| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09376223B2 |
Liquid container having vacuum pumping device
Provided is a liquid container having a vacuum pumping device, which includes: a housing having a lower portion which is opened by means of an opening or closing control to be exposed to the atmosphere and an upper portion having a mounting hole so that a space is formed therein; an inner container having a cylinder chamber provided at an upper portion thereof to allow a liquid to flow in or out and a liquid store area connected to a lower portion of the cylinder chamber to change a volume according to an amount of liquid therein, the cylinder chamber being coupled to the mounting hole of the housing so that the inner housing is detachably mounted in the housing for refilling; a syringe unit coupled to or separated from the cylinder chamber to suck the liquid from the inner container and discharge the sucked liquid outwards; and an elastic cap mounted to the cylinder chamber, the elastic cap being closed in advance when the syringe unit is inserted into the cylinder chamber and opened later when the syringe unit sucks the liquid after the syringe unit is inserted into the cylinder chamber, so that the liquid is discharged while keeping a sealed state. If the liquid container having a vacuum pumping device of the present disclosure is used, the elastic cap may be easily manufactured due to its simple design and may keep its sealing force even though it is used repeatedly. Further, since the movement of a membrane may prevent even a minimum air from flowing into a filling chamber of the liquid store area while the syringe unit is being inserted, it is possible to prevent the solution from being contaminated. |
| US09376219B2 |
Actuating system of sectors of a device for producing an airplane fuselage
An actuating system of sectors of a device for producing an airplane fuselage in which a lamination mandrel includes a plurality of sectors that are angularly spaced about an axis and mobile between an expanded lamination position and a contracted dissembled position. Each sector has screw-nut screw type actuating system in which a threaded element is rotated about the axis by a motor. The threaded element includes an internal shaft made of a first material extending along the axis, an external tubular portion made of a second material that is mounted axially on the shaft and constraint element arranged between the internal shaft and the external tubular portion to prevent angular displacement of the external tubular portion with respect to the internal shaft and allow a linear sliding of the external tubular portion with respect to the internal shaft. |
| US09376217B2 |
Jig for forming sealant layer for lightning protection fastener, method for forming sealant layer for lightning protection fastener, lightning protection fastener, and wing of aircraft
To provide a jig for forming a sealant layer for a lightning protection fastener which enables to quickly and accurately obtain a sealant layer having a required thickness. A guide jig 30 is used to form a sealant layer 29 around a fastener member 24 that passes through and fastens a plurality of members constituting an airframe of an aircraft, the jig including: a cup 31 including a cavity 33 to be filled with an uncured sealant 28; and a guide that is provided within the cavity 33 and engaged with the fastener member 24 so as to match a center axis of the cavity 33 with a center axis of the fastener member 24. |
| US09376216B2 |
Visual fuel predictor system
A method and apparatus for predicting fuel for an aircraft. Remaining amounts of fuel that will be present for types of fuel use for the aircraft at a destination are predicted. Flight times for the types of fuel use are calculated from the remaining amounts of fuel predicted for the types of fuel use for the aircraft at the destination. Graphical indicators are displayed indicating the types of fuel use and the flight times for the types of fuel use. |
| US09376215B2 |
Cowl with pressure driven latch
A gas turbine engine includes an engine core, a core cowl extending circumferentially around the engine core, and a pressure actuated latch assembly. The core cowl includes a first cowl section on a first side of the engine core and a second cowl section on a second side of the engine core. The pressure actuated latch assembly connects the first cowl section to a support structure and is actuatable between an unlatched position when pressure within the core cowl is relatively low and a latched position when pressure within the core cowl is relatively high. |
| US09376213B2 |
Distributed propulsion system and method of control
This invention relates to a method and apparatus for controlling power distribution in an electrical aircraft propulsive system having at least one electrical propulsion unit which includes a plurality of rotatable blades, each blade having an adjustable pitch; a pitch adjusting mechanism for adjusting the pitch of the blades; at least one electrical machine electrically connected to the electrical propulsion unit so as to provide electrical power when in use; and, a control system, the method comprising the steps of: determining the required propulsion; determining whether the propulsive units are delivering the required propulsion; and, adjusting the pitch angle of the blades of at least one propulsive unit so as to increase or decrease the propulsion provided by that propulsive unit. |
| US09376211B2 |
Modular cabin segment, cabin for a vehicle and vehicle with a cabin
A modular cabin segment for a vehicle includes a first lateral segment module that accommodates a first toilet arrangement with at least one toilet compartment and a second lateral segment module, wherein in each case an outer lateral face of the first segment module and of the second lateral segment module is designed to adapt in each case to an inner wall of a cabin of the vehicle so as to correspond to the aforesaid. At least one of the modules includes at least one cabin attendant seat that on one side is held on the at least one module so that it can be pivoted on an axis. In this manner very good integration of many different functions in the manner of a construction kit is achieved in order to be able to accommodate a greater number of passenger seats elsewhere within the limited space provided in a cabin. |
| US09376209B2 |
Aircraft store ejector system
An aircraft store ejector systems and subsystems thereof. Embodiments can include a two-reservoir re-pressurization system wherein a remote reservoir is used to maintain desired pressure in a local ejector reservoir. The system can include a release valve having a vent valve and valve piston. The release valve can control release of pressurized gas to a pitch control valve. The pitch control valve can be configured to distribute the pressurized gas between two or more ejector piston assemblies. One or more of the ejector piston assemblies can include multiple concentric piston stages and piston chambers, the piston chambers configured to contain a volume of gas. The ejector piston assemblies can be configured to compress the volume of gas within the piston chambers as the piston stages are extended out from the aircraft. Such compression can provide a return force to the piston stages. |
| US09376205B2 |
Radial fluid device with variable phase and amplitude
According to one embodiment, a radial fluid device comprises a cylinder block, first and second pluralities of pistons, a first cam disposed about the first plurality of radially extending cylinders, and a second cam disposed about the second plurality of radially extending cylinders. The direction of rotation of the second cam is independent of the direction of rotation of the first cam. |
| US09376200B2 |
Front aircraft sealed bottom comprising recesses for housing cockpit equipment
A leaktight nose cone backplate for an aircraft having a first side oriented towards a radome zone intended to house a mobile antenna, and a second side opposite the first side and oriented towards a cockpit of the aircraft. The second side has at least one recess intended to receive at least one piece of cockpit equipment, each recess being partly delimited by a backplate structure forming a protrusion on the first side. |
| US09376199B2 |
Polar vessel having a derrick
Provided is an arctic ship with a derrick, which can stably maintain an internal environment of an enclosed derrick. The arctic ship with a derrick includes: the derrick forming an enclosed space blocked from outside air; a moonpool coupled to a lower portion of the derrick to communicate with the derrick and blocked from the outside air; and an air supply/exhaust device installed to communicate an inner space of the derrick or the moonpool with the exterior, wherein air condition of the inner space is maintained or controlled at a predetermined range by the air supply/exhaust device. |
| US09376195B1 |
Exhaust gas idle relief system for an outboard motor
An outboard motor comprises an engine having an exhaust gas discharge opening, a midsection housing coupled below and supporting the engine, and an exhaust pipe having an exhaust inlet in fluid communication with the exhaust gas discharge opening. The exhaust pipe extends downwardly to a primary exhaust outlet. An idle relief port in the exhaust pipe is located in a fluid path between the exhaust inlet and the primary exhaust outlet. A sound-attenuating plenum chamber has an interior that is in fluid communication with an interior of the exhaust pipe by way of the idle relief port. The plenum chamber is a separate component that is exterior to the midsection housing, and exhaust gas flows from the interior of the exhaust pipe to the interior of the plenum chamber without first flowing through the midsection housing. |
| US09376192B2 |
Trim and tilt device and marine vessel propelling machine
A trim and tilt device includes: a cylindrical cylinder; a partition member provided in contact with the cylinder so as to be movable in an axial direction of the cylinder and partitioning a space inside the cylinder; a rod member to which the partition member is attached on one end side of the rod member and which moves relatively in the axial direction of the cylinder together with the partition member thereby adjusting a tilt angle of a marine vessel propelling machine body with respect to a hull; and a rod guide member electrically connected to a sacrificial anode and having a hole so that the rod member passes through the hole, and the rod guide member has a conductive portion disposed at a position, where the hole is formed, so as to electrically connect the rod member and the rod guide member. |
| US09376188B2 |
Jet propulsion boat
A deflector control portion in a jet propulsion boat causes a deflector to swing by controlling a deflector drive mechanism in response to an operation of a shift operating portion. The deflector control portion causes the deflector to move to a first trim position when the shift operating portion is switched to a forward movement shift position. The deflector control portion causes the deflector to move to a second trim position when the shift operating portion is switched to an operating shift position. |
| US09376177B2 |
Water sled apparatus
A towed water sled apparatus is disclosed. The towed water sled apparatus is designed to provide lift to an overturned water sled apparatus thereby preventing the overturned water sled apparatus from diving below the water surface. The towing line may be above the water surface while pulling the overturned water sled apparatus along the water surface. The nose radius may transition to the lift section to provide lift to the overturned water sled apparatus and prevent the overturned water sled apparatus from sinking into the water surface. |
| US09376168B2 |
Ship having an opening for removing a power supply system
The invention relates to a ship, in particular a cargo ship, having a power supply system. The invention relates in particular to a ship having a plurality of diesel electric systems for providing electrical power that are disposed within the ship, wherein a plurality of diesel electric systems are each associated with a common opening for removing the diesel electric systems. The invention further relates to a power supply system for a ship and to a method for controlling the power supply system of a ship. |
| US09376167B2 |
Frictional resistance reduction device for ship
A inject gas control device that performs, for example, control reflecting variation in vessel velocity over time without adversely affecting the main engine is realized. That is, it is prevented that gas is drawn too much and thereby a gas supply or charged air rate becomes insufficient, efficiency of the main engine is decreased and exhaust gas is deteriorated, and analogous events occur because the gas supply or charged air rate is too much instead.There are provided a main engine 4010 acquiring propelling power for a vessel 1, and a turbocharger 4011 that is driven by exhaust gas from the main engine 4010 and blows pressurized gas to the main engine 4010. A part of the pressurized gas and/or exhaust gas is drawn from between the turbocharger 4011 and the main engine 4010 (5023, 5024 and 5025). The drawn pressurized gas and/or exhaust gas are injected in the proximity 9 of the hull on or below the waterline (5040), and the drawing rate of the pressurized gas and/or the exhaust gas is controlled on the basis of a physical quantity related to a heat load on the main engine 10 and characteristics of the turbocharger (4200). |
| US09376166B2 |
High efficiency sponsons for pontoon boat
The present disclosure relates to a sponson for a pontoon boat. The sponson has integrated chines and integrated splash guards. The sponson also includes a keel and deadrise surfaces on opposite sides of the keel. The sponson further includes an integrated keel reinforcement stringer within the sponson. |
| US09376163B2 |
Driving unit and battery-assisted bicycle
A battery-assisted bicycle includes a driving unit that increases an assist ratio and provides a smooth assist control that does not make a rider feel uncomfortable. The driving unit includes a crankshaft to which pedals are to be connected, a crank rotation detector that detects rotation of the crankshaft, and an assist control stopping unit programmed to stop an assist control in response to the rotation of the crankshaft detected by the crank rotation detector. |
| US09376159B2 |
Direction restricting device for the inner and outer tubes of a bicycle seat post
A direction restricting device, for the inner and outer tubes of a bicycle seat post, includes at least one axial groove arranged on the wall of one of the tubes, and a direction restricting element fastened to the other tube at the position relative to the axial groove wall. The direction restricting element may be inserted into the axial groove and at least includes an elastic slider provided with an axial opening in the middle. The direction restricting element may be inserted into the axial groove to enable the axial outer walls of the direction restricting element to engage with the axial inner walls of the axial groove to eliminate the interspace between the slider and the axial groove to prevent deflection and wobbling and to reinforce the steadiness of both tubes when the inner and outer tubes rotate relative to each other. |
| US09376155B2 |
Electric balance vehicle
An electric balance vehicle including a top cover, a bottom cover, an inner cover, a rotating mechanism, two wheels, two hub motors, a plurality of sensors, a power supply, and a controller is described herein. The bottom cover is fixed to the top cover. The inner cover is fixed between the top cover and the bottom cover. The two wheels are rotatably fixed at two sides of the inner cover, respectively. The two hub motors are fixed in the two wheels, respectively. The plurality of sensors is disposed between the bottom cover and the inner cover, respectively. The power supply is fixed between the first bottom cover and the first inner cover. The controller is fixed between the second bottom cover and the second inner cover, the controller is electrically connected with the plurality of sensors, the power supply, and the hub motors. |
| US09376151B2 |
Walking robot and control method thereof
A walking robot and a control method thereof. The control method includes performing transition of a second leg to a toe-off state, when ground reaction force applied to a first leg exceeds a first set value under the condition that the first leg is in a swing state and the second leg is in a support state, performing transition of the second leg to the swing state and transition of the first leg to the support state, when ground reaction force applied to the second leg is below a second set value under the condition that the second leg is in the toe-off state, and achieving walking of the walking robot by repeating the transitions among the swing state, the support state and the toe-off state. Thereby, the control method allows the robot to more stably and naturally walk. |
| US09376150B2 |
Automatic vacuum cleaner
The present invention relates to an automatic vacuum cleaner. According to an aspect of the present invention, the automatic vacuum cleaner includes a first movement part and a second movement part capable of together moving along an inclined cleaning surface, a movement unit provided in at least one of the first movement part and the second movement part, a cleaning member provided in at least one of the first movement part and the second movement part, and a detection unit which detects states of the cleaning surface, wherein movement speeds of the first movement part and the second movement part are varied according to the states of the cleaning surface. |
| US09376147B2 |
Two-stage cargo floor
A storage receptacle integrated into the floor of a vehicle. The storage receptacle includes a housing. The housing includes a collar, a lower surface, and a plurality of side surfaces extending between the collar and the lower surface. The side surfaces each define an upper surface and an intermediate surface that extend continuously around an inner periphery of the housing and are oriented substantially parallel with the collar and the lower surface. A lid is configured to rest on the upper surface in a first storage position when the lid has a first orientation, and is configured to rest on the intermediate surface in a second storage position when the lid has a second orientation, wherein the second orientation is rotated 90 degrees relative to the first orientation. |
| US09376146B2 |
Reinforced structure of a motor vehicle
A reinforced structure is disclosed which includes a structural component as well as a reinforcing part that is arranged in a cavity of the structural component. The reinforcing part can include a support part and a connection, the support part being arranged in the cavity such that a distance between the support part and the structural component at a position of the structural component with a higher probability of deforming under a force load from outside on the structural component is shorter than at a position of the structural component with a lower probability of deforming under a force load from the outside. |
| US09376145B2 |
Vehicle hood panel
A vehicle hood panel has an outer panel and an inner panel joined to each other. The inner panel has a joining point surface joined to the outer panel by mastic. The inner panel has a plurality of beads surrounded by the joining point surface. Each bead is extended in a vehicle right-left direction. A bottom of the bead is communicated with the joining point surface by vertical walls. In at least one of front and vertical walls, an upper edge thereof is curved so that in plan view, a radius of curvature at a center portion in the vehicle right-left direction is smaller than a radius of curvature at each end in the vehicle right-left direction. |
| US09376143B2 |
Deflector with frame rail follower and guide on deflector end
A deflector assembly for a vehicle having a bumper and a frame rail that are connected by a crush-can. The deflector assembly absorbs impact forces in a small overlap rigid barrier test by directing the impact from the barrier in a lateral direction toward the frame rail. A guide and follower, such as a wheel-shaped roller, a ball-shaped roller, a sliding shoe, or a fastener is received in a guide member that defines a guide surface extending longitudinally to guide a back end of the deflector assembly in a full frontal impact in a longitudinal direction. |
| US09376141B1 |
Steering apparatus with multi-steering modes
The present invention relates to a steering system that allows the user to switch between a first steering mode and a second steering mode by a purely mechanical means. This includes, but is not limited to, switching from an all-wheel steering mode to a crab steering mode. The four wheel steering interchange system includes a chassis, a front wheel steering system, a rear wheel steering system, and a steering control link that connects the front wheel steering system and the rear wheel steering system. The four wheel steering interchange system also includes a steering interchange that mechanically switches the steer of the attached vehicle from one mode to a second mode. |
| US09376139B2 |
Ball screw having bearing compensation
The invention relates to a ball screw (20) comprising a ball nut (21), a roller bearing (22) and a belt pulley (23) arranged on the roller bearing (22). The ball nut (21) is arranged in the roller bearing (22) such that there is no reduction in tension between that of the belt pulley (23) and an assisting engine arranged to the side of the ball screw (20). |
| US09376138B2 |
Rack shaft supporting apparatus and steering apparatus for vehicle therewith
The rack shaft supporting apparatus includes a support yoke, a plug, a torsion spring or a spiral spring and a guide bush. A plug cam portion of the plug includes three plug cam surfaces. A yoke cam portion of the support yoke includes three yoke cam surfaces having a shape corresponding to that of the plug cam surfaces. The yoke cam surface contacts to the plug cam surface. The torsion spring or the spiral spring imparts force rotating the yoke cam portion against the plug cam portion to the support yoke. The guide bush includes a bush body and an arm portion. The bush body is fixed to the housing. The arm portion supports a side portion of the rack shaft. |
| US09376136B2 |
Steering device
A steering device includes: a steering shaft a column jacket that are telescopically adjustable in an axial direction; a lock plate provided with a plurality of holes and a plurality of partition portions arranged in the axial direction; and a tooth that advances to and retreats from the lock plate, and that is engaged with one of the holes of the lock plate. The steering shaft includes a first end to which a steering member is mounted and a second end. The partition portions are provided such that a height of a first end-side partition portion in a direction toward the tooth retreated from the lock plate is greater than that of a second end-side partition portion positioned on a second end side of the first end-side partition portion. |
| US09376133B2 |
Stroller
A stroller is provided. A support frame (100) of the stroller includes a pair of vertical bars (120), lengths of which are vertically controllable in a telescopic manner, and provided to be spaced apart from each other, a one-side support (111) and an other-side support (112) respectively disposed at one side and the other side to include horizontal bars (130) having both ends connected to the pair of vertical bars to support the pair of vertical bars, and side supports (150) and a bottom support (160). The stroller also includes extension rods (140) respectively coupled to be capable of vertically moving into or out of upper ends of the vertical bars, an inner sheet (400) formed in a shape corresponding to an internal space of the support frame, detachable members (180) detachably coupled to the extension rods, and a sun cover (500) coupled to the detachable members. |
| US09376132B1 |
Car dolly and methods of making and using same
A car dolly comprises a frame having a supporting portion and a tire receiving portion. The supporting portion has a plurality of wheel acceptance areas. The tire receiving portion comprises a pair of angled inner walls and a pair of outer walls. The dolly has a pair of rotatable arms and a reversible saddle. In an extended configuration, each rotatable arm extends above the frame at an angle. In a retracted configuration, each rotatable arm extends generally horizontally underneath the frame. |
| US09376128B2 |
System and method for remotely controlling a vehicle consist
A method for remotely controlling a vehicle system includes selectively identifying, among two or more consists in the vehicle system, a selected consist to remotely control. Each of the two or more consists including a propulsion-generating vehicle. The method also includes initiating remote control of the propulsion-generating vehicle in the selected consist and remotely controlling at least one of tractive effort or braking effort provided by the propulsion-generating vehicle in the selected consist using a remote control device. The at least one of tractive effort or braking effort provided by the propulsion-generating vehicle in the selected consist is controlled without remotely controlling tractive effort or braking effort provided by the propulsion-generating vehicle in at least one other consist in the vehicle system. |
| US09376125B2 |
Heat resistant floor assembly for a rail vehicle
The present document describes a heat resistant floor assembly for a rail vehicle. The heat resistant floor assembly comprising: a floor structure and a fire protection panel made of a composite material connected underneath the floor structure. |
| US09376123B2 |
Integrated friction modification system for a transporation network vechicle
A system includes a vehicle control system, a friction modification unit, and a friction management module. The vehicle control system is configured to obtain a trip plan for the vehicle. The trip plan is based on one or more characteristics of a trip of the vehicle along a route in a transportation network, characteristics of the vehicle, or characteristics of the route along which the vehicle travels. The trip plan designates one or more tractive operations or braking operations. The friction modification unit is configured to modify a friction characteristic of a surface of the route as the vehicle travels on the route. The friction management module is configured to direct the friction modification unit to modify the friction characteristic of the surface of the route based on the trip plan. |
| US09376122B2 |
Urea solution after-treatment system, and method and controller for warning of urea solution state using touch
A urea solution after-treatment system may include a controller which receives urea solution detection information of a urea solution storage tank (20) storing a urea solution supplied to an SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) (10) for removal of NOx, the controller classifying the urea solution detection information into urea solution state information and then classifying the classified urea solution state information into output signals corresponding thereto, the controller outputting the classified output signals as pattern signals of urea solution shortage, urea solution exhaustion, and urea solution failure, and an accelerator pedal (40) which generates touch recognition patterns varying according to the pattern signals when the pattern signals are input, and transfers the touch recognition patterns using a touch felt by a driver's foot. |
| US09376115B2 |
Method for controlling a two-speed transmission with electric motor
A method for the control of a two-speed transmission with an electric machine in a vehicle that is operating in overdrive. The motor torque (M) produced by the electric machine is at first controlled independently of a driver's indication (F) in such manner that an approximately constant vehicle speed is reached. |
| US09376112B2 |
Vehicle control device and vehicle control method
A vehicle control device includes motors that drive respective tires via drive shafts, a reference rotation speed calculating module that calculates torsional amounts of the drive shafts on the basis of a required torque, and outputs a reference rotation speed for a slip determination, the reference rotation speed being obtained by adding the torsional amounts to rotation speeds of the motors, the rotation speeds corresponding to a vehicle speed, and slip determiners that compare the rotation speeds of the motors with the reference rotation speed to determine whether or not the tires are slipping, and a rotation speed control module that controls the rotation speeds of the motors on the basis of a target rotation speed when it is determined that the tires are slipping. |
| US09376110B2 |
Vehicle control apparatus
A vehicle control apparatus is disclosed, which includes a processing device that calculates a target acceleration such that a vehicle speed of a vehicle, which includes a continuously variable transmission, becomes a target vehicle speed; sets a threshold for a change amount of an engine rpm based on the target acceleration; and controls the engine rpm such that the change amount of the engine rpm does not exceed the threshold. |
| US09376105B2 |
Apparatus and method for controlling engine clutch of hybrid electric vehicle
An apparatus and a method for controlling an engine clutch of a hybrid electric vehicle may include a driving information detector to detect demand information for driving and state information of the hybrid electric vehicle, an engine clutch selectively connecting an engine and a motor generating power, and a controller receiving information from the driving information detector and changing a driving mode of the hybrid electric vehicle by controlling an operation of the engine clutch, in which the controller controls standby hydraulic pressure of the engine clutch differently according to a mode changing condition when the driving mode of the hybrid electric is changed from an Electric Vehicle (EV) mode to a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) mode. |
| US09376103B2 |
Traveling mode switching controller of hybrid electric vehicle
A traveling mode switching controller of a hybrid electric vehicle has a velocity detection unit, a state-of-charge detection unit, and a switching control unit for selectively switching among first to third traveling modes. In the first traveling mode, an engine is deactivated and a drive motor is activated to actuate drive wheels. In the second traveling mode, the engine activates a generator to activate the drive motor. In the third traveling mode, the engine activates the drive wheels. When the state of charge is less than a first state of charge, the switching control unit performs switching between the second traveling mode and the third traveling mode at a first velocity. When the state of charge is the first state of charge or more, the switching control unit performs switching between the first traveling mode and the third traveling mode at a predetermined velocity higher than the first velocity. |
| US09376102B1 |
Vehicle drive and method with electromechanical variable transmission
A vehicle drive includes a first gear set and a second gear set, a first motor/generator coupled to a sun gear of the first gear set, a second motor/generator selectively coupled to at least one of (a) a planetary gear carrier of the first gear set and (b) a ring gear of the first gear set, an engine coupled to the ring gear of the first gear set and selectively coupled to the second motor/generator, and a clutch configured to selectively engage the second motor/generator to the engine. The first motor/generator and the second motor/generator are electrically coupled without an energy storage device configured to at least one of (a) provide electrical energy to the first motor/generator or the second motor/generator to power the first motor/generator or the second motor/generator and (b) be charged by electrical energy from the first motor/generator or the second motor/generator. |
| US09376101B2 |
All-wheel drive torque vectoring by electronic brake system control
A control system to generate a yaw torque of an all-wheel drive vehicle comprises a brake control module 18. The brake control module 18 determines the desired powertrain torque 44 for the vehicle 10 based upon a plurality of factors including available torque from the powertrain. The brake control module 18 determines a first torque 44 and a second torque 26, wherein the first torque 44 and the second torque 26 are combined to provide the total desired yaw torque 49 of the vehicle 10. The first torque 44 is generated between wheels of the vehicle 10 by applying torque 44 from the powertrain 14 to different wheels 21 of the vehicle 10 and the second torque 26 is generated by applying different braking torque from a braking system 16 of the vehicle 10. |
| US09376100B2 |
System and method for controlling a transmission
A system for operating a vehicle equipped with an automatic transmission and a vehicle road speed limiter (RSL) which is programmable to limit the maximum vehicle speed for a given transmission gear includes at least on controller. The at least one controller is operable, when the speed limiter (RSL) is active, to determine if the vehicle is operating in a shuttle shifting range based on the current status of preselected operating parameters. When the vehicle is operating in a shuttle shifting range, the at least one controller is operable to control transmission operation to prevent shifting under conditions where shifting would otherwise normally occur. |
| US09376099B2 |
Smart transmission shift delay method and system for climate control for a vehicle
A method and system for the cancellation of transmission shift delay as a function of an optimum target temperature is disclosed. Once the pre-selected optimum target is achieved, the shift delay is cancelled and the transmission is upshifted. Thus the disclosed inventive concept is based on the cancellation of the shift delay on achieving climate control air conditioning comfort targets. Such comfort targets could include one or more of the measured HVAC evaporator temperature, the HVAC discharge temperature, or the in-vehicle cabin temperatures. When a temperature sensor measuring the selected temperature reaches the pre-selected target temperature the shift delay may be cancelled and the transmission may be upshifted, thus maximizing passenger comfort while minimizing fuel consumption. Having the shift delay based upon the achievement of specific measurable comfort targets in the form of target temperatures rather than on a set time period allows optimization between cabin comfort and fuel efficiency. |
| US09376098B2 |
Automotive brake cam assembly
A brake cam assembly comprises a cam tube and a cam rod, each having an inboard end and an outboard end, relative to the wheel to be braked. The cam rod carries a cam at its outboard end to actuate the brake. At least one inboard bearing ring is secured inside the cam tube adjacent the inboard end and at least one outboard bearing ring is secured inside the cam tube adjacent the outboard end. The cam rod is rotatably supported by the bearing rings to be rotatable within the cam tube, with the outer surface of the cam rod being spaced from the interior surface of the cam tube. An inboard sealing ring is disposed at the inboard end of the cam tube, an outboard sealing ring is disposed at the outboard end of the cam tube, and a quantity of lubricant is disposed within the cam tube. |
| US09376093B2 |
System and method for independent braking system enablement
Described herein is a system and method to enable braking system operation independent of conventional aircraft signals, such as those tied to the hibernation commands. Stated another way, the present disclosure relates to the enablement of a braking system in response to an initiation signal. In this way, the crew has the ability to force the braking system out of a hibernation mode into an “emergency type” braking mode if desired. The concepts described herein may be applicable to an electric braking system and to a hydraulic braking system. |
| US09376085B1 |
Active bolster vent distribution for stress and load management
An active bolster mounts at an interior trim surface of a passenger compartment in an automotive vehicle. A plastic-molded front wall deploys in a deployment direction toward a passenger in the passenger compartment. A plastic-molded bladder member is joined along an outer perimeter with the front wall by a hot weld seam to form an inflatable bladder. The bladder member includes at least one substantially circumferential pleated baffle. An inflator couples an inflation gas into the inflatable bladder in response to a crash event of the vehicle. The pleated baffle forms a plurality of at least five vent openings including at least one stress relief vent juxtaposed to a peak stress region of the hot weld seam and a plurality of tuning vents which are concentrated at a lowest restraint-force region of the inflatable bladder. |
| US09376084B2 |
Multi-chamber airbags
An airbag can include a first cushion portion that defines a first inflatable chamber and a second cushion portion that is connected to the first cushion portion and defines a second inflatable chamber. The first inflatable chamber can receive inflation gas from an inflator to expand the first cushion portion and the second cushion portion can receive inflation gas from the first inflatable chamber to expand the second cushion portion. In some arrangements, a temporary fastener may maintain the second cushion portion in a compact state during expansion of the first cushion portion. |
| US09376083B2 |
Far-side airbag apparatus
A far-side airbag apparatus includes an airbag and an inflator that discharges inflation gas for deploying and inflating the airbag. The airbag is fixed to the seat frame of the backrest of a vehicle seat and is deployed and inflated on the side corresponding to the center of the passenger compartment. The far-side airbag apparatus is configured such that, when the inflator discharges inflation gas, the forward deployment and inflation of the airbag is promoted more than the upward deployment and inflation of the airbag. |
| US09376080B1 |
Vehicle interior trim panel
A vehicle interior trim panel includes an external layer and a base layer. The external layer defines an aperture, and is configured to overlie a vehicle interior structure and has a portion configured to be disposed in an aperture between the vehicle interior structure and a handle attached to the vehicle interior structure. The base layer is configured to be disposed between the external layer and the vehicle interior structure, without being disposed between the external layer and the vehicle interior structure at the portion of the external layer disposed between the vehicle interior structure and the handle. The base layer includes a peripheral edge spaced from the aperture. |
| US09376079B2 |
Automated vision inspection of a side curtain airbag assembly
An automated vision inspection system detects whether a cushion of a side curtain airbag assembly system is twisted. The cushion is provided a plurality of markings arrayed along a longitudinal extent of the cushion. Each marking can be defined by a group of four distinct characters or indicia. Each indicium can be defined by polygonal shaped pixels which allow the inspection system to find clear edges of the marking and thereby determine marking orientation. By determining orientation, the inspection system can compare the inspected marking to a master image of the marking to determine if the cushion is in a twisted state or non-twisted state. |
| US09376078B1 |
Seat mechanism inertia locking system
An inertia locking system for a seat of a vehicle includes a base member that is fixed to a seat structure and a Double D shaped shaft that rotates with a cam to allow the seat back to be adjusted. A movable inertia locking bracket has an opening including a circular portion and a slot portion. The Double D shaped shaft is disposed in the opening of the inertia locking bracket and includes flat opposite surfaces that prevent rotation of the Double D shaped shaft relative to the inertia bracket when the Double D shaped shaft is disposed in the slot portion of the opening. Acceleration causes the inertia locking bracket to slide forward such that the Double D shaped shaft is disposed in the elongate slot portion to prevent rotation of the Double D shaped shaft and prevent release of the seat back mechanism. |
| US09376070B2 |
Wire harness combination structure
Each of wire harnesses includes a conductive path, an exterior member which covers the conductive path, a base portion which is retrofitted to or integrally formed with the exterior member, and a combination structure portion which is integrally formed with the base portion. The combination structure portion includes a combining engagement portion and a combined engagement portion. The combining engagement portion of the combination structure portion in one of the wire harnesses is detachably engaged with the combined engagement portion of the combination structure portion in the other wire harness, or the combined engagement portion of the combination structure portion in the one of the wire harnesses is detachably engaged with the combining engagement portion of the combination structure portion in the other wire harness, so that the wire harnesses are combined with each other. |
| US09376069B2 |
Grommet and attachment member with grommet
At the end portion of a wire harness that is connected through a through hole of a casing, a shielding shell is fixed to the casing and covers a connector for a harness attached to the end portion of the wire harness. A grommet covers the outside of the shielding shell. The grommet includes a main portion and a band-fastened portion, and a skirt portion extends from the band-fastened portion. A bundling band fastens the outer circumferential surface of the connecting portion via the band-fastened portion, and the skirt portion is brought into intimate contact with the outer circumferential surface of a step portion that is continuous with the connecting portion. Sealing lips that receive fastening force by the bundling band and come into intimate contact with the outer circumferential surface of the connecting portion in a squeezed state are formed on the inner circumferential surface of the band-fastened portion. |
| US09376063B2 |
Vehicle carrier system
A carrier that mounts to a vehicle. In some embodiments, the carrier may include a pair of arms to support a bicycle. Each arm may include one or more securing devices each including a strap to contact a frame region of a bicycle and a pair of buckles to fasten the strap over the frame region. In some embodiments, the carrier may include a mount for a vehicle hitch. The mount may include a pair of user-actuated coupling members, such as a wedge member and a retractable retainer, each configured to attach the mount to the hitch. One of the coupling members (e.g., the retainer) may serve as a backup for the other coupling member to improve safety. In some embodiments, the carrier may include a mast that is releasable for backward pivotal motion away from the vehicle. |
| US09376060B2 |
Driver assist system for vehicle
A driver assist system suitable for use in a vehicle includes a plurality of vehicular cameras disposed at the vehicle and a plurality of non-video sensors disposed at the vehicle. The cameras capture image data and at least one non-video sensor captures sensor data. A video processor module receives image data captured by the cameras and receives sensor data captured by the at least one non-video sensor. The received image data is fused with received sensor data at the video processor module. The video processor module communicates with other vehicle systems via a vehicle bus of the vehicle. Received image data is processed at the video processor module to generate a synthesized image, which is displayed by a display screen. Responsive at least in part to fusing of image data and sensor data at the video processor module, a driver assistance system of the equipped vehicle is controlled. |
| US09376058B2 |
Fluid level indicator using photoluminescent illumination
An illumination system for a vehicle container includes a fluid container, a photoluminescent portion disposed on the container, and a light source located proximate the container. The light source is configured to emit light at a first wavelength directed toward the photoluminescent portion. The photoluminescent portion is configured to convert the first wavelength to at least a second wavelength longer than the first wavelength to illuminate the container. |
| US09376052B2 |
Method for estimating a roadway course and method for controlling a light emission of at least one headlight of a vehicle
A method for estimating a roadway course in a roadway section ahead of a vehicle in the direction of travel is provided. The method includes recognizing at least one reflective or self-luminous object in an image of the roadway section. The method also includes ascertaining a position of the at least one object based on the image of the roadway section. The method also includes estimating the roadway course using the ascertained position of the at least one object. |
| US09376051B1 |
First responders' roadway priority system
A method for notifying a first driver of a first vehicle that a first responder is ahead of the first driver on a road and that the first responder is stopped on the road. The method employs an optical emitter and optical detector apparatus. The optical emitter may be in or on a police car and may be turned on when the police car is on the shoulder of a road, such as when an officer has pulled a motorist over. The optical detector apparatus is in or on a vehicle traveling toward the police car that is stopped on the shoulder of the road. The optical detector apparatus communicates with a warning device to sound or display a warning to the driver of the approaching vehicle. |
| US09376050B1 |
Resilient strap member with side rail assembly
A restraint assembly includes at least one strap and a resilient member having two ends, at least one of which is coupled to the strap such that the resilient member is in line with the strap and provides a resilient link within the restraint assembly. A limiter haves at least two ends, each of the ends of the limiter being coupled to the restraint assembly, the limiter being longer than the resilient member when the resilient member is in an un-stretched position, such that the limiter prevents the resilient member from exceeding a maximum predetermined length when the restraint assembly is stretched into a taut condition. At least one side rail is coupled to the resilient member and the strap, the side rail being positioned aside the resilient member and the strap, the side rail including coupling structure operable to couple the resilient member to the strap. |
| US09376048B2 |
Stowable floor assembly for package delivery vehicles
A stowable floor panel system includes a horizontal railing coupled to a sidewall of a package delivery vehicle where the horizontal railing includes an upper and a lower track that are spaced apart from each other. The upper track defines an upper channel, and the lower track defines a lower channel. A hinge assembly couples a stowable floor panel to the horizontal railing. A hinge body has a plurality of relief features and an upper projection extending from a rail receiving body portion and a lower projection extending from the rail receiving body portion opposite the upper projection. When the hinge body is inserted in the railing and rotated 90 degrees the upper projection seats in the upper channel, and the lower projection seats in the lower channel. A hook assembly maintains the stowable floor panel in a stowed position and includes a cam block with a cam surface that is configured to direct the hook to a rest position with the hook-shaped portion disposed generally parallel to the sidewall of the package delivery vehicle. |
| US09376047B2 |
Tray arrangement for a vehicle, passenger seat and aircraft
A tray arrangement is provided. The tray arrangement includes a tray element with a first side and a second side. The tray arrangement also includes a bearing arrangement for the tray element. The tray element is supported on the bearing arrangement and the second side comprises a holding arrangement for a mobile device. The bearing arrangement is configured to pivot the tray element about at least an axis which lies in a plane of the tray element or parallel thereto. |
| US09376037B1 |
Car seat
A car configured to support a child is provided that includes a seat bottom, a seat back, and a harness to secure a child in the car seat. The seat bottom and seat back are blow molded. The seat bottom includes a cup holder received within an aperture formed in the blow-molded seat bottom. |
| US09376036B2 |
Disc recliner with internal leaf springs
A disc recliner for a seat assembly includes a guide plate and a tooth plate rotatably coupled to the guide plate. A rotatable shaft moves a pawl between a first position engaging the tooth plate to prevent pivotal movement of the seat back and a second position disengaged with the tooth plate to allow pivotal movement of the seat back. A leaf spring extends between a first end secured to the guide plate and a second end having a convex curve portion engaging a lobe on the shaft. The spring biases the shaft in a first direction to maintain the pawl in the first position. Rotation of the shaft in a second direction moves the pawl from the first position to the second position as the lobe pushes against and rides along the convex curve portion of the spring, thereby controlling an actuation effort of the disc recliner. |
| US09376035B2 |
Seat angle regulator and seat with same
Disclosed are a seat angle regulator and a seat. The seat angle regulator comprises an inner toothed plate with an inner toothed ring, an outer toothed plate with an outer toothed ring, a wedge block, an eccentric wheel, and a drive component, wherein the inner toothed plate is engaged with the gears of the outer toothed plate, a shaft shoulder is formed in the middle of the inner toothed plate, and the eccentric wheel is sheathed on the outer circumferential face of the shaft shoulder. The drive component comprises a drive cam and a rotating shaft, with one end of the rotating shaft fixedly connected with the middle of the drive cam and the other end penetrating through the eccentric wheel and the shaft shoulder in succession and fixed on the outer end face of the inner toothed plate axially via a locating connector. |
| US09376029B2 |
Vehicle with an electric drive
A vehicle with an electric drive includes at least one deformation element for protection of pedestrians, which is at least partially formed of a foamed material; at least one secondary transformer unit for electrically charging an energy storage device of the vehicle; and at least one shielding element configured to prevent propagation of electromagnetic radiation emitted from the secondary transformer unit into the vehicle. |
| US09376026B2 |
System and method for inductance compensation in wireless power transfer
This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for wireless power transfer. In one aspect an apparatus for wirelessly transferring power from a charging power source to a device is provided. The apparatus includes a first strand wound in one or more turns and operationally coupled to the charging power source and a second strand wound together with the first strand in one or more turns and operationally coupled to the charging power source. The apparatus further includes an inductor circuit connected to the first strand and disconnected from the second strand. The inductor circuit is further configured to reduce a current difference between a first current flowing through the first strand and a second current flowing through the second strand. |
| US09376024B2 |
Scalable high voltage charging and detection system for plug-in electric vehicles
A high-voltage relay system for a vehicle. The system includes a high-voltage bus, a parallel relay set and a controller. The parallel relay set includes two or more relays wired in parallel and that are electrically coupled to the high-voltage bus. The controller is programmed to adjust the power flowing through the parallel relay set when a malfunction is detected in one of the relays in the set. The system can include a high-voltage power source electrically coupled to the high voltage bus through the parallel relay set, where the controller reduces the power flowing through the parallel relay by reducing output of the high-voltage power source. The system can include a high-voltage motor electrically coupled to the high voltage bus through the parallel relay set, where the controller reduces the power flowing through the parallel relay set by reducing the motor's power demands. |
| US09376022B2 |
Battery emulator and methods of use
A dynamic battery emulator for replacing and mimicking the characteristics of a battery in a portable electronic device when the device is located in or on a vehicle can include a power control module capable of varying its output voltage to adapt to the voltage requirements of an attached portable electronic device; an input for conveying electrical power from the vehicle's electrical system to the power control module; an output for providing electrical power to the portable electronic device; an output for communicating a control signal from the power adaptor to the portable electronic device to selectively turn on and off the portable electronic device; a battery replacement module configured to replace the battery in a portable electronic device and including battery replacement circuitry for transferring electrical power from the power control module to the portable electronic device via the output for providing electrical power; an ignition sense controller for determining the power state of the vehicle's electrical system; and in communication with the ignition sense controller, at least one timer and switch for reducing the conveyance of electrical power from the vehicle's electrical system to the portable electronic device at a predetermined time after the vehicle's ignition or electrical system is turned off. |
| US09376020B2 |
Combination display instrument in a vehicle
A combination display instrument in a vehicle has a plurality of display elements and/or display scales inserted into or attached onto a common base. A polarizing film, which is designed to correspond to the base, is arranged in the line of vision of an observer in front of the base. The polarizing film is held in position on the base in a form-fitting and/or force-fitting manner in an assembled state of the combination display instrument by corresponding molded sections in or on a housing of the combination display instrument. |
| US09376018B2 |
System and method for determining when a task may be performed on a vehicle
Methods and apparatus are provided for determining when a task may be performed on a vehicle that is moving. The method includes generating a driver workload value based on at least one task parameter describing a predetermined attribute of the task and preventing a user from performing the task if the driver workload value exceeds a predetermined driver workload threshold and the vehicle is moving. |
| US09376015B2 |
Control apparatus for 4WD vehicle
A control apparatus for a 4WD vehicle is provided. The control apparatus includes a driving force source, main driving wheels, auxiliary driving wheels, a driving force transmission shaft, a first disconnection mechanism, a second disconnection mechanism, and an electronic control unit. The electronic control unit is configured to: (i) control one of the first disconnection mechanism and the second disconnection mechanism to be engaged and then engage the other one of the first disconnection mechanism and the second disconnection mechanism when a disconnect state is canceled; and (ii) set, when the disconnect state is canceled, an increasing gradient of a rotation speed of the driving force transmission shaft in accordance with a condition that the electronic control unit determines to cancel the disconnect state. |
| US09376012B2 |
Vehicle fuel filler system seal
A fuel door assembly for a motor vehicle is provided. The fuel door assembly includes a housing, a fuel door and a door seal. The fuel door is hingedly supported by the housing for rotation between an open position and a closed position. The door seal includes a proximal edge supported by the housing and a distal edge separated from the housing. The door seal has an arcuate shape extending from the proximal edge to the distal edge when the fuel door is in the open position. |
| US09376005B2 |
Method for operating a hybrid vehicle
A method is provided for operating a hybrid vehicle. The hybrid vehicle has an internal combustion engine and a first electric machine, to which a common input shaft of a transmission is assigned, for driving a first axle of the hybrid vehicle. The hybrid vehicle also has a second electric machine for driving a second axle of the hybrid vehicle, and a traction battery is provided for the two electric machines. The electric machines have a total power greater than the power of the internal combustion engine. The method includes operating the first electric machine in a generator mode for charging the traction battery when the hybrid vehicle is driven exclusively by internal combustion engine. The method ensures, with a high level of electrification, a long electromotive travelling range of the vehicle. |
| US09376004B2 |
Anti-vibration device for vehicle
An anti-vibration device for a vehicle including a rod (11) fixed to an engine (1) at one end portion (12) thereof and fixed to a vehicle body at the other end portion (13) thereof, an inertia mass (15) supported on the rod (11), an actuator (17) operative to reciprocate the inertia mass in an axial direction of the rod, and an acceleration sensor (21) that detects vibration of the rod in the axial direction. The acceleration sensor (21) is disposed between the one end portion (12) of the rod (11) and the other end portion (13) of the rod (11). Accordingly, sensitivity to pitch vibration of the rod (11) is reduced so that accuracy in detection of rigid body resonance in the axial direction is enhanced. |
| US09376002B2 |
Combination roof rack and removable soft top
A roof rack and soft top assembly for a vehicle having an exposed passenger compartment protected by a windshield and a roll cage. The assembly includes an outer frame mounted to the vehicle exterior to the roll cage and surrounding a rear passenger compartment, and a plurality of slide rails mounted to the top of the roll cage above a front passenger compartment. The assembly further includes a soft top suspended from the outer frame with fasteners and a header assembly attached to a forward portion of the soft top that slides along the slide rails to engage with the top edge of the windshield, thereby covering the front passenger compartment. When open air driving is desired, the soft top can be withdrawn or removed from the slide rails and the outer frame and stored in the vehicle. |
| US09376001B2 |
Sunroof device for a vehicle
A sunroof device for a vehicle, includes: a guide rail provided on each edge in a width direction of a vehicle of an opening formed on a vehicle roof; a first sliding member linked with each edge in the width direction of the vehicle of a movable panel opening and closing the opening; a guide block in which an engagement groove is formed and which is provided on the guide rail; a check including an engagement protrusion capable of engaging with the engagement groove; and a regulation wall preventing deformation of the guide block when the first sliding member moves toward the rear side of the vehicle with respect to the movable panel in the fully closed state. |
| US09375999B2 |
Vehicle roof apparatus
A vehicle roof apparatus includes: guide rails provided on both edge portions of an opening formed on a vehicle roof, respectively; a front housing connecting front-end portions of the guide rails to each other; and a support member having a shoe portion protruding only on one side and mounted on each of the guide rails to be immovable on the one side and supporting each of the edge portions of the movable panel which opens or closes the opening, wherein the support member is rotatable about the shoe portion such that the movable panel performs a tilting up operation in a completely closed state, and wherein, in the front housing, a regulation wall is formed, which comes into contact with or approaches the support member from a side opposite to the shoe portion when the movable panel enters the completely closed state or the tilting up operation state. |
| US09375996B2 |
Device and method for controlling compressor of vehicles based on acceleration condition of vehicle
A device and a method for a controlling compressor of vehicles may include a cabin temperature sensor, an outdoor temperature sensor, an evaporator temperature sensor, an engine speed sensor, and a throttle position sensor detecting a throttle opening, a condenser, an evaporator, a temperature control door controlling a temperature of an air flowed in a cabin, an intake door selectively flowing an inner air or an outer air in the cabin, and a blower blowing the air to the intake door, and a controller controlling an operation of the air conditioning system, wherein the controller decides a acceleration mode and an allowable temperature at each acceleration mode when an acceleration condition occurs, and decreases an operation of the compressor according to a difference between the evaporator temperature and the allowable temperature. |
| US09375990B2 |
Suspension control device
Provided is a configuration including a basic input amount detecting unit configured to calculate a basic input amount of the vehicle, based on wheel speed fluctuation amount which a wheel speed sensor has detected; a first target current setting unit configured to set a first target current, based on the basic input amount; a second target current setting unit configured to set a second target current, based on vehicle acceleration detected by an acceleration sensor; and a damper control unit configured to control dampers, based on the first target current if a vehicle behavior control device is not operating, and based on the second target current if the vehicle behavior control device is operating. |
| US09375989B2 |
Vehicle suspension system
A vehicle suspension system is provided where two or more flexible members are arranged in a non-planar way with a distance there between. These flexible members are being rigidly mounted between a frame structure of a vehicle and a wheel structure of the vehicle and the arrangement of the flexible members is so as to provide guided suspension and being resistive against forces other than those in the intended direction of the suspension movement. |
| US09375988B2 |
Coupling mechanism
A coupling mechanism couples a towed implement to a prime mover. The coupling mechanism includes a housing fixed to the prime mover, a coupler frame fixed to the implement, and a coupler plate movably mounted to the coupler frame. A pivot pin projects from the housing. A lever member pivots on the pivot pin. The lever member has a first arm with a latch pin and a second arm with a locking recess. A lock pin projects from the coupler plate, and a latch member is fixed to the coupler frame. The latch member has a latch finger which forms a slot. The latch member engages the latch pin, pivots the lever member and moving the latch pin into the slot as the coupler frame moves towards the housing. The locking recess receives the lock pin as the lever member is pivoted by the latch member. |
| US09375986B1 |
Cart and hitch insert apparatus for a vehicle
A special hitch insert, adapted to receive a rolling cart, can be inserted into a standard vehicle hitch. The hitch insert allows the cart to be loaded at ground level, rolled to the rear of the vehicle, and secured to the hitch insert by using the cart as a lever to raise the cart and lock it onto the hitch insert at the level of the receiving hitch. |
| US09375984B2 |
Machine for fitting and removing wheel tyres for vehicles
The machine (1) for fitting and removing wheel tyres for vehicles includes: a bearing structure (2); a locking device (5) of a rim (C) of a wheel (R) for vehicles, associated with the bearing structure (2) and rotatable around a first rotation axis (X1); a tool carrier arm (10) associated mobile with the bearing structure and having at least a tool (11) for removing/fitting a tyre (P) from/on the rim (C); an auxiliary arm (12) associated mobile with the bearing structure and having a bead-pressing tool (13) suitable for facilitating the removal/fitting operations of the tyre (P) from/on the rim (C); wherein the auxiliary arm is associated rotatable with the bearing structure around a second rotation axis (X2) substantially parallel to the first rotation axis (X1), in correspondence to a hinging point (14) arranged below with respect to a resting surface of the rim defined by the locking device. |
| US09375983B2 |
Apparatus for displaying a tire pressure state for vehicle tires of a truck trailer
An apparatus for displaying the state of the tire pressure for a vehicle tire of a truck trailer includes a lamp to optically display the tire pressure state. An arm is provided with the lamp arranged thereon. A mount fixes the arm to the truck trailer and the arm is made substantially of an elastomer material so as to cause the arm to be flexibly deformable when colliding with a foreign object. The arm reverts back to its initial configuration after such a collision as a result of its elastic material characteristic. |
| US09375980B2 |
Adhesive extrusion for dynamically vulcanized thermoplastic elastomer laminates
A coextrusion process for coextruding a thermoplastic elastomer with two outer layers of adhesive to form a film, and a laminate comprising a plurality of layers including an adhesive layer, a sublayer and a barrier layer. The barrier layer comprises a dynamically vulcanized thermoplastic elastomer composition present in one or more plies of the barrier layer. The sublayer comprises a first ply of a first adhesive composition joining the barrier layer and a second ply, and the adhesive layer comprises the second ply, which is vulcanizable with diene-based rubber. The sublayer of the adhesive can be laid down in contact with the relatively hot thermoplastic elastomer to moderate the temperature of the outer layer of the adhesive, whereby the outer layer of the adhesive at least is protected from scorching and can be co-vulcanized with rubber in a tire building process. |
| US09375978B2 |
Hub unit
A hub unit of the present invention includes a cap that covers an opening of a pilot portion, and the cap includes a cap body formed in a disc shape, and a cylindrical portion extending in an axial direction from an outer periphery of the cap body. The cap is removably attached to the pilot portion by screwing an external thread portion formed on an outer periphery of the cylindrical portion of the cap, to an internal thread portion formed on an inner periphery of the pilot portion. |
| US09375977B2 |
Vehicle wheel
Provided is a one piece vehicle wheel capable of obtaining design having a high-class feeling, improving the cleaning property, reducing the weight, and easily adjusting the weight balance without deteriorating the design. A one piece type vehicle wheel 1 is provided with a cylindrical rim 2, a disk 3 provided inside the rim 2, and a plurality of spokes 7 each of which extends from the central part of the disk 3 toward the rim 2 and has an outer end connected to the rim. A boundary groove 23 is formed on a design surface side of the vehicle wheel 1 along the boundary between the rim 2 and each of the spokes 7. |
| US09375976B1 |
Wheel with Y-shaped spoke configuration
A wheel includes a rim having an outer radius, R1, extending from a center point of the wheel to an outer edge of the rim, and a hub having an outer radius, R2, extending from the center point of the wheel to an outer edge of the hub. The hub is positioned coaxially with the rim and has a plurality of circumferentially positioned and equiangularly spaced bolt holes for attachment of the wheel to the vehicle. The wheel further includes a plurality of equiangularly spaced, Y-shaped spokes having a trunk portion contacting the hub, two limb portions each contacting the rim, and a branch point at which the trunk portion and limb portions converge. The spokes extend radially outward from the hub to the rim. The bolt holes are interspaced between the trunk portions. A distance between the center point of the wheel and the branch point is D1. |
| US09375970B2 |
Image forming apparatus configured to modify a bookbinding operation based on a maximum number of bindable sheets, image forming method, computer program product, and storage medium having recorded the computer program product configured to perform same
An image forming apparatus is disclosed. The image forming apparatus includes a detecting unit which detects the number of manuscript sheets; a calculating unit which calculates the anticipated number of sheets of recording media based on the detected number of sheets; a determining unit which determines whether the anticipated number of sheets calculated exceeds the predetermined number of sheets; and a bookbinding unit which binds multiple recording media, wherein the calculating unit calculates the anticipated number of sheets, further including a cover arranged on the outside of the multiple recording media which are stacked in an overlapping manner, and wherein the bookbinding unit binds multiple recording media without arranging the cover on the outside of the multiple recording media when an image is not formed on the cover if the determining unit determines that the anticipated number of sheets exceeds the predetermined number of sheets. |
| US09375969B2 |
Method and device for exchanging an adhesive application roller
A method and apparatus for exchanging an application roller which is aligned with a duct roller used to apply glue to a spine of a book block by rolling off the book block spine. The duct roller removes glue from a glue container to transfer glue to the application roller. At least two application rollers are arranging spaced apart, relative to each other, with one of the application rollers being positioned aligned and in contact with the duct roller. The duct roller and the at least two application rollers each have an axis of rotation that is positioned substantially normal to the conveying direction. The application rollers are moved in an axial direction with the aid of an exchanging device, such that a second one of the application rollers is moved into alignment with and against the duct roller in place of the first application roller. |
| US09375965B2 |
Marking compound
Water soluble marking compounds comprising a transition metal oxyanion and at least one ammonium cation, comprising a nitrogen atom at least one further group selected from the group consisting of OH, COOH, NH2, NHC1-5 alkyl, and N(C1-5 alkyl)2, wherein the two C1-5 alkyl may be the same type of alkyl or different alkyls, may be used to obtain clear imageable coatings. |
| US09375962B1 |
System and method for identification of marks in printed test patterns
A method of analyzing a printed test pattern includes printing first and second rows of marks, each row including at least two pluralities of marks. A gap between two pluralities of marks in the first row is located in a first position in a cross-process direction that is different than a second position of another gap between pluralities of marks in the second row. A controller identifies the first row of marks with reference to a predetermined set of image data corresponding to the first row of marks including the first plurality of marks, the second plurality of marks, and the gap in the first row. |
| US09375961B2 |
Print control apparatus, print control method, and storage medium
A print control apparatus includes an acquiring unit, a receiving unit, and a print control unit. The acquiring unit acquires an attribute of print paper set in a printing apparatus. The receiving unit receives a category, designated by a user, of the attribute of the print paper to be used by the printing apparatus. The print control unit causes the printing apparatus to print an image in accordance with the attribute in a case where the category received by the receiving unit and a category including the attribute acquired by the acquiring unit are matched. |
| US09375960B2 |
Spring fixing member and ink jet recording head
A coil spring fixing member includes: a mount member having an arrangement surface on which an end portion of the coil spring is disposed; a boss provided on the arrangement surface, on which boss the coil spring is fitted; and a protrusion provided at a site on a side surface of the boss, the site being apart from the arrangement surface by at least a wire diameter of the coil spring, wherein the protrusion is engaged with winding of the coil spring disposed between the arrangement surface and the protrusion, and a portion of the boss ranging includes a first region having a first diameter, and a second region which is nearer to the end portion than the first region and has a diameter smaller than the first diameter, and a step intervenes between the first region and the second region. |
| US09375958B2 |
Image forming apparatus and assembly system of image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a sheet feed conveying unit having an outlet for a recording medium on one side; at least one image forming unit having an inlet for the recording medium on one side and an outlet for the recording medium on the other side; and a sheet eject conveying unit having an inlet for the recording medium on one side, wherein the sheet feed conveying unit, the image forming unit, and the sheet eject conveying unit are arranged along a conveying direction of the recording medium; the outlet of the sheet feed conveying unit matches the inlet of the image forming unit; the outlet of the image forming unit matches the inlet of the sheet eject conveying unit; and the sheet feed conveying unit, the image forming unit, and the sheet eject conveying unit are connected to each other in a separable manner. |
| US09375957B2 |
Image recording device and image recording method
An image recording device includes a drive roller that conveys a recording medium by rotating, a driven roller that grasps the recording medium between it and the drive roller, a recording unit capable of recording an image on the recording medium arranged further to the downstream side than the drive roller in a first direction which is the recording media conveyance direction, and a control unit that records an image on the recording media while conveying the recording media in the first direction. The control unit, when the conveying of the recording media in the first direction stops, starts conveying the recording media in a second direction which is the reverse direction of the first direction, and stops conveying of the recording media in the second direction in a state with the image recorded on the recording media positioned between the drive roller and the driven roller. |
| US09375954B2 |
Recording apparatus
A printer includes a first roller and a second roller that pinch a paper sheet therebetween and rotate to transport the paper sheet to the recording unit, a roller support member that support the second roller and is capable of switching between a first state in which the second roller is in contact with the first roller and a second state in which the second roller is moved away from the first roller, and a slider that engages the roller support member and is linearly displaceable in the rotation axis direction of the second roller so as to perform switching by the roller support member. |
| US09375947B2 |
Electrical-assist for mechanical braille writer and stopper
An electrically-assisted mechanical Braille writer includes a main solenoid to apply force to emboss Braille onto a printing medium, and advance an embossing mechanism to the next cell. A second solenoid engages a mechanical stop to prevent one or more embossing keys from being fully depressed, to prevent kickback from the keys mechanically coupling to the main solenoid. In unpowered operation, the mechanical stop is disengaged, and the embossing keys may be fully depressed to apply force to emboss Braille and advance the embossing mechanism. Accordingly, with electrical power, the user may supply a lesser amount of force and still fully emboss Braille cells, while without electrical power, the Braille writer remains fully operational. |
| US09375941B2 |
Rotatable printhead assembly
A printing assembly includes a pressure control tank and a printhead assembly. The printhead assembly is in fluid communication with the pressure control tank while the printhead assembly and the pressure control tank are selectively rotatable into a plurality of different positions relative to one another. |
| US09375939B2 |
Liquid housing container recycling method, and liquid housing container
The liquid housing container recycling method includes removing a second case member from a first case member, taking out a liquid housing body from inside of the first case member, forming on the liquid housing body an opening part that communicates with inside of a liquid housing unit, injecting into the inside of the liquid housing unit from the opening part that is formed liquid of a volume that is smaller than an initially housed volume when the liquid is initially injected and housed in the liquid housing unit of the liquid housing body in a state of being housed inside the case member, sealing the opening part of the liquid housing body, housing inside the first case member the liquid housing body for which the opening part is sealed, and attaching the second case member to the first case member. |
| US09375937B2 |
Liquid ejecting device having conveying mechanism for conveying cartridge to carriage
A liquid ejecting device includes a casing, a carriage, a cartridge, an ejection unit, a conveying mechanism, an access unit, and a controller. The conveying mechanism is configured to convey the cartridge between a second position where the cartridge is mounted on the carriage and a third position where at least part of the cartridge is exposed outside the casing. The access unit is configured to access first storage to read cartridge information. The controller is configured to perform a first process to: control the access unit to read the cartridge information from the first storage; determine whether the cartridge information meets a prescribed condition; and control the conveying mechanism to convey the cartridge to the second position, if the cartridge information meets the prescribed condition. |
| US09375932B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting apparatus performs a wiping process for wiping a nozzle forming face while a leaking process for leaking liquid from a plurality of nozzle groups is performed by setting a pressure difference to a second pressure difference which is smaller than a first pressure difference, after performing a discharging process for discharging liquid from a part of nozzle groups among the plurality of nozzle groups by setting the pressure difference to the first pressure difference, when a difference which is obtained by subtracting an external pressure which is a pressure in a space to which a nozzle is open from an internal pressure which is a pressure of liquid in the nozzle included in the plurality of nozzle groups which eject liquid is set to the pressure difference. |
| US09375930B2 |
Chip manufacturing method and liquid ejecting head manufacturing method
A liquid ejection apparatus manufacturing method includes forming a metallic film in at least the section to be cut of a bonding surface between the flow path forming substrate (a second substrate) and the protection substrate (a first substrate); forming a first fragile section on the protection substrate by irradiating the section to be cut of the protection substrate bonded to the flow path forming substrate from the protection substrate side with a laser beam whose condensing point is focused thereon, and forming a second fragile section on the flow path forming substrate by melting the metallic film of the section to be cut; and dividing the protection substrate and the flow path forming substrate bonded to each other along the first fragile section and the second fragile section. |
| US09375925B2 |
Liquid-ejection head and image forming apparatus
A disclosed liquid-ejection head for ejecting liquid droplets includes a substrate having a diaphragm forming a part of walls of a pressure liquid chamber, and a piezoelectric element adhered to the substrate with adhesive, and configured to apply pressure to the pressure liquid chamber via the diaphragm. The piezoelectric element has a surface facing the substrate having the diaphragm, and the surface has one or more projection parts in an area in which the pressure liquid chamber is not disposed, and whereon the substrate having the diaphragm has one or more recess parts that fit in the respective projection parts. |
| US09375917B2 |
Liquid discharge apparatus and head unit
A liquid discharge apparatus includes: a modulation circuit that generates a modulated signal by pulse-modulating a source signal through self-oscillation; a pair of transistors that include a high-side transistor and a low-side transistor and amplify the modulated signal to generate an amplified modulated signal; a low-pass filter that includes an inductor and a capacitor and smoothes the amplified modulated signal to generate a drive signal; a piezoelectric element that is displaced by application of the drive signal thereto; a cavity that is filled with a liquid inside and has an internal volume which changes when the piezoelectric element is displaced; and a nozzle that is provided to discharge the liquid inside the cavity in response to the change of the internal volume of the cavity. A shortest distance between the low-side transistor and the capacitor is shorter than a shortest distance between the high-side transistor and the capacitor. |
| US09375913B2 |
Screen printer having structure for solder amount estimation
A screen printer in which a photoelectric sensor and squeegees are fixed to a slider, when outward movement printing in which solder on a screen is rolled by an outward movement of the right squeegee is completed, the right squeegee is separated from a state of contacting a right end of a solder roll and a squeegee position pl at that time is input, and, subsequently, the slider is returned until the photoelectric sensor detects a left end of the solder roll and a squeegee position p2 at this time is input. An amount (a solder roll width) of solder remaining on the screen is calculated by subtracting a movement amount from the squeegee position p1 to the squeegee position p2 from a distance from the right squeegee to an optical axis position of the photoelectric sensor on the screen. |
| US09375911B2 |
Printing tool for production of synthetic image devices and a method of manufacturing such a tool
A method for manufacturing of a tool for production of synthetic image devices comprises cutting (210) a surface structured plate, giving a respective first and second edge. The plate has geometrical structures—microimages or focusing elements—in a first surface. Cells comprising the geometrical structures have a predetermined period in a first direction. The first edge is brought (212) to face the second edge in a close proximity. The first direction of a first area of the plate adjacent to the first edge is positioned with a predetermined angle with respect to the first direction of a second area of the plate adjacent to the second edge. A relative translation in said same plane between the first edge and the second edge is adapted (214) for bringing a first cell border in the first area to a predetermined distance, relative a corresponding second cell border in the second area. The first and second edges are mutually fixated (216) and mounted (218) onto a cylindrical support. A tool for manufacturing of synthetic image devices is also disclosed. |
| US09375909B2 |
Vacuum lamination machine suitable for all generations and operation method thereof
The present invention relates to a vacuum lamination machine suitable for all generations and an operation method thereof. The vacuum lamination machine suitable for all generations includes a stage on which a transfer device, a positioning device, an adhesive application device, a turn-over device, and at least one vacuum lamination device are arranged. The stage has a size that is sufficiently large for all sizes of substrate. The transfer device includes a fork that is adjustable for spacing distance to suit for substrate sizes. The turn-over device includes sufficiently densely arranged vacuum suction pins to suit for substrate sizes. The positioning device includes a size identification system that identifies a rough location of a substrate on the stage and a mark position identification system that carries out precise alignment of the substrate. The vacuum lamination machine supports substrate pairs of various sizes and improves flexibility of use. |
| US09375903B2 |
Laminated polyester film and hardcoat film
A layered polyester film includes a substrate polyester film with at least one surface laminated with a lamination layer including a polyester resin as a primary component, the surface of the lamination layer having a wetting tension of 35-45 mN/m and the polyester resin contained in the lamination layer meeting (a) to (c): (a) the lamination layer contains polyesters (A) having a glass transition temperature (Tg) of 110-140° C. and polyesters (B) having a glass transition temperature (Tg) of 40-90° C., (b) at least either polyesters (A) or polyesters (B) contains both a monomer having a sulfonic acid component and a monomer having a tri or higher-valent, carboxylic acid component, and (c) the mixing ratio between polyesters (A) and polyesters (B) is 10/90 to 60/40. |
| US09375902B2 |
Polyester film
A polyester film includes ethylene glycol component that accounts for 60 mol % or more of the glycol components in the polyester film, containing a crystal nucleating agent up to 0.01 to 5 mass % relative to the entire polyester film that accounts for 100 mass %, and having a crystal melting energy, ΔHm, of 5 to 35 J/g. |
| US09375901B2 |
Conductive elastic member
A conductive elastic member includes a polymer foamed body having elasticity and including an open cell structure having a sheet shape including a plurality of pores vertically connecting upper and lower sides without skin layers, conductive elastic rubber coating layers formed by adhering liquid elastic rubber including conductive particles mixed therein to the upper and lower sides of the polymer foamed body and inner surfaces of the pores by hardening, a conductive polymer cover layer formed by adhering liquid elastic polymers including conductive particles mixed therein to an upper side of the conductive elastic rubber coating layer formed on the upper side of the polymer foamed body by hardening the polymers, and a conductive base material adhered to a lower side of the conductive elastic rubber coating layer formed on the lower side of the polymer foamed body by hardening the elastic rubber. |
| US09375892B2 |
Label production apparatus and label production method
A label production apparatus includes: a printing unit; a test unit; and a post-process unit configured to cut a material in accordance with test results by the test unit. In the stated label production apparatus, each of a label images includes a common image portion and a changeable image portion. Further, in the label production apparatus, the post-process unit cuts a first base material using a first cut-line, the common image portion and the changeable image portion of a label image that has been detected to have no print defect, whereas the post-process unit cuts the first base material using a second cut-line for not cutting out the common image portion from the first base material but cutting out from the first base material at least part of the changeable image portion of a label image that has been detected to have a print defect. |
| US09375889B2 |
Method for manufacturing multilayer structure golf ball
Disclosed is a method of manufacturing a golf ball having a multilayer structure. The method uses a forming apparatus including an upper mold, a lower mold, and an intermediate mold. The upper mold and the lower mold include a plurality of hemispheric cavities, respectively. The intermediate mold includes a plurality of protrusions having smaller diameters than those of the cavities, on a top and a bottom to correspond to the cavities. |
| US09375887B2 |
Feeding device
A feeding device includes a suspension bar for suspending an annular body. The feeding device includes a feeding bar, which extends in parallel with the suspension bar. The feeding bar is operable to intermittently move the annular body in the feeding direction inside the annular body suspended from the suspension bar. The feeding device includes a motor for operating the feeding bar. |
| US09375886B2 |
Ophthalmic device with embedded microcontroller
This invention discloses methods and apparatus for providing an ophthalmic lens with a microcontroller and an energy source incorporated within the ophthalmic lens. The energy source is capable of powering the microcontroller included within the ophthalmic lens. In some embodiments, an ophthalmic lens is cast molded from a silicone hydrogel. |
| US09375883B2 |
Method for reconditioning data carriers
In a method for reconditioning data carriers having a plastic part, a reconditioning fluid is applied in a liquid phase to the data carrier, wherein the reconditioning fluid includes at least one solvent and at least one plasticizer, wherein the solvent is selected in such a way that it is substantially inert compared to the data carrier, wherein a non-volatile plasticizer is selected and the concentration of the plasticizer in the reconditioning fluid is selected such that the gradient of the change in volume of the data carrier owing to the replacement of plasticizer with the reconditioning fluid is positive. |
| US09375880B2 |
Rapid prototyping apparatus with page-width array printing module
A rapid prototyping apparatus includes a construction platform, a movable platform, and a page-width array printing module. The construction platform includes a construction chamber. The movable platform and the construction platform are movable relative to each other. The page-width array printing module includes plural inkjet head structures. The printing platform and the movable platform are synchronously moved along a single direction in a reciprocating motion. The plural inkjet head structures are collaboratively defined as at least one page-width array printing unit. The plural inkjet head structures include respective inkjet chips. The inkjet chips are arranged in plural rows and in a staggered form, so that a printing width of the inkjet chips is larger than or equal to a width of a printed pattern. Moreover, at least one monochromatic print liquid is introduced into the construction chamber from the plural inkjet head structures. |
| US09375878B2 |
Method and apparatus for operating a plant for the treatment of containers with superordinated choice of parameters
A method for operating an installation for handling containers, wherein the containers from a first handling unit of the installation are handled by predetermined first handling parameters and the containers from a second handling unit of the installation are handled by predetermined second handling parameters, and wherein the first handling parameters and the second handling parameters can be altered, at least in part, and depend, at least in part, on product parameters which are characteristic of the container. Product parameters of the container which are stored for controlling the first handling unit are also used for controlling the second handling unit, wherein alterations to the product parameters are taken into account in automated fashion both for controlling the first handling unit and for controlling the second handling unit. |
| US09375877B2 |
Method for manufacturing polyimide metal laminate
A method for manufacturing a polyimide-metal laminate including forming a polyimide film, in which at least surfaces of both sides of the film are formed by thermally fusion-bondable polyimide layers (a), and thermal compression-bonding metal layers on both sides of the polyimide film; in which forming the polyimide film includes reacting a tetracarboxylic dianhydride component with a diamine component containing a diamine compound represented by general formula (1) to give a solution of a polyamic acid (a), forming a self-supporting film from the solution of the polyamic acid (a) and imidizing the self-supporting film by heating at a maximum heating temperature of 440° C. or lower to form the polyimide layer (a); in which R1 represents hydrogen or alkyl or aryl having 1 to 12 carbon atoms; and R2 represents hydrogen or alkyl or aryl having 1 to 12 carbon atoms. |
| US09375874B2 |
Accessory, electronic assembly, control method, and method for forming an accessory
An accessory suitable for an electronic device is provided. The electronic device has a display area. The accessory includes a coupling portion and a cover portion. The coupling portion is suitable to be coupled to the electronic device. The cover portion is connected to the coupling portion and is suitable for covering the display area of the electronic device. The cover portion has a plurality of light-transmitting areas, and the light-transmitting areas are arranged on the display area in an array. An image generated by the display area is projected out of the cover portion through the light-transmitting areas. Moreover, an electronic assembly containing the electronic device and the accessory is also provided. Furthermore, a control method is also provided for controlling the electronic assembly. A method is also provided for forming an accessory. |
| US09375873B2 |
Curved and flexible microfluidics
A method of producing curved, folded or reconfigurable structures includes providing a polymer film, exposing the polymer film to at least one of patterned radiation or patterned chemical contact, and conditioning the polymer film subsequent to the exposing. The polymer film includes a polymer that is active to cross-linking of polymer chains in response to the exposing. The exposing is performed such that at least one exposed region of the polymer film develops a gradient in an amount of cross-linking of polymer chains along a cross-sectional direction of the polymer film, and the conditioning of the polymer film removes uncross-linked polymer chains to provide a curved, folded or reconfigurable structure. |
| US09375866B2 |
Process for foaming thermoplastic elastomers
A foamed article is made by infusing the article of thermoplastic elastomer with a supercritical fluid, then removing the article from the supercritical fluid and either (i) immersing the article in a heated fluid or (ii) irradiating the article with infrared or microwave radiation. |
| US09375863B2 |
Bone cement mixing cartridge and method of use
A container for bone cement includes a first member defining a chamber, which contains a first ingredient. The chamber also includes a second member movably coupled to the first member. The second member includes a mixing device that is movably disposed within the first chamber, and the second member defines a second chamber containing a second ingredient. The container additional includes an opening device that selectively opens the second chamber and allows the second ingredient to enter from the second chamber into the first chamber. The mixing device is movable within the first chamber to promote mixing of the first ingredient and the second ingredient to prepare the bone cement. A corresponding method of preparing bone cement is also disclosed. |
| US09375860B2 |
Adjustable guidebushes
Adjustable guidebushes and methods for using the same facilitate cutting joint elements into work-pieces to join together two or more of the work-pieces. In some embodiments, the adjustable guidebush includes a guide surface defining a number of outer diameters having different lengths. Positioning different outer diameters of the guide surface to interact with a cutting guide allows one to adjust the fit of the joint elements formed in the work-pieces. |
| US09375859B2 |
Device for slicing of food products
An apparatus for slicing food products, in particular sausage, meat or cheese, includes a product support for at least one product, a cutting blade which is disposed after the product support and to which the product can be supplied along a conveying direction, and at least one product holder movable along the conveying direction and cooperating with the product at least at times during the slicing procedure, wherein the product support has a loading zone which is disposed between a starting position and an end position of the product holder and in which the product support can be loaded with the product and wherein the product holder is movable from the end position back into the start position while bypassing the loading zone. |
| US09375854B2 |
Out the front assisted knife with a secondary pusher
An out the front assisted knife has a casing, a blade and a secondary pusher. The casing has a secondary channel hole formed through the casing, extending axially, and disposed away from an axial inner end of the casing. The secondary pusher is axially movably mounted in the casing, protrudes out of the secondary channel hole of the casing, and axially abuts against the inner end of the blade. The secondary pusher is disposed away from the axial inner end of the casing, such that the user's hand holds at least half of the casing when pressing the thumb on the secondary pusher to extend the blade. Therefore, the user can hold the knife by the center of gravity of the knife, and thus can stably and conveniently operate the knife, thereby preventing the knife from dropping accidentally. |
| US09375853B1 |
Methods and systems to provide feedback based on a motion per path metric indicative of an effect of motion associated with components of a robotic device
Examples are provided that describe a motion based light display for a robotic arm. In one example, a robotic device comprising one or more components configured to be actuated for movement. The robotic device also includes one or more processors are configured to determine a motion per path metric of the one or more components based on a motion plan associated with the robotic device. The one or more processors are configured to determine one or more feedback characteristics based on the motion per path metric. The one or more feedback characteristics include information indicative of an effect of motion associated with the one or more components. The robotic device also includes an indicator coupled to the one or more components and configured to provide feedback about the one or more components based on the feedback characteristics indicative of the effect of motion. |
| US09375852B2 |
Rotational hydraulic joints
A rotational hydraulic joint may include an extension chamber and a retraction chamber. Each chamber may include an end cap and a piston that moves relative to the end cap. One or more ports may add and remove fluid from the chamber. The rotational hydraulic joint may rotate in a cyclical direction when fluid is added to the extension chamber and in a countercyclical direction when fluid is added to the retraction chamber. The chambers may each include a torus-shaped cavity. Bladders may prevent fluid from leaking out of the rotational hydraulic joint. Stationary and movable electrodes may be coupled to the end cap and piston respectively. A plurality of rotational hydraulic joints may be combined to create a compound joint. |
| US09375850B2 |
Micromachined ultrasonic transducer devices with metal-semiconductor contact for reduced capacitive cross-talk
Embodiments reduce capacitive cross-talk between micromachined ultrasonic transducer (MUT) arrays through grounding of the substrate over which the arrays are fabricated. In embodiments, a metal-semiconductor contact is formed to a semiconductor device layer of a substrate and coupled to a ground plane common to a first electrode of the transducer elements to suppress capacitive coupling of signal lines connected to a second electrode of the transducer elements. |
| US09375849B2 |
Sucker
A sucker includes: a main body having a bottom face formed with an annular abutment; a disc body made of a flexible material having a tapered annular wall, the disc body being disposed under the bottom face of the main body, an outer circumference of the annular wall being formed with a freely flexible lip edge positioned below the annular abutment face; an air chamber being formed in the disc body; and an air-sucking passage having a first end in communication with the air chamber of the disc body and a second end passing through the disc body and the main body to communicate with outer side. When the sucker sucks a surface of an object, the top face of the lip edge is in contact with the abutment face and supported thereby. |
| US09375847B2 |
Environmental management systems including mobile robots and methods using same
A mobile robot includes a microprocessor connected to a memory and a wireless network circuit, for executing routines stored in the memory and commands generated by the routines and received via the wireless network circuit. The microprocessor drives the mobile robot to a multiplicity of accessible two dimensional locations within a household, and commands an end effector, including at least one motorized actuator, to perform mechanical work in the household. A plurality of routines include a first routine which monitors a wireless local network and detects a presence of a network entity on the wireless local network, a second routine which receives a signal from a sensor detecting an action state of one of the network entities, the action state changeable between waiting and active, and a third routine which commands the end effector to change state of performing mechanical work based on the presence and on the action state. |
| US09375846B2 |
Transfer apparatus and transfer method
A transfer apparatus includes a pair of hand units, a gripping mechanism that grips and releases an object by changing an interval between a pair of hands, a servomotor for a gripping action that drives the gripping mechanism, at least one spline shaft that supports the pair of hands so that the hands are able to move, a servomotor for an extending and contracting action that rotates the spline shaft, and an extension and contraction mechanism that is extended and contracted by rotation of the spline shaft so that the hands move to a gripping position or a releasing position. |
| US09375845B1 |
Synchronizing robot motion with social interaction
A method of synchronizing robot motion with a social interaction. The method comprises storing in the robot a map that associates keywords with at least one robot motion, composing by the robot a dialogue based on a context of a social interaction with a human being, searching the dialogue for keywords, parsing the dialogue to determine its syntax, and analyzing the syntax. The method further comprises generating, by the robot, a robot motion script synchronized with the dialogue based on mapping one or more keywords located in the dialogue to robot motions, based on the syntax of the dialogue, and based on a physical cadence, wherein the robot motion script comprises a sequence of separate robot motions. The method further comprises playing aloud the dialogue by the robot and performing the robot motion script by the robot in synchronization with the playing aloud of the dialogue. |
| US09375843B2 |
Protocol for a remotely controlled videoconferencing robot
A robotic system that includes a robot and a remote station. The remote station can generate control commands that are transmitted to the robot through a broadband network. The control commands can be interpreted by the robot to induce action such as robot movement or focusing a robot camera. The robot can generate reporting commands that are transmitted to the remote station through the broadband network. The reporting commands can provide positional feedback or system reports on the robot. |
| US09375841B1 |
Robotic devices with ambient indications of joint status
In examples, robotic devices with ambient indications of joint status are provided. An example robotic device includes one or more actuators coupled through one or more joints to form a robotic manipulator, and an indicator co-located in proximity to the one or more joints to provide visual feedback on the robotic manipulator at the one or more joints and about the one or more joints. The visual feedback may include information indicative of an operating status of the one or more joints including an indication of an amount of torque that the one or more joints is experiencing. The robotic device also includes a controller programmable to control the indicator co-located proximal to the one or more joints to provide the visual feedback indicative of the operating status of the one or more joints. |
| US09375834B2 |
Sawhorse
A self-adjusting and self-locking sawhorse made up of a frame for holding an item in a cantilevered position and self-adjusting jaw means on the frame for receiving the item, the self-adjusting jaw means being automatically responsive to the size of the item to hold the log in the sawhorse. |
| US09375833B2 |
Sleeve member for use in golf club grips and the like
Disclosed are grips and methods of making grips for use with the handle of an article, and in particular for use with golf clubs, fishing poles, bicycle handles, hand tools, etc. Embodiments preferably include a first portion made of a first material and a second portion made of a second material. The first portion is preferably less dense and/or lighter than the second portion to allow for the manufacture of a light grip with different characteristics. |
| US09375830B2 |
Screw retention mechanism for screw drivers
Embodiments of the claimed invention are directed to a screw and screw driver which provides for a screw that is held in position on the driver for use in a variety of applications including surgery, auto mechanics, carpentry or any field where a screw driver instrument could be used. After the screw is driven into place, the driver is easily released and removed from the screw. |
| US09375823B2 |
Grooved CMP pads
CMP pads having novel groove configurations are described. For example, described herein are CMP pads comprising primary grooves, secondary grooves, a groove pattern center, and an optional terminal groove. The CMP pads may be made from polyurethane or poly (urethane-urea), and the grooves produced therein may be made by a method from the group consisting of molding, laser writing, water jet cutting, 3-D printing, thermoforming, vacuum forming, micro-contact printing, hot stamping, and mixtures thereof. |
| US09375822B2 |
Polishing pad having micro-grooves on the pad surface
A polishing pad is provided herein, which may include a plurality of soluble fibers having a diameter in the range of about 5 to 80 micrometers, and an insoluble component. The pad may also pad include a first surface having a plurality of micro-grooves, wherein the soluble fibers form the micro-grooves in the pad. The micro-grooves may have a width and/or depth up to about 150 micrometers. In addition, a method of forming the polishing pad and a method of polishing a surface with the polishing pad is disclosed. |
| US09375821B2 |
Electrically assisted chemical-mechanical planarization (EACMP) system and method thereof
A novel polishing pad is described. The polishing pad includes a base plate, a main polishing body, a plurality of metal bottom portions, a positive electrode conductive wire and a negative electrode conductive wire. The main polishing body made from a non-conductive material and disposed on the base plate includes a plurality of cavities thereon. The metal bottom portions are disposed in the cavities with each of the cavities having one of the metal bottom portions therein. The positive electrode conductive wire electrically is connected to a positive electrode of a power supply. The negative electrode conductive wire electrically is connected to a negative electrode of the power supply. The positive electrode conductive wire and the negative electrode conductive wire alternatively pass through the base plate and connect to the metal bottom portions respectively. |
| US09375819B2 |
Bound block of detachable sheets and manufacture method therefor
A bound block of detachable sheets is disclosed, including a plurality of individual sheets, the edges of which are aligned, where the individual sheets are bound to a binding sheet, which is furnished with an adhesive, where the butt-edges of the individual sheets are adherent to the binding sheet, forming the block, and where a bracket is introduced onto the bound block, effectively restricting the bound block from over-opening. |
| US09375817B2 |
Tool exchanger, tool magazine, and machine tool
A tool exchanger for storing a tool (10) with a holding groove (12) formed at a periphery of the tool in a plurality of tool storage parts (302) provided in a tool magazine (300) so that a tool axis becomes substantially horizontal in direction, and taking out the tool from the tool storage parts (302), the tool exchanger including: a base part (100); a slider (200) provided in a side of the tool storage parts (302) slidably relative to the base part (100) in a direction substantially parallel to the tool axis; a holder (250) attached to the slider (200) in a movable manner relative to the slider, and having an engagement part (252) which engages with the holding groove (12) of the tool; and a moving portion moving the holder (250) relative to the slider (200), wherein the moving portion includes: a handle part (260) for exerting a rotary force about an axis extending substantially parallel to the tool axis; a first cam mechanism (250, 242) moving the holder in a plane substantially perpendicular to the tool axis in accordance with a first turning operation of the handle part (260); and a second cam mechanism (161, 270) moving the holder (250) along a direction of the tool axis in accordance with a second turning operation of the handle part (260) successive to the first turning operation. |
| US09375816B2 |
Auto changer spindle mounting assembly adapted to drill tap machines
Described is a novel spindle mounting assembly for use with a computer numeric controlled (CNC) machine, such as a drill tap machine. In one example an auto changer spindle mounting assembly includes a collar with a gas inlet. The collar defines a collar opening therethrough to create a passage between the first side of the collar with the second side of the collar. The collar further includes a passage in fluid communication between the gas inlet and through a nipple to the collar opening. The mounting assembly includes a manifold body with a gas outlet adapted to mate with the gas inlet of the collar, the manifold body defined a passage in fluid communications between, the gas outlet and a manifold body inlet. Also included is at least one extension bar, adapted to mechanically fasten to the manifold body to a computer controlled machine. |
| US09375814B2 |
System and method for restraining a vehicle with integrated mandrel and track lock pin
A vehicle restraint system includes a strap assembly configured to be positioned on a portion of a tire of a vehicle to secure the vehicle to a track assembly. The strap assembly is also configured to be coupled to the track assembly on a first side of the tire. The system also includes a mandrel assembly operable to be coupled to the strap assembly on a second side of the tire, opposite the first side of the tire. The mandrel assembly is configured to engage the track assembly through a first hole in the track assembly. The system further includes a latch assembly configured to be coupled to the mandrel assembly. The latch assembly is also configured to create a coupling between the mandrel assembly and the track assembly. |
| US09375812B2 |
Welding carriage
A welding carriage traveling with a welding torch mounted thereon includes: a carriage body; and a torch supporting part disposed between the front and rear ends of carriage body and supporting a tip of the welding torch in a state of positioning on a side surface side of the carriage body and facing diagonally downward. The torch supporting part includes a torch swinging unit and a weaving unit. The torch swinging unit includes a torch swinging mechanism which swings the tip of the welding torch in a forward and rearward direction of the carriage body, and thereby moves tip close to the welding line. The weaving unit includes a weaving mechanism which operates so as to integrally rotate a unit case and a torch mounting bar of the torch swinging unit about a screw, thereby to cause the welding torch to perform a weaving operation. |
| US09375811B2 |
Active metal brazing material
The present invention provides an active metal brazing material composed of a Ag—Cu—Ti—Sn alloy containing by weight 20 to 40% of Cu, 1.0 to 3.0% of Ti, 1.2 to 6.0% of Sn and the balance being Ag, and having a metallographic structure including a Sn—Ti or Cu—Ti intermetallic compound dispersed in a Ag—Cu alloy matrix, wherein the weight ratio Sn/Ti between Ti and Sn is 1.2 or more, and additionally the particle size of the intermetallic compound is 20 μm or less. The foregoing active metal brazing material improves the workability of the hitherto known Ag—Cu—Ti alloy active metal brazing material and enables a critical dimension processing with a high processing rate, and can be produced by melting and casting the foregoing Ag—Cu—Ti—Sn alloy, and by subsequently plastically working the cast at a working rate of 90% or more to make finer the intermetallic compound involved. |
| US09375810B2 |
Bidirectional stent and method of use thereof
A bidirectional twistable stent is disclosed. The stent comprises a cylinder-shaped stent body having a plurality of axially arranged rows of struts encircling a central lumen and a plurality of flex connectors that connect at least two adjacent rows of struts in such a manner that allows the stent to be twisted clockwise or counter clockwise without causing deformation of any struts in the stent body. Also disclosed are the method of making the stent, method of using the stent, and a kit containing the stent. |
| US09375809B2 |
Method of butt-welding a coated steel plate
A method of butt-welding steel plates is provided. The method includes the steps of coating a first steel plate by dipping the first steel plate in a molten bath to obtain a first precoat upon the first steel plate. The first precoat includes a first intermetallic alloy layer and a first metal alloy layer, the first intermetallic alloy layer is topped by the first metal alloy layer. On a first face of the first steel plate, the first metal alloy layer is removed in a first area at a first periphery of the first steel plate, while at least part of the first intermetallic alloy layer in the first area remains. A second steel plate is coated by dipping the second steel plate in the molten bath or a further molten bath to obtain a second precoat upon the second steel plate. The second precoat includes a second intermetallic alloy layer and a second metal alloy layer, the second intermetallic alloy layer is topped by the second metal alloy layer. On a second face of the second steel plate, the second metal alloy layer is removed in a second area at a second periphery of the second metal plate. While at least part of the second intermetallic alloy layer in the second area remains. After removal of the first and second metal alloy layers, the first periphery of the first steel plate is butt-welded to the second periphery of the second steel plate to form a welded blank. |
| US09375804B2 |
Low pressure electron beam welding of Li-ion battery connections
A method for connecting individual lithium ion cells into a battery suited for powering an electric or hybrid vehicle is disclosed. The cell current collectors are electron beam welded to one another and to a connector tab in an substantially oxygen-free atmosphere. The cell current collectors and the connector tab are temporarily secured with a clamp, one portion of which has an opening. The electron beam size may be controlled, by magnetic coils and by the extent of electron scattering by the gas atmosphere, to minimally fill the clamp opening to minimize any irradiation of the clamp. The beam or the workpieces may be displaced, if required, fuse the entire opening area. A similar procedure may be followed to weld a plurality of connector tabs to a busbar. |
| US09375802B2 |
Plasma arc welding method and plasma arc welding device
Provided is a plasma arc welding method for continuously welding a welding target part of a welding workpiece while forming a keyhole weld on the welding target part of the welding workpiece using a plasma arc. A pulse current is used for a welding current, and the pulse frequency of the pulse current is controlled so as to be a frequency that is synchronized with a weld pool (P) during the welding. With this approach, vibration of the weld pool during keyhole welding can be controlled so as to synchronize with the pulse frequency of the pulse current. As a result, when the plasma arc keyhole welding is performed, a stable penetration bead having a desired height can be reliably obtained without hanging or irregularity. |
| US09375801B2 |
Rotary welding torch
A rotary robotic welding torch that enables the welding process in a robotic unit. The rotary welding torch allows for clockwise and counterclockwise rotation during the welding process, while being supplied with an uninterrupted supply of inert gas and electrical current. The rotary robotic welding torch may also be supplied with an uninterrupted supply of coolant and/or electrode/filler wire during the welding process. |
| US09375799B2 |
Multi-wire electrical discharge machining system, multi-wire electrical discharge machining apparatus, power supply device, multi-wire electrical discharge machining method, semiconductor substrate, solar cell substrate, substrate manufacturing system, and substrate manufacturing method
A multi-wire electrical discharge machining system for slicing a workpiece into a thin leaf at intervals of a plurality of wires arranged together causes the wires arranged together to travel in the same direction and includes a power feed contact configured to collectively comes into contact with the traveling wires, a machining power supply portion configured to supply a machining power supply to the power feed contact, and an electrical discharge portion configured to electrically discharge a machining power supply in which the traveling wires comes into contact with the power feed contact to collectively supply power to the traveling wires to the workpiece, in which a resistance between the machining power supply portion and the power feed contact is smaller than a resistance between the power feed contact and the electrical discharge portion. |
| US09375797B2 |
Filing fixture
A fixture configured to file a chain of a chain saw. The fixture includes at least one pair of flanges, wherein each of the flanges has a first end and a second end. Further, a first connecting portion connects the flanges at their first ends, and a second connecting portion connects the flanges at their second ends. Further, the first connecting portion includes a pair of counter holds configured to provide area contact with a guide bar of the chain saw. The fixture also includes a cam portion pivotally coupled to the second connecting portion, wherein the cam portion and at least one of the counter holds simultaneously secure the fixture to the guide bar. |
| US09375796B2 |
Saw blade with robust tooth form
A recip saw blade has a blade body and a cutting edge extending along the blade body and defined by a repeating pattern of two consecutive teeth. Each of the two consecutive teeth includes a primary clearance surface defining a relatively steep primary clearance angle, a secondary clearance surface defining a relatively shallow secondary clearance angle, a tip, a rake face located on the opposite side of the tip relative to the primary clearance surface, a gullet defining a depth, a first gullet radius located on an opposite side of the gullet relative to the rake face, and a second gullet radius located between the gullet and the rake face, wherein the depth of the gullet is greater than the second gullet radius. |
| US09375789B2 |
Plasma device for production of metal powder
A plasma device for production of metal powder includes a reaction vessel, a plasma torch, a carrier gas supply unit and a cooling tube. A metal starting material is supplied to the vessel. The torch produces plasma between the torch and the metal starting material to evaporate the metal starting material and produce a metal vapor. The supply unit supplies into the vessel a carrier gas for carrying the metal vapor. The cooling tube is provided with indirect and direct cooling sections and cools the metal vapor transferred from the vessel to produce the metal powder. The metal vapor and/or the metal powder are indirectly cooled in the indirect cooling section and directly cooled in the direct cooling section. A projection and/or a recess are disposed at least on a part of an inner wall of the indirect cooling section. |
| US09375787B2 |
Method for producing a leadthrough for an optical conductor
The present invention relates to a method for producing a leadthrough for an optical conductor (V3) in a housing part, comprising the following steps: a) producing granules composed of metal powder and, if appropriate binder, b) providing a mold having a mold space, c) injecting or compressing the granules into the mold in order to produce a molding, d) sintering the molding, e) introducing a passage opening into the molding prior to sintering, f) inserting a tube (V2) into the passage opening prior to sintering, and g) leading the optical conductor through the tube after sintering. |
| US09375785B2 |
Molten metal holding and pouring box with dual pouring nozzles
A molten metal holding and pouring box with a rectangular-shaped upper section and a pyramidal-shaped lower section provides a relatively constant flow of molten metal being poured from the box through each of two bottom nozzles into two separate foundry molds at the same time. The two bottom nozzles are contained in a unitary dual nozzle assembly that facilitates replacement as required by wear, or a change in location of the sprue cups in the two separate foundry molds being filled with molten metal. |
| US09375782B2 |
Regenerating an additively manufactured component
One embodiment includes a method to regenerate a component (10). The method includes additively manufacturing a component (10) to have voids greater than 0 percent but less than approximately 15 percent in a near finished shape. The component (10) is encased in a shell mold (22). The shell mold (22) is cured. The encased component (10) is placed in a furnace and the component (10) is melted. The component (10) is solidified in the shell mold (22). The shell mold (22) is removed from the solidified component (10). |
| US09375781B2 |
Riveting device and riveting method
A riveting device for the riveting of components in an overlap joint, with an upper tool for driving a rivet into a rivet hole passing through the components, and with a lower tool as a dolly, which has a deforming section for purposes of plastically deforming the end of a rivet shaft driven through the rivet hole, wherein the riveting device has a magazine with a feed device for purposes of feeding a rivet into a shot passage of the upper tool, an actuator for purposes of accelerating the rivet introduced into the shot passage of the upper tool in the direction of the components, and an adjustment system for purposes of aligning the shot channel with the rivet hole. Also disclosed is a method for the riveting of components in an overlap joint. |
| US09375779B2 |
Horizontal forging press for massive forming
The invention relates to a horizontal forging press for massive forming, which comprises a machine frame, a forging ram, a clamping ram, at least a first force transmission device, at least a second force transmission device, and a multipart forging tool, wherein each force transmission device comprises at least one drive. The first force transmission device of the forging ram is here configured as a stroke-controlled force transmission device, and the second force transmission device of the clamping ram is here configured as a stroke-controlled force transmission device or as an energy-controlled force transmission device. |
| US09375776B2 |
Apparatus for closing pittsburgh seams associated with duct assemblies and other box-shaped members
A vertical Pittsburgh seam closing apparatus having a base supporting surface for positioning a duct section thereon in a vertical orientation, a track mechanism for moving a carriage assembly which holds seam forming members used to close a Pittsburgh seam, a pair of upper and lower guide members for guiding the duct section into a proper position, and upper and lower clamping members movable between an unclamped position and a clamped position wherein each clamping member is positioned inside the duct section and adjacent the inside portion of the Pittsburgh seam to be closed, the upper guide members and clamping member being selectively movable and adjustable for accommodating different duct section lengths. In one embodiment, the seam forming assembly includes a pair of roller members mounted in vertical arrangement to each other, one roller member being V-shaped in configuration and the other roller member being substantially cylindrical in shape. |
| US09375773B2 |
Circuit for conduit bender
A conduit bender having a unitary frame is mounted to a wheeled base which provides for transportation of the bender. A braking assembly provides for simplified locking of the wheels to secure the bender in a location. The bender is mounted to the base through a pivoting assembly which allows for bending of conduit in either a horizontal or vertical plane. A circuit is provided for controlling the bending operation. An auto-sensing portion of the circuit receives information regarding the characteristics of the conduit to be bent upon placement of the conduit in the bender. A feed back portion of the circuit is used to provide a precise bending operation. |
| US09375771B2 |
Method of producing cold-worked centrifugal cast tubular products
A method of making a seamless, tubular article comprises subjecting a cast tubular workpiece of a corrosion resistant alloy to at least about a 25% wall reduction at a temperature below a recrystallization temperature of the workpiece using a metal forming process comprising at least one of radial forging, rolling, pilgering, and flowforming. The cast tubular workpiece is a centrifugally cast tubular workpiece comprising an inner diameter and an outer diameter. |
| US09375769B2 |
Method for manufacturing drive shaft
Disclosed in a method for manufacturing a drive shaft which comprises forming a first shaft unit by shrinking one side of a metallic pipe which has a uniform first strength; decreasing the thickness of an intermediate portion of the metallic pipe by drawing the intermediate portion of the metallic pipe which is integral with the first shaft unit; forming at an inner side surface of the other side of the metallic pipe a strength decrease unit which has a second strength smaller than the first strength, by heat-treating by a predetermined distance the inner side surface of the other side being opposite to one side of the metallic pipe; and forming a second shaft unit without transforming any portion of the intermediate portion by shrinking the metallic pipe which has the strength decrease unit, wherein the second shaft unit is formed by applying compression force to a portion where the strength decrease unit in the metallic pipe is formed, in a predetermine direction being vertical with respect to the axial direction of the metallic pipe. |
| US09375767B2 |
Portable system and method for processing waste to be placed in landfill
A portable system and method for processing waste to be solidified and placed in an active cell of a landfill. A portable pugmill is moveable adjacent an active cell of a landfill; and portable devices, which may be mounted on sleds or trailers, may be used for feeding the pugmill with waste to be solidified into a landfill-ready state. The waste may be fed to the pugmill without the need for long-term waste storage devices, and avoiding substantial delays between discharge of the waste from trucks to the pugmill-feeding steps. |
| US09375765B1 |
Tube scraper projectile
Tube scrapper projectiles for tube cleaning applications such as condenser and chiller tube cleaning utilizing projectile-based mechanical agitation of tubes and pipes. In some cases, the tube cleaning projectiles are configured for selectable indexing of various biasing levels for the blades and in some cases the biasing elements comprise a plurality of arcuate and/or tapered beams oriented axially along the scraper projectile. |
| US09375762B2 |
Grease port cleaning tool
A grease port cleaning tool includes a grease gun having an actuator, a cleaning fluid inlet, a pressure inlet and a pressurized cleaning fluid outlet. A reservoir of cleaning fluid is coupled to the cleaning fluid inlet and a pressure source is coupled to the pressure inlet. A coupler is coupled to the fluid outlet of the grease gun. The coupler is constructed to conduct pressurized cleaning fluid from the fluid outlet into a grease port in response to operation of the actuator. |
| US09375760B2 |
Machine for the inspection and detection of defects in fruit products, and associated methods
A method for inspecting and detecting flaws in spheroidal products involves supplying the product to a transport element formed of pairs of supporting pads, turning the product over by means of inverting the rotation of at least one of the supporting pads, lighting the product, for example, with ultraviolet light, taking images and processing these to determine whether the product is suitable or not. The machine includes transport elements made up of pairs of freely rotating supporting pads (1) placed at regular distances on a conveyor chain, elements for controlling the rotation of the supporting pads independently as these move along, lighting devices and image capturing devices, in which the rotation control items are friction guides (25,27) placed at the bottom and top which are acted on by drive tracks (11) joined to the supporting pads. |
| US09375759B2 |
Microwave applicator
A microwave radiation applicator for exposing mined material to microwave radiation is disclosed. The applicator includes side walls 3 and end walls 5 that define a chamber. One end wall has an opening that forms an inlet for mined material to be supplied to the chamber and the other end wall has an opening that defines an outlet for mined material to be discharged from the chamber. The side walls define a pentagon in transverse cross-section. |
| US09375756B2 |
Polyurethane vibratory screen
A molded polyurethane vibratory screen including a body having opposite side edge portions, upper and lower edge portions, an upper surface and a lower surface, first members extending between the side edge portions and the second members extending between the lower edge portion and the upper edge portion, third members substantially parallel and extending transversely between the side edge portions and having multiple first members therebetween, the fourth members substantially parallel and extending transversely between the lower edge portion and the upper edge portion and having multiple second members therebetween, reinforcement members molded integrally with the third and fourth members. |
| US09375754B2 |
Laminated piezoelectric body, laminated piezoelectric body manufacturing method, and ultrasound transducer and ultrasound diagnostic device using laminated piezoelectric body
In a laminated piezoelectric body, a laminated piezoelectric body manufacturing method, an ultrasound transducer, and an ultrasound diagnostic device according to the present invention, a plurality of mutually laminated piezoelectric bodies are electrically connected in parallel to each other, and each of the plurality of piezoelectric bodies arranges an orientation of residual polarization or a crystal axis that is related to an electrical displacement or a sign of an electric field due to a direct piezoelectric effect in a direction which reduces sensitivity in a first resonance mode and increases sensitivity in a second resonance mode of a higher order than the first resonance mode with respect to an axis of a first-level piezoelectric body on a fixed end-side. |
| US09375752B2 |
Mask for depositing a thin film and a thin film deposition method using the same
A mask for depositing a thin film and a thin film deposition method using the same are disclosed. The mask includes pattern bars disposed on a frame. The pattern bars are moveable and are position to form a deposition pattern. The mask includes a pattern modification mechanism configured to move the pattern pars to a plurality of positions to modify the deposition pattern. |
| US09375751B2 |
Method for preparing inorganic-nanostructure composite material, method for preparing carbon nanotube composite using same, and carbon nanotube composite prepared thereby
A method for manufacturing an inorganic-nano structure composite, a method for manufacturing a cabon nanotube composite by using the same, and a carbon nanotube composite manufactured by the same are provided. The method for manufacturing the inorganic-nano structure composite comprises a step of doping pentavalent elements on the nanostructure; and a step of growing the inorganic material from the doping points of the pentavalent elements by dipping the nanostructure on which the pentavalent elements are doped into a precursor solution of the inorganic material, and according to the present invention the pentavalent elements such as nitrogen are doped on the nanostructure and is utilized as the crystallization point of the inorganic material, instead of forming the separate coating layer to the organic-based nanostructure, or binding the binding group to the surface. |
| US09375746B2 |
Compact paint booth
Paint booths for applying paint to an object, as well as methods for degrading coating operations associated with a paint booth, are disclosed. Paint booth may generally include one or more robot rails positioned parallel to the path of the conveyor, and one or more robots positioned on at least one of the rails. Robots may be configured to simultaneously apply a first paint layer to the interior and exterior surfaces of the object. Paint booths may further include one or more additional robots positioned on at least one of the rails and configured to simultaneously apply a second paint layer to the interior and exterior surfaces of the object. |
| US09375744B2 |
Vehicle hood fixture
A temporary supporting fixture for use during painting of a vehicle hood. The fixture has a first elongated beam with a first length and includes at least two adjustable length hook members extending from an engagement side for releasable attachment to the hood. A second elongated beam having a second length greater than the first length is also provided and includes at least two hook elements extending from the engagement side of the fixture and configured for releasable attachment to the hood. The second elongated beam further includes at least two adjustable extensions protruding from the engagement side of the fixture and configured for engagement with a surface of the hood. The second beam further includes an at least generally tangential projection configured to engage a striker of the hood. At least two struts extend between the first and second elongated beams. An extension beam including an adjustable length hook member configured for releasable attachment to the hood extends from the first elongated beam in a direction away from the second elongated beam. |
| US09375742B1 |
Motorized hydration system
The motorized hydration kit provides motorized unpressurized hydration to persons riding bicycles and/or persons using waist or back packs while driving, walking, running and hiking. A miniature light weight vane and/or peristaltic and/or diaphragm liquid pumps powered by a rechargeable direct current power source are built into a proprietary water bottle cap assembly that will replace most caps of water bottles type in the market. Same cap along with two tubing fittings will allow a simple and quick modification of most types of hydration bladders used in waist or back packs in the market. A programmable pump power control module will allow users to draw liquid and liquefied food additives from water bottles or water bladders and proprietary food additive capsules/containers on demand. |
| US09375739B2 |
Pressure multiplying aerosol pump
A hand-held dispensing device operable to dispense a fluid as an atomized spray by hydraulic pressure. The device includes a cartridge containing a fluid to be dispensed and a pressure-multiplying piston pump operable by liquefied gas pressure and manually controlled by a valve. The pump is configured to receive pressure from a compartment containing liquefied gas and transmit higher pressure to the fluid to be dispensed. The pressure multiplying pump produces high pressure, typically between 6-30 bar, which is suitable for generation of fine spray by hydraulic atomization. The device uses about 1/10th the amount of liquefied gas compared to a propellant-based aerosol therefore it has a significant ecological and health benefits. |
| US09375733B2 |
Method and device for coating alignment film
The present invention relates to a method and a device for coating an alignment film. The method includes: (1) providing a substrate to which an alignment film is to be coated and placing the substrate to which an alignment film is to be coated on a working table that is reciprocally movable frontward and rearward and leftward and rightward; (2) providing a pressurization tank and depositing a predetermined amount of an alignment liquid in the pressurization tank; (3) providing a supply tank and using a liquid pump to convey the alignment liquid contained in the pressurization tank to the supply tank; (4) using a supply conduit to connect the supply tank to an alignment liquid jet nozzle and subjecting the supply conduit heating to reduce viscosity of the alignment liquid so as to allow the alignment liquid to smoothly move into the alignment liquid jet nozzle; and (5) operating the alignment liquid jet nozzle to apply the viscosity reduced alignment liquid to the substrate to which an alignment film is to be coated and, when necessary, reciprocally moving the working table during the process of application so as to have the alignment liquid uniformly coated on the substrate and complete the coating of the alignment film. The present invention improves surface uniformity of an alignment film so as to ensure product quality and enhance product yield rate. |
| US09375732B2 |
Three-phase separation system for drilling fluids and drill cuttings
Systems and methods to improve the separation of drill cuttings from drilling fluids using cyclone devices are described. Specifically, a system for separating three phases of a gas/liquid/solid mixture is described. The system includes a cyclone for separating the gas/liquid/solid mixture into a solids component and a gas/liquid mixture; a gas/liquid separator for separating the gas/liquid mixture into a gas component and a liquid component; and a vacuum system for providing a motive force for moving the gas/liquid/solid mixture into the cyclone, moving the separated gas/liquid mixture into the gas/liquid separator and for removing the gas component from the gas/liquid separator. |
| US09375729B2 |
Cassette and system component insertable into a centrifuge in cooperation with the cassette
The invention pertains to a cassette (2) comprising a product conveying path (1, 1a, 1b) and a positioning means (3a, 3b) engageable with a counter-piece on a centrifuge having a rotor for separating blood components or on a system component (4) arranged in a centrifuge. The positioning is effected such that a section of the product conveying path (1, 1a, 1b) is aligned with a section of the centrifuge or the system component arranged in the centrifuge. Furthermore, a tube connected with bags is accommodated in the product conveying path (1, 1a, 1b). |
| US09375728B2 |
Air filter device having a high-voltage power transmission wire column
Disclosed is an air filter device having a high-voltage power transmission wire column. The device comprises: a filter paper, a filter frame, a net base, an ion filament arranged below the filter paper, and a discharge net arranged below the ion filament; the ion filament being installed on an ion filament component, the ion filament component being made of a net-shaped insulation material and being fixed onto the net base; the filter paper being fixed onto the filter frame, and the filter frame being cooperatively connected to the net base; wherein: the discharge net is provided with a ceramic insulating column, a top portion of the ceramic insulating column is connected to the ion filament component, the ceramic insulation column has a hollow through cavity, and a high-voltage connection wire of the ion filament passes through the cavity of the ceramic insulating column. |
| US09375727B2 |
Drum for magnetic separator and relevant production method
In a drum for magnetic separator comprising a cylinder (C) of ferromagnetic material on the outside of which there are formed a plurality of longitudinal grooves (6) housing permanent magnets (7) arranged in longitudinal rows along a magnetic arc of 130°-160° with alternate N-S polarity, the cylinder (C) being located within a shell (M) of nonmagnetic material, the length (D) of the single dipole of the magnetic circuit is comprised in a range between 100 and 150 mm so as to provide a substantially homogeneous magnetic field along the whole magnetic arc, thanks to the limited length (D) of the dipole which results in a sinusoidal pattern of very limited amplitude and therefore with nominal values of the magnetic field that are present over almost 100% of the magnetic arc. |
| US09375726B2 |
Apparatus including placer-gold processing system and method therefor
An apparatus includes a placer-gold processing system, including: (A) an upstream section; (B) a gold-concentrator assembly being configured to be in fluid communication with the upstream section; (C) a gold-detection assembly being configured to be in fluid communication with the gold-concentrator assembly; and (D) a magnetite-separator assembly being configured to be in fluid communication with the gold-concentrator assembly. |
| US09375724B2 |
Method of and apparatus for separating out materials heavier than plastic, in particular metals, by flotation in a water bath, in a separation of plastics of different densities
A process and device for separation of plastic material from other stuff of a various density by a flotation process in a liquid bath. The process involves discharging heavier stuff that settles on the screen bottom by a movable screen bottom slowly moves in the direction of reducing a slot that exists between one edge of screen bottom and the wall of the flotation tank and then after having reached a final position too quickly and abruptly move in the counter-direction. That movement occurs in intervals. This abrupt motion of screen bottom initiates that kinetic energy accumulated in the heaps of metal and other heavy stuff moves this stuff towards the slot-edge and through the slot into a collection-container underneath the screen bottom to be discharged. |
| US09375722B2 |
Wear plate system, arrangement and method
A wear plate for a grinding mill discharge head comprises a support structure adapted to secure to a wall of the grinding mill. An opening is defined in the support structure for registration with a corresponding opening in the mill wall. The wear plate further comprises an elastomeric body comprising at least one discharge hole extending there through, the body being adapted to overlay the support structure such that a discharge end of the hole is spaced inwardly of an edge of the support structure opening. |
| US09375719B2 |
Lateral wall for a roller press
A lateral wall arrangement for laterally bounding the roller gap of a roller press having rollers supported in a machine frame, driven in opposite directions, and forming a roller gap, comprising a lateral wall, an assembly device, and a suspension for the lateral wall, wherein the lateral wall is supported in a spring-loaded manner by the suspension. The suspension is a linkage in the simplest case. It is thus achieved in an advantageous manner that the lateral wall is both easy to dismantle and is able to follow deflection motions of the rollers. |
| US09375717B2 |
Multi-functional pair of crushing plates capable of self-trimming
A multi-functional pair of crushing plates capable of self-trimming is disclosed. The pair of crushing plates includes a fixed jaw plate (5) and a movable jaw plate (4). The fixed jaw plate (5) and the movable jaw plate (4) both have base boards (11). The base board (11) has a plurality of tooth peaks (12) and tooth troughs (13). The tooth peaks (12) and the tooth troughs (13) on the fixed jaw plate (5) and the movable jaw plate (4) are arranged oppositely and intersectedly. The tooth troughs (13) have holes (14) perforated through the base boards (11). The holes (14) are arranged in columns along a direction of a length of the tooth peak (12) on the base board (11) opposite to the holes (14). |
| US09375716B2 |
Pinch flow regulator
A valve for regulating fluid flow includes a housing base defining a lower cavity and comprising a pinch structure within the lower cavity, a gas inlet providing external access to the lower cavity, a base fluid inlet, and a base fluid outlet. A housing cover defines an upper cavity and comprises a cover fluid inlet and a cover fluid outlet. The cover fluid inlet is in fluidic communication with the base fluid outlet between the upper cavity and the lower cavity, and the cover fluid outlet provides external access from the upper cavity. A diaphragm is disposed between the housing base and the housing cover. A pinch plate is disposed in the lower cavity and comprises a pinch point disposed opposite the pinch structure. A pinch tube is in fluidic communication between the base fluid inlet and the base fluid outlet in the lower cavity. |
| US09375713B2 |
Liquid feeding system for microchip, sample detection device, and liquid feeding method for liquid feeding system for microchip
A liquid feeding system for a microchip performs: a first liquid feeding step in which a sample liquid in a sample liquid containing section is fed in the direction to a primary containing section via a reaction field; a second liquid feeding step in which, after the first liquid feeding step, the sample liquid is fed from the primary containing section in the direction to the reaction field; and a third liquid feeding step in which, after the second liquid feeding step, the feedings of the sample liquid from and to the reaction field and the primary containing section a rear side gas-liquid boundary face of the sample liquid in the first liquid feeding step and the front side and rear side gas-liquid boundary faces of the sample liquid in the second and third liquid feeding steps do not pass through the reaction field. |
| US09375710B2 |
Catalyst and method of manufacture
Disclosed herein is a catalytic composition comprising a first catalyst composition portion that comprises a zeolite; and a second catalyst composition portion that comprises a catalytic metal disposed upon a porous inorganic substrate; the first catalyst composition portion and the second catalyst composition portion being in an intimate mixture. |
| US09375709B2 |
Catalyst systems for preparing 1-hexene and/or 1-octene from ethylene
This invention relates to a catalyst system for selective oligomerization of ethylene, which includes (i) a chromium compound; (ii) a ligand having a P—C—C—P backbone structure; and (iii) an activator, thus preparing 1-hexene and/or 1-octene with high activity and selectivity. |
| US09375707B2 |
Catalyst support and process for the preparation thereof
An amorphous catalyst support comprising at least a first oxide selected from the group consisting of: silica, germanium oxide, titanium oxide, zirconium oxide or mixtures thereof, preferably silica gel beads or diatomaceous earth; a group 3 metal oxide; and anions in an amount not greater than 10% by weight of the catalyst support; wherein the group 3 metal oxide is incorporated in the first oxide structure at the molecular level. The catalyst support is prepared by (a) mixing the first oxide, with an anhydrous source of the group 3 metal oxide, and water, at a pH above 11, thus forming a suspension, (b) washing the catalyst support with water, (c) separating the catalyst support from the water, and (d) optionally drying and/or calcining the catalyst support. A catalyst based on such a support has improved catalytic properties. |
| US09375705B2 |
Heterogeneous copper nanocatalyst and manufacturing methods thereof
This invention relates to a heterogeneous copper nanocatalyst composed of copper nanoparticles immobilized on a boehmite support, a method of preparing the same, and the use thereof. The copper nanocatalyst composed of the copper nanoparticles supported on boehmite exhibits excellent performance in a Huisgen cycloaddition reaction and an A3 coupling reaction of aldehyde, amine and alkyne. The copper nanocatalyst is able to be prepared in a large scale and shows superior reactivity even when used in a small amount under mild conditions without an additive in an organic reaction. This heterogeneous catalyst is easy to separate and reuse after the reaction. |
| US09375702B2 |
Method for producing a complex-forming sorbent for selective extraction of indium
The invention relates to the field of ion exchange with the formation of a complex or chelate by using complex-forming polymers and can be used in nonferrous metallurgy and hydrometallurgy of indium for extraction of indium from wastewaters, as well as in the chemical industry and for producing special-purity substances.A method for producing a complex-forming sorbent for selective extraction of indium is proposed, wherein the method comprises the introduction of gem-diphosphonic functional groups, and wherein, in order to increase the selectivity and sorption capacity for indium, the gem-diphosphonic functional groups are introduced by the treatment of a spherically granulated cross-linked macroporous acrylonitrile-divinylbenzene copolymer with phosphorous acid at temperature of from 140 to 160° C. for from 13 to 35 hours. In the presence of a diluent (chlorobenzene), the method is carried out at a temperature of between 100 and 130° C.The technical result is to introduce gem-diphosphonic functional groups by the treatment of spherically granulated cross-linked macroporous acrylonitrile-divinylbenzene copolymer with phosphorous acid, which simplifies the method for production and increases capacity and selectivity of the synthesized sorbent for indium, thus improving a complex of the application properties of the material. |
| US09375700B2 |
Hydrocarbon cracking antenna
An aspect of at least one embodiment of the present invention is a device for cracking heavy hydrocarbons. A linear applicator is positioned within heavy oil containing aromatic molecules. A radio frequency electrical current source is electrically connected to the applicator at a first connection point and a second connection point to create a closed electrical loop. The radio frequency source is configured to apply a signal to the applicator that is sufficient to create a magnetic field and an electric field relative to the axis of the linear applicator. The device also includes a chamber positioned around the applicator generally between the first connection point and the second connection point to concentrate the magnetic field within a region surrounding the applicator and containing the heavy hydrocarbons. |
| US09375699B2 |
Apparatus and method of reacting polymers by exposure to UV radiation to produce injectable medical devices
Cross-linked compositions include a first precursor functionalized with a first reactive member and a second precursor functionalized with a second reactive member, the first and second reactive members covalently bonding with each other when exposed to UV radiation. The compositions are useful in a variety of surgical and wound treatment applications. |
| US09375698B2 |
Micro-reactor system assembly
A micro-reactor system assembly comprises a stack of at least n process modules (1-6), wherein n is an integer equal to or greater than 1, made from a rigid first material and comprising at least one reactive fluid passage (1A, 1B, 2A, 3A, 6A) for accommodating and guiding a reactive fluid, and at least n+1 heat exchange modules (7, 8) made from a ductile second material other than said first material and comprising at least one heat exchange fluid passage (7A, 8A) for accommodating and guiding a heat exchange fluid, wherein each process module (1-6) is sandwiched between two adjacent heat exchange modules (7, 8). |
| US09375697B2 |
Extraction cell assembly with quick-release seal removal
An extraction cell assembly includes a cell body, a cap assembly having a cap body and a cap insert, a bed support and a seal. The cap body is removably secured to the cell body and includes a throughbore and a peripheral wall. The cap insert includes a plunger, a peripheral flange extending outwardly from the plunger, and a recess disposed within the plunger. The flange and plunger of the cap insert are slidably received, respectively, inside the peripheral wall and throughbore of the cap body. The bed support is removably received within the recess. The seal is removably received within the throughbore. The seal forms a fluid seal between the cell body and the cap assembly when the cap assembly is secured to the cell body. A method of using the extraction cell assembly is also disclosed. |
| US09375696B2 |
Microarray processing apparatus, well plate for microarray processing apparatus, microarray holder, and microarray washing method
Provided is a microarray processing apparatus which is capable of sufficiently washing a microarray. The microarray processing apparatus (30) includes a well plate (38) in which one or two or more wells (40) are formed, each well (40) accommodating a microarray (1), and a suction nozzle (46) that suctions a liquid from the well. The well has a concave portion whose upper end is opened, which has a depth equal to or greater than a height of the microarray, and into which a front end of the suction nozzle can be inserted up to a height position of a lower end of the microarray accommodated in the well. The suction nozzle can relatively descend in the well until the front end of the suction nozzle is located at the height position of the lower end of the microarray accommodated in the well. |
| US09375694B2 |
Device with dilated oxidation zone for gasifying feedstock
A downdraft gasifier that utilizes a plurality of vertically positioned tubes to create a pyrolysis zone, an oxidation zone beneath the pyrolysis zone and a reduction zone beneath the oxidation zone. The shape of the tubes eliminates the need for a restriction (hearth), which limits the maximum achievable throughput. A rotating and vertically adjustable grate is located beneath, but not attached to, the reduction zone of the gasifier. |
| US09375693B2 |
Method and system for performing chemical processes
The invention relates to a method for performing chemical processes, where raw materials are heated, wherein a melt pool is produced in a tank or reactor using low-melting metals or metal alloys, wherein the raw materials are metered directly into the melt pool in the lower part of the tank or reactor. |
| US09375691B2 |
Method and apparatus for centrifugal blending system
Blending particulate and liquid to make slurry for use in oilfield operations is addressed. The blender has an upwardly facing particulate expeller with a flat base, raised hub, and generally radially extending, circumferentially spaced vanes extending upwardly from the base. The vanes extend from leading edges spaced about a vane inner diameter to tips spaced about a vane outer diameter. Adjacent expeller vanes define expeller passageways therebetween. The particulate expeller does not serve as a meaningful liquid impeller and the blender does not act significantly as a pump. The expeller has a several preferred diameter, clearance, height and length dimensions and ratios. Wide, deep expeller inlets and shallow, narrow outlets enhance particulate entry and minimize expeller torque. Vane extensions impart velocity to the particulate upon contact and minimize sensitivity to particulate entry velocity. Maximized circumferential overlap of adjacent vanes reduces liquid back-flow. |
| US09375689B2 |
Machine for the treatment of food mixtures having scraping and mixing blades and a blender disposed parallel thereto
A machine for the treatment of food mixtures with an improved performance includes a container or cylinder for collecting a food mixture, integral with a frame structure and equipped with an upper lid, for closing the container and hinged to the frame, so as to be in a closed or open position on an upper opening of the container, in the container there being a rotating shaft, which is coaxial to the container and which supports in rotation scraping and mixing blades at the bottom and sides of the inner and bottom walls of the container, a blender being positioned in an opening of the lid. Particularly, the blender can be positioned so to be freely removable. |
| US09375682B2 |
Exhaust gas system with a reducing agent supply
A method for feeding reducing agent or reducing agent precursor into exhaust systems of mobile internal combustion engines and an exhaust system are preferably used for internal combustion engines with high nitrogen oxide compound emissions. A feed time is established. An exhaust parameter and/or necessary quantity of reducing agent is determined and a feed state of the reducing agent is defined. The reducing agent is treated if the feed state does not correspond to a stored state. The reducing agent feed to the exhaust system takes place last. The steps are repeated multiple times. This permits reducing agent to be fed into an exhaust system in a state suitable for the exhaust temperature, so that complete conversion of reducing agent takes place and selectively catalytic reduction is also ensured. This reduces the quantity of electrical energy necessary for converting reducing agent. A motor vehicle having the system is also provided. |
| US09375672B2 |
Modular, high-throughput air treatment system
Air treatment modules, systems and methods for removing contaminants from indoor air are provided. Device embodiments may include one or more air inlets, one or more air outlets and a plurality of inserts which each include at least one adsorbent material. The inserts may be arranged separate from each other to form a plurality of substantially parallel air flow paths between the one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets. The adsorbent material may be arranged for regeneration within the air treatment module using thermal swing desorption and/or pressure swing desorption. Related systems, methods and articles of manufacture are also described. |
| US09375670B2 |
Air purification system
An air purification system including a Particle Phase Pollutant (PPP) treatment section (9) having an air inlet (14) and an air outlet (15), a particle removal filter, (11) and a blower (12) to draw air from the air inlet (14) of the PPP treatment section (9) to pass through the particle removal filter (11) and exit through the air outlet (15) of the PPP treatment section (9). The system also includes a Gas Phase Pollutant (GPP) treatment section (10) installed at a downstream position of the particle removal filter (11) of the PPP treatment section (9), the GPP treatment section (10) having an air inlet (19) and an air outlet (20), a gas removal filter (16) with high filter air flow resistance, and a blower (17) located at a downstream position of the gas removal filter (16) to draw air from the air inlet (19) of the GPP treatment section (10) to pass through the gas removal filter (16) and exit through the air outlet (20) of the GPP treatment section (10). In addition, airflows of the GPP treatment section (10) and PPP treatment section (9) are directed by their respective blower (12, 17), and a portion of the air exiting the air outlet (15) of the PPP treatment section (9) is directed through the air inlet (19) of the GPP treatment section (10). |
| US09375669B2 |
Air filtration apparatus
An air filtration apparatus operable to be coupled with an air return of a conventional HVAC system wherein the air filtration apparatus is configured to supply a continuous supply of unused air filtration media. The air filtration apparatus further includes a frame having four sides and an opening configured to accommodate any size air return. A first media receptacle and a second media receptacle are mounted on the frame. Disposed within said first media receptacle and said second media receptacle is an air filtration media, wherein the air filtration media is substantially disposed within the first media receptacle in its first position and is disposed within the second media receptacle in its second position. A drive assembly and fan are operably coupled to the air filtration media operable to transition the air filtration media intermediate its first position and second position as a result of airflow through the air return. |
| US09375667B2 |
Apparatus and method for treating exhaust gas
Presented is a method and apparatus for treating an exhaust gas. A series of filters and conditioning units are used to separate and extract various substances from the exhaust gas, typically originating from an industrial process. In an exemplary embodiment, a cyclone filter, a ceramic filter, a baghouse filter, and a pair of gas conditioners are used to initially separate and extract iron-rich dust from an exhaust gas and then extract zinc from the gas. |
| US09375666B2 |
Pleatable filter media
This invention is directed to a filter media for manufacturing pleated filters comprising a non-woven, needle punch felt including a blend of a first polyester fiber and a bi-component fiber wherein said bi-component fiber has a sheath and a core wherein said sheath has a melting point above 110° C. and said nonwoven felt has an efficiency of greater than 89% for particles size of 3 to 10 μm as determined by testing method ASHRAE 52.2. The invention can include a top portion and a bottom portion manufactured from a web made from a carding process that is cross lapped, cut and overlapped so that said top portion and said bottom portion are entangled by a needle punching process to create a homogeneous arrangement prior to applying heat and pressure to stiffen the media for pleating. |
| US09375663B2 |
Sanitization and regeneration of porous filter media with ozone in backwash
The invention provides methods and systems for sanitizing and/or regenerating porous filter media using dissolved ozone in the filter backwash under fluidized conditions. |
| US09375657B2 |
Flash chromatography column apparatus
A flash chromatography apparatus which provides an improved apparatus for large and medium commercial scale flash chromatography columns. More particularly, the invention relates to a flash chromatography column and cartridge system for positioning and ease of loading and unloading of stationary phase agent in the flash chromatography column. The flash chromatography column further provides flow distributors to support the stationary phase and permit plug flow through the column. The apparatus of the present invention is a modular and can be disposed in any configuration to reduce maintenance cost and downtime in a commercial installation. Flash chromatography is widely used for purification of low molecular weight organic compounds and products of organic synthetic reactions. |
| US09375656B2 |
Slurry oil upgrading while preserving aromatic content
Methods relating to methods for producing a needle coke precursor from slurry oil having low levels of nitrogen and sulfur. Nitrogen-containing compounds are removed by chromatography, followed by hydrotreating at relatively mild conditions that focus on the more easily-removed sulfur-containing compounds while largely preserving aromatic content of the slurry oil. The resulting needle coke precursor can be converted to a premium needle coke in a delayed coking system. |
| US09375655B2 |
Distillation method and structured packing
A method of conducting a distillation process and a cross-corrugated structured packing for use in such a process in which ascending vapor phases and descending liquid phases are contacted in such packing. The cross-corrugated structured packing contains corrugated sheets fabricated of an open cell foam-like material. The liquid phase produces a liquid film descending along struts forming cells of the material and the vapor phase ascends within the cross-corrugated structured packing and enters the cells and contacts the liquid film. The cross-corrugated structured packing is configured such that a superficial velocity at which ambient air would flow through the cross-corrugated structured packing at a pressure drop of 0.3″ wc/ft is no greater than 20 times a reference superficial velocity at which the ambient air would flow through the foam-like material making up the corrugated sheets at the same pressure drop to ensure that vapor enters the cells of the foam-like material. |
| US09375652B2 |
Confetti cannon and method of manufacturing and use thereof
A confetti cannon includes a one-piece housing. The one-piece housing has a confetti hopper, a launch tube, and a valve housing. The valve housing has an inlet connected to an internal valve. Whereby, the confetti hopper, the launch tube, and the valve housing are integrally formed to create the one-piece housing. The internal valve can be an electric solenoid valve for controlling the confetti cannon remotely. |
| US09375648B2 |
Toy vehicle
A toy vehicle is provided. The toy vehicle having: a vehicle chassis defining a first interior region; a leg movably secured to the vehicle chassis for movement from a first position to a second position, wherein the leg and a wheel rotatably secured to the leg is extended away from the chassis when the leg is moved to the second position; a spring for providing a biasing force to retain the leg into the first position; and an actuation unit received within the first interior region of the chassis and operably coupled to the movable leg member and a body portion movably secured to the chassis, the actuation unit being configured to overcome the biasing force of the spring and move the leg to the second position when the body portion is moved with respect to the chassis. |
| US09375646B2 |
Wind tunnel design with expanding corners
A wind tunnel may comprise: a flight chamber; a plurality of diffusers; a plurality of expanding corners, wherein the plurality of expanding corners comprises a first expanding corner and a second expanding corner; and a return, the return configured to have disposed therein a fan operatively coupled with a motor. |
| US09375644B2 |
Directional wireless communication
A method for establishing communication between a portable electronic device and an electronic gaming machine within a gaming environment includes receiving wireless signal data transmitted from the portable electronic device, determining a wireless signal strength relative to the electronic gaming machine based on the wireless signal data, and based on a determination that the wireless signal strength relative to the electronic gaming machine has increased, exceeded a predetermined threshold level, and leveled off for an amount of time exceeding a time threshold after becoming stronger, initiating a wireless communication link between the electronic gaming machine and the portable electronic device. |
| US09375643B2 |
System and method for arranging and presenting interactive multiplayer game sessions to an audience
A computer implemented method of presenting pre-show content to movie theater audiences includes receiving requests from an exhibitor, each request identifying a feature presentation, a feature presentation start time, and the length of a pre-show session preceding the feature presentation. At least one multiplayer game for each pre-show session is selected automatically based on at least one of an audience maturity rating of the feature presentation, a genre of the feature presentation, and the availability of other players attending at least one other feature presentation hosted by the same exhibitor at the same or a different location, and/or a different exhibitor at a different location. Optionally, the list of selected games is presented to one or more audiences for voting. Where a game to be played by members of different audiences is scheduled for the same time slot, a single instantiation of the game is presented to the multiple audiences. |
| US09375640B2 |
Information processing system, computer-readable storage medium, and information processing method
A load applied to a first input device is sequentially detected, and a first display image to be displayed on a portable display device is sequentially generated based on load data. The portable display device obtains image data representing the first display image, and sequentially displays the first display image represented by the obtained image data. In this exemplary embodiment, when a user performs an operation based on his/her action and thereby a process based on the user's action is performed, the user is allowed to view the result of the process in a favorable situation. |
| US09375636B1 |
Adjusting individualized content made available to users of an online game based on user gameplay information
This disclosure relates to adjusting individualized content made available to users of an online game based on user gameplay information. In implementations, information relating to prospective usage of the online game is used to classify users according by user type, and content made available to the users is customized accordingly. Information relating to prospective usage may include predictive information such as demographic and geographic information, as well as game usage information for the users. User types may include resource collection, player versus player, and player versus environment. Customized content may include content made available to the users through the users in-game actions, such as exploring a map, researching a technology or skill, purchasing an in-game item, and completing an in-game achievement, including in-game items, in-game powers, in-game skills, in-game technologies, in-game pets, in-game transportation units, in-game units, and in-game buildings. |
| US09375631B2 |
Ski pole locking device
A ski pole locking device may include a pole ring comprising a first moveable arm and a second moveable arm, wherein the first moveable arm comprises a catching mechanism, wherein the second moveable arm comprises a catching mechanism cavity, wherein the pole ring comprises a closed configuration and an open configuration, wherein the closed configuration comprises the catching mechanism engaged with the catching mechanism cavity, wherein the open configuration comprises the catching mechanism separated from the catching mechanism cavity; and a lock ring comprising a closed ring configuration. The ski pole locking device may be engaged on a ski pole while the pole ring is in the closed configuration around the ski pole. Once locked on the ski pole the locking device cannot be removed. |
| US09375630B2 |
Toe piece of a binding for shoes, with a self-aligning magnetic system
A toe piece (10) of a binding for shoes includes a support base (11) provided with a pair of jaws (13) arranged on opposite sides of the support base (11) and provided with respective pins (15), which extend transversely inwards and are adapted to engage respective seats (21) of metal material arranged in the toe of a footwear item (SB). The support base is further provided with an actuating system (17) operable for actuating the jaws to close or open for respectively locking or releasing the toe of the footwear item (SB). At least one of the pins has at least one portion of magnetized material, configured so that, when the toe of the footwear item (SB) is brought close to the jaws (13) in an open position, at least one of the jaws is urged by magnetic attraction of the respective pin (15) towards the respective seat (21) on the footwear item (SB), without operation of the actuating system (17). |
| US09375627B2 |
Laser detection enhanced RFID tag reading event timing system and method
Systems and methods for determining a time of a passing a detection line by a participant having an RFID tag traveling along the route, the system includes a timing system an RFID tag reader system for wirelessly receiving tag reads including a tag identifier for the RFID tags, time stamps each RFID tag read, and transmits them to the timing system, a laser detector detects a laser beam interrupt and generates a laser beam interrupt indicator receives the generated laser beam interrupt indicator, and determines a beam interrupt time, and creates a laser beam interrupt message including the beam interrupt time, the timing system receives the tag read messages and the laser beam interrupt messages, determines the identity of the participant from the tag identifier, associates the laser beam interrupt message with the determined tag identifier, and stores the beam interrupt time as the time of detecting the passing. |
| US09375623B2 |
Method for training and improving overhand throwing
Methods for training and improving overhand throwing. A first embodiment of a method includes training exercises performed using a system which includes at least one upper arm that extends from a central body. A pathway marked by indicia extends down the upper arm curving to indicate the correct motion for a desired overhand throw. A flexible slap card may be located along the pathway for use in a first training exercise. The body may include a hole positioned and sized for use as a target for a second training exercise. |
| US09375622B2 |
Perfect swing baseball training apparatus
A swing guide training apparatus may have a base with a vertical support where the vertical support can adjust the height of the apparatus. Opposite the base, there is a pair of swing guide arms forming a swing guide assembly. These swing guide arms are open on each end and are connected by a U-shaped member allowing a bat to be swung through the space provided by the swing guide assembly. The U-shaped member can be compressed or expanded to change the width of the swinging channel. Additionally, other features may be present such as a mount for holding a baseball and a device to measure the speed of the bat as it is swung through the swing channel. The swing guide assembly rotates to accommodate batters that are left and right handed. |
| US09375617B2 |
Golf club assembly and golf club with aerodynamic features
A golf club head may include a body member having a ball striking face, a crown, a toe, a heel, a sole, a back, and a hosel region located at the intersection of the ball striking face, the heel, the crown and the sole. The crown may have a relatively round rear-side edge profile, as viewed from above. The sole may have a relatively square rear-side edge profile, as viewed from below. The rear-side edge of the sole may extend rearwardly beyond the rear-side edge of the crown along at least a portion of the back, as viewed from above. Further, the heel may have an airfoil-like surface in the forward portion of the heel. A golf club including the golf club head is also provided. |
| US09375616B2 |
Interchangeable shaft system
A golf club incorporating an interchangeable shaft system includes a shaft, a shaft sleeve, a club head. The shaft sleeve is coupled to an end of the shaft and is received in a hosel included in the club head. The shaft sleeve is removably coupled to the club head. Hosel and shaft sleeve alignment features provide discrete orientations between the shaft and club head. |
| US09375615B2 |
Golf putter
Disclosed herein is a golf putter including a putter head, a neck formed on a radial line of curvature of a central point of the putter head, spaced apart from an upper surface of a toe of the putter head, and integrally connected to a heel of the putter head, and a hosel formed at the neck to insert a putter shaft and configured such that a lower end extension line of the putter shaft is directed toward the central point of the putter head while being inclined toward a golfer's body with respect to a vertical line. An end line of the neck is located on a swing line, an upper surface of the neck is formed with a neck indication portion, and the putter head is formed with a putter head indication portion. |
| US09375613B2 |
Multi-layered cores for golf balls having foam and thermoset layers
Multi-layered golf ball core sub-assemblies and the resulting golf balls are provided. The core structure includes an inner core (center) comprising a foam composition, preferably foamed polyurethane. The intermediate and outer core layers are preferably formed from non-foamed thermoset compositions such as polybutadiene rubber. The core layers have different hardness and specific gravity levels. The core structure and resulting ball have relatively good resiliency. |
| US09375609B2 |
Rope clamp system
Rope clamps and methods for attaching rope clamps to climbing structures are provided. Rope clamps illustratively comprises a clamp portion configured to be attached to a climbing structure, wherein the clamp portion comprises a clamp body, a cover, a rope path and a fastener. The clamp body is configured to engage a portion of the climbing structure. The cover is configured to engage with a front of the clamp body. The rope path extends between the clamp body and the cover. The fastener is configured to attach the cover to the clamp body. Further, at least one rope configured to enter the rope path at a first point, extend through the rope path and exit the rope path at a second point. |
| US09375608B2 |
Wearable device assembly having athletic functionality and streak tracking
A wearable device assembly has a housing supporting a controller, display and indicator system thereon. The controller has at least one sensor wherein activity of a user wearing the device is detected. The controller selectively illuminates the indicator system to indicate a level of activity of the user. |
| US09375607B1 |
Exercise apparatus
An exercise apparatus for the exercise of a user's gluteus muscles through a supported seated squat downward from an upper starting position and a upward return movement has a base, a pair of user foot support ramps mounted to the base for supporting the toe portions of the feet with the heels on the floor, a pair of spaced fixed uprights mounted to the base and located forward of the foot supports terminating in a pair of hand grips. A buttocks support assembly with an angled buttocks support pad is pivotally mounted to the uprights, and a compressible linkage connects the pad assembly to the base. The linkage provides an opposing force to the downward travel of the support assembly and a boost restoring force to the support assembly for returning the support pad to an upper starting position. The user provides a controlled descent from an initial upper position to a squat and a controlled return from the squat to the upper position. The angled orientation of the support pad and the foot support ramps assist in positioning the user to operate the apparatus such that the weight of the user is not fully supported by the pad and remains directed through the heels during a full range of exercise motion. |
| US09375606B1 |
Exercise methods and apparatus
An exercise apparatus may provide a novel linkage assembly suitable for linking circular motion to relatively more complex, generally elliptical motion. Left and right rocker links may be rotatably mounted on a frame rotatable about a first axis. Left and right cranks may be mounted on the frame rotatable about a second axis. Left and right force receiving members may be movably connected between respective rocker links and cranks in such a manner that the force receiving members move through variable paths of motion that may change as a function of user applied force. |
| US09375605B2 |
High efficiency treadmill motor control
A high voltage direct current signal is obtained from a power supply. The power supply includes power factor correction circuitry. A control command is obtained from an exercise machine. The exercise machine includes a direct current motor. A pulse-width modulation signal is generated from the direct current signal based on the control command. The pulse-width modulation signal is provided to the direct current motor. |
| US09375604B2 |
Adjustable pedal assembly for fitness machine
An adjustable pedal assembly for use in a fitness machine is disclosed to include a pedal holder frame including two lateral plates, two guide axles connected in parallel between the lateral plates and a mounting unit for mounting on the fitness machine, two pedals slidably supported on the guide axles of the pedal holder frame, and an adjustment device including an actuation member inserted through and connected with the pedals and rotatable to move the pedals relative to each other, and a rotary adjustment knob fastened to one end of the actuation member and operable to rotate the actuation member in adjusting the transverse distance between the two pedals. |
| US09375597B2 |
Upper body toning device
An upper Body Toning Device includes adjustable handles for various grip positions providing various angles of muscle resistance. The handles may be press inward along carriage guides countered by a resistance element. Multiple resistance elements may be included that may be removable providing adjustable resistance—allowing still yet, more exercises to be performed. A vertical mounting position with accessory hands. |
| US09375593B2 |
Aerosol fire extinguisher with trigger sprayer
An Aerosol Fire Extinguisher with Trigger Sprayer that can be easily held in one hand. The extinguishing agent is under pressure in an aerosol can and can only be released by pulling the tab of the trigger sprayer. The Trigger Sprayer Unit cannot be sprayed until the tab is pulled. The Can is a cylindrical canister housing and has a Dip Tube that goes to the bottom of the can to the Fire Extinguishing Agent. There is Propellant in the can that pushes the Fire Extinguishing Agent up through the Dip Tube. Pulling the tab of the Sprayer Unit allows the Trigger to be pressed and be moved so the Trigger Pivoting Member of the Trigger Sprayer Unit is able to press down on the stem of the Mounting Cup of the Can which then allows the Propellant in the Can to force the Fire Extinguishing Agent through the Dip Tube up through the Chamber Hole into the Direction Chamber with pressure out the Nozzle toward the fire. The user then holds down the trigger and sprays the fire with the Fire Extinguishing Agent until the fire is out. |
| US09375591B2 |
Aerial delivery devices, systems and methods
A firefighting device has a rigid sleeve and an inner bladder within the sleeve. The bladder is rupturable with a pair of bladder straps attached to the bladder which is pulled upon by a pair of lid straps attached to a lid when the firefighting device is released from a forward moving aircraft. Additionally, the sleeve may have a pair of sleeve straps which are connected to a lower half of the sleeve and the lid straps to facilitate rotation of the device when the device is released from the forward moving aircraft. |
| US09375588B2 |
Method and system for guided shielding of a patient volume from ultrasound energy
In order to decrease collateral heating of ribs and tissue surrounding the ribs in a patient during high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) therapy, shielding material may be positioned on or adjacent to an external surface of the patient and aligned with ribs to be protected using a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system. The MRI system may be used to image the shielding material and the ribs to be protected, and an error of alignment between the ribs to be protected and the shielding material may be determined based on the images. The shielding or masking material may be repositioned based on the determined error of alignment, images of the shielding material and the ribs to be protected may be reacquired, and the error of alignment may be redetermined based on the reacquired images until the shielding material is aligned with the ribs to be protected. |
| US09375586B2 |
Apparatus and method for treatment of foot and nail diseases
An apparatus for treatment of fungal infections and/or other foot skin disorders, comprises a shoe-type housing having a substantially hollow interior forming a treatment chamber, a supporting platform disposed within the hollow chamber; so that a foot of a patient positioned within the treatment chamber is supported by the platform, so that nails are disposed at the lower level of the front part of the chamber, whereas the heel of the foot is being elevated a rear part thereof. A delivery and control assembly for the aqueous solution is provided. At least one light delivery arrangement is disposed within or in the vicinity of the treatment chamber. |
| US09375582B2 |
Touch screen safety controls for clinician programmer
The present disclosure involves an electronic apparatus for programming an implantable medical device to provide a stimulation therapy for a patient. The electronic apparatus includes a user interface configured to communicate with a user, a memory storage configured to store executable instructions, and a computer processor configured to execute the instructions to implement a plurality of safety controls. The safety controls include: starting/stopping the stimulation therapy by starting the stimulation therapy after a predefined time delay but stopping the stimulation therapy instantaneously; disabling programming of the electronic apparatus and terminating any existing stimulation therapy in response to a low-battery status of the electronic apparatus; adjusting a value of a stimulation parameter of the stimulation therapy one predetermined step at a time, each adjustment corresponding to a separate user input; and restricting a range in which the user can set an upper limit and a lower limit of the stimulation parameter. |
| US09375581B2 |
Implantable stimulation device, stimulation system and method for data communication
An implantable stimulation device including a stimulation module and a data communication module. The stimulation device includes electrodes to delivery stimulation pulses, a voltage source, a DC-blocking capacitor and autoshort switch. The voltage source is connected to the electrodes via stimulation-pulse-switch(s) that controls delivery pacing pulses. The DC-blocking capacitor is connected with the voltage source and an electrode. The autoshort switch allows discharging of the DC-blocking capacitor via the electrodes when closed. The data communication module includes a data transmission control module connected to the autoshort switch and/or the at least one stimulation-pulse-switch, to alternatingly open and close the autoshort switch or the at least one stimulation-pulse-switch respectively, during an autoshort period following the delivery of a stimulation pulse or during a stimulation pulse period, respectively, to modulate an autoshort pulse or a stimulation pulse peak amplitude, respectively. |
| US09375580B2 |
Leadless pacemaker system
A device includes a signal generator module, a processing module, and a housing. The signal generator module is configured to deliver pacing pulses to an atrium. The processing module is configured to detect a ventricular activation event and determine a length of an interval between the ventricular activation event and a previous atrial event that preceded the ventricular activation event. The processing module is further configured to schedule a time at which to deliver a pacing pulse to the atrium based on the length of the interval and control the signal generator module to deliver the pacing pulse at the scheduled time. The housing is configured for implantation within the atrium. The housing encloses the stimulation generator and the processing module. |
| US09375578B2 |
Cardiac pacing methods and apparatus
A method and apparatus is provided for determining whether a current atrial-ventricular (AV) delay during cardiac pacing is appropriate for proper mechanical coupling of the atrium and ventricle. If proper mechanical coupling is determined to not exist, an additional atrial contraction is induced within the same ventricular cycle to maintain atrial-ventricular mechanical coupling. |
| US09375576B2 |
Method and apparatus for the treatment of focal dystonia
A method and apparatus for using low levels of electrical stimulation to treat focal dystonia by stimulating the afferent nervous system and/or altering the function of the gamma motor neurons innervating muscles which experience symptomatic spasms. |
| US09375549B2 |
Reducing mechanical stress on conductors and connection points in a position determinable interventional medical device
A medical device configured for diagnosis or treatment of tissues within a body is provided. The device includes an elongate, deformable member configured to be received within a lumen in the body and having proximal and distal ends. A position sensor is disposed at the distal end. In one embodiment, a conductor is wound about the member. The conductor is connected to the position sensor and has a first winding pitch over a first portion of the deformable member and a second winding pitch, different from the first winding pitch, over a second portion of the deformable member. In another embodiment, the member defines a neutral longitudinal axis extending between the proximal and distal ends. A conductor extending between the proximal and distal ends is connected to the position sensor at a connection node on the neutral axis. |
| US09375548B2 |
Humidifier system for humidifying gas delivered to a patient
Provided are systems and methods for humidifying gas to be provided to a patient utilizing heating of an aerosolized mist. A humidification unit (201a) is provided a patient circuit (209) that provides gas to a patient. The humidification unit includes a liquid chamber (303) that receives liquid from a liquid source (203), a nebulizer (305) that nebulizes liquid from the liquid chamber, an aerosol chamber (307) that receives aerosolized liquid from the nebulizer, and a heat source (309a) that converts the aerosolized liquid into a vapor that humidifies gas in the patient circuit. |
| US09375540B2 |
Nasal aroma breathing pipe
The claimed invention is an apparatus to assist and encourage a person to take long, deep and steady breaths. The invention is designed to provide improved health for the user by fostering; improved breathing and relaxation, aroma delivery and positive smell association, calmer clearer thinking, reduced stress and anxiety, as well as providing a substitute for potentially harmful habits such as smoking, over-eating, over-drinking and other forms of drug abuse. This invention may also reduce the impact of some existing physiological and psychological health conditions. |
| US09375539B2 |
Multimodal surgical gas delivery system for laparoscopic surgical procedures
The subject multimodal surgical gas delivery system configured to couple to one or more surgical devices providing access into a patient body cavity includes a computer-controlled control unit configured and adapted to provide at least one of the following modes of operation. A first mode of operation for providing a pressurized insufflation fluid from an insufflation gas source into a surgical device for providing and maintaining sealable access to the body cavity in a surgical device. A second mode of operation for performing smoke evacuation in a filter element from insufflation fluid caused to recycle through the multimodal system from the body cavity via a surgical device. A third mode of operation for providing insufflation fluid from the insufflation gas source into the body cavity for creating and maintaining insufflation of the body cavity. |
| US09375538B2 |
Media dispenser
Dispenser for the delivery of liquid media, having a base unit and a delivery head with a delivery opening. The delivery head includes a first portion which includes a fastening device by means of which the first portion is fastened or fixed in position with respect to a media storage unit on the base unit, and which includes the delivery opening. The delivery head includes a second portion realized so as to be movable in relation to the first portion and includes an actuating handle which is operatively coupled with the coupling piece such that a displacement of the actuating handle in relation to the first portion leads to a displacement of the coupling piece in relation to the first part portion. |
| US09375537B2 |
Therapeutic agent injection device
A therapeutic agent injection device including an injection device for delivering a therapeutic agent to a patient having a body, the body having a patient face and a port face opposite the patient face, the port face having an introducer port including an introducer channel and an injection port including an injection channel, the introducer channel being in fluid communication with the injection channel through a cross channel, the injection channel defining an injection axis; a delivery tube for subcutaneous delivery of the therapeutic agent to the patient, the delivery tube projecting from and being generally perpendicular to the patient face, the delivery tube defining an introducer axis and being in fluid communication with the injection port; and a patch, the patch being attached to the patient face and being operable to adhesively attach to the patient; wherein the injection axis is parallel to the introducer axis. |
| US09375533B2 |
Systems and methods for delivering therapeutic agents
The present embodiments provide systems and methods suitable for delivering a therapeutic agent to a target site. The systems generally comprise a container having first and second regions and a reservoir containing the therapeutic agent. A pressure source having pressurized fluid is in selective fluid communication with at least a portion of the reservoir. An outlet tube is in fluid communication with the reservoir of the container. At least one slot is formed in a lateral surface of the outlet tube at a position between first and second ends of the outlet tube. |
| US09375531B2 |
Syringe pump with improved flow monitoring
A syringe pump provides a controlled metering of the medicament from a syringe by movement of the syringe plunger while also measuring flow from the syringe with a flow sensor. Simultaneous monitoring of flow command implicit in control of the syringe plunger and an actual flow provides additional safety and detection of irregularities in the delivery of the medicament. |
| US09375529B2 |
Extended use medical device
Provided is an extended use self-contained, wearable medical device. The device is preferably configured with an infusion deployment mechanism for variably inserting and retracting an infusion needle to different depths, or completely retracting the infusion needle from the infusion site and then re-inserting the infusion needle after a predetermined period of time, throughout an infusion cycle for extending the viability of the infusion site. Another embodiment comprises dual needle deployment mechanisms which may also variably insert and retract the infusion needles. A flow sensor is preferably provided for detecting the stoppage of flow through the infusion cannula and signaling the needle deployment mechanism to attempt infusion at a different depth or to deploy a second infusion needle. A re-fillable reservoir assembly is preferably provided for supplying a drug over the extended use of the device. Another embodiment comprises a partially reusable and partially disposable medical device implementing the above features. |
| US09375526B2 |
Vial spiking assemblies and related methods
This disclosure relates to vial spiking assemblies and related methods. In certain aspects, the vial spiking assemblies include a vial adapter having a base, a spike extending from a central region of the base, and a sidewall extending from the base and surrounding the spike. The base and the sidewalls partially, define a cavity that is configured to receive at least a portion of the vial. The assemblies also include a spike cover that is removably attached to the spike and that includes a material configured to indicate when the material is contacted with liquid. |
| US09375523B2 |
Method and apparatus for controling flow rates and patterns of human milk secretion by a breast pump
The invention relates to an apparatus and method to control the flow rates and pattern of human milk secretion while using a breast pump. The apparatus comprises a breast pump having a linear source of vacuum and a communication port for communicating with an external source of information on milk flow rates and patterns of a breastfeeding baby, through an external control circuit. |
| US09375520B2 |
Medical waste fluid collection and disposal system
A medical waste fluid collection and disposal system includes a medical waste fluid collection cart including first and second fluid collection canisters. A valve assembly selectively communicates with the canisters and a valve drive system controls the valve assembly. A liquid level sensor is positioned within each of the canisters. A cart processor communicates with the liquid level sensors and the valve drive system. A cart drain line communicates with the valve assembly and a receptacle, a cart flushing line communicates with the valve assembly and the receptacle and a cart data line and a cart power line communicate with the cart processor and the cart receptacle. A station includes a drain pump that communicates with a drainage system and a station drain line, a flushing pump that communicates with a source of washing liquid and a station flushing line and a station processor in communication with the drain and flushing pumps. A station data line communicates with the station processor. A coupler communicates with the station drain line, flushing line and the station data line and a station power line. The station coupler removably engages the cart receptacle so operation of the cart and station components can be coordinated by the processors for drainage and flushing of the cart canisters. |
| US09375518B2 |
Surface protection of exposed biological tissues
The invention relates to a biodegradable barrier network comprising at least two macromolecular substances, one being anionic and the other one cationic. The invention also relates to applicators and kits comprising components to be used to create said biodegradable barrier network. The invention also relates to the use of said applicator or kit in therapy, such as in medicine, veterinary medicine and horticulture. |
| US09375515B2 |
Immobilized biologically active entities having high biological activity following mechanical manipulation
The present invention is directed to immobilized biologically active entities that retain significant biological activity following mechanical manipulation of a substrate material to which the entities are immobilized. |
| US09375510B2 |
Transdermal adhesive compositions, devices and methods
A stable transdermal adhesive composition comprising: an adhesive comprising a washed polymerization reaction product of at least two ethylenically unsaturated monomers; and at least one pharmaceutically active compound which is susceptible to oxidative degradation; wherein the at least two ethylenically unsaturated monomers, if present in the adhesive as unreacted monomers, are present at a level of less than 200 ppm of total unreacted monomer, based upon the total weight of the adhesive, methods of making the composition, a transdermal drug delivery device using the composition, methods of making the device, and methods of delivery the pharmaceutically active compound are provided. |
| US09375508B2 |
Water disintegratable absorber and absorbent article
An absorber and an absorbent article which have excellent leak proof property during use and water disintegratability after disposal. The water disintegratable absorber includes a water disintegratable absorber layer and a water insoluble resin layer. The amount of water absorption of the water disintegratable absorber layer is 300 g/m2 or more and tear strength in the plan view direction of the water insoluble resin layer is 0.15 N/40 mm or less in a first direction as well as a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction. |
| US09375507B2 |
Particulate superabsorbent polymer composition having improved stability
The present invention relates to a particulate superabsorbent polymer composition comprising a polymer comprising a neutralized aluminum salt solution applied to the surface of a particulate superabsorbent polymer; wherein an aqueous solution of the neutralized aluminum salt has a pH value from about 5.5 to about 8 and the particulate superabsorbent polymer composition has a mean particle size distribution of from 300 to 400 μm, an original Free Swell Gel Bed Permeability (FSGBP) of about 20×10−8 cm2 to about 200×10−8 cm2; and subsequent to subjecting the particulate superabsorbent polymer composition to the Processing Test, the particulate superabsorbent polymer composition has a permeability stability index of from about 0.60 to about 0.99 and having particles having a particle diameter of larger than 600 μm in an amount of less than about 15 wt % of the particulate superabsorbent polymer composition and as specified by standard sieve classification. |
| US09375505B2 |
Hemostatic sponge
The present invention provides a hemostatic porous composite sponge comprising i) a matrix of a biomaterial and ii) one hydrophilic polymeric component comprising reactive groups wherein i) and ii) are associated with each other so that the reactivity of the polymeric component is retained, wherein associated means that said polymeric component is coated onto a surface of said matrix of a biomaterial, or said matrix is impregnated with said polymeric material, or both. |
| US09375504B2 |
Method and apparatus for fluid sterilization for patient support surfaces
An apparatus and method is provided for treating fluid provided to a patient support. An apparatus comprises a housing defining an interior space, an inlet in flow communication with a source of untreated fluid and the interior space, an outlet in flow communication with the patient support and the interior space, and a light source directed into the interior space such that light emitted by the light source bombards fluid flowing through the interior space with light within a wavelength range that destroys organisms within the fluid to thereby provide treated fluid to the patient support. |
| US09375501B2 |
Deodorant composition
The present invention relates to a deodorant composition containing (a) a polyphenol compound or a plant extract containing a polyphenol compound, (b) a basic substance, and (c) a metal salt. The deodorant composition of the present invention is capable of providing a deodorizing effect in a short period of time when it is applied to a malodor source, is capable of providing an excellent deodorizing activity and is also excellent in the store stability. |
| US09375499B2 |
Adsorptive membranes for trapping viruses
A disposable, virus-trapping membrane, and a corresponding method to remove viruses from solution are described. The membrane includes a disposable, micro-porous filter membrane and a ligand immobilized on the membrane. The ligand irreversibly and selectively binds viruses. The ligand also has a pKa sufficiently high to repel antibodies via electrostatic charge repulsion. |
| US09375495B2 |
Magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents comprising zinc-containing magnetic metal oxide nanoparticles
The present invention relates to an MRI contrast agent that includes zinc-containing water-soluble metal oxide nanoparticles and has an improved contrast effect. The zinc-containing water-soluble metal oxide nanoparticles are characterized by addition of zinc to a matrix comprising the metal oxide nanoparticles or by substitution of metal in the matrix, resulting in the improved contrast effect of MRI. In addition, the zinc-containing metal oxide nanoparticles of the present invention include the MRI contrast agent t having hybrid structures of “zinc-containing metal oxide nanoparticle—biologically/chemically active material” in which the nanoparticle is conjugated with a bioactive material such as proteins, antibodies, and chemical materials. |
| US09375492B2 |
Mixture of liquid-crystal compounds, system of three liquid-crystal mixtures and their use
Three organic compounds mixtures of liquid-crystal properties, which when mixed together in a precisely determined weight ratio, may show an ability to form thermo-optically active mesophases of established, narrow range thermooptical transitions separation, every 0.5° C., in the temperature range: from 31.8° C. to 32.8° C., from 32.8° C. to 33.8° C., and from 33.8° C. to 34.8° C. and system including these mixtures. The use of these mixtures and the system containing the above mentioned mixtures for colorimetric detection of temperature differentiation on the surface of biological objects in a narrow range of temperatures. |
| US09375491B2 |
Chimeric promoter for cone photoreceptor targeted gene therapy
The subject invention concerns materials and methods for providing for cone cell specific expression of a polynucleotide in a human or animal. One aspect of the invention concerns a polynucleotide promoter sequence that directs expression of an operably linked polynucleotide in cone cells. In one embodiment, a polynucleotide of the invention comprises a nucleotide sequence of an interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein (IRBP) gene that is positioned upstream of a promoter nucleotide sequence of a cone transducin alpha-subunit (GNAT2) gene. Another aspect of the subject invention concerns methods for expressing a selected polynucleotide in cone cells. The selected polynucleotide can be provided in a polynucleotide of the invention wherein the selected polynucleotide is operably linked to a polynucleotide promoter sequence of the invention. In one embodiment, the selected polynucleotide sequence is provided in a polynucleotide vector of the invention. The vector comprising the selected polynucleotide is then introduced into a cell. The selected polynucleotide is expressed only in cone cells, with very little, if any, expression in rods or other cells. A selected polynucleotide can be one that encodes, for example, a therapeutic protein or a functional protein that is defective or underexpressed in the targeted cone cells. |
| US09375490B2 |
Stable micelles of fatty acid esters for the treatment of disease states
Compositions including at least one Omega-3 fatty acid ester and at least one surface active agent are provided; wherein the compositions form micelles when in contact with an aqueous medium. Also provided is a method of administering to a subject such a composition, wherein the at least one Omega-3 fatty acid ester forms micelles when in contact with an aqueous medium, and the bioavailability of the at least one Omega-3 fatty acid ester is substantially independent of a food effect. The compositions are useful for treating cardiovascular conditions or disorders in a subject and for reducing side effects associated with the ingestion of Omega-3 fatty acid esters. Further provided are also various dosage forms for administering the compositions and use of the compositions in functional foods. Provided herein are also kits with instructions on how to administer the compositions. |
| US09375486B2 |
Oligomer-containing benzamide-based compounds
The invention relates to (among other things) oligomer-containing benzamide-based compounds. A compound of the invention exhibits one or more advantages over corresponding compounds lacking the oligomer. |
| US09375485B2 |
Use of telomerase inhibitors for the treatment of myeloproliferative disorders and myeloproliferative neoplasms
Provided herein are methods for reducing neoplastic progenitor cell proliferation and alleviating symptoms associated in individuals diagnosed with or thought to have Essential Thrombocythemia (ET). Also provided herein are methods for using telomerase inhibitors for maintaining blood platelet counts at relatively normal ranges in the blood of individuals diagnosed with or suspected of having ET. |
| US09375481B2 |
Drug loaded polymeric nanoparticles and methods of making and using same
The present disclosure generally relates to methods of making nanoparticles having about 0.2 to about 35 weight percent of a therapeutic agent; and about 10 to about 99 weight percent of biocompatible polymer such as a diblock poly(lactic) acid-poly(ethylene)glycol. |
| US09375479B2 |
Citrulline containing beverage
The invention provides an easy-to-drink beverage that contains citrulline, wherein the generation of bad odors due to storage or heating is suppressed. In particular, the invention provides a beverage that contains citrulline, citric acid, sodium citrate, water, and one or more supplements that are saccharides, souring agents, preservatives, colorants, flavoring agents, functional ingredients, or carbon dioxide. |
| US09375475B2 |
Combination immunotherapy for the treatment of cancer
Agonists to ICOS in combination with a blocking agent to a T cell inhibitory receptor (e.g., CTLA-4, PD-1, etc.) are demonstrated herein to be useful for the treatment of tumors. |
| US09375468B2 |
Prevention of inflammatory disorders in domestic non-human mammals
The present invention regards use of a bacterial superantigen for administration onto the mucous membrane of a domestic non-human mammal for the prevention of inflammatory disorder, such as allergies, autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. |
| US09375467B2 |
Live attenuated catfish vaccine and method of making
A high throughput bioluminescence mutant screening procedure is disclosed. This procedure utilizes robotics, and bacterial luciferase to allow real-time monitoring of mutant viability. The procedure was used to decelop a live attenuated vaccine for a catfish against E. ictaluri, which is further claimed herein. Additionally, genes from other bacterial species are disclosed which may also be used to create vaccines. |
| US09375466B2 |
Polypeptides and polynucleotides, and uses thereof as a drug target for producing drugs and biologics
This invention relates to a novel target for production of immune and non-immune based therapeutics and for disease diagnosis. More particularly, the invention provides therapeutic antibodies against VSIG1, ILDR1, LOC253012, AI216611, C1ORF32 or FXYD3 antigens, which are predicted co-stimulatory family members and which are differentially expressed in cancers including, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, and colon cancer, and diagnostic and therapeutic usages. The use of these antibodies for modulating B7 costimulation and related therapies such as the treatment of autoimmunity are also provided. This invention further relates to the discovery of extracellular domains of VSIG1 and its variants, FXYD3 and its variants, ILDR1 and its variants, LOC253012 and its variants, AI216611 and its variants, and C1ORF32 and its variants awhich are suitable targets for immunotherapy, cancer therapy, and drug development. |
| US09375463B2 |
Compositions and methods for improving sleep using a nutraceutical formulation
Provided are supplemental compositions for a nutraceutical formulation and methods for administering the same to a user for inducing or maintaining sleep as well as for alleviating pain to improve sleep using a formulation of ingredients comprising of extract of ashwagandha, extract of lavender, extract of valerian, extract of hops, melatonin, magnesium, vitamin B12, and zinc, and/or devil's claw, bromelain and boswellia. |
| US09375462B1 |
Composition for healing skin
A combination of Arnica montana extract, bromelain, Calendula extract, daisy flower extract, grape seed extract, Aloe vera, copper, and zinc contained in a carrier for topical use that promotes skin health and healing. |
| US09375459B2 |
Cyclic peptides with an anti-neoplasic and anti-angiogenic activity
The present invention comprises cyclic peptides bearing antitumor and antiangiogenic properties, as well as their corresponding pharmaceutically-suitable salts and also pharmaceutical compositions containing it. These cyclic peptides are used to prepare medicines for human and/or veterinary therapeutics, and additionally in diagnosis. These compounds can be used to detect, monitor and/or control a range of cellular proliferation-related disorders, such as oncological diseases and undesired angiogenesis. Moreover, they can be included as part of controlled release systems, and used more precisely in the field of nanobiotechnology, either because of their self-assembly capacity or as part of other systems. |
| US09375452B2 |
Use of stem cells to generate inner ear cells
This invention relates generally to methods and compositions for inducing stem cell or progenitor cell differentiation, and more particularly to methods and compositions for inducing differentiation of stem cells and/or progenitor cells into cells that function within the inner ear. |
| US09375451B2 |
Compositions of nutrition supplementation for nutritional deficiencies and method of use therefore
A nutritional supplement composition for treating nutritional deficiencies caused by a medical condition in subjects is disclosed. The present application further discloses a method of using a nutritional supplements composition for treating a subject with complications resulting from sickle cell anemia. The method comprises administering to a subject an effective amount of the nutritional supplement. |
| US09375449B2 |
Metal ion nanoclusters
A composition containing a plurality of water-soluble nanoclusters ranging from 2 nm to 500 nm in diameter. Each of the nanoclusters contains one or more metal cations, one or more anions, and one or more water-soluble ligands. Also disclosed is a method of using the composition for treating various disorders such as anemia, heartburn, and diabetes. |
| US09375447B2 |
Modified hyaluronan and uses thereof in cancer treatment
Uses of depolymerized hyaluronan (e.g., prepared by sonicating high molecular weight hyaluronan such as naturally-occurring hyaluronan) or anti-Hyal-2 antibody in cancer treatment. Also described herein are methods for preparing depolymerized and crosslinked hyaluronan by sonication and the hyaluronan composition thus obtained. |
| US09375445B2 |
Heparin prodrugs and drug delivery stents formed therefrom
A prodrug comprising a heparin and a drug is provided. The prodrug can be used to form a coating on a medical device. The prodrug can also be used with a polymeric material to form a coating on a medical device. The polymeric material can be a hydrophobic polymer, a hydrophilic polymer, a non-fouling polymer, or combinations thereof. The medical device can be implanted in a human being for the treatment of a disease such as atherosclerosis, thrombosis, restenosis, hemorrhage, vascular dissection or perforation, vascular aneurysm, vulnerable plaque, chronic total occlusion, claudication, anastomotic proliferation for vein and artificial grafts, bile duct obstruction, ureter obstruction, tumor obstruction, or combinations thereof. |
| US09375444B2 |
Composition for prevention and treatment of allergic and/or inflammatory diseases
A prophylactic antiallergenic composition includes at least one arabinogalactan or arabinogalactan protein. The arabinogalactan or arabinogalactan protein is isolated from a grass or corresponds in its structural arrangement to an arabinogalactan that can be isolated from a grass. |
| US09375441B2 |
Lactulose for bowel evacuation
A method of treating an adult patient in need of bowel evacuation via the administration of one or more doses of a bowel evacuant consisting of a total of from about 180 g to about 220 g of lactulose in a dosing regimen suitable to achieve bowel evacuation prior to a diagnostic, therapeutic or surgical procedure is disclosed. |
| US09375438B2 |
Inhibitors of NCCa-ATP channels for therapy
Methods and compositions are provided that are utilized for treatment and/or prevention of intraventricular hemorrhage or progressive hemorrhagic necrosis (PHN), particularly following spinal cord injury. In particular, the methods and compositions are inhibitors of a particular NCca-ATP channel and include, for example, inhibitors of SURI and/or inhibitors of TRPM4. Kits for treatment and/or prevention of intraventricular hemorrhage or progressive hemorrhagic necrosis (PHN), particularly following spinal cord injury, are also provided. The present invention also concerns treatment and/or prevention of intraventricular hemorrhage in infants, including premature infants utilizing one or more inhibitors of the channel is provided to the infant, for example to brain cells of the infant. |
| US09375437B2 |
Progesterone containing oral dosage forms and kits
The present invention provides for progesterone containing pharmaceutical oral dosage forms, pharmaceutical kits, and related methods. In one embodiment, an oral dosage form formulated for on-going administration is provided. The oral dosage form includes an amount of progesterone and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The oral dosage form is formulated such that upon single dose administration to a non-pregnant woman in follicular phase, the oral dosage form provides a serum progesterone C24h of at least 0.20 ng/mL. |
| US09375436B2 |
Androgen treatment in females
The present invention is directed to a method of using dehydroepiandrosterone to treat a human female with diminished ovarian reserve. The method includes administering about 25 milligrams three times a day of dehydroepiandrosterone per day to the female for at least four weeks to reduce human embryo aneuploidy. The present invention further is directed to a method of treating a human female with diminished ovarian reserve to improve the female's diminished ovarian reserve. |
| US09375433B2 |
Modulators of androgen synthesis
The present specification discloses compositions comprising at least one therapeutic compound capable of modulating androgen production and methods and uses for treating a disorder associated with androgen production using such compositions and/or compounds. |
| US09375428B2 |
Morphine controlled release system
Described are controlled release oral pharmaceutical composition comprising an erodible matrix composition comprising a polyethylene oxide, a therapeutically effective amount of an opioid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, complex, solvate or anhydrate thereof, or a mixture thereof and, optionally, one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, and a coating on the matrix composition, wherein the coating has at least one opening exposing a surface of an end portion of the matrix composition, thereby allowing controlled release of the opioid by erosion of the matrix surface, wherein the composition exhibits zero order release of at least 80% of the opioid contained in the composition. The matrix may have a cylindrical shape having a long axis and a conus-shaped end portion having a largest diameter and a smallest diameter, such that the surface area exposed increases during erosion of the conus-shaped end portion. |
| US09375424B2 |
Compounds that treat malaria and prevent malaria transmission
The invention provides methods and compounds for the treatment and prevention of malaria infection and transmission in a mammal by administering compounds of the invention to a mammal having or suspected of having a malaria infection. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions that can kill or arrest the growth of Plasmodium organisms, and especially Plasmodium falciparum, thereby preventing or blocking transmission of malaria as well as treating malaria infection. |
| US09375416B2 |
Epigallocatechin gallate tetramer and vascular endothelial function improving agent containing the same
Providing a compound capable of continuously taking and having a vascular endothelial function improving effect by enhancing NO function from the vascular endothelial cells.A compound represented by Formula (I) wherein R1, R2, R3 and R4 are each independently H or a gallate group, a vascular endothelial function improving agent, food and drink or pharmaceutical composition containing the compound. |
| US09375410B2 |
Modified release dosage forms of skeletal muscle relaxants
A unit dosage form, such as a capsule or the like, for delivering a skeletal muscle relaxant, such as cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride, into the body in an extended or sustained release fashion comprising one or more populations of drug-containing particles (beads, pellets, granules, etc.) is disclosed. At least one bead population exhibits a pre-designed sustained release profile. Such a drug delivery system is designed for once-daily oral administration to maintain an adequate plasma concentration-time profile, thereby providing relief of muscle spasm associated with painful musculoskeletal conditions over a 24 hour period. |
| US09375401B2 |
Ophthalmic compositions with alkoxylated natural waxes
Ophthalmic compositions comprising 0.005 wt. % to 2.0 wt. % of alkoxylated natural waxes selected from the group consisting of alkoxylated lanolin and alkoxylated jojoba, and a method of treating a patient diagnosed with dry eye syndrome, or for cleaning and disinfecting contact lenses, with the ophthalmic compositions. |
| US09375397B2 |
Composition comprising gas-filled microcapsules for ultrasound mediated delivery
Composition comprising gas filled microcapsules and a bioactive agent, useful for an ultrasound-mediated delivery of said bioactive agent. The microcapsules comprise a relatively stiff shell of polymeric or lipid material and have in particular a resistance to a mechanical index of at least 0.15, while the bioactive agent is substantially unbound to the shell of the microcapsules. The composition of the invention is particularly suitable for effectively delivering a genetic material into a cell, upon exposure of the composition to a level of acoustic pressure capable of destroying a portion of the microcapsules and releasing the gas contained therein. |
| US09375391B2 |
Glyceryl and glycol acid compounds
Disclosed is a method for moisturizing skin comprising topically applying to skin in need of moisturization a composition comprising a glyceryl di-salicylate compound having the following structure: wherein the composition further includes a glyceryl mono-salicylate compound, and wherein the composition moisturizes skin. |
| US09375385B2 |
Pre-filled active vial having integral plunger assembly
A pre-filled vial assembly adapted for dispensing and delivering a fluid includes: a body member having a distal end, a proximal end, and a sidewall extending therebetween defining an interior; and a transitionable stopper disposed within the interior of the body member. At least a portion of the body member is engageable with a source of air or fluid for advancing the transitionable stopper from an initial position to an activated position in which at least a portion of a fluid contained within the interior of the body member is advanced therefrom. |
| US09375384B2 |
Medication compliance package with hand hole
A medication compliance package includes an outer carrier of card defining a rear panel into which the pockets of a blister sheet are attached and covered by a foil layer. A front panel folds over the rear panel to cover its front face and the pockets. The front panel has a slot shaped opening along the mutual side edge with the rear panel to allow fingers of the hand of the user to extend through the opening, with the front and rear panels in the open position, from the rear face of the front panel to reach around the mutual side edge to the rear face of the rear panel. This simplifies the act of popping the medications out of the blister since the fingers engage the rear of the rear panel and the thumb can be used to apply pressure to the pockets. |
| US09375378B2 |
Stair-assist device
A device for assisting a person to climb up or down a stairway. A pair of frame rails extend longitudinally parallel with each other and spaced apart by a distance wide enough to receive a person's knee on a leg support member suspended by the frame side rail members and a transverse front member of the frame. Front legs of the device are shorter than rear legs so that the frame side rail members are horizontal when the device is on a stairway. A stabilizer member extends above the next step above the one on which the front legs are placed, and a handle is supported above one of the side rails to support the user's weight during use of the device. |
| US09375376B2 |
Wheelchair bed insert device
A wheelchair bed insert device facilitates transfer of a person from a bed to a wheelchair. The device includes a bed frame having an open space extending into a lateral side of the bed frame. A mattress has a slot therein aligning with the open space of the bed frame when the mattress is positioned on the bed frame. A chair frame is positionable in the open space. A chair pad is coupled to the chair frame occupying the slot in the mattress when the chair frame is positioned in the open space of the bed frame. Chair wheels are coupled to the chair frame wherein the wheels facilitate transport of a person seated on the chair pad. |
| US09375368B2 |
Diapers having a zoned non-attachable back sheet and methods of manufacturing same
According to one embodiment, an absorbent article to be worn about a wearer has a front portion and a back portion. The absorbent article includes an outer layer, an inner layer that is substantially co-extensive with the outer layer, an absorbent layer and one or more fasteners, which are located on the back portion of the absorbent article. The absorbent layer is interposed between the outer layer and the inner layer to form the absorbent article. The outer layer has a central portion between two side portions. The central portion of the outer layer is treated with a chemical to substantially inhibit attachment of the one or more fasteners to the central portion of the outer layer. The one or more fasteners secure the back portion to the outer layer of the front portion. Specifically, the one or more fasteners are configured to secure the back portion to a region of the outer layer which is not treated with the chemical. |
| US09375364B2 |
Absorbent article
An absorbent article includes: an absorbent article body part having a first leak preventer and an absorber; a second leak preventer arranged above the absorber having an enclosed space formed in bag form on a lower side by sealing a periphery part save a front end part to the absorbent article body part; a skin contact sheet arranged between front and rear parts of the absorbent article body part, contacts a wearer's skin and is spaced apart from the absorber at parts other than front and rear end parts; and a urine/feces separation member, wherein a front or middle part couples to a corresponding crotch part of the skin contact sheet, a rear part extends, on a lower side of the second leak preventer, up to at least the front end part of the second leak preventer, and right and left side parts couple to the absorbent article body part. |
| US09375362B2 |
Fasteners having improved comfort
A fastening member has inboard and outboard ends, a panel region, an end region, and a stiffening element. The panel region is disposed adjacent to the inboard end and has first and second layers. The first and second layers are joined in a face-to-face orientation. The end region is disposed adjacent to the outboard end and has a fastening element zone and an intermediate zone. The intermediate zone is disposed between the fastening element zone and the panel region adjacent an interface between the panel and end regions. The stiffening element is disposed in the end region and has a stiffness of greater than about 200 N/m. A portion of the stiffening element is disposed between the first layer and the second layer and is joined to the first layer and the second layer. The portion is disposed adjacent to the interface between the panel region and the end region. |
| US09375361B2 |
Absorbent articles having a belt portion with a texture zone having a texture ratio
The present disclosure is directed, in part, to an absorbent article comprising a chassis comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and a core disposed at least partially intermediate the topsheet and the backsheet. The absorbent article comprises a belt portion extending from the chassis. The belt portion comprises a first substrate, a second substrate joined to the first substrate, and a plurality of elongate elastic elements disposed at least partially intermediate the first substrate and the second substrate. The belt portion comprises a texture zone having a texture ratio of greater than about 5. |
| US09375358B2 |
Absorbent article with high absorbent material content
An absorbent article comprising a pair of leg cuffs (32) with an raised section (34) and an absorbent core (28) comprising at least one channel (26, 26′) at least partially oriented in the longitudinal direction (80) of the article. The article has crotch width (Wd) before use as measured between the proximal edges of the leg cuffs at the level of the crotch point of from to 70 mm to 200 mm, and a Relative Crotch Width Reduction (RCWR) of at least 30 mm/kg. |
| US09375354B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for conveying absorbent articles in a converting line
The apparatuses and methods herein may be configured to transport articles in the form of continuous lengths of substrates having thicknesses that varies along a machine direction and/or cross direction. The conveyance apparatuses may be configured to include a first carrier and second carrier, wherein each carrier includes an endless belt positioned adjacent to the other so as to define a nip region between the endless belts, the nip region extending in a machine direction and a cross direction. The carriers may also include compliant rollers in rolling contact with the endless belts. Each compliant roller may be elastomeric and adapted to provide a reaction force normal to the endless belt along the machine and/or cross direction of the nip region. As such, the compliant rollers help maintain and hold the endless belts in contact with both relatively thin and thick areas of the substrate advancing through the nip region. |
| US09375349B2 |
System and method for providing laser shot patterns to the lens of an eye
There is provided a system, apparatus and methods for developing laser systems that can create precise predetermined shot patterns for providing areas of varying softness in the lens of an eye. These areas of varying softness may have shapes that correspond to instruments used to remove material from the lens of the eye. There is further provided a multiplicity of spheres pattern, which may provide for bubble formation which in turn lubricates the lens material for removal after sectioning. |
| US09375348B2 |
Systems and methods for a membrane-free electrolysis pump for an intraocular implant
A microfluidic pump for implantation proximate an eye of a patient is provided herein. The pump includes a first substrate portion and a second substrate portion adjacent the first and a chamber that has a bottom surface and a top surface provided by the first and second substrate portions. A gas is produced within the chamber so that it displaces fluid from the chamber. The pump also includes an inlet channel and an outlet channel coupled to the chamber, the inlet channel being separated from the chamber by a first gap and the outlet channel separated from the chamber by a second gap. The gaps inhibit the gas from moving out of the chamber. Other microfluidic pumps and intraocular devices are also disclosed. |
| US09375347B2 |
Non-invasively adjustable drainage device
The device comprises at least an inlet tube for the passage of fluid to be drained, said tube being connected to a chamber wherein said chamber comprises rotating means for adjusting the flow rate in said tube. |
| US09375344B2 |
Systems and methods for breathing assistance
Various embodiments provide for a breathing assistance device comprising right and left flanges and a protuberance. The right and left flanges may comprise an inner surface and an outer surface, and the flanges may be configured to be placed in a user's mouth such that at least a portion of the flanges are in front of teeth of the user. The protuberance may extend from the outside surface of the flanges and may define an air passage that passes through the flanges. |
| US09375342B2 |
Adjustable-slider, equinus brace with toe wedge
Devices and processes used to treat ankle equinus. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a brace and the corresponding method of use to treat equinus by stretching the Gastrocnemius muscle. |
| US09375339B2 |
Lace-tongue attachment for ankle stabilizing device
An ankle stabilizing device having a lace-tongue attachment includes a body member, a plurality of eyelets extending along the front edges of the body member, and a centering lace. The centering lace is secured to the ankle stabilizing device between the pair of eyelets at the toe-end of the device such that the central portion of the centering lace is precluded from passing through either of the toe-end pair of eyelets. |
| US09375337B1 |
Delivery device and method of delivery
A delivery device can include a number of different features including, one or more of, but not limited to, the following. Shuttle and trigger retraction of an outer sheath. Arcuate movement of a trigger. An interlock device to prevent actuation of the trigger. An interlock device that can adjust the position of the outer sheath and the inner shaft. A retraction override switch and lock. |
| US09375336B1 |
Delivery device and method of delivery
A delivery device can provide sequential delivery of a plurality of intraluminal devices or tacks held in a compressed state on the delivery device. Delivery platforms on the delivery device can hold a tack in a compressed position and have a unique shape, such as a non-constant outer diameter, an hourglass shape, a tapered proximal half, ridges, dimples, etc. This unique shape can be positioned between annular pusher bands that may also be radiopaque markers. In some embodiments, the unique shape is provided by a sleeve of flexible material with the unique shape surrounding a harder inner shaft. Further, the annular pusher bands can be made of wire or sections of material to increase flexibility while remaining radiopacity. A tack deployment method can include alignment of radiopaque markers on the outer sheath and the tack to be deployed prior to deployment. |
| US09375335B2 |
Catheter having hydraulic actuator
Catheter for delivery of a medical device such as a stent or filter includes an inner tubular member and an outer tubular member movable relative to the inner tubular member. The outer tubular member is disposed at the distal end of the inner tubular member. The inner tubular member includes a fluid lumen defined therein, the fluid lumen having a fluid flow port directed to the exterior surface of the inner tubular member. A pressure chamber is defined by the inner tubular member, the outer tubular member, a proximal seal and a distal seal, and is in fluid communication with the fluid flow port, wherein fluid introduced through the fluid flow port and into the pressure chamber applies a force on the proximal seal to move the outer tubular member in a proximal direction allowing the medical device constrained by the outer tubular member to be released. |
| US09375328B2 |
Balloon catheter with non-deployable stent
An angioplasty balloon including a non-deployable stent to prevent or reduce the potential for slippage of the inflated balloon with respect to the vessel wall being treated. The balloon includes a non-deployable stent that is adapted to be secured to the balloon or angioplasty balloon catheter. The stent has a proximal end, a distal end, and at least three radially-spaced struts, each, each strut connecting the proximal end to the distal end and having one or more bends that allow expansion of the strut to accommodate the inflation of the balloon. The stent is made or a material so that the stent collapses upon deflation of the balloon. |
| US09375327B2 |
Endovascular implant
A plaque tack can be used for holding plaque against blood vessel walls such as in treating atherosclerotic occlusive disease. The plaque tack can be formed as a thin, annular band for holding loose plaque under a spring or other expansion force against a blood vessel wall. Focal elevating elements and/or other features, such as anchors, can be used to exert a holding force on a plaque position while minimizing the amount of material surface area in contact with the plaque or blood vessel wall and reducing the potential of friction with the endoluminal surface. This approach offers clinicians the ability to perform a minimally invasive post-angioplasty treatment and produce a stent-like result without using a stent. |
| US09375318B2 |
Multi-component knee implant assembly with combined articulating and belt support and traveling surfaces
A joint assembly incorporated into reconditioned end surfaces established between an upper bone and an opposing lower bone. The assembly includes a pair of first components anchored into reconditioned bone end surfaces of a first joint defining bone and exhibiting a flexible and band-shaped loop displace-ably supported along exposed undersides established between outer portions which are assembled around the bands. A second component anchored into a second reconditioned end surface of a second joint defining bone exhibits a planar support surface upon which said bands are in contact with and displace during articulating motion of the bones. Entrapment pockets are formed within the first components for collecting wear particles and debris resulting from displacement of the belt. |
| US09375317B2 |
Knee arthrodesis implant
A knee arthrodesis implant has a femur nail and a tibia nail. A connecting module has two longitudinally separated half shells that when connected form a passage. One end of the connecting module is coupled to a femur nail neck and the other end is coupled to a tibia nail neck. The half shells have a plurality of corresponding recesses extending perpendicularly to the passage. Each recess receives a tensioning screw, and tightening the tensioning screws couples the femur and tibia nail necks to the connecting module by holding the femur and tibia nail necks within the passage by frictional contact. Each of the two half shells is angled along its length, an angle of one of the half shells corresponding to an angle of the other of the half shells, allowing the tibia nail and femur nail to extend from the passage at an angle from one another. |
| US09375315B2 |
Joint device and method
A mold adapted to be introduced into a joint of a human patient for resurfacing at least one carrying contacting surface of said joint is provided. The mold is adapted to receive material for resurfacing at least one carrying contacting surface of said joint. The mold is further adapted to be resorbed by the human body or melt after having served its purpose. Further, a method of treating hip joint osteoarthritis in a human patient by providing an artificial hip joint surface using a mold is provided. The method comprises the steps of: said mold being placed inside of said hip joint, said mold being injected with a fluid adapted to harden, said fluid hardening inside of said hip joint, said mold being resorbed by the human body, and said hardened fluid serving as artificial hip joint surface. |
| US09375312B2 |
Transcatheter atrio-ventricular valve prosthesis
A transcatheter atria-ventricular valve prosthesis for functional replacement of an atrio-ventricular valve in a connection channel, having a circumferential connection channel wall structure, between atrial and ventricular chambers of a heart, including an inner device to be disposed in the interior of the connection channel, the inner device having a circumferential support structure which is radially expandable and having a valve attached to the circumferential support structure, and an outer device to be disposed on the exterior of the connection channel, wherein the outer device at least partly extends around the inner device at a radial distance to the inner device, wherein the inner and outer devices form a securing mechanism for securing the circumferential connection channel wall structure therebetween. |
| US09375311B2 |
Prosthetic valves and associated appartuses, systems and methods
A valve prosthesis includes an expandable frame. The expandable frame has an outflow portion and an inflow portion connected to the outflow portion. The frame defines a central lumen extending between the outflow portion and the inflow portion. The frame is generally cylindrical in a fully expanded configuration. When the frame is in the fully expanded configuration, an outer surface of the inflow portion is concave. The inflow portion has an upper inflow portion and a lower inflow portion. When the frame is in the fully expanded configuration, the upper inflow portion flares outwardly from the central lumen of the frame to greater extent than the lower inflow portion. |
| US09375307B2 |
Graft fabric crimping pattern
A pattern of graft material that allows for radial expansion and contraction that comprises a plurality of rows of folds with an undulating configuration with at least one apex and at least one trough and the rows of folds each have a ridge and a valley therein. At least one stent with an undulating configuration can be attached to the at least one row of folds. |
| US09375306B2 |
Absorbable patch, in reinforced PGA, for the replacement of a portion of bladder wall following partial cystectomy
A patch (1) for the replacement of a portion of bladder wall, following partial cystectomy, comprises a textile (2) derived from a PGA yarn and provided with a star-shaped support frame, flexible and harmonic, formed by a plurality of radial strips (3) manufactured by injection of a PGA/PLA copolymer, the patch (1) being suitable for making autologous fibrous capsule cells, generated by the process of tissue reconstruction, grow thereon after its insertion inside the patient. |
| US09375303B1 |
Methods of ordering and manufacturing orthopedic components
Methods of ordering and manufacturing orthopedic components eliminate the need to stockpile and inventory large volumes of implants and instruments. In one exemplary embodiment, the surgeon begins by acquiring anatomical data from a patient. The anatomical data may then be loaded into a data comparison program. The data comparison program performs a best-fit analysis by comparing the patient's anatomical data to a number of predesigned, tested, and validated virtual implant models that are stored in a database. Once an implant has been identified by the data comparison program for the individual patient, the surgeon may place an order electronically with the manufacturer via the internet. In one exemplary embodiment, when placing the order, the surgeon will specify the type of implant, the surgery date, specific patient information, shipping information, and the preferred surgical technique that the surgeon anticipates using. |
| US09375302B2 |
Adjustable tension incontinence sling assemblies
Systems for providing support to body tissue to alleviate incontinence are disclosed that comprise an elongated incontinence sling having a central support portion adapted to be positioned to support any one of the urethra or anus and first and second sling end portions extending from the central support portion through body tissue and a tension adjustment mechanism acting on or within one or both of the sling end portions. The sling tension adjustment mechanism comprises one or more of a sling tensioning suture or band, a tensioning device coupled to a suture or band free end, a tissue anchor coupled to one or more of a suture free end and a sling end, a mesh fold, a suture tube, and a sling sheath in various combinations. |
| US09375298B2 |
Dental models and related methods
A dental model and related systems and methods, including a first component representing a portion of a patient's jaw and a second component that is demountably attachable to the first component, and a second component representing a dental structure of interest, such as the remaining portion of a tooth or a dental implant. |
| US09375297B2 |
Method of surgical planning
A method of pre-operatively forming a surgical splint configured to receive a patient's dentition can include combining a 3-D facial computer model and a 3-D dental computer model. The method includes the step of obtaining a 3-D facial computer model of at least the patient's maxilla, mandible, and dentition from a CT scanner and the step of obtaining a 3-D dental computer model of the patient's dentition with an optical scanner. The 3-D dental computer model is then combined with the 3-D facial computer model to form a composite virtual model. The composite virtual model can be manipulated into a planned post-operative shape, and a surgical splint can be custom constructed to match the planned post-operative shape. The surgical splint can be configured to receive the patient's dentition. |
| US09375296B2 |
Method for fabricating an abutment
A procedure for fabricating an individual abutment for a dental prosthesis for an implant anchored in an area of the jaw with an implant attachment running on the abutment side, using a working model molded by the jaw area equipped with the implant. The sulcus area of the gum uncovered above the implant and shaped by a sulcus-former extending from the implant attachment is reproduced in the working model. The abutment has a sulcus section running within the sulcus area and an adjoining head section to admit a part of a dental prosthesis. The sulcus area of the working model having an auxiliary implant attachment corresponding to the implant attachment is measured, and a sulcus section model determined with a circumferential surface and a de-facto sulcus line limiting it on the implant side. |
| US09375295B2 |
Arrangement for obtaining reliable anchoring of a threaded implant in a bone
In an arrangement for obtaining reliable anchoring of a threaded implant in dentine, a hole is made in the bone substance. In the side wall of the hole it is possible to establish an internal threading which can cooperate with an external threading on the implant. The implant threading is arranged to force the bone substance out in essentially radial directions as a function of the extent to which the implant is screwed into the hole. The threading is arranged to effect greater forcing out of the bone substance at the outer parts of the hole than at the inner parts of the hole. The degree of forcing out is adapted in relation to the softness of the bone in order to achieve the reliable anchoring. Along at least part of the longitudinal direction of the implant, the implant threading can be given a non-circular configuration for the purpose of obtaining improved rotational stability in soft/weak bone. |
| US09375294B2 |
Method for producing implants
A method for producing an implant including the following steps is provided: —providing a core element having a first material; —providing a negative mold of the implant; —inserting the core element and at least one anchoring element made of a second material into the negative mold, wherein the second material is thermoplastic, —closing the negative mold and applying an elevated deformation temperature, wherein at the deformation temperature the second material is plastically deformable, viscous, or liquid and the first material is solid, —cooling the negative mold together with the core element and the anchoring element, and—removing the resulting implant from the core element and the anchoring element from the negative mold. |
| US09375293B2 |
Virtual orthodontic treatment
A method for virtual orthodontic treatment is provided in which a virtual set of orthodontic components is associated, in a virtual space, with a first virtual three-dimensional image of teeth, and then by a set of rules which define the effect of the set of components' teeth, the effect of the virtual treatment can be computed. This virtual treatment can be used to predict the results of a real-life orthodontic treatment as to design such a treatment. |
| US09375291B2 |
Device for dispensing a dental material
A dispensing device comprises a compartment for receiving a dental material, a piston for extruding the material from the compartment and a spindle drive for moving the piston and the compartment relative to one another. The spindle drive comprises a spindle and a link which are adapted for disengageable engagement with one another, wherein the spindle and the link are operable relative to each other between an engaged position in which the link and the spindle are engaged with one another, and a disengaged position in which the spindle and the link are disengaged from one another. The device may be relatively robust and inexpensive to manufacture, and may facilitate preparation of dental materials for use. |
| US09375287B2 |
Target identification tool for intra-body localization
A marker device that aids in the subsequent identification of a particular area is equipped with an anchoring device that prevents migration once placed in the tissue of that particular area. The device may include a chemical agent or drug that adds a therapeutic function to the marker device. |
| US09375286B2 |
Pelvic structure for physical therapy device and head fastener for cervical traction
The present invention concerns a pelvic fastener for lumbar traction of physical therapy device and head fastener for cervical traction, which supports a pelvis in a comfortable and firm manner, maintains a predetermined level of traction intensity without being detached or slid down, maximizes a treatment effect by concentrating a traction force on the lumbar and preventing power dispersion, is intended for patient treatment or correction by means of cervical traction, and does not pressurize a patient's head or function in an unstable manner. For a traction therapy device comprising a bed plate (2) disposed at an upper portion of a frame (1) such that the bed plate (2) may move backwards and forwards and a pelvic bed (3) attached to an upper portion of the bed plate (2) to support the lumbar, the pelvic support structure of the present invention comprises: brackets (10) connected by means of shafts (H1) to both front sides of the bed plate (2) in a rotatable manner; pelvic supporters (20) connected by means of shafts (H2) to upper portions of the brackets (10) in a rotatable manner and having a curved shape to surround a pelvis; pelvic cushions (30) disposed at inner surfaces of the pelvic supporters (20) to come into tight contact with the pelvis; and female and male buckles (40 and 50) connected to upper portions of the pelvic supporters (20) and the pelvic cushions (30) by means of bands (41 and 51), the female and male buckles (40 and 50) being one-touch detachable type. |
| US09375284B2 |
Systems and methods for facilitating access to edges of cartesian-coordinate space using the null space
Devices, systems, and methods for providing increased range of movement of the end effector of a manipulator arm having a plurality of joints with redundant degrees of freedom. Methods include defining a position-based constraint within a joint space defined by the at least one joint, determining a movement of the joints along the constraint within a null-space and driving the joints according to a calculated movement to effect the commanded movement while providing an increased end effector range of movement, particularly as one or more joints approach a respective joint limit within the joint space. |
| US09375279B2 |
Methods of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue using microwave field-detecting needle assemblies
A method of adjusting an ablation field radiating into tissue includes the initial steps of providing an energy applicator and providing one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies. Each microwave field-detecting needle assembly includes one or more rectifier elements capable of detecting microwave field intensity via rectification. The method includes the steps of positioning the energy applicator and the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies in tissue, transmitting energy from an energy source through the energy applicator to generate an ablation field radiating about at least a portion of the energy applicator into tissue, and adjusting the ablation field radiating about at least the portion of the energy applicator into tissue based on at least one electrical signal transmitted by the one or more microwave field-detecting needle assemblies. |
| US09375276B2 |
Microwave antenna having a reactively-loaded loop configuration
A microwave ablation system is provided. The microwave ablation system includes a power source. A microwave antenna is adapted to connect to the power source via a coaxial cable feed including an inner conductor defining a portion of a radiating section of the microwave antenna, an outer conductor and dielectric shielding. The inner conductor loops back around and toward the outer conductor of the coaxial cable feed such that a distal end of the inner conductor is operably disposed adjacent the dielectric shielding. The inner conductor includes one or more reactive components disposed thereon forming a reactively-loaded loop configuration configured to maximize delivery of microwave energy from the power source to tissue such that a desired effect to tissue is achieved. |
| US09375271B2 |
Vessel sealing system
An electrosurgical system is disclosed. The electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical generator adapted to supply electrosurgical energy to tissue. The electrosurgical generator includes impedance sensing circuitry which measures impedance of tissue, a microprocessor configured to determine whether a tissue reaction has occurred as a function of a minimum impedance value and a predetermined rise in impedance, wherein tissue reaction corresponds to a boiling point of tissue fluid, and an electrosurgical instrument including at least one active electrode adapted to apply electrosurgical energy to tissue. |
| US09375267B2 |
Apparatus for performing an electrosurgical procedure
A surgical instrument is provided and includes a housing having a shaft. An end effector assembly operatively connects to the shaft and has a pair of first and second jaw members. A jaw insert is operably associated with the first and second jaw members. The jaw insert includes one or more cam slots defined therein configured to receive a cam pin that upon movement thereof rotates the first and second jaw members from an open position to a clamping position and an opening defined therein configured to securely house a pivot pin that provides a point of pivot for the first and second jaw members. The jaw insert is manufactured from an insulative medium to dielectrically isolate the first and second jaw members. |
| US09375264B2 |
Multi-circuit seal plates
An end effector assembly adapted to couple to an electrosurgical instrument, the end effector assembly including a pair of opposing jaw members pivotably attached about a pivot member and moveable from a first spaced position to a second grasping position. Each jaw member includes a jaw housing and a seal plate formed on an inner surface of the jaw member including at least two seal plate segments extending along a substantial portion of the length of the jaw members. An insulating member is positioned between adjacent seal plate segments and configured to provide electrical isolation between adjacent seal plate segments. Each sealing plate segment is adapted to selectively connect to an electrosurgical energy source and form part of an electrosurgical energy delivery circuit. |
| US09375260B2 |
Surgical instrument with non-contact electrical coupling
A surgical instrument includes a reusable base component including a handle and an electrically activatable modular component removably coupled to the base component. The modular component includes an end effector operable from the handle to treat tissue. The end effector is responsive to manipulation of the handle. A first energy storage component is disposed onboard the base component and is electrically coupled to a source of electricity. A second energy storage component is disposed onboard the modular component and is electrically insulated from the first energy storage component. The second energy storage component is arranged such that a current may be selectively induced in the modular component by delivery of electrical energy to the first energy storage component. |
| US09375257B2 |
High-frequency treatment instrument
A high-frequency treatment instrument 1 comprises a flexible tube 3 which is inserted into a body cavity and a treatment portion 2 which is located on the distal end of the flexible tube 3 when a high-frequency current is applied. In this high frequency treatment instrument 1, the flexible tube 3 is formed by a plurality of wound conductive wires and is provided with a multiple-thread coil 6 connected electrically to the treatment portion 2, and the high-frequency current is applied to the multiple-thread coil 6. |
| US09375254B2 |
Seal and separate algorithm
A method for controlling delivery of energy to seal and divide tissue includes applying energy to tissue in a first phase through an electrosurgical forceps having at least one electrically energizable electrode. The method also includes detecting a predetermined condition based on the application of energy to tissue during the first phase. The method also includes applying energy to tissue during a second phase upon detection of the predetermined condition and providing tension to the tissue during the second phase to separate the tissue. |
| US09375253B2 |
Electrosurgical instrument
An electrosurgical instrument that reduces the amount of fatigue experienced by a physician performing electrosurgery includes a hand piece with a utility conduit connected to the hand piece. The utility conduit can include an electrical cable and a smoke/fluid evacuation hose. The location at which the utility conduit exits the hand piece is selectively adjustable to reduce the resistance to the movement of the electrosurgical instrument created by the weight of the utility conduit. An electrosurgical instrument may also include an extendable shaft that allows for selective adjustment of the reach of the operational capabilities of the instrument. |
| US09375252B2 |
Adjustable length and/or exposure electrodes
An ablation system is provided. The ablation system includes an ablation device having a handle assembly and an electrode assembly. The handle assembly includes a housing configured for operable engagement by a user. The electrode assembly includes a tubular electrode having an open proximal end and a closed distal end. The tubular electrode is movable relative to the housing to adjust an insertable length of the electrode assembly. |
| US09375249B2 |
System and method for directing energy to tissue
An electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical power generating source, an energy applicator operably associated with the electrosurgical power generating source, a processor unit, and a data acquisition module configured to receive a reflected signal. The processor unit is disposed in operative communication with the data acquisition module and adapted to determine a tissue desiccation rate around at least a portion of the energy applicator based on one or more signals received from the data acquisition module. |
| US09375248B2 |
Electrosurgical HF generator
An electrosurgical high frequency (HF) generator comprising a generator circuit that produces an HF current between an active electrode and at least one neutral electrode. During the cutting or coagulating of biological tissue, unwanted tissue heating due to the HF current can be reduced because the electrosurgical HF generator comprises at least one further auxiliary neutral electrode connected in parallel to the neutral electrode. |
| US09375247B2 |
System and method for electrosurgical generator power measurement
A system and method that improves and automates the measurement of power generated by an electrosurgical generator. An active load device is coupled to the generator output and is configured to simulate the change in tissue characteristics, such as an impedance change, that occurs when such tissue undergoes electrosurgical treatment. The active load faithfully simulates the change in tissue characteristics caused by a particular mode of electrosurgical energy delivery, such as without limitation, changes caused in response to a cutting mode, a coagulation mode, a blending mode, a sealing mode, and the like. Tests are conducted in accordance with test profiles containing target impedance and power values of the test scenario. A plurality of profiles may be stored for testing under various simulated operating conditions. |
| US09375245B2 |
Surgical forceps
An end effector of a forceps includes first and second jaw members movable between spaced-apart and approximated positions for grasping tissue. Each jaw member includes a tissue sealing plate that is selectively energizable. The tissue sealing plates are configured to conduct energy therebetween and though tissue to seal tissue. A knife includes a distal surface and an upper surface. The knife is selectively translatable between a retracted position and an extended position wherein the knife extends between the jaw members. The distal surface is configured for dynamic tissue cutting upon translation of the knife from the retracted to the extended position. The upper surface is configured for static tissue cutting with the knife in the extended position. The knife is selectively energizable and is configured to conduct energy between the knife and one or both of the tissue sealing plates and through tissue to electrically cut tissue. |
| US09375242B2 |
Osteosynthesis device with plate and pins
The present disclosure relates to an osteosynthesis device comprising, on the one hand, a plate (12), which can be adjusted along a bone element (10), and at least one pin (26), and, on the other hand, a locking bushing (30) for rigidly connecting said plate (12) and said at least one pin (26). Said locking bushing (30) has a screwable part (32) and a drive part (34) separated from each other by a breakable zone (38), said screwable part having axial slits (44) that form notches (50). Said breakable zone (38) is intended to be broken in order to free said screwable zone (32) from said drive part (34). Said axial slits (44) extend into said breakable zone (38) so as to be able to fragment said screwable part (32) into independent notches (50) when said breakable zone (38) is broken, in order to be able to adjust the relative position of said notches (50) around said at least one pin (26). |
| US09375241B2 |
Bone nail for the heel
The bone nail is intended for the heel. It comprises a front part (15) that is intended to be inserted in the bone and is provided with a tip (17) and it also comprises a rear part (16) having an end (18). The rear part (16) is rigid at a length of at least 120 mm, starting from the end (18). The bone nail is cured in a plane and the curvature for each infinitesimal section of the bone nail has a curvature radius that is at least 130 mm. The key advantages that can be achieved with the bone nail according to the invention and thanks to the surgical technique that becomes possible with it are the possibility to adjust the heel with high precision relative to the lower leg and knee axis, the avoidance of the risk of an injury to the plantar nerves, and a less invasive implant compared to the known surgical techniques using other nails. |
| US09375239B2 |
Spinal fixation devices and methods of use
Disclosed is an orthopedic implant and methods of implantation for fixing adjacent bones. In an embodiment, the implant includes a locking mechanism that is adapted to be advanced by a locking instrument, wherein advancement of the locking mechanism in a first direction produces rotation of a first rigid abutment surface from a first orientation to a second orientation, and continued advancement of the locking mechanism produces advancement of the first rigid abutment surface towards a second rigid abutment surface and placement of a compressive load onto and sufficient to immobilize the implant relative to the first bony surface and the second bony surface. |
| US09375235B2 |
Method and system for transhiatal esophagectomy
Embodiments include a method of performing a medical procedure in a patient. The method includes creating an incision in an abdominal wall of the patient, inserting a flexible guide tube into the incision, and advancing a flexible instrument through the guide tube. The method also includes positioning a distal tip of the guide tube adjacent to a gastroesophageal junction and passing the instrument through an esophageal hiatus. |
| US09375224B2 |
Device for removing tissue
A device for removing tissue by means of laparoscopy or thoracoscopy with an operating part and an optionally partially open hollow tube with a guide for operating a removing part. The removing part has the form of a zeppelin with one or more ribs. The removing part is provided on the upper side with longitudinal connecting elements.Further described is an application of such a device in a surgical treatment wherein, by use of the operating part, the removing part with the form of a zeppelin is opened out, the removed tissue is collected in the expanded bag of the removing part, and the removing part with tissue is pulled optionally at least partially into the open part of the hollow tube. The connecting elements of the removing part can then be brought together and snapped or zipped closed. |
| US09375223B2 |
Methods and devices for endovascular therapy
The present invention provides methods and devices for treating endovascular disease. Vibrational energy is delivered to change compliance and increase permeability at the treatment area. To improve clinical outcomes, one or more therapeutic drugs may be delivered to the treatment area. |
| US09375221B2 |
Orthopaedic cutting block having a chemically etched metal insert
An orthopaedic surgical instrument comprising an orthopaedic cutting block includes a metallic bearing insert configured to support a bone cutting tool and a body molded to the bearing insert. The bearing insert includes a plurality of chemically etched holes, and the body is molded to the bearing insert such that each of the plurality of chemically etched holes is at least partially filled by a portion of the body. The body of the orthopaedic cutting block may include a bone-facing surface adapted to contact a portion of a patient's bone, and the bearing insert may be positioned to allow a surgeon to perform a cut on the patient's bone using the bearing insert for support. A method of manufacturing an orthopaedic surgical instrument is also disclosed. |
| US09375213B2 |
Methods and instruments for treating obesity
The invention relates surgical abdominal methods of treating obesity in a patient by implanting a volume filling device that, when implanted in a patient, reduces the food cavity in size by a volume substantially exceeding the volume of the volume filling device. Also disclosed is a laparoscopic instrument for providing a volume filling device to be invaginated in the stomach wall of a human patient to treat obesity. |
| US09375212B2 |
Circular needle applier with cleats
A surgical suturing device comprises an arced needle having a leading end, a trailing end, and a length of suture. A needle driver is operable to drive the needle in a first rotational direction along a circular path. A cleat projects into the circular path and is operable to engage and prevent the needle from rotating in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction. The cleat may project inward into the plane of the circular path. |
| US09375206B2 |
Surgical instrument with disengageable handle
The invention relates to a surgical instrument comprising: —a distal tool (5) securely fastened to a distal end of a rotation shaft (4) and rotatably mounted on and in the extension of a distal member (30) rotatably mounted at an end of an elongated arm (3), —an comprising motorized means (20) for actuating the distal motion of the distal tool (5) and further comprising controlling means (21) for a user to control the motorized means (20); —a handle (1) extending from the actuation unit (2) and comprising a lever (11) mechanically coupled to the distal tool (5) for actuation of said distal tool (5); characterized in that the handle (1) has a non-axially-symmetric shape and is mounted on and in the extension of the actuation unit (2) with coupling means (12, 22) enabling rotation of the handle (1) relative to the actuation unit (2) around the longitudinal axis, and wherein the controlling means (21) are adapted to be operated by the user whatever the rotational position of the handle (1) relative to the actuation unit (2). |
| US09375204B2 |
Biopsy system with integrated imaging
A structurally integrated biopsy system includes a movable base having wheels to facilitate movement of the structurally integrated biopsy system. On the movable based there is mounted a tissue removal system, an ultrasound imaging system, and a controller. The tissue removal system includes a probe connector configured to connect to a tissue removal probe. The ultrasound imaging system is configured to generate an ultrasound image of a body region of a patient, and has an image display system having an image display screen to display ultrasound images taken by the ultrasound imaging system. The controller is configured to be in communication with each of the tissue removal system and the ultrasound imaging system to both provide control information for the ultrasound imaging system and provide control information for the tissue removal system in the structurally integrated biopsy system. |
| US09375202B2 |
Device and method for in vivo cytology acquisition
A device, system and method for cytology acquisition which may be performed with a swallowable in vivo device, specifically with a swallowable endoscopy capsule. The swallowable capsule may comprise a rotatable drum, a brush attached onto the drum for brushing against a tissue and acquiring cytology, and a porthole through which the brush may be in contact with the tissue. |
| US09375198B2 |
Methods and systems for enhancing ultrasonic visibility of energy-delivery devices within tissue
Electrosurgical systems generally include at least one energy-delivery device for delivering energy to tissue when inserted or embedded within tissue. The energy-delivery device can be a tissue ablation device, such as an ablation probe, needle, etc. for ablating tissue as commonly known in the art. The electrosurgical systems include at least one structure and/or operational characteristic for enhancing ultrasonic visibility of the energy-delivery devices within tissue during ultrasonography. |
| US09375197B2 |
Systems and methods for inverted beamforming
Systems and methods for time-delay inverted beamforming are provided. One method includes sampling, substantially uniformly in time, a set of continuous-time element signals to form a set of sampled element signals and mapping, for each sampled element signal, one or more samples substantially equally spaced in time to one or more samples non-equally spaced in time corresponding to the respective contribution of each element signal to a continuous-time beamsum signal. The method also includes forming a beamsum signal sampled substantially uniformly in time from the non-uniformly spaced, mapped samples corresponding to each sampled element signal. |
| US09375191B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining three-dimensional reconstruction of an object
A computer-implemented method for determining a 3D surface reconstruction of an object, which comprises generating a first 3D surface reconstruction of the object from a plurality of 2D images of the object obtained from different perspectives. A region of interest of the object is specified. At least one viewing direction is determined for viewing the specified region of interest. At least one 2D image of the object corresponding to the at least one viewing direction is obtained. A second 3D surface reconstruction of the object is generated from all or part of the 2D images used to generate the first 3D surface reconstruction and the at least one 2D image of the object corresponding to the at least one viewing direction for the specified region of interest. A corresponding apparatus and computer program are also disclosed. |
| US09375189B1 |
X-ray stick marker
The x-ray stick marker includes a shaft having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending through the shaft between the proximal end and the distal end. A handle is disposed at the proximal end of the shaft and a marking tip is disposed at the distal end of the shaft. The handle includes an actuating button configured to control the release of the marking tip. The marking tip is configured for marking the skin of the patient. To avoid exposure to radiation, a user may maintain a suitable distance from the patient when positioning the marking tip on a designated location of the patient's skin for drawing a mark thereon. |
| US09375185B2 |
Systems and methods for acquiring calibration data usable in a pulse oximeter
The present disclosure includes a portable physiological monitor including a first local display and configured to communicate with a second physiological monitor including a second display. |
| US09375182B2 |
System and method for acquisition of biopotential signals with motion artifact reduction
A biopotential signal acquisition system including an analog readout unit configured to receive an analog biopotential signal, which may be acquired from at least one electrode attached to a body; and to extract an analog measured biopotential signal and an analog reference signal. The system also includes an ADC unit configured to provide a digital version of the analog measured biopotential signal and the analog reference signal, a digital filter unit configured to calculate a digital motion artifact estimate based on the digital version of the measured biopotential signal and the reference signal. The system further comprises a reference signal processing unit configured to convert the reference signal into a new reference signal being provided to the digital filter unit based on the correlation between the measured biopotential signal and the reference signal. |
| US09375179B2 |
Single radio-transparent connector for multi-functional reference patch
A patch and sensor assembly has a biosensor housed in a reusable portion that connects to a mapping and localization system (MLS) via biosensor wires. A disposable portion has an electrode layer through which signals are transmitted to the MLS via ACL wires. The biosensor and ACL wires extend through a single cable exiting the reusable portion. The disposable portion includes an adhesive layer for adhering the electrode layer to a foam layer on the electrode layer, and an engagement element for detachably receiving at least a portion of the housing of the reusable portion. The reusable portion includes a housing in which the biosensor has biosensor wires that exit the reusable portion. The housing is also adapted to carry and/or provide support to an ACL contact member responsive to the electrode layer of the disposable portion, and ACL wires that exit the reusable portion. |
| US09375178B2 |
Systems and methods for aligning a medical device with a pelvic axis
One embodiment of a system described herein can include an axis guide for placement over a patient's right and left ASIS and at least two guides attachable to the axis guide to provide a through hole that is perpendicular to the axis guide. The system can further include at least two probes that can fit through the through holes and extend beyond an end of the axis guide by a predetermined distance, as well as at least two bone engaging pins that fit through the through holes. When the guides are assembled to the axis guide and the probes are assembled to the guides, the axis guide can be placed so that the probes contact the patient's pelvis and the probes can be replaced by the pins to mount the pins to the patient's pelvis in a known orientation. |
| US09375174B2 |
Allowing measurements to be made of a blood sample
An apparatus and a method for measuring a property of a blood sample is shown. The apparatus comprises of a housing having an aperture; a shaft mounted inside the housing; a testing member rotatably mounted on the shaft; an actuating member coupled to the housing and configured to exert a force against the testing member; and a lancet for eliciting a blood sample fixedly coupled to and protruding substantially radially from the testing member and configured to co-rotate with the testing member. The apparatus is further configured such that the lancet is aligned with the aperture in the housing when the testing member is in a first position. The testing member is configured, in the presence of a force exerted against the testing member by the actuator member, to translate to a second position in which the lancet is in a skin penetrating position. |
| US09375173B2 |
Implantable electrochemical biosensor system and method
Correction for initial variation in thickness of a polymer layer and for changes in the coating thickness that occur after implantation of a biosensor and therefore provides substantial increase in the accuracy and lifetime of implantable sensors is done using a factor derived from the decay of potential. |
| US09375172B2 |
Apparatus for substance detection
A sensing apparatus for detecting light of first and second fluorescent wavelength bands has a light source to generate an excitation wavelength to a first collimator element. A dichroic multiplexer has a first coated surface oblique to the optical axis and treated to transmit the excitation wavelength and to reflect the second fluorescent wavelength band and a second coated surface treated to transmit the excitation wavelength and the second fluorescent wavelength band and to reflect the first fluorescent wavelength band. A focusing element focuses the excitation light toward a light guide and directs collimated light of the first and second fluorescent wavelength bands from the light guide to the dichroic multiplexer. A first detector element is in the path of reflected light of the first fluorescent wavelength band and a second detector element is in the path of reflected light of the second fluorescent wavelength band. |
| US09375168B2 |
Apparatus and method for collecting cord blood
The invention is devices and methods for collecting fetal blood from the umbilical cord and placenta after the birth of a baby. Embodiments of the invention are open circuit devices and methods that allow collection of relatively large quantities of cord blood while reducing the risk of contamination to levels lower than those presently associated with closed circuit systems. Other embodiments are methods and devices for use in closed system procedures that increase the amount of blood collected and also reduce the amount of contamination in presently employed closed systems. |
| US09375167B2 |
Blood vessel sizing device
Medical devices and methods for determining the size of blood vessels are disclosed. In one implementation, a blood vessel sizing device is configured for placement on an area of skin of a patient. The device includes a plurality of radiopaque concentric-circle elements. In one implementation, a blood vessel sizing method includes placing a marker having a plurality of concentric-circle elements on the skin of a patient, imaging a blood vessel of the patient and the device, and comparing the imaged blood vessel to the imaged circles to determine the blood vessel size, the concentric-circle elements allowing a determination of size without errors of parallax. |
| US09375163B2 |
Location sensing using a local coordinate system
An invasive medical probe includes an insertion tube, having a proximal end and a distal end configured for insertion into a body of a patient. Multiple arms extend distally from the distal end of the insertion tube. Each arm has a distal tip and includes a magnetic transducer and an adhesive element, which is configured to removably attach the distal tip to a tissue surface within the body. |
| US09375161B2 |
System and method for detecting cardiac arrhythmias from heart nerve activity
A method has been developed that detects cardiac arrhythmia from intrinsic cardiac nerve signals obtained from a heart in a patient. The method includes sampling intrinsic cardiac nerve activity at a high sample rate, filtering the sampled signal with a high pass filter, comparing the filtered signal to a predetermined threshold, and initiating a therapeutic action in response to the filtered signal exceeding the predetermined threshold. The intrinsic cardiac nerve activity may be received through an electrode implanted on the heart or from an electrode inserted into the venous structure of the heart. |
| US09375158B2 |
Systems and methods for providing beam scan patterns for high speed doppler optical frequency domain imaging
An exemplary apparatus and/or an exemplary method can be provided using which, it is possible (e.g., with at least one first arrangement) to measure an amplitude and/or a phase of at least one electromagnetic radiation provided from a particular portion of a sample. Further, it is possible (e.g., using at least one second arrangement) to scan a location of the particular portion along a path from a first point of the sample to a second point of the sample. In addition, it is possible to control the scan (e.g., with the second arrangement) such that the scan may comprise at least one first segment having a positive velocity and at least one segment having a negative velocity. A first distance of the first segment and/or the second segment can be smaller than a second distance between the first and second points. |
| US09375151B1 |
Acute ischemia detection based on parameter value range estimation
A method for detecting acute ischemia is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of determining ST segment deviations and storing the results in heart rate based histograms. The histogram data is periodically analyzed to estimate a true range of ST deviation for a particular heart rate range. A current threshold for a heart rate range is set by estimating the true range of ST deviations within that bin, determining the median value of ST deviations within the range, and basing thresholds on the range and median value. The true range for a particular heart rate bin is estimated by locating ST deviation values between which reside a predetermined percentage of all ST deviation values collected for that bin. |
| US09375139B2 |
Arthroscopic system
An arthroscope having an elongated core with a square radial cross section. |
| US09375133B2 |
Endoscopic observation support system
A virtual field of view of a virtual endoscope, which is positioned at a position corresponding to a detected position of an endoscope in a 3D medical image, is determined based on a position of a structure of interest, the corresponding position and a posture of the endoscope, and an angle of view of the endoscope, such that the position of the structure of interest is contained within the virtual field of view and the virtual field of view has continuity with the field of view of the endoscope. From the 3D medical image inputted, a virtual endoscopic image having the determined virtual field of view with the view point thereof being the corresponding position of the endoscope is generated. The generated virtual endoscopic image is displayed on a WS display. |
| US09375131B2 |
Lint roller with secured agitator arm
A cleaning apparatus configured for removing debris or lint from clothing by agitating lint and then rolling it off. The cleaning apparatus includes a handle with a first end and a second end, a cleaning roll support extending from the handle second end and terminating at a distal end, an agitator arm extending from the handle second end parallel to the cleaning roll support and terminating at a distal end and an end cap rotatably connected to the agitator arm distal end. The end cap is configured to be rotatable between an open position away from the cleaning roll support and a closed position in which the end cap engages with the distal end of the cleaning roll support. |
| US09375130B2 |
Spray control assembly for a dishwashing appliance with directional control for spray arms
A spray control assembly for a dishwashing appliance is provided. Using concentric flow paths, the spray control assembly allows selection of e.g., the rotational direction for at least one spray arm assembly. The selection of flow through e.g., multiple different spray assemblies is also provided. The spray control assembly incorporates a diverter having multiple port selections. |
| US09375129B2 |
Rotating filter for a dishwashing machine
A dishwasher with a tub at least partially defining a washing chamber, a liquid spraying system for spraying liquid within the washing chamber, a liquid recirculation system defining a recirculation flow path, and a liquid filtering system. The liquid filtering system includes a rotating filter disposed in the recirculation flow path to filter the liquid. |
| US09375127B2 |
Spray assembly for a dishwasher appliance
The present subject matter provides a dishwasher appliance and a spray assembly for the same. The spray assembly includes a rotatable spray member, a biasing mechanism for rotating the spray member in a first rotational direction, and a plurality of nozzles mounted to the spray member. The plurality of nozzles is configured for directing wash fluid out of the spray member. The spray member rotates in a second rotational direction when wash fluid flows out of the plurality of nozzles. |
| US09375122B2 |
Automated brushroll cleaning
A cleaning device agitator system having an agitator and one or more cleaning members. The agitator has first and second ends, a longitudinal axis and one or more agitating devices. One or more friction surfaces may project from the spindle. The cleaning members are adjacent the agitator and adapted to move between a first position and a second position. In at least the second position, the cleaning members engage the agitator, such as by engaging the friction surfaces, to remove debris. Agitator and cleaning members may be incorporated into a cleaning head having an inlet nozzle and a chamber in which the agitator rotates, and there may be an activation mechanism using, for example, a resilient member to move the cleaning members. An overload protection device may be provided, and may adjust its sensitivity depending on whether the cleaning devices are in the first or second position. |
| US09375121B2 |
Vacuum hose storage system
A vacuum hose storage system comprises a vacuum unit, a storage tube, and a vacuum hose. The vacuum unit is fluidly connected to the storage tube, and is operable to generate a partial vacuum within the storage tube. The vacuum hose can be draw in into the storage tube by the partial vacuum. The vacuum hose can be removed from the storage tube and connected to an inlet to provide a partial vacuum within the vacuum hose. |
| US09375120B2 |
Dust collector for cleaner
A dust collector for a cleaner is provided, including: a dust container, a cyclone separator and a dust container top cover. The dust container defines an air inlet in a bottom wall thereof. The cyclone separator is disposed in the dust container and defines a cyclone separator inlet communicated with the air inlet and a cyclone separator outlet. The dust container top cover covers the dust container and defines an air outlet communicated with the cyclone separator outlet. |
| US09375119B2 |
Robot cleaner and method for controlling the same
Disclosed are a robot cleaner, and a method for controlling the same.Firstly, a sound source direction and a sound source position may be detected by one or more microphones, e,g., three microphones, and a specific event sound may be recognized. Then, the recognized specific event sound may be output to a cleaner body in the form of a message, or may be provided via a communication network. This can allow the circumstances to be easily monitored.Secondly, a sound recognition function may be updated using an ambient sound, for sound recognition from background noise and environmental noise, in a robust and precise manner. This can enhance a sound recognition rate, and improve stability and efficiency.Thirdly, the robot cleaner may be moved to a detected direction or position of a sound source with respect to an event sound. Then, image information may be detected, or whether an abnormal situation has occurred or not may be determined. Such information may be provided via a communication network. |
| US09375118B2 |
Device for dispensing pre-cut rolled or Z-folded wiping material
The invention relates to an apparatus including a housing having a cover and a pivotably mounted flap, said housing receiving a module that receives the strip of precut material. Said module is arranged with a transverse supporting plate, and a flap that is pivotably mounted relative to said module and to said supporting plate while being placed in front of the latter and opposite the inner front surface of the cover so as to enable the material strip to pass therethrough. The module hingedly receives, in front of the flap, a cover plate that is profiled, on the top edge thereof, with an edge, which is oriented toward the inside of the flap and which is suitable for projecting from the top of said flap so as to make it possible to guide the material strip between said flap and said cover plate. Said flap and the cover plate are arranged in a complementary manner on both sides of central notches, with one or more slots and one or more ribs that are capable of penetrating into said slot(s) when closing the cover, wherein the flap and the transverse supporting plate are coupled together so as to be limitedly pivotable such that the operator can access the inner space between the flap and the cover plate. |
| US09375115B2 |
Bathtub overlay
In accordance with one embodiment, a method is disclosed including providing a first opening in a sidewall of a bathtub, the sidewall including a top wall, an inner wall, and a outer wall, where the first opening extends along a length of the sidewall and has a depth extending generally downward from the top wall of the sidewall. The method further includes providing an overlay, the overlay including a body configured to receive at least a portion of the bathtub, wherein the body defines a channel and a second opening and positioning the overlay such that the overlay substantially covers the top wall of the sidewall and the sidewall is positioned within the channel defined by the body of the overlay, where the first opening is aligned with the second opening. The overlay can include at least one assistance feature. The assistance feature may include, for example, a seat, a grab bar, or a handrail. |
| US09375114B2 |
Hot beverage maker with cleaning apparatus and related method
A hot beverage maker is provided with a removable pump for cleaning a brewing needle. The pump fits into a brewing chamber which normally receives a pod of an infusible beverage material. A pod receptacle and a lid pivotally connected to the housing form the brewing chamber, After a brewing cycle or when cleaning of the brewing needle is desired, an interior chamber of the pump is filled with cleaning fluid and the pump inserted into the pod receptacle. When the lid is closed, the brewing needle is inserted into the interior chamber. The lid is closed and released repeatedly to operate the pump. This creates a pumping action of the cleaning fluid through the brewing needle to dislodge a buildup of minerals or residual deposits. The used cleaning fluid and dislodged deposits are discarded after the cleaning operation is completed. |
| US09375113B2 |
Coffee machine
An arrangement for a coffee machine includes a filter holder adapted to receive a filter to be filled with ground coffee. The filter holder includes an outlet below which a container to be filled with coffee may be positioned. A bracket is arranged on the coffee machine. The bracket and coffee holder are constructed so that the filter holder is removably attached to the bracket. A locking mechanism is attached to the bracket to lock the filter holder in a locked position when the container to be filled with coffee is arranged below the outlet. |
| US09375106B2 |
Bowl/mug system with a figurine for playing with food
A bowl or mug system has various extensions from the handle or rim portions that are indicative of parts of various sports games, such as soccer and hockey nets, field-goal posts, and other extensions containing openings, holes, or back stops that are connected to the rim or handle of a mug and extend over the open container portion of the mug or bowl. Embodiments also contain launching platforms formed opposite from the sports equipment. |
| US09375103B1 |
Illuminated image assembly
An illuminated image assembly includes an assembly frame; an illumination insert including an insert frame disposed within the assembly frame and a plurality of LEDs embedded within the insert frame and extending along an entire perimeter of the insert frame; and at least one image carried by the assembly frame in light-receiving relationship to the plurality of LEDs. |
| US09375102B2 |
Portion of shelf and support for shelving unit
A shelving unit includes formed front and rear beams providing shelf supporting and lower flanges, respectively. A C-shaped tie bar extends centrally between respective front and rear beams and is captured between the beam flanges with tie bar ends engaging the beams providing loaded shelf support and resisting loaded beam twisting. |
| US09375097B2 |
Convertible walker
A convertible walker/rider includes a frame and a seat assembly, and is convertible between a riding mode and a walking mode. The frame includes a pair of substantially horizontally oriented base legs and an upright portion coupled to and extending generally upwardly from the base legs. The seat assembly is pivotally mounted to the upright portion and includes a seat platform, a pair of seat support legs generally extending from the seat platform, and a seat handle extending between the seat support legs. The seat assembly is positionable in either a seated position for operating the convertible walker in a riding mode or in an upright position for operating the convertible walker in a walking mode. The base legs can be selectively adjustable to widen or lessen the distance therebetween. |
| US09375093B1 |
Chair with selectively mutable decor and method
A chair has a selectively mutable decor, readily changed selectively by providing at least one of the component parts of the chair with a transparent wall surrounding an inner chamber for receiving any one of a plurality of decorative components through an access to the inner chamber. The access preferably is closed with a closure, the closure being removable to open access to the inner chamber for insertion of a selected decorative component, and being secured to capture the inserted decorative component within the inner chamber for viewing through the surrounding wall. A wide variety of decorative components is available, enabling the decor of the chair to be changed to accommodate the requirements of the venue within which the chair is to be placed. |
| US09375092B2 |
Outdoor chaise lounge with integrated lock-box to secure valuables
An outdoor chaise lounge may include a frame, multiple legs coupled to and extending below the frame to support the frame, a seat member coupled to the frame to enable a user to sit or lay on the seat member, a lock-box fixedly supported by the frame that enables a user of the outdoor chaise lounge to store and lock items therein. The lock-box may include a lock-box door inclusive of a user interface that enables a user to lock and unlock the lock-box. A door member may be coupled to the seat member and have a closed position and an open position such that when said door member is in the open position, the user has access to the user interface on the lock-box door. |
| US09375087B1 |
Bracket and mounting device thereof
A bracket includes a base, at least one mounting member, and a mounting device. The base includes an end plate through which the mounting member extends. The mounting device includes an engaging member and an elastic member. The engaging member includes a supported portion, an engaging projection, and an arm portion connected therebetween. The supported portion is pressed against the base. The arm portion extends through the end plate such that an engaging distance exists between the engaging projection and the end plate. The elastic member applies an elastic force to the engaging member to keep the engaging projection at a predetermined position where, because of the engaging distance, the engaging projection blocks or is engaged with an intended object. |
| US09375086B2 |
Removable corner guard for control tables or tool boxes
A removable corner guard is provided. The removable corner guard is especially suitable for protecting the corners of, for example, control tables or tool boxes from deformations and from scratches. Further, the corner guard may be used as decorative addition to an otherwise plain control table or tool box. The device has a semi-rigid rubber housing which covers securing anchors having an internal skeleton. An extended ridge on a lower end of the corner guard locks the corner guard at the lower end of the edge of the control table. The corner guard may be adjusted to fit control tables or tool boxes of various sizes. A non-slip textured exterior surface may allow for the device to be easily transported. |
| US09375084B2 |
Drawer glide mechanism
A drawer glide mechanism can include a first elongate guide member, a second elongate guide member, a ball bearing component, a v-notch socket, a release mechanism, and/or a roller support. The first elongate guide member can include a distal end that is configured to fit within an opening in the v-notch socket. The drawer glide mechanism can further include one or more floating members and fixed members. In some cases, the drawer glide mechanism includes a release member configured to facilitate separation of the first and second elongate guide members when actuated and to inhibit or prevent accidental separation of the first and second elongate guide members. |
| US09375083B2 |
Ejection device for a movable furniture part
A lockable ejection device for a movable furniture part includes an ejection element acting on the movable furniture part in an opening direction, a housing, and a locking element arranged in or on the housing. At least in the closing direction of the movable furniture part, the path of the ejection element in the opening direction can be blocked by the locking element. Both when excess pressure is applied to the movable furniture part from a closed position in the closing direction and when the movable furniture part is pulled from the closed position in the opening direction, the ejection element can be released by the locking element. Both when excess pressure is applied to the movable furniture part and when the movable furniture part is being pulled, the ejection element can be unlocked by a movement of the locking element relative to the housing. |
| US09375082B2 |
Table leg assembly and hook
In combination, a table and a hook member. The table including a worksurface and a leg structure having two vertical legs with an elongate horizontal intermediate beam extending between the legs spaced proximate to but below the lower surface of the worksurface. The hook member removably engaged on the horizontal beam to support elements hang on the hook member. |
| US09375081B2 |
Wall-mounted cabinet
Wall-mounted cabinet comprising a body (1) on each side of which is arranged a linear actuator (4). The linear actuator comprises a spindle (6) with a spindle nut, where the spindle is driven by a reversible electric motor via a transmission. The spindle nut is attached directly or indirectly to the side of the body (1), such that the body is lowered or raised in dependency of the direction of the revolution of the motor. The construction has the advantage that the internal of the body is completely clean for mechanical parts which lowers and raises the body. Moreover, the actuators only take up minimum space on the outer side of the body. |
| US09375079B2 |
Work station for medical dose preparation system
Embodiments of work stations for use in medical dose preparation management system. A work station may include a camera stand. The camera stand may include a housing enclosing a camera and one or more light sources therein. As such, the camera and light sources may be directed at a medical dose preparation staging region to capture medical dose preparation images of the medical dose preparation staging region. The camera stand may include an adjustable support positionable in a plurality of positions to dispose the camera and light source relative to the medical dose preparation staging region. A base with a removable tray may be provided that include medical receptacle engagement features. The work stations may facilitate improved image quality, efficiency of work flows carried out at the work station, and administrative tasks such as cleaning. |
| US09375078B2 |
Roll cab stability device
A dual-bracket roll stability device is disclosed that prevents a roll cab from tipping over when the drawers of the roll cab are in a fully-extended position. A first bracket can be coupled to a side of a roll cab and a second bracket can be coupled to a bottom of the roll cab. The brackets each include portions that extend outward to contact the ground when the roll cab begins to tip. These portions are coupled together to distribute the load along the bottom and side portions of the roll cab. Accordingly, when the drawers of the roll cab are fully extended, the stability device can maintain the roll cab's balance while remaining discrete and spatially compact. |
| US09375077B2 |
Apparatus for the production of brushes or bristled-wares and brush or bristled-wares
In an apparatus (1a) for the production of brushes or bristled-wares (9) having bristle bundles (3) melted at a fastening-side end, a reception sleeve (2) made from silica glass, crystal glass, glass ceramic and/or an alloy thereof for the positive, at least regional reception of a bristle bundle (3), on the one hand, and of a functional part (4) arranged, in the bristle longitudinal direction, behind its fastening-side end, on the other hand, are provided. Action elements (6) for acting upon the free ends of the bristle bundle (3) and of the functional part (4) and for acting with force upon the bristle bundle (3) and/or the functional part (4) in the bristle longitudinal direction, a heating device (7), arranged outside the reception sleeve (2), for heating the mutually confronting ends of the bristle bundle (3) and of the functional part (4) and for melting on the bristle bundle (3) and a cooling device (8), arranged outside the reception sleeve (2), for cooling the previously melted-on bristle bundle (3) are provided (FIG. 3). |
| US09375074B2 |
Clip for attaching articles together
A clip system includes a first resilient clip member having a curved rear wall portion and finger gripping portions sufficiently resilient that when pressed together by the fingers of an operator, the jaw portions will open and when released will be urged toward an abutted condition, the curved rear wall portion having a first aperture with a concave recess at an outer surface, a slot extending from the first aperture to a second aperture located a predefined distance from the first aperture where the slot is narrower than the first aperture and the second aperture, and a detent connected to the clip member and adjacent to the slot, and a tether member rotationally and pivotally connected to and retained in the first aperture. |
| US09375068B2 |
Click-type applicator
In a click-type applicator, when the propelling element is moved forwards by a clicking operation, the advancing motion is transformed into a rotary motion of a transfer cam element in one direction by the function of guide slots of the propelling element and projected parts so that when a cam portion of transfer cam element meshes with a cam portion at the rear of a rotary cam element, the rotation of the transfer cam element causes rotary cam element to rotate and thereby move the screw shaft and hence a piston forwards. On the other hand, by releasing the clicking operation, propelling element is moved backwards due to the repulsive force of a spring, and the backward motion is transformed into a rotary motion of transfer cam element in the other direction by the function of the guide slots and projected parts so as to restore the original position. |
| US09375066B1 |
Ring box with rotating ring holder
A ring box having a rotating ring holder, wherein movement of one or more lids as the ring box is opened or closed drives rotation of the ring holder. In some embodiments the depth of the ring box in its closed configuration can be substantially similar to the depth of the ring holder. |
| US09375062B2 |
Flexible sports bag
The present invention replaces the traditional steel and plastic construction primarily used in sports equipment bags to provide a novel sports equipment bag with flexibility, durability, strength, and a net weight reduction. The sports bag of the present invention integrates optionally removable composite rods into the frame structure of a sports bag to allow for significant flexibility and compression thereof for general transport, storage, shipping and handling purposes, and yet the sports bag is also capable of holding a semi-rigid exterior to a given volume and shape when in regular use. The present invention also discloses a sports equipment bag with a novel folding floor to assist with the flexible and collapsible nature of a sports equipment bag. |
| US09375058B2 |
Fixturing apparatus
A fixturing apparatus that includes a member having a first end, a second end, a first surface, and a second surface, wherein the member is configured to include a bend such that the first end overlies the second end, wherein the member is formed to include an aperture extending therethrough at the bend, a plurality of locking teeth disposed on the first surface adjacent the second end, wherein the distal ends of each of the plurality of locking teeth define a passage between the plurality of locking teeth and the first surface adjacent the first end. |
| US09375051B2 |
Article with coloring layer and control surface layer
An article, such as an article of footwear or an article of apparel, includes an upper having a gradient-like coloring pattern. The article further includes protruding elements configured in a pattern that corresponds to the coloring pattern. The article may have a layered structure including a base layer, a coloring ink layer and a layer of protruding elements. |
| US09375049B2 |
Spacer textile materials and methods for manufacturing the spacer textile materials
A spacer textile material may include a first layer, a second layer, and a plurality of connecting members extending between and joining the first layer and the second layer. The connecting members may form a series of at least ten rows that are separated by spaces. The rows have a width that is less than a width of the spaces, and the connecting members form at least one stabilizing row with a width that is greater than the width of the spaces. |
| US09375044B2 |
Anti-fog visor with opposed vents
A head-protector is described herein having a shell that is dimensioned to fit on the head of a user. The shell is formed with an opening to expose the face of the user. A locking mechanism attaches a lens to the shell and allows the lens to be pivoted between an operational position in which the lens covers the opening of the shell and a stowed position. Vents are established between an edge of the lens and the shell to establish an airflow over the inside surface of the lens to reduce fogging when the head-protector is subjected to an outside airflow such as wind. The vents can include a first vent that extends across the forehead of the user between the edge of the lens and the shell and a second vent that extends across the chin of the user between the edge of the lens and the shell. |
| US09375036B2 |
Zipper attached sports glove with fly cover protection
A method of protecting a participant user, participant player, players, referee, official, coach or spectator from skin contact with an exposed connector by isolating the connector of a sports glove, which includes a front palm portion having finger stalls for insertion of fingers therein, and a rear back joinable portion which is attachable to said front palm portion by a connector, such as a zipper. The method includes the step of removably covering the zipper connector with a friction fit fly cover having an attachment end and a free end, wherein further lifting of the free end of the fly cover exposes the zipper for participant user engagement therewith. The fly cover prevents any exposure of the metallic or plastic connector. |
| US09375033B2 |
Tobacco-containing gel composition
A smokeless tobacco gel product is providing, including a tobacco material in an amount of at least about 0.01 weight percent, based on the total weight of the smokeless tobacco gel product; at least about 50 percent by weight of one or more sugar alcohols; a humectant in an amount of at least about 0.1 weight percent; and water in an amount of at least about 10 weight percent. The tobacco material (e.g., particulate tobacco or a tobacco extract such as tobacco-derived nicotine) can be present in an amount of about 0.1 to about 10 weight percent. The humectant amount can be varied to vary the properties of the gel product, with more paste-like consistency achieved with a humectant amount of at least about 7 weight percent, and more syrup-like consistency achieved with a humectant amount of less than about 6 weight percent. |
| US09375031B2 |
Method device for making a fruit juice and a corresponding container
Method for making a fruit juice and a container for said juice having the steps of:—procuring a fruit (9) having an outer rind (91) and containing pulp (92) inside it, said rind (91) externally delimiting an imaginary internal space (94) containing said pulp (92);—making a first hole (93) through the rind (91);—inserting a tool (30) through the first hole (93) into said imaginary space (94);—moving said tool (30) relative to the pulp (92) within the imaginary space (94) transforming the pulp (92) at least partly into juice, said juice being positioned within the imaginary space (94) delimited by the rind (91), said rind (91) acting as a container for the juice;—extracting said tool (30), the juice being substantially inside the rind (91) during the step of extracting the tool (30). |
| US09375030B2 |
Method for preserving drinks
Method of stabilizing drinks which is characterized in that A) the drink is admixed with limonene or limonene-containing formulations and B) subsequently dialkyl dicarbonate, in particular dimethyl dicarbonate, is added to the drink. |
| US09375029B2 |
Food supplement
The invention relates to food supplements comprising silica a quaternary ammonium compound or a group Ia hydroxide and an organic acid, and to those comprising a group Ia silicon salt and an organic acid, to methods of making such supplements and to foods containing them. |
| US09375028B2 |
Compositions and methods for nutrient delivery
The present disclosure provides compositions and methods for delivering nutrients to subjects requiring small-volume nutritional support, such as preterm infants. The compositions may comprise an emulsion of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA). The nutritional compositions are useful, for example, in correcting nutritional deficiencies by increasing a subject's intake of nutrients, such as ω-3 or ω-6 long-chain polyunsaturated acids. The nutritional compositions are suitable for enteral delivery as a nutritional supplement or for oral delivery as a human milk or infant formula fortifier. |
| US09375023B2 |
Sunflower oil with high heat stability
The invention relates to a sunflower oil with high heat stability, which is characterized in that between 15% and 45% of the fatty acid total are saturated fatty acids (palmitic acid and stearic acid), between 45% and 75% of the fatty acid total is oleic acid and more than 85% of the tocopherol total corresponds to the sum of gamma-tocopherol and delta-tocopherol. The invention also relates to sunflower seeds that contain an oil with the aforementioned characteristics and sunflower plants which as a result of self-pollination produce seeds with the aforementioned characteristics. In addition, the invention relates to the use of said oil in food and animal feed and for the formulation of biolubricants and biofuels. |
| US09375022B2 |
Food product heat treatment apparatus and method for heat treating food products
A food product heat treatment apparatus for heat-sensitive fluid food products, including an inlet for supplying the food product, an outlet for discharging the heat treated food product, a holding device downstream the inlet for holding the food product a specific time at a specific temperature, and a back pressure device downstream the holding device, wherein the holding device is a positive displacement holding device and/or a self cleaning holding device. A method for heat treating a heat-sensitive fluid food product, including supplying the food product to an inlet, heat treating the food product by holding the food product a specific time at a specific temperature in a holding device, providing a back pressure device downstream the holding device, and discharging the heat treated food product through an outlet, wherein the back pressure device includes a cooled valve and/or the food product is positively displaced through the holding device. |
| US09375021B2 |
Combination oven with reduced smoke flavor transfer
A combination oven for cooking with heat and steam provides a boiler system for creating steam and includes a smoker appliance for generating smoke flavor during the cooking process. An oven controller detecting the use of the smoke appliance institutes a flushing and filling of the boiler after such use to reduce the transfer of smoke flavors to food that is subsequently cooked in the oven. |
| US09375009B2 |
Heteroarylpiperidine and piperazine derivatives as fungicides
Heteroarylpiperidine and -piperazine derivatives of the formula (I) in which the symbols RA1, RA2, X, Y, L1, L2, RB1, RB2, G, Q, p, R1, R2 and R10 are each as defined in the description, and salts, metal complexes and N-oxides of the compounds of the formula (I), and the use thereof for controlling phytopathogenic harmful fungi and processes for preparing compounds of the formula (I). |
| US09375006B2 |
5- halogenopyrazole benzofuranyl carboxamides
The present invention relates to novel 1-methyl-3-dihalogenomethyl-5-halogenopyrazole(thio)benzofuranyl carboxamides, to processes for preparing these compounds, to compositions comprising these compounds, and to the use thereof as biologically active compounds, especially for control of harmful microorganisms in crop protection and in the protection of materials. |
| US09375002B2 |
5-aminopyrimidine derivatives and use thereof for combating undesired plant growth
What is described are compounds of the general formula (I) and agrochemically acceptable salts thereof and their use in the field of crop protection. |
| US09375000B2 |
Pesticidal arylpyrrolidines
Arylpyrrolidines of Formula (I): wherein each substituent is as defined in the specification, and use thereof as pesticides and animal parasite-controlling agents. |
| US09374999B2 |
Biocide compositions
Disclosed are biocide compositions. The compositions are useful in applications relating to the production, transportation, storage, and separation of crude oil and natural gas. Also disclosed are methods of using the compositions, particularly in applications relating to the production, transportation, storage, and separation of crude oil and natural gas. |
| US09374998B2 |
N-cycloalkyl-N-[(cycloalkenylphenyl)methylene]-(thio)carboxamide derivatives
The present invention relates to fungicidal N-cycloalkyl-N-[(cycloalkenylphenyl)methylene]carboxamide derivatives and their thiocarbonyl derivatives, their process of preparation and intermediate compounds for their preparation, their use as fungicides, particularly in the form of fungicidal compositions and methods for the control of phytopathogenic fungi of plants using these compounds or their compositions. |
| US09374996B2 |
Agroformulation comprising copolymer of acrylic acid, poly(alkylene glycol) (meth)acrylate, and alkyl (meth)acrylate
The present invention provides a composition comprising a pesticide and a copolymer, which contains in polymerized form acrylic acid and/or methacrylic acid (monomer A); a mono C12-C22 alkyl terminated poly(C2-6 alkylene glycol)(meth)acrylate (monomer B); and a C1-C8 alkyl(meth)acrylate (monomer C). Further on, it provides a process for preparing said composition by contacting the pesticide and the copolymer; a method for controlling phytopathogenic fungi and/or unwanted plant growth and/or unwanted insect or mite infestation and/or for regulating the growth of plants, wherein said composition is caused to act on the respective pests, their habitat or the plants to be protected from the respective pest, to the soil and/or to unwanted plants and/or the crop plants and/or their habitat; and a plant propagation material comprising said composition. |
| US09374993B2 |
Mouse trap with guillotine killing mechanism
A mouse trap having a guillotine killing mechanism is provided. The trap includes a housing with a door, a guillotine positioned to extend at least partly into an interior of said housing, a trigger mechanism including a lever and catch to hold the guillotine in a raised position to set the trap, and a spring for biasing the guillotine to a lowered killing position when the trigger mechanism is activated to release the guillotine from the raised position. |
| US09374990B2 |
Method and apparatus for laser mosquito control
The present invention provides an apparatus for damaging a flying pest comprising: a housing connected to a continuous perforated side wall to a laser contacting surface; a laser beam generator and a laser rotating mechanism attached to the housing and positioned to transmit a laser beam generally radially downward toward the laser contacting surface in a 360 degree pattern on the laser contacting surface, wherein the laser beam contacts and damages a flying pest; a control mechanism in communication with the laser beam generator to control the generation of the laser beam and in communication with the laser rotating mechanism to control one or more parameters relating to the pattern; and a power supply in electrical communication with the control mechanism, the laser rotating mechanism, and the laser beam generator. |
| US09374987B1 |
Aquarium with adjustable lighting
An aquarium having an adjustable lighting system for enhancing the display of fluorescent objects, such as fluorescent fish, contained within the aquarium under various external lighting conditions, such as a dark room or a brightly lit room. The aquarium comprises a tank and a plurality of light sources. Each light source emits light at a different wavelength spectrum which is selected to enhance the display of the fluorescent object under each type of external lighting condition. An electronic control is provided to control the operation of the plurality of light sources such that each light source may be selectively turned on/off based on the external lighting condition, or chronological criteria, to provide the best viewing experience. |
| US09374986B2 |
Shrimp culturing system
The shrimp culturing system includes a culturing tank and a clarifier tank. A plurality of shrimp cubes are suspended in the culture tank by set pairs of support bars. Each shrimp cube includes a plurality of stacked frames set at predetermined intervals. Each frame supports a mesh therein providing living space for the shrimp, and each stack is interconnected by ropes, which connect to the support bars to be suspended thereby. The shrimp cubes provide maximal space for culturing shrimp. The waste water from the culture tank cycles into the clarifier tank, which nurtures a biofloc to consume the waste and assimilate nitrogen, thereby producing their own waste that can be consumed by the shrimp. Excess solid waste drains via a solids removal manifold, and clarified water is airlifted back into the culture tank. A post-larval tank can be stacked onto the clarifier tank to introduce new batches of shrimp. |
| US09374984B2 |
Elastic dog leash
A dog leash (10) comprising an elastic section (11) having an elliptical section elastic material (12) and an outer braiding (13) whereby the braiding is woven so that it may extend in a limited amount in the direction of the arrow (14) and be limited in that extension by reason of the limitation imposed by the weave on the braiding. |
| US09374983B1 |
Canine clothing article for inclement weather
A clothing article for a dog. The article includes a torso cover extending between the neckline and tail line of the dog and having a width defined by its lateral edges sized to drape over the dog's torso covering at least a portion of it. A belly strap is included extending between the lateral edges and when combined with extenders facilitate the removable attachment of the clothing article to the dog. A hood completes the clothing article which includes a structural frame and webbing for selective attachment to the torso cover, the hood being shaped and sized such that when worn by a dog, it selectively resides above the dog's head without significantly deforming the dog's ears and without significantly obstructing the dog's vision. |
| US09374980B1 |
Cattle feeder
A cattle feeder comprising two end walls and two side walls that are configured to slide laterally inward and outward in relation to the two end walls. The two side walls comprise a plurality of support members that create a distance between the side walls and feed within the feeder. Two horizontal push bars are connected to the support members on the inside of the feeder and are configured to push feed inward as the two side walls slide inward. |
| US09374978B2 |
System and method for transporting sand
A conveyor system for transporting sand that is moved outwardly, from a lower end of an enclosure region in at least one animal stall toward a gutter, to a discharge location. The conveyor system includes a conveyor assembly having a transportation element for moving the sand, a drive subassembly for moving the transportation element on a predetermined path, and one or more guide subassemblies, for guiding the transportation element. The conveyor system also includes one or more support assemblies for at least partially defining a slot in the preselected region in which a part of the transportation element is receivable, for receiving at least a portion of the sand, and one or more grates located at least partially above the part of the transportation element positioned in the preselected region, through which the portion of the sand is permitted to pass. |
| US09374977B2 |
Disposable and biodegradable litter system for animals
A biodegradable litter kit to be used for the collection and disposal of animal waste. The kit includes a litter box having a tray portion and a retractable lid. The tray has a bottom and at least one protruding side to which the lid is connected. The box includes a perforated false bottom positioned within the tray for holding a layer of fresh litter above the bottom of the tray. The perforated false bottom permits for the passage of soiled litter but prevents the passage of fresh litter to the bottom of the tray thus keeping a layer of fresh litter accessible for use by an animal. A separator piece may be included for selective positioning over the layer of fresh litter to maintain it within the box when the box is not in use. The box may include biodegradable accessories. |
| US09374973B2 |
Grass endophytes
An endophyte or endophyte culture of N. lolii species is described that, in combination with a host grass does not cause typical symptoms of ryegrass toxicosis in grazing animals and also contains levels of compounds from the class of janthitrems epoxides to individually or in combination protect the host grass from pests or abiotic stresses or both. Uses and methods are also described to produce and characterize the combination as well as alternative uses for compounds from the class of janthitrem epoxide compounds. |
| US09374972B1 |
Maize inbred PH18RP
A novel maize variety designated PH18RP and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH18RP with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH18RP through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH18RP or a locus conversion of PH18RP with another maize variety. |
| US09374970B1 |
Soybean variety XB16D14
A novel soybean variety, designated XB16D14 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB16D14, cells from soybean variety XB16D14, plants of soybean XB16D14, and plant parts of soybean variety XB16D14. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB16D14 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XB16D14, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB16D14, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XB16D14. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB16D14 are further provided. |
| US09374965B1 |
Maize inbred PH263M
A novel maize variety designated PH263M and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH263M with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH263M through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH263M or a locus conversion of PH263M with another maize variety. |
| US09374962B2 |
Sweet corn hybrid SV9014SB and parents thereof
The invention provides seed and plants of sweet corn hybrid SV9014SB and the parent lines thereof. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of sweet corn hybrid SV9014SB and the parent lines thereof, and to methods for producing a sweet corn plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another sweet corn plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of such plants, including the parts of such plants. |
| US09374961B1 |
Maize inbred PH1D5M
A novel maize variety designated PH1D5M and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH1D5M with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH1D5M or a locus conversion of PH1D5M with another maize variety. |
| US09374960B2 |
Pea line DLSC709-1058
The invention provides seed and plants of the pea line designated DLSC709-1058. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of pea line DLSC709-1058, and to methods for producing a pea plant produced by crossing a plant of pea line DLSC709-1058 with itself or with another pea plant, such as a plant of another line. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of a plant of pea line DLSC709-1058, including the seed, pod, and gametes of such plants. |
| US09374956B2 |
Inbred tomato line FIRXM12-4124
The invention provides seed and plants of tomato line FIRXM12-4124. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of tomato line FIRXM12-4124, and to methods for producing a tomato plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another tomato plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of such plants, including the fruit and gametes of such plants. |
| US09374949B2 |
Irrigation system with heat dissipation assemblies
An irrigation system that includes a plurality of interconnected spans that are supported by tower structures. Each tower structure includes a drive assembly with a drive controller controlling its speed, and a heat dissipation assembly mounted to the applicant conduit carrying an applicant, such as irrigation water. The heat dissipation assembly provides cooling via conductive heat transfer to remove heat generated by the drive controller during operation. |
| US09374948B2 |
Systems and methods for delimbing timber
A tree harvesting system includes a loader and a delimber. A camera system mounted on the delimber permits an operator to view an interaction area between a delimbing saw or toping saw and the tree being cut while the operator remains safely in a cab of the loader. The camera system provides image data to a display system located in the cab of the loader, and the image data may be viewed and/or processed to provide information about the interaction area, physical data about the tree, or some combination thereof. Advantageously, the tree harvesting system may allow for more accurate saw cuts at a preferred location of the tree, which in turn may result in a higher dollar amount and more efficient distribution of sticks to the mills. |
| US09374947B2 |
Wall planting module
Embodiments include a containment unit for a living wall that includes a rear wall with two side walls, a top and a liquid collection trough at the bottom with several ribs extending down the front of the containment unit between the side walls, where the ribs are angled and arranged relative to each other to define vertically stacked openings between sequential ribs that forms horizontal growing surfaces when the containment unit is filled with loose plant growth medium. |
| US09374943B1 |
Agricultural seeder implements
An agricultural seeder implement includes a seed boot connected directly to an opener having a leading extremity and a trailing extremity. The seed boot and the opener form a channel and an outlet. The channel extends forwardly from an inlet of the seed boot proximate to the trailing extremity of the opener to the outlet behind the leading extremity of the opener. The opener is for being pulled for cutting a furrow in the ground by the leading extremity ahead of the outlet, and the channel is for guiding a stream of air-driven seed forwardly therethrough from the inlet and into the furrow through the outlet directed downwardly in the furrow. |
| US09374941B2 |
Sieved compost and hydrogel-based method and composition for seed priming
Provided is a method for seed priming comprising the steps of treating seed with a seed priming composition comprising sieved compost, hydrogel and water in a ratio of sieved compost:hydrogel:water of from about 5:1:4.75 to about 9:1:11 by weight in an amount sufficient to result in priming of the seed. In some embodiments, the seed is treated with from about 2 to about 39 grams of the seed priming composition per gram of seed. In preferred embodiments, the seed composition and the seed priming composition are free of soil or sand. In further preferred embodiments, the seed is blended with the seed priming composition at a temperature of about 5° C. to about 25° C. |
| US09380735B2 |
Container data center and heat dissipation system
A heat dissipation system for cabinet servers supported on a raised floor includes a condenser, airflow adjusting apparatus, a controller, and a temperature sensor located at an air outlet of each cabinet server. The raised floor defines air outlets adjacent to each cabinet server. The adjusting apparatus are mounted to the raised floor and aligning with the air outlets. Each of the airflow adjusting apparatus includes a number of shielding members rotatable relative to the raised floor and aligning with the air outlets, and a motor electrically coupled to the controller. The temperature sensors are electrically coupled to the controller. The condenser generates cool air entering the raised floor through the air inlet, to enter the cabinet servers through the airflow adjusting apparatus and the air outlets. The controller controls the shielding members to rotate, to change the opening size of the air outlets of the raised floor. |
| US09380734B2 |
Container with cooling system
A container includes an air conditioner, a double group of air conductor sheets and a number of racks. The air conditioner includes at least one air outlet. The double group of air conductor sheets is positioned in the at least one air outlet. The double group of air conductor sheet includes a first group of air conductor sheets and a second group of air conductor sheets oriented in different directions. The double group of air conductor sheets is positioned between the racks. The first group of air conductor sheets rotates toward the racks positioned at two sides, and the second group of air conductor sheets rotates toward the racks positioned at two ends. |
| US09380731B2 |
System for air-conditioning the interior of a data processing center
Environment conditioning system of the inner space of a data center (2) is provided with electronic equipment (3). The system (1) includes a passive air-to-air heat exchanger (4), configured to enable heat exchange, without air cross-contamination, between an outer air flow (5) and a recirculation air flow (6). The recirculation air flow (6) comes from the inner space of a data center (2) and it is intended to condition it after passing through the air-to-air heat exchanger (4). |
| US09380729B2 |
Shelf-mounted modular computing unit
A system for performing computing operations includes a rack, one or more shelves coupled to the rack, and two or more computing modules. Each computing module may include a chassis, one or more circuit board assemblies in a primarily vertical orientation, and one or more hard disk drives in a primarily vertical orientation. The circuit board assemblies and the hard disk drives are coupled to the chassis of the computing module. |
| US09380726B2 |
Retainer and thermal displacement apparatus for electronic components, methods of production and applications thereof
Retainers are described that comprise at least one center body component comprising a plurality of center body troughs, and at least one compatible component comprising a plurality of compatible troughs, wherein at least part of the plurality of the compatible troughs couple with at least part of the plurality of center body troughs. In addition, thermal displacement devices are described that incorporate at least one retainers and at least one additional component, wherein the at least one retainer is coupled at least in part to the at least one additional component through a contact area or a substrate, surface or combination thereof, wherein the at least one retainer is coupled with the substrate, surface or combination thereof through a contact area. |
| US09380723B2 |
Housing for encasing an electronic device
An apparatus and system for housing a device include a housing that is configured such that a device may be fitted within the housing and thereby be protected, such as from shocks and/or liquid. The housing may include top and bottom members that may be removably coupled together so as to form the housing. Each top and bottom member optionally includes front and back surfaces surrounded by a perimeter. The perimeter is defined by proximal and distal ends as well as opposing sides. The top and bottom members may include respective clasping mechanisms that extend along the perimeter of the top and bottom members. The clasping mechanisms are configured for coupling the top and bottom members with one another thereby sealing the housing, for instance, in a shock-proof and/or water tight seal. |
| US09380720B2 |
Hinged connector and modular video display assembly containing same
Disclosed are a hinged connector and a video display assembly containing an attachment panel having a front surface and a back surface, with a video display attached to the front surface and at least one hinged connector attached to the back surface. |
| US09380718B2 |
Latch device and server using the same
A latch device is provided, which is used for a server. The latch device comprises: a positioning post fixed on a case of the server; a containing shelf fixed on a top cover of the server; a shifting plate fixed in the containing shelf through at least one fixing parts, wherein the fixing part permits the shifting plate moved along an opening thereof; and a rotating handle jointed with the shifting plate through two rotating axles and able to be moved between a first rotating position and a second rotating position. When the positioning post is inserted into an insertion hole of the shifting plate inside the containing shelf, the rotating handle can drive the containing shelf to be moved backward and forward, so that the top cover is driven to be moved backward and forward with the containing shelf, and the shifting plate is moved therewith. |
| US09380715B2 |
Supporting mechanism for supporting a display module on a base and portable electronic device therewith
A supporting mechanism for supporting a display module on a base includes a stand and a buckling structure. An end of the stand is pivoted to the base, and the buckling structure is pivoted to the other end of the stand and for buckling the display module. The buckling structure includes a housing, at least one buckling component and at least one resilient component. The housing is pivoted to the other end of the stand. The at least one buckling component is movably installed in the housing. The at least one resilient component is installed inside the housing and connected to the at least one buckling component. The at least one resilient component drives the at least one buckling component to buckle a fastening portion of the display module as the housing and the at least one buckling component are inserted into a containing portion on the display module. |
| US09380714B2 |
Portable terminal with crack prevention structure for display device
A portable terminal includes a display module and a case member coupled to the display module. A face of the case member is formed to have a center portion and an edge, which are different from each other in their heights to thereby support a center portion of the display module in lengthwise and widthwise directions of the display module respectively. The portable terminal configured above supports a rear face of the flat display module using at least one of a portion protruded from the case member and a stiff material film, to thereby diffuse an impact exerted on a display device to the case member. Thus, it is possible to relieve the damage to the flat display device due to an external impact. |
| US09380713B2 |
Variable speed drive and system including an architecture for reinforcing the ingress protection of the variable speed drive
The invention relates to a variable speed drive (1) intended to control an electrical load, said variable speed drive (1) being constructed to be inserted along a main axis (X) through an opening (200) produced in a frame (2). The variable speed drive has the particular feature of comprising an undercut (40) produced on its rear part and having a sufficient depth to allow its fixing plinth (111) to pass through said opening (200). The invention also relates to a system comprising the variable speed drive and a seal-tight architecture. The seal-tight architecture comprises said frame through which the opening (200) intended to accommodate the variable speed drive (1) is produced. |
| US09380708B2 |
Method, holding means, apparatus and system for transporting a flat material to be treated and loading or unloading apparatus
In order to transport a flat material to be treated (21) in an installation for the chemical and/or electrochemical treatment of said material, within which the material to be treated (21) is transported within a plane of transport in a direction of transport (5), holding means (22, 25) are attached to said material to be treated (21). The holding means (22, 25) hold the material to be treated (21) at at least two points on an edge region of said material, which edge region is directed along the direction of transport (5) when said material to be treated (21) is being transported. The holding means (22, 25) are coupled in a detachable manner to a transporting device (41) which moves said holding means (22, 25) in the direction of transport in order to transport the material to be treated (21). At least during a portion of the transportation of the material to be treated (21), a force (6, 7) having a component which lies within the plane of transport and is directed transversely to the direction of transport (5), is exerted upon a region of the material to be treated (21), for example upon the longitudinal edge regions. |
| US09380707B2 |
Method of manufacturing wiring substrate
A method of manufacturing a wiring substrate includes: preparing a laminated plate of a metal layer and an insulating layer; adhering the laminated plate to a first support body facing the metal layer; and forming a first wiring layer with vias extending through the insulating layer and first pads exposed from a first surface of the insulating layer. The method also includes: separating a multilayer structure including the metal, insulating, and first wiring layer from the first support body; adhering the multilayer structure to a second support body facing the first wiring layer; removing the metal layer; forming a plurality of second wiring layers including second pads connected to the vias and exposed from a second surface of the insulating layer opposite the first surface; and separating the insulating, the first wiring, and the plurality of second wiring layers from the second support body, to obtain the wiring substrate. |
| US09380705B2 |
Laterally coupled isolator devices
A laterally coupled isolator includes a pair of isolator traces provided in a common dielectric layer and separated by a distance that defines the isolation strength of the system. Circuit designers can vary the lateral distance to tailor isolation rating to suit individual design needs. A second embodiment includes a semiconductor substrate, provided below the isolator traces that includes a communication circuit electrically coupled to one of the isolator devices. |
| US09380700B2 |
Method for forming traces of a printed circuit board
A printed circuit board includes a laminate substrate. The laminate substrate includes catalytic material that resists metal plating except where a surface of the catalytic material is ablated. Metal traces are formed within in trace channels within the laminate substrate. The channels extend below the surface of the catalytic material. |
| US09380699B2 |
Ceramic multilayer substrate and method for manufacturing the same
A ceramic multilayer substrate includes stacked ceramic layers; internal conductors which are stacked with one of the ceramic layers therebetween, and are arranged such that at least a portion of the internal conductors overlap each other in a stacking direction; and a constraining layer which is arranged on a layer different from layers on which the internal conductors are located. The constraining layer overlaps, in the stacking direction, an internal conductor-overlapping region where at least two of the internal conductors overlapping each other in the stacking direction, has a planar area not more than twice the planar area of the internal conductor-overlapping region, and contains an unsintered inorganic material powder. The constraining layer has a planar area not more than one-half the planar area of the ceramic layers. The constraining layer is arranged so as to entirely cover the internal conductor-overlapping region. |
| US09380697B2 |
Electronic device and manufacturing method for same
An electronic device includes: electronic elements; expandable and contractible conductors each disposed between two of the electronic elements adjacent to each other; a seal which covers the electronic elements and the conductors except principal surfaces of the electronic elements and first surfaces of the conductors, the principal surfaces of the electronic elements and the first surfaces of the conductors being present on a same plane on which surfaces of the seal are present; and leading electrode films each of which is attached in a film-like form to three surfaces which are the surface of the seal positioned between one of the electronic elements and one of the conductors, the first surface of the conductor, and part of the principal surface of the electronic element, to electrically connect the electronic element and the conductor through the leading electrode film. |
| US09380696B2 |
Flexible printed circuit board and electronic device
A flexible printed circuit board having a copper foil character with good visibility and without copper foil pattern peeling. The flexible printed circuit board has a base material having optical transparency, a wiring pattern formed on one surface of the base material; a first opaque cover lay film covering a surface of the wiring pattern, a character formed on the other surface of the base material; and a second opaque cover lay film covering a surface of the character. The first opaque cover lay film has an opening portion is formed therein, and the character is formed so as to be visually recognizable through the opening portion. |
| US09380695B2 |
Traveling wave linear accelerator with RF power flow outside of accelerating cavities
A high power RF traveling wave accelerator structure includes a symmetric RF feed, an input matching cell coupled to the symmetric RF feed, a sequence of regular accelerating cavities coupled to the input matching cell at an input beam pipe end of the sequence, one or more waveguides parallel to and coupled to the sequence of regular accelerating cavities, an output matching cell coupled to the sequence of regular accelerating cavities at an output beam pipe end of the sequence, and output waveguide circuit or RF loads coupled to the output matching cell. Each of the regular accelerating cavities has a nose cone that cuts off field propagating into the beam pipe and therefore all power flows in a traveling wave along the structure in the waveguide. |
| US09380693B2 |
High performance induction plasma torch
A plasma confinement tube for use in an induction plasma torch is disclosed. The plasma confinement tube defines a geometrical axis and an outer surface. The plasma confinement tube includes a capacitive shield comprising a film of conductive material applied to the outer surface of the plasma confinement tube and segmented into axial strips. The axial strips are interconnected at one end. Axial grooves are machined in the outer surface of the plasma confinement tube, and interposed between the axial strips. The conductive film may have a thickness smaller than a skin-depth calculated for a frequency of operation of the induction plasma torch and an electrical conductivity of the conductive material of the film. |
| US09380691B2 |
Adaptive laser system for an extreme ultraviolet light source
A system for an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light source includes an optical amplifier including a gain medium positioned on a beam path, the optical amplifier configured to receive a light beam at an input and to emit an output light beam for an EUV light source at an output; a feedback system that measures a property of the output light beam and produces a feedback signal based on the measured property; and an adaptive optic positioned in the beam path and configured to receive the feedback signal and to adjust a property of the output light beam in response to the feedback signal. |
| US09380688B1 |
Air gap electrostatic discharge structure for high speed circuits
Aspects relate to an electrostatic discharge (ESD) system for ESD protection and a method of manufacturing. The ESD system includes a lower substrate, an underfill layer that is disposed on the lower substrate that includes a plurality of cavities, and an upper substrate disposed on the underfill layer. The upper substrate includes a plurality of air ventilation shafts. The ESD system also includes a plurality of air gap metal tip structures disposed within one or more of the plurality of cavities in the underfill, wherein the plurality of ventilation shafts line up with the plurality of air gap metal tip structures. At least one air gap tip structure includes an upper metallic tip and a lower metallic tip that are placed along a vertical axis that is perpendicular to the substrates. An air cavity is provided between the upper metallic tip and the lower metallic tip forming an air chamber. |
| US09380685B2 |
Bypass circuit for neutral-less controller in lighting control system
A device provides a bypass path for leakage current of a neutral-less controller in a lighting control system for selectively supplying line voltage to a load. The device includes a dummy load, a voltage sensor, a bypass switch, a switch controller and a delay timer. The voltage sensor senses line voltage at an output of the neutral-less controller. The bypass switch selectively connects the dummy load in parallel with the lighting load. The switch controller activates the bypass switch to connect the dummy load in parallel with the lighting load when the line voltage is low, providing a bypass path for the leakage current, and deactivates the bypass switch after a delay period to disconnect the dummy load from being in parallel with the lighting load when the line voltage is high. The delay timer implements the delay period in response to the line voltage transitioning from low to high. |
| US09380683B2 |
Lamp dimmer system
A lamp dimmer system for dimming multiple lamps in a room having unswitched receptacles, and switched receptacles under control of a single wall switch. A user control module connected to an unswitched receptacle transmits momentary wireless brightness command signals in response to user-actuation of a brightness control. Each lamp in the room includes a lamp control module connected to both the unswitched and switched receptacles and to the lamp. The lamp control modules include a receiver which receives the brightness command signals and a control circuit which generates a steady state brightness control signal in response to the momentary command signals. A dimmer circuit responsive to the brightness control signal, and connected between the unswitched receptacle and the lamp, controls the power supplied to the lamp according to the level of the brightness control signal. An AC detector circuit within the lamp control module and connected to the switched receptacle conditions the dimmer circuit to full brightness upon the wall switch being switched on, and to minimum brightness upon the wall switch being switched off, thereby enabling normal operation of lamps by the wall switch. |
| US09380676B2 |
Independently adjustable current and voltage AC-AC converter
The present disclosure is directed to an alternating current (AC) to AC converter circuit for independently adjusting a current and voltage to adjust a light output of a light operating on AC power. In one embodiment, the AC to AC converter circuit includes a microprocessor, a first switch coupled to the microprocessor, a power factor controller (PFC) module coupled to the first switch, wherein the first switch is controlled by the microprocessor in accordance with a desired power output, one or more boost switches coupled to the PFC module, wherein the one or more boost switches are controlled by the PFC module as a function of an operation of the first switch and one or more load switches coupled to the one or more boost switches, wherein the one or more load switches are controlled by the microprocessor in accordance with the desired power output. |
| US09380672B2 |
Methods and apparatus for improving backlight driver efficiency
An electronic device may be provided with display circuitry that includes a display timing controller, a backlight driver, a light source, and other associated backlight structures. The backlight control circuitry may generate a control signal having an adjustable duty cycle to the backlight driver. The backlight driver may include a boost converter, a current driver, and backlight control circuitry. The current driver may only be activated when the control signal is high. The backlight control circuitry may output an enable signal to the boost converter. The backlight control circuitry may activate the boost converter a predetermined amount of time before each rising clock edge in the control signal by asserting the enable signal for a longer period of time than when the control signal is high. The control signal and the enable signal may be deasserted at around the same times. |
| US09380666B2 |
LED driving device and method for improving harmonic current distortion on a LED driving device
A LED driving device is provided. The LED driving device includes a multi-segment linear LED driver, first current-compensating device and second current-compensating device. The LED driving device is used to drive a LED device which is composed by a plurality of serial LED modules. The multi-segment linear LED driver selectively provides a first path to a first LED module of the LED modules for flowing a first constant current, or provides a second path to the first LED module and a second LED module of the LED modules for flowing a second constant current. When the first path is provided, first compensating current flows through the first current-compensating device. When the second path is provided, the first current-compensating device stops conducting the first compensating current. When the second path is provided, second compensating current flows through the second current-compensating device. |
| US09380659B2 |
Electrical device and method for compensating an effect of an electrical current of a load, in particular an LED unit, and driver device for driving a load, in particular an LED unit
Electrical device (30) for compensating an effect of an electrical current (IL) of a load (14; 34), in particular an LED unit having one or more LEDs, when the load is supplied via a phase cut dimmer, which is normally conceived for traditional filament lamps. The electrical device comprising a connection element (66) for electrically connecting the electrical device (30) to an external power source (12) providing a supply voltage (V 10) for powering the load (14;34), a monitoring device (46; 52) for monitoring the electrical current (IL) of the load (14;34) during a first time interval (Toff), and a signal controller (62, 64) connected to the connection element (66) for providing an electrical compensation signal (13) to the connection element (66) during a second time interval (TIR, TDC) on the basis of the electrical current (IL) monitored by the monitoring device (46; 52). |
| US09380657B2 |
LED lighting device
The purpose of the invention is to obtain, with a simple circuit configuration, an LED illumination device having an LED column driven by a pulsating voltage, capable of lighting with little flicker, and also having lighting control capability. The LED illumination device (400) comprises: an LED column (210) including a plurality of LEDs (211) connected in series; a rectifier (460) receiving an AC power supply (202) and outputting a pulsating voltage to the LED column (210); a current limit circuit (420) connected to the LED column (210) in series and having resistor elements (424 to 426); and a control circuit (250) for controlling the current flowing through the LED column (210) by controlling the resistor elements (424 to 426) and thereby controlling the lighting of the LED column (210). |
| US09380656B2 |
Power control unit and method for controlling electrical power provided to a load, in particular an LED unit, and voltage control unit for controlling an output voltage of a converter unit
The present invention relates to a power control unit (40; 60) for controlling electrical power provided to a load (12), in particular an LED unit (12) comprising one or more LEDs, said driver device comprising a converter unit (10) having an input terminal (42) for receiving an input voltage (V10) from an external power supply (22) and having an output terminal (44) for providing an output voltage (V14) to power the load (12), wherein the converter unit (10) comprises a switching device (14) for transforming the input voltage (V10) to the output voltage (V14), a control unit (20) for controlling the switching device (14), signal means (46; 62) connected to the output terminal (44) for applying a voltage or current signal to the output terminal (44), wherein the control unit (20) is connected to the signal means (46; 62) and adapted to control the signal means (46; 62). |
| US09380655B2 |
Single-stage AC-DC power converter with flyback PFC and selectable dual output current
A single-stage AC-DC power converter for powering a load at a substantially constant current, and related methods and systems. The AC-DC power converter includes a high power factor correction (PFC) circuit configured in a flyback topology and operating in transition mode. The flyback PFC circuit outputs a direct current (DC) voltage and a DC current. The PFC circuit further includes a flyback transformer and a switch circuit that selectably toggles the substantially constant output current provided to the load between a first and a second, preset constant current. The secondary windings of the flyback transformer are split into two sections, and the switch circuit toggles the two sections of the secondary windings between a series and a parallel configuration to provide the first and second, preset constant currents. The switch circuit includes a switch and three, fast Schottky diodes. |
| US09380653B1 |
Driver assembly for solid state lighting
A driver assembly for solid state lighting that includes at least one LED which includes a base element having an upper surface, a lower surface, an outer peripheral edge extending about a periphery thereof and a perimeter region defined adjacent to the outer peripheral edge. A plurality of operative components are secured to the base element and are collectively operative at least 40 watts in order control current flow to the LED. The plurality of operative components include primary heat generating components and heat sensitive components, with the primary heat generating components disposed on the perimeter region of the base element and the heat sensitive component disposed in spaced relation from the peripheral region at which the primary heat generating components are disposed. The primary heat generating components are disposed in a vertical orientation wherein a vertical surface that extends away from the base element has a greater surface area than a horizontal surface that confronts the base element. Further provided is a heat sink which has a pair of vertical elements formed of a thermally conductive material, the vertical elements extending upward along part of the outer peripheral edge of the base element in confronting, heat receiving relation to the vertical surfaces of the primary heat generating components. |
| US09380647B2 |
Heating control unit comprising a sensor, ice protection system and method for controlling a heater
A heating control unit, including a controller housing is provided. The heating control unit includes a microcontroller arranged within the controller housing, with the microcontroller being configured to generate a control signal for a heater and to output the control signal via a control line to the heater. The heating control unit also includes a temperature sensor arranged within the controller housing and coupled to the microcontroller. An active sensor surface of the temperature sensor forms at least part of an outer surface of the controller housing. |
| US09380644B2 |
Access points to provide event notifications
An access point is to provide a wireless beacon packet via a wireless communication. The wireless beacon packet is to include an event notification in response to an indication of a need for the event notification. |
| US09380641B2 |
Mobile station and method for processing signals of the GSM and TD-SCDMA radio standards
A mobile station is disclosed for processing differing radio standards such as GSM/GPRS/EDGE and TD-SCDMA. The mobile station includes a channel decoding unit and a coding unit. The signals of both radio standards are processed both with the coding unit and with the channel decoding unit. The coding unit and the channel decoding unit are arranged in the baseband chip of the mobile station. The TD-SCDMA-specific algorithms can be generated by means of a coprocessor that is electrically connected to the baseband chip or integrated in the baseband chip. |
| US09380640B2 |
Communication apparatus equipped with switchable antenna
A communication apparatus equipped with switchable antenna mechanism is provided, where the communication apparatus includes at least a portion of a portable electronic device, which includes a plurality of wireless communication functions respectively corresponding to different communication standards, and the wireless communication functions include a mobile phone function and at least one other wireless communication function. The communication apparatus includes: an antenna; a processing circuit; a plurality of processing modules arranged to provide the portable electronic device with a plurality of functions, respectively, where the functions include at least a portion of the wireless communication functions; and a switching unit. It is an advantage that, by utilizing the switching unit, different portions of the communication apparatus can share the antenna to achieve the best beneficial result through the limited area of a printed circuit board (PCB). |
| US09380639B2 |
Self-organization network architectures for heterogeneous networks
Self-Organized Network (SON) architectures for heterogeneous networks are disclosed. In some embodiments, various SON architectures for heterogeneous networks are provided that can evolve with such networks while the core functional modules of the SON solution can remain the same. In some embodiments, techniques for implementing SON architectures for heterogeneous networks includes providing a base station that includes performing a pre-operation self-configuration; and performing an operation self-optimization. |
| US09380637B2 |
Relay communication system supporting multiple hops and access method thereof
The present invention discloses a relay communication system supporting multiple hops comprising a first node, at least one second node and a core network, wherein the first node provides a wireless access connection to the at least one second node, and provides, as a gateway or a proxy, communication between the at least one second node and the core network. The present invention further discloses an access method of a relay communication system supporting multiple hops comprising: a second node residing in a first node and setting up an air interface connection with the first node; the second node setting up a connection with a core network through the first node; the first node forwarding, as a gateway, data between the second node and the core network, while acting as a core network gateway which serves the second node; and while acting as the core network gateway, setting up a connection with the second node under control of a Mobility Management Entity (MME) and allocating addresses; and the first node applying for creating channels and applying for addresses to a network element of the core network which serves the first node. In the present invention, data transmission rate is relatively rapid, and transmission modes are relatively flexible. |
| US09380636B2 |
Methods and network nodes for communication between a first network node and a second network node over a twisted pair wire
A first network node of a cellular system is configured for communication with a second network node over a twisted pair wire. The first network node includes a receiver for receiving, over the twisted pair wire, an intermediate frequency signal from the second network node, which intermediate frequency signal has been converted from a high frequency signal having a frequency higher than the frequency of the intermediate frequency signal by the second network node, and a down-converter for converting the intermediate frequency signal to a low frequency signal having a frequency lower than the frequency of the intermediate frequency signal. The first network node also includes an up-converter for converting a received low frequency signal to an intermediate frequency signal having a frequency higher than the frequency of the low frequency signal. |