| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08651951B2 |
Game processing server apparatus
A game processing server apparatus connected to a terminal device via a network, includes a request accepting unit which accepts a request including player identification data and operation identification data related to the operation of the player from the terminal device; a screen transition information obtaining unit which obtains screen transition information in which display control content of a series of screens in accordance with a processed result of the accepted request is described for updating screen transition information accompanied by a game application program of the terminal device, wherein the obtained screen transition information includes an event string in which events corresponding to screens are aligned, and each of the events includes data to specify content of the screen, and a branch condition and an event string which is to occur after the branch condition is satisfied. |
| US08651950B2 |
Gaming device and recording medium
The invention includes a group information storing unit for storing a relationship between characters and a plurality of groups formed by dividing the characters according to roles these characters play in a game, and a character moving unit for specifying, when a pointing means is brought into contact with one of sensed areas on an image display unit to be associated with one of the groups, a characters in the group associated with the sensed area that is touched, according to information stored in the group information storing unit, and for moving the specified characters simultaneously in a direction associated with the sensed area that is touched, by an amount corresponding to a predetermined distance. |
| US08651949B2 |
Toy and associated computer game
A series of co-packaged products, wherein each product includes a physical toy, action figure, or the like, along with an associated CD-ROM or other media encoded with software code or logic that includes a computer game that uses as a game character a rendering of the physical toy with which the CD-ROM is co-packaged. In an embodiment, each CD-ROM in the series includes all of the games that are associated with each respective game character in the series. Each CD-ROM is further configured, if it is a first such CD-ROM being installed on the computer, to generate and store a configuration file that indicates which ones of the game characters should be activated. Thus, once a first CD-ROM of the series is installed on the computer, a subsequent install of software encoded on another CD-ROM will result in, perhaps, only a modification of the configuration file, without having to install the entire computer game again. |
| US08651947B2 |
Gaming system and method providing a multiple-player bonus redemption game
A gaming system and method including a plurality of gaming devices that may participate in a shared secondary or bonus game and a controller operable to communicate with said plurality of gaming devices. At least one of the plurality of gaming devices is programmed to generate and accumulate collectors upon an occurrence of a first triggering event. Upon an occurrence of a second triggering event at one of the gaming devices, the controller enables a player of said gaming device to redeem a quantity of accumulated collectors in a bonus event. The controller also enables the player to invite other gaming devices from the plurality of gaming devices to redeem accumulated collectors and participate in said bonus event. The odds of each player earning a higher-valued total award in the bonus event increases with the total number of accumulated collectors redeemed in the bonus event. |
| US08651945B2 |
Gaming system and method for providing designated symbol display areas that modify awards
Gaming devices and methods of operating gaming devices are provided that include indicator or designator symbols. When an indicator or designator symbol is generated and displayed, the indicator or designator symbol indicates at least one symbol display area as a modification symbol display area. Upon at least one subsequent generation of symbols displayed in the symbol display areas, awards associated with symbols displayed in the modification symbol display areas are modified. |
| US08651942B2 |
Gaming device having multiple interacting independently operable wheels
A gaming device having multiple interacting independently operated symbol generators, such as wheels. In one embodiment, each wheel includes a plurality of sections that are associated with a plurality of different outcomes which are displayed to a player. One or more of the wheels are activated, either sequentially or simultaneously and the results of the wheel activations influence one or more subsequent wheel activations. Upon a terminating event, an outcome based on the results from one or more spins of one or more of the wheels is provided to the player. |
| US08651940B2 |
Gaming machine with matrix of reels and special symbol features
A video slot machine has an array of individual symbol reels, such as a grid of 4×5 reels. The symbols include conventional symbols and special symbols. In the examples, the special symbols are wild symbols. Each wild symbol is associated with a particular direction, such as a vertical direction, a horizontal direction, or both. After an initial spin, an award for symbol combinations is paid out. If a wild symbol appears in the array, all reels along the designated direction are respun to give the player another chance at winning. Awards are paid again for new winning symbol combinations. If new wild symbols appear, another respin is performed along the direction(s) designated by the new wild symbols. The designated direction associated with a wild symbol may change for each game. |
| US08651937B1 |
Apparatus and method for an electronic bingo game variation
An apparatus, system and method for an electronic bingo game variation comprising generating at least one electronic bingo card comprising characters from a predetermined character set; drawing a fixed or minimum number of characters to create a draw pool; matching the draw pool to the bingo card; daubing the matches to create a pattern; comparing the pattern to a set of qualifying patterns to identifying a qualifying bingo card. A qualifying pattern may comprise a pattern one match short of a winning pattern. At the conclusion of the game, offering a second chance to win to players with qualifying cards, the second chance comprising repopulating each square of the qualifying card, exclusive of the qualifying pattern, with new characters to create a second card and reapplying the draw pool to identify a second chance winner. |
| US08651935B2 |
On-line combined optional instant and future draw game of chance and method of playing same
A combined future lottery and optional instant game uses a central computer connected on-line with multiple game terminals. The player chooses: 1) a first set of at least one game piece, typically numbers, at one of the game terminals and 2) whether or not to play an instant game. The central computer receives the selections, and stores them. If an optional instant game is selected, the central computer acquires a random second set of at least one number and transmits it to the game terminal. A ticket, whether printed at the terminal or displayed, includes the first and second sets of number(s) and an indication of whether the optional game was selected for play. Matching of one or more numbers in the first and second sets results in a win in any of a variety of numbers games and lotto games. The first selected set of numbers is also used in a future lottery such as a weekly draw lottery. A spacing between the first and second number sets appearing on the ticket, and bracketing of displayed winning amounts on a ticket, deter retailer fraud. |
| US08651934B2 |
Gaming machine with scanning capability
A gaming apparatus is provided that has a display unit capable of generating video images, an input device and a controller operatively coupled to the display unit and input device. The controller has a processor and a memory operatively coupled to the processor. A network interface may be operatively coupled to a network and to the controller. The controller may be programmed to allow the user to: play a game, access the network, view additional data on the display, input player data into the gaming unit, create a player card, input an event bet slip and select additional information on the event underlying the bet for viewing. |
| US08651932B1 |
Method and device for conducting a wagering game
A method and device for conducting a game includes receipt of an ante wager designating either a first game hand or a second game hand for resolution of the ante wager. A first game hand of unexposed playing cards is dealt and exposed in stages, with each stage interceded by an election received from players to either place an additional wager on the same game hand designed by the ante wager or check by proceeding to a subsequent stage without placing an additional wager. After the first game hand is exposed, an election is received to either place an additional wager on the same game hand designated by the ante wager or fold. A second game hand is dealt, exposed, and compared to the first game hand to resolve ante wagers on the respective hands. Optional and/or mandatory bonus wagers may be received on the game hands. |
| US08651920B2 |
Mixing tube for a waterjet system
A waterjet system for generating and delivering fluid jets suitable for processing a workpiece has a cutting head body and a mixing tube. The cutting head body includes a mixing chamber and a bore. The bore is positioned downstream of the mixing chamber, and an abrasive fluid jet from the mixing chamber passes through the mixing tube. The mixing tube has a first coupler adapted to magnetically couple the mixing tube to the cutting head body when the mixing tube is installed. The cutting head body has a second coupler positioned to engage the first coupler of the mixing tube to keep the mixing tube properly positioned during operation of the waterjet system. |
| US08651918B1 |
Pallet/flip unit/gantry system
Industrial pallet has a body with an open bay, in which a work piece can be secured such that it can be worked on from either side of the pallet. An overhead gantry and/or flipping unit may be employed to move from station to station and/or flip the work piece itself or the work piece mounted in the pallet. Aside from the flipping unit, robotic moving and/or loading may be employed by the overhead gantry, which has two axes of motion only. Such components can be combined in a manufacturing system to make parts. |
| US08651917B2 |
Front closure bra with crisscrossing straps
A bra comprising a pair of breast cups, a front opening closure connected to the breast cups, a pair of generally triangular side panels, each of the generally triangular side panels containing vertical boning connecting each of the generally triangular side panels to a different breast cup; a pair of crisscrossing straps, each crisscrossing strap coupled to the top of the vertical boning on one generally triangular side panel and the bottom of the boning on an opposite generally triangular side panel. |
| US08651911B2 |
Light emitting apparatus and method of manufacturing the same
A light-emitting apparatus of the present invention includes: a first electrode formed on an insulating surface; a first insulating layer covering an end portion of the first electrode and having a tapered edge; a second insulating layer formed on the first electrode and the first insulating layer and formed of one kind or a plurality of kinds selected from the group consisting of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride; an organic compound layer formed on the second insulating layer; and a second electrode formed on the organic compound layer. |
| US08651909B2 |
Segmented recreational device
A segmented flotation device available in a plurality of colors, sizes, and configurations is disclosed. Each flotation device includes one or more buoyant members strung together with an elastic band. A recessed cup at each end of the device stores a coupler which is in turn secured to the elastic band. The coupler is configured with couplers for interconnecting flotation devices to create a variety of shapes and structures such as grids, float mats, and long float lines. A cord lock may be provided on the elastic band for adjusting the preloaded tension. A plurality of flotation devices can be packaged with other accessories connectable to the devices for creating a seat, mat, island or other structure, for holding beverages, or for providing awning structure. |
| US08651903B1 |
Hydro-propulsion apparatus
A hydro-propulsion system operably coupled to a watercraft wherein the hydro-propulsion system functions to propel the watercraft. The hydro-propulsion system further includes a fluid chamber being modified-triangular in shape having walls, a bottom and a top forming an interior volume. A plurality of inlets are formed within the walls of the fluid chamber and function to allow water to flow into the interior volume thereof. An aft opening is present and is configured to allow water to flow outward from the interior volume of the fluid chamber. Disposed within the interior volume is a propulsion member that is generally rectangular in shape having a first end and a second end. The propulsion member is movably mounted within the interior volume so as to laterally oscillate proximate the second end. The hydro-propulsion system includes a leverage apparatus operably coupled to the propulsion member so as to control the movement thereof. |
| US08651894B1 |
Meter socket having a breakable tab for retaining a sliding nut
An electric meter socket for connecting electrical conductors thereto includes a meter socket block configured to receive at least one lug assembly. The lug assembly is configured to receive an electrical conductor and may include a lug and sliding nut. The lug includes a slide path that allows the sliding nut to be removed from the lug so an electrical conductor can be placed in the lug for connection to the meter socket. To prevent the sliding nut from sliding out of the lug until an electrical conductor is ready to be connected, the meter socket block includes at least one breakable tab that blocks the slide path, thus retaining the sliding nut within the lug. The breakable tab may be removed when an electrical conductor is ready to be connected. Methods of assembling a meter socket and of connecting electrical conductors thereto are also provided, as are other aspects. |
| US08651887B2 |
Coaxial connector's plug and socket as well as coaxial connector
A coaxial connector's plug and socket as well as a coaxial connector are provided. The coaxial connector's plug comprises: a plug body (10) comprising a centre conductor (11), an insulator (12) provided around the centre conductor and a shell (13) provided around the insulator; a locking member (14) sleeved on the shell and comprising a supporting ring (141) and at least two claws (142) with their roots provided on the supporting ring; an unlocking sleeve (16) provided on the locking member and comprising an unlocking operation portion (161) and windows matching with the claws. |
| US08651886B2 |
Electrical connector assembly with improved locking structures and mating direction
An electrical connector assembly includes mateable receptacle connector and plug connector. The receptacle connector includes a first insulative housing, a number of first contacts retained in the first insulative housing and a first metallic shell. The first metallic shell includes a pair of cantilevered claws extending downwardly from opposite sides thereof. When the plug connector is mated with the receptacle connector along a bottom-to-top direction, the pair of cantilevered claws are deformable so as to clamp the plug connector in position and prevent the plug connector from falling off from the receptacle connector along a top-to-bottom direction. |
| US08651873B2 |
Portal assessment design system for educational testing
A Portal Assessment Design System includes a system for designing assessment models and assessments (e.g., standardized tests). In assessment design, specifications are organized around three basic elements: 1) what knowledge, skill or abilities are important to measure; 2) what is necessary evidence of that knowledge, skill or ability; 3) what performance situations are needed to elicit the required evidence from students and other assessment users. The system includes three modules (i.e., Domain Analysis, Domain Modeling, Conceptual Assessment Framework), each of which targets a specific phase of the design process, for designing an assessment in accordance with the three basic elements. The sequence of modules represents the structure of a design process that helps assessment developers work through successive stages or phases of assessment design, from the gathering of raw information to the creation of a complete set of specifications for an assessment product. Each module has its own set of objects for organizing information, such as knowledge skills and abilities of interest of the students being tested, evidence of these, and situations structured to elicit this evidence. The modules and objects of the system are implemented as a software application executing in a client-server environment. |
| US08651870B2 |
Apparatus, system and method for teaching card counting systems
An apparatus, system and method for teaching one of a plurality card counting systems in order to improve a player's chance of predicting favorable positions in connection with hands in the card game blackjack. A deck of cards is included with predetermined values attributed to the various cards to be used in teaching the various card counting systems in connection with blackjack. |
| US08651861B2 |
Sulcus impression tip
A sulcus impression tip for injecting dental impression material for making dental impressions. The tip includes a body having a gripping portion and a discharge tip having a bore there through which permits a friction fit with the outside diameter of needle cannula. The needle cannula extends approximately 2 millimeters past a distal end of the discharge tip. The body further defines an angle for holding the gripping portion to permit the discharge tip and needle cannula to be positioned for easy access in the oral cavity by the dentist. The discharge tip is sized and shaped to separate the gum from the tooth in the selected region so that the needle cannula is positioned to permit exact positioning for placement of the dental impression material along the sulcus. |
| US08651851B2 |
Mould for forming meat and in which meat can be cooked
A mould for forming meat, comprising a bottom die formed as a recipient, a concavity of which faces in an upwards direction and is configured to contain the meat, a cover for closing and sliding internally of the mouth of the concavity, and elastic pusher that pushes the cover in order to compress the meat contained in the concavity of the bottom die; the elastic pusher being located externally of and by a side of the bottom die, and being singly interposed between an opposing element fixed to the bottom die and a vertically-mobile hook element fixed to the bottom die, which hook element is configured to hook the cover in order to create a constraint preventing the cover from separating from the hook element in an upwards vertical direction. |
| US08651850B2 |
Clip integration of pressure tube mold cores into hardened omega-stringers for the production of stiffened fiber composite skin shells, in particular for aeronautics and astronautics
The invention concerns a device for stiffening a flat component, a process for the production of a flat component, in particular a fiber composite component, and a fiber composite component. The device has a portion for producing a space for receiving a mold core for the transmission of a pressure for pressing the flat component and the device. It is characterised by means for positively lockingly and/or frictionally lockingly positioning the mold core in the space of the device. The process according to the invention includes the following steps: introducing the mold core into the portion of the device, positively lockingly and/or frictionally lockingly positioning the mold core in the portion of the device by means of the means, applying the device including the mold core to the non-hardened material layer or layers, pressing the material layers, and hardening the material layer or layers and joining the device to the material layer or layers. |
| US08651847B2 |
Quick-change blowing nozzle
A device for shaping plastic preforms into plastic containers may include a blower device that subjects the plastic preforms to a gaseous medium in order to expand the plastic preforms into plastic containers. The blower device may include a blower nozzle, which can be applied onto an opening of the plastic preforms in order to subject them to the gaseous medium. The blower device may include a carrier for the blower nozzle through which the gaseous medium can flow, and a connection mechanism in order to arrange the blower nozzle on the carrier in a removable fashion. The blower nozzle can be removed from the carrier without tools. |
| US08651844B2 |
Hybrid pump for delivering a liquid pump medium
The invention relates to a hybrid pump for delivering a liquid pump medium, comprising a rotor consisting of substantially non-elastic plastic, which is situated in the pump chamber and can rotate about a rotor axis. Said rotor has a base plate associated with the lower lateral surface of the pump chamber and several rotor parts that are spaced substantially at a uniform distance around the periphery, extend towards the opposite lateral surface of the pump chamber and are permanently connected to the base plate. A preferably curved rotor blade is pivotally hinged on the outer end of each rotor part, forming pump chambers of the rotor between neighboring rotor parts and rotor blades, said chambers being open towards the upper lateral surface of the pump chamber and the bases of said chambers being formed by the base plate of the rotor. The pump is characterized in that the bases of the pump chambers follow a concave arc, rising from the outer edge of the base plate inward towards the rotor axis. |
| US08651841B2 |
Rotary compressor with improved connection
Disclosed is a rotary compressor in which a connecting protrusion is formed at an inner circumferential surface of a vane chamber in which a connection tube is inserted, so as to increase a sealing area between the connection hole and the connection tube, and the size of the connection hole is definitely designated so as to prevent the deformation of the cylinder when press-fitting the connection tube into the connection hole, whereby an amount of leaked refrigerant from the vane chamber can remarkably be reduced and accordingly a fast and accurate mode switching of the vane can be achieved, thereby improving the performance of the compressor and preventing noise caused by vibration of the vane in advance. |
| US08651832B2 |
Electric fuel pump with dicharge-side cover that is isolated from the fuel passage
In a fuel pump, a case member and a discharge-side cover define a fuel passage. A holder is held between the case member and the discharge-side cover. Brush terminals are supported by the holder to conduct electricity between power receiving terminals and brushes. The power receiving terminals have connector portions that are connected with the brush terminals. A wall of the discharge-side cover and a wall of the holder clamp the connector portions therebetween. The wall of the discharge-side cover and the wall of the holder partition an installation space, which is isolated from the fuel passage and in which the connector portions are enclosed. |
| US08651828B2 |
Vacuum pump with combined debris catcher and pressure relief valve
A combined debris catcher and pressure relief valve positionable between first and second ports of an inlet arrangement that is upstream of the main body of a vacuum pump. The debris catcher includes an open ended tube that is spring biased upwardly and in normal operation forms a seal with the inlet arrangement. In the raised or sealed position, incoming fluid from the system to be evacuated travels along a closed flow path through the first port of the inlet arrangement, through the debris catcher, and out through the second port of the inlet arrangement into the main body of the vacuum pump. If the inlet arrangement is hooked up initially or at any time to a system that is above atmospheric pressure, the above atmospheric pressure will overcome the upward force of the spring on the tube and cause the tube to move to an open position spaced from the inlet arrangement harmlessly venting the high pressure fluid to ambient air and avoiding potential damage or contamination to the pump. |
| US08651827B2 |
Electromagnetically-driven valve mechanism and high-pressure fuel supply pump using the same
A lead line weld joined portion is disposed externally of a magnetic circuit, i.e., of a yoke portion. This allows generation of a sufficient magnetic biasing force between a first core portion and the anchor. |
| US08651825B2 |
Variable capacity vane pump with dual control chambers
A variable capacity vane includes a pump control ring which is moveable to alter the capacity of the pump and the pump can be operated at either of at least two selected equilibrium pressures. The pump ring is moved by at least first and second control chambers, the control chambers abutting the control ring such that pressurized fluid supplied to them acts on the pump control ring to move the pump control ring to reduce the volumetric capacity of the pump. When pressurized fluid is supplied to only one control chamber, the pump operates at a first equilibrium pressure and when pressurized fluid is also supplied to the second chamber, the pump operates at a second equilibrium pressure. Pressurized fluid can also be supplied only to the second control chamber to operate the pump at a third equilibrium pressure and/or additional control chambers can be provided if required. |
| US08651819B2 |
Anti-ovalization tool for introduction into a wind turbine blade root and method of reducing ovalization of a wind turbine blade root
Anti-ovalization tool for introduction into a wind turbine blade root comprising two or more rigid bodies connected to one another along their side edges with distances in between them and together forming a substantially cylindrical body, wherein the distances between the rigid bodies are adjustable. The invention is further related to the method of reducing ovalization of a wind turbine blade root and to the use of a tool comprising two or more rigid bodies as an anti-ovalization tool. |
| US08651818B2 |
Locking device
A locking device including a hoop, the hoop curling up to form an axial mounting hole in the middle. An upper convex block, a lower convex block, a middle aperture, a left aperture, a right aperture, an upper convex ear, a lower convex ear, an upper guiding inclined plane, and a lower guiding inclined plane are disposed in the device. The upper convex block and the lower convex block move axially to narrow the middle aperture, the upper guiding inclined plane and the lower guiding inclined plane contact with each other to make the upper convex block and the lower convex block to move circumferentially to narrow both the left aperture and the right aperture and enable the hoop to tightly hold objects inside the axial mounting hole. The locking device has a simple structure, low cost, robust connecting structure, convenient and efficient assembly and disassembly processes. |
| US08651817B2 |
Aerofoil blade assembly
An aerofoil blade assembly having a rotor disc having a radially outer surface provided with an axial slot and a radially inner surface provided with a circumferential slot, wherein the lower region of the axial slot intersects the upper region of the circumferential slot; an aerofoil blade having a blade root which is received by the axial slot and which is provided with a locating slot which corresponds to the circumferential slot; a retention key which engages with the circumferential slot and the locating slot to restrict axial displacement of the aerofoil blade with respect to the rotor disc, the retention key being provided with a socket which, when the retention key is engaged in the circumferential slot and the locating slot, is substantially aligned with the axial slot. |
| US08651813B2 |
Fluid dynamic body having escapelet openings for reducing induced and interference drag, and energizing stagnant flow
A fluid dynamic body provides one or more fixed size escapelets through a foil body to reduce the induced and interference drag caused by trailing vortices and similar wake turbulence. The escapelets, which can be provided in both aerodynamic and hydrodynamic structures, such as wings, tail sections; rotary blades, guy wire frames, wing sails, and various underwater keels and wing keels. The escapelets transfer energy from an inlet located in the high-pressure surface of the foil or foil body to an outlet located in the lower-pressure surface, allowing energy that would normally form a vortex at the tip of the foil to be redirected and dissipated in a beneficial way. As a result, drag is reduced and fuel economy is increased. For example, in aircraft, escapelets can increase the authority of ailerons and similar flight control surfaces, allowing aircraft that were not previously spin recovery rated to become spin recoverable. |
| US08651812B2 |
Machine such as a gas turbine engine
A engine such as a gas turbine engine has a bladed rotor 24 having variable pitch blades 8. In normal operation, the pitch angle of the blades 8 is controlled by a primary pitch control system. A back-up system is provided for controlling the blades 8, for example to displace them to a feathered condition, in the event of failure of the primary pitch control system. The back-up system comprises a pump 32 mounted on the rotor 24, and driven by relative rotation between the rotor 24 and a contra-rotating rotor 23. In response to a failure signal on a conduit 48, the pump delivers hydraulic fluid under pressure to a secondary actuator 30, which acts on the blade 8. |
| US08651809B2 |
Apparatus and method for aligning a turbine casing
A casing includes an inner shell and an outer shell that surrounds the inner shell and comprises a plurality of inflection points. An annular flange is between the inner shell and the outer shell, and a plurality of joints attach the inner shell to the annular flange. A connector is between the annular flange and the outer shell at each of the plurality of inflection points. A method for assembling a casing includes joining a plurality of curved sections to one another to generally define an arcuate inner shell and surrounding the arcuate inner shell with an outer shell. The method further includes attaching the arcuate inner shell to an annular flange at first attachment points and connecting the annular flange to the outer shell at second attachment points spaced approximately equidistantly from the first attachment points. |
| US08651803B2 |
Variable stator vane assemblies
A variable stator vane assembly for a gas turbine engine has a projection protruding from the upper stem of the vane and which engages an aperture in the vane lever to provide a visual indication of correct alignment between the lever and the vane. |
| US08651798B2 |
Kinetic hydropower generation system and intake therefore
A kinetic hydropower generation system has a turbine and a generator coupled to the turbine. An underwater intake nozzle assembly is fluidly coupled to the turbine. For one embodiment, an underwater tower nozzle may be fluidly coupled between the turbine and the underwater intake nozzle assembly. The underwater intake nozzle assembly may include a collector and a converging nozzle. |
| US08651797B2 |
Backrest assembly for a materials handling vehicle
An adjustable backrest assembly for a materials handling vehicle. The backrest assembly includes an adjustable backrest structure and mounting structure for mounting the adjustable backrest structure on the materials handling vehicle so that the adjustable backrest structure extends generally vertically over load handling apparatus of the materials handling vehicle. The mounting structure enables pivoting movement of the adjustable backrest structure from a first position generally adjacent a power unit of the materials handling vehicle wherein pallets of a first size are accommodated to at least a second position spaced along the load handling apparatus from the power unit wherein pallets of a second size are accommodated. |
| US08651795B2 |
System for loading, handling, and transporting containers
A system for lifting, handling, and transporting containers includes a trailer that is either connectable to a truck or permanently affixed to a truck. The trailer has front and rear ends and is configured to receive and hold a container. A dolly is mounted on the trailer to lift and handle the container while maintaining the container in an upright orientation. The dolly travels between the front and rear ends of the trailer. |
| US08651792B2 |
Portable silo with adjustable legs
A portable storage silo includes a cylindrical tank of a height of the order of 45 feet and a diameter of the order of 13 feet with a filling opening at a top of the tank. The tank is raised from the ground on legs which extend to a base holding a discharge opening above the ground. The base has a transverse dimension roughly equal to that of the tank so that it is unstable in uneven terrain and four stabilizer arms are connected to the base at spaced positions around the base. Each stabilizer arm is movable from a first retracted position raised from the base to a second extended position extending outwardly to respective side of the base for stabilizing the base against tilting and is movable about an upstanding axis at the base so as to move the arm so that its angle around the base is adjustable. |
| US08651788B1 |
Variable-length, adjustable spacer
The present invention relates to an adjustable spacer. The spacer includes an elongate member. The spacer includes a sleeve extendable around the elongate member. The elongate member is moveable relative to the sleeve. The sleeve has a locking member. The spacer includes an engaging member configured to selectively engage the locking member for inhibiting movement of the sleeve relative to the elongate member when a desired spacing of the elongate member relative to the sleeve is determined. |
| US08651787B2 |
Spire insert with ring-shank nicking
An external surface for a fastener insert to be embedded in a component includes ridges extending along an outer surface of the portion to be embedded. The ridges include end-to-end projections that vary in width and height from one end of a projection to an opposite end of a projection. Wedges are formed in the surface between adjacent ridges. |
| US08651785B1 |
Quick release fastener
One embodiment of a quick release fastener insertable into apertures in platen tables and other surfaces, having at one end a threaded recess (30) to receive studs or bolts, and having a transversely displaceable member (60) to secure the fastener in the aperture. The displaceable member (60) is moved between the inoperative and operative positions by a tool engageable operating rod (80). |
| US08651784B2 |
Tie down anchor system and method
A family of anchor devices that include a back plate mounted behind a mounting surface with a flange mounted in front of the mounting surface and generally a ring or hook carrier member that engages an anchor ring or a hook. In several embodiments the carrier can rotate without axles pins or the like allowing the load to align the device in a direction of maximum convenience and strength. A first embodiment provides a rotating ring in a recessed retaining cup that provides for maximum flexibility. A second embodiment provides a rotating ring in a clip carrier in a raised mounting flange. A third embodiment provides a swivel insert hook carrier that can rotate. A fourth embodiment includes a ring that engages a notch in a raised carrier. Fifth and sixth embodiments provide attachments for one or multiple hooks in a fixed-mounted, non-rotating flange. |
| US08651778B2 |
Drill
A holder of the present invention has a first insert pocket and a second insert pocket at the tip end thereof. The first insert pocket is located closer to the central axis thereof than the second insert pocket. The axial rake of the first insert pocket is larger than the axial rake of the second insert pocket. |
| US08651776B2 |
Drill/countersink assembly and method for producing countersunk holes
A countersink cutter or assembly for countersinking to precise depths in various applications, including aerospace applications, uses a pneumatically driven pistol grip motor attached to a countersink tool assembly. The countersink tool assembly, which has a multi-fluted cutter, is coupled to and is coaxial with the spindle. The cutter can be preset to a precise depth at the back end of assembly through the slot using a gage. |
| US08651773B2 |
Process for pneumatic conveying of water-absorbing polymer particles
A process for pneumatic delivery of water-absorbing polymer particles, the initial gas rate in the delivery being from 1 to 6 m/s and the delivery material loading being from 1 to 100 kg/kg. |
| US08651770B2 |
Erosion control ballast and soil confinement mat
An erosion control ballast and soil confinement mat for use in water flow conditions is provided. The mat is made of a non-buoyant, relatively heavy and substantially flexible material with a plurality of pores stamped or pre-cast therein that allow for the inflow of water, the establishment of vegetation growth through the mat, and the in-filling of the pores with supplemental ballast materials such as gravel or soil. The bottom side of the mat has protrusions that extend into the underlying surface to prevent horizontal shifting and confine soil materials and/or another erosion control mat such as an erosion control blanket or turf reinforcement mat, while also preventing migration of the mat itself under high shear force water flow. The top surface of the mat may be provided with flaps that cover the pore openings during periods of strong water flow to prevent excessive water flow from entering the pores and eroding the underlying soil. |
| US08651767B1 |
Rotatable wheel box service panel door and equalizer
Systems, devices, apparatus, and methods of locking and unlocking a door that is slidable by articulating wheels in tracks, over an entry port to a storm water structure. Locking the door can be accomplished by rotating bolts that are attached to cams. Rotating the bolts causes the cams to press the door against the tracks. Sealing strips can be compressed between door edges and the track to prevent water from passing around the door. A vacuum truck can remove water and debris from the vault/structure. Other versions allow doors to move downward to allow water to overflow the door. The door can slide upward so water can flow underneath. A door in door version has a secondary door slide up and down in tracks in a main door. |
| US08651762B2 |
Tip unit for liquid applicator and liquid applicator
It is an aim to provide a tip unit for a liquid applicator and a liquid applicator that make written (applied) lines to change in thickness and give excellent durability. A tip unit used for a liquid applicator includes a ball house having an opening at its distal end and an introduction channel for application liquid in communication with the ball house, wherein the ball house holds therein at least two balls having a leading ball and an adjacent ball next to the leading ball, the balls being serially lined in an axial direction of the tip unit, the leading ball being partly exposed outside from the opening, and the leading ball being softer than the adjacent ball. |
| US08651761B2 |
Dispensing package with applicator
A package for dispensing a substance is described, where the package includes a stiff sheet that has a score formed on and traversing the first surface. The package also includes a flexible sheet defining a cavity for receiving the substance between the stiff sheet and the flexible sheet. The package also includes an applicator having a porous material pad, where the applicator is attached to the stiff sheet over the score by two hinges. The stiff sheet is configured to be folded about the score to cause the substance to be expelled from the cavity through a metering hole into the porous material pad and the two hinges allow the porous material pad to remain generally flat as the stiff sheet is folded. |
| US08651756B2 |
Tape cassette
A tape cassette that includes a housing having a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface and a pair of side surfaces, a tape that is a print medium housed in the housing, a tape exit that discharges, from the housing, the tape guided in the housing along a predetermined feed path, at least a part of the feed path extending parallel to the front surface, and a type indicator portion provided adjacent to the tape exit and in a specified area of the front surface on an upstream side of the tape exit in a feed direction of the tape, the type indicator portion indicating a type of the tape and including vertical information sections and an aperture formed in at least one of the vertical information sections, the vertical information sections being strip-shaped sections extending along a direction orthogonal to the feed direction. |
| US08651753B2 |
Imaging apparatus
An imaging apparatus (100) includes an outer shell (1) including a first case (11) and a second case (12) joined to the first case (11) and formed with a spherical inner surface, a camera body (2) arranged inside the outer shell (1) and configured to move relative to the outer shell (1), a first driver (26A) and a second driver (26B) provided in the camera body (2) and configured to drive the camera body (2) with the first and second drivers (26A, 26B) contacting an inner surface of the outer shell (1), and a drive controller (62) configured to control the first and second drivers (26A, 26B) such that the first driver (26A) contacts only the first case (11) and that the second driver (26B) contacts only the second case (12). |
| US08651746B2 |
Rolling bearing
The present invention provides a rolling bearing capable of suppressing the generation of retainer noise and abnormal vibration by specifying the circumferential width of axial grooves formed on the guide face of an outer ring guide retainer or an inner ring guide retainer. In a rolling bearing 1 according to the present invention, axial grooves 13 are formed on the outer circumferential face of the outer ring guide type retainer 10 thereof. The displacement amount xo of the center position of the retainer 10, the outer diameter Doc of the retainer 10, the guide diameter Dog of the outer ring 2, the circumferential width h of the axial grooves 13, the guide clearance ΔLc between the outer ring 2 and the retainer 10, and the clearance ΔP between the pocket 11 and the rolling element 4 satisfy the following relational expressions: [ Mathematical expression 1 ] x o = 1 2 ( D oc - D og + D og 2 - h 2 - D oc 2 - h 2 ) ( 1 ) [ Mathematical expression 2 ] Δ L o + 2 x o Δ P < 1 ( 2 ) are satisfied. |
| US08651736B2 |
Probe cover container identification
A temperature measurement system includes a temperature probe including a temperature sensor. The system also includes a reader, and a controller in communication with the temperature sensor and the reader. The system further includes a container housing a plurality of probe covers associated with the temperature probe. The container includes an information feature providing information related to the plurality of probe covers. The reader is configured to read the information and direct a signal to the controller indicative of the information. |
| US08651734B2 |
Open-loop vertical drywell gradient correction system and method
A system and method are disclosed for controlling a drywell including a receiver having upper and lower ends with the lower end being more insulated than the upper end having a temperature sensor in thermal contact therewith. Upper and lower heating elements are in thermal contact with the upper and lower ends, respectively. A controller includes an integrated circuit having a temperature sensor. A reading from the integrated circuit is used to control power to the upper heating element and reduce a temperature gradient between the upper and lower ends of the receiver. |
| US08651730B2 |
Method for controlling loading of foods in a food mixing unit and corresponding control apparatus
A food mixing unit is equipped with a weighing system having a memory device for storing at least one recipe of foods to be loaded into the mixing unit and at least one weight detecting device to detect the weight of the foods loaded. Foods to be loaded are taken from relative stocking areas and the food weight is controlled by the weight detecting device and based on the food recipe, as foods are loaded into the mixing unit. A plurality of chemical and/or physical parameters is measured for each of the food stored in the relative stocking areas by using of a food analysis tool and the food recipe is modified according to the measured values of chemical and/or physical parameters and rewritten in the memory device of the weighing system. |
| US08651729B2 |
Turbine vibrator
A turbine vibrator has a housing, an eccentric rotor mounted in an air chamber of the housing and two covers mounted respectively in two mounting recesses of the housing. Two threaded walls defined respectively around the mounting recesses of the housing have same threaded directions. Therefore, the mounting recesses, the air chamber and the other mounting recess are formed sequentially so axes of the mounting recesses and the air chamber are disposed along a same line. Manufacturing processes of the housing is reduced and shearing forces applied to the shafts of the eccentric rotor are reduced so the turbine vibrator has a prolonged useful life. Moreover, as a rotating direction of the eccentric rotor and the fastening directions of the covers are the same, when the turbine vibrator operates, the covers tighten against the housing. The first and second covers do not drop from the housing. |
| US08651728B2 |
Lighting master and lighting device
The present invention is directed to a lighting master, which includes a base and a lighting module. A region defined between the base and a housing accommodates a power module. The lighting module is disposed over the base. The base has an outer surface to be bonded with an inner surface of the housing. |
| US08651727B2 |
Display apparatus and backlight module and holder structure thereof
The present invention provides a display apparatus, a backlight module and a holder structure thereof. The display apparatus comprises the backlight module and a display panel. The backlight module comprises a back bezel, at least one light source and two holders. The at least one light source light source is disposed on the back bezel. The holders are disposed at the two opposite sides of the backlight module. Each of the holders comprises two extension holding portions and a panel supporting surface. The extension holding portions are formed at two ends of each of the holders. The panel supporting surface is formed on the holders and the extension holding portions. The present invention can reduce the number of the components and the weight thereof. |
| US08651718B2 |
Vehicle light fitting unit
A vehicle light fitting unit includes two headlights which irradiate a low beam. The two headlights can each include a light emitting element, an elliptical series reflecting surface provided in a state where a first focal position is positioned near the light emitting element and a second focal position is positioned on an optical axis of the headlight, and a projecting lens provided so that a focal position on a rear side of the light irradiating direction is near the second focal position. Only a first headlight among the two headlights includes a light shielding member. The elliptical series reflecting surface of a second headlight is positioned so that the first focal position is positioned to the front of the light irradiating direction than the light emitting element. |
| US08651717B2 |
Vehicular illumination lamp
A lamp includes a projection lens, a light-emitting element disposed rearwardly of a rear-side focal point of the projection lens to be directed upward, a reflector disposed to cover the light-emitting element from an upper side to reflect light from the light-emitting element toward the projection lens, and a shade disposed with an upper end edge thereof passing closely below the rear-side focal point to block part of reflected light from the reflector. Generally the entirety of a portion of the projection lens positioned above the optical axis is cut away. A reflective surface that reflects downward the reflected light from the main reflector is formed on a rear surface of the shade. A sub reflector that reflects forward the reflected light from the reflector reflected by the reflective surface of the shade so as not to be incident on the projection lens is disposed below the shade. |
| US08651716B2 |
Lighting module for headlamp of a motor vehicle
A lighting module having a flat light emitter, a reflector (R1) determined so as to create, in a plane comprising the emitter, a hot spot (S) limited by a control curve (A) contained in the plane comprising the first emitter and constituting the front or rear edge of the spot and a lens (L) determined and arranged with the reflector so as to form the first cutoff beam. |
| US08651712B2 |
Vehicle headlamp and vehicle headlamp device
The present invention provides a lamp unit for low beam, a lamp unit for high beam, and a lamp unit for shoulder edge beam. The lamp units each are made of a semiconductor-type light source and a reflector that has reflection surfaces configured to illuminate the light from the semiconductor-type light source forward of a vehicle, as a predetermined light distribution pattern. As a result, the present invention is capable of fully utilizing the light from the semiconductor-type light source, making it possible to facilitate a light distribution design configured to form the light in a predetermined light distribution pattern. |
| US08651711B2 |
Modular lighting system and method employing loosely constrained magnetic structures
A lighting system including modules containing LEDs or other electroluminescent devices and loosely constrained magnetic structures at least partially contained within cavities in the module substrate that are connected to fixtures under magnetic force. The loosely constrained magnetic structures accommodate mechanical variations in the system and provide a method to connect modules mechanically, electrically and thermally to different fixtures or positions in fixtures without tools. The relatively short distance separating magnetic structures provides high connection forces with the use of relatively small magnets. Magnets and electrical contacts are not located directly between the LED subassembly and the fixture, which provides higher thermal conductivity pathways to remove heat from the LEDs. Biasing members may be used to increase thermal contact. Magnetic structures may, but are not required, to conduct electricity. Fixtures that attach to modules include rails, sockets, heat sinks and two-dimensional structures with recessed electrodes for improved electrical safety. |
| US08651710B2 |
Detachable lamp
A detachable lamp includes a seat, a fastening mechanism and a lighting module. The fastening mechanism includes a rotary latch having a stem and a latching portion extending from the stem. The lighting module is disposed on the seat corresponding by the fastening mechanism and includes a frame and an LED assembly received in the frame. The frame has an engaging member for being fastened by the latching portion. Thereby, the lighting module can be detachably mounted on the seat. |
| US08651709B1 |
Multi-level light fixture retrofit kit
The present invention provides a multi-level light fixture retrofit kit 10 that can be easily attached to a parabolic reflector 54 of an existing HID light fixture 50. The retrofit kit 10 comprises of a frame 12 with four or more sides and a center opening 18. The center opening 18 can be secured and be suspended onto the parabolic reflector 54 with or without any mounting. Housing 20 with one or more lamp sockets 22 is disposed of on each side of the frame 12. The retrofit kit 10 also includes a partition 34 cutting across the frame 12 and held together by a hinge 36 on one end and by a locking mechanism 38 on the opposite end to facilitate installation and removal of the retrofit kit 10. |
| US08651708B2 |
Heat transfer system for a light emitting diode (LED) lamp
A heat transfer system is provided for a LED lamp. The LED lamp includes a board surface to supply heat energy during an operation of the LED lamp. The LED lamp is mounted within a recessed housing that separates a first area having a first temperature from a second area having a second temperature, where the second temperature is lower than the first temperature. The system includes a thermal dissipator positioned within the second area. The system further includes a heat transfer device with a first end mounted to the board surface, and a second end mounted to the thermal dissipator, to transfer the heat energy from the board surface in the first area to the thermal dissipator in the second area, and dissipate the heat energy within the second area. |
| US08651706B2 |
Illuminator arrangement with less heat intervention
An illuminator arrangement with less heat intervention includes a reflecting body having a top opening and a bottom opening, a lens assembled above the top opening, an aluminum base assembled at the bottom opening, at least one heat pipe extended from the aluminum base, a light source assembled on the aluminum base, the heat pipe being made of the material which is a good heat conductor. Under this arrangement, the aluminum base could be moved up and down relative to the top opening so that the light source on the aluminum base could move toward the lens or moves away from the lens so as to diffuse light or focus light. Furthermore, the heat pipe dissipates the heat generated by the light source away from the reflecting body. |
| US08651700B2 |
LED light string
A LED lamp string includes a base, a plurality of electrical conductive elements, a light-emitting diode and a shroud. The base has a peripheral wall and an accommodating space formed inside the periphery wall. The peripheral wall is provided with a plurality of through-holes. The electrical conductive elements penetrate the through-holes respectively. Each electrical conductive element includes an electrical wire and an electrical conductive pin. The light-emitting diode is fixedly received in the accommodating space and has a plurality of metallic supports corresponding to the electrical conductive pins. The electrical conductive pins are electrically connected to the metallic supports. The shroud is assembled with the base. By this arrangement, the components of the light string can be detached and assembled easily, so that the user can replace and repair the damaged component easily. Thus, the lifetime of the light string is increased. |
| US08651699B2 |
Flexible substrate, mounting method of flexible substrate, and lighting system
A flexible substrate includes a stripe-shaped substrate main body portion; a comb-like portion composed of a plurality of protrusions that extends from one end in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the substrate main body portion, in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction; and electronic devices that are arranged on the plurality of protrusions, respectively, in which the substrate main body portion and the comb-like portion are bendable. |
| US08651696B2 |
Light-emitting device
The light-emitting device includes: a substrate which has a single layer structure in which a conductive member is partially provided on a surface of the substrate; a plurality of light-emitting elements which are directly provided on the surface of the substrate so as to be electrically connected with the conductive member; a first light reflection resin layer; a second light reflection resin layer which is provided in a looped shape on the surface of the substrate so as to surround an area in which the plurality of light-emitting elements are provided; and a sealing resin which covers the plurality of light-emitting elements. In the area in which the plurality of light-emitting elements are provided, the conductive member is covered with the first light reflection resin layer, the conductive member, which is provided under the second light reflection resin layer, is covered with the second light reflection resin layer directly, and a printed resistor, which is provided under the second light reflection resin layer, is covered with the second light reflection resin layer via the first light reflection resin layer. This makes it possible to provide the light-emitting device which (i) reduces absorption of light so as to achieve excellent light extraction efficiency, and (ii) is highly reliable. |
| US08651694B2 |
Adjustable light distribution system
A lighting assembly having a plurality of light sources and a lens matrix having a plurality of lenses. The lens matrix may be positioned relative to the light sources so that each light source resides in a first orientation within one of the lenses and emits a light distribution. Relative translation between the light sources and the lens matrix alters the orientation of the light sources within the lenses, creating a different light distribution. A light source's orientation may change within the same lens, or the light source may translate to a different lens to alter the distribution of its emitted light. |
| US08651693B2 |
Light emitting diode roadway lighting optics
An optical module for an lighting fixture for providing roadway illumination. The optical module comprising circuit board having a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs). A reflector cups surrounds each of the plurality of LEDs, the cup comprises a narrow end surrounding the LED and a larger opening at a second end opposite the LED. A refractor lens cover comprising a plurality of molded lens, each lens positioned at the second end of the reflector cups. |
| US08651692B2 |
LED based lamp and light emitting signage
An LED based lamp comprises: an enclosure with an opening that comprises a light emission plane through which light is emitted from the lamp; a plurality of LEDs located along at least one wall of the enclosure and operable to generate light of a first wavelength range, wherein the LEDs are configured such that in operation their emission axis is oriented within a plane that is substantially parallel with or directed away from the light emission plane; and a first light reflective surface located on the base of the enclosure and configured such that in operation light is reflected through the light emission plane. A light emitting sign comprises the lamp of the invention with a light transmissive display surface overlying the light emission plane. |
| US08651689B2 |
Light emitting diode light bar structure having heat dissipation function
The present invention discloses a light emitting diode (LED) light bar structure having heat dissipation function, adapted for a backlight module, and including a heat dissipation body, a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs), and a circuit board. The heat dissipation body has a circuit board insertion slot and is provided with a plurality of installation holes in row. The installation holes pass through the heat dissipation body, the LEDs are embedded in respective installation holes, and the circuit board is received in the circuit board insertion slot whereby the LEDs are fixed in the installations holes and electrically connect the circuit board. Accordingly, the LED light bar structure not only simplifies assembling procedures but also directly and laterally dissipate heat generated by the LEDs through a tight engagement of the LEDs and the heat dissipation body, thereby improving dissipation efficiency of the backlight module. |
| US08651688B1 |
Flashlight accessory
The flashlight accessory is a device that attaches onto a lighted end of an existing flashlight, and which reflects light radially from said flashlight in order to produce lighting consistent with a lantern. The flashlight accessory includes a hollowed cylinder within which a reflective cone shaped surface reflects light radially with respect to the hollowed cylinder. The hollowed cylinder includes an opening upon which the lighted end of the flashlight is placed against. A strap is provided at a distance above said opening in order to secure the flashlight accessory onto the lighted end of the flashlight. At least one hook is included on a distal end of said cylinder, and which enables the accessory to hang from an object in a manner consistent with a traditional lantern. |
| US08651686B2 |
Lighting unit for lighting airfields
The invention relates to a lighting unit for lighting airfields on an airport, in particular for delivering signals to an airplane. It comprises a light source, which has at least one light-emitting diode for generating light to be emitted, electrical components for supplying and actuating the light source, optical components for influencing the light generated by the light source, and an outer housing for receiving the light source and the electrical and optical components, which has a light exit opening through which light influenced by the optical components exits. According to the invention, the light source is arranged with the electrical and optical components in a cassette module closed in a gas-tight manner. Said module is integrated in the outer housing, wherein the outer housing is likewise closed in a gas-tight manner, so that the components disposed in the cassette module have double sealing protection. |
| US08651684B2 |
Two and three-dimensional image with optical emission frequency control
A rear parallax emitter is disclosed for use, for example, in a display. The display includes a light modulator as well as the rear parallax emitter. The light modulator comprises a plurality of pixels viewable at a viewing position. The rear parallax emitter comprises a plurality of sets of light emitting regions (LERs) and has an area substantially coextensive with the light modulator and spaced a prescribed uniform distance from the display opposite from a viewing position. Each set of LERs is independently controllable to transmit a light color that differs from a light color transmitted by another set of LERs. |
| US08651683B2 |
Lighting device, display device and television receiver
A lighting device includes a light source, a chassis, a reflection sheet, a spacer, and a press member. The chassis includes a bottom plate disposed on a side opposite to a light output side with respect to the light source and houses the light source. The reflection sheet includes a bottom portion disposed along the bottom plate and a rising portion rising from the bottom portion toward the light output side and reflects light. The spacer is arranged between the bottom plate and the rising portion. The press member has a press surface pressing the rising portion from the light output side. The press member and the spacer have mounting structures with which the press member is mounted to the spacer by moving the press member in a direction along the rising portion and to hold the press member to the spacer. |
| US08651679B2 |
Display device
A display device includes a first light guide member provided with a first reflecting surface formed at its first end to reflect light emitted by a light source; a second light guide member provided with a penetrating hole in which the first light guide member is intended to be inserted and a second reflecting surface formed at its first end to reflect the light; a first pointer and a second pointer fixed to the first end of the first light guide member and the first end of the second light guide member to be illuminated by the light reflected by the first reflection surface and the second reflection surface, respectively, and a driving member configured to separately rotate the first light guide member and the second light guide member around a same rotation axis with the first pointer and the second pointer, respectively. |
| US08651678B2 |
Polarization fields for dynamic light field display
In exemplary implementations of this invention, a flat screen device displays a 3D scene. The 3D display may be viewed by a person who is not wearing any special glasses. The flat screen device displays dynamically changing 3D imagery, with a refresh rate so fast that the device may be used for 3D movies or for interactive, 3D display. The flat screen device comprises a stack of LCD layers with two crossed polarization filters, one filter at each end of the stack. One or more processors control the voltage at each pixel of each LCD layer, in order to control the polarization state rotation induced in light at that pixel. The processor employs an algorithm that models each LCD layer as a spatially-controllable polarization rotator, rather than a conventional spatial light modulator that directly attenuates light. Color display is achieved using field sequential color illumination with monochromatic LCDs. |
| US08651672B2 |
Projector
A projector includes: a reflection type polarization plate; a reflection type light modulation device; a light transmissive component; a support body; an optical compensation element disposed within the support body; and a control member which supports the optical compensation element, wherein any one of the first side surface, the second side surface, and the third side surface has a concave portion concaved toward the inside of the support body to accommodate the control member, the control member has an operation section which controls the position of the optical compensation element around a predetermined axis, and an operation notch through which the operation section projects to the outside of the support body is formed on the side wall of the concave portion. |
| US08651670B2 |
Projection type image display device
A projection type image display device of the present invention includes: a screen unit with a screen onto which images are projected; a projection unit for projecting images onto the screen from the rear surface of the screen; right and left slide mechanisms as a pair for supporting the screen unit in a manner that allows the screen unit to move in a direction approximately normal to the screen; and a link shaft for linking the right and left slide mechanisms, and for moving the right and left mechanisms in synchronization with each other. |
| US08651669B2 |
Projection apparatus that properly reduces flicker
A projection apparatus that provides flicker reduction according to the cause of flicker, to thereby properly reduce flicker without unnecessarily bringing about characteristic degradation is disclosed. Light for projecting a projection image onto a projection surface is output from a light source, and separated into light beams of a plurality of colors. Images corresponding to the light beams of the plurality of colors are formed on display units. The light beams of the plurality of colors having passed through the display units are synthesized and projected onto the projection surface. Fluctuations in the light quantity of the light beams of the plurality of colors having passed through the display units and yet to be input to the color synthesis unit are detected. Detection results are analyzed, and it is determined whether flicker caused by the display units or flicker caused by the light source is occurring in the projection image. |
| US08651667B2 |
Projector and method of controlling the same
The present invention is applied to a projector that comprises a plurality of projection devices which generate images by modulating laser beams in the colors of R, G, B with optical modulators and which project the images onto projection surfaces through projection lenses, wherein the images projected respectively from said projection devices onto said projection surfaces are tiled into a single image as a whole. In the projector of the present invention, the number of G-color laser beam sources is smaller than the number of images projected respectively from said projection devices onto said projection surfaces; and said projection devices share said G-color laser beam sources and apply G-color laser beams emitted from said G-color laser beam sources to said optical modulators thereof. |
| US08651664B2 |
Aircraft projector system and movement detection system responsive to aircraft structure movement
A method and apparatus comprising a projector system and a structure connected to the projector system. The projector system is configured to project an image on an exterior surface of an aircraft. The structure is configured to be connected to the aircraft and has a shape configured to reduce an undesired airflow caused by the projector system when the aircraft is in flight. |
| US08651658B2 |
Masks
An aquatic mask comprises an outer mask structure (20 or 30) including one or more lenses, and an inner frame (10) suitable for containing ophthalmic corrective lenses. The outer mask structure (20 or 30) and the inner frame (10) include complementary formations (21 or 31 and 11 and 12) whereby the inner frame (10) can have a resilient push-fit engagement with the outer mask structure (20 or 30). |
| US08651657B2 |
Printer module with bumper
Printer module includes a media processing member and a bumper that is arranged to be adjusted in height to provide for a parallel arrangement of the media processing member with respect to a printer roller. |
| US08651656B2 |
Systems and methods for forming raised markings on substrates for Braille identification and security and to facilitate automatic handling of the substrates
Haptic or tactile features, which are generally not visually perceptible or reproducible, are applied at varying positions on a substrate according to a predetermined scheme. A plurality of raised image areas are specified for a group of substrates and raised marks are printed in only one raised image area for each substrate in a manner that is evenly distributed between the raised image areas for the group of substrates. The substrates will present a relatively uniform stack avoiding localized large pile heights when the substrates are stacked. A clear marking material is used to print the raised marks so as not to obscure underlying data printed on the substrate. The clear marking material may include a monomer that may become cross-linked in an exposure process to resist deinking of the substrate. The clear marking material may be mixed with a phosphorescing or fluorescing material as an additional security measure. |
| US08651654B2 |
Pinch roller apparatus for printer
A pinch roller apparatus for a printer is provided having a support plate securely mounted to a housing of the printer, a pinch housing movably supported by the support plate, and a series of pinch rollers rotatably held within the pinch housing. The pinch housing has alignment pins for engagement with the housing of the printer through movement of the pinch housing relative to the support plate. The engagement aligns the pinch rollers with a driven roller rotatably mounted to the housing to provide pinched contact for media being transported through the printer. |
| US08651653B2 |
Apparatus and method for applying release fluid to a leveler in a printing apparatus
An apparatus and method apply release fluid to a leveler in a printing apparatus. The apparatus can include a substrate path, at least one release fluid spray nozzle, and a marking material leveling system having a marking material leveler. The method can include transporting a substrate with marking material along the substrate path. The method can include pulse spraying release fluid to the marking material leveling system using the at least one release fluid spray nozzle to apply the release fluid to the marking material leveler. The method can include leveling marking material on the substrate using the marking material leveler with release fluid. |
| US08651651B2 |
Ink jet ink and ink jet recording method
In an ink jet ink containing a pigment, a binder resin, water, an organic solvent, and a surfactant, the surface tension of the ink is in a region defined by γ0−γx≧1.0 (γ0: surface tension before evaporation, γx: surface tension at an evaporation rate X %) when the evaporation rate X of the ink is in a range of 0 |
| US08651642B2 |
Fluid cartridge
An ink cartridge for an inkjet printer includes a bottom face and a front face; interfaces on the front face of the ink cartridge for connection to a cartridge receiving structure, the interfaces including an ink interface; a guide interface in the bottom face for guiding the cartridge along a straight line for connecting the interfaces; and a latch stop and a latch track disposed in the bottom face of the ink cartridge to guide and retain, respectively, a latch of the cartridge receiving structure. The latch track includes a locking track and an unlocking track to accommodate movement of the latch with respect to the latch stop, the locking track being at least partly separate from the unlocking track, the movement of the latch being along the locking track into a locked engagement position at insertion, and along the unlocking track into an unlocked position at ejection. |
| US08651641B2 |
Liquid container
An ink cartridge is adapted to be mounted in a holder of a printer and includes: an ink containing bag which is configured in a bag shape and capable of containing a liquid in an inner portion; a flow path member having a flow path that guides the ink contained in the ink containing bag to an outside and a supply port connected to the flow path; and a containing box including a plant derived material accommodating the liquid containing bag; in which an outermost layer forming an outer surface of the ink containing bag has a shock buffering section that buffers against an impact from the outside via the containing box. |
| US08651638B2 |
Inkjet printing apparatus
An inkjet printing apparatus comprises an ink tank including an ink accommodating unit, an ink leading-out mechanism for leading out the ink in the ink accommodating unit to an outside, and a housing, and an ink tank holder for removably retaining the ink tank, wherein a space is formed between the ink leading-out mechanism and the housing, and when the ink tank is mounted to the ink tank holder, an ink flow passage is formed by contact of an outer periphery of an ink leading-out needle in the ink tank holder with a sealing member in the ink leading-out mechanism, further comprising restriction means for restricting a position of the ink tank to the ink tank holder such that when removing the ink tank from the ink tank holder, the ink tank stops in a state where a tip end of the ink leading-out needle is in the space. |
| US08651636B2 |
Liquid droplet ejection apparatus
A liquid droplet ejection apparatus includes: a plurality of discharge openings for discharging bubbles in liquid supply flow passages supplying liquid from liquid chambers to a liquid droplet ejection head, for each of the liquid chambers; a first opening and closing section being capable of opening and closing the discharge openings; and a first pushing section causing the discharge openings to be opened and closed by moving the first opening and closing section. The first opening and closing section includes a plurality of first cover portions that can cover each of the discharge openings, a first contact portion corresponding to the first pushing section and common to the first cover portions, and a first connecting portion connecting the first cover portions with the first contact portion. |
| US08651635B2 |
Printer with ink line dampening of ink pressure surges
A printer comprising: a printhead having an ink inlet and an ink outlet; an ink chamber for supplying ink to the printhead; an upstream ink line interconnecting an outlet port of the ink chamber and the ink inlet; a downstream ink line connected to the ink outlet; and a first air accumulator communicating with the downstream ink line. The first air accumulator is configured for dampening ink pressure pulses in the printhead during printing. |
| US08651633B2 |
Drop placement error reduction in electrostatic printer
A group timing delay device is provided to shift the timing of drop formation waveforms supplied to drop formation devices of nozzles of one of first and second groups so that print drops formed from nozzles of the first and second groups are not aligned relative to each other along a nozzle array direction. A charging device includes a common charge electrode associated with liquid jets formed from the nozzles of the first and second group and a source of varying electrical potential between the charge electrode and liquid jets. The source of varying electrical potential provides a charging waveform that is independent of print and non-print drop patterns. The charging device is synchronized with the drop formation device and the group timing delay device to produce a print drop charge state on print drops and a non-print drop charge state on non-print drops. |
| US08651631B2 |
Liquid jet head, liquid jet apparatus, and method of manufacturing liquid jet head
A liquid jet head has side walls forming grooves and drive electrodes formed on wall surfaces of the side walls. A reinforcing plate includes through holes communicating with the grooves and being elongated in a longitudinal direction of the grooves. A nozzle plate includes nozzles communicating with the through holes of the reinforcing plate. A cover plate has a supply port for supplying liquid to the grooves and a discharge port for discharging liquid from the grooves. |
| US08651629B2 |
Piezoelectric element, liquid-ejecting head, and liquid-ejecting apparatus
A piezoelectric element includes a piezoelectric layer and electrodes provided to the piezoelectric layer. The piezoelectric layer consists of a complex oxide containing bismuth, cerium, iron and cobalt and the molar ratio of cobalt to the total of iron and cobalt is 0.125 or more and 0.875 or less. |
| US08651627B2 |
Liquid ejecting head, liquid ejecting apparatus and piezoelectric element
A piezoelectric element includes a plurality of individual electrodes, a piezoelectric layer formed on each of individual electrodes, and a common electrode which is formed on the piezoelectric layer and is an electrode common to the individual electrodes. Further, a protection film covering a region, which is not covered by the common electrode on the individual electrode, is provided. |
| US08651625B2 |
Fluid ejection device
A fluid ejection device includes a chamber, at least one fluid supply channel, and more than two fluid inlets disposed between the fluid channel and the chamber. An inkjet printing system includes a fluid ejection device having a chamber disposed along fluid supply channels within the fluid ejection device, where a first channel is disposed along a first side of the chamber and a second channel is disposed along a second side of the chamber. The chamber includes multiple fluid inlets, where a first plurality of fluid inlets is disposed between the chamber and the first channel and a second plurality of fluid inlets is disposed between the chamber and the second channel. |
| US08651622B2 |
Recording apparatus
A liquid ejection apparatus has an ejection orifice ejecting a liquid, a liquid storage section storing the liquid, a conductive communication path forming member forming a communication path to supply the liquid from the liquid storage section to the ejection orifice, and an electrode provided inside the liquid storage section and used to detect a remaining amount of the liquid. The communication path is electrically connected to the electrode, and the electrical resistance value between the electrode and the communication path contacting the liquid when the liquid is present in the liquid storage section is smaller than the electrical resistance value between the electrode and the communication path when the liquid is not present in the liquid storage section. A recording apparatus incorporating the above features can detect the presence or absence of ink in the recording head with high precision without increasing the size of the recording head. |
| US08651620B2 |
Ejection liquid dryness suppressing device, liquid ejecting apparatus, and ejection liquid dryness suppressing method
There is provided a nozzle contact unit capable of realizing a contact state, where a contact surface comes into close contact with a nozzle formation surface to block a plurality of nozzle openings, and a separated state, where the contact surface is separated from the nozzle formation surface. The nozzle contact unit separates the contact surface from the nozzle formation surface to sequentially open the nozzle openings preferentially from the nozzle opening of the nozzle with a shorter flow passage length of ink flowing from a supply port to the nozzle via a common ink chamber among the plurality of nozzle openings in a procedure from the contact state to the separated state. |
| US08651612B2 |
Method for determining a velocity of an object in a printing system
In a method for determining a velocity of an object in a printing system, a reference pattern is moved, in particular in a substantial linear movement or in a rotational movement, relative to an fixed reference point independent of the object. A first sensor, configured to have substantially the same velocity as said object with respect to said reference pattern, provides a sensor signal based on the sensed reference pattern. The velocity of the object with respect to said fixed reference point is determined based on the determined velocity of said reference pattern with respect to said fixed reference point, and based on the sensor signal. The movement of the reference pattern enables improved accuracy of the determination of the velocity of the object, in particular for a slow moving object. |
| US08651611B2 |
Ink jet recording apparatus
An ink jet recording apparatus includes a processing barrel for performing predetermined processing on a recording medium, transfer barrels disposed upstream and downstream of the processing barrel, two detection sensors facing the two transfer barrels, respectively, each detecting the pass of the recording medium, and a detecting circuit for detecting an abnormal pass of the recording medium from two output signals output from the two sensors and including two reverse logic delay timers, each delaying timing of a logic reverse to a detection logic of each of the two sensors with respect to the each output signals. Signal changes shorter than timer setting periods of the timers are removed from the output signals, respectively, to thereby prevent detection errors of the abnormal pass of the recording medium. |
| US08651609B2 |
Color processing device for determining colorless material recording amount data
Color material recording amount determination unit configured to determine a color material recording amount data according to a gradation value and colorless material recording amount calculation unit configured to determine, according to the color material recording amount data, a base colorless material recording amount data of a colorless material that is recorded as a base of the color material are included. |
| US08651608B2 |
FIFO methods, systems and apparatus for electronically registering image data
Disclosed are FIFO type methods, systems and apparatus for electronically registering image data relative to a rastering device or other marking device. According to an exemplary method, a FIFO type data queuing configuration is provided, where the length of data memory segments associated with the FIFO are a function of a spatial profile associated with the ink jet rastering device. |
| US08651604B2 |
Printheads
Embodiments of a printhead are disclosed. |
| US08651603B2 |
Platen gap adjustment mechanism and printer
A platen gap adjustment mechanism includes a carriage guide shaft, a carriage drive unit and a main carriage. The carriage guide shaft is configured to extend perpendicularly to a media conveyance direction that passes over a platen. The carriage drive unit is supported on the carriage guide shaft and pivotable around an axis of the carriage guide shaft. The main carriage is supported on the carriage drive unit, pivotable around a parallel axis that is parallel to the axis of the carriage guide shaft, and configured to carry a printhead for printing on a print medium conveyed along the media conveyance path past the platen. The main carriage is moveable toward and away from the platen according to a thickness of the print medium while being slidable in sliding contact with the print medium conveyed over the platen to maintain a constant gap between the printhead and the print medium. |
| US08651602B2 |
Liquid ejection apparatus and method for supplying liquid
A liquid ejection apparatus, including: a head; a main tank storing liquid; a sub-tank for temporarily storing the liquid stored in the main tank, before the liquid is supplied to the head; a liquid amount detector for detecting a liquid amount in the sub-tank; a supplier for supplying the liquid from the main tank to the sub-tank; a first housing; a second housing holding the sub-tank, pivotable with respect to the first housing, and positioned at a close position at which the head is close to the first housing or a distant position at which the head is far from the first housing; and a controller for, when the second housing is located at the close position, controlling the liquid supply based on the detected liquid amount. |
| US08651600B2 |
Shelf and refrigerator with the same
A shelf and a refrigerator having such a shelf are provided. The shelf may include a support frame fixed to an inner surface of a storage compartment of the refrigerator, the support frame including body having a plurality of coupling holes formed along a longitudinal direction, spaced apart at predetermined intervals, and a cover coupled to the body to selectively open and close the plurality of the coupling holes. The cover may include a fixing portion for fixing the cover to the support frame body, and a plurality of opening/closing portions extending from the fixing portion, corresponding to the plurality of the coupling holes, to independently open and close the plurality of the coupling holes. One or more of the plurality of the opening/closing portions may be moved by the shelf plate to couple the shelf plate to the support frame. |
| US08651597B2 |
Retracting device and retracting main body used for the same
A retracting device has a retracting main body including a case, a hook disposed in the case, an urging member, and a braking device including a cylinder and a piston rod; and a protruding portion engaging with and disengaging from the hook in a middle of a movement of a moving body relative to an enclosure. The hook is switched between a retracting position allowing the moving body to move in an engaged state with the protruding portion, and a standby position disallowing the moving body to move in a disengaged state. The hook is in the standby position when disengaged from the protruding portion in a state wherein the piston rod is entered with respect to the cylinder, and has reduced a protruding dimension, and is switchable to the retracting position from the standby position when the piston rod increases the protruding dimension relative to the cylinder. |
| US08651596B2 |
Image formation apparatus
An image formation apparatus is provided with a housing, a rockable member rockably secured to the housing, and a lock mechanism including an engaging portion and an engageable portion. The rockable member is locked to the housing when the engageable portion is engaged with the engaging portion. The image formation apparatus is further provided with a displaceable guide member secured to the housing or the rockable member. A guiding member is provided to the housing or the rockable member. The guiding member slide-contacts the guide member when the rockable member rocks so that the state of the rockable member is changed from a rockable state to an unrockable state. The engageable portion is displaced to move closer to the engaging portion in a case where the guide member contacts the guiding member than in a case where the guide member does not contact the guiding member. |
| US08651592B1 |
Housing for an electronic device
A housing for an electronic device includes a housing body, a bottom cover, and a locking member. The housing body includes an engaging slot and a through hole. The bottom cover includes an engaging hook for engaging the engaging slot. An inner surface of the housing body or the bottom cover is provided with a positioning element. The locking member extends through the through hole, and includes an engaging portion disposed on the inner surface of the housing body, and a control portion exposed from the through hole. The control portion is operable to move the engaging portion between a locking position where the engaging portion engages the positioning element and an unlocking position where the engaging portion is separated from the positioning element to thereby facilitate assembly and disassembly of the bottom cover to and from the housing body. |
| US08651589B2 |
Control device of industrial vehicle, and industrial vehicle loaded with the device
A control device 10 of an industrial vehicle which performs the control of actuating a parking brake 7 during operator's absence in an industrial vehicle includes a seat switch 1, a vehicle speed sensor 2, and the parking brake 7 controlled by a parking brake solenoid 6, and a counter 11 which counts the elapsed time after the seat switch 1 detects the operator's absence. The control device sets the time corresponding to the time until the operator leaves the vehicle after the operator leaves the seat as a preset absence time. When the seat switch 1 has detected absence, a control signal which validates the parking brake 7 is output to the parking brake solenoid 6, thereby actuating the parking brake 7 if the vehicle speed shows a vehicle stopped state, and the elapsed time becomes equal to or more than the set absence time. |
| US08651587B2 |
Electronically controlled hydraulic brake system
A hydraulic brake system equipped for anti-slip control and for active brake interventions has a self-priming pump. A pressure retention valve prevents the brake system's low-pressure accumulator and the wheel brakes from being evacuated below atmospheric pressure during a sensitive brake operation. A two-position valve deactivates the bias of the pressure retention valve by opening a fluid path from the low-pressure accumulator to the pump when it is desired that the wheel brakes be retracted farther to reduce drag and excessive wear of the brake friction elements. |
| US08651586B2 |
Braking device for a motor vehicle
In a braking device for a motor vehicle having a first group and a second group of brake circuits, each brake circuit being associated with one group of wheels, and at least the first group of brake circuit being implemented as hydraulic brake circuits, at least one group of wheels being connected to at least one operating unit, which may cause a deceleration of the wheels, the task of a comfortable connection of recuperation brake applications to conventional brake applications is achieved in that a control unit controls the brake application of the brake circuit or circuits of the second group and optionally the deceleration effect of the operating unit or assemblies, the first group of brake circuits being activatable directly by the driver using a brake operating unit. |
| US08651583B2 |
Bicycle wheel spoke assembly
A bicycle wheel spoke assembly includes a spoke and a spoke nut. The spoke has a rim attachment end and a hub attachment end. The spoke nut has a main body with a cylindrical shaped outer surface and a bore extending at least partially through the main body. The outer surface has at least one axially extending rib configured for engagement with a spoke aperture of a bicycle wheel hub. The bore of the main body of the spoke nut includes threads with the hub attachment end of the spoke being threadedly secured within the bore. |
| US08651580B2 |
Oil sands truck body
A truck body that efficiently hauls oil sands, which typically coagulate and adhere together in one consolidated mass. The adhesion of this consolidated mass to the surface of the truck body is minimized and the buildup of “carryback” is effectively prevented during haul cycles. Hauled amalgamated materials are dumped from the truck body such that the amalgamation breaks down and is safely dumped. One typical material that displays such a coagulated conglomerate massing is “oil sands” from which oil is extracted. A non-stick surface is provided on the truck body to overcome the natural adhesiveness displayed by this material and, when being dumped from a truck body, provides a means to assist in releasing the material from the truck body without leaving significant “carryback” that tends to buildup over haul cycles. Plus, the body design encourages the material to break down as it is dumped. |
| US08651576B2 |
Multi-position kayak seat
A multi-position seat for a kayak or other watercraft includes a seat frame and a pivotally connected back support. A pair of side elevation adjusters engages the seat frame on its lateral sides. Each adjuster includes a thumbwheel adjuster within an elevator traveler within a side frame, the traveler engaging a threaded shaft that is held in a fixed rotational position. The frame includes a tunnel structure associated with a front cross member. A strap passes through the tunnel, exits at lateral sides of the front cross member, and connects to lateral sides of the pivotally connected back support. The strap is user-adjustable in length so that the angle of the back to the seat is adjustable. The seat is thereby adjustable in angle front-to-back, can be canted left-to-right, changed in elevation, and the back support can be adjusted in angle and elevation. |
| US08651568B2 |
Chair with gun holder
The present invention relates to holding rack for a rifle comprising of a dining chair, a first hook attached to the backrest and extending rearward, and a second hook attached to the stretcher and offset laterally from the first hook, with both hooks being covered with a soft material to protect the rifle. The preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a dining chair having a seat, a strecher and a backrest, a first hook attached to the back rest and extending rearward thereform; and a second hook attached to the stretcher and extending rearward therefrom, the second hook offset laterally from the first hook; whereby the rifle is engaged in suspension by the first hook through its trigger guard and its barrel rests against the second hook. Both the first and second hooks are covered with a soft material to protect the rifle. The spacing and angle of the hook themselves and the angle at which the hooks attach to the chair being critical for the rifle to rest safely. The chair legs preferable have a glide or cap attached to them with said glide or cap comprised of heavy duty specially formulated k-resin designed for military use, and the angle of the back legs of said chair is critical to stabilize weight when a rifle is mounted into said apparatus. |
| US08651562B2 |
B-pillar reinforcement of a motor vehicle
The invention relates to a B-pillar reinforcement of a motor vehicle having an upper region for joining the B-pillar reinforcement to the roof region of the motor vehicle and a lower region for joining the B-pillar reinforcement to a floor support of the motor vehicle, which B-pillar reinforcement comprises at least one hollow profile made of metal, in particular steel, and the hollow profile forms the upper and lower regions of the B-pillar reinforcement. The object of providing an improved B-pillar reinforcement which, on the one hand, is optimised in respect of a load-appropriate configuration with a minimum weight, allows a very good integration of additional components of the B-pillar, is achieved in that the hollow profile has at least to some extent a substantially trapezoidal cross-sectional surface in one of the regions and has an at least partly U-shaped cross-sectional surface in the other region. |
| US08651560B2 |
Cab mounting apparatus
A cab mounting apparatus may include a back complete member forming a rear wall panel of a cabin of a driver's compartment and to which a member frame forming a grid structure may be added, a rear cab member coupled to a locker of an air suspension for supporting the cabin and absorbing and damping transferred vibrations, the rear cab member being coupled to the back complete member to which the member frame may be added to serve as a load input point of a load applied by the cabin, and a rear cab reinforcing member fixedly attached to the back complete member while overlapping the rear cab member and connected to an end of a rear sill member crossing a lower part of the cabin. |
| US08651559B2 |
Vehicle body front structure
A vehicle body front structure includes a pair of side members and disposed behind a front bumper; a bumper member; a clearance behind the bumper member; an absorber disposed in front of the bumper member, the absorber being configured to absorb an impact from the front of the vehicle; and an upper member disposed above the bumper member, a front end of the upper member being located, in a front-rear direction of the vehicle, slightly behind the bumper member, wherein the bumper member is formed of a single plate and forms a protrusion protruding toward the front of the vehicle. |
| US08651558B2 |
Stiffener for vehicle
A stiffener for a vehicle, may include a coupling stiffener part, an upper stiffener part extending integrally from an upper end of the coupling stiffener part, and protruding to a forward direction of the vehicle with a predetermined length, and a lower stiffener part extending integrally from a lower end of the coupling stiffener part, and protruding to the forward direction of the vehicle, with a predetermined length, wherein the coupling stiffener is secured to a bumper back beam, and wherein the upper stiffener part and the lower stiffener part are complementarily operated about the coupling stiffener part serving as a support shaft in a seesaw type manner to absorb shocks, in the event of a collision between the vehicle and a pedestrian. |
| US08651554B1 |
Vehicle shield
A vehicle shield is provided according to the invention. The vehicle shield is constructed to avoid excessive hood flutter. The shield includes a vehicle shield region and an attachment region. The vehicle shield region is constructed for extending across at least a portion of a vehicle hood for protecting the vehicle hood. The attachment region is constructed for attaching the vehicle shield region to a vehicle. Also provided is a method of installing the shield to a motor vehicle. |
| US08651551B2 |
Windshield device for saddle-ride vehicles
A windshield device for saddle-ride vehicles includes a front wheel, a front suspension, a steering handlebar, a windshield, a windshield stay, and a connecting structure. The front suspension includes left and right front forks and top and bottom bridges. The left and right front forks pivotally support the front wheel. The top and bottom bridges connect the left front fork to the right front fork and are steerably supported by a head pipe in a front portion of a vehicle body. The steering handlebar is connected to the top bridge. The windshield is detachably provided forward of the steering handlebar. The windshield stay is attached to the windshield. The connecting structure connects the windshield stay to an upper surface of the front suspension. |
| US08651547B2 |
System for reducing the air resistance of a truck
A system for reducing the air resistance of a truck, particularly an articulated vehicle, wherein the vehicle comprises a cargo space that is limited downward by a loading floor and in the height thereof by a roof wall spaced apart therefrom. The aim is to provide a system that minimizes the face area of the truck and thus the fuel consumption in dependence on the actual cargo space used. According to one embodiment, the roof wall is height-adjustable opposite the loading floor. |
| US08651544B2 |
Crusher jaw liner tool
A jaw crusher liner handling tool includes a lifting eye having a radially extending shank and a radially extending lug, the lug including a hole parallel to the axis of the eye. The shank includes an elongate head on its end that is remote from the eye and is parallel to the axis of the eye. |
| US08651543B2 |
Grasping apparatus having bag members filled by a granular substance
The grasping apparatus includes a grasping portion for grasping a workpiece. This grasping portion has i) pawl portions having squeezing portions that squeeze the workpiece, and ii) contact portions, each of which has an inner bag made of elastic material, and a granular substance that is filled in the inner bag. The contact portions are attached to portions of the squeezing portions that contact the workpiece, and harden the granular substance while keeping it in an appropriate shape by increasing a volume ratio of the granular substance to an inner volume of the inner bags. Retaining portions that have concavo-convex shapes are formed on the attaching surfaces that are portions of the squeezing portions that the contact portions attach to. |
| US08651541B2 |
Holding support for electronic device
A holding support for electronic device is disclosed, which includes a case and a bracket. A bracket compartment is formed on the case and defined by an opening formed on the outer surface of the case. The bracket has a body and at least one finger hole formed thereon for sliding a finger through. The bracket can be retracted in or extended from the bracket compartment by being arranged at a retracted position or extended position, respectively. Therefore, the user can firmly secure the electronic device and prevent from dropping it accidentally. |
| US08651540B2 |
Lifting apparatus and method of use
The present invention is a lifting apparatus that includes a master wedge bar, a slave wedge bar, a cam lug and a handle. The master wedge bar and slave wedge bar are configured to be placed in a drilled core in an object to be lifted. The cam lug is pivotally coupled to the master wedge bar and drivingly engages with the slave wedge bar such that upward force applied to a lift end of the cam lug drives the slave wedge downward. The master wedge bar and the slave wedge bar generate an outward force upon the core wall of the object upon the downward movement of the slave wedge bar relative to the master wedge bar such that the apparatus engages the core wall and secures itself in it by friction. A handle is configured to disengage the apparatus from the core wall when lifted upward. |
| US08651539B1 |
Integrated gripper for workpiece transfer
An integrated grip arm for transfer reticles and carrier boxes is disclosed for improving throughput, yield and reliability of transport equipment. The integrated grip arm comprises a plurality of grippers to accommodate a plurality of reticles and carrier boxes without the need of separate arm or gripper changes. The integrated grip arm can further comprise sensor or means to select the right gripper for the right reticles or carrier boxes. |
| US08651538B2 |
Lock comprising a lockable knob
The invention relates to a lock comprising a lockable knob, formed by a closure tongue (1) non-rotatably mounted on the shaft of a cylinder (2) which rotates in a casing (3) under the action of a knob (4). The knob (4) is mounted on the cylinder (2) and casing (3) such that it can move linearly between two end positions, namely an operating position and a locked position. The casing (3) and the knob (4) include at least two geometrically arranged linear guides (33, 43) which, during the linear movement of the knob (4), are engaged with, or released from one another. In addition, the cylinder (2) and the knob (4) include radial openings (20, 40) which are positioned coaxially in the locked position and offset axially in the operating position. The cylinder (2) and the casing (3) include geometrically arranged cams (22, 32) which limit the rotational movement of the cylinder (2) in the casing (3) between the tongue (1) -opening and -closing positions. |
| US08651535B2 |
Electric household appliance having a child safety feature
The aim of the invention is to provide an electric household appliance, especially a dishwasher, comprising a child-proof lock which has a simple and reliable design and is easy to operate. According to the invention, a means for selectively blocking or slide which can be moved between two positions blocks, in a first position, the movement of the locking member, thereby activating the child-safety feature, and in a second position of the means for selectively blocking, does not block the movement of the locking member, thereby deactivating the child-safety feature. |
| US08651530B2 |
Mechanical fastener for clamp
A pipe coupling including an annular clamp having an opening at at least one end of its axial length for inserting therein a pipe, the annular clamp including two clamp members, an annular seal disposed in the annular clamp, and a mechanical fastener that includes a threaded shaft with a washer flange, the washer flange having a lower rim, wherein when nuts are tightened on both ends of the threaded shaft, the lower rim bites into the annular seal. |
| US08651527B1 |
Double wall dome seal for a vehicle
A double wall dome seal seals between a steering gear and a dash panel of a vehicle. The dome seal includes a cover portion, a base portion, and a collapsible seal. The cover portion surrounds an axis and seals against the dash panel. The cover portion defines a first opening. The base portion surrounds axis and seals against the steering gear. The base portion defines a second opening. The collapsible seal surrounds the axis and is disposed between the cover portion and the base portion. The collapsible seal defines a cavity which opens between the first opening and the second opening such that the axis extends through each of the first opening, the cavity, and the second opening. The collapsible seal deforms between an extended position and a collapsed position. |
| US08651525B2 |
Utility vehicle
A utility vehicle includes a vehicle body, a seat mounted onto the vehicle body, a seat belt configured to be fastened by a person seated on the seat, a retractor for winding in the seat belt, and a retractor mounting device mounted to the vehicle body. The retractor mounting device includes a retractor bracket, and a cover disposed outward relative to the retractor bracket to cover the retractor bracket from an outward direction, and the retractor is mounted to an inner surface of the retractor bracket in the vehicle width direction. |
| US08651523B2 |
Airbag, airbag apparatus and vehicle
An airbag includes: a base chamber; a left-half airbag inflated on a front-left side of the passenger, wherein a first opening is formed at an upper portion, and a second opening is formed at a lower portion; and a right-half airbag inflated on a front-right side of the passenger wherein a first opening is formed at an upper portion, and a second opening is formed at a lower portion. A first seam joining the left-half airbag and the right-half airbag is formed to surround the first openings, and a second seam joining the left-half airbag and the right-half airbag is formed to surround the second openings. The first seam is located above an entrance line along which a top of a head of a small passenger enters the airbag and is substantially parallel with the entrance line. |
| US08651519B2 |
Seatbelt anchor airbag
A restraint system for a mobile platform is provided and may include a seatbelt, an anchor attached to the seatbelt and to the mobile platform, and an airbag attached to the mobile platform via the anchor. The airbag may be movable from a pre-deployed state to an inflated state. |
| US08651516B2 |
Curtain airbag device
A curtain airbag device capable of inflating and deploying without suffering a burst of a cushion part at an end of a cushion part protector near an inflator. The curtain airbag device includes a cushion part extending in a front to back direction of the vehicle, accommodated in a state rolled up from a lower end toward an upper end thereof, and inflating and deploying downward when gas is supplied thereto. The curtain airbag device includes an inflator for supplying gas to the cushion part from a predetermined position at the upper end of the cushion part, and an elongated protector 180 having an arc-like open curve cross section that is open downward and covering the cushion part, with an inner surface thereof making contact with the cushion part. The cross section of the protector being defined by the open curve, with an end point P of the open curve on a vehicle inner side smoothly going up at a first end near the inflator so that the open curve has an increasing distance between end points thereof. |
| US08651506B2 |
Special wheelchair device for fully supporting the feet of the user
A special wheelchair device made for fully supporting the feet of the user. It relates to a support accessory for providing added comfort to a person confined to a wheelchair. It spans the space between the left and right foot rests. It is comprised of a length of a sleeve made of a durable material and configured with at least one open end; an elongated cross-section; an external top surface with features like a tread; an essentially smooth bottom surface featuring a shelf-like recess; and an internal aperture with features wherein one of the end with an internal aperture of the device may slide over and essentially encase either of the foot plates of the wheelchair and wherein the opposite end with the shelf may rest on the other un-encased foot plate which results in a closure of the space between the two foot plates. |
| US08651501B1 |
Three wheeled automotive dolly
A mobile and adjustable dolly having an adjustable “V” shaped dolly frame. The dolly frame comprises first and second pivotal frame members rotationally coupled to a central support frame member forming a “V” shape. The central support frame member comprises a series of angle maintaining features for securing each frame member at any of a plurality of angled configurations. A distal caster, having a wheel rotation disposed therewith, is assembled to a distal end of each frame member and a central caster is assembled to a pivotal region of the dolly frame. A vehicle support subassembly is disposed upon and extends upward from the each respective frame member. An elongated handle assembly extends from the central caster. The elongated handle assembly further comprises a wheel chock, which removably engages with the central wheel when subjected to the weight of the elongated handle assembly. |
| US08651496B2 |
Seal
A seal to seal a gap between a rotatable component (4, 18) and a non-rotatable component comprises: A fastening section adapted to be fixedly mounted in relation to the non-rotatable component, a sleeve-like section (3) adapted to be mounted around the rotatable component (4, 18), a resilient section (7) between the sleeve-like and fastening section comprising an arcuate portion (8), and in an unmounted condition, the sleeve-like section (3) has an inner diameter, DSEAL, with a predefined magnitude relative to an outer diameter of the rotating component, DSHAFT, such that 0.9≦DSEAL/DSHAFT≦1.1. |
| US08651492B1 |
Drinking game
An apparatus for playing a drinking game includes a base support member and a vertical pole extending upwardly from the base support member. A vertically extending backboard is secured to the pole adjacent the top thereof and a plurality of hoops are removably secured to the backboard. Plastic drinking cups are held in each of the hoops. The apparatus further includes a plurality of ping pong balls capable of being tossed into and maintained in the cups. The entire apparatus can be disassembled so that it is portable. That is, the hoops are removably secured to the backboard which is removably secured to the vertical pole. In addition, the vertical pole is comprised of several pole sections that fit together in a telescoping manner. The base includes a carrying handle and functions as a carrying case for holding and transporting the pole sections and the hoops with the backboard serving as a cover for the case. |
| US08651491B2 |
Methods for playing games
The invention provides methods for playing games wherein players may select other players to make their playing decisions for them. The invention provides methods for playing games wherein primary players are playing a primary game, and derivative players are playing a derivative game, wherein the play of the game at said derivative table is identical to the play of the game at said primary table, and the players at the derivative table have selected a corresponding primary player to make their playing decisions for them. The present invention is especially well suited for playing the game of poker. |
| US08651488B2 |
Three dimensional game device
A three-dimensional game device may include selection units that are located at the corners, edges and sides of a body member, thereby creating strategic lines of selectable positions extending in three dimensions across the junction of at least two surfaces of the device. |
| US08651484B1 |
Selection devices and methods of making selection devices
Selection devices are provided that comprise a sheet mechanically attached above the surface of a base such that prize or other selection references can be positioned and displayed at different selectable locations on the device. The sheet may mechanically attach above the surface of the base by interacting with the base at a plurality of locations on the base. The sheet may mechanically interact with, for example, radially-oriented, ribs projecting in wheel spoke-like locations above the surface of the base. Paper or cards placed between such ribs and also between the base and clear sheet may display information about individual selectable items that are won or otherwise selected based on a spin of the wheel. |
| US08651475B2 |
Sheet feeding apparatus for feeding sheet, and image forming apparatus having sheet feeding apparatus
A sheet feeding apparatus that is capable of driving a motor without causing step-out even when a cheap PM type stepping motor is used for a sheet feeding unit. A sheet feeding unit includes a tray that stacks sheets, a sheet feeding mechanism that conveys the sheets, a lifting mechanism that lifts the tray, a stepping motor that drives the sheet feeding mechanism and the lifting mechanism, and a switching mechanism that switches an operation of the sheet feeding mechanism and an operation of the lifting mechanism according to a rotating direction of the stepping motor. A control unit changes the number of pulses of initialization of the stepping motor according to whether the sheet to be fed is a sheet after excitation current for the stepping motor is switched on from off and whether the lifting mechanism operates after feeding a previous sheet. |
| US08651471B2 |
Part positioning assembly
A part positioning assembly is an illustrative embodiment of the part positioning assembly includes a base, a post carried by the base and a puck detachably carried by the post. |
| US08651463B2 |
Balustrade
A balustrade and a method of manufacturing it are provided. The balustrade has a number of upright posts that are anchored in a substrate and has rails that extend between the posts. The rails are attached to the posts with attachment formations, by way of a press fit, so that the balustrade can be assembled without any welding on site. |
| US08651461B2 |
Towrope winch safety shutoff switch
A towrope winch with a safety shutoff device includes a winch configured to wind a rope; and a safety shutoff device which deactivates the winch if, during winding of the rope, a foreign object enters a winch intake along with the rope to actuate the safety shutoff device. |
| US08651459B2 |
Apparatus and method for dispensing fish tape
A device for dispensing fish tape includes a pair of outside walls and outer and inner annular walls depending generally perpendicularly from the edges of the outside walls. Intermediate pinch ring walls depend generally perpendicularly from the outside walls and are positioned between the inner and outer walls. A plurality of spaced apart protuberances are provided on the intermediate walls and engage undulations on a hoop of a winding belt mounted within the device. A fish tape is mounted within the device and engages with the winding hoop. Each outside wall has a flat section extending from the outer edge thereof toward the inner edge thereof, and a raised section extending from the flat section to the inner edge. |
| US08651456B2 |
Electronic expansion valve
The present invention provides an electronic expansion valve, comprising a leading screw, a valve needle and a valve needle sleeve. It further comprises: a washer provided in an annular groove, which is provided at the lower end of the leading screw in the circumferential direction, and a thickness of the washer is less than a width of the annular groove; the valve needle sleeve abuts against the upper surface of the washer and is fixedly connected with the valve needle; and a spring is provided between the washer and the valve needle. |
| US08651455B2 |
Device for converting a pivoting movement of a pinion into a translational movement of a slide, and valve comprising such a device
A device, and a valve including such a device, for converting a pivoting movement of a pinion into a translational movement of a slide. The pinion is mounted to pivot relative to a slide mounting member including a fixed tubular wall. The tubular wall is provided with at least one cam surface acting on a follower roller mounted on a mounting part connected to the pinion in rotation and to the slide in translation. The pinion is carried by the mounting member coaxially with the tubular wall. |
| US08651451B2 |
Microfluidic device with fluid driving capability
A microfluidic device includes: a shape memory substrate having a shape memory polymer matrix and a plurality of particles embedded in the shape memory polymer matrix, the shape memory polymer matrix being thermally transformable from a temporary shape to an original shape, the particles being made from a magnetically coercive material; and a microfluidic chip attached sealingly to the shape memory substrate and defining a microfluidic channel. The shape memory polymer matrix is indented inwardly to form an indented space in fluid communication with the microfluidic channel when the shape memory polymer matrix is heated to transform from the temporary shape to the original shape. |
| US08651445B2 |
Portable book holder
The present invention relates to a portable book holder that can be converted from its original size into a small size if a user wants to carry the portable book holder, thereby making it easy to be carried, adjust a supporting area in accordance with the sizes of a book, and allow a user to adjust a book holding stand to his or her desired arbitrary angle. |
| US08651441B2 |
Self-stabilizing support assembly for an item of furniture
A support assembly for an item of furniture has an elongated support structure with a first pair of feet fast with the support structure at its lower end; a passage defining arrangement defining a guide passage fast with the support structure and extending lengthwise; a support member displaceable with respect to the support structure which has a second pair of feet at its lower end; an elongated a guided pin fast with the displaceable support member that is complementary to and longitudinally slidably engaged with the passage defining arrangement, so that the displaceable support member is slidably displaceable along a rectilinear guide path which is transverse to lines drawn between both the pairs of feet, the passage defining arrangement comprising a hollow carrier with a pair of longitudinally spaced precision washers which engage the guided pin, the dimensions of the washers and the guided pin being such that automatic frictional engagement of the guided pin occurs, in use, with inner walls of the washers in response to pivoting of the displaceable support member about a pivot axis which is transverse to the displaceable support member's guide path, automatically to anchor the displaceable support member frictionally against sliding displacement relative to the support structure. |
| US08651438B2 |
Collapsible light
A collapsible device has a main body surrounded by a collar whose position is adjustable along the longitudinal axis of the main body. Pivotally connected or hinged legs are attached to the collar and to the main body with struts. When the collar is on one position, the legs deploy outward from the main body to the extent permitted by the struts, thereby allowing the legs to support the collapsible device upright. An operational unit is attached to a member that telescopes from the main body. When the collar is another position, the legs are drawn in toward the main body to form a cylindrical shape for facilitating transportation. The operational unit can be positioned so that when the telescoping member is retracted into the main body, the collar surrounds the exterior of the operational unit, thus protecting the operational unit for transport. |
| US08651436B2 |
Holding device
A holding device has an elastic locking piece having an extending part extending to the outside from a locking claw part. The contact part of an unlocking operating piece contacts the outside of the extending part to reduce the unlocking force of the unlocking operating piece. A sawtooth-form part is in a locked state when a locking piece of an elastic locking piece enters the sawtooth-form part. The elastic locking piece has the extending part extending outside from the locking claw part. The unlocking operating piece has a contact part for contacting with the extending part. The contact part contacts the outside of the extending part when the unlocking operating piece is pressed, the locking claw part of the elastic locking piece is ejected from the indented part of the sawtooth-form part by the contact, and the locked state between the sawtooth-form part and the locking claw part is unlocked. |
| US08651432B2 |
Air-vehicle integrated kinesthetic control system
A lift platform with a kinesthetic control system that is coupled to means for altering air flow through the first and second longitudinally-spaced ducts comprising the lift platform is provided. The control system includes a control handle bar with left and right hand grips, and first and second control roll bars located on either side of the lift platform's central cowling. Forward/rearward movement of the control handle bar from a neutral position generates nose-down/nose-up pitching moments, respectively; counterclockwise/clockwise movement of the control handle bar from the neutral position generates counterclockwise rotation/clockwise rotation of the lift platform about a lift platform vertical centerline; and left movement/right movement of the control roll bars generates left roll/right roll moments about the lift platform roll axis. |
| US08651431B1 |
Aircraft with movable winglets and method of control
A method and apparatus for improved aircraft control through the use of adjustable winglets. The adjustable winglets are located at the terminal ends of an aircraft's wings and may pivot about an axis parallel to the yaw axis of the aircraft. The adjustable winglets may also include outboard ailerons for improved control of the aircraft. |
| US08651427B1 |
Wing tip device with recess in surface
An aerodynamic lift structure includes a wing and at least one wing tip device at an outboard portion of the wing. A surface of each wing tip device has a recess that reduces flow impact at a junction of the wing and the wing tip device. |
| US08651426B2 |
Jet engine installation
Noise generated by a gas turbine engine 6 supported by a pylon 8 on a wing 2 of an aircraft is reduced by influencing a shear layer generated between the free-stream flowfield and flow from the engine 6. The shear layer is influenced by means of one or more winglets 18, 20, 22 which interact with the free-stream flowfield to deflect the shear layer 14 downwardly, to avoid interaction with a flap 4 on the wing 2, or to reduce the strength of the shear layer 14. |
| US08651425B2 |
Emergency collective actuator and method for a helicopter
A helicopter includes a rotor system having a rotor with an adjustable pitch that is controlled at least in part by a pilot using a collective control and which helicopter generates a Low RPM signal that is indicative of a threshold low rotational speed of the rotor. An actuator arrangement can move the collective control by exerting a force on the collective control such that the pilot is able to overcome the actuator force but which otherwise can move the collective control from a current operational position toward a minimum pitch position. A clutch can co-rotate with a motor to serve in transferring the actuation force to reduce the adjustable pitch and can slip relative to the actuator shaft assembly responsive to an application of a counterforce applied by the pilot to the collective control such that the counterforce overcomes the actuation force. |
| US08651423B2 |
Fireproof bulkhead of a highly porous structure with intumescent coating and method for its production
The present invention provides a fireproof bulkhead, having a highly porous structure with an intumescent coating, the highly porous structure being formed as a reticulated foam or as a highly porous pimple or nub structure. |
| US08651422B2 |
Fuselage section having an integral pressure bulkhead, as well as a fuselage shell having such a fuselage section
A fuselage section for the pressure fuselage of an aircraft which comprises a fuselage shell structure and at least one pressure bulkhead made of a fiber composite material, the pressure bulkhead being formed in one piece with the fuselage shell structure. A fuselage shell comprising at least one fuselage section of this type. |
| US08651419B2 |
Flexible truss frame and method of making the same
A composite frame includes a plurality of truss elements covered by a cap. The truss elements are flexibly coupled with each other and with the cap. The frame flexes to conform to a contoured surface to which it is attached. Once attached, the installed frame provides the required rigidity to the structure. |
| US08651418B2 |
Nose gear of an aircraft comprising a single control device for retraction and steering
A landing gear of an aircraft, including a strut including two arms forming a rotational axis for retracting the gear, a rotating tube mounted in a mobile manner such that it rotates inside the strut about a pivoting axis, a sliding rod that is mobile in a translatory manner in the rotating tube along the pivoting axis, and carries wheels of the gear at one of its ends, and at least one bearing point that is located on one of the elements of the gear at a distance from the retraction axis and can bear necessary efforts for the retraction, the bearing point being located on the rotating tube. |
| US08651412B2 |
Device for holding an elastically deformable winding article and apparatus for winding the winding article into the device
The invention relates to a device for holding an elastically deformable winding article, in particular a flexible medical instrument such as a medical guidewire or a catheter, with a winding article receptacle and with a housing part (14) covering the winding article receptacle at least in parts, which form a receptacle space for holding the winding article, the winding article receptacle and the housing part being connected to one another such that they are twistable relative to each other and a winding article guide being provided in the receptacle space, which winding article guide arranges a number of turns of the winding article next to each other when winding the winding article. (FIG. 2 is provided to this end) |
| US08651411B2 |
Handheld control device for a pet leash
A handheld control device for a pet leash includes a rope reeled on a braking reel, a pawl unit pivotable by operation of a spring-loaded pushbutton to engage one ratchet tooth of the braking reel so as to disable rotation of the braking reel in an unwinding direction, and a locking lever operable to swing a weight end between unlocked and locked positions to disengage from and engage the pawl unit, respectively, so as to selectively prohibit rotation of the braking reel in both winding and unwinding directions and control the length of the rope that extends outwardly of a housing. |
| US08651409B2 |
Brake-adjusting assembly for a fishing reel
A brake-adjusting assembly for a fishing reel with a spool and has a first brake-adjusting device and a second brake-adjusting device. The first brake-adjusting device is mounted around a spindle of the spool and has a clutch cam and a lever mount. The clutch cam has a main plate body, a mounting tube, a spring and an abutting base formed on and protruding from the main plate body. The lever mount abuts with the clutch cam and has two pushing blocks, a mounting recess and at least one lever. The second brake-adjusting device is connected to the first brake-adjusting device and the spindle and has a connecting mount, a threaded tube and an adjusting switch. The connecting mount is mounted in the mounting recess. The threaded tube is mounted in the connecting mount to screw with the spindle. The adjusting switch is securely connected to the connecting mount. |
| US08651403B2 |
Anhydrous ammonia treatment for improved milling of biomass
Mechanical milling of biomass as a pretreatment to render the biomass readily saccharifiable requires high energy input. Preceding mechanical milling by treatment with anhydrous ammonia was found to greatly reduce the energy requirement for fine milling, providing a more economical pretreatment process for commercial use. |
| US08651400B2 |
Variable arc nozzle
A variable arc sprinkler nozzle is provided for distribution of water through nearly any adjustable arcuate span. The nozzle includes one or more arcuate slots formed by the helical engagement of spiral surfaces of a deflector and a nozzle body. A user may rotate a portion of the nozzle body to select the arcuate span of the one or more slots. A matched precipitation rate feature is adjustable to proportion the amount of water directed to the deflector depending on the extent of the arcuate span. Further, edge fins on the deflector and nozzle body channel water flow at the two edges of the distribution arc to increase the throw radius and to provide fairly uniform water distribution at the edges of the arc. |
| US08651398B2 |
Central bar for spraying and/or distributing products in powder, liquid and granulate formulations
The central bar for spraying and/or distributing products in powder, liquid and granulate formulations refers to a central bar (1) to be fixed on the chassis (2a), between the front (2b) and the back (2c) wheels of a propeller vehicle (2), which is composed of a central frame set (3) and two side bars (4), where the central frame set (3) is composed of two brackets (3a) fixed to the chassis (2a) of said propeller vehicle (2); a horizontal pantograph subset (3b); two vertical pantograph subsets (3c), linked between them by the top side arms (3f) through an alternator axis (3i); two top articulation subsets (3e) formed from the extensions of the top side arms (3f); a shock absorption system, through bearings (3u) fixed to the inner walls of the brackets (3m) which are fixed to the side bars (4), wherein the internal braces (3n) are the end of the course; two bottom side subsets (3d) which are formed from the extensions of the bottom side arms (3h) driven by the hydraulic actuators (3t). |
| US08651397B2 |
Paint sprayer
A paint sprayer includes a frame, a motor supported by the frame, a pump operably coupled to the motor to draw paint from a paint source and pressurize the paint, and a blower supported by the frame and operable to discharge pressurized air into the pressurized paint discharged by the pump. |
| US08651396B2 |
Personal defense device
A personal defense device is provided that includes an irritant. The personal defense device may have an irritant dispensing member that is carried on the back of a user. The irritant dispensing member may be configured for dispensing the irritant such that the irritant is dispensed behind the user. |
| US08651393B2 |
Repair insert for repairing metallic structure
A rail repair insert enables repair of rails and rail-like structures. A rail defect is initially identified and removed as contained within a volumetric material portion so as to form a contoured void while maintaining continuity of the rail opposite the void. A pre-formed insert is then placed into the void thereby effecting a rail-to-insert interface. Current is driven through the interface as force directs the insert against the rail. Resistance heat and pressure weld the insert to the rail. The flash welding aspects remove oxides and other impurities from the interface, and the forge welding aspects create a robust solid state weld. Excess material, whether flash, rail, or insert-based, is removed during the finishing processes to provide a virtually seamless rail repair. The solid state weld repair insert may be used to repair any number of targeted metallic rail-like structures. |
| US08651392B2 |
Thermo-element and thermostat
A thermo-element having an excellent response and durability is provided. The thermo-element includes a casing having a bottom, a thermally expandable material filled in the casing and capable of expanding and contracting due to temperature changes, a piston movable in an axial direction thereof, a guide member for slidably holding the piston, and a liquid chamber defined between the thermally expandable material and the piston to receive therein a deformable, incompressible fluid. A bellows is fixed between an upper portion of the piston and an upper portion of the guide member to define a liquid space between an outer periphery of the upper portion of the piston and the bellows. The fluid in the liquid chamber can flow in and out of the liquid space via a through-hole and a radial hole. |
| US08651391B2 |
Method and apparatus for control of cooling system air quality and energy consumption
An energy saving air quality control system modulates supply fan speed by use of controlled, variable-frequency drive controls for automatic dampers or suction pressure to maintain adequate air flow across the evaporator coil at partial cooling loads. Indexing the fan speed to maintain the suction pressure of the energized coil controls the maximum relative humidity of the conditioned space. Demand ventilation in the system balances air quality and energy consumption by controlling the outdoor air damper in response to indoor CO2 and humidity levels. The control system variously either (1) produces a variable 0-10 VDC output signal to modulate the outside ventilation air damper as required to keep the CO2 and humidity concentration below a set point; (2) produces a 0 or 24 VAC signal to either open or close a two-position outside air damper for as long a time period as is required in order to keep the CO2 concentration and humidity below a set point; or (3) allows manually setting the outside air damper to provide proper ventilation air at maximum occupancy and maximum air flow and modulates the supply fan speed as required to keep the CO2 concentration and humidity level as measured by a CO2 monitor and leaving air dewpoint temperature below set point. |
| US08651387B2 |
Multi-application contactless smart card
A multi-application contactless smart card system and method. The user may select application using selection mechanism located on the smart card or at the contactless reader. The selection means may be connected to the contact I/O pin of the processor of the smart card. In some embodiments, the processor of the smart card may read the user selection through the contact I/O pin during a simulated contact transaction, evoke the desired application and perform the contactless transaction. During the simulated contact transaction power up sequence is preserved by extracting power signals to the contact VDD pin from the RF signal. Alternatively, the state of the selection mechanism may be sampled continuously or at convenient time intervals, enabling further switching between applications during a single contactless session. |
| US08651385B2 |
Sterile implant tracking device and method
An assembly and method for tracking implant devices within a sterile field, the assembly comprising a reader that includes a housing structure with a base and a cover, a scanner having a scanner housing, where the scanner housing is at least partially positioned in a cavity provided in the base; and an aperture provided in the cover, where the cover is configured to receive a transparent sterile sheath to at least partially encase the cover. |
| US08651382B2 |
Two-dimensional code reading device, two-dimensional code reading method, method of controlling manufacturing history information of member having substantially circular section orthogonal to the central axis thereof, and method of manufacturing the member using the control method
A two-dimensional code reading device 20 is provided with image pickup device 22 which receives light reflected from either of a first inclined portion 12 and a second inclined portion 13 in a direction forming an angle θ satisfying expression (1) with respect to the normal-line direction R, and light source 21 which irradiates either of the inclined portions from a direction forming an angle α satisfying expression (2) with respect to the normal-line direction R: 30°≦θ≦35° (1) Δθ=θ−180°+α+2β (2) where β is less than 90°, Δθ is not less than −10° but not more than 10°, and θ and α are angles in a turn direction reverse to a turn direction at which either of the inclined portions forms the angle β with respect to the normal-line direction R. |
| US08651374B2 |
System and method for payment card industry enterprise account number elimination
A system and method replaces credit card numbers in systems that are customer facing with token Ids to thereby reduce exposure to credit card number theft. |
| US08651369B2 |
System and method for presenting information about an object on a portable device
Systems and methods are provided for enabling a portable electronic device to retrieve information about an object when the object's symbology, e.g., a barcode, is detected. According to one embodiment a method is providing in which symbology associated with an object is detected and decoded to obtain a decode string. The decode string is sent to one or more visual detection applications for processing, wherein the one or more visual detection applications reside on the portable electronic device, and receiving a first amount of information about the object from the one or more visual detection applications. The method also includes sending the decode string to a remote server for processing and receiving a second amount of information about the object from the remote server. The first amount of information is combined with the second amount of information to obtain cumulative information which is displayed on the portable electronic device. |
| US08651368B2 |
Method and device for recognition of docking stations
A method for controlling an electronic device for use with a docking station is disclosed. The method includes detecting a coupling of the electronic device with the docking station, obtaining an image of an identifier associated with the docking station in response to detecting the coupling, and performing a predefined operation by the electronic device based on the image of the identifier in response to obtaining the image. |
| US08651366B2 |
Rigid-buckling-resistant-fluted paperboard container with arcuate outer region
The present invention relates to rigid-buckling-resistant-fluted containers with an arcuate outer rim. The container such as a pressformed paperboard plate of overall diameter “D” including a generally planar bottom region, an upwardly extending fluted region surrounding the generally planar bottom region, and an outwardly and downwardly extending peripheral region having an arcuate radial profile. The containers being produced of a lightweight board but exhibiting high strength and rigidity relative to the low weight board. |
| US08651365B2 |
Cover for a box containing a fluid
A cover for a box containing a fluid includes a top panel with a tuck flap. A perforated end of the tuck flap is coupled to a detachable attachment along a perforated line. The attachment includes instructions for forming the cover and also includes user-fillable labels. When the cover is in an assembled state, the perforated line forms a perforated edge that is tucked between panels of the cover and therefore hidden from view. A front panel of the cover includes an opening having edges. At least portions of the edges are inserted into a peripheral slot of a spigot that is coupled to a bladder contained in the box to provide additional support to the spigot and secure the cover to the box. |
| US08651363B2 |
Joining method and device produced by this method and joining unit
A practical bonding technique is provided for solid-phase room-temperature bonding not requiring a profile irregularity of the order of several nanometers, in which a high-vacuum energy wave treatment and continuous high-vacuum bonding are not required. Since an adhering substance layer is thin immediately after a surface activating treatment using an energy wave, a bonding interface is spread by crushing the adhering substance layer to perform bonding, so that a new surface appears on a bonding surface, and objects to be bonded are bonded together. In order to crush the adhering substance layer more easily, a bonding metal of a bonding portion of the object to be bonded requires a low hardness. According to the results of various experiments conducted by the present inventors, it was found that the hardness of the bonding portion which is a Vickers hardness of 200 Hv or less is particularly effective for room-temperature bonding. |
| US08651360B2 |
Systems and methods for processing ribbon and wire in ultrasonic bonding systems
An ultrasonic bonding system is provided. The system includes: a) a bond head assembly carrying an ultrasonic bonding tool; b) a conductive material supply; c) a conductive material feeding system for guiding a length of the conductive material supply to a position proximate the ultrasonic bonding tool; and d) a vapor generation system for supplying a vapor proximate the ultrasonic bonding tool, the vapor including a carrier gas and a lubricating vapor. |
| US08651359B2 |
Flip chip bonder head for forming a uniform fillet
A low thermal conductivity material layer covers a peripheral portion of the bottom surface of the conductive plate of a chip bonder head. The center portion of the conductive plate is exposed or covered with another conductive plate laterally surrounded by the low thermal conductivity material layer. During bonding, the chip bonder head holds a first substrate upside down and heats the first substrate through the conductive plate. Heating of a fillet, i.e., the laterally extruding portion, of a pre-applied underfill material is reduced because the temperature at the exposed surfaces of the low thermal conductivity material layer is lower than the temperature at the bottom surface of the conductive plate. The longer curing time and the more uniform shape of the fillet in the bonded structure enhance the structural reliability of the bonded substrates. |
| US08651356B2 |
Solder bump forming apparatus and soldering facility including the same
Disclosed herein is a solder bump forming apparatus performing a soldering process on a substrate, the solder bump forming apparatus including: a solder bath receiving a solder therein; an agitator agitating the solder in the solder bath; a driver driving the agitator; and a suction pressure provider providing suction pressure to the substrate. |
| US08651355B2 |
Bonding apparatus
To provide a bonding apparatus capable of bonding at a high speed without performing a height measurement of a bonding point before a searching operation and the bonding. A confocal optical system mounted on a bonding arm pivotable upward and downward and configured to perform detection of a focus of a bonding point located on a surface of a bonded part, a bonding tool configured to be movable integrally with the bonding arm and perform bonding, and position detecting means configured to detect the position of the bonding tool, wherein the bonding tool is configured to move downward by a predetermined distance from a position of the bonding tool detected by the position detecting means by focus detection by the confocal optical system to a preset bonding point (amount of downward movement from a focus) during the downward movement of the bonding tool to the bonding point and stop on the bonding point. |
| US08651350B2 |
Accessory mounting structure
A bicycle accessory mounting structure is provided with a base member and a first stem member. The first stem member includes a mounting opening. The base member includes an accessory attachment portion and a mounting portion. The base member extends through the mounting opening. The base member is slidably supported on the first stem member within the mounting opening. |
| US08651348B2 |
Tool box
A tool box includes a box body having a top cover and a bottom cover which are pivoting on each other, two foldable sets which are both assembled to the top cover and the bottom cover, at least one positioning base is assembled between the two foldable sets. Under this arrangement, the positioning base can be rotated outward relative to the bottom cover by the operation of the two foldable sets. Therefore, the user can pull out the tool bit from the positioning base directly without bending up the tool bit by the finger thereof at first. |
| US08651346B1 |
Wearable band including accessible memory and wearer information and call pendant
A band for information storage includes an outer mold for attaching the band to a user's wrist, an external housing within the outer mold that includes a hollow upper portion for receiving a first removable component, wherein the first removable component is engraved with information about the user and/or includes an alarm alert or emergency call button; and an internal housing rotatably attached to the external housing and fitted therein for receiving a second removable component, wherein the second removable component includes a portable memory device. |
| US08651342B1 |
Apparatus and method for forming and maintaining a shape
A shape is formed and maintained in a shapeable object by a flexible wrap and a shaped device. The shaped device is placed in the shapeable object and wrapped by the flexible wrap. Adjustment of the wrap secures the shaped device in the shapeable object and compresses the flexible wrap around the shapeable object and the shaped device resulting in the shapeable object conforming to the shape of the shaped device. |
| US08651341B1 |
Wheeled divot hole filler for golf courses
A divot repair cart for filling divot holes with a repair mixture. The cart has a self-supporting wheeled frame, a push handle for use at a standing height, a repair mix reservoir at a first height above the ground, and a rear-facing dispensing spout having a divot alignment position adjacent the ground in which the spout is visible from the push handle for aligning it with a divot hole. Repair mix is dispensed by tilting the cart. The spout may be movable relative to the cart, and further operable with a remote control such as a cable, to move the spout from the divot alignment position to a raised transport position. |
| US08651335B2 |
Tamper evident nozzle shield and methods for using the same
A tamper evident nozzle shield (100) may be configured to fit a pump or pump dispenser to protect a fluid path (12) in the dispenser from contamination or to prevent or visually indicate if a dispenser or pump dispenser has been tampered with. |
| US08651331B2 |
Refrigeration appliance with chilled water dispenser
A refrigeration appliance with a water dispenser includes a refrigerated cabinet having a dispenser area, a cabinet water inlet in the refrigerated cabinet connectable to a premises water line, and a cold water storage tank in the refrigerated cabinet. The tank has a tank body, an inlet for admitting water into the tank body supplied via the cabinet water inlet, and an outlet for providing water via a dispensing conduit to a dispenser in the dispenser area. The inlet includes a venturi portion for creating a reduced pressure within the tank body via flow of water into the cold water storage tank. The reduced pressure is in communication with the dispensing conduit via the outlet so that, after dispensing operation is completed, water remaining in the dispensing conduit is drawn toward the tank body. The tank body may include an evacuation chamber open to atmosphere, and a float valve may be provided. |
| US08651329B2 |
Methods for resetting stalled pumps in electronically controlled dispensing systems
A system and related method is disclosed for resetting a stalled pump in a fluid dispensing system. In one embodiment, the presence of a user's hand is detected to start a pump actuator associated with a refill container. A controller associated with a motor actuates the pump actuator by rotating a motor shaft in a first direction. The current sensor is monitored and when the current sensor detects a predetermined level of current the motor shaft is reversed to a starting position. |
| US08651328B2 |
Pumping dispenser shield
A dispenser apparatus for dispensing a flowable material includes a chassis portion, a sensor disposed proximate the chassis portion for sensing a presence of an object, a pump assembly arranged on the chassis portion, operative to dispense the flowable material responsive to receiving a signal from the sensor, and a shield member disposed proximate to the sensor. |
| US08651327B2 |
Systems and methods for use in storing biopharmaceutical materials
A system for storing biopharmaceutical materials includes a plurality of flexible walls bounding an interior for holding biopharmaceutical materials therein. At least one port is connected to a first wall of the walls and provides fluid communication between the interior and an exterior to allow a draining of the interior. A collapsible conduit includes a plurality of perforations along the conduit. The plurality of perforations is configured to allow flow of the biopharmaceutical materials from the exterior to the interior of the conduit. The conduit has a cross-sectional area transverse to a length of the conduit and the conduit extends from one of the at least one port toward an opposite end of the interior. The conduit is collapsible by the flexible walls and forms a reduced cross-sectional area to allow a flow of the biopharmaceutical materials through and/or along the conduit to the port. |
| US08651326B2 |
Device to count and dispense articles
A singulating and counting device includes a bulk housing for storing a plurality of substantially identical articles, an exit channel, and in the exit channel, forwardly- and rearwardly-directed jet apertures, each of which is fluidly connected to a positive pressure source. A forwardly-directed jet generated by the positive pressure source through the forward jet aperture can accelerate singulated articles in the exit channel, thereby increasing the interval between individual articles and rendering them more easily and accurately counted. A rearwardly-directed jet generated by the positive pressure source through the rearwardly-directed jet aperture can cause articles in the exit channel to return to the housing. A controller operatively connected with the pressure source(s) selectively controls the application of positive pressure to the aforementioned apertures to induce or halt singulation of the articles; the controller may be operatively associated with a sensor that detects and counts articles passing through the exit channel. |
| US08651322B2 |
Article dispensing apparatus
An article dispensing apparatus has a housing defining a first chamber and a second chamber that are divided by a dividing wall, a lid covering the second chamber and a cover covering the first chamber, with the first chamber holding a plurality of articles, and an opening provided in the dividing wall to allow an article to pass through to the second chamber. A figure is retained inside the second chamber, the figure having a pair of arms that are normally positioned adjacent the opening in the dividing wall to receive an article that is transferred from the first chamber via the opening in the dividing wall. An actuator is coupled to the figure to push the figure upwardly through the lid so that the figure, and the article held in the arms of the figure, are delivered outside the housing. |
| US08651318B2 |
Beverage can having deflecting closure element
A beverage can closure element (10) with a cover element (12) is specified for configuring in an opening in a beverage can (30) and a locking mechanism (16) embodied and/or configured on the cover element (12) which is embodied and/or configured in a manner that the beverage can closure element (10) configured in an opening in a beverage can (30) can be locked in an opening of a beverage can (30). The cover element (12) is embodied and configured so that, if the beverage can closure element (10) is configured in an opening of a beverage can (30), the cover element (12) is elastically deformable between at least two states. The locking mechanism (16) is configured and embodied in such a manner on the cover element (12) that the locking mechanism (16) in at least one state of the cover element (12) of the at least two states of the cover element (12) is configured further inwards in a radial direction relative to the cover element (12) than in at least one other of the at least two states of the cover element (12). |
| US08651315B2 |
Pressure tank
A pressure tank includes a metallic vessel, a plastic liner received in the metallic vessel, a flexible diaphragm, two connectors and a nozzle coupled to the nipples respectively. The metallic vessel includes upper and lower shells. The upper shell defines a first planar area on a side thereof and a second planar area on a top thereof. The lower shell defines a third planar area therebottom. The flexible diaphragm divides the metallic vessel into a storage space and a pneumatic room. Each of the connectors includes a nipple and an anti-leak assembly. The nipples of the connectors are mounted on the side and top of the upper shell respectively and are in communication with the storage space. The two anti-leak assemblies provide leakproof connection between the nipples and the plastic liner. Additionally, the nozzle is mounted on the third planar area to be in communication with the pneumatic room. |
| US08651311B1 |
Measuring scoop and support for a container
In insert is provided for use with a container and for positioning in the container opening. The insert includes a body having an outer periphery dimensioned for receipt within container opening. A utensil is frangibly secured to the insert body within an internal open area. A receiving tab is provided that projects from the body into the open area. An engagement structure is formed on the utensil and on the receiving tab. The engagement portions cooperate with one another for removably securing the utensil to the receiving tab after the frangible connection to the body is removed. |
| US08651310B2 |
Box having foldable and dismantlable exterior walls
A foldable box includes a floor having a fixed exterior wall extending from the floor in a vertical direction upwards and an exterior wall having a shaft arranged in the base area of the exterior wall. The foldable box further includes a guide opening in the fixed exterior wall area in which the shaft is arranged, the guide opening including an opening section extending basically in the vertical direction through which the shaft may be guided out from the top, and a lateral opening section extending in a lateral direction from an outside of the fixed exterior wall area inwards, in which the shaft may be shifted basically in a lateral direction. A cam arranged in the base area of the exterior wall has a cam contour which is implemented such that the cam contour, when erecting the exterior wall, gets into contact with a contact surface arranged at the fixed exterior wall area such that the shaft is moved inwards in the lateral opening section. |
| US08651309B2 |
Collapsible container
A collapsible, re-usable container of unitary construction is disclosed. The container is able to be locked into a flat, folded configuration as well as locked into an open, unfolded configuration, and includes a base, two opposing end walls that are pivotably attached to the base, and two opposing side walls, which are pivotably attached to both the base and to the side walls. |
| US08651307B2 |
Hot-fill container
A one-piece plastic hot-fill container may employ a shoulder portion, a base portion and a sidewall portion, which may be integrally formed with and extend from the shoulder portion to the base portion. The container may further employ a plurality of compression ribs molded into the sidewall portion—a first of the plurality of compression ribs intersecting a second of the plurality of compression ribs to form a rib interface, at least the first and the second of the plurality of compression ribs changing from a first shape to a second shape in response to cooling of the liquid. |
| US08651305B1 |
Reclosable container closure
A closure assembly for mounting on a container includes a base configured for mounting on the container and defining an aperture through which the interior of the container is accessible. The base comprises a perimeter, a separator mounted on and extending across the perimeter with the aperture being formed in the separator, and a valve positioned on the separator. The valve extends across the aperture in the separator, and is openable by the application of pressure on the valve and self-closable upon removal of the pressure from the valve. The assembly also includes a cover for selectively covering the aperture. The cover is mounted on the base and is movable with respect to the base between a closed position and an open position. The closed position is characterized by the aperture not being accessible and the open position is characterized by the aperture being accessible. |
| US08651302B2 |
Electrical contact coupling for a track-borne vehicle, particularly a railway vehicle
An electrical contact coupling for a track-borne vehicle has a coupling housing and a protective flap articulated to the coupling housing. In order to ensure a reliable sealing of the coupling housing in the closed state of the electrical contact coupling, a seal is utilized which exhibits an upper sealing area running parallel to the axis of rotation and a lower sealing area running parallel to the axis of rotation. The upper sealing area associates with a sealing face aligned perpendicular to the housing end face and the lower sealing area associates with a sealing face aligned substantially parallel to the housing end face. |
| US08651301B2 |
Method of controlling rotation speed of motor of speed-controllable hoist drive, and hoist drive
A method according to the invention of controlling a rotation speed of a motor of a speed-controllable hoist drive comprises receiving a lift speed instruction; forming a final speed instruction by using initial information containing the lift speed instruction; and using the final speed instruction as a speed instruction for the rotation speed of the motor of the speed-controllable hoist drive. The method further comprises monitoring a position derivative of an actual value of a cable force. The initial information for forming the final speed instruction comprises the position derivative of the actual value of the cable force. |
| US08651299B2 |
Point of sale store display assembly
A free-standing display assembly is provided holding products for retail sale. The assembly includes a sub-assembly having a base, supporting shroud, left and right side walls, and slotted metal spine. An inner sleeve is held adjacent the supporting shroud. Metal shelves with plastic trays are hangable at different heights along the slotted metal spine. A first transparent plastic panel is sized to cover a rear graphic sheet which is removably insertable between the first transparent plastic panel and the supporting shroud. A second transparent plastic panel is sized to cover 5-50% of an upper area of the inner sleeve and is attached to the inner sleeve. A front graphic sheet is sandwiched between the second transparent plastic panel and the inner sleeve. The configuration of the flexible panels readily permits in under 5 minutes to replace rear and front graphic sheets with alternative advertising. |
| US08651295B2 |
Storage rack
A rack has a frame and a plurality of shelves. Each shelf has an enclosing frame member that has two first sides connected by two second sides, a connecting bar that connects the first sides at about the center of the first sides, a plurality of slots provided on the inner surfaces of the second sides, and a plurality of slats, each slat having opposing ends that are fitted into opposing slots at the second sides, and with each slat being connected to the connecting bar. At least one connector is provided for removably connecting each shelf to a portion of the frame. |
| US08651291B1 |
Jewelry storage and organization system
A jewelry storage and organization system for easily grouping matched pieces and aiding quick retrieval of one or more pieces has a hanging rod for attaching to a planar vertical surface using a plurality of hanging rod attachment brackets. The system has a generally planar oval loop member with an internal jewelry attachment member. The loop member is located onto the hanging rod and can slide. Jewelry can be located on the loop member via the internal jewelry attachment member or the loop bottom. |
| US08651289B2 |
Gun and fishing rod holder
A gun and fishing rod holder. The holder comprises at least one stand mounted on a table. The at least one stand can be arranged in first (gun holding) and second (fishing rod holding) configurations. The first (gun holding) configuration of a stand comprises a pair of U-shaped channels. The second (fishing rod holding) configuration of a stand comprises an upside-down U-shaped support having a plurality of rod holders. |
| US08651286B2 |
Spunbond polyester mat with binder comprising salt of inorganic acid
Provided are spunbond polyester mats using an improved curable composition. Such curable composition comprises the reaction product of an aldehyde or ketone and an amine salt of an inorganic acid. The composition when applied to spunbond polyester continuous filaments is cured to form a water-insoluble polymer binder which exhibits good adhesion and thermodimensional stability. |
| US08651282B2 |
Apparatus and method of separating and concentrating organic and/or non-organic material
An apparatus for segregating particulate by density and/or size including a fluidizing bed having a particulate receiving inlet for receiving particulate to be fluidized. The fluidized bed also includes an opening for receiving a first fluidizing stream, an exit for fluidized particulate and at least one exit for non-fluidized particulate. A conveyor is operatively disposed in the fluidized bed for conveying the non-fluidized particulate to the non-fluidized particulate exit. A collector box is in operative communication with the fluidized bed to receive the non-fluidized particulate. There is a means for directing a second fluidizing stream through the non-fluidized particulate as while it is in the collector box to separate fluidizable particulate therefrom. |
| US08651277B2 |
Container with gusseted corner
An article-transport tray includes a floor and a side wall which cooperate to form an article-storage space sized to carry a wide variety of items, articles, or products. |
| US08651276B2 |
Method and packaging for baked, thaw and serve, or microwavable goods
Packaging for heatable food portions comprises an ovenable tray including a plurality of serving containers connected by a detachable support matrix. In one embodiment, the support matrix is attached to the serving containers by hot melt glue which melts during baking or heating to automatically release the support matrix from the serving containers. Pre-filled trays are shipped with display covers fitted to the serving containers, such that the covers may be placed on the individual serving containers after the food portions are baked and the serving containers are separated from the support matrix to provide individually packaged, freshly baked food portions for display. |
| US08651274B2 |
Packaging for retro-reflective markers
Described is a device comprising a retro-reflective marker sphere comprising: a core ball comprising: a generally spherical body portion, a mounting base extending from one end of the body portion of the core ball, and a mounting recess having a recess opening in the mounting base and extending into the body portion of the core ball, and a retro-reflective covering on the core ball, the retro-reflective covering comprising an opening through which the mounting base of the core ball extends, wherein a flat lower surface of the mounting base is spaced proximally from a lower edge of the opening of the retro-reflective covering, and wherein the mounting recess includes an interior screw thread for engaging an exterior screw thread of a mounting post when the retro-reflective marker sphere is mounted on the mounting post. |
| US08651272B2 |
Powered toothbrush package
An oral care implement demonstration assembly includes a powered oral care implement, a package housing and a plurality of demonstration elements. The oral care implement demonstration assembly is configured to produce a visual demonstration effect when relative movement is provided between a first demonstration element and a second demonstration element. Among the visual effects that may be utilized is a Moiré effect. Additionally, an associated method for demonstrating features of an oral care implement though one or more visual effects is described herein. |
| US08651269B2 |
Fluid enclosure and methods related thereto
Embodiments of the invention relate to a fluid enclosure including a structural filler and an outer enclosure wall conformably coupled to the structural filler. Embodiments of the present invention further relate to a method of manufacturing a fluid enclosure. The method includes conformably coupling an outer enclosure wall to a structural filler. |
| US08651268B2 |
Hydrogen energy systems
Hydrogen energy systems for obtaining hydrogen gas from a solid storage medium using controlled laser beams. Also disclosed are systems for charging/recharging magnesium with hydrogen to obtain magnesium hydride. Other relatively safe systems assisting storage, transport and use (as in vehicles) of such solid storage mediums are disclosed. |
| US08651265B2 |
Vial conveyor
A conveyor includes a plate with a closed-loop track along which vials are driven in a continuous manner in holders arranged so as to be in free contact with each other in order to form a continuous stream along the track. Each holder includes a horizontal platen (72) to which is connected a plurality of vertical blades (72) forming a ring and capable of elastically moving away from the rotational axis of the platen, the inner surfaces thereof being intended for bearing against the periphery of a vial. |
| US08651259B1 |
Ladder bridge apparatus
A ladder bridge apparatus for use in connecting two ladder sections is disclosed herein. The ladder bridge apparatus, in its simplest form, includes an adjustable center stabilizer bar connecting outer rail bridge assemblies. The rail bridge assemblies are directly connected to the adjacent ladder sections. The ladder bridge apparatus can be utilized in conjunction with a material transport device to transport materials over the rails of a first ladder section and onto and across the ladder bridge apparatus to a second ladder section. |
| US08651257B2 |
Driving structure for a wheel hub of a bicycle
A driving structure for a wheel hub of a bicycle includes a wheel hub having a ratchet wheel, a ratchet base having an operating member and connected to the wheel hub, an engaging block and an elastic member both assembled onto the operating member, the elastic member abutting against the engaging block so that the engaging block is engaged with the ratchet wheel, a rotating ring assembled between the ratchet wheel and the operating member and having a plurality of abutting plates, each abutting plate abutting against the corresponding engaging block, an elastomer defined on the operating member and abutting against the rotating ring. Under this arrangement, the ratchet wheel simultaneously engages with the engaging blocks, because of the rotating ring and the elastomer. |
| US08651252B2 |
Shock absorber
A frequency-dependent mechanism provided at the lower end of a piston rod includes a tubular housing displaceable in an inner tube, together with the piston rod as one unit, and further includes a free piston and O-rings. A shutter of a passage area varying mechanism is provided with an axially extending inner hole, orifices, and oil grooves. The opening area between oil holes 3C and the orifices 33B is changed according to the rotational position of the shutter. The opening area between oil holes 3D and 3E and the oil grooves 33C and 33D and the opening area between oil holes 3F and 3G and the oil grooves 33E and 33F are also variably adjusted according to the rotational position of the shutter. |
| US08651249B2 |
Disc rotor assembly for vehicle
A disk rotor assembly for a vehicle may include an adaptor adapted to be mounted on a hub and to receive torque of a wheel, a disk rotor generating a braking force, a transmitter engaging the adaptor with the disk rotor and adapted to transmit the torque received by the adaptor to the disk rotor or to transmit the braking force generated by the disk rotor to the adaptor, and engaging member for engaging the adaptor, the disk rotor, and the transmitter altogether. |
| US08651243B2 |
Hydraulic rim brake for a bicycle
A bicycle brake apparatus comprises a first brake arm, a second brake arm and a piston assembly. A first control interface portion of the first brake arm is coupled to an output shaft of a piston, and a second control interface portion of the second brake arm is coupled to a housing of the piston assembly between first and second axial ends of the housing. An adjusting member may be disposed at the output shaft for adjusting a position of the output shaft relative to at least one of the housing or the first control interface portion of the first brake arm. The housing includes a first wall defining a piston chamber and a second wall defining an accumulator chamber. A radial distance from a movement axis to the second wall is greater than a radial distance from the movement axis to the first wall. |
| US08651238B2 |
Method for the dynamic oil filling of a transmission for motor vehicles, and device for carrying out the method
A method of dynamic oil filling of a transmission for a motor vehicle, in particular an automatic transmission, which comprises an oil overflow bore and oil cooler connections. The method comprises the following process steps: a) an initial oil filling of the transmission with a basic quantity of oil, b) drawing off excess oil and at the same time topping up, c) final oil adjustment by a single after-dose, d) closing off the oil overflow bore, e) calculation and topping up with a compensation quantity, in particular for vehicle-specific components. When the result of the calculation is a negative value for the compensation quantity, the calculated compensation quantity is extracted from the oil already filled with the transmission running. |
| US08651234B2 |
Harness
A harness device and method are provided. The device includes a strap having first and second opposite ends. The strap defines first and second arm loop portions positionable about corresponding shoulders of the individual and being movable between a first open configuration allowing a corresponding shoulder to be positioned therein and a second configuration for capturing the corresponding shoulder to be positioned. The strap further defines first and second leg loop portions selectively receivable about legs of the wearer and adjustable via an adjustment mechanism to tighten the leg loop portions around the wearer's legs. A connection point is defined by the first and second ends of the. A belt is operatively connected to the strap and is positionable about a waist of the individual. |
| US08651232B2 |
Reinforced acrylic glass panels
Transparent panel of acrylic glass (PMMA) having internal reinforcement elements for securing fragments of the acrylic glass formed upon an impact with a foreign body. The reinforcement elements are embedded interspersed within the panel and spaced apart in parallel longitudinally. The reinforcement elements include rigid cables and elastic cables. The rigid cables are formed of a metal having an ultimate tensile strength of at least 500 MPa. The elastic cables are formed of a metal having a percentage elongation (engineering strain at fracture) of at least 30%, preferably between 40% and 80%. The rigid cables and elastic cables may be separate and spaced apart from one another, or intertwined with each other. The panels may be used to form an acoustic barrier. |
| US08651228B2 |
Wheel lifting apparatus
The invention is an electric powered mechanism for lifting and lowering at the wheels for an electric sweep type seismic vibrator source of the type used in seismic prospecting for hydrocarbons. The source uses an engine and generator combination to create electric power for all systems on the source such as driving a frame of linear electric motors that direct a rod or piston to contact the ground in a recurring fashion along with driving the source from location to location through a survey area. Preferably a foot is arranged on the bottom end of the rod or piston for contact with the ground and by engaging the grid of motors to push down against the ground in a rapid progression, acoustic energy is created and delivered into the ground for geophones to sense and record. The electric powered wheel mechanism may be utilized to bring the foot of the rod or piston in contact with the ground or in closer proximity to the ground or level the source prior to emitting the seismic energy or to adjust weight on the acoustic energy delivery system while seismic energy is being delivered. |
| US08651227B2 |
Motor control device and electric power steering device
A motor control device and an electric power steering system that make it possible to suppress occurrence of voltage saturation with a simple configuration are provided. A current limiting value computing unit computes a current limiting basic value of which the value is lower as a rotation angular velocity of a motor increases, and computes a voltage gain of which the value is smaller as a power voltage value, detected by a first voltage sensor provided at an electric power line that constitutes an electric power supply line to the motor, decreases. In addition, the current limiting value computing unit computes a difference between a control voltage value, detected by a second voltage sensor provided at a control line independent of the electric power line, and the above power voltage value, and computes an output gain of which the value is smaller as the difference increases. Then, by multiplying the output gain by the current limiting basic value together with a voltage gain, a current limiting value is computed. |
| US08651225B2 |
Control valve assembly for electro-hydraulic steering system
A steering system includes a fluid pump and an electro-hydraulic steering circuit in selective fluid communication with the fluid pump. The electro-hydraulic steering circuit defines a first flow path having a first proportional valve and a first load-sense passage in selective communication with the first proportional valve. The first proportional valve includes a closed position. A hydrostatic steering circuit is in selective fluid communication with the fluid pump and defines a second flow path having a second proportional valve and a second load-sense passage in selective fluid communication with the second proportional valve. The second flow path is in a parallel flow configuration with the first flow path. An isolation valve is disposed in the first flow path in series with the first proportional valve. The isolation valve includes a closed position and is piloted to the closed position by fluid communicated through the second load-sense passage. |
| US08651224B2 |
Power steering apparatus
An apparatus for use in turning steerable vehicle wheels includes a first pump driven by an engine of the vehicle to supply fluid under pressure to a power steering motor assembly through a supply conduit. A second pump driven by the engine of the vehicle supplies fluid under pressure to the power steering motor assembly when the flow of fluid in the supply conduit is below a predetermined value. The second pump is inactive when the flow of fluid in the supply conduit is above the predetermined value. The second pump has vanes located in slits. A valve which is in fluid communication with the slits has a first condition in which fluid under pressure is supplied to the slits. The valve has a second condition in which the slits are in fluid communication with a reservoir. |
| US08651220B2 |
Multi-directionally adjustable control pods
A position-adjustable, dual-pod control system for a machine, such as a backhoe loader is disclosed. The system includes a horizontal cross beam connected to a pair of brackets. The pair of brackets are mounted to the machine by way of a pair of bearings that enables pivotal movement of the cross beam in the fore and aft directions while the cross beam is positioned perpendicularly to the fore and aft direction or the fore-aft centerline of the machine. The bottom end of each pod arm is pivotally coupled to the brackets thereby enabling the pod arms to be pivoted towards or away from the centerline. Each bracket includes a through hole that accommodates a bearing that is mounted to the machine, such as to the floor of the machine. |
| US08651216B2 |
Motor mount structure for electric vehicle
In a motor mount structure of an electric vehicle, in which a front cross frame is connected to a front cross member, a rear cross frame is secured to a rear cross member, opposite sides of a power train in a vehicle width direction are supported on side frames by a side mount device placed so that positions in a vehicle fore-and-aft direction and a vehicle vertical direction are close to a horizontal line passing through the center of gravity of the power train and extending in the vehicle width direction, while a front mount device that regulates rolling of the power train is placed on a front portion of the power train, and the front mount device is mounted to a central portion of the front cross frame in the vehicle width direction. |
| US08651214B2 |
Two-wheeled vehicle
A two-wheeled vehicle is disclosed. The two-wheeled vehicle may include highway bars. The two-wheeled vehicle may include a steering axis which is tilted relative to a fork axis. The two-wheeled vehicle may be configured in a faring configuration and in a non-fairing configuration. |
| US08651213B2 |
Brake device for saddled vehicle
A braking device of a saddle-ride type vehicle that can reduce a load acting on a joint is provided.A joint 200 at a front-wheel brake output side which connects a metal pipe and a flexible brake hose is mounted on a body frame 2 via a mount rubber 260 under a floating state. |
| US08651211B2 |
Cooling device for a motor vehicle
A cooling device for a motor vehicle has an internal combustion engine in a rear region of a vehicle body and has a charge air cooler arranged below an extendable rear spoiler. The charge air cooler is arranged in an oblique plane in an air deflection duct of the vehicle body and has inflow air flowing through it. Downstream of the charge air cooler, the air deflection duct is configured as an outflow air nozzle that narrows toward the end and is arranged to achieve a horizontal discharge of the outflow air. |
| US08651209B2 |
Kinetic energy storage systems and methods of use
Embodiments of the present technology are directed toward a kinetic energy storage system for capturing kinetic energy of a vehicle, converting the captured kinetic energy into another form, and storing the converted energy in a portable energy storage device. |
| US08651207B2 |
Circumferential movement device
The invention relates to circumferential movement field, including all circumferential movement devices such as transport vehicle, toy vehicle, space vehicle, blender etc, especially for energy-saving vehicles utilizing force of gravity. The energy-saving vehicle utilizes force of gravity as driving force, the vehicle body connects with the wheel by swing structure method or eccentric swing structure to utilize force of gravity more efficiently. The invention also provides solutions about two-wheel gravitational vehicle and multi-wheel vehicle and train connected by integrated vehicles or two-wheel vehicles. |
| US08651205B2 |
Direct power reversing drive axle
A drive axle assembly includes a drive axle configured to rotate with a driving torque, a first clutch pack assembly located at an end of the drive axle, and a second clutch pack assembly located at an opposite end of the drive axle. A first drive wheel assembly is operatively connected to the first clutch pack assembly, wherein the first clutch pack assembly is configured to convert the driving torque of the drive axle to a first driving torque of the first drive wheel. A second drive wheel assembly is operatively connected to the second clutch pack assembly, wherein the second clutch pack assembly is configured to convert the driving torque of the drive axle to a second driving torque of the second drive wheel. |
| US08651204B2 |
Metal-free supported polycrystalline diamond and method to form
An cutting element incorporates a non-magnetic and electrically conductive substrate on which a layer of polycrystalline diamond particles is sintered to the substrate. An method of forming a cutting element comprises sintering the substrate, a layer of diamond particles and a catalyst source at a pressure greater than 20 kbar and a temperature greater than 1200° C. to form a layer of polycrystalline diamond particles bonded to the substrate. Cutting elements incorporating non-magnetic and electrically conductive substrates can be sectioned using ablation techniques, such as laser cutting. |
| US08651203B2 |
Polycrystalline compacts including metallic alloy compositions in interstitial spaces between grains of hard material, cutting elements and earth-boring tools including such polycrystalline compacts, and related methods
Polycrystalline compacts include a polycrystalline material comprising a plurality of inter-bonded grains of hard material, and a metallic material disposed in interstitial spaces between the inter-bonded grains of hard material. At least a portion of the metallic material comprises a metal alloy that includes two or more elements. A first element of the two or more elements comprises at least one of cobalt, iron, and nickel. A second element of the two or more elements comprises at least one of dysprosium, yttrium, terbium, gadolinium, germanium, samarium, neodymium, and praseodymium. The metal alloys may comprise eutectic or near-eutectic compositions, and may have relatively low melting points. Cutting elements and earth-boring tools include such polycrystalline compacts. Methods include the formation of such polycrystalline compacts, cutting elements, and earth-boring tools. |
| US08651200B2 |
Tool guide device for a drill floor
A device is for vertical tool guiding for a drill floor. On the drill floor is arranged at least one rig. Each rig is arranged on a rig foundation supported on the drill floor rotatably about a first, vertical axis (A) and arranged to be able to displace a tool in a horizontal working sector (Sa, Sb, Sc) that in a vertical projection at least touches or cuts through the central axis (C) in a through drill floor opening. Each rig is provided with a vertical guide track. |
| US08651199B2 |
Automatic transmission for a power tool
A transmission assembly for a power tool includes a first transmission path comprising a high speed transmission path, a second transmission path comprising a low speed transmission path, a controller for one of engaging and disengaging the high speed transmission path, and a clutch for enabling the low speed transmission path to operate at a lower speed than an output of the transmission assembly when the high speed transmission path is engaged. |
| US08651198B2 |
Spindle lock devices for screwdrivers
A spindle lock device includes an engaging ring fixed in position relative to a body case of an impact screwdriver. A flat relief surface is definable on an outer circumference of the anvil that can be disposed inside of the engaging ring. An engaging member can be disposed between the engaging ring and the flat surface of the anvil. The engaging member can wedge between the engaging ring and an end portion in the circumferential direction of the relief surface of the anvil, so that the anvil is locked with respect to rotation relative to the body case. |
| US08651196B2 |
Power-assisted garden tools
Included are embodiments of a power assisted garden tool. Some embodiments include a handle and an interchangeable tool implement including a garden tool end, a connection end, and an impact platform. Similarly, some embodiments include a drive mechanism coupled to the handle, the drive mechanism including a power source, a motor that provides rotational motion to a rotary shaft, and a piston coupled to the rotary shaft, the piston exhibiting reciprocating motion from the rotational motion, the piston making contact with the interchangeable tool implement, such that the reciprocating motion of the piston causes motion of the interchangeable tool implement. |
| US08651193B2 |
Horse shoe shielding device
A horse shoe shielding device comprising: a shielding member comprising a concave portion adapted to receive the heel of a horse shoe when worn on a horse such that the heel of the horse shoe is covered by the shielding member; and attachment means adapted to allow attachment of the shielding member to the horse shoe, wherein at least a portion of the shielding member extends rearwards from the attachment means and then upwards to shield the heel of the horse shoe, and wherein the horse shoe shielding device is adapted to cover only a portion of the hoof of the horse. |
| US08651191B2 |
Slim hole production system and method
A slim hole production system for pumping liquids to the surface of a hydrocarbon well and especially a hydrocarbon well that is producing both natural gas and liquids where the diameter of the hole in the production area is too small to get production tubing and a sucker rod into a productive arrangement. The slim hole pump includes a hollow tube that raises and lowers the plunger and carries the liquids to the surface and uses the annulus to produce the gas. |
| US08651189B1 |
Blowout recovery valve
removable blowout recovery valve. The large end of the valve (or funnel) is placed over a well pipe (or other pipe) through which oil (or other fluid) is flowing out. The small end of the valve is connected to a return pipe. A high pressure pipe with a smaller diameter is inserted into the well pipe. A sleeve connected to the return pipe is placed over the well pipe. A locking collar is attached to the sleeve. Positioning rings are attached to the high pressure pipe, that can fit inside the well pipe. A sharp edge extends from the sleeve, by which irregularities in the well pipe can be cut. Lasers or other cutting devices are attached to extension arms, that can also cut irregularities in the well pipe. The slope of the valve can be changed. The valve can be removed and raised with the aid of floats. |
| US08651181B2 |
Downhole filter tool
Apparatus for downhole filtration of fluids in a wellbore. The apparatus has a diverter and a filter slidably mounted on a mandrel. The diverter has a circumferential wiper element between the mandrel and the casing within which the apparatus is run. When fluids are reverse circulated, or the tool is being pulled out, the diverter shifts to a downward position, wherein it seals against an upper end of the filter, filtering out solids in the fluids and retaining them in a chamber between the sleeve and mandrel. When running the tool into a wellbore, the diverter shifts to an upper position to permit fluids to bypass the filter sleeve. The filter sleeve bears against a spring loaded seat, which permits creating a gap between the diverter and an upper end of the filter sleeve to allow fluids to bypass the filter sleeve should the filter sleeve slots become plugged. |
| US08651180B2 |
Hydraulic packer constructed in glass-fiber reinforced epoxy and stainless steel
A hydraulic packer including a chamber and at least one piston that slides down inside said chamber. The entire mandrel is made of a glass-fiber composition including glass-fiber 30%, resin 60%, and epoxy with accelerator 10%. |
| US08651175B2 |
Top drive output torque measurement method
A top drive assembly that includes a gauge for measuring strain in a linkage coupling the top drive to a drilling rig frame. The strain measuring gauge, which can be a strain gauge, is disposed on a pin that pivotingly links members of the linkage coupling. When a motor in the top drive assembly operates to rotate an associated pipe string, the torque generated by the motor can be estimated by monitoring strain measured in the pin. |
| US08651174B2 |
Method and apparatus for dropping a pump down plug or ball
An improved method and apparatus for dropping a ball, plug or dart during oil and gas well operations (e.g., cementing operations) employs a specially configured tool body assembly having valving members (e.g., safety or kelly valves) and valving members holding plugs, balls, or darts to be dropped. A transmitter (or transceiver) provides an ability to generate a wireless signal that is received by receivers (or transceivers) on the tool body assembly. Each receiver (or transceiver) controls an electrical actuator that engages a valving member. Wireless signals can be used to open or close a selected valving member. |
| US08651172B2 |
System and method for separating components of a fluid coolant for cooling a structure
A cooling system for a heat-generating structure includes a heating device, a cooling loop, and one or more reservoirs. The heating device is configured to heat fluid coolant comprising a mixture of water and antifreeze and vaporize a portion of the water into vapor while leaving a portion of the antifreeze as liquid in the fluid coolant. The cooling loop has a portion that splits the fluid coolant received from the heating device into a first path configured to receive at least some of the portion of the water as vapor and a second path configured to receive at least some of the portion of the antifreeze as liquid. The one or more reservoirs are configured to receive one of the at least some of the portion of the water as vapor from the first path or the at least some of the portion of the antifreeze as liquid from the second path. |
| US08651168B2 |
Cooling control system for continuous casting of metal
Maintaining the shell surface temperature profile under transient conditions by spray water cooling in continuous casting of steel is often desired to reduce occurrence of surface cracks. For this purpose, a real-time spray-cooling control system is provided that includes one or more of: a virtual sensor for accurate estimation/prediction of shell surface temperature, control algorithm and data checking subroutines for robust temperature control, server and client programs for communicating between these software components and the caster, and a real-time monitor to display the predicted shell surface temperature profiles, water flow rates, and operating data, among other things. |
| US08651166B1 |
Adjustable roller shade
A roller shade assembly comprises a tubular roller having a generally cylindrical internal cavity, an generally tubular extension telescopically mounted within the internal cavity of the roller tube, and an outer tube mounted over the extension. The extension includes an outer wall and a plurality of winged splines located around the outer circumference of the outer wall which extend along at least a portion of the length of the extension tube. |
| US08651165B2 |
Breakaway door panel system
The present invention is generally concerned with a breakaway door panel system comprising an impact resistant panel pivotally assembled to a pair of connecting members mountable to a door adjacent a first end and a second end of the panel respectively, and at least one impact releasable panel locking device comprising a first compliant holding element mounted at an end of the panel, a second complementary compliant holding element mounted to one of the connecting member adjacent the panel end, and a connecting bar releasably connecting the first holding element to the second holding element, whereby, when an impact force of at least a predetermined strength in applied to the panel, the bars are extracted from at least one of their respective holding elements, leaving the panel break away from the door, pivoting in the direction of the impact force. |
| US08651164B2 |
Method for vertical acting egress and fire/smoke protection
The present invention presents a novel alternative to side-hinged swinging doors that offers access to a broad egress opening width needed to meet higher occupancy egress requirements while simultaneously qualifying as a fire/smoke barrier. In a preferred embodiment, a single overhead coiling fire door shaft assembly is counter-balanced to allow a fire door curtain to automatically close at a governed controlled descent upon reaching an established critical low battery condition. An operator is provided that will run the door under both normal condition and during a power failure or fire/smoke condition at an established average door speed, and also provide established levels of low battery warning signals/actions while also providing the ability to open as required for emergency egress until the temperature at the opening is not conducive for human life. |
| US08651160B2 |
Robot system and method of manufacturing processed product
To automatically perform an attachment work of a material supply to a target object, a robot system includes a robot provided with a body, a first arm provided for the body and having a plurality of joints, a second arm provided for the body separately from the first arm and having a plurality of joints, and hand units respectively provided for the first arm and the second arm. The robot holds one of a plurality of types of workpiece components using the hand units of the first arm and the second arm at the same time, and the remaining type of the workpiece components is held and carried by the hand unit of the first arm or the second arm. |
| US08651149B2 |
Fluid filled jacket for concrete pipe
A fluid jacket concrete pipe system includes a concrete pipe enveloped by a fluid-filled jacket. The fluid-filled jacket includes an inner jacket wall, an outer jacket wall, and a first and second side wall interconnecting the inner jacket wall to the outer jacket wall. A fluid inlet is disposed on the outer jacket wall. The outer jacket wall has a thickness dependent on a diameter of the concrete pipe and an external loading of the fluid jacket concrete pipe system. |
| US08651148B2 |
Bendable pre-insulated pipeline assembly
This invention relates to a pipeline assembly especially for offshore installation comprising an inner carrier pipe, a casing and at least one closed-cell and/or solid thermal insulation material layer placed in between the casing and the inner carrier pipe, and the at least one insulation layer being directly or indirectly bonded to at least the casing and the inner carrier pipe. The pipeline assembly has improved bending properties which is achieved as the insulation material layer comprises at least one slit substantially transversely to the longitudinal direction of the pipeline assembly. The slit can be applied as a helical or circumferential cut, enabling the pipeline assembly to be rolled onto a reel or spool which greatly improves the pipeline assembly installation process. Methods of improving the bending properties of such a pipeline assembly are also described. |
| US08651142B2 |
Flow modulating device
A flow modulating device comprises flow modulating elements 8 of a shape memory alloy, which are acted upon by resilient elements 10. The flow modulating elements 8 and resilient elements 10 are mounted on a common support ring 6. At one temperature, the flow modulating elements 8 overcome the resilient force of the resilient elements 10 to lie against the wall of a duct 4 in which the device is situated. The flow modulating elements 8 thus offer a relatively low resistance to flow in the duct 4. At a second temperature, the force of the resilient elements 10 overcomes that of the flow modulating elements 8 to deflect them inwardly of the duct 4, so increasing the flow resistance of the device. |
| US08651137B2 |
Gas manifold system for steady gas supply at outlet
A gas manifold system includes a plenum that receives a gas at a positive pressure and a manifold having at least one exit port. One or more valves are disposed between the plenum and the manifold. When opened, the valve(s) permit a stream of the gas at positive pressure to flow from the plenum into the manifold. A baffle is disposed in the manifold between the valve(s) and the exit port(s). The baffle obstructs each stream of gas entering the manifold such that the gas is reduced to substantially zero pressure in the manifold at the exit port(s). |
| US08651136B2 |
Valve with a metal gasket
A faucet includes an annular body (101), a throttle valve (102) constituting a seat and an annular metal gasket positioned therebetween while being accommodated in a recess, the movable sealing element being connected by a plate to a static sealing element gripped within the recess, the plate is flexible and there is play between the recess and the part of the main surfaces of the dynamic sealing element closest to the seat (102) when said element is remote from the seat (102). |
| US08651130B2 |
Fluid supply
A fluid supply includes a container (100, 300) containing a bag (102, 302) and a valve (104, 304). |
| US08651125B2 |
Portable barrier
A portable barrier has a pedestal assembly including (i) a plurality of legs that are movable with respect to each other, the plurality of legs includes a first leg and a second leg, and (ii) a first limiter connected to the first leg and the second leg. The portable barrier further has a cover assembly including (i) a plurality of arms that are movable with respect to each other, the plurality of arms includes a first arm and a second arm, and (ii) a covering connected to the first arm and the second arm. Further, the portable barrier has (i) a second limiter extending between the first arm and the first leg, (ii) a supplemental component movable with respect to the second arm; and (iii) a third limiter extending between the second arm and the supplemental component. |
| US08651124B2 |
Tent with dividable mattress pocket
A tent including an integrated vestibule and a sleeping chamber having a dividable pocket for receiving at least one mattress therein and a plurality of tie-downs for tightening up loose pocket panel material when a mattress is not contained therein. The dividable pocket further includes a fastener for optionally and selectively dividing the pocket into discreet sections or a single section. |
| US08651123B2 |
Umbrella for holding a golf club
An umbrella for use in receiving a golf club is provided that includes a stem and a frame carried by the stem. A canopy is supported by the frame and has an interior surface and an oppositely disposed exterior surface. The canopy defines a canopy aperture that extends completely through the canopy. A club receiving member is configured for receipt of at least a portion of a golf club and is arranged in relation to the canopy aperture such that at least a portion of the golf club is capable of being disposed through the canopy aperture and received by the club receiving member. |
| US08651122B2 |
Water-conducting domestic appliance
A water-conducting domestic appliance includes a container with an expansion opening, an expansion component on the container, and an anti-twist device securing the expansion component in its assembly position. |
| US08651120B2 |
Treatment device
An interdental treatment device comprises a generator 16 for generating a non-thermal gaseous plasma at a temperature suitable for use in oral treatment and an applicator 18 of the non-thermal plasma. The applicator 18 may comprise a hollow needle member for directing a jet of the non-thermal plasma interdentally. Alternatively the applicator 18 may comprise an interdental brush having a hollow head for receiving a non-thermal gaseous plasma, the head having at least one lateral opening for the discharge of the plasma. The generator 16 and applicator 18 may both form part of a hand-held device 10 having its own gas supply in the form of a capsule 12 containing pressurized gas and its own power supply in the form of a battery 20. |
| US08651119B2 |
Cosmetic case for powder
A cosmetic powder brush is provided. A brush holder is provided with a brush insertion part in which a brush is stored, and is rotatably coupled to a cap. The brush is stored in the brush insertion part, and then, the brush holder is rotated through a certain angle to prevent a removal of the brush in a closed state, and the brush holder is rotated through the certain angle to an original position thereof to use the brush, and the brush is taken out in an open state. The brush holder is rotatably installed on the cap, and the brush is inserted and stored in the brush holder, thereby effectively preventing the brush from being lost. |
| US08651114B2 |
Method and assembly for opening cigarette wrappers in a machine for recovering tobacco from defective and or substandard cigarettes
Method of opening a cigarette wrapper including cutting open a cigarette transported in a guiding groove of a feeder of a machine for recovering tobacco from defective and/or substandard cigarettes with at least one revolving disc knife located above the feeder, in which the at least one revolving disc knife is applied to the cigarette in such a way that the axis of rotation on which the said disc knife is perpendicularly mounted lies on a plane parallel to the plane over which the cigarette axis is translated, and the plane of the disc knife does not contain the cigarette axis and is parallel to the said cigarette axis, the possibility of rotation of the cigarette around its axis in the guiding groove is blocked, whereby tensile stress is applied in the cigarette wrapper facilitating its opening.Assembly for applying the method according to the invention. |
| US08651112B2 |
Process for treatment of psoriasis
A system for producing preferential damage to hair exiting mammalian skin. A agent having an average diameter for enabling the agent to penetrate the hair duct is selected. The agent is designed to attach to, or become physically incorporated into, the hair shaft, the hair follicle, the hair bulb or the hair duct. The agent has an electromagnetic radiation absorption characteristic which enables the agent to absorb a first wavelength of electromagnetic radiation from a skin-penetrating electromagnetic radiation source, such as a laser. The agent is applied to the skin so that the agent penetrates the skin and attaches to or becomes physically incorporated into the hair shaft, the hair follicle, the hair bulb or the hair duct. The agent is exposed to the first wavelength of electromagnetic radiation and absorbs the first wavelength of electromagnetic radiation. |
| US08651110B2 |
Lubricated condom
A condom, including a non-porous sheath member, having an open end and a rounded end, and shaped to cover the glans and body portion of a penis, and at least one rib having at least one outer portion and at least one inner portion, wherein the at least one outer portion is attachedly fixed to said non-porous sheath member, and wherein an inner cylinder formed by at the at least one inner portion is exclusive from said non-porous sheath member, and including at least one lubricant within the inner cylinder and at least one hole extending from the inner cylinder through the outer portion to provide for flow of the lubricant outwardly from the inner cylinder through the at least one hole pursuant to application of a predetermined pressure, wherein the at least one rib extends at least one of substantially from the open end to the closed end and substantially about a circumference of the non-porous sheath member. |
| US08651108B2 |
Infant pacifier for oxygen delivery
An oxygen delivery apparatus for delivery of oxygen to an infant from a source includes a mouthpiece having a body portion and lip-engaging flange portions which surround the body portion and a nipple which extends to one side of the central body portion for acceptance by the mouth of an infant. The body portion of the mouthpiece includes a pair of internal passageways each having an inlet and an outlet and wherein the inlets of the passageways are adapted to accept oxygen delivered thereto from a source and wherein the outlets of the passageways are disposed at locations along the surface of the mouthpiece so that when the nipple is accepted by the mouth of an infant, the outlets of the passageways are disposed adjacent, but not within, the nostrils of the infant. |
| US08651105B2 |
System for providing flow-targeted ventilation synchronized to a patient's breathing cycle
An open system provides breath-synchronized, flow-targeted ventilation to augment respiration by a self-breathing patient. A sensor detects a physical property of a patient's respiratory cycle. A processor monitors the sensor and controls a gas source to deliver oxygen-containing gas through a tube extending into the patient's airway with the flow rate varying over each respiratory cycle in a predetermined non-constant waveform synchronized with the respiratory cycle to augment the patient's spontaneous respiration. Gas is delivered at a flow rate sufficient to significantly mitigate the airway pressure the patient must generate during spontaneous breathing and thereby reduce the patient's work of breathing. |
| US08651104B2 |
Bead-containing dry powder inhaler
A dry powder inhaler includes a chamber holding a bead-like actuator to which a powdered medicament is adhered. Air is drawn into the chamber through an inlet flow channel and exits through an outlet flow channel. The bead-like actuator oscillates in response to the air flow, dislodging powdered medicament to be entrained in the air flow and delivered to the patient. |
| US08651098B2 |
Apparatus, system and method for using a diamond-impregnated wire to cut an object
An apparatus, a system and a method may use a diamond-impregnated wire loop to cut an underwater pipeline. The apparatus may have a frame, a carriage attached to the frame and/or pulleys connected to the carriage. The diamond-impregnated wire loop may be connected to the pulleys. The carriage may move relative to the frame to direct the diamond-impregnated wire loop in a forward direction relative to the frame and/or through the pipeline. |
| US08651097B2 |
Cable guard and guides for archery bows
An archery bow is provided including a cable guard and/or cable guide that can flex to selectively move a cable relative to a plane in which a bowstring of the bow travels to minimize cam lean, limb twist, and/or cable wear. The cable guard and/or guide can move toward the bowstring plane as the bowstring is drawn, and away from the bowstring plane, out of the way of the bowstring and any attached arrow, after the bowstring is released. The cable guard can define a bore, for example, an elongated bore, extending through it along an axis that is generally parallel to the bowstring when the bowstring is undrawn. The cable guard bore can operate as a cable guide, and can include a rounded opening to minimize abrasion to a cable moving through it. A ceramic element can be included in the bore to minimize abrasion to the cable. |
| US08651094B2 |
Bow having improved limbs, trigger releases, safety mechanisms and/or dry fire mechanisms
The present disclosure provides improved bows (e.g., crossbows and/or vertical bows). More particularly, the present disclosure provides advantageous bows having improved limbs, trigger releases, safety mechanisms and/or dry fire mechanisms. In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides for systems and methods for fabricating bows (e.g., crossbows/vertical bows) having improved limbs (e.g., crossbow limbs), trigger releases, safety mechanisms and/or dry fire mechanisms, and wherein the bows provide increased arrow speed and/or more efficient release of stored energy. |
| US08651092B2 |
Gas cooler for an internal combustion engine
A gas cooler for an internal combustion engine is provided that includes a gas duct through which a gas flow supplied to the internal combustion engine can flow in a flow direction, and having a heat exchanger which is inserted into the gas duct through a lateral opening in an insertion direction, wherein a fluid or cooling the gas flow can flow through the heat exchanger, and wherein a first profile which runs in the insertion direction is formed on at least one side of the heat exchanger, which first profile meshes with a second profile provided on the gas duct. |
| US08651090B2 |
Beveled dampening element for a fuel injector
A direct fuel injection cylinder for an engine of a vehicle includes a direct fuel injector disposed in an injector bore within a cylinder head. A beveled conical wave washer is disposed between a shelf in the injector bore and a shoulder of the direct fuel injector. During operation of the vehicle, the beveled conical wave washer is elastically deformed by radial displacement caused by absorption of high frequency energy from the direct fuel injector. Elastic deformation of the beveled conical wave washer may reduce noise which may be caused by impact of the direct fuel injector and the cylinder head. |
| US08651089B2 |
Injection system for an internal combustion engine
An injection system for an internal combustion engine has a prefeed pump for delivering fuel from a fuel tank, a high pressure pump for delivering the fuel to a fuel accumulator arranged downstream of the prefeed pump, an accumulator return line arranged downstream of the fuel accumulator and used to return the fuel from the fuel accumulator to the fuel tank, and a valve arranged in the accumulator return line and by which the fuel can be optionally supplied to the fuel tank or to a tank bypass line which hydraulically leads to a point between the prefeed pump and the high pressure pump. A pressure relief valve is arranged in the accumulator return line downstream of the valve and upstream of the fuel tank. The pressure relief valve is suitably designed to allow adjustment of a fuel pressure in the accumulator return line upstream of the pressure relief valve. |
| US08651086B2 |
Internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine is provided. Facing pistons eliminate a cylinder head, thereby reducing heat losses through a cylinder head. Facing pistons also halve the stroke that would be required for one piston to provide the same compression ratio, and the engine can thus be run at higher revolutions per minute and produce more power. An internal sleeve valve is provided for space and other considerations. A combustion chamber size-varying mechanism allows for adjustment of the minimum size of an internal volume to increase efficiency at partial-power operation. Variable intake valve operation is used to control engine power. |
| US08651078B2 |
Oil pan for an internal combustion engine
An oil pan for an internal combustion engine has a pan body and a partition disposed in the pan body so as to separate an interior of the pan body into two separate oil chambers. The partition is provided with at least two overflow openings. An adjustable closure element is common to the at least two overflow openings for opening or closing the at least two overflow openings. |
| US08651075B2 |
Engine assembly including camshaft with independent cam phasing
An engine assembly may define first and second combustion chamber and may include a camshaft having a first lobe region engaged with the first valve arrangement and a second lobe region engaged with the second valve arrangement and rotatable relative to the first lobe region. The cam phaser may be coupled to the camshaft and may include a first member and a second member rotatable relative to the first member. The first lobe region may be fixed for rotation with the first member and the second lobe region may be fixed for rotation with the second member to vary valve timing for the second combustion chamber independently from the valve timing of the first combustion chamber. |
| US08651072B2 |
Spark ignition type internal combustion engine
In an internal combustion engine, a variable compression ratio mechanism which can change the mechanical compression ratio and a variable valve timing mechanism which can control a closing timing of an intake valve are provided. When the variable compression ratio mechanism breaks down, the mechanical compression ratio and the intake valve closing timing are made to change from a current operating point toward a low mechanical compression ratio side demanded operating point without entering the no-entry region. |
| US08651071B2 |
Variable compression ratio engine control apparatus
A variable compression ratio engine control apparatus includes a fuel injection device, a variable compression ratio device, a target compression ratio setting section and a compression ratio controlling section. The fuel injection device injects fuel into an engine for combustion. The variable compression ratio device varies an engine compression ratio of the engine. The target compression ratio setting section sets a target compression ratio. The compression ratio controlling section controls the engine compression ratio toward the target compression ratio. The target compression ratio setting section sets the target compression ratio based on an engine rotational speed, during a fuel cut operating state in which fuel injection by the fuel injection device is stopped. |
| US08651070B2 |
Method and apparatus to control coolant flow through an engine, especially for a motor vehicle
A method to control coolant flow through an engine, especially for a motor vehicle, wherein the coolant is heated by the engine and cooled by a radiator and the coolant flow depends on the number of rotations of the engine. To prevents cavitations and high pressures on heat exchangers and to allow an optimal coolant flow, a magnetic field for controlling magneto rheological fluid to regulate the coolant flow is used. |
| US08651065B1 |
Heated animal water tank
An animal water tank that is heated to prevent freezing. The tank has a bottom with at least one upwardly extending sidewall to define sides of the tank. A tunnel defining a watertight channel extends across the tank. The tunnel has a top, sides, and a bottom. Ends of the tunnel terminate at openings in sides of the tank. A burner assembly in the tunnel produces heat from a combustible fuel to heat the tunnel. Openings in sides of the tank are covered by fin plates having fins obliquely angled downward to form louvered openings. Access panels cover the fin plates and extend vertically up the sidewalls of the tank to form chimneys that allow combustion gasses from the burner to draft upwardly out of the tank. Insulation may be added to sides of the tank to retain heat in the water. |
| US08651060B2 |
Birdhouse
A birdhouse having at least four walls, a first gabled roof covering the top of the walls and extending beyond the front wall, and a bottom panel approximately covering and enclosing the bottom of the four walls; where the front wall has a first entrance opening; a front panel attached by at least one spacer to the front wall, wherein the front panel has a second gabled roof extending in front of and behind the front panel, wherein the front panel has a second entrance opening; wherein the first and second entrance openings are approximately the same diameter and are approximately horizontally aligned; wherein the first opening and the second opening are spaced apart by the at least one spacer, wherein the thickness of the spacer and the space it provides is approximately from one-half to 3 times the diameter of the first opening. |
| US08651058B1 |
Organic fishery systems
A system for improved organic fishery systems for improved aquatic farming, primarily within inland production sites, primarily using a system of enclosed tanks. |
| US08651056B2 |
Pet water bowl cooling system
A pet bowl water cooling system includes a bowl, a pump for removing water from the bowl, a heat transfer device, and a conduit adapted to carry the water to the heat transfer device, to carry cooled water back to the bowl. The heat transfer device can include a metal coil submersed in a relatively cool liquid medium. Preferably, the bowl includes a float valve to allow water to flow into the bowl when the float valve is activated. In an embodiment, the liquid medium includes water in a water reservoir of an evaporative cooler. In an embodiment, the evaporative cooler includes a housing that is disposed between studs of a wall. The dog bowl can be mounted on an interior wall or an exterior wall. In an embodiment, the evaporative cooler is disposed within a wall of a dog house and the dog dish is mounted thereon. |
| US08651055B2 |
Gulp guard
A pet bowl device designed primarily for pet owners comprises a bowl unit and an insert component. The bowl unit comprises an interior and exterior portion, with the insert component being positioned on the interior portion. The insert component comprises a top surface and a bottom surface and a plurality of individual openings positioned in a spaced apart relationship along the top surface. The plurality of individual openings is smaller in diameter than the bowl unit. The individual openings will divide up the serving size of pet food. Thus, the individual openings separate the food into smaller sections, which prevents the pet from opening their mouth wide enough to consume large gulps of food at once. Pets will then be forced to take smaller bites while eating, which slows down the rate at which the pet consumes its food and aids in the prevention of abdominal bloating (GDV). |
| US08651054B2 |
Bird feeder with removable ports
A bird feeder has a body member, a base, and at least one feed port member. The body member is used for storing bird food having a top end, a bottom end and a sidewall with the sidewall of the body member defining at least one feeding aperture. A base is attached to the bottom end of the body member to prevent bird food from exiting the body member. The at least one feed port member is interfittingly engaged within at least one feeding aperture. The port member includes a frame member and a mesh insert attached to the frame member. The feed port member is releasably secured within the feeding aperture of the body member. In operation, the feed port member can be easily removed from the body member for easy cleaning or adapting to a particular bird feeder construction. |
| US08651053B2 |
Gravity fed automatic rotary vein dispenser
In accordance with the disclosed subject matter, an automatic feeder comprising a feed bin for storing bulk material, a trough for dispensing the feed to livestock, and a vein assembly positioned horizontally between the feed bin and the trough for transferring the bulk feed from the feed bin to the trough is provided. The vein assembly comprises a vein tube that houses a rotatable vein shaft and flexible wipers affixed as spokes to the shaft that form vein compartments for the feed. A motor assembly with a programmable timer rotates the vein shaft within the vein tube thereby transferring feed from the feed bin, to the vein compartments, and then to the trough. |
| US08651044B2 |
Image forming apparatus and apparatus for coating foam on coating target member
An image forming apparatus includes a generating mechanism to generate foam from a liquid or gel which may take a foam state, a coating roller having a peripheral surface supplied with the foam to coat the foam on the peripheral surface onto a surface of a recording medium, and a transport passage to transport the foam from the generating mechanism to the coating roller by an accumulation force of the foam. |
| US08651043B2 |
Alarm mark structure of a micro-differential pressure gauge
An alarm mark structure of a micro-differential pressure gauge includes a transparent casing. The transparent casing has at least one recess thereon. The recess is located corresponding to the range of movement of a pointer or a scale plate. At least one mark member is provided on the transparent casing. The mark member has an engaging portion. The engaging portion is inserted in the recess, such that the mark member is coupled on the transparent casing. The user can place the mark member on the recess corresponding to the numerical value on the scale plate as desired to know whether the pointer is located within a safe area. |
| US08651042B2 |
Operation device
An operation device comprises: a plurality of operation members attached to a common supporting member; and a plurality of inserting components having the same configurations with one another. The operation members include latching apertures for securing the inserting components to the operation members and include a plurality of kinds of structure to be attached to the common supporting member so that opening directions of the latching apertures are different from one another. The inserting components include a plurality of latching projections that protrude outward from a main body, and have configurations that can engage the latching apertures in any one of the operation members. The latching projections protrude from the main body in a plurality of directions corresponding to the opening directions of the latching apertures so that any one of the latching projections can engage the latching aperture in any one of the operation members. |
| US08651037B1 |
Drive structure for driving an upper thread wiper of a sewing machine
A drive structure for driving an upper thread wiper of a sewing machine is provided, wherein the upper thread wiper and a drive device for driving the upper thread wiper are disposed on the cantilever and located close to the end of the needle shaft. In addition to that the drive device simplifies relative motion transmission structure, the cooperative arrangement between the upper thread wiper and the drive device further improves the power transmission efficiency and stability. The upper thread wiper can be quickly and easily assembled onto or removed from the wiper arm through a quick release device. Moreover, the drive structure is further provided with a clutch device which is capable of effecting or interrupting power transmission as desired. |
| US08651030B2 |
Universal portable workstation
A universal portable workstation that can be temporarily coupled to an existing fixture, the portable workstation comprising an adjustable support leg assembly, a first table section, a second table section and an attachment clamp. The support leg assembly includes one fixed leg and at least one adjustable leg configured for relative telescopic movement. The support leg assembly is pivotally coupled to a first table section that is configured to house the support leg assembly in a retracted position. The height of the workstation is adjustable and can be fixed by a height adjustment lock. First table section and second table section are hingedly coupled so that the two sections can be in an extended, flat position and a folded, retracted position. The attachment clamp is configured to temporarily fixedly couple an end of the second table section to the existing fixture. |
| US08651028B2 |
Separble block shipping platform
A shipping platform system may include a top deck, and a top block joined to the top deck. The system may also include a bottom deck, and a bottom block joined to the bottom deck. The system may further include a joint that yields under a predetermined load that joins the top block to the bottom block. |
| US08651027B2 |
Aviation pallet and its producing method
An aviation pallet includes an EPS loading board, which includes an EPS plate and at least three EPS supporting legs extended from the bottom surface of the EPS plate for supporting the EPS plate, wherein the EPS plate and the EPS supporting legs are wholly injection molded; and a PET film adhering to the surface of the EPS plate and the surface of the EPS supporting legs; and has a plurality of jacks provided between each two EPS supporting legs. A method of producing the aviation pallet includes forming a main body step: laminating step; heating and cutting steps; vacuum forming step; and cooling and shape steps. The aviation pallet has good mechanical properties, folding resistance, most solvents resistance, low and high temperature resistance, and is lightweight, no poison, no smell, healthy and safe. |
| US08651026B2 |
Guideway type vehicle
A vehicle includes a vehicle body, a bolster spring, a bogie supporting the vehicle body via the bolster spring and a vehicle height adjusting mechanism. The vehicle height adjustment mechanism includes an integrating device, a measuring device and an elastic force adjusting device. The integrating device integrates a first relative displacement amount at a first position between the vehicle body and the bogie and a second relative displacement amount at a second position between the vehicle body and the bogie. The measuring device measures an integrated value of the first relative displacement amount and the second relative displacement amount. The elastic force adjusting device adjusts elastic force of the bolster spring based on the integrated value so as to adjust a relative displacement amount between the vehicle body and the bogie. |
| US08651025B2 |
Overhead hoist transport system
An overhead wafer transport system includes an over head transportation (OHT) rail and at least one shuttle. The OHT rail includes a main track and two lateral tracks, each having a hollow transverse cross-section, each lateral track being in corresponding connection with the main track through the two sides thereof, constituting an approximate tri-directional branch form. The shuttle has a track-interface assembly and a docking unit, the track-interface assembly being adapted to travel along the OHT rail. The track-interface assembly being arranged at the junction of the two lateral tracks and the main track, wherein the track-interface assembly is adapted to selectively travel along at least one of the main track and the lateral tracks. Therefore, the overhead wafer transport system can be applied to a clean room with higher transfer efficiency and clean room space utilization. |
| US08651023B2 |
Hermetic covering system and method for a projectile
In one embodiment, a hermetic covering system includes a projectile and at least one bag. The projectile has a body and a component that houses moisture-sensitive equipment. The at least one bag may be coupled to the body such that the projectile protrudes through the opening and the component is disposed in the inner cavity to protect the component during storage of the projectile. |
| US08651021B2 |
Roll printing apparatus
According to example embodiments, a roll printing apparatus includes a cleaning device in which a cleaning nozzle unit and a spray nozzle unit are integrated so that both a reverse offset process and a cliche cleaning process may be achieved in the roll printing apparatus. The roll printing apparatus may include a base plate, a blanket roll to transfer an ink material to a cliche and a substrate, a blanket roll supporter located on the base plate to support the blanket roll, a cliche table located on the base plate to fix and move the cliche, a substrate table located on the base plate to fix the substrate, and the cleaning device installed on the base plate to clean the cliche. The cleaning device may include a cleaning nozzle unit to spray a cleaning solution and a spray nozzle unit to spray DIW, which are integrated. |
| US08651019B1 |
Crank press with dual protection mechanism and control method thereof
A crank press includes an encoder measuring an angle value of a servo motor, a strain detector module generating a converted load value associated with deformation of a machine body, a memory storing at least one relation between an angle value and each of an upper torsion limit and an upper load limit, and a controller calculating a torque command value based on a position command, reading the upper torsion limit corresponding to the measured angle value, determining whether the torque command value exceeds the upper torsion limit, outputting the torque command value when negative, and outputting the upper torsion limit when affirmative. The controller further stops the servo motor when the converted load value exceeds the upper load limit corresponding to the measured angle value. |
| US08651014B2 |
Fire containment system
A fire containment system and method is disclosed. The fire containment system is designed to assist in temporarily containing a fire within a semi-enclosed space having an open side for operator access. An exhaust air blower exhausts air from the semi-enclosed space through an exhaust vent. An inlet air blower provides air to the semi-enclosed space through an inlet vent. In the case of a fire in the semi-enclosed space, the fire will be drawn away from the open side and toward the inlet vent due to the air supplied by the inlet air blower. The fire is thus encouraged to remain within the semi-enclosed space, allowing additional time for a fire suppression mechanism to be activated. |
| US08651012B2 |
System with capsule having sealing means
A beverage forming system that includes a capsule for containing beverage ingredients and having an outer surface; a capsule-based beverage producing device provided with a member for injecting a liquid under pressure into the capsule, a member for draining a beverage from the capsule, and an enclosing member transferable from an opened state to a defined closed state, in which the enclosing member encloses the outer surface of the capsule; and a sealing member associated with the capsule and which is compressible when engaged by the enclosing member in the closed state, wherein the sealing member is effective to compensate for the clearance between the enclosing member and the capsule which would otherwise exist when the enclosing member is in its defined closed state. Also, a method for producing a beverage using such a system. |
| US08651009B2 |
Control mechanism securable to a firing device and method
A control mechanism securable to a firing device is provided. The control mechanism includes an actuation component adapted to generate signals in response to activation of the actuation component. Further, the control mechanism includes an attachment apparatus adapted to support the actuation component adjacent to a stock of the firing device. The attachment apparatus has at least one securing member for securement of the attachment apparatus to the stock of the firing device. |
| US08651006B2 |
Apparatus and method for producing individual blanks from a film web
A device and a method for producing individual blanks from a foil web and their transport are disclosed. The foil web is fed with a first conveyor to a device for producing at least one potential parting line. The formed individual blanks are transferred with a second conveyor and fed for further processing. A tear in the individual blank is formed in the area of a guide system of the second conveyor. |
| US08651005B2 |
Utility chain cutter
Embodiments provide various saw chain links which may be combined to form a utility saw chain. In various other embodiments, cutting system fixtures are disclosed which may facilitate the cutting of pipes and other materials from an axis point. |
| US08651001B2 |
Table saw with reset mechanism
A power tool in one embodiment includes a swing arm movable along a swing arm path between an upper first swing arm position and a lower second swing arm position, a latch hold mechanism movable between a first latch hold position adjacent to the swing path and a second latch hold position whereat at least a portion of the latch hold mechanism is within the swing path, an actuator configured to force the swing arm assembly away from the first swing arm position and toward the second swing arm position, a swing arm reset configured to pivot the swing arm from the second swing arm position to the first swing arm position, a latch hold reset configured to pivot the latch hold mechanism from the second latch hold position to the first latch hold position, and a control system configured to control the actuator. |
| US08650998B2 |
Machine for automatically cutting sheet materials provided with a bulged depression box
The invention relates to a machine for automatically cutting sheet material, the machine comprising a bench having a cutting zone, a cutter head mounted on means for moving it relative to the bundle, a cutter conveyor housed inside a box placed under the cutting zone, and means for establishing suction in the box, the box bulging outwards at least in its bottom portion that is remote from the cutting zone. |
| US08650997B1 |
Machine for cutting of masonry, wood and other materials
A machine for accurately cutting tiles, blocks of concrete, clay, blocks of stone and stone materials, wood and wooden materials is described. It may include a support stand which at its top supports a removable bed structure. The bed includes a motor-driven cutting disc recessed-mounted axially along pillow blocks such that a substantial portion of the cutting disc is projected above the bed surface and its mode of rotation is about a fixed centralized axis. Trolley track rails situated on distal ends of both long sides of the bed allow for lateral movement of the trolley above the bed surface to facilitate the cutting operation. During operation the object secured safely on the trolley which is manually moved towards the cutting disc while a perforated shower head sprays water onto the work piece. Water is filtered and recycled back to the shower via the bin situated below the cutting disc and then to the recycle and filter unit. |
| US08650996B2 |
Film perforation method
A method of creating perforations in wrapping film uses an apparatus that contains a plurality of needle points (or other piercing features) formed along a free-wheeling support bar. The bar is positioned to contact the film while it is being unrolled and is in a ‘tensioned ’ state (in some embodiments, immediately prior to contacting the element to be wrapped). In performing the method, the free-wheeling perforation apparatus contacts a mechanized film roller such that the exposed needle points rotate against the mechanized roller and make the perforations in the film as it travels over the film roller. As long as the film roller is formed of a pliable material, the needles will pierce the film and create the desired perforations. The size and placement of needles can be adjusted to provide the required pattern of perforations, as well as dictate the size of the actual perforations. |
| US08650995B1 |
Sandpaper cutting tool
A sandpaper cutting tool having a substantially rectangular multi-tiered platform including a first and second measuring surface, a top surface, and a back. The second measuring surface is positioned between the first measuring surface and the top surface. The first measuring, second measuring, and top surfaces vertically align and define the back. The first measuring surface has a front cutting edge and a first blade having a serrated edge vertically aligned adjacent the front cutting edge. The second measuring surface has a front cutting edge and a second blade having a serrated edge vertically aligned adjacent the front cutting edge. A first backstop is defined between the first measuring surface and the second measuring surface. A second backstop is defined between the second measuring surface and the top surface. |
| US08650994B2 |
Multiple tool station block for Y-axis machine
A multiple tool station block for a machine having a Y-axis, such as a CNC machine, is provided. |
| US08650991B2 |
Ratchet wrench
A ratchet wrench includes a handle; a wrench head comprising a first cavity and a second cavity communicating therewith; a drive gear and socket combination rotatably disposed in the first cavity and comprising surface teeth; a reversing pawl comprising pawl teeth on one surface, the pawl teeth meshed with the teeth of the drive gear and socket; a pivotal unit pivotably disposed in the second cavity, the pivotal unit urging against the other surface of the reversing pawl and being adapted to reciprocally pivot about the reversing pawl; and a reversing button assembly moveably disposed on the wrench hand and aligned with an axial direction of the handle. The reversing button assembly is adapted to manually move along a straight line to activate the pivotal unit which pivots the reversing pawl so as to permit the drive gear and socket combination to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. |
| US08650990B2 |
Hand-operated hydraulic wrench for high torque tightening and loosening
A hydraulic wrench for high-torque tightening/loosening which has two separate functions. The first function provides a manual wrench for performing tightening/loosening approximations which is accomplished by blocking of the bearing wrench regarding the a piston, the device becoming rigid as it was one single body. In the second function the hydraulic wrench serves as a tool performing high-torque tightening and loosening. |
| US08650988B2 |
Hand tool having multiple switchable functions
A hand tool includes a casing, a press cutting mechanism, a switching wheel and stripping mechanism. The casing has a hollow chamber in its interior. The press cutting mechanism is installed inside the hollow chamber. The press cutting mechanism includes a ram component and a sleeve that sheathes the ram component. The external periphery of the sleeve has a first positioning surface. The switching wheel has a through hole that corresponds to and selectively connects to the sleeve. The inner wall of the through hole has a second positioning surface. The stripping mechanism has a lock connected to the casing through a soft belt. By turning the switching wheel, the second positioning surface and the first positioning surface can be aligned or misaligned. As a result the hand tool can be switched between two or more functions. |
| US08650987B2 |
Driving force distribution/transmission device
A driving force distribution/transmission device suppresses a shift of lubrication oil when a vehicle makes a turn, smoothly lubricates sliding parts, and improves reliability.The driving force distribution/transmission device 1 includes a gear input rotary member 53 and a gear output rotary member 55 that are interlocked to transmit a driving force through the meshing of a drive pinion gear 91 and a ring gear 93; and a left-right pair of clutch output adjusting mechanisms 57 and 59 coupled with both ends of the gear output rotary member 55, to carry out a driving force output adjustment through the engagement of frictional multiplate clutches 139. A closed and partitioned gear room 56 contains the drive pinion gear 91 and ring gear 93 therein. The main clutches 139 are contained in a left-right pair of closed and partitioned clutch rooms 125, respectively. Lubrication spaces in the three separate rooms, i.e., the gear room 56 and the left-right pair of clutch rooms 125 separately seal gear oil and clutch oil therein. |
| US08650986B2 |
Vehicle operation pedal
It is provided a vehicle operation pedal in which a pedal sheet is integrally fixed to a sheet fixed portion of a pedal arm in such a posture that a depressed face of the pedal sheet, which is depressed by a driver, faces a driver's seat, comprising a fitting hole through which the sheet fixed portion of the pedal arm extends formed in the pedal sheet; and the sheet fixed portion being fitted into the fitting hole from a rear face that is on the side opposite to the depressed face, and a peripheral portion around the fitting hole being integrally fixed to the sheet fixed portion by welding performed from the depressed face side. |
| US08650983B2 |
Steering apparatus for vehicle
A steering apparatus for a vehicle, adjusting a position of a steering wheel in a longitudinal direction of a vehicle body, includes a main tube supported by the vehicle body and having a tubular shape, the main tube including an opening portion being closed in an axial direction of the main tube and extending in the axial direction, a telescopic tube supported by the main tube to be slidable within the main tube, a connecting member firmly attached to the telescopic tube to be movable within the opening portion along the axial direction of the main tube, a drive member connected to the connecting member, and a drive source driving the drive member to move the connecting member in the axial direction. |
| US08650980B2 |
Transmission
The present invention relates to a transmission having a housing, having a first drive output shaft, having a second drive output shaft and having a clutch system for distributing a torque between the drive output shafts. At least two transmission components are operatively connected between the drive output shafts and generate lubricating oil pressure. A separate tube extends within the housing from the at least two transmission components to the clutch system in order to supply lubricating oil to the clutch system. |
| US08650978B2 |
Linear actuator provided with dust-proof mechanism
There is provided a linear actuator provided with a dust-proof mechanism capable of preventing dust-proof belts from being deformed, improving a sealing performance between the dust-proof belts and a housing member, and achieving high dust-proof performance irrespective of a size of the linear actuator. The linear actuator provided with the dust-proof mechanism includes: a housing member disposed so as to cover at least a ball screw; an opening portion formed in the housing member so as to extend along a moving locus of a movable stage; and dust-proof belts stretched inside the housing member so as to close the opening portion by being mounted to mounting members disposed both end portions of the housing member, wherein a bypass member for bypassing the dust-proof belts positioned at position overlapped with the movable stage is provided for the movable stage so as to realize movement of the movable member along the opening portion while closing and sealing the opening portion by the dust-proof belts, and in such a linear actuator provided with the dust-proof mechanism, the dust-proof belts are wound up around the mounting member and sandwiched between the mounting member and the end portions of the housing member. |
| US08650972B2 |
Sensor apparatus for a bicycle hub
A bicycle hub apparatus comprises an axle, a hub member supported for rotation around the hub axle, an intermediate drive member supported for rotation around the hub axle and having a first portion and a second portion, a sensor shaft supported for rotation around the hub axle and having a first portion and a second portion, and a force sensor unit disposed on the sensor shaft. The first portion of the intermediate drive member is structured to receive an external rotational driving force, the first portion of the sensor shaft is coupled to the second portion of the intermediate drive member to receive the rotational driving force, and the second portion of the sensor shaft is coupled to the hub member for communicating the rotational driving force to the hub member. The intermediate drive member and the sensor shaft are coupled to each other within the hub member. |
| US08650970B2 |
Test rig for testing blades for a wind turbine
A test rig for testing blades for a wind turbine includes a fixing structure where a root end of a wind turbine blade can be fixed, a loading mass structure extending from the fixing structure, and an actuation structure which can apply a sinusoidal force to the loading mass structure so that a counterbalanced resonance is established between the loading mass structure and a blade which is fixed in the fixing structure. Due to the counterbalanced resonance, the force from the test rig onto the floor or other building components can be reduced relative to that known from the traditional rigs for blade testing. |
| US08650968B2 |
Articulated load tester
A load testing device is provided, comprising a main beam and a pair of load testing assemblies operatively connected to the main beam. Each of the load testing assemblies includes a load applying member having a first ball at its terminal end; a spreader plate pivotally attached to the first ball to establish a first ball and socket joint enabling three rotational degrees of freedom about the first ball; a bracket pivotally connected to the spreader plate, wherein the bracket further includes a second ball extending toward the main beam; an adjustment beam pivotally attached to the second ball to establish a second ball and socket joint, and wherein the adjustment beam is slidably disposed relative to the main beam and lockable in one or more predetermined positions. |
| US08650965B2 |
Robot, robot system, robot control device, and state determining method
A robot according to an embodiment includes an arm, a strain sensor, one or more actuator, and a sensor fixing jig. The strain sensor includes a piezoelectric body that has a natural frequency higher than a natural frequency of a structural material forming the arm. The one or more actuators are provided in the arm to drive the arm. The sensor fixing jig is provided in a base of the actuator, among the actuators in the arm, closest to a base end of the arm. The strain sensor is provided in the sensor fixing jig. |
| US08650959B2 |
Planar probe head and ultrasonic testing device and method for a component
A planar probe for the coupling of ultrasonic signals to a planar component to be tested by means of water-free jet technology is provided. The planar probe includes: at least one preflow chamber; a flow chamber located downstream of at least one preflow chamber, wherein the flow chamber extends through a slot-shaped water outlet opening to a lower surface of the planar probe; a probe, wherein a lateral surface of the probe comprises emitting/receiving elements and forms an inner wall section of the flow chamber; a base body for the reception of the probe; and a sliding plate comprising the slot-shaped water outlet opening, whose planar extension along the component is larger than the planar extension of the base body along the component, wherein the planar probe is connected to the sliding plate. |
| US08650958B2 |
Thin-film ultrasonic probe having a flexible membrane
An ultrasonic probe for examining an item. The probe includes a body having a contact surface adapted for contacting the item when being examined and an ultrasonic transducer attached to the body and spaced from the contact surface. The probe further includes a spacer positioned in the body between the transducer and the contact surface for spacing the transducer from the item when being examined. The spacer includes a coupling surface facing the item when being examined and a transducer surface facing the transducer. The probe also includes a fluid outlet positioned adjacent the coupling surface of the spacer for delivering coupling fluid to the coupling surface as a film so that the coupling fluid tends to maintain contact with the spacer due to surface tension after the fluid is delivered through the outlet. |
| US08650957B2 |
Method of evaluating the ageing of an electronic assembly
To measure the fatigue ageing of an electronic component in an electronic assembly subjected to mechanical excitations, a dynamic correspondence is established between kinematic measurements at certain points and mechanical stresses experienced at points that are critical as regard to the reliability of the electronic assembly. The critical points may be different from the measurement points. This correspondence is integrated into a monitoring device as a functionality that calculates the mechanical stresses, thereby providing an indicator of the cumulative fatigue damage. The invention is such that the monitoring device can be incorporated into the electronic assembly, preferably, the monitoring device is autonomous both as regard to processing the measurements and calculating the damage. |
| US08650954B2 |
Quadrature compensation for a rotation-rate sensor
A rotation-rate sensor includes a substrate having a surface, a movable element situated above the surface, which is deflectable based on a Coriolis force along a first axis that runs perpendicular to the surface, a driving device which is prepared to activate the movable element along a second axis that runs parallel to the surface, a compensation device, in order to generate an electrostatic force along the first axis, including electrodes corresponding to one another, developed on the substrate and on the movable element; a relative degree of covering of the electrodes in the direction of the first axis being a function of the deflection of the movable element along the second axis; and the electrode developed on the movable element runs around an insulating region of the movable element. |
| US08650953B2 |
Chemical sensor with replaceable sample collection chip
A chemical sensor is provided on a first semiconductor die. A potentiostat is provided on a second semiconductor die. An analog to digital converter and a microcontroller are provided on a third semiconductor die. The first die is configured to be connected to the second die. The second die is configured to be connected to the third die. The chemical sensor detects a chemical in the surrounding environment and outputs a signal to the analog to digital converter. The analog to digital converter converts the signal to a digital signal and outputs the digital signal to the microcontroller. The microcontroller provides a measurement of the concentration of the chemical in the surrounding environment. |
| US08650952B1 |
Calibrated measuring device for medicaments
A spoon comprises a handle and a bowl. The bowl has a superior face and an inferior face. The bowl includes a front tip-end portion, a rear handle-end portion and a central axis. The bowl includes a first outer edge and a second outer edge, each having a respective length. The bowl includes a first curved side and a second curved side each upturned toward the superior face of the bowl thereby forming a concave arcuate enclosure for an elongated receptacle formed substantially along a portion of the central axis and tapering toward the front tip-end portion. The first curved side and the second curved side terminate at a predefined distance respectively along the first outer edge and the second outer edge from an apex of the rear handle-end portion thereby causing the rear handle-end portion to be flat relative to the first curved side and the second curved side. |
| US08650950B2 |
Detector for detecting a gravity gradient
The present disclosure provides a gravity gradiometer for detecting a gravity gradient. The gravity gradiometer comprises at least two sensor masses that are pivotable about respective axes and each experience a change in torque in response to a change in gravity gradient whereby the at least two sensor masses move relative to each other in response to the change in gravity gradient and wherein a signal indicative of the gravity gradient is generated in response to the relative movement of the at least two sensor masses. Further, the gravity gradiometer comprises an acceleration sensor for sensing an acceleration associated with an external acceleration applied to the gravity gradiometer. The gravity gradiometer also comprises an actuator for generating an adjustment force that is dependent on an acceleration sensed by the acceleration sensor. The adjustment force is also dependent on a mechanical response parameter associated with at least one of the at least two sensor masses. The adjustment force is applied such that a difference between the magnitudes of the torques experienced by the at least two sensor masses in response to the change in gravity gradient is reduced. |
| US08650945B2 |
Retention member on valve stem sealing grommet
A valve stem connectible to a tire pressure sensor includes a valve stem body and a grommet attached to the valve stem body. The grommet includes a first flange and a second flange extending radially outward from the valve stem body. A retention member attached to the valve stem body includes a base member and a standoff extending from the base member. The standoff is selectively moveable between a first position in which a distal end of the standoff is disposed at a first radial distance from a longitudinal axis of the valve stem body, and a second position in which the standoff is disposed at a second radial distance from the longitudinal axis, the first radial distance being greater than the second radial distance. An outer peripheral edge of the second flange is disposed at a third radial distance that is less than the first radial distance. |
| US08650943B2 |
Apparatus for determining an air-fuel ratio imbalance among cylinders of an internal combustion engine
An air-fuel ratio imbalance among cylinders determining apparatus according to the present invention is applied to a multi-cylinder internal combustion engine in which a compression ratio is variable. The determining apparatus obtains, using at least an output value of an upstream air-fuel ratio sensor disposed for a catalyst, an “imbalance determining parameter” which becomes larger as a degree of an imbalance among “individual cylinder air-fuel ratios” becomes larger, each of the individual cylinder air-fuel ratios being an air-fuel ratio of a mixture supplied to each of cylinders. Further, the determining apparatus determines that an air-fuel ratio imbalance state among cylinders is occurring, when the imbalance determining parameter is larger than a predetermined threshold. The determining apparatus changes the predetermined threshold in accordance with a mechanical compression ratio of the engine. |
| US08650941B2 |
Method for testing the functionality of at least one injector
A method for checking the functionality of at least one injector (10) of an internal combustion engine (8), in which at least the functionality of a lambda sensor (12), which is designed to ascertain a state of the at least one injector (10) is checked, a steady-state operating condition of the internal combustion engine (8) being set, and a check being performed as to whether at least one signal of the lambda sensor (12) is stable for the set operating condition. Depending on whether the signal of the lambda sensor (12) is stable, a lambda value for the at least one injection valve (10) is measured using the lambda sensor (12) at the set operating condition. |
| US08650940B2 |
Master component for flow calibration
A master component is provided for use in checking for any variation in the performance of a gas turbine test facility. The master component replaces a standard component, which is typically a turbine blade, vane or segment in the test facility. The master component is attached to the test facility in the same manner as the standard component. The flow rate through the master component is substantially the same as the flow rate through the standard component for a given inlet and outlet temperature and pressure. The flow through the master component is simpler than the flow through the standard component. This means that the flow through the master component is less likely to vary over time. As such, the master component is more suitable for use in checking for any variation in the performance of a test facility. |
| US08650939B2 |
Surface texture measuring machine and a surface texture measuring method
A surface texture measuring machine includes: a stage, a contact-type detector having a stylus, an image probe, a relative movement mechanism and a controller. The controller includes: a center position calculating unit that, when the image probe enters position data of at least three points on a circular contour of a circular concave portion or a circular convex portion of an object, approximates the entered position data to a circle to obtain a center position of the circle; and a stylus setting unit that, after calculating the center position, operates the relative movement mechanism to position the stylus of the contact-type detector at the center position. |
| US08650938B2 |
Milk property measuring device
The present invention provides a system and method for a milk measuring device for measuring the acoustic properties, such as acoustic damping and sound velocity in milk, in order to determine milk properties. The sound velocity in milk depends on temperature and composition. By carrying out, for example by means of a piezo element, a reference measurement on vibrations that have been directed by a second piezo element into a wire or the like of known material, which wire is strung in the measuring chamber which is filled with the milk to be tested, the milk temperature can be derived, so that other milk properties, in particular the fat/protein composition, can be determined in a more reliable manner. |
| US08650937B2 |
Solute concentration measurement device and related methods
A solute concentration measurement device is disclosed. The device may comprise a filter membrane, an exchange chamber, a sensing chamber, a separator, and a sensor. The device may be configured to be placed in fluid communication with a sample solution containing a solute and a solvent. The filter membrane may provide selective fluid communication between the solution and the exchange chamber. The separator may separate the exchange chamber from the sensing chamber and cause a change in a condition of the sensing chamber corresponding to a change of a condition of the exchange chamber. The sensor may sense the condition pertaining to the sensing chamber and calculate the concentration of the sample solution corresponding to this change. |
| US08650934B1 |
Testing system for connectors
A testing system for connectors usable with oil or natural gas wells using a test part connector and a control component connector. The system uses a test fluid in a test reservoir that is pumped to each connector simultaneously and using a test part pressure transducer and a control component pressure transducer to create a test response and a control response. The responses are then transmitted to a processor, which then compares the responses and presents compared results on a display, through a network and transmitted to a client device of a user. |
| US08650928B2 |
Actuating device for calibrating torque/angle wrenches
An actuating device for calibrating torque/angle wrenches encompassing a torque measuring system, includes at least a means for accommodating the torque/angle wrench, a torque actuator for applying a torque to the torque/angle wrench, and a torque sensor for detecting the torque. Provision is made for a rotation angle measuring system for rotating the torque measuring system in such a manner that a rotation of the torque/angle wrench about a rotation angle can be measured in addition to the measuring of a torque in the torque/angle wrench. |
| US08650927B1 |
Forming device for thixoextrusion and method thereof
According to the apparatus and method, metals can be molded under a low extrusion pressure, the life of the apparatus is prolonged, the strength of the metal products is improved, the ignition of the metals is inhibited during processing, the amount of a protective gas used is reduced, and the formation of welding lines is inhibited. |
| US08650926B2 |
Extrusion press and extrusion control method
An extrusion press and an extrusion control method obtains a uniformly-shaped extruded product by constantly applying a constant container sealing force between a container and a die even when an extrusion force varies during an extrusion process, improving product yield, and keeping a small energy consumption at the time of extrusion. |
| US08650925B2 |
Extrusion method for fabricating a compact tube with internal features
Methods for forming a tube that includes a feature extending from an inner surface of the tube are provided. The methods can include using a die and stamper, single impact extrusion, double impact extrusion, and progressive deep draw process. |
| US08650921B2 |
Method and device for explosion forming
With the invention, a method and device for explosive forming of work pieces, in which at least one work piece is arranged in at least one die and deformed by means of an explosive to be ignited, is to be improved, in that an ignition mechanism that is technically simple to handle, is produced with the shortest possible setup time, which permits the most precise possible ignition of the explosive with time-repeatable accuracy. This task is solved by a method and device, in which at least one work piece is arranged in at least one die and deformed by means of an explosive to be ignited, in which the explosive is ignited by means of induction. |
| US08650920B2 |
Method and device for surface peening of a component in the region of a passage opening
A method and device for surface peening, particularly ultrasonic shot peening, of a component in the region of a passage opening is disclosed. A vibration device impinging the blasting material is disposed on one side and a counter-element is disposed on an opposite side relative to a component region having the passage opening. The counter-element is disposed at a distance relative to the corresponding side of the component region. |
| US08650917B2 |
Cleaning apparatus indicating operational information for a bulk dispensing system
An apparatus for determining the number of doses and the types of a treating chemistry available in a bulk dispensing system, and providing an indication of the determination on a user interface. |
| US08650915B2 |
Processes and systems for making inorganic fibers
Inorganic fiber production processes and systems are disclosed. One process includes providing a molten inorganic fiberizable material, forming substantially vertical primary fibers from the molten material, and attenuating the primary fibers using an oxy-fuel fiberization burner. Other processes include forming a composition comprising combustion gases, aspirated air and inorganic fibers, and preheating a fuel stream and/or an oxidant stream prior to combustion in a fiberization burner using heat developed during the process. Flame temperature of fiberization burners may be controlled by monitoring various burner parameters. This abstract allows a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure. It will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b). |
| US08650914B2 |
Methods and apparatus for recycling glass products using submerged combustion
A method for recycling glass mat waste, wound rovings, and other products includes providing a source of glass mat, or a plurality of rovings, for example on a roll, and routing the glass mat or rovings into a submerged combustion melter. An unwind system and a pair of powered nip rolls, powered conveyors, or other arrangement may work in combination to provide a substantially consistent rate of material into the melter. The melter may operate under less than atmospheric pressure to avoid fumes escaping the melter. A slot in the melter allows ingress of the glass mat or rovings into the melter, and a glass mat former such as a folder may be used to ensure that the mat fits through the slot. Alternatively, the glass mat may be cut by a slitter prior to entering the slot. |
| US08650912B2 |
Burner and method for the manufacture of synthetic quartz glass
A method for manufacturing quartz glass using a main burner having a multi-tube assembly having a center tube, a first enclosure tube surrounding the center tube, a second enclosure tube surrounding the first enclosure tube, a tubular shell surrounding the multi-tube assembly, and a plurality of nozzles disposed within the tubular shell, a double-tube assembly surrounding at least a forward opening of the main burner includes feeding silica-forming compound to the center tube, a combustion-supporting gas to the first enclosure tube and the nozzles, a combustible gas to the second enclosure tube and the tubular shell, and a combustion-supporting gas to the double-tube assembly, forming oxyhydrogen flame for hydrolyzing or decomposing the silica-forming compound to form silica, depositing the silica on the target, and melting and vitrifying the deposited silica into quartz glass. |
| US08650909B2 |
Multifunctional group for a glass items forming machine
A rough mold of a machine for forming glass items is provided with a multifunctional group, which has a common support head; a handling device for moving the common head along a first handling axis; and a further handling device for rotating the common head about a second handling axis; the common head being fitted with a mold closing member for sealing the top opening of the rough mold, and at least one further operating member selectable from a funnel-shaped member for guiding at least one glass gob into the rough mold, a blowing member for blowing pressurized air into the rough mold, and one or more members for treating the inner surface of the rough mold. |
| US08650907B2 |
Method for reshaping glass-ceramic articles, apparatus for performing the method and glass-ceramic articles made thereby
The method produces a reshaped glass-ceramic article by forced reshaping of a flat green glass part during a ceramicizing process with temporarily lowered viscosity due to crystallization heat. To perform the forced reshaping economically the forced reshaping takes place in a continuous oven for ceramicizing and in an oven section in which the viscosity of the green glass part is temporarily lowered as a result of crystallization heat. An apparatus for performing the process is provided in the continuous oven including different active reshaping devices and/or a hollow mold. The method produces glass-ceramic articles with undamaged surfaces corresponding to surfaces produced during the making of the green glass part (smooth or structured, e.g. knobbed). |
| US08650903B2 |
Airflow-direction adjustment unit and heat source unit of refrigeration apparatus
An airflow-direction adjustment unit is configured to adjust a direction of air expelled to an exterior from a main body of a heat source unit of a refrigeration apparatus, the airflow-direction adjustment unit. The airflow-direction adjustment unit includes a mounting member and a closing member. The mounting member has-at least one expulsion opening arranged and configured to expel the air from the heat source unit main body. The mounting member is mounted on the heat source unit main body. The closing member is arranged and configured to block some portion of the at least one expulsion opening. |
| US08650902B2 |
Dispenser for refrigerator and refrigerator including the same
A dispenser for a refrigerator and a refrigerator including the same are disclosed. The refrigerator includes a cabinet comprising a storage compartment; a door rotatably provided in the cabinet; and a dispenser provided in the door to supply water outside the door, the dispenser comprising a power supply part which is able to be connected with an external device containing predetermined liquid, to supply an electric power to the external device. |
| US08650889B2 |
Turret subassembly for use as part of a cryostat and method of assembling a cryostat
A turret subassembly for use as part of a cryostat, the turret subassembly comprising a vent tube (32) housing an auxiliary vent (40); a refrigerator sock (34) for housing a refrigerator; a termination box (30) linking the vent tube and the refrigerator sock, and having an opening (52) in one wall (54); and means (38) for attachment of the turret subassembly to a cryogen vessel (12). |
| US08650887B2 |
Storage tank for a cryogenic fluid with a partitioned cryogen space
A cryogenic storage tank comprises a partition that divides a cryogen space into a main storage space and an auxiliary space. A valve disposed inside the cryogen space is associated with a first fluid passage through the partition. The valve comprises a valve member that is actuatable by fluid forces within the cryogen space. A second fluid passage through the partition comprises a restricted flow area that is dimensioned to have a cross-sectional flow area that is smaller than that of a fill conduit such that there is a detectable increase in back-pressure when the main storage space is filled with liquefied gas. |
| US08650883B2 |
System and method for operating a gas turbine
A system for operating a gas turbine includes a compressor, a combustor, and a turbine. The combustor and turbine define a hot gas path. A sensor disposed outside the hot gas path measures internal thermal emissions from the combustor or turbine and generates a first signal reflective of the internal thermal emissions. The internal thermal emissions are infrared or ultraviolet emissions. A controller connected to the sensor receives the first signal and adjusts the compressor, combustor, or turbine in response to the first signal from the sensor. A method for operating a gas turbine includes measuring internal thermal emissions from inside a combustor or turbine using a sensor disposed outside the hot gas path. The method further includes generating a first signal reflective of the internal thermal emissions and adjusting the operation of the compressor, combustor, or turbine in response to the first signal from the sensor. |
| US08650874B2 |
Engine assembly including intake boost system
An engine assembly includes an engine structure and an intake assembly. The engine structure defines a first cylinder, a second cylinder, a first intake port in communication with the first cylinder, and a second intake port in communication with the second cylinder. The intake assembly includes a first throttle valve, a second throttle valve and a boost mechanism. The first throttle valve is in communication with the first and second intake ports. The second throttle valve is in communication with an air source and the first throttle valve and located in a series flow arrangement between the air source and the first throttle valve. The boost mechanism is in communication with the air source and the first throttle valve and located in a series flow arrangement between the air source and the first throttle valve. |
| US08650872B2 |
Control unit of hydraulic brake apparatus for vehicle
A control unit of a hydraulic brake apparatus for a vehicle including a housing, a switching control valve, pressure increase control valves, pressure decrease control valves, a reservoir, a pump driven by a motor, a first passage, a second passage, an inner bore and a passage forming member being liquid-tightly fitted into the inner bore in order to form an extended ring-shaped passage, wherein the extended ring-shaped passage forms a part of the first passage, and the switching control valve, the pressure increase control valves and the outlet valve are connected to the extended ring-shaped passage, and a part of the second passage is formed within the passage forming member, and end portions of the part of the second passage are connected to the switching control valve and the switching valve. |
| US08650871B2 |
External combustion engine
An external combustion engine comprising a drive shaft, a first cylinder kinematically connected to the drive shaft, a second cylinder kinematically connected to the drive shaft, and a thermodynamic circuit fluidly connected to both the cylinders, and having at least an expansion chamber and a compression chamber for a heat-carrying fluid, in order to determine the cyclic movement of the first cylinder and the second cylinder. The first cylinder is mounted on a first support frame and the second cylinder is mounted on a second support frame, distinct from and constrained in a mobile manner to the first support frame. Movement means are mechanically connected to the first support frame and/or the second support frame, in order to determine the desired relative movement of the first support frame and the second support frame and to vary the reciprocal kinematic connection phasing of the two cylinders with respect to the drive shaft. |
| US08650868B2 |
Control apparatus, control method, and control program for elastic actuator drive mechanism
There is provided an abnormality determination unit that determines whether or not an output measurement unit is abnormal, in order to determine abnormality of the output measurement unit. When the output measurement unit is abnormal, the operation of an elastic actuator is controlled not in accordance with a measurement result of the output measurement unit but in accordance with an internal state model. |
| US08650867B2 |
Exhaust manifolds including heat shield assemblies
An exhaust manifold including a manifold body made of a first material and at least one heat shield insert provided inside the manifold body and made of a second material. The first material is a low cost material and the second material is a higher grade, temperature-resistant material. The manifold body includes a plurality of runners, collector and an outlet. The shield insert is preferably provided in the collector region adjacent to the outlet. The heat shield insert may have a curved sheet configuration or a tubular configuration depending on applications. The heat shield properly insulates the manifold body from the exhaust gas to protect the manifold body. The exhaust manifold, which is made from a combination of different materials, provides a more cost-effective solution in high temperature applications. |
| US08650859B2 |
Exhaust gas purification system for an internal combustion engine
A reducing agent addition valve is arranged in a position in which at least part of a reducing agent added to an exhaust gas in an exhaust passage at a location upstream of a precatalyst reaches the precatalyst in the state of liquid, and the reducing agent is supplied in a more suitable state to an exhaust gas purification device which is arranged in the exhaust passage at a downstream side of the precatalyst. When the addition of the reducing agent is performed by the reducing agent addition valve, the flow rate of the exhaust gas flowing into the precatalyst is decreased so that at least part of the reducing agent, which has reached the precatalyst and has vaporized in the precatalyst, is caused to flow back. |
| US08650853B2 |
Noise reduction assembly for aircraft turbojet
A noise reduction assembly located at a junction plane between an air intake structure and a fan casing of an aircraft turbojet has improved acoustic properties since the alternation of acoustic and non-acoustic zones is displaced or eliminated. In particular, the inner wall of the air intake structure includes a projecting part that extends towards the aft direction beyond the junction plane, in other words the flange of the fan casing. The projecting part may be sufficiently long so that its inner skin is continuous as far as the limit between the acoustic zone and the non-acoustic zone of the nacelle. |
| US08650852B2 |
Support assembly for transition duct in turbine system
A support assembly for a turbine system is disclosed. The support assembly includes a transition duct extending between a fuel nozzle and a turbine section. The transition duct has an inlet, an outlet, and a passage extending between the inlet and the outlet and defining a longitudinal axis, a radial axis, and a tangential axis. The outlet of the transition duct is offset from the inlet along the longitudinal axis. The support assembly further includes an annular contact member extending from the transition duct. The contact member is configured to allow movement of the transition duct about at least one axis. |
| US08650849B2 |
Yarn feed device
A yarn feed device for the workstations of twisting or cabling machines wherein the yarn feed device (13) is a component of a retrofittable supplementary assembly set (12). |
| US08650848B2 |
Multi-station textile machine, in particular two-for-one twisting or cabling machine
Multi-station textile machine, in particular two-for-one-twisting or cabling machine, produces a high degree of flexibility with a simple structure by a respective double spindle unit (1) having a centrally arranged carrier (2), with a carrier (2) having a cross-member (20), which extends from one workstation to the other of the double spindle unit (1), supported by means of adjustable feet (26) on the ground, the carrier (2) furthermore having a centrally arranged hollow profile (21), which extends vertically from the cross-member (20), the hollow profile (21) being at least configured to receive a bobbin removal device (31, 33) and for fastening a winding device (3). |
| US08650844B2 |
Method and apparatus for a product dispenser
A product dispenser includes an outer housing and a shell disposed within the outer housing. The shell defines a product dispensing chamber, wherein the product dispensing chamber is climate controlled, for receiving a product, portioning the product, storing the portioned product, and dispensing the portioned product upon a dispense command. The product receptacles are stored in a dispense buffer disposed within the product dispensing chamber, and then are dispensed into an airlock for retrieval by a customer. The product dispenser further recognizes demands to keep the dispense buffer slots filled, and demands to dispense a filled product receptacle. The product dispenser may seal the product receptacles to ensure a sanitary product. The product dispenser may further include a vend interface unit to interact with a controller and consumers, whereby the consumer are able to place a demand on the vend interface unit, and await a dispensed filled product receptacle. |
| US08650839B1 |
Closure with lifting mechanism
A closure having a device for lifting a liner from a container opening. The lifting device being a finger projecting from a hinge connection within the closure. The hinge connection is positioned from a depending skirt of the closure. The hinged finger disengages the liner from a sealing engagement with the container while engaging along substantially the same annulus spaced from the liner edge. A plurality of the hinged fingers may be used for the lifting device. The closure may be used in various retort and aseptic applications, as well as provide for tamper indication. |
| US08650835B2 |
Indicia-applying method and apparatus
A carton processing apparatus and method can be used to reduce inventory of pre-printed or pre-labeled cartons. The carton processing apparatus can use a stacked inventory of unassembled cartons in a first planar orientation. A carton can be picked from the inventory, rotated from the first planar orientation to a print plane, and transported near a carton coding device, such as an ink jet printer, which can apply indicia to the carton. The processed carton can be further rotated or provided to a downstream device or process. |
| US08650833B1 |
Method for installing a roof vent
A method for installing a roof vent includes the steps of providing a base component having an outer flange having a bottom surface and surrounding a central opening; providing a top cover; mounting the top cover on the base component over the central opening to permit the air to flow through the central opening, but to exclude water from entering the central opening; and welding a riser box on the bottom surface of the base component around the central opening, the riser box being sized and shaped to fit around the curb of the roof. The base component is then mounted onto the curb such that the base component covers the building venting aperture and the riser box fits around the curb. |
| US08650832B2 |
In-wall hydronic thermal control system and installation method
A system for installing tubing of hydronic thermal control systems in the walls of buildings. It allows for the stable incorporation of the tubing in the walls while ensuring good thermal conductivity between the tubing and the building's room. The system features a wall including a hydronic thermal management system. The wall comprises a vertically-extending wall support structure, tubing panels secured to the wall support structure, the panels being constructed from wood material, tubing in the tubing panels for carrying a heat transfer fluid, and drywall panels secured over the tubing panels. A filling material is applied between the tubing and the drywall panels. Also a high thermally conductive layer, such as aluminum foil, is used between the filling material and the drywall panels or between the filling material and the tubing panels. |
| US08650830B2 |
Method of basement construction
A method of constructing an inhabitable underground structure is disclosed that comprises the steps: creating a cutout in the earth at a desired location to generally match a desired shape of an interior of the underground structure; applying a reinforcement structure to an outer perimeter of the cutout; and applying shotcrete over the reinforcement structure to create a monolithic underground structure. |
| US08650829B2 |
Drywall repair prop system
A prop assembly has interior and exterior members. Each member includes a plate with distal and proximal surfaces and attachment components on the distal surface of the interior member. The distal surface of the interior member is adapted to be secured to a support surface. The interior member includes a cylindrical tube with threads. The exterior member includes a cylindrical tube with threads. The threads of the tubes are rotatable with respect to each other. In this manner the distance between the distal surfaces is adjusted. |
| US08650827B2 |
Assembly for securing two juxtaposed panels to a structure
An assembly (14, 16) for securing two juxtaposed panels (64, 66) to a structure (74), each panel including a joining flange (68, 70) located at, or adjacent to, respective juxtaposed edges thereof. The assembly includes a retaining member (14) having a substantially planar surface (24) supporting at opposite edges thereof respective first flanges (26, 28) and a clamping member (16) having two spaced-apart legs (48, 40) depending from a web (36). Second flanges (46, 48) are each supported on a facing internal surface of a respective one of the legs so as to extend away from the web. Each leg engages a respective exposed surface of an adjacent joining flange, the first and second flanges being oriented in opposite directions so as to interlock when the clamping member is mounted on the retaining member and thereby limit lateral separation of the legs. |
| US08650826B2 |
Mechanical locking system for floor panels
Floor panels are shown, which are provided with a vertical locking system on short edges having a displaceable tongue that is displaced in one direction into a tongue groove during vertical displacement of two panels. |
| US08650820B2 |
Method for manufacturing fibrous material assemblies to produce supporting structure, assemblies produced by said method, and structure implementing said assemblies
Method for manufacturing an assembly in a supporting structure, constituted by parts (7,8) made of a fibrous material forming an elongate element that is at least partially hollow (10), with a longitudinal axis of symmetry (9), delimiting an inner area (11) and a outer area (12), characterized in that it consists of achieving the densification on the two end portions (13) of the hollow element, in order to exert, on each of the two end portions of the elongate hollow element, outward tensile forces in opposite directions to each other along its longitudinal axis in order to create an axial prestressing force having a determined value, and to maintain the elongate hollow element in this prestressed condition during the installation of the assembly in the structure. Also described are the assemblies obtained by this method and the structures using such assemblies. |
| US08650815B2 |
Solar module frames having water drain
The invention relates to a frame for a solar module, wherein the frame comprises a plurality of aluminum extruded profiles, which form the sides of the frame and which are connected to each other at the corners thereof, wherein at least one aluminum extruded profile comprises at least one hollow chamber, wherein the frame comprises corner elements, wherein at least one corner element comprises a discharge opening, and the discharge opening is connected to a hollow chamber of at least one adjacent aluminum extruded profile. |
| US08650812B2 |
Support system for solar panels
An array of photovoltaic panels is supported in rows and columns spaced from one another using a foldable bi-directional span of support members. The support members include a plurality of support joists and support rails braced at an incline. Each support rail is tubular and generally rectangular, having a lower wall section with a T-slot channel for acceptance of the head of a bolt for adjustable attachment with the support joist. Also, the support rail may have a C-slot channel for retaining electrical wires. Clips are used to secure each panel to upper wall portions of underlying support rails. Each clip has a generally U-shaped gasket and is retained to a corresponding support rail through a threaded hole in a top wall of the support rail that receives a bolt or similar threaded fastener. |
| US08650810B1 |
Water diverter and related methods
A water diverter for installation between siding panels of exterior siding includes a diverter body elongated in a longitudinal direction between first and second ends. The diverter body defining a channel extending in the longitudinal direction and has first and second edges extending in the longitudinal direction and defining an opening into the channel therebetween. The first and second edges can each be angled inwardly toward each to form first and second hooks, such that either one of the first and second hooks can be snap-fit into a horizontal junction between the siding panels and water flowing down the siding panel above the water diverter enters the channel through the opening and exits through at least one of the first and second ends. |
| US08650808B2 |
Curved surface building modules
A three-dimensional, curved building module comprises a saddle-shaped membrane having four connecting edges for joining with like building modules and four truncating edges. Connecting members are formed along the linear edge surfaces for joining the modules in edge-to-edge relation with one another. The building modules permit construction of complex, three dimensional forms which divide space into two distinct but intertwining volumes. The building modules may be used as a child's construction toy, playground structures, sculptures, architectural structures. |
| US08650806B1 |
Hard-sided expandable shelter
A thermally isolated portable expandable shelter may include a frame substantially similar in configuration to a shipping container and a movable portion comprising a plurality of rigid panels. The shelter may be movable between a stowed state and a fixed state, wherein the plurality of panels is folded into the frame in the stowed state and fold out during deployment. In some embodiments the plurality of panels may comprise structural insulated panels so that an interior defined by the expandable shelter is thermally isolated from an exterior. The portable expandable shelter may have reduced installation time, improved strength in both the stowed and deployed states, and reduced energy requirements. |
| US08650805B1 |
Systems and methods for DMARC in a cage mesh design
A method, apparatus, and system in which a demarcation point cabinet to provide network connectivity between networks is placed into a cage mesh panel design for a communication facility structure, wherein the demarcation point comprises a demarcation point cabinet placed in the non-moving, stationary portion of the cage mesh panel design for the communication facility structure, such as an Internet Exchange (IX), Peering Point, Data Center, or Co-location center, providing security to the customers using the communication facility structure, frees up square footage space inside the cage for customers to put their own equipment and wiring, and adds security because demarcation point cabinet is constructed with physical barriers to prevent physical tampering or access from a front side of the demarcation point cabinet to the back side of the demarcation point cabinet. |
| US08650796B1 |
Device for protecting a fishing rod
A device for protecting a fishing rod which comprises a hollow telescopic tube having a closed top end and an open bottom end. The hollow telescopic tube fits over and provides protection to the fishing rod. A mechanism is for securing the hollow telescopic tube at the open bottom end to the fishing rod. |
| US08650795B2 |
Coating for a decoy or fishing lure exhibiting realistic spectral reflectance
A coating for an animal decoy or fishing lure with a surface reflection which closely matches the spectral reflectance pattern of the animal that it is designed to mimic, including both human-visible and ultraviolet wavelengths, with the intent of making the decoy or fishing lure appear more realistic to animals that can see in both the human-visible and ultraviolet spectrums. |
| US08650793B1 |
Gun rail article
A gun rail accessory comprising housing having a bottom side with vertically extending exterior walls to a top side image area with said bottom side having a channel extending between opposing walls and wherein at least one housing side wall has a pair of spaced fasteners movable to engage channel resident flexible locking tabs thereby enabling the anchoring of the accessory to the gun rail. |
| US08650791B2 |
Multi-purpose tool
Embodiments of the present invention comprise a tool that can be configured for use as the grip of a firearm. In one embodiment, the tool comprises a handle part and a tooling part coupled to the handle part. The tooling part can be configured to receive one or more end effectors. The handle part can comprise one or more elongated sections on which are disposed a handle body, where in one construction the elongated sections are interleaved in a manner that permits the handle body to move amongst a plurality of working configurations. |
| US08650786B2 |
Connecting devices displaying indicia
Various embodiments are directed to connecting devices that display indicia. A first device displays indicia and affixes to a surface of an object. A second device removable connects to the first device and also displays indicia. The second device is removable from the first device to change which indicia are displayed on the object. |
| US08650785B1 |
Sign holder assembly and associated methods
A sign holder assembly includes a front enclosure and a rear cover. The front enclosure includes a front plate, two opposing sidewalls, a top wall, and a bottom wall collectively defining a cavity. The front plate defines a front opening. The rear cover includes a rear panel, a top panel, a bottom panel, and a top rail. The top rail extends downwardly from the top panel toward the bottom panel to at least partially define a first top channel configured to slidably maintain an enlarged portion of a sign such that the sign hangs downwardly from the first top channel and extends across the front opening. The rear cover selectively transitions with respect to the front enclosure between a closed configuration and an open configuration. |
| US08650783B2 |
Road sign apparatus
A road sign mounting apparatus for displaying a road sign attached to a mounting bracket. The road sign mounting apparatus is adapted for being carried by a circular base having an open interior and a rim, and an upper profile and lower profile. The road sign mounting apparatus comprises a body and a plurality of legs carried by and extending outward from the body. Each of the plurality of legs is intended for being carried by the circular base. A road sign support is pivotally carried by the body and has a first position wherein the road sign support is carried beneath the upper profile of the circular base when carried by the circular base and a second position wherein the road sign support extends in a general vertical direction intersecting the plane defined by the upper profile of the circular base. The road sign support includes a locking mechanism for locking the road sign support in the second position. The road sign mounting apparatus may be carried by a tire having reflective surface. |
| US08650779B1 |
Gift card holder for a floral arrangement
A transaction card holder for holding a transaction card to an elongate structure, such as a flower stem associated with a floral arrangement. The transaction card holder includes a pocket for holding the transaction card and a clip projecting from the holder to engage the elongate structure. A transaction card holder assembly includes a transaction card holder secured to a backer for displaying the holder at a point of sale. |
| US08650776B2 |
Channeled sole for an article of footwear
A sole structure for an article of footwear is provided. The sole structure extends longitudinally from a back edge to a front edge of the article of footwear and transversely from a medial side to a lateral side of the article of footwear. The sole structure includes an outsole having a ground-contacting layer. A first rib projects upward from the ground-contacting layer. The rib has side walls and an end wall. A channel is defined by the side walls and end wall. The channel opens downward through the ground-contacting layer and has a depth extending above the ground-contacting layer. The rib may have a multi-stage vertical stiffness profile. The sole structure may include a midsole attached to the outsole. An article of footwear having the sole structure attached to an upper is also provided. |
| US08650775B2 |
Article of footwear having a sole structure with perimeter and central elements
A sole structure for an article of footwear may include a perimeter element and a central element, which may be fluid-filled chambers. The perimeter element extends adjacent to a sidewall of the sole structure, and the central element is centrally-positioned. A gap may extend between the central element and the perimeter element. The gap may have an upper portion and a lower portion, with the upper portion being located closer to the sidewall than the lower portion. The perimeter element may also have a first compressibility and the central element may have a second compressibility, with the first compressibility being less than the second compressibility. Also, the upper surface of the perimeter element may be at a greater elevation or higher than an upper surface of the central element. |
| US08650773B2 |
Drying basket and fastening device for fastening a drying basket on a clothes dryer
A drying basket for a clothes dryer, comprising a longitudinal support and a wire basket fastened thereto. A connecting device is integrally configured on the longitudinal support and can be engaged with an opening provided on the clothes dryer. For this purpose, an opening is provided on the clothes dryer in a section of the clothes dryer housing, with which the connecting device of a drying basket can be engaged. |
| US08650772B2 |
Laundry machine and control method thereof
The present invention relates to a laundry machine that can prevent as well as remove wrinkles of laundry. A laundry machine includes a drum rotatable in a cabinet; a hot air heater to supply hot air to the drum by heating air; a steam generator to supply steam to the drum; a sensor to sense a laundry amount inside the drum; and a controller to control an amount of steam supplied to the drum based on sensing results of the sensor. In another aspect of the present invention, a controlling method of a laundry machine includes sensing a laundry amount inside a drum and drying the laundry by supplying hot air to the drum. In the drying of the laundry by supplying hot air to the drum, an amount of hot air is adjusted based on the laundry amount sensed in the sensing of the laundry amount inside the drum. |
| US08650768B2 |
Testing device for planeness
A testing device for testing whether planeness of top and bottom surfaces of an object is within an allowable range includes a rack, a motion mechanism, a transmission mechanism, a control mechanism, a testing mechanism, and a display. The motion mechanism is slidably connected to the rack and supporting the object. The transmission mechanism is fastened to the rack and the motion mechanism. The testing mechanism includes two separated rows of sensors. The object extends through the testing mechanism, between the rows of sensors. The sensors above the object measure distances between the sensors and corresponding dots of a top surface of the object. The sensors below the object measure distances between the sensors and corresponding dots of a bottom surface of the object. The sensors send signals about the distances to the control mechanism. |
| US08650765B2 |
Alignment tool and method of checking wheel alignment
An alignment tool and method is disclosed for use in aligning wheels of trucks and truck trailers. The tool includes at least one self-leveling laser for checking wheel alignment. The self-leveling laser includes a body, an attachment member and a laser. The attachment member secures the alignment tool to the vehicle or trailer and the alignment tool provides for self-leveling to enable a user to make various predetermined measurements from the laser marking “+” when aligning the wheels of the vehicle or trailer. The alignment tool also may include a fifth wheel adapter for attaching the alignment tool to a fifth wheel pin of a truck trailer when checking the alignment of a truck trailer. |
| US08650759B2 |
Metal demolition shears with indexable, integrated wear plate/piercing tip
The invention features an indexable wear plate/piercing tip insert that is configured to be removably and repositionably attached to the front, nose portion of the upper, movable jaw of a metal demolition shears. The insert functions as both a wear plate and a piercing tip and is indexable in that a non-worn or less worn portion of the wear surface of the wear plate portion of the insert, and non-worn shearing and piercing edges of the piercing tip portion of the insert, can be presented simultaneously simply by rotating the insert 180° and reattaching it to the nose portion of the upper, movable jaw of a metal demolition shears. |
| US08650754B2 |
Method for manufacturing impeller
A method for manufacturing an impeller includes providing a disc and a cover separate from the disc, one of the cover and the disc having integrally formed blades and the other one of cover and the disc having a first joint surface, joining the disc and the cover to each other by brazing in a state in which a first brazing filler metal is interposed between the first joint surface and a second joint surface provided on the blades, and during the joining operation, maintaining a space between the first joint surface and the second joint surface by providing a spacer on an outer periphery side of the impeller. The thickness of the spacer is smaller than the thickness of the first brazing filler metal before melting. The spacer is formed integrally with the blade or is formed integrally with said other one of the cover and the disc. |
| US08650751B2 |
Methods of making small volume in vitro analyte sensors
A sensor utilizing a non-leachable or diffusible redox mediator is described. The sensor includes a sample chamber to hold a sample in electrolytic contact with a working electrode, and in at least some instances, the sensor also contains a non-leachable or a diffusible second electron transfer agent. The sensor and/or the methods used produce a sensor signal in response to the analyte that can be distinguished from a background signal caused by the mediator. The invention can be used to determine the concentration of a biomolecule, such as glucose or lactate, in a biological fluid, such as blood or serum, using techniques such as coulometry, amperometry; and potentiometry. An enzyme capable of catalyzing the electrooxidation or electroreduction of the biomolecule is typically provided as a second electron transfer agent. |
| US08650750B2 |
Process for assembling a data cable connector module
A data cable connector module with a fixation element for the positioning and fixation of the cable conductors of a multi core cable, conductor receiving units for bent IDCs, IDC receiving units for fixation of connected IDCs; a centric metallic shield star electrically conductively connected with a fixation element housing; and a contact module with a contact module metal housing, an isolation socket for the reception of bent slide circuit board contacts; at least one circuit board, a front connector face; and a fixation element connector face with at least one end isolator block guided plug-in contacts, the fixation element and the contact module being developed so that they can be brought into contact with the IDCs, causing the cable conductors of the fixation element to be electrically conductively connected with the slide contacts of the contact module; and a process for the assembly of the module to a cable. |
| US08650745B2 |
Thermal processing and consolidation system and method
A thermal processing and consolidation system is provided that includes an upper chamber assembly lower chamber assembly, layup and demolding station, transfer assembly, automatic or permanent coupling system, and controller. The upper and lower chamber assemblies are coupled to form an enclosed plenum operable to maintain a pressurized environment about a tool. The layup and demolding station receives the tool and facilitates the layup, bagging and sealing of unprocessed components at the tool. A transfer assembly accurately positions the tool on the lower chamber assembly in alignment with the upper chamber assembly. An automatic or permanent coupling system provides services to the tool and the enclosed plenum. A controller directs services to be supplied to the enclosed plenum and tool in accordance with a set of process parameters. This set of process parameters allows an individual set of unprocessed components to be thermally processed and consolidated. |
| US08650744B2 |
Technique for reducing wasted material on a printed circuit board panel
A process for assembling a rigid-flex printed circuit board (PCB) is presented. During operation, the process receives rigid-flex PCBs that are to be coupled together, wherein a rigid-flex PCB includes flexible PCBs coupled to rigid PCBs. The process then places the PCBs onto a carrier which is configured to: align the PCBs so that bond regions located on the flexible PCBs overlap with bond regions located on corresponding flexible PCBs, and apply pressure to the overlapped bond regions. The process then sends the carrier through a reflow oven which reflows solder on the PCBs so that the components become mechanically and electrically coupled to the PCBs. The temperature profile generated by the reflow oven and the pressure applied by the carrier cures and sets an anisotropic conductive film located in the bond regions so that the overlapped flexible PCBs become mechanically and electrically coupled together. |
| US08650742B2 |
Process for preparing and crosslinking a cable comprising a polymer composition and a crosslinked cable
The application relates to a process for preparing a crosslinked cable, including: —applying one or more layers including a polymer composition on a conductor, wherein at least one layer includes one or more free radical generating agents, —crosslinking by radical reaction said at least one layer including said free radical generating agent(s), —cooling the obtained crosslinked cable in pressurized conditions, and —reducing or removing the content of volatile decomposition products(s), which are originating from optionally in elevated temperature, from the crosslinked cable obtained from cooling and recovery step. |
| US08650738B2 |
Method for inserting springs into a groove
The invention relates to a method for inserting a spring (3) into a longitudinal-side or head-side groove (4) of element panels (5) which can be laid in combination, wherein the element panels (5) can be locked together by means of a movement of the spring (3) relative to the element panels (5), having the following steps: a) providing springs (3) on a supply belt (6), wherein the springs (3) are releasably connected to the supply belt (6); b) detaching the springs (3) from the supply belt (6); c) moving the springs (3) into the groove (4) of a provided element panel (5). |
| US08650730B2 |
Clinching tool
A clinching tool is provided. A further aspect of the present application locates an anvil and/or movable die members closer to one lateral outside surface of a die body than the opposite lateral outside surface. In another aspect, an offset clinch die and pneumatic tool are employed. Another aspect includes a die body having an anvil and two linearly movable die members which essentially surround a lateral outside surface of the anvil when in inward positions. |
| US08650729B2 |
Blade position registering apparatus
A carriage is moved in a direction including a Y axis component in order to move a turning process tool that is attached to a tool spindle along a horizontal line that is perpendicular to a Z axis, and thus, a turning process is carried out on a workpiece which is attached to a workpiece spindle. |
| US08650728B2 |
Method of assembling a transducer for a surgical instrument
In one general aspect, various embodiments are directed to an ultrasonic surgical instrument that comprises a transducer configured to produce a standing wave of vibrations along a longitudinal axis having a node and an anti-node at a predetermined frequency. In various embodiments, an ultrasonic blade extends along the longitudinal axis and is coupled to the transducer. In various embodiments, the ultrasonic blade includes a body having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal end is movable relative to the longitudinal axis by the vibrations produced by the transducer. In one general aspect, various embodiments are directed to a method of assembling the transducer for the ultrasonic surgical instrument. In various embodiments, the method comprises selecting piezoelectric elements and arranging the piezoelectric elements relative to the node to minimize the difference in magnitude between the currents drawn by the piezoelectric elements. |
| US08650727B2 |
Process for producing cleaning sheet
A laminate (6) is prepared by superposing a fibrous web (1a), (1b) containing fibers comprising polyethylene terephthalate on one side or both sides of a net-form sheet (4); water needling the fibrous web (1a), (1b) to entangle the fibers of the fibrous web (1a), (1b) with each other, and also to entangle the fibers of the fibrous web (1a), (1b) with the net-form sheet (4); and then, blowing hot air having a temperature above the glass transition temperature (Tg (° C.)) of the polyethylene terephthalate and below “Tg (° C.)+70° C.” to the laminate (6) by through-air technique. Preferably, after preparing the laminate (6) by entangling the fibers of the fibrous web(s) (1a), (1b) with the net-form sheet (4), the laminate (6) is dried with hot air; and then hot air is blown to the laminate (6) by through-air technique. |
| US08650725B1 |
System and method for securing a flexible panel
A system and method are provided for constructing an intermediate securement point for a flexible panel. A stopper unit having at least one retention portion disposed over an engagement portion is provided with the retention portion extending radially beyond the engagement portion. A clip unit detachably coupled to the stopper unit to capture the flexible panel therebetween includes a collar portion defining an engagement channel configured to receive the engagement portion of the stopper unit. The collar portion terminates at first and second opposed ends spaced across a mouth of the engagement channel. An intermediate portion of the flexible panel may then be wrapped over the retention portion of the stopper unit to be gathered and releasably captured about the engagement portion by the clip unit coupled thereto. A flexible tie member may be coupled to the clip unit for releasably anchoring the clip unit to a support fixture. |
| US08650719B2 |
Hose clamp with flat spring liner
An improved hose clamp having an annular band having an inner face, tensioning means, and an annular spring liner; the spring liner having a circumferential shoulder near an edge of the liner; and a central, cylindrical, flat, contact portion of smaller circumference than the shoulder, and of smaller width than the inner face of the band. The shoulder is adapted to abut the inner face and the contact portion is adapted to contact a hose or other article to be clamped. |
| US08650714B2 |
Hinge for connecting a leaf to a frame so as to be hinged about a hinge axis
A hinge plate includes a frame hinge plate part comprising a frame fastening part and a frame hinge part. A leaf/sash hinge plate part comprises a leaf/sash fastening part and a leaf/sash hinge part. A primary coil is disposed in the frame hinge part and a secondary coil is disposed in the leaf/sash hinge part, each coil being configured to surround a hinge plate pin. The primary coil extends at least almost up to an end face of the frame hinge part facing the leaf/sash hinge part. The secondary coil extends at least almost up to an end face of the leaf/sash hinge part facing the frame hinge part. A hinge plate pin sleeve comprising a ferrite material is disposed between the hinge plate pin and the primary and secondary coils, and extends approximately over a length of the hinge plate pin surrounded by the primary and secondary coils. |
| US08650713B2 |
Fully concealed hinge with integrated closing device for doors and/or openable furniture parts
In a fully concealed hinge (1), a connecting device (2) joins a first and a second fastening member (1a;1b) allowing their relative mobility between open and closed position. An arm element (20) of the connecting device (2), hinged on a pin (3) of the first fastening member (1a), has at different positions along said pin (3) a first (5) and a second (6) cam element having corresponding active portions (52, 62) interacting with a first and a second tappet (50, 60) of the first fastening member (1a) in respective, at least partly not superposed, angular fields of rotation of the arm element (20). First and second elastic means (51, 61), biasing the first and second tappet (50,60) respectively, are loaded by increasing the angle of rotation in the first or second angular field, respectively, and released by decreasing said angle of rotation, thereby causing movement towards the closed position. |
| US08650710B1 |
Caster wheel lift and brake assembly
A caster wheel assembly includes a vertical axis brake and barrier-traversing member. The caster shaft housing contains a vertically movable element with stator surface adjacent the caster wheel assembly. The barrier-traversing member with barrier contact surface is fastened to the caster wheel assembly. A braking surface member is attached to the barrier-traversing member opposite the barrier contact surface and adjacent the stator surface. In operation, the moving caster wheel assembly first contacts an obstacle with the barrier contact surface of the barrier-traversing member. The obstacle elevates the barrier-traversing member and attached braking surface member into contact with the vertically movable element of the stator surface of the caster shaft housing, thereby restraining rotation of the caster wheel assembly. Further forward movement of the rotation-restrained caster wheel assembly allows the barrier-traversing member to elevate the caster wheel, transfer load to the caster wheel, and thereby more easily traverse the obstacle. |
| US08650706B2 |
Corded hose and dust collector
A hose equipped with a cord, wherein the hose and the cord can be easily assembled together and easily maintained. A cord-equipped hose, wherein opposite ends of a flexible hose are respectively provided with tube holders each constructed from a pair of half tubes. The tube holders each sandwich an end of the flexible hose with the pair of half tubes joined together and each form, between the joined ends of the half tubes, a lead-out opening for an electric power source cord. Opposite ends of the electric power source cord in the flexible hose are respectively led out of the lead-out openings of the tube holders and held in position. |
| US08650703B2 |
Cleaning apparatus
A cleaning apparatus including a main body, a dust collection unit detachably installed on the main body and provided with a plurality of inlets, through which foreign substances are introduced into the dust collection unit, and a connection hole, to which an external instrument is connected, a shutter to open and close one inlet, and a cap to open and close the connection hole. The shutter opens and closes the inlet in cooperation with one of whether or not the dust collection unit is attached to or detached from the main body and whether or not the connection hole is opened or closed. |
| US08650700B1 |
Leaf blower wheel attachment
A leaf blower wheel attachment that is connected to a canister suction attachment that is part of a typical leaf blower. The bottom end of the canister suction attachment is placed into each of two U-shaped attachment members. A pair of wheels are utilized, with each wheel being associated with one of the U-shaped attachment members. Each wheel has an associated wheel axle centrally disposed though a horizontal axis thereof, with each wheel axle operationally engaging the outer wall of each elongated U-shaped attachment members to secure the associated wheel to the canister. The canister suction attachment can then be dragged across a ground surface while in use instead of being carried. |
| US08650698B2 |
Cleaning appliance
The invention relates to a cleaning appliance (1) including a wiper plate (2) having a central region (3) from which a plurality of arms (4) extend on both sides. The wiper plate (2) includes a cleaning side (5) to which a cleaning cloth (6) can be fixed. The cleaning cloth is placed on the floor to be cleaned, with a flat surface in the section associated with the central region (3), and essentially linearly in the sections associated with the arms (4). |
| US08650695B2 |
Pipeline cleaning pig with self-energizing diagonally oriented scrapers
The present invention is a pipeline pig for cleaning the interior of a pipeline, the pipeline pig having a longitudinal pig body with forward and rearward elastomeric propulsion members affixed to and supporting the pig body substantially concentrically in a pipeline, the propulsion members functioning to move the pig body through a pipeline by the force of fluid flow and a plurality of spaced apart elastomeric diagonally oriented scrapers radially extending from the pig body, each scraper member having a semi-circular outer peripheral edge configured and dimensioned to engage the interior wall of a pipeline to thereby scrape and clean the interior pipeline wall as the pig is moved through the pipeline and provide additional support for the pig substantially concentrically in a pipeline. Orientation of the scraper enhances scraping effectiveness by slicing through any debris buildup, separating the debris from the inner pipe wall so that it can be pushed out of the pipeline by the pig discs or cups. |
| US08650689B2 |
Method for controlling foam formation in a household washing machine
A household washing machine that includes a foam-promoting agent dispenser that adds a predetermined amount of a foam-promoting agent during a washing cycle, and a foam-inhibiting agent dispenser that adds a predetermined amount of a foam-inhibiting agent before the end of a rinsing cycle. |
| US08650688B1 |
Crimper tool for beadwork
The present invention relates to crimpers and shears used in the jewelry making industry. The invention includes a new and improved set of tools for crimping multiple sleeve sizes used in the making of necklaces, bracelets, and the like. One embodiment provides a single tool that is operable for crimping bead sleeves of one or more sizes. Another embodiment combines both crimping and shearing functions in a single tool. |
| US08650687B2 |
Long life compressed cushion and/or mattress with cover
A method for reducing a cushion footprint for long-term storage may include inserting a foam core into a plastic cover, subsequently applying a vacuum to the plastic cover, and, while under the vacuum effect, sealing the plastic cover, and its contents. A device providing the vacuum effect may include a surface having protruding sections connected to non-protruding sections via tapered sections. A cushion may include an at least 20 density high resiliency foam core, and a fabric cover that includes (a) a combination of polyester and spandex and/or lycra, (b) nylon to which a thin water resistant material coating is applied, and/or (c) polyester fabric including raised anti-slip polyvinyl chloride dots, other portions of the polyester fabric at which the dots are not positioned having applied thereto a polyvinyl chloride coating. The device may compress the foam core while housed in a fabric cover, housed in the plastic cover. |
| US08650685B1 |
Supportive baby blanket
A supportive baby blanket is provided. The supportive baby blanket includes a square shaped blanket, a support board, and a sleeve. The blanket is folded at one corner to form a pocket. The support board is made from a firm material that is shaped to fit within the pocket of the blanket. The sleeve is shaped to conformably surround the support board prior to insertion into the pocket. |
| US08650670B2 |
Air blasting devices for plumbing purposes to clean, clear, unclog, or unstop drains or pipes
An improved plunger comprises a generally V-shaped handle attached to a top distal end of a shaft. The handle comprises two mirrored arms that face inwards from a base so that neither of them nor the shaft shares a vertical or a horizontal plane. The handle is removably detachable from the plunger so that it can be washed, disinfected, and sanitized. At least one extension shaft portion extends a height of the shaft when it is not collapsed into and housed in the hollow shaft. A snaking attachments formed of a linearly aligned, spiral wound coil has an attachment end attachable to said dislodging protrusion. |
| US08656507B2 |
Apparatus, system and computer readable medium for transmitting electronic information in response to a determination that changed access right information satifies a stored condition
An information management apparatus includes: a registration unit, a condition storage, a determination unit, a transmission unit and a deletion unit. The registration unit registers electronic information in association with access right information representing whether a user has an access right. The condition storage stores a condition for prohibiting an access to the electronic information registered by the registration unit on the basis of an administrator's right for the apparatus. The determination unit determines whether the changed access right information satisfies the condition stored in the condition storage. The transmission unit transmits the electronic information to a transmission destination in a case where the determination unit determines that the access right information of the electronic information satisfies the condition. The deletion unit deletes the electronic information stored in a transmission source after the electronic information is transmitted by the transmission unit. |
| US08656505B1 |
Compliance validator for restricted network access control
A method, system, and computer program product for detecting and enforcing compliance with access requirements for a computer system in a restricted computer network. A compliance validation configuration file is created for the computer system. A maintenance service utility is configured to launch a compliance validation executable file at a specified time during operation of the computer system. A digital hash is generated for the compliance validation executable file and for the compliance validation configuration file. A determination is made if the computer system or a computer system user is a member of a configured restricted group. If the computer system or the computer system user is a member of a configured restricted group, a determination is made if a directory site code for a subnet of the restricted computer network to which the computer system is connected corresponds to a configured and allowed site. If the directory site code does not correspond to a configured and allowed site, compliance with access requirements are enforced. Enforcement actions can include a forced logoff of the computer system user, and/or a forced shutdown of the computer system. |
| US08656503B2 |
Security language translations with logic resolution
Security language constructs may be translated into logic language constructs and vise versa. Logic resolution may be effected using, for example, the logic language constructs. In an example implementation, translation of a security language assertion into at least one logic language rule is described. In another example implementation, translation of a proof graph reflecting a logic language into a proof graph reflecting a security language is described. In yet another example implementation, evaluation of a logic language program using a deterministic algorithm is described. |
| US08656502B2 |
Controlling use of a computer program installed on a computer
A product update is used to add a licensing control mechanism to an installed computer program. The computer program is preferably a malware scanner or other program which requires regular product updating in order to remain effective in its normal functionality. |
| US08656500B2 |
Method and device for controlling user dialog on technical equipment
A method and a device for controlling user dialogues on a technical installation that is to be controlled or to be maintained, for example, a cash dispenser or a deposit refund device. According to said method or said device, a calculating unit evaluates the data relating to the state of the technical installation and in accordance with said data, emits at least one visual request consisting of textual and/or pictorial instructions (INSTR, CHK) for a user who controls the technical installation. The method processes the data using a directed graph (GRPH) comprising nodes (1000, . . . , 1300 . . . ) and edges (INSTR; CHK) connecting the nodes. Said nodes relate to different maintenance conditions of the installation, and the edges relate to the instructions (INSTR; CHK) for the user for transferring the installation from one of the nodes to another node. |
| US08656499B1 |
Client-side bit-stripping system and method
Bit-stripping methods are described for protecting digital media content against illicit recording and sharing. In one such method, a client device receives the media content and performs bit stripping on the received media content, thereby creating two datasets: stripped data and recombination data. The client device then recombines the datasets to reconstitute the media content, and it plays back the media content. Preferably, the media content on the client device is not available to recording software, and either the stripped data or the recombination data is also unavailable to such software. The client device may store one of these datasets; when future playback is desired, the client device requests the other of the datasets from a server. The bit-stripping may be performed in a client-specific way to discourage sharing of datasets. |
| US08656493B2 |
Decoy network technology with automatic signature generation for intrusion detection and intrusion prevention systems
Improved methods and systems for decoy networks with automatic signature generation for intrusion detection and intrusion prevention systems. A modular decoy network with front-end monitor/intercept module(s) with a processing back-end that is separate from the protected network. The front-end presents a standard fully functional operating system that is a decoy so that the instigator of an attack is lead to believe a connection has been made to the protected network. The front-end includes a hidden sentinel kernal driver that monitors connections to the system and captures attack-identifying information. The captured information is sent to the processing module for report generation, data analysis and generation of an attack signature. The generated attack signature can then be applied to the library of signatures of the intrusion detection system or intrusion prevention system of the protected network to defend against network based attacks including zero-day attacks. |
| US08656490B1 |
Safe and secure access to dynamic domain name systems
A method and apparatus for safe and secure access to dynamic domain name systems. In one embodiment a method comprises transmitting a DNS query to a dynamic DNS server. The DNS query comprises a domain name. A DNS answer is received from the dynamic DNS server in response to transmitting the DNS query. The DNS answer comprises an IP address. A request is transmitted to a host at the IP address in response to receiving the DNS answer. A digital certificate is received in response to transmitting the request. The received digital certificate is then compared with each of a plurality of digital certificates stored in memory. The IP address is transmitted to a client computer system if the received digital certificate compares equally with one of the plurality of digital certificates. |
| US08656488B2 |
Method and apparatus for securing a computer network by multi-layer protocol scanning
In one embodiment, a network security appliance includes a logic circuit, a network processing unit, and a general purpose processor to protect a computer network from malicious codes, unauthorized data packets, and other network security threats. The logic circuit may include one or more programmable logic devices configured to scan incoming data packets at different layers of a multi-layer protocol, such as the OSI-seven layer model. The network processing unit may work in conjunction with the logic circuit to perform protocol parsing, to form higher layer data units from the data packets, and other network communications-related tasks. The general purpose processor may execute software for performing functions not available from the logic circuit or the network processing unit. For example, the general purpose processor may remove malicious code from infected data or perform malicious code scanning on data when the logic circuit is not configured to do so. |
| US08656485B2 |
Projection display device and method for controlling projection display device
A projection display device that operates, in case that the second authentication information which is input does not match the first authentication information which is stored, operates in the second operation mode in which the projection display device projects in a state that an operation to change the environmental setting information is disabled to be received. |
| US08656481B2 |
System and method for IPSec link configuration
A method for configuring Internet Protocol Security (IPsec) protocol. The method includes configuring IPsec phase 1 Security Associations (SA) lifetimes and soft phase 2 SA lifetimes in a manner enabling efficient Dead Peer Detection recovery of secure communication between client and server in the event of a communication disruption and thereby preventing undesirable sustained periods of non-communication between client and server. |
| US08656480B2 |
Method for negotiating security-related functions of subscriber station in wireless portable internet system
The present invention relates to a subscriber station security-related parameter negotiation method in a wireless portable Internet system. The subscriber station security-related parameter negotiation method includes security-related parameters in transmitting/receiving basic capability negotiation request messages and basic capability negotiation response messages such that the subscriber station and the base station negotiate the subscriber station security-related parameters. The security-related parameters include an authorization policy support subfield used to negotiate an authorization policy between the subscriber station and the base station, and message authentication code mode subfields used to negotiate a message authentication code mode. The base station can inform the subscriber station that authentication or message authentication is not performed and is omitted according to a service provider policy by writing it on the authorization policy support subfield or message authentication code mode subfield. In addition, the subscriber station and the base station can select an authorization policy formed with at least one combination through the authorization policy support subfield of the security negotiation parameters. According to the present invention, the service provider of the wireless portable Internet system can more efficiently and flexibly manage the system by providing a scheme for omitting an authentication function and a message authentication function as well as for supporting various authorization policies and message authentication functions. |
| US08656479B2 |
Policy-based content filtering
Methods and systems for processing application-level content of network service protocols are described. According to one embodiment, a network connection is redirected by a networking subsystem implemented within a kernel of an operating system of a firewall device to a proxy module within the firewall device that is configured to support a network service protocol associated with the network connection. The proxy module retrieves one or more content processing configuration schemes associated with a matching firewall policy for the network service protocol and the network connection. The content processing configuration schemes each include multiple content processing configuration settings for each of one or more network service protocols. Application-level content of a packet stream associated with the network connection is then processed by the proxy module reassembling the application-level content from multiple packets of the packet stream and scanning the application-level content based on the retrieved content processing configuration schemes. |
| US08656478B1 |
String based detection of proxy communications
Systems, methods and apparatus for a distributed security system that detects proxied resource requests. The system can search data communications, such as HTTP requests and responses, for proxy strings that are indicative of a string pattern associated with corresponding proxy software. Security operations can be initiated for each data communication that includes a proxy string. The security operations can block the data communication, modify the data communication, and/or generate security notifications for system administrators. |
| US08656477B2 |
Server system, communication method, computer, program and recording medium
Establishment of communication between client apparatuses and an arithmetic function unit is performed based on communication information acquired by communication using HTTP between the client apparatuses and the arithmetic function unit through a firewall function unit, where the client apparatuses download encrypted contents data from the arithmetic function unit by P2P without passing a firewall. |
| US08656476B2 |
Providing notification of spam avatars
The system monitors activities, movements, and other behavior patterns necessary to determine whether an avatar is a spam advertisement. A storing mechanism stores a “black list” and a black list score consisting of a list of spam avatar identifications (UUIDs) matching avatars that have been flagged as confirmed or suspected spam advertisers. Another mechanism allows the owner to redraw or otherwise re-render a distinguishing mark or other audible signature when an avatar has been detected as being a spam advertiser. Yet another mechanism signals to the owner an offending avatar that they have been added to the black list or had a report filed against them, and a reason as to why (the methods used to identify them). Another mechanism allows for a black listed avatar to be removed from the black list, and scores to be decreased and for the virtual universe and users to utilize the black list and score. |
| US08656475B2 |
Method and system for controlling access for mobile agents in home network environments
Disclosed is a method and system for controlling access for a mobile agent in a home network environment. The method includes the steps of: issuing a role ticket to the mobile agent; verifying access authority to service requested by the mobile agent through the role ticket; and granting the mobile agent access authority to the service. Accordingly, a table for managing access authority of a user is distributed to devices, so that it is possible to provide the mobile agent access control method and system capable of minimizing network traffic in the home network environment. |
| US08656467B1 |
Security architecture
A device for communicating with other devices to allow them to access applications, comprises: at least a first application; authentication means for authenticating a communicating device; and access control means accessible by a communicating device requesting access to the first application without the communicating device having been authenticated by the authentication means. The device is further arranged to arbitrate whether access of the communicating device to the first application is granted or refused wherein if the arbitration requires an authentication of the communicating device, the access control means instructs the authentication means to authenticate the communicating device. |
| US08656463B2 |
Determining a trust level of a user in a social network environment
A system and method for determining a trust level for a non-approved user in a social network is described. The method includes monitoring requests for social network interactions between an approved user and the non-approved user and determining if each interaction requested is of a first type or a second type. The method further includes increasing a first trust value when the interaction requested is of the first type and increasing a second trust value when the interaction requested is of the second type. The method further includes determining the trust level based on the first trust value and the second trust value. The method further includes changing the status of the non-approved user to an approved user based on the trust level, the first trust value and/or the second trust value. |
| US08656456B2 |
Privacy preferences management system
The disclosed invention resides in a system and method for managing and maintaining an internet user's privacy directives without the necessity to rely on one or more cookies to be retained by a user's browser. |
| US08656455B1 |
Managing data loss prevention policies
A method is used in managing data loss prevention policies. A device having data loss prevention (DLP) logic based on policies is provided. An attempt to perform an action that is prohibited by the DLP logic is performed at the device. An override code to allow performance of the action is determined at the device. |
| US08656448B2 |
Providing policy-based application services to an application running on a computing system
Methods, apparatus, products are disclosed for providing policy-based application services to an application running on a computing system. The computing system includes at least one compute node. The compute node includes an application and a plurality of application services of a service type. Providing policy-based application services to an application running on a computing system includes establishing, on the compute node, a service policy specifying one of the application services of the service type for use by the application, establishing a performance ruleset, the performance ruleset specifying rules for analyzing the performance of the computing system, measuring performance of the computing system, and adjusting the service policy in dependence upon the performance ruleset and the measured performance. Providing policy-based application services to an application running on a computing system may also include accessing, by the application, the specified application service. |
| US08656442B1 |
Efficient video delivery
Efficient video delivery is disclosed. In some embodiments, at least a part of a video stream received from a video source is converted to a dividable video format file. The dividable video format file is split into a sequence of small files, and one or more of the sequence of small files is published. |
| US08656434B2 |
Remote controller, transmitting and receiving apparatus and method
In a system, tabulated information on broadcasting programs is supplied through a network. When a user selects information on a desired program from the tabulated information of programs, supplemental information attached to the individual program information is converted into an remote control signal to remote-control a user's receiver to receive the desired program. |
| US08656432B2 |
Providing audio signals using a network back-channel
A method for providing audio portions of broadcast television signals is disclosed. A television signal is buffered by a multimedia client. In response to a user request, audio data may be obtained from a service provider and sent back to the multimedia client using a network back-channel. The obtained audio data may be synchronized with a video portion of the television signal and output to an audio device, while the television signal is output to a display device. |
| US08656430B2 |
Processing system with electronic program guide authoring and methods for use therewith
A processing system includes a memory module that stores an electronic program guide (EPG) authoring application. A processing module executes the EPG authoring application including a graphical user interface that responds to input from an end user. The EPG authoring application creates EPG configuration data to configure an EPG application of a client device associated with the end user. |
| US08656428B2 |
Apparatus, system and method for audio-visual content viewing using advertisement credit
An alternative system and method for charging to provide audio visual services typically made available by providers, namely DVR services, rDVR services, on-demand services, broadcast and switch video television services, and pay-per-view services, for example. A customer/user may be enabled to access certain services from a provider in exchange for viewing one or more commercials, advertisements, overlays, watermarks, logos, or the like, preferably in real time, before, during, or following viewing an audio visual work provided in accordance with the services. |
| US08656427B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing personalized supplemental programming
A method and apparatus for providing personalized supplemental programming is provided. In one embodiment, the invention can include searching text for a keyword, the text associated with primary programming to be provided to an element of an entertainment system, accessing a database upon finding the keyword, retrieving content associated with the keyword from the database, combining the retrieved content with the primary programming to generate combined programming, and providing the combined programming to the element of the entertainment system. |
| US08656426B2 |
Advertisement selection
An end-user rendering system including an advertisement database to receive advertisements, and store the advertisements therein, a state database to store information, a decision model optimization module to receive a tree-type decision model and optimize the tree-type decision model based on at least some of the information stored in the state database, an advertisement decision module to evaluate the optimized tree-type decision model and select an advertising campaign, the selected advertising campaign having at least one advertisement, and a rendering module to render the at least one advertisement of the selected advertising campaign. Related apparatus and methods are also described. |
| US08656425B2 |
Method for creating a personalized subscriber channel and video processing device for use therewith
Media content is received from at least one external device that is coupled to a video processing device. Subscriber channel content is generated based on the media content. The subscriber channel content is transferred to a video distribution network to produce a personalized subscriber channel. |
| US08656424B2 |
Distributed TV access system
Distributed navigation of broadcast signals is provided through an on-line application connected through a second network connection. A customer receives the broadcast signals through a first network connection, and navigates the broadcast TV content through an on-line application by a browser connected through a second network connection. The present on-line application provides flexible and re-configurable content services, which will need to be customized once for each service provider, but will render consistently on a variety of PC and non-PC client devices. Further, the present on-line application can provide targeted advertising by maintaining an advertising profile for each viewer, determined in part by recording data about the navigating of the content of the broadcast signals, and by recording a plurality of selections of the viewer transmitted to the on-line application. The on-line capability further provides ease for roaming access. |
| US08656421B2 |
System and method for controlling a network
A system and method for controlling network bandwidth that uses a timer to monitor the length of time that a set top box is set to a channel and, in response to the timer reaching a time limit, requesting a response from a user to verify that the channel is still being watched. If a response is not received with a specified time duration, the signal for the IPTV channel may be disconnected. The system may be configured to include “thin client” middleware on a network server or “thick client” middleware on a set top box, for example, to operate in conjunction with a network server. |
| US08656415B2 |
Method and system for removal of clicks and noise in a redirected audio stream
There is provided a method for use in a computer for redirecting an audio stream from a first audio endpoint to a second audio endpoint in the computer having a controller and a computer operating system for execution by the controller. The method includes directing the audio stream from a client application running on the computer operating system through a first audio resource stack of the computer to the first audio endpoint. The method further includes creating an audio endpoint bridge using the computer operating system, where the audio endpoint bridge provides a path for the audio stream to be directed from the first audio resource stack to pass through a second audio resource stack to the second audio endpoint. The method may also enhance the audio stream to reduce noise and redirect the audio stream to the second audio endpoint using the audio endpoint bridge. |
| US08656414B1 |
Function execution framework describe functionality
A framework can provide describe definitions for use cases. The framework can comprise a controller layer, a wrapper layer, and a function layer. The controller layer can be configured to receive describe requests and return describe results. The wrapper layer can be configured to call describe methods of functions that implement the use cases. The function layer can comprise functions that implement the use cases. A function execution request can be received, a customized function execution sequence can be determined for the function execution request, the customized function execution sequence can be executed, and results of the execution can be returned. The customized function execution sequence can comprise an indication of execution order for a plurality of functions. |
| US08656410B1 |
Conversion of lightweight object to a heavyweight object
Processing an object that shares a parent with another object is disclosed. An indication is received with respect to an object that shares a parent object instance with one or more other objects that a change associated with the object is to be made to a data comprising the shared parent object instance. The parent object instance is cloned to create a new parent object instance. The new parent object instance is designated as the parent of the object instance. |
| US08656408B2 |
Scheduling threads in a processor based on instruction type power consumption
Guiding OS thread scheduling in multi-core and/or multi-threaded microprocessors by: determining, for each thread among the active threads, the power consumed by each instruction type associated with an instruction executed by the thread during the last context switch interval; determining for each thread among the active threads, the power consumption expected for each instruction type associated with an instruction scheduled by said thread during the next context switch interval; generating at least one combination of N threads among the active threads (M), and for each generated combination determining if the combination of N threads satisfies a main condition related to the power consumption per instruction type expected for each thread of the thread combination during the next context switch interval and to the thread power consumption per instruction type determined for each thread of the thread combination during the last context switch interval; and selecting a combination of N threads. |
| US08656405B2 |
Pulling heavy tasks and pushing light tasks across multiple processor units of differing capacity
A mechanism is provided for scheduling tasks across multiple processor units of differing capacity. In a multiple processor unit system with processor units of disparate speeds, it is advantageous to have the most processing-intensive tasks run on the processor units with the highest capacity. All tasks are initially scheduled on the lowest capacity processor units. Because processor units with higher capacity are more likely to have idle time, these higher capacity processor units may pull one or more tasks onto themselves from the same or lower capacity processor units. A processor unit will attempt to pull tasks that utilize a larger percentage of the timeslice. When a higher capacity processor unit is overloaded or near capacity, the higher capacity processor unit may push tasks to processor units with the same or lower capacity. A processor unit will attempt to push tasks that utilize a smaller percentage of the timeslice. |
| US08656401B2 |
Method and apparatus for prioritizing processor scheduler queue operations
A method and processor are described for implementing programmable priority encoding to track relative age order of operations in a scheduler queue. The processor may comprise a scheduler queue configured to maintain an ancestry table including a plurality of consecutively numbered row entries and a plurality of consecutively numbered columns. Each row entry includes one bit in each of the columns. Pickers are configured to pick an operation that is ready for execution based on the age of the operation as designated by the ancestry table. The column number of each bit having a select logic value indicates an operation that is older than the operation associated with the number of the row entry that the bit resides in. |
| US08656400B2 |
Synchronisation of execution threads on a multi-threaded processor
Method and apparatus are provided for a synchronizing execution of a plurality of threads on a multi-threaded processor. Each thread is provided with a number of synchronization points corresponding to points where it is advantageous or preferable that execution should be synchronized with another thread. Execution of a thread is paused when it reaches a synchronization point until at least one other thread with which it is intended to be synchronized reaches a corresponding synchronization point. Execution is subsequently resumed. Where an executing thread branches over a section of code which included a synchronization point then execution is paused at the end of the branch until the at least one other thread reaches the synchronization point of the end of the corresponding branch. |
| US08656399B2 |
Runtime analysis and control method of folding indentified threads by assuming context of another thread and executing inlieu of another thread using thread folding tools
A computer-implemented method of performing runtime analysis on and control of a multithreaded computer program. One embodiment of the present invention can include identifying threads of a computer program to be analyzed. Under control of a supervisor thread, a plurality of the identified threads can be folded together to be executed as a folded thread. The execution of the folded thread can be monitored to determine a status of the identified threads. An indicator corresponding to the determined status of the identified threads can be presented in a user interface that is presented on a display. |
| US08656394B1 |
Tokenized streams for concurrent execution between asymmetric multiprocessors
A method for executing an application program using streams. A device driver receives a first command within an application program and parses the first command to identify a first stream token that is associated with a first stream. The device driver checks a memory location associated with the first stream for a first semaphore, and determines whether the first semaphore has been released. Once the first semaphore has been released, a second command within the application program is executed. Advantageously, embodiments of the invention provide a technique for developers to take advantage of the parallel execution capabilities of a GPU. |
| US08656391B2 |
System and method for initiating the execution of a process
A method and computer program product for defining a plurality of tags, each of which is associated with a discrete process executable on activity content. At least one of the plurality of tags is associated with a piece of content within an activity, thus defining one or more associated tags. |
| US08656385B2 |
Data processor, data monitoring method thereof, and recording medium storing data monitoring program thereof
A data processor in which data processing is managed by an administrator and in which data processing including installation of software by a user is enabled. The data processor includes a processing unit to monitor the data processing executed by the user and to generate an execution history of the data processing, and a recording unit to record the execution history of the data processing. |
| US08656384B2 |
Standardized software application configuration
A system and method of providing a user with a post installation configuration file include providing a user with a list of software applications that are available for installation. At least one software application selection from the list of applications is received by the system. At least one post installation configuration script associated with the use selected software application is retrieved, the at least one post installation configuration script using a common user interface for a plurality of software application from the list of software applications. The at least one post installation configuration script associated with the use selected software application and the at least one user selected software application are packaged into a user package. |
| US08656382B2 |
Preventing an incompatible class exception caused by incompatible class loaders
A computer implemented method, apparatus, data processing system, and computer usable program code are provided for obtaining data from an application. A class loader layer is instantiated for an application. The class loader layer is an interface between the application and a resource adaptor and the class loader layer has access to all classes for the application. The function is executed to generate a set of objects with a set of data types accessible by the resource adaptor responsive to receiving a request from the resource adaptor to invoke a function in the class loader layer. Finally, the set of objects are sent to the resource adaptor. |
| US08656380B1 |
Profiling an executable
Systems and methods for profiling an executable include generating differently instrumented versions of a portion of the program code for the executable. References to the portion of the program code may be replaced with references to a control function that conditionally executes the differently instrumented versions. Different profiling modes may be selected at runtime to control which version is executed. Profiling data may also be generated during execution of the program. |
| US08656379B2 |
Systems and methods for uniquely defining Fortran run time type descriptors for polymorphic entities
Systems and methods disclosed herein uniquely define each type of Fortran type descriptor within an executable file or shared library to allow for a rapid determination of how the dynamic type of one object (e.g., a first polymorphic entity) relates to that of another object (e.g., a second polymorphic entity) while allowing for the lazy loading of shared libraries. In one aspect, type descriptor definitions are instantiated (e.g., during compile-time) in each object file in which polymorphic entities are defined, each type descriptor definition is marked with a singleton attribute, and each group of common type descriptor definitions is associated with a COMDAT group to ensure that only a single copy of each type descriptor is defined in a corresponding executable file at a particular address in memory to which polymorphic entities can reference. Type descriptor addresses can be compared to determine dynamic type relations between polymorphic entities. |
| US08656378B2 |
Memoization configuration file consumed at compile time
Memoization may be deployed using a configuration file or database that identifies functions to memorize, and in some cases, includes input and result values for those functions. At compile time, functions defined in the configuration file may be captured and memoized. During compilation or other pre-execution analysis, the executable code may be modified or otherwise decorated to include memoization code. The memoization code may store results from a function during the first execution, then merely look up the results when the function may be called again. The memoized value may be stored in the configuration file or in another data store. In some embodiments, the modified executable code may operate in conjunction with an execution environment, where the execution environment may optionally perform the memoization. |
| US08656376B2 |
Compiler for providing intrinsic supports for VLIW PAC processors with distributed register files and method thereof
A method for providing intrinsic supports for a VLIW DSP processor with distributed register files comprises the steps of: generating a program representation with cluster information on instructions of the DSP processor, wherein the cluster information is provided by a program with cluster intrinsic coding; identifying data stream operations indicating parallel instruction sequences applied on different data sets in the program representation; identifying data sharing relations indicating data shared by the data stream operations in the program representation; identifying data aggregation relations indicating results aggregated from the data stream operations in the program representation; and performing register allocation for the DSP processor according to the identified data stream operations, the data sharing relations and the data aggregation relations. |
| US08656371B2 |
System and method of report representation
A report representation system and method of transforming report outputs into a standard representation format are provided. The report representation system comprises a report parser for parsing a report output, a code generator for generating a standard representation code of the report output and a code compiler for converting the standard representation code into a format representable as a fixed schema repository. The method comprises the steps of parsing a report output, generating a standard representation code of the report output and converting the standard representation code into a format representable as a fixed schema repository. |
| US08656370B2 |
Symbolic execution of javascript software using a control flow graph
In one embodiment, accessing a control flow graph (CFG) of a software program written in JavaScript; identifying one or more paths in the CFG; and performing symbolic execution on the software program using the CFG. |
| US08656367B1 |
Profiling stored procedures
An improved system and method for profiling elements of software applications facilitates identification and diagnosis of performance issues. Using aspect-oriented programming, additional code, referred to as an advice, is added at various steps in execution of a stored procedure. The additional code specifies additional action to be taken, such as capture of a stored procedure signature, parameters, and system time before and after execution. By adding the code at load time, the system of the present invention provides a mechanism by which the original procedure code as stored in the database and the application code calling the stored procedure can remain unchanged. Captured data is used in generating a profile of the stored procedure call. |
| US08656364B1 |
System and method for enforcement of business rules using static analysis
A method for enforcing business rules in a computer program, using static analysis. The method includes: storing a plurality of business rules corresponding to a plurality of business processes representing a behavior of an enterprise; parsing a representation of business processes in the computer program to create a parse tree; extracting execution paths from the parse tree; creating control flow graphs and data flow graphs from the extracted execution paths, wherein the created control flow graphs and data flow graphs adhere to one or more of the stored business rules; following the created control flow graphs and data flow graphs; applying said one or more of the stored business rules to the created control flow graphs and data flow graphs; and reporting whether any of the applied rules is violated. |
| US08656361B2 |
Debugging code visually on a canvas
A debugger session is initiated to monitor application execution. A debugger canvas corresponding to the debugger session is identified and displayed. The displayed debugger canvas includes one or more code bubbles created during a prior debugger session. The one or more code bubbles already present on the displayed debugger canvas are reused during the current debugger session. Accordingly, existing code bubbles and bubble sets are reused on a debugger canvas when entering a debug session, thus providing a more stable and manageable view for debugging an application in an integrated development environment. The code fragments in code bubbles on a debugger canvas can be analyzed, inspected, and edited during or after a debug session. Notations can also be added to a debugger canvas in the form of note bubbles and context data bubbles. |
| US08656349B2 |
Systems and methods for template reverse engineering
Embodiments of the present invention include systems and methods for template reverse engineering. In one embodiment, the present invention includes a computer-implemented method modifying templates in a code generation process comprising receiving a template for generating code, receiving a model for generating code, processing the template and the model in a code generator, and in accordance therewith, generating code based on the model and the template, receiving a modification to the generated code, and in accordance therewith, producing modified code, and automatically changing the template based on the modified code to produce a modified template, wherein processing the modified template and the model in the code generator automatically generates said modified code. |
| US08656347B2 |
Generation of parallelized program based on program dependence graph
A method of generating a parallelized program includes calculating an execution order of vertices of a degenerate program dependence graph, generating basic blocks by consolidating vertices including neither branching nor merging, generating procedures each corresponding to a respective one of the vertices, and generating a procedure control program by arranging an instruction to execute a first procedure after an instruction to wait for output data transfer from a second procedure for a dependence relation crossing a border between the basic blocks, generating an instruction to register a dependence relation that a third procedure has on output data transfer from a fourth procedure for a dependence relation within one of the basic blocks, and generating an instruction to perform a given data transfer directly from procedure to procedure for each of a data transfer within one of the basic blocks and a data transfer crossing a border between the basic blocks. |
| US08656342B2 |
Composing integrated systems using GUI-based applications and web services
A composer of integrated systems solves the technical problem of enabling graphical user interface applications (GAPs) to interoperate (e.g., exchange information) with each other and web services over the Internet, effectively and non-invasively. The system provides a user friendly visualization mechanism that interacts with an accessibility layer to enable organizations to economically and easily define web service driven information exchange between GAPs, by performing point-and-click, drag-and-drop operations on GAPs. The system allows users to rapidly create integrated systems composing GAPs enabled to interoperate with other GAPs and web services, so that organizations extend the life-cycle use of their legacy GAPs in business operations. |
| US08656340B2 |
Delay analysis apparatus, computer-readable recording medium having delay analysis program stored thereon, and delay analysis method
If there are a plurality of activation paths on which a signal propagates during a delay test, multiple-input cells receiving two or more activation paths are extracted by an extraction unit. For the extracted multiple-input cells, whether there is a possibility of occurrence of a multiple-input switching in a multiple-input cell is determined by a determination unit, based on an input timing to each signal multiple-input cell in the two or more activation paths. Then, an occurrence situation of a multiple-input switching is analyzed as one delay cause by an analysis unit, based on a determination result by the determination unit and a result of the delay test. |