. The plug can be fastened on the casing shell sections by means of an integrated flange.
US08439215B2 Convertible container and plate
Foldable container including a base having a first base portion and an opposing second base portion. The base has a base surface free of hinge lines between the first base portion and the second base portion. A sidewall surrounds at least a portion of the base and extends generally upward from the base with a non-uniform height to define a compartment. A rim having a first rim portion and an opposing second rim portion is disposed proximate the top edge of the sidewall. At least one transition region is formed in the sidewall to allow the first base portion to pivot between an open position and a closed position. When in the open position, the container defines a plate. When in the closed position, the first base portion defines at least a portion of a cover relative to the second base portion. A packaged product is also provided, including a foldable container and a cover member removably attached to the rim of the foldable container in the open position to contain a product therein.
US08439213B2 Security closure assembly for a container, in particular for a bottle for liquids
The closure assembly (1) comprises: a pourer unit (2) having a lower portion (3) for fixing to the mouth of the container and an upper pouring portion (4), a removable cap (6) provided with a resiliently deformable peripheral lip portion (7), and an outer covering (8, 9) including: an upper sleeve element (8) and a lower sleeve element (9. The arrangement is such that, after the first opening of the closure assembly (1), the lip portion (7) is arranged in the opened-out condition in which it extends radially outside of the lower sleeve element (9) but permits subsequent re-fitting of the cap (6) on the pourer unit (2) as far as the closure position in which the lower sleeve element (9) and the upper sleeve element (8) once more extend the predetermined distance (d) apart.
US08439208B2 Retail merchandise hook
A pusher is provided. The pusher hook has a track and a pusher that is slidable thereon. The pusher biases retail merchandise situated on a merchandise hook forward towards a front stop. The pusher hook further includes a security frame that reduces or restricts entirely the ability to remove the merchandise laterally from the hook.
US08439205B1 Portable universal flow filter
A monolithic carbon composite filter for use in water filter bottles of the type having a bottle cap and a valved vented top. The filter is formed with exposed surfaces including side walls and a base. The filter employs both radial flow through the side walls of the filter and axial flow through the filter base. All available exposed surfaces thus maximize the available surface area for filtering water. As a result a larger diameter filter suited to the addition of a second media as well as an inner tube providing for separate axial flow may be utilized. A dual aspect or universal flow filter adapted to be attached to a filter housing top is capable of being cooperatively attached to the bottle cap and bottle with a valved vented top. The bottle is normally inverted for drinking.
US08439204B1 Reusable drop-in engine oil filters
A drop-in oil filter having top and bottom caps having annular recesses on facingly disposed surfaces adjacent their outer periphery, a pleated, woven metal cylindrical filter element having an outer and an inner diameter, a first cylindrical wire cage over the outer diameter of the filter element, a second cylindrical wire cage within the inner diameter of the filter element, ends of the filter element and the first and second cylindrical wire cages being fastened into the annular recesses in the top and bottom caps, the bottom cap having a first opening there through concentric with and within inner diameters of the filter element and the first and second cylindrical wire cages, and a first elastic grommet within the first opening having a central opening for sealing on a tube within a drop-in filter housing.
US08439203B2 Method and apparatuses for pre-screening
A vibratory screening machine includes a primary screening area and a pre-screening assembly including a frame and screen assemblies. The screen assemblies are secured to the frame and form a pre-screening surface. The frame is attached to the vibratory screening machine such that the concave pre-screening surface is above the primary screening area.
US08439197B2 Damping body for packaging and package body
A damping body for packaging includes, between an abutment adapted to abut against a precision substrate storage container upon packaging and an outer peripheral wall rising from an outer peripheral edge of a bottom part having the abutment, an outer peripheral bottom formed at a position distanced more from the abutment than is the precision substrate storage container, and a stepped part formed between the outer peripheral bottom and the abutment. Consequently, in the event of an impact from the outside, the stepped part collapses, so that the abutment favorably moves with respect to the outer peripheral bottom and thus can efficiently absorb the impact. This can prevent large impacts from instantaneously being exerted on the precision substrate storage container and efficiently damp drop impacts.
US08439194B2 Carton with insert
A carton for holding a plurality of containers. The carton comprises a plurality of panels that extends at least partially around an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels comprises a top panel, a first side panel foldably connected to the top panel, a bottom panel foldably connected to the first side panel, a second side panel foldably connected to the bottom panel, and a corner reinforcement flap foldably connected to the top panel. A reinforcing insert comprises a central panel and at least one reinforcing side flap. The central panel can be at least partially in face-to-face contact with at least a portion of the top panel. A container-restraining structure comprises the corner reinforcement flap positioned to restrain at least one container of the plurality of containers that is adjacent the second side panel.
US08439193B2 Medical guidewire basin
A novel container for storing medical guidewires in liquid is disclosed herein. The container comprises a substantially rectangular basin where the guidewire coils are separated horizontally into individual bays. Specific tabs and dividers hold the coils in place and keep the wires untangled. The horizontal placement of the wires enables a clinician to instantly differentiate between wires, select the right coil without spending time in untangling wires and allows storing of the wires is relatively small amount of storing liquid.
US08439189B2 Nutritive substance delivery container
The present invention is directed to a container for delivering a nutritive substance. In an embodiment, the present invention comprises a container that protects a nutritive substance from contact with the contents of the container and from contact with the atmosphere until the consumer is ready to use or consume the product. When desired, a seal on the container is altered such that the nutritive substance can come into contact with the container contents, delivering the nutritive substance thereto.
US08439187B2 Shipping and display container with removable panel
A shipping container convertible into a display container comprises a case having sidewalls, a closed bottom, and an open top. A separate cover is secured to and closes the open top. The cover comprises a lid panel coextensive in length and width with the open top. A flange depending from each of the side edges of the lid panel and attached to upper outer surfaces of the case sidewalls to secure the cover to the case. A detachable display panel is formed in the lid panel. A detachable protective panel is foldably attached to one side edge of the lid panel by weakened tear lines. The protective panel is attached to the display panel, whereby removal of the protective panel carries with it and removes the display panel to form a display opening in the lid panel for display of and access to product contained in the container.
US08439185B2 Multiple moving wall dry coal extrusion pump
A pump for transporting particulate material includes a passageway defined on each side between an inlet and an outlet by a moving wall.
US08439182B2 Mailpiece inserter including system for controlling friction forces developed on an envelope
A system for controlling friction forces acting on a mailpiece in a mailpiece insertion module. The system includes, a backstop assembly for arresting the motion of the envelope when disposed in a first positon and permitting conveyance along the feed path when disposed in a second position, an actuator operative to position the backstop assembly into the first and second positions and consuming energy to maintain the backstop assembly in the first position, a sensor for acquirinq data indicative of the magnitude of energy consumed by the actuator; a means for developing a pressure differential across the envelope to urge the envelope into frictional engagement with a plurality of drive belts and for developing friction forces along a mating interface, and a system controller, for varying the magnitude of the pressure differential and the friction forces developed along the mating interface of the envelope.
US08439179B2 Hydraulic control device for hybrid transmission
A hydraulic control device for a hybrid transmission is designed such that the cooling and lubrication oil line of the system are in oil communication even before the main oil line pressure reaches the set pressure of the overflow valve, so as to lubricate the transmission as soon as possible. The hybrid transmission design further provides an overpressure protection for the cooler. The hybrid transmission further uses a proportional pressure reducing valve to control the lock-up clutch, thus making for the improvement of its braking performance.
US08439176B2 Coupling
When, according to the invention, a coupling is provided between a driving shaft (1) and a hub (6), the shaft (1) being configured with several sets of grooves (2, 3) in which an elastic cord (4) may extend, the cord (4) in the deep track (2) will have a slight or poor engagement with the hub (6), while the cord in the low track (3) will be pressed out into firm engagement with the hub (6).
US08439171B2 Vehicle disk brake
A vehicle disc brake includes pad retainers. Each pad retainer includes: a pair of retainer portions; a connecting piece connecting the pair of retainer portions together; and pad returning portions. The retainer portion includes: an inner piece; an outer piece; and a deep side piece which is laid on the opposing surface so as to connect the outer piece and the inner piece together. The pad returning portion is formed by inclining a distal end portion of a narrow elongated piece while causing the distal end portion to warp into a curved shape. A dislodgement preventing projecting portion is formed through pressing on at least one of the outer piece and the inner piece so as to project towards an interior of a pad guide groove so that the lug piece can ride thereover when the lug piece is inserted into the pad guide groove.
US08439170B2 Self-reinforcing electromechanical disc brake
The invention relates to a self-reinforcing electromechanical disc brake having a brake caliper produced by means of shaping, in one piece with a housing for electromechanical parts of an actuating device of the disc brake, with the housing forming a dimensionally stable hollow body. It is possible in this way to produce a bending-resistant and torsionally rigid brake caliper with a low wall thickness.
US08439169B2 Elevator group supervision controlling apparatus
An elevator group supervision controlling apparatus has a response time predicting means, a passenger movement estimating means, a standby time predicting means, a candidate car selecting means, an allocating means, and an instructing means. The response time predicting means predicts response time to a car call from a remote call registering apparatus for respective cars. The passenger movement estimating means estimates passenger moving time based on a positional relationship between the remote call registering apparatus and a landing. The standby time predicting means predicts the standby times of each of the cars based on the response time and the passenger moving time. The candidate car selecting means includes cars for which standby time is shorter than a predetermined time interval in candidate cars, and excludes cars for which standby time is greater than or equal to the predetermined time interval from the candidate cars. The allocating means decides an allocated car from among the candidate cars if at least one of the cars has been included in the candidate cars. The instructing means generates an informing instruction to communicate to the remote call registering apparatus reinput requesting information that recommends an input operation at the landing call registering apparatus if all of the cars are excluded from the candidate cars.
US08439168B2 Elevator system having brake control
An elevator system includes a car traveling up and down along a hoistway; a buffer for stopping the car at an end of the hoistway; brakes for braking travel of the car; a car traveling-information acquisition mechanism for acquiring information as to speed of the car; and a brake control unit for controlling the brake by comparing a speed of the car with a speed pattern curve created based upon a speed curve of the car when braking force is forcedly exerted by the brakes to enable the buffer to absorb a shock at the collision of the car with the buffer to a level below a predetermined specified value.
US08439167B2 Spacing control for two elevator cars in a common shaft
Lift system (10) with a lower lift cage (K1), an upper lift cage (K2), at least one counterweight (12), and support means (TA, TB) for supporting the lower and upper lift cages (K1, K2). The support means (TB) for supporting the lower lift cage (K1) are led downwardly in the lift shaft (11) laterally along the upper lift cage (K2). Drive means for driving the lower and upper lift cages (K1, K2) are present. Arranged at the upper lift cage (K2) is a first incremental transmitter (I1) which interacts with one of the support means (TB) and supplies information about a change in the spacing (D) between the lower and upper lift cages (K1, K2).
US08439166B2 Vertical frame intended for the construction of a frame support, a supporting scaffold and/or a supporting scaffold tower
A closed vertical frame for constructing a supporting frame, including at least two vertical supports disposed at a horizontal distance from each other, and at least two horizontal arms disposed at a vertical distance from each other. Each extends between the at least two vertical supports transversely to the vertical supports. A first horizontal arm is welded on both ends to a respective vertical support near the upper end thereof, and a second horizontal arm is welded on both ends likewise to these vertical supports near the lower end thereof. The vertical frame is reinforced with at least one diagonal rod extending between two vertical supports and two horizontal arms and is welded onto two vertical supports. Near the respective upper and/or lower end, a perforated disk having openings is welded to connect holding devices.
US08439163B2 Ladder safety devices
Ladder safety devices including a gutter guard, a ladder extender, a ground spike and a ladder shoe, are described that improve the stability of a ladder placed against a structure with or without guttering. Embodiments of the gutter guard prevent the ladder from contacting the gutter, distribute the ladder's weight to minimize structural damage, avoid ladder-gutter contact resulting in and help to hold the ladder in place. The ladder extender offsets the ladder from the shingles of a roof when gutters are not present. The ground spike and ladder shoe stabilize a ladder placed on a soft or hard surfaces, respectfully.
US08439157B2 Engine
An object of the present invention is to provide a muffler mounting structure configured to be able to prevent fastening parts from slackening by reducing the thermal conductivity from an exhaust port to the muffler mounting bosses and an engine including the muffler mounting structure. An engine of the present invention 100 includes a cylinder block 101 or the cylinder head 10 constitutes a combustion chamber 105 with a piston 104, an exhaust port configured to communicate with the combustion chamber, and a muffler mounted to an outlet of the exhaust port, wherein the muffler is mounted with a muffler mounting boss into which a fixing part is fitted, and the muffler mounting boss is connected to a fin formed in the cylinder.
US08439154B1 Air-film vibration damping apparatus for windows
An improved vibration damping apparatus is provided for use with window structures, including windows used in vehicles, aircraft, and spacecraft. The vibration damping system includes at least two separate layers of solid material that are typically substantially clear at visible wavelengths, in which the two layers are spaced-apart by a predetermined distance to form a space or gap therebetween. This gap will be of a size and shape to enhance vibration damping when it is filled with a gaseous compound, such as air. The air-film vibration damping system created by the above structure can be applied to an external pane of a window structure, or to the interior pane of a window structure, or perhaps to both an exterior pane and an interior pane of the same window structure, if desired.
US08439153B2 Method and apparatus for a loudspeaker assembly
The present invention relates to a loudspeaker assembly and a method of assembling a loudspeaker assembly. In one or more embodiments, the invention comprises forming a front baffle comprising a first driver mounting portion, an intermediate portion, and an edge mounting portion. A first driver is installed in the first driver mounting portion proximate to a first driver aperture. A rear baffle is formed from a second material, which, in one or more embodiments, is less stiff than the first material from which the front baffle is formed. The rear baffle comprises a top portion, sidewalls, a recessed mounting portion, and an edge portion. The edge mounting portion of the front baffle is attached to the recessed mounting portion of the rear baffle such that an entirety of said front baffle is recessed within said rear baffle spaced apart from said open bottom portion.
US08439146B2 Canister device for motorcycle
A motorcycle includes a pair of left and right main frames, a fuel tank placed on an upper side of the main frames, an engine suspended on a lower side of the main frames and provided with a cylinder assembly and a crankcase, and a canister that adsorbs an evaporated fuel gas generated in the fuel tank, wherein the canister is arranged inside the main frames in a plan view of the motorcycle and is disposed on a rear side of the cylinder assembly and on an upper side of the crankcase of the engine in a side view of the motorcycle.
US08439141B2 Work vehicle having engine and belt-type continuously variable transmission device
A work vehicle includes: a muffler which flows exhaust from an engine and extends in a transverse direction so as to allow the exhaust from the engine to flow in the transverse direction; and a CVT case for covering a belt-type CVT positioned frontward of the muffler in a longitudinal direction. The CVT case includes a cooling structure for introducing cooling air from outside, cooling the belt-type CVT, and discharging the cooling air from a discharge part. An exhaust duct includes an inflow opening to be connected to the discharge part for allowing the cooling air to flow into the exhaust duct, and an exhaust opening for allowing the cooling air to flow out rearward. The exhaust opening is elongated in an extending direction of the muffler and oriented in a direction that allows the cooling air flowing out to hit the muffler.
US08439134B2 Method and apparatus for a true geometry, durable rotating drill bit
A rotating cone drill bit includes a plurality of mud nozzles extending from the bit body, which are thermally fitted by controlling the temperature differential depending on the corresponding materials, the amount of fit desired, and the diameters of the elements to be fitted and which provide substantially obstruction-free mud paths toward the wellbore bottom. The bit has a plurality of reduced diameter cutter assemblies, each having a journal projecting from a corresponding leg. The journal has at least two cylindrical bearing surfaces and an annular groove formed therebetween and a spindle. An annular retention segment is rotatably mounted in the groove. The retention segment has an outer radial surface engaging a portion of one of the bearing surfaces of the cone, and an energy beam welding area fusing substantially the entire engaging surfaces of the retention segment and the cone.
US08439127B2 Drive device for a boring bar
A drive apparatus for a drill stem of a de-coking system is disclosed. The apparatus includes a feeder as water supply to the drill stem. The drill stem is rotatably driven by a rotational drive which includes a motor and a first and second gear box. The second gear box has an output gear which is meshed with a large gear which is connected to an outer gear rim of the feeder. A skirt envelops the gear which is formed by an output gear and by the second motor driven gear box and the gear which is connected to the feeder completely. A lower side of the skirt is open.
US08439126B2 Electric tool
The invention relates to a hand-guided electric tool having a motor and a pulse width modulator for generating a pulse width modulated signal for operating the motor. A unit is provided for reducing the EMC interferences emitted by the electric tool.
US08439124B2 Air inlet for pneumatic power tool
A pneumatic power tool with a housing assembly, a pneumatic motor assembly, an output member, and a trigger assembly. The housing assembly has a body, a cap member and a gasket assembly. The body defines a motor cavity and an inlet manifold. The cap member defines an air inlet port. The gasket has a first portion being a band formed of a compressible material and a second portion formed of a porous material. The band of the first portion is sealingly abutted against the body and cap member. The pneumatic motor assembly is received in the motor cavity defined by the body. The output member is driven by the pneumatic motor assembly. The trigger assembly is coupled to the housing assembly and is operable for selectively operating the pneumatic motor assembly. Pressurized air received into the air inlet port is filtered by the second portion of the gasket assembly and flows into the inlet manifold when the pneumatic motor assembly is operated. A related method is also provided.
US08439123B2 Methods and apparatus for controlling hazards
A device for protecting flammable fluid reservoirs, or the regions in immediate proximity thereof, from the hazards due to impact and reservoir rupture, and subsequent potential of fire, corrosion or other damage or injury due to contact with reactive fluids. Such impacts may arise from collisions, such as encountered in transportation systems, or structural or thermal failure and/or rupture of components and systems, or separation of system components. Such a device may be formed as a close-fitting shroud over such components, or surrounding fittings and junctions of mating components in such systems, or mounted near the location of such components in the direction of impact or failure. Such a device may have a pattern of pre-scored lines to facilitate break-up of the device upon impact or thermal stress. Upon activation, the device shall discharge material contents that prevent or extinguish fires, neutralize corrosive or caustic materials, or otherwise protect equipment and personnel of the hazards from the protected component or system fluid contents. Such a device may be constructed of more than one individual component to optimize outer surface break-up behavior while accommodating desired cost, thickness and weight goals achievable by the use of other materials that comprise the remaining components of the device.
US08439121B2 Hydraulic interlock system between casing gripper and spider
A system for deploying a string of pipe from a drilling rig into a well includes a spider for mounting on a rig floor and a pipe gripper attached to the top drive. A hydraulic safety circuit monitors hydraulic fluid pressure at an apply port of the gripper and prevents hydraulic fluid pressure from being directed to move the slips to the released position if hydraulic fluid pressure is not already present at the apply port of the gripper. The safety circuit also monitors hydraulic fluid pressure at the apply port of the spider and prevents release hydraulic fluid pressure from being directed to move the gripping members to the released position if apply hydraulic fluid pressure is not already present at the apply port of the spider.
US08439115B2 Methods of chemical diversion of scale inhibitors
A method of treating a hydrocarbon-containing formation including injecting a scale inhibiting well treating fluid into a well, wherein the well treating fluid includes a self-diverting acid that includes about 1% to 20% by volume of at least one viscoelastic surfactant selected from a family of compounds described by where R3 contains at least 10 carbon atoms, p=1-6, R2 contains 1-6 carbon atoms and R1 contains 1-6 carbon atoms; and up to about 20% by weight scale inhibitor.
US08439113B2 Pump in reverse outliner drilling system
A liner string for a well has a liner hanger assembly at an upper portion of the liner string. A profile sub is located at a bottom portion of the liner string. A bottom hole assembly is latched to the profile sub. The operator lowers the liner string into the well with a drill pipe string and rotates the drill pipe string to rotate the drill bit to deepen the well. At a selected depth, the operator releases the bottom hole assembly from the profile sub and reverse circulates drilling fluid from a liner annulus surrounding the liner string, pumping the bottom hole assembly up the liner string. When the bottom hole assembly reaches the lower end of the drill pipe string, it latches to a catcher tool located at the lower end of the drill pipe string. The operator moves the liner hanger assembly into setting engagement with the casing string, releases the drill pipe string from the liner string, and retrieves the drill pipe string along with the bottom hole assembly.
US08439109B2 System and method for depth measurement and correction during subsea intervention operations
A technique enables determination of changes in length of a conveyance deployed between a surface vessel and a subsea installation. The technique allows information to be obtained on the relationship between length of conveyance spooled out or spooled in at a surface location and the depth and/or speed of an intervention well tool deployed in a well. The information can be used to determine the actual depth of the well tool deployed in the well for the intervention operation.
US08439103B2 Heat exchanger and method for manufacturing thereof
A heat exchanger comprising two sets of medium through-flow channels through which two media can flow in heat-exchanging contact. Walls separating the channels are provided with heat conducting fins arranged on both sides of each wall, wherein a fin on the one side of a wall is in thermal contact with a similar fin on the other side of this wall.
US08439101B2 Self-aligning door jamb track
A track for a roll-up industrial door. The track may include realigners adapted to divert the path of the industrial door as it is opened or shut. For example, a realigner may include a tapered portion to maintain a portion of the door within the track as the door is shut. Another realigner may have a tapered portion arranged to direct a portion of the door onto the track after it has been removed from the track. The tracks may be utilized in conjunction with a break-away industrial door having a flexible frame that is adapted to come out of the guide track upon application of a predetermined force.
US08439098B1 Closing-biased retractable screen door system
A portal extends through a vertical surface. The portal is bounded laterally by a vertical closing rail and a parallel opening rail. A flexible door has a size essentially equal to that of the portal. The door has an interior edge and an exterior edge. The interior edge is secured within the closing rail. Guide mechanisms include fixed upper and lower tracks. The upper and lower tracks are adapted to receive and guide the movement of the door when moving to and from an open orientations. A closure assembly includes upper and lower cables and pulleys adapted to move the door to the closed orientation.
US08439094B2 Pneumatic tire with tread including sipes having first and second protrusions
The present invention provides a pneumatic tire that can exhibit high ice performance throughout a period of use of the tire, and can reduce a rejection rate without complicating production of the tire. The pneumatic tire includes: a plurality of land portions 4 partitioned by grooves 2 and 3 and formed in a tread surface 1a; and a sipe 5 formed in each of the land portions 4, wherein a plurality of first protrusions 7 are formed on only one of sipe inner wall surfaces 6 and 6 opposed to each other in the sipe 5, each of the first protrusions 7 continuing in a tire depth direction from the tread surface 1a to a sipe bottom 8 and protruding toward an opposite sipe inner wall surface, the first protrusion 7 is tapered toward the opposite sipe inner wall surface, a narrow portion 7a is provided between the tread surface 1a and the sipe bottom 8, and a second protrusion 9 protruding toward the opposite sipe inner wall surface is formed between narrow portions 7a of adjacent first protrusions.
US08439083B2 Apparatus and method for axially transferring fluids to a plurality of components
An apparatus for axially transferring fluid may comprise an elongated shaft defining a first fluid passageway axially therethrough and a second fluid passageway from an outer surface thereof to the first fluid passageway. An elongated tube member defines an outer surface that is received within the first fluid passageway and a third fluid passageway axially therethrough. A plurality of axial channels are defined between the tube member and the first fluid passageway or along the tube member separately from the third fluid passageway. At least one of the plurality of axial channels define a first opening near one end thereof that receives fluid from a source of fluid and a second opening axially spaced apart from the first opening and that aligns with the second fluid passageway such that fluid may be transferred by the at least one fluid passageway from the source of fluid through the second fluid passageway.
US08439082B2 Retention mechanism for subterranean seals experiencing differential pressure
A mandrel is formed with a projection, depression or a surface irregularity to retain the seal material sealing a passage in the mandrel or an annular space around it against differential pressure. The material can be a shape memory or swelling material.
US08439081B2 High flow nozzle system for flow control in bladder surge tanks
A surge tank is sized to retain a volume of fluid. A fluid inlet/outlet port is attached to the tank, and an elastomeric bladder is disposed within the tank and separates the fluid from a volume of gas. A nozzle system is disposed within the tank and has a nozzle member comprising a first plurality of axially elongate perforations, and a second plurality of perforations. The nozzle member can extend a partial or complete distance with tank. The tank body includes a throat that extends outwardly from a portion of the tank adjacent the port, and a portion of the nozzle member comprising the first plurality of perforations is disposed within the throat. An annular space exists adjacent the nozzle member in the neck to facilitate the flow of solid constituent within the fluid from the tank and into the nozzle member.
US08439073B2 Gate valve
A high temperature gate valve including a valve body formed to define first and second ports and an exit, each of which has a length-wise dimension greater than a height-wise dimension, and a door, having a length-wise dimension greater than a height-wise dimension, coupled to the valve body to occupy and move between positions at which the door prevents fluid communication between one of the first or the second port and the exit and intermediate positions at which fluid communication between the first and the second port and the exit is permitted.
US08439070B2 Piston valve with built in filtration
A control valve includes particle and moisture accumulation inhibiting features. The control valve includes a piston that provides for pressure communication to a back cavity through a tortuous path that settles out particle matter carried within the airflow. Moreover, the piston includes drainage openings that direct moisture out of piston and away from the sealing surfaces.
US08439064B2 Safety valve for a compressed gas reservior
A safety valve for a compressed gas reservoir has an exhaust duct that is connected to the compressed gas reservoir, and a sealing element, which is arranged to move within the exhaust duct, and selectively opens the exhaust duct to the outside depending on an operating phase. The exhaust duct has a greater cross-sectional area on the side facing away from the compressed gas reservoir than on the side facing the compressed reservoir, and a constriction on the side of the sealing element facing away from the compressed reservoir.
US08439062B1 Flood preventing system, and method of use
A system and method for detecting water in locations in homes and buildings where it should not be present, and responding by terminating water inlet access to plumbing in said home or building or the like and optionally operating a dump valve, in combination with an approach to periodically testing system operability and providing a signal upon a component performing a predetermined number of operations. The method can further include the monitoring of signals and responding with maintenance and/or replacement.
US08439060B1 Attachable drain collar for plumbing system couplings
A draining device for controlled drainage of internal water in plumbing systems comprises a semi-circular plastic collar that engages around a bottom of a pipe coupling. The collar covers the bottom of the coupling fitting and forms a watertight seal against sides of the pipe wall using an integral gasket. The collar is held in place around an upper side of the pipe using a pair of straps and strap fasteners. A hose connection fitting is provided on a bottom of the collar to provide a connection to a hose or other temporary plumbing, thereby providing drainage of water in a controlled manner.
US08439054B2 Painting implement cleaning and support apparatus
A painting implement cleaning and storage apparatus 10 is provided. The painting implement cleaning and storage apparatus of this invention facilitates the cleaning and storage of painting implements such as a roller 12, a brush 14 and a roller pan 16. The apparatus of this invention is provided with a base support member 18. The roller 12 is supported on the base support member 18 in an upwardly extending diagonal position adjacent a shield 70 for containing paint spreads from the roller in a predetermined confined area. The brush 14 is supported on the base support member in a predetermined upwardly projecting position. A roller pan 16 is coupable to the base support member 18 and supported thereon in a diagonally descending position.Once the painting implements 12, 14 and 16 are supported on the apparatus 10, cleaning of the desired implement can be accomplished by the application of a stream of water thereto in a predetermined manner after which the implement can be left to dry until they are needed again.
US08439052B2 Liquid-conducting electrical household appliance
An electric household appliance has a chamber that is at least partially filled with liquid during operation of the appliance. A motor drives a pump for drawing liquid from the chamber. A monitoring device detects the rotational speed and the power of the motor, compares detected values for the rotational speed and power to a predefined characteristic, and signals an exceptional state if the comparison indicates that the detected values deviate significantly from the characteristic.
US08439047B2 Composite mesoporous/microporous materials and their use in smoking articles for removing certain gas phase constituents from tobacco smoke
Cut filler compositions, cigarettes, methods for making cigarettes and methods for smoking cigarettes are provided, which involve the use of a composite mesoporous/microporous material. The composite material is capable of removing at least one constituent from tobacco smoke, preferably selectively. The composite material may also be used for removing at least one constituent from tobacco smoke through sorption and/or catalysis. The composite material comprises channels interconnecting at least one mesoporous region and at least one microporous region. The mesopores of the composite material may further comprise a carbon lining and/or be further functionalized with a surfactant. Alternatively, the composite material may further comprise a metal, a metal oxide, or mixtures thereof.
US08439043B2 Retracting eye drape
A retracting eye drape assembly is disclosed for use around a patient's eye to seclude and seal off the operative field during eye surgery. The drape assembly includes a retraction member connected to the drape and configured to engage the patient's eyelid, an extension member connected to the retraction member or to the drape and configured to substantially enclose the patient's eyelid, and a retraction flap configured to secure the patient's eyelid in a substantially retracted position. A method of applying an eye drape assembly is disclosed. After application of the drape to the patient's face, and while the patient's eyelid is closed, the patient's eyelid is engaged by a retraction member connected to the drape and retracted. While retracted, the patient's eyelid is substantially enclosed to seclude the eyelid and eyelashes from the operational area. The secluded eyelid and eyelashes are then secured in a retracted position.
US08439039B2 Connector for a respiratory mask and a respiratory mask
A respiratory mask includes a mask shell defining an interior of the respiratory mask and a gas washout vent passage having an inlet forming part of the mask shell and in fluid communication with the interior and an outlet in fluid communication with atmosphere. The mask shell includes a tubular mask inlet adapted to connect to a breathable gas supply conduit. The outlet includes an interior surface that forms a smooth prolongation with an adjacent exterior surface of the mask shell, and the outlet is adapted to direct washout gas in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the mask inlet and away from the mask inlet. The mask shell includes a body portion and a cap portion.
US08439033B2 Inhalation device
A dry inhaler system includes a vibrating mechanism. A supply of a dry powder is operatively coupled to the vibrating mechanism. A power source communicates with the vibrating mechanism. A sensor communicates with the vibrating mechanism. A feedback control communicates with the sensor and the power source. The feedback control controls power delivered to the vibrating mechanism relative to information provided by the sensor about the performance of the vibrating mechanism.
US08439028B2 Cooking appliance with an oven rack
An oven rack for an oven that providing additional clearance for an object on the oven rack. The oven rack comprises a generally rectangular shape including a front member, a rear member, and side members extending between the front and rear members. A grid structure is connected to the front, rear and side members and supports objects on the oven rack. Two rear rails are connected to the rear member to help retain objects on the oven rack. The rear rails project rearwardly and upwardly from rear member and define a free space being between the rear rails providing additional clearance for objects placed on the oven rack.
US08439024B2 Multi-purpose crossbow cocking device and method
A multi-purpose crossbow cocking device having two handles attached by a draw cord or string. Slidably affixed to the cord are a pair of pulley members having hooks that engage a bow string of a crossbow. The handles may have an inner cavity. One or both of the handles may contain one or more Allen wrenches pivotally connected to the handle within the inner cavity. In its retracted position, the Allen wrench is housed within the inner cavity. In its extended position, the distal end of the Allen wrench is placed external of the handle's inner cavity and may be used to drive a bolt or screw with a hexagonal shaft head. The Allen wrenches may be different sizes.
US08439023B2 Ignition coil, in particular for an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle
An ignition coil, in particular for an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle, having a secondary winding situated on a coil body for the production of a high voltage at a spark plug, having a contact sleeve that electrically contacts the secondary winding and that is capable of being pushed over an end area of the coil body and that has at least one contact element for the secondary winding, and having a holding-down element that can be pushed over the contact sleeve and that acts on the at least one contact element of the contact sleeve. In its end position, the holding-down element protrudes beyond the at least one contact element of the contact sleeve, seen in the axial direction of the coil body, and covers the at least one contact element.
US08439017B2 Diagnostic strategy for a fuel vapor control system
A method for operating a fuel vapor control system included in a vehicle having an internal combustion engine is provided. The method may include storing positive pressure or negative pressure in an isolated fuel tank, transferring at least a portion of the positive pressure or the negative pressure to an evaporation canister region, and determining degradation of the evaporation canister based on a pressure response of the evaporation canister region while the evaporation canister region is isolated from the fuel tank. In this way, it is possible to utilize pressure that may be passively generated in one portion of the system, even during shut-down engine operation, to verify the integrity of another portion of the system.
US08439016B2 Liquefied petroleum gas engine assembly with flow control
A liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) fuel assembly may include a fuel rail and a flow control mechanism. The fuel rail may have an inlet in communication with a pressurized LPG fuel source, an injection passageway in communication with the inlet and a fuel injector that provides fuel to a combustion chamber of an engine, and an outlet in communication with the fuel injection passageway. The flow control mechanism may be in communication with the outlet of the fuel rail and a LPG fuel tank and may be operable in first and second modes. The second mode may provide a greater flow restriction than the first mode to control a fuel flow from the outlet of the fuel rail to the fuel tank.
US08439012B2 Method and system for engine control
Methods and systems are provided for engine torque control. Mutually exclusive airflow adjustments and spark adjustments are used to provide accurate engine torque control when operating near combustion stability limits. Torque offset values and proportional-integral control terms are adjusted responsive to tip-in/tip-out events to improve torque control response times.
US08439010B2 Internal combustion engine
An engine includes an engine block comprising a cylinder, an intake and exhaust port, and two linearly opposing pistons reciprocatingly mounted relative to two opposing crankshafts. A pair of piston sleeves are reciprocatingly mounted in the cylinder around each piston and connected relative to their respective crankshafts. Each piston sleeve includes a slotted port in communication with either the intake or exhaust port. A pair of sleeve couplers are pivotably connected to their respective piston sleeves and eccentrically rotatable relative to their respective crankshafts. A pair of eccentric inserts include an outside circumferential surface concentrically offset from an inside circumferential surface aperture. Each inside circumferential surface aperture is pivotable about its respective crankshaft. Each outside circumferential surface is rotatable relative to its respective sleeve coupler. A pair of phase couplers are helically moveable about their respective crankshafts and are also pivotably fixed and slidable relative to their respective eccentric inserts.
US08439007B2 Cylinder head with oil return
Engine oil may pool in various locations in the cylinder head near the valves and underneath the camshaft. Rather than directly conducting the oil to the oil return passages, the oil is conducted to a surface proximate the exhaust ducts before being conducted to the oil return passage so that the oil is readily warmed up during a cold start by the contact with a surface in the cylinder head proximate exhaust ducts. The provision of such a surface proximate exhaust ducts is facilitated by the integrated exhaust manifold design in which the exhaust ducts are merged prior to exiting the cylinder head. By rapidly heating the oil, the oil's viscosity decreases, thereby reducing friction and improving fuel efficiency.
US08439006B2 Starter device for starting internal combustion engines
The invention relates to a starter device which is used to start internal combustion engines, which comprises an electromagnetic toe-in mechanism (10) and a start-stop-mechanism, which in a stop-phase of the internal combustion engine, even during and/or after stopping the internal combustion engine, a positioned state of the toe-in mechanism (10) is provoked, such that when the internal combustion engine is subsequently started, it is already in the positioned state. According to the invention, a locking device (20), which is used to lock the toe-in mechanism (10) in the positioned state, is embodied in such a manner that it can be controlled such that the electromagnetic toe-in mechanism (10) is maintained in the advanced position during the stop-phase.
US08439005B2 Two cycle engine and tool
A two cycle engine has an exhaust port provided in a side portion of a cylinder, and a scavenge air port provided in the side portion of the cylinder so as to be symmetrical with a plane passing through a center in a cylinder circumference direction of the exhaust port and an axis extending to inside of the cylinder, the scavenge air port is structured such that an axis extending to inside of the cylinder from an opening of the scavenge air port extends in such a direction as to be away from the exhaust port of the cylinder, and is divided in a cylinder axis direction by a dividing portion.
US08439003B2 Cooling apparatus for internal combustion engine, method of controlling the same, and hybrid vehicle including the same
A cooling apparatus for an internal combustion engine includes an engine cooling system that includes a water jacket, a radiator, and a circulation passage through which a coolant is circulated between the water jacket and the radiator, wherein the coolant is provided in the engine cooling system; a water pump that forcibly circulates the coolant provided in the engine cooling system when the water pump is operated; a reservoir tank in which the coolant is reserved, and into which gas flows from the engine cooling system while the reserved coolant flows out to the engine cooling system from the reservoir tank; and a forcible introduction portion that forcibly introduces the coolant from the reservoir tank into the engine cooling system before the internal combustion engine is started.
US08439002B2 Methods and systems for engine control
Methods and systems for controlling an engine are provided. In some examples, the method includes transitioning from operating a cylinder with a first number of strokes per combustion cycle to a second, lesser, number of strokes per combustion cycle in response to boost pressure rising above a threshold boost value. For example, the cylinder may transition from four-stroke combustion cycles to two-stroke combustion cycles, and the method may further include generating the increased boost via operation of an electric machine coupled to a turbocharger of the engine. In this way, transitions to the second, lesser, number of strokes may be enhances as sufficient boost can already be present.
US08439000B1 Pet diaper holder using disposable human diapers
A pet diaper holder uses disposable human diapers. The diaper holder includes upper and lower flexible holder portions joined at one side. The upper holder portion overlays the rump of the animal, including the base of the animal's tail. The lower holder portion holds the diaper against the belly and groin area of the animal, and extends between the animal's rear legs to overlay the base of the animal's tail from below. The upper and lower holder portions define a rearward opening through which the tail of the animal protrudes and openings surrounding the rear legs of the animal. Snap-fitting male and female connectors join the holder portions at an openable side and at the opening surrounding the base of the tail, and fasten the waistbands associated with the diaper to the lower holder portion thereby avoiding shifting and balling of the diaper with movement of the animal.
US08438999B2 Systems and methods for animal containment, training, and tracking
Systems for containing, training, and tracking pets utilize electronic pet tags or collars, including IR reception and two-way RF communication. An aimable IR directional zone defining unit includes selectable different modes of operation relative to a pet collar or tag. A RF base station arranged to communicate with an pet collar or tar includes is arranged to automatically communicate with at least one terminal responsive to a receipt of a RF signal indicative of at least one of: condition of the pet, behavior of the pet, and proximity of the pet to the base station. The base station may further generate a user-perceptible alarm signal. A handheld remote controller adapted to communicate with the electronic pet collar or tag includes memory for digital media files, and an audio output element to deliver audible pet training instructions from the memory element.
US08438992B2 Milk collecting pieces with closable chambers
The invention relates to a milk collecting piece comprising a housing upper part with at least two intake nozzles and a housing lower part with at least two chambers which are each flow-connected to an outtake nozzle via an outlet.
US08438986B2 Hybrid inflatable kayak
A hybrid inflatable kayak is configured to rival the handling and speed of skin-on-frame or hard-shell kayaks, while simplifying the assembly and disassembly process. The hybrid inflatable kayak includes an internal frame assembly that cooperates with inflatable bladders and inflatable thwarts giving the kayak an improved watershed capacity and also an improved combination of weight, stability, speed, structural strength, and portability. The internal frame assembly includes a bow rib, a stern rib, and a number of frame members that attach together and extend lengthwise from bow to stern. Front and rear thwarts are inflatable and urge against the frame members and side bladders to put the frame members in tension, make the outer cover sufficiently taut, and provide a faster and more structurally robust design.
US08438983B2 Waste treatment process and apparatus
A process for the treatment of waste, the process comprising either a gasification step or a pyrolysis step to produce an offgas and a non-airborne, solid char material; followed by a plasma treatment step. An associated apparatus having a plasma treatment unit which is separate from the gasification unit or pyrolysis unit.
US08438981B2 Pallet design with buoyant characteristics
A pallet exhibiting a three dimensional shaped and buoyant inducing body with enhanced load supporting capabilities. The body exhibits a rectangular profile and is constructed of at least one of a corrugated paperboard, plastic or composite material and coated with a plasticized spray. An inner core defined within a three dimensional interior of the body is constructed of any plural arrangement of inner extending, interconnected and frame defining components, at least one of the components and/or the outer surfaces being coated with a plasticized spray. The inner constructed core can further include any of a structural paperboard, bamboo, other tubular material, or structural foam. In a further variant, a standard pallet design of upper and lower cross pieces separated by spaced apart bridge pieces is provided, and in which the individual members are each configured with structurally defined inner cores according to any of the above constructions.
US08438980B2 Loading and unloading device for handling trolley
A loading and unloading device includes a removable base (10) having dimensions adapted to those of the loading bed (26) of a handling trolley (62), the base having a generally planar upper face (12) for receiving goods (32) and being surrounded by a peripheral edge (14) for retaining the goods (32), a lower face (16) shaped so as to maintain the base (10) on the loading bed (26) of the trolley (62), and four side faces (18) connecting the upper face (14) and the lower face (16).
US08438974B2 Electrohydraulic pressing device having removable hose
A pressing device includes a work head having a work head body holding a tool and a mating end. The pressing device includes an actuator having an actuator body holding a hydraulic pump that is operable to drive the tool. The actuator has a mating end. The pressing device includes an interconnect assembly including a hydraulic hose having first and second couplings at both ends of the hydraulic hose for mating with the mating ends of the actuator and the work head, respectively. The interconnect assembly is removable and the work head is configured to be directly coupled to the actuator.
US08438962B2 Hand operated rifle cartridge loading press affording a repeatable degree of crimping
A hand operated press for reloading metal rifle cartridges including indicating means for providing for an operator of the press discrete indications of the different forces that can be manually applied through the drive mechanism during use of the press to crimp the second end of a cartridge against a bullet in the cartridge to allow the operator to use one of those indications to manually apply the same force to form essentially the same degree of crimp of the second ends of identical cartridges against identical bullets in the cartridges.
US08438961B2 Kitchen slicer
In order to set the cutting thickness in kitchen slicers, it is a known procedure to arrange a feed plate at a slant relative to the blade. As an alternative, solutions are known according to which the feed plates are changed so that a suitable feed plate is provided for each cutting thickness that can be set. The objective of the invention is to provide a simple alternative. Towards this end, the invention proposes that the feed plate (11) can be moved surface-parallel to a fixed plate (12) that is connected to the blade (13). This movement can be effectuated by means of a combination of vertical and horizontal movements of the feed plate and of a positioning slide (14) associated with said feed plate.
US08438959B2 Cutting device for shear-cutting of fibre strands
A cutting device for shear-cutting of fiber strands comprises at least two cutting units which are rotatably drivable about an axis of rotation and two counter cutting units which are rigidly mounted relative to a base frame. The cutting edges of the cutting units as well as the counter cutting edges of the counter cutting units are positionable relative to a common cutting plane independently of each other. The forces acting on the counter cutting edges are measured during a cutting process by means of corresponding measuring sensors, allowing the position of the counter cutting edges to be controlled by means of a control unit via electrically driven displacement devices.
US08438957B2 Digital beam torque wrench with an electronic sensor
A torque wrench includes a main beam having a distal end and a proximal end, a drive element disposed at the distal end of the main beam, a stationary beam having a distal end fixedly secured to the main beam at a first location on the main beam, and having a proximal end, and a displacement sensor assembly disposed at a second location associated with the main beam and with the stationary beam to detect an amount of displacement of the main beam relative to the stationary beam. The displacement sensor assembly includes an actuating element secured to one of the main beam or the stationary beam and a sensor rigidly secured to the other one of the main beam or the stationary beam and responsive to the actuating element. An electronic component is configured to generate a torque measurement based on the generated electrical signal, and store at least one of the generated electrical signal and the torque measurement for a several positions of the main beam relative to the stationary beam.
US08438956B1 Torque indicating driver
In one embodiment, a torque-indicating driver includes a handle configured to receive applied torque. One or more flat springs are coupled via a housing to the handle at their proximate ends. The one or more flat springs are configured to angularly deflect elastically in response to the applied torque. A hub is coupled to a distal end of the one or more flat springs, the hub having a torsion rod extending therefrom. The torsion rod is configured to apply torque to a load. An outer sleeve at least partially covers the housing. One or more plungers are affixed to the housing and configured to engage one or more holes or depressions disposed at predetermined locations in the outer sleeve. Engagement with the holes or depressions creates auditory and tactile feedback perceivable by a user of the torque-indicating driver to indicate when a particular torque level is reached.
US08438955B2 Utility tools and mounting adaptation for a nut driving tool
Adaptations, apparatus and methods are disclosed for associating various utility tools with a nut driving tool. The adaptation of includes a receiver connectable to one side of the nut driving tool adjacent to a socket driver. A utility tool mounting body includes a base portion releasably engageable with the receiver and a station portion on the base portion releasably engageable with the selected utility tool. The utility tool of this invention includes a head having a mounting interface, the station portion releasably engageable with the mounting interface of the utility tool head. In one embodiment, the utility tool is reaction unit for engaging a nut or a fitting body. In other embodiments, utility tools for tube cutting, sawing, and/or bending, and/or grasping of adjacent fitting types or fitting sizes are provided.
US08438954B2 Electronic tong torque system and related methods of use
Disclosed is an apparatus for attachment to a line pull tong tubing joint make-up system on an oil rig, having tongs attached to two sections of pipe with one tong connected to a line pull apparatus, having a fluid-operated clutch connected to pressurized fluid source and the other tong connected to a piston-cylinder assembly. The apparatus has: a pressure transducer connected to the piston-cylinder assembly to sense the internal pressure in the piston-cylinder assembly and generate an output signal; a valve operable in response to a valve control signal, the valve located in the connection between the clutch and the pressurized fluid source movable between a first position, permitting fluid flow from the fluid source to the clutch and a second position interrupting flow between the fluid source and the clutch; and a controller operably connected to the valve and transducer, programmed to provide a valve control signal to move the valve between the first and second positions in response to the output signal from the pressure transducer, whereby the line pull apparatus is engaged and disengaged. The controller has a display, memory and clock.
US08438949B2 Sealed rotator shaft for borescopic inspection
A rotator drive connection for a gas turbine engine accessory box has a shaft connected to be driven by a main shaft in a gas turbine engine through a gear train. A first drive connection allows selective drive of the shaft. A biased drive member includes a second drive connection selectively brought into contact with the first drive connection to allow rotation of the main shaft. The biased drive member biases the second drive connection out of contact with the first drive connection. A gas turbine engine accessory box and a method of borescopic inspection are also disclosed and claimed.
US08438944B2 Telescope positive lock for steering column
A telescope lock mechanism for a steering column includes a plurality of strap teeth located at an upper jacket of the steering column, each strap tooth of the plurality of strap teeth having a strap tooth peak. A plurality of lock teeth are located at a lower jacket of the steering column. The plurality of locking teeth are rotatably secured at the lower jacket, such that when the plurality of locking teeth are rotated into an engaged position with the plurality of strap teeth, a plurality of lock teeth peaks are substantially non-parallel to the strap tooth peaks of the plurality of strap teeth.
US08438940B2 Apparatus for simulatively measuring environment of wound dressing on skin and measuring method therefor
An apparatus and a method for simulatively measuring an environment in a microspace between human skin and a wound dressing. The simulative environment-measuring apparatus includes a constant temperature-and-humidity chamber (14); a heat exchanger (12) disposed in the chamber; a constant temperature water bath (10) and a pump (11) for supplying warm water to the heat exchanger; and a container (1) set on the heat exchanger. The container holds a water retentive member (2) therein, and is covered with a water vapor diffusion-controlling member (4). A microspace (6) formed between the water vapor diffusion-controlling member and a wound dressing (5) is a simulatively reproduced space between human skin and the wound dressing. A thin temperature-and-humidity sensor (7) is set in the microspace to measure temperature and humidity. When plural containers are used, the environments of plural wound dressings can be measured at once.
US08438938B1 Load cell
A load cell in accordance with the present invention comprises an insert defining a hub having a central opening dimensioned to receive a shaft. The insert is removably fixed to the shaft, and a cylindrical sleeve is configured and dimensioned to surround the insert. The sleeve is machined with interior notches. The insert is suspended and rotatably fixed within the sleeve by flanges which are integral with and project from the insert's hub into the sleeve's interior notches. The flanges are configured to respond with deformation to forces applied to the shaft, and strain gauges bonded to the flanges exhibit changes in resistance according to the degree of flange deformation.
US08438931B2 Semiconductor strain sensor
A semiconductor strain sensor having a strain sensor chip composed of a semiconductor substrate having a piezoresistive element as a strain detection section. The semiconductor strain sensor has a stable characteristic for a long period of time and a stable conversion factor of a strain generated in the strain sensor chip corresponding to a strain of an object to be measured, within a strain range of a size to be measured. The strain sensor chip is bonded to a metal base plate with a metal bonding material. The metal base plate has two or four extending members, which protrude from a side of the strain sensor chip for attaching the strain senor chip to the object to be measured. Preferably, a groove is arranged between a metal base plate undersurface area, which corresponds to the bonding area where the strain sensor chip is bonded to the metal base plate, and the undersurfaces of the extending members, and a protruding section sandwiched by the grooves is arranged on the undersurface of the metal base plate.
US08438929B2 Phased array ultrasonic inspection system for turbine and generator rotor bore
A phased array ultrasonic testing system for examining discontinuities in turbine or generator rotor bores formed within turbine or generator rotors of a turbine or generator rotor assembly. The system includes a phased array ultrasonic transducer structured to be coupled to a surface of the rotor bore at a first location in order to emit an ultrasonic beam toward a second location of the rotor bore which is to be examined. The system further includes a control system with a computer and a controller for programming, emitting, and steering the ultrasonic beam via at least one, two-dimensional phased array transducer, thereby precisely and accurately inspecting the area of interest. Computer control of the beam permits the number of inspection locations and the number of different transducer wedges to be reduced providing for an efficient, timely inspection.
US08438928B2 Apparatus and method for non-destructive testing using ultrasonic phased array
The present invention is related generally to the field of non-destructive materials testing using ultrasonic devices, more particularly, ultrasonic devices in a phased array and includes a wedge for conducting pitch-catch ultrasonic phase array testing of materials wherein the wedge includes a liquid column and is manufactured with specific angles so as to control the angle at which the ultrasonic waves pass into the wedge and then are refracted when passing from the liquid in the liquid column into the material being analyzed, thus providing a wider range of analysis via sweeping the beams from the wedge than was possible with known wedges.
US08438927B2 Scanning near field thermoelastic acoustic holography (SNFTAH)
A system and method for analyzing a sample is described. The system may include, for example, a light source and a scanning probe microscope probe. The light source may generate a coherent laser beam that is modulated by a waveform of a lower frequency. The modulated laser beam is absorbed by the sample causing thermally induced expansion and resulting in an excitation of acoustic waves. The probe is locally deployed near the sample and detects, in real time, perturbations in the excited acoustic waves to detect surface and buried structures of the sample.
US08438925B2 Method and arrangement for determining and monitoring the state of a rolling bearing
An arrangement and method for determining and monitoring the state of a rolling bearing, wherein a first sensor signal is captured in the form of a sound emission signal in a first frequency band in the ultrasonic range during operation of the rolling bearing, a second sensor signal is captured in a second frequency band of lower frequency in the ultrasonic range, a first characteristic value for recently occurred damage is determined from the shape of the first sensor signal, a second characteristic value for recently occurred damage is determined from the shape of the second sensor signal, and the state of the rolling bearing is determined by comparing the first characteristic value to a reference value dependent on the speed of the rolling bearing and dependent on the second characteristic value to at least one second reference value dependent on the speed of the rolling bearing.
US08438920B2 Assembly structure of liquid level detecting apparatus and liquid level detecting apparatus
An assembly structure of a liquid level detecting apparatus includes a sliding arm having a junction for electrically contacting a resistor and an arm holder attached to the sliding arm. The sliding arm moves according to a liquid level so that the junction slides on the resistor. The sliding arm includes a sliding portion extending in a direction from a base end portion of the sliding arm to the junction, and a pawl portion extending from the base end portion. The arm holder includes a slit into which the pawl portion is inserted and a face on which the sliding portion is mounted. The face is inclined at an angle with respect to an insertion direction of the pawl portion.
US08438916B2 Meter apparatus
A meter apparatus is mountable on a vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine having an output shaft that rotates at a predetermined idling speed during idling of the engine. When the vehicle satisfies a predetermined stop condition during rotation of the output shaft at the idling speed, the rotation of the output shaft is stopped temporarily. The meter apparatus includes a pointer needle that moves according to a rotation speed of the output shaft to indicate the rotation speed. The amount of movement of the pointer needle with respect to a change in the rotation speed of the output shaft is less when the rotation speed is in a low speed range below the idling speed than when the rotation speed is in a high speed range above the idling speed.
US08438915B2 Insert assembly and method for fluid flow reverse engineering
A fluid testing apparatus for performing fluid flow analysis on a gas turbine engine component having a plurality of fluid cooling circuits each defining one or more openings in the component includes a first sealing insert configured to create a seal at an interface of the first sealing insert to the component to seal off one or more openings of a first fluid cooling circuit of the component and a generic insert separable from the first sealing insert. The first sealing insert is configured as a substantially flat sheet having a shaped perimeter, and the component is clampable to the generic insert to hold the first sealing insert against the component.
US08438909B2 Device and method for detecting an air leak in a tool
A device for detecting an air leak in a tool comprises a vacuum bag and a leak detection film disposed along an inside face of the vacuum bag. The leak detection film may include oxygen sensitive material configured to change physical appearance at a location of an air leak in the tool. A breather layer may be interposed between the tool and the leak detection film for facilitating air flow therebetween.
US08438907B2 Hydrogen-producing fuel processing systems with a liquid leak detection system
Liquid leak detection systems, and fuel cell systems and hydrogen-producing fuel processing systems containing the same. The liquid leak detection systems are adapted to detect liquid leaks from the fuel cell and/or fuel processing systems and to respond thereto, such as by interrupting the delivery of liquid reactants, by generating an alert, by transitioning the fuel processing system to a different operating state, and/or by shutting down the fuel processing and/or fuel cell system. The liquid leak detection systems may include a controller and at least one liquid detector, and in some embodiments may include a cover. In some embodiments, the liquid detector includes a signal emitter and a signal detector. In some embodiments, the liquid detector includes at least a pair of spaced-apart conductive members that nominally define an open circuit. In some embodiments, the cover is adapted to repel water and/or includes conductive particulate.
US08438901B2 Producing stress on surfaces
An apparatus for producing stress on a surface, comprising one or more service assembly and one or more cleaning assembly. The service assembly comprises one or more means for applying dirt to said surface, or one or more means for scuffing said surface, or one or more means for dragging a test material across said surface, or a combination thereof. The cleaning assembly comprises one or more scrubber, or one or more burnisher, or a combination thereof.Also provided is a method of testing a surface with such an apparatus.
US08438895B2 Apparatuses for crimping and loading of intraluminal medical devices
Crimping apparatuses for reducing the diameter of an intraluminal medical device from a first diameter to a second diameter prior to loading the medical device into a catheter delivery system and loading apparatuses for introducing the medical device into a catheter delivery system, the devices constructed and arranged for matingly engaging one another, combinations thereof, and methods of using the devices.
US08438894B2 Press brake for bending sheets
The present invention relates to a bending press comprising an upper table (130) and a lower table (132) placed edge-to-edge in the vertical direction, with one of the tables being movable relative to the other in the vertical direction, and with one of the tables presenting slots (134, 136) that are placed symmetrically relative to the midplane (P′P). Each slot has an open outside end and comprises a first slot portion (135a, 137a) and a second slot portion (135b, 137b) that is situated on the inside relative to the first slot portion and that is connected thereto, the shapes of said slot portions being such that the stiffness of the table portion situated between the slot and the tool fastener is greater between the first slot portion and the tool fastener than between the second slot portion and the tool fastener. At least one element (180) for adjusting the flexing of said table is disposed in the first slot portion.
US08438892B2 Stem slide device
A stem slide apparatus comprises a stem slide base (73) with a stem (6) horizontally mounted thereon to press a billet (B) mounted on a container (5), a slide guide member (72, 72a, 72b) mounted on a vertical stem move support member (71) and formed with guide grooves in which the side end portions of the stem slide base are fitted and vertically slid, and a lock means (77a, 77b) arranged on the slide guide member to press the side end portions of the stem slide base. The stem slide apparatus further comprises a drive mechanism (10) having an electric motor (11) to move the slide base in the sliding direction. Therefore the indirect cause of a fire is removed and the maintenance work simplified.
US08438890B2 Cylinder lock
A cylinder lock includes elongated elliptical-shaped accommodation holes for accommodating auxiliary tumblers formed on an inner cylinder, and a set/reset member which is capable of freely sliding in the inner cylinder and which is pushed by two control members each having a respective stroke length, so that the auxiliary tumblers are interposed between upper tumblers and lower tumbler and moved aside from between the upper and lower tumblers, thereby enabling changing of keys for locking and unlocking the cylinder lock. Minutely, for the setting operation, the set/reset member is pushed into by a short stroke to cause the auxiliary tumblers to be accommodated into the accommodation holes and moved along the accommodation holes and held there. For the reset operation, the set/reset member is pushed into by along stroke to move the auxiliary tumblers to the side of the upper tumbler bores of the outer cylinder.
US08438888B2 Door lock device for vehicle
A door lock device includes a lever mechanism which carries out lock/unlock operation in response to turn operation of a key cylinder. The lever mechanism includes a key rotor which includes a coupling hole to which an inner end of a rod is coupled in a torque transmittable manner and is rotatably assembled to a housing, and a key lever which includes a hub which is coupled to the key rotor in a torque transmittable manner and is arranged in the housing. The key lever includes a first arm which extends to radial outward direction from the hub and is capable of engaging with a first engagement portion of the active lever, and a second arm which extends to radial outward direction from the hub and is capable of engaging with a second engagement portion of the active lever.
US08438879B2 Household appliance
The present invention relates to a household appliance (1), constituting a display (3) which enables the user to observe the performance state of the household appliance (1) and one or more input units (2) that enable the user to make visual or audio data entries.
US08438876B2 Method and apparatus for removing glass soot sheet from substrate
As a precursor to forming a glass sheet, a soot layer is formed on a deposition surface using a roll-to-roll glass soot deposition process. A soot layer-separating device is configured to bring a stream of gas into contact with at least a portion of a free surface of the soot layer. The impinging gas stream affects local thermal expansion stresses at the soot layer/deposition surface interface, which separates the soot layer from the deposition surface.
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