| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09046566B2 |
Measuring system for a down conductor of a wind turbine blade
A measuring system for a down conductor of a wind turbine blade includes a measuring cable connected in series with its first end to the down conductor. A second end of the measuring cable is accessible for measurement of the electrical resistance in a lower base part of the blade. |
| US09046565B2 |
Built-in self-test for radio frequency systems
Techniques for performing built-in self-test (BIST) of performance of an RF system are disclosed. The techniques may be used, for example, for measuring distortion generated by the RF system under test, detecting faults in the system, determining calibration of the system, and/or assisting in compensating analog circuitry that is sensitive to temperature, supply voltage, and/or process variations. Also, a BIST architecture for determining RF performance of an RF systems is disclosed. |
| US09046563B2 |
Arcing event detection
A system for detecting electrical arcing on an electrical power system includes: a) a data acquisition unit that is electrically connected to an electrical power system, wherein the data acquisition unit is configured to monitor signals indicative of a first periodic property of the electrical power system, wherein the signal includes a normal load component; and b) a computing device operably connected to the data acquisition unit. The computing device is programmed to: i) obtain first data from the data acquisition unit indicative of the temporal behavior of the first signal; ii) remove the normal load component from the first data; and iii) determine that an arcing event is present on the electrical power system when the at least one burst within the first data presents a generally sinusoidal shape which includes generally flat regions which are present where the generally sinusoidal shape crosses over a zero-magnitude line. |
| US09046562B2 |
Hysteresis offset cancellation for magnetic sensors
Presented is a sensor that includes a magnetoresistive (MR) sensing device to sense a magnetic field and to produce an AC signal voltage proportional to the sensed magnetic field. The sensor also includes circuitry, coupled to the MR sensing device, to remove DC offset from the AC signal voltage. The DC offset may be related to the hysteresis characteristics of the MR sensing device. To remove DC offset, the circuitry may obtain an averaged DC offset and subtract the averaged DC offset from the AC signal voltage to produce a sensor output signal. |
| US09046559B2 |
Isolation monitor
An isolation monitor is disclosed in which a switchable bias voltage is imposed on a chassis ground. An isolation voltage is measured when a bias voltage is applied. When there are no electrical faults, the isolation voltage swings up and down to known values. When a fault occurs, the isolation voltage will not to swing to the known values, and thus the isolation resistance can be measured and alarm generated if the isolation resistance falls below a threshold value. |
| US09046558B2 |
Apparatus and method for determining the status and phase of an electric power cable
A probe uses a small diameter insulated needle to accurately penetrate the jacket and thin outer semiconductor sheath of URD cable so as to capacitive couple to the high voltage center conductor and determine its energized status (live or dead) and phase attribute. A precision needle depth gauge, mechanical hard stop, and digital display ensures that the needle does not penetrate the thick center conductor insulation material and provides an indication of the center conductor voltage. The probe can be combined with either internal or external phase identification circuitry to determine the phase attribute of the URD cable. |
| US09046549B2 |
Method for manufacturing pressure sensing device
According to one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a pressure sensing device includes preparing a sensor unit and a mounting substrate. The sensor unit includes: a membrane body; and an element unit provided on the membrane body. The element unit includes: a first electrode; a second electrode; and a first magnetic layer provided between the first electrode and the second electrode and having magnetization in a first direction. The mounting substrate includes: a base; a first electrode pad provided on the base; and a second electrode pad provided on the base and provided apart from the first electrode pad. The method further includes joining the first electrode pad to the first electrode while heated, and joining the second electrode pad to the second electrode while heated, with an external magnetic field along the first direction applied to the sensor unit. |
| US09046548B2 |
System for mechanical characterization of materials and biological samples in the sub-millinewton force range
The mechanical characterization system includes three main parts: A sub-millinewton resolution capacitive force sensor, at least one micromanipulator with position measurement capabilities, and a microscope. The sensitive axis of the force sensor is adjustably connected via adaptor pieces to the micromanipulator at any angular orientation relative to the sample holder. |
| US09046543B2 |
Method and apparatus for measuring speed of a brush motor
A system for determining motor speed of a brush DC motor in an apparatus, including circuitry for sensing current in the brush DC motor; a first filter for receiving a substantially DC component of the sensed current and parameters corresponding to the brush DC motor, for calculating a speed estimate thereof; an adaptive bandpass filter having a center frequency corresponding to the speed estimate of the first filter, for receiving the sensed current and substantially isolating a periodic current fluctuation thereof; a block for determining a frequency of the periodic current fluctuation, the periodic current fluctuation frequency being a commutation frequency of the brush DC motor and corresponding to motor speed of the brush DC motor. The motor speed determined from the periodic current fluctuation of the motor current is then used to control the speed of the motor. |
| US09046540B2 |
Assay, composition and non-enzymatic mechanism of statin in modulating lipid metabolism
A novel non-enzymatic assay for lipid modulating drugs is being described for biological samples. For the first time non-enzymatic mechanism of statin drugs in modulating lipid aggregates and forming lipid particles is being shown. A simple flow cytometer based testing for detection of lipid particles, the effect of lipid modulating drug such as statin in vitro and testing for efficacy of the drug for an individual, dosage adjustment and drug discovery mechanism is being described. The lipid modulating drugs either individually or in combination can be discovered, optimized or efficacy tested using this assay. A novel statin induced lipid particle formation described can be used for diagnosis, personalized medicine and biomarker identification as well. |
| US09046539B2 |
Lipoprotein analysis by differential charged-particle mobility
The invention provides methods of preparation of lipoproteins from a biological sample, including HDL, LDL, Lp(a), IDL, and VLDL, for diagnostic purposes utilizing differential charged particle mobility analysis methods. Further provided are methods for analyzing the size distribution of lipoproteins by differential charged particle mobility, which lipoproteins are prepared by methods of the invention. Further provided are methods for assessing lipid-related health risk, cardiovascular condition, risk of cardiovascular disease, and responsiveness to a therapeutic intervention, which methods utilize lipoprotein size distributions determined by methods of the invention. |
| US09046537B2 |
Method for treating inflammation by administering a compound which binds LDL-receptor-related protein (LRP) ligand binding domain
The present invention relates to the field of therapeutic methods, compositions and uses thereof, that affect, directly or indirectly, the behavior of LRP receptors. These compositions and methods result in the treatment of inflammatory, immunological and metabolic conditions. More particularly, the methods and compositions of the invention are directed to the identification of small molecules, drugs and/or pharmacological agents that affect the Wnt pathway by affecting normal complex formation among various signaling receptors, the LRP5 and LRP6 receptor, and related ligands. |
| US09046533B2 |
Method and system for synchronously driving light-dispersing elements, and detector for chromatograph
Provided is a system for synchronously driving light-dispersing elements capable of synchronously and sequentially changing an excitation-light wavelength and a fluorescence wavelength at high speeds. The system includes: a first light-dispersing unit having a first light-dispersing element and a first pulse motor; a second light-dispersing unit having a second light-dispersing element and a second pulse motor; a memory section for storing light-dispersing element information relating to a change in the wavelength of the monochromatic light and the dynamic characteristics information of the pulse motors; a drive condition setting section for allowing an operator to set synchronous drive conditions; a pulse transmission pattern creator; and a pulse transmitter. |
| US09046532B2 |
Risk assessment for antibiotics treatment in patients suffering from primary non-infectious disease by determining the level of procalcitonin
A diagnostic method for the identification of a subject suffering from a primary non-infectious disease having an increased risk of an adverse outcome potentially being induced by the administration of an antibiotic to said subject comprising the determination of the level of Procalcitonin (PCT) or a fragment thereof or a precursor or fragment thereof having a length of at least 12 amino acid residues in a sample of a bodily fluid from said subject and the correlation of the determined level to a potential risk induced by the administration of an antibiotic, as well as a kit for performing the method and methods of treatment based thereon. |
| US09046528B2 |
Cross-reactive determinants and methods for their identification
Compositions and methods for determining immunologically cross-reactive molecules comprising a cross-reactive antigenic determinant are provided, in particular for determining proteins comprising cross-reactive antigenic determinants, in particular for determining proteins that are cross-reactive based on serological screens using sequential immunological challenges to an animal, including determining cross-reactive H. parasuis proteins. Also provided are compositions, vaccines, and kits using the molecules for diagnostics and methods for preventing or treating a disease, disorder, condition, or symptoms thereof associated with infectious agents, in particular infectious microorganisms, in particular for preventing or treating a disease, disorder, condition, or symptom thereof associated with H. parasuis infection. |
| US09046526B2 |
Method for determining protein-nucleic acid interaction
The present invention refers to a method of determining protein-nucleic acid interaction. The method comprises mixing a protein with a sample comprising a nucleic acid which is suspected to interact with the protein to form a first mixture. The first mixture can be incubated to allow interaction between the protein and nucleic acid. Metallic nanoparticles are added to the first mixture to obtain a second mixture. An electrolyte is added to the first or second mixture to determine the protein-nucleic acid interaction. The present invention also refers to a kit for determining protein-nucleic acid interaction. The kit comprises a protein capable of interacting with a nucleic acid or a nucleic acid capable of interacting with a protein, and at least one type of metallic nanoparticle. |
| US09046523B2 |
Rapid bioluminescence detection system
An assay is provided for detecting the activity of a reporter kinase comprising (i) adding said reporter kinase to an assay mixture wherein said reporter kinase is contacted with bioluminescent reagent no more than 5 minutes after being contacted with ADP, and wherein, prior to contacting the reporter kinase with ADP, the assay mixture is substantially free from kinase other than reporter kinase; and (ii) detecting light output from the assay mixture. Methods for detecting the presence of an analyte in a sample and methods for validating a treatment process using the above assay are also provided. Further provided are devices for conducting these assays and methods. |
| US09046521B2 |
Cancer evaluation method using haptoglobin β chain defined by antibody RM2
The object of the present invention is to identify a molecule that is specifically recognized by antibody RM2 in tissue or serum of a cancer patient, and provide a method for diagnosing cancer in a simple manner with high specificity using the molecule as an indicator. The present method comprises evaluating a risk or grade of malignancy of genitourinary cancer in a subject using the level of the haptoglobin β chain to which antibody RM2 specifically binds or a fragment thereof in tissue or body fluid isolated from the subject as an indicator. |
| US09046510B2 |
Membrane and method of fabricating the same
A membrane according to the present invention includes a support member and a polymer layer disposed on the support member and including a plurality of nano pores each having an inner wall formed of a block-structured polymer material of which the end thereof is substituted by a functional group. |
| US09046509B2 |
Method and system for estimating rock properties from rock samples using digital rock physics imaging
A method is provided for efficiently characterizing rock traversed while drilling a borehole for hydrocarbon reservoir development. A rock sample can be obtained having a provenance of collection linked to a specific region of the borehole, which is scanned to obtain a 2D digital image that is segmented to pixels characterized as pore space and as mineral matrix and defining a boundary between them. A transform relationship, for example, a form of the Kozeny-Carman equation adapted for application to a 2D segmented image environment, can be applied to calculate the estimated value for a target rock property, which can be absolute permeability, relative permeability, formation factor, elasticity, bulk modulus, shear modulus, compressional velocity, shear velocity, electrical resistivity, or capillary pressure, and the estimated value is used to characterize the rock at that region of the borehole. This affords an opportunity to quickly and efficiently develop massive data directly characterizing extended regions of rock, whether traversed by the borehole in this or a related well. Computerized systems, computer readable media, and programs for performing the methods are also provided. |
| US09046507B2 |
Method, system and apparatus for incorporating capacitive proximity sensing in an automated fluid transfer procedure
A fluid transfer apparatus includes a fluid transfer probe, a fluid level detection system, and a tip detection system. The fluid level detection system is configured to detect contact by the fluid transfer probe with a fluid surface within a receptacle from a signal based on the capacitance of the fluid transfer probe. The tip detection system is configured to detect the presence or absence of a tip at a distal end of the fluid transfer probe from a signal based on the capacitance of the fluid transfer probe. |
| US09046506B2 |
Specimen container detection
A system is disclosed. The system includes at least one image acquisition device configured to obtain one or more images of sample containers in a sample container holder. It also includes an image analysis device coupled to the at least one image acquisition device. The image analysis device is configured to analyze, by a processor, the one or more images of the sample containers in the sample container holder, to determine (a) a presence or absence of sample containers at sample container holder locations in the sample container holder, and (b) sample container characteristics of the sample containers in the sample container holder, wherein the sample container characteristics include one or more of cap color, cap shape, labels and markers associated with the sample containers, or one or more sample container holder characteristics. |
| US09046500B2 |
Adaptable illuminating apparatus, system, and method for extreme ultra-violet light
An apparatus for focusing light in a semi-conductor inspection system, including: a first mirror arranged to reflect extreme ultra-violet (EUV) generated by a plasma source; and a second mirror arranged to focus the EUV light, reflected from the first mirror, onto a first intermediate focus plane. A homogenizing tunnel, including: a first aperture having a first shape and a first size and arranged to receive extreme ultra-violet (EUV) light; a second aperture having a second shape and a second size; and a passageway connecting the first and second apertures and arranged to homogenize the EUV light received by the first aperture. The first shape is different from the second shape or the first size is different from the second size. |
| US09046497B2 |
Intelligent airfoil component grain defect inspection
A system including a positioning system with a component manipulator structured to position a component in response to a positioning algorithm; a scanning system capable of producing a set of light waves directed at a surface of the component, detecting a set of reflected light waves from the surface of the component, and producing a reflectivity data set in response to the set of reflected light waves; and a microprocessor structured to apply a fuzzy logic algorithm to the reflectivity signal to determine a solution set and produce a grain structure characterization in response to the solution set. |
| US09046494B2 |
Optical sensing system and a method of determining a change in an effective refractive index of a resonator of an optical sensing system
According to embodiments of the present invention, an optical sensing system is provided. The optical sensing system includes a resonator arrangement including a first resonator, wherein an effective refractive index of the first resonator is changeable in response to a change in a refractive index of a cladding of the first resonator, and a second resonator to which a current or voltage being adjustable in response to a change in the effective refractive index of the first resonator is applied, wherein the optical sensing system is configured to determine the change in the effective refractive index of the first resonator based on a change in the current or voltage applied to the second resonator. Further embodiments provide a method of determining a change in an effective refractive index of a resonator of an optical sensing system. |
| US09046490B2 |
Fluorescence detection device
To provide a fluorescence detection device that can effectively remove autofluorescence using a simple configuration. A fluorescence detection device comprises: semiconductor laser for emitting excitation light; an objective lens for converging excitation light onto a sample on a biosensor substrate; an anamorphic lens which introduces astigmatism to fluorescence that is from the biosensor substrate and incident on the objective lens and that passed through the objective lens; a spectral element for separating the fluorescence into a plurality of light rays; and a fluorescence detector for receiving the light rays separated by the spectral element. On the light receiving surface of the fluorescence detector, the spectral element splits the fluorescence so that the fluorescence generated at the sample is separated from the fluorescence generated at a specific depth position other than the sample position. |
| US09046484B2 |
Plasmon sensor
A plasmon sensor includes a supporter, a first metal layer on a lower surface of the first supporter, and a second metal layer having an upper surface facing a lower surface of the first metal layer. A hollow space is provided between the first and second metal layers, and is configured to be filled with a test sample containing a medium. The area of the first metal layer is smaller than the area of the upper surface of the supporter. The supporter has a region having hydrophilic property and facing and contacting the hollow space. This the plasmon sensor has a small size and a simple structure. |
| US09046483B2 |
Characterization of individual polymer molecules based on monomer-interface interactions
The invention relates to a method for characterizing a target polynucleic acid by providing a surface containing a channel of a dimension sufficient to allow sequential monomer-by-monomer passage of a single-stranded polynucleic acid, but not of a double-stranded polynucleic acid; providing a source of hybridized target polynucleic acid at the surface; inducing passage of the target polynucleic acid through the channel, whereby the target polynucleic acid undergoes base pair separation (melts) prior to its passage; and making one or more measurements over time as the target polynucleic acid moves relative to the channel yielding data suitable to determine a monomer-dependent characteristic of the target polynucleic acid. |
| US09046481B2 |
Method for the laser spectroscopy of gases
A method of determining a concentration of a gas in a sample and/or the composition of a gas using a spectrometer comprises transmitting of radiation whose wavelength substantially continuously runs through a wavelength range, wherein the continuous running through of the wavelength range is overlaid by a wavelength modulation; measuring of an absorption signal as a function of the wavelength of the radiation; converting of the absorption signal into first and second derivative signals; deriving of a first and a second measured gas concentration value from the first and the second derivative signals, respectively; and determining of the concentration and/or the composition of the gas from at least the first measured gas concentration value, wherein the wavelength modulation is adapted in response to a change of a state variable of the gas such that a ratio between the first and the second measured gas concentration values is kept substantially constant. |
| US09046466B2 |
X-ray imaging apparatus
Provided is an X-ray imaging apparatus having simple configuration and obtaining differential phase contrast images in two directions crossing each other without rotating the diffraction grating and the masking grating. The apparatus including: a diffraction grating diffracting X-rays; a masking grating masking portions rays and transmitting portions are two-dimensionally arranged to partially mask bright zones of the interference pattern; a moving device changing the relative position between the interference pattern and the masking grating; a detector detecting the intensity distribution of the X-rays transmitted through the masking grating; and a calculator calculating a differential phase contrast image or a phase contrast image of a subject, the calculator being configured to calculate the differential phase contrast image or the phase contrast image in each of two mutually crossing directions on the basis of results of detection performed a plurality of times by the detector. |
| US09046464B2 |
Device and method for detecting a substance using a thin film resonator (FBAR) having an insulating layer
A device for detecting at least one substance of a fluid, has a piezoacoustic thin film resonator with a piezoelectric layer on which electrode layers are arranged, and an adsorption surface for adsorbing the fluid substance, wherein the piezoelectric and electrode layers and the adsorption surface are designed and arranged on each other such that by electrically activating the electrode layers, an excitation alternating field can be coupled into the piezoelectric layer. The thin film resonator can be excited to a resonance oscillation frequency fR which depends on an amount of the substance adsorbed on the adsorption surface because of an excitation alternating field coupled into the piezoelectric layer. An electrical insulating layer is arranged directly on a side of one of the electrode layers facing away from the piezoelectric layer. Particularly advantageous is the combination of an aluminum electrode layer and a silicon dioxide insulating layer. |
| US09046462B2 |
Chirped pulse frequency-domain comb for spectroscopy
A pulse train comprising chirped pulses of electromagnetic energy can be used to excite a sample, such as for spectroscopic analysis. The respective chirped pulses can include a frequency sweep across a first specified bandwidth during a respective chirped pulse duration, the respective chirped pulse duration establishing a first frequency-domain comb peak separation. A width of a frequency-domain comb peak can be established at least in part by a total duration of the pulse train, and a bandwidth of the first frequency-domain comb can be determined at least in part by the first specified bandwidth of the frequency sweep of the respective chirped pulses. |
| US09046459B2 |
Tape test removal device
A tape test removal device has an elongated housing having a first end and a second end; a shuttle which slides along a longitudinal axis of the housing and is disposed within the housing; a biasing member adjacent the first end of the housing and positioned adjacent the shuttle member; the biasing member is secured in a first, compressed conformation; and a clip extending from the shuttle to hold a portion of a tape to be tested. |
| US09046458B2 |
Device for use in industrial process on-line determination of particle size distribution, and methods of use
A flow-through device for use on-line in a conduit and capable of determining real-time characteristics of particles dispersed in a medium is disclosed. The device uses a sensor and a flow-through cell. The sensor has a stationary transducer positioned in a wall of the flow-through conduit to emit sound waves into the medium and a reflector or a second stationary transducer positioned opposite the transducer. The sensor provides a plurality of different acoustic path lengths through the medium between the transducer and reflector, thereby providing a plurality of different acoustic path lengths in the sensor and no moving parts for the transducer and reflectors. A method for determining the characteristics of particles dispersed in a medium in real time for an industrial process using the flow-through device also is disclosed. Further, a method of controlling particle size distribution in real time in a process using the flow-through device is disclosed. |
| US09046455B2 |
System and method including multiple processing lanes executing processing protocols
Systems and methods for processing and analyzing samples are disclosed. The system may process samples, such as biological fluids, using assay cartridges which can be processed at different processing locations. In some cases, the system can be used for PCR processing. The different processing locations may include a preparation location where samples can be prepared and an analysis location where samples can be analyzed. To assist with the preparation of samples, the system may also include a number of processing stations which may include processing lanes. During the analysis of samples, in some cases, thermal cycler modules and an appropriate optical detection system can be used to detect the presence or absence of certain nucleic acid sequences in the samples. The system can be used to accurately and rapidly process samples. |
| US09046454B2 |
Processing of analyte supports with oscillating fluid by interrupted rotation
Analyte supports such as Western blots, gels, and the like is processed for purposes of detection and analysis, by placing the blot or gel on a plate and causing process fluids to oscillate across the blot or gel by intermittently rotating the plate. The plate can be inclined or flat, divided into sectors to accommodate multiple sheets, and multiple plates can be mounted to a single rotating shaft to process a large number of blots or gels simultaneously under the same protocol. |
| US09046453B2 |
Air sample tracking system and method
A system for tracking one or more subjects for collecting airborne contaminants. The system includes one or more subjects configured to collect air contaminants. Each of the one or more subjects includes an identification tag encoded with identification information identifying the each subject. The system further includes an identification reader configured to decode the identification information encoded within the identification tag of a scanned one of the one or more identification tags. A computer receives and stores the decoded identification information in a record in a database. The computer may also receive and stored an identification code for a user who scanned the scanned identification tag in the record in the database. Additional records in the database are created each time the identification tag of one of the one or more subjects is scanned. The one or more subjects are thereby tracked as they collect airborne contaminants and are incubated. |
| US09046452B1 |
Device and method for locating a first natural bend of an arrow shaft
A device for locating a first natural bend of an arrow shaft preferably includes a support base, two arrow supports, a support tower and a pressure roller unit. The support base includes first and second tracks. The two arrow supports are slidably retained in the first track. Each arrow support includes a pair of bearing wheels for retaining an arrow shaft. The support tower includes a tower base and a tower pedestal. The tower base is slidably retained in the first and second tracks. The pressure roller unit includes a pressure base and two bearing wheels. The pressure base is slidably retained vertically relative to the tower pedestal. The two bearing wheels are sized to receive the arrow shaft. The pressure roller unit is lowered on to the arrow shaft. The arrow shaft is rotated with a forefinger and a thumb to determine the location of a valley. |
| US09046450B2 |
Coupon geometries that induce failure in gauge area of composite fatigue test coupons
A coupon geometry that reliably fails in the gauge area of the coupon during fatigue testing. The propensity to fail at the gauge area is imparted by using a bow-tie-shaped coupon coupled with similarly shaped tabs. The test coupons have a bow-tie-shaped profile with tapered sides that converge as they extend from the opposing ends of the coupon to the gauge area, forming a pair of trapezoidal portions (one the mirror image of the other) connected by the gauge area. These trapezoidal portions of the test coupon include the regions where similarly trapezoidal tabs will be adhered to the front and back of the coupon. The test coupon has a minimum width in the gauge area and a constant thickness, and a height of the gauge area is no greater than 3% of a height of the test coupon. |
| US09046448B2 |
System and method for identification of biological tissues
The present invention provides for a system, method, and device for analyzing, localizing and/or identifying tissue types. The method includes analyzing, localizing and/or identifying one or more tissue samples, characterized in that the method comprises: (a) generating gaseous tissue particles from a site in the one or more tissue samples, (b) transporting the gaseous tissue particles from the site to an analyser, (c) using the analyser for generating tissue-related data based on the gaseous tissue particles, and (d) analyzing, localizing and/or identifying the one or more tissue samples based on the tissue-related data. The invention can either be used in close conjunction with a surgical procedure, when one or more surgical tools are an integrated part of ionization, or as a separate mass spectrometric probe for the analysis of one or more tissue parts. |
| US09046446B1 |
Method and apparatus for environmental protection of drive-over tire tread depth optical sensors
A drive-over tire tread depth measurement system is configured with components for preventing or impeding environmental contaminates from falling through openings in a vehicle support surface or cover plate onto sensor optical windows and adjacent surfaces. The components may include active mechanisms, in the form of air discharge assemblies, movable shields, guards, wipers or deflectors, and/or passive components such as drip edges, water-accumulating textured surfaces, flow diverters, and selectively placed flanges or fixed guards which operate cooperatively to displace accumulated contaminates, debris, or liquids from the optical windows and adjacent sensor surfaces on a periodic basis. |
| US09046445B2 |
Rim assembly, tire testing machine, and rim assembly replacement method
To provide a rim assembly to which even a small tire can be mounted, a tire testing machine, and a rim assembly replacement method. The rim assembly having an upper rim and a lower rim in a pair to which a tire to be tested is mounted, includes: a pin provided on the lower rim; a pin receiving portion that is provided on the upper rim and engageable with the pin; and a groove portion having a recessed groove with a recessed section that can house at least a part of a tip of the pin, formed in a surface of the upper rim on a side of the lower rim. |
| US09046441B2 |
Collision test apparatus, vehicle design method, and vehicle
A collision test apparatus includes actuators that move a vehicle structural member toward the side of a carrying unit on which a dummy is carried. The actuators can be driven independently of each other. Therefore, the actuators move the vehicle structural member at respectively different driving speeds. In other words, the collision test apparatus does not simply move the vehicle structural member such that the vehicle structural member collides with the dummy, but also causes the vehicle structural member to collide with the dummy while moving the vehicle structural member at different speeds in different positions. |
| US09046438B2 |
Center-of-gravity detecting system
There is provided a highly versatile center-of-gravity detecting system which can accurately detect the center of gravity of not only a container cargo vehicle but also various detection objects.It has a placement board for placing a detection object thereon; springs for supporting the placement board with an elastic force; an acceleration sensor for detecting a reciprocating motion of the detection object in an up-down direction; an angular velocity sensor for detecting a simple pendulum motion of the detection object around a roll direction oscillation central axis; and an X-axis restriction guide part for restricting a movement of the placement board in an X-axis direction, a data processing apparatus calculating a center-of-gravity height in the up-down direction from the roll direction oscillation central axis to the center of gravity of the detection object on the basis of the detection results by the acceleration sensor and the angular velocity sensor. |
| US09046435B2 |
Retrievable pressure sensor
A retrievable pressure sensor for the in situ measurement of pressure of a process fluid in a pipe/chamber, and an associated method. The sensor includes a pressure-transferring arrangement which includes a device for sealing attachment in an opening in a wall of the pipe/chamber, a cavity containing a pressure-transferring fluid, a first separation diaphragm for separating between the process fluid and the pressure-transferring fluid, and a second separation diaphragm defining an outer boundary of the cavity containing the pressure-transferring fluid. The sensor further includes an outer sensor part having a pressure sensing element, a second cavity containing a pressure-transferring fluid in pressure communication with the pressure sensing element, a third separation diaphragm bounding the second cavity, the third separation diaphragm being configured for pressure communication with the second separation diaphragm for transferring pressure between the pressure-transferring fluid in the cavity and the pressure-transferring fluid in the second cavity. |
| US09046434B2 |
Load cell including excess load preventing mechanism
A load cell includes a horizontal upper beam; a lower beam extending parallel with the upper beam; a fastening section connecting one end of the upper beam to the lower beam and is fastened to a stationary object; a movable section which connects the upper beam and the lower beam and is displaced vertically by a load applied to the movable section 5; and a cylindrical stopper having a circular cross-section. The fastening section has a first circular hole. The movable section has a second circular hole concentric with the first circular hole. A base end portion of the stopper is fastened to the first circular hole and a tip of the stopper member 7 is located at an inner side of the second circular hole such that there is a space of a specified width between the tip and an inner surface of the second hole. |
| US09046432B2 |
Sensor device, sensor module, force sensing apparatus, and robot
A sensor device includes a package, a sensor element that is disposed in the package, and a lid that seals the package. The lid includes a flexible portion that surrounds the vicinity of the sensor element in a plan view. |
| US09046430B2 |
Method of reducing rotation noise in a magnetoelastic torque sensing device
A system and method for creating one or more magnetically conditioned regions on a rotatable shaft or disk-shaped torque sensing element, wherein rotation noise produced by the element due to magnetic field variations is substantially negated. Upon magnetization of the torque sensing element, rotation noise produced by the magnetically conditioned region is measured. Adjustment factors are calculated based on the measured rotation noise, and the adjustment factors are used to adjust a magnetic field source during subsequent magnetization of the torque sensing element. |
| US09046428B2 |
Pressure detection module and pressure sensor device having such a pressure detection module
A pressure detection module of a pressure sensor device includes a receptacle part for receiving a carrier substrate. The carrier substrate is located on a first side with a pressure detection unit, and is inserted into the receptacle part with a second side facing away from the first side. The carrier substrate is fixed with its second side on a base of a receptacle groove. In order to construct the pressure detection module as small as possible, and to manufacture it in a cost-effective way, the receptacle part, the receptacle groove and a peripheral flange around the receptacle groove are, for example, provided with a plate-shaped design. The base has a contacting opening, through which contact surfaces of the carrier substrate, which are exposed at the contacting opening, are electrically contactable. |
| US09046425B2 |
Opticalfiber temperature distribution measurement apparatus
The present apparatus includes: an intensity ratio calculation unit configured to calculate a first and a second intensity ratios which are ratios of Stokes light intensity to anti-Stokes light intensity obtained when a light pulse is output to a first end and a second end of an optical fiber, respectively; a temperature calculation unit configured to calculate a temperature distribution along the optical fiber based on a reference temperature, the first and the second intensity ratios, and a total length loss ratio, which is a loss ratio of Stokes light to anti-Stokes light with regard to a total length of the optical fiber; and a total length loss ratio calculation unit configured to calculate the total length loss ratio based on the first and the second intensity ratios with regard to a location in a predetermined section close to both ends of the optical fiber whose temperature is kept constant. |
| US09046422B2 |
Ultra-compact snapshot imaging fourier transform spectrometer
Snapshot imaging Fourier transform spectrometers include a lens array that produces sub-images that are directed through a birefringent interferometer in orthogonal polarization eigenstates that acquire an optical path difference. Interference patterns based on this OPD can be Fourier transformed to obtain a spectral image. In some examples, polarizing gratings provide a spatial heterodyne frequency and offset the spectra. |
| US09046421B2 |
Light sensors for electronic devices
Electronic devices may include light sensors. A light sensor may be an ambient light sensor that is mounted adjacent to an aperture in an opaque structure. An ambient light sensor may include active light sensor elements located adjacent to the aperture and inactive light sensor elements located adjacent to the opaque structure. Signal processing circuitry may be interposed between the light sensor elements and a summing circuit that sums light signals from the light sensor elements to form an ambient light signal. The signal processing circuitry may include a switch and an amplifier associated with each light sensor element. The switch associated with each element may be used to selectively activate or inactivate that element. The amplifier associated with each element may be used to amplify the light signal from that element by a gain factor that depends on the location of that element with respect to the aperture. |
| US09046420B2 |
Infrared light detector having high resolution
An infrared light detector has a carrier membrane with at least two sensor chips thereon located next to each other. The carrier membrane has at least two rows of holes therein, proceeding parallel to each other between the sensor chips. The respective holes in one of the rows are offset with respect to the holes in an adjacent row, thereby hindering heat transmission via the carrier membrane between the sensor chips. |
| US09046417B2 |
Temperature measuring system, substrate processing apparatus and temperature measuring method
The temperature measuring system using optical interference includes a light source which generates measuring light; a spectroscope which measures an interference intensity distribution that is an intensity distribution of reflected light; optical transfer mechanisms which emit light reflected from a surface and a rear surface of the object to be measured to the spectroscope; an optical path length calculation unit which calculates an optical path length by performing Fourier transformation; and a temperature calculation unit which calculates a temperature of the object to be measured on the basis of a relation between optical path lengths and temperatures. The light source has a half-width at half-maximum of a light source spectrum that satisfies conditions based on a wavelength span of the spectroscope. The spectroscope measures the intensity distribution by using the number of samplings that satisfies conditions based on the wavelength span and a maximum measurable thickness. |
| US09046410B2 |
Light receiving device
The light receiving device of the present invention includes a circuit pattern including first and second light receiving parts and first and second output terminals, each of the first and second light receiving parts having a semiconductor layered part forming a photodiode structure having first and second conductivity type semiconductor layers, and first and second electrodes respectively connected to the first conductivity type semiconductor layer and the second conductivity type semiconductor layer, wherein the first electrodes of the first and second light receiving parts are connected to each other, the second electrode of the first light receiving part is connected to the first output terminal, the second electrode of the second light receiving part is connected to the second output terminal, and a difference between signals generated in the first and second light receiving parts are output between the first and second output terminals. |
| US09046405B2 |
Liquid modulated antenna
One embodiment of a liquid-modulated antenna using an antenna of a type commonly used in the field of wireless identification which is placed within sufficient proximity of a source of liquid to allow the liquid to flow onto the antenna, thereby altering (modulating) the characteristics of the signal being transmitted from the antenna to a signal receiving unit. |
| US09046402B2 |
Method of measuring amount of substances in an ambient noise environment
Embodiments of the invention include methods, devices, and systems that measure a volume of substance in a noise environment. |
| US09046401B2 |
Correcting for two-phase flow in a digital flowmeter
A flowmeter is disclosed. The flowmeter includes a vibratable conduit, and a driver connected to the conduit that is operable to impart motion to the conduit. A sensor is connected to the conduit and is operable to sense the motion of the conduit and generate a sensor signal. A controller is connected to receive the sensor signal. The controller is operable to detect a single-phase flow condition and process the sensor signal using a first process during the single-phase flow condition to generate a validated mass-flow measurement. The controller is also operable to detect a two-phase flow condition and process the sensor signal using a second process during the two-phase flow condition to generate the validated mass-flow measurement. |
| US09046398B2 |
System and method for measuring fluid flow velocity with a heater for generating a thermal marker in response to a time-varying level of power
The invention relates to a system (102) for measuring a velocity of a fluid (104) flowing through a flow channel (106). The system comprises a heating element (108) configured for generating a thermal marker in the fluid (104) in response to a predetermined time-varying level of power provided to the heating element (108). The system (102) furthermore comprises a sensor arrangement (110) for generating a measurement signal (112) indicative for the velocity of the fluid (104) flowing through the channel (106). Herein, the sensor arrangement (110) is configured for measuring a time series of the primary temperature (114) of the fluid (104) at a predetermined primary location. The primary location and the heating element (108) are situated on an axis having at least a component parallel to the longitudinal axis (119) of the flow channel (106). The measurement signal (112) is based on the maximum value (120) of the time series of time series of the primary temperature (114) in response to the thermal marker. |
| US09046397B2 |
Method for registering flow and a thermal, flow measuring device
A for operating a thermal, flow measuring device having a first sensor having a first heatable, resistance thermometer and at least one additional, second sensor having a second heatable, resistance thermometer, wherein a decision coefficient is calculated according to the formula DC=(PC1−PC2)/PC1, wherein PC1(t=t1)=P1,1(t1)/(T1,heated;actual(t=t1)−Tmedium;actual(t=t1)) and PC2(t=t2)=P2,2(t2)/(T2,heated;actual(t=t2)−Tmedium;actual(t=t2)), with P being the heating powers absorbed by the corresponding resistance thermometers at the points in time t and the temperature values T, wherein the value of the decision coefficient shows flow direction of a measured medium in the measuring tube. |
| US09046396B2 |
Process variable measurement using universal flow technology connection platform
An apparatus for measuring flow of a process fluid includes an elongate spool providing a spool conduit therethrough adapted to be coupled in line with process piping to receive the flow of process fluid. A meter body is carried by the elongate spool and receives the spool conduit therethrough. The meter body includes a flow measurement component opening which extends from the spool conduit to outside of the meter body. A flow component is configured for placement in the flow measurement component opening of the meter body. A carrier is configured to removably mount to the meter body and couple the flow measurement component to the spool conduit through the flow measurement component opening. A flow measurement transmitter couples to the flow measurement component to measure the flow of process fluid based upon an interaction between the process fluid and the flow measurement component. |
| US09046395B2 |
Vortex shedding flow meter
The present invention relates in general to vortex shedding flow meters with enhanced sensitivity for sensing and measuring vortex frequencies. |
| US09046393B2 |
Method for measuring remaining hydrogen capacity of hydrogen storage canister incorporating RFID device
A method is provided for measuring remaining hydrogen capacity of hydrogen storage canister incorporating tag information. An information identification tag is attached to a hydrogen storage canister. The information identification tag contains therein at least one record of tag information indicating the hydrogen storage quantity of the hydrogen storage canister. Once the hydrogen storage quantity is read from the tag information of the information identification tag and hydrogen consumption quantity supplied from the hydrogen storage canister is detected, the hydrogen storage quantity is operated by subtracting the hydrogen consumption quantity therefrom to calculate a hydrogen residue, which is then used to update the tag information of the information identification tag or is stored for subsequent use. |
| US09046388B2 |
Device and process for measuring the angle of rotation of two objects rotating in relation to each other
Measurement of the rotating angle of two objects rotating in relation to each other is achieved with a transmitter assigned to one of the objects. The transmitter emits light that is either polarized or becomes polarized by means of a polarization filter, and with a polarization-sensitive polarizer such that the transmitter and the polarizer rotate relative to each other as dependent on the rotating angle. A receiver measures the luminosity of light passing through the polarizer in order to create a signal that is dependent on the rotating angle, and where the receiver has at least two receiver elements which detect light of differing polarization. |
| US09046387B2 |
Shaft-mounted detector for optical encoder
A transmissive optical encoder is disclosed. The transmissive optical encoder includes a detector, a code wheel, and an emitter. The detector includes an aperture through the detector. The aperture is configured to receive a rotary shaft of a motor. The code wheel is coupled to the rotary shaft of the motor. Rotation of the rotary shaft results in corresponding rotation of the code wheel. The emitter is configured to emit a light signal through the code wheel toward the detector. Rotation of the code wheel results in modulation of the light signal at the detector. Embodiments of the transmissive optical encoder consume relatively little space and facilitate alignment of the emitter and detector. |
| US09046385B2 |
Alignment measurement system, lithographic apparatus, and a method to determine alignment in a lithographic apparatus
An alignment measurement system measures an alignment target on an object. A measurement illuminates the target and is reflected. The reflected measurement beam is split and its parts are differently polarized. A detector receives the reflected measurement beam. A processing unit determines alignment on the basis of the measurement beam received by the detector. An alternative arrangement utilizes an optical dispersive fiber to guide a multi-wavelength measurement beam reflected from the object to a detector. |
| US09046383B2 |
Systems and methods that use magnetic field sensors to identify positions of a gear shift lever
A system and an associated method provide an ability to sense, with a magnetic field sensor, a position of a plurality of gears (and neutral) selected by a gear shift lever of a vehicle. In some embodiments, the system and method use a ferromagnetic target having features, positions of which can be sensed by the magnetic field sensor. In other embodiments, the system and method use a magnet having features and characteristics that can be sensed by the magnetic field sensor. |
| US09046381B2 |
System and method for partially updating map data based on user's movement path, service apparatus and terminal apparatus thereof, and recording medium therefor
The present invention relates to a system and a method for partially updating map data based on a user's movement path, a service apparatus and a terminal apparatus thereof, and a recording medium therefor, and the method includes checking a major movement path of a user; receiving map data update information; extracting partial map data to be updated from map data matched with the major movement path of the user to request update information for the extracted partial map data; and receiving the requested update information on the partial map data to update the map data, and according to the present invention, map data matched with a user's major movement path is partially updated by determining the user's major movement path to more efficiently update the map data. |
| US09046379B2 |
Devices and methods for determining fuel consumption and searching vehicle routes
A route searching device according to an embodiment of the invention includes an estimated fuel consumption amount computing unit that computes an estimated fuel consumption amount of each interval constituting plural routes from a departure point to a destination and an optimum route selecting unit that selects a route in which a total of the estimated fuel consumption amount from the departure point to the destination is minimized. The estimated fuel consumption amount may be obtained by adding a cruise fuel consumption amount, a gradient fuel consumption amount, and a vehicle-speed fluctuation fuel consumption amount. In a further aspect, an average fuel consumption value for each speed range of an interval may be determined based on limited fuel consumption data, and fuel consumption values may be updated using measured probe data. |
| US09046371B2 |
Contention avoidance
A system and method for navigating a vehicle through a mining environment to a target destination is presented. The system and method may be utilized to avoid contention in the mining environment. A route through the mining environment to the target destination for the vehicle is identified and a first speed profile for at least a portion of the route is determined. A potential contention condition associated with the route is identified and the potential contention condition along the route is used to determine a second speed profile for at least a portion of the route. An optimized speed profile is determined using the first speed profile and the second speed profile, and at least a portion of the optimized speed profile is communicated to the vehicle. |
| US09046369B2 |
Methods and systems for updating a map in response to selection of content for display on the map
Methods and systems are provided for presenting information on a display device associated with an aircraft. A method comprises displaying a navigational map in a viewing area on the display device with initial display settings, identifying selection of a first category of information, and identifying content associated with the first category resulting in a first set of content. The method further comprises automatically updating display settings for the navigational map in response to identifying selection of the first category, wherein the display settings are updated based on the first set of content. The method further comprises displaying the first set of content on the navigational map based on the updated display settings. |
| US09046368B2 |
Measurement by means of atom interferometry
The invention relates to a measurement by means of atom interferometry, using a Raman source that is created by modulating a monochromatic laser source. By conveniently selecting positions in which interactions between atoms and a laser radiation, produced by the Raman source, are caused, it is possible to eliminate or at least reduce a measurement bias caused by supplementary components of the laser radiation. Such a measurement having eliminated or reduced bias can be used in an inertia sensor. |
| US09046363B2 |
Using multispectral satellite data to determine littoral water depths despite varying water turbidity
Satellite data is used to determine water depth by accounting for the changing turbidity of the water over time and without requiring calibration using SONAR measurements. Radiance values at multiple wavelengths sensed at both a first time and a second time are stored in a database. Modeled reflectance values are calculated for a defined surface area on the water based on an assumed depth, assumed water constituents and assumed bottom cover. A plurality of differences between the modeled reflectance values and the reflectances sensed at the two times are calculated. A bathymetry application module minimizes the sum of the differences between the modeled and sensed subsurface reflectances by varying the assumed depth, bottom cover and water constituents. The differences are weighted based on wavelength before being summed. The depth that results in the minimized sum of the differences is the estimated depth, which is displayed on a graphical user interface. |
| US09046360B2 |
System and method of acquiring three dimensional coordinates using multiple coordinate measurement devices
A method is provided for determining the three dimensional coordinates of points on the surface of an object. The method includes providing a structured light scanner and a coordinate measurement device. The coordinate measurement device tracks the location and orientation of the structured light scanner during operation. The location and orientation data is combined with image frames captured by the scanner to allow registration of the image frames relative to each other. The three-dimensional coordinates of points on the surface of the object may then be determined in the frame of reference of the coordinate measurement device. |
| US09046359B2 |
Range imaging devices and methods
An array of laser diode emitters is used as an illumination source for a range imaging system. The laser diode emitters are disposed on a common substrate. When one of the emitters fails, the remaining emitters emit enough light to meet the output optical power specification. The emitters can be disposed with a tight spacing. The tight spacing facilitates packaging of the entire array into a compact single package on a common heat sink. |
| US09046358B2 |
Sensor, method of operating the same, and system including the same
A method includes providing packets to demodulate a modulated photon signal output from a light source, wherein each packet includes a first interval and a second interval, and providing oscillation signals respectively having different phases from one another to photogates during the first interval of each of the packets. The light source is disabled and a direct current (DC) voltage is provided to the photogates during the second interval of each of the packets. |
| US09046357B1 |
Level accessory for making straight lines that are parallel with the level
Some embodiments of the invention provide a novel parallel line level accessory configured to produce a straight line marking on a surface, where the produced straight line marking is adjacent to a level and parallel to the long axis of the level. In some embodiments, the parallel line level accessory comprises a set of bracket fasteners, a container with a surface marking substance and a line, a rotating wheel, a line alignment guide, and a pulley. The set of bracket fasteners of some embodiments attach the parallel line level accessory to the level. In some embodiments, the parallel line level accessory is adjustable for attaching to a level of any size. |
| US09046356B2 |
Automatic optimal positioning of spectrophotometer while measuring moving media
A system and method for computer automated optimal lateral alignment of a spectrophotometer over a region of consistent color on a moving media or web for maintaining consistent color and or tonal qualities of a color application production process. The system consisting of a computer operated lateral traverse mechanism affixed to the press or color application equipment that is able to move the sensor laterally in small increments across the band of the color patches on the moving web or media, marking the lateral position each time it makes a light measurement, and therefrom calculating the optimal lateral alignment or position of the sensor for maintaining consistent color or density control during the color application process. |
| US09046333B2 |
Bullet
A bullet having a jacket, having a rear section, and a front section, having an open front end; a rear core disposed in the rear section of the jacket and bonded thereto; and a front core, separate from the rear core, disposed in the front section of the jacket, adjacent the open front end. The front section of the jacket can expand after impact with the target and release the front core to form an initial volume of disruption, while the rear core and at least the rear section of the jacket penetrate, past the initial volume of disruption. |
| US09046332B2 |
Projectile assembly with stabilization/obturation enhancement
A projectile assembly comprises a base portion for receiving projectiles such as slugs and has an associated pusher plate at a rear end thereof for minimizing or controlling deformation of the rear end of the base portion during firing. The pusher plate has a disc with one or more axially extending projections that extend axially into the rearward end of the base portion thereby reinforcing the base portion and upon firing providing uniform axial deformation and/or obturation of the base portion with respect to a firearm barrel. The projectile assembly may be, for example, part of a shotgun shell slug cartridge, and provides enhanced accuracy over the prior art. |
| US09046330B2 |
Crosswind resistant fletching construction
A molded aerodynamically crosswind resistant fletching includes pairs of spaced apart fletchings having distal edges bowed inwardly towards each other thus to deflect crosswinds over the tops of the fletchings. |
| US09046327B2 |
Gas generator
A gas generator is provided, the gas generator having a propellant cushion that prevents movement of propellant tablets or grains by providing a bias thereagainst. Furthermore, the cushion is formed from a desiccating material thereby removing moisture and inhibiting moisture uptake by the propellant during manufacture of the gas generator. The elastomeric cushion is also able to manage the presence of chlorine-containing products during periods of inactivation of the gas generator. Accordingly, variables such as fractured propellant and/or moisture retained within the propellant are mitigated or eliminated, thereby enhancing repeatability of inflator performance. |
| US09046324B2 |
Antiballistic article and method of producing same
A light weight pre-stressed antiballistic article including a monolith ceramic plate/tile bonded to a thin lightweight thermal expansion material with an adhesive, characterized, in that the thermal expansion material has a thermal expansion coefficient at least 50% higher than the ceramic plate/tile, and the thermal expansion material is bonded to either the front face, back face or both faces of the ceramic plate/tile at a bonding temperature of between 50° C. and 250° C. with adhesive and subsequently cooled, whereby upon cooling, the bonded thermal expansion material contracts to a greater extent than the ceramic plate/tile, exerting compression stress on the ceramic plate/tile. |
| US09046323B2 |
Ballistic package for soft body armor
A ballistic performance and trauma reduction system for soft body armor including a solid plastic sheet cut into multiple sections of geometric designs which overlap and are stitched to one or more layers of woven or non-woven ballistic fabric contained within a ballistic package of the soft body armor. Energy is transmitted through the ballistic sheets to the plastic sheet improving ballistic performance and reducing trauma to the wearer's body, resulting in safer, thinner and lighter armor. |
| US09046322B2 |
Self-calibrating targeting sight
A targeting sight having viewing optics, a focal plane array and an alignment frame having an aperture that defines a target area that is mounted proximal the muzzle of a weapon. Electronic processing means is provided to define a crosshair in the viewing optics. The alignment frame is illuminated with a beam and the reflected portion of the beam is received by the focal plane array and is processed to position the crosshair with respect to the aperture. |
| US09046315B2 |
Non-marring gun hook
The present disclosure provides a device for supporting and displaying a handgun. In various embodiments, the device comprises a moisture barrier back plate, a pair of opposing looped fingers extending from the back plate, and at least one retention hook extending from a top portion of the back plate. Each looped finger comprises an upper support arm and a lower support arm, and each retention hook is structured and operable to be disposed within a hole in a display panel to connect and retain the device on the display panel. The device is fabricated of a non-marring material, e.g., a polymer or synthetic material such as Acrylic, Nylon 6, Carbon Fiber, etc., that will not scratch, abrade or mar any portion of the firearm. |
| US09046311B2 |
Collar ribs for heat exchanger headers tanks
The present invention relates to the field of automotive heat exchangers, and, in particular, to heat exchanger tanks with headers. This invention eliminates the need for use of an inner flange on the header using a collar that also acts as a rib, thereby providing a compact foot plus header tank arrangement with lower stress on the gasket mating surface of the header and tank. The present invention also provides a method for providing improved headering means for automotive heat exchangers with plastic tanks and headers. |
| US09046310B2 |
Plate heat exchanger
The invention relates to a plate heat exchanger for treatment of a medium, comprising a number of compression-molded heat exchanger plates, which are successively provided in a plate package and which form first plate interspaces and second plate interspaces, wherein the first plate interspaces and the second plate interspaces are provided in an alternating order in the plate package, where the inlet and outlets of the heat exchanger plate located in a center portion of the plate heat exchanger, and where the plate package is arranged between end plates on each side of the plate package, where at least one of the end plates are provided with connections in a center portion of the at least one end plate and that the location of the connections on the at least one end plate correspond to the location of the inlet and outlets of the heat exchanger plate. |
| US09046308B2 |
Latent heat storage device and associated manufacturing method
A latent heat storage device with at least one hollow space having a constant storage volume which contains a phase-changing material.The material loading of the latent heat storage device can be reduced if the storage volume is so dimensioned that it consists of a basic volume which the phase-changing material assumes in the solidified state and an expansion volume which the phase-changing material additionally assumes in the molten state. |
| US09046306B2 |
Heat dissipation device
A heat dissipation device includes a plurality of fins connected to each other and two heat pipes extending through the fins. Each fin includes a plate, an upper flange extending from a top side of the plate, a lower flange extending from a bottom side of the plate and an inner flange extending from an inner periphery of a groove defined in the plate. The fins include first fins and second fins having lengths larger than that of the first fins. The two heat pipes include a wide heat pipe and a narrow heat pipe. The wide heat pipe extends through the grooves and contacts the inner flanges of the first fins and the second fins. The narrow heat pipe extends through the grooves and contacts the inner flanges of the second fins. |
| US09046304B2 |
Air dryer
An air dryer for supplying a decontaminated air stream. The air dryer includes a housing comprising a handle and an air frame body, a fan assembly structured and arranged in the air frame body, and an air filter arranged in the air frame body downstream of the fan assembly, wherein the air filter is structured and arranged to filter an incoming air stream to supply the decontaminated air stream. |
| US09046303B2 |
Freeze-drying method and apparatus for the same
A freeze-drying method by a far infrared heater including the steps of: mounting the frozen objects to be dried prior to heating in the containers in which an absorption power of the radiant heat from the far infrared heater and a thermal conductivity are high, respectively; mounting the said objects which are contained in the containers into the reduced pressure tank under an atmospheric pressure; heating the containers by the radiant heat from the far infrared heater disposed in the reduced pressure tank; and sublimating the frozen water contents of the objects in a reduced pressure state where sublimation of the objects occurs in the reduced pressure tank. |
| US09046299B2 |
Water filter device and refrigerator having the same
A water filter device including a filter unit to receive water from an external water supply source and to purify the received water, a storage tank unit to store the water purified through the filter unit, and a case to receive the filter unit and the storage tank unit. |
| US09046298B2 |
Domestic appliance for installation in a furniture frame
A domestic appliance for installation in a furniture frame. The appliance includes an essentially rectangular body and a vertical cover section fixed to a front vertical edge of the body and extending laterally beyond the vertical edge onto the furniture frame. A leg of the section adjacent to a lateral wall of the body has a hole for a fixing screw and a head of the fixing screw is accommodated at least partially in a depression surrounding the hole. A floor of a depression surrounding the hole is level, and a shaft of the fixing screw maintains clearance as it passes through the hole. |
| US09046296B2 |
Method of assembling a handle to a selective one of a front face and a side edge of a refrigerator door
A method of assembling allows a refrigerator handle to be selectively mounted to a front face portion or a side edge of a refrigerator door. The handle includes first and second ends separated by an intermediate portion, wherein each of the handle ends includes a recessed section. Each of the recessed sections includes a mounting arrangement formed therein, which is adapted to receive either a bracket for mounting the handle to the side edge of the door or a clip for mounting the handle to the front face portion of the door. The method includes selectively attaching the handle to the front face of the door through the clip, or to the side edge with the mounting bracket. |
| US09046294B2 |
Refrigerator and method for controlling the same
Provided is a refrigerator, which includes a refrigerating compartment, a freezing compartment, and a door assembly. The freezing compartment is adjacent to the refrigerating compartment. The door assembly selectively opens the refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment. The door assembly includes a glass member defining a frontal exterior thereof and allowing an inside of the refrigerating compartment or the freezing compartment to be seen therethrough when the door assembly is closed, a deposition treated layer formed on a rear surface of the glass member to allow light to partially pass through the glass member, and a transparent plate spaced a predetermined distance from the glass member. Gas for insulation is injected in a space formed between the glass member and the transparent plate, and the space is sealed. |
| US09046293B2 |
Wide-angle non-imaging illumination lens arrayable for close planar targets
A circular LED illumination lens for short throw lighting, for example, as part of a set of such devices installed on mullions in reach-in refrigerator cabinets, to uniformly light access across the rectangular door and shelves. The lens has an upper surface with a cavity for the LED, an upper surface the shape of a toroid, generated by an elliptical arc, that serves to magnify the light rays from the LED in an outboard direction, and the minor axis tilted about 17 degrees relatives the center axis of the LED which serves to direct the rays at the center of the shelves. The upper surface also preferably includes a spherical dimple to direct light away from the center axis. |
| US09046286B2 |
Heat pump pool heater start-up pressure spike eliminator
In a heat pump pool heater, undesirable compressor-created pressure spikes resulting from start-up of the heater after extended idle periods thereof are substantially eliminated by the incorporation in the heat pump refrigerant circuit of a specially designed pressure spike eliminator structure. The spike eliminator structure includes an enclosed hollow wall structure extending around a first refrigerant tubing portion disposed between the heat pump circuit compressor and condenser and forming a cavity around the first refrigerant tubing portion, and a transfer tube directly connected to a second refrigerant tubing portion disposed between the condenser and expansion valve and intercommunicating the interiors of the cavity and the second refrigerant tubing portion. |
| US09046284B2 |
Air conditioning apparatus
An air conditioning apparatus 1 includes first start control and second start control as its start control. In the first start control, first outdoor heat exchangers 24a, 24b are controlled to function as evaporators and second outdoor heat exchangers 25a, 25b are controlled to function as condensers. Thus, even when the compressors 21a, 21b are driven on at a given rotation number, the discharge pressures thereof can be prevented from increasing, thereby being able to prevent the internal pressures of the compressors 21a, 21b from increasing. Also, after end of the first start control, the first outdoor heat exchangers 24a, 24b and second outdoor heat exchangers 25a, 25b are all controlled to function as evaporators, and the compressors 21a, 21b are driven on at a given rotation number. This can shorten the rising time of the heating capacity in the start of the normal heating operation. |
| US09046283B2 |
Air-conditioning apparatus
An air-conditioning apparatus includes a heat medium circuit that circulates a heat medium different to the refrigerant on a heat source side. The heat medium circuit includes, for example, heat exchangers related to heat medium, use side heat exchangers, first heat medium flow switching devices and second heat medium flow switching devices that change passages of the use side heat exchangers, heat medium flow control devices that controls a heat medium amount in the corresponding use side heat exchangers. An on-off device is each provided on the upstream side of the heat medium flow control device and on the downstream side of the second heat medium flow switching device and a first backflow prevention device is each provided on the downstream side of the heat medium flow control device and on the upstream side of the first heat medium flow switching device. |
| US09046279B2 |
Light condensing device, photovoltaic power generation device and photo-thermal conversion device
A first prism member includes a plurality of light condensing structures that are formed at the front surface and condense the light having entered thereat and a plurality of deflecting structures which deflect light having been condensed via the light condensing structures and output the deflected light; a second prism member includes an entrance surface set so as to face opposite the rear surface of the first prism member; and the light having been deflected and output by the deflecting structures of the first prism member enters the second prism member through the entrance surface of the second prism member, is guided toward the exit surface as the light is reflected at the reflecting structure and at the entrance surface inside the second prism member, and exits through the exit surface. |
| US09046275B2 |
Air conditioner with electromagnetic induction heating unit
An air conditioner includes a refrigerant circuit, an electromagnetic induction heating unit, and a control unit. The refrigerant circuit has a compressing mechanism with an adjustable operating capacity, a heat source side heat exchanger, an expansion mechanism, and a utilization side heat exchanger. The electromagnetic induction heating unit heats a refrigerant piping and/or a member that is in thermal contact with a refrigerant that flows through the refrigerant piping. The control unit sets the electromagnetic induction heating unit to a forced inhibit state if any one of a condition in which the electromagnetic induction heating unit has been manually set to operation inhibited; a condition in which an air conditioning load is small; and a condition in which an amount of circulating refrigerant is small is satisfied. |
| US09046273B2 |
Methods for operating a top loading wood-fired appliance having a cooperating top-loading door and movable baffle
A method for operating a wood fired appliance, in one aspect, generally includes automatically moving a baffle to a lowered closed position from the raised open position in response to a top loading door being moved to a closed position to close the opening in a top wall. The baffle may also be automatically inhibited from being maintained in the raised opened position when the top loading door is disposed in the closed position. For example, a cam may be tripped or activated by lowering of the top loading door to cause the baffle to rotate about an axis and fall under the force of gravity to the lowered closed position, and the cam may inhibit the baffle from being raised when the top loading door is closed. |
| US09046270B2 |
Controllable flameholder
The present invention relates to a flameholder (1) for holding a flame (84) comprising a flow of combusting fluid. The flameholder (1) comprises an inlet (32) and an outlet (34) which defines a flow path between them. A magnetic-field generator (10, 20) is arranged to generate a magnetic field (40) across the flow path such that in use the fluid flows in the flow path through the magnetic field (40). As the fluid flows through the magnetic field an electric current is induced in the fluid. This results in a force (86) being generated on the fluid which opposes the flow direction (82). This force acts to hold the flame in place. If the flow path is in the form of a closed loop, in a plane perpendicular to the flow direction (82), then the current (50) induced in the fluid can flow in a closed loop entirely within the fluid. |
| US09046262B2 |
Premixer fuel nozzle for gas turbine engine
In an embodiment, a system includes a turbine fuel nozzle having a hub with an axis, a shroud surrounding the hub along the axis, an air flow path between the hub and the shroud, and a fuel flow path. The turbine fuel nozzle also includes a swirl vane extending between the hub and the shroud in a radial direction relative to the axis. The swirl vane includes a fuel inlet coupled to the fuel flow path, a fuel chamber extending from the fuel inlet, and a plurality of fuel outlets extending from the fuel chamber to the air flow path. The plurality of fuel outlets is positioned at an axial distance of at least approximately ⅔ of an axial length of the fuel chamber downstream from an upstream point along an upstream edge of the fuel chamber. |
| US09046253B2 |
Thermal bridge for LED luminaires
A luminaire includes two housing halves, movable relative to each other between an open and closed configuration. The bottom housing half includes disposed therein a substrate which itself carries at least one LED which transmits light through a window in the bottom housing half. A thermal bridge made of at least one layer of anisotropic thermally conductive graphite is in thermal contact with the substrate and the top housing half when the housing is in the closed configuration, but its disengaged from either the substrate or top housing half when the housing is in the open configuration. |
| US09046243B2 |
Backlight module
A backlight module includes at least one light source, a light reflecting member, and a frame. The light reflecting member includes a center reflecting part, two first peripheral reflecting parts, two second peripheral reflecting parts, and two extension parts. The extension parts extend from either first upper bases of the first peripheral reflecting parts or second upper bases of the second peripheral reflecting parts, respectively. The center reflecting part, the first peripheral reflecting parts, the second peripheral reflecting parts and the extension parts are integrally formed as a one-piece, unitary member. The extension parts of the light reflecting member are disposed on either first side parts of the frame or second side parts of the frame, respectively. |
| US09046242B2 |
Light dispersion device
A light dispersion device for providing a predictable lighting pattern comprising a Light Emitting Diode (LED) source and a lens. The lens comprising a first optical element for collecting light emitted by the LED source and refracting light into an intermediate lighting pattern, and a second optical element for collecting at least light refracted in the intermediate lighting pattern and refracting light into the predictable lighting pattern.A lens comprising a first optical element for collecting light emitted by a source of light and refracting light into an intermediate lighting pattern, and a second optical element for collecting at least light refracted in the intermediate lighting pattern and refracting light into the predictable lighting pattern. |
| US09046239B2 |
Illumination device
An illumination device includes: a light source including a plurality of light emission elements disposed adjacent to one another and phosphors; and a lens sheet including a plurality of first prisms disposed on an optical axis of the light source and disposed concentrically around the optical axis of the light source, wherein a plurality of second prisms reaching up to an outer peripheral portion of the lens sheet is radially formed around the optical axis of the light source on a surface of the lens sheet where the first prisms are formed. |
| US09046237B2 |
Light module for a motor vehicle headlamp, configured to generate a stripe-shaped light distribution
A light module for a motor vehicle headlamp having an optical fiber configuration with at least one first optical fiber branch and one second optical fiber branch. Each of the two branches has a light exit surface each bordered by two narrow sides and disposed such that a narrow side of the first branch is disposed parallel and directly adjacent to a narrow side of the light exit surface of the second branch. Each branch exhibits two transport surfaces. The transport surfaces exhibit surface norms having a directional component, which faces more toward a first narrow side of the two narrow sides of the branch than toward a second narrow side of the two narrow sides of the branch, wherein the narrow sides lying directly adjacent and parallel to one another are a second narrow side of the first branch and a first narrow side of the second branch. |
| US09046232B2 |
Lighting system with light-emitting diode(s)
A lighting system with at least one LED panel is provided. Said LED panel including a plurality of similar lighting modules, said lighting modules having controllable light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and a polygonal housing frame. Said polygonal housing frame comprising a board for receiving said lighting modules. Said polygonal housing frame including a plug connector on at least one side of the housing frame for positively mechanically coupling a sliding rail connection. Said plug connector including electrical contact means integrated in said mechanical sliding rail connection. |
| US09046227B2 |
LED lamps with improved quality of light
LED lamp systems having improved light quality are disclosed. The lamps emit more than 500 lm and more than 2% of the power in the spectral power distribution is emitted within a wavelength range from about 390 nm to about 430 nm. |
| US09046225B2 |
Lighting system with improved illumination distribution
Optically patterned waveguides and systems employing optically pattered waveguides are provided. The optically patterned waveguide is configured for use in a lighting system and arranged perpendicular to an overhead structure, such as a ceiling. The optically patterned waveguide includes major surfaces that are patterned with a plurality of elongated facets formed into the major surfaces and extending in a direction parallel to the length of the waveguide. The optically patterned waveguide provides illumination patterns having increased uniformity. |
| US09046223B2 |
Light-emitting device
The light-emitting device 1 has electrode means 30, which includes cathode terminal 31 generally in the form of a cylinder having openings 311, 317 at its ends, and anode terminal 32 generally in the form of a pin capable of being arranged in the cathode terminal 31. The cathode terminal 31, anode terminal 32, and LED 20 are arranged concentrically. |
| US09046222B2 |
Flowmeter
Detecting a leak, or the like, with high accuracy on the basis of pressure and a flow volume acquired during use of fluid is made possible.A volume of gas flowing through a flow path 102 is measured by a flow volume measurement unit 106, and pressure is measured by a pressure measurement unit 108. Measured flow data and measured pressure data are input to an analysis unit 112, to thus analyze following of a pressure change by a flow volume change. An amount of flow volume change responsive to an amount of pressure change of a predetermined level or more is classified into a plurality of ranges by means of a predetermined threshold value, and a following flow value change is determined on the basis of determination conditions of the respective ranges of amounts of flow volume changes. |
| US09046219B2 |
Method for controlling a homogeneous batch of pressurized-fluid cylinders
The invention relates to a method for controlling a homogeneous batch (1) of pressurized fluid cylinders (2) during at least part of the use cycle of said cylinders. According to the invention, each of the cylinders (2) is provided with a valve (3) having an electronic device (4) including at least one sensor (14) for measuring the pressure (P) inside the cylinder (2), a system (44) for storing/acquiring and processing data and an electromagnetic wave transmitter (34), for example using radio frequency, designed for the remote transmission of at least one of the following items of information: the identity of the cylinder (2) and the pressure (P) measured inside said cylinder. The method includes a transmission step in which all of the cylinders (2) in the batch (1) transmit at least one item of information of the same type when they are in the same phase of the use cycle at the same time and a step in which the same-type items of information transmitted by the cylinders are compared for the automatic detection of an anomaly in the batch (1). |
| US09046215B2 |
Support device
A support device, applicable for holding up an electronic device in different directions, the support device includes a base and a curved sliding bracket. The base includes a fixing part. The curved sliding bracket is slidably assembled on the base in a curve direction. The electronic device is adapted for being fixed on the curved sliding bracket. The base includes a sliding rail, where the curved sliding bracket is assembled. |
| US09046211B2 |
Mechanical support for thermal or electric systems
A mechanical support for thermal or electric systems. The support is hollowed, and includes two bearing surfaces, substantially parallel to each other, and separated from each other by a lateral surface defining a perimeter. The lateral surface includes through openings, distributed along at least one row substantially parallel to the bearing surfaces. The support includes at least one stiffening flange, in contact with the lateral surface of the support, all along the perimeter of the lateral surface, on or in the vicinity of the or of each row of through openings. |
| US09046207B2 |
Line for transporting a fluid containing a hydrocarbon, and method for producing such a line
The invention relates to a line for transporting a hydrocarbon. The line comprises a hollow tube having an electrically insulating outer surface, a heating layer with carbon fibers embedded in a polymer material, an electrical insulation layer arranged on the heating layer, a reinforcing layer with carbon fibers embedded in a polymer material arranged on the electrical insulation layer, and power supply means for feeding an electrical current to the heating layer for heating the tube. |
| US09046201B1 |
High pressure highly flexible, stable in length, thermoplastic hose and method of making the same
The invention is an improved high pressure hose used for hydraulic actuation and fluid conveyance of various liquid media under relatively high pressure. The hose has an inner tube of an elastomeric material that provides a fluid-carrying passageway. The inner tube is covered with a layer of braided yarn and a layer of textile yarn extending parallel to the axis of the fluid-carrying passageway, with an outer sheath of a thermoplastic material completing the hose. |
| US09046200B2 |
Heat-shrinkable tube covering
A sleeve is provided for covering a pipe joint formed between two pipes that are coupled to one another to form a tube. The sleeve comprises a heat-shrinkable material that is configured to conform to the first and second pipes when heated to cover the pipe joint. |
| US09046197B2 |
Para-seismic support for pipes
A para-seismic support for a pipe comprising a support member configured to receive the pipe, the support member having means of supporting the para-seismic support from a ceiling structure and at least one axial side plate extending in a generally vertical plane perpendicular to the axis of the pipe when resting on the support member, the side plate having a pair of attachment holes extending therethrough configured for attaching to a support element. |
| US09046196B2 |
Polyethylene composition for large diameter pipe stability
Pipe articles and methods of forming the same are described herein. The methods generally include providing an ethylene based polymer; contacting the ethylene based polymer with a secondary stabilizer including a diphosphite to form a modified polyethylene; and forming the modified polyethylene into a pipe. |
| US09046195B2 |
Techniques for coating pipes
A method of coating a field joint of a pipeline to accelerate the cycle time comprises positioning a mould tool around the field joint to define a mould cavity and injecting plastics material into the mould cavity through a plurality of gates in the mould tool, spaced along the mould cavity. The material is injected through different gates at different times as the mould cavity is filled, specifically through at least one first gate to advance a melt front within the mould cavity, and subsequently through at least one second gate spaced from the first gate, preferably when the melt front passes the second gate. First and second mould tools may be positioned successively around the field joint to create inner and outer coatings on the field joint. An insert may be positioned in the mould cavity to be embedded in the injected plastics material. |
| US09046192B2 |
Membrane-based fluid control in microfluidic devices
A microfluidic device may include a substrate that defines a flow-control cavity and first and second channels in fluid communication with the flow-control cavity. A compliant membrane for regulating fluid flow through the flow-control cavity may surround at least a portion of the flow-control cavity. |
| US09046191B2 |
Valve body with upper flow diverter
A valve body includes a first opening, a second opening, a gallery, a first flow conduit portion, a second flow conduit portion, and an upper flow diverter. The gallery is disposed between the first and second openings. The first flow conduit portion extends between the first opening and a side opening of the gallery. The second flow conduit portion extends between the second opening and a bottom opening of the gallery. The upper flow diverter is carried by an upper wall portion of the first flow conduit portion and extends into the first flow conduit portion. In one version, the upper flow diverter includes an elongated structure extending at least partially between the first opening and the gallery for diverting the fluid flowing through the first flow conduit portion and into the gallery. |
| US09046188B2 |
Solenoid actuator with magnetic sleeving
The present disclosure relates to an electromagnetic actuator. The actuator comprises a casing, a sleeve, coils, a permanent magnet, cores and a movable plunger. The present disclosure is unusual in that the sleeve is made of magnetic material. The sleeve enables a single component to mechanically and hydraulically isolate the plunger from the coils. The sleeve is also made of a material having a lower saturation induction than that of the materials used in other parts of the magnetic circuit. The actuator is also suitable for incorporation into a submerged cryogenic valve. |
| US09046187B2 |
Electromagnetically operated switching devices and methods of actuation thereof
An electromagnetically operated switching device comprises an armature (82,102) having a magnetisable and moveable portion (82b,102b) for displacement between two stable rest positions. Two pole pieces (60,62) are disposed on opposite sides of the armature. The pole pieces form poles of opposing polarity adjacent to the armature, and the armature is magnetically attracted to a respective pole piece in each of its stable rest positions. A coil (54) is arranged to polarise the moveable portion of the armature when the coil is energised, such that the moveable portion of the armature is displaced from one stable rest position to the other by energising the coil so as to polarise the portion to the opposite polarity to the adjacent pole piece. Each pole piece (60,62) comprises a permanent magnet (68,70) with the permanent magnets disposed on opposite sides of the moveable portion (82b,102b) of the armature (82,102). The device may be configured to control the flow of fluids. |
| US09046182B2 |
Check valve
A check valve includes connected first and second bodies respectively disposed on upstream and downstream sides. A valve plug is disposed displaceably in a communication chamber formed in the interior of the first body. A skirt urges a main body portion of the valve plug in a direction for seating the main body portion on a valve seat surface, and is provided on the valve plug such that the main body portion is seated on the valve seat surface by an elastic force of the skirt. By supplying a pressure fluid to the first body, the valve plug is displaced in opposition to the elastic force of the skirt, whereby the interior of the first body and the interior of the second body are placed in communication and the pressure fluid is allowed to flow therethrough. |
| US09046180B2 |
Diaphragm and backing cushion shaping for increased membrane life
A weir-type diaphragm valve includes a valve body with a fluid channel and a weir with a weir sealing portion; and a diaphragm with diaphragm portions, including a diaphragm weir sealing portion at the weir that responds to one force and travel against the weir sealing portion to close the valve and stop fluid flow through the fluid channel, and responds to a second force and travel away from the weir sealing portion to open the valve and allow fluid through the fluid channel, a center flexing portion off the weir that experiences convex and concave flexing extremes when the valve is closed/opened, and an outer sealing portion fully constrained between components, one of which includes the valve body, when the valve is closed/opened. The diaphragm portions have different characteristics based on different material stresses associated with different functionality that each portion performs when the valve is closed/opened. |
| US09046178B2 |
Self-retaining gasket and fastener retainer
A gasket including a main body, a first retention tab, a second retention tab, and a third retention tab. The main body defines a first aperture. The first, second, and third retention tabs extend from the main body at the first aperture. |
| US09046176B2 |
Hydraulic auto-tensioner
A hydraulic auto-tensioner includes a cylinder containing hydraulic oil, a rod inserted in the cylinder, and two coupling pieces mounted to the bottom of the cylinder and the top end of the rod, respectively. A support ring is inserted in the mounting hole of each coupling piece, and a bush is inserted in the support ring. One of the radially inner surface of the mounting hole and the radially outer surface of the support ring is a curved surface such that the support ring is alignable. Radially outwardly extending flanges are formed at one end of the support ring and at the other end of the bush such that the flanges axially face the respective end surfaces of the coupling piece with gaps left therebetween. A coupling arrangement is provided between the support ring and the bush which is adapted to engage both the support ring and the bush when the bush is inserted into the support ring, thereby axially inseparably coupling them together. |
| US09046170B2 |
Device for the pulsed release of an amount of fluid which can be stored in an accumulator housing
A device for the pulsed release of an amount of fluid stored in a storage housing (2) has a locking device (7) formed by a piston-cylinder arrangement (8). The arrangement has a cylinder housing (9) subdivided into a first working chamber (11) and a second working chamber (12) by a working piston (10). An electrorheological or magnetorheological valve (14) in the form of a gap (15) or an opening is arranged between the working chambers (11, 12) in the circumference (13) of the working piston (10) or in the working piston (10). |
| US09046166B2 |
Transfer gearbox
A transfer gearbox includes an input shaft, first and second output shafts, and a torque transmission device having a clutch which distributes a driving torque introduced via the input shaft optionally to the first output shaft and the second output shaft. A chain drive is active between the torque transmission device and the second output shaft, and includes a lower chain wheel which engages in an oil sump with lubrication oil such that, by way of a chain, lubrication oil is conveyed from the oil sump in the direction of an upper chain wheel which is drive-connected to the lower chain wheel via the chain. The chain is arranged at an outlet opening of an oil reservoir which collects the lubrication oil and which opens into the oil sump. The chain throttles the flowing out of the lubrication oil collected in the oil reservoir into the oil sump. |
| US09046164B2 |
Shift lever for a vehicle transmission
Disclosed is a shift lever for a vehicle transmission, which includes a rod provided in a mounting space to move linearly and having an upper part having an upper inclined surface and successive engaging grooves. An engaging protrusion is provided on an inner wall of a support section such that, when the rod moves, the engaging protrusion is engaged with one of the engaging grooves to afford a brisk, clear operation action when changing gears. A button is provided such that one end thereof extends to the inclined surface of the upper part of the rod, and another end thereof is exposed to the outside to enable that end to be pressed down to push the rod down. |
| US09046163B2 |
Transmission device, driving assembly including the transmission device, and image forming apparatus including the driving assembly
A transmission device includes a rotatable shaft, a first transmission member, and a second transmission member. The first transmission member includes a first fitting portion fitted coaxially to an outer circumferential surface of the rotatable shaft, and is attached to the rotatable shaft to transmit torque. The second transmission member is rotatably driven by a driving device and includes a second fitting portion fitted coaxially to the outer circumferential surface of the rotatable shaft. The second transmission member is connected coaxially to the first transmission member while the first and the second fitting portions are fitted to the outer circumferential surface of the rotatable shaft. |
| US09046161B2 |
Starting apparatus
A starting apparatus including an input member coupled to a motor; a damper mechanism having an input element, an elastic body and an output element; a lock-up clutch mechanism for performing lockup where the input member is coupled to an input shaft of a transmission via the damper mechanism and for canceling lockup, and a dynamic damper including an elastic body and a mass body engaged with the elastic body. The mass body of the dynamic damper is an elastic body support member that is supported rotatably around an axis of the starting apparatus and that supports the elastic body of the damper mechanism. With this arrangement, the dynamic damper is easily adjustable while reducing the overall size of the starting apparatus. |
| US09046157B2 |
Mandrel, set of mandrels, and hollow rack bar
The present invention includes a bar having a maximum cross section region smaller than a minimum cross section region of a hollow portion of a pipe P, and projected portions mounted along an axial direction of the bar and including a projected portion with maximum extent Hb, extent Ha of the projected portion positioned at a leading end side of the bar is set to be smaller than extent Hb of the projected portion positioned at a center side in the axial direction, and extent Hc of the projected portion positioned at a base end side of the bar is set to be less than or equal to extent Hb of the projected portion. |
| US09046156B2 |
Hybrid drive device
A hybrid drive device includes: a gear mechanism that divides and transmits rotary power of an internal-combustion engine to first motor generator and second motor generator; a first shaft to which rotary power of the first motor generator is transmitted; a rotary element; a second shaft to which rotary power of the rotary element is transmitted after deceleration; a third shaft to which rotary power of the second shaft is transmitted after deceleration; a first power-transmission switching mechanism that can switch rotary power of the second motor generator among a state of being transmitted to the rotary element, a state of being transmitted to the third shaft, and a state of not being transmitted; and a second power-transmission switching mechanism that can switch rotary power of the first shaft between a state of transmission to the second shaft and a state of not transmitted. |
| US09046154B2 |
Wheel drive unit
A wheel drive unit includes a planetary gear mechanism including a planetary gear and an internally-toothed gear. A casing is integrated with the internally-toothed gear, a wheel is attached to the casing, and the casing transmits rotation of the internally-toothed gear to the wheel. A bearing is fitted to an inner circumferential surface of the casing at a position more toward an interior of a vehicle than the planetary gear and rotatably supports the casing. An inner diameter of an outer race of the bearing is larger than an outer diameter of the planetary gear. |
| US09046153B2 |
Ratchet tensioner
There is provide a ratchet-type tensioner that enables to readily disengage a plunger from a ratchet element in maintaining an engine, that engages the plunger reliably with the ratchet element in operating the engine so as to reduce flapping noise, and that prevents seizure of the plunger. A ratchet releasing mechanism X configured to release an engagement of the ratchet teeth 151 of the ratchet element 150 with the rack teeth 122 of the plunger 120 by means of a tool pin T includes a ratchet releasing pin guide hole 114 formed through the housing body 110 to insert a pin edge portion T1 of the tool pin T into a plunger-side edge region of the ratchet element 150 and a ratchet releasing pin engaging hole 155 formed in the plunger-side edge region of the ratchet element 150 to guide and engage the pin edge portion T1 of the tool pin T inserted from the ratchet releasing pin guide hole 114. |
| US09046152B2 |
Chain connection link
A chain connection link includes: a pair of U-shaped links of a U-shaped configuration in front view and each having two arms; a connection arm portion provided at an end portion of one arm of each of these U-shaped links; a connection groove-shaped arm portion having a groove and provided at an end portion of the other arm of each of these U-shaped links; and through-holes provided in the connection arm portion and the connection groove-shaped arm portion, the connection arm portion of one U-shaped link being fit-engaged with the connection groove-shaped arm portion of the other U-shaped link, a connection shaft being passed through the through-holes to connect the pair of U-shaped links, wherein the size of the outer periphery of the connection groove-shaped arm portion is larger than the size of the outer periphery of the connection arm portion. |
| US09046149B2 |
Starter alternator assembly comprising a poli-V belt and poli-V belt
Starter-alternator assembly including a poly-V belt comprising a body made of elastomeric material, a plurality of filiform resistant inserts longitudinally embedded in the body, and a coupling portion integrally connected to the body and comprising a plurality of V-shaped ribs set alongside one another and alternating with V-shaped grooves. The belt has a dynamic modulus, with a tensile force pre-set at 600 N at a frequency 15 Hz, that after 10 000 cycles is higher than 110 000 N/rib/branch, and is advantageously made with resistant inserts obtained from at least one first fiber material and one second fiber material. |
| US09046143B2 |
Caliper cover
A caliper cover for brake calipers which is easily engageable using a clip having a slot to engage a bolt extending from a member engaged to the caliper cover. |
| US09046140B2 |
Conical wedge one-way clutch with split outer race
A one-way clutch, including an inner race and a wedge component with first and second tapered outer partially circumferential surfaces. The clutch includes first and second outer races including respective tapered inner partially circumferential surfaces. For rotation of the outer races, with respect to the inner race, in a first direction, the outer races are axially aligned and separated by a space in an axial direction, the first and second tapered outer partially circumferential surfaces and the respective tapered inner partially circumferential surfaces are at least partially aligned in radial and axial directions and are free of contact. For rotation of the outer races, with respect to the inner race, in a second direction, opposite the first direction, the first and second tapered outer partially circumferential surfaces contact the respective tapered inner partially circumferential surfaces and the first and second outer races are non-rotatably connected to the inner race. |
| US09046134B2 |
Steering gear clutch
A steering gear clutch includes a housing and an input shaft rotatably supported by the housing. An output shaft operatively connected with a steering gear is rotatably supported by the housing. The output shaft is rotatable relative to the input shaft. The input shaft rotates together with the output shaft relative to the housing when a torque below a predetermined value is applied to the input shaft. The input shaft rotates relative to the output shaft and the housing when a torque above the predetermined value is applied to the input shaft. The input shaft may rotate relative to a shaft portion of the output shaft and the housing through a predetermined angle. The input shaft and the shaft portion may rotate together relative to the housing when the input shaft has rotated through the predetermined angle. |
| US09046132B2 |
Grease composition and rolling bearing
The present invention provides a grease composition having an excellent fretting wear resistance in a wide temperature region from low to high temperatures and particularly even at low temperatures and a rolling bearing in which the grease composition is packed. A grease composition (7) is packed inside a grease-packed bearing (1). The grease composition (7) contains base oil, a thickener, and an additive. The additive contains at least, one kind selected from among a phosphite ester of formula (1) or a phosphite ester of formula (2): |
| US09046130B2 |
Gas turbine engine and high speed rolling element bearing
One embodiment of the present invention is a unique gas turbine engine. Another embodiment is a unique gas turbine engine high speed rolling element bearing system. Other embodiments include apparatuses, systems, devices, hardware, methods, and combinations for gas turbine engines and high speed rolling element bearing systems for gas turbine engines. Further embodiments, forms, features, aspects, benefits, and advantages of the present application shall become apparent from the description and figures provided herewith. |
| US09046126B2 |
Internal combustion engine with mechanically-affected stroke
A connecting rod for an engine may include a sleeve portion having a distal end including a distal aperture configured to be coupled to a piston, and a rod portion having a proximal end including a proximal aperture configured to be coupled to a crankshaft. The rod portion may be configured to reciprocate in the sleeve portion, such that a distance between a center of the proximal aperture and a center of the distal aperture is variable. An engine may include the connecting rod, a power train may include the engine, and a vehicle may include the power train. |
| US09046122B2 |
Assembly of thermoplastic extrusion blow molded component and fastening element
The invention relates to an extrusion blow-molded component (1) made of thermoplastic resin. The component (1) preferably comprises a recess in the exterior wall, the recess being configured as a blind bore (2) provided with at least one convolution (4). The blind bore (2) serves to receive a complementary fastening element (6) equipped with a threaded stem (17). A contour is provided in the region of the orifice (3) of the blind bore (2), the contour positively interacting with a contour that is complementary on the fastening element upon insertion of the fastening element (6), wherein the angular position of the contour (2) is selected such that inserting the contours into each other is possible only by overcoming an axial tension that is built up due to the rotating movement of the parts to each other under elastic deformation of the plastic (FIG. 1). |
| US09046121B2 |
Screw with dual edge on thread
A screw fastener having a head, threaded shank with compound, divided threads and tip end has an upper thread surface extending at a substantially flat angle from a normal to a longitudinal axis of the screw which diverts upwardly to a first peripheral edge defining a cupped or concave upper thread surface and a lower thread surface extending upwardly to a second peripheral edge, with a radially inward recess between first and second edges. The screw exhibits significantly increased pull-out resistance. |
| US09046119B2 |
Tacking nail or tacking pin including a charging time indicating member for tacker
The present invention provides a tacking nail connection body which allows a user to clearly recognize a stage for use of a tacking nail and a point in time for charging a tacker. In the tacking nail connection body (20) in which a plurality of tacking nails are arranged in a line and connected to each other, at least one tacking nail (21) disposed on a position biased from a central portion of the tacking nail connection body (20) toward one side includes an indicating member (30) attached along a length direction of a body part (21b) on a surface of the body part (21b) between a head part (21a) and a tip part (21c) of the tacking nail (21) and separated from the body part (21b) when the body part (21b) is stuck into lumber. |
| US09046118B2 |
Fastening device for a module element in an airplane
A fastening device for attaching a module element to a support structure in an aircraft includes a stud having a first end defining a broadened head configured to engage the support structure, a section which adjoins the head and defines a first lateral dimension and a second lateral dimension that is larger than, and is disposed at least substantially perpendicularly to, the first lateral dimension, and a second opposite end connected to a lever which is movable between open and closed positions relative to the stud. A bushing, which may be electrically conductive, is provided on and longitudinally movable along the stud, which is configured to contact the support structure and to support an outer wall of the module element. An eccentric may be actuated by the lever and is responsive to movement of the lever into the closed position to move the bushing along the stud towards the head. |
| US09046117B2 |
Telescoping tube position lock apparatus
Embodiments of the inventive technology relate generally to item support apparatus. Although a focus of the inventive technology may, in some embodiments, be on support of musical related items such as a microphone, the scope of the inventive technology and its applicability is not necessarily limited as such. In various embodiments of the telescoping tube position lock apparatus, certain inventive technology provides enhanced functionality (e.g., stand adjustability), enhanced performance and/or improved ease of control. |
| US09046115B1 |
Eddy current minimizing flow plug for use in flow conditioning and flow metering
An eddy-current-minimizing flow plug has open flow channels formed between the plug's inlet and outlet. Each open flow channel includes (i) a first portion that originates at the inlet face and converges to a location within the plug that is downstream of the inlet, and (ii) a second portion that originates within the plug and diverges to the outlet. The diverging second portion is approximately twice the length of the converging first portion. The plug is devoid of planar surface regions at its inlet and outlet, and in fluid flow planes of the plug that are perpendicular to the given direction of a fluid flowing therethrough. |
| US09046112B2 |
Mechanical coolant pump
A mechanical coolant pump for an internal combustion engine includes a pump rotor wheel comprising a blocking ring and rotor blades. The rotor blades are configured to pump a coolant radially outwardly. Variable pump stator blades are pivotably supported by a static blade holding ring at a first axial blade end. The variable pump stator blades are arranged radially outwardly of the pump rotor wheel. The blocking ring is arranged to partially overlap a second axial blade end. |
| US09046109B2 |
Centrifugal blower with asymmetric blade spacing
A centrifugal blower in a cooling system of an electronic device having asymmetrical blade spacing with acceptable balance. The asymmetrical blade spacing is determined according to a set of desired acoustic artifacts that are favorable and balance that is similar to that found with equal fan blade spacing. In one embodiment, the fan impeller can include sixty one fan blades. |
| US09046106B2 |
Fan and fan frame thereof
A fan includes a fan frame and a fan wheel. The fan frame includes a frame body and a first waved structure. The frame body has a wind enter side and a wind exhaust side, wherein the wind enter side is opposite to the wind exhaust side. The first waved structure is formed on the wind enter side of the frame body. The first waved structure has a plurality of first peaks and a plurality of first valleys, wherein the first peaks and the first valleys are arranged separately. The fan wheel is rotatably disposed in the fan frame. |
| US09046102B2 |
Gear pump device with seal mechanism
A gear pump device of this disclosure includes: a gear pump; a casing; and a seal mechanism, wherein the seal mechanism includes: an annular rubber member; an outer member; and an inner member, which has an outer peripheral wall on which the annular rubber member is mounted, the inner member fitted into an inner side of the outer member and contacting on an inner wall face of the outer shell, wherein the outer peripheral wall of the inner member is provided with a collar portion that generates a propulsive force towards the inner wall face of the outer shell of the casing by a contact pressure of the annular rubber member based on a discharge pressure of the gear pump, and the collar portion forms a pressure receiving face to increase the propulsive force as the contact pressure of the annular rubber member increases according to an increase of the discharge pressure. |
| US09046098B2 |
Face sealing annular valve for a fluid-working machine
A face sealing annular valve (1) for a fluid-working machine has an annular valve member (10, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110) having a relaxed configuration in which a first seat-engaging surface (14, 101) of the annular valve member can sealedly engage with a first sealing surface of an annular valve seat (8), but a second seat-engaging surface (15, 101) cannot sealedly engage with a second sealing surface (9), and is elastically deformable to a deformed configuration in which the second seat-engaging surface can sealedly engage with a second sealing surface, while the first seat-engaging surface remains sealedly engaged with the first sealing surface. The annular valve member can be made with relatively high tolerances and is only loosely retained by a guide in the relaxed configuration. |
| US09046096B2 |
Piston air compressor
A piston air compressor having a suction chamber and a connection chamber separated from the suction chamber. An air channel is provided from the connection chamber to the suction chamber. |
| US09046092B2 |
Inhalation therapy device compressor
The compressor includes two compression spaces (1, 5) separate from one another, one of which serves to generate the continuous pressure medium flow for the generation of a basic aerosol flow, whereas the other is used to generate the pressure variations. The shared compression device (4), for example a piston, is moved in a pendulum motion by a drive (7) so that a gas is conveyed through the first compression space and pressure variations are imposed upon a gas volume via the second compression space. The drive is disposed in a compression space, use advantageously being made of the space volume available that may if necessary be made use of by the compressor. In a preferred embodiment the drive (7) is located in the compression space (5) that is used to generate the pressure variations. |
| US09046089B2 |
Wobble plate type variable displacement compressor
Disclosed is a wobble plate type variable displacement compressor that uses a constant velocity universal joint mechanism, which comprises an inner ring and an outer ring, balls that are held between guide grooves of the inner ring and the outer ring to transmit power, wherein a wobble plate is connected and fixed to the outer ring. In the compressor, the connecting structure for the outer ring and the wobble plate is formed by providing a plurality of concave portions arranged in a circumferential direction on one member, by plastically deforming the other member partially at locations corresponding to the concave portions such that it fits into the concave portions, and by fixing both members to each other in the axial direction and in the rotational direction by means of the plastic deformation. With this wobble plate type variable displacement compressor using the specified constant velocity universal joint mechanism, the structure for connecting the wobble plate and the outer ring in the wobble plate rotation preventing mechanism can be improved, thereby improving the productivity and reducing the cost and the weight. |
| US09046075B2 |
Wind turbine generator
In the wind turbine generator, a front wind rotor includes a blade designed, in an area outer than an intermediate of a rotation radius of the front wind rotor, to have a blade element comprised of an aerofoil being cambered in a cross-section along a rotational direction thereof, and is radially twisted so as to ensure an angle of attack smaller by a predetermined stable margin angle than an angle of attack providing a maximum lift-drag ratio regardless of a radial position, and further designed, in an area inner than the intermediate of a rotation radius of the front wind rotor, to be radially twisted so as to ensure an angle of attack at which a drag acting on the blade element is made small, and a total force of the drag and a lift force is axially directed, regardless of a radial position. |
| US09046074B2 |
Split collar mountable wind turbine
A split collar mountable turbine that can be assembled in two separate halves and adapted to be attached circumferentially around existing structures. Top and bottom attachment rings each comprise first and second arcuate elements adapted to interconnect circumferentially about an axis to form two rings. A fan blade housing ring comprising first and second arcuate elements, adapted to interface into complimentary slots within the top and bottom rings, and also adapted to interconnect circumferentially about an axis to form a fan blade housing ring and is received in complimentary slots. The fan blade housing ring moves in tracks located in the top and bottom rings. Located within the fan blade housing are two pair of off-axis electrical generators driven by rotation of said fan blade housing to produce electricity. |
| US09046072B2 |
Method and system for harnessing wind energy using a tethered airfoil
The present disclosure is directed at a method and system for harnessing wind energy using a tethered airfoil. During a traction phase, wind is allowed to extend a kite tether. Wind energy that is harnessed through extension of the kite tether is mechanically stored prior to using the wind energy that is stored to generate electricity. During a retraction phase, the wind energy that is mechanically stored during the traction phase is used to retract the kite tether. Beneficially, the mechanical storage allows the kite tether to be retracted without relying on electricity from an electrical grid. |
| US09046070B2 |
Starting control unit and start command signal generation apparatus therefor
A starting control unit integrally includes a current suppression resistor connected in series with an output contact of an electromagnetic shift relay provided on a starter motor, a short-circuiting relay that short-circuits the current suppression resistor with a short-circuiting contact thereof, and a timer circuit that closes the short-circuiting contact at a predetermined time instant when a starting current decreases in response to the operation of a starting command switch. An excitation coil of the short-circuiting relay is supplied with electric power directly from a vehicle battery by way of one of the terminals of the current suppression resistor, a reverse connection protection device, and a driving transistor, excluding the starting command switch. A suppression starting current for the starter motor flows in the current suppression resistor during the time period obtained by adding a delay setting time T0 of the timer circuit and a t2b from a time instant when the excitation coil is de-energized to a time instant when the short-circuiting contact is returned to be closed. |
| US09046067B2 |
Dual fuel injector with off set check biasing springs
A fuel injector has the ability to inject two fuels that differ in at least one of pressure, chemical identity and matter phase, such as liquid diesel fuel and nature gas. A first direct operated check includes a closing hydraulic surface exposed to fluid pressure in a first control chamber, and is normally biased toward a closed position by a first spring. A second direct operated check has a closing hydraulic surface exposed to fluid pressure in a second control chamber, and is biased toward a closed position with a second spring. The first spring and the second spring are located on opposite sides of a plane oriented perpendicular to a long axis of the injector body, in part to satisfy packaging constraints when the direct operated checks are arranged in a side by side parallel configuration. |
| US09046065B2 |
Vehicle air intake mechanism
A vehicle air intake mechanism comprises an air intake duct having an inlet end opening which opens in an axial direction, and a flow-guiding member having an outer surrounding wall that defines a flow channel in fluid communication with the inlet end opening. The outer surrounding wall has first and second end portions that extend in the axial direction. The first end portion of the outer surrounding wall surrounds an inlet end portion of the air intake duct. The first axial end of the outer surrounding wall defines a first end opening that is in fluid communication with the flow channel and that opens in the axial direction. The inlet end opening is disposed between and is spaced apart from first and second axial ends of the outer surrounding wall in the axial direction. |
| US09046058B2 |
System and method of combustion for sustaining a continuous detonation wave with transient plasma
An annular combustion (22) chamber and a transient plasma system (42) in communication with the annular combustion chamber (22) to sustain a spinning detonation wave. This system (42) is also called as “nanosecond pulsed plasma” system and a pulse generator (48) operates to generate by energy but intense high voltage pulses to provide tansient plasma (p); increasing the reactivity of the chemical species of the popelllants. The propulsion relies on constant pressure combustion (CDWE). |
| US09046054B2 |
Heat engine with external hot source
A heat engine with external hot source in which the engine has at least one variable volume working chamber for a working gas, and a distribution mechanism that connects this chamber to a cold input from an energy receiving path during an outgoing transfer phase and to a hot output of the energy receiving path during an incoming transfer phase, the energy receiving path being intended to heat the working gas outside the chamber on contact with the external hot source, wherein the distribution mechanism is timed in such a way as to: maintain pressure in the energy receiving path; during stable operation, connect the working chamber with the cold input from the energy receiving path whilst the pressure in the chamber is lower than the pressure in the energy receiving path. |
| US09046052B2 |
Method for controlling a fuel pressure in a fuel supply device of a combustion engine
A fuel supply device of a combustion engine compromises a fuel pump that pumps fuel into a fuel accumulator, which provides injection valves with fuel and which is connected to a regulator valve that sets the fuel pressure according to an actuating signal (SG). The fuel pressure in the supply device is controlled in such a manner that the actuating signal (SG) is determined according to a desired fuel pressure (FUP_SP) and to quantity that characterizes the dynamics of the flow of the fuel through the regulator valve, and the regulator valve is subsequently controlled by the actuating signal (SG). |
| US09046048B2 |
Method of fuel quality determination
A method of determining fuel quality in an internal combustion engine comprises the steps of: a) sampling a signal representative of the revolution speed of said engine during a sampling window, thereby obtaining an array of samples; and b) computing a Fourier component corresponding to a predetermined index in the frequency domain and determining a fuel quality indicator therefrom. The fuel quality indicator is representative of a magnitude of the Fourier component of this predetermined index. |
| US09046046B2 |
Vehicle controller and vehicle control method
A brake ECU executes a program including: the step of executing a first brake hydraulic pressure control for preventing decrease of brake hydraulic pressure regardless of decrease in an amount of operation of a brake pedal, if position is at a P position and the amount of operation of the brake pedal is determined to be decreasing; and the step of executing a normal, second hydraulic pressure control if the position is not the P position and the amount of operation of the brake pedal is not determined to be decreasing. |
| US09046045B2 |
Output control device for internal combustion engine and output control method for internal combustion engine
The present invention concerns an output control device for an internal combustion engine for generating a drive force of a vehicle. The output control device includes a braking request detection sensor for detecting whether or not a braking request operation has been performed, and a controller programmed to calculate a braking operation time from the start of the braking request operation, and limit an output of the internal combustion engine when the braking operation time becomes longer than a predetermined time. |
| US09046041B2 |
Gearbox positioning device
A gearbox positioning device to position a gearbox relative to an engine case of a gas turbine engine. The positioning device has a first and second part, with the first part having a connecting cavity of predetermined shape and being secured to the engine case. The second part has a coupling post received in the connecting cavity and constraining displacement of the gearbox in a laterally transverse direction with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the engine. The device permits movement of the gearbox in the axial direction of the engine as well as angular movement to prevent stressing the engine case during thermal growth of the engine case or support linkage imbalance. A gearbox positioning system incorporating the positioning device and the method of attaching same to the engine casing is also included. |
| US09046037B2 |
Method for operating a combined cycle power plant
A method for operating a combined cycle power plant is disclosed, which has a gas turbine installation and a water-steam cycle connected to the gas turbine installation by a waste heat steam generator and has at least one steam turbine, the gas turbine installation includes a compressor, a combustion chamber, and a turbine. To cool the turbine, air compressed at the compressor is removed, cooled in at least one cooler flowed through by water, thus generating steam, and introduced into the turbine. At least with the gas turbine installation running, prior to or during the start-up of the water-steam cycle, waste heat, which is contained in the steam generated in the at least one cooler, is used to good effect for pre-heating the installation inside the combined cycle power plant. |
| US09046035B2 |
Compression ramp boundary layer removal
An inlet for removal of a boundary layer from an incoming air flow of an engine is disclosed. The inlet includes at least one compression element proximate to an inlet aperture of the engine. The compression element is selectably moveable between a first position and a second position along an axis. A boundary layer removal aperture is open when the compression element is in the first position and the boundary layer removal aperture is closed when the compression element is in the second position. |
| US09046034B2 |
Engine driven power generation apparatus
In an engine-driven power generation apparatus, where an engine and a power generator driven by the engine are accommodated in a hermetically sealed housing and where an external air take-in pipe takes air into the housing, an air discharge pipe discharges the taken-in air to outside of the housing and an engine exhaust pipe discharges exhaust gas to outside of the housing, an ejector chamber is provided outside of the housing for causing the air, flowing in the air discharge pipe, to be compulsorily sucked to outside of the housing through a sucking action of the exhaust gas flowing in the engine exhaust pipe. |
| US09046033B2 |
Combustion engine
A combustion engine can include an engine block having interior and exterior block surfaces and a combustion generating system connected thereto, with the inner block surface defining a cavity therein; an exhaust port between the inner and exterior block surfaces; a crankshaft rotatably fixed within the cavity and configured to rotate around an axis; and leading and trailing blades connected to the crankshaft. During a combustion event, the inner block surface is complementarily shaped to the leading and trailing blades, such that the inner block surface is outside the blades' ranges of travel. A combustion generating system can supply and ignite an air fuel composition to create a combustion force positioned closer to one of the blades, forcing the one of the blades to rotate away from the combustion force, which rotates the crankshaft around the axis. |
| US09046032B2 |
Stratified charge engine with turbocharger
In an embodiment, a method for turbocharging a stratified charge engine includes flowing, in a turbocharged mode, exhaust gas from the engine into a turbocharger based on the engine having a load greater than a threshold load and the engine operating in a first range of engine speeds, the threshold load comprising a peak load for engine operation in a naturally-aspirated mode using a lean air-fuel mixture and providing, by the turbocharger while in the turbocharged mode, an increased amount of air to a combustion chamber in the engine based on the turbocharger receiving the exhaust gas. The method also includes restricting flow, in the naturally-aspirated mode, of the exhaust gas into the turbocharger based on at least one of: the engine having a load less than the threshold load or the engine operating in a second range of engine speeds, the second range being greater than the first range. |
| US09046025B2 |
Selective catalytic reduction device monitoring system
A selective catalytic reduction (SCR) device monitoring system includes an engine out NOx monitoring module, an SCR out NOx monitoring module configured and disposed to monitor NOx released from the SCR device, and a NOx storage model module operatively connected to the engine out NOx module and the SCR out NOx monitoring module. The NOx storage model module is configured and disposed to determine an amount of NOx stored in the SCR device. A consumed ammonia correction model module is operatively coupled to the NOx storage model module and configured and disposed to calculate a corrected consumed ammonia correction factor. |
| US09046024B2 |
Electric heating catalyst
The electricity is suppressed from flowing through a case (5) of an electric heating catalyst (1). The electric heating catalyst (1) comprises a heat generating element (3) which generates heat by applying electricity; a case (5) which accommodates the heat generating element (3); an inner tube (4) which is provided between the heat generating element (3) and the case (5); a mat (6) which is provided between the heat generating element (3) and the inner tube (4) and between the inner tube (4) and the case (5) and which insulates the electricity; and an electrode (7) which is connected to the heat generating element (3) and which supplies an electric power to the heat generating element (3); wherein an insulating layer (41), which insulates the electricity, is formed on a surface of the inner tube (4); and the insulating layer (41) is formed so that a portion, which is disposed on an inner circumferential surface side (403), is thinner than a portion which is disposed on an outer circumferential surface side (402) of the inner tube. |
| US09046023B2 |
Catalytic converter and fabrication method thereof
A catalyst unit may include a carrier, a channel opening portion through which exhaust gas passes, a skin portion that is formed along a circumference and integrally formed with the channel opening portion, and a skin addition portion that is formed with a second thickness on an outside surface of the skin portion. A fabrication device of the catalyst unit may include a container, a masking member, and an elastic member, wherein plugging material flows through opened channels and does not contact the masking member. A manufacturing method of the catalyst unit may include covering the masking member and inserting plugging material into an opened channel. A channel corresponding to a dead zone is plugged and the catalyst coating layer is not formed in the plugged channels, thus reducing the cost of the catalyst. |
| US09046018B2 |
Construction machine with heat management system
A construction machine according to the disclosure includes a tank for receiving an additive provided for the treatment of exhaust gases of the construction machine, and the additive has a decomposition temperature. The construction machine furthermore comprises at least one connecting line which is configured to conduct the additive away from the tank and/or to the tank. A withdrawal unit is connected to the at least one connecting line and is configured to transport the additive from the tank to the at least one connecting line and/or from the at least one connecting line into the tank. The construction machine further comprises a heat management system configured to influence temperature of the additive in the tank such that it does not exceed the decomposition temperature of the additive. |
| US09046017B2 |
Regeneration control device and regeneration control method of diesel particulate filter
A regeneration control device of a diesel particulate filter, includes: a regeneration control unit configured to combust particulate matter accumulated in a diesel particulate filter that removes the particulate matter from exhaust gas of an engine and regenerate the diesel particulate filter when an accumulation amount of the particulate matter accumulated in the diesel particulate filter exceeds a predetermined value, wherein the regeneration control unit is configured to perform lower limit control in which a lower limit of an engine speed is set to a value greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value during the regeneration. |
| US09046014B2 |
Valve timing control system for internal combustion engine
In a valve timing control system for an internal combustion engine, brushes and slip rings are disposed within a space formed between each of an intake air side and an exhaust side device main frames and each of intake air side and exhaust side cover members and partitioned by means of the respective seal members and the respective cover members are configured to enable radial directional position adjustments by a predetermined quantity and are fixed to the internal combustion engine in a state in which the radial directional position adjustments of the respective cover members have been made. |
| US09046011B2 |
Cam element for a valve drive train device
In a cam element for a valve drive train device of an internal combustion engine having at least one cam comprising at least two partial cams which are arranged next to one another and have a shared base circle phase in at least one angular camshaft range for valve lift switching by displacing their axial position with respect to a cam follower from one of the partial cams to another of the partial cams, the partial cams are angularly displaced in an axially overlapping arrangement. Also, between adjacent partial cams, a circular undercut is formed which has a center that is slightly offset from the rotational axis of the cam element so as to facilitate a switch over of valve actuation from one to another of the adjacent partial cams. |
| US09046009B2 |
Tappet for a valve train or a pump drive and method of making a tappet
A tappet for a valve train or a pump drive particularly a cup tappet (1) having a hollow cylindrical outer body on whose wall region (4) an anti-rotation element (9) is received in a window-type through-opening (15), the anti-rotation element (9) being seated through support surfaces (12, 13) of a head (10) on an outer diameter (14) of the wall region (4) and extending with a shank (11) projecting from the head (10) through said through-opening (15). The anti-rotation element (9) is fixed via a welded joint. In order to fix the anti-rotation element (9) with low manufacturing costs and, at the same time, with only an insignificant impairment of the outer body, the welded joint is made between the shank of the anti-rotation element (9) and an inner body that is received in the outer body and is connected to the outer body. A method of making a tappet of the aforesaid tappet is also provided. |
| US09045999B2 |
Blade monitoring system
In one embodiment, a blade monitoring system includes: at least one computing device configured to monitor a compressor during a load change by performing actions comprising: extracting a dynamic component of a blade time-of-arrival (TOA) deviation signal in response to the load change on the compressor; calculating, using the dynamic component, at least one of: a natural frequency of the GT compressor blade during the load change, an overshoot of the GT compressor blade during the load change, a rise time of the compressor blade during the load change, a damping factor of the compressor blade during the load change, or a settling time of the GT compressor blade after the load change; and determining whether the GT compressor blade is damaged based upon the at least one of: the natural frequency, the overshoot, the rise time, the damping factor, or the settling time. |
| US09045998B2 |
System for directing air flow to a plurality of plena
A system for directing air flow to separate plena of a compartment that is defined at least by a compartment wall includes a NACA scoop, and a Pitot scoop. The NACA scoop is formed in the compartment wall, and includes two side walls, a bottom wall, and an entrance lip that is defined by the compartment wall and is spaced apart from the bottom wall to form a NACA scoop air inlet. The Pitot scoop is longitudinally aligned with the NACA scoop, includes a Pitot scoop air inlet, a Pitot scoop air outlet, and a Pitot scoop flow passage. |
| US09045996B2 |
Gas turbine engine optimization by electric power transfer
A method of increasing the operational efficiency of an operating gas turbine engine includes supplying mechanical power from a first spool of the operating gas turbine engine to a first electrical machine to thereby generate electrical power using the first electrical machine and supplying mechanical power from a second spool of the operating gas turbine engine to a second electrical machine to thereby generate electrical power using the second electrical machine. The method further includes sensing one or more operational parameters of the operating gas turbine engine and, based on the one or more sensed operational parameters, ceasing to generate electrical power using the second electrical machine, and instead supplying at least a part of the electrical power generated by the first electrical machine to the second electrical machine to operate in motoring mode and to thereby generate and supply mechanical output power to the second spool of the engine. |
| US09045993B2 |
Steam turbine
A steam turbine 10 of an embodiment has seal rings 60 between an inlet sleeve 40 for introducing steam and an inner casing 20 and an outer casing 21 into which the inlet sleeve 40 is inserted. The seal rings 60 have high-temperature side seal rings 70 which are disposed their inner circumferences contacted to the outer circumference of the inlet sleeve 40, and low-temperature side seal rings 80 which are formed to have inner and outer diameters larger than those of the high-temperature side seal rings 70 and disposed with their outer circumferences contacted to the inner casing 20 or the outer casing 21. A thermal barrier layer 90 is disposed between the inner circumferences of the high-temperature side seal rings 70 and the outer circumference of the inlet sleeve 40 and between the high-temperature side seal rings 70 and the low-temperature side seal rings 80. |
| US09045990B2 |
Integrated ceramic matrix composite rotor disk geometry for a gas turbine engine
A CMC disk for a gas turbine engine includes a CMC hub defined about an axis and a multiple of CMC airfoils integrated with the CMC hub. |
| US09045989B2 |
Coupling element for mechanically coupling blades and a rotor
A coupling element 2, 52 is disclosed for arrangement between shrouds 14,16 of adjacent rotor blades 4, 6, the coupling element having force-transmission surfaces 28, 30 for bounding damping gaps 12a, 12b between shrouds 14, 16, and a rotor having at least one coupling element 2, 52 of this type. |
| US09045985B2 |
Stator vane bumper ring
An assembly for use in a gas turbine engine includes an inner diameter (ID) shroud having a plurality of ID slots and an outer diameter (OD) shroud having a plurality of OD slots and positioned radially outward from the ID shroud. A plurality of stator airfoils extend from the ID shroud to the OD shroud. Each of the stator airfoils is positioned at least partially in one of the ID slots and is positioned at least partially in one of the OD slots. A bumper is positioned proximate a first end of each of the stator airfoils so as to limit movement of the stator airfoils in a radial direction. |
| US09045983B2 |
Turbine yokeplate flyweights to improve RAT startup
A turbine having a cam follower operable to control turbine blade pitch in association with a position thereof is provided and includes an axially movable plate, a rotational and axially movable flyweight and a system operably coupled to the plate and the flyweight whereby, at low RPMs, the system prevents flyweight rotation such that the plate and the flyweight position the cam follower at a first position, at medium RPMs, the system permits flyweight rotation such that the plate and the flyweight position the cam follower at a second position, and, at high RPMs, the system prevents further flyweight rotation and permits initial axial movement of the plate and the flyweight such that the plate and the flyweight position the cam follower at a third position. |
| US09045978B2 |
Method of increasing productivity of oil, gas, and water wells
For increasing productivity of oil, gas and water wells, a horizontal or inclined well is excavated, a plurality of cavities are formed transversely to the direction of elongation of the well so as to provide partitions between them, and hydrocracking is carried out to act on the partitions between the cavities. |
| US09045975B2 |
Well tool and method for in situ introduction of a treatment fluid into an annulus in a well
A well tool (2; 302a, 302b) and method for in situ introduction of a treatment means (151) into a region of an annulus (12), comprising: an anchoring body (38; 338); a perforation device (234) for making a hole (236) through a pipe structure (4); a storage chamber (142a, 142b) for the treatment means (151); a driving means (132, 144, 150) for the treatment means (151); and a flow-through connection device (192) for injection of the treatment means (151). The distinctive characteristic is that the anchoring body (38; 338) is disposed in an anchoring module (18; 318); wherein the storage chamber (142a, 142b), the driving means (132, 144, 150) and the connection device (192) are operatively connected to an injection module (30; 330); wherein the injection module (30; 330) can be moved axially relative to the anchoring module (18; 318) for moving the connection device (192) in vicinity of the hole (236); and wherein the well tool (2; 302a, 302b) comprises at least one alignment means for alignment and connection of the connection device (192) vis-à-vis the hole (236). |
| US09045973B2 |
System and method for monitoring down-hole fluids
In one aspect the present invention provides a down-hole monitoring system, comprising one or more pieces of down-hole equipment, for example a down-hole logging tool, and at least one resonant sensor for obtaining physical and chemical parameters of a down-hole fluid in proximity to the sensor. In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for detecting material properties of a down-hole fluid, the method comprising placing a resonant LCR sensor within a piece of down-hole equipment, taking sensor readings down-hole, transmitting the sensor readings to a reader device, and analyzing the sensor readings. |
| US09045968B2 |
Method for downhole electrical transmission by forming an electrical connection
A method facilitates transmission of electric signals across well components which move relative to each other in a wellbore environment. The method utilizes well components which are movably, e.g. rotatably, coupled to each other via one or more conductive bearings. Each conductive bearing has a conductive rolling element which enables relative movement, e.g. rotation, between the well components while simultaneously facilitating transmission of electric signals through the bearing. The method also involves coupling portions of the bearing to each of the well components, and those bearing portions may be connected with electric leads to enable flow of electric signals through the bearing during operation of the system downhole. |
| US09045966B2 |
Multi-cycle ball activated circulation tool with flow blocking capability
A valve and method of use wherein the valve includes a housing having an axial flowbore defined along its length. A lateral fluid flow port is disposed through the housing. A piston sleeve is disposed within the flowbore and is selectively moveable to block flow through the lateral flow port. The valve can be moved between operating positions wherein flow through the lateral flow port is blocked or allowed and axial flow through the flowbore is blocked or permitted. |
| US09045965B2 |
Biodegradable activators to gel silica sol for blocking permeability
A method of treating a treatment zone in a well to reduce the permeability of the treatment zone including the steps of: introducing into the treatment zone a water-based treatment fluid comprising: an aqueous silica sol; and a water-soluble chemical activator for gelling the silica sol, wherein the chemical activator is selected from the group consisting of: phytic acid, methylglycinediacetic acid, a water-soluble polyepoxysuccinic acid, salicylic acid, ascorbic acid, tannic acid, and an alkali metal salt or ammonium salt of any of the foregoing; and shutting in treatment zone for at least a sufficient time to allow the treatment fluid to in-situ form a solid gel at a design temperature for the method. Alternatively, a first treatment fluid including the aqueous silica sol and a second treatment fluid including the chemical activator can be introduced into the treatment zone separately, in any order. |
| US09045964B2 |
Apparatus, methods, and systems for filling and circulating fluid in tubular members
A fill up and circulation tool having an elongate body with an insertion section adapted for insertion into a tubular member, a base section adapted for engagement with a top drive, and a gauge section having a diameter less than that of the base section. A packer cup assembly and at least one spacer can be adjustably associated with the gauge section, the packer cup assembly being positionable at a plurality of locations along the gauge section by placing the packer cup assembly and one or more spacers relative to one another in a desired configuration, such that the packer cup assembly and one or more spacers occupy substantially all of the gauge section. The spacing and configuration of the packer cup assembly along the gauge section can be selected depending on the dimensions or type of top drive, elevator, bails, or other equipment at a worksite. |
| US09045963B2 |
High pressure and high temperature ball seat
An isolation device for a frac plug, the isolation device including a ball seat having a seating surface and a ball configured to contact the seating surface, wherein a profile of the seating surface corresponds to a profile of the ball. A frac plug including a mandrel having an upper end and a lower end, a sealing element disposed around the mandrel, and a ball seat disposed within a central bore of the mandrel, wherein the ball seat includes a seating surface having a non-linear profile. A method of isolating zones of a production formation, the method including setting a frac plug between a first zone and a second zone, disposing a ball within the frac plug, and seating a ball in a ball seat of the frac plug, the ball seat including a seating surface having a profile that substantially corresponds to the profile of the ball. |
| US09045962B2 |
Downhole apparatus having a rotating valve member
A downhole apparatus (10) adapted to be run on a workstring in a well bore. The apparatus has a body (12) including ports (42) and a valve (26) which is rotatable to open and close the ports to selectively allow fluid flow through the body between regions of a well bore above and below the apparatus. The valve is rotated via a gearbox (28) and motor (30) in the apparatus. A sealing arrangement between the valve and body is also described. A method of running the apparatus in a well bore and monitoring pressure above the apparatus in order to control opening and closing of the valve under predetermined conditions is presented. |
| US09045959B1 |
Insert tube for use with a lower marine riser package
A fluid diverting apparatus for use with a blowout preventer or a wellhead has a lower marine riser package having an interior passageway through which fluids can pass, an elongate member affixed to the lower marine riser package at an end opposite the blowout preventer stack or the wellhead, and a tubular member extending through a portion of the interior of the elongate member. The tubular member extends through a portion of the interior passageway of the lower marine riser passage. A seal is formed in one of the lower marine riser package of the elongate member so as to extend around an exterior of the tubular member so as to allow fluids to flow through a passage in the tubular member. |
| US09045958B2 |
Tubular retrieval
A tubular retrieval method involves applying a cyclically varying fluid pressure to the interior of a section of cut bore-lining tubular. The tubular may be casing which it is desired to remove from a bore. A pulling force may also be applied to the tubular. |
| US09045956B2 |
Apparatus and methods utilizing nonexplosive energetic materials for downhole applications
In one aspect, a method of method of performing a wellbore operation is disclosed that in one embodiment may include: providing a device that includes a non-explosive energetic material configured to disintegrate when subjected to a selected energy; placing the device at a selected location in the wellbore to perform a selected function; and subjecting the device to the selected energy to disintegrate the device in the wellbore after the device has performed the selected function. In another aspect an apparatus for use in a wellbore is disclosed that in one embodiment may include a device placed in the wellbore at a selected location, wherein the device includes a non-explosive energetic material configured to disintegrate when subjected to a selected energy, and a source of the selected energy configured to subject the device to the selected energy in the wellbore to disintegrate the device. |
| US09045950B2 |
Laser alignment device for use with a drill rig
A laser alignment device for a drill rig having an elongate drill rod, the laser alignment device including a head unit having at least a pair of laser emitting devices mounted independently to one another thereon, each of the laser devices movable in one plane only and oriented in substantially opposite directions to one another, an attachment means to attach the head unit to a drill rig and a length adjustable assembly to adjust the separation distance between the head unit and the drill rod, wherein the alignment device is used to align at least the azimuth of the drill rod relative to survey marks. |
| US09045949B2 |
For downhole reciprocating pumps, a no tap tool with a clutch
A tool which connects the last sucker rod of a sucker rod string to a downhole pump has a circularly cylindrical cylinder and piston so that the piston slides reciprocally and rotates freely within the cylinder. However, the closed upper end of the cylinder and the upper face of the piston have a cooperable tongue and groove which prevent relative rotational motion of the piston in the cylinder when the tongue is engaged in the groove so that the tool can be disconnected from the pump in response to rotation of the string at the uppermost stroke of the plunger to engage and turn the tongue and groove. |
| US09045947B2 |
Subsea winch
A subsea winch is described. The subsea winch comprises a housing adapted to be attached to a well intervention system, the housing having an inlet and an outlet and at least one powered sheave arranged between the inlet and the outlet, the or each powered sheave having a surface adapted to form a frictional engagement with a cable passing between the inlet and the outlet via the at least one sheave. In use, a pull force pulling the cable in a downhole direction applied to the cable by a tool string being lowered into the well intervention system is increased by the winch such that the downhole pull force on the cable at the housing inlet is greater than the downhole pull force at the housing outlet. |
| US09045946B2 |
Apparatus and method for drilling wellbores
In an aspect, an apparatus for use in a wellbore includes a tubular and a drilling assembly configured to carry a drill bit at an end thereof, wherein the drilling assembly is configured to be positioned within the tubular, wherein the tubular and drilling assembly are configured to be run in the wellbore together. The apparatus also includes an actuation device in the tubular configured to selectively extend the drilling assembly from and retract the drilling assembly into the tubular. |
| US09045943B2 |
Components and motors for downhole tools and methods of applying hardfacing to surfaces thereof
A component for a downhole tool includes a rotor and a hardfacing precursor. The hardfacing precursor includes a polymeric material, hard particles, and a metal. A hydraulic drilling motor includes a stator, a rotor, and a sintered hardfacing material on an outer surface of the rotor or an inner surface of the stator. Methods of applying hardfacing to surfaces include forming a paste of hard particles, metal matrix particles, a polymeric material, and a solvent. The solvent is removed from the paste to form a sheet, which is applied to a surface and heated. A component for a downhole tool includes a first hardfacing material, a second hardfacing material over the first hardfacing material and defining a plurality of pores, and a metal disposed within at least some of the pores. The metal has a melting point lower than a melting point of the second hardfacing material. |
| US09045941B2 |
Hybrid bearings for downhole motors
A bearing assembly for use in a down-hole drilling apparatus includes a bearing housing configured for connection to a drill string and a mandrel disposed at least partially within the bearing housing. The mandrel is configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis extending therethrough. A hybrid thrust bearing package is provided and disposed radially between the bearing housing and the mandrel. The hybrid thrust bearing package includes a plurality of ball bearings movable through at least one race, an annular stator supported by the bearing housing and an annular rotor ring supported on and rotatable with the mandrel. The annular stator and rotor rings define first and second flat PDC bearing surfaces engaged with one another at a bearing interface oriented generally orthogonally with respect to the longitudinal axis. |
| US09045938B2 |
Linking elements designed to equip panels, in particular glass panels, for fixing and panels equipped with same
A system for assembly between a connecting element and at least one cavity positioned on a surface portion situated on an edge face of a substrate, particularly made of a fragile material of glass type. The connecting element is configured to be accommodated in the cavity that has curved and retaining walls, the cavity being made at the edge face of the substrate. |
| US09045926B2 |
Door closer having a magnetic distribution valve
A door closer, in particular a hinge door closer, including a locking function or free-swing function, having a door closer housing, an output shaft to be connected to a door, a piston assembly connected to the output shaft and guided in the door closer housing, a closer spring, a piston rod adapted to connect the piston assembly to the closer spring, a hydraulic lock compartment adapted to lock the closer spring, and solenoid control valve, in particular a 3/2-solenoid control valve. A closure damping compartment is formed between the door closer housing and the piston assembly on a side of the piston assembly facing away from the piston rod, and wherein the solenoid control valve controls at least the pressures in the closure damping compartment and in the lock compartment. |
| US09045924B2 |
Breakaway loading dock door system
A system for allowing a loading dock door to release from a track upon being struck by a fork lift or other sufficiently strong force. The system employs a unique track profile with one or more sidewalls that have an angled sidewall profile to allow a release assembly to move out of the track. The release assembly includes a biasing mechanism that allows the assembly to flex and ride out of the track when the door is impacted. |
| US09045923B2 |
Automated storage rack and storage product carrier with access control
A storage product carrier for a storage rack includes a plurality of carrier supports spaced one above the other, arranged in pairs on opposite side walls of the storage rack and able to support the storage product carrier which is conveyable by an automatic storage/retrieval device and an access opening for accessing the storage product carriers has a plurality of compartments having openings. A closure is provided to cover at least one of the openings, wherein a locking mechanism is provided to lock the closure of the associated openings and wherein the locking mechanism can be controlled to lock the closure in a closed position or an open position such that the compartment becomes accessible. |
| US09045922B2 |
Hinged surface chock deployment and stowage enabling apparatus and method
A mechanism or apparatus enables stowing a hinged surface chock at a stowage position near a deployment position. Said stowage and deployment positions separated by a gap between a first hinged surface and a second hinged surface, where said hinged surfaces are attached by at least one hinge. The apparatus enables the transition of said chock through said gap when one of said hinged surfaces is sufficiently open. Said apparatus will enable stowing said chock by holding said chock at the side of the gap where said chock does not obstruct the closing path of either hinged surface and said apparatus will enable deploying said chock by holding said chock where, at least partially, said chock obstructs the closing path of at least one of said hinged surfaces. Said apparatus may further enable arranging said chock at a wider angle at the deployed position. |
| US09045921B2 |
Method for operating a hatch arrangement of a motor vehicle
Described herein is a method for operating a hatch arrangement of a motor vehicle wherein a motor vehicle lock is controlled by means of a control arrangement in a relatch routine in such a way that a renewed latch state (a relatch state) is avoided or cancelled within a predetermined relatch time interval after the releasing process, and wherein in a relatch monitoring process the control arrangement monitors whether a relatch indication, in particular a relatch state, occurs within the predetermined relatch time interval after the releasing process and only then is the relatch routine triggered. |
| US09045918B2 |
Locking equipment rack
A locking equipment rack for a backpack blower is presented. The locking equipment rack is adjustable to store a variety of blower models. The equipment rack securely stores the blowers, preventing vibrational damage and theft. |
| US09045917B2 |
Vehicle side door assembly
A side door of a motorized vehicle is provided that includes, but is not limited to a latch mechanism being adapted to cooperate and to engage with a latch member disposed at a door frame. The side door assembly further has an actuator for unlatching the latch mechanism. Further, the latch mechanism and the actuator are mechanical interconnected by a coupling being adapted to transfer an unlatching motion from the actuator to the latch mechanism. Additionally, the side door assembly comprises an impact member that is adapted to at least locally deform the coupling in such a way that the arising deformation counteracts the unlatching motion. |
| US09045915B2 |
Key with movable element disposed within key blade
A key with one or more movable elements that slide within the blade of a substantially flat key for operating a lock includes a blade configured to be inserted into a keyway of a lock and including contour features formed on an outer surface of the blade that mate with corresponding contour features of the keyway. The key includes at least one movable element disposed within a recess formed in the blade and including a contour surface exposed to the exterior of the key blade. The contour surface may include external contour features that correspond in shape to at least a portion of the contour features of the keyway. The movable element may be movable within the recess, when it engages a blocking member within the keyway, and after such movement, the element will engage a locking element within the lock. |
| US09045910B2 |
Clip and method for the mounting of panels
In a system for mounting panels, a plurality of clips (14) is distributed at spaced intervals along an edge of a first panel (12A), respective first planar limbs of the clips (14) are located, parallelly to the panel (12A) between the panel (12A) and a structural support (10) for the panel (12A) and an edge of a second panel is brought up to the clips (14) to support the edge of the second panel (12B) on respective second planar limbs of the clips (14) parallelly to the second panel (12B). The system may also make provision for circumstances in which a first panel is not available. |
| US09045907B2 |
Heated roof panel
A heated roof panel system which may be configured to control snow or ice build-up on a roof. The system may include heated elements and cladding elements configured to surround the heated elements. Further, the system may incorporate a snap-fit design configured to cover any points where portions of the system are pierced by fasteners. |
| US09045904B2 |
Thermoplastic membranes containing expandable graphite
A multi-layered membrane comprising a first thermoplastic first layer and a second thermoplastic layer, where the second layer includes expandable graphite. |
| US09045903B2 |
Pole assembly with transition ring
A sealing arrangement for a pole assembly having a tubular base, a tubular upper mast of smaller diameter, and a cladding. An end of the upper mast is inserted within an end of the base and a portion of the base overlaps the upper mast and is fastened thereto, with the cladding surrounding the base. The sealing arrangement comprises a transition ring and a seal assembly. The transition ring surrounds a portion of the base, upper mast and cladding. The transition ring having an internal downwardly facing surface, and the seal assembly is disposed within said transition ring to seal between the external surface of the upper mast and the transition ring. The seal assembly comprising a sealing plate and a seal disposed between the downwardly facing surface and the sealing plate, and the sealing action of the seal assembly is actuated by the sealing plate squeezing said seal. |
| US09045902B2 |
Mirrored insulating panel structures, systems and associated processes
Enhanced structural insulated panels, related processes, and related structures and systems provide several improvements over conventional structural panels. Some embodiments of the enhanced structural insulated panels comprise at least one exterior surface that is configured to provide a high degree of spectral reflectivity, such as comprising but not limited to a stainless steel or other material having a mirrored exterior surface. The outer surface may preferably be imparted with a series of waves, such as within a lay pattern, wherein the series of waves may preferably comprise varying wavelengths and wave heights. |
| US09045900B2 |
Barrier to heat transparent wall system
Structurally-glazed curtain wall or store front wall systems can include fire-rated glazing units coupled together by a framing system. The framing system include a plurality of uninsulated vertical mullions with a roll-formed steel profile. The roll-formed steel profile can form a first wall portion and two projecting wall portions that extend from the first wall portion in a generally perpendicular manner. |
| US09045886B2 |
Device for concealing a plate associated with overflow plumbing
An overflow plate concealing device for bathtubs that is associated with a plate of an overflow system of the bathtub. This aspect of the invention allows the overflow plate to be concealed to allow the user to alter the aesthetic appearance of their bathtub or repair the same. |
| US09045884B1 |
System and method for capturing ferrous items from food waste systems
A system and method for preventing the ingestion of ferrous items by food scrap grinding and disposal devices attached to drains on sinks. An example of a system includes a base that engages the sink drain inlet that leads to the disposal, and at least one positioning tab that extends from the base in order to retain the position of the base relative to the sink. A magnet is suspended from the frame over the base, so that placement of the base about the drain inlet results in the positioning of the magnet over the drain inlet, and so that ferrous items are drawn to the magnet as they are about to enter the drain inlet, and so that the magnet is free to move in response to contact with the flow food waste materials. |
| US09045879B2 |
Construction machine
A construction machine includes an engine, a hydraulic pump driven by drive force of the engine, a generator motor, and a dipstick tube. The generator motor is disposed between the engine and the hydraulic pump. The generator motor has a rotary shaft connected to an input shaft of the hydraulic pump and to an output shaft of the engine and an oil pan disposed in a lower part of a holding space formed inside a housing. The dipstick tube has a connector provided at a location that communicates with the oil pan of the generator motor, and a dipstick opening disposed above the generator motor, for checking a level of oil in the oil pan. |
| US09045877B2 |
Assemblable disposable shuttering for constructing modular formworks for making concrete foundations
Assemblable disposable shuttering, for constructing modular formworks suitable for making foundations, said shuttering substantially configured as the lateral surface of a parallelepiped, having on the lateral faces a plurality of openings suitable toe release, during the filling casting, a part of the cement mixture into the foundation trench. |
| US09045872B2 |
Exchangeable sweeping brush device and sweeper having such a sweeping brush device
An exchangeable sweeping brush device for a carrier vehicle is provided. The device has at least one sweeping brush which is rotationally drivable about an almost vertically oriented axis of rotation of the brush and is held on a supporting frame, the supporting frame being detachably connectable to a supporting fork of the carrier vehicle, which is pivotable about a first horizontal pivot axis oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The supporting frame comprises a first supporting assembly on which the at least one sweeping brush is rotatably mounted, and a second supporting assembly which is detachably connectable to the supporting fork, the first supporting assembly being connected to the second supporting assembly for pivotal movement about a second horizontal pivot axis and being detachably connectable to the carrier vehicle by at least one tension member. A sweeper having such a sweeping brush device is also proposed. |
| US09045871B2 |
Paving machine with operator directed saving and recall of machine operating parameters
A paving machine including an adjustable screed assembly is provided. Actuators adjust the screed assembly into the plurality of different configurations. Sensors sense a respective configuration parameter indicative of the configuration of the screed assembly. A controller is configured to save a first set of parameters including the configuration parameters and save a second set of parameters including the configuration parameters in response. The controller is configured to recall one of the first set or second set of parameters, and adjust automatically the configuration of the screed assembly to correspond to the configuration parameters included in the recalled first set or second set of parameters. |
| US09045870B2 |
Road finishing machine and method for laying mixed material with a road finishing machine
In a road finishing machine comprising at least one screed, a machine control, and a ventilation system including a fan, the fan can be switched on or off via the machine control automatically independent of the operator and exclusively depending on demand. According to the invention, before or during the laying operation, a defined demand for the operation of the ventilation system is determined, and during or for the laying operation, the ventilation system is operated independent of the operator and automatically, and optionally power-controlled, upon determination of the defined demand. |
| US09045869B2 |
Screed system
A screed system, having: a first elevatable rail; a second elevatable rail; a screed bar positioned below the first and second rails and supported by the first and second elevatable rails by respective first and second rotatable hinges, the screed bar moveable along the first and second rails and rotatable relative to the first and second rails at both the respective first and second rotatable hinges. |
| US09045868B2 |
Method and apparatus for stamping concrete
A molded flexible tool for use in stamping a pattern into a base material, such as concrete, that has integrally formed segments defining openings to form grout lines in the base material. The flexible tool can be folded or rolled for storage and easily and quickly unrolled for deployment, use, and then cleaned and refolded or rolled for storage. |
| US09045863B2 |
Soft bath tissues having low wet abrasion and good durability
A multi-ply bath tissue includes a first ply providing a first surface of the bath tissue. The first ply includes first and second layers. The first layer of the first ply forms the first surface. The first layer of the first ply includes a temporary wet strength resin. The second layer of the first ply is substantially free from a temporary wet strength resin. A second ply provides a second surface of the bath tissue. |
| US09045858B2 |
Sheet manufacturing apparatus
A sheet manufacturing apparatus includes a measuring unit configured to measure thickness and air permeability of a defibration object containing fibers, a defibrating unit configured to dry-defibrate the defibration object, and a classifying unit configured to separate and remove, by airflow classification, foreign substances other than the fibers from the defibrated material defibrated at the defibrating unit. |
| US09045851B2 |
Method of operating a laundry treating appliance capable of saving liquid for reuse
A method of operating a laundry treating appliance by capturing and reusing at least a portion of the liquid supplied during a cycle of operation. |
| US09045849B2 |
Washer/dryer
The present invention relates to a washer/dryer (1) comprising a drum (3) wherein the laundry is placed, a loading port (5) for loading and unloading the laundry from the drum (3), a door (6) that covers the loading port (5) and a transparent part (7) situated in the door (6) for monitoring the laundry and wherein the interior of the drum (3) is illuminated effectively by consuming a small amount of energy. |
| US09045846B2 |
Spiral textile and system for weaving the same
Loom configurations and methods for efficiently manufacturing unique spiral-shaped fabrics. The loom introducing two weft yarn segments in the form of a continuous loop in each shed may be configured with one or two weft needles and is equipped with a knitting system to form a knitted selvedge along the outside circumference of the fabric. The knitted edge is used as reference to form weft yarn loops of different lengths. The opposite weft yarn loops are permanently secured around selected warp yarns. Alternatively intermediate length weft yarn loops may be created where the extremity of the loop is not bound to any warp yarn. Fiber architectures may be designed and woven which exhibit uniform fiber volume across the width of the fabric. Fiber architectures with greater fiber volume along the outside circumference of the fabric may also be prepared. |
| US09045840B2 |
Dynamic current distribution control apparatus and method for wafer electroplating
Methods, systems, and apparatus for plating a metal onto a work piece are described. In one aspect, an apparatus includes a plating chamber, a substrate holder, an anode chamber housing an anode, and an ionically resistive ionically permeable element positioned between a substrate and the anode chamber during electroplating. The anode chamber may be movable with respect to the ionically resistive ionically permeable element to vary a distance between the anode chamber and the ionically resistive ionically permeable element during electroplating. The anode chamber may include an insulating shield oriented between the anode and the ionically resistive ionically permeable element, with opening in a central region of the insulating shield. |
| US09045838B2 |
System and method for semiconductor wafer processing with side/bevel protection
A system is provided that includes a power supply connectable to a semiconductor wafer including opposing, major front and back surfaces joined by a circumferential side, with the wafer undergoing processing including electroplating a damascene layer on the wafer. The system also includes an arrangement configured to apply a polymer coating to the side of the wafer before electroplating the damascene layer, with the system being configured to apply the polymer coating in accordance with an electrophoresis technique driven by the power supply. In this regard, the polymer coating is applied to the side but not at least a portion of the front and back surfaces of the wafer, and the polymer coating provides a barrier to formation of the damascene layer on the side of the wafer. |
| US09045837B2 |
Electrolyser with coiled inlet hose
Electrolyzer comprising at least one single electrolyzer element which comprises at least one anode compartment with an anode, one cathode compartment with a cathode and one ion exchange membrane arranged between the anode and the cathode compartments, with the anode and/or cathode being a gas diffusion electrode. A gap is provided between the gas diffusion electrode and the ion exchange membrane, with an electrolyte inlet arranged at the upper end of the gap and an electrolyte outlet at the lower end of the gap and a gas inlet and a gas outlet. The electrolyte outlet extending into a discharge header, and the electrolyte inlet connected to an electrolyte feed tank and having an overflow, the overflow connected to the discharge header, with a coiled hose connecting the electrolyte feed tank with the electrolyte inlet and with a coiled hose connecting the overflow with the discharge header. |
| US09045836B2 |
Electrolytic regeneration device
The regeneration unit includes a tubular portion having the inner circumferential surface functioning as an anode, and a cathode provided inside the tubular portion and extending along the extension direction of the tubular portion in a state of separation from the inner circumferential surface. The treatment liquid used for desmearing treatment is fed through a gap between the inner circumferential surface of the tubular portion and the cathode. A feed-side conduit is connected by a downstream end portion thereof to the tubular portion and guides the treatment liquid discharged from a desmearing treatment tank into a regeneration unit. A return-side conduit is connected by an upstream end portion thereof to the tubular portion and guides the treatment liquid discharged from the regeneration unit into the desmearing treatment tank. |
| US09045835B2 |
On site generation of alkalinity boost for ware washing applications
Methods for enhancing alkalinity and performance of ash-based detergents are disclosed. Nonhazardous ash-based detergent alkalinity is enhanced through increasing the ratio of sodium hydroxide to ash-based alkalinity. Methods according to the invention do not require the addition of chemical ingredients, do not generate additional waste streams and use the entirety of the ash-based detergent. The methods according to the invention provide alkalinity-enhanced detergent use solutions that are sufficiently concentrated for adequate cleaning capability while only requiring minimal amounts of the use solution to be dispensed for an in situ cleaning process. |
| US09045830B2 |
Luminescent material compositions and structures incorporating the same
Luminescent material compositions, in particular for use in high-temperature environments, and structures, such as thermal barrier coatings (TBCs), which incorporate the same. |
| US09045829B2 |
Process for producing a coated metal strip
A process produces a coated metal strip from a semi-finished strip, in which the semi-finished strip is reeled off a coil. A corrosion protection layer is then applied to the semi-finished strip and the coated semi-finished strip is then reeled up to form a coil. The semi-finished strip is a cold-rolled strip obtained by cold rolling, cooling and recrystallization annealing. A medium containing metallic particles is applied to form the corrosion protection layer. The medium is a wet-chemical solution which is applied by spraying, dipping, squirting, flooding or rolling. The corrosion protection layer is dried on the cold-rolled strip by supplying heat at a temperature below the recrystallization annealing temperature of the cold-rolled strip after application of the medium and before reeling-up. |
| US09045827B2 |
Apparatus and method for supplying light-emitting diode (LED) wafer
Provided are an apparatus and method for supplying a light-emitting diode (LED) wafer that may quickly and accurately transfer LED wafers by acquiring position information of pockets in a carrier in which the LED wafers are to be seated. The apparatus may include a cassette in which a plurality of LED wafers are loaded, a carrier including a plurality of pockets in which the LED wafers are seated, an aligning unit to align the LED wafers that are to be seated in the carrier, a transfer robot to transfer the LED wafers from the cassette to the aligning unit, a picker to hold, in an adsorbed state, the LED wafers transferred to the aligning unit, or to release the adsorbed state, a capturing unit to fix the picker, and to acquire position information of the pockets, and an LED wafer loading robot to transfer the picker and the capturing unit from the aligning unit to the carrier. Accordingly, the LED wafers may be quickly and accurately loaded in the carrier and thus, it is possible to reduce a total process time and to significantly lower a defect rate. |
| US09045825B2 |
Method of forming metal-containing film
Provided are a semiconductor device manufacturing method and a substrate processing apparatus that are capable of increasing a work function of a film to be formed, in comparison with a related art. A cycle including (a) supplying a metal-containing gas into a processing chamber where a substrate is accommodated (b) supplying a nitrogen-containing gas into the processing chamber; and (c) supplying one of an oxygen-containing gas, a halogen-containing gas and a combination thereof into the processing chamber, is performed a plurality of times to form a metal-containing film on the substrate. |
| US09045823B2 |
Sintered oxide compact target for sputtering and process for producing the same
Provided is a sintered oxide compact target for sputtering comprising indium (In), gallium (Ga), zinc (Zn), oxygen (O) and unavoidable impurities, wherein the composition ratio of the respective elements satisfies the Formula of InxGayZnzOa {wherein 0.2≦x/(x+y)≦0.8, 0.1≦z/(x+y+z)≦0.5, a=(3/2)x+(3/2)y+z}, and the number of ZnGa2O4 spinel phases having a grain size of 3 μm or larger existing in a 90 μm×90 μm area range of the sintered oxide compact target is 10 or less. With this sintered oxide compact target for sputtering comprising In, Ga, Zn, O and unavoidable impurities, the structure of the sintered compact target is improved, the formation of a phase to become the source of nodules is minimized, and the bulk resistance value is reduced. Whereby provided is a high density IGZO target capable of inhibiting abnormal discharge and which can be used in DC sputtering. |
| US09045822B2 |
Deposition source, deposition apparatus, and method of manufacturing organic light-emitting display apparatus
A deposition source for depositing a deposition material on a substrate, the deposition source including: a nozzle disposed to face the substrate and discharge the deposition material toward the substrate; and a hardening portion disposed to at least one side of the nozzle for immediately hardening the deposition material discharged via the nozzle when the deposition material reaches the substrate. The deposition source being part of a deposition apparatus for manufacturing an organic light-emitting display having improved characteristics of a deposited film and encapsulation characteristics. |
| US09045821B2 |
Laminate, method for producing same, and functional element using same
Provided is a laminate which includes a transparent conductive film layer that is composed of an oxide thin film mainly composed of titanium oxide and contains an additional element such as niobium, and also contains an anatase phase having more excellent crystallinity and further has high refractive index and low resistivity by forming an optimal buffer layer on the substrate. Also provided are: a semiconductor light emitting element which comprises the laminate; and a functional element such as a solar cell, which includes the laminate. |
| US09045817B2 |
Heat treated galvannealed steel material and a method for its manufacture
A heat treated galvannealed steel material having excellent post-painting corrosion resistance and a high strength which is suitable for use as an automotive part and a method for its manufacture are provided. A galvannealed steel material having a galvannealed coating on at least one side thereof is heat treated by heating at least a portion thereof to a temperature range in which hardening is possible. The coating remaining on the surface of at least a part of the portion which underwent heat treatment has a coating weight of at least 20 g/m2 and at most 80 g/m2 per side and an Fe content of at least 15% and at most 35%, an η phase is present in the coating, and the centerline average roughness Ra of the surface of the coating is at most 1.5 μm. |
| US09045814B2 |
Slurry catalyst and slurry flakes valorization
The instant invention discloses a method for the valorization of spent catalyst from hydrocarbon processing slurry reactors as well as slurry flakes. |
| US09045799B2 |
Probe for detecting polymorphism in CYP3A gene, method of detecting polymorphism, method of evaluating drug efficacy, and reagent kit for detecting polymorphism
Provided in the present disclosure is a probe for detecting polymorphism that enables a simple detection of polymorphism in the CYP3A gene with high sensitivity. |
| US09045797B2 |
Method and kit for amplifying and detecting polynucleotide
Disclosed is a method of amplifying a polynucleotide, comprising: (a) mixing primers for amplifying the polynucleotide, a polymerase, nucleotide substrates and a template polynucleotide, and (b) amplifying the polynucleotide by polymerase reaction, wherein the polymerase has an amino acid sequence consisting of SEQ ID NO:1 or an amino acid sequence with at least 85% sequence identity to SEQ ID NO:1, and an amino acid residue corresponding to, or at position 651 of the amino acid sequence has been replaced with glutamic acid. |
| US09045792B2 |
In vitro method for analyzing a comparison of an indicative numberic value to a predetermined threshold so as to assess a likelihood of risk or presence of organ failure
The present invention relates to a testing system for analyzing a risk of developing organ failure or presence of organ failure, said system comprising a disposable testing device arranged to receive a biological sample, which testing system is further arranged with means for measuring within said sample the total amount of at least a first biological marker in the form of an intracellular enzyme, and comprising means for analyzing the measured value of said intracellular enzyme, and based on the results thereof being arranged to communicate the risk of developing organ failure or presence of organ failure to an operator of said testing system. The present invention also relates to a method for analyzing a risk of developing organ failure, or analyzing presence of organ failure. |
| US09045790B2 |
Analysis device
An analysis device is disclosed which includes an electron detection medium to obtain information needed for analyzing an analyte in correlation with an electron transfer level, and a reagent part which is disposed on the electron detection medium and includes an electron transporting substance to transport electrons between the analyte and the electron detection medium, the electron transporting substance including a water-soluble aromatic heterocycle compound, and being free of a metal complex. An analysis method using the analysis device is also disclosed. |
| US09045788B2 |
Process for the enzymatic synthesis of (7S)-1-(3,4-dimethoxybicyclo[4.2.0]octa-1,3,5-trien-7-yl) N-methyl methanamine, and application in the synthesis of ivabradine and salts thereof
Process for the enzymatic synthesis of the compound of formula (I), (7S)-1-(3,4-dimethoxybicyclo[4.2.0]octa-1,3,5-trien-7-yl)N-methyl methanamine: and application in the synthesis of ivabradine and addition salts thereof with a pharmaceutically acceptable acid. |
| US09045787B2 |
Polypeptides having oxidoreductase activity and their uses
The invention relates to a polypeptide having oxidoreductase activity which comprises the amino acid sequence set out in SEQ ID NO: 3 or an amino acid sequence encoded by the nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4, or a variant polypeptide thereof having 45% or more sequence identity with the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3. The invention also relates to a process for the production of 2,5-furan-dicarboxylic acid (FDCA) or production of 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furancarboxylic acid (HMF acid). |
| US09045786B2 |
Gene that increases production of plant fat-and-oil and method for using the same
This invention is intended to search for a transcription regulator having a novel function of improving the amount of substances produced per individual plant and to enhance such properties in a plant. A chimeric protein resulting from the fusion of a transcription factor belonging a transcription factor family that includes a transcription factor comprising the amino acid sequence as shown in SEQ ID NO: 4 with the repressor domain is expressed in a plant. |
| US09045780B2 |
Process for the stereoselective enzymatic reduction of keto compounds
In a process for the stereoselective, in particular enantioselective enzymatic reduction of keto compounds to the corresponding chiral hydroxy compounds, wherein the keto compounds are reduced with an enantioselective, NADH-specific oxidoreductase, a polypeptide is used for reducing the keto compounds, which polypeptide exhibits an R-ADH-signature H-[P; A]-[I; A; Q; V; L]-[G; K]-R at positions 204-208 and the following further structural features in their entirety: (i) an N-terminal Rossmann-Fold GxxxGxG, (ii) an NAG-motif at position 87, (iii) a catalytic triad consisting of S 139, Y 152 and K 156, (iv) a negatively charged amino acid moiety at position 37, (v) two C-terminal motifs in the dimerization domain [A; S]-S-F and [V; I]-DG-[G; A]-Y-[T; C; L]-[A; T; S]-[Q; V; R; L; P], (vi) Val or Leu at position 159 (4 positions downstream of K 156), (vii) Asn at position 178, and (viii) a proline moiety at position 188. |
| US09045778B2 |
Insect cell line for production of recombinant glycoproteins with sulfated complex N-glycans
A transgenic insect cell line for production of recombinant glycoproteins possessing sulfated, complex N-glycans is provided. |
| US09045774B1 |
Inbred sorghum line PHAXYGXIT
A novel sorghum variety designated PHAXYGXIT and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a plant that comprise crossing sorghum variety PHAXYGXIT with another plant. Methods for producing a plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PHAXYGXIT through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the sorghum seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid sorghum seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the sorghum variety PHAXYGXIT or a locus conversion of PHAXYGXIT with another sorghum variety. |
| US09045770B1 |
Inbred sorghum line PHNOOQFKE
A novel sorghum variety designated PHNOOQFKE and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a plant that comprise crossing sorghum variety PHNOOQFKE with another plant. Methods for producing a plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PHNOOQFKE through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the sorghum seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid sorghum seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the sorghum variety PHNOOQFKE or a locus conversion of PHNOOQFKE with another sorghum variety. |
| US09045757B2 |
Inkjet gene printing
Provided herein are methods and apparatuses for transfecting a cell with a compound of interest by stressing the cell, e.g. with shear stress. The compound of interest may be nucleic acids, proteins, molecules, nanoparticles, drugs, etc., or any combination thereof. Methods of printing cells with an inkjet printing device are also provided, wherein at least a portion of viable cells (preferably at least 1%) are transfected with a compound of interest. Preferably, at least 25% of the cells are viable after printing. In addition, methods of forming an array of viable cells are provided wherein at least a portion of the viable printed cells (preferably at least 1%) are transfected with at least one compound of interest. |
| US09045756B2 |
Compositions and methods for treating cancer and other diseases
Aptamers and improved aptamers are provided with enhanced efficacy for binding to target molecules in vivo or for treating cancer or other diseases. Such improvements in aptamers are provided that enhance in vivo efficacy such as binding to the target molecule or enhancing anti-cancer activity. Such improvements also include stability to serum nucleases, reduced binding to a soluble form of the target molecule, increased avidity, affinity or specificity to the target molecule on a cell surface, increased lifetime in circulation, or any combination of the foregoing. Improvements are provided by truncation, multimerization, including at least one non-natural nucleic acid, adding a 3′ or 5′ polyethylene glycol, or any combination thereof. Aptamers for treatment of autoimmune diseases are also provided. |
| US09045752B2 |
NKX3-1 saRNA and KLF4 saRNA and uses thereof
The present disclosure provides compositions, pharmaceutical preparations, kits and methods for increasing expression of a NKX3-1 gene product in a cell by contacting the cell with a small activating RNA (saRNA) molecule comprising a ribonucleic strand that is complementary to a promoter region sequence of the NKX3-1 gene. The present disclosure also provides compositions, pharmaceutical preparations, kits and methods for increasing expression of a KLF4 gene product in a cell by contacting the cell with a small activating RNA (saRNA) molecule comprising a ribonucleic strand that is complementary to a promoter region sequence of the KLF4 gene. |
| US09045751B2 |
Modified small activating RNA molecules and methods of use
Methods, compositions and kits are provided for increasing the expression of a gene product in a cell by contacting the cell with a modified small activating RNA (saRNA) molecule, which provides for an increase in gene expression that is improved over the increase in expression provided by traditional saRNAs. These methods and compositions find use in any application in which an increase in gene expression in a cell is desired. |
| US09045749B2 |
Methods targeting miR-128 for regulating cholesterol/lipid metabolism
Methods for targeting microRNA 128 (miR-128) for regulating cholesterol/lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. |
| US09045745B2 |
Pentose fermentation by a recombinant microorganism
The present invention provides recombinant nucleic acid constructs comprising a xylose isomerase polynucleotide, a recombinant fungal host cell comprising a recombinant xylose isomerase polynucleotide, and related methods. |
| US09045744B2 |
Method for using an enzyme resistant to high pressures
At least at least one embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for using a high pressure-resistant enzyme in a high pressure condition; a method for promoting the activity of the high pressure-resistant enzyme by means of a high pressure treatment; a composition, which contains the high pressure-resistant enzyme, for decomposing proteins under a high pressure condition; a composition, which contains the composition for decomposing proteins, for preparing natural flavoring substances; a container for high pressure treatment, which contains the composition for decomposing proteins; and a method for measuring the activity of the high pressure-resistant enzyme, which comprises a step of decomposing an azocasein solution serving as a substrate by using the high pressure-resistant enzyme treated under a high pressure condition. |
| US09045743B2 |
Stabilization of thermolysin in aqueous solution
The present invention deals with the proteolytic enzyme thermolysin which tends to be unstable in aqueous solution. The invention provides methods and compositions to enhance the stability of dissolved thermolysin in aqueous solution. Thermolysin, crude thermolysin or a lyophilizate containing thermolysin and one or more salts, is contacted with an aqueous buffer with a low salt concentration and a first solution is formed. Subsequently, a further salt in solid form is added and dissociated, thereby forming a second solution comprising thermolysin in a stabilized form. |
| US09045742B2 |
Recombinant Edwardsiella bacterium
The present invention encompasses a recombinant Edwardsiella bacterium, and compositions and methods of use thereof. |
| US09045739B2 |
Immunokinases
A synthetic, soluble, endogenous complex formed from at least one component A and at least one component B, whereby component A comprises a binding domain for extra-cellular surface structures that internalize upon binding of component A of said complex, and component B has a constitutive catalytic kinase activity and effects cell biosynthesis/signalling including cell death after internalization. The complex allows to influence the growth and the physiology of cells. In particular said complex, nucleic acid molecules encoding it, cells transfected or transformed with these nucleic acid molecules are usable for the preparation of medicaments for the treatment of proliferative diseases, inflammatory diseases, allergies and autoimmune diseases. |
| US09045726B2 |
Device for automatically analyzing microorganisms and method for automatically analyzing microorganisms
After culturing blood, a culture liquid determined as positive is transplanted into a plate medium and a bacterial cell suspension that is directly usable for identifying and testing antibiotics-sensitivity is prepared without forming colonies. Provided are a device for automatically analyzing microorganisms and a method therefor whereby blood culture and an identification and antibiotics-sensitivity test can be continuously operated. A device for automatically analyzing microorganisms which is configured so that a blood culture test and an identification and antibiotics-sensitivity test can be automatically and continuously conducted, wherein means for pretreating a cultured blood sample comprises a mechanism for removing culture liquid components in the course of the blood culture and a mechanism for controlling the microbial concentration (bacterial cell count) to a constant level after the blood culture. |
| US09045724B2 |
Continuous or semi-continuous flow photobioreactor and method of use
The present invention is directed to a photobioreactor for continuous or semi-continuous flow culturing photosynthesizing biomass and related method. In particular, the invention relates to a photobioreactor for continuous or semi-continuous flow culturing photosynthesizing algal biomass and related method. The photobioreactor comprises a gas feeding portion (60), a biomass-directing flow propulsion device (47) on a lighting system (5). |
| US09045722B2 |
Mixing system
A mixing system has a container with flexible walls (1), a fluid-tight drive space (6) and a mixing device. The container with flexible walls (1) has at least one head plate (5). The fluid-tight drive space (6) is outside of the container interior (2), and is enclosed by the head plate (5) and a cap (7) attached to the head plate (5). The mixing device has a stirrer shaft (3), onto which stirrer elements (4, 4′) are attached. The stirrer shaft (3) is guided from the container interior (2) through an opening in the head plate (5) and the section of the stirrer shaft (3) in the drive space (6) is guided by bearings (9, 10). A seal (8) is fit into the opening of the head plate, and encloses the stirrer shaft (3) and seals the container interior (2) from the drive space (6). |
| US09045719B1 |
Hypohalite compositions comprising a diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride polymer
The invention relates to compositions and methods of treatment employing compositions including a cationic polyelectrolyte, without any anionic polyelectrolytes, so that no polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) is formed. In addition to not forming PECs, and being free of anionic water-soluble polymers (i.e., an anionic polyelectrolyte polymer that could form a PEC with the cationic polyelectrolyte), the composition is also free of random copolymers, block copolymers, coacervates, precipitates, and silicone copolymers. The composition may be a concentrate, to be diluted prior to use to treat a surface. |
| US09045717B2 |
Cleaning agent for semiconductor provided with metal wiring
A cleaning agent for a microelectronic device provided with metal wiring, which has an excellent ability to remove polishing particle residues derived from a polishing agent and an excellent ability to remove metallic residues on an insulating film, and has excellent anticorrosiveness to the metal wiring. The cleaning agent is used at a step subsequent to chemical mechanical polishing in a manufacturing process of a microelectronic device in which a metal wiring, e.g., copper or tungsten, is formed. |
| US09045714B2 |
Dihydrobenzofuran derivatives as fragrance and/or flavoring materials
Compounds and methods of using of compounds or mixtures thereof, as fragrance and/or flavoring material or as fragrance and/or flavoring material mixture, new fragrance and/or flavoring material mixtures, new perfumed and/or flavored articles, and new, particularly advantageous compounds and mixtures to be used are described. |
| US09045713B2 |
Cloning, expression and use of acid phospholipases
The invention relates to a DNA sequence, which codes for a polypeptide having phospholipase activity essentially without lipase activity, characterized in that the DNA sequence is selected from a) DNA sequences that comprise a nucleotide sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 1, b) DNA sequences that comprise the coding sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 1, c) DNA sequences that code for the protein sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 2, d) DNA sequences that are coded for by the plasmid pPL3940-Topo2.5 with the restriction map according to FIG. 7, which is deposited under accession number DSM 22741, e) DNA sequences that hybridize under stringent conditions with one of the DNA sequences according to a), b), c) or d), f) DNA sequences that are related to the DNA sequences according to a), b), c), d) or e) due to the degeneration of the genetic code, and g) complementary strands to the sequences according to a) to f), wherein the DNA sequence is preferably derived from Aspergillus, and more preferably from Aspergillus fumigatus, and a polypeptide having phospholipase activity essentially without lipase activity selected from a) a polypeptide which is coded for by the coding part of a DNA sequence as defined above, b) a polypeptide having the sequence according to SEQ ID NO: 2 or a sequence derived therefrom, which may be obtained by substitution, addition, deletion of one or more amino acid(s), c) a polypeptide having a sequence that has at least 83% identity with the amino acids 1 to 299 of SEQ ID NO: 2, d) a polypeptide which is coded for by a nucleic acid sequence which hybridizes under stringent conditions with (i) nucleotides 55 to 1106 of SEQ ID NO: 1, (ii) the cDNA sequence contained in nucleotides 55 to 1106 of SEQ ID NO: 1, (iii) a partial sequence of (i) or (ii) composed of at least 100 nucleotides, or (iv) a complementary strand of (i), (ii) or (iii), e) a variant of the polypeptide having SEQ ID NO: 2, comprising a substitution, deletion and/or insertion of one or more amino acid(s), f) allelic variants to amino acid sequences a) to e). |
| US09045712B2 |
Oil degumming methods
In alternative embodiments, the invention provides phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC) enzymes, nucleic acids encoding them, antibodies that bind specifically to them, and methods for making and using them. Industrial methods and products comprising use of these phospholipases are also provided. In certain embodiments, provided herein are methods for hydration of non hydratable phospholipids (NHPs) within a lipid matrix. The methods enable migration of NHPs to an oil-water interface thereby allowing the NHPs to be reacted and/or removed from the lipids. In certain embodiments, provided is a method for removing NHPs, hydratable phospholipids, and lecithins from vegetable oils to produce a degummed oil or fat product that can be used for food production and/or non-food applications. In certain embodiments, provided herein are methods for hydration of NHPs followed by enzymatic treatment and removal of various phospholipids and lecithins. The methods provided herein can be practiced on either crude or water-degummed oils. |
| US09045711B2 |
Perfluorinated polyethers (PFPE) as magnetic lubricants
A surface agent includes two end portions and a middle portion disposed between the end portions. The end portions include an anchor group or a truncation group. The anchor group includes at least one surface active functional group. The midsection includes at least one perfluoroalkyl-branched perfluorinated ether unit. |
| US09045707B2 |
Environmental-friendly liquid fuel and production process thereof
The present invention discloses a liquid fuel and production process thereof, the liquid fuel comprises dialkyl carbonates with the structural formula of wherein R and R′ are same or different, and R and R′ are selected from the group consisting of C1-C8 linear chain alkyl, C3-C8 branched chain alkyl, C3-C8 naphthene base and alkyl containing furan ring. The process of the production of the liquid fuel comprises the steps of: performing a cycloaddition reaction between 2-methyl tetrahydrofuran produced by hydrogenation from furfural which is a biomass derivative and carbon dioxide to produce a cyclic carbonate (i.e. 1,4-pentanediol carbonate), then performing an ester exchange reaction between the cyclic carbonate and monohydric alcohol to produce the dialkyl carbonate. The liquid fuel produced is clean, safe and biodegradable, and the process provides a new way for industrial production of the dialkyl carbonate with remarkable economic and social benefit. |
| US09045705B2 |
Systems and methods for cooling gasification products
Gasification cooling systems provided herein may include a housing having a fluid passage extending in a flow direction lengthwise along the housing and an annular wall disposed about the fluid passage and having one or more annular steps. Such systems may also include a plurality of heat exchanger tubes downstream of the one or more annular steps and adapted to cool a syngas in the gas passage as the syngas flows in the flow direction. |
| US09045688B2 |
LED lighting arrangement including light emitting phosphor
A method of manufacturing an LED lighting arrangement, comprises: receiving an optical component having a diffusing material that is light diffusive and at least one photoluminescent material that is excitable by light of a first wavelength range and which emits light of a second wavelength range; receiving an LED assembly that is operable to generate the light of the first wavelength range and mounting the optical component to the LED assembly to form the LED lighting arrangement. The optical component having the diffusing and photoluminescent materials is mass produced separately from the LED assembly and can be selected such that light generated by the optical component combined with the light generated by the LED assembly corresponds to light of a selected color. Also disclosed are LED lighting arrangements, components for LED lighting arrangements and methods of fabricating an optical component. |
| US09045686B2 |
Liquid crystal composition
The present application relates to a liquid crystal composition, a liquid crystal cell, a liquid crystal film, and methods of preparing the same. As an exemplary liquid crystal composition, according to the present application can provide a liquid crystal layer aligned without a special alignment layer. According to the liquid crystal composition, all of the liquid crystal cell, in which the liquid crystal layer is maintained in a non-polymerized state, and the liquid crystal film prepared by polymerizing the liquid crystal layer can be provided. |
| US09045683B2 |
Polymerizable compounds and use thereof in liquid crystal displays
The present invention relates to polymerizable compounds, to processes and intermediates for the preparation thereof, and to the use thereof for optical, electro-optical and electronic purposes, in particular in liquid-crystal (LC) media and LC displays, especially in LC displays of the PS (“polymer sustained”) or PSA (“polymer sustained alignment”) type. |
| US09045665B2 |
Solvent borne coating composition
The present invention relates to a solvent borne coating composition that comprises an autoxidizable film-forming alkyd binder and a drier system for the autoxidation of the binder, wherein the drier system comprises: (a) at least 0.001 wt % metal, based on binder solids, of at least one metal salt of an organic acid wherein the metal is selected from the group consisting of V, Ce, or Fe; (b) at least 0.01 wt % metal, based on binder solids, of at least one Co salt of an organic acid; and (c) at least 0.01 wt % metal, based on binder solids, of at least one metal salt of an organic acid wherein the metal is selected from the group consisting of Ca, Zn, Ba, K or Li. |
| US09045661B2 |
Method of preparing cross-linked colorant dispersions
A process for preparing a crossed-linked colorant dispersion is provided in which a partially neutralized dispersant polymer having a cross-linkable moiety is used as a dispersant for a colorant by reacting the cross-linkable moiety on the dispersant with a cross-linking agent. |
| US09045658B2 |
Curing accelerator for oxidative polymerization type unsaturated resins, printing ink and coating material
An object of the present invention is to provide a curing accelerator for an oxidative polymerization-type unsaturated resin which can decrease the amount of use of a cobalt metal soap and which has curing performance equal to or higher than the excellent curing performance of a cobalt metal soap, and also provide a printing ink and a coating material using the curing accelerator. The present invention provides a curing accelerator, and a printing ink and a coating material containing the curing accelerator, the curing accelerator including a fatty acid manganese salt (A), an aminoalcohol (B) represented by general formula (1) below, and at least one fatty acid metal salt (C) selected from the group consisting of a fatty acid bismuth salt, a fatty acid zirconium salt, a fatty acid barium salt, and a fatty acid iron salt. |
| US09045657B2 |
Viscoelastic ink for direct writing of hydrogel structures
A viscoelastic ink for direct writing of hydrogel structures includes a long chain polymer and a photopolymerizable moiety, which may be a photopolymerizable monomer or a photopolymerizable group attached to the long chain polymer. The ink may also include a crosslinking agent, a photoinitiator, and water. The long chain polymer is present at a concentration greater than a critical overlap concentration c* of the long chain polymer in the ink. |
| US09045647B2 |
Surface treatment composition, method of producing the surface treatment composition, and surface-treated article
A surface treatment composition comprises a polyfluoropolyether silane. The polyfluoropolyether silane and the surface treatment composition are produced by reacting a perfluoropolyether-containing compound and a hydrosilane in the presence of a hydrosilylation catalyst and an isomer reducing agent. |
| US09045646B2 |
Insulating composition for substrate, and prepreg and substrate using the same
The present invention relates to an insulating composition for a substrate including a soluble liquid crystal thermosetting oligomer, a metal alkoxide, a graphene oxide, and a short fiber, and an insulating material and a substrate using the same. The insulating composition in accordance with the present invention can effectively reduce the coefficient of thermal expansion by the addition of the metal alkoxide and the graphene oxide. Therefore, it is possible to provide a substrate material with greatly increased strength and rigidity by the addition of the short fiber as well as to manufacture a substrate with improved thermal stability by using the insulating composition in accordance with the present invention as an insulating material of the substrate to minimize dimensional deformation due to heat. |
| US09045645B2 |
Inorganic oxide powder
A chemical compound of Black Iron Oxide particles coated with aluminum oxide particles and magnesium sulfate particles. The coated compound is protected from contact with the oxygen molecules in the surrounding atmosphere and thereby is less prone to self-heating and combustion. |
| US09045642B2 |
Manufacturing a composite material comprising lignocellulosic fibers in a plastic matrix
A manufacturing method includes the steps of providing lignocellulosic fibers, providing a plastic material, and mixing the lignocellulosic fibers and the plastic material to obtain a composite material. The manufacturing method also includes, prior to the mixing step, a step for heat treatment of the lignocellulosic fibers wherein the lignocellulosic fibers are heated. |
| US09045637B2 |
Addition curing silicone rubber composition and its cured product
An addition curing silicone rubber composition and a cured product thereof are provided. In this composition, amount of the low molecular weight siloxane component volatilizing from the cured product has been reduced, and as a consequence, this composition is free from the problems such as clouding or haze, contact fault, adhesion failure, and hydrophobicization of the surface caused by the deposition of the volatilized low-molecular weight siloxane component on the surrounding surfaces. More specifically, the addition curing silicone rubber composition comprises; (A) 100 parts by weight of a polyorganosiloxane containing, on average, at least two alkenyl groups which are bonded to silicon atom; (B) 0.3 to 20 parts by weight of an organohydrogenpolysiloxane containing at least two hydrogen atoms which are bonded to silicon atom (SiH functional groups) per molecule; and (C) a catalytic amount of a addition reaction catalyst, and content of the polyorganosiloxane having a degree of polymerization of up to 10 and containing at least one SiH functional group per molecule is up to 0.5% by weight in relation to the entire composition. |
| US09045631B2 |
Thermoplastic resin composition
A thermoplastic resin composition obtained by mixing 100 parts by weight of at least one thermoplastic resin (A) with 0.1 to 4 parts by weight of (B) a polyfunctional compound having three or more functional groups in which at least one of the terminal structures having the functional groups is a structure represented by formula (1): where R is an alkylene group with 1-15 carbon atoms; n is an integer of 1 to 10; and X is at least one functional group selected from the group consisting of hydroxyl group, aldehyde group, carboxyl group, sulfo group, amino group, isocyanate group, carbodiimide group, oxazoline group, oxazine group, amide group, silanol group and silyl ether group. |
| US09045626B2 |
Butyl ionomer latex
The invention relates to a latex composition wherein the latex composition comprises a butyl ionomer or partially halogenated butyl rubber ionomer. The latex composition is formed by dissolving the butyl ionomer in a suitable solvent, emulsifying the polymer in the solvent, adding water and optionally a minor amount of a suitable surfactant system to the emulsion and concentrating the emulsion to remove the water. The advantages of butyl ionomer latex include lower emulsifier levels, increased latex stability, improved interaction and adhesion to polar substrates and surfaces. Through the judicious choice of emulsifiers and/or washing to remove excess emulsifier a film with enhanced non-extractable polymeric antimicrobial function can be created. These properties of ionomer latex are useful in coatings, dipped goods and sponge applications. |
| US09045625B2 |
Process of producing thermoplastic starch/polymer blends
A process of producing a thermoplastic starch/polymer blend involves introducing dry starch into a twin-screw extruder at a first location along the extruder, introducing a plasticizer into the twin-screw extruder at a second location along the extruder downstream of the first location to form a starch paste and then gelatinizing the starch paste in the extruder to form thermoplastic starch, and, introducing dry polymer at ambient temperature into the twin-screw extruder at a third location along the extruder downstream of the second location to form a blend with the thermoplastic starch in the extruder. |
| US09045623B2 |
Method for producing BN-based nanoparticles and products therefrom
A method of forming boron nitride nanoparticles. A plurality of precursor molecules comprising boron, nitrogen and hydrogen may be decomposed in a first heating zone to form a plurality of gaseous molecules that contain bonded boron and nitrogen, followed by heating to a second, higher temperature thereby causing the gaseous molecules to react and nucleate to form a plurality of boron nitride nanoparticles. Depending on processing temperatures, the boron nitride nanoparticles may include amorphous forms, crystalline forms, or combinations thereof. Precursor molecules may include ammonia borane, borazine, cycloborazanes, polyaminoborane, polyiminoborane, and mixtures thereof. The boron nitride nanoparticles may be incorporated into a variety of dispersions, composites, and coatings; and in one embodiment, may be a component of a propellant, wherein the boron nitride nanoparticles may confer a range of advantages to gun barrels in which such propellants may be fired. |
| US09045618B2 |
Liquid stabilizer mixtures
The present invention relates to two processes for providing stable liquid blends of a) pentaerythritol tetrakis(3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate, b) octadecyl 3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate and c) tris-(2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl)phosphite. The first process comprises preparing a solid mixture comprising about 2 parts to about 3 parts by weight a), about 2 parts to about 3 parts by weight b) and about 2 parts to about 12 parts by weight c), heating the mixture to 185° C. or higher for a sufficient time to obtain a clear liquid blend of a), b) and c), cooling the liquid blend to a temperature of from 90° C. to 140° C. and maintaining the liquid blend at a temperature of from 90° C. to 140° C. The second process comprises preparing a solid mixture comprising about 2 parts to about 3 parts by weight a) and about 2 parts to about 3 parts by weight b), heating the mixture to 90° C. or higher for a sufficient time to obtain a clear liquid mixture of a) and b), adding about 2 parts to about 12 parts by weight c) thereto to obtain a clear liquid blend of a), b) and c) and maintaining the liquid blend at a temperature of from 90° C. to 140° C. The liquid blends of a), b) and c) are stable at the temperature at which they are maintained for greater than 120 hours. |
| US09045617B2 |
Ring-opening polymer of cyclopentene and method of production of same
There is provided a ring-opening polymer of cyclopentene wherein a cis ratio of the cyclopentene-derived structural units is 30% or more, a weight average molecular weight (Mw) is 100,000 to 1,000,000, and a functional group containing a structure represented by the general formula (1) or (2) is included at an end of the polymer chain. —Y—H (1) (in the above general formula (1), Y represents an oxygen atom or a sulfur atom.) —NH-Q (2) (in the above general formula (2), Q represents a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group or a silyl group which may have a substituent group.) |
| US09045613B2 |
Polymer composition and polymer light-emitting device using same
Disclosed is a composition containing one or more aromatic ether compounds, one or more compounds having a boiling point of not less than 200° C., and one or more polymers which are charge-transporting or luminescent in a solid state. This composition is characterized in that the compounds having a boiling point of not less than 200° C. are selected from the group consisting of aliphatic compounds which may have a heteroatom, alicyclic compounds which may have a heteroatom, aromatic compounds having two or less substituents and a heterocyclic compounds having two or less substituents. |
| US09045612B2 |
Systems and methods for polystyrene foam recycling using branched dibasic esters
Methods and systems for reducing the volume of polystyrene foam wherein a foam reducing agent is applied to the foam, the foam reducing agent in some embodiments comprising a branched dibasic ester blend. |
| US09045610B2 |
Composite structural article
The present composite structural article is a material which is in a plate-like shape and has mutually adhered fibers, and a foam that is arranged in a gap among fibers and is adhered to the fibers. The fibers are oriented from one surface side toward the other surface side thereof, and the content of the foam is in the range from 7% to 68% by weight based on 100% by weight of the total of fibers, foam and adhesive agent. The foam has preferably a size so as to pass through a sieve having an opening of 19 mm according to JIS Z8801. |
| US09045609B2 |
High-performance thermal insulation materials
Thermal insulation material capable of being obtained from the mixture of at least the following elements: an aqueous foam; silica aerogel particles; and at least one binder selected from an organic binder and a mineral binder. |
| US09045607B2 |
Polymer membrane and membrane-electrode assembly for fuel cell and fuel cell system comprising same
The polymer electrolyte membrane of the present invention includes a proton conductive cation exchange resin, a non-proton-conductive polymer, and an inorganic additive. The inorganic additive is adapted to inhibit a phase separation between the proton conductive cation exchange resin and the non-proton-conductive polymer. |
| US09045606B2 |
Process for making polymers having nanostructures incorporated into the matrix of the polymer
The present invention is directed toward a method for making a polymer that has nanostructures incorporated into the matrix of the polymer. The method of the present invention involves mixing a precursor solution for the polymer with a precursor for the nanostructures to form a mixture. Nanostructures are formed in the mixture from the precursor of the nanostructures, such that the nanostructures are surrounded by the precursor solution for the polymer. The polymer is formed from the precursor solution of the polymer, which results in the nanostructures being incorporated into the matrix of the polymer. |
| US09045605B2 |
Dedusted fire-retardant cellulose material
A method of producing a low-dust, fire retardant cellulose fiber material useful in producing insulation and other such products is provided. A liquid, comprising a solvent and at least one fire-retarding material soluble in that solvent, is applied to a cellulose source material, and the liquid is allowed to permeate into the cellulose source material. The liquid permeated material is dried to remove the solvent while the fire-retardant material remains in the cellulose source material. The dried fire-retardant cellulose source material is reduced in size and then de-dusted to produce a low to no dust, fire-retardant cellulose fiber material that has functionally equivalent fire-retardant properties as the dried fire-retardant cellulose source material before de-dusting. |
| US09045604B2 |
Polyester composition, and polyester article prepared therefrom
The disclosure provides a polyester composition and a polyester article. According to an embodiment, the polyester composition includes a polyester and a branched monomer. The branched monomer has a structure represented by formula (I) or formula (II): wherein R is independently hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or C1-6 alkyl. |
| US09045603B2 |
Reinforcing film for the electrolyte membrane of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell
A biaxially oriented film for reinforcing the electrolyte membrane of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell, wherein the film includes (i) a layer mainly composed of polyethylene naphthalene dicarboxylate and has (ii) a Young's modulus in at least one direction of not less than 9,000 MPa and (iii) a thickness of 15 to 150 μm. The biaxially oriented film has a satisfactory reinforcing effect as a reinforcing member for a polymer electrolyte membrane at the operation temperature of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell though it is a thin film. |
| US09045601B2 |
Method for producing stereo complex crystals of polylactic acid, polylactic acid, and molded body, synthetic fiber, porous body and ion conductor comprising same
The present invention provides a method for producing stereo complex crystals of polylactic acid, with which a polylactic acid having excellent heat resistance and containing stereo complex crystals at a high ratio can be efficiently produced, the method including: a step of dissolving in a solvent a block copolymer, which includes polylactic acid containing an L-lactic acid unit or poly lactic acid containing a D-lactic acid unit together with at least one kind of an organic polymer having a different structure from that of polylactic acid, and a polylactic acid homopolymer containing a D-lactic acid unit or a polylactic acid homopolymer containing an L-lactic acid unit, the lactic acid unit being an optical isomer that is not contained in the block copolymer, to prepare a polymer mixture solution; and a step of removing the solvent from the polymer mixture solution. |
| US09045600B2 |
Biopolymer materials
Molded articles of pure keratin protein, keratin copolymers or crosslinked keratin proteins are produced from a wetted protein powder by application of compression and optionally heat. Stabile materials can be molded or machined. |
| US09045599B2 |
Amphiphilic resin-linear organosiloxane block copolymers
Amphiphilic organosiloxane block copolymers and methods for making them are disclosed. The compositions incorporate an amphiphilic “linear” segment with a “resinous” segment. For example, a polyether (A) modified PDMS (B) with (AB)n architecture and polydiorganosiloxane with Si—H end-groups can be reacted with a phenyl silsesquioxane resin bearing vinyl functionality to form an amphiphilic resin-linear copolymer. |
| US09045596B2 |
Method of purifying conjugated polymers
A method of first dissolving a conjugated polymer in a fluid followed by adding an agent to the fluid and evaporating the fluid to produce a solid sample. The solid sample is then ground to produce a fragmented solid sample. This is followed by performing solvent extraction on the fragmented solid sample at elevated temperature and pressure to produce a purified conjugated polymer in a solvent. |
| US09045589B2 |
Drawn polyethylene terephthalate fiber, pet tire cord, and tire comprising thereof
The present invention relates to a drawn PET fiber that can provide a cap ply cord and the like showing more improved modulus and good dimensional stability, a PET tire cord, and a tire including the same. The drawn PET fiber may be a fiber including 90 mol % or more of PET, of which the crystallinity is 53% or more, the amorphous orientation factor (AOF) is 0.15 or less, and the birefringence index is 0.14 to 0.16, after heat-treating the same at 230° C. for 1 minute under the initial load of 20 g/1000 d. |
| US09045581B2 |
Polyols derived from a vegetable oil using an oxidation process
A method for producing a vegetable oil-derived polyol having increased hydroxyl functionality by reacting a vegetable oil with an oxidizing agent in the presence of an organometallic catalyst is provided. The resulting higher functionality polyols derived from vegetable oil produced by the process are also provided. Also provided is a method for decreasing the acid value of a vegetable oil-derived polyol by reacting the vegetable oil-derived polyol with an epoxide component in the presence of a Lewis base catalyst. Urethane products produced using higher functional vegetable oil-derived polyols and/or lower acid vegetable oil-derived polyols are also provided. |
| US09045576B2 |
Mixed charge copolymers and hydrogels
Nonfouling copolymers and hydrogels comprising positively charged repeating units or latent positively charged repeating units and negatively charged units or latent positively charged units. |
| US09045566B2 |
Method for the manufacture of agarose gels
A method for the manufacture of an agarose separation gel: The method is characterized in comprising the steps of: i) providing a solution of agar, and ii) one, two or more substeps (ii.A, ii.B, ii.C etc) which each comprises desulphating thereby transforming agar to agarose having a degree of substitution of sulphate groups that is at most 75% of the degree of substitution of sulphate groups in native agar, iii) gelling the dissolved agar prior to step (ii) and/or securing so that the desulphated agar is in gel form at least after one or more of the substeps of step (ii), and imperatively after step (ii). An agarose separation gel that exhibits a. a plurality of methoxy groups each of which are at the same position as in native agar and with a degree of substitution in the range of 1-100% of the degree of substitution of native agar, and b. sulphate groups with a degree of substitution which is <75% of the degree of substitution for sulphate groups in native agar. |
| US09045563B2 |
CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) antagonistic polypeptide
A peptide having the following amino acid sequence: Z1-LVRYTKKVPQVSTPTL-Z2(ALB-408) and its biologically active fragments and/or variants and/or derivatives, especially amidated, acetylated, sulfated, phosphorylated and/or glycosylated derivatives, and peptides obtainable by multiple synthesis which have the biological activity of ALB408-423; wherein Z represents number of from 0 to 10 amino acid residues. |
| US09045554B2 |
Ribonucleic acid binding motif protein 20 sequence variants
This document relates to methods and materials for using nucleic acid and amino acid sequence variants of ribonucleic acid binding motif protein 20 (RBM20). For example, methods and materials for using nucleic acid sequence variants and/or their corresponding amino acid variants of RBM20 that are associated with dilated cardiomyopathy to identify mammals (e.g., humans) at risk of having dilated cardiomyopathy that is likely to progress to heart failure are provided. |
| US09045551B2 |
Anti-DLL4/VEGF dual variable domain immunoglobulin and uses thereof
Disclosed herein are multivalent and multispecific binding proteins, methods of making the binding proteins, and their uses in the diagnosis, monitoring, inhibition, prevention and/or treatment of cancers, tumors, and/or other angiogenesis-dependent diseases characterized by aberrant DLL4 and/or VEGF expression or activity. |
| US09045548B1 |
Precision Medicine by targeting rare human PCSK9 variants for cholesterol treatment
The invention relates to human targets of interest (TOI), anti-TOI ligands, kits compositions and method. |
| US09045547B2 |
Methods of using antigen binding proteins to proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9)
Antigen binding proteins that interact with Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin Kexin Type 9 (PCSK9) are described. Methods of treating hypercholesterolemia and other disorders by administering a pharmaceutically effective amount of an antigen binding protein to PCSK9 are described. Methods of detecting the amount of PCSK9 in a sample using an antigen binding protein to PCSK9 are described. |
| US09045544B2 |
Anti-CD160 specific antibodies for the treatment of eye disorders based on neoangiogenesis
The present invention relates to the use of at least one anti-CD 160 antibody, preferably a compound selected from CL1-R2 monoclonal antibody (which may be obtained by the hybridoma CNCM 1-3204), its conservative fragments and its conservative derivatives, for preparing a drug designed to treat neovascular eye diseases. |
| US09045542B2 |
Controlling allergy and asthma by activating human DCs via Dectin-1 or toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2)
The present invention includes compositions and methods for enhancing Th1/Th17 cell responses and decreasing Th2 cell responses. In various embodiments the present invention describes activation of human dendritic cells and enhancement of antigen-specific T cell responses in a Dectin-1-expressing human dendritic cells comprising an anti-Dectin-1-specific antibody or fragment thereof fused with one or more antigens. TLR2 ligands may also be included to enhance the activation and for enhancement of T-cell responses. Further, the invention also includes methods based on the compositions described herein for the treatment of allergy, and asthma. |
| US09045540B2 |
Anti-glycoprotein VI scFv fragment for treatment of thrombosis
The present invention relates to a single chain variable fragment (scFv 9O12.2) directed against human glycoprotein VI, constituted of the VH and VL domains of 9 O12.2.2 monoclonal antibody linked via a (Gly4Ser)3 peptide and followed by a “c-myc” flag, represented by SEQ ID NO:1. The invention also concerns functional variants of said scFv 9O12.2 fragment with identical heavy and light chains complementary determining regions 1, 2 and 3, and preferably humanized functional variants such as the humanized scFv fragments represented by SEQ ID NO:28 or SEQ ID NO:47. The invention also relates to nucleic acids encoding such a scFv fragment, expression vectors and host cells to produce such a scFv fragment, as well as therapeutic uses of such a scFv fragment. |
| US09045539B2 |
Anti-EMR1 antibodies
The invention provides anti-EGF-like module containing, mucin-like, hormone receptor-like 1 (EMR1) antibodies and methods of using such antibodies to treat EMR1-related diseases. |
| US09045535B2 |
huTNFR1 selective antagonists
The present invention relates to a ligand, which specifically binds to human tumor necrosis factor type 1 receptor (huTNFR1). The ligand includes one or more amino acid sequences of human origin capable of reducing the immunogenic response of the ligand in humans and one or more amino acid sequences capable of selectively binding to huTNFR1. The present invention also relates to a nucleic acid sequence encoding the ligand and to a pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of disorders related to huTNFR1. |
| US09045522B2 |
Nucleic acid amplification using a reversibly modified oligonucleotide
The present invention provides a method for amplification of a target nucleic acid sequence or signal, wherein an amplification reaction mixture is used which contains at least one reversibly modified oligonucleotide having a non-hydroxyl group 3′ end which can be converted into a hydroxyl 3′ end upon exposure to a chemical and/or irradiation and/or a range of temperature. The present invention also provides a reversibly modified oligonucleotide as described above, and a nucleic acid amplification reaction mixture and kit comprising such an oligonucleotide. |
| US09045513B2 |
Method for preparing precursor used for labeling hepatocyte receptor and containing trisaccharide and DTPA ligand
A method for preparing a precursor used to label hepatocyte receptors is revealed. The precursor contains a bifunctional structure including trisaccharide and DTPA ligand. During synthesis processes of the precursor, silica gel columns and Reverse phase-18 (RP-18) columns are used for purification. Thus both the purification times and cost of each purification are reduced. Moreover, use diethyl ether to facilitate precipitation of products and remove a part of coupling reagent. Removing the coupling reagent helps purification of products. Furthermore, Nα,Nα-bis(carboxymethyl)-L-lysine hydrate and benzyl chloroformate are coupled to form a trisaccharide skeleton so as to ensure the yield rate of trisaccharide structure. |
| US09045511B2 |
Supported ligands having a high local density of coordinating atoms
The invention relates to compounds, in particular phosphinic ligands of metal complexes, as well as to metal complexes including said ligands and to supported catalysts including said metal complexes or said compounds. The invention also relates to methods for synthesizing said compounds, to complexes, and to supported catalysts, as well as to intermediate products used in said synthesis methods. The invention further relates to the uses of said compounds. The compounds of the invention are ferrocene compounds which have been functionalized so as to be capable of being heterogenized. The invention can be used in particular in the field of heterogeneous catalysis. |
| US09045509B2 |
Hafnium- and zirconium-containing precursors and methods of using the same
Disclosed are hafnium- and zirconium-containing precursors and methods of providing the same. The disclosed precursors include a ligand and at least one aliphatic group as substituent selected to have greater degrees of freedom than the usual substituents. The disclosed precursors may be used to deposit hafnium- or zirconium-containing layers using vapor deposition methods such as chemical vapor deposition or atomic layer deposition. |
| US09045505B2 |
Nitric oxide donors
The invention relates to novel NO donors which are targeted to the mitochondria. The NO donor compounds of the invention allow NO to be selectively provided to the mitochondria. |
| US09045502B2 |
Methods of isolating (4-chloro-2-fluoro-3-substituted-phenyl)boronates and methods of using the same
Methods of isolating a 4-chloro-2-fluoro-3-substituted-phenylboronate include adding carbon dioxide gas or carbon dioxide solid (dry ice) to a solution comprising a 4-chloro-2-fluoro-3-substituted-phenylboronate, an inert organic solvent, and at least one lithium salt to react the at least one lithium salt with the carbon dioxide gas or carbon dioxide solid (dry ice) and form a mixture comprising the 4-chloro-2-fluoro-3-substituted-phenylboronate, the inert organic solvent, and a precipitated solid. The precipitated solid may be removed from the mixture. Methods of using 4-chloro-2-fluoro-3-substituted-phenylboronates to produce methyl-4-amino-3-chloro-6-(4-chloro-2-fluoro-3-substituted-phenyl)pyridine-2-carboxylates are also disclosed. A 4-chloro-2-fluoro-3-substituted-phenylboronate produced by one of the methods of isolating a 4-chloro-2-fluoro-3-substituted-phenylboronate is also disclosed, wherein the 4-chloro-2-fluoro-3-substituted-phenylboronate may be obtained at a yield of greater than or equal to about 90%. |
| US09045501B2 |
5-HT3 receptor modulators, methods of making, and use thereof
Novel 5-HT3 receptor modulators are disclosed. These compounds are used in the treatment of various disorders, including chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, post-operative nausea and vomiting, and irritable bowel syndrome. Methods of making these compounds are also described in the present invention. |
| US09045497B1 |
Processes and intermediates in the preparation of morphine analogs via N-demethylation of N-oxides using cyclodehydration reagents
A high-yielding method for the N-demethylation of oxycodone- and oxymorphone-N-oxides by the reaction of these compounds with cyclodehydration reagents has been performed. This method has been utilized to improve the synthesis of various morphine analogs, such as naltrexone, nalbuphone and naloxone. |
| US09045491B2 |
Thienyl [3,2-D] pyrimidin-4-one compounds, preparation method, pharmaceutical compositions and use thereof
Disclosed are new thienyl [3,2-d] pyrimidin-4-one compounds shown as the general formula (I), preparation method, pharmaceutical compositions and pharmacological use thereof. The compounds are strong DPPIV (dipeptide peptidase IV) inhibitors and can treat type II diabetes through well inhibiting DPPIV indirectly increasing the content of GLP-1 in vivo and inducing a series of physiological actions in vivo. Therefore, the compounds could be developed as new promising drugs for treating diabetes. |
| US09045490B2 |
Use of parthenolide derivatives as antileukemic and cytotoxic agents
The present invention provides compounds of the formula (I) wherein: X1, X2 and X3 are heteroatoms; R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9 and R10 are independently selected from H, halo, —OH, —NO2, —CN and optionally substituted aliphatic, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl; and Z is optionally substituted C1-8 straight-chained or branched aliphatic, optionally containing 1 or more double or triple bonds, wherein one or more carbons are optionally replaced by R* wherein R* is optionally substituted cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl; an amino acid residue, H, —CN, —C(O)—, —C(O)C(O)—, —C(O)NR1—, —C(O)NR1NR2—, —C(O)O—, —OC(O)—, —NR1CO2—, —O—, —NR1C(O)NR2—, —OC(O)NR1—, —NR1NR2—, —NR1C(O)—, —S—, —SO—, —SO2—, —NR1—, —SO2NR1—, —NR1R2, or —NR1SO2—, wherein R1 and R2 are independently selected from H and optionally substituted aliphatic, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl; or where R* is NR1R2, R1 and R2 optionally together with the nitrogen atom form an optionally substituted 5-12 membered ring, said ring optionally comprising 1 or more heteroatoms or a group selected from —CO—, —SO—, —SO2— and —PO—; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, ester or prodrug thereof. |
| US09045489B2 |
Tricyclic compounds having antimitotic and/or antitumor activity and methods of use thereof
The present invention provides tricyclic compounds, pharmaceutically acceptable salts, prodrugs, solvates, or hydrates thereof, having antimitotic activity, anti-multidrug resistance activity, for example P-glycoprotein inhibition, and antitumor activity, and which inhibit paclitaxel sensitive and resistant tumor cells. Also provided are methods of utilizing these compounds for treating tumor cells and inhibiting mitosis of cancerous cells. |
| US09045488B2 |
PAA nanoparticles for tumor treatment and imaging
A tetrapyrrolic photosensitizer and imaging compound having a substituent other than hydrogen at its 10 carbon atom which substituent may contain a PAA nanoparticle. |
| US09045486B2 |
Pyrimidone derivatives and their use in the treatment, amelioration or prevention of a viral disease
The present invention relates to a compound having the general formula (I), optionally in the form of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, polymorph, codrug, cocrystal, prodrug, tautomer, racemate, enantiomer, or diastereomer or mixture thereof, which are useful in treating, ameloriating or preventing a viral disease. Furthermore, specific combination therapies are disclosed. |
| US09045485B2 |
ASK 1 inhibiting pyrrolopyrimidine derivatives
This invention relates to pyrrolopyrimidine derivatives of formula (I): where R1, X, p, R4, R2 and R3 are as defined herein, and their use as pharmaceuticals. |
| US09045483B2 |
Inhibition of small ubiquitin-like modifier enzymes with substituted pyrrolo[2,3-b]quinoxalines
According to the embodiments described herein, a methods for inhibiting small ubiquitin-like modifier enzymes in a cell are provided. Such methods may include administering certain substituted pyrrolo[2,3-b]-quinoxalines to the cell. In some aspects, the small ubiquitin-like modifier enzyme is SUMO E1 or SUMO E2. In some aspects, the methods may be used to inhibit a cancer cell in vitro (e.g., grown in culture) or in vivo (e.g., as part of a tumor in a subject). In other embodiments, methods for treating a cancer, degenerative diseases and viral infection are provided. Such methods may include administering an effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition to a subject having cancer. The pharmaceutical composition may include a small ubiquitin-like modifier inhibitor compound. In some embodiments, the method for treating a disease may further comprise administering one or more DNA-damaging therapy in combination with administration of the pharmaceutical composition. |
| US09045480B2 |
Sterically hindered amine light stabilizers
The disclosure concerns sterically hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS) with low basicity at the nitrogen atom and high thermal stability. They are characterized by their spiro-substitution in the 4-position of the tetramethylpiperidine ring (Spiro-NOR-HALS). These compounds are useful in stabilizing polymers, especially thermoplastic polyolefins, against the deleterious effects of oxidative, thermal and actinic radiation. The compounds are also useful in stabilizing acid catalyzed and ambient cured coatings systems. They are particularly useful when high processing temperatures are additional required. |
| US09045479B2 |
Substituted heterocyclic compounds as tropomyosin receptor kinase a (TrkA) inhibitors
The present application relates to a series of substituted pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridine compounds, their use as tropomyosin receptor kinase (Trk) family protein kinase inhibitors, method of making and pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds. |
| US09045475B2 |
Apoptosis-inducing agents for the treatment of cancer and immune and autoimmune diseases
Disclosed are compounds which inhibit the activity of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins, compositions containing the compounds and methods of treating diseases during which is expressed anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein. |
| US09045469B2 |
Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor antagonists
Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptor Antagonists and methods of using them are provided. |
| US09045468B2 |
2,5-methano- and 2,5-ethano-tetrahydrobenzazepine derivatives and use thereof to block reuptake of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin
The compounds of the present invention are represented by the following 2,5-methano- and 2,5-ethano-tetrahydrobenzazepine derivatives having formula (I): where the carbon atom designated * is in the R or S configuration when n is 1 and the substituents X and R1-R7 are as defined herein. |
| US09045465B1 |
3-heterocyclyl-substituted benzoyl derivatives
Benzoyl derivatives of the formula I where the variables have the following meanings: R1, R2 are hydrogen, nitro, halogen, cyano, alkyl, haloalkyl, alkoxy, haloalkoxy, alkylthio, haloalkylthio, alkylsulfinyl, haloalkylsulfinyl, alkylsulfonyl or C1-C6-haloalkylsulfonyl; R3 is hydrogen, halogen or alkyl; R4, R5 are hydrogen, halogen, cyano, nitro, alkyl, alkoxy, alkylthio, dialkylamino, phenyl or carbonyl, it being possible for the 6 last-mentioned radicals to be substituted; X is O, S, NR9, CO or CR10R11; Y is O, S, NR12, CO or CR13R14; R15 is pyrazole which is unsubstituted or substituted, linked in the 4-position and has attached to it in the 5-position a hydroxyl or sulfonyloxy radical; and the agriculturally useful salts thereof; processes and intermediates for the preparation of the 3-heterocyclyl-substituted benzoyl derivatives; compositions comprising them; and the use of these derivatives or compositions comprising them for controlling undesirable plants. |
| US09045459B2 |
Phenalkylamine derivatives, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, and their use in therapy
The present invention relates to phenalkylamine derivatives of the formula (I) or (II) or a physiologically tolerated salt thereof. The invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such phenalkylamine derivatives, and the use of such phenalkylamine derivatives for therapeutic purposes. The phenalkylamine derivatives are GlyT1 inhibitors. |
| US09045458B2 |
Compositions and methods for treatment
The present invention provides compounds and methods for the treatment of LFA-1 mediated diseases. In particular, LFA-1 antagonists are described herein and these antagonists are used in the treatment of LFA-1 mediated diseases. One aspect of the invention provides for diagnosis of an LFA-1 mediated disease and administration of a LFA-1 antagonist, after the patient is diagnosed with a LFA-1 mediated disease. In some embodiments, the LFA-1 mediated diseases treated are dry eye disorders. Also provided herein are methods for identifying compounds which are LFA-1 antagonists. |
| US09045456B2 |
Method for producing imatinib base
A method for preparing an imatinib base includes reacting 4-(4-methyl-piperazinomethyl)-benzoic acid with a 2,2′-dibenzothiazolyl disulfide derivative in the presence of a phosphine derivative to prepare a novel thioester compound and preparing an imatinib base using the thioester compound as a reaction intermediate. With the method, imatinib base in higher yield and/or purity can be prepared cost-effectively. |
| US09045454B2 |
Bicyclic pyrrole derivatives useful as agonists of GPR120
The present invention is directed to bicyclic pyrrole derivatives, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in the treatment of disorders and conditions modulated by GPR120. More particularly, the compounds of the present invention are agonists of GPR120, useful in the treatment of, such as for example, Type II diabetes mellitus. |
| US09045450B2 |
Method for chemical synthesis of antrocin and use thereof for suppressing non-small cell lung cancer
The present invention provides a method for preparing antrocin of pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof via a series of gold-catalyzed cyclization to construct the (6-6-5) tricyclic core frame. The present invention also provides a use of a composition in preparing drugs for suppressing growth of non-small cell lung cancer cells, wherein the composition comprises an effective amount of antrocin or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. |
| US09045446B2 |
Method for producing epoxy compound
To provide a method for producing an epoxy compound having fewer residual quaternary salt compound by removing the quaternary salt compound from an organic solution containing an epoxy compound and the quaternary salt compound.A method for producing an epoxy compound comprising the following step 1, step 2, and step 3: step 1: a step in which in a mixture liquid containing an olefin compound, an aqueous hydrogen peroxide solution, a quaternary salt compound, a heteropoly acid, and an organic solvent, the olefin compound is subjected to the oxidation reaction to obtain an organic solution (A) containing an epoxy compound, step 2: a step in which an aqueous inorganic alkali solution is allowed to contact with the organic solution (A) to obtain an organic solution (B) containing the epoxy compound, and step 3: a step in which an acidic aqueous solution containing a polymer having at least one functional group selected from the group consisting of a carboxyl group and a sulfonic acid group is allowed to contact with the organic solution (B) to obtain an organic solution (C) containing the epoxy compound. |
| US09045442B2 |
Antibacterial compounds and methods of using same
Embodiments of the present invention provide novel antibacterials that target penicillin-binding proteins or other important cellular targets. Methods for inhibiting growth (reproduction, etc.) of bacteria using compounds described herein are also provided. Various embodiments exhibit activity against gram positive bacteria, such as certain strains of Entercoccus and Staphylococcus aureus. |
| US09045440B2 |
Desazadesferrothiocin and desazadesferrothiocin polyether analogues as metal chelation agents
Disclosed herein are new compounds of desazadesferrothiocin polyether (DADFT-PE) analogs, as well as pharmaceutical compositions comprising them and their application as metal chelation agents for the treatment of disease. Methods of chelation of iron and other metals in a human or animal subject are also provided for the treatment of metal overload and toxicity. |
| US09045439B2 |
Process for the production of high purity melamine from urea
The present invention concerns process for obtaining melamine at high purity characterized by comprising the steps of:—quenching a melamine melt, deprived of off-gases of the melamine synthesis and containing melamine impurities such as ammeline, ammelide and polycondensates, with an aqueous solution comprising ammonia under conditions such to substantially convert polycondensates into melamine, obtaining a melamine solution substantially free of polycondensates, recovering melamine from said melamine solution by melamine crystallization, obtaining melamine crystals and a melamine crystallization mother liquor,—treating said crystallization melamine mother liquor under conditions such to convert at least a portion of its ammeline content into ammelide and melammine, obtaining a treated mother liquid having at least a reduced ammeline content. The invention also concerns a high-pressure non-catalytic plant for the production of high-purity melamine implementing the above process and apparatuses suitable to be used in this plant. |
| US09045437B2 |
2-aryl-4-quinazolinones and their pharmaceutical compositions
Provided is a compound of the formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate or stereoisomer thereof: wherein Ar represents R5, R7, R8, R2′, R3′, R4′, R5′, R6′, R7′, R8′ independently represent H, OH, F, Cl, Br methoxyl group, NH2 group or NMe2 group; X represents NH, O or S; R6 is selected from the group consisting of: piperidinyl group, morpholino group, methoxyl group, and dimethylamine group. The present invention also provides a composition comprising the compound of formula I. The compound and the composition in accordance with the present invention are effective on treating or alleviating a disease or disorder, such as malignant glioma. |
| US09045436B2 |
Heterocyclic compound and use thereof
Compounds represented by the formulas wherein each symbol is as defined in the specification, and a prodrug thereof have a superior renin inhibitory activity, and are useful as agents for the prophylaxis or treatment of hypertension, various organ damages attributable to hypertension and the like. |
| US09045435B2 |
Quinazoline compounds as sodium channel blockers
The invention relates to aryl substituted quinazolines of Formula I, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, prodrugs, or solvates thereof, wherein G, A, and R1-R4 are defined as set forth in the specification. The invention is also directed to the use of compounds of Formula I to treat a disorder responsive to the blockade of sodium channels. Compounds of the present invention are especially useful for treating pain. |
| US09045427B2 |
Fluoropicolinoyl fluorides and processes for their preparation
Provided herein are fluoropicolinoyl fluorides and processes for their preparation. In some embodiments, provided herein is a process for the preparation of 5-fluoro-6-aryl-picolinoyl fluorides from chloropicolinoyl chlorides. |
| US09045424B1 |
α-olefin manufacturing process
In an α-olefin manufacturing process by the oligomerization of ethylene using an iron complex of a diimine of a 2,6-diacylpyridine or a 2,6-pyridinecarboxaldehyde, in which certain substituted iminoaryl groups are present, less higher molecular weight unwanted products are produced when the diimine and/or its precursor arylamine does not have impurities with substitution on a second ortho position to the imino group. This leads to less fouling of the process apparatus and higher yields of desired α-olefins. |
| US09045414B2 |
Pyrrolidin-2-ones
The present invention provides compounds of formula (I) or (Ia) which are ligands binding to the HDM2 protein, inducing apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation, and having therapeutic utility in cancer therapy and prevention. Compounds of formula (I) or (Ia) can be used as therapeutics for treating stroke, myocardial infarction, ischemia, multi-organ failure, spinal cord injury, Alzheimer's Disease, injury from ischemic events and heart valvular degenerative disease. Moreover, compounds of formula (I) or (Ia) can be used to decrease the side effects from cytotoxic cancer agents, radiation and to treat viral infections. |
| US09045409B2 |
Process for producing purified terephthalic acid
A new process for the production of purified terephthalic acid (PTA) is disclosed to keep terephthalic acid (TA) in dissolved state during the process of oxidation reaction, to obtain intermediate product crude terephthalic acid (CTA) not containing the two impurities of 4-carboxyl benzaldehyde (4-CBA) and p-methyl benzoic acid (PT acid), so that it can eliminate the “purified” production process, and reduce the consumptions of raw materials, acetic acid, fuel and power, and water, thereby saving production costs. |
| US09045406B2 |
Process for producing alkyl methacrylate
An object of the present invention is to provide a process for producing methacrylic acid with good productivity over a long period of time.The present invention provides a process for producing methacrylic acid by oxidizing methacrolein with oxygen in a continuous manner, comprising supplying a mixed gas containing methacrolein, isobutylene and oxygen and having a content of isobutylene of 300 to 3000 volume ppm, initiating the oxidation so that the methacrolein conversion at an outlet of a reactor becomes at least 85% and, thereafter, continuing the oxidation while the mixed gas having a content of isobutylene of 300 to 3000 volume ppm is supplied until a difference (X1−X2) between methacrolein conversion (X2) at the outlet of the reactor and methacrolein conversion (X1) at the outlet of the reactor at the time of the initiation of oxidation comes into the range of 2 to 30%, and continuing the oxidation while the mixed gas having a content of isobutylene of 500 volume ppm or less is supplied, after the difference (X1−X2) comes into the range of 2 to 30%. |
| US09045404B2 |
Process for the manufacture of 2-pentyn-1-ol
The present invention is directed to a process for the manufacture of 2-pentyn-1-ol starting from 2-propyn-1-ol via the following intermediates (I), (II) wherein R1 is H or linear C1-6 alkyl, R2 is linear C1-6 alkyl or branched C3-6 alkyl and R3 is linear C1-6 alkyl, as well as to the intermediates themselves. |
| US09045399B2 |
Method for producing methanesulfonic acid alkyl ester solution
An aromatic organic solvent solution of a methanesulfonic acid alkyl ester having high thermal stability is obtained by reacting an alkyl alcohol with methanesulfonyl chloride in an aromatic organic solvent in the presence of a tertiary amine, and washing the resulting aromatic organic solvent solution of a crude methanesulfonic acid alkyl ester with an aqueous alkali metal carbonate solution. The washing is performed using the aqueous alkali metal carbonate solution having a concentration of 1 to 3 mass % in an amount of 4 to 6 parts by mass per 1 part by mass of the alkyl alcohol. |
| US09045398B2 |
Sulfonium salt and photo-acid generator
Provided is a novel sulfonium salt that has high solubility in a solvent and has high light sensitivity to, especially, light having a wavelength not longer than deep-UV (254 nm) and a novel photo-acid generator comprising the sulfonium salt. The invention relates to a sulfonium salt represented by the following general formula (1) and a novel photo-acid generator comprising the sulfonium salt. wherein R1 represents an electron withdrawing group; R2 and R3 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group, an acyl group, a halogenated alkyl group, a halogen atom, a hydroxyl group, a cyano group, or a nitro group; p and q each independently represent an integer of 0 to 5; and X−represents a monovalent counter anion. |
| US09045384B2 |
Product recovery from adsorption-separation purge fluids
Purge fluid from a vessel head in an adsorption process is distributed to recovery processes according to the purity of product contained in the fluid. Extract-rich fluid thus is routed directly to recovery of the extract product. Distribution preferably is determined by internal positioning of feed, desorbent and product streams in the adsorption vessel. |
| US09045382B2 |
Process for working up solvent-containing hydrogenation product mixtures
The present invention relates to a process for separating off solvents from solvent-comprising hydrogenation outputs from a catalytic hydrogenation process, which comprise at least one water-soluble hydrogenation product having at least one alcohol, lactone, ether, lactam or amino group in a solvent which is immiscible or not completely miscible with water and has a boiling point below 100° C., wherein water is added to the hydrogenation output, the solvent-comprising phase is separated off and recirculated to the hydrogenation. |
| US09045380B1 |
Gas generating compositions
A novel composition containing a bi-tetrazole having a primary tetrazole ring substituted or connected to a second tetrazole ring by an aliphatic bridge such as an ethyl or ethylene bridge. The composition may be contained within a gas generator as a gas generating composition when combined with an oxidizer such as phase stabilized ammonium nitrate. The gas generator may be contained within a gas generating system such as an airbag inflator or seat belt assembly, or more broadly within a vehicle occupant protection system. |
| US09045378B2 |
Dental application coating
The invention relates to a dental application body, comprising an oxide ceramic, containing a bulk material containing an oxide ceramic, preferably a zirconium oxide, and at least one coating containing an yttrium oxide and/or cerium oxide stabilized zirconium oxide, wherein the content of the stabilizing compound (c[yttrium oxide], C[cerium oxide]) within the coating with respect to the zirconium oxide (in mol-%) satisfies the formula c[yttrium oxide]+0.6×c[cerium oxide]≧4. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for producing such a dental application body comprising the steps of providing a bulk material containing an oxide ceramic, preferably a zirconium oxide having a tetragonal microstructure as a main phase, and applying at least one coating containing an yttrium oxide and/or cerium oxide stabilized zirconium oxide, wherein the content of the stabilizing compound (C[yttrium oxide], C[cerium oxide]) within the coating with respect to the zirconium oxide (in mol-%) satisfies the formula c[yttrium oxide]+0.6 ×c[cerium oxide]≧4. |
| US09045375B2 |
Method for producing silicon carbide-carbon composite
Provided is a novel method for producing a silicon carbide-carbon composite. A green body containing a carbonaceous material 2 having silicon nitride attached to a surface thereof is fired to obtain a silicon carbide-carbon composite 1. |
| US09045372B2 |
Honeycomb structure body
A honeycomb structure body having joining material layers of a stress relaxing function and joining strength equivalent to those of joining material layers of a conventional honeycomb structure body, and having an excellent heat shock resistance. A honeycomb structure body includes a plurality of honeycomb segments and joining material layers having a plurality of pores and joining the plurality of honeycomb segments in a state where the honeycomb segments are arranged adjacent to each other so that side surfaces of the honeycomb segments face each other. A ratio of the number of pores having a value of 1.2 or less which is obtained by dividing a maximum diameter of each of the pores by a minimum diameter of the each of the pores is 60% or more of the number of all the pores of each of the joining material layers. |
| US09045371B2 |
Silicon carbide-based porous body
A silicon carbide-based porous body comprising a plurality of silicon carbide (SiC) particles as an aggregate and a binder which binds the silicon carbide particles to each other, wherein the content of the binder, i.e. [100×binder/(silicon carbide particles+binder)] is 5 to 70% by volume, the open pore ratio is 30 to 70%, and the binder contains at least one member selected from the group consisting of a Ti silicide, a Zr silicide, a Mo silicide and a W silicide, in an amount of at least 60% by volume of the total binder. The silicon carbide-based porous body can avoid excessive temperature elevation when it is used as a filter and the particulate matter (PM) captured thereby is burnt and removed. |
| US09045369B2 |
Composite materials, articles of manufacture produced therefrom, and methods for their manufacture
The invention is directed to a plastic fiber article of manufacture having composite-like high strength characteristics. The article of manufacture can be in the form of a panel or board. The panel or board is constructed from low cost fiber materials, industrial grade or high thermoplastic, and other additives to protect the board or panel from ultraviolet light, fugii growth, excessive heat, fire, insect infestation, and/or weathering. The plastic fiber panel or board may be textured and colored to resemble natural wood such as cedar, walnut, or oak. The plastic fiber panel or board is stronger more durable and may be cheaper than natural wood alternative panels or boards. |
| US09045356B2 |
Sewage treatment process and system
A sewage treatment process is provided, which includes the following steps: a) sewage feeding step, comprising introducing raw sewage into a biological reaction tank (1) to a predetermined time or liquid level; b) reaction step comprising performing aeration and stirring intermittently in the biological reaction tank (1); c) treated water discharging step, comprising performing solid-liquid separation of the mixed liquid in the biological reaction tank (1) by a membrane separation device (2) to obtain a first permeate, which is taken as the final treated water; d) standby step comprising stopping aeration in the biological reaction tank (1); and e) phosphorus-enriched water discharging step, comprising keeping anaerobic condition in the biological reaction tank (1) and performing solid-liquid separation of the mixed liquid in the biological reaction tank (1) by a membrane separation device (2) to obtain a second permeate, the second permeate entering inside a phosphorus recycling unit (5) which is set independent from the biological reaction tank (1), the phosphorus recycling unit (5) removing phosphorus from water, the second permeate becoming low-phosphorus water, and the low-phosphorous water flowing back to the biological reaction tank (1); the sewage treatment process runs in cycle by repeating above steps. A corresponding treatment system is also provided. |
| US09045354B2 |
Methods for enhanced oxidative and reductive remediation
Enhanced contaminant degradation systems via rapid transfer of electrons in an environment or matrix through bioelectrochemical electron transfer circuitry, electron transfer conduit and conductive materials. Specialized circuitry may be used with respect to the anode, cathode, and transmission line design including floating cathodes, anchored anodes, and the like. |
| US09045352B2 |
Total fluid management system
A system for the management of fluid, such as saline solution for medical procedures, is provided. The system generally includes a water purification station and a portable fluid station, which is dockable to the water purification station. The portable fluid station is capable of combining purified water from the water purification station with a concentrate in powder or liquid form to create a usable solution. A method of using such a system is also provided. |
| US09045347B2 |
Stiochiometric silicon carbide fibers from thermo-chemically cured polysilazanes
A novel polycrystalline stoichiometric fine SiC fiber substantially free of impurities is produced using a novel pre-ceramic polymer. The pre-ceramic polymer is prepared by reacting a mixture of chlorodisilane, boron trichloride, and a vinyl chlorodisilane with an excess of hexamethyldisilazane to form the pre-ceramic polymer resin, which may then be melt-spun, cured, pyrolyzed and heat-treated to obtain the finished SiC fiber. The manufacturing process for the production of the fine SiC ceramic fiber allows for flexibility with respect to cross-linking, in that low-cost thermal treatments may replace more complex methods, while obtaining fibers with improved materials properties as compared to currently available SiC fibers. |
| US09045342B2 |
Sulphuric acid production with recycle of desulphurized gas
The invention relates to a process for oxidation of SO2 to SO3 comprising the steps of (a) directing a stream of feed gas comprising SO2 and O2 to a catalytically active material, (b) oxidizing an amount of said SO2 in said process gas to SO3 in the presence of the catalytically active material, providing a first oxidized process gas, (c) reacting SO3 with water, (d) condensing H2SO4, (e) withdrawing a first desulphurized process gas and a first stream of sulphuric acid, (f) from the desulphurized process gas withdrawing a recycle stream of desulphurized process gas, wherein the recycle stream is added to said stream of feed gas or said first oxidized process gas with the associated benefit of reducing the molar flow of process gas downstream withdrawal of the recycle stream and upstream the mixing point. |
| US09045337B2 |
Waste material, coal, used tires and biomass conversion to alternative energy and synthetic fuels solutions system with carbon capture and liquefaction
The system contained within this application for non-provisional patent protection provides the ability to convert municipal solid waste materials, used tires, various biomass including wood chips and other agricultural waste, and the addition of coal into synthesis gas (syngas), with oxygen as plasma gas. The system will accommodate the possibility for variation in feedstock co-gasification of the various materials with plasma torches that will be embedded in a plasma gasification unit. One converted into synthesis gas (syngas), the syngas will be cleaned of acid gases and carbon dioxide (CO2). Carbon dioxide will be captured and converted for various industrial applications instead of being released into the atmosphere. Clean syngas generated by the system will become the gas fuel for various energy solutions including clean electricity, as substitute for natural gas, and ultra clean FT synthetic fuels. |
| US09045335B2 |
Kinetic stabilization of magnesium hydride
A hydrogen absorbing and desorbing material formed by co-deposition of magnesium with a catalyst for the kinetic absorption and desorption of hydrogen. A hydrogen absorbing and desorbing material formed of an alloy of magnesium with a catalyst for the kinetic absorption and desorption of hydrogen in which the catalyst for the kinetic absorption and desorption of hydrogen forms a dispersed amorphous or nanocrystalline phase in the magnesium. A hydrogen absorbing and desorbing material having a catalytic surface formed by a process comprising the steps of depositing a layer of tantalum on the hydrogen absorbing and desorbing material and depositing a layer of palladium on the layer of tantalum. A hydrogen absorbing and desorbing material comprises a multilayer film having at least two layers of magnesium and at least two layers of catalyst for the kinetic absorption and desorption of hydrogen, in which the multilayer film comprises alternating layers of magnesium and catalyst. |
| US09045332B2 |
Thin back glass interconnect
This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for providing packaged microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices. In one aspect, package can include a cover glass joined to a device substrate, the cover glass including integrated electrical connectivity and configured to encapsulate one or more MEMS devices on the device substrate. The cover glass can include one or more spin-on glass layers and electrically conductive routing and interconnects. The package can include a narrow seal surrounding the one or more encapsulated MEMS devices. |
| US09045331B2 |
Micromechanical component and method for producing a micromechanical component
A micromechanical component having a control element is described, which is connected via at least one supply line spring having a supply line spring constant to a mounting support in an adjustable manner, and a drive device having at least one actuator component situated on the control element. Via at least one line component guided over the at least one supply line spring an electric potential or a current signal is able to be provided to the actuator component in such a way that the control element is able to be set by the drive device into a motion with respect to the mounting support. The control element is additionally connected to the mounting support, and the supply line spring constant is less than vibratory spring constant. Also described is a method for producing a micromechanical component. |
| US09045329B2 |
Micromechanical element which can be deflected
The invention relates to deflectable micromechanical elements which can preferably be deflected in translation and optionally also in an oscillatory manner. With respect to known solutions, it is the object of the invention to enable larger deflections with a simultaneously improved resistance toward lateral forces and torques. In this connection, a suspension having at least one spring system is present at elements in accordance with the invention. Levers pivotally connected to torsion spring elements are present at spring systems. Torsion spring elements of a spring system are aligned in a common axis and/or a plurality of axes arranged parallel to one another and at least one torsion spring element is fixedly clamped. |
| US09045323B2 |
Beverage dispensing apparatus
A process for dispensing a beverage into a cup comprising the steps of: providing a dispensing structure; providing a transportation mechanism linked with the dispensing structure; providing a staging structure linked with the transportation structure; providing a control system linked with the dispensing structure, staging structure and the transportation mechanism; providing a sensor mechanism linked with the control system, the sensor mechanism providing signals indicating the position of a cup; providing a cup identification system having an interactive display connected to the control system; picking a cup from a storage device and positioning it within a dispensing structure; dispensing ice and a beverage at separate locations within the dispensing structure; transporting the filled beverage to a staging structure; positioning the filled cup in the staging structure; removing the filled cup from the staging structure for sale to a customer wherein the cup identification system and the display outputs visual characteristics indicating the position and characteristics of a cup at every stage of the process. |
| US09045322B2 |
Cap sterilizing mechanism for bottle filling device
A cover sterilizing mechanism for bottle filling device includes a sterilizing chamber (II) in which a cover sliding passage (102) is arranged. A cover blocking mechanism which will periodically hold the cover (94) to stay on the sliding passage (102) for a certain time, and multiple groups of nozzles (62) corresponding to the place in which the cover (94) is held on the sliding passage(102) are also arranged in the sterilizing chamber (II). The cover sterilizing device can uniform the sterilizing time of each cover, conduce to install covers orderly and improve efficiency of the bottle filling device. |
| US09045320B2 |
Lift truck, in particular for lifting and stacking boats
A lift truck, in particular for stacking boats, comprises a self-propelled main frame with wheels which supports at its rear end a pivotable telescopic boom pivotably supporting a lift assembly made of lift forks bound to a telescopic frame. The truck has an operator cab which can be transversally shifted and lifted, longitudinally extensible stabilizers and wheels which can be independently steered up to 90°. The truck of the invention has a better loading capacity and it allows stacking boats in very narrow storage facilities and it is not bulky, lighter and more versatile with regard to trucks of the background art. |
| US09045317B2 |
Method and system for rotating a container, rebar structure or the like and apparatuses for such rotation
The present invention discloses a method of rotating a metallic structure for construction in an X axis. The method of present invention allows rotating structures such as rebar or metallic structures like containers to create habitable structures such that each of the walls of the container or the rebar structure, are all at some point facing the floor. That is, each of the walls have a downwardly facing direction at some point of the rotation.The structures disclosed are mated to a bar with an arm, the bar being fastened to the container from an upper end of a first corner of the container to a lower end of a second corner opposite to the first corner. |
| US09045316B2 |
Concrete distributing device and control method, control system and electrical control system for composite motion of boom thereof
Disclosed are a concrete distributing device and a control method, a control system and an electrical control system for composite motion of a boom thereof. The control method comprises the steps as follows: calculating the flow of a boom pump when an operating handle sends a command; according to the command sent by the operating handle, calculating theoretical demand flow of all actuating mechanisms of the boom and theoretical control signals of all electronic proportional control valves; comparing the total theoretical demand flow of the actuating mechanisms with the flow of the boom pump; providing the theoretical control signals to all the electronic proportional control valves when the flow of the boom pump is greater than or equal to the total theoretical demand flow of the actuating mechanisms, otherwise, providing actual control signals smaller than the theoretical control signals to all the electronic proportional control valves and reducing the movement speeds of all the actuating mechanisms proportionally. In this way, when undersaturation of system occurs to the composite motion of the boom, the movement speeds of all the actuating mechanisms are reduced proportionally independent of the load difference of the actuating mechanisms, thereby ensuring that the boom can move in a motion track expected by an operator. |
| US09045313B2 |
Elevator rope sway estimation
A method and a system determine a position of at least one sway sensor in an elevator system for sensing a lateral motion of an elevator rope between a first boundary location and a second boundary location. An operation of the elevator system is simulated with a model of the elevator system to produce an actual shape of the elevator rope caused by the operation. At least one sway location is determined, such that an error between the actual shape of the elevator rope and an estimated shape of the elevator rope is minimized. The estimated shape of the elevator rope is determined by interpolation of the first boundary location, the second boundary location, and the sway location. The position of the sway sensor is determined, such that the sway sensor senses the lateral motion of the elevator rope at the sway location. |
| US09045311B2 |
Container for accommodating cable therein and electronic device assembly with same
An exemplary container for accommodating a cable of an electronic device includes a base, a cover, a winder rotatably connected to the base, a transmission piece fasten to the winder, and a driving apparatus fixed on the cover and engaging with the transmission piece. The cover is placed on the base to cover the winder and defines a receiving space in cooperation with the base to receive the winder. The driving apparatus includes a trigger. The trigger generates a shift signal to the driving apparatus each time the trigger is pressed. The driving apparatus drives the winder to rotate via the transmission piece for winding up the cable on the winder according to the shift signal. |
| US09045306B2 |
Sheet stabilizer with suction nozzle having center protrusion
This invention is related to suction nozzles having a center protrusion for stabilizing a continuous web for various web property measurements. Suction nozzles blow air out of the nozzle, yet produce a vacuum proximate thereto. Two nozzles are disclosed, a single sided sheet-contact stabilizer and a non-contact sheet stabilizer. An air-bearing may be formed between the end surface of the center protrusion and the moving web. |
| US09045305B2 |
Image forming system and sheet conveyance method
An n image forming system includes an image forming apparatus, a sheet processing apparatus including a post-processing unit to perform post-processing of sheets on a processing tray and a retaining channel disposed to accommodate at least a single sheet while the post-processing unit processes the sheets, and a controller that calculates a target interval time between an interval start sheet and an interval end sheet among the sheets output from the image forming apparatus to the sheet processing apparatus based on at least one of sheet data and post-processing data transmitted from the image forming apparatus to the sheet processing apparatus, and adjusts an interval between discharge of the interval start sheet and the interval end sheet from the image forming apparatus to the sheet processing apparatus in accordance with the target interval time. |
| US09045299B2 |
Star wheel with adjustable directional biaser
A print media feed system in a inkjet printer, the system has a media feed roll, a star wheel mounted opposing the roll, an adjustable biaser coupled to the star wheel, and a controller coupled to the biaser. The controller varies a magnitude, a direction or a magnitude and direction of a biasing force applied to the star wheel by the biaser. In one form, the biaser comprises a motor driven cam that varies the angular position of a pivotable lever having a star wheel rotatably attached on one end. In another form, a rack and pinion gear assembly is used to vary the biasing force with a star wheel rotatably attached to the rack. In a further form, a solenoid is used to vary the basing force applied to the lever or applied to a star wheel rotatably attached to the end of the shaft of a solenoid. |
| US09045297B2 |
Medium feeding apparatus
A medium feeding apparatus includes an opening/closing unit (a lock shaft, a lock arm, a hopper, a link member, and a rotating member) that performs an opening operation in a direction in which rollers of each of a separator and a conveyor coming into press contact with each other are separated from each other at the time of the occurrence of a conveyance error of a medium and performs a closing operation in a direction in which the rollers come into contact with each other after the recovery of the conveyance error. When an operator is present around the medium feeding apparatus, an error release operation control unit controls the opening/closing unit so that the opening/closing unit performs the opening operation and the closing operation at a relatively low speed as compared to when the operator is not present around the medium feeding apparatus. |
| US09045296B2 |
Conveying device and image forming apparatus
A conveying device includes a pair of first nipping rollers configured to be movable in a width direction while nipping a recording medium and rotate to convey the recording medium; a pair of second nipping rollers configured to be movable in the width direction while nipping the recording medium and rotate to convey the recording medium, the pair of second nipping rollers being arranged on an upstream side of the first nipping rollers in a conveying path; and a detecting unit configured to detect an amount of positional deviation in the width direction of the recording medium being conveyed in the conveying path. The pair of first nipping rollers is moved in the width direction based on a detection result of the detecting unit while the pair of first nipping rollers nips the recording medium so that a positional deviation of the recording medium in the width direction is corrected. |
| US09045294B2 |
Sheet feeding device, image forming device, and method for feeding sheets
According to one embodiment, a sheet feeding device for image forming apparatus has a first storing unit configured to store sheets therein, a second storing unit configured to store sheets therein and disposed farther from an image forming section of the image forming apparatus than the first storing unit, a feeding unit configured to feed sheets from the first and second storing units to the image forming section, and a control unit configured to control the feeding unit to feed a first sheet from the first storing unit and then to start feeding a second sheet from the second storing unit while the first sheet is being conveyed from the first storing unit. |
| US09045293B2 |
System for dry-filling bins with vegetable products
A produce filling apparatus includes a bin filling head and a disk arranged under the head. The disk is made up of two plates, each having one or more openings. Plural sensors beneath the disk detect the presence of produce at a predefined vertical distance from the lower plate. A control unit detects the instantaneous position of both overlying rotating plates and determines the speed of rotation of each of the rotating plates in a manner that depends on a pre-coded external signal generated by the sensors and by the instantaneous positions of the rotating plates. The control unit processes the information received and controls the respective angular speed of the plates so that the respective openings are vertically aligned, so as to distribute the produce to those bins in which an absence of underlying produce is sensed. |
| US09045292B1 |
Method and system for automatic-adjustable stacker
An automatic-adjustable stacker for controlling the movement of a media, such as cardboard, through a media handling system. The stacker includes a media receiver positioned proximate a feed of the media that receives a leading edge of the media and a controller that causes the media receiver to move from a first position for receiving the media, to a second position for depositing of the media at a desired location. The media receiver is configured to prevent the media from coming into contact with other media already located at the desired location until the media has arrived at the desired location, while creating a concave-like shape to the media while conveying it. |
| US09045276B2 |
Floating anchor curb system
A floating anchor curb system includes a floating cover for spreading over a body of water and one or more floating anchor curbs over which the floating cover is placed. Each of the floating anchor curbs includes one or more hollow chambers partially fillable with a ballast liquid to form a ballast. |
| US09045272B2 |
Dispenser for food or medicine
A dispenser for food or medicine is provided to store contents such as food or medicine inside and discharging one or a certain amount of food or medicine at a time and improves productivity of components and convenience for assembly by improving a cover which has an elastic piece and a button and a rod formed in one body and improving a coupling structure of a blocking member, a base plate, and a cylindrical main body to a protrusion and a groove type coupling. |
| US09045263B2 |
Child-resistant closure
A child-resistant closure includes a body with a base and a lid, the closure having a locked position in which the lid is held in a closed position and an unlocked position in which the lid is released and can be moved to an open position. The sidewall has one or more pressing pads for moving the closure to the unlocked position. The or each pad is supported on the sidewall by force insulating links which restrict lateral spreading of forces into the sidewall during inward deflection of the pad(s). |
| US09045262B2 |
Packages for dispensing liquid and dry food
Describe are food packages having features such as multiple containers in a single package; the packages can contain multiple food products including (for example) cereal and milk, for consumption together in a convenient manner. |
| US09045261B2 |
Detergent dispensing and pre-treatment cap
A detergent dispensing cap for pre-treating a stained fabric. The cap can have a pour volume sized and dimensioned to provide for a unit dose of the detergent composition. A portion of the cap can be provided with surface irregularities for scrubbing a stain. |
| US09045258B2 |
Pack
Disclosed is a pack. The pack includes a pack body in which fluid is receivable, a plug affixed to an inner surface of the pack body, a portion of the plug being configured to protrude outward from the pack body, the plug having a discharge opening perforated therein, a lid located at one side of the plug to close the discharge opening, and an elastic member located at one side of the plug to impart elasticity to the lid in a direction of closing the discharge opening. |
| US09045254B2 |
Cargo pallet cover with drainage
A cargo pallet cover (14) having a main panel (15) and a plurality of side panels (16) extending therefrom, the main panel (15) being adapted to overlie a load (10) on a pallet (12) in use and the side panels (16) being adapted to hang down against the sides of the load (10), each side panel (16) being attached to an adjacent side panel (16) along adjacent edges to define a corner, the cargo pallet cover (14) comprising at least one drainage panel (22) to permit liquid to drain through the cargo pallet cover (14). |
| US09045253B2 |
Pallet-dolly
A pallet-dolly device convertible between a pallet and a dolly has a deck to which a set of dolly wheels are attached at a fixed height below the deck. A set of movable pallet skids are mechanically interlinked with the deck by a bistable skid displacement mechanism which assumes a first state biasing the pallet skids upwards towards a skid raised position and a second state in which the bistable skid displacement mechanism biases the pallet skids downwards towards a skid lowered position. Also described are embodiments allowing conversion from dolly to pallet by directly pressing downwards on a skid, and provision of a braked-dolly state through downward pressure of the skid against the ground and/or a skid-actuated wheel brake. |
| US09045252B2 |
Boxes
A corner construction for a box, the corner construction including a first side wall adjacent to a second side wall, the first side wall including a cut out portion, and the second side wall including an extension piece for fitting in the cut out portion of the first side wall. |
| US09045251B2 |
Container with reinforcing locking tabs
A container is formed from a one-piece blank including a bottom panel, first and second opposed side walls, and first and second end walls. A top lid panel is foldably attached to the first side wall and a bottom lid panel is foldably attached to the second side wall. A plurality of reinforcing locking tabs is formed in the respective top and bottom lid panels. Each of the respective plurality of reinforcing locking tabs is sandwiched between their respective inner panel and middle panels so as to prevent the side walls from being distorted upon outward pressure applied to these side walls when the container is unreasonably over-packed during shipping and transportation. |
| US09045250B2 |
One piece bulk bin having an automatically-erecting bottom and methods for constructing the same
A container formed from a single blank of sheet material is provided. The container includes an automatically-erecting bottom wall configured to be selectively moveable between a substantially flat position and a fully erect position. The container includes a plurality of side panels, including at least a first side panel, a second side panel, a third side panel, and a side joining tab. The container also includes a plurality of bottom flaps for forming a bottom wall, including both minor and major bottom flaps. A first bottom flap extends from the first side panel, a second bottom flap extends from the second side panel, and a third bottom flap extends from the third side panel. The second bottom flap includes a first minor joining tab for coupling to the first bottom flap. The third bottom flap includes a third joining tab for coupling to a second major bottom flap. |
| US09045248B2 |
Soluble fragments of influenza virus PB2 protein capable of binding RNA-cap
The present invention relates to soluble fragments of the Influenza virus RNA dependent RNA polymerase subunit PB2 and variants thereof, and crystallized complexes thereof comprising an RNA cap analog. This invention also relates to computational methods using the structural coordinates of said complex to screen for and design compounds that interact with the RNA cap binding pocket. In addition, this invention relates to methods identifying compounds that bind to PB2 polypeptide fragments comprising the RNA cap binding pocket, preferably inhibit the interaction with RNA caps or analogs thereof, by using said PB2 polypeptide fragments, preferably in a high-throughput setting. This invention also relates to compounds and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the identified compounds for the treatment of disease conditions due to viral infections caused by negative-sense single stranded RNA viruses. |
| US09045247B2 |
Polyolefin-based containers
A container comprising a polyolefin composition comprising: A) from 59 wt. % to 84 wt. %, based upon the total weight of the polyolefin composition, of a propylene homopolymer having isotactic pentads (mmmm) measured with 13C-NMR higher than 96%, B) from 16 wt. % to 41 wt. %, based upon the total weight of the polyolefin composition, of a copolymer of propylene and ethylene, wherein the copolymer of propylene and ethylene comprises from 30 wt. % to 44 wt. %, of ethylene derived units based upon total weight of the copolymer of propylene and ethylene; the sum A)+B) being 100 wt. %; the polyolefin composition having an MFR L (Melt Flow Rate according to ISO 1133, condition L, i.e. 230° C. and 2.16 kg load) between 72 and 100 g/10 min. |
| US09045241B2 |
Method for reducing the angular momentum and controlling the attitude of a spacecraft
A method for reducing the angular momentum of a spacecraft comprises a propulsion device able to generate a torque along a Z axis corresponding to an axis of maximum inertia or minimum inertia of the spacecraft, an X axis and a Y axis forming with Z an orthogonal frame; an angular momentum accumulating device, able to generate an angular momentum and a torque along the three axes; and a set of sensors able to measure the angular velocities and estimate the angular momentum of the spacecraft. The method comprises a first step of aligning the angular momentum of the spacecraft along the Z axis, consisting in slaving the angular momentum of the angular momentum accumulating device to the angular velocity of the spacecraft, and a second step of reducing the angular momentum of the spacecraft using a torque generated by the propulsion device. |
| US09045238B2 |
Apparatus and method for fuelling an aircraft tank system
An apparatus (10) for fuelling an aircraft, in particular during performing a tank leakage test on the aircraft, comprises a fuel supply line (14) for supplying fuel to an aircraft tank system (12), at least one pressure sensor (26) for sensing a pressure within the aircraft tank system (12) and for providing a signal indicative of the pressure within the aircraft tank system (12), an electronic control unit (ECU) for processing the signal of the pressure sensor (26) and for generating an emergency shut-off signal, if the pressure within the aircraft tank system (12) exceeds a first predetermined level, and an emergency shut-off device (24) which is controlled by the electronic control unit (ECU) and which is adapted to interrupt the supply of fuel to the aircraft tank system (12) in response to the emergency shut-off signal from the electronic control unit (ECU). |
| US09045226B2 |
Modular and morphable air vehicle
An unmanned air module includes one or more rotors, engines, a transmission and avionics. Any of several different ground modules may be attached to the air module. The air module may fly with and without the ground module attached. The ground module may be a vehicle ground module and may be manned. The vehicle ground module may transport the attached air module across the ground. The air module may have two rotors, which may be ducted fans, and three different configurations: a tandem rotor configuration, a side-by-side configuration, and a tilted-rotor configuration. |
| US09045222B2 |
Constant area vent for external crash attenuation airbag
The external crash attenuation airbag includes an inflatable bladder which is inflatable to an exterior of an aircraft, so that the inflatable bladder is generally located between the aircraft and a crash surface when inflated. The airbag includes a vent configured to burst at a predefined burst pressure, the vent being located along a side portion of the inflatable bladder. The airbag also includes a vent support located approximate the vent, the vent support being configured to prevent deformation and therefore maintain the effectiveness of a venting area of the vent, and the vent support being rigid and annular and includes an upper portion and a lower portion that are hinged together around the vent. |
| US09045221B2 |
Method of guidance for aircraft trajectory correction
Guidance for an aircraft correcting a trajectory deviation due to wind computes a roll command during trajectory alignment according to imposed alignment passing through a determined point, via a current angular divergence between a line through the point and aircraft and direction of alignment and of a current estimated ground speed of the aircraft with respect to a frame of reference. The current estimated ground speed is computed via a current air speed and stored wind speed. The stored wind speed is obtained via at least one wind speed computed via a first value of a first speed equal to the speed of the said aircraft with respect to a frame of reference originating from a satellite navigation system and a second value of a second speed equal to the air speed. The first and second value are simultaneously accounted earlier than or at the instant at the alignment phase. |
| US09045218B2 |
Autonomous aircraft with disconnectable tether
Systems and methods to launch an aircraft are disclosed. In one embodiment, a system comprises an electrically powered buoyant aircraft, a control system to maneuver the aircraft and a tether adapted to couple to the aircraft and to a ground-based power supply to provide power to the aircraft while the aircraft is coupled to the tether. The aircraft can disconnect autonomously from the tether in response to a command signal. |
| US09045217B2 |
Latching apparatus and methods
Latching apparatus and methods are disclosed herein. An example apparatus includes a first latch portion including a first tooth and a first pin disposed in a first aperture defined by the first tooth and a second latch portion including a second tooth and a second pin disposed in an second aperture defined by the second tooth. The second tooth of the second latch portion is to mesh with the first tooth of the first latch portion to substantially orient the first pin and the second pin along an axis. The example apparatus further includes an actuator adjacent a first end of one of the first latch portion or the second latch portion to move the first pin and the second pin along the axis to lock the first latch portion to the second latch portion. |
| US09045213B1 |
Power generation via a solar montgolfier balloon
Example embodiments may facilitate altitude control by a balloon in a balloon network in a manner that also can generate power. An example method involves regulating buoyancy of the balloon by solar heating atmospheric air drawn into the balloon through a first opening of an envelope of the balloon and venting heated air in the balloon out through a second opening of the envelope. Atmospheric air heated within the envelope could supply the balloon's buoyancy. The method may further involve capturing a portion of energy of the heated air as it is venting out of the balloon through the second opening, converting a portion of the captured energy into electrical energy, and storing the electrical energy. The balloon could also be configured with a heat engine for converting heat energy into mechanical and/or electrical energy. |
| US09045212B2 |
Suspension device for outboard motor and vessel propulsion apparatus
A suspension device includes a clamp bracket, a tilting shaft, a swivel bracket, a steering shaft, a case, an electric motor, and a transmitter. The electric motor and the transmitter are held in the interior of the case. The electric motor produces power to rotate the steering shaft about a central axis of the steering shaft. The transmitter transmits power from the electric motor to the steering shaft side. The case is located on a placing portion provided on the swivel bracket, and removably attached to the swivel bracket. |
| US09045210B2 |
Underwater vehicle having an optical beam operating system
An underwater vehicle includes an optical beam operating system having a radiation generator, a radiation emission device, and a radiation transmission device connecting the radiation generator to the radiation emission device. The radiation generator is provided on or in the underwater vehicle. The radiation emission device can be brought to the water surface by the underwater vehicle. |
| US09045206B2 |
Survival equipment vest incorporating flotation bladder
A survival vest may include a vest body. The vest body may include a bladder containing pouch extending through left front, left shoulder, scapular, right shoulder and right front sections. That pouch may include a bladder release gap. A plurality of equipment attachment loops may be located on exterior faces of the vest. An inflatable bladder may be contained within the bladder containing pouch and may be configured to expand outside the bladder containing pouch through a bladder release gap upon inflation so as to push a left abdominal section of the vest body to the left and push a right abdominal section of the vest body to the right. |
| US09045205B2 |
Floatable boat ramp
A floatable boat ramp is disclosed including a plurality of hollow planks arranged parallel to one another such that the upper surfaces thereof define a drivable surface. A plurality of flexible channels couple cavities defined by adjacent planks of the plurality of hollow planks to one another a first end plank defines one or more openings to allow inlet and outlet of air and water in order to cause the boat ramp to sink or float. The interior cavity of the planks may be divided into right and left hand portions. Left and right hand channels coupled the right and left hand portions, respectively, of adjacent planks to one another. A second end plank includes a continuous cavity and allows fluid communication between left and right hand portions of the other planks. The planks may be coupled together by cables extending through sleeves rotatably mounted to the ends thereof. |
| US09045201B1 |
Cork watersports board
A watersports board is disclosed comprising: at least one non-cork layer; and at least one cork layer. Preferably, the watersports board further comprises a hollow core. More preferably, the watersports board comprises: a multiplicity of non-cork layers; and a multiplicity of cork layers; wherein said cork and non-cork layers are arranged alternately. |
| US09045200B1 |
Floating craft stabilizing platform
An accessory for addition onto a floating pontoon style fishing craft that enables the occupant to safely stand while the craft is floating without fear of tipping the craft. This is in the form of a lowerable, retractable platform that resides below the waterline of the craft and also incorporates a removeable working table/safety bar that resides in front of the occupant's seat to constrain them from falling overboard and to allow them a stable work surface from which to perform fishing related activities. The retractable platform serves to allow the center of gravity of the occupant to remain in close proximity to the waterline of the craft thus preventing tipping. Because of the depth the platform projects beneath the craft, the position of the occupant's mass acts as a stabilizer or ballast rudder so as to let the occupant to safely cast his fishing line from the craft. |
| US09045199B2 |
Fluid transfer assembly
A fluid transfer assembly for transferring a fluid between an onshore or offshore installation and a tanker, includes a floating device provided with positioning means for maintaining a predetermined position, a first fluid transfer line for releasably connecting said onshore or offshore installation to said floating device, and a second fluid transfer line for releasably connecting said floating device to the tanker. The floating device is provided with a connecting device for establishing a fluid connection between the first and second fluid transfer lines, which connecting device and floating device are separate parts that can be joined and separated by cooperating couplers provided on the connecting device and floating device, respectively, without compromising the original function of the floating device. |
| US09045194B2 |
Retrofitting a conventional containment vessel into a complete integral tank double-hull cargo containment vessel
A conventional containment vessel is retrofitted into a complete integral tank double-hull cargo containment vessel that includes a primary hull and a secondary hull disposed within the primary hull. The primary hull includes a topside deck structural member. The secondary hull includes an interior cargo containment tank. The secondary hull includes a topside structural member configured to seal the cargo containment tank. The primary hull is configured to serve as a first boundary between an operating environment of the vessel and the cargo. The secondary hull is configured to serve as a second boundary between the operating environment of the vessel and the cargo. The topside deck member of the primary hull and the topside structural member of the secondary hull are configured to provide a double-hull on the topside of the cargo containment tank. |
| US09045190B2 |
Two-wheeled self-balancing motorized personal vehicle with tilting wheels
A vehicle with two independently rotatable wheels arranged opposite from each other and bridged by a linking structure, having a driving motor for each wheel, and having electronic fore-and-aft self-balancing capabilities. The two wheels are capable of tilting side-to-side in unison to execute turns. The vehicle can carry a rider, who may stand on foot supports either between or outside of the wheels and operate the vehicle by leaning forward, backward, or sideways to direct travel in the direction of leaning. Further means are provided for producing advantages in stability and portability. |
| US09045186B2 |
Adjustable nose width bicyle seat assembly
A bicycle seat assembly having an adjustable width nose portion includes an H-shaped base that supports a lateral left side pad and a lateral right side pad. A rail extends under the base and between the left and right side nose portions of the seat assembly. A front rail mount includes a housing, a shuttle, an actuator, and left and right mount supports. Operation of the actuator alters the position of the left and right mount supports relative to the housing and thereby alters a distance between the respective left and right side nose portions of the seat base. |
| US09045182B2 |
Plant for assembling mechanical parts on bodies of motor-vehicles
A plant for assembling mechanical parts on bodies of motor-vehicles comprises an endless conveying line and a plurality of pallets movable along the conveying line, each receiving mechanical parts of the motor-vehicle along a first section of the line. Means for loading a respective motor-vehicle body on a respective pallet at a loading station, located at the beginning of a second section of the conveying line, downstream of the abovementioned first section with reference direction of movement of the pallets are provided. At least one bolting station for bolting the mechanical parts on the respective body along the abovementioned second section is provided. The abovementioned second section of the line is superimposed to the first section and aligned therewith, so that the pallets move along a closed loop in a vertical plane, moving along the upper section in a direction opposite to their direction of movement along the lower section. |
| US09045180B2 |
Ground-engaging track system, link for a track chain, and method
A ground-engaging track system for a machine includes a track extending about a rotatable track engaging element, and having a track chain with a plurality of elongate links each including an upper rail surface formed of a sacrificial wear material and having a convex longitudinal profile configured to delay scallop formation therein. A link for a track chain and related methodology are also disclosed. |
| US09045179B2 |
Track member for a track of a tracked vehicle
A track member for a track of a vehicle of the tracked type, which comprises a pin, a bushing associated with and rotatable relative to the pin, and first and second inner and outer track link assemblies associated with and rotatable relative to the pin, and arranged on opposite sides of the bushing. The first inner track link assembly is arranged between the first outer track link assembly and the bushing, and the second inner track assembly is arranged between the second outer track link assembly and the bushing. The first and second inner track assemblies each include a ring rotatable relative to the pin. The track member further includes first and second inner and outer gasket seats which house respective gaskets. The inner and outer gaskets are orientated so that they act against side surfaces of the rings. |
| US09045173B2 |
Front-end structure of a motor vehicle
A front-end structure of a motor vehicle includes a transverse member and two crash boxes. In addition a transverse reinforcement member is arranged according to the invention, wherein the transverse reinforcement member is supported via coupling beams on a subframe. |
| US09045168B2 |
Vehicle roof brace
A roof support for a vehicle is provided containing a first side roof rail; a transverse roof bow fixed to and extending from the first side roof rail; and a first brace fixed to the first side roof rail at a forward point on the first side roof rail, wherein the first brace extends to the transverse roof bow and is fixed to a first aft point on the transverse roof bow, thereby advantageously defining a first angle between the first side roof rail and the first brace. The roof support may further include a second side roof rail opposite the first side roof rail such that the roof bow laterally extends from the first side roof rail to the second side roof rail, wherein a second brace is connected in like manner. |
| US09045167B2 |
Vehicle body side structure
A vehicle body (12) includes: a coupling recess (35) that couples an outer bottom member (42) with an outer top member (41) of an outer panel (37) of a vehicle body pillar (21); and a door seal cover (34) that covers the coupling recess (35). The door seal cover (34) comprises: a U-shaped body part (43) that has a U-shaped cross section and serves as a central portion; a U-shaped top lip (44) that extends upward from the body part (43); and a U-shaped bottom lip (45) that extends downward from the body part (43). A front top leading end (57), a front bottom leading end (58), a back top leading end (61), and a back bottom leading end (62 ) of seal contact surface sections (51, 54), which are firmly attached to door-side seal members (48, 49), are formed at step-free thicknesses. |
| US09045166B2 |
Short offset sheet metal reinforcement to limit rotation during crash
A vehicle frame includes a pillar having inner and outer members and an interior surface defining a cavity. A first reinforcement is disposed in the cavity and welded to the interior surface. A second reinforcement includes first and second edges and a channel extending therebetween. The first and second edges are welded to the first reinforcement and the channel is positioned distal from the first reinforcement proximate a deflection area of the pillar. |
| US09045165B2 |
Vehicle side portion joining portion structure
There is provided a vehicle side portion joining portion structure capable of promoting a reduction in weight of a vehicle body and of effectively suppressing vibrations and deformations of a pillar, regardless of structures of the pillar and a rocker and the like. A pillar reinforcement member is joined to an interior of a foot portion of a pillar outer that is formed with an open cross section in which a vehicle width direction inner side is opened. At a vehicle forward side of the foot portion, a front side closed cross section is formed at a vehicle front side portion of the foot portion. At a vehicle rearward side of the foot portion, a rear side closed cross section is formed at a vehicle rear side portion of the foot portion. |
| US09045163B2 |
Universal chassis apparatus for automotive vehicle
A universal chassis apparatus for an automotive vehicle includes a battery and/or fuel storage compartment in a rigid backbone structure. In another aspect, a vehicle chassis that incorporates the engine structure, transaxle structure and a backbone structure provided as a unitary structure onto which other components of a vehicle, such as suspension, steering, body and crash absorbers may be attached. The backbone structure is a closed tubular structure in which a relatively rigid drive shaft can be supported for rotational power delivery between the engine and the transaxle. |
| US09045157B2 |
Electric power steering apparatus
A zero point change model executes banked road correspondence control when a vehicle travels on a banked road. By this control, a target turning angle when the total torque is zero can be changed from a neutral turning angle to a lower side of an inclined road surface. Thus, a steering angle of a steering wheel according to a banked road can be realized even if the driver does not apply steering torque during traveling on a banked road. Accordingly, the driver can obtain a suitable steering feeling when traveling on a banked road while achieving the target turning angle according to the total torque. |
| US09045156B2 |
Electric driving device and electric power steering system including the same
A control device (3) controlling an electric motor (2) is disposed on an axial line of a rotor shaft (30) of the electric motor (2). The control device (3) includes semiconductor switching devices (15) forming a three-phase bridge circuit that controls a current of the electric motor (2) and capacitors (13) that suppresses a ripple component of a current flowing to the electric motor (2). The semiconductor switching devices (15) and the capacitors (13) are provided in pairs for respective arms of the three-phase bridge circuit and disposed concentrically. Hence, impedance across the three-phase circuit controlling a current flowing to the electric motor is reduced. Consequently, not only can ripples be absorbed efficiently but also power efficiency of a driving device can be enhanced. |
| US09045155B1 |
Movable support apparatus and method
An improved movable support apparatus includes a support platform with a top, a bottom, sides and an inside and an outside. At least one wheel is connected with the bottom of the support platform. An attachment device is provided in the support platform where the attachment device consists of a receiver in the inside of the support platform, the receiver creating an upper stop and a lower stop in the support platform and where the attachment device further includes a retainer, the retainer located on the inside of the support platform interior from the upper stop of the receiver. A handle with at least one attachment hook is provided, the handle removably connectable with the attachment device retainer on the inside of the support platform and with the outside of the support platform such that when connected in the receiver with the attachment device movement of the handle causes movement of the support platform and where the handle is held in place by a combination of the at least one attachment hook and the retainer of the attachment device such that dislocation of the at least one attachment hook from the attachment device retainer releases the handle from the attachment device and the support platform. |
| US09045154B2 |
Transport device for power trowel and method of use thereof
A load transporting device comprising: a central axle portion having at least one wheel, a first construction equipment engagement portion operably connected to the central axle portion, the first construction engagement portion accommodating a curvilinear portion of a construction equipment having a curvature, wherein the first construction engagement portion matches the curvature of the curvilinear portion of the construction equipment, and a second construction equipment engagement portion operably connected to the central axle portion, the second construction engagement portion accommodating an operation component of the construction equipment is provided. Furthermore, an associated method is also provided. |
| US09045149B2 |
Machinery foundation module
A receiver embedded in and affixed to a foundation, the receiver is adapted to receive a turntable through an opening defined by the floor and walls of the receiver. The turntable is designed to rotate within the opening. The floor of the receiver has holes therein for bolts. The holes are located relative to center of the receiver and the foundation such that a turntable may be affixed to the bolts and rotate within the receiver and foundation. The receiver has a number of flanges both on the walls and on the floor to engage with the foundation. The foundation is created from two pour sections, a first pour for the floor of the foundation and a second pour for the walls of the foundation. |
| US09045148B2 |
Simulated isolation of locomotives
A method of controlling one or more locomotives in a consist includes receiving a command and control signal at a controller associated with one of the one or more locomotives, the command and control signal indicative of a desired performance goal for the consist. Operational characteristics of the one locomotive that are factors in achieving the performance goal for the consist are determined. Operational settings for selected ones of the determined operational characteristics for the one locomotive are selectively designated to achieve the performance goal for the consist. Effects of the selectively designated operational settings for the one locomotive may be implemented through the use of control signals to simulate isolation of the one locomotive without physically switching the one locomotive to an isolation mode. |
| US09045147B2 |
Article transport facility
A transporting space of an article transport facility is divided into a first space and a second space by a wall having an opening. A first movable body that travels along a first travel rail in the first space and a second movable body that travels along a second travel rail in the second space are provided. A relay portion which can support an article without interfering with the shutter that can open and close the opening is provided in the first space. The first travel rail is arranged to extend adjacent a first space side transfer position for transferring articles between the first mobile body and the relay portion, and the second travel rail is arranged to extend adjacent a second space side transfer position for transferring articles between the second mobile body and the relay portion through the opening. |
| US09045144B2 |
Third-order polynomial-based course prediction for driver assistance functions
Methods and systems for performing vehicle driver assistance. One method includes determining, at a controller, whether the vehicle is steering toward a drive-straight state and when the vehicle is steering toward the drive-straight state, calculating, at the controller, a predicted course trajectory using a third order polynomial. The method also includes calculating, at the controller, the predicted course trajectory using a non-third-order function when the vehicle is not steering toward the drive-straight state. In addition, the method includes performing the driver assistance based on the predicted course trajectory. |
| US09045140B2 |
Coasting control device
A coasting control device capable of avoiding coasting control during running on road having a small coefficient of friction between a tire and a road surface (“low μ roads”) includes a low μ road running recognition unit which recognizes that a vehicle is running on a low μ road and a unit for prohibiting coasting control during low μ road running when the low μ road running recognition unit recognizes that the vehicle is running on a low μ road. |
| US09045138B2 |
Vehicle control apparatus
A vehicle control apparatus includes a determination portion determining whether a vehicle is running by using a motor without using an engine or the vehicle is running by using both of the engine and the motor, a detection portion detecting a start-up request of the engine, a drive power calculation portion calculating a requested drive power in a case where it is detected that the vehicle is running by using the motor without using the engine and the start-up request is detected, and an engine start-up control portion driving a drive shaft by outputting the drive power by means of the motor at a start-up of the engine, the engine start-up control portion causing the vehicle to run by using both of the engine and the motor after the output of the drive power is completed. |
| US09045136B2 |
Systems and methods for implementing dynamic operating modes and control policies for hybrid electric vehicles
Systems and/or methods for controlling dual motor-dual clutch powertrains for HEV and PHEV vehicles are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method is disclosed comprising: determining the state of charge (SOC) of said batteries; determining the speed of the vehicle; if the SOC is greater than a given first threshold, selecting a charge-depleting operational mode of said vehicle; during operation of said vehicle, if the SOC is less than a given second threshold, selecting a charge-sustaining operating mode of said vehicle. In another embodiment, a system having a controller that operates the powertrain according to various embodiments is disclosed. |
| US09045135B2 |
Drive control device for hybrid vehicle
Drivability and the drive feeling are improved by optimizing a change and a delay in the torque of an internal combustion engine so as not to influence driving torque at the time of decelerating the internal combustion engine as in the initial period of deceleration by using a target driving power setting device, a target charge/discharge power setting device, a target engine power calculating device, a target engine operating point setting device, and a motor torque instruction value calculating device. |
| US09045132B1 |
System and method for engine idle stop control with starter motor protection
A system and method for controlling engine idle stop in a hybrid vehicle that uses predictive information to schedule engine stops with relatively longer stop duration time to gain more fuel savings and extend life of starter motor. More specifically, predictive information may be used to determine potential vehicle stop events, along with corresponding stop duration times, within a time window. An engine stop scheduler and/or controller may be configured to schedule stops of longer duration for optimal total engine stop time. Similarly, taking into account constraints imposed by the thermal limits of the motor, engine stop may be inhibited for predicted short events to allow engine stop at later longer stop events. |
| US09045131B2 |
Method and device for controlling a drive train of a hybrid vehicle
A method and a device for controlling a drive train of a hybrid vehicle (HEF), which can be driven by an internal combustion engine (BKA), respectively individually or together with an electric machine (EA), which includes an electrical energy store (ES), power electronics (LE) and a motor/generator unit (MGE). Depending on a first or second position of an operator control (BV), the drive train (A) is operated in a first operating mode (BM1) corresponding to a boost preparatory phase or in a second operating mode (BM2) corresponding to a boost phase. In the first operating mode (BM1) the electrical energy store (ES) is charged by operating the motor/generator unit (MGE), as a generator, and in the second operating mode (BM2) a boost function of the electric machine (EA) is called by operating the motor/generator unit (MGE), together with the internal combustion engine (BKA), as a motor. |
| US09045130B2 |
Device for controlling automatic stopping of vehicle engine
A vehicular engine automatic stop control apparatus has a coast stop controller that performs a coast stop control of stopping an engine in response to a situation where driver's brake pedal operation is above a predetermined threshold value while a vehicle is traveling, a road surface gradient sensor that senses a road surface gradient, and a coast stop control cancellation unit that cancels the coast stop control in response to a situation where a first sensed value of the road surface gradient is above a predetermined cancellation threshold value in absolute value. The first sensed value of the road surface gradient is obtained at a first time instant when the vehicle becomes stationary in a situation where the engine has been stopped by the coast stop controller. |
| US09045127B2 |
Control device for hybrid vehicle
When an engine (2) is in a stopped state and a vehicle is in a standstill state, a travel control unit (8a2) allows the vehicle to travel by a driving force of a rear motor (6) during a period after the brake is released until an acceleration demand determination unit (8a1) determines that acceleration is demanded for the vehicle. During the period, a startup speed determination unit (8a4) determines a startup travelling speed where the engine (2) is started up on the basis of a load which is estimated by a load estimation unit (8a3) on the basis of a current value supplied to the rear motor (6). When the travelling speed of the vehicle is equal to or greater than the startup travelling speed, a startup unit (8a5) starts up the engine (2). |
| US09045126B2 |
Method of optimizing energy use of a power plant using geographical information without user input to the navigation system
A telematics-navigation device detects that a hybrid vehicle propelled by at least two energy sources is traveling to a destination not provided to the vehicle (i.e., an unknown destination). As the vehicle travels to the destination, the device identifies a road segment between a current position of the vehicle and a next road junction that vehicle is traveling towards. A control unit determines an optimization strategy for managing the energy sources of the vehicle as the vehicle travels the road segment. The control unit executes the determined strategy. |
| US09045125B2 |
Automatic transmission shift control based on torque phase detection using measured transmission input torque
A system and method for controlling a vehicle powertrain having a transmission to improve shift quality to detect the start of a torque phase of the shift based on a measured transmission input shaft torque. A torque sensor provides a signal to a controller that monitors initial rise time of the measured transmission input shaft torque. The torque sensor may be implemented by a strain gauge, a piezoelectric load cell, or a magneto-elastic torque sensor. The system may include a vehicle powertrain having an engine, a transmission coupled to the engine via a torque converter and a controller configured to initiate torque phase control when the slope of the transmission input shaft torque exceeds a predetermined threshold after initiation of the shift preparatory phase. |
| US09045122B2 |
Wear sensor
An assembly (1) for detecting the wear of a brake pad of a disk brake, wherein said assembly comprises at least one sensor body (2) and at least one spring (4), said assembly being suitable for cooperating with said pad (10) which comprises a support plate (11), suitable for being supported by the disk brake, and to which there is associated friction material (12), suitable for to coming into contact with braking surfaces of a disk-brake disk, and wherein said at least one sensor body (2) is coupled geometrically to said support plate (11), said at least one spring (4) surrounding said at least one sensor body (2) so that said at least one spring (4) is positioned in said geometric coupling between said at least one sensor body (2) and said plate (11) and presenting projections (41) for the snap-coupling to said support plate (11), and wherein said at least one spring (4) has indentations (42) bent towards the at least one sensor body (2) for constraining said at least one spring (4) to said at least one sensor body (2), wherein said indentations (42) comprise end or terminal sections (43) of the spring with at least one of their edges (44) facing towards the at least one body (2). |
| US09045117B2 |
Road surface condition estimating method, vehicle control method, and road surface condition estimating apparatus
The condition of a road surface on which a vehicle is traveling is estimated accurately, using a tire having a general variable-pitch tire pattern for detection of a road surface condition. The tire for detection of a road surface condition has rows of blocks, the total number N of the circumferentially disposed blocks being 10 or more and the number n of lug grooves, each provided with a joining section connecting circumferentially adjacent blocks, being in the range of (N/2)≦n≦(N−5). The vibrations of the tire are detected by an acceleration sensor and are subjected to a rotational order ratio analysis by a rotational order ratio analyzing unit. And the road surface condition is estimated by comparing the amplitude P of the rotational order component of the tire vibrations extracted by a rotational order component extracting unit with a predetermined threshold value K. |
| US09045116B2 |
Brake system
A brake system includes: (a) friction brakes provided for at least two wheels that are at least two of a plurality of wheels of a vehicle; (b) a relative-phase obtaining device configured to obtain at least one relative phase each of which is a relative phase between corresponding two of the at least two wheels; and (c) a change-characteristic obtaining device configured to obtain a total-braking-force change characteristic that is a relationship between the relative phase obtained by the relative-phase obtaining device and a value representative of state of change of a total braking force during at least one rotation of the at least two wheels. The total braking force includes braking forces of the friction brakes provided for the at least two wheels. |
| US09045114B2 |
Beam blade windshield wiper assembly having a fluid manifold mounting system
A beam blade windshield wiper assembly including a wiping element that contacts the surface of the vehicle to be wiped. An elongated beam is operatively attached to the wiping element and has a pair of longitudinal ends. An airfoil assembly is operatively supported on the elongated beam. The assembly also includes a fluid manifold for distributing fluid across the surface to be wiped. The manifold has an inlet in fluid communication with a source of fluid, a plurality of outlets disposed along the longitudinal length of the manifold and an internal passage extending between the inlet and the outlets. A fluid manifold mounting system is adapted to support the fluid manifold on the elongated beam. |
| US09045113B2 |
Attachment device for connecting a wiper arm to a wiper blade
The invention relates to an attachment device (10) for connecting a wiper arm to a wiper blade (12), which is rigidly connected to an attachment element (22) of the attachment device (10), whereas an adapter (60) is connected to the attachment element (22) in an articulated fashion and is detachably fastened to the wiper arm. According to the invention, the attachment element (22) and the adapter (60) are produced from plastic, and the adapter (60) has a longitudinal bar (74) extending along a longitudinal center plane, said bar supporting a bearing pin (76), which runs transverse to the longitudinal direction, in the central region of the bar. Additionally, the longitudinal bar (74) and the bearing pin (76) protrude to a certain extent beyond the side walls (62) of the adapter (60) to the attachment element (22), the part of the longitudinal bar (74) protruding to the attachment part (26) being guided between two contact surfaces (80), which run in the longitudinal direction and are offset in relation to one another so that in the assembled position, each longitudinal side of the longitudinal bar (74) rests against a contact surface (80) and the longitudinal bar (74) can be rotated through an angle of approximately 45° about a vertical axis between the contact surfaces (80). The length of the bearing pin (76) is dimensioned so that in the assembled position, both ends of the pin engage in bearing holes (50) in the side walls (42) of the attachment part (26). |
| US09045109B2 |
Gasbag for a pedestrian protection system and a motor vehicle equipped therewith
A gasbag for a pedestrian protection system, when in the inflated state encompasses a first, oblong central section and end sections angled away from the ends of the first central section. At least one first and one second membrane with differing permeability values are distributed over the sections in such a way that an average permeability of the end sections is lower than an average permeability of the first central section. |
| US09045107B2 |
Airbag door
Disclosed is an airbag door including: a panel which has tear lines, in which the tear lines include: a first tear line which is extended in a left and right direction of the panel; second tear lines which are extended from left and right end portions of the first tear line in an up and down direction of the panel, respectively; and third tear lines which are extended from upper and lower end portions of the second tear lines toward corners of the panel, respectively, thereby preventing an airbag from being torn by broken parts of the panel of the airbag door when the airbag is deployed. |
| US09045105B2 |
Seatbelt buckle position holders
A seatbelt buckle position holder includes first and second parts each of which has a part of a collar, which is formed when the parts are connected and is configured to support a seatbelt buckle in a position other than against an automobile seat bottom. First and second parts can be identical. Each of the parts can also include a base, which can have a substantially planar shape and can be configured to be placed in a gap formed where an automobile seat bottom encounters an automobile seat back to limit movement of the seatbelt buckle position holder. First and second parts can be adjustably connected to allow various degrees of separation between parts of the collar to accommodate different sizes of seatbelt buckles. A divider can be connected between first and second parts so that the seatbelt buckle holder can be configured to support two seatbelt buckles. |
| US09045104B2 |
Rough-terrain traveling vehicle
A rough-terrain traveling vehicle equipped with a front seat roll bar and a rear seat roll bar is adapted to allow use of only the front seat roll bar. The front seat roll bar includes a top middle cross pipe extending left and right in the vehicle width direction, and left and right middle side pipes extending to the top middle cross pipe. Left and right gussets are provided at left and right assembly points where the left and right middle side pipes and the top middle cross pipe each are connected. When attachment screws are inserted into the left and right gussets, the rear seat roll bar is joined to the front seat roll bar. |
| US09045103B2 |
Methods and systems related to remote power loss detection
Remote power loss detection. At least some of the example embodiments are methods including: tracking location of an asset by an onboard device mechanically coupled to the asset, the onboard device electrically coupled to a source of power of the asset, and the onboard device receiving power from the asset; charging a supercapacitor coupled to the onboard device; and then detecting a complete loss of power provided to the onboard device, and the detecting by the onboard device; and after the complete loss of power sending a message by wireless transmission, the sending based on power derived from the supercapacitor, and the message including an indication of a last known voltage provide by the asset prior to the complete loss of power, and the sending by the onboard device after the complete loss of power. |
| US09045094B2 |
Harness retaining means and harness wiring structure
A harness retaining device is disclosed for retaining a harness and causing the harness together with a connection element for an electric/electronic circuit to be supported with respect to a portion of a frame of a vehicle seat. The harness retaining device includes a support arm having first and second end portions, the first end portion of the support arm being engagingly connectable with the connection element, an anchor-like clip provided on the first end portion of the support arm, and a locking member provided on the second end portion of the support arm for fastening the harness. When the first end portion of the support arm is connected to the connection element and the anchor-like clip is fitted through the portion of the seat frame, the connection element and the harness are supported with respect to the portion of the frame of the vehicle seat through the support arm. |
| US09045088B2 |
Vehicle outside mirror device
According to the present invention, with regard to a plurality of notch portions, a plurality of tilt faces are provided for a respective one of the notch portions. As a result, the present invention is capable of lowering a facial pressure of a respective one of a plurality of tilt faces of one notch portion more remarkably than a facial pressure of one tilt face of one notch portion. As a result, the present invention is capable of reducing a frictional wear and tear of a tilt face without a need to use any other component. |
| US09045087B2 |
Centre console
A center console of a motor vehicle has a cover that is able to be opened, which closes a storage compartment that lies thereunder in its closed position and releases this in an open position. A comfortable adjustment of the cover is possible via an adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism is formed in such a way that it first lifts the cover during opening and adjusts it backwards and subsequently swings it upwards. |
| US09045085B2 |
Object detector
An object detection circuit detects an object moving in a periphery of a vehicle by a frame correlation method that uses a plurality of shot images captured at successive times. A state judgment part disables a detection function of the object detection circuit when a steering angle of an own vehicle is not in a prescribed steering angle range. Then, a condition changer changes the prescribed steering angle range corresponding to a condition of the steering angle in accordance with a velocity of the own vehicle. Therefore, the condition changer can relax the condition for enabling the detection function in accordance with the velocity of the own vehicle within a range where detection accuracy is ensured. |
| US09045083B2 |
Integrated release switch assembly
An integrated assembly for a vehicle includes a release switch and at least one secondary electrical module positioned in the assembly such that, when the assembly is mounted to a vehicle, a centerline of the secondary electrical module is positioned substantially on a centerline of the vehicle and a portion of the release switch is positioned substantially on the vehicle centerline. An assembly consistent with the present disclosure may include a single switch providing multiple functions or multiple switches each providing a separate function. |
| US09045079B2 |
Reading light unit and system of a light control unit and a reading light unit
Described are reading light units for a passenger service unit in an overhead panel above a number of passenger seats, including a reading light having a light source for emitting light to a passenger seat, an automatic adjustment arrangement, a beam forming element for adjusting the light beam geometrical properties, and a light forming element for adjusting the light optical properties. |
| US09045077B2 |
Vehicle approach warning apparatus
A vehicle approach warning apparatus for abnormality detection in various abnormal modes is provided. In the vehicle approach warning apparatus, a sound generator output from the microcomputer passes an AMP and HPF, and an output voltage corresponding to the sound generator output is applied to a speaker to emit vehicle approach sound. The vehicle approach warning apparatus includes a voltage sensor circuit and outputs a check usage output as the sound generator output at the abnormality detection. A single frequency output that is within a resonance frequency band of the speaker and that can be poorly reproduced by the speaker is used as the check usage output. The abnormality detection is performed based on whether an integration circuit voltage outputted from the voltage sensor circuit is within a voltage range being an abnormality determination threshold. |
| US09045071B2 |
Mobile turf infill reclamation system
A mobile infill reclamation system comprising a mobile platform configured to be readily moved from a first location to a second location in relatively close proximity to an existing synthetic turf surface, a support structure mounted on the mobile platform, multiple processing components supported by the support structure and configured and arranged to process used infill material from the existing synthetic turf surface, an infill intake supported by the support structure and configured and arranged to receive the used infill material, and an infill output supported by the support structure and configured and arranged to discharge infill material processed by the processing components. |
| US09045070B2 |
Insert injection mold D-ring for tie down application
A tie down device for tie down application including a D-ring with overmold used for a motor vehicle to secure cargo of various shapes and sizes using removable straps. The tie down device includes a D-ring, an overmold plastic portion, bracket portion, and an interior bracket. The tie down device withstands a minimum load requirement suitable to secure a cargo in place. A round steel bar is shaped into the D-ring feature and inserted into the mold for forming the overmold plastic portion. The plastic forms in an overmold around the metal material into the desired shape. The molding process obtains the features and shape required from at least a visual perspective and the round steel bar, which is partially encapsulated by the overmold plastic portion, provides strength to meet the predetermined load requirements. The interior bracket acts as a spring to control the tension of the bracket portion. |
| US09045069B2 |
Tonneau cover having securing mechanism
A tonneau cover apparatus for securing a flexible cover about a cargo box of a pickup truck. The apparatus comprises the cover and a support frame for attachment to the cargo box. The frame has two opposing side rails, each of which has a lock engaging surface. The support frame further includes a pair of securing plate engagement members, each of which is secured to one of the respective opposing side rails. The apparatus further comprises a flexible cover securing plate attached to the cover. The flexible cover securing plate includes a channel and least one locking member. Each locking member is secured within the channel and each respective locking member is engagable with the lock engaging surface of the respective side rail such that the flexible cover securing plate is prevented from disengaging with respect to the respective side rail when it is in a first position. |
| US09045067B2 |
Extendable vehicle seat cover
The seat cover of the present invention is a generic, easy-to-use, temporary, reusable, absorbent, moisture impermeable, home launderable, protective vehicle seat cover designed for any seat with a headrest is disclosed. The present invention is designed to work with any type of seat (bucket or bench seat), or location of seat (front or back seat), or type of vehicle (sedan, van, truck, bus, train). The seat cover is able to be used individually or can be linked together to cover contiguous seats. Ii installs and removes quickly over a headrest being secured by VELCRO. The construction of the present invention uses multi-layer, elongated, rectangular materials, which loosely covers the front surfaces of the seat. The seat cover consists of two layers: an upper layer that absorbs wetness, dirt, odor, and other contaminants and wicks moisture away from the user; a lower layer that blocks any liquids or other contaminants from reaching the vehicle's upholstery. The design easily enables repeated installation-removal-laundering cycles. The seat cover is economically designed for home laundering and environmentally designed for efficient washing and drying. |
| US09045066B2 |
Heater control unit and vehicle seat heater
A heater control unit controls electric power supplied to a heater provided in a seat. The heater control unit includes an outside air temperature measuring portion that measures an outside air temperature, a seat surface temperature measuring portion that measures a surface temperature of the seat, and a control portion. The control portion controls a time for which an initial electric power larger than an electric power in a steady state after the initial state is output to the heater, according to the measured outside air temperature and the measured seat surface temperature in an initial state immediately after the heater is activated. |
| US09045061B2 |
Vehicle seat having a height adjustment device
The invention relates to a vehicle seat comprising a seat part for providing a seat surface for a seat occupant, a guide track arrangement for the longitudinally adjustable arrangement of the vehicle seat in a vehicle and a height adjustment device comprising a plurality of rockers which are pivotably coupled to the seat part and the guide track arrangement and which connect the seat part to the guide track arrangement so as to be adjustable in height, and a electromotive drive unit for driving a first rocker of the plurality of rockers. The drive unit has an output pinion which engages in a toothing of a tooth segment and can be set into rotation with respect to the tooth segment for adjusting the seat height of the seat part relative to the guide track arrangement. To this end, the output pinion is arranged on the first rocker and the tooth segment is arranged stationary on the guide track arrangement or on the seat part. |
| US09045060B2 |
Vehicular slide rail device
A vehicle slide rail device is provided, which can reduce the possibility of the lock mechanism provided between the upper rail and the lower rail unintentionally lock-releasing when the cushion airbag is inflated.As a solution, the lock-release lever 40 is provided with a lock-release contacting portion 46, which is positioned away from a press portion 65 of the lock operational lever when the lock operational lever is positioned at a lock-allowing position and which receives a force from the press portion for rotating the lock release lever toward the unlocking position when the lock operational lever rotates from the lock-allowing position toward the lock-release position. When the upper rail 30 is deformed downwardly due to pressure by the inflating of a cushion airbag 80, the lock release lever moves downwardly together with a downwardly deforming portion of the upper rail and the lock-release contacting portion moves in a direction to closely approach the press portion of the lock operational lever. |
| US09045059B1 |
Driver's plastic footrest assembly
A footrest assembly includes a reinforcement plate mounted on a foam block of a foam member. The footrest assembly is disposed in a vehicle footwell and the foam member is operably coupled to a portion of the footwell in assembly. A carpet mat is at least partially disposed over the foam member and the reinforcement plate in assembly. A footrest pad includes a plurality of clips which are received in a plurality of associated slots disposed on the reinforcement plate, thereby retaining the carpet mat between the reinforcement plate and the footrest pad in assembly. |
| US09045054B2 |
Battery system having an intermediate circuit voltage which can be set in a variable fashion
A battery system includes a battery, a DC voltage intermediate circuit connected to the battery, an inverter connected to the DC voltage intermediate circuit and an electric motor connected to the inverter. The DC voltage intermediate circuit includes a capacitor, and the battery includes a battery module line having a plurality of battery modules which are connected in series, and a control unit. Each battery module includes a coupling unit and at least one battery cell which is connected between a first input and a second input of the coupling unit. The coupling unit is configured to connect the at least one battery cell between a first terminal of the battery module and a second terminal of the battery module in response to a first control signal, and to connect the first terminal to the second terminal in response to a second control signal. |
| US09045048B2 |
Charging control apparatus, charging system, and charging control method
A charging control apparatus (1) that controls charging of a plurality of vehicles connected via a power line is provided with an electrical storage section (41) that stores power supplied from a power source, a communication section that receives information relating to supply power from the plurality of vehicles, a power amount calculation section (43) that calculates a supply power amount for the plurality of vehicles based on the information, and a control section that, if the supply power amount exceeds a second threshold value combining a remaining charge amount of the electrical storage section (41) and a contractual power amount, controls supply power for the plurality of vehicles so as to become smaller than the second threshold value. |
| US09045047B2 |
Storage battery
A storage battery has at least battery banks, switching units, a charging terminal, a discharging terminal and a battery management unit. The battery banks form a bank structure. Each switching unit electrically connects a group of the battery banks with either the charging terminal or the discharging terminal, and disconnects the group of the battery banks from the charging terminal or the discharging terminal. The battery management unit instructs the switching units to electrically and simultaneously connect one or more battery banks to the charging terminal during charging, and to electrically and simultaneously connect one or more battery banks to the discharging terminal during discharging. |
| US09045043B2 |
Zonal vehicle glass heating strategy
A vehicle glass heating system may include a vehicle glass having two or more electrically heated zones. The system may also have a controller, which determines an output based on an input signal and selectively actuates at least a portion of the heated zones to heat the vehicle glass according to the output. |
| US09045042B2 |
System and method for a one-time departure schedule setup for charging battery-electric vehicles
A method and a system for making a one-time change to a primary departure schedule of a battery-electric vehicle for charging or pre-climate operations without affecting the future departure times of the primary departure schedule. The system can be a vehicle including an ECU, a memory, a battery, a charger connected to an external power source, a BMS, an HVAC and a display. The method may include receiving an alternate departure date and time different from the primary departure schedule, deactivating the charging or pre-climate operations based on the primary departure schedule and activating charging or pre-climate operations based on the alternate departure date and time. The method and system may also include receiving an immediate charge mode designation, deactivating the charging or pre-climate operations based on the primary schedule and immediately activating the charging operations without affecting the primary departure schedule. |
| US09045036B2 |
Cap attaching structure
A cap attaching structure includes a cylindrical member and a cap member. The cylindrical member has an end plate, a side wall to be inserted into the cylindrical member, and an engagement claw piece in which a proximal end portion is connected to an inserting side end portion of the side wall, while a distal end portion extends towards the end plate via a slit. On an outer circumference of the engagement claw piece, a claw portion adapted to be brought into engagement with an engagement hole of the cylindrical member is provided. The distal end portion of the engagement claw piece is disposed in a cutout portion in the end plate. |
| US09045032B2 |
Drive train of a motor vehicle
A drive train of a motor vehicle has a front axle (10) and a rear axle (13). An internal combustion engine (16) is positioned behind the front axle (10) and in front of the rear axle (13) in a mid-engine arrangement. A transmission (17) enables the internal combustion engine to drive the rear axle (13). An electric drive (18) is associated with the front axle (10) and has at least two electric machines that can drive the front axle (10). A further electric drive (18) is associated with the rear axle (13) and can drive the rear axle (13) in addition to or alternatively to the internal combustion engine (16). |
| US09045031B2 |
Power unit for utility vehicle
An engine and a transmission are connected to each other via a connecting bracket interposed therebetween in the vehicular lengthwise direction. The engine is provided with a first connector having a first mounting hole substantially parallel to a vehicle lengthwise direction, and a first tightening member to be inserted into the first mounting hole on a side opposite to the engine connects the first end of the connecting bracket to the first connector. The transmission is provided with a second connector having a second mounting hole penetrating in a vehicular widthwise direction, and a second tightening member to be inserted into the second mounting hole connects the second end of the connecting bracket to the second connector. |