Document Document Title
US08440675B2 Potentiator of radiation therapy
To provide a radiation therapy potentiator, which, when employed in combination with cancer radiation therapy, can reduce radiation dose and can mitigate adverse effects.The invention provides a radiation therapy potentiator containing, as an effective ingredient, a uracil derivative represented by formula (1) (wherein R1 represents a halogen atom or a cyano group; and R2 represents a 4- to 8-membered heterocyclic group having 1 to 3 nitrogen atoms and optionally having as a substituent a lower alkyl group, an imino group, a hydroxyl group, a hydroxymethyl group, a methanesulfonyloxy group, or an amino group; an amidinothio group in which a hydrogen atom attached to a nitrogen atom may be substituted by a lower alkyl group; a guanidino group in which a hydrogen atom attached to a nitrogen atom may be substituted by a lower alkyl group or a cyano group; a lower alkylamidino group; or a 1-pyrrolidinylmethyl group) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US08440667B2 Imidazopyrazine Syk inhibitors
Certain imidazopyrazines of Formula (I): and pharmaceutical compositions thereof are provided herein. Methods of treating patients responsive to the inhibition of Syk activity, which comprises administering to such patients an amount of at least one chemical entity of Formula (I) effective to reduce signs or symptoms of the disease or disorder are provided. Also provided are methods for determining the presence or absence of Syk kinase in a sample.
US08440666B2 Pyridazinone compounds and P2X7 receptor inhibitors
Novel pyridazinone compounds of formula (I), which inhibit the purinergic P2X7 receptor and are useful for prevention, therapy and improvement of inflammatory and immunological diseases.
US08440665B2 Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase inhibitors
The present invention relates to compounds of Formula (I): wherein X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, R, R1, R2 are as defined above. The compounds have apoptosis signal-regulating kinase (“ASK1”) inhibitory activity, and are thus useful in the treatment of ASK1-mediated conditions, including autoimmune disorders, inflammatory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, diabetic nephropathy, cardio-renal diseases, including kidney disease, fibrotic diseases, respiratory diseases, COPD, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, acute lung injury, acute and chronic liver diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more of the compounds of Formula (I), and to methods of preparing the compounds of Formula (I).
US08440662B2 Substituted quinazoline and pyrido-pyrimidine derivatives
The present application provides novel substituted quinazoline and pyrido-pyrimidine compounds and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. Also provided are methods for preparing these compounds. These compounds are useful in co-regulating PI3K and/or mTOR activity by administering a therapeutically effective amount of one or more of the compounds to a patient. By doing so, these compounds are effective in treating conditions associated with the dysregulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Advantageously, these compounds perform as dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitors. A variety of conditions can be treated using these compounds and include diseases which are characterized by inflammation or abnormal cellular proliferation. In one embodiment, the disease is cancer.
US08440661B2 Methods of modulating inflammatory cell recruitment and gene expression using haloaryl substituted aminopurines
Provided herein are Aminopurine Compounds having the following structure: wherein R1, R2 and R3 are as defined herein, compositions comprising an effective amount of an Aminopurine Compound and methods for treating or preventing cancer, a cardiovascular disease, a renal disease, an autoimmune condition, an inflammatory condition, macular degeneration, ischemia-reperfusion injury, pain and related syndromes, disease-related wasting, an asbestos-related condition, pulmonary hypertension or a condition treatable or preventable by inhibition of the JNK pathway comprising administering an effective amount of an Aminopurine Compound to a patient in need thereof.
US08440658B2 Cyclic urea inhibitors of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1
Disclosed is a compound represented by Formula (I): or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, monohydrate, enantiomer or diastereomer thereof. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compound of Formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, monohydrate, enantiomer or diastereomer thereof and methods of inhibiting 11β-HSD1 activity comprising the step of administering to a mammal in need of such treatment an effective amount of a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, monohydrate, enantiomer or diastereomer thereof. Values for the variables in Formula (I) are defined herein.
US08440656B2 Methods of treating pulmonary diseases and disorders by modulating calcium/calmodulin dependent protein kinase II activity
Disclosed are methods of treating or preventing a pulmonary disease or disorder in a subject, the methods comprising administering an effective amount of an compound that inhibits Calmodulin Kinase II (CaMKII) activity, either directly or indirectly, thereby treating or preventing the pulmonary disease or disorder in the subject.
US08440653B2 3-substituted-1,4-diazepan-2-one melanocortin-5 receptor antagonists
The present invention provides compounds of Formula (I) that are useful for modulating the biological activity of the melanocortin-5 receptor (MC5R). Compounds of this invention can be used to treat diseases and/or conditions in which downregulation of MC5R is beneficial. Such diseases and/or conditions include, but are not limited to, acne, seborrhea, seborrheic dermatitis, cancer, and inflammatory diseases.
US08440646B1 Substituted tetracycline compounds for treatment of Bacillus anthracis infections
Methods and compositions for the treatment of Bacillus anthracis infections are described.
US08440644B2 Compounds as receptor modulators with therapeutic utility
The present invention relates to novel amine derivatives, processes for preparing them, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use as pharmaceuticals as modulators of sphingosine-1-phosphate receptors.
US08440641B2 Phthalocyanine salt formulations
Pharmaceutical compositions of phthalocyanine compounds with a structure according to Formula (I) are described. Phthalocyanines are photosensitizer compounds having a phthalocyanine ring system that can be used for photodynamic therapy. Different phthalocyanines and phthalocyanine salts are shown to have useful characteristics such as water solubility, oil solubility, or tunable photostability. Formulations of phthalocyanines and phthalocyanine salts that can be used for topical and systemic administration are described.
US08440640B2 Methods and compositions for treating obesity and related disorders
The invention provides methods for, and compositions effective for, treating obesity, inhibiting weight gain, treating diabetes mellitus, inhibiting atherosclerosis and treating related disorders and conditions comprising administering a pharmaceutically effective amount of at least one compound capable of inhibiting AC5 to a patient. The compound capable of inhibiting AC5 may be administered singly or in combination with another agent. In some embodiments, the AC5 inhibiting compound is 9-β-D-arabinofuranosyladenine (AraAde). The compounds may be administered in an amount of about 1 to about 200 mg/kg/day, about 1 to about 100 mg/kg/day, about 10 to about 80 mg/kg/day, about 12 to about 40 mg/kg/day or about 15 to about 25 mg/kg/day. In some embodiments, the compound is administered orally.
US08440637B2 Combination treatment for the treatment of hepatitis C virus infection
The present invention relate to the use of a combination of an inhibitor of miR-122 and an inhibitor of VLDL assembly, for the treatment of HCV, hyperlipidemia and hypercholesterolemia.
US08440635B2 Oligonucleotide conjugates
Oligonucleotide conjugates, where an oligonucleotide is covalently attached to an aromatic system, are provided. In particular embodiments the oligonucleotide is complementary to the RNA component of human telomerase and is covalently attached to a nucleobase via an optional linker. The conjugates inhibit telomerase enzyme activity.
US08440634B2 Bicyclic derivatives of morphine-6-glucuronide, preparation method thereof and use of same in therapeutics
The disclosure relates to compounds of formula (I): wherein R1, R2, and n are as defined in the disclosure, and addition salts solvates and hydrates thereof. The disclosure also relates to the preparation method of said compounds and to the use of the same in therapeutics.
US08440633B2 Anthelmintic combination
A composition comprising 2-desoxoparaherquamide and abamectin for the treatment of a parasitic infestation in mammals.
US08440631B2 Compositions for drug administration
The present invention provides compositions and methods and for increasing the bioavailability of therapeutic agents in a subject, as well as compositions and methods for providing migraine pain relief. The compositions include at least one alkyl glycoside and at least one therapeutic agent, such as a 5-HT receptor agonist, wherein the alkylglycoside has an alkyl chain length from about 10 to about 16 carbon atoms.
US08440629B2 Cyclic receptor-associated protein (RAP) peptides
The present invention relates generally to receptor-selective variants of the low-density lipoprotein receptor-associated protein (RAP) and compositions thereof, methods of generating such variants and methods of using such receptor-selective RAP variant compositions for therapeutic purposes.
US08440626B2 Antineoplastic peptides
The present invention provides antineoplastic peptides of formula I, I R1R2N-CHX-CO-A-B-D-E-(G)S-K wherein R1, R2, X, A, B, D, E, G, K and s have the meanings stated in the description. The compounds have antineoplastic activity.
US08440620B2 Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture for contributing to the treatment of cancers
Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture for contributing to the treatment of cancers, including solid tumors, are disclosed. The methods, compositions and articles of manufacture can utilize an endothelin B agonist (ETB) to enhance the delivery and resulting efficacy of a chemotherapeutic agent.
US08440607B2 Sulfonate group-containing copolymers and manufacturing method thereof
[Problem] To provide detergent compositions with superior surfactant deposition-inhibiting ability and anti-gelling properties that exhibit good cleaning effectiveness even when laundering under harsh conditions such as laundering in residual bath water. [Solution] A laundry detergent or cleaning composition which comprises a copolymer containing sulfonate groups containing from 1 to 50 mass percent of structural units (a) derived from 1 or more kinds of monomers (A) selected from ether bond-containing monomers represented by Formulas (1) and (2), 50 mass % or more and less than 98 mass % of structural units (b) derived from a carboxyl group-containing monomer (B), and 1 mass % or more and less than 50 mass % of structural units (c) de-rived from a sulfonate group-containing monomer (C).
US08440599B2 Composition for stripping and cleaning and use thereof
A composition comprising one or more water soluble organic solvents comprising a glycol ether; water; a fluoride containing compound provided that if the fluoride containing compound is ammonium fluoride than no additional fluoride containing compound is added to the composition; optionally a quaternary ammonium compound; and optionally a corrosion inhibitor is disclosed herein that is capable of removing residues from an article such as photoresist and/or etching residue. Also disclosed herein is a method for removing residues from an article using the composition disclosed herein.
US08440594B2 Pyridothiazines having herbicidal action
Substituted pyridines of the formula I in which the variables are defined according to the description, processes and intermediates for preparing the compounds of the formula I and their N-oxides, their agriculturally suitable salts, compositions comprising them and their use as herbicides, and also methods for controlling unwanted vegetation.
US08440593B2 Herbicidal formulations for triethanolamine salts of glyphosate
A high strength herbicidal composition including water; glyphosate, predominantly in the form of a combination of triethanolamine salt and potassium salt in solution in the water in an amount of about 350 grams or greater of acid equivalent per liter of the composition wherein the composition is formulated to include triethanolamine in an amount to form a salt with about 10% or greater, by weight, of total glyphosate and to include potassium in an amount to form a salt with a percentage of total glyphosate so that the combined sum of glyphosate in triethanolamine and potassium salts is more than 50% of total glyphosate; and optionally, one or more surfactants and/or one or more humectants.
US08440591B2 Pesticidal composition comprising synthetic compound useful as nodulation agent of leguminous plants and a fungicide compound
A composition comprising at least a compound (a) of general formula (I): and a fungicide compound (b) in a (a)/(b) weight ratio of from 1/1 to 1/1014. A method for preventively or curatively combating the pests and diseases of crops and increasing their yield by using this composition.
US08440590B2 Method for controlling soybean rust
A method for controlling asian soybean rust comprising (α) applying a pesticidal composition (A) to a glyphosate tolerant soybean plant propagation material, and (β) applying a pesticidal composition (B) to the resulting soybean plant, part of plant and/or the locus thereof one or more times: i) before emergence, ii) after emergence, or iii) both (i) and (ii), provided that composition (A) comprises one or more of flutriafol, triticonazole, tebuconazole, ipconazole, epoxyconazole, orysastrobin, prothioconazole fluoxastrobin, azoxystrobin, furametpyr, cyproconazole, a compound of formula (I) and a compound of formula (B), and pesticide composition (B) comprises glyphosate; wherein compound (I) is represented by or a tautomer of such a compound, and compound (B) is represented by formula or a tautomer of such a compound.
US08440589B2 Azomethine compound and thermal transfer sheet using coloring matter of the azomethine compound
This invention provides an azomethine compound that can realize a good coupling reaction and, at the same time, can significantly reduce the production cost of the azomethine compound, the azomethine compound comprising a pyridine ring bonded through a nitrogen atom to a 1H-pyrazolo[1,5-b][1,2,4]triazole ring. The azomethine compound is represented by formula (M-I): wherein R1 represents a phenyl group or a naphthyl group optionally substituted by an alkyl group or a halogen; and R2 and R3 each independently represent a C2-4 (number of carbon atoms) alkyl group.
US08440588B2 Creating background colors on thermal printing material
A dye resin ink application process using flexographic printing, flood coating, tinting, or other suitable technique or process to add a color layer on top of a thermal ink layer of a material. The color layer provides a background color, such that upon application of the heat source, the thermal image appears as being imaged onto the background color. The process can be used to make heat-sensitive direct thermal labels or thermal paper rolls, including cash register-type rolls, poster printer format rolls, etc. The process permits thermal-inked material to be produced in various colors in relatively small print runs using conventional equipment.
US08440587B2 Method of producing color change in a web substrate
The present invention relates to a method of producing a web substrate comprising an activatable colorant and at least one region comprising a topical additive. The web substrate is exposed to a first external stimulus producing a first activated color region. The first activated color region is subsequently exposed to a second external stimulus producing a second activated color region within the first activated color region. The second external stimulus is induced by application of the topical additive such that the second activated color region coincides with the topical additive region.
US08440584B1 Methods for decontamination of powders
Provided herein are methods and apparatus to remove unwanted elements in commercial powders, and particularly in commercial powders that include one or more of a crystalline ceramic oxide. The methods involve treating powders in reduced pressure atmosphere, such as a vacuum, with or without heating, for a period of time sufficient to remove impurities. Impurities and contaminants, including anionic species, are removed from the powders without any undesirable changes in the physical characteristics of the starting material, such as particle size and particle size distribution, surface area, and volume, for example. The resulting purified powder starting material can be consolidated without the need for any sintering aids such as LiF to produce nearly colorless, extremely transparent polycrystalline articles that approach identical properties and performance of single crystal spinels.
US08440582B2 Flame resistant filler cloth and mattresses incorporating same
A filler cloth includes cellulosic fibers treated with a flame retardant chemistry such that the filler cloth has a char length of less than about nine inches when tested in accordance with NFPA 701, such that thermal shrinkage of the filler cloth at 400° F. is less than about 35% in any direction, and such that the filler cloth maintains flame and heat resistant integrity when impinged with a gas flame in accordance with testing protocols set forth in Technical Bulletin 603 of the State of California Department of Consumer Affairs. The filler cloth cellulosic fibers are treated with a flame retardant chemistry such that the filler cloth has a Frazier air permeability of less than about 400 cfm and a thermal resistance rating of at least about 3 when tested according to NFPA 2112.
US08440576B2 Method for pitch reduction in integrated circuit fabrication
A method for patterning a material is provided. The method includes patterning a second material over a first material over a substrate. A surface portion of the patterned second material is converted to form a third material and a remaining patterned second material, wherein the third material is around the remaining patterned second material. One of the remaining patterned second material and the third material is removed to form a mask. The first material is patterned by using the mask.
US08440572B2 Si etching method
A Si etching method includes: arranging a silicon substrate or a substrate having a silicon layer in a processing chamber; generating a plasma of an etching gas in the processing chamber; and etching the silicon substrate by the plasma. The etching gas is a gaseous mixture including a Br2 gas and one of a Cl2 gas and a chloride gas. The chloride gas has a mass that is higher than that of the Cl2 gas.
US08440571B2 Methods for deposition of silicon carbide and silicon carbonitride films
Methods for deposition of silicon carbide films on a substrate surface are provided. The methods include the use of vapor phase carbosilane precursors and may employ plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition processes. The methods may be carried out at temperatures less than 600° C., for example between about 23° C. and about 200° C. or at about 100° C. This silicon carbide layer may then be densified to remove hydrogen content. Additionally, the silicon carbide layer may be exposed to a nitrogen source to provide reactive N—H groups, which can then be used to continue film deposition using other methods. Plasma processing conditions can be used to adjust the carbon, hydrogen and/or nitrogen content of the films.
US08440562B2 Germanium-containing dielectric barrier for low-K process
A semiconductor structure and methods of forming the same are provided. The semiconductor structure includes a semiconductor substrate; a first dielectric layer over the semiconductor substrate; a conductive wiring in the first dielectric layer; and a copper germanide nitride layer over the conductive wiring.
US08440559B2 Work function adjustment in high-K metal gate electrode structures by selectively removing a barrier layer
Generally, the present disclosure is directed work function adjustment in high-k metal gate electrode structures. In one illustrative embodiment, a method is disclosed that includes removing a placeholder material of a first gate electrode structure and a second gate electrode structure, and forming a first work function adjusting material layer in the first and second gate electrode structures, wherein the first work function adjusting material layer includes a tantalum nitride layer. The method further includes removing a portion of the first work function adjusting material layer from the second gate electrode structure by using the tantalum nitride layer as an etch stop layer, removing the tantalum nitride layer by performing a wet chemical etch process, and forming a second work function adjusting material layer in the second gate electrode structure and above a non-removed portion of the first work function adjusting material layer in the first gate electrode structure.
US08440555B2 Method for analyzing electrolytic copper plating solution
Effective fillability and the uniformity electrodeposition of a copper electroplating solution is judged by determining the time-dependent potential change thereof at a cathode current density of 0.1-20 A/dm2. The potential change is determined at a working electrode rotation of 100-7500 rpm, and the fillability with the solution is judged from the curve profile. In an embodiment of the present invention, the fillability is judged by obtaining the potential change speed in the initial stage of electrolysis and the potential convergent point from the time-dependent potential change curve for a predetermined period of time after the start of the electrolysis.
US08440546B2 Methods and devices for fabricating and assembling printable semiconductor elements
The invention provides methods and devices for fabricating printable semiconductor elements and assembling printable semiconductor elements onto substrate surfaces. Methods, devices and device components of the present invention are capable of generating a wide range of flexible electronic and optoelectronic devices and arrays of devices on substrates comprising polymeric materials. The present invention also provides stretchable semiconductor structures and stretchable electronic devices capable of good performance in stretched configurations.
US08440541B2 Methods for reducing the width of the unbonded region in SOI structures
The disclosure relates to preparation of silicon on insulator structures with reduced unbonded regions and to methods for producing such wafers by minimizing the roll-off amount (ROA) of the handle and donor wafers. Methods for polishing wafers are also provided.
US08440535B2 Forming a phase change memory with an ovonic threshold switch
A phase change memory may include an ovonic threshold switch formed over an cyanic memory. In one embodiment, the switch includes a chalcogenide layer that overlaps an underlying electrode. Then, edge damage, due to etching the chalcogenide layer, may be isolated to reduce leakage current.
US08440527B2 Memory device and method of fabricating the same
A memory device and a method of fabricating the same are provided. The memory device includes a tunneling dielectric layer on a substrate, a charge storage layer on the tunneling dielectric layer, a blocking dielectric layer on the charge storage layer, the blocking dielectric layer including a first dielectric layer having silicon oxide, a second dielectric layer on the first dielectric layer and having aluminum silicate, and a third dielectric layer formed on the second dielectric layer and having aluminum oxide, and an upper electrode on the blocking dielectric layer.
US08440525B2 Method for obtaining extreme selectivity of metal nitrides and metal oxides
Methods for etching metal nitrides and metal oxides include using ultradilute HF solutions and buffered, low-pH HF solutions containing a minimal amount of the hydrofluoric acid species H2F2. The etchant can be used to selectively remove metal nitride layers relative to doped or undoped oxides, tungsten, polysilicon, and titanium nitride. A method is provided for producing an isolated capacitor, which can be used in a dynamic random access memory cell array, on a substrate using sacrificial layers selectively removed to expose outer surfaces of the bottom electrode.
US08440522B2 Increasing an electrical resistance of a resistor by oxidation
A method for increasing an electrical resistance of a resistor that is within a semiconductor structure. A fraction of a surface layer of the resistor is oxidized with oxygen particles. In an embodiment, the fraction of the surface layer is heated by a beam of particles, such that the semiconductor structure is within a chamber that includes the oxygen particles as gaseous oxygen-comprising molecules. In an embodiment, the semiconductor structure is immersed in a chemical solution which includes the oxygen particles, wherein the oxygen particles includes oxygen-comprising liquid molecules, oxygen ions, or an oxygen-comprising gas dissolved in the chemical solution under pressurization. In an embodiment, the resistor is tested to determine whether the electrical resistance of the resistor after being oxidized with the oxygen particles is within a tolerance of a predetermined target resistance.
US08440516B2 Method of forming a field effect transistor
A method of forming a field effect transistor comprises providing a substrate comprising a biaxially strained layer of a semiconductor material. A gate electrode is formed on the biaxially strained layer of semiconductor material. A raised source region and a raised drain region are formed adjacent the gate electrode. Ions of a dopant material are implanted into the raised source region and the raised drain region to form an extended source region and an extended drain region. Moreover, in methods of forming a field effect transistor according to embodiments of the present invention, a gate electrode can be formed in a recess of a layer of semiconductor material. Thus, a field effect transistor wherein a source side channel contact region and a drain side channel contact region located adjacent a channel region are subject to biaxial strain can be obtained.
US08440511B1 Method for manufacturing multi-gate transistor device
A method for manufacturing multi-gate transistor device includes providing a semiconductor substrate having a patterned semiconductor layer and a patterned hard mask sequentially formed thereon, removing the patterned hard mask, performing a thermal treatment to rounding the patterned semiconductor layer with a process temperature lower than 800° C., and sequentially forming a gate dielectric layer and a gate layer covering a portion of the patterned semiconductor layer on the semiconductor substrate.
US08440506B2 Microelectronic package and method for a compression-based mid-level interconnect
A microelectronic package includes first substrate (120) having first surface area (125) and second substrate (130) having second surface area (135). The first substrate includes first set of interconnects (126) having first pitch (127) at first surface (121) and second set of interconnects (128) having second pitch (129) at second surface (222). The second substrate is coupled to the first substrate using the second set of interconnects and includes third set of interconnects (236) having third pitch (237) and internal electrically conductive layers (233, 234) connected to each other with microvia (240). The first pitch is smaller than the second pitch, the second pitch is smaller than the third pitch, and the first surface area is smaller than the second surface area.
US08440503B1 Methods for performing reflow in bonding processes
A method includes placing a cover over a lower package component, wherein the cover comprises an opening aligned to the lower package component. An upper package component is placed over the lower package component. The upper package component is aligned to the opening, and a solder region is dispose between the upper package component and the lower package component. The cover and the upper package component are exposed to a radiation to reflow the solder region.
US08440502B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the semiconductor device
An object is to suppress deterioration of element characteristics even when an oxide semiconductor is formed after a gate insulating layer, a source electrode layer, and a drain electrode layer are formed. A gate electrode layer is formed over a substrate. A gate insulating layer is formed over the gate electrode layer. A source electrode layer and a drain electrode layer are formed over the gate insulating layer. Surface treatment is performed on surfaces of the gate insulating layer, the source electrode layer, and the drain electrode layer which are formed over the substrate. After the surface treatment is performed, an oxide semiconductor layer is formed over the gate insulating layer, the source electrode layer, and the drain electrode layer.
US08440501B2 Memory device
A memory or switching device includes a mesa and a first electrode conforming to said mesa. The device also includes a second electrode and a phase-change or switching material disposed between said first and second electrodes. The phase-change or switching material is in electrical communication with the first and second electrodes at a first contact region and a second contact region respectively. Also described is a method for making a memory or switching device. The method includes providing a first insulator and configuring the first insulator to provide a mesa. A first conductive layer is provided conforming to the mesa. A phase-change or switching material is provided over a portion of the first conductive layer, and a second conductive layer is provided over the phase-change or switching material.
US08440500B2 Light emitting device
A light emitting device comprises a plurality of LED chips (“lateral” or “vertical” conducting) operable to generate light of a first wavelength range and a package for housing the chips. The package comprises: a thermally conducting substrate (copper) on which the LED chips are mounted and a cover having a plurality of through-holes in which each hole corresponds to a respective one of the LED chips. The holes are configured such that when the cover is mounted to the substrate each hole in conjunction with the substrate defines a recess in which a respective chip is housed. Each recess is at least partially filled with a mixture of at least one phosphor material and a transparent material. In a device with “lateral” conducting LED chips a PCB is mounted on the substrate and includes a plurality of through-holes which are configured such that each chip is directly mounted to the substrate. For a device with “vertical” conducting LED chips the LED chips are mounted on a diamond like carbon film.
US08440497B2 Fabricating kesterite solar cells and parts thereof
A Kesterite film is vacuum deposited and annealed on a substrate. Deposition is conducted at low temperature to provide good composition control and efficient use of metals. Annealing is conducted at a high temperature for a short period of time. Thermal evaporation, E-beam evaporation or sputtering in a high vacuum environment may be employed as part of a deposition process.
US08440496B2 Solar cell with conductive material embedded substrate
Conductive material grids or lines embedded or partially embedded in a transparent substrate of a solar cell. The grids or lines can have a higher conductivity than the anode or they can have the same conductivity. The grids or lines increase the volume of the anode and, thus decrease sheet resistance of the same.
US08440490B2 CMOS imager photodiode with enhanced capacitance
A method for manufacturing a pixel sensor cell that includes a photosensitive element having a non-laterally disposed charge collection region. The method includes forming a trench recess in a substrate of a first conductivity type material, and filling the trench recess with a material having second conductivity type material. The second conductivity type material is then diffused out of the filled trench material to the substrate region surrounding the trench to form the non-laterally disposed charge collection region. The filled trench material is removed to provide a trench recess, and the trench recess is filled with a material having a first conductivity type material. A surface implant layer is formed at either side of the trench having a first conductivity type material. A collection region of a trench-type photosensitive element is formed of the outdiffused second conductivity type material and is isolated from the substrate surface.
US08440481B2 Manufacturing method of the electronic component
Manufacturing method of an electronic component including connecting one lead of a pair of leads to a surface parallel with a pn connection layer of an electronic element having a structure where the p-type layer and the n-type layer are connected by the pn connection layer provided between the p-type layer and the n-type layer, connecting another lead to another surface parallel with the pn connection layer; and forming a supporting part of the pair of the leads that is connected to and supporting the electronic element, and an electrode part functioning as an electrode, by bending the pair of the leads to an outside.
US08440479B2 Method for forming an organic light emitting diode device
A method for sealing an organic light emitting diode (OLED) device is disclosed wherein the OLED device comprises a color filter. A color filter is deposited on a first glass plate or substrate and a glass-based frit is then deposited in a loop around the color filter, The deposited fit loop is then heated by electromagnetic energy to evaporate organic constituents and to sinter the fit in a pre-sintering step. An OLED device may then be assembled by positioning a second glass plate comprising an organic light emitting material deposited thereon in overlying registration with the first glass plate, with the color filer and the organic light emitting material positioned between the plates. The fit is then heated with a laser to form a hermetic seal between the first and second glass plates.
US08440476B2 Method for producing zinc oxide-based semiconductor light-emitting device and zinc oxide-based semiconductor light-emitting device
The ohmic contact between a growth substrate and an electrode formed thereon is improved in a zinc oxide-based semiconductor light-emitting device, thereby improving the light-emission efficiency and reliability A step for forming an n-type semiconductor layer, a light-emitting layer, and a p-type semiconductor layer in sequence on a first principal face of a substrate having a composition of MgxZn1-xO (0≦x≦0.68); a step for forming microcracks in a second principal face of the substrate so as to extend toward an interior of the substrate; a step for carrying out a heat treatment at a temperature of 100° C. or higher; and a step for forming an electrode by depositing a metal material composed of one among Al, a Ga alloy, and an In alloy on the second principal face of the substrate, and forming an electrode in a heat treatment at a temperature of 300° C. to 1000° C. are provided.
US08440474B2 Chip quality determination method and marking mechanism using same
A chip quality determination method includes the steps of (a) determining the continuity of defective chips in at least four directions of an X-axis and a Y-axis on a wafer based on the wafer test result of determining the acceptability of chips arranged in a matrix in the four directions on the wafer, and dividing the defective chips into one or more defective groups so that successive ones of the defective chips are in the same defective group; (b) calculating a quality determination index of each of one or more determination target wafer periphery neighboring chips among wafer periphery neighboring chips located within a predetermined range from the periphery of the wafer based on the distance from a corresponding one of the defective groups; and (c) determining the quality of the determination target wafer periphery neighboring chips by comparing the quality determination indexes thereof with a preset threshold.
US08440472B2 Stacking apparatus and method for stacking integrated circuit elements
A stacking apparatus that stacks chip assemblies each having a plurality of chips disposed continuously with circuit patterns and electrodes, includes: a plurality of stages each allowed to move arbitrarily, on which the chip assemblies are placed; a storage unit that stores an estimated extent of change in a position of an electrode at each chip, expected to occur as heat is applied to the chip assemblies placed on the plurality of stages during a stacking process; and a control unit that sets positions of the plurality of stages to be assumed relative to each other during the stacking process based upon the estimated extent of change in the position of the electrode at each chip provided from the storage unit and position information indicating positions of individual chips formed at the chip assemblies and controls at least one of the plurality of stages.
US08440468B2 Method for amplifying variation of frequency of signal in piezoelectrical biosensor
Provided is a method for amplifying a frequency variation of a detected signal in a biosensor that is used for detecting a biomolecule by measuring a change in frequency of an oscillating signal, the change being caused by pressure a biomolecule applies to a piezoelectric substance. The method for amplifying a frequency variation of a detected signal comprises the steps of: (a) applying a sample to a probe being fixed to an upper portion of a substrate of the biosensor to allow a biomolecule in the sample to be bound to the probe; (b) applying protein tagged with a metal particle to the biosensor to allow the protein and the biomolecule to be bound with each other; and (c) applying a metal enhancer to the biosensor to allow the metal enhancer to be bound to the metal particle having been bound to the protein.
US08440465B2 Methods and apparatus for fractionation-based chemical analyses
A method for analyzing chemicals includes fractionating a complex sample into at least two sample portions that each include portions of two polypeptides though in different concentration ratios, digesting and performing LC/MS on each of the sample portions, and associating precursor ions observed via LC/MS with their corresponding polypeptide in response to LC/MS-provided intensity data. A set of precursor-ions that has substantially similar intensity ratios in both sample portions is determined to be associated with the same polypeptide.
US08440464B2 Method for evaluation or selection of adiponectin secretion regulator
Provided is a method for conveniently and rapidly evaluating or selecting an adiponectin secretion regulator.The method for evaluating or selecting an adiponectin secretion regulator includes the following steps (A) to (C): (A) a step of administering a test substance to an experimental animal; (B) a step of inducing a sleep deprivation in the experimental animal; and (C) a step of measuring blood adiponectin level of the animal, and evaluating change of the blood adiponectin level.
US08440462B2 Use of a hydrogel for the culture of chondrocytes
The invention relates to the use of a silanised hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) or silanised hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) hydrogel, self-crosslinking as a function of pH, for the three-dimensional ex vivo culture of chondrocytes.
US08440458B2 Process for the culturing of cells
The invention relates to a process for the culturing of cells, preferably E1-immortalized HER cells, more preferably PER.C6 cells in a reactor in suspension in a cell culture medium, wherein the cells produce a biological substance, preferably an antibody, wherein at least one cell culture medium component is fed to the cell culture and wherein the cell culture comprising the cells, the biological substance and cell culture medium is circulated over a separation system and wherein the separation system separates the biological substance from substances having a lower molecular weight than the biological substance and wherein the biological substance is retained in or fed back into the reactor. Preferably part of the substances of lower molecular weight is continuously removed from the cell culture.
US08440447B2 Extraction and concentration method
A method for extraction and concentration of antibodies, antigens, bacteria and virus from biological samples. The method also provides a preparation that is suitable for use as a vaccine. The method includes the addition of liquid carboxylic acids and a centrifugation step.
US08440446B2 Bacteriophage strains for the treatment of bacterial infections, especially drug resistant strains of the genus Enterococcus
Novel bacteriophage strains are disclosed and their use in the production of preparations for use in the treatment of bacterial infections, particularly with drug resistant strains of bacteria of the genus Enterococcus, particularly those belonging to the species Enterococcus faecalis.
US08440444B2 Hybrid enzymes
The present invention relates to hybrid polypeptides having a first amino acid sequence having endo-amylase activity and a second amino acid sequence having carbohydrate binding activity. The present invention also relates to the use of the hybrid polypeptides in starch processing and baking.
US08440443B1 MEK1 polypeptides
The present invention provides, inter alia, crystals of the MEK1 polypeptide which are particularly useful for structure based drug design as well as methods of use thereof.
US08440439B2 Method of carbon sequestration
Described are methods, apparatus, and a system for robust and long-term sequestration of carbon. In particular, described is the sequestration of carbon as carbonates, using coccolithophorid algae grown using land-based aquaculture. Also described are methods of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTCE).
US08440431B2 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.
US08440424B2 Identification of antibiotic resistance using labelled antibiotics
Subject of the present invention is a method for detection of an antibiotic resistance in a micro-organism comprising the steps of exposing suspected micro-organism to a labelled (fluorescent) antibiotic and observing the differences between it and a non-resistant micro-organism of the same type.
US08440422B2 Method for measuring phosphoric acid
In measuring phosphoric acid by the use of an enzyme cycling system using a dehydrogenase together with a thio-NADP, a thio-NAD, a reduced thio-NADP or a reduced thio-NAD as a coenzyme, phosphoric acid is measurable in a wide concentration range from a low concentration to a high concentration by measuring phosphoric acid after previous removal of free phosphoric acid in reagent components for the measurement.
US08440418B2 Metabolic syndrome and HPA axis biomarkers for major depressive disorder
Materials and methods for using combinations of metabolic syndrome and HPA axis biomarkers for monitoring major depressive disorder.
US08440417B2 Method for assaying compounds or agents for ability to displace potent ligands of hematopoietic prostaglandin D synthase
An exemplary embodiment may be directed to a fluorescence polarization assay that screens compounds or agents for their affinity to hematopoietic prostaglandin D synthase (H-PGDS) based on their ability to displace a fluorophore-containing detection analyte bound to an enzyme comprising the primary amino acid sequence of H-PGDS. Another exemplary embodiment utilizes an enzyme having a maltose binding protein amino-acid sequence fused with an N-terminus of the enzyme.
US08440416B2 Diagnostic test for the detection of a molecule or drug in whole blood
The invention provides methods of preparing a test sample for use in an assay for detecting an analyte bound by an intracellular ligand. The methods typically involve contacting the test sample with an assay reagent comprising: a lysis reagent; and a protease that has proteolytic activity for said intracellular ligand; to form a mixture compatible for use in an immunoassay without subsequent extraction steps. Other aspects of the invention include related immunoassays and test kits.
US08440415B2 BORIS isoforms and methods of detecting and treating disease
A method of detecting a proliferative disease, such as a disease associated with the abnormal expression of BORIS, in a mammal comprising testing for the expression of a BORIS isoform in the tissue of a mammal that does not express BORIS in the absence of disease, as well as a method of treating or preventing such a disease, isolated or purified BORIS isoform polypeptides and nucleic acids, and kits and arrays comprising same.
US08440413B2 Method of screening for a substance that strengthens a bond between thioredoxin and macrophage migration inhibition factor
Disclosed is a screening method which can select a substance having an influence on the binding between thioredoxin and MIF. The screening method is characterized in that a test substance capable of enhancing the binding between a polypeptide belonging to the thioredoxin family and a macrophage migration inhibitory factor is selected through the steps of mixing at least one binding substance selected from the substances (1) to (4) shown below with the test substance, allowing the binding substance to bind to the macrophage migration inhibitory factor, and confirming the binding between the binding substance and the macrophage migration inhibitory factor: (1) a polypeptide belonging to the thioredoxin family; (2) a protein which comprises an amino acid sequence produced by deleting, substituting or adding one or several amino acid residues in an amino acid sequence for a polypeptide belonging to the thioredoxin family and has the same activity as that of a polypeptide belonging to the thioredoxin family; (3) a gene encoding the polypeptide (1); and (4) a gene encoding the protein (2).
US08440410B2 Reagents and methods for use in cancer diagnosis, classification and therapy
Methods and reagents for classifying tumors and for identifying new tumor classes and subclasses. Methods for correlating tumor class or subclass with therapeutic regimen or outcome, for identifying appropriate (new or known) therapies for particular classes or subclasses, and for predicting outcomes based on class or subclass. New therapeutic agents and methods for the treatment of cancer.
US08440408B2 Animal protein-free media for cultivation of cells
The present invention relates to animal protein-free cell culture media comprising polyamines and a plant- and/or yeast-derived hydrolysate. The invention also relates to animal protein-free culturing processes, wherein cells can be cultivated, propagated and passaged without adding supplementary animal proteins in the culture medium. These processes are useful in cultivating cells, such as recombinant cells or cells infected with a virus, and for producing biological products by cell culture processes.
US08440405B2 Methods for detecting variant nucleic acids by extension-dependent degradation of primers
The present invention provides methods and kits for detecting the presence or absence or amount of a target nucleic acid or at least one variant nucleotide in one or more target nucleic acids contained in a sample using appropriate primers. The invention is based on systems whereby there is extension-dependent degradation of the primers in the presence of the target, which degradation leads to a detectable signal.
US08440397B2 High throughput genome sequencing on DNA arrays
The present invention is directed to methods and compositions for acquiring nucleotide sequence information of target sequences using adaptors interspersed in target polynucleotides. The sequence information can be new, e.g. sequencing unknown nucleic acids, re-sequencing, or genotyping. The invention preferably includes methods for inserting a plurality of adaptors at spaced locations within a target polynucleotide or a fragment of a polynucleotide. Such adaptors may serve as platforms for interrogating adjacent sequences using various sequencing chemistries, such as those that identify nucleotides by primer extension, probe ligation, and the like. Encompassed in the invention are methods and compositions for the insertion of known adaptor sequences into target sequences, such that there is an interruption of contiguous target sequence with the adaptors. By sequencing both “upstream” and “downstream” of the adaptors, identification of entire target sequences may be accomplished.
US08440396B2 Method enabling use of extracellular RNA extracted from plasma or serum to detect, monitor or evaluate cancer
This invention relates to the use of tumor-derived or associated extracellular ribonucleic acid (RNA) found circulating in the plasma or serum fraction of blood for the detection, monitoring, or evaluation of cancer or premalignant conditions. Specifically, this invention enables the extraction of circulating RNA from plasma or serum and utilizes nucleic acid amplification assays for the identification, detection, inference, monitoring, or evaluation of any neoplasm, benign, premalignant, or malignant, in humans or other animals, which might be associated with that RNA. Further, this invention allows the qualitative or quantitative detection of tumor-derived or associated extracellular RNA circulating in the plasma or serum of humans or animals with or without any prior knowledge of the presence of cancer or premalignant tissue.
US08440393B2 Pro-angiogenic genes in ovarian tumor endothelial cell isolates
A gene profiling signature for ovarian tumor endothelial cells is disclosed herein. The gene signature can be used to diagnosis or prognosis an ovarian tumor, identify agents to treat an ovarian tumor, to predict the metastatic potential of an ovarian tumor and to determine the effectiveness of ovarian tumor treatments. Thus, methods are provided for identifying agents that can be used to treat ovarian cancer, for determining the effectiveness of an ovarian tumor treatment, or to diagnose or prognose an ovarian tumor. Methods of treatment are also disclosed which include administering a composition that includes a specific binding agent that specifically binds to one of the disclosed ovarian endothelial cell tumor-associated molecules and inhibits ovarian tumor in the subject.
US08440387B2 Graded topcoat materials for immersion lithography
A topcoat material for immersion lithography and a method of performing immersion lithography using the topcoat material. The topcoat material includes a mixture of a first polymer and a second polymer. The first and second polymers of the topcoat material, when the topcoat material is formed into a topcoat layer between an immersion fluid and a photoresist layer, disperse non-homogenously throughout the topcoat layer.
US08440385B2 Positive resist composition, method of forming resist pattern and polymeric compound
A positive resist composition including a base component (A′) which exhibits increased solubility in an alkali developing solution under the action of acid and generates acid upon exposure, the base component (A′) including a resin component (A1) having a structural unit (a0-1) represented by general formula (a0-1), a structural unit (a0-2) which generates acid upon exposure and a structural unit (a1) derived from an acrylate ester containing an acid dissociable, dissolution inhibiting group (wherein R1 represents a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group of 1 to 5 carbon atoms or a halogenated alkyl group of 1 to 5 carbon atoms, R2 represents a divalent linking group, and R3 represents a cyclic group containing —SO2— within the ring skeleton thereof).
US08440384B2 Compound, salt, and radiation-sensitive resin composition
A compound has a partial structure shown by a following formula (1), wherein R1 represents a hydrogen atom or a substituted or unsubstituted hydrocarbon group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, R2 represents a substituted or unsubstituted hydrocarbon group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, Rf represents a fluorine atom or a perfluoroalkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, L represents an integer from 0 to 4, n represents an integer from 0 to 10, and m represents an integer from 1 to 4.
US08440382B2 Method of producing toner
A method of stably producing a toner is provided. This method provides a long-term stabilization of material dispersion in a colorant-dispersed solution and inhibits segregation of the material and provides a more microfine and more uniform dispersion of the colorant in the toner, and moreover produces a toner that has a sharp toner particle diameter distribution. This method of producing toner has at least a colorant dispersion step of obtaining a colorant-dispersed solution by dispersing a pigment-containing colorant in a liquid mixture that contains the colorant and a dissolved resin solution or a polymerizable monomer, wherein the liquid mixture contains a nonionic surfactant and the nonionic surfactant has at least an oxyalkylene group and has a hydrophile-lipophile balance value (HLB value) of 9.0 or more and 17.0 or less.
US08440381B2 Liquid electrophotographic ink with a charge director system
The present disclosure is drawn to compositions and methods for a liquid electrophotographic ink printing. The composition comprises a liquid vehicle; ink particles; and a charge director system, comprising i) a primary charge component, ii) a secondary charge component, and iii) an electrical stability additive; such that the charge director system provides the following ink conductivities: a high field conductivity of about 100 pS/cm to about 500 pS/cm, a low field conductivity of about 20 pS/cm to about 200 pS/cm, a direct charge conductivity less than about 30 pS/cm, and a particle conductivity of at least 100 pS/cm. Additionally, the liquid electrophotographic ink can be formulated for printing from a liquid electrophotographic printer.
US08440379B2 Liquid electrophotographic ink having improved durability
The present disclosure is drawn to a liquid electrophotographic ink, comprising a carrier liquid, and a pigment-polymer blend composition dispersed in the carrier liquid, the pigment-polymer blend composition comprising a pigment and a polymer blend of three distinct polymers. The polymer blend can comprise a first polymer having a melt flow rate of about 20 to about 70 g/10 min and a Vicat softening point of about 60° C. to about 70° C., a second polymer having a melt flow rate of about 80 to about 120 g/10 min, and a third polymer having an acidity of about 160 to about 230 mg KOH/g and a melt flow rate of at least 500 g/10 min. The liquid electrophotographic ink is typically formulated for printing from a liquid electrophotographic printer.
US08440377B2 Electrophotographic photosensitive member and electrophotographic apparatus
An electrophotographic photosensitive member includes a substrate, a photoconductive layer, an intermediate layer, and a surface layer sequentially formed. The intermediate layer contains silicon, carbon and hydrogen, and a distribution of a hydrogen ratio, which is a ratio of the number of hydrogen atoms to the number of silicon, carbon and hydrogen atoms, in the intermediate layer has a maximum region. A largest hydrogen atomic ratio in the intermediate layer is larger than a hydrogen atomic ratio in the surface layer, and the hydrogen atomic ratio in the surface layer is 0.30 to 0.45. A distribution of a carbon atomic ratio, which is a ratio of the number of carbon atoms to the number of silicon and carbon atoms, in the intermediate layer has a maximum and a minimum region. A carbon atomic ratio in the maximum region is 0.53 to 0.63, a carbon atomic ratio in the minimum region is 0.47 or more, and the maximum hydrogen region in the intermediate layer is partially superimposed on the minimum carbon region.
US08440375B2 Exposure method and electronic device manufacturing method
An exposure method for exposing a bright-dark pattern onto each exposure region of a substrate via a projection optical system includes a position detection process for detecting positions of a plurality of microscopic regions in a unit exposure field of the substrate, a deformation calculation step of calculating a state of deformation in the unit exposure field based on information related to the positions of the plurality of microscopic regions obtained in the position detection step, and a shape modification step of modifying the shape of the bright-dark pattern to be exposed on the substrate based on the deformation state obtained in the deformation calculation step. The microscopic regions detected in the position detection step include a circuit pattern formed in the unit exposure field.
US08440369B2 Nanowire-based membrane electrode assemblies for fuel cells
The present invention discloses nanowires for use in a fuel cell comprising a metal catalyst deposited on a surface of the nanowires. A membrane electrode assembly for a fuel cell is disclosed which generally comprises a proton exchange membrane, an anode electrode, and a cathode electrode, wherein at least one or more of the anode electrode and cathode electrode comprise an interconnected network of the catalyst supported nanowires. Methods are also disclosed for preparing a membrane electrode assembly and fuel cell based upon an interconnected network of nanowires.
US08440363B2 Electrode for fuel cell and fuel cell comprising same
The present invention relates to an electrode for a fuel cell containing a catalyst layer, a gas diffusion layer including a conductive substrate, and a micro-porous layer interposed between the catalyst layer and the gas diffusion layer and including a conductive material and a dispersant.
US08440356B2 Process for manufacturing electrolyte assembly for secondary battery of novel laminated structure
Disclosed is the present invention directed to a process for manufacturing an electrode assembly, including: prior to assembling to electrode, bending a cathode, having an active material layer coated on one major surface of a current collector, and an anode, having an active material layer coated on one major surface of another current collector, in a zigzag fashion in vertical sections; and after the bending of the cathode and the anode, fitting the cathode and the anode to each other, such that the electrode active material layers face each other, while a separator is disposed between the cathode and the anode.
US08440354B2 Cathode active material for lithium secondary battery
Provided is a lithium transition metal oxide having an α-NaFeO2 layered crystal structure, as a cathode active material for lithium secondary battery, wherein the transition metal includes a blend of Ni and Mn, an average oxidation number of the transition metals except lithium is +3 or higher, and the lithium transition metal oxide satisfies Equations 1 and 2 below: 1.0
US08440351B2 Positive electrode for lithium ion secondary battery and lithium ion secondary battery including same
A rechargeable lithium ion battery including a positive electrode a positive active material and including a negative electrode having a negative active material. The positive active material includes a lithium-manganese-based compound core and a heat resistant polymer disposed on the lithium-manganese-based compound core. The heat resistant polymer has a glass transition temperature (Tg) ranging from about 80 to about 400° C.Alternatively, the positive active material may include a lithium-manganese-based compound core and an inorganic metal compound as well as the heat resistant polymer with a glass transition temperature (Tg) ranging from about 80 to about 400° C. disposed on the lithium-manganese-based compound core.
US08440349B2 Nonaqueous electrolyte solution and lithium secondary battery using same
The present invention provides a nonaqueous electrolytic solution exhibiting excellent battery characteristics such as electrical capacity, cycle property and storage property and capable of maintaining the battery characteristics for a long time, and a lithium secondary battery using the nonaqueous electrolytic solution.A nonaqueous electrolytic solution for a lithium secondary battery, in which an electrolyte salt is dissolved in a nonaqueous solvent, containing 0.1 to 10% by weight of an ethylene carbonate derivative represented by the general formula (I) shown below, and 0.01 to 10% by weight of (A) a triple bond-containing compound and/or (B) a pentafluorophenyloxy compound represented by the general formula (X) shown below: wherein R1 to R3 each independently represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, an alkenyl group, an alkynyl group or an aryl group, provided that ethylene carbonate is excluded from the definition of the ethylene carbonate derivative, wherein R15 represents an alkylcarbonyl group, an alkoxycarbonyl group, an aryloxycarbonyl group or an alkanesulfonyl group.
US08440345B2 Battery pack of improved stability
Disclosed herein is a battery pack wherein a rectangular battery having an electrode assembly and an electrolyte contained therein in a sealed state is received in a pack case, and an insulating material is filled in a space defined between the inner surface of the upper end of the pack case and the upper end of the battery, whereby the battery pack is manufactured with a reduced thickness, the assembly process of the battery pack is very simple, and short circuit of the battery pack or suspension of power supply from the battery pack, which may occur as the battery is moved, is effectively prevented even when the battery pack falls down or external impacts are applied to the battery pack.
US08440342B2 Thermal battery cathode materials and batteries including same
Cathode materials for use in thermal batteries are disclosed. The cathode material includes a primary active material and an amount of a bi-metal sulfide such as CuFeS2. Batteries (e.g., thermal batteries) that contain such cathode materials are also disclosed.
US08440340B2 Battery latching assembly for portable electronic device
A battery latching assembly is used for a portable electronic device. The battery latching assembly includes a base body and a latching member. The base body defines a first hole and a second hole. The latching member is attached to the base body. The latching member includes a resisting block, a button portion and a bent arm. The resisting block is received in the first hole configured for abutting against a battery. The button portion is received in the second hole. The bent arm is deformed to allow the resisting block to separate from the first hole to releasably latch the battery.
US08440338B2 Battery assembling body and vehicle on which battery assembling body is mounted
A battery assembling body capable of preventing a temperature rise of a battery while preventing an inflow of foreign matters. The battery assembling body (12) includes a housing (15) which contains batteries (2a, 2b, 6), a side frame (17) which is used to detachably fit the housing (15) to a lower frame of a vehicle, a ventilation hole (18c) located upper part of the housing (15), and a ventilation space (24a, 24b) which is formed between the housing (15) and the batteries, and the ventilation space (24, 24b) is in communication with the ventilation hole (18c).
US08440324B2 Compositions comprising novel copolymers and electronic devices made with such compositions
The present invention relates to novel copolymers, compositions comprising novel copolymers, and electronic devices comprising at least one layer containing the copolymer.
US08440320B2 Article
An article includes a substrate made of carbon fiber and zirconium diboride composites; an chromium layer deposited on the substrate; an chromium diffusing layer formed between the substrate and the chromium layer; and a iridium layer deposited on the chromium layer opposite to the chromium diffusing layer.
US08440318B2 Water-soluble substrate with resistance to dissolution prior to being immersed in water
A water-soluble substrate, and more particularly a water-soluble substrate that is resistant to dissolution, and methods of making the same are disclosed. The water-soluble substrate comprises a first surface and a second surface. A coating is applied to, and substantially covers at least one of said first and second surfaces. The elongation ratio between said coating and said water-soluble substrate is at least 1. Articles, such as pouches, made from the water-soluble substrate, are also disclosed herein.
US08440313B2 Crosslinkable thermoset monomer, composition for producing printed circuit board comprising the thermoset monomer and printed circuit board using the composition
Disclosed herein is a crosslinkable thermoset monomer. The crosslinkable thermoset monomer has acetylene groups as crosslinking groups introduced at both ends of the backbone. Also disclosed herein is a composition for producing a printed circuit board which comprises the crosslinkable thermoset monomer. The composition exhibits excellent mechanical and thermal properties. Therefore, the composition can be used as a material for next-generation boards that are becoming lighter in weight and smaller in size and thickness. Also disclosed herein is a printed circuit board using the composition.
US08440304B2 Acrylic pressure sensitive adhesive formulation and articles comprising same
Pressure sensitive adhesive formulations of an acrylic polymer grafted with a macromer are particularly well suited for use in the manufacture of impact resistant articles such as impact resistant glass laminates and products comprising such laminates.
US08440303B2 Polycrystalline diamond compacts and related drill bits
In an embodiment, a polycrystalline diamond compact (“PDC”) comprises a cemented carbide substrate including a first cemented carbide portion and a second cemented carbide portion bonded to the first cemented carbide portion and exhibiting an erosion resistance that is greater than the first cemented carbide portion. The PDC further comprises a polycrystalline diamond (“PCD”) table bonded to the first cemented carbide portion. The PCD table includes a plurality of bonded diamond grains exhibiting diamond-to-diamond bonding therebetween, with the plurality of bonded diamond grains defining a plurality of interstitial regions.
US08440301B2 Coating apparatus and method
The invention is directed toward a method and apparatus which can be used to allow the sputter deposition of material onto at least one article to form a coating on the same. The new form of magnetron described herein allows an increase in sputter deposition rates to be achieved at higher powers and without causing damage to the coating being created. This can be achieved by improved cooling and use of a relatively high magnetic field in the magnetron while at the same time increasing the power to the magnetron by increasing the current at a rate faster than the voltage.
US08440298B2 Method for dry grinding a material containing a carbonate ore
The present invention provides a product obtained by a method of dry milling a mineral material in at least one milling unit: (i) in the presence of at least one polyalkylene glycol polymer having monomer units forming a backbone, where at least 90% of the monomer units forming the backbone of the polymer are constituted by ethylene oxide, propylene oxide or their mixtures, and where the polymer has a molecular weight of at least equal to 400 g/mole, and (ii) in a quantity of water that is less than 10% in dry weight of the material in the milling unit.
US08440297B2 Polymer organoclay composites
The instant invention generally provides polymer organoclay composite comprising a molecularly self-assembling material and an organoclay, and a process of making and an article comprising the polymer organoclay composite. The instant invention also generally provides a fiber comprising the polymer organoclay composite, and a process of fabricating and an article comprising the fiber.
US08440292B2 Multi-layer article for flexible printed circuits
Provided is a multi-layer article comprising an electrically conductive metal layer adheringly contacting the surface of a polymeric composite film less than 500 μm in thickness, having a surface, the polymeric composite film comprising a polymer and a plurality of surface-modified hexagonal boron nitride particles dispersed therewithin. A process of film casting onto a conductive metal layer is provided.
US08440287B2 Vehicle interior material
A vehicle interior material of the present invention is a vehicle interior material that is disposed in a lower side of windshield glass inside a compartment and includes a grain structure including a concavity and a convexity on the upper face thereof, the vehicle interior material including at the convexity of the grain structure, a diffuse reflection face that is inclined with respect to a general upper face of the grain structure.
US08440285B2 Composite, prepreg, laminated plate clad with metal foil, material for connecting circuit board, and multilayer printed wiring board and method for manufacture thereof
It is an object of the invention to provide a composite with sufficiently reliable bonding and adequately minimized generation of fluff from flaking resin dust and fibers. This object is achieved by the composite (100) of the invention that comprises a fiber sheet (101) impregnated with a resin composition (102), wherein the 20° C. storage elastic modulus of the cured resin composition (102) is 100-2000 MPa. The composite (100) optionally contains perforations (103).
US08440284B2 Reinforced lap in an inseam mechanically attached roofing membrane, methods for making the same, and method for installing the same
Disclosed herein is an improvement for an inseam mechanically attached roofing membrane which includes a body portion, a mechanically fastened edge on one length with a fold line along the body portion and an overlap portion overlying the body portion. Further disclosed herein is a roofing material for a lap type roof system with a reinforced lap edge, which includes the base portion of the roofing material and a secondary portion of material disposed at the edge of the base portion.
US08440275B2 Microwave cooking packages and methods of making thereof
A microwave insulating material includes a dimensionally stable support, a patterned adhesive layer overlying at least a portion of the support, a polymer film layer overlying the patterned adhesive layer, and a plurality of expandable cells disposed between the support and the polymer film layer and defined by the patterned adhesive layer, wherein the expandable cells vary in size. A self-sealing microwave package includes a sheet of insulating material including a first surface, and a thermally activatable adhesive applied to at least a portion of the first surface.
US08440273B2 Coating composition for forming a glossy inkjet-receptive coating on a substrate
A coating composition for forming a glossy, inkjet-receptive coating on a substrate includes (a) a cationic polymer, and (b) colloidal silica having an average particle size in the nanometer range.
US08440267B2 Method of manufacturing laminated body
A process for efficiently forming a thick coating layer having a uniform thickness on the surface of a base material having a curved surface. The process comprises the steps of forming a coating film having a predetermined thickness by applying a coating agent containing a polymerizable monomer on the curved surface of a base material, and then curing the coating film in an atmosphere of an oxygen concentration of not more than 500 ppm by photo-polymerization while substantially maintaining the uniformity of the thickness of the coating film. Preferably, the photo-polymerization of the coating film is carried out while rotating the base material at a rotational speed of from 20 to 1500 rpm.
US08440260B2 Diruthenium complex, and material and method for chemical vapor deposition
A diruthenium complex such as tetra(μ-formato)diruthenium(II,II) or tetra(μ-formato)(dehydrate)diruthenium(II,II), a material for chemical vapor deposition which comprises the complex, and a method of forming a ruthenium film from the material by chemical vapor deposition.
US08440251B2 Doughs containing dehydrated potato products
Improved doughs containing dehydrated potato products, food products made from said doughs, and the methods for making the same are disclosed. Although the improved doughs contain non-ideal dehydrated potato products, processing efficiency and finished product quality are comparable to that of finished products made with doughs containing dehydrated potato products having from 40% to 60% broken cells and from 16% to 27% free amylose.
US08440245B2 Methods for making nutritional compositions comprising curcuminoids
Disclosed are nutritional compositions and methods for preparing the compositions, comprising fat, protein, and carbohydrate, including a combination of curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin, which combination is solubilized in a polar oil having an HLB value of from about 0.7 to about 14 wherein the weight ratio of the bisdemethoxycurcumin to the curcumin is from about 1:1 to about 1:7 and the weight ratio of the bisdemethoxycurcumin to the demethoxycurcumin is from about 1:1 to about 1:2.5. The composition provides a selected ratio of curcuminoids having improved biological activity, bioavailability, and reduced color impact.
US08440244B2 Concentrate of an instant chocolate drink and uses for same
The invention relates to a method of producing a chocolate drink containing at least 2% cacao. The inventive method includes a step involving inserting a capsule containing a concentrate of the chocolate drink into a coffee machine of the type which allows the pressure percolation of a dose of coffee. The invention also relates to the concentrate which is used to prepare the chocolate drink and to the capsules containing said concentrate.
US08440238B2 Sulfated derivative of Gastrodia elata polysaccharide, preparation method and antitumor use thereof
The present invention discloses a sulfated derivative of polysaccharide extracted from gastrodia elata BL., the preparation method thereof and the use thereof in preparing antineoplastic medicaments, wherein, the gastrodia elata polysaccharide has the following structure: wherein, x and y are each an integer, and x+y=16, “n” is and integer, and the mean molecular weight of the polysaccharide from gastrodia elata is estimated as 2.8×105, the specific rotation of the polysaccharide is +95° in a 0.5 mg/mL aqueous solution thereof; the sulfated position is mainly at 6-hydroxy of the gastrodia elata polysaccharide, with mean molecular weight of 6.5×104 and a specific rotation of +150.0° in a 0.5 mg/mL aqueous solution thereof. In vivo and in vitro experiments indicate that the sulfated derivative of gastrodia elata polysaccharide can inhibit the tumor growth by suppressing the expression of Id1 to inhibit angiogenesis, and therefore has an obvious antitumor activity, and shows almost nontoxicity to endothelial cells, thereby having a good prospect of being developed into antineoplastic medicaments.
US08440237B2 Botanical anti-acne formulations
Disclosed is a topical skin care composition and corresponding methods for their use comprising Arctium lappa (Burdock) root extract, Epilobium angustifolium (Canadian Willowherb) extract, or Cystoseira amentacea/Caespitosa Brachycarpa extract, or any combination thereof.
US08440236B2 Calcium carbonate granulation
Highly compactable granulations and methods for preparing highly compactable granulations are disclosed. More particularly, highly compactable calcium carbonate granulations are disclosed. The granulations comprise powdered materials such as calcium carbonate that have small median particle sizes. The disclosed granulations are useful in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical tableting and provide smaller tablet sizes upon compression than previously available.
US08440234B2 Standardized bee venom preparation
Bee venom may be administered in a standardized formulation with or without relatively small amounts of anesthetic. In particular, the results of the combination of venom and anesthetic dramatically decreased pain and discomfort for patients undergoing apitherapy.
US08440231B2 Swellable particles for drug delivery
Swellable particles for delivery of a drug or other working agent to the pulmonary system are provided. The swellable particles include a dehydrated (dry) aerodynamic particle diameter of 5 μm or less to enable delivery to the respiratory tract, such as for example to the tracheo-bronchial airways of the upper respiratory tract and/or to the alveolic regions of the deep lung, and a hydrated particle diameter that is greater than 6 μm volume mean diameter to retard or prevent their phagocytosis by the macrophages present in airways of the respiratory tract.
US08440226B2 Solvent/polymer solutions as suspension vehicles
A nonaqueous, single-phase vehicle that is capable of suspending an active agent. The nonaqueous, single-phase vehicle includes at least one solvent and at least one polymer and is formulated to exhibit phase separation upon contact with an aqueous environment. The at least one solvent may be selected from the group consisting of benzyl benzoate, decanol, ethyl hexyl lactate, and mixtures thereof and the at least one polymer may be selected from the group consisting of a polyester, pyrrolidone, ester of an unsaturated alcohol, ether of an unsaturated alcohol, polyoxyethylenepolyoxypropylene block copolymer, and mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the at least one solvent is benzyl benzoate and the at least one polymer is polyvinylpyrrolidone. A stable, nonaqueous suspension formulation that includes the nonaqueous, single-phase vehicle and an active agent, and a method of forming the same, are also disclosed.
US08440225B2 Process of making flowable hemostatic compositions and devices containing such compositions
The present invention is directed to processes of making flowable hemostatic compositions and devices that include the flowable hemostatic composition disposed therein, where a volume of a biocompatible liquid, a volume of a biocompatible gas, and an amount of solid particles of a biocompatible polymer are mixed together to form a substantially homogenous composition including a discontinuous gas phase and the solid particles substantially homogenously dispersed throughout a continuous liquid phase to form a flowable hemostatic composition, and the composition then transferred into a device suitable for applying the flowable hemostatic composition to a site of a body requiring hemostasis under conditions effective to maintain the substantially homogeneous dispersion of the gas phase and the solid particles throughout the liquid phase, wherein said transfer of said substantially homogenous hemostatic composition is conducted at an angle.
US08440221B2 Transdermal drug delivery method and system
The invention concerns a transdermal delivery system for controlled dispensing of an active substance to and through a porous surface. A certain amount of fluid comprising at least one active substance and at least one solvent is dispensed into an administration reservoir. In the administration reservoir the at least one solvent is separated from the administration reservoir by a solvent recovery means such that the active substance achieves a certain level on an interface device which is permeable for the one active substance. Thereby the active substance is absorbable via diffusion from the interface device by a porous surface to be treated.
US08440218B2 Method for enhancing milk production
The present invention concerns a method of enhancing milk production by a ruminant that includes providing a feed that contains sorbitol and at least one additional feed component, and orally feeding the feed to the ruminant, the ruminant ingesting about 100 grams, or less, of sorbitol per day.
US08440217B1 Method and system with contact lens product for treating and preventing adverse eye conditions
A contact lens product, a method and system for forming the contact lens product, and a method of using the contact lens product. The contact lens product includes a soft disposable contact lens loaded with a drug and the carriers which carry the drug. The lens has a mechanical and optical structure formed by the core polymer included within the lens. The contact lens product is configured to have the drug released from its carrier continuously into an eye of a mammal while the contact lens product is adhered to the eye of the mammal during a continuous period of time, the drug being configured to treat or prevent at least one adverse condition of the eye of the mammal during the continuous period of time. The mammal may be a human being or a veterinary animal.
US08440215B2 Absorbable polymer formulations
A co-polyester which includes the reaction product of a polycondensation polyester and epsilon-caprolactone, wherein the polycondensation polyester comprises the reaction product of diglycolic acid and/or a derivative thereof and a diol. The co-polyester is injectable and absorbable into animal, such as human, tissue and can be used for facial cosmetic or reconstructive surgery of soft tissue. Another embodiment is directed to a method for preventing adhesion using a co-polyester comprising the reaction product of a polycondensation polyester and epsilon-caprolactone, wherein the polycondensation polyester comprises the reaction product of diglycolic acid and/or a derivative thereof and a diol, and the co-polyester comprises about 40 to 50% by weight of the polycondensation polyester based on the total weight of the co-polyester.
US08440211B2 Cosmetic composition comprising a volatile fatty phase
The invention relates to a composition comprising, in a physiologically acceptable medium, a volatile silicone fatty phase comprising at least one non-cyclic volatile silicone oil, wherein the volatile silicone fatty phase has an evaporation profile such that the mass of the at least one volatile silicone oil evaporated after 30 minutes is from 2 mg/cm2 to 9 mg/cm2. The invention also relates to making up and caring for human keratin materials using the inventive compositions.
US08440208B2 Chlamydial antigens as reagents for diagnosis and treatment of chlamydial infection and disease
The present invention provides Chlamydia proteins and methods of use in diagnostic and detection assays as well as in treatment and immunization protocols.
US08440205B2 Streptococcal C5A peptidase vaccine
Novel vaccines for use against β-hemolytic Streptococcus colonization or infection are disclosed. The vaccines contain an immunogenic amount of a variant of streptococcal C5a peptidase (SCP). Also disclosed is a method of protecting a susceptible mammal against β-hemolytic Streptococcus colonization or infection by administering such a vaccine. Enzymatically inactive SCP, and polynucleotides encoding these SCP proteins are further disclosed.
US08440200B2 Non-anaphylactic forms of grass pollen Ph1 p 6 allergen and their use
Methods for desensitization of a mammal suffering from IgE mediated allergy comprise the steps of: administering to said mammal a therapeutically effective amount of an immunogenic and hypoallergenic composition which comprises (i) a Phl p 6 molecule having an N-terminal truncation which makes the molecule at least lack IgE binding capacity, and/or (ii) a Phl p 6 molecule having a C-terminal truncation which makes the molecule at least lack IgE binding capacity, wherein the molecules of (i) and (ii), if employed in combination, together span the complete sequence of Phl p 6, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
US08440199B2 Methods for mobilizing mesenchymal stem cells in a patient
The current invention provides a method for mobilizing endothelial progenitor cells (EPC) and/or mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) in a patient, wherein the method comprises the steps of (i) administering a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) agonist to the patient; and (ii) administering an antagonist of CXCR4 to the patient. Also provided are uses of EPC and MSC harvested using the methods of the invention.
US08440196B1 Treatment for pancreatitis using IL-6 receptor antagonist antibodies
A preventive or therapeutic agent for pancreatitis said agent comprising as an active ingredient an interleukin-6 (IL-6) antagonist such as an antibody directed against IL-6 receptor.
US08440195B2 Inhibition of CD69 for treatment of inflammatory conditions
A method of treating or reducing at least one inflammatory condition or the susceptibility to at least one inflammatory condition is provided involving administering at least one CD69 antagonist to a subject, wherein the subject has been diagnosed with at least one inflammatory condition, or a susceptibility to the same. CD69 antagonists can include one or more of an anti-CD69 antibody, an anti-CD69 aptamer, a CD69 mRNA antagonist, and a small molecule pharmaceutical.
US08440194B2 Methods using 3-(4-amino-1-oxo-1,3-dihydro-isoindol-2-yl)-piperidine-2,6-dione for treatment of certain leukemias
Methods of treating, preventing or managing leukemias are disclosed. The methods encompass the administration of an immunomodulatory compound of the invention known as Revlimid® or lenalidomide. The invention further relates to methods of treatment using this compound with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy or immunotherapy. Pharmaceutical compositions and single unit dosage forms suitable for use in the methods of the invention are also disclosed.
US08440193B2 Method for inhibiting bone resorption
The invention is directed to a method of inhibiting bone resorption. The method comprises administering to a human an amount of sclerostin inhibitor that reduces a bone resorption marker level for at least 2 weeks. The invention also provides a method of monitoring anti-sclerostin therapy comprising measuring one or more bone resorption marker levels, administering a sclerostin binding agent, then measuring the bone resorption marker levels. Also provided is a method of increasing bone mineral density; a method of ameliorating the effects of an osteoclast-related disorder; a method of treating a bone-related disorder by maintaining bone density; and a method of treating a bone-related disorder in a human suffering from or at risk of hypocalcemia or hypercalcemia, a human in which treatment with a parathyroid hormone or analog thereof is contraindicated, or a human in which treatment with a bisphosphonate is contraindicated.
US08440189B2 Antagonists of TWEAK and of TWEAK receptor and their use to treat immunological disorders
The present invention relates to reagents which modify the activity of TWEAK and their use as therapeutic agents for the treatment of immunological disorders.
US08440188B2 Therapeutic and diagnostic anti-HSP70 antibodies
Methods and compositions for the detection, prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, primary and metastatic neoplastic diseases, including, but not limited to human sarcomas and carcinomas are described. In particular, specific antibodies are provided, which are capable of binding an epitope of Hsp70 that is extracellularly localized on diseased tissue and cells, in particular on tumor cells and infected cells.
US08440185B2 Compositions and methods for the treatment of immunologic disorders
Compositions and methods for preventing, reducing or inhibiting immunologic disorders are provided. Suitable compositions include one or more LIGHT-HVEM antagonists. LIGHT-HVEM antagonists include compounds that inhibit, reduce, or block the biological activity or expression of LIGHT and/or HVEM. LIGHT-HVEM antagonists can reduce or inhibit the binding of LIGHT to HVEM, but do not significantly modulate the binding of LTβ to LTβR. Suitable compositions include antibodies and antibody fragments, decoy polypeptides, small molecule inhibitors and inhibitory nucleic acids. Methods for using LIGHT-HVEM antagonists to reduce or inhibit T cell activation and survival are also provided. Therapeutic uses for LIGHT-HVEM antagonists to prevent or treat immunologic diseases and disorders including graft rejection, graft-versus-host disease, inflammatory immune responses, and autoimmune disorders are provided.
US08440183B2 Angiogenin complexes (ANGex) with lipid-based substrates and uses thereof
Stabilized angiogenin compositions and methods of preparing stabilized angiogenin compositions by immobilization on a lipid-based substrate, such as a phospholipid or Coenzyme-Q10, are disclosed.
US08440180B2 Anti-cancer composition comprising aquatic microbial extract
There is provided an anti-cancer composition comprising an aquatic microbial extract, and there is more particularly provided an anti-cancer composition comprising a Bacillus sp. strain extract.
US08440173B1 Guar gum containing compounds
Disclosed is a compound having the following structure: where X1 though X10 are each independently —H, —OH, or an alkyl group and n is an integer from 2 to 100.
US08440165B2 Dislocation site density techniques
A method includes operating a gas loading system with a source of one or more isotopes of hydrogen, a gas loading chamber containing a number of metallic nanoparticles, the metallic nanoparticles being selected to provide for a predetermined hydrogen cluster formation density, a vacuum system, and a valve system in communication with the gas loading chamber, the source of one or more isotopes of hydrogen and the vacuum system; providing the gas loading chamber with a first quantity of the one or more isotopes of hydrogen from the source of one or more isotopes of hydrogen; monitoring an operating temperature; and cycling a loading pressure of the gas loading chamber using the source of one or more isotopes of hydrogen in response to providing the gas loading chamber and monitoring the operating temperature.
US08440164B2 Method for continuously and proportional adding of lime
This disclosure relates to a method for continuously and proportional adding of lime to a water flow through in a plant, wherein a number of slakers are used for batchwise slaking of burnt lime, and wherein lime slurry with a greater degree of fineness and prolonged sedimentation time is produced. A first slaker empties completely slaked and diluted lime slurry after the weight principle proportional to the water flow through of the plant, until a predetermined mass of slurry weight is left, which is used for mixing with a next batch. A second slaker, which is ready for its emptying sequence, starts emptying completely slaked and diluted lime slurry after the weight principle proportional to the water flow through of the plant, when the first slaker has finished emptying, until a predetermined mass of slurry weight is left, which is used for mixing with a next batch. After flushing with flushing water via valves of respective slakers, production of a new batch is started, this is ready for its emptying sequence when the active slaker has finished its emptying.
US08440162B1 Titanate and titania nanostructures and nanostructure assemblies, and methods of making same
The invention relates to nanomaterials and assemblies including, a micrometer-scale spherical aggregate comprising: a plurality of one-dimensional nanostructures comprising titanium and oxygen, wherein the one-dimensional nanostructures radiate from a hollow central core thereby forming a spherical aggregate.
US08440156B2 Reduction of oxides of nitrogen in a gas stream using molecular sieve SSZ-28
The invention relates generally to molecular sieve SSZ-28 and its use in the reduction of oxides of nitrogen in a gas stream such as the exhaust from an internal combustion engine.
US08440152B2 Process for recovering metals from a stream rich in hydrocarbons and carbonaceous residues
A process for recovering metals from a stream rich in hydrocarbons and carbonaceous residues by means of a treatment section, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: sending said stream to a primary treatment, effected in one or more steps, wherein said stream is treated in the presence of a fluxant agent in a suitable apparatus, at a temperature ranging from 80 to 180° C., preferably from 100 to 160° C., and subjected to liquid/solid separation in order to obtain a clarified product essentially consisting of liquids and a cake (oilcake); possibly subjecting the separated cake to drying, in order to remove the hydrocarbon component having a boiling point lower than a temperature ranging from 300 to 350° C. from the cake; sending the cake, possibly dried, to a secondary thermal treatment comprising: a flameless pyrolysis of the cake effected between 400 and 800° C., preferably between 500 and 670° C.; an oxidation of the pyrolysis residue effected in an oxidizing environment and at temperatures ranging from 400 to 800° C., preferably from 500 to 700° C.
US08440151B2 Apparatus for delivering pipettable substances
A system (10) for removing a pipettable substance from a pre-filled container (20), which is closed off by a top (30) having at least one opening area (40), comprises an opening tool (100) having a tube (110), which has a cross-section corresponding substantially to the shape of the opening area and which comprises at a distal end (120) an endpiece (140) extending substantially obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis of the tube, which moves a part of the top (30) located inside the opening area (40) towards the container when the opening tool is applied, so as to form an opening in the top, and a point of attack (150) for a transporting tool (200). The opening tool (100) is designed to remain on the container (20) after use. Moreover, the system comprises a transporting tool (200) for moving the opening tool (100) through the lid, and a cannula (250), which is adapted to be inserted over at least part of its length through the tube (110) into the interior of the container (20), in the position of use of the opening tool (100), and one end of which can be connected to a suction device (300) for sucking a pipettable substance out of the interior of the container (20).
US08440144B2 Metallic photocatalytic oxidation reflector coated with titanium dioxide
Through innovative design of a titanium dioxide coated metal reflector, which uses the negative space of a U-shaped ultraviolet lamp, maximum airborne chemical, vapor and/or odor abatement through photochemical reaction, yet eliminates most UV irradiation obstruction emanating from the lamp, thereby insuring maximum germicidal effect.
US08440138B1 Odor neutralizing shoe insert and associated method
An odor neutralizing shoe insert includes a flexible top layer formed from a fluid-absorbent material and a flexible bottom layer spaced from the top layer. An intermediate layer impregnated with a plurality of ground coffee particulates may be intercalated between the top and bottom layers respectively. The top layer may include a plurality of apertures formed through its entire cross-section such that the top layer is in fluid communication with the ground coffee particulates. The ground coffee particulates may further be scattered along a major top surface area of the intermediate layer and thereby filter through the top layer such that the ground coffee particulates become exposed above the top layer.
US08440136B2 Steel alloy and tools or components manufactured out of the steel alloy
The invention relates to a powder metallurgically manufactured steel with a chemical composition containing, in % by weight: 0.01-2 C, 0.6-10 N, 0.01-3.0 Si, 0.01-10.0 Mn, 16-30 Cr, 0.01-5 Ni, 0.01-5.0 (Mo+W/2), 0.01-9 Co, max. 0.5 S and 0.5-14 (V+Nb/2), where the contents of N on the one hand and of (V+Nb/2) on the other hand are balanced in relation to each other such that the contents of these elements are within an area that is defined by the coordinates A′, B′, G, H, A′, where the coordinates of [N, (V+Nb/2)] are: A′: [0.6,0.5]; B′: [1.6,0.5]; G: [9.8,14.0]; H: [2.6,14.0], and max. 7 of (Ti+Zr+Al), balance essentially only iron and impurities at normal amounts. The steel may be used for tools for injection molding, compression molding and extrusion of components of plastics, and cold working.
US08440127B2 Process for production of polytetrafluoroethylene sheet, and process for production of polytetrafluoroethylene seal tape
Disclosed is a process for production of a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) sheet, which is superior in productivity compared to conventional processes and can reduce the cost of production. Also disclosed is a process for production of a PTFE seal tape. The processes comprise the following steps (i) to (iii): (i) applying a force to a PTFE particle suspension comprising PTFE particles, a surfactant and water (a dispersion medium) so that the particles can come close to each other or contact with each other, thereby forming a PTFE-containing solid material having the water and the surfactant included therein; (ii) shaping the solid material into a sheet-like form; and (iii) reducing the water content in the sheet-like solid material.
US08440123B2 Unitized composites utilizing melted synthetic fibers to achieve rough or abrasive attributes and decorative effects
A manufacturing process for making short fiber low denier unitized composite fabrics with abrasive features includes steps of depositing an assembly comprising one or more layers of fibrous material and optionally one or more layers of non-fibrous material, at least one of the outer layers containing a multicompartment synthetic fiber, and activating at least one component of the multicomponent fiber to impart an abrasive attribute to the outer surface.
US08440120B2 Method of using a formable core block for a resin impregnation process
A use of a core block for an impregnation process as well as a composite structure comprising such a core block is described. The core block has a first surface and a second surface, and a number of first grooves is formed in the first surface of the core. Furthermore, a number of second grooves is formed in the second surface of the core. The first grooves have a first height (h1) and a bottom, and the first grooves and the second grooves are part of a resin distribution network formed in the core block. The distance (t) between the bottom of the first grooves and the second surface of the core block is of such a size that the core block is flexible along the first grooves. Additionally, the sum of the first height and the second height is larger than the thickness of the core block, and at least one of the first grooves in the first surface of the core block crosses at least one of the second grooves in the second surface of the core block.
US08440119B2 Process of making a fabric
A fabric for thermal management including the cooling of an object, such as a person's skin. The fabric is formed of a plurality of materials including at least one liquid transport enhancing material and at least one evaporative transport impeding material. When the fabric is in use, the transport enhancing material is located near an object to be cooled, while the evaporation impeding material is spaced away from the object. The fabric is peached so that there is an entanglement of the two materials. Peaching is performed on both sides of the fabric, but initially on the side with the transport enhancing material such that a portion of the evaporation impeding material is pulled into the fabric core. A method of making the fabric is also described.
US08440111B2 Lead-free conductive paste composition
A lead-free conductive paste composition includes silumin powder, lead-free glass frits, an organic binder, stearic acid zinc, and aluminum powder.
US08440110B2 Method for producing metal particle dispersion, conductive ink using metal particle dispersion produced by such method, and conductive coating film
Disclosed is a method for producing a metal particle dispersion wherein a metal compound is reduced by using carbodihydrazide represented by the formula (1) below or a polybasic acid polyhydrazide represented by the formula (2) below (wherein R represents an n-valent polybasic acid residue) in a liquid medium. By reducing the metal compound in the presence of a compound having a function preventing discoloration of the metal, there can be obtained a metal particle dispersion having excellent discoloration preventing properties. Metal particles produced by such methods have a uniform particle diameter and are excellent in dispersion stability. By using a conductive resin composition or conductive ink containing a metal particle dispersion obtained by such production methods, there can be formed a conductive coating film, such as a conductive circuit or an electromagnetic layer, having good characteristics.
US08440109B2 Fullerene derivative
The present invention relates to an organic photoelectric conversion device comprising a layer comprising a fullerene derivative represented by formula (1).
US08440106B2 Strontium oxyorthosilicate phosphors having improved stability under a radiation load and resistance to atmospheric humidity
Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to inorganic phosphors based on silicate compounds having improved stability under a resulting radiation load and resistance to atmospheric humidity, which are capable of converting higher-energy excitation radiation, i.e. ultraviolet (UV) or blue light, with high efficiency into a longer-wavelength radiation which may be in the visible spectral range. A calcium molar fraction x having a value between 0 and 0.05 is added to a silicate phosphor having the general formula Sr3-x-y-zCaxMIIySiO5:Euz.
US08440099B2 Stabilizers for the stabilization of unsaturated hydrocarbon-based precursor
A stabilized composition consists essentially of unsaturated hydrocarbon-based materials, and a stabilizer selected from the group consisting of a hydroxybenzophenone and a nitroxyl radical based stabilizer.A stabilized composition consists essentially of unsaturated hydrocarbon-based materials, at least one polar liquid and a stabilizer selected from the group consisting of a hydroxybenzophenone, a nitroxyl radical based stabilizer and a hydroquinone based stabilizer.A method for stabilizing unsaturated hydrocarbon-based precursor material against the polymerization comprises providing a stabilizer selected from the group consisting of a hydroxybenzophenone and a nitroxyl radical based stabilizer.A method for stabilizing a mixture of unsaturated hydrocarbon-based precursor material with at lease one polar liquid against the polymerization comprises adding to the mixture, a stabilizer selected from the group consisting of a hydroxybenzophenone and a nitroxyl radical based stabilizer.
US08440098B2 Conditioning agent for the etching of enamel lesions
The invention relates to a composition which comprises 1 to 80% by weight of at least one acid which has a pKa of 2 or less; a protic solvent; a complexing agent for Ca2+ ions; for use as conditioning agent for etching enamel lesions.
US08440091B2 Magnetic recording medium and method of manufacturing the same
According to one embodiment, a method of manufacturing a magnetic recording medium comprises forming a protective film on a ferromagnetic recording layer containing Cobalt (Co) on a substrate and forming a recess in both the protective film and the ferromagnetic recording layer at a part where a nonmagnetic layer is to be formed. The method further comprises removing Co from a part of the recess of the ferromagnetic recording layer to form the nonmagnetic layer that separates magnetic patterns made of the ferromagnetic recording layer containing Co. The nonmagnetic layer has an identical chemical composition as the ferromagnetic recording layer, except for the nonmagnetic layer having a lower Co concentration than the magnetic patterns.
US08440090B2 Apparatus and method of making a variable stiffness multilayer catheter tubing
A catheter body having a variable stiffness along its longitudinal length and a method for manufacturing same is disclosed wherein an inner layer having an uninterrupted length serves as a backbone for segments of coextrusion of, e.g., Pebax or nylon and a tie layer which are then bonded to the backbone to create a multi-stiffness catheter body.
US08440089B2 Three-dimensional structure and its manufacturing method
A plurality of micro three-dimensional structure elements each having a movable structure fixed on a sacrifice layer, and fixation portions of the micro three-dimensional structure elements for the sacrifice layer are arranged into a film-like elastic body, and then the sacrifice layer is removed. Thus, a three-dimensional structure in which the individual micro three-dimensional structure elements are arranged independently of one another within the elastic body is manufactured.
US08440088B2 Priming method for filter
A priming method for a filter, whereby the outlet of a spent filter is connected to the inlet of a fresh filter, and the spent filter is inverted. A drain in the spent filter is then opened to allow air to enter the spent filter and fluid to drain from the clean side of the spent filter into the fresh filter.
US08440086B2 Multifraction purification processes and devices for such processes
A process for continuous or quasi-continuous purification of a multi-component mixture by means of at least four individual chromatographic columns through which the mixture is fed by means of at least one solvent, is given, wherein the multi-component mixture is to be separated into an integer number n of fractions, wherein n is at least 5.
US08440085B2 Plasma separation
Devices and methods for separating plasma from biological fluids such as blood and blood products are disclosed.
US08440080B2 Portable ozone generator and use thereof for purifying water
The present invention relates to a portable device for generating ozone in water, purifying the water and making it drinkable. The device comprises a housing; at least two electrodes, including an anode and a cathode extending from the housing into the water and each having semi-rough or rough surfaces in contact with the water. The device also comprises a power supply operatively connected to the electrodes for generating between them a difference of potential creating a current and the hydrolysis of the water creating ozone that purifies the water. The electrodes may have a plate or a rode and tube configuration with a plurality of holes with rough edges. The roughness of the surfaces and of the edges of the holes leads to a coalescence of tiny hydrogen bubbles into larger hydrogen bubbles. The hydrogen may be also removed by absorption in a conductive material and regenerated for reuse.
US08440078B2 Liquid filter arrangements and methods
A filter element includes filter media, first and second end caps, a latch arrangement projecting from the first end cap, a tubular neck extending from the first end cap and a valve head oriented within the first end cap aperture constructed and arranged to move between a position sealing the first end cap aperture and exposing the first end cap aperture. A filter assembly includes a filter element, as characterized herein, and including a filter base and a service cover. A method of servicing includes removing an old filter element, operably mounting a new filter element in a filter base including engaging a valve head against a spring member in the filter base, and operably mounting the service cover over the new filter element and filter base.
US08440076B2 Dissolved air flotation unit
A water treatment unit comprising a bath (2) delimited by a bottom wall (3) and a lateral wall (4) developing in elevation from a whole perimeter of the bottom wall (3), means for supplying (14) the water to be treated into the bath (2), at least an aeration device (5) have dissolving functions in collaboration with the means for supplying (14), for introducing a flow of oxygen or ozone into the water contained in the bath (2) in order to saturate the water and/or to give rise to foam, means for eliminating (6) the foam, at least an outlet section (13) of the treated water from the bath (2). The bath (2) develops prevalently horizontally and internally comprises a dividing wall (7) which divides the internal volume of the bath (2) into a turbulent water zone (2a) and a calm water zone (2b).
US08440075B2 Chemical release system
A chemical release system. Implementations may utilize implementations of a first cartridge that include a body coupled with a cartridge head at a first end and coupled with an end plug at a second end where the cartridge head includes a through hole configured to engage with an annular flange in a main head. The body may have an internal cross section. The first cartridge may also include a flow restrictor plate disposed within the body between the first end and the second end where the flow restrictor plate is oriented substantially parallel to the cartridge head within the body, includes only one opening therethrough, and substantially conforms with the internal cross section of the body. The body may include one or more through holes in a side of the body located between the flow restrictor plate and the cartridge head.
US08440073B2 Aquarium detritus removal system
An aquarium detritus removal and filtration system of the present invention is different from the conventional aquarium filtration system which are not able to deliver detritus settle in an aquarium bottom right to a lift pump for removal. The present invention is mainly comprised of a flow generating device, a flow guiding structure, a screen plate and a lift pump. The flow generating device generate directed flows across the bottom of the aquarium and the flow guiding structure guide these directed flows right to the inlet of a lift pump, so that the lift pump can in take water containing all detritus in the aquarium and deliver these water to a filtering device for filtration
US08440071B2 Methods and systems for hydrocracking a heavy oil feedstock using an in situ colloidal or molecular catalyst
A hydrocracking system involves introducing a heavy oil feedstock and a colloidal or molecular catalyst, or a catalyst precursor capable of forming the colloidal or molecular catalyst, into a hydrocracking reactor. The colloidal or molecular catalyst is formed in situ within the heavy oil feedstock by 1) premixing the catalyst precursor with a hydrocarbon diluents to form a catalyst precursor mixture, 2) mixing the catalyst precursor mixture with the heavy oil feedstock, and 3) raising the temperature of the feedstock to above the decomposition temperature of the catalyst precursor to form the colloidal or molecular catalyst. The colloidal or molecular catalyst catalyzes upgrading reactions between the heavy oil feedstock and hydrogen and eliminates or reduces formation of coke precursors and sediment. The colloidal or molecular catalyst can be the sole or primary hydrocracking catalyst in a stand-alone hydrocracking reactor or it can be used together with a porous supported catalyst within a fixed bed or ebullated bed reactor.
US08440064B2 Electrode module and deionization apparatus using the same
An electrode module capable of improving productivity by integrally bonding a current collector and a pair of electrodes using a protective film. The current collector receives power from an external power supply, and the pair of electrodes receives power from the current collector. The current collector and electrodes are integrally bonded by thermocompression using a protective film.
US08440059B2 Electrolytic cell for obtaining aluminium
The invention relates to an electrolytic cell for obtaining aluminum, including a pot shell, at least one cathode block arranged at least partially in the pot shell, at least one anode suspended above the cell and dipping into the upper portion of the electrolytic cell, and an insulation at least partially covering the internal surface of the pot shell and located between the cathode block and the pot shell, the pot shell and the elements that it contains delimiting a crucible intended to receive an electrolytic bath in contact with the cathode block, characterized in that the insulation is at least partially made of carbon-based blocks having a heat conductivity lower than 1 W/m/K.
US08440058B2 Method for concentrating nitrogen isotope
Method for concentrating nitrogen isotope to obtain a final product nitrogen, in which the stable nitrogen isotope, 15N, is concentrated, by low-temperature distillation of raw material nitrogen containing trace amounts of oxygen and argon using a plurality of distillation columns in a cascade arrangement. An argon-oxygen mixture is discharged from the bottom of the final column and 15N-concentrated nitrogen is extracted from a lower intermediate point of the final column. The flow rate of the argon-oxygen mixture discharged from the bottom of the final column is controlled based on the reading of a thermometer installed below the point where the final product 15N-concentrated nitrogen is extracted, thereby providing a stable nitrogen product.
US08440056B2 Heat integrated distillation apparatus
Provided is a heat integrated distillation apparatus includes: rectifying column including a trayed section or a packed bed section; stripping column including a trayed section or a packed bed section located higher than rectifying column; first pipe for connecting top part of the stripping column with bottom part of the rectifying column; and compressor that compresses vapor from top part of the stripping column to feed the compressed vapor to bottom part of the rectifying column. The heat integrated distillation apparatus further includes: heat exchanger located either at the trayed section or a packed bed section of rectifying column or at the trayed section or a packed bed section of stripping column; second pipe; and third pipe for circulating fluids through the heat exchanger.
US08440053B2 Method and system using surfactants in paper sizing composition to inhibit deposition of multivalent fatty acid salts
A method for inhibiting deposition of multivalent saturated fatty acids on paper sizing equipment and/or devices which use a paper surface sizing composition containing one or more surface sizing starches and a source of multivalent cations, such as a multivalent metal drying salt, by including a C16 or higher saturated fatty acid solubilizing and dispersing surfactant in the paper surface sizing composition. Also, a paper surface sizing system for carrying out this method.
US08440052B2 Method and arrangement for feeding chemicals into a pulp process stream
An apparatus for feeding one or more chemicals into a process stream of a pulp process is disclosed, as well as a method of utilizing the apparatus for feeding one or more chemicals into a pulp process is disclosed.
US08440050B2 Plasma processing apparatus and method, and storage medium
A plasma processing apparatus includes a vacuum evacuable processing chamber, a first electrode divided into an outer electrode and an inner electrode, a second electrode, a first and a second high frequency power application unit for applying to the second electrode a first and a second high frequency power having a relatively high frequency and a relatively low frequency, respectively, a first and a second DC voltage application circuit apply a DC voltage to the outer and the inner electrode, respectively, and a processing gas supply unit. A space between the first electrode and the second electrode serves as a plasma generation space, and frequency-impedance characteristics of the outer electrode are set such that the impedance increases at the frequency of the second high frequency power and decreases at the frequency of the first high frequency power as the DC voltage applied to the outer electrode increases.
US08440049B2 Apparatus for etching high aspect ratio features
Embodiments of the invention provide a method and apparatus, such as a processing chamber, suitable for etching high aspect ratio features. Other embodiments include a showerhead assembly for use in the processing chamber. In one embodiment, a processing chamber includes a chamber body having a showerhead assembly and substrate support disposed therein. The showerhead assembly includes at least two fluidly isolated plenums, a region transmissive to an optical metrology signal, and a plurality of gas passages formed through the showerhead assembly fluidly coupling the plenums to the interior volume of the chamber body.
US08440048B2 Load lock having secondary isolation chamber
A load lock includes a chamber including an upper portion, a lower portion, and a partition between the upper portion and the lower portion, the partition including an opening therethrough. The load lock further includes a first port in communication with the upper portion of the chamber and a second port in communication with the lower portion of the chamber. The load lock includes a rack disposed within the chamber and a workpiece holder mounted on a first surface of the rack, wherein the rack and the workpiece holder are movable by an indexer that is capable of selectively moving wafer slots of the rack into communication with the second port. The indexer can also move the rack into an uppermost position, at which the first surface of the boat and the partition sealingly separate the upper portion and the lower portion to define an upper chamber and a lower chamber. Auxiliary processing, such as wafer pre-cleaning, or metrology can be conducted in the upper portion.
US08440047B2 Method for producing a stretch resistant belt
A belt having stretch reduction features is provided, along with a method for producing a belt having reduced stretch characteristics. The belt is formed of a jacket and a stretch reduction element. The stretch reduction element is formed of a material having a greater modulus of elasticity than the jacket. Additionally, the stretch reduction element is formed by bathing the stretch reduction element to a reactive fluid in an oxidizing atmosphere.
US08440044B2 Forming method for polymeric laminated wafers comprising different film materials
A method of making a polymeric laminated wafer comprising different film materials that are softenable and formable at different softening temperatures corresponding with the film materials.
US08440040B2 Tape adhering method and tape adhering device
A tape adhering device including: a drawing roller for drawing out a tape; a tape fixing means for fixing one portion of the tape drawn out from the drawing roller; a tape drawing means for drawing out a predetermined amount of tape, which is fixed by the tape fixing means, from the drawing roller between the tape fixing means and the drawing roller; and a tape adhering means for adhering the tape, which is located in the downstream of the tape fixing means, onto an object to be adhered under the condition that fixing operation of the tape by the tape fixing means is released.
US08440036B2 Joining stretchable fabric portions to one another
A method of joining first and second stretchable fabric portions to one another in a desired configuration comprises the steps of sewing a first thread through at least one of the first and second fabric portions to define a first stitch formation looping a second thread within the first stitch formation such that the second thread and the first thread overlap one another to create a sewn seam, one of the threads being a fusible thread and the other of the threads being a non-fusible thread; positioning the first and second fabric portions relative to one another in a desired configuration; melting the fusible thread; and forming a plurality of discrete bonding element portions extending along a bonding path. The discrete bonding element portions retain the first and second fabric portions in the desired configuration.
US08440033B2 Method and apparatus for making a filtering unit
Disclosed is a method for making a disk-shaped filtering unit. In the method, there is provided a laminate by sandwiching a screen-related substrate between two permeable membrane-related substrates. There is provided a machine with a conveying unit, a hot-pressing unit and a punching unit. The conveying unit is used to convey the laminate. The hot-pressing unit is used to hot-press and weld the laminate dot by dot to bond the substrates along a closed curve eventually, thus making a semi-product of the filtering unit out of a portion of the laminate within the closed curve. There is made a final product of the filtering unit by using the punching unit to punch the semi-product with an aperture.
US08440030B2 Fine spheroidized steel sheet with excellent heat treatment characteristic and method for manufacturing the same
A method for manufacturing a fine spheroidized steel sheet having an excellent heat treatment characteristic, the method including: i) manufacturing a high carbon slab that is formed of 0.3 to 1.0 wt % C, 0.1 to 1.2 wt % Mn, 0 to 0.4 wt % Si, 0.01 to 0.1 wt % Al, 0 to 0.01 wt % S, and balance Fe and an inevitably added impurity as residuals; ii) reheating the slab to a temperature of Ar3 transformation point or more; iii) roughing rolling the slab, and manufacturing a thin plate by performing finish rolling in an austenite region; iv) cooling the thin plate at a cooling speed of 50 to 300° C./sec; v) finishing the cooling of the thin plate at a temperature region of 400 to 650° C. and maintaining the temperature; vi) winding the thin plate at a temperature region of 450 to 700° C.; vii) performing cold rolling at a reduction ratio of 30% or more; and viii) spheroidizing annealing the cold rolled thin plate.
US08440025B2 Water-conducting domestic appliance
A water-conducting domestic appliance having a drain pump, a controller to activate the drain pump, and a water safety switch that has a first switch position to react to escaping water, wherein the water safety switch is connected to the controller. If a fault causes water to escape, the water safety switch switches into the first switch position so as to connect the controller to an electrical mains.
US08440023B2 Flavored packaging insert for smokeless tobacco
A package of smokeless tobacco includes a flavor patch located in the package to provide flavor to smokeless tobacco. Also disclosed is a method of packaging smokeless tobacco by combining a package with a flavor patch disposed inside the package, the flavor patch comprising a flavor and an adsorbent, so that the flavor patch resides in an interior of the package; and adding smokeless tobacco to the package with the flavor patch.
US08440017B2 Method for growing group 13 nitride crystal and group 13 nitride crystal
To grow a gallium nitride crystal, a seed-crystal substrate is first immersed in a melt mixture containing gallium and sodium. Then, a gallium nitride crystal is grown on the seed-crystal substrate under heating the melt mixture in a pressurized atmosphere containing nitrogen gas and not containing oxygen. At this time, the gallium nitride crystal is grown on the seed-crystal substrate under a first stirring condition of stirring the melt mixture, the first stirring condition being set for providing a rough growth surface, and the gallium nitride crystal is subsequently grown on the seed-crystal substrate under a second stirring condition of stirring the melt mixture, the second stirring condition being set for providing a smooth growth surface.
US08440014B2 Bright pigment, and bright coating composition and automotive body coating each containing the same
The bright pigment of the present invention includes flaky particles and a metal oxide layer coating at least a part of the surface of each flaky particle. The bright pigment or the flaky particles of the present invention have a particle size distribution in which the particle size at 99% of the cumulative volume from the smaller particle size is 48 μm or less, and the maximum particle size is 62 μm or less. The flaky particles are made of a material having a refractive index in the range of 1.4 to 1.8. The flaky particles have a thickness distribution in which the frequency of the particles having a thickness in the range of 0.8 μm to 1.9 μm is 90% or more by volume, or the frequency of the particles having a thickness in the range of 0.01 μm to 0.35 μm is 90% or more by volume.
US08440013B2 Radiation-curable coating compositions, composite and plastic materials coated with said compositions and methods for their preparation
Disclosed is a curable coating composition suitable for use on composite substrates such as plastic composites, cementitious composites, ceramic composites, and engineered wood, or on plastic materials. The curable coating composition comprises a multifunctional oligomer, a monomer selected from the group consisting of monofunctional monomers, difunctional monomers and mixtures thereof, a photoinitiator, a polyester resin and a polycarboxylic acid. Also disclosed is a method of coating the substrates with the curable coating composition and a coated substrate wherein the cured coating resides on the surface of the substrate.
US08440012B2 Atomic layer deposition encapsulation for acoustic wave devices
Acoustic wave devices and methods of coating a protective film of alumina (Al2O3) on the acoustic wave devices are disclosed herein. The protective film is applied through an atomic layer deposition (ALD) process. The ALD process can deposit very thin layers of alumina on the surface of the acoustic wave devices in a precisely controlled manner. Thus, the uniform film does not significantly distort the operation of the acoustic wave device.
US08440011B2 Asphalt modifiers for “warm mix” applications including adhesion promoter
The present invention generally relates to an additive package for warm-mix asphalt formulations for the pavement of road surfaces, said additive package comprising a) surfactant component, and b) an asphalt rheology modifying component, wherein said asphalt rheology modifying component comprises at least one of a i) a wax component and ii) a resin component. The invention also relates to a warm mix asphalt having improved compaction at lower temperatures, and to a pavement made from said warm mix asphalt.
US08440010B2 Inkjet printing method and ink set
In an inkjet recording system using an ink in which a coloring material is dispersed in a solvent with a dispersing agent, printing density is improved by causing aggregation of the coloring material contained in the ink that has been ejected onto a printing medium. In an inkjet printing method, printing is performed by ejecting one of first and second inks onto a printing medium, and then successively ejecting the other ink so as to overlay it on the one ink. The first ink includes a first solvent, a coloring material, and a dispersing agent. The second ink includes at least a second solvent capable of changing solubility of the dispersing agent to cause aggregation of the coloring material when it is mixed with the first ink. For example, when one of the first and second solvents includes a water-insoluble organic solvent, the other can include a water-soluble organic solvent.
US08440009B2 Cladophora based materials and method of making same
A process for manufacturing fire resistant materials comprising the steps of recovering Cladophora algae; mixing said algae with water to form an aqueous mixture; mixing a chlorine based solution to the mixture to kill the algae and any bacteria and to form an algae-based product; allowing the algae-based product to separate and rise to the surface of the aqueous mixture; skimming the algae-based product from the surface of the mixture; drying said recovered algae-based product; and recovering the dried algae-based product.
US08440008B2 Preparation of a lead-free primary explosive
Described are compounds and materials that may be used as a lead-free primary explosive, such as copper(I) nitrotetrazolate. Copper(I) nitrotetrazolate may he prepared by a process comprising the steps of: combining cupric salt, water and 5-nitrotetrazolate salt to form a mixture, heating the mixture, adding a reducing agent and stirring with continued heating. The method may also include combining cupric chloride, sodium 5-nitrotetrazolate and sodium ascorbate.
US08440001B2 Systems for removing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or odors associated with same
Preferred embodiments of the invention relate to systems for removing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or odors associated with same. The systems include adsorbents, odor adsorbing fabrics, masks, clean air members and clean air supply assemblies.
US08439996B2 Indoor unit of air conditioner
An indoor unit of an air conditioner includes: a casing (10); an indoor fan (21); an air filter (30); an inlet port (24) in which the air filter (30) is attached, and a divider plate (25) for dividing space in the casing (10) into a room upstream of air passing through the air filter (30) and a room downstream of air passing through the air filter (30). The indoor unit conditions room air sucked into the casing (0) through the air filter (30). The indoor unit includes a rotating brush (51) for removing dust trapped on the air filter (30), and a dust container (90) for containing the removed dust. An access opening (70) which allows for checking of an electrical component box (72) in the casing (10) is formed in the divider plate (25), and an access lid (71) for closing the access opening (70) is provided.
US08439991B2 Process for the generation of a synthesis gas
A process for the generation of a synthesis gas comprising: (a) forming a raw synthesis gas, (b) dividing the raw synthesis gas into first and second streams, (c) subjecting the first stream to the water gas shift reaction to form a shifted gas mixture, (d) cooling the second raw synthesis gas stream and shifted gas mixture to below the dew point to form a dry raw synthesis gas mixture, and a dry shifted gas mixture respectively, (e) feeding the dry raw synthesis gas mixture and a dry shifted gas mixture to a gas-washing unit operating by counter-current solvent flow, such that the solvent flowing through said unit contacts first with the dry raw gas mixture and then the dry shifted gas mixture, and (f) collecting from said gas-washing unit a synthesis gas having a stoichiometry ratio, R=(H2−CO2)/(CO+CO2), in the range 1.4 to 3.3.
US08439989B2 Additives for mercury oxidation in coal-fired power plants
The present invention is directed to an additive, primarily for low sulfur and high alkali coals, that includes a transition metal and optionally a halogen to effect mercury oxidation.
US08439979B2 Artificial contractile structure and apparatus comprising such structure
An artificial contractile structure generally devised to be used in the medical field to assist the functioning of an organ, includes a support (2) and one or more fibers (5) fixed thereto. The fibers are made of a contractile material which can be activated by an activator so as to provide the structure in a rest or activated position, the activated position being defined with fibers of reduced length compared to their length in the rest position. The structure is adapted to be placed around a hollow part of an organ to be contracted. The fibers are distributed along the support in order to be able to reduce the volume of the hollow part, when the fibers are contracted. The fibers and the activator are designed so that the temperature of fluids or tissues surrounding the organ does not increase above 40° C., preferably 39° C., and more preferably 38° C.
US08439974B2 Adjusted index of refraction of ocular replacement material
The present invention relates to a method of determining the IOL refractive index for an ocular replacement material for replacing tissue in the capsular bag comprising combining a neutral (non-correcting) reference refractive index (“NRRI”) of between 1.421 and 1.450 with a refractive index correction factor (“RICF”) ascertained by reference to the refractive power required to correct the patient's refractive error. The present invention also relates to methods of treating presbyopia, myopia and hyperopia using the above method.
US08439967B2 Stent/fiber structural combinations
A plurality of endoluminal segments axially connected by fiber bridges is disclosed. The endoluminal segments may be superelastic nitinol that is balloon-expandable or self-expanding. The intraluminal segments may possess a textured surface or at least one geometric feature per segment, located at the apex of a strut pair comprising the intraluminal segment, serving as an anchoring point for the fiber bridges. These geometric features may transmit axially compressive loads during deployment from a device such as a catheter, and may be capable of interlocking the endoluminal segments when constrained within a device such as a catheter. The fibers comprising the bridges may be polymeric, silk, collagen, bioabsorbable, or a blend thereof. The fiber network comprising the bridges may be regularly oriented, randomly oriented, localized, or continuous. The intraluminal segments and fiber bridges may be individually impregnated with therapeutic material, or may both be impregnated with therapeutic material.
US08439960B2 Hypothermia devices and methods
A method of providing hypothermia to a patient including the steps of inserting a fluid delivery member into a peritoneal cavity of the patient; delivering hypothermia fluid from a fluid source into the peritoneal cavity through the delivery member; and limiting fluid pressure within the peritoneal cavity without providing feedback control to the fluid source. The invention also provides an apparatus for practicing the method.
US08439956B2 Method of performing a decompressive craniectomy
A method of performing a decompressive craniectomy includes removing a bone flap from a cranium, attaching one end of a movable plate to one end of the bone flap, and attaching another end of the movable plate to the cranium. The movable plate is configured to allow the bone flap to move to accommodate swelling of intracranial contents.
US08439955B2 Fracture fixation plates for the distal humerus
A system for the internal fixation of a fractured bone of an elbow joint of a patient includes at least one bone plate, each bone plate having a plurality of holes and generally configured to fit an anatomical surface of the fractured bone. The at least one plate is adapted to be customized to the shape of a patient's bone. The system also includes a plurality of fasteners including at least one locking fastener for attaching the bone plate to the bone. At least one of the holes is a threaded hole. Guides for plate benders, drills, and/or K-wires can be pre-assembled to the threaded holes, and the locking fastener can lock into any of the threaded holes after the guides are removed.
US08439954B2 Spring-loaded, load sharing polyaxial pedicle screw assembly and method
A method includes positioning a load sharing mechanism in between a screw head and a bone fixator component; attaching the screw head to the bone fixator component such that the load sharing mechanism provides tensile resistance to the screw head; securing the bone fixator component in a bone; securing a locking pin in the screw head; engaging the locking pin with the bone fixator component; inserting a longitudinal member in the screw head; and inserting a blocker in the screw head. The method may further comprise positioning a longitudinal member in a slot configured in the screw head.
US08439949B2 Facet joint augmentation with hydrogels
A method for augmenting a facet joint. The method includes exposing the posterior aspects of a spinal motion segment in a first incision, preparing an access path through a separate postero-lateral percutaneous incision using a drilling instrument that traverses through at least a portion of the lamina and an inferior facet articulation surface, and terminates within the facet joint gap, and injecting augmentation filler into the facet joint gap.
US08439946B2 Suture anchor having a suture engaging structure and inserter arrangement
A suture anchor and inserter arrangement, including a suture anchor for implanting in hard tissue, such as bone, and an inserter device for installing the suture anchor in hard tissue. The suture anchor carries thereon a suture-engaging structure formed as a loop, which loop defines an attachment location for a working suture associated with the inserter device so as to attach the working suture to the suture anchor.
US08439943B2 Tourniquet
A tourniquet includes a first and a second elements and a strap having one end winding around a human body and threading through the first element. The first element has a latch slot and a latch element. The second element has a coupling element at one end latchable with the latch element and the other end fastened to the strap. The first element has an upper and a lower cases and a brake unit inside. The upper and lower cases have respectively an upper and a lower openings threaded through by the strap. The brake unit has a detent edge at one end and an axle at the other end extended to form an actuating member movable with the brake unit about the axle, and an elastic element provides a force for the detent edge to butt the strap from the upper opening to the lower opening.
US08439938B2 Variable frequency phacoemulsification handpiece
A phacoemulsification system includes a phacoemulsification handpiece having a horn coupled to a transducer configured to convert alternating current into mechanical oscillation of the horn. The phacoemulsification handpiece further includes a phacoemulsification needle attached to the horn. The phacoemulsification needle vibrates by oscillation of the horn, to provide for mechanical cutting of tissue and inducing cavitation proximate a tip of the phacoemulsification needle. The phacoemulsification system further includes a control system with associated drive circuitry in connection with the transducer of the phacoemulsification handpiece. The control system is configured to adjust an operating frequency of the transducer to increase or decrease a mechanical cutting performance and a cavitational-induced performance of the phacoemulsification needle.
US08439933B2 Double lumen phacoemulsification needle tip
A phacoemulsifcation needle has a central aspiration passageway extending through a needle body. A hollow shell is attached to and covers at least a portion of the needle body, creating an annular space between the inner surface of the shell and the outer surface of the needle body. At least one port is formed through the needle body communicating between the aspiration passageway and the annular space to create a flow path. The openings to the needle body and the shell may be coplanar or may lie in different planes.
US08439932B2 Submuscular plating system
The present teachings provide one or more surgical implements for repairing damaged tissue, such as in the case of a fixation procedure. For example, a system is provided that includes a bone plate having a first plurality of apertures and a targeting arm having a second plurality of apertures. Each of the second plurality of apertures of the targeting arm are configured for targeting of a bone fastener to one of first plurality of apertures. An imaginary targeting line extends from a first aperture of the first plurality of apertures to a first aperture of the second plurality of apertures. The system includes a mounting member, which includes a first end secured to the bone plate and a second end secured to the targeting arm. The second end of the mounting member is offset from the first end such that the second end is spaced from the imaginary targeting line.
US08439928B2 Instrument for use in minimally invasive surgery
An instrument for use in minimally invasive hip surgery, the instrument being for use in forming and using a portal incision in a hip arthroplasty procedure to implant an acetabular implant. In particular, the instrument is useful for both alignment and insertion/impaction of an acetabular shell. Furthermore, the instrument is suitable for assuring the shell is impacted with the proper abduction and version in left or right hips.
US08439926B2 Patient selectable joint arthroplasty devices and surgical tools
Disclosed herein are tools for repairing articular surfaces repair materials and for repairing an articular surface. The surgical tools are designed to be customizable or highly selectable by patient to increase the speed, accuracy and simplicity of performing total or partial arthroplasty.
US08439921B2 Device and method for allograft total hip arthroplasty
Method and apparatus for preparing bone and cartilage transplants for the reconstruction of the acetabulum, femoral head, or both with tissue engineered osteochondral constructs or and osteochondral allograft transplant.
US08439919B2 Implant provided with attachment and hole-insert parts, and a method for producing such an implant
An implant (4) is provided with attachment and hole-insert parts (2, 3) with surfaces which have different degrees of finishing and/or degrees of roughness and/or porosities (2f, 2g). Arranged on the surfaces there is at least one dozen (A-B) in which the degree of finishing and/or the degree of roughness and/or the porosity is continuously changed. The changes in porosity in said zones can mirror continuous or discontinuous changes in the bone in question, for example the jaw bone or tooth bone. The continuously changed zones can be obtained with the aid of electrolyte (15) and, connected to the latter, an anode and cathode arrangement (13, 14). When establishing the porosity, it is possible to mask different portions of the respective implant and to control the temperature of the implant.
US08439912B2 De-tensioning mechanism for articulation drive cables
A surgical instrument includes a housing having an elongated shaft extending distally therefrom. An end effector for treating tissue is supported by the elongated shaft. One or more tensile members extend at least partially through the elongated shaft. A proximal end of a tensile member is operatively coupled to at least one actuator and a distal end is operatively coupled to the end effector such that manipulation of the actuator induces movement of the tensile member to move the end effector. A de-tensioning mechanism is operatively associated with the tensile member to move the tensile member between a first relaxed configuration and a second stressed configuration. The de-tensioning mechanism includes a spacer insertable into a cavity defined in the housing to move the tensile member to the first relaxed configuration and removable from the cavity to move the at least one tensile member to the second stressed configuration.
US08439910B2 Electrosurgical electrode with electric field concentrating flash edge
An electrode tip for use in performing electro surgical operative procedures to concentrate electrical energy communicated to the patient tissue is disclosed. The electrode tip includes a main body that can receive electrical energy from an electrosurgical generator. The main body includes a working surface defining a flash edge. The working surface communicates the electrical energy to patient tissue during an operative procedure. The flash edge concentrates the electrical energy as it is communicated to the patient tissue. The concentration of the electrical energy from the flash edge reduces excessive tissue damage surrounding an incision site and improves the efficiency of the electrode tip.
US08439906B2 Regulating internal pressure of a cryotherapy balloon catheter
A method of performing a cryotherapy procedure can include introducing a cryotherapy balloon catheter at a treatment site inside a patient's body; regulating, during a first phase of a cryotherapy procedure, flow of cryogenic fluid to and exhaust from a distal balloon portion of the cryotherapy balloon catheter to cause an initial pressure to be maintained inside the distal balloon portion that is sufficiently high to cause an outer wall of the distal balloon portion to be pressed against body tissue at the treatment site; and regulating, during a second phase of the cryotherapy procedure, flow of cryogenic fluid to and exhaust from the distal balloon portion to cause a) a temperature inside the distal balloon portion to reach a value sufficient to deliver therapeutic levels of cryotherapy to the body tissue, and b) a second-phase pressure to be maintained that is within a threshold value of the initial pressure.
US08439905B2 Nucleation enhanced surface modification to support physical vapor deposition to create a vacuum
The device of the invention takes the form of a catheter/probe and is a closed loop system in which cryogen is delivered along the length of the catheter/probe to the tip where freezing occurs, and then recirculated. The device is a tube within a tube and comprises a number of parts including supply and return (internal) tubes, outer sheath (external tube) seaJed to the inner tubes at one or both ends with a gas filled lumen between the internal and external tubes. The lumen of the external tube is filled with a saturated gas which solidifies upon cooling, thereby creating a vacuum along the catheter length and providing for insulation between the inner and outer tubes, and preventing freezing along the probe shaft length. The outside surface of the internal tubes is modified to potentiate gas nucleation on the outer surfaces of the internal tubes when cooled.
US08439902B2 Apparatus and method for processing material with focused electromagnetic radiation
An apparatus for processing material with focused electromagnetic radiation, comprises: a source emitting electromagnetic radiation, means for directing the radiation onto the material, means for focusing the radiation on or in the material, a unit for generating a pattern in the optical path of the electromagnetic radiation, an at least partially reflective surface in the optical path before the focus of the focused radiation, said pattern being imaged onto said at least partially reflective surface through at least part of said directing means and said focusing means, at least one detector onto which an image of the pattern is reflected by said surface and which generates electrical signals corresponding to said image, said image containing information on the position of the focus, a computer receiving said electrical signals and programmed to process said image so as to generate an electrical signal depending on the focal position, and a divergence adjustment element arranged in said optical path and adapted to receive said electrical signal of the computer so as to change a divergence of the electromagnetic radiation depending on said signal.
US08439900B2 Shielded intraocular probe for improved illumination or therapeutic application of light
An intraocular light probe has a mask or shield affixed at its distal end thereof which forms a directed light beam for intraocular illumination of target tissues or intraocular application of therapeutic light. The mask or shield serves to more fully focus, intensify and direct the beam toward target tissues. The mask or shield also helps direct light away from other tissues and away from the eyes of the surgeon. This lessens unwanted glare. By placing a light probe beneath a surgical instrument such as a phacoemulsifier or vitrector, laser, cutting instrument (e.g., scissors or knife), forceps or probe/manipulator, whether as part of or separate from an infusion sleeve, a mask or shield effect is created. This has the same benefits of directing the beam toward target tissues, away from other tissues and away from the eyes of the surgeon.
US08439899B2 Remote-controlled actuator
A remote controlled actuator includes an elongated spindle guide section and a distal end member fitted to a distal end thereof for alteration in attitude. The distal end member rotatably supports a spindle for holding a tool. The spindle guide section includes a rotary shaft for transmitting rotation of a tool rotation drive source to the spindle. An attitude altering member inserted in a guide hole is selectively advanced or retracted by an attitude control drive source. An initial attitude hold control unit controls the attitude control drive source so that an initial attitude holding force necessary to maintain the distal end member in the initial attitude can be applied to the attitude altering member. An attitude alteration control unit controls the attitude control drive source so that the attitude of the distal end member can be altered by a force larger than the initial attitude holding force.
US08439898B2 Endoscopic tissue anchor deployment
An endoscopic tissue anchor deployment device includes a handle, an elongated shaft defining an internal lumen, and an end effector attached to the distal end of the elongated shaft. A tissue anchor catheter is removably inserted through the lumen of the elongated shaft, the catheter having a tissue anchor assembly that is deployable from its distal end. In some embodiments, the handle includes a pin and track assembly that define a series of handle actuation steps corresponding to deployment steps for the deployment device end effector and the tissue anchor catheter. In some embodiments, the handle includes a catheter stop member that prevents movement of the tissue anchor catheter under certain circumstances, and a handle stop member that prevents actuation of the handle under certain circumstances.
US08439894B1 Negative pressure bandage with internal storage chamber
A negative pressure bandage is formed in a two chamber configuration having a lower chamber from which fluids and exudates are collected from an open wound on the patient and an upper chamber that is used to store the collected fluids and exudates removed by an application of a vacuum to the lower chamber. An impermeable layer separates the upper and lower chambers to keep the wound dry and promote healing. A vacuum port interconnects a fluid collection member located in the lower chamber with the upper chamber to allow the application of a vacuum that collects and removes fluids and exudates from the lower chamber. The vacuum pump can be remote and attached to the bandage by tubing or be incorporated into the bandage to provide a self-contained negative pressure bandage. An absorptive pad can be located in the upper chamber to collect and gel the collected fluids.
US08439893B2 System and method for efficient drainage of body cavity
A system for efficient drainage of a body cavity includes application of vacuum at very high pressure, preferably in the range of approximately 50-500 torr or higher. The system includes the use of a drainage tube having a plurality of holes formed into the wall of a portion of the tube to be inserted in the body cavity. The area of each of the holes is preferably selected to ensure that the suction force communicated by each of the holes to areas within the body cavity is insufficient to injure the tissues exposed in the body cavity. A one-way valve maintains unidirectional flow of drained fluids and gases away from the body cavity. A vacuum relief valve prevents application of dangerous levels of vacuum pressure by opening to admit atmospheric air when vacuum pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold. A vacuum chamber separates drained fluids from drained gases.
US08439892B2 Catheter for reduced reflux in targeted tissue delivery of a therapeutic agent
A therapeutic agent delivery system that includes a catheter having a proximal end and an opposite distal end. The catheter has a body with a lumen defined therein. The body of the catheter includes a non-bulbous region having a substantially uniform outer diameter and a bulbous region made from an elastically deformable material. While in a first state the bulbous region has a maximum outer diameter greater than the substantially uniform outer diameter of the non-bulbous region; and while in a second state the maximum outer diameter of the bulbous region is reduced relative to that while in the first state.
US08439891B1 IV start device and method
A method for starting an intravenous fluid line (IV) is disclosed where a combination of a syringe body with hypodermic needle, a dual ampoule with separate reservoirs for bicarbonate and an anesthetic, a trocar and a cannula are configured so that the steps of injecting a wheal of a buffered anesthetic, retracting the needle tip, lancing a vein with the trocar, and withdrawing the trocar tip so that the cannula remains in place in the vein may be accomplished in a single coordinated action by one skilled in the method, such as with one hand while the other hand performs manipulations on the vein and IV site.
US08439890B2 Material delivery system
A method for injecting a therapeutic agent into a target tissue, the method comprising: (a) providing an expandable member; (b) positioning said expandable member in proximity to the target tissue; (c) Introducing the therapeutic agent into the expandable member until a desired pressure is achieved; and (d) creating a plurality of small apertures in the expandable member.
US08439889B2 Blood bag system and blood treating method
The blood bag system includes: a blood treating filter for treating a blood; a first bag for containing therein a blood to be supplied to the blood treating filter; a second bag for containing therein the blood treated by the blood treating filter; storage solution supply which supplies a blood component storage solution to the blood treating filter; a third bag into which a blood remaining in the blood treating filter replaced by the blood component storage solution is transferred and in which the recovered blood is temporarily contained; and a fourth bag to which a blood component separated from the treated blood contained in the second bag is transferred and in which the transferred blood component is contained.
US08439884B2 Component making it easier to fasten a stoma bandage to skin
The present invention relates to a component (1) making it easier to fasten a stoma bandage (6) to skin. According to the invention, the component comprises a plastic film (2) coated with a layer (3) of a soft and skin-compatible silicone elastomer which adheres to skin. The component also has a through-opening (4) intended to be applied around a stoma.
US08439881B2 Surgical access device with adjustable cannula
A surgical access device is provided having a cannula and obturator. The cannula has a housing and tube section with an anchor located about the tube section. The obturator has a mechanism to deploy the anchor and adjust the cannula length. The anchor is moveable between a deployed and undeployed state where the undeployed state facilitates insertion and removal of the access device and the deployed state assists in fixation of the cannula in an anatomic structure. Anchor deployment is independent of cannula length adjustment.
US08439877B2 Bi-directionally engageable cannula crimp feature
A cannula, such as an IV catheter introducer needle, that has a bi-directionally engageable crimp feature is described herein. The feature comprises a maximum outer diameter that is greater than an outer diameter of the cannula. Additionally, the feature comprises a proximal side and a distal side. The larger outer diameter of the proximal side can act as a proximal engagement that prevents the cannula from being entirely extracted in a proximal direction from a cannula shield. The distal side of the feature can comprise a notch that acts a distal engagement, which prevents the cannula from reemerging distally from the shield, once the cannula has been pulled into the shield. The notch can include an engagement surface that extends laterally past the cannula's outer diameter. The engagement surface can be configured to run substantially perpendicular to the cannula's longitudinal axis.
US08439876B2 Injector system for encoding and sensing of syringe information
Injector systems including a syringe for use with a powered injector having a drive membre to inject a fluid into a patient having a first indicator positioned on the syringe at a predetermined position are described. The position of the first indicator may be associated with information about the syringe configuration. The first indicator can, for example, be positioned on a rear surface of an attachment flange of the syringe. The injector system includes sensors each having on and off states, and a shutter mechanism configured to place sensors in the on or off states. The state of each of the sensors provides a digital code corresponding to information on the syringe configuration.
US08439873B1 Catheter with position indicator
A peripherally inserted central venous catheter having a position indicator is used in a method of detecting movement of a catheter tip within a patient's superior vena cava. The PICC comprises a catheter having a proximal end with distance marks at measured intervals, an anchor wing system secured to the catheter's proximal end, at least one extension leg secured to the anchor wing system and the position indicator attached to the extension leg. The position indicator has an area for marking a distance signifying an initial external length of catheter which extends from the point the catheter enters the patient to the point it is attached to the anchor wing and/or marking an initial full length or the internal length of catheter which is fully within the patient. Any movement of the catheter's tip is detected by comparing the current external distance mark with the initial external distance mark.
US08439870B2 Safety needle assembly and methods
Embodiments of the present safety needle assembly include a slidable needle shield. Digital pressure applied to a leaf spring retention latch removes a compressive force from a biasing member and automatically moves the needle shield from a ready-to-use configuration to a protected configuration in which the needle shield covers the sharp needle tip. In the protected configuration the needle shield is prevented from sliding proximally along the needle a sufficient distance to expose the needle tip.
US08439867B2 Injection guidance system and method
A system and method of treating urinary incontinence including a catheter and injection guide operatively disposed together. At least one needle is operatively disposed within at least one lumen and at least one channel extending through the catheter and injection guide respectively. The injection guide is transformable from a pre-injection configuration for placement in the bladder to an injection configuration for injection of a pharmaceutical such as botulinum toxin into the bladder tissue. Upon introduction of the pharmaceutical to the bladder tissue, symptoms of incontinence are alleviated.
US08439864B2 Device for administering fluid from a multi-chamber ampoule in incremental steps
An administering device for administering an active substance from a multi-chamber container comprising a first chamber holding a solid active substance and a second chamber holding a dissolving liquid for the active substance, wherein the administering device comprises a mixing device for mixing the active substance with the dissolving liquid and a housing accommodating the mixing device, the container being moveable relative to the housing, and the administering device further comprising a first indicator for indicating a position of the container relative to the housing upon completion of a mixing step, and a second indicator for indicating a position of the container relative to the housing upon completion of a venting step.
US08439859B2 Catheter device
The catheter device comprises a drive shaft connected to a motor, and a rotor mounted on the drive shaft at the distal end section. The rotor has a frame structure which is formed by a screw-like boundary frame and rotor struts extending radially inwards from the boundary frame. The rotor struts are fastened to the drive shaft by their ends opposite the boundary frame. Between the boundary frame and the drive shaft extends an elastic covering. The frame structure is made of an elastic material such that, after forced compression, the rotor unfolds automatically.
US08439856B2 Composite plastic rigid walking cast with cushioned interior supports
A walking cast having an upper cage assembleable over an upper leg and a lower cage assembleable over a lower leg and hingedly secured to the upper cage approximate a wearer's knee. A foot sole support is connected to the lower cage which includes lower angled supports for engaging side locations of the sole in a further hinged connection. Each of the upper and lower cages include a rear positioned fixed support with a second forward and hingedly connecting door. A plurality of cushioning supports secure to inner facing locations associated with each of the upper and lower cages.
US08439855B2 Massaging device
A massaging device in the shape of a rod with an essentially cylindrical end element with a sleeve. The device has a flexible sleeve and a drive element to produce an oscillating deformation of the sleeve.
US08439854B2 Ankle rehabilitation device
An ankle therapy device provides variable loading on targeted muscles and tendons, by utilizing a variable length moment arm to which the load is attached, and having the ability to change the angle of the load with respect to the orientation of the user's foot. Thus, the device provides a variable resistance on the ankle muscles and tendons when the ankle is moved, and may target different muscles and tendons by changing the angle of the resistance. The device comprises a member to which the user's foot is attached, and a rotatably attached weight support member to which a weight is secured. The position of the weight may be shifted along the length of the weight support member, and the amount of weight may be changed.
US08439848B2 Blood testing device
A blood testing device that can perform blood testing having lighting intensity independent of the number of times of piercing. The blood testing device (21) has a cover unit (20) removably installed on negative pressure chambers (25a, 25b). The cover unit (20) has a circular tube section (20b) surrounding the optical axis of a laser unit (26) and having a predetermined length in the direction of the optical axis, a cover glass (20d) placed on the optical axis of the laser unit (26) so as to be located at that end of the circular tube section (20b) which is on the laser unit (26) side, and a slit (20e) for interconnecting the inside of the circular tube section (20b) and the negative pressure chamber (25a) outside the circular tube section (20b).
US08439847B2 Method and apparatus for simultaneously collecting exocervical and endocervical samples
A combination exo-endocervical sampling device includes a shaft that includes a first end opposite a second end, and a combination exo-endocervical sampler configured to simultaneously collect endocervical cells and exocervical cells. The combination exo-endocervical sampler is coupled to the second end and includes a pair of opposing wings disposed transverse to the shaft and a brush extending from the wings along a central axis of the shaft. Each of the opposing wings includes a plurality of flexible loops configured to collect exocervical cells.
US08439845B2 Obtaining measurements of muscle reflexes for diagnosis of patient symptoms
A system and method is disclosed for measuring muscle reflexes (e.g., a bulbocavernosus reflex) as a tool for identifying/diagnosing dysfunctions (e.g., spinal cord abnormalities, bladder voiding dysfunction, and sexual organ dysfunction) non-invasively by using mechanical stimulation. The system and method includes a probe having a predetermined patient contacting portion, wherein when the contacting portion is moved into contact with a particular area of the patient (e.g., the patient's genitals), the contact induces a muscle reflex. The probe detects the pressure resulting from the contacting portion being abruptly and forcibly brought into contact with the particular area. Such detection is used to electronically initiate capture of electrical responses from a plurality of electrodes placed on the patient's skin in proximity to the particular area. Such electrical responses are processed to determine characteristics of the patient's reflexes of one or more muscles adjacent to the electrodes.
US08439840B1 Ultrasound imaging system and method with automatic adjustment and/or multiple sample volumes
Adjustment of operation of an ultrasound imaging system may be based at least in part on one or more characteristics represented in ultrasound return signals from two or more sample volumes. Adjustment may include adjusting a principal sample volume location or selecting a new principal sample volume. For example, a location of a principal sample volume may be adjusted or new principal sample volume selected so as to remain focused on an identified region of interest or to maintain the principal sample volume relative to some structure or reference. The principal sample volume may be maintained in the center or along a centerline of an artery or other structure, as the transducer array is moved along the artery or structure.
US08439835B1 System and method for diagnosis and management of sepsis
Embodiments of systems and methods for providing protocols for administering an aspect of care are presented. Specifically, certain embodiments relate to a sepsis diagnosis and management protocol which may have been segmented according to the severity of the sepsis, where the care directives provided by the differing segments of the protocol will be of differing intensity or invasiveness based upon the severity of the patient's disease. Embodiments of such protocols may be implemented in conjunction with computer systems to aid in providing that aspect of care in conjunction with a particular patient.
US08439834B2 Analysis system with user-friendly display element
A portable medical system is provided for the purposes of analysis and/or medication, the system having at least one of a medical monitoring device, an analysis device and a medication device. The portable medical system comprises at least one display element comprising at least one organic light-emitting diode display. An optimization device can be provided that comprises a brightness sensor and is configured to optimize the brightness, contrast and/or power consumption of the at least one display element. Furthermore, a monitoring device can be provided which monitors the functionality of the display element. Faults in the display element can be detected in this way, and a corresponding warning can be output to a person using the portable medical system.
US08439828B2 Treatment endoscope
In a treatment endoscope which includes: an elongated insertion section having a first channel for inserting a treatment instrument therethrough; an arm, having a second channel for inserting a treatment instrument therethrough, attached to the distal end of the insertion section so that the first channel communicates with the second channel; a first operation section for operating the arm; and a second operation section for operating the insertion section, the arm has a first bending section which can be operated to be bent via the first operation section, the insertion section has a second bending section which can be operated to be bent via the second operation section, and an interlock mechanism connects the first operation section to the second operation section so that, when either one of the first bending section and the second bending section is bent by operating either one of the first operation section and the second operation section, the other one of the first bending section and the second bending section bends.
US08439822B2 Capsule endoscope
A capsule endoscope includes a capsule-shaped casing and an imaging unit for taking an image of an inside of an organ in a state where the capsule endoscope is floating in liquid introduced inside the organ of a subject. Specific gravity of the capsule endoscope to the introduced liquid is ρ; a plane divides the capsule endoscope such that a volume ratio is to be ρ:1−ρ. A straight line that connects a center of volume of a portion whose volume ratio is ρ and a center of gravity of the capsule endoscope is substantially perpendicular to the plane. The center of gravity is present at a position farther distant from the plane than the center of volume. A surface of a boundary of a field of view that forms an angle of view of the imaging unit and the plane do not intersect outside the capsule endoscope.
US08439821B2 System and method for the central control of devices used during an operation
The present invention relates to a system for the central control of devices used during an operation, comprising a first control unit for control of said devices. The system is characterized in that a second control unit is provided which is connected to the first control unit for exchange of information. The first control unit may be embodied as closed system for control of at least those devices which carry out safety-related functions (safety-related devices), and the second control unit may be embodied as open system for control of the remaining devices which carry out non safety-related functions (non safety-related devices). The invention further relates to a method for the central control of devices.
US08439818B2 Sleep inducing apparatus and electronic device using the same
An apparatus for inducing sleep includes an audio generator, a signal generator, and a signal processor. The audio generator generates audio signals. The signal generator generates electrical signals with a frequency between 0.4 HZ to 4 HZ. The signal processor adjusts amplitudes of the audio signals according to the frequency, and outputs the adjusted audio signals.
US08439813B2 Method of manufacturing a top sheet or back sheet of a disposable absorbent article
A method of manufacturing a top sheet material or back sheet material for use in the manufacture of disposable absorbent articles including the steps of: a) splitting a continuous first web of sheet material having substantially straight side edges into a second and third continuous web by an alternating concave-convex cutting line cut in a longitudinal direction along the continuous first web, the cutting line being distanced from both side edges of the continuous first web; b) shifting the second continuous web in a lateral direction in relation to the third continuous web so that the substantially straight edges of the second and third continuous webs are parallel to and adjacent to each other and longitudinally shifting the second continuous web so that the series of concave edge portions and the series of convex edge portions of the second and third continuous webs are longitudinally aligned with each other; c) directly or indirectly joining the substantially straight edges of the second and third continuous webs to each other, thereby forming a composite fourth web. The cutting line is made in the first continuous web so that all portions of the cutting line are distanced from a longitudinal center line of the first continuous web.
US08439808B2 Bicycle trainer with variable resistance to pedaling
The invention is a bicycle trainer to which a standard bicycle temporarily attaches for exercise and simulated rides. A lifting mechanism raises and lowers the front tire, and in preferred embodiments, a frame engages the rear tire to hold the rear tire in an elevated position against a resistance cylinder. The trainer includes support arms that connect to the bicycle and pivot the bicycle in an arcuate path back and forth in relation to a resistance cylinder. The resistance cylinder can thereby vary resistance against back tire revolution.
US08439805B2 Hydraulic system of a gear box
An automatic vehicle transmission comprises a first oil supply unit (10) with at least one mechanically driven first pump (11) and a second oil supply unit (20) with at least one electrically driven second pump (21), and a valve device (14) and a clutch system (1). The second oil supply unit (20) supplies the clutch system (1), during a first operating condition, and the first oil supply unit (10) supplies the clutch system (1), during a second operating condition.
US08439801B2 Method for controlling an automated shift gearbox
A method for controlling a drivetrain in a motor vehicle which has an internal combustion engine with a crankshaft, an automated gearbox with engagable and disengagable gears and a gearbox input shaft and a gearbox output shaft which drives drive wheels, a friction clutch which connects the crankshaft and the gearbox input shaft in a separable manner and is operated in an automated fashion, and a control unit for controlling the drivetrain. For driving comfort, before the vehicle comes to a stop, a starting gear is engaged in an overrun mode such that, after opening the friction clutch, a synchronization of gearbox input and output shaft rotational speed of the starting gear is initiated at a gearbox input shaft rotational speed which is higher than a target rotational speed of the gearbox input shaft yielded by the transmission ratio of the starting gear between the gearbox input and output shaft.
US08439799B1 Controller for automatic transmission
A controller for automatic transmission that performs feedback control on a slip ratio of a lockup clutch is adapted to select one target slip ratio from a plurality of target slip ratios based on a detected automatic transmission fluid temperature of a torque converter. Thus, the controller can ensure good followability to a target value of the feedback control even when the automatic transmission fluid temperature is low. The controller can effectively prevent engine hunting and the associated vibrations of vehicle body. Therefore, the controller can accomplish a favorable slip control of the lockup clutch even if an operating range of the lockup clutch is expanded to a range where the automatic transmission fluid temperature is low.
US08439797B2 Continuously variable transmission
A straddle-type vehicle that prevents belt fluttering motion when the vehicle starts. A throttle opening degree sensor that detects an opening degree of a throttle is connected to and outputs to a controller a signal produced when the throttle opening degree switches from a closed state to an open state. When the vehicle starts from a standing state, the controller controls an actuator, according to the signal produced when the throttle opening degree switches from the closed state to the open state, to move a movable flange from a normal position in the standing state in a direction to narrow the groove width of a primary sheave.
US08439789B2 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.
US08439788B2 Vehicle differential unit
In a vehicle differential unit according to an embodiment of the invention, a planetary carrier that is a rotatable member that rotatably supports planetary gears is formed of cylindrical members that are unable to rotate relative to each other on the rotational axis of a pair of output shafts. The vehicle differential unit has a thrust force generation portion that receives a driving force from a drive source of a vehicle and generates a thrust force along the direction of the rotational axis of the pair of output shafts, and a relative movement limiting portion that limits a relative movement between the cylindrical members along the axial direction due to the thrust force when the vehicle is in the drive mode.
US08439785B2 Control apparatus for automatic transmission
An automatic transmission includes: a frictional engagement element arranged to be switched from an engagement state to a disengagement state at a switching from a running range to a neutral range, and including: frictional plates; a first piston arranged to push the frictional plates; a second piston arranged to push the frictional plates; a first hydraulic chamber arranged to receive a hydraulic fluid for pushing the first piston; and a second hydraulic chamber arranged to receive a hydraulic fluid for pushing the second piston; a first discharge speed switching section arranged to switch only a discharge speed of the hydraulic fluid of the first hydraulic chamber; and a control unit configured to increase the discharge speed of the hydraulic fluid of the first hydraulic chamber during a predetermined time period by the first discharge speed switching section at the switching from the running range to the neutral range.
US08439783B2 Penetrating shaft type planetary gear train with bidirectional input and one-way output
For the penetrating shaft type planetary gear train with bidirectional input and one-way output, the planetary gear train and one-way transmission integrate to constitute the planetary gear train, in which the driven rotary direction of the input shaft of the gear train with bidirectional input and one-way output is changed, and the output rotary direction of the output shaft is constant.
US08439781B2 Radial damping mechanism and use for belt tensioning
A tensioner for an endless power transmitting element in a drive system is disclosed that includes an arm rotatable about an axis and having a sleeve that includes a ramp face or contoured face, a damper cup having a protrusion and a plate, a spring case that houses the sleeve of the arm and the damper cup with the damper cup's plate mated with the ramp face or contoured face of the sleeve. During wind-up of the tensioner, a normal force is applied to the damper cup's protrusion that moves the plate along the ramp face or contoured face in a first direction, and in the first direction the ramp face or contoured face pushes the damper cup generally radially outward into the spring case to provide frictional damping.
US08439780B2 Tensioner for a drive belt of a motor vehicle
A tensioner for a belt drive, including a rigid element rotatably connected around a first axis and a couple of idle pulleys supported by a rigid element on opposing parts of axis and adapted to cooperate with respective sections of a belt of belt drive. The tensioner also includes a mobile element hinged to a second fixed axis carrying the first axis.
US08439778B2 Axial fixing device with an integrated end plug
An axial fixing and closure member arrangement including an insert element for producing a rotatable, but axially fixed connection between the rotary axle of the chain guide of a rear gear change mechanism for bicycles and the related lower pivot head by means of a spring element, wherein additionally the insert element also has a sealing effect by providing an integrated closure member.
US08439777B2 Scent dispersing apparatus
An animal attractant, such as a liquid scent can be dispersed from a soft-shelled frangible capsule by positioning the capsule in an enclosure and then attaching the enclosure to an arrow. A plunger secured to the enclosure slidably moves inside the enclosure and causes rapture of the capsule upon impact of the plunger with a solid surface. The liquid animal attractant is dispersed through cutouts formed in the enclosure in a fan-like fashion.
US08439774B2 Pitching movement training device
A pitching movement training device includes a ball, a plurality of pegs selectively secured at predetermined locations about the surface of the ball, and at least one band secured between adjacent pegs. The ball has a seam and at least one of the pegs being positioned adjacent the seam. The ball allows one to teach athletes proper hand positioning upon a ball while throwing specific pitches. The method includes providing the plurality of pegs and the ball, securing the pegs to the ball at predetermined locations about the outer surface of the ball, positioning a user's fingers relative to the pegs; and instructing the user to throw a pitch with a specific hand motion.
US08439771B1 Golf training tee
A golf training tee includes a tee riser that has at a top end a cup adapted for receiving a golf ball thereon. A bottom end of the tee riser includes a substantially spherical ball member. A base has a socket at a top end thereof that is adapted for pivotally receiving the ball member. The socket has an open portion that includes a substantially flat stop surface. The base includes at a lower end thereof a ground attachment member, such as a spike adapted for insertion into a ground surface, or a flat disk adapted for resting on the ground surface. In use, when the golf ball is struck with the golf club, the tee riser pivots downwardly in a direction of the golf club at impact therewith. The tee riser stops its downward pivot at the stop surface of the socket, remaining pointed in the direction.
US08439769B2 Metal wood club with improved hitting face
A hitting face of a golf club head having a location of longest characteristic time shifted away from the geometric center of the hitting face. The hitting face of the club head has varying thickness, with a thickest portion being at or near the geometric center of the plate-like hitting face. A second thickened portion of the hitting face substantially surrounds the thickest portion. The portions of varying thickness taper therebetween for relatively smooth cross-sectional profiles. The hitting face may further comprise a plurality of indentations at least partially located within the outer intermediate zone of the hitting face, having a thickness that is less than the thickness of the hitting face at the geometric center and tapered portion.
US08439768B1 Tool with holder for smoking article
A golf tool comprises a body having an upper portion and a lower portion, an outwardly facing surface and an inwardly facing surface, at least first and second prongs depending from the body for repairing a golf ball pitch-mark, an s-shaped serpentine structure extending from the upper portion of the body, the serpentine structure having a first end connected with and generally in vertical alignment with the body and a second end connected to a multi-purpose holder, the second end being offset from the body, the serpentine structure having a segment opposite the body defining a clip for clipping the golf tool to a golf bag, the multi-purpose holder having a shaft holder which is generally U-shaped and vertical in orientation, the multi-purpose holder separated from the body by the s-shaped serpentine structure, a channel having an axis which is generally horizontal and transverse to the shaft holder, wherein the golf tool is capable of a first position clipped to the golf bag and a golf shaft held in vertical orientation with the shaft holder, and a second position wherein the at least first and second prongs are positioned in the ground and a smoking article or golf club shaft is positioned in the channel to elevate from the ground.
US08439765B2 Child swing and jumper apparatus and methods of operating the same
Child entertainment apparatus and methods of operating the same are disclosed. An example method of operating a child entertainment apparatus includes suspending a seat from a frame and driving the seat for swinging movement by reciprocating an arm slidably coupled to the seat where the seat is free to slide along the arm when the seat swings.
US08439764B2 Drive plate with lanced drive tabs
A drive plate for a torque converter, including: an annular shaped inner portion including an inner periphery for the drive plate and a plurality of openings for receiving fasteners for connection to a front cover of the torque converter; a plurality of outer portions along an outer periphery for the drive plate; and a respective drive tab for each outer portion. The respective drive tab includes: a top surface disposed outward from said each outer portion in an axial direction and substantially orthogonal to an axis of rotation for the drive plate; an opening in the top surface for receiving a fastener for connecting the drive plate to a flex plate; and first and second surfaces extending from the top surface and substantially parallel to an axis of rotation for the drive plate.
US08439760B2 Method and apparatus for using conditional parameters to alternate between wagering games
A wagering method is provided that allows players or gaming establishments to specify conditions which when satisfied, reconfigure the gaming device to change game play from a first game to a second game. The condition may depend upon the value of a parameter—generally related to game play—to determine if the condition is valid and triggers the reconfiguration. The second game may be selected from a game on the same gaming device, from a game on a different gaming device, or a game played by a specific player.
US08439757B2 Interactive entertainment devices interchangeably arrangable in adjacent manner
An entertainment device is configured to receive a limited range wireless signal from at least one other entertainment device when adjacently arranged in close physical proximity to at least one other entertainment device, and to responsively operate in a first mode or a second mode based on whether the other entertainment device is adjacent a first side or second side. In the first mode, the entertainment device initiates one or more wireless activation signals to control an audio/visual element of another entertainment device. In the second mode, the entertainment device receives wireless activation signals from another entertainment device to control activation of an audio/visual element of the receiving entertainment device. Each device is interchangeable between operation in the first mode of controlling at least one other entertainment device and the second mode of being controlled by another entertainment device based on position of one entertainment device relative to the other.
US08439755B2 Game controller using kiss
A game controller includes a magnetic field generation unit to be attached to a tongue of a first user, and a control signal output device to be provided outside a mouth of a second user for outputting a game control signal according to a position of the magnetic field generation unit in the mouth when the tongue of the first user to which the magnetic field generation unit is attached is inserted into the mouth of the second user, wherein the control signal output device measures a magnetic field intensity of the magnetic field generation unit, calculates the position of the magnetic field generation unit in the mouth according to magnetic field intensities measured by the magnetic field sensors, generates a game control signal according to the calculated position, and transmits the generated game control signal to the game apparatus.
US08439744B2 Wagering game system with pausing feature
A gaming system for playing a wagering game includes a gaming machine and a controller operatively associated with the gaming machine. The controller is configured to temporarily pause a game-in progress on the gaming machine following the occurrence of a pause event. The controller is also configured to reinstate a game-in progress on the gaming machine following the occurrence of an end-pause event.
US08439742B2 Method of adapting a class II game to provide the play characteristics of a class III game
Methods, systems, and devices for adapting a Class II game to provide play characteristics of a Class III game are provided. Plays of the Class III game are simulated in a computer to obtain frequencies of occurrence of at least one Class III award. Plays of the Class II game are simulated in a computer to obtain frequencies of occurrence of at least one Class II outcome. A Class III award is selected. A Class II outcome having a similar frequency of occurrence to the selected Class III award is selected. An award is defined for the selected Class II outcome according to the selected Class III award.
US08439738B2 Electronic lottery system for creating pools of game records from unused records previously distributed
A lottery gaming system utilizes one or more distribution groups of game play records. The gaming system preferably distributes a distribution group of game play records to each of a number of assignment components in the gaming system. Various ones of the game play records are assigned from a distribution group in response to game play requests from respective players. The game play records that remain unassigned after a collection condition is met are collected and used to form a new distribution group available for re-distributing to an assignment component in the gaming system.
US08439735B2 Modified poker with bonus match card
A system and method for adding a bonus round to any poker-style card game on a Nevada-style gaming machine. The bonus round is characterized by the existence of a match card. The match card is not part of the traditional poker hand (the “in-hand” cards) of the player, and only comes into play during a bonus round. The suit and value of the match card may be generated by the game machine or a remote game controller or backend server. The match card is then displayed in a manner visually associating the match card with one of the player's “in-hand” cards. A bonus is determined by evaluating the associated pair. Alternatively a bonus may be determined first, in which case the game machine determines a match card and associated card from the player's in-hand cards that is the equivalent of the predetermined bonus.
US08439734B2 Electronic game machine and its program
An electronic game machine including a central processing unit, a storing device, a display, and an inputting device. The central processing unit serves as a game board displaying unit to display a game board on a display, a game piece deploy controlling unit to initially deploy game pieces, and a game piece movement permitting unit to permit the movement of the game pieces.
US08439733B2 Systems and methods for reinstating a player within a rhythm-action game
Band members use their own performance during a song to reinstate a band member who has failed during the course of the song. Once a band member has failed, options are given to other members of the band who have achieved a predetermined bonus or performance level to save the fallen band member. Once saved, the failed member returns to normal play of the song. In this manner, failure still has the consequence of removing a player from a song at least temporarily, and perhaps permanently if bandmates are unable or unwilling to save the fallen member. However, by providing the option of reinstatement, band members can prevent their friends from long stretches of inactivity following a failure. This may have the added benefit of encouraging band members to perform strongly in order to be able to save their friends.
US08439730B1 Gizzard processing apparatus
An apparatus and method for splitting and cleaning poultry gizzards. A poultry gizzard with proventriculus attached thereto is moved in sequence along a processing path, first along a pair of conveyor rollers that support the gizzard and pull the proventriculus downwardly between the conveyor rollers and then along a pair of engaging cutting spindles which sever the proventriculus from the gizzard. The gizzard is then transferred to a cutting station where a water knife cuts a slit into the gizzard, exposing the interior cavity of the gizzard and loosening ingest contained therein. The gizzard is then spread open by a spreading fin and adjoining rails that enter and enlarge the freshly cut slit. A water sprayer manifold then sprays pressurized water into the exposed cavity to flush and forcibly clean ingest out of the cavity.
US08439726B2 Cutting heads
A nozzle assembly (1) generates a jet (9) of water, or abrasive particles suspended in water, for use in an abrasive waterjet-cutting head. The nozzle assembly (1) comprises a nozzle element (5, 80, 84, 86, 91) with a tapering bore (7) therethrough, mounted to a carrier (2, 52) so that the bore (7) is connected coaxially to a passage (4) through the carrier (2, 52), the bore (7) and passage (4) preferably having the same diameter where they meet. The nozzle element comprises a superhard material, such as diamond, in the form of a solid body (5, 81, 83, 86) or a coating (90). The nozzle element is mounted to the carrier (2, 52) by a brazed or soldered joint (6), extending normally to a longitudinal axis of the passage (4) and bore (7).
US08439725B2 Method and device for the production of a precise concrete prefabricated part
With a method for the production of a precise prefabricated concrete part, especially in the form of a sleeper or a plate for a fixed track for rail-guided vehicles, the prefabricated concrete part is ground at the functionally relevant points to the predetermined size by means of a grooved roller. The device for this is a grinding machine with a grooved roller to grind the prefabricated concrete part at functionally relevant points to a predetermined size. The grooved roller is made of a wear resistant material, especially silicon carbide.
US08439723B2 Chemical mechanical polisher with heater and method
A chemical mechanical apparatus comprises a polishing platen, a roller pad assembly capable of advancing a polishing pad across the platen, a substrate carrier to press a substrate against the polishing pad, and a heater to heat the substrate to a temperature sufficiently high to provide a rate of removal of material from the substrate that compensates for the wear of the polishing pad.
US08439721B2 Grooved support sport bra
Sport bras having one or more support grooves for lifting, separating, shaping a supporting a wearer's breasts and methods for fabricating these sport bra are described. The support grooves may be pressed into a layer of compressible material such that the support grooves extend from a central region along the wearer's sternum, curve underneath the breasts and extend upwardly towards the underarm region.
US08439718B2 Organic el display panel for reducing resistance of electrode lines
Method for fabricating an organic EL display panel having an EL region at every cross of first and second electrodes, including the steps of forming a plurality of first electrodes at regular intervals on a transparent substrate, forming an insulating layer in regions other than the EL regions, forming second supplementary electrodes on the insulating layer, forming an electric insulating barrier between adjacent EL regions perpendicular to the first electrodes, forming an organic EL layer in each of the EL regions with a shadow mask, depositing an electrode material on an entire surface inclusive of the organic EL layer, to form a plurality of second electrodes electrically connected to the second supplementary electrodes, and forming a protection film on an entire surface inclusive of the second electrodes.
US08439714B2 Electrical connector for an in-body multi-contact medical electrode device
An electrical connector for connecting a linear-array plural-contact tail of an in-body multi-contact medical electrode device. The connector includes an elongate body member defining an elongate void extending along the length of the body member. An array of electrical conductors are secured in the body member and project into the elongate void to facilitate electrical connection of the contacts on the tail when the plural-contact tail is in the elongate void. A cylindrical carrier member is rotatably contained in the elongate void, the carrier member itself forms a tail-receiving subvoid.
US08439710B2 Electrical connector having biasing member
An electrical connector includes a housing having a top and a bottom. An upper connector portion is formed at the top of the housing. The upper connector portion has upper contacts. A lower connector portion is formed at the bottom of the housing. The lower connector portion has lower contacts. A card slot is formed between the upper connector portion and the lower connector portion. The card slot is configured to receive a substrate having upper plug contacts and lower contacts. The upper contacts of the upper connector portion are configured to engage the upper plug contacts of the substrate. The lower contacts of the lower connector portion configured to engage the lower contacts of the substrate. A biasing member is coupled to the lower connector portion. The biasing member is configured to bias the substrate toward the upper connector portion to align the upper plug contacts of the substrate with the upper contacts of the upper connector portion.
US08439700B2 Socket for electrical parts
A socket for electrical parts which makes a locater plate fulfill the function satisfactory and enhance the operational feeling of the locater plate. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the lock members are fixed on the vertically movable locater plate. The top of the lock member is the first engaging potion formed so as to have a hook shape, and the bent double portion thereof is a second engaging portion. The first engaging portion regulates the downward movement of the locater plate at the bottom position. The second engaging portion which regulates the upward movement and releases the regulation of the upward movement by deforming elastically when a force larger than a predetermined value is applied.
US08439693B2 Socket assembly with a pick up cap linking with a loading plate
A socket assembly comprises an insulating housing receiving a plurality of contacts, a pick up cap assembled on the insulating housing and a loading plate covering the insulating housing and the pick up cap. The pick up cap is pivotally assembled to one of the sidewalls of the insulative housing at an end thereof and has an operating portion at an opposite end thereof. The loading plate is provided with a latching piece to latch with the operating portion of the pick up cap, so that the loading plate can bring the pick up cap to open.
US08439688B2 Orthopedic procedures training simulator
The orthopedic procedures training simulator (100) is a mannequin (102) having an internal skeletal structure (104) for simulating orthopedic injuries. The interior skeletal structure (104) includes a plurality of skeletal structures, each movable between a first position simulating normal and healthy skeletal structure and a second position simulating an orthopedic injury. Motor tensionable cables joining larger joint structures allow for simulating muscular tension affecting the ability to reduce a dislocation of the joint. Force and positional sensors are disposed within the skeletal structures, and provide information to a computer system (700) to perform and monitor simulation. A computer program reads the sensors, and controls the motor tensionable cables to simulate orthopedic injuries and responses to applied corrective procedures and medications. The program generates pre-procedural x-ray images based on a desired simulation, and post-procedural x-ray images based on information obtained from the sensors both during and after the performance of a procedure.
US08439685B2 Fire training door assembly
A fire training door assembly includes a door hingably connected in a door frame including first and second vertical posts and an upper horizontal beam connecting the vertical posts. A cutout space is defined along one of the lateral sides of the door. The cutout space has an upper end, a lower end, and a side portion. The reinforced section of the second vertical post extends at least from the lower end to the upper end of said cutout space. The fire door assembly further includes a lock element movably arranged in the cutout space and a spring arranged between the lock element and the side portion urging the lock element toward the second side of the door against a stop element arranged on the door along the second lateral side of the door. The lock element is movable against an urgency of the spring toward the first lateral side of the door, whereby the forces required to move the lock element against the spring simulate the forces required to pry open a steel door. An adjustment device adjusts the urgency of the spring.
US08439682B1 Set of endodontic instruments
A set of endodontic instrument adapted to remove material from walls of a root canal having a working portion with a relatively short working length. A substantially untapered nonworking portion of the instrument shaft with substantially parallel sidewalls and a diameter substantially the same as the diameter of the proximal end of the working portion extends from adjacent a proximal end of the working portion to the proximal end of the shaft. The working portions of the set of instruments have relatively small, slowly progressing taper rates.
US08439678B1 Interproximal dental strip
An interproximal dental strip with a serrated zone flanked by abrasive zones in repeated longitudinal succession along a side face of the strip. The abrasive zones have a plurality of abrasive sections with non-abrasive sections between. The abrasive sections are inclined with respect to the side edges of the strip such that only a portion of each abrasive section makes grinding contact with a tooth at any given time for more controlled and effective working of the strip.
US08439677B2 Maintenance apparatus for medical hand piece
The present invention provides a maintenance apparatus for increasing the service life of a medical handpiece. The maintenance apparatus is provided with a first fluid supply which feeds a maintenance fluid to the bearings of a handpiece, capable of rotatably supporting a rotary tool, and a second fluid supply which feeds the maintenance fluid to the chucking structure of the handpiece, capable of detachably holding the rotary tool.
US08439675B2 Method for producing a bone prosthesis or a pre-implant simulation, and equipment used
Method for producing a bone prosthesis, comprising forming a surgical guide (1) equipped with at least one artificial prosthesis (150 and with at least a first hole passing through each artificial prosthesis in a predetermined orientation, placing the surgical guide on a model (2), drilling a second hole (16) through the model with the aid of a drill (8) passed through each first hole, the passage of the drill through the corresponding first hole taking place without contact therewith, and guiding the drill in said predetermined orientation with the aid of drill introduction means (10, 11) situated outside said first hole.
US08439672B2 Method and system for optimizing dental aligner geometry
Method and system for establishing an initial position of a tooth, determining a target position of the tooth in a treatment plan, calculating a movement vector associated with the tooth movement from the initial position to the target position, determining a plurality of components corresponding to the movement vector, and determining a corresponding one or more positions of a respective one or more attachment devices relative to a surface plane of the tooth such that the one or more attachment devices engages with a dental appliance are provided.
US08439671B2 Methods and apparatus for bonding orthodontic appliances using photocurable adhesive material
A bonding tray for indirect bonding of orthodontic appliances includes a body adapted to fit over at least a portion of the dental arch. One or more orthodontic appliances are releasably connected to the body, and a photocurable adhesive material extends across the base or bonding pad of each appliance for bonding the appliance to a tooth. An outer surface of the body includes at least one receptacle for removably receiving a source of light in order to facilitate curing the photocurable adhesive material.
US08439670B2 Device for separating a solid material and a gas and a plant for cement manufacture
The device according to the invention for separating a solid material and a gas substantially comprises an ascending conduit for conducting a gas-solid material suspension having a solid material supply port for feeding in a solid material and a gas supply port for feeding in a gas, a descending helical and/or spiral conduit, in which the gas-solid material suspension is separated into a solid material flow and a gas flow by centrifugal forces, a diverter head that connects the ascending conduit with the helical and/or spiral conduit, wherein in the region of the diverter head at least one bend is provided in the conduit configuration, connected to the end of the helical and/or spiral conduit a solid material conduit for discharging the flow of solid material and also connected to the end of the helical and/or spiral conduit a gas conduit for discharging the flow of gas.
US08439669B2 Insect repellant torch
An insect repellant torch is disclosed. The torch has at least one repellant pad having an insect repellant contained therein that is dispersed by heat. At least one metallic plate is in contact with the repellant pad. The metallic plate is heated by a heat source and by contact with the repellant pad heats the insect replant thereby dispersing the insect repellant into the air.
US08439664B2 Injection molding machine
An injection molding machine to prevent a molded piece from being separated from a mold after molds are disassembled from each other includes a first mold, a second mold assembled with the first mold to form a cavity, and a binding device or a pressing device to get a molded piece held in the first mold when the first mold and the second mold are disassembled from each other.
US08439663B2 De-mold liner based injection tool
A mold apparatus comprising a release liner removably securable to a mold tool face by a liner vacuum system configured to hold the release liner in place against the tool face, the liner vacuum system comprising at least one liner vacuum port extending and providing fluid communication between the mold face and a vacuum source. The liner vacuum system is actuable to hold the release liner in place against the tool face in advance of and during material injection and during curing and may be further actuable to subsequently release the tool from the liner, leaving the release liner to be peeled from the cured material.
US08439660B2 Screw compressor having a second meshing body with at least one projection non-uniformly arranged with respect to the other projections in circumferential direction
A screw compressor comprises a first meshing body and a second meshing body. The first meshing body has plural helical flutes disposed around a first rotating shaft. The second meshing body has plural projections or lobes disposed around a second rotating shaft. At least one of the projections or lobes is arranged non-uniformly with respect to the other projections or lobes in a circumferential direction of the second rotating shaft. The plural helical flutes are arranged to be meshable with the plural projections or lobes, in a circumferential direction of the first rotating shaft.
US08439659B2 Eccentric screw pump with split stator
An eccentric screw pump has a plurality of segments extending along an axis and together forming a tubular casing generally centered on the axis and a plurality of axially extending stator shells of elastic material together forming inside the casing a tubular stator having axially opposite ends each having centered on the axis a frustoconical end seal surface. The stator shells are separable from the casing segments. An intake housing has a connecting flange formed centered on the axis with a frustoconical flange surface fitted with one of the end seal surfaces of the stator, and an output fitting has a connecting flange formed centered on the axis with a frustoconical flange surface fitted with the other of the end seal surfaces of the stator. A rotor extends axially in the stator, the stator being clamped by the casing against the rotor.
US08439658B2 Progressing cavity pump rubber reinforcement device for rotor alignment
A progressing cavity pump assembly utilizes a reinforced upper section of the stator rubber helix. The pump stator is located at the end of a string of tubing. The reinforced upper section of the stator rubber helix is strong enough, whether reinforced by mechanical means or by strengthening the rubber matrix chemically, so as not to allow the passage of a stop located above or on the top of the pump rotor. The rotor is lowered on a string of rods until the stop above or on top of the rotor lands onto the reinforced upper section of the stator rubber helix. The rotor is then repositioned away from the stator helix a predetermined distance before pump operation begins with rod string rotation.
US08439656B2 Liquid pump for an internal combustion engine and device for heating liquid
A liquid pump for an internal combustion engine having a housing in which a pump rotational shaft is accommodated, in particular a water pump of a heat exchanger circuit of a vehicle, and an eddy current arrangement is provided at least partially inside the housing of the liquid pump. The invention furthermore relates to a device for heating a liquid.
US08439652B2 Suction throttle valve for variable displacement type compressor
A suction throttle valve of a variable displacement compressor having a compressor housing includes a suction chamber, a crank chamber, an inlet, a suction passage, a valve body, a valve housing, an urging member, a valve chamber, and a communication hole. The valve body is provided for adjusting an opening area of the suction passage and movably arranged in the suction passage. The urging member urges the valve body in the direction that decreases the opening area of the suction passage. The communication hole is provided for connecting the suction chamber to the valve housing. An opening area of the communication hole is variable in accordance with the movement of the valve body. Accordingly, the opening area of the communication hole becomes maximum during the maximum displacement operation of the compressor and becomes reduced during the intermediate displacement operation of the compressor.
US08439651B2 Garden hose booster water pump system
A booster pump system, for boosting a flow of water from a water source, includes a housing having a retractable handle. The booster pump system also includes a water pump positioned within the housing. The pump has an inlet and an outlet, and is designed to raise the pressure of the flow of water by an amount in a range of 20-200 pounds per square inch. The pump is also designed to raise the flow rate of the flow of water by an amount in a range of 0.5-5 gallons per minute. The booster pump system further includes a hose reel positioned within the housing, where the hose reel supports a garden hose attached to the outlet of the pump.
US08439650B2 Flow-controllable cell pump with pivotable control slide valve
A flow-controllable cell pump having a bearing element that may be positioned in a receiving shell of a pump housing such that the receiving shell may assume an operational connection with at least one of a bearing element, a pump chamber positioned between an inner rotor and a control slide valve. An outer rotor may be configured in the control slide valve, and suction kidneys may be arranged on both sides of the pump chambers in the pump housing. At least one pressure kidney may be offset on both sides of the pump chambers in the pump housing. The pressure kidney may be connected with a pressure connection socket, with a control slide valve arm configured on the control slide valve.
US08439648B2 Process water lift station apparatus
A lift station containing a tube, an access box connected to the tube, and an inner pipe that is removable, positioned in the tube that can be used to contain and discharge process water. The design aids in construction and maintenance and can detect leaks that can reduce process water contamination of surrounding soil.
US08439647B2 Cooled turbine airfoil fabricated from sheet material
A turbine airfoil (20) fabricated as an assembly of U-channels (22A-E), each U-channel having a closed side formed by a cross wall (25), an open side (26) opposite the cross wall, and two side walls (27) extending from the cross wall to the open side. The U-channels are attached to each other in a parallel, closed-side to open-side sequence, forming a series of cooling channels (23) oriented span-wise (S) in the airfoil. A first of the U-channels (22A) has a curved cross wall forming the leading edge (24) of the airfoil. A last of the U-channels (22E) may have side walls (27) that converge to form a trailing edge (28) of the airfoil. Alternately, a solid trailing edge (22E′) may be attached to a last of the U-channels. Each U-channel may be bonded to an adjacent U-channel using half-lap joints (30).
US08439644B2 Airfoil leading edge shape tailoring to reduce heat load
An airfoil includes a leading edge surface that includes a non-continuous curvature distribution. A stagnation region of the airfoil includes a curvature larger than adjacent segments to reduce heat transfer into the airfoil. The reduced curvature in the stagnation region is surrounded by the adjacent segments with larger curvatures to tailor the airfoil surface to provide a desired balance between heat transfer properties and aerodynamic performance.
US08439643B2 Biformal platform turbine blade
A turbine blade includes an airfoil and integral platform. The platform is biformally contoured in elevation to include bilaterally disposed elevated ridges and depressed troughs on opposite sides of the airfoil.
US08439641B2 Flow driven engine
A system for converting between fluid movement, such as wind, and mechanical rotation is disclosed. The system includes a support which is rotatable about a first axis orthogonal to the direction of fluid movement and at least one panel mounted on the support for rotation about a said axis. The panel includes a matrix of flaps (elementary panels) mounted on the panel framework for rotation about a multiple secondary axes; and retaining hardware serving to resist rotation of the said flaps during a first portion of the rotation cycle of the support and permitting the flaps to rotate freely during a second portion of said cycle. The panel provides a driving torque during said first portion of the cycle and moving freely to an orientation of minimum fluid resistance during said second portion.
US08439636B1 Turbine blade outer air seal
A BOAS assembly for a gas turbine engine with a full annular impingement ring secured in place above BOAS segments between front and aft full retainer rings and the front and aft hooks on the BOAS segments. The full impingement ring uncouples the impingement ring from the BOAS segments and eliminates gaps for cooling air leakage so that all of the cooling air is used for impingement cooling of the BOAS segments. A long tongue extending from the aft retainer rings guides the impingement ring and the BOAS segments into place during assembly.
US08439632B2 Thermal module with airflow guiding function
A thermal module includes a fan device having a fan and a fan housing for covering the fan. A vent is disposed on the fan housing. The thermal module further includes an airflow guiding device installed on the fan housing and disposed on a side of the vent for guiding airflow into the vent.
US08439630B2 Optical monitoring system for a turbine engine
The monitoring system for a gas turbine engine including a viewing tube assembly having an inner end and an outer end. The inner end is located adjacent to a hot gas flow path within the gas turbine engine and the outer end is located adjacent to an outer casing of the gas turbine engine. An aperture wall is located at the inner end of the viewing tube assembly and an optical element is located within the viewing tube assembly adjacent to the inner end and is spaced from the aperture wall to define a cooling and purge chamber therebetween. An aperture is defined in the aperture wall for passage of light from the hot gas flow path to the optical element. Swirl passages are defined in the viewing tube assembly between the aperture wall and the optical element for passage of cooling air from a location outside the viewing tube assembly into the chamber, wherein swirl passages effect a swirling movement of air in a circumferential direction within the chamber.
US08439624B2 Transfer apparatus
A transfer apparatus which performs long-distance transfer at a high speed, while preventing dimensions of the apparatus from increasing. Specifically, a transfer apparatus transfers a work to a pressing machine The transfer apparatus is provided with a base section, a follower arm, which is connected to the base section on the base-section end side such that the follower arm can rotate and vertically slide, and a first driving arm which is rotatably connected to the base section on the base-section end side. The transfer apparatus also includes a driving arm, which is rotatably connected to the first driving arm on the base-section end side and rotatably connected to the follower arm on the leading end side, and a holding apparatus arranged on the leading end side of the follower arm for holding the work.
US08439621B2 Device for shaping a back of a book cover that is aligned with a book block spine
A device for shaping a book cover back on the inside of a horizontally positioned, spread-out book cover and aligned approximately evenly distributed with a spine of book block. The device includes two opposite-arranged fold-forming rails that have longitudinal extension and a shaping tool that is movable towards the inside of the book cover back that faces the spine to lift the book cover back between the fold-forming rails to form a web on the book cover back. The shaping tool includes a tool bar having a top presenting a guide plane and two adjacent support bars that extend parallel to the fold-forming rails along the longitudinal extension. The support bars adjust a web width of the book cover back in a direction transverse to the longitudinal extension through a joint adjustment of the spacing between the support bars. The support bars are form-fittingly and frictionally positioned on the guide plane of the tool bar.
US08439608B2 Shim for a cutting insert and cutting insert-shim assembly with internal coolant delivery
A cutting insert-shim assembly that has a cutting insert with a bottom surface and a plurality of interior coolant passages wherein each interior coolant passage has a coolant inlet in the bottom surface of the cutting insert. The shim has a first side surface and a second side surface and contains a cavity, which communicates with the coolant conduit. The cavity defines a first opening in the first side surface and a second opening in the second side surface. When the shim is in a first condition, the first side surface contacts the bottom surface of the cutting insert and the first opening provides a first level of coolant communication to the interior coolant passages in the cutting insert. When the shim is in a second condition, the second side surface contacts the bottom surface of the cutting insert and the second opening provides a second level of coolant communication to the interior coolant passages in the cutting insert.
US08439607B2 Containment systems, methods, and devices
At least one exemplary system comprises a tubular mesh enclosure formed from a mesh material having a nominal opening size of less than 0.5 inches, said tubular mesh enclosure having an opposing pair of ends, at least one of said opposing pair of ends sealed; and a filling surrounded by said tubular mesh enclosure; said system defining a length and a generally non-circular longitudinal cross-section defining a major width, a ratio of said length to said major width greater than approximately 40. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure.
US08439606B2 Cantilever skidding system on a drilling rig
The present invention provides an improved cantilever (10) for skidding on a platform (30) of a drilling rig. The cantilever (10) has two longitudinal members (12) while an edge (32) of the platform (30) has two transverse members (14,14a). The longitudinal and transverse members are connected at each interposition by a sliding and swivel assembly (20, 20a, . . . 20d). Each sliding/swivel assembly (20, 20a . . . 20d) is connected by an actuator (24, 24a) to the longitudinal or transverse member so that the cantilever (10) is operable to be displaced on the platform (30) by translation, rotation or a combination of translation and rotation.
US08439604B2 Pipe support system and method for use in underground pipe ramming
A method of driving a pipe into the ground includes steps of placing a pipe to be driven into the ground onto a series of at least two spaced skids each having an upwardly opening cradle thereon so that the pipe spans and is supported by the skid cradles, one skid proximate a front end of the pipe and the other skid proximate a rear end of the pipe, each skid including a vertical jack mechanism for raising and lowering the pipe supported by the skid, positioning the pipe in a position for ramming into the ground by operating the vertical jack mechanisms as needed to raise the pipe into the ramming position, and ramming the pipe using an impact ramming tool applied to push the pipe into the ground.
US08439603B2 Improvements relating to hose
A hose comprising an inner tubular structure, an outer tube and an insulation layer, wherein the inner tubular structure comprises a tubular body disposed between inner and outer gripping members, the tubular body including a sealing layer, and being formed of a material capable of withstanding cryogenic temperatures, wherein the outer tube comprises a rubber layer and a reinforcing layer disposed around the rubber layer, wherein the insulation layer is either incorporated in the inner tubular structure and/or is disposed between the inner tubular structure and the outer tube.
US08439601B2 Containment boom mooring system
A containment boom mooring system for efficiently anchoring containment booms over extended periods of time and in varying sea conditions. The containment boom mooring system generally includes a clamping frame having a first and second frame section pivotally connected upon a first end and having a latching assembly upon a second end for securing the frame sections in a pivotally closed position, a first and second resilient retainer extending along the inner sides of the first and second frame sections to frictionally engage a first side and a second side of a containment boom, a first and a second buoyancy member extending from the first and second frame sections, and an anchor assembly extending from the clamping frame which is adapted to extend below a water surface for mooring the clamping frame.
US08439600B2 Portable vibratory concrete float
A vibratory device for use with a concrete finishing tool having a float pad is disclosed. The vibratory device has a mounting plate, a housing attached to the mounting plate, a motor, and a power source. The mounting plate is attached to a top side of the float pad. The housing is attached to said mounting plate. The motor is positioned in the housing and is operatively attached to the mounting plate. The power source is positioned in the housing and is in communication with the motor. Optionally, a counterweight is positioned in the housing and is attached to the motor. The actuation of the motor causes the mounting plate and the float pad to vibrate.
US08439595B1 Pre-emplaced electrical vehicle restraint
A vehicle restraining system using an electrical impulse to disable the control system of a targeted vehicle including a roadway module placed at a location to engage the targeted vehicle for delivering the electrical impulse to the vehicle; a roadside module for generating the energy required for the electrical impulse and delivering the energy to the roadway module; and an operator interface module for operating the restraining system. In addition, a method of disabling the control system of a vehicle by delivering an electrical impulse to the vehicle includes the steps of charging a vehicle restraining system; setting the charged vehicle restraining system to disable the next encountered vehicle; detecting the next encountered vehicle, and delivering the electrical impulse to the targeted vehicle.
US08439591B2 Tube arrangement and crossbeam having such a tube arrangement
A tube arrangement comprises a first tube and at least one second tube, the first tube and the second tube being arranged in relation to one another with an offset transversely with respect to the longitudinal direction of the tubes and with a partial overlap region in the longitudinal direction of the tubes, so that a first end of the first tube is arranged at a side of the second tube and a second end of the second tube is arranged at a side of the first tube. The tube arrangement has, further, at least one connection element which fixedly connects the first tube and the second tube to one another in the overlap region. The connection element has a first end wall and a second end wall spaced apart from the first end wall in the longitudinal direction of the tubes, which end walls extend, in the overlap region, between the tubes transversely with respect to the longitudinal direction of the latter and are fixedly connected to these, and two longitudinal walls which are spaced apart from one another transversely with respect to the longitudinal direction and which extend in the longitudinal direction of the tubes from the first end wall to the second end wall and are fixedly connected to these.
US08439584B2 Paper cutting device and a printer with a paper cutting device
A paper cutting device for cutting sheet material from the lengthwise edges of the material toward the middle comprising a stationary blade and first and second movable blades with the sheet material placed between the stationary blade and the first and second movable blades. The paper cutting device enables the spacing between the stationary blade and the first and second movable blades to be opened by moving the stationary blade frame and the movable blade frame relative to each other. The first movable blade and second movable blade are supported on a first stud and second stud, respectively, near the distal ends of the edge of the blade part of the stationary blade so that the paths of the blade tips overlap when cutting the sheet material. The movable blade drive mechanism drives the first movable blade and second movable blade with the first movable blade leading and the second movable blade following.
US08439581B2 Shutter assembly
A shutter assembly includes a plurality of shutter blades movable between an open position and a closed position, a drive ring having first and second oppositely-facing sides, at least one of the shutter blades being movably coupled to the first side, and a first permanent magnet coupled to the second side of the drive ring. The shutter assembly also includes a first solenoid selectively energizable to alternately attract and repel the first permanent magnet along an arcuate path beneath the first solenoid, thereby transitioning the plurality of shutter blades between the open and closed positions. The shutter assembly also includes a sensor assembly configured to detect a location of the first permanent magnet along the path.
US08439577B2 Optical fibre connector
The present invention relates to an optical fiber connector, and in particular to a Subscriber Connector (SC)-type push/pull optical fiber connector and to a method of forming and using such a connector. The SC-type optical fiber connector (101) is made up of an optical fiber (8), a cylindrical ferrule (14), a ferrule holder (16), a spring biasing means (17), a ferrule holder carrier (50), an inner housing (120), and an outer housing (40). The optical fiber (8) is held within the ferrule (14) and the ferrule (14) is held by the ferrule holder (16). The ferrule holder (16) is engaged within a receiving portion (54) of the ferrule holder carrier (50), said holder and carrier being relatively moveable with respect to each other along the ferrule axis (5) between limits defined by an interaction between the ferrule carrier (50) and the ferrule holder (16).
US08439573B2 Replaceable bearing for a conveyor roller
The replaceable bearing for a conveyor roller is installed in a bearing housing, which is removably installed within the end of the conveyor roller. The bearing housing threads into a mating insert or sleeve, which is permanently installed within the end of the conveyor roller. Alternatively, the inside of the conveyor roller may be threaded and the bearing housing threaded directly into the conveyor roller, if roller wall thickness is sufficient. The outer face of the housing includes a plurality of notches so that a mating wrench engages the notches to thread the housing and its bearing into or out of the end of the roller. The replaceable bearing allows the bearing and its housing to be replaced while retaining the conveyor roller.
US08439572B2 Wheel bearing assembly
The wheel bearing assembly connects a journal section of the hub and a joint body. The wheel bearing assembly has an adapter section is connected to a joint cap, a journal section connected to a wheel hub. A separate inner ring is located on the journal section. The adapter section and the journal section intermesh by means of end gearing. The assembly also has a tensioning element that mutually braces the adapter section and the journal section under an overall pre-tension, the end gearing being braced by a first pre-tension along a first force path A between the adapter section and the journal section and the inner ring being braced by a second pre-tension along a second force path B between the adapter section and the journal section. At least some sections of the first and second force paths A and B are parallel.
US08439571B2 Sealing arrangement for a bearing
A sealing arrangement which has a long or increased service life and high reliability even in soiled or aggressive surroundings. The sealing arrangement for a bearing has a first bearing ring and second bearing, which is rotatable relative to the first bearing ring, and a seal that is arranged in the region of the first bearing ring and that extends in the direction of the bearing periphery. The second bearing ring has a peripheral scaling surface and the seal has at least two peripheral sealing lips that sealingly rest on the sealing surface.
US08439569B2 Combined bearing and rotary machine
A highly reliable combined bearing capable of achieving equal and sufficient lubrication of a plurality of roller bearings with a simple and compact structure is provided. The combined bearing includes a first roller bearing and a second roller bearing which are in contact with each other and arranged on the same axis. A lubricating oil inlet introduces a lubricating oil into an inner space formed between the first roller bearing and the second roller bearing, the lubricating-oil inlet being provided on at least one of an outer ring of the first rolling bearing and an outer ring of the second rolling bearing.
US08439566B2 Wear pad adjustment assembly
A cam assembly is provided for adjustment of a drill feed guide wear pad. The cam assembly has an eccentric bushing with a shank portion extending circumferentially about a first axis and defining a bore along a second axis. The second axis is generally parallel and offset from the first axis. The bushing has a head portion extending from the eccentric bushing portion, with the bore extending though the head portion. The bushing is sized for insertion into an aperture of a drill feed guide wear pad, and is rotatable causing the shank portion to engage the aperture of the wear pad to provide a camming action to position the wear pad relative to a drill feed guide. The head portion is shaped to interact with a tool for rotating the bushing.
US08439562B2 Electronic clinical thermometer attachment unit and control method therefor
An electronic clinical thermometer attachment unit, which is configured to be attached to an electronic clinical thermometer, inputs an external sound, determines whether the external sound is a buzzer sound notifying completion of measurement by the electronic clinical thermometer, based on whether the input external sound has a pattern of a buzzer sound notifying completion of the measurement, and performs notification output for notifying a user when it is determines that the external sound is a buzzer sound notifying completion of the measurement.
US08439559B2 Timepiece with multi-functional actuator
An analog timepiece includes a casing, a time displaying device, an electronic device received in the casing, a main control unit (MCU) communicated with the time displaying device and the electronic device for selectively controlling an operation of the time displaying device and sad electronic device and a multi-functional actuator. The multi-function actuator includes an actuator button movably provided on the casing to selectively move between an idle position, a time adjustment position and a triggering position, wherein in the idle position, the actuator button disengages with the MCU to allow normal operation of the electronic device, wherein in the time adjustment position, the actuator button is moved from the idle position to allow adjustment of the time displaying device, and wherein in the triggering position, the actuator is moved to engage with the MCU for triggering an operation of the electronic device.
US08439557B2 Single piece wheel set for a timepiece
The invention relates to a single piece coaxial escape wheel set (100, 100′) including a first toothing (108, 108′) formed at the periphery of a plate (103, 103′) and a second toothing (113, 113′). According to the invention, the second toothing (113, 113′) is formed in a single piece with the plate (103, 103′) of the first toothing (108, 108′) so as to reduce any problems of alignment of one in relation to the other and to decrease the overall mass of the wheel set (100, 100′).The invention concerns the field of timepieces.
US08439553B2 Mixture for concrete and similar mixtures allowing an easy and fast maintenance
The present invention relates to a mixer for concrete and similar mixtures, of the type composed of a parallelepiped tank (2) internally provided with one or more mixing shafts (3), each of them driven into rotation by a corresponding motor unit (UM) in external position with respect to the tank (2), which comprises, with the necessary connections, an electric motor (4), a gear motor (6) and a cascade of intermediate and reducing gears interfaced with the end of the corresponding mixing shaft (3), characterized by the fact that it is provided with a low-power auxiliary motor (10) connected with the main motor (4), designed to be actuated to drive into very slow rotations the mixing shaft, associated to the main motor (4) during the internal cleaning operations of the tank (2).
US08439551B2 Backlight assembly and display device having the same
A backlight assembly includes a light guide plate guiding light, one or more light sources disposed on a side of the light guide plate and generating and providing the light to the light guide plate, a housing including a bottom portion and sidewall portions which each extend from the bottom portion, and accommodating the light guide plate and the light sources, and a light source cover. The light source cover includes a flat portion which contacts a top surface of the light guide plate, a height-adjusting portion which extends upward or downward from the flat portion to form a stepped shape and has the light sources installed thereunder, and fixing portions which extend from the height-adjusting portion and are fixed to a corresponding one of the sidewall portions. A centerline of the light sources is aligned with a centerline of the light guide plate.
US08439544B2 Headlight for a motor vehicle with temperature-compensated holder for a lamp module
This invention relates to a vehicle headlamp (1) with a base body (2) containing at least one light module (3) for emitting low beam light, whereby the low beam light is emitted at a specified angle or within an angle range.The invention envisages that the fixture of the light module (3) in the headlamp (1) must have at least one expansion joint (5), whereby temperature-related deviations in the emission of the low beam light from the specified angle or the specified angle range can be compensated by the temperature-related expansion of the expansion joint (5).
US08439542B2 Vehicle light
A vehicle light can maintain its maximum light intensity in its light distribution pattern while improving the brightness sense at a farther area. The vehicle light can be provided in a front portion of a vehicle body, for forming a road surface light distribution pattern on a road surface in front of the vehicle body. The road surface can include at least a farther area, an intermediate area, and a nearby area. The road surface light distribution pattern can include a plurality of light source images each extending in a horizontal direction, the respective light source images being projected to the corresponding farther area, intermediate area and nearby area, respectively, without striding across the adjacent areas. The vehicle light can include an LED light source having a rectangular light emission surface with a short side of 0.6 to 0.8 mm, and an optical system configured to project the plurality of light source images each extending in the horizontal direction to the corresponding farther area, intermediate area and nearby area, respectively, without striding across the adjacent areas, thereby optimizing the road surface illuminance in each of the farther area, intermediate area and nearby area.
US08439541B2 Decorative LED tail light arrangement
A decorative LED tail light arrangement comprising a decorative tail light attached to a tail light panel of a vehicle, where the decorative tail light is arrange at one end of the tail light panel and an second decorative tail light is attached at an opposing end, a plurality of LED turning lights attached to the decorative tail light, where the plurality of LED turning lights are arranged in a mirrored double-C pattern; and a plurality of LED brake lights attached to the decorative tail light, wherein the plurality of LED brake lights are arranged to surround the plurality of LED turning lights.
US08439528B2 Glass LED light bulbs
A glass LED bulb, which includes a body of glass, the body having at least one hollow portion, and at least one LED contained within the at least one hollow portion. A thermally conductive material is preferably included within the at least one hollow portion. The body of glass can be bulb-shaped or alternatively shaped like an incandescent bulb.
US08439527B2 Bulb-type lamp and lighting device
Provided is a bulb-type lamp including a lightweight housing with great handleability. An LED light bulb comprises: an LED module on which LEDs are mounted; a cylindrically-shaped case having openings at both ends, which are first and second ends; a mount member on a front surface of which the LED module is mounted, the mount member closing a corresponding one of the openings of the case by being in contact with an inner circumferential surface of the first end of the case; a base member attached to the second end of the case; and a lighting circuit that is disposed inside the case. A wall thickness of the case is in a range of 200 μm to 500 μm inclusive, and the wall thickness of at least one portion of the case decreases from the first end toward the second end of the case.
US08439526B2 Variable-color lighting system
An illumination system consisting of a plurality of illumination sources, a common illumination flux transforming and colour mixing element, and a controller controlling the sequence of each of illumination sources operation, their power, and colour. The illumination flux transforming and colour mixing element operates to transform the power and colour of the illumination provided by light sources into a spot filling the illumination output surface and providing the desired illumination.
US08439521B2 Light-emitting module and luminaire
According to one embodiment, a light-emitting module includes a substrate, a light-emitting element, a light distribution control member, and a cover. The substrate includes a surface on which a thermally conductive portion and a interconnect pattern are formed. The light-emitting element is thermally connected to the thermally conductive portion, is electrically connected to the interconnect pattern, and generates heat while emitting light. The light distribution control member is thermally connected to the thermally conductive portion at a periphery of the light-emitting element, includes a ridge portion formed on an exit side where light emitted from the light-emitting element is projected, and is configured to control distribution of the light emitted from the light-emitting element. The cover is thermally connected to the ridge portion and configured to pass therethrough the light emitted from the light-emitting element.
US08439516B2 Stereoscopic view light source, with multiple modes of operation
A device with at least two light sources operating in context with each other under electronic control of illumination angle and intensity in order to create a wide angle stereoscopic view of the area. The device uses multiple switched sources of light situated at an angle in reference to a light source positioned along the longitudinal axis of system. The device works by sequentially switching each individual light source on and off in selected patterns at a frequency equal to or higher than 30 Hz. The device covers a selectable illumination area at variable view angles from the focused forward beam from over 3 steradians in the Left, Right, Up or Down direction, or to more than 6 steradians in full-view mode, when an axially aligned center source is present. The device finds applications, in automotive, aircraft, watercraft, space vehicles, flashlights and other fields of human activities.
US08439513B2 Light emitting diode module and back light assembly
The present application presents a light emitting diode module comprising a substrate including a first insulating layer, a second insulating layer, and a metal layer between the first and the second insulating layers; a groove formed at the first insulating layer for exposing the metal layer; and a light emitting element disposed at the groove, and including an LED chip and body part surrounding the LED chip, wherein the LED chip contacts the metal layer for radiating heat.
US08439511B2 Mirror and a method of manufacturing thereof
A mirror for terrestrial or aerospace application has a substrate, which is preferably of a laminate of a plurality of Graphite Fiber Reinforced Composite (GFRC) uni-directional fiber plies applied in a laminate with layers oriented to achieve appropriate stable properties. The substrate is cured to form the desired shape with a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. A front buffering layer is immediately adjacent to and contiguous with the substrate on the first surface. The front buffer layer is of a material that buffers the surface morphology of the first surface of the substrate. A front specularizing layer is immediately adjacent to and contiguous with the front buffer layer. The specularizing layer is of a material for providing a smooth, low scatter optical surface. The specularizing layer can use an integral aluminized surface or an added vacuum deposited optical thin film coating for enhanced optical properties and durability. The mirror further has a rear buffering layer which is immediately adjacent to and contiguous with the second surface of the substrate. Finally, the mirror has a rear film which is immediately adjacent to and contiguous with the buffering layer. The material for the rear buffering layer can be the same material as that for the front buffering layer, and the material for the rear film can be the same material as that for the front specularizing layer, so as to balance the Coefficient of Thermal Expansions (CTE) of the front layers.
US08439505B2 Position adjustment amount calculation method of light modulation device, position adjustment amount calculation device of light modulation device and projector
A method for calculating a position adjustment amount of projected image includes a first image step of obtaining first image data which is obtained by an image capturing device imaging first feature points which are displayed using light modulated by a first light modulation device, a second imaging step of obtaining second image data which is obtained by the image capturing device imaging a second feature point which is displayed using light modulated by a second light modulation device, an adjustment amount calculation step of calculating an adjustment amount based on the first image data and the second image data.
US08439500B2 Method of calculating an optical system according to a given spectacle frame
A method of calculating an optical system (OS) of an ophthalmic lens according to a given spectacle frame comprising the steps of: providing geometrical data of the spectacle frame, providing wearer data, and optimization of the optical system (OS) according to at least the criteria consisting of the geometrical data of the spectacle frame, the wearer data and at least one positioning data, so as to generate at least two optical surfaces (S1, S2).
US08439499B2 Method for producing stabilized contact lenses
Contact lenses with stabilization zones are designed using mathematical constructs such as Bezier curves and which are subjected to modeling on-eye performance.
US08439496B2 Drum printer with automatic loading and unloading
A small footprint drum inkjet printer having a print head consisting of a number of print head arrays; a substrate carrier preferably in the form of a drum with vacuum orifices therein, a substrate loading cassette capable of movement, relative to the drum, in at least one direction; a substrate unloading cassette capable of movement, relative to the drum, in at least one direction, and a curing radiation source having a reflector which extends along the drum surface.
US08439494B2 Liquid ejecting head, method for making the same, and liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting head includes a head main body capable of ejecting a liquid supplied from a liquid storage unit, and a supply member provided with a liquid supply passage for supplying the liquid from the liquid storage unit to the head main body. The supply member has a filter mounting member provided with the liquid supply passage, a supply body that supplies the filter mounting member with the liquid, and a filter provided between the filter mounting member and the supply body. The supply member is provided with an outer portion that fixes the filter mounting member, the supply body, and the filter and that is formed by integral molding.
US08439490B2 Apparatus for regulating air pressure in ink tank and ink-supplying system having the same
The present invention relates to an ink-supplying system. The ink-supplying system includes an ink tank for receiving ink therein, a vacuum pump configured for providing a pressure below atmospheric pressure in the ink tank, a first regulating unit, at least one second regulating unit, and a third regulating unit disposed between the vacuum pump and the ink tank, and in communication with each other. The first regulating unit and the third regulating unit each includes a pressure regulating valve and a buffer tank connected therewith, and the at least one second regulating unit comprises a closed-loop pressure regulating valve and a buffer tank connected with the closed-loop pressure regulating valve.
US08439488B2 Ink supply device
An ink supply device including an ink cartridge for storing an ink; a mounting portion which includes an opening from which the ink cartridge is removable in a direction; an elastic member which urges the ink cartridge accommodated in the mounting portion to the direction; and a lock member. The lock member includes a lock arm including an operating lever provided at a first end thereof, and a lock portion provided at a second end thereof; a supporting mechanism which movably supports the lock arm between a first posture in which the lock portion is disengaged from the engaged portion and a second posture in which the lock portion is engaged with the engaged portion to regulate a movement of the ink cartridge to the direction; and a stopper which is provided in the lock arm and contacts the ink cartridge when the lock arm takes the first posture.
US08439485B2 Substrate including a detection feature for liquid discharge head and liquid discharge head
A liquid discharge head includes a heat accumulation layer provided on a board, an energy generation element configured to generate energy to discharge liquid from a discharge port and including a heat generation resistor layer provided on the heat accumulation layer and formed of a material configured to generate heat through supply of electricity and a pair of electrodes connected to the heat generation resistor layer, and an insulation layer including a silicon compound and provided so as to cover the energy generation element, and a line formed of a metal material provided between the heat accumulation layer and the insulation layer, and in at least a portion at a position closer to a flow path than the energy generation element.
US08439482B1 Cartridge and printing material supply system
A cartridge comprises an ink supply structure, a terminal bearing structure, and a first restriction portion. The terminal bearing structure has terminals arranged in a terminal plane which is neither parallel nor perpendicular to a plane defined by a mounting direction leading edge of the ink supply structure, so that the contact portions of the terminals receive a force in a direction opposite from the mounting direction. An engagement portion of the first restriction portion is provided at a position adjacent to the terminal bearing structure.
US08439481B2 Liquid dispenser including sloped outlet opening wall
A liquid dispenser includes a liquid supply channel, a liquid return channel; and a liquid dispensing channel. The liquid dispensing channel includes a wall. The wall includes a surface. A portion of the wall defines an outlet opening. The outlet opening includes a downstream edge relative to a direction of liquid flow through the liquid dispensing channel. The downstream edge is sloped relative to the surface of the wall of the liquid dispensing channel. A liquid supply provides liquid that flows from the liquid supply channel through the liquid dispensing channel to the liquid return channel. A diverter member selectively diverts a portion of the flowing liquid through the outlet opening of the liquid dispensing channel.
US08439478B2 Ink-jet wiping apparatus, and wiping method using this
A wiping apparatus having a gas injection aperture that injects gas, and a guide section that has a convexly curved surface and has an apex and over which gas injected from the gas injection aperture is blown, and, in this wiping apparatus, foreign substance adhering to a nozzle plate of an ink-jet head placed above the guide section is blown away by gas guided along the curved surface of the guide section.
US08439476B2 Method of adjusting optical axis of ink droplet detecting device, method of assembling ink droplet detecting device, and apparatus for adjusting optical axis
After a light emitting element holder is rotated, it is detected from the output value of a position adjusting light receiving element that a light beam formed by light emitted from a light emitting element is incident on a positioning target provided in a light emitting element. The light emitting element holder is duly fixed to a base member. When the incidence of the light beam on the positioning target is not detected from the output value of the position adjusting light receiving element even though the light emitting element holder is rotated, a light receiving element holder is made to slide for height adjustment and the light emitting element holder is rotated again. The adjustment of the height of the light receiving element holder and the adjustment of the rotation of the light emitting element holder are repeated until the light beam is incident on the positioning target.
US08439475B2 Image recording apparatus and method for controlling the apparatus
In at least one of the period when the conveying speed of a continuous record medium is accelerated until the conveying speed reaches a constant speed and the period when the conveying speed is decelerated to stop conveying the continuous record medium, a test pattern is recorded on the continuous record medium by a first image recording unit and a second image recording unit. The pattern is read by a first detection unit and a second detection unit, and a record check unit determines whether or not there is a record error in the test pattern.
US08439472B2 Printing apparatus and method of acquiring correction value of conveying error
While a conveying error of a roller depends on the eccentricity of the roller, the amount and the state of the eccentricity sometimes makes the roller have different conveying errors from one point in the longitudinal direction of the roller to another. There is provided a construction for obtaining a correction value that is suitable for the correction of the conveying error even in such a case as described above. To this end, plural test patterns are formed in the longitudinal direction of the roller. Then, a suitable correction value for correcting the conveying error that depends on the eccentricity of the roller is obtained on the basis of these test patterns.
US08439470B2 Liquid ejecting device
A liquid ejecting device to eject droplets of liquid onto a recording medium is provided. The image ejecting device includes a recording medium conveyer, a liquid ejecting head, a detector unit, an image data storage, a controller, and a cancellation signal output unit to output cancellation signals in an error condition. The controller includes a creating unit to create first dot pattern data and sum segments extracted from the first dot pattern data to create second dot pattern data, a transmission unit, and a cancellation controller unit to stop the creating unit, create second dot pattern data by adding a dot pattern to the segments having been extracted from the first dot pattern data, and transmit the created second dot pattern data to the transmission unit. The controller controls the liquid ejecting head to eject the droplets from the nozzles according to the second dot pattern data.
US08439466B2 Fluid ejecting apparatus and fluid ejecting method
A fluid ejecting apparatus includes: a first nozzle group from which a first fluid including white ink is ejected; a second nozzle group located downstream of the first nozzle group and from which a second fluid excluding white ink is ejected; a third nozzle group located between the first and second nozzle groups in a predetermined direction that does not eject any fluid; a movement mechanism that moves the first and second nozzle groups relative to a target medium in a movement direction; a transportation mechanism that transports the target medium relative to the first and second nozzle groups in the predetermined direction; and a controlling section that controls forming first and second layered images using the first and second nozzle groups respectively. The length of an area where the third nozzle group is located in the predetermined direction is an integral multiple of the predetermined transportation amount.
US08439464B2 Inkjet printing apparatus and inkjet printing method
Provided is an inkjet printing apparatus for performing a printing with a first nozzle array for ejecting a first color ink and a second nozzle array for ejecting a second color ink. The apparatus reduces density unevenness stemming from a sudden error in conveyance of a printing medium. When the apparatus performs a scan with respect to the printing medium for printing in which using ranges of nozzles in the first and second nozzle arrays are restricted to parts thereof, the restricted using ranges of the first and second nozzle arrays are shifted from each other. Thereby, the density unevenness stemming from the error in conveyance occur in positions which are different between the first and second colors, Thus, it possible to make the overall density unevenness less obvious by making gradients of variations in brightness and chroma of an image smaller.
US08439463B2 Image-forming method and record
An image-forming method includes a first image-forming step of forming an image on a fabric with a first ink composition and a second image-forming step of forming an image on the fabric with a second ink composition subsequently to the first image-forming step. The first ink composition contains a first colorant. The second ink composition contains a second colorant. The first colorant has an average particle size less than that of the second colorant.
US08439460B2 Domestic appliance for installation in a furniture frame
A domestic appliance for installation in a furniture frame, the appliance includes an essentially rectangular body, and two vertical cover sections affixed to the front vertical edges of the body, which extend laterally beyond the vertical edges onto the furniture frame. A horizontal cover section is pushed in between the vertical sections along an upper front edge of the body.
US08439456B2 Built-in domestic appliance, in particular a dishwasher
A built-in domestic appliance is provided that has a length-adjustable spacer sleeve to fasten the built-in domestic appliance to a wall with a fastening screw. The length-adjustable spacer has a first sleeve part mounted on the built-in domestic appliance and a second sleeve part that is telescopically adjustable relative to the first sleeve part and that is adjustable, in length, along an axis with respect to the first sleeve part until the second sleeve part is in contact with the wall. The built-in domestic appliance also includes a rotational securing assembly that limits rotational movement of the second sleeve part about the axis.
US08439455B2 Brake control system for vehicle
A brake control system that is received in a waterproof case and can be easily assembled even when a plurality of electric wires or hydraulic pipes is connected thereto is provided. A brake control system for a vehicle is connected to hydraulic brakes through a plurality of brake pipes 116a through 116e and controls hydraulic pressure of the hydraulic brakes, wherein the brake control system is received in a case 100 having a waterproof property, a pipe supporting member 101, which enables the plurality of the brake pipes 116a through 116e to be arranged from an external side of the case 100 into the case 100, is formed on the case 100, and the pipe supporting member 101 and the case 100 are detachably attached to each other through a seal member 102.
US08439453B2 Method and assembly for mounting an automobile rim to a motorcycle
A method and assembly for mounting an auto rim and either motorcycle or auto tire as a motorcycle rear wheel. The assembly allows tires of different widths and diameters to be used on the rear of motorcycles that have single side swing arms and standard swing arms. The method and assembly allows a left side or right side drive which can be a belt or chain. A hub with bearings and spacers are mounted with a brake rotor disk and a drive pulley in tandem to produce a hub assembly.
US08439450B2 Tunneling apparatus including vacuum and method of use
The present disclosure relates to a tunneling apparatus including a pipe string having a distal end and a proximal end. The pipe string includes a plurality of pipe-sections connected end-to end. The pipe string also includes a cutting head coupled to a distal-most one of the pipe-sections. The pipe string defines a vacuum passage that extends through the pipe string from the proximal end to the distal end of the pipe string. A source of vacuum is in fluid communication with the vacuum passage for drawing cuttings through the vacuum passage. A blockage sensor can be used for sensing whether a precursor blockage condition exists within the vacuum passage. A source of air pressure can be used to force air distally through the pipe string to assist in moving cuttings proximally through the vacuum passage.
US08439440B2 Vehicle seat assembly
A vehicle seat assembly includes a seat back and a seat base extending forward from a lower end of the seat back. The seat base is formed of a first foam member extending laterally across the seat base to absorb loads and a second foam member formed over the first member to form a seating surface of the seat base. At least one plate member has one end over molded by the first foam member and a second, opposite end secured to an associated vehicle body.
US08439439B2 Adjustable shoulder belt path for a booster car seat
A shoulder belt adjustment mechanism for a booster car seat is described in which the belt guide adjustment is adjustable to one of at least two positions along a linear or nonlinear adjustment axis and wherein each adjustment axis is along a portion of a line formed by an intersection of two planes formed by a vertical splay plane formed by an outer shell of said wings and an angled declination plane formed generally along said lower edges of said wings.
US08439435B2 Passenger seat
Described are passenger seats having a seat pan assembly with reclining and tilting mechanisms, a seat back pivotally coupled to the aft end of the seat pan assembly, and a lumbar mechanism coupled to the seat back and the seat pan assembly. The reclining mechanism is configured to adjust a forward position of the seat pan assembly and the rotation of the seat back between upright and reclining positions. The tilting mechanism is configured to rotate an aft end of the seat pan relative to the pan frame and deploy the lumbar mechanism.
US08439430B2 Vehicle body structure
In a vehicle body structure, a frontal crash performance is improved by establishing a transmission path of a frontal crash load by a floor frame (28) without increasing the weight of the vehicle body, manufacturing cost or the number of welding spots. The floor frame (28) is attached to a lower surface of a floor panel (12), and extends from a rear end of a front side frame (20) from a longitudinally intermediate part of the floor panel. A rear part of the floor panel is formed with a side bead (34) extending in a fore and aft direction in alignment with the floor frame. The rear end of the floor frame is connected to the front end of the side bead via a slope section (32) of the floor panel, and the rear end of the side bead is connected to a middle cross member (18) extending laterally along the rear edge of the floor panel.
US08439428B2 Vehicle side body structure
An inner center pillar member has a section passed through the interior of a side sill into outer and inner spaces. An outer load transmitting member is provided within the outer space in opposed relation to the passed-through section of the inner center pillar member, and an inner load transmitting member is provided within the inner space in opposed relation to the outer load transmitting member with the passed-through section interposed therebetween. A door beam provided within a door has a rear end portion located close to the outer load transmitting member and lapped over a corner portion of a center pillar.
US08439427B2 Trailer side rail
An improved side rail structure is used to form a portion of a flat bed trailer. The side rail structure is integrally formed as one piece. The side rail structure includes an outer side rail wall which is integrally formed as one piece with a rub rail that projects from the outward surface of the side rail wall.
US08439426B2 Reconfigurable travel trailer with removable camping pod
A travel trailer is provided. The travel trailer may include a camping pod that contains tent fabric. The travel trailer may also have a telescoping member that is configured for raising and lowering the camping pod.
US08439425B2 Sensor housing
A sensor housing which may be used to house a pinch sensor may include: a first portion having a sensor attaching surface and a first connecting member; a second portion that at least partially covers the sensor attaching surface and that has a second connecting member; and, an installation surface that can be used to install the sensor housing onto a vehicle. The second portion may be adjustable with respect to the first portion between: (1) a first condition where the second portion at least partially uncovers the sensor attaching surface and where a sensor can be attached to the sensor attaching surface; and, (2) a second condition where the second portion at least partially covers the sensor and where the second connecting member can be connected to the first connecting member.
US08439418B1 Illuminated shelf vehicle storage compartment
A vehicle storage compartment is provided having a housing defining a storage space and a shelf disposed within the housing such that the compartment is divided. The shelf includes translucent material coated with flock and has non-flock areas. A light source is operatively coupled to the shelf to provide light illumination through the translucent material such that light illumination is illuminated into the compartment through the non-flock areas.
US08439412B2 Motor vehicle forward structure
A motor vehicle forward structure is provided with at least two vehicle chassis beams, at least two crash boxes, which are arranged at the front ends of the vehicle chassis beams, and at least one transverse beam structure, which is secured to the crash boxes. The transverse beam structure exhibits two transverse bumper carriers with a first transverse bumper carrier above the crash boxes, and a second transverse bumper carrier below the crash boxes. The crash boxes are fixed in a left and right end area of the transverse beam structure, between the transverse bumper carriers and at the ends of the vehicle chassis beams.
US08439402B2 Optical structure, in particular for a security document and/or a document of value
An optical structure comprising first and second opposite outside faces, at least a first interface comprising a first screen of microreliefs and arranged in such a manner that travel through the first interface from the first outside face towards the second outside face, passes from a first medium having a first refractive index to a second medium having a second refractive index that is greater than the first, and at least one second interface comprising a second screen of microreliefs and arranged in such a manner that travel through the second interface from the first outside face towards the second outside face, passes from a third medium having a third refractive index to a fourth medium having a fourth refractive index less than the third.
US08439401B2 Caution pole
A caution pole for embedding in a support medium for drawing attention to potential hazards includes a generally elongate pole body with a proximate end portion formed with a pointed tip for insertion into a support medium, a metal impact cap fitted over the end opposite the proximate end portion of the pole body, the impact cap including a generally cylindrical body having an access opening on one end thereof and a substantially planar surface opposing the access opening, and a clip disposed on the pole body having a base and an arm capable of securing an attachment to the caution pole.
US08439395B2 Air bag and air bag device
An airbag and an airbag device, which are capable of readily improving expansion characteristics of the airbag and reducing manufacturing cost, are provided. An airbag 11 for occupant at passenger's seat includes a first bag 21 and a second bag 22 which is provided inside of the first bag 21. An outside top face portion 36 of the first bag 21 and an inside top face portion 46 of the second bag 22 are brought into a sheet-like intimate contact with each other, and are detachably jointed at the jointing portion 51. The jointing portion 51 is comprised of a breakable seam line 52. Gas is supplied into the second bag 22 to thereby expand the first bag 22, and is supplied into the first bag 21 via a gas distributing portion 48 to thereby expand the first bag 21. In a case where an occupant exists at a predetermined position, the jointing portion 51 breaks away, and the first bag 21 then expands to its maximum. In an OOP state in which the occupant exists in the proximity of the airbag device 1, a head part of the occupant holds the outside top face portion 36 and disallows breakage of the jointing portion 51, so that expansion of the first bag 21 to the occupant side can be restrained and the occupant can be protected with an appropriate force.
US08439394B2 Air bag with integral protection member
A vehicle seat assembly according to the present disclosure includes an air bag module having an air bag and an inflator associated with the air bag. The air bag includes a main body configured to be inflated by the inflator, and an extension formed integrally with the main body and at least partially covering the main body. The seat assembly further includes a seat pad disposed outside the air bag module, and a trim cover positioned over the seat pad. Upon inflation of the main body of the air bag, at least a portion of the extension is configured to move forwardly such that the at least a portion of the extension extends between the seat pad and the main body, or between the trim cover and the main body.
US08439392B2 Motor vehicle body with side airbag system
A motor vehicle body is provided with a side airbag system that has a gas generator of the side airbag system and a handle mounted adjacently to a side window. The gas generator is inserted in a mounting frame between the handle and the roof frame, which connects the handle to a roof frame of the body.
US08439388B1 Universally pivotal tow bar assembly
A tow bar assembly for use in connecting a towing vehicle to a towed vehicle wherein the tow bar assembly includes at least a cylindrical knuckle connected to a draw bar that is receivable within a receiver of the towing vehicle and wherein a pair of spaced flanges of a first end of a U-joint coupler are connected to the knuckle so as to pivot about a first pivot axis defined by an elongated central axis of the draw bar and a second pivot axis perpendicular to the first pivot axis and relative to a horizontal plane and where a pair of spaced flanges of a second end of the U-joint coupler are adapted to permit relative motion of the U-joint coupler about a third pivot axis with respect to a hitch mechanism that is adapted to be connected to the towed vehicle.
US08439385B2 Vehicle having a swivel wheel
A tricycle may be operable between a first mode of operation steerable by a tricycle rider, and a second mode of operation steerable by an individual pushing the tricycle. A rider handle, in the first mode, may be rotationally coupled with the stem in a manner permitting a tricycle rider to exert forces on the rider handle and thereby turn the fork, and the rider handle in the second mode, may be rotationally uncoupled from the stem, preventing forces on the rider handle from turning the fork. At least one rotation restrictor may be included for preventing the front wheel from turning to a position where the front wheel axis leads the stem axis, and for maintaining the front wheel axis in a position trailing the stem axis in the first mode and in the second mode.
US08439384B1 Sound generating device
A sound generating device for a bicycle has a two-piece clamp secured to the front fork of the bicycle to hold a reed having a base and flexible blade that engages the spokes of the bicycle reed to generate audible sounds. The clamp has first and second flanges that engage opposite sides of the base. A fastener clamps the flanges to the base of the reed and holds the two-piece clamp on the front fork of the bicycle.
US08439383B2 Bicycle shock with extension arms
A bicycle frame can have a main frame, a sub-frame and a shock. The sub-frame can move in relation to the main frame and the shock can be used to regulate that relationship. A linkage can also be used to regulate the relationships and control the rotation. The shock can further have a pair of extension arms to span a seat tube which is part of the main frame.
US08439382B2 Bicycle frame
A bicycle frame is provided comprising: two substantially concentric rings connected along a front portion and flared out at a rear portion to enable a rear bicycle wheel to fit there between, the two substantially concentric rings enabled to absorb strain energy received from at least one of the rear wheel and weight from a rider; a seat post for receiving a bicycle seat, the seat post extending from a top portion of the two substantially concentric rings; a rear wheel bracket extending from a bottom rear portion of each of the two substantially concentric rings for supporting the rear wheel between the two substantially concentric rings; a bottom bracket located proximal a bottom front portion of the two substantially concentric rings, the bottom bracket for connecting at least a crank to the bicycle frame; a headtube for receiving a front fork; and, at least one support for the headtube to connect the headtube to the two substantially concentric rings.
US08439380B2 Front structure of saddle type vehicle
A front structure of a saddle type vehicle is provided with the added function of damping vibrations generated in the direction different from the direction of an axis of a telescopic fork, in addition to functioning as a steering damper. An automatic two-wheeled vehicle includes a head pipe provided on a front portion of a vehicle body frame, a steering stem supported by the head pipe, and a fork member coupled to the steering stem and supporting a front wheel. The fork member includes an upper pipe coupled to the steering stem, and a bottom pipe slidably coupled to the upper pipe and rotatably supporting the front wheel at a lower portion thereof. A damper member is provided between the bottom pipe and the vehicle body frame.
US08439376B2 Mobile support assembly
A mobile support assembly disposable between a stored orientation and an operative orientation including a frame having a front leg assembly including a pair of front legs, and a rear leg assembly including a pair of rear legs. At least one but preferably each of the front and rear leg assemblies include at least one cross member spanning the corresponding legs thereof. Each cross member is structured to have a variable length so as to effectively vary an overall width of the mobile support assembly and thereby facilitate a compact configuration of the frame when in the stored orientation. Further, at least one of the leg assemblies includes a lower portion wherein the wheels are included, the lower portion disposable into a non-operative storage position that at least partially defines a reduced longitudinal dimension of the frame when in the stored orientation.
US08439371B1 Dolly system for transporting objects up and down stairs
An electric dolly system for transporting an object up and down stairs having a base platform connected to a bottom end of support rails, a handle at a top end and a pair of wheels at the bottom end, a track belt wrapped around a first and second rotator component adapted to rotate around the rotator components like a conveyor belt using a motor, the first rotator component is connected to the support rails via a first extension arm and the second rotator component is connected to the support rails via a second extension arm, the first extension arm is positioned closer to the handle and is longer than the second extension arm such that the track belt is at an angle with respect to the support rails.
US08439369B2 Tool holder for a rotary tool
A shrink-fit chuck tool holder which comprises: clamping means which are provided centrally with respect to an axis of rotation of the tool holder for holding a shank of a rotary tool, and which define a receiving opening for the shank. The clamping means can be displaced in the radial direction between a release position for insertion or removal of the shank and a clamping position. The clamping means are assigned a clamping surface with a cylindrical contour which, in the clamping position, bears against the outer circumferential surface of the shank. The clamping surface has a helical groove surrounding the axis of rotation or a multiplicity of annular grooves surrounding the axis of rotation, which as seen in the direction of the axis of rotation project towards the axis of rotation and the roof surfaces of which form the clamping surface.
US08439367B2 Molded deformable shape gasket for molding large gaskets in a deformed shape
A gasket is provided including 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 have a plurality of reduced width segments. The plurality of deformable sections have a curved shaped that is deformable to a straight shape in its installed condition, wherein 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 molded positions.
US08439365B2 Gas seal for aerospace engines and the like
A gas seal for aerospace engines has a stationary seal housing, a rotating seal plate mounted on the engine drive shaft and a carbon ring seal movably supported in the housing with a face which mates with the face of the seal plate to create a gas seal therebetween. A plurality of flexible pins have first ends supported on the housing and second ends slidably connected with the carbon ring seal to permit the latter to shift axially. A plurality of compression springs bias the two seal faces together. The housing has a first twist lock which selectively engages a second twist lock on the carbon ring seal to movably retain the latter in the housing. The second ends of the spring pins resiliently deflect during mutual rotation of the carbon ring seal and the housing to facilitate engagement and disengagement of the first and second twist locks.
US08439364B2 Seal
This invention relates to a seal for sealing between a stator and rotor, including a generally annular carrier (11), an array of adjacent leaves (12) mounted in the annular carrier for sealing between the stator and the rotor with their panes lying parallel to the axis of the carrier and front and back plates (15, 16) disposed on respective axial sides of the leaves, characterized in the front and back plates (15, 16) have one or more apertures (17, 18) dimensioned for providing a substantially symmetric pressure drop across the leaves.
US08439361B2 Slat puzzle
An improved puzzle of the type in which a target image is applied to the edge of a stack of slats. The slats are shuffled and then reassembled by the user. In the improvement, the strip of target image that is associated with the edge of each slat is extended beyond the edge, along the surface of the slat, allowing the user to more readily perceive the puzzle pattern, particularly on relatively thin slats. The improvement also allows economic manufacture from inexpensive materials by ordinary printing techniques. Slats can be printed flat, then formed by folding.
US08439353B2 Sheet feeding device and image forming apparatus
A sheet feeding device according to this invention includes a bearing support member and a lever member. The bearing support member is supported in the sheet feeding device for movement between a sheet feeding position and a separated position. The lever member is pivotally movable about a bearing portion between a first position which causes the bearing support member to be positioned in the sheet feeding position while causing the bearing portion to be supported by the bearing support member, a second position which causes the bearing support member to be positioned in the separated position while causing the bearing portion to be supported by the bearing support member and a third position which causes the bearing support member to be positioned in the separated position while allowing the bearing portion to be detached from the bearing support member.
US08439352B2 Rotation transmission mechanism and paper feeder
A one-way clutch is mounted on an outer periphery of a rotary shaft in a manner to place a clutch needle bearing in contact with the outer periphery of the rotary shaft. A rotary member is disposed on one side of the one-way clutch and engaged with the one-way clutch to be subjected to the rotation of the rotary shaft transmitted thereto. A retaining member is mounted on the outer periphery of the rotary shaft and located on the opposite side of the one-way clutch from the rotary member, while an urging unit is provided for urging the one-way clutch to abut against the retaining member.
US08439348B2 Sheet feeding apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet feeding apparatus which includes: a sheet loading tray for stacking sheets; a suction and conveyance section placed above stacked sheets on the sheet loading tray and sucks and conveys a sheet in the sheet conveying direction; an air blowing section which blows air at the stacked sheets on the sheet loading tray and causes the sheet to float up; a skew correction section which is provided with a pair of conveyance rollers, and corrects a skew of the sheet being conveyed by the suction and conveyance section; and a control section which controls a force of sucking the sheet, wherein the control section changes the force of sucking the sheet from a first level to a second level that is lower than the first level, before a leading edge of the sheet butts against a pair of conveyance rollers of the skew correction section.
US08439347B2 Sheet conveying device and image forming apparatus
A sheet conveying device includes an attractive separation unit and a contacting and separating device. The attractive separation unit includes an attraction belt arranged to face the upper surface of a sheet stack, two rollers that stretch the attraction belt taut, with the upstream-side roller in the sheet conveying direction supported to be movable in substantially upward and downward directions within a predetermined range with respect to the upper surface of the sheet stack, and a charging device which charges a surface of the attraction belt. The contacting and separating device swings the attractive separation unit to make the attraction belt come into contact with and separate from the sheet stack, with a fulcrum of the swing of the attractive separation unit set to a position upstream in the sheet conveying direction of the upstream-side roller in the sheet conveying direction.
US08439346B2 Method of feeding medium in recording apparatus, and recording apparatus
The method includes determining whether or not the trailing end of the previous medium has reached a preliminary feed start position, if it is determined that the trailing end of the previous medium has reached the preliminary feed start position, determining whether or not the leading end of the subsequent medium has already reached a target position of the preliminary feeding operation, if the subsequent medium does not reach the target position, causing driving for the preliminary feeding operation so as to be performed, and when the preliminary feeding operation is performed, calculating a gap between the previous medium and the subsequent medium on the basis of a first value, and when the preliminary feeding operation is not performed, calculating the gap on the basis of a second value.
US08439344B2 Image recording device
An image recording device includes a housing, a tray unit mounted in the housing and configured to hold thereon sheets, a feeder configured to feed a sheet from the tray unit, a recording unit configured to record an image on the sheet fed by the feeder, and a discharging unit configured to discharge the sheet after the recording unit records the image on the sheet. The tray unit includes a first tray including a first holding surface for holding thereon a first sheet, a second tray includes a second holding surface for holding thereon a second sheet and configured to move above the first holding surface between a first position and a second position, and a third tray supported by the first tray and disposed above the second tray in the second position, and configured to receive the sheet discharged by the discharging unit.
US08439342B2 Sheet aligning member for sheet processing apparatus
A sheet processing apparatus nicely performs an aligning operation for a sheet conveyed onto a process tray with a simple configuration. A switching member performs an operation of switching an aligning member from a non-contact state to a contact state before the sheet reaches a contact position on the tray or performs an operation of, while the sheet on the tray is being conveyed toward a sheet edge regulating member by the aligning member, switching the aligning member from the contact state to the non-contact state, and further switching the aligning member from the non-contact state to the contact state. Thus, the sheet processing apparatus reduces an occurrence of a conveyance failure caused by collision of a leading edge of thick paper with a return roller and a return guide member, and maintains good conveyance performance by preventing sheet stick caused by a coating material coated on coat paper.
US08439341B2 Sheet bundle treatment apparatus configured to perform processes on crease of folded sheet bundle
A sheet bundle treatment apparatus may include a folding device, a conveying unit, a flattening device, and a control unit. The folding device performs a folding process on a sheet bundle to produce a folded sheet bundle. The conveying unit conveys the folded sheet bundle. The flattening device performs a flattening process to press a folded portion of the sheet bundle from the folded portion toward a fore edge to flatten the folded portion after the conveyance of the sheet bundle. The control unit causes the sheet bundle to be conveyed at a first velocity when the flattening process is not to be performed, and causes the sheet bundle to be conveyed at a second velocity which is slower than the first velocity when the flattening process is to be performed, thereby stopping the sheet bundle at a position where the flattening process is to be performed.
US08439339B2 Clamp
A clamp comprising a slide rail, a fixed arm integrally joined to the slide rail, and a slide arm movable on the slide rail is provided, the slide rail having in the cross section an overall height and an overall width having a ratio to each other, which ranges between 2.55:1 and 2.8:1.
US08439335B2 Air-damped engine mount
An air-damped engine mount has a filter module installed in a damping chamber formed by coupling between a main rubber and a main pipe. The air-damped engine mount may include a bolt, a main rubber into which the bolt is fitted and coupled, a hollow main pipe coupled with the main rubber and supporting the main rubber, a cover plate coupled with the main pipe to form a damping chamber between the cover plate and the main rubber, and a filter module coupled with the cover plate and configured to permit air to communicate through the filter module against flow resistance with the damping chamber and the outside, wherein the flow resistance against the air passing through the filter module regulates air pressure inside the damping chamber to reduce vibration in the main rubber.
US08439330B2 Stem shoulder seal with double rings and an assembly of independent dual stem seals
A stem shoulder seal with double rings is composed of a sealing ring, a clamping ring and a spherical or conical stem shoulder, and the sealing ring is of a self-energized seal designed to its ultimate allowable strength and automatically free of any load beyond its ultimate strength. An assembly of independent dual stem seals, consisting of a stem shoulder seal with double rings, a stem cylinder seal with triangular sections and an isolating mating, can ensure that a stem has three seals which get well seated automatically at the same time to bear an identical ultimate medium pressure independently or without any mutual interference in service when assembled to the extent that the stem operating torque is just definitely increased, thereby ensuring that a stem sealing has a triple safety.
US08439329B2 Method and device for operating an electropneumatic valve
The disclosure relates to a method and device for operating an electropneumatic valve for driving a pneumatic actuator drive to activate fittings in automation systems. The valve has at least one electropneumatic transducer and a pneumatic booster. The pneumatic booster has at least one 3/3 way valve with a blocking center position for optionally connecting an air inflow duct or an air outflow duct to a connecting duct, which connects to the actuator drive. The ducts are activated as a function of an electrical actuation signal by the electropneumatic transducer. At least one position of the 3/3 way valve with a blocking center position is measured and a correction value of a variable of the actuation signal is determined based on the measured value and the electrical actuation signal.
US08439326B2 Safety tether for pipe end prep tool
A safety tether is provided for securing a heavy work tool. The safety tether includes one or more springs that serve to carry some of the weight of the work tool. A safety chain is provided in parallel connection with the springs. The length of the chain is less than the extended length of a spring at its maximum rated load, thus precluding extension of the springs to that link, greatly reducing any likelihood that the springs will break. In the event of spring breakage, the chain serves as a safety chain, stopping the tool from falling.
US08439324B2 Adjusting device, in particular for the seat of a motor vehicle
The invention relates to an adjusting device, in particular for the seat of a motor vehicle, comprising at least one first rail (lower rail (1)) and one second rail (upper rail 2)) which is embodied in a displaceable manner in relation to the first rail, in addition to a spindle (4) which is connected to the first rail and a drive housing (14) which can be penetrated by the spindle and which is arranged on the second rail, said drive housing being provided in order to receive at least one gear element which co-operates with the spindle. According to the invention, the drive housing is secured in a directly positive manner to the associated rail but also in a manner whereby the height can be adjusted.
US08439321B2 Stand for a surgical microscope with weight compensation for a microscope holder and add-on units
A stand for a surgical microscope is suggested that is provided with vertical and horizontal supports, articulation units and a displacer for displacing the optics carrier in an X direction extending horizontally and transversely to an oblique pivot axis. A balancing apparatus is provided for balancing an optics carrier held by a pivot support of the displacer. The optics carrier is rotatable around a first rotational axis in relation to the pivot support. The balancing compensates for the use with and without a microscope holder and with and without add-on units. The balancing apparatus is provided with Y and Z displacement units comprising respective slides. The weight of a second slide of the Z displacement unit compensates the weight of the optics carrier with and without the microscope holder and with and without the add-on units via the first rotational axis.
US08439318B2 Method and device for inserting a food stuff into a pliable bag
A method and device of inserting a food stuff into a food stuff bag is disclosed, with the method involving providing a substantially flexible resilient food stuff support that is generally “U” shaped when viewed from its operative position on a countertop, inserting at least a first end of the device a short depth into an opening of a pliable bag, such first end having an edge that is curved and opposing sides that are substantially straight. A bending mechanism bends so that at least the first end deforms from a first configuration to a second configuration for insertion of the first end through the bag opening and into an interior of the bag, wherein when the forces are reduced, the first end changes shape toward the first configuration for holding a portion of the bag and for providing an open volume within the bag for transferring a food stuff to the interior of the bag.
US08439317B2 Grommeted clamp assembly
A grommeted clamp assembly is provided for securing an elongated member to an underlying surface. The grommeted clamp assembly includes a grommet having a generally tubular body with an ovate cross section. An opening extends lengthwise along the body and is sized for receiving an elongated member. The grommet includes at least one transverse projection. The assembly includes a pair of clamp portions each having an anchoring end, an interlocking end, and a curved portion. A second anchoring end is configured for alignment with the first anchoring end. A second interlocking end is configured for being received by a slot of the first interlocking end. A second curved portion cooperates with a first curved portion to collectively support the grommet. At least one of the curved portions includes an elongated slot for receiving the at least one transverse projection for retaining the grommet.
US08439314B1 Aircraft having offset telescopic wings
An aircraft includes a fuselage, a first wing, and a second wing. The first wing and the second wing each have at least two wing panels, where the at least two wing panels of each wing are telescopically related to one another for movement between an extended position and a retracted position. The first wing and the second wing are both connected to the fuselage and are positioned with respect to the fuselage such that the first wing is offset with respect to the second wing.
US08439311B2 Aerial refueling boom and boom pivot
An aerial refueling boom may include a refueling boom assembly and a pivot assembly for attaching the aerial refueling boom to a tanker aircraft. The refueling boom assembly may include a main boom section and a hollow telescoping boom section. The hollow telescoping boom section is adapted to be moved between a retracted position within the main boom section and an extended position extending from the main boom section for in-flight refueling of an aircraft. The pivot assembly may include an aircraft attachment plate to attach the pivot assembly to the tanker aircraft and a refueling boom attachment plate to attach the refueling boom assembly to the pivot assembly. The pivot assembly may also include a plurality of actuators pivotably coupling the aircraft attachment plate to the refueling boom attachment plate.
US08439308B2 Spring loaded pressure relief door
A pressure relief apparatus for an engine compartment having a wall and an opening in the wall is provided. The pressure relief apparatus includes a door panel arranged in blocking relationship to the opening in the wall of the engine compartment, a plurality of hinges coupling the door panel to an inner surface of the wall of the engine compartment, a spring assembly coupled between each hinge and the inner surface of the wall, wherein the spring assembly includes a canister having an open end and a spring element housed within the canister, and a support fitting mounted to the engine compartment wall and having a portion extending toward the open end of the canister for applying a compressive force on the spring element.
US08439307B2 Structural component with rib and cross member element
The present invention provides a fuselage structure for an aircraft or spacecraft with an outer skin. The fuselage structure comprises a rib element for stiffening the outer skin and ad cross member element. Here the rib element is bent in the shape of an arc to correspond to an inner contour of the outer skin. The cross member element connects two arc sections of the rib element transversely to each other. The cross member element has a higher strength than the rib element. From another point of view the invention provides an aircraft with such a fuselage structure.
US08439306B2 Thermal management system with staged cooling
A thermal management system comprises a first heat exchanger having an inlet and an outlet, a second heat exchanger having an inlet and an outlet, a fluid loop, a first heat pump, and a second heat pump. The fluid loop circulates a fluid, and forms a continuous path between the first and second heat exchangers. The first heat pump is connected to the fluid loop and is disposed between the outlet of the second heat exchanger and the inlet of the first heat exchanger. The second heat pump is connected to the fluid loop and is disposed between the outlet of the first heat exchanger and the inlet of the second heat exchanger.
US08439305B2 Non-handed thrust reverser for installation on handed aircraft gas turbine propulsion engines
An assembly for an aircraft gas turbine propulsion engine includes an engine nacelle and a thrust reverser. The engine nacelle is configured to have at least a portion of an aircraft gas turbine propulsion engine mounted therein, and includes an intake end, an exhaust end, and an outer surface that extends between the intake end and the exhaust end. At least the engine nacelle outer surface proximate the exhaust end has a semicircular section and a noncircular section. The thrust reverser includes a forward end, an aft end, and an outer surface that extends between the forward and aft ends. The thrust reverser forward end is coupled to the engine nacelle exhaust end. At least the thrust reverser outer surface proximate the forward end has an arc section and a noncircular section. The arc section subtends an angle greater than π radians.
US08439302B2 Aircraft with at least two rudder units in a non central arrangement
An aircraft has at least two rudder units in a non-central arrangement. The rudder units have a profile and are rigidly secured to the aircraft. The profile is adjusted in such a way as to yield an inflow at a positive geometric angle of incidence, so that the profile generates a lift force having a component pointing in the flight direction. This makes it possible to offset a portion of the aircraft drag.
US08439300B2 Rear part of an aircraft comprising a structure for supporting engines, extending through the fuselage and connected thereto by at least one connecting rod
A rear part of an aircraft, including a support structure for supporting engines, extending through the fuselage, through two openings distributed on either side of a vertical median plane of the aircraft. The support structure includes a first half-structure and a second half-structure respectively extending through the first and second fuselage openings, the first and second half-structures being joined to each other so that they can be disassembled in an inside space defined by the fuselage.
US08439299B2 Active cancellation and vibration isolation with feedback and feedforward control for an aircraft engine mount
An engine mount structure is provided with active vibration mechanisms which are attached in the vicinity of the engine mount to prevent engine vibrations from propagating into the engine mounting structure, for example, the wing or fuselage structure of an aircraft. Additionally, sensors are provided on the engine and/or wing/fuselage structure to provide control signals to the active vibration mechanisms so that the active vibration mechanism react to the sensed data to minimize the vibration transmissibility from the engine into the wing/fuselage.
US08439298B2 Device for shrouding an aircraft nacelle
An aircraft nacelle includes an air intake followed at the upper part by a part that is integral with the mast, called a cap, and at least one door with a curved profile that includes a stiffening device arranged at the edge upstream from the door and which includes: a flexible element that follows the curved profile of the door between two remote anchoring points, at least one safety index including a latch pivotable around an axis of rotation, and connected to the door so as to occupy a locked position in which the end of the latch rests against the inside surface of an edge upstream from the door, and an unlocked position in which the end of the latch is offset relative to the edge, whereby in the locked position, the latch prevents the scooping phenomena by limiting movements of the door in the radial direction toward the outside of the nacelle, and elements for stretching the flexible element between the two anchoring points and for controlling the pivoting in the locked position of the latch.
US08439297B2 Air inlet for an aircraft turbine engine, an aircraft provided with such an air inlet, and a method of optimizing the operation of an aircraft turbine engine with the help of an air inlet
The present invention relates to an air inlet (10) for a turbine engine (2) of an aircraft (1), the air inlet comprising an air delivery duct (20) defined by a side wall (21) and extended by a dynamic inlet duct (30), said dynamic inlet duct (30) extending along a dynamic axis (AX1) towards a front flow section (31), said dynamic inlet duct (30) being provided with a grid (40) for protection against ingesting foreign bodies. The grid (40) is suitable for moving in translation along said dynamic axis (AX1) relative to said front flow section (31), and said air inlet (10) includes at least one lateral inlet (50) arranged in said side wall (21) and cover means (41) for covering said lateral inlet (50) that are movable relative to said lateral inlet (50), said air inlet (10) including movement means (60) controlled by said movement in translation of the grid (40) to request movement of said cover means (41) relative to said lateral inlet (50).
US08439294B2 High speed airship structure
The structure provided multi-Levels of the center fuselage, two front wings, Extended mid-two wings and two rear wings with two vertical winglets.The fuselage has a cross section of half circle shaped fuselage.The first level comprises multi-fuel tanks, water tanks, Helium gas tanks, hydraulic, Pneumatic systems and plurality of the multi-landing gear bays and multi-cargo Compartments.The first level comprises a top cockpit and the plurality of the multi-passenger Cabins.The second level is comprises multi-central posts, multi-guy wires on the top center Beams, mid level, lower level center beams, leak proof sealed floor gates for the Multi-gas envelopes structure, under belly multi-pontoon air bags.The first level further comprises multi-jet power plants with multi-chute flaps.The second level may comprises, carbon fiber honey comb sandwich composite Multi-envelopes and multi-level soft gas envelopes.
US08439293B2 Paper dispenser
A dispenser for dispensing paper from a dispensing roll located in a lower dispensing position has a guide track which leads from the top into the lower dispensing position and in which a standby position, defined by a blocking device, for a reserve roll is provided. The dispenser further has a device for detecting a diameter of the dispensing roll and a device for releasing the blocking device for the reserve roll once the paper on the dispensing roll has been used up. The diameter of the dispensing roll is detected by a sensing element which pushes against the circumferential surface of the dispensing roll, is displaced by the dropping reserve roll and returns to its sensing position once the reserve roll has dropped.
US08439291B2 Webbing winding device
It is provided a webbing winding device with good assembly characteristics of components in a second lock unit. In the webbing winding device, due to a leading end of a spring tab of a guide plate interacting with ratchet teeth of an internal ratchet and a second lock base rotating in the pull-out direction in this state, relative rotation occurs between the guide plate and the second lock base, and a second lock pawl is meshed with the ratchet teeth of the internal ratchet. Since this configuration is not a configuration in which relative rotation between the guide plate and a second lock base is induced by bias force of bias means, such as a compression coil spring or the like, there is no bias force received in the rotational circumferential direction when the guide plate and the second lock base are being assembled, resulting in easy assembly.
US08439285B2 Adjustable food processor with guide ramp
A food processor includes a bowl with a removable lid. Food items are advanced into the bowl through a feed tube formed in the lid where they are cut by a cutting blade. A rotating disk is adjustable relative to the blade assembly to vary the thickness of the food items cut by the blade assembly. A mounting arm is positioned below the cutting blade and has a ramp defined therein. The food processor includes an adjustment assembly operable to move the rotating disk relative to the cutting blade.
US08439284B2 Separation system for waste foundry sand binder using ultrasonic waves
The present invention provides a separation system for a waste foundry sand binder using ultrasonic waves, which can minimize the number of surface treatment processes by inducing interface separation between a foundry sand and a binder, and which further optimizes the working process and reduces the recycling cost of waste foundry sand.
US08439278B2 Apparatus for producing a mass of water vapor, apparatus for producing, moving and climbing a mass of water vapor, and method of causing artificial stimulation of rain
An apparatus for producing a mass of water vapor includes a water film maker and a device which prevents the water film maker from drifting. The water film maker floats on a surface of a water source and absorbs water of the water source by virtue of a capillary mechanism or a moisture-holding ability to make a thin water film on a surface of the water film maker. The thin water film is exposed to sunlight. The water film maker comprises a first hollow body capable of being filled with air, and a sheet having said capillary mechanism or having said moisture-holding ability, said sheet covering said first hollow body. Water in the thin water film is vaporized by sunlight energy to thereby produce a mass of water vapor in the sky.
US08439277B2 Air conditioning system
The present invention provides an air conditioning system that is capable of treating a conditioned space by treating outdoor air from outside the conditioned space and return air from inside the conditioned space, and mixing the outdoor air with the return air to form supply air for the conditioned space, the air conditioning system including an outdoor air latent cooling treatment stage configured to provide parallel airflow with a return air sensible cooling treatment stage, and a means for mixing outdoor air with return air to form conditioned space supply air, wherein the outdoor air latent cooling treatment stage includes at least a dehumidification heat exchanger, combination pre-cooling and heat reclaim heat exchangers, and a heat transfer pump, and the return air sensible cooling treatment stage includes at least a sensible cooling heat exchanger.
US08439270B2 Semiconductor device and wireless tag using the same
In a wireless tag with which a wireless communication system whose electric power of a carrier wave from a R/W is high, an overvoltage protection circuit is provided to prevent from generating excessive electric power in the wireless tag when the wireless tag receives excessive electric power. However, as noise is generated by operation of the overvoltage protection circuit, an error of reception occurs in receiving a signal whose modulation factor is small. To solve the problem, the maximum value of generated voltage in the wireless tag is held in a memory circuit after the overvoltage protection circuit operates, then the overvoltage protection circuit is controlled in accordance with the maximum value of generated voltage. The voltages at which the overvoltage protection circuit starts and stops operating are different from each other, and hysteresis occurs between the timing when the overvoltage protection circuit starts and stops operating.
US08439268B2 Stored-value card with multiple member housing
A financial transaction card includes a first member, a second member, a side wall, at least one substantially rigid connection member, and an account identifier. The first member defines a first panel, and the second member defines a second panel. Each of the first panel and the second panel are substantially planar. The side wall extends between the first panel and the second panel such that the first panel is spaced from the second panel to define a void between the first panel and the second panel. The at least one substantially rigid connection member extends through the first member and interfaces with the second member to at least partially couple the first member to the second member. The account identifier associates the financial transaction card with an account or record having a value associated therewith. Other cards, assemblies and associated methods are also disclosed.
US08439267B2 Secure wireless indicia reader
A method of operating an indicia reader network comprising the steps of: reading an information bearing indicia of an item with a hand held indicia reader having a first wireless transceiver and generating therefrom an encrypted data message in accordance with a FIPS standard; transmitting the encrypted data message from the indicia reader to a base unit having a second wireless transceiver; decrypting the data message within the base; and transmitting the decrypted data message to a host device, wherein the network is configured so that the indicia reader and the base unit have a linking mode in which a base address of the base unit is sent to the indicia reader, and a reader address is sent to the indicia reader and a request to link is sent to the base unit by way of an encrypted wireless communication between the second wireless transceiver and the first wireless transceiver.
US08439256B2 Ballistic nomograph for small arms fire
A ballistic nomograph for determining a firing solution for small arms fire includes a first member and a second member. Alignment of first indicia on the first member with the first indicia on the second member aligns the value of a range to a target with a first environmental condition to align a first adjustment value with an indicator positioned on the first member to provide a firing solution adjustment to a user. A method of determining a firing solution for a small arm by manually manipulating a ballistic nomograph includes determining environmental conditions and aligning the value of a range to a target with a value of environmental condition. The method also includes visually identifying a firing solution adjustment value that corresponds to the particular combination of the range to the target and environmental condition, and making a firing solution adjustment based on the firing solution adjustment value.
US08439251B2 Wiring method and device
To permanently apply lead terminals to corresponding electrodes of electronic or electro-optic components, a. providing a frame including a tensioned wire, b. providing a holding jig including at least one seat in which the components can be removably and temporarily retained, c. applying the components to the seats with the respective electrodes aligned along a respective longitudinal direction, d. applying the holding jig to the frame and orienting the same so that the longitudinal direction corresponds to the direction of the tensioned wire, the tensioned wire being thereby brought substantially in contact with (all) the electrode(s) aligned to each other on a corresponding row of components, e. electrically and mechanically bonding the tensioned wire to the corresponding electrodes, and f. cutting the wire to separate the components from each other thereby forming a respective lead terminal for each electrode.
US08439249B2 Device and method for making a semiconductor device including bonding two bonding partners
A device and a method for making a semiconductor device including bonding a first bonding partner to a second bonding partner. The device comprises a lower tool and an upper tool, the upper tool including a plunger having a bottom side facing the lower tool at which bottom side a vacuum is creatable, so that the first bonding partner can be picked up by vacuum from the upper tool and positioned on the second bonding partner.
US08439246B1 Surgical stapler with cartridge-adjustable clamp gap
An exemplary surgical apparatus for treating tissue may include an anvil; a jaw pivotally connected to the anvil; and a first cartridge detachably connected to the anvil, holding staples of a first size; where a first clamp gap between the anvil and first cartridge is set by the connection between the first cartridge and jaw. An exemplary cartridge for a surgical stapler may include a cartridge housing; a plurality of staples held within the cartridge housing; and a sled slidable within, and retained by, the cartridge housing, including a central platform, at least one wedge connected to the central platform, and a knife rotatable relative to the central platform.
US08439244B2 Surgical stapler fastening device with movable anvil
A surgical fastener applier having a handle and a fastener housing extending from the handle. The housing contains at least one anvil movable within the staple housing, the anvil has a proximal position and a distal position. When in the distal position a distal end of the anvil extends distal to the distal end of the staple housing. The housing contains a plurality of surgical fasteners each of which in the shape of a loop. At least one of the fasteners is placed around a portion of the anvil when in the distal position. The applier has a first mechanism for moving the anvil distally after a fastener has been deployed, and a second mechanism for moving the anvil distally after a fastener has been deployed. The second means is independent of the first means.
US08439240B1 Carrier rack for a vehicle
Carrier racks are coupled to a vehicle such that a user can access a pack (e.g., to open and close the pack) carried by the carrier racks. When the vehicle is stationary, items may be loaded and unloaded from the pack while the pack remains securely held by the carrier rack. An all terrain vehicle can include a vehicle frame carrying an engine and a carrier rack fixedly coupled to the vehicle frame. The carrier rack has a longitudinal axis that is substantially parallel to a center plane of the all terrain vehicle. The carrier rack extends upwardly from a rearward end of the vehicle. A longitudinally-extending straddle-type seat is between a handlebar assembly of the all terrain vehicle and the carrier rack such a pack on the carrier rack is positioned directly rearward of a rider.
US08439236B2 Bridge breaker
A bridge breaker includes a casing and an inner ring. Balls are provided between the casing and the inner ring for rotatably supporting the inner ring, without independent ball bearings, so as to make for easy and cost-effective machining. Seal rings having a square shape section are laid on same horizontal level surfaces of the casing and the inner ring, and are depressed by air pressure for preventing powder from entering into the device and to avoid frequent exchange of packing. A blade having a shaft is fixed to the inner ring through a hole of the inner ring, to prevent problems caused by looseness or releasing of connecting bolts.
US08439234B2 Non-dripping suck-back nozzle
A non-dripping suck-back nozzle has a shell comprising a press cover (1), a revolving cover (2) and a cylinder (7). A needle valve (6) comprises a round rod (61) and a convex ring (62). The upper part of the round rod (61) of the needle valve (6) passes through an inner round pole (51) of a piston (5) and extends into a hollow channel (41) of a connecting bar (4). The round rod (61) and the connecting bar (4) are locked by each other. A channel is formed between the round rod (61) and the connecting bar (4). A space is formed between the round rod (61) and the inner round pole (51) of the piston (5).
US08439231B2 Powder measuring and dispensing apparatus
A powder dispensing apparatus for storing and dispensing a measured predetermined amount of powder substance having a bottom housing chamber, a middle chamber, a removable, rotatable measuring device, a tapered top chamber, and a cap. The top end of the bottom housing chamber is engageable with the bottom end of the middle chamber, the top end of the middle chamber is engageable with the bottom end of the tapered top chamber, and the top end of the tapered top chamber is engageable with the cap or a liquid receptacle. The measuring device is slidably engageable with the internal chamber of the middle chamber and has an open cavity for measuring and dispensing a powder substance. The open cavity receives a measured predetermined amount of powder substance from the bottom housing chamber and upon rotation of the measuring device; the powder substance is dispensed from the open cavity through the tapered top chamber to a liquid receptacle. The measuring device has a locking tooth and spring mechanism which engages with the locking ring of the middle chamber.
US08439230B2 Dispenser having dispensing head moveable between use and non-use positions
A dispenser for dispensing liquid to pasty substances has a dispensing head with a dispensing mouth, a supply chamber and a dispenser head part. The dispensing head can be displaced relative to the dispenser head part out of a dispensing-standby position into a lowered position and vice versa. It is possible for the dispensing head, as a result of being supported on a fixed dispenser part, to be extended or retracted relative to the fixed dispenser part when rotated by the dispenser head part. The dispenser head covers over a dispensing tube that communicates with the pumping chamber. In order to achieve a favorable configuration of the substance path during the extension and retraction of the dispensing head. The dispensing head, in the extended position, interacts in an aligned manner with the dispensing opening and, in the retracted position, interacts with a closed region of the dispensing tube.
US08439229B2 Closure system between a dispenser head and container of a device for dispensing
A closure for a liquid container is provided between the container and a liquid dispenser head. The closure includes an intermediate body between the dispenser head and the container. The dispenser head can be rotated with respect to the container, without unscrewing the closure, except when the intermediate body is manually prevented from rotating.
US08439226B2 Liquid dispensing valve and methods
A dispensing valve is provided for dispensing liquid from a cartridge. The valve includes a valve body that is adapted to receive at least a portion of the cartridge therein. A valve member is disposed in the valve body and is adapted for fluid communication with the cartridge. A valve seat element is disposed in the valve body and includes a liquid chamber that is in communication with the liquid outlet and is mounted for reciprocating movement between a closed position engaged with the valve member to prevent liquid from exiting the liquid outlet and an open position disengaged from the valve member to allow liquid to flow from the liquid chamber through the liquid outlet. The valve body may include a longitudinal axis and a receive bore extending along the longitudinal axis, with the liquid outlet being substantially co-axial with the receiving bore.
US08439225B2 Dispenser or similar discharging container
The invention relates to a dispenser or similar discharging container, particularly for lump form food (5), having a housing (1), the bottom side (2) of which determines an installation plane, and having a gate (6) disposed in the housing (1) in a movable fashion that, when activated, is moved with a circumferential region (17) past an edge (8) of the housing (1), characterized in that said dispenser comprises an appendage (9) connected to the gate (6) via at lest one target breaking section (10); upon the activation of said gate, said appendage impacts the edge (8). The dispenser further comprises at least two feet (11) extending downward through the installation plane.
US08439224B2 Protective cover mechanism
A protective cover mechanism includes a housing, a protective cover and a latching piece. The housing includes an opening defined therethrough. The latching piece is assembled to the housing adjacent to the opening and comprises two holding arms. One holding arm defines a first locating portion and a second locating portion. A protective cover comprises a hinged post formed thereon, the protective cover is rotatably assembled to the housing by means of the latching piece with the hinged post held between the two holding arms. The protective cover is configured for selectively covering or exposing the opening of the housing as the hinged post is rotated from the first locating portion to the second locating portion.
US08439219B2 Cap seal for container such as drum, and doubly-sealing apparatus of container such as drum using the same
A cap seal and a doubly-sealing apparatus of a container such as a drum using the same, which execute a reliable sealing function of a cap part of the container such as the drum. Double sealing of the cap part of the container such as the drum due to the cap seal is fully performed despite various errors such as the difference in the curling external diameter of the cap part of the container.
US08439218B1 Dumpster lid opening system
A container has a base plate, front, rear and side walls. A chamber is defined between the walls. A lid is pivotably coupled to the rear wall. A pivot bar is attached to the lid. A long extent is attached to the lid and a short extent. An actuator housing with a trolley is movable between top and bottom positions. A spring urges the trolley to the top position. A pedal coupled to the trolley is adapted to be depressed by a user to move the trolley to the bottom position. A connector has an interior end attached to the trolley. The connector has an exterior end attached to the short extent of the pivot bar. In this manner the depression the pedal will move the connector to raise the lid. Also in this manner the release of the pedal will cause the spring to lower the lid.
US08439217B2 Barrel docking and opening apparatus
An apparatus including a flange topped by a fitting including a trap adapted to seize and drive a lid of a barrel for opening the same and two inflatable gaskets equipping the flange and the trap that are inflated for clamping the container and the lid of the barrel at the connection thereof. Contamination inside the barrel and inside the upper enclosure will only spread over small surfaces of the apparatus between the gaskets and to the connection of both parts of the barrel.
US08439216B1 Telescopic specimen holder
A two-part container for preserving material samples during storage and transport is separable and can be sealed with the presence of an elastomeric O-ring and internal threads on each part of the container. In the configuration at which the threads first engage between the two halves of the container, there is a small hole in the outer top part just above the O-ring of the bottom mating part. When the two container parts are mated and the sealing O-ring is below the small hole, inert gas can be made to flow through an inlet valve, into the container, and out through the small hole. In this configuration, the inert gas flows through the container and purges the atmospheric gas, replacing it with inert gas. After a period of time, the two container parts are rotated so that the sealing O-ring moves above the small hole. This will stop the flow into and out of the container. After this, the gas inlet valve is closed to seal the inert gas in the container. After the valve is closed, the pressure in the container is increased by screwing the two parts of the container in relation to each other such that the volume of the container is decreased. Prior to opening, the efficacy of the container can be checked by releasing the gas while the container is in the compressed state.
US08439214B2 Plastic container with elongated vertical formation
A plastic container is disclosed comprising a base portion for supporting the container on a surface, an upper portion, and a body portion. The upper portion includes a neck and a dispensing opening. The body portion extends between the base portion and the neck, the body portion including a shoulder portion below the neck and a sidewall portion between the shoulder portion and the base portion. The body portion includes at least one elongated vertical formation that substantially extends along the sidewall portion from the base portion toward the shoulder portion, the elongated vertical portion being continuous along at least 0.60 the total height of the container.
US08439209B2 Backboard container storage system
A user configurable container storage system using movable container-nest modules securely anchored to a backing allowing removal and insertion of the containers with one hand.
US08439206B2 Cyclone apparatus
A cyclone apparatus for separating a mixture containing at least one fluid and a further constituent based on the densities of the mixture constituents. The apparatus includes a first hollow pressure vessel having an overflow plate positioned at an overflow end of the first hollow pressure vessel and an end plate for sealing the overflow plate. The cyclone apparatus also comprises an underflow plate positioned at an under-flow end of the first hollow pressure vessel and a hollow pressure vessel with one end being sealed against the under-flow plate and another end being closed. The overflow plate and the end plate are shaped such that when they are brought together they form separate adjacent overflow compartments between them. The underflow plate and the second hollow pressure vessel are shaped such that when they are brought together they form separate adjacent under-flow compartments between them which correspond to the overflow compartments.
US08439202B2 Coal ash treatment method and apparatus
To effectively utilize coal ash while reducing mercury concentration in cement kiln exhaust gas. Coal ash is received from a thermal power plant or the like; the received coal ash is separated into ash and unburned carbon; the separated ash is utilized in a cement manufacturing facility as a cement raw material; and the separated unburned carbon is utilized in the cement manufacturing facility in accordance with mercury concentration in gas exhausted from a cement kiln of the cement manufacturing facility. In case that the mercury concentration in the gas exhausted from the cement kiln of the cement manufacturing facility is high, in the coal ash, unburned carbon with high mercury content can be treated in facilities other than the cement manufacturing facility without feeding the unburned carbon to the cement manufacturing facility, or the quantity of such unburned carbon fed to the cement manufacturing facility can be adjusted. It is possible to separate mercury from the separated unburned carbon, and utilize the unburned carbon from which mercury is separated in the cement manufacturing facility as a fuel.
US08439195B2 Pack of several containers and method for the production of the pack
A pack, including at least two PET containers combined with each other, which are held together by a strip-like or ribbon-like compact strapping. The pack is provided with a carrier handle, which overstretches one top side of the pack and is fixed at the lateral surface areas of two PET containers which are arranged opposite of each other, next to each other or adjacent to each other, joints between the carrier handle and the respective PET container being at least partially arranged within the strapping.
US08439192B2 Toolbox
A toolbox is configured to store at least one hand-held tool in a forward leaning position. A front end portion of a tool main body and a rear end potion of a handle are supported by a seat portion of the toolbox.
US08439188B2 Method for storing a bioabsorble medical device
A method is provided for storing a medical device. One step of the method includes providing a medical device having an initial tensile strength. The medical device is placed into a storage container so that at least a portion of the medical device is immersed in a hydrophobic liquid. Next, the medical device is stored in the storage container for a period of time. The initial tensile strength of the medical device is substantially preserved over the period of time.
US08439184B2 High speed roofing shingle making machine including cutter, catcher and stacker
The invention relates generally to a roofing shingle apparatus and more particularly to an improved such apparatus for high speed shingle making generally when handling a double shingle line (one line overlaid on the other with the high side of each line on opposite sides to make a single mostly even thickness) in a more compact arrangement from the cutter to the stackers and catchers, but not limited to a slower single line of shingle making that uses a flipper at the discharge of the catcher shuttle and not limited to a four wide overlaid to four thicknesses of shingles in one line and scissor cut, not described in detail herein, before entering a single line delivery belt section. The main purpose of this invention is to have control of the shingles coming off the cutter at a speed of up to two times the line speed of present machines, accelerate the shingle pack in a positive controlled manner for exact separation and without slowing down prior to the catchers, distribute the shingle packs to any one of four catchers for controlled stopping and feed the packs into respective stackers for distribution to the packaging machines.
US08439177B2 Wrap spring clutch coupling with quick release feature
A rotational coupling is provided. The coupling includes first and second hubs disposed about an axis of rotation. The coupling further includes a wrap spring engaging the first hub and disposed radially outwardly of the second hub. The wrap spring is configured to couple the first and second hubs together for rotation during rotation of the first hub in a first rotational direction. The coupling may include one or more shoes disposed radially between the second hub and the wrap spring and springs for biasing the shoes radially outwardly from the second hub. By urging the wrap spring away from the second hub, quick and complete release of the wrap spring occurs even where the difference in rotational speed between the hubs during clutch disengagement is low.
US08439175B2 Failure detecting apparatus for hydraulic circuit of gearbox
A failure detecting apparatus for a hydraulic circuit of a gearbox includes an operating-state detector. The operating-state detector is configured to detect an operating state of a subject to be controlled with a control-signal pressure output from a solenoid valve. A current setting device is configured to set an electrical current supplied to a solenoid so as to close an output oil passage when a modulator valve is normal and to open the output oil passage when an open failure occurs in the modulator valve, while the solenoid valve is conductive. A failure determining device is configured to detect a failure of the modulator valve when the operating state of the subject to be detected by the operating-state detector is abnormal after a value of the electrical current to be supplied to the solenoid is set at the current setting device.
US08439173B2 Methods and apparatus for a suspension system with progressive resistance
A suspension component achieves progressive resistance via a secondary bleed valve, which functions as a support for the primary compression valve at higher displacements, in conjunction with a secondary nonlinear spring element configured to alter the force on the piston at high displacements.
US08439172B2 Oil damper using a cam
The present invention relates to an oil damper for preventing a seat and a cover from rapidly rotating. The oil damper includes a shaft unit, a cam, a valve, an elastic member, a housing and a fastening member. The shaft unit has a coupling part which is coupled to the seat and the cover. The cam is rotatably coupled to a rotating shaft of the shaft unit. The valve opens or closes a coupling hole depending on movement of the cam to allow fluid to flow through the coupling hole or prevent the fluid from flowing. The elastic member is provided in the housing and is compressed by the cam. A flow rate control groove is formed in the housing and controls the flow rate of fluid in response to movement of the cam. The fastening member is fitted over the shaft unit and fastened to the housing.
US08439165B2 Collapsible saw horses
A saw horse combination includes two saw horses. Each saw horse has a beam, first and second brackets disposed respectively at the ends of the beam, and legs pivotably attached to the brackets for supporting the beam. A locking mechanism is also provided for connecting the first and second horses. The locking mechanism includes a first latch movably connected to a bracket of the first saw horse, and a second latch movably connected to a bracket of the second saw horse. These latches are movable between a first position where the latches do not engage and a second position where the latches engage.
US08439161B2 Acoustically tunable sound absorption articles
The present invention provides a tunable sound absorption facing which includes a cellulosic web and a nonwoven web entangled together. The facing has a controllable air flow resistance.
US08439159B1 Exhaust muffler for internal combustion engines
A new and improved muffler for use particularly with internal combustion engines which utilizes a tube assembly composed of a plurality of laterally nested perforated and non-perforated tubes in direct supporting lateral engagement with each other wherein the perforations provide direct communication of exhaust gases therebetween and wherein the tube assembly is supported at opposite ends by frustoconical entrance and exit collars, the larger ends of the collars being crimped or otherwise secured thereto providing a sealed connection.
US08439156B1 Muffler with controlled pressure release
A plastic muffler is configured to provide a controlled mode for releasing exhaust gas pressure during an over-pressurization event. The plastic muffler has a plastic casing that includes at least one pressure relief feature. The pressure relief feature allows exhaust gas to escape from the plastic casing when internal exhaust gas pressure exceeds a predetermined pressure level.
US08439151B2 Apparatus for use in turning steerable vehicle wheels
An apparatus includes a hydraulic power steering motor. A continuously variable transmission has an input shaft rotatable under the influence of force transmitted from the engine and an output shaft operable to drive a pump. The continuously variable transmission is operable to drive the pump at a first speed when one of the input and output shafts of the continuously variable transmission rotates at a first speed. The continuously variable transmission is operable to drive the pump at a second speed when the one of the input and output shafts rotates at a second speed. A centrifugal sensor is connected with the one of the input and output shafts. The centrifugal sensor transfers rotational movement of the one of the input and output shafts to a linearly displaceable input member of the continuously variable transmission to change the speed at which the pump is driven.
US08439150B1 Drive shaft damper assembly
A drive shaft damper assembly is structured to be installed onto a drive shaft bearing while it remains secured to a drive shaft mounted to a vehicle. The drive shaft bearing assembly includes a bearing collar assembly having a collar and a securing mechanism structured to securely attach the collar to the drive shaft bearing. The drive shaft damper assembly also includes an inner damper assembly, interconnected to the bearing collar assembly, which defines an inner bushing interface, and an outer damper assembly defining an outer bushing interface. A bushing assembly is disposed in an operative engagement between the inner and outer damper assemblies, wherein each of a plurality of bushing members are individually interconnected between the inner bushing interface and the outer bushing interface. A mounting mechanism is structured to securely attach the outer damper assembly to a portion of the vehicle.
US08439148B2 Suspension-supporting bracket for a vehicle, vehicle body frame with suspension-supporting bracket, and vehicle incorporating same
A vehicle includes a vehicle body frame, an engine attached to the vehicle body frame, and a power transmission unit for transmitting output from the engine to a wheel of the vehicle. The vehicle body frame includes a plate-shaped suspension-supporting bracket which is integrally connected to front end portions of main frame sections extending in a forward/rearward direction of a vehicle at a lower portion of the vehicle body frame, and also is integrally connected to lower end sides of front frame sections vertically extending at a front portion of the vehicle body frame. The plate-shaped suspension-supporting bracket includes suspension arm-supporting portions formed integrally therewith. The lightweight vehicle body frame reduces total weight of the vehicle and, at the same time, enhances assembling accuracy thereof.
US08439147B2 Motor vehicle
The invention relates to a motor vehicle, comprising a body and a drive train, wherein the drive train comprises a front axle (10), a rear axle (13), a drive unit, and a gearbox (20), wherein the drive unit is designed as a hybrid drive having an internal combustion engine (16) and at least one electric machine (17, 18, 19), wherein the internal combustion engine (16) can be supplied with fuel from at least one fuel tank (21), and wherein the or each electric machine (17, 18, 19) can be supplied with electrical energy from at least one electrical energy store (22) in motorized operation, and wherein the or each fuel tank (21) and the or each electrical energy store (22) are positioned in a common section (23) of the body.
US08439145B2 Scooter-type vehicle
A scooter-type vehicle can freely set a capacity of a fuel filter without being restricted by swing of a unit-swing type engine. A cross pipe is spanned between a pair of left and right lower frames and a lower end of a down frame is connected to a central portion of the cross pipe. A fuel filter is disposed so that its lower end is higher by distance than the lower end of cross pipe. The fuel filter is disposed between the down frame and the fuel tank. Since the fuel filter is disposed in front of the fuel tank, it is not restricted by the swing of an engine located rearward of the fuel tank. Therefore, a capacity of the fuel filter can freely be set.
US08439139B2 Method of controlling hybrid construction machine and hybrid construction machine
A method of controlling a hybrid construction machine capable of preventing a system from being rendered inoperative without increasing a capacitance of a capacitor and of inhibiting delay of a swing operation relative to an operation command at the time of swing operation, and the hybrid construction machine are provided. For this purpose, at the time of discharge of the capacitor, actual torque command values are respectively generated by referring to an assist torque limit value corresponding to capacitor voltage of a generator motor and a swing power running torque limit value corresponding to the capacitor voltage of a swing motor, as well as, at the time of charge of the capacitor, an actual target output value of the generator motor is generated.
US08439138B2 Method and apparatus for transporting construction equipment in an enclosed container within the hold of a vessel
A method and apparatus for permitting construction equipment, and particularly backhoe loaders, to be transported in the hold of a seagoing vessel within the interior of an enclosed cargo container includes front and rear rollers that temporarily replace the wheels of the equipment and allow it to be driven into and out of the container without any disassembly of the equipment.
US08439137B1 Superabrasive compact including at least one braze layer thereon, in-process drill bit assembly including same, and method of manufacture
A superabrasive compact (e.g., a polycrystalline diamond compact) is disclosed, which includes a substrate pre-coated with at least one braze layer and an in-process drill bit assembly including at least one of such superabrasive compacts. Pre-coating the substrate with at least one braze layer and dimensioning the pre-coated substrate to fit within the tolerances of a conventionally-sized cutter recess of a drill bit body enables a drill bit manufacture to easily and rapidly braze the disclosed superabrasive compacts into the conventionally-sized cutter recess without substantially decreasing the superabrasive volume of the superabrasive compact.
US08439133B2 Down hole apparatus for generating a pusling action
A down hole apparatus for generating a pulsing action includes a tubular housing a rotating first mandrel with a first cam profile and a reciprocating second mandrel with a second cam profile, which engages the first cam profile. Upon rotational movement of the first mandrel, the first cam profile exerts an axial force upon the second cam profile to initiate a pulsing action by forcing the second mandrel away from the first mandrel. Springs bias the second mandrel back toward the first mandrel, thereby completing the pulsing action and maintaining the second cam profile engaged with the first cam profile.
US08439131B2 Drill bit assembly and method of performing an operation in a wellbore
A drill bit assembly comprising a bit body connectable to a tubular drill string, and provided with a longitudinal passageway for an operating tool; an externally removable closure element for closing the passageway for the operating tool; and a passage tool attached to or connectable to the closure element in its closing position, wherein the passage tool comprises a lower part to which the closure element is attached or connectable, which lower part is arranged so that it can be moved out of the bit body together with the closure element, and an upper tubular part which is arranged so that it can be moved along the passageway in the bit body, the upper tubular part forming a passage with a downstream opening for the operating tool when the lower part of the passage tool has been moved out of the bit body.
US08439130B2 Method and apparatus for seismic data acquisition during drilling operations
An apparatus and method are provided for obtaining formation data while drilling. The apparatus may include a drill string and a plurality of sensors. At least two of the plurality of sensors are spaced apart along the drill string a approximately the same distance as a length of a segment of the drill string. The segment of the drill string is either added to or removed from the rest of the drill string as the drill string moves in the borehole during a drilling operation. The method may include providing numerous sensors along a drill string and repeating a cycle of various functions. The cycle may include performing an operation moving the drill string relative to the borehole and stopping movement of the drill string. Additional functions may include changing an overall length of the drill string and performing the formation property while the drill string is relatively stationary.
US08439129B2 Anti-stall tool for downhole drilling assemblies
An anti-stall tool in an oil well drilling assembly that controls reciprocation of the drill bit by a controller that alters weight-on-bit (WOB) depending upon measured downhole pressure or torque at the downhole motor. The controller receives preset high and low working pressure limits for the downhole motor and keeps the drill bit rotating by maintaining WOB during normal drilling operations, increasing WOB if sensed working pressure indicates that drill bit loading or torque is undesirably low, and reversing WOB by retracting the drill bit if excessive working pressure or torque is sensed.
US08439120B2 Method of sealing annular space between inner and outer upright tubes
A method of sealing annular space between an upright outer tube and an upright inner tube extending within the outer tube along an axial direction thereof involves pouring a liquid seal material into the annular space onto a support member fitted within the annular space between the outer tube and the inner tube in a manner substantially closing around the inner tube. The liquid seal material is poured in an amount sufficient to fill radial space between the inner tube and the outer tube fully around the inner tube, the liquid seal material is then cured to form an annular seal between the inner tube and the outer tube. The method is useful in sealing of the annular spacing between the surface and production casing of a gas well and installing a venting system to facilitate controlled venting of the annular space.
US08439112B1 Method and system for surface filtering of solids from return fluids in well operations
A system and method for separating solids from return fluids in well drill-out, flow back, well-test, and other production operations. Solids are collected in a filter comprising a perforate inner tube inside a solid outer tube with an annulus therebetween. The fluid stream from the well enters the filter through the inner tube so that the solids are captured inside and the filtrate flows out through the annulus. The filtrate is passed though a flow back line to a flow back tank. As needed, the solids are removed from the inner tube into a debris tube without interrupting the fluid flow through the filter. Chokes are included for equalizing the pressure along the flow path as the debris is moved from the filter to the debris tube and from the debris tube into to a debris pit so that dramatic changes in pressure are avoided.
US08439110B2 Single packer system for use in heavy oil environments
A technique involves collecting formation fluids through a single packer having at least one drain located within the single packer. The single packer comprises an outer seal layer, and the at least one drain is positioned in the outer seal layer. A viscosity system also is incorporated and enables the viscosity of a surrounding fluid to be selectively lowered for sampling.
US08439107B2 Retrievable tool with ratchet lock feature
A releasable locking system for a subterranean tool uses a split housing for a body lock ring that in one mode is retained for its normal locking function by a setting sleeve. The setting sleeve holds the potential energy in the housing that would otherwise cause the housing to grow radially and away from a locking function. The locking is defeated as a surrounding setting sleeve with a recess is moved to juxtapose the recess with the segmented housing allowing the housing to spring into the recess and away from lock ring engagement that previously maintained the locked position. The tool can be released and removed to a surface location.
US08439100B2 Modular upright for service door with flexible curtain
A vertical modular mount for a handling door (1) includes an upper plate (18) connected to a horizontal frame (4) and more particularly to a side flange (19), a lower plate (20) connected to the ground, a central web (21) connecting the upper (18) and lower (20) plates together, a cloth (23) arranged around the upper (18) and lower (20) plates in order to define an envelope (24) on the entire height of the mount (2, 3), and a guiding device (15) defining a slide for the movement of the flexible screen (6), characterized in that each of the members (21, 23, 15) forming the mounts (2, 3) of the handling door (1) are arranged so as to impart a high resilience to the latter, i.e. a high resistance to shocks due to the elastic deformation of each of the members.