Document Document Title
US09551935B2 Pattern forming method and resist composition
Provided is a method of forming a pattern, ensuring excellent exposure latitude (EL) and focus latitude (depth of focus DOF). The method of forming a pattern includes (A) forming a film from a resist composition, the resist composition, (B) exposing the film to light, and (C) developing the exposed film using a developer containing an organic solvent, thereby forming a negative pattern. The resist composition contains (a) a resin that is configured to decompose when acted on by an acid and ΔSP thereof represented by formula (1) below is 2.5 (MPa)1/2 or above, (b) a compound that is composed to generate an acid when exposed to actinic rays or radiation, and (c) a solvent. ΔSP=SPF−SPI  (1)
US09551932B2 Patterning process and resist composition
A resist composition comprising a polymer comprising recurring units having an acid labile group of cyclopentyl with tert-butyl or tert-amyl pendant is coated onto a substrate, baked, exposed to high-energy radiation, PEB and developed in an organic solvent to form a negative pattern. A fine hole pattern can be formed from the resist composition with advantages including high dissolution contrast, good size control and wide depth of focus.
US09551929B2 Positive resist composition and patterning process
An androstane or estrane-substituted cholane as base resin is combined with an acid generator to formulate a positive resist composition, especially chemically amplified positive resist composition.
US09551926B2 Determination method, storage medium and information processing apparatus
The present invention provides a determination method of determining exposure conditions of an exposure apparatus including an illumination optical system which illuminates a mask, and a projection optical system which projects a pattern of the mask onto a substrate, the method including a step of setting an illumination parameter for a light intensity distribution formed on a pupil plane of the illumination optical system, and an aberration parameter for an aberration of the projection optical system, and a step of determining a value of the illumination parameter and a value of the aberration parameter so that an image performance of an optical image of the pattern of the mask satisfies an evaluation criterion set for a target pattern to be formed on an image plane of the projection optical system.
US09551922B1 Foreground analysis on parametric background surfaces
Techniques are described for projecting content onto a display surface and for analyzing the hand of a user that is placed over the display surface, such as when the user is making a command gesture. Based on the location and known shape of the display surface, a surface depth map is calculated corresponding to the display surface. Points of the calculated surface depth map are then subtracted from respective points an observed depth map to produce a foreground depth map corresponding to the user hand. The hand may be further characterized and tracked based on the foreground depth map.
US09551917B2 Light source unit and projection display system using same
The projection display system has a light source unit where a first light source and a second light source respectively emitting a first and second wavelength or wavelength range of light are juxtapositionally arranged; a third light source emitting a third wavelength or wavelength range of light; an optical combiner device for combining the three wavelengths or wavelength ranges of light from the light sources; an optical device for averaging distributions of the wavelengths or wavelength ranges of light; an image display device for receiving the light transmitted through the optical device and forming image light responsive to a video signal; and a projector lens for projecting the image light onto a screen. At least two of the optical axes of the first, second, and third wavelengths or wavelength ranges of light which are incident on the optical device are not coincident with each other.
US09551911B2 Liquid crystal display device
A first substrate includes first and second gate lines extending in a first direction, first and second source lines extending in a second direction and a switching element electrically connected with the gate line and the source line. A pixel electrode includes a contact portion contacting with the switching element and extending in the first direction and a main pixel electrode contacting with the contact portion and extending in the second direction. The switching element includes a drain electrode arranged between the source lines. The drain electrode includes a first electrode portion located under the contact portion, a second electrode portion located under the main pixel electrode and connected with the first electrode portion, a third electrode portion connected with the second electrode portion along the first gate line, and a fourth electrode portion connected with the second electrode portion and extending along the second gate line.
US09551908B2 Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device in which smear error is suppressed and transmittance is uniform is provided.In a liquid crystal display device which includes a plurality of pixels and uses comb-teeth-shaped transparent conductive films 110 as common wirings, the common wirings include mesh-shaped common metal wirings 101v and 101h extending in a vertical direction and a horizontal direction and the comb-teeth-shaped transparent conductive films 110 are connected between adjacent pixels.
US09551907B2 Pixel unit and array substrate
The present invention discloses a pixel unit and an array substrate. The pixel unit comprises: a plurality of pixel electrodes, including oblique pixel electrodes extending obliquely and transverse pixel electrodes located on edges of the oblique pixel electrodes and extending transversely, the plurality of pixel electrodes forming a display region having an opening region; and, a conductive unit which is located within the opening region and partially overlapped with projections of the oblique pixel electrodes, one corner of the conductive unit close to the oblique pixel units being an unfilled corner or a round corner. Accordingly, the impact of an electric field around the opening region on the electric field of the oblique pixel electrodes is reduced, and the impact on the liquid crystal orientation of the opening region is reduced; the dark fringe of pixels is improved; the aperture ratio of pixels is increased; and the quality of display is improved.
US09551906B2 Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display is provided. A liquid crystal display includes: a first substrate; a thin film transistor disposed on the first substrate; and a first electrode disposed on the thin film transistor and connected to an output terminal of the thin film transistor, wherein the first electrode includes a first region and a second region each including a plurality of minute branches separated from each other by open parts, portions of at least two minute branches among the plurality of minute branches are connected to form a plurality of minute plate branches, and wherein the minute plate branch has a wider width than a minute branch.
US09551905B2 Display device
A display device is provided that includes a first substrate, a gate wiring formed on the first substrate and extending in a first direction, a data wiring insulated from and crossing the gate wiring and extending in a second direction, and a pixel electrode including a first subpixel electrode to which a first data voltage is applied from the data wiring and a second subpixel electrode to which a second data voltage different from the first data voltage is applied from the data wiring, wherein the first subpixel electrode is surrounded by the second subpixel electrode, and the second subpixel electrode includes a plurality of slit patterns formed in portions thereof which are adjacent to the first subpixel electrode.
US09551901B2 Vertically aligned nematic mode liquid crystal display having large tilt angles and high contrast
A reflective liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) display comprises a transparent substrate, a reflective substrate, and liquid crystal fluid between the substrates. The LCOS display further comprises a matrix of pixels, arranged in a plurality of rows and columns, wherein an intersection of a row and a column defines a position of a pixel in the matrix. The LCOS display has tilt angles sufficient to overcome disclinations due to fringe fields, and, at the same time, achieves high contrast. The surface azimuthal direction of the molecules of the liquid crystal fluid is either substantially parallel or perpendicular to the direction of polarization of incoming incident linearly polarized light. Light leakage is minimal because the effective birefringence as seen by the incoming incident linearly polarized light is substantially zero and does not depend on the pretilt of the molecules of the liquid crystal fluid. Between the transparent substrate and the reflective substrate, the twist of the molecules of the liquid crystal fluid may vary from about 0 degrees to about 90 degrees when in the “OFF” state.
US09551899B2 Planar lighting device
A lighting device including a circuit substrate; a plurality of light sources disposed on the circuit substrate; a reflection layer disposed on the circuit substrate, the reflection layer comprising a plurality of openings where respective light sources are located; a plurality of light regulating patterns disposed at an edge of the reflection layer and at an inclination with respect to the reflection layer, wherein corresponding light regulating patterns are disposed closer to the edge of the reflection layer at first areas aligned with the respective light sources than light regulating patterns at second areas between the first areas; and an optical sheet disposed on the light sources.
US09551894B2 Display
A display including a back cover, a diffuser plate, a display panel, and a light source is provided. The back cover has a first supporting portion, a connecting portion and a second supporting portion. Two opposite ends of the connecting portion are connected to the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion respectively. The first supporting portion has a first surface, the second supporting portion has opposite second and third surfaces, and the first surface faces the second surface to form a containing space between the first surface, the connecting portion and the second surface. At least a part of a periphery of the diffuser plate is disposed in the containing space. The display panel is supported on the third surface. The light source is disposed on the back cover and adapted to provide a light beam to illuminate the display panel after passing through the diffuser plate.
US09551890B2 Electronic apparatus
Provided is an electronic apparatus having the waterproof structure. The electronic apparatus includes: a housing; a transparent panel which has an image display area; and a plurality of strip-shaped waterproof spacers fixed adherently between the housing and the transparent panel, and fixed adherently to an outer periphery of the image display area at the transparent panel side. A clearance between the waterproof spacers adjacent to each other is filled with a filler. In the electronic apparatus, a hole is formed in the housing such that the hole overlaps with the clearance and a portion of the waterproof spacer, and the hole is filled with the filler.
US09551889B2 Display module
A display module includes a display panel configured to display an image on a display surface, a frame having a shape configured to surround an outer edge of the display panel and having an opening formed in a region overlapping the display surface, and a holding member having an inner region that is a region closer to a center of the display panel and an outer region that is a region farther from the center of the display panel, the inner region being connected to the display panel, the outer region being connected to the frame, and the inner region being separated from the outer region in a view projected from a direction orthogonal to the display surface.
US09551888B2 Magneto-optical crystal assembly for broadband temperature stable polarization rotation
Embodiments of a magneto-optic crystal assembly for use in polarization rotation applications are disclosed. In one aspect, a magneto-optic crystal assembly includes two or more magneto-optic crystals. The temperature and wavelength dependencies of Faraday rotation of these crystals are compensated so that the crystal assembly has both reduced temperature and wavelength dependencies of the polarization rotation angle over broad temperature and wavelength ranges.
US09551886B2 Liquid crystal lens and liquid crystal small-aperture glasses
The present disclosure provides a liquid crystal lens including a liquid crystal cell including a first substrate, a second substrate and a liquid crystal layer arranged between the first and second substrate. The first substrate includes a first base plate, a plurality of transistors arranged on the first base plate, a first electrode electrically connected to one electrode of each of the transistors, and a first polarizer arranged at a side of the first base plate away from the liquid crystal layer. The second substrate includes a second base plate, and a second polarizer arranged at a side of the second base plate away from the liquid crystal layer. The liquid crystal lens further includes a second electrode arranged on the first or second base plate. The first and second base plates are opaque, and each includes a plurality of small apertures which are provided in a one-to-one correspondence manner.
US09551884B2 Corneal remodelling contact lenses and methods of treating refractive error using corneal remodelling
Contact lenses are described with a corneal remodelling effect. This corneal remodelling effect is one or both of broad-area corneal remodelling and localised remodelling. The contact lenses may also have a refractive power. The refractive power may vary across the lens and for myopia may have increased power centrally. The increased power may be provided over a lens area that has increased thickness due to localised remodelling.
US09551880B2 Polarizing optical system
There is provided an optical system, including a light-transmitting substrate having at least two major surfaces parallel to each other and edges, and an optical device for coupling light into the substrate by total internal reflection. The device includes a polarization sensitive reflecting surface.
US09551879B2 Optical mechanism
An optical mechanism includes a bracket, a first polarization beam splitter, a second polarization beam splitter, a plurality of panels and a plurality of lenses. The first polarization beam splitter and the second polarization beam splitter are joined to the bracket. Light passes through the first polarization beam splitter to reach the panels and is reflected by the panels to generate image beams. The image beams are reflected by the first polarization beam splitter to enter the second polarization beam splitter. The image beams are reflected by a splitting surface of the second polarization beam splitter to pass through the lenses and projected by the lenses.
US09551878B2 Patterned retarder film and display apparatus
The present invention provides a patterned retarder film and a display apparatus. The patterned retarder film is attached to a display panel of the display apparatus. The display panel comprises first, second and third sub-pixels arranged along a first direction, and the patterned retarder film comprises at least two phase retarders. First saw portions and second saw portions are disposed at two opposite sides of the phase retarders and adjacent to at least one of the first, second and third sub-pixels. In the present invention, the color shift problem can be prevented.
US09551876B2 Head up display
Technologies are generally described for displaying information in a head up display of a vehicle. In one example, an information acquisition unit is configured to obtain data from one or more sensors associated with the vehicle. An information display unit is coupled to the information acquisition unit and the information acquisition unit is further configured to determine a display location based on the data obtained from the one or more sensors. The information acquisition unit is configured to control the information display unit to display information at the determined display location.
US09551871B2 Virtual light in augmented reality
A head-mounted display system includes a see-through display that is configured to visually augment an appearance of a physical environment to a user viewing the physical environment through the see-through display. Graphical content presented via the see-through display is created by modeling the ambient lighting conditions of the physical environment.
US09551869B2 Composite display device
A composite display device is provided with an optical combiner, a first display unit which displays a virtual image by projecting an image including certain display information to a front surface of the optical combiner, a second display unit which is disposed on a position of a rear surface side of the optical combiner and displays a real image, and a composite display control unit.
US09551863B2 Remote inspection device
The portable inspection unit may include a unit body, a flexible cable, and an imager housing. The flexible cable may extend from the unit body and the imager housing may be disposed at a distal end of the flexible cable. The portable inspection unit may be configured to receive an actuating accessory.
US09551860B2 Infrared-reflective film
An infrared-reflective film includes a substrate film composed of a polyolefin film or a polycycloolefin film. The substrate film has two main surfaces and an infrared-reflective layer is formed on one main surface and the other main surface faces air, nitrogen gas, inert gas or a vacuum. A surface of the infrared-reflective layer faces either of air, nitrogen gas, inert gas or a vacuum.
US09551856B2 MEMS-released curved image sensor
This document describes MEMS-released curved image sensors capable of sensing light from a monocentric lens. This MEMS-released curved image sensor receives light focused on a curved focal surface by releasing a photodetector side of a computing and sensing wafer, such as a Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) sensor. This releasing is effective to allow the photodetector side to conform to the curved focal surface of the monocentric lens. By so doing, the wider field of view, smaller size, and often smaller weight of monocentric lenses can be gained while using generally high-quality, low-cost computing and sensing wafers by processing these wafers to give them a curved surface at which to sense light from a monocentric lens.
US09551855B2 Lens barrel and optical apparatus
The lens barrel includes a base barrel, a movable barrel including first and second hole portions, a circumferentially rotatable barrel and first guide members. The base barrel includes straight guide portions guiding the movable barrel along an optical axis, the rotatable barrel includes cam portions moving the movable barrel with rotation of the rotatable barrel, the first guide members engage with the cam and straight guide portions. The cam portions, straight guide portions and first guide members are respectively provided at multiple circumferential phases, a guide member among the first guide members provided at a first phase engages with the first hole portion, each of other guide members among the first guide members provided at two or more second phases engages with each of the second hole portions. A circumferential width of each second hole portion is larger than that of the first hole portion.
US09551848B1 Stackable optoelectronics chip-to-chip interconnects and method of manufacturing thereof
An optoelectronics chip-to-chip interconnects system is provided, including at least one packaged chip to be connected on the printed-circuit-board with at least one other packaged chip, optical-electrical (O-E) conversion mean, waveguide-board, and (PCB). Single to multiple chips interconnects can be interconnected provided using the technique disclosed in this invention. The packaged chip includes semiconductor die and its package based on the ball-grid array or chip-scale-package. The O-E board includes the optoelectronics components and multiple electrical contacts on both sides of the O-E substrate. The waveguide board includes the electrical conductor transferring the signal from O-E board to PCB and the flex optical waveguide easily stackable onto the PCB to guide optical signal from one chip-to-other chip. Alternatively, the electrode can be directly connected to the PCB instead of including in the waveguide board. The chip-to-chip interconnections system is pin-free and compatible with the PCB. The main advantages of this invention are to use the packaged chip for interconnection and the conventional PCB technology can be used for low speed electrical signal connection. Also, the part of the heat from the packaged chip can be transmitted to the PCB through the conductors, so that complex cooling system can be avoided.
US09551847B2 Latch mechanism for communication module
A latch may include a follower and a driver. The follower may include a follower opening configured to receive a post of a housing. The driver may include a driver opening configured to receive the post of the housing such that the driver is selectively rotatable relative to the post. The driver may further include an interfacing finger positioned to be received by the follower opening. The interfacing finger may be configured to urge the follower to slidingly move relative to the housing as the driver is rotated relative to the post.
US09551846B1 Method for manufacturing optical engine packages and apparatus from which optical engine packages are manufactured
The present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing one or more optical engine packages, each optical engine package comprising a silicon photonic die. The method includes receiving a substrate comprising a package portion and a cutting area adjacent to the package portion, assembling the optical engine package on the substrate such that an edge-coupled waveguide of the silicon photonic die overlaps a boundary between the cutting area and the package portion, and cutting the optical engine package and the substrate in the cutting area to expose the edge-coupled waveguide for optical coupling thereof to an optical fiber core.
US09551843B2 Connector
When a moving member moves to a fixing position, a fixing member moves to a second fixing position, a blade of the fixing member cuts into a protection layer of a cord, and thereby the cord is fixed. When the moving member moves to a releasing position, the fixing member moves to a second releasing position, the blade leaves the protection layer, and thereby the cord is released.
US09551842B2 Fiber optic connector with strain relief assembly
A fiber optic connector includes a ferrule, a ferrule holder from which the ferrule extends, a housing in which the ferrule holder is received, and a connector body coupled to the housing. The connector body is configured to retain the ferrule holder within the housing. The fiber optic connector further includes a strain relief assembly comprising a support coupled to a rear portion of the connector body and a boot received over support. The support includes a first portion defining a front end of the support and a second portion defining a back end of the support, with the second portion having a stiffness less than the first portion. Additionally, the support and boot are formed from respective first and second materials, with the second material being less rigid than the first material.
US09551841B2 Optical data center connector systems, fiber optic plug assemblies, and fiber optic receptacle assemblies
Optical data center connector systems including a fiber optic plug assembly and a fiber optic receptacle assembly. In one embodiment, a fiber optic plug assembly includes a plug body having an insertion surface and a plug body opening at the insertion surface, wherein the plug body defines a ferrule enclosure coupled in free space to the plug body opening, and a ferrule element disposed within the ferrule enclosure of the plug body. The ferrule element includes a mechanical coupling face, an optical interface surface, and a plurality of lens elements at the optical interface surface. The ferrule element is disposed within the ferrule enclosure such that the optical interface surface is recessed with respect to the insertion surface of the plug body.
US09551838B2 Optical bridge
An optical bridge for switching between a plurality of electrical chips, the optical bridge comprising: a passive optical router; and a plurality of Bridge Interface Chips optically connected to the passive optical router; each Bridge Interface Chip being connectable to one of the plurality of electrical chips to form a connection between that electrical chip and the passive optical router at which electrical signals from the electrical chip are converted into wavelength tunable modulated optical signals for transmission to the passive optical router and at which an optical signals from the passive optical router are converted into electrical signals to be received by the electrical chip; wherein each Bridge Interface Chip includes a wavelength tunable laser input and a modulator for modulating the wavelength tunable laser input to provide the wavelength tunable modulated optical signals.
US09551837B2 Silicon optical line multiplexer devices
Embodiments relate to silicon optical line multiplexers. In an embodiment, an optical line multiplexer includes at least one microprism etched from a silicon substrate. Another embodiment includes a plurality of these microprisms forming an array. In use, a light beam is guided through the multiplexer device such that it impinges on a line of microprisms that, depending upon their orientation, either reflect/deflect or transmit the beam.
US09551834B2 Method to assemble transmitter optical subassembly
A method to assemble a transmitter optical module is disclosed, where the optical module installs two lenses, one of which concentrates an optical beam emitted from a laser diode, while, the other collimates the optical beam concentrated by the former lens. The method has a feature that the first lens is firstly positioned in a point to collimate the optical beam coming from the laser diode, then, moved to a point, which is apart from the former point with respect to the laser diode, to concentrate the optical beam. The process performs the steps to position the lens by a jig to extract the optical beam passing through the first lens outside of the housing.
US09551831B1 Pluggable LC adaptor having optical passive element
A pluggable LC adaptor comprises a LC adaptor housing and an assembly, wherein the assembly is disposed in the LC adaptor housing. The assembly comprises: a first fiber collimator having a first lens; a first LC ferrule; a first fiber, where the first fiber is partially disposed inside the first LC ferrule and partially disposed inside the first fiber collimator; a second fiber collimator having a second lens; a second LC ferrule; a second fiber, where the second fiber is partially disposed inside the second LC ferrule and partially disposed inside the second fiber collimator; and an optical passive element disposed between the first collimator and the second collimator. The optical passive element may be a thin film filter or an isolator core.
US09551823B2 Backlight module
A backlight module is provided, including a circuit board, a plurality of light-emitting elements, a frame, and a plurality of first and second light-reflecting portions. The light-emitting elements are disposed on the circuit board and separated from each other. The frame includes a base plate and two lateral plates extended from the base plate, wherein the circuit board is disposed on the base plate. The first and second light-reflecting portions are disposed on at least one of the lateral plates and arranged in a staggered manner. The first light-reflecting portions are closer to the light-emitting elements than the second light-reflecting portions. The reflectivity of the second light-reflecting portions exceeds that of the first light-reflecting portions.
US09551820B2 Electromagnetic composite-based reflecting terahertz waveplate
A reflection-mode waveplate for operation in the terahertz region by shifting the phase between two perpendicular polarization components of the light wave, comprising a ground plane; an array of polygonal unit cells; the polygonal unit cells comprising a polymer positioned between the ground plane and the exterior of the array of polygonal patches.
US09551818B2 Apodized broadband partial reflectors having differing optical packets
A broadband partial reflector includes a first multilayer polymeric optical film having a total number of optical repeating units from a first side to a second side of the first multilayer polymeric optical film and a second multilayer polymeric optical film having a total number of optical repeating units from a first side to a second side of the second multilayer polymeric optical film and an intermediate layer on the second side of the multilayer polymeric optical film separates the first multilayer polymeric optical film from the second multilayer polymeric optical film. The first multilayer polymeric optical film has a first baseline optical repeating unit thickness profile and a first apodized optical repeating unit thickness profile monotonically deviating from the first baseline optical repeating unit thickness profile and defining the second side of the first multilayer polymeric optical film. The second multilayer polymeric optical film has a second baseline optical repeating unit thickness profile and a second apodized optical repeating unit thickness profile monotonically deviating from the second baseline optical repeating unit thickness profile and defining the first side of the second multilayer polymeric optical film.
US09551817B2 Composite particles for optical bandpass filters
The present invention relates to composite polymeric particles for use as infrared reflectors in optical bandpass applications.
US09551815B2 Metal-based particle assembly
There is provided a metal-based particle assembly comprising 30 or more metal-based particles separated from each other and disposed in two dimensions, the metal-based particles having an average particle diameter in a range of from 200 to 1600 nm, an average height in a range of from 55 to 500 nm, and an aspect ratio, as defined by a ratio of the average particle diameter to the average height, in a range of from 1 to 8, wherein the metal-based particle assembly has in an absorption spectrum for a visible light region a maximum wavelength of a peak at a longest side in wavelength, and an absorbance at the maximum wavelength is higher as compared with that of a reference metal-based particle assembly, on the premise that the numbers of the metal-based particles are the same. The metal-based particle assembly of the present invention presents significantly intense plasmon resonance.
US09551814B2 Method for manufacturing a structure, optical component, optical layer stack
In a method for manufacturing a structure of curable material, a first structure from a first curable material is molded and cured on a substrate, and a second structure of a second curable material is molded and cured on a first surface of the first structure facing away from the substrate, so that at the first surface of the first structure a boundary surface forms between the first and second structures so that the first structure is not covered by the second structure in a passage area. A solvent is introduced into the passage area to dissolve the first curable material of the first structure so that a cavity forms between the second structure and the first surface of the substrate. After curing, the first curable material is soluble and the second curable material is insoluble for the solvent. An optical component and an optical layer stack are made of curable material.
US09551808B2 CT apparatus without gantry
A CT apparatus without a gantry. The CT apparatus includes a scanning passage; a stationary X-ray source arranged around the scanning passage and including a plurality of ray emission focal spots; and a plurality of stationary detector modules arranged around the scanning passage and disposed opposite the X-ray source. At least some of the plurality of detector modules may be arranged substantially in an L shape, a semicircular shape, a U shape, an arc shape, a parabolic shape, or a curve shape when viewed in a plane intersecting the scanning passage. The invention ensures that the stationary gantry type CT system has a small size, and a high data identification accuracy.
US09551801B2 Wing for wide tow of geophysical survey sources
Techniques are disclosed relating to wide towing of marine survey signal sources. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a signal source and a wing coupled to the signal source. In this embodiment, the wing is configured to impart a force to the signal source when towed through a body of water by a survey vessel. In this embodiment, the force includes a lateral component and a vertical component. The wing may be configured to impart the force based on a shape of the wing and an orientation of the wing. The wing may extend over at least a third of a length of a keel of the apparatus. At least a majority of a top surface of the wing may be oriented within 20 degrees of parallel to a surface of the body of water. The wing may include a plurality of wing sections.
US09551797B2 Device and method for reading out X-ray information stored in a fluorescent storage layer
The present invention relates to an apparatus and to a corresponding method for reading out X-ray information stored in a storage phosphor layer (1) comprising a light source (2) for generating a stimulation light beam (3) which can stimulate the storage phosphor layer (1) to emit emission light, and a deflection element (4) for deflecting the stimulation light beam (3) in such a way that the deflected stimulation light beam (3′) is moved over the storage phosphor layer (1). In order to achieve the highest possible quality of the X-ray image obtained in the simplest and most cost-effective way possible, a drive device (5) is provided for driving the deflection element (4) by delivering drive energy to the deflection element (4) dependently upon a location of the deflected stimulation light beam (3′) and/or dependently upon a position, in particular an angular position, of the deflection element (4).
US09551794B2 Radiation imaging system, radiation imaging apparatus, and method of controlling the same
User-friendliness of a radiation imaging apparatus configured to reset a sensor array is improved. This invention is a radiation imaging apparatus including a two-dimensional sensor array. This apparatus includes a scan control signal generation circuit which controls the reset operation of the two-dimensional sensor array, a row number register which stores the row number of a line currently subjected to the reset operation at the time of detection of radiation irradiation, a scan control signal generation circuit which controls read operation after the completion of the radiation irradiation, and an image processing circuit which interpolates an image, of the image generated based on the signals read by the read operation, which corresponds to a line corresponding to the row number stored in the row number register, by using images of adjacent lines.
US09551792B2 GPS antenna diversity and noise mitigation
A system and method for improving acquisition sensitivity and tracking performance of a GPS receiver using multiple antennas is provided. In an embodiment, the acquisition sensitivity can be improved by determining the correlation weight of each received path signal associated with one antenna from a plurality of antennas and then combining the path signals based on their respective correlation weight. In another embodiment, carrier offset correction information of each path signal is individually determined and then summed together to be used for tracking the code phase in a code phase tracking loop. The code phase tracking loop generates an early code and a late code that are used to determine the code phase error. The system includes digital adaptive filters to mitigate narrowband and broadband noises of a received GPS signal, wherein the digital adaptive filters are switched on periodically or by external events.
US09551790B2 Aircraft enhanced reference system and method
A method including placing first and second measurement devices proximate first and second aircraft doors, respectively, and determining a first position of the second measurement device relative to a second position of the first measurement device. The method includes placing first and second pluralities of reflective devices inside the aircraft proximate the first and second doors, respectively. The method includes measuring first and second distances from the first and second measurement devices to the first and second pluralities of reflective devices, respectively, and measuring second distances from the second measurement device to the second plurality of reflective devices. Based on a determined position of the second measurement device and further based on the first distances and second distances, third distances are determined between each of the first and second pluralities of reflective devices. The third distances provide a measurement baseline for points on a fuselage and wings.
US09551787B2 Process for the determination of a position change or respectively resting and/or speed of an object
The present invention relates to a process for determining a position change or the resting and/or a speed of an object and a corresponding process for supporting an inertial measurement system. In the process at least one radio signal (FS) is received on the object (O) at at least one first and one second point in time, particularly continuously, and the change of the phase of said radio signal is determined for a determination of a relative movement between source (U) of said signal or a reference location and said object (O), and the relative movement between source (U) of said signal or the reference location and said object (O) is detected.
US09551786B2 Ranging and positioning system
A ranging and positioning system comprising transmitters and receiver nodes communicating together by chirp-modulated radio signals, that have a ranging mode in which ranging exchange of signals takes place between a master device and a slave device that leads to the evaluation of the range between them. The slave is arranged for recognizing a ranging request and transmit back a ranging response containing chirps that precisely aligned in time and frequency with the chirps in the ranging requests, whereupon the master can receive the ranging response, analyze the time and frequency the chirps contained therein with respect to his own time reference, and estimate a range to the slave.
US09551782B2 Radar apparatus and method of measuring radar performance
A radar apparatus is provided. The radar apparatus includes a transmitter configured to transmit radar signals via a radar antenna, a receiver configured to receive reflection waves that are echoes of the radar signals, via the radar antenna, a radar image generating module configured to generate a radar image based on the reflection waves received by the receiver, a performance monitor configured to measure performance of at least one of the transmitter and the receiver, and a controller configured to cause the performance monitor to perform the measurement while the transmission of the radar signals is suspended.
US09551781B2 Efficient localization of transmitters within complex electromagnetic environments
Systems and methods can support determining a physical position of a radio transmitter. A physical model for electromagnetic signal propagation within the electromagnetic environment may be established. Radio frequency signal power levels associated with the radio transmitter may be received from one or more radio frequency sensors. Parameters associated with the physical model may be estimated for one or more test locations within the electromagnetic environment. An error metric between the received radio frequency signal power levels and the physical model may be computed for the one or more test locations. Bounds on the parameters associated with the physical model may be established to prune away physically impossible solutions. The parameters associated with the physical model may be optimized across the one or more test locations to establish a preferred location estimate for the radio transmitter.
US09551780B1 Locating an object based on charging/response time
An approach is provided in which an RFID reader receives a response signal from an RFID tag affixed to an object. The RFID reader determines a tag charging time of the RFID tag based upon a first point in time that the RFID reader sent a request signal to the RFID tag and a second point in time that the response signal was received by the RFID reader. In turn, the RFID reader identifies a location of the object based on the tag charging time and generates a notification that includes the location of the object.
US09551778B2 GNSS jammer detection system with optical tracking and identification
A system detects, identifies, and optically tracks a jammer by calculating position and velocity information associated with the jammer based on jamming signals received at one or more antennas, and utilizing the position and velocity information to control one or more cameras. The cameras capture a series of images that include the calculated location, the expected movement of the jammer, or both. The system analyzes the images to extract motion information associated with one or more objects identified in the images. The system utilizes the calculated position and velocity information and the extracted motion information to determine which of the identified object in the images is the jammer. Further, the jammer motion information extracted from the images may be utilized to update the calculated position and velocity information associated with the jammer, to improve the overall accuracy of the tracking of the jammer.
US09551777B2 Direction finding using antenna array rotation
A direction finding system for finding the angle of arrival of a target signal from a transmitter. The system includes a plurality of directional antennas positioned to face different directions for receiving the target signal. The antennas are mounted as an antenna array on a rotatable mount for supporting and rotating the antenna array. A receiver unit down converts the RF target signal to IF signals that are digitized by an A/D converter providing digital values. A computer computes the power in the signals from the A/D samples. A computer stores calibration information for the directional antennas, processes the digital values and the calibration information to determine a rotation angle α for rotating the antennas to provide new digital values, processes the new digital values and the calibration information to determine an intersection angle, and subtracts the rotation angle from the intersection angle to determine the final value for the angle of arrival of the target signal.
US09551775B2 Enhancing client location via beacon detection
A computing entity, such as a server, obtains a first, second, and third set of measurements based on wireless transmissions between one or more beacon devices, a wireless client device, and one or more wireless access points in a wireless network. The first set of measurements is associated with wireless transmissions from the beacon device(s) received at the wireless access points. The second set of measurements is associated with wireless transmissions between the wireless client device and the wireless access points. The third set of measurements is associated with wireless transmissions from beacon devices received at the wireless client device. An estimated location of the wireless client device is generated based on the first set of measurement data, the second set of measurement data, and the third set of measurement data.
US09551774B2 RFID tag search method, non-transitory storage medium storing RFID tag search program, and RFID tag search device
A method to be executed by a user terminal for searching for locations of one or more wireless devices that are located within an area in which the one or more wireless devices can wirelessly communicate with the user terminal, wherein each of the one or more wireless devices periodically transmits a beacon signal. The method includes detecting a number of the one or more wireless devices that are located within the area based on the beacon signals; determining a transmission period for transmitting the beacon signals depending on the number of the one or more wireless devices; and instructing the one or more wireless devices that are located within the area to transmit the beacon signals in accordance with the determined transmission period.
US09551771B2 Magnetic resonance image (MRI) apparatus and method for obtaining MRI image by modifying motion of subject
Provided are a method and apparatus for obtaining a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) image of a subject. Typically, MRI image processing that incorporates fat suppression takes a large amount of time to complete. According to various aspects, image processing that incorporates fat suppression may be postponed until MRI data is repeatedly obtained. By doing so, for example, more MRI data may be obtained during a time period of a heartbeat.
US09551769B2 Magnetic resonance examination of porous samples
A method of analyzing properties of a porous sample, typically a cylinder of porous rock, comprises centrifuging the sample while it contains at least one liquid, determining the distribution of at least one liquid in the sample by magnetic resonance imaging of the sample, and also determining the distribution of at least one magnetic resonance parameter, where the parameter is one of longitudinal relaxation time T1, transverse relaxation time T2 and diffusion coefficient D. Pore throat sizes can be determined from the distribution of at least one liquid in the sample and pore body sizes can be determined from the distribution of the magnetic resonance parameter enabling determination of a relationship between pore throat sizes and pore body sizes in the sample. This can be a relationship between individual values of pore throat size and an average of body sizes of pores having that individual pore throat size.
US09551768B2 NMR method for monitoring changes in the core of lipoprotein particles in metabolism and disease
A method is disclosed for measuring the properties of protein and lipoprotein elements in a sample. The method includes the of placing a small volume of a sample into a NMR instrument tuned to measure a particular nucleus, applying a series of radiofrequency pulses with intermittent delays in order to measure spin-spin and/or spin-lattice relaxation time constants from the time-domain decay of the signal, without the use of chemical shifts and without converting data into the frequency domain by Fourier transform or other means, at least partially suppressing the water signal prior to the beginning of a sequence used to record relaxation time constants in the time domain, optionally utilizing relaxation contrast agents or other chemical additives to perturb the solvent water or other elements of the sample, analyzing the exponentially decaying NMR signal in the time domain using multi-exponential analysis, and comparing differences in the relaxation time constants for lipoprotein- or protein-specific elements within a single human subject, or between subjects, to assess normal and abnormal metabolism reflective of increased disease risk or active disease.
US09551767B2 System and method to reduce power loss in a gradient amplifier
A gradient amplifier system, includes: a power stage comprising a plurality of bridge amplifiers, each operates at a first switching frequency; a gradient coil coupled to the power stage and configured to produce a magnetic field proportional to a coil current signal supplied by the power stage; a controller stage coupled to an input terminal of the power stage and configured to: generate a pulse width modulated gate signal based on the coil current signal and a reference current signal, wherein the pulse width modulated gate signal is generated at a second switching frequency when a slew rate associated with the reference current signal is below a threshold rate for at least a first time period; and apply the pulse width modulated gate signal to the power stage for changing an operating frequency of each of the plurality of bridge amplifiers from the first to the second switching frequency.
US09551763B1 Diamond nitrogen vacancy sensor with common RF and magnetic fields generator
Systems and apparatuses are disclosed for providing a uniform RF field and magnetic bias field to a nitrogen vacancy center diamond.
US09551761B2 Portable magnetic, electric and radio frequency field monitoring apparatus and method
The use of implanted medical devices that address a wide range of health conditions is rapidly expanding. These implanted devices include: Cochlear implants, drug dispensing pumps, cardiac pacemakers, defibrillators and other devices. Although these devices are designed to withstand interference from external radio frequency, electric and magnetic fields, interference can occur which may affect the operation of these devices and pose a health risk. An inventive personal, body-wearable electric field, radio frequency, and three-axis magnetic field monitoring device detects the ambient radio frequency, electric and magnetic fields and warns the wearer when any of these field measurements exceeds a safe level.
US09551754B2 Test device for kinetic switches and method of testing kinetic switches
Test apparatus and method of testing kinetic switches. The test apparatus utilizes an RFID device attached to a high speed centrifuge on which the kinetic switches are mounted for testing. Sensors monitor the operation of the kinetic switch for movement from a first position to a second position. In addition, the speed of the centrifuge at the time of the movement is determined. This information may be transmitted in real time as received by the RFID device or saved in RFID memory and transmitted to determine the force applied to the kinetic switch at the time of the movement so that the acceptability of the kinetic switch can be determined.
US09551749B2 Test circuit for very low voltage and bias scan testing of integrated circuit
Test circuitry for an integrated circuit (IC) that has a scan chain includes a control unit for applying a test pattern and a clock signal to the scan chain, and for varying the level of a supply voltage during a scan test procedure. In a first test phase, the supply voltage is set to the rated voltage level of the IC while a test pattern is shifted into the scan chain at a fast rate. A second, capture phase is run at a lower rate and the supply voltage is reduced to a lower level such that defects that cannot be detected when the capture phase is run at the rated voltage are observable yet switching elements in the IC still function correctly. Running the shift phase at the higher speed reduces the overall test time compared with known very low voltage (VLV) scan test procedures.
US09551743B2 Apparatus and method for combined micro-scale and nano-scale C-V, Q-V, and I-V testing of semiconductor materials
Current Voltage and Capacitance Voltage (IV and CV) measurements are critical in measurement of properties of electronic materials especially semiconductors. A semiconductor testing device to accomplish IV and CV measurement supports a semiconductor wafer and provides a probe for contacting a surface on the wafer under control of an atomic Force Microscope or similar probing device for positioning the probe to a desired measurement point on the wafer surface. Detection of contact by the probe on the surface is accomplished and test voltage is supplied to the semiconductor wafer. A first circuit for measuring capacitance sensed by the probe based on the test voltage and a complimentary circuit for measuring Fowler Nordheim current sensed by the probe based on the test voltage are employed with the probe allowing the calculation of characteristics of the semiconductor wafer based on the measured capacitance and Fowler Nordheim current.
US09551740B2 Parallel concurrent test system and method
A parallel concurrent test (PCT) system is provided for performing the parallel concurrent testing of semiconductor devices. The PCT system includes a pick and place (PnP) handler for engaging and transporting the semiconductor devices along a testing plane, the PnP handler including at least one manipulator. The PCT system also includes a device under test interface board (DIB), the DIB including a broadside test socket for broadside (BS) testing of the semiconductor devices, the broadside testing using at least half of a total number of a semiconductor device pins, and a plurality of design-for-test (DFT) test sockets for DFT testing, the DFT testing using less than half of the total number of the semiconductor device pins, and a tester in electrical contact with the DIB for testing the semiconductor devices in accordance with a stepping pattern test protocol.
US09551736B2 Contact-independent electrical conductance measurement
Electrical conductance measurement system including a one-dimensional semiconducting channel, with electrical conductance sensitive to electrostatic fluctuations, in a circuit for measuring channel electrical current. An electrically-conductive element is disposed at a location at which the element is capacitively coupled to the channel; a midpoint of the element aligned with about a midpoint of the channel, and connected to first and second electrically-conductive contact pads that are together in a circuit connected to apply a changing voltage across the element. The electrically-conductive contact pads are laterally spaced from the midpoint of the element by a distance of at least about three times a screening length of the element, given in SI units as (K∈0/e2D(EF))1/2, where K is the static dielectric constant, ∈0 is the permittivity of free space, e is electron charge, and D(EF) is the density of states at the Fermi energy for the element.
US09551732B2 Apparatus and method for alternating current physical signals measurement and data acquisition
An apparatus for AC physical signals measurement and data acquisition and the method for the same are provided. The apparatus for AC physical signals measurement and data acquisition comprises an analog sampling channel for inputting an AC signal and outputting an analog sampling value; a sampling switch for performing re-sampling to obtain data frequency as required by the receiving side; a register for storing a re-sampling value from the sampling switch; a bus for outputting the re-sampling value in the register to the receiving side; a timing controller for controlling the analog sampling channel and the re-sampling frequency of the sampling switch; and a digital low-pass filter, which has an input connected with the analog sampling value outputted by the analog sampling channel and an output connected with the sampling switch, filters out high frequency components from the sampling value, and has a cut-off frequency that should be lower than 0.5 times the re-sampling frequency of the sampling switch. The apparatus and method for AC physical signals measurement and data acquisition improve accuracy of remote measurement for electric power physical quantities. Not only waveform values are outputted by re-sampling, effective values, steady state values and their fundamental/harmonic wave effective values and steady state values are also outputted. Thus, various requirements by the receiving side on remote measurement data are satisfied.
US09551730B2 Mechanical shock resistant MEMS accelerometer arrangement, associated method, apparatus and system
An accelerometer arrangement and method are described for determining accelerations of an inground tool. First and second triaxial accelerometers are supported such that a normal sensing axis of the first triaxial accelerometer is at least generally orthogonal to the normal sensing axis of the second triaxial accelerometer for determining the accelerations along the three orthogonal axes based on a combination of sensing axis outputs from one or both of the triaxial accelerometers. A weaker sensing axis of one triaxial accelerometer can be supported at least approximately normal to a weaker sensing axis of another triaxial accelerometer such that the weaker axes are not used. The triaxial accelerometers can be supported such that one axis of one accelerometer can be redundant with respect to another axis of another accelerometer. One triaxial accelerometer can be mounted on a tilted plane with respect to another triaxial accelerometer.
US09551729B2 Package, electronic device, method of manufacturing electronic device, electronic apparatus, and moving object
A package includes a base portion, and a lid which is placed on the base portion to define an inner space with the base portion and has a metal plate layer and a brazing material layer that is laminated on the metal plate layer, in which the base portion has a metalized layer which is joined with the brazing material layer around the inner space in a plane view, and the brazing material layer has a protrusion which protrudes in a opposite direction of the base portion on an outer peripheral side surface of the metal plate layer.
US09551724B2 5-fluoro-uracil immunoassay
Novel conjugates of 5-fluoro-uracil and novel 5-fluoro-uracil immunogens and monoclonal antibodies generated by these immunogens which are useful in immunoassays for the quantification and monitoring of 5-fluoro-uracil in biological fluids.
US09551720B2 Urine biomarkers for prediction of recovery after acute kidney injury: proteomics
This invention is related to the field of the prevention and treatment of kidney disease. The treatment of kidney disease may be tailored depending upon the need for, or expectation of, renal recovery. For example, renal recovery can be determined by monitoring urine biomarkers related to the development of chronic kidney disease. For example, a normalized time course of approximately fourteen Days measuring urinary proteins can be used to establish the risk of recovery versus non-recovery in patient's having suffered an acute kidney injury. Alternatively, the invention describes signature protein expression profiles to establish the probability of renal recovery and/or renal non-recovery.
US09551717B2 Method for diagnosing Q-fever using a cellular immunological test
The present invention relates to a method for diagnosing Q-fever in a subject, the method comprising the steps of: (a) obtaining a sample from said subject, (b) contacting said sample with a source of a Coxiella burnetii antigen and (c) determining the expression level of a pro-inflammatory cytokine such as IFN-γ in said sample at the end of step (b).
US09551716B2 Method for diagnosis and prognosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
A method for aiding in categorizing or determining prognosis in a subject with COPD, or in selecting a therapeutic strategy for a subject with COPD, or in monitoring disease progression or assessing effectiveness of a treatment regime for COPD, the method comprising the step of assessing the antibody response to carbonylated vimentin in a sample obtained from the subject. The method may further comprise the step of selecting a treatment regime making use of the information on the antibody response to carbonylated vimentin in the sample. The step of assessing of the antibody response to carbonylated vimentin may comprise the step of determining the ratio of IgG to IgM in the antibody response to carbonylated vimentin.
US09551714B2 Materials and methods for assay of anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies
A polypeptide comprising the contiguous amino acids 1-198 of SEQ ID NO: 2; a polypeptide, which comprises a contiguous amino acid sequence that is at least about 95% identical to the contiguous amino acids 1-198 of SEQ ID NO: 2, an epitope that is immunoreactive with an antibody that specifically binds to the core protein of hepatitis C virus (HCV), and an epitope that is immunoreactive with an antibody that specifically binds to the NS4 region of HCV; a nucleic acid encoding such a polypeptide; a host cell comprising such a nucleic acid; an immunodiagnostic reagent comprising such a polypeptide; a kit comprising such an immunodiagnostic reagent; and a method of determining the presence, amount, or concentration of anti-HCV antibodies in a test sample.
US09551712B2 Volatile organic compounds as diagnostic markers for various types of cancer
The present invention provides sets of VOCs for breath analysis. Methods of use thereof in diagnosing, monitoring or prognosing breast cancer, head and neck cancer, prostate cancer or colon cancer are disclosed.
US09551711B2 Compositions and methods for detecting nitration of PKG-1α and methods of use thereof
Antibodies for detecting nitration of nitrotyrosine 247 PKG-1α and antibodies for detecting nitrotyrosine 425 of PKG-1α are disclosed. Methods of detecting nitrotyrosine 247 PKG-1α and nitrotyrosine 425 of PKG-1α, and uses thereof are also disclosed for identification and diagnosis or phenotypes, pathologies, diseases and disorders associated with protein nitration of PKG-1α are also disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, one or more of the disclosed antibodies is used in the disclosed methods.
US09551708B2 Methods of treating a subject having heart failure
Methods of treating a subject having a cardiovascular disease, selecting a therapy for a subject having a cardiovascular disease, identifying a subject having a cardiovascular disease that will benefit or not benefit from exercise therapy, determining whether a subject having a cardiovascular disease should begin, continue, not begin, discontinue, or avoid exercise therapy, determining whether a subject having a cardiovascular disease should continue, discontinue, or avoid exercise therapy, reducing the risk of an adverse outcome (e.g., death) in a subject having a cardiovascular disease, and predicting the efficacy of exercise therapy in a subject having a cardiovascular disease. These methods include determining a level of soluble ST2 in a subject.
US09551697B2 Non-faradaic, capacitively coupled measurement in a nanopore cell array
A method of identifying a molecule is disclosed. A molecule is drawn to a nanopore by applying a first voltage signal to a pair of electrodes during a first period, wherein the first voltage signal causes a first ionic current through the nanopore that is indicative of a property of a portion of the molecule proximate to the nanopore. The molecule is released from the nanopore by applying a second voltage signal to the pair of electrodes during a second period, wherein the second voltage signal causes a second ionic current through the nanopore. The first period and the second period are determined based at least in part on a net ionic current through the nanopore comprising the first ionic current and the second ionic current.
US09551695B2 Personal substance detection field test kit
A personal-sized, portable explosive detection field test kit (ETK) and related methods of use. Embodiments of the disclosed ETK include a case having a closing system featuring three levels of closure which retain the case cover securely in a closed position until ready for use, while being easily opened when necessary. The ETK instructions are permanently attached to the case to prevent loss. The case includes retention features which retain the kit components until needed and protects them against loss or damage. The ETK includes one or more test tubes that are color coded and include abbreviated instructions.
US09551691B2 L-mode guided wave sensor
An L-mode guided wave sensor 10 for inspecting an inspection target by using an L-mode guided wave. The L-mode guided wave sensor 10 is provided with a vibrator 3 which is attached to an inspection target 1, and a coil 5 which is wound around the vibrator 3 and to which an AC voltage is applied. The vibrator 3 is made of a ferromagnetic material.
US09551689B2 Inspection device utilizing eddy currents
An example inspection probe device includes a sensor assembly configured to induce an eddy current in a component. A probe body houses at least a portion of the sensor assembly such that the portion of the sensor assembly is spaced from a target surface of the component when the probe body is in contact with the component. A controller is used to calculate the location of the target surface relative to the probe body using an eddy current parameter sensed by the sensor assembly.
US09551681B2 Device and method for parallel recording of impedance spectra and field potential
The present invention relates to a device and a method for parallel recording of impedance spectra and field potential of cells in vitro.
US09551677B2 Angle calibration for grazing-incidence X-ray fluorescence (GIXRF)
A method includes directing an X-ray beam to be incident at a grazing angle on a location on a surface of the sample. An X-ray fluorescence excited at the location is measured. A reflection angle of the X-ray beam from the surface and a transmission angle of the X-ray beam are measured. An angle of incidence of the X-ray beam on the surface is evaluated using the measured reflection and transmission angles, and the measured X-ray fluorescence is analyzed using the evaluated angle of incidence.
US09551671B2 Method and device for detecting, in particular, refracting defects
An in-line method for optically inspecting transparent or translucent containers (3) comprises illuminating each container with a light source that presents light intensity variation in a periodic pattern along at least a first variation direction. A number N greater than or equal to three of images of the container traveling in front of the light source and occupying N different respective positions along the travel path is taken. Between taking successive images, a relative shift between the container and the periodic pattern is created. A geometrical transformation is determined and applied in order to put the pixels belonging to the container in the N successive images of the same container into coincidence. A phase image for each container is constructed using the N registered images of the container. The phase image is analyzed in order to deduce therefrom at least the presence of defects or the quality of the container.
US09551656B2 Absorption and scattering effects separation from diffuse spectrum data and model establishment and concentration prediction based thereon
A method of processing diffuse spectrum data may include: obtaining diffuse spectrum data of a medium to be detected at one or more first radial positions; and determining optical information caused by substantially only a variation in scattering characteristic of the medium to be detected and/or optical information caused by substantially only a variation in absorption characteristic of the medium to be detected at one or more second radial positions from the obtained diffuse spectrum data.
US09551655B2 Metamaterial sensor platforms for terahertz DNA sensing
A sensor platform is provided for interrogating a sample with an electromagnetic (EM) wave. The platform includes: a dielectric material having opposing first and second planar surfaces; a first array of loop elements embedded in the first planar surface of the dielectric material, wherein slots are formed between the loop elements in the first array of loop elements and configured to host a sample material therein; and a second array of loop elements embedded in the second planar surface of the dielectric material and formed symmetrically with respect to the first array of loop elements, wherein slots are also formed between the loop elements of the second array of loop elements. The loop elements in the first array and the second array are comprised of a conductive material.
US09551654B2 Method for the spectral identification of microorganisms
A rapid method for characterizing and identifying microorganisms using Focal-Plane Array (FPA)-Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is disclosed. Multi-pixels spectral images of unknown microorganisms spectra are analyzed and compared to spectra of reference microorganisms in databases. The method allows rapid and highly reliable identification of unknown microorganisms for the purpose of medical diagnosis, food and environmental control.
US09551651B2 Handheld moisture sensor device
A handheld moisture sensing device for use in determining the moisture content of biological material, such as animal feed. Adapted to be pressed against biological material to be analyzed, the device includes a sensor assembly, including a housing with an end structure including a grate adapted to engage the material to be examined, a near infrared (NIR) LED, an NIR light sensor, a glass mounted in the housing adjacent the light source so that light from the light source passes through the glass, a glass heater positioned adjacent the glass for heating the glass, a lens mounted in the housing adjacent the NIR sensor so that the NIR light reflected off the biological material passes through the glass and is focused by the lens onto the NIR sensor, and a controller connected to the NIR sensor and receiving a signal related to the reflected NIR light received by the NIR sensor.
US09551649B2 Surface sampling method, device, and system for enhanced detection of chemical and biological agents
A system, method, and device for analyzing a sample using spectroscopy. The system includes a spectroscope, a sample vial with a swab removably sealable within a transparent enclosure, the swab including an absorbent collection substrate. The system further includes a sample vial adaptor configured to affix to the spectroscope, and a sample vial receptacle that receives the sample vial. The adaptor is configured to position the sample vial such that the transparent portion of the enclosure is between the swab and the laser of the Raman instrument, and such that the swab is positioned at the focal distance of the laser.
US09551647B2 Pulsed UV-light source
The disclosure relates to a tunable optical light source spanning the UV-range and possible also the visible and near-IR wavelengths. The tunable optical light source includes an input light source, a focusing element, a non-linear crystal arranged to convert the frequency of at least part of the output spectrum of the super continuum source, and a holding unit for the non-linear crystal. The input light source is a super continuum light source with a spectral bandwidth of at least about 300 nm and the holding unit is adjustable for changing the frequency converted output wavelength of the non-linear crystal wfc such that the lowest obtainable output wavelength wUV of said tunable light source is ultraviolet. The disclosure further relates to an illumination source and an optical measurement system.
US09551646B2 Apparatus for environmental test
An apparatus for environmental tests includes a chamber having formed therein a test space for disposing a sample, and a tray that is provided on the upper surface of the chamber and has an open upper surface. A front wall of the tray is configured by an operation unit where switches are provided. A rear wall of the tray is configured by a control unit housing a control substrate. A left wall and a right wall of the tray are configured by hollow bodies connecting the operation unit and the control unit. The tray is covered with a lid.
US09551640B2 Wire-pull test location identification on a wire of a microelectronic package
A mechanism is provided for identifying a wire-pull test location on a wire of a microelectronic package. A first distance between a first terminating location of the wire on the microelectronic package and a second terminating location of the wire on the microelectronic package is determined. Based on the first distance, a second distance from either the first terminating location or the second terminating location is determined as the wire-pull test location for testing a strength of a connection of the wire to at least one of the first terminating location or the second terminating location. An adjustment is performed such that a visual guide is oriented on the wire at the wire-pull test location.
US09551636B2 Automated high-throughput seed sampler and methods of sampling, testing and bulking seeds
An automated method for analyzing seeds generally includes collecting image data from individual seeds using a seed sampling system, determining at least one characteristic of each of the individual seeds based on the collected image data, and removing tissue from each of the individual seeds using the seed sampling system. The method also includes, prior to removing the tissue sample from each of the individual seeds, adjusting at least one operational parameter of the seed sampling system based on the at least one characteristic of the seed from which the tissue is to be removed to thereby allow for generally consistent removal of tissue from each of the individual seeds. In some aspects, the method further includes analyzing the tissue removed from the seeds for presence or absence of at least one characteristic, and selecting seeds based on presence or absence of the at least one characteristic.
US09551629B2 System for acquiring a vibratory signal of a rotary motor
A method and a system for acquiring a vibratory signal for troubleshooting a rotary motor, including: an input receiving a temporal vibratory signal of the motor and at least one current rotational speed of at least one shaft of the motor, and a sampling mechanism sampling the temporal vibratory signal in real time with at least one sampling signal synchronised with the at least one current rotational speed thus generating a corresponding synchronous vibratory signal.
US09551628B2 Flexible automation cell for performing secondary operations in concert with a machining center and roll check operations
An automation cell incorporating elements for performing secondary operations on a machined part is adapted to be disposed adjacent to a machining center for performing the primary operations on the part. The cell incorporates a robotic arm capable of being moved into position with respect to the machining center so as to load machined parts into the machining center and unload primarily machined parts for the performance of secondary operations in the cell. In a preferred embodiment the automation cell performs roll check operations on the primarily machined gear by bringing it into meshed engagement with a master gear and rotating the meshed gears and employing a sensor to monitor the roll-out of the machined gear.
US09551626B2 Leak testing method
Provided is a leak testing method of a workpiece including spaces which are three partitioned void portions, the leak testing method being capable of separately learning an amount of leakage from each of the spaces, and precisely determining whether the workpiece is normal or defective. The leak testing method includes steps of obtaining total leakage amounts, and a step of calculating, based on the obtained total leakage amounts, a first leakage amount, a second leakage amount, a third leakage amount, a fourth leakage amount, a fifth leakage amount and a sixth leakage amount which are amounts of leakage from respective routes when gas is injected to a workpiece at a predetermined pressure.
US09551620B2 Method and system for multi-functional embedded sensors
A system and method for monitoring system including a embedded sensor coupled to an article, wherein the embedded sensor is a direct write embedded sensor using a high temperature light emitting material. A camera system detects illumination signals from the embedded sensors. A processing section processes the illumination signals and determines gas/surface temperatures and strain data for the article.
US09551618B2 Wavefront-division polarimetric analysis method and device, spectropolarimeter, polarimetric camera and optical microscope using such a device
An accurate and robust wavefront-division polarimetric analysis method and device, allows the quasi-instantaneous measurement of the polarization states of a luminous object. The device can be used to produce a plurality of light beams, all polarized according to different polarization states, from a single upstream light beam. The polarized light beams, which do not overlap and which carry information items that are complementary in terms of polarization, are analyzed simultaneously by a plurality of detectors that measure the luminous intensity of each beam. Processing elements digitally process the luminous intensity values obtained in order to determine the polarization state of the upstream light beam. The operations performed by the processing elements prevent luminous intensity variations in the split light beams during the division of the wavefront of the upstream light beam. Therefore, the wavefront-division polarimetric analysis device is robust and its accuracy is not hindered by the experimental conditions.
US09551616B2 Spectral imaging system for remote and noninvasive detection of target substances using spectral filter arrays and image capture arrays
An approach to noninvasively and remotely detect the presence, location, and/or quantity of a target substance in a scene via a spectral imaging system comprising a spectral filter array and image capture array. For a chosen target substance, a spectral filter array is provided that is sensitive to selected wavelengths characterizing the electromagnetic spectrum of the target substance. Elements of the image capture array are optically aligned with elements of the spectral filter array to simultaneously capture spectrally filtered images. These filtered images identify the spectrum of the target substance. Program instructions analyze the acquired images to compute information about the target substance throughout the scene. A color-coded output image may be displayed on a smartphone or computing device to indicate spatial and quantitative information about the detected target substance. The system desirably includes a library of interchangeable spectral filter arrays, each sensitive to one or more target substances.
US09551615B2 Monochromator comprising vibration resistant moveable optical elements
A monochromator has at least one optical grating which is rotatable in relation to incident light of a source of light, a drive unit to rotate the optical grating by a connected drive rod around a longitudinal axis, and a control unit to control the drive unit and thereby the rotation of the optical grating. The drive unit further has a first damping element with at least one electrical conductive surface, and a second damping element which provides at least one magnetic field having a magnetic axis which penetrates the electrical conductive surface. One of the first and second damping elements is fixed to the drive rod and is rotatable along with the drive rod around the longitudinal axis thereof in relation to the other one of the second or first damping element.
US09551613B2 Mobile phone hyperspectral imager with single-frame spatial, spectral and polarization information
A portable spectroscopic device for acquiring single-frame spatial, spectral, and polarization information of an object. The device includes a modular dispersion element assembly that is coupled to a mobile computing device and disperses light into a plurality of different wavelengths. The mobile computing device includes a sensor and is configured to receive and analyze the plurality of wavelengths. The mobile computing device is also configured to perform automatic calibrations to determine the absolute wavelength axis and make stray-light corrections with minimal user intervention, thus making it amenable for untrained users not familiar with the state of the art. The mobile computing device is also configured to extend dynamic range.
US09551612B2 Tandem dispersive range monochromator
Aspects of a monochromator are described herein. In one embodiment, the monochromator includes a light source that provides light, a diffraction grating including a first diffraction grating and a second diffraction grating, a grating drive motor that rotates the diffraction grating to provide dispersed wavelengths of light, a detector that detects a portion of the dispersed wavelengths of light, and processing circuitry that controls a grating drive motor to regulate an angular velocity of the grating based on an angular orientation of the diffraction grating. By using a diffraction grating having multiple, different dispersive surfaces, measurements of relatively high precision and quality may be taken throughout a wider spectral range. In another aspect, the processing circuitry controls a sample drive motor to vary an angle of incidence of the dispersed wavelengths of light onto a sample for evaluation.
US09551610B2 Sensor for remotely powered underwater acoustic sensor networks (RPUASN)
A Remotely Powered Underwater Acoustic Sensor Networks (RPUASN) paradigm and the node architecture for RPUASN are disclosed. In RPUASN, sensor nodes harvest and store power supplied by an external acoustic source, extending their lifetime indefinitely. Necessary source characteristics are determined. The ability of an RPUASN sensor to harvest its required power is disclosed with respect to source parameters and distance to the source. Performance of RPUASN is directly related to the sensing coverage and communication connectivity over the field the sensor nodes are deployed. The required number of RPUASN nodes and the volume which is guaranteed to be covered by the nodes is disclosed in terms of electrical power, range, directivity and transmission frequency of the external acoustic source, and node power requirements.
US09551609B2 Modal acoustic aircraft weight system
A method includes receiving characteristic information from a sensor. The characteristic information may be representative of a characteristic of a weight bearing structure of an aircraft when a force is applied to the weight bearing structure. The method includes determining a weight of the aircraft based on the characteristic information. The method includes receiving attitude information from an attitude sensor. The attitude information indicates whether the aircraft is situated on a level surface. The method includes determining a balance condition based on the attitude information and the weight of the aircraft. The balance condition indicates whether the weight of the aircraft is distributed evenly. The method includes generating an alert when the balance condition indicates that the weight of the aircraft is not distributed evenly.
US09551606B2 Determining a level and flow speed of a medium
A measurement device is provided for determining a distance of the measurement device from a medium and a flow speed of a medium by evaluating a transmission signal emitted by the fill level measurement device and reflected by the medium. The measurement device includes an antenna arrangement for emitting the transmission signal in two different directions. The flow speed of the medium can be determined using the Doppler shift of the transmission signal.
US09551602B2 Electromagnetic flow meter and magnetic excitation control method
To suppress the generation of bubbles of gas dissolved in a fluid, a flow evaluating portion compares a measured flow rate value with a preset reference flow rate value and determines whether a fluid is flowing through a measurement tube. When the flow evaluating portion determines that the fluid is not flowing through the measurement tube, a magnetic excitation controlling portion imposes a limitation so that a magnetic excitation current reduces to an electric current value less than a magnetic excitation current obtained in normal measurement. When the flow evaluating portion determines that the fluid is flowing through the measurement tube, the magnetic excitation controlling portion releases the limitation on the magnetic excitation current.
US09551598B2 Fiber optic sensing apparatus with an improved fiber-affixing device
A fiber optic sensing apparatus that may be used to sense one or more conditions of an electromotive machine is provided. A housing (20) encloses an optical fiber sensor (18). An optical fiber (19) extends into the housing through an opening formed in the housing. A fiber-affixing device (15) may be affixed to the optical fiber proximate the opening. The fiber-affixing device includes opposed bearing surfaces (30, 32) extending away from the optical fiber and disposed against opposed inner and outer surfaces (34, 36) of the housing surrounding the opening. The fiber-affixing device is effective to affix the optical fiber within the opening, thereby substantially improving the robustness and survivability of the optical fiber sensor.
US09551597B2 Measurement system with image capture capabilities
In at least one embodiment, a mobile measurement system includes a handheld device, a measurement device, and an optical sensing device. The measurement device and the optical sensing device are communicatively coupled to the handheld device. The handheld device receives measurement data that comprises at least one measured electrical parameter corresponding to a physical property of an external system. The measurement device generates measurement data that corresponds to a period of time. The measurement device communicates the generated measurement data to the handheld device. The optical sensing device generates optical data corresponding to an interface of the measurement device and the external system where the measurement data is being generated. The generated optical data corresponds to a particular time within the measurement period of time. The mobile measurement system associates and stores the generated optical data for the particular time with measurement data corresponding to the period of time.
US09551595B2 Induction detecting type rotary encoder
An induction detecting type rotary encoder includes: a stator; a rotor disposed opposite the stator; a first transmitting coil that is provided in the stator and includes a first inner circumference coil and a first outer circumference coil; a second transmitting coil that is provided in the stator and includes a second inner circumference coil and a second outer circumference coil; first and second receiving coils provided in the stator; and first and second magnetic flux coupling bodies provided in the rotor. The closest distance between the first inner circumference coil and the second magnetic flux coupling body is shorter than that between the first outer circumference coil and the second magnetic flux coupling body. The closest distance between the second inner circumference coil and the first magnetic flux coupling body is shorter than that between the second outer circumference coil and the first magnetic flux coupling body.
US09551593B2 Method and apparatus for displaying power consumption
A method of displaying power consumption by receiving information regarding Real Time Pricing (RTP) in which a power rate varies according to time; receiving power consumption amounts; and displaying predetermined visual displaying means based on the RTP information and the received power consumption amounts.
US09551591B2 Driving assistance based on road infrastructure information
A user equipment (UE) provides driving assistance based on road infrastructure information. The UE may include a wireless interface which communicates over a wireless channel, a position determination system configured to determine a position of the UE, a memory configured to store instructions, and a processor configured to execute the instructions stored in the memory. The processor may be configured to transmit a request for road infrastructure data which may include the position of the UE, receive road infrastructure data associated with road infrastructure element(s) within a proximity to the UE, where a boundary of the proximity exceeds a line of sight of the UE. The processor may also generate a graphical representation of the road infrastructure element(s) along with information associated with the road infrastructure data, and provide the graphical representation to a display. The graphical representation may convey status of, or information provided by, the road infrastructure element(s).
US09551590B2 Gesture-based information and command entry for motor vehicle
A method of receiving input from a user includes providing a surface within reach of a hand of the user. A plurality of locations on the surface that are touched by the user are sensed. An alphanumeric character having a shape most similar to the plurality of touched locations on the surface is determined. The user is audibly or visually informed of the alphanumeric character and/or a word in which the alphanumeric character is included. Feedback is received from the user regarding whether the alphanumeric character and/or word is an alphanumeric character and/or word that the user intended to be determined in the determining step.
US09551581B2 Turn-by-turn navigation system and method using feedforward location estimation
A turn-by-turn internal navigation system for use with a mobile electronic device includes three receives for using a trilateration navigational algorithm using first receiver for receiving a cellular tower radio frequency (RF) signal, a second receiver for receiving a WiFi RF signal; and a third receiver for receiving at least one Bluetooth RF signal based upon a BLE tag network. A processor works to execute an algorithm using feed-forward estimation such that no feedback is needed for distance error correction. The algorithm uses dead reckoning navigation in combination with information from the first receiver, second receiver and third receiver to generate positional information such that in-building navigation instructions are displayed on the mobile electronic device.
US09551579B1 Automatic connection of images using visual features
Aspects of the disclosure relate generating navigation paths between images. A first image taken from a first location and a second image taken from a second location may be selected. A position of the first location in relation to the second location may be determined. First and second frames for the first and second images may be selected based on the position. First and second sets of visual features for each of the first and second image frames may be identified. Matching visual features between the first set of visual features and the second set of visual features may be determined. A confidence level for a line-of-sight between the first and second images may be determined by evaluating one or more positions of the matching visual features. Based on at least the confidence level, a navigation path from the first image to the second image is generated.
US09551575B2 Laser scanner having a multi-color light source and real-time color receiver
A laser scanner includes a light emitter that generates a modulated light beam for measuring distance and red, blue, and green lights for capturing colors. The beam is collimated and directed to an object point with a steering mirror. Reflected light from the object point is directed by the steering mirror onto scanner optics. The reflected light is directed to an optical receiver that sends the first light in a first path and the second, third and fourth lights in a second path to a color receiver. The first light is demodulated to determine distance to the target. The second, third, and fourth lights are separated and measured to determine three color values. The color values are combined with the measured distance value to determine a color 3D coordinate for the object point.
US09551573B1 Proximity based gesturing devices, systems and methods
A device includes sensor substantially coplanar with one another in a sensor plane, each sensor generating a sense value that varies according to a physical distance between the sensor and an object. The device also includes control circuits configured to generate a first position value, a second position value, and a third value using the sense values in a first mode to detect a hover or glove operation by the object. The first position value and the second position values identify a two-dimensional position of the object in the sensor plane and the third value varies in response to movement of the object in a Z-direction substantially perpendicular to the sensor plane. The control circuits are also configured to generate a fourth position value and a fifth position value in a second mode to detect a touch operation by the object. The control circuits include a programmable integrated circuit including an analog portion and a digital portion.
US09551570B2 Three dimensional optical sensing through optical media
A method of optical sensing comprising generating optical data associated with an object of interest, generating non-optical data associated with the object of interest, and analyzing the optical and non-optical data.
US09551569B2 Apparatus and method for curvature and thin film stress measurement
Apparatus and method for curvature and thin film stress measurement are disclosed. The apparatus comprises two light sources and a detector. Two light beams from the two light sources with an angle are not parallel. The two light beams are collimated and projected onto a specimen with a pitch. The detector receives the light beams reflected from the specimen. The curvature of the specimen is calculated via a distance between spots of the light beams on the detector or a size variation of one of the spots.
US09551566B2 Coordinate measuring device
Provided is a coordinate measuring device which can easily perform accurate measurement. A coordinate measuring device is provided with a sub-imaging unit, a display unit, and a probe. The probe includes a stylus. The stylus has a contact part that is brought into contact with a measurement target in order to measure the measurement target. The sub-imaging unit is provided in the probe so as to have constant positional relationships, and captures an image of at least part of the measurement target. The image of the measurement target obtained by the sub-imaging unit is displayed as a captured image on the display unit. Based on calculated positions of the probe and the positional relationships of the sub-imaging unit, an image showing a measurement position on the measurement target, with which the contact part is to be brought into contact, is displayed on the captured image.
US09551563B2 Multi-axis differential interferometer
The invention relates to a multi-axis differential interferometer (1) for measuring a displacement and/or rotation between a first reflective surface (21, 321) and a second reflective surface (81, 381), wherein said measuring is carried out using at least two pairs of beams, wherein each pair is formed by a measurement beam (Mb) to be emitted onto a first one (21, 321) of said reflective surfaces, and a reference beam (Rb) to be emitted onto another one (81, 381) of said reflective surfaces, said interferometer (1) comprising: a first optical module (20) and a second optical module (40), wherein each optical module (20, 40) is configured for receiving a respective coherent beam and for creating one of said pairs therefrom. The invention further relates to a lithography system comprising such an interferometer and to a method for assembling such a multi-axis differential interferometer.
US09551561B2 Determining location using magnetic fields from AC power lines
Systems and methods for determining location using magnetic fields from AC power lines are provided. As an example, each magnetic field reading collected by the device over time can be analyzed to determine a plurality of characteristics of the magnetic field. One or more of the plurality of characteristics can describe a component of the magnetic field that oscillates at a frequency associated with the AC power lines. The plurality of characteristics can be compared to expected values respectively associated with a plurality of locations and provided by a map of the magnetic field to determine a location at which each magnetic field reading was collected. In further embodiments, magnetic field readings collected by the device over time can be analyzed in conjunction with other data or constraints to determine a trajectory of the device. In addition, the map can be updated using the collected readings and the determined trajectory.
US09551556B2 Chemical detonator with electric trigger
The necessary ESD safety for chemical detonators 1 is ensured by the fact that the sleeve 2 of the chemical detonator 1 is closely encompassed by an aluminum sleeve 20, the ignition pill 5 is sealed in addition by a casting compound 21 and a predetermined flashover position 26 is provided for the priming wires 3, 4.
US09551553B1 Bowfishing arrow slide with overmolded dampening member arrangement
Embodiments of the present disclosure include a bowfishing slide arrangement for use with an archery bow. In certain embodiments, the arrangement includes a slide having a slide body configured to slide along an arrow shaft. The arrangement further includes a stop used in cooperation with the slide. The stop is arrangeable on the arrow shaft in a manner to prevent the slide from sliding off of the arrow shaft. A dampening material is secured to the rear of the slide and arranged between the slide and the stop.
US09551552B2 Methods and apparatuses for aerial interception of aerial threats
Embodiments include active protection systems and methods for an aerial platform. An onboard system includes radar modules, detects aerial vehicles within a threat range of the aerial platform, and determines if any of the aerial vehicles are an aerial threat. The onboard system also determines an intercept vector to the aerial threat, communicates the intercept vector to an eject vehicle, and causes the eject vehicle to be ejected from the aerial platform to intercept the aerial threat. The eject vehicle includes alignment thrusters to rotate a longitudinal axis of the eject vehicle to substantially align with the intercept vector, a rocket motor to accelerate the eject vehicle along an intercept vector, divert thrusters to divert the eject vehicle in a direction substantially perpendicular to the intercept vector, and attitude control thrusters to make adjustments to the attitude of the eject vehicle.
US09551551B2 Universal firearm scope lens cover
A lens cover for a firearm scope comprises a lens ring configured to mount to a lens, a cover bracket pivotally mounted to the lens ring, and a cover membrane disposed upon a portion of the lens ring and a portion of the cover bracket. When the cover bracket is in a closed position, the cover membrane creates a seal against the lens ring. The lens ring comprises an elastomeric material so as to enable mounting of the lens ring to lenses of differing diameters. The cover bracket includes a plurality of opposing mounting holes for selectively mounting the cover bracket to the adjustable lens ring.
US09551548B2 Barrel and an electromagnetic projectile launching system
A multiple rails magnetic accelerator is presented. By means of an electric discharge, a magnetic field is created which moves an armature along the rails. These rails are made in such way they can stand multiple shoots without eroding. The launcher is configured such that the critical velocity of the armature increases along the axial direction towards the muzzle as it moves through the gun. The rails are separated with a proper electrical insulator and the whole structure can be surrounded by one or more shells to confine the barrel and apply compressive stress. The compressive stresses applied preload the rails and the composite barrel structure to resist overall forces encountered during projectile firing.
US09551547B2 Repeatable plasma generator and method for the same
The invention relates to a method for the repeatable initiation of propellent charges in a weapon system, for example in the firing of projectiles from a barrel weapon, through electrical discharge between a rear electrode (22) and a front electrode (21) in a combustion chamber channel (3) filled with filler gas and comprising a combustion chamber combustion element (30), in which the filler gas in the combustion chamber channel (3) is ionized via a high-voltage potential from at least one ionizing electrode (100, 101, 102, 103), which ionization increases the electrical conductivity in the combustion chamber channel (3) so that an electrical flashover, through electrical discharge via a high-voltage generator (5) between the rear electrode (22) and the front electrode (21), is generated from the rear electrode (22) via at least one ionizing electrode (100, 101, 102, 103) onward to the front electrode (21), which results in hot ignition gas with plasma-like state being expelled from the combustion chamber channel (3). The invention also relates to a plasma generator for the said method, and to an ammunition unit comprising the said plasma generator.
US09551546B2 Electronic firearm
There is disclosed herein systems, methods and apparatus relating to a firearm with an electronically operable firing system to fire projectiles from the firearm. A firing mechanism is provided for mechanically and electronically firing a firearm, and a selector mechanism allows for selection of a safe mode, an electronic firing mode or a mechanical firing mode for the firearm. There also includes an electronic controller and shooter interface for controlling firing of a firearm in an electronic mode of firing.
US09551544B1 Crossbow lock mechanism
An improved crossbow lock mechanism includes the trigger housing, the seer lever, the seer lock lever, the latch, the trigger and an auto safety. The auto safety preferably includes a safety block, a safety lever arm and a safety lever arm lock. The safety lever arm lock is pivotally retained on one end of the safety lever arm with a safety arm lock pin. A finger engagement portion extends from one end of the safety lever arm lock and a stop portion extends from an opposing end thereof. A hand grip extends from the housing. The safety lever arm is pivotally retained in the hand grip with a safety lever arm pivot pin. A safety block actuator pocket is formed in a bottom of the safety block to receive the other end of the safety lever arm. A safety block spring biases the safety block away from the trigger lever.
US09551543B2 Secure smartphone-operated gun lock with means for overriding release of the lock
A gun locking and unlocking device, which may be configured to be disposed on or in a gun to alternatively prevent or enable firing, includes a data receiver, a data memory and a logic device for determining whether security data received by the receiver is the same, or substantially the saris, as data stored in the data memory. One or more separate electronic gun key devices are provided to transmit security data and gun control signals to the data receiver of the gun lock device. The logic device responds to the gun control signals transmitted by one of the gun key devices to lock or unlock the gun, respectively, when the received security data and the security data stored in memory are substantially similar. The logic device also automatically locks the gun when the gun is located more than a prescribed distance from the gun key device.
US09551541B2 Indoor unit of air-conditioning apparatus
When user face information and user air-conditioning information are stored in advance via a portable information terminal and a face of a user is located within a face recognition range of an indoor imaging device, an indoor unit of an air-conditioning apparatus recognizes the face. In addition, when it is determined that the face of the user corresponds to the face of a first user represented by first user information stored in advance, the indoor unit of the air-conditioning apparatus blows conditioned air that satisfies a first user air-conditioning environment represented by first user air-conditioning information set for the first user toward the first user.
US09551537B2 Heat exchanger including a tube bundle that is offset with respect to a center of the chamber casing
A heat exchanger for use in a contact group of a sulfuric acid plant includes a chamber in which a tube bundle is arranged on a circular ring. A gas space is formed between the tube bundle and a chamber casing surrounding the tube bundle. A gas supply opening is provided in the chamber casing and is configured to introduce a gas into the gas space substantially radially to the tube bundle. A gas outlet opening adjoins an interior space enclosed by the tube bundle in a substantially axial direction. A center of the tube bundle is offset with respect to a center of the chamber casing in a direction opposite to the gas supply opening.
US09551536B2 Heat exchanger with receiver tank
In a heat exchanger 1 provided with a receiver tank 9 where a tank 3 of the heat exchanger 1 are connected with each other through intermediate member 7, 8, at least one side of the intermediate member 7, 8 and an outer circumferential portion of the receiver tank 9 is provided with a restricting portion 13c, 31 that restricts a relative displacement between the intermediate members 7, 8 and the receiver tank 9 in a direction along an attachment surface of the receiver tank 9 to which at least the intermediate member 7, 8 is attached.
US09551534B2 Heat exchanger assembly having a seal
A heat exchanger assembly having first and second heat exchangers and a seal. The seal may be disposed on the first heat exchanger and may have an elongated portion that extends toward the second heat exchanger to direct the flow of cooling air.
US09551530B2 Combined fan and ejector cooling
A pressing arrangement for treatment of articles by hot pressing includes a pressure vessel including a furnace chamber and a furnace to hold the articles. A fan circulates a pressure medium within the furnace chamber, and enhances an inner convection loop at a load compartment. The inner convection loop pressure medium has an upward flow through the load compartment, and a downward flow along a peripheral portion of the furnace chamber. A flow generator generates a flow of pressure medium into the load compartment downstream the fan to enhance the inner convection loop. The flow is generated by transporting the pressure medium upwards from a space below a bottom insulating portion and above a bottom end portion, and by injecting the pressure medium into the load compartment downstream the fan to enhance the inner convection loop.
US09551528B2 Dispensing device for welding rod dryer
There is provided a dispensing device for a welding rod dryer. The dispensing device may include a plurality of chambers configured to receive welding rod dryers; and a connection member provided in each of the plurality of chambers and configured to supply power to the welding dryers; and a door provided at an entrance of each of the plurality of chambers.
US09551526B2 Refining system and method for refining a feed gas stream
A refining system for refining a feed gas (10) includes a first and a second component, the first component having a lower dew point temperature than the second component; the refining system including:—an input section (105) for input of the feed gas including a dehydration unit for dehydrating the feed gas, capable of obtaining a water dew point between −45 and −65° C.;—a pre-cooling section (110) coupled to the input section for receiving the dehydrated feed gas;—a fractionation section (115) coupled to the pre-cooling section for receiving the pre-cooled stream;—an expansion cooling and separation section (120) coupled to the fractionation section for receiving the fractionated gas, including a cyclonic separator device (240); the expansion cooling and separation section having an reflux conduit coupled to the fractionation section for reflux (24) of liquid enriched with the second component to the fractionation section.
US09551524B2 Liner with electrical pathways
A liner for an appliance is formed by a plastic sheet formed into a three dimensional shape corresponding to at least a portion of a compartment of the appliance. A plurality of electrically conductive ink pathways are applied on a surface of the plastic sheet, and a sealer material is applied to the plastic sheet to cover said pathways.
US09551521B2 Method to extend the life of a twist ice maker
An ice making apparatus for an appliance comprising an ice making tray having at least one specialty feature chosen from the group consisting of: a convex bottom surface, a ledge disposed about a perimeter of the at least one ice compartment and proximate a bottom portion of the at least one ice compartment, at least one thread extending from one corner of the at least one ice compartment to another corner of the at least one ice compartment, or any combination thereof.
US09551519B2 Hazardous location heat transfer unit
A two chamber heat transfer unit configured such that hazardous air can circulate through one of the chambers and potential ignition source components are contained in another chamber through which the gas to be heated or cooled will circulate.
US09551515B2 Refrigeration cycle apparatus and outdoor heat source unit
There is provided a refrigeration cycle apparatus in which an outdoor heat source unit, an indoor unit, and a water heating unit are connected, and an air conditioning operation and a water heating operation can be performed separately, and an exhaust-heat recovery operation can be performed by simultaneously performing air cooling and water heating. The outdoor heat source unit includes a compressor for compressing refrigerant, a refrigerant air-heat exchanger that performs heat exchange between the refrigerant and outside air, a fan for cooling the refrigerant air-heat exchanger, a control device that includes an inverter device for driving the compressor, and a heat sink for dissipating heat of the inverter device, and a switching element in the inverter device is constituted by an element formed by a wide bandgap semiconductor.
US09551514B2 Condensing unit and fan coil system
A heating and cooling system for use in high-rise residential and commercial buildings may include condensing unit having dimensions no greater than 12 inches deep by 40 inches wide by 20 inches tall and a fan coil unit coupled to the condensing unit via refrigeration tubing. The fan coil unit may have dimensions of no greater than 14 inches deep by 43 inches wide by 11 inches tall. The condensing unit may include a condenser water connection, a refrigeration tubing connection, a compressor, and a heat exchanger. The fan coil unit may include a filter rack configured to hold a MERV 13 filter, two in-line high-pressure fans, and at least one access panel on a bottom surface of the fan coil unit.
US09551512B2 Air conditioning system
An air conditioning system, including a condenser for condensing a refrigerant, a first expansion device for throttling the refrigerant passed through the condenser, a second expansion device for throttling the refrigerant passed through the first expansion device, an evaporator for evaporating the refrigerant passed through the second expansion device, a compressor for compressing the refrigerant passed through the evaporator and the refrigerant injected after branched between the first expansion device and the second expansion device, and a control unit for detecting a value of at least one operating parameter and determining a target opening degree of the first expansion device on the basis of a stored set value corresponding to the detected value of the operating parameter.
US09551506B2 Device that eliminates the drainage of liquid during the changing of a heating element
Disclosed is a device capable of retaining water in a water heater during the course of changing out the heating element. The device is comprised of a series of parts that fit together in such a way as to allow for a heating element insertion and removal without draining of water from the water heater. Because of the relationship between tubes 4 and 7, and bushings 3 and 5 (teflon, aluminum, or any suitable metal or material) and the threaded piece 1 and heating element tip, screwing in clockwise heating element allows for alignment of these components (tube 4 with slots to align with tube 7 and its slots); slots will be aligned so that water flows through. The heating element is in fluid contact with the water of the water heater. However, unscrewing counter-clockwise the heating element rotates these components in such a fashion as to block the slots in tubes 4 and 7 and the threaded element 1 in order to contain the water of the water heater while the heating element is exchanged for a new one. Upon screwing clockwise the new heating element, the components again go from blocking the water from draining out, to an open channel allowing for continuous fluid flow between the heating element and the water heater. When inserting the new heating element, it is clockwise. The outer tube with an offset of 180 degrees will prevent water from escaping from the water heater.
US09551505B2 Damper access assembly, clamp assembly, and clamp member
A clamp assembly is provided for use in a duct system. The clamp assembly includes a clamp member including a base portion and first and second lateral portions. The first and second lateral portions extend less than the full circumferential length of the base portion. The clamp assembly may include a first member, a second member, and a hinge operatively coupling the first member to the second member. A damper access assembly includes an adapter, a damper access duct section, and an annular clamp member. A first flange of the adapter and a second flange of the duct section are configured to form a generally T-shaped joint between the adapter and the damper access duct section. The clamp member is configured to removably secure the adapter to the damper access duct section. The damper access duct section is configured to be removable relative to the damper enclosure and the ductwork.
US09551498B2 Indoor unit of air conditioner and method of controlling the air conditioner
An indoor unit of an air conditioner having improved structures of suction, discharge and/or flow passages which may increase operation efficiency, reduce noises and realize a compact size. The indoor unit includes a housing comprising a front panel and a rear panel coupled to a rear portion of the front panel, at least one discharge outlet exposed to a front of the front panel, at least one suction inlet formed in the rear panel at a position corresponding to the discharge outlet, at least one heat exchanger disposed at a front portion of the suction inlet to absorb heat from air introduced through the suction inlet or transfer heat to the air introduced through the suction inlet, and at least one diagonal flow fan disposed between the heat exchanger and the discharge outlet to suction air passing through the heat exchanger and discharge the air through the discharge outlet.
US09551497B2 Ion generation device
The present invention provides methods and systems for an ion generation device that includes an elongate housing having a back portion and a pair of side portions extending from the back portion and forming a cavity therein. A conductive portion is disposed within the cavity and connected to a power supply for providing power to the conductive portion. A plurality of tines are engaged to the conductive portion.
US09551491B2 Method for mixing a dilution air in a sequential combustion system of a gas turbine
The invention relates a method for mixing a dilution air with a hot main flow in a sequential combustion system of a gas turbine, wherein the gas turbine essentially comprises at least one compressor, a first combustor which is connected downstream to the compressor, and a second combustor. The hot gases of the first combustor are admitted to at least one intermediate turbine or directly or indirectly to at least one second combustor, wherein the hot gases of the second combustor are admitted to a further turbine or directly or indirectly to an energy recovery device. The method comprises a coaxial injection of first combustor liner cooling air with second combustor liner cooling air, the first combustor liner cooling air having a sufficient excess pressure margin with respect to the second combustor liner cooling air.
US09551490B2 System for cooling a fuel injector extending into a combustion gas flow field and method for manufacture
A system for cooling a fuel injector extending into a combustion gas flow field includes a liner that defines a combustion gas flow path within a combustor and a fuel injector that extends through the liner. The fuel injector includes a main body having an annular first portion that extends outward from the liner and a second portion that extends from the first portion inward into the combustion gas flow path. The main body defines a cooling channel that is fully circumscribed within the main body and that extends between the first portion and the second portion. A cooling air inlet is defined within the annular first portion and is in fluid communication with the cooling channel. A cooling air outlet is in fluid communication with the cooling channel and is defined within the second portion downstream from the cooling air inlet.
US09551488B2 Flat burner
A flat burner has at an upper end thereof a rectangular flame port portion which has a straightening member with a plurality of straightening plates laterally disposed in parallel with one another. The straightening member has contact portions in which the straightening plates are brought into contact with one another at a plurality of longitudinal positions to thereby longitudinally segregate the flame port passages that are defined by each of the straightening plates. Out of the contact portions of the laterally inside straightening plates defining the laterally center-side flame port passages of the flame port portion, at least lower half of the contact portions that are positioned at least in predetermined longitudinal portions is formed into an inverse triangle as seen in the lateral direction. The predetermined longitudinal portions are those in which the inlet direction of flow of the fuel-air mixture from the distribution chamber portion into the flame port portion longitudinally inclines relative to a vertical direction beyond a predetermined angle.
US09551483B1 Multiple cable disconnect
A multiple cable disconnect includes a housing having a separable mating end and a wire terminating end configured to receive wires of power cables. The housing has a plurality of terminal chambers with terminals therein. The terminals each have a base, a mating contact extending from the base and a wire contact extending from the base. The mating contact has a mating pad defining a separable mating interface for the terminal for mating with a corresponding mating terminal of the mating connector. The wire contact has plural wire interfaces for mating with plural wires such that plural wires are configured to be terminated to and commoned with each terminal. Wire retention springs are received in the housing each having at least one spring arm defining a wire trap with the corresponding wire contact. The spring arms are releasable to release the wires from the housing.
US09551481B1 Sensing lamp
A sensing lamp comprises a light body and a sensing module. The light body has a light source. The sensing module connected to the light body comprises a sensing unit and a cover. The sensing unit has at least one sensor, a control circuit and at least one parameter adjusting element. The sensor and the parameter adjusting element are electrically coupled to the control circuit, and respectively provided to the front-side and the back-side of the sensing unit. The control circuit is disposed in the sensing unit. The sensing unit and the light body are rotatably connected. The sensor of the sensing unit is not covered by the cover when the sensing unit is rotated to a first angle. The parameter adjusting element is not covered by the cover when the sensing unit is rotated to a second angle, thus the user can manipulate the parameter adjusting element.
US09551478B2 Lighting device
There is provided a lighting device includes a first frame, on which a light source unit is mounted, a second frame disposed at a front of the first frame and holding a lens, and a third frame disposed between the first frame and the second frame. The first frame and the second frame are fixed to each other to configure an integral main frame, and the third frame and the main frame are connected to each other via an elastic deformation part to be displaceable relatively in a front-rear direction at a connecting position.
US09551475B2 Retroreflective articles and devices having viscoelastic lightguide
Disclosed herein is an optical device having a light source, a viscoelastic lightguide and a retroreflective film suitable for retroreflecting light. Light from the light source enters the viscoelastic lightguide and is transported within the lightguide by total internal reflection. The transported light is extracted from the lightguide and retroreflected at a structured surface of the retroreflective film. The optical device may have a “front lit” or a “back lit” configuration depending on the relative positioning of the lightguide and the retroreflective film. The retroreflective film may include prismatic retroreflective sheeting, holographic film or film structured with diffraction gratings. The optical device may be used, for example, as a sign or marking, a license plate assembly, a tail light assembly for vehicles, a security laminate for protection of documents against tampering, or an illumination device.
US09551472B2 Rotary electronic candle
A rotary electronic candle, including a candle body having a hollow cavity with a candle wick, the candle wick including a battery box base, a plurality of fixing columns, a motor fixing ring, a cover plate, a motor, a rotating shaft, a light source plate and a hemispherical cover. The fixing columns are fixed at the upper end of the battery box base, the motor fixing ring is located between the plurality of fixing columns, and the cover plate is covered on the upper end face of the motor fixing ring. A through hole is formed in the center of the cover plate, the motor is installed in the motor fixing ring, the rotating shaft is connected with the motor shaft of the motor and penetrates through the through hole, and the light source plate is fixed on the cover plate.
US09551470B2 Electric candle with illuminating panel
The present disclosure, in one embodiment, relates to an electric flameless candle, comprising a body configured in shape and size to simulate a true flame candle. The electric flameless candle further comprising a light source operably connected to the body and positioned to be generally protruding from an exterior surface of the body, the light source comprising a plurality of illuminators electrically operated to illuminate in a way that simulates the movement of a real candle's flame.
US09551469B2 Linear lighting systems, manufacturing and methods to configure the same
Linear lighting fixtures intended to be incorporated into thin architectural surfaces, interconnected and configurable as a continuous run with potential to follow the direction of adjacent planar surface in three dimensional spaces while maintaining the structural integrity of the supporting framework within the scope of the majority of building code specifications.
US09551466B2 LED-based direct-view luminaire with uniform mixing of light output
Methods and apparatus are provided for producing mixed light in a direct-view luminaire. The luminaire includes a plurality of light sources (132) that, in combination, are configured to generate a plurality of different colors of light, a first light mixing chamber (110) and at least one second light mixing chamber (120) in light communication with the first mixing chamber through at least one opening (134). At least one directly viewable light exit surface (112) is coupled to the first light mixing chamber. The light sources are contained in the second light mixing chamber(s), which is configured to prevent light emitted from the light sources from directly impinging on the light exit surface(s). The first light mixing chamber and the light exit surface(s) are configured to mix the light emitted from the light sources such that all light exiting the light exit surface(s) is substantially uniform in brightness and color.
US09551457B2 Post mounting system and apparatus
Disclosed is an apparatus (10) for connection to a flange (52) of a post (50). The flange (52) comprises two or more elongated apertures (54) therethrough which are spaced out along the length of the flange. The apparatus comprises a body (12) from which there extends two sets of projections (14A&B) and (16A&B). Each projection in each set respectively extends from the body to a distal end (18). Each of the sets (14), (16) comprises two projections A&B which extend from the body so as to define a recess R therebetween which is configured to receive the flange (52) therein. The distal ends (18) of the two projections (14) or (16) in a given set are able to locate in adjacency of a respective one of the elongated apertures (54) in the flange. At least one of the distal ends of at least one the projections comprises a passage (20) formed thereat. The passage (20) has a profile configured in a similar manner to that of the flange elongated aperture (54) adjacent to which it can be located in use. A respective pin (32A), (32B) is provided for each of the projections. The pins are connected together by a bridging member (34). When the passage (20) is located in adjacency of a respective flange aperture (54), the pins (32A), (32B) are each able be inserted through a respective passage (20) aligned with a respective aperture (54) to secure the apparatus (10) to the post.
US09551453B2 Pull-out swivel mount
A system for mounting a flat panel television or display to a surface such as a wall. A base plate is configured to operatively connect to a surface, while an adapter plate is configured to operatively connect to a display device. A plurality of connecting arms are used to operatively connect the base plate to the adapter plate. Each of the plurality of connecting arms includes a base plate engagement portion slidably engageable with slots in the base plate and an adapter plate engagement portion operatively connected to the adapter plate. Movement of the base plate engagement portions within the base plate's slots results in a translational movement of the adapter plate relative to the base plate.
US09551451B2 Skid structure for a powertrain
A skid structure for a powertrain includes a pair of longitudinally extending members disposed about a central axis and in a mutually spaced apart relationship with one another. Each of the members includes a top wall; a bottom wall disposed in a spaced apart relation with the top wall; and a side wall connected at corresponding edges of the top and bottom walls to define a pocket therebetween. The pocket is configured to extend longitudinally along a length of the member and laterally along a width of the top and bottom walls. The skid structure further includes multiple gussets that are disposed within the pocket and interspaced from one another along the length of the member. Each gusset is configured to connect with at least two of the top wall, the bottom wall, and the side wall. The gussets are configured to support a weight of the powertrain thereon.
US09551445B2 Conduit receivers
Example embodiments are directed to an enclosure. The enclosure can include at least one wall forming a cavity. The enclosure can also include a conduit receiver disposed in the at least one wall. The conduit receiver can include a housing having an aperture, where the aperture is configured to receive a conduit. The conduit receiver can also include a retaining element disposed within the housing at a distal end of the housing. The conduit receiver can further include a sealing device disposed within the housing at a proximal end of the housing. The conduit receiver can also include a bushing adjacent to the proximal end of the housing, where the bushing extends radially inward from the at least one wall, where the bushing is configured to abut against the conduit when the conduit is received in the aperture, and where the bushing covers an end of the conduit.
US09551440B2 Cable management clasp for a cable assembly of a communication system
A cable management clasp includes a clasp body having an upper locating member and a lower locating member joined to the upper locating member at opposite first and second ends. The upper and lower locating members are parallel to each other to form an elongated cable receptacle between the upper and lower locating members. The upper and lower locating members gang a plurality of cables in a parallel arrangement within the cable receptacle.
US09551438B2 Cable retaining apparatus
A cable retaining apparatus, or trefoil cleat, for retaining three power cables is disclosed. Two halves of the cleat are hinged together and between them engage the three cables. There is also a clamping portion for pulling the two halves together which includes a clamping member at the non-hinged end of each half. Both clamping members have holes through them and one hole has an internal thread. There is also a bolt that extends through the non-threaded hole and into the threaded hole. The bolt has a non-threaded portion that extends at least between the clamping members when the cleat is in use.
US09551435B2 Method of preventing clogging in a microvalve
A method of cleaning contaminants, including particulate contaminants, from a valve in a fluid system includes moving a valve flow control element of the valve from a first position to a second position in response to a change in a condition in the fluid system other than a change in superheat.
US09551430B2 Flat-face valve for pulp rotary drum vacuum washer filter and method
A rotary drum for thickening pulp from a slurry, the drum including drainage channels delivering filtrate from a pulp mat on an outer surface of the rotary drum to at least one filtrate chamber at an end of the rotary drum, a flat face valve and plenum chamber assembly in the filtrate chamber. The flat face valve juxtaposed against drainage outlets of the drainage channels, wherein the flat face valve does not block the drainage outlets during a majority of the rotation of the rotary drum. At least one opening on the flat face valve extending through the front surface and aligned with the drainage outlets to provide a fluid passage through the flat face valve and to a plenum chamber behind the flat face valve such that air in the filtrate is collected in the upper portion of the plenum chamber and removed from the rotary drum.
US09551429B2 Rupture disc having laser-defined reversal initiation and deformation control features
A reverse-acting rupture disc (10) having a laser-defined reversal initiation feature (16) is provided in the bulged section (12) of the disc. The reversal initiation feature comprises at least a first lased area (22) that has a reduced thickness relative to rest of the bulged section. A second lased area (24) may also be provided within the margins of the first lased area. The second lased area has a depth that is greater than the depth of the first lased area. A line of weakness (40) may be formed in the bulged section that functions to direct reversal of the bulged section toward a particular area of the disc, such as line-of-opening recess (56).
US09551426B2 Fluid control valve
A fluid control valve includes: a valve housing in which a flow path having gas inlet and outlet is formed; a drive device attached to the valve housing; a valve shaft connected to an output shaft of the drive device and moving in an axial direction; and a valve body attached so as to radially extend to an axis of the valve shaft, and opening and closing the flow path by being moved with the valve shaft so that one side surface moves away from or comes into contact with a valve seat formed in the flow path, wherein the valve housing is attached to an attachment target member so that the valve shaft is tilted, and the valve body includes a wall portion corresponding to a portion where a liquid inside the flow path collects due to its weight, within a portion having the valve seat, and formed along an edge portion on the other side surface opposite to one side surface of the valve body.
US09551420B2 Sealing ring
A sealing ring (10) includes in a diametrical cross-section a body section (12), angularly spaced sealing legs (16) and (18) that extend from the body section (12) and angularly spaced sealing legs (22) and (24) that also extend from the body section (12). Each sealing leg (16, 18, 22, 24) extends to a beveled end (28, 30, 32, 34), respectively. Beveled ends (28, 30, 32, 34) form a seal with a surface when sealing ring (10) is subjected to compressive forces. Sealing legs (16) and (24) are coplanar. Sealing legs (18) and (22) are coplanar. A first centering leg (40) extends from the body section (12) and is between sealing legs (16) and (22). A second centering leg (44) extends from the body section (12) and is between sealing legs (18) and (24). The first and second centering legs (40) and (44) are coplanar.
US09551413B2 Lubricated gear coupling
A lubricated gear coupling for transmitting torque between an input shaft and an output shaft, comprising a first hub connected to the input shaft, the first hub comprising at least one gear tooth and a first raised edge, a second hub non-rotatably connected to the output shaft, the second hub comprising at least one gear tooth and a second raised edge, a sleeve gear comprising at least one gear tooth, wherein the first hub and the second hub are arranged within the sleeve gear, the gear tooth of the first hub and second hub corresponding with the gear tooth of the sleeve gear, wherein torque is transmitted from the input shaft to the output shaft with axial, radial, and angular movement occurring between the first hub and the second hub and, a draining means arranged on the sleeve gear, wherein the lubricant can flow through.
US09551412B1 Gearboxes and related assemblies
A gearbox housing assembly includes a base plate, a metal inner gearbox housing coupled to the base plate and a polymer outer gearbox housing on the base plate and surrounding the inner housing.
US09551409B2 Super charger components
A pulley assembly having a body, a shaft mount and a plurality of bolts is disclosed. The body is aligned to the shaft mount by providing a tight tolerance between a shoulder portion of the bolt and a neck portion of a counter sunk hole formed in the body. Additionally, an outer surface of the body may have a pattern of friction lines or patches formed by fusing particulate matter to the outer surface with heat generated by a laser beam.
US09551408B2 Mechanical system, injection pump and valve actuator comprising such a mechanical system and manufacturing method
A mechanical system comprising: a tappet, including a body; an insert mounted in the body; a pin extending along a first axis; and a roller element movable in rotation relative to the pin around the first axis. The insert supports the pin, while the body supports the insert, along at least one first direction parallel to a second axis which is perpendicular to the first axis. The mechanical system can be integrated into an injection pump and/or a valve actuator.
US09551403B2 V-belt continuously variable transmission
A V-belt continuously variable transmission in which an actuator unit for driving a movable sheave is slidably supported by a transmission case that is formed by fastening a plurality of case members with a plurality of fastening members, for ensuring a sufficient space for slidably moving the actuator unit and enhancing workability of mounting and dismounting operation of the actuator unit. A flat mounting surface for mounting the actuator unit is formed on an outer surface of the transmission case. Also, a recessed portion recessed inwardly of the transmission case from the mounting surface is formed to have at an inner end thereof a fastening seat face for a specific fastening member out of the plurality of fastening members, the specific fastening member being disposed at a portion corresponding to the mounting surface. The whole specific fastening member is disposed inwardly of the transmission case relative to the mounting surface.
US09551402B2 Belt tensioning device for being used with a starter generator
A belt tensioning device for a belt drive which comprises a driving machine with a driving belt pulley drivable by a driveshaft around a driving axis, and a plurality of further belt pulleys and with an infinite belt which is wrapped around the driving belt pulley and the further belt pulleys wherein the belt tensioning device comprises a housing in which two tensioning arms are supported so as to be pivotable around a common pivot axis, in which tensioning arms there are supported tensioning rollers with axes of rotation extending parallel to the driving axis, wherein the tensioning arms are supported relative to one another by spring means, wherein, with the driving belt pulley mounted at the driving machine, the housing can be mounted in that, in an annular region surrounding the driveshaft of the driving belt pulley, the housing is contact-free relative to the driving machine.
US09551400B2 Power transmission device of hybrid vehicle and hybrid system
A power transmission device of a hybrid vehicle includes: a transmission including a planetary mechanism including a plurality of transmission rotational elements, one of the transmission rotational elements being connected to a rotary shaft of an engine; a differential device including a plurality of differential rotational elements including one connected to one of the transmission rotational elements of the transmission, one connected to a rotary shaft of a first rotary machine, and one connected to a rotary shaft of a second rotary machine and a driven wheel; a transmission control device configured to control the transmission; and a control device configured to control the first rotary machine such that pinion differential rotation of the transmission or the differential device is set to be not higher than a predetermined value at a time unique motor EV driving is performed only by power of the second rotary machine.
US09551397B2 Pendulum-oscillator-type damping system comprising an improved guiding device
A damping system (10) having a rotation axis (X) and comprising at least: one first flyweight (14) and one second flyweight (14) able to oscillate with respect to a support member (12), and at least one device (20) for guiding the first and second flyweights (14) with respect to the support member (12), having at least one bearing element (22) able to interact with a pair of opposite tracks, respectively a first guidance track (24) and a second guidance track (26) that is carried by the support member (12), wherein the first guidance track (24) is carried by said connecting means (16).
US09551396B2 Vibration damping device
Provided is a vibration damping device having a novel structure and that can have a greatly increased load strength resistance without a concomitant increase in the number of components or size at a stopper mechanism. The structure is such that first and second stopper portions having a hanging plate part and a dip part are provided to a pair of opposing sides of a stopper plate of a vibration damping device, whereas a pair of side plate portions extending between the first and second stopper portions are provided to the other pair of opposing sides of the stopper plate, and openings at both sides of the first and second stopper portions are closed by the pair of side plate portions.
US09551395B2 Shock absorber
An object of the present invention is to reduce the size of a shock absorber, and to facilitate adjusting of the damping amount of the shock absorber. The shock absorber 10 has an outer tube 11 and an inner tube 15, wherein a piston rod 14 projects from a base end of the outer tube 11, and a rotative operating part 19 provided in the inner tube 15 projects from a base end of the outer tube 11. An annular piston 27 separates a liquid accommodating chamber 16 into a shock absorbing chamber 28 and an accumulator chamber 29. A flow-rate adjusting hole 48 of the outer tube 11 is composed of a contact surface 51 and an eccentric surface 52. A bypass channel 53 communicating with a communication hole 49 is formed between the eccentric surface 52 and the inner tube 15.
US09551391B2 Lock-equipped member for guiding a disc brake pad and disc brake provided with such guiding members
A brake calliper has two arms, where each arm includes a housing and a stub. A member for guiding a disc brake pad is disposed in the housing, and is secured by lugs to a front of the stub. The member includes a body having a U-shaped section formed by an inner radial surface, a base, and an outer radial surface. An inner side of the body is bordered by an inner supporting surface located on an inner surface of the arms, and an outer supporting surface of the body is disposed against a front of the stud. The out supporting surface extends into a supporting surface toward the front of the stud. The body further includes a locking tongue that extends beyond an edge of the body, and is configured to be hooked in the housing.
US09551390B2 Disc brake for a commercial vehicle
A disc brake for a commercial vehicle is provided. The disc brake includes a brake caliper which engages over a brake disc and is in the form of a sliding caliper, two brake pads which are arranged in the caliper, are movable in opposite directions and each have a pad carrier plate and a friction lining fastened thereon and of which an application-side brake pad is pressable against the brake disc by an application device via at least one brake plunger, and with at least one restoring device with which the brake caliper is returnable after a braking-induced displacement and release of the brake. The restoring device is provided with a friction element which is mounted in the brake pad so as to be displaceable to a limited extent under pressure loading in the axial direction of the brake disc and on which an elastic pressure element held in the brake caliper and/or brake plunger acts.
US09551388B2 Disk brake caliper assembly
Disclosed is a disk brake caliper assembly where a second seal is positioned in a second annular groove to eliminate the seizure of the piston cylinder that commonly occurs on trailer brakes that are immersed in water. The second seal is slightly deformable and designed to frictionally engage the piston. The second seal functions as both a wiper to keep dirt and contaminants out of the cylinder assembly and to prevent water ingress. The use of the secondary seal can compliment or eliminate the need for a dust boot.
US09551386B2 Centrifugal brake for overspeed protection
A centrifugally triggered brake mechanism is used to halt a rotating assembly. The brake mechanism includes a braking surface, a brake shoe, and a rotating centrifugal trigger. Upon attaining a selected rotational speed the trigger releases the brake pad to engage the drum. The mechanism may be useful for instance in providing backup overspeed protection for wind turbines.
US09551384B2 Clutch management system
A clutch management system has a ramp actuator, an inner plate housing, an outer plate housing, and a clutch assembly. The clutch assembly may have a motor, a ratio adaptor, a primary sun gear, a secondary sun gear, a primary planet carrier and a secondary planet carrier. The primary sun gear is in contact with the ratio adaptor and primary planet gears. The primary planet gears are in contact with a ring gear. The primary planet carrier forms part of the ramp actuator. The second sun gear is connected to a housing and a secondary planet gears. The secondary planet gears are also in contact with the ring gear. A secondary planet carrier is connected. to the first plate of the ramp actuator.
US09551379B1 Thermal efficiency heat rate improvement over power generation and emissions control
Structural design permits efficiency to increase, which allows for the levitation of power generation equipment in a power plant. Rotational gyroscopic levitation motion is achieved by spinning stabilization without physical bearings on a generator. The phenomena of magnetic levitation of a rotational moving part with a degree of vertical allowance permit the torque resistance to lessen allowing for the reduction in heat rate to kilowatt-hour ratio. The magnetic levitation is further enhance by containing the magnetic bearings in a cooled chamber.
US09551376B2 Bearing configuration with two-row polygonal bearing
A bearing configuration for the purpose of mounting a shaft or axle in a housing in a manner allowing rotation. The bearing configuration has a rolling bearing designed as a roller bearing with at least one bearing ring which is functionally assigned to the housing, said bearing ring forming an outer race facing inward radially, wherein rolling elements are guided on said outer race, working together on the opposite side with a shaft which forms an inner race. The roller bearing of the bearing configuration is a combination of at least two joined polygonal bearings, wherein each polygonal bearing on the bearing ring includes at least one elastic segment which forms a convex, transversely rounded race curvature. This configuration ensures that at least one rolling element is radially pretensioned and supported on the outer race of the shaft, and the shaft is guided in the housing with no radial play.
US09551374B2 Crankshaft
A crankshaft having an axis of rotation is disclosed. The crankshaft includes a main throw having a web, a main pin extending from the web that is coaxial with the axis of rotation and an aperture in the web. The crankshaft also includes a crank throw having a web, a crank pin extending from the web, a central aperture positioned in the web that is coaxial with the axis of rotation. The crank pin is positioned in the aperture of the main throw and a connecting rod is positioned on the crank pin. The crankshaft includes various features for distribution of oil to components.
US09551370B2 Anchoring sleeve
An anchoring sleeve for anchoring a fastening element in a bore hole of a component by a hardenable compound is disclosed. The anchoring sleeve has a sleeve-like base body with a first end, with a second end, as well as with several axially successive extension sections arranged between the ends which are each configured to be cone-like and their diameter respectively increases in the direction of the first end.
US09551365B2 Hydraulic device of a control device, such as a blade pitch-change device
A hydraulic device includes a body, a piston rod configured to be actuated by a pressurized hydraulic fluid, and a first drainage channel for externally draining an internal leakage of hydraulic fluid in the device. The device includes a second drainage channel for externally draining the internal leakage of hydraulic fluid in the device, the first and second channels being oriented in two different directions and each of the channels communicating at one of the ends thereof inside the body of the device.
US09551364B2 Hydraulic cylinder with drift stop
A hydraulic fluid power cylinder assembly 10 includes a cylinder chamber 14, a piston 15, a piston rod 19 and an end cap 21. End cap 21 includes a drift stop chamber 24 and a drift stop blocking surface 25. Chamber 24 is in open fluid pressure communication with chamber 14 under all conditions. Piston 15 includes a piston body portion 16 and a drift stop body portion 29. Drift stop body portion 29 includes a drift stop blocking member 31 and a positioning surface 34 for preventing the blocking member 31 from contacting the walls of cavity 24 and cylinder chamber 14 when disengaged from blocking surface 25. In one position drift stop body portion 29 is received within drift stop cavity 24, and blocking member 31 engages blocking surface 25 to prevent unintended movement of piston 15.
US09551361B2 Travel control valve
A travel control valve includes a valve body and a spool. The valve body includes a first pump port connected on an upstream side from a drive control valve, a first connection port connected on a downstream side from the drive control valve, a second pump port connected to a second pump, and a second connection port connected to a second circuit system. The travel control valve can switch a communication opening between the first pump port and the first connection port to a large opening throttle position in which the communication opening remains smaller than that between the second pump port and the second connection port, and a small opening throttle position in which the communication opening remains smaller than that in the large opening throttle position.
US09551357B2 Oil management system for a compressor
The invention relates to an oil management system for a compressor in a refrigeration system comprising: an oil temperature sensor; a heater arranged to heat oil in a crank case of the compressor; and a controller operatively associated with the temperature sensor and the heater, the controller arranged to control operation of the heater on the basis of ambient air temperature and oil temperature to maintain the oil temperature within a range Tmax≧R≧Tmin where Tmax>Tmin.
US09551356B2 Double bell mouth shroud
This disclosure relates generally to fan shrouds for machine fans, and, more particularly, to the structure and design of double bell mouth shrouds and placement of double bell mouth shrouds relative to a machine fan. In some examples, a fan shroud encircling a circular fan having a plurality of fan blades can be provided. Some example fan shrouds can include an inlet adapted to receive air and an outlet adapted to outlet air. The inlet can include an inlet radius, and the outlet can include an outlet radius. In some examples, the outlet radius can each be about 10% of the fan diameter.
US09551355B2 Diffuser using detachable vanes
A system, in certain embodiments, includes a plurality of detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes attached to a diffuser plate of a centrifugal compressor. In certain embodiments, the detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes may be attached to the diffuser plate using threaded fasteners. In addition, dowel pins may be used to align the detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes with respect to the diffuser plate. However, in other embodiments, the detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes may include a tab configured to fit securely within a groove in the diffuser plate. In addition, the tabs of the detachable, three-dimensional diffuser vanes may include indentions that mate with extensions extending from the diffuser plate, wherein the tabs may slide into slots between the extensions and the grooves of the diffuser plate.
US09551352B2 Techniques for improved volumetric resistance blower apparatus, system and method
Embodiments of an apparatus, system, method and techniques are described for an improved volumetric resistance blower and rotor. An apparatus may comprise, for example a motor, a casing having one or more inlets and one or more outlets, and a cylindrical rotor to create a volumetric resistance inside the casing, at least a portion of the rotor comprising a porous material. Other embodiments are described.
US09551351B2 Compression device and a thermodynamic system comprising such a compression device
A compression device includes a first compressor and a second compressor mounted in parallel, each compressor including a leakproof enclosure including a low pressure portion containing a motor and an oil sump, an oil level equalization conduit putting into communication the oil sumps of the first and second compressors, and control means adapted for controlling the starting and the stopping of the first and second compressors. The first compressor includes first detection means coupled with the control means and adapted for detecting an oil level in the oil sump of the first compressor. The control means are adapted for controlling the stopping of the second compressor when the oil level detected by the first detection means falls below a first predetermined value.
US09551350B2 Device for uncoupling a bearing carrier
A device for uncoupling a bearing carrier in a turbomachine, the bearing carrier including an upstream part and a downstream part including a plurality of upstream orifices respectively facing a plurality of downstream orifices. The uncoupling device includes rupture screws each passing through an upstream orifice and a downstream orifice, and at least a mechanism for double centering of a rupture screw with respect to the upstream orifice and to the downstream orifice respectively. The mechanism for double centering is independent of the upstream and downstream parts of the bearing carrier and of the rupture screw, and is configured to collaborate with the upstream part of the rupture screw such that when the rupture screw breaks, the upstream part carries with it the mechanism for double centering. A turbomachine can include such an uncoupling device.
US09551348B2 Slim-type fan structure
A slim-type fan structure includes a stator (1) and a fan blade (2). The stator includes a circuit board (11) and a plurality of layout circuits (12) disposed to circumference the circuit board (11). The stator (1) includes an axial center (10) at a center portion thereof. The fan blade (2) includes a blade wheel (20), an axial sleeve (21) at a center of the blade wheel (20) and extended axially therefrom, a plurality of blades (22) formed to circumference an outer of the blade wheel (20), and a magnetic unit (23) disposed on the blade wheel (20). Also, the axial sleeve (21) is pivotally attached to the axial center (10). Accordingly, the magnetic unit (23) is formed by a plurality of N and S pole areas (230), (231) arranged alternatively in circular rows and corresponding to the layout circuits (12) along a vertical direction for the slim design.
US09551347B2 Water-pump motor using a waterproof stator, and water pump
Provided are a water pump motor that employs a stator core of an outer winding method that can use a low-cost ferrite magnet by minimizing an air gap between a magnet of a rotor and a stator core, and that heightens a fill factor, to thereby maximize efficiency of the motor, and a water pump using the water pump motor. The water pump motor includes a stator and an inner type rotor, in which the stator includes: a stator core whose inner circumferential portion is annularly interconnected, in which a number of protrusions are radially extended and formed; insulating bobbins that surround the stator core; a coil wound around the outer circumference of each bobbin; and an annular back yoke that surrounds in contact with the outer end of the stator core. The insulating bobbins are annularly molded to surround the inner circumferential portion of the stator core, and entirely surround the inner circumferential portion of the stator core, to thus make the inner side surface play a role of a sealing cover, and the rotor includes ferrite magnets in opposition to the inner side surfaces of the bobbins.
US09551346B2 Serial axial fan
A fan includes a first motor portion, a first impeller fixed to a first rotating portion of the first motor portion, a second motor portion arranged along a central axis of the first motor portion, a second impeller fixed to a second rotating portion of the second motor portion, a tubular wind channel portion arranged to surround the first and second impellers, and support ribs arranged to join the wind channel portion to the first and second motor portions. The first impeller includes first blades arranged in a circumferential direction about the central axis and the second impeller includes second blades arranged in the circumferential direction, a rotation direction of the second impeller is opposite to a rotation direction of the first impeller. A surface of each first blade which faces the second impeller is concave. A surface of each second blade which faces the first impeller is concave.
US09551336B2 Variable displacement swash plate type compressor
In a compressor that changes a discharge capacity by using an actuator, a variable displacement swash plate type compressor capable of realizing reduction in manufacture cost is provided.In the compressor of the present invention, a ring groove is formed in a movable body, and the ring groove is provided with an annular member. The annular member has a joint gap formed by a first to a third cutouts, and the third cutout is an aperture. In this compressor, the annular member moves in the ring groove based on a pressure difference between a control pressure chamber and a swash plate chamber. Thereby, in the compressor, a pressure in the control pressure chamber is regulated by regulating a flow of a refrigerant that flows to the swash plate chamber from the control pressure chamber.
US09551334B2 Variable capacity compressor having a control valve with channels
Provided is a control valve for a variable capacity compressor, the control valve including: a valve body including a crank-chamber port, a discharge port, a suction port, a control channel formed inside the control valve such that the crank-chamber port and the discharge port communicate with each other, and a first bleeding channel formed such that the crank-channel port and the suction port communicate with each other; an operating unit provided in the valve body and including a second bleeding channel communicated from a center area to a side surface of the operating unit; and a driving unit provided in the valve body and connected to the operating unit to enable the operating unit to reciprocally move according to a current applied by an external source.
US09551326B2 Apparatus for routing cables in wind turbines
An apparatus for routing cables in wind turbines has a plurality of bushings (17) for cables distributed on at least one base body (3, 5) that has a preferably round contour. The bushings (17) are provided with a guiding arrangement (27; 38; 39, 41; 43; 48) permitting the cables to move relative to the part of the bushing (17) that surrounds the guiding arrangement.
US09551324B2 Pitch bearing assembly with stiffener
A pitch bearing assembly for a wind turbine having a stiffener is disclosed. The pitch bearing assembly may include an outer race and an inner race rotatable relative to the outer race. The inner race may define a mounting surface and an inner circumference. The mounting surface may extend generally perpendicular to the inner circumference. In addition, the stiffener may include a body and a mounting flange. The body may extend axially within a volume defined by the inner circumference of the inner race. Further, the mounting flange of the stiffener may be coupled to the mounting surface of the inner race.
US09551322B2 Systems and methods for optimizing operation of a wind farm
Embodiments of methods and systems for optimizing operation of a wind farm are presented. The method includes receiving new values corresponding to at least some wake parameters for wind turbines in the wind farm. The method further includes identifying new sets of interacting wind turbines from the wind turbines based on the new values. Additionally, the method includes developing a farm-level predictive wake model for the new sets of interacting wind turbines based on the new values and historical wake models determined using historical values of the wake parameters corresponding to reference sets of interacting wind turbines in the wind farm. Furthermore, the method includes adjusting one or more control settings for at least the new sets of interacting wind turbines based on the farm-level predictive wake model.
US09551321B2 System and method for controlling a wind turbine
Systems and methods for controlling a wind turbine are disclosed. The method includes: measuring a loading condition acting on the wind turbine; determining a first scaler factor based on the measured loading condition; determining a correction parameter for the wind turbine, the correction parameter a function of at least two measured operating conditions and representative of a real-time operational state of the wind turbine; determining a second scaler factor based on the correction parameter; calculating an adjustment set point based on the first scaler factor and the second scaler factor; and, controlling the wind turbine based on the adjustment set point.
US09551319B2 Yawing system comprising a preload mechanism
A yawing system (2) for a wind turbine and a method of operating the yawing system (2) are disclosed. The yawing system (2) comprises at least one yaw drive arranged to cause the yawing system (2) to perform yawing movements, a yaw bearing allowing mutual movement between two parts of the yawing system (2) during yawing movements, and a hydraulically driven preload mechanism (1) being adapted to provide an adjustable pre-load force to the yaw bearing. The preload mechanism (1) is automatically operated as a consequence of operating the yawing system (2). Thereby it can be ensured that the preload force is adjusted in accordance with whether yawing movements are being performed, or the position of the nacelle should be maintained. The preload mechanism (1) may be modular, in the sense that two or more preload mechanisms (1) operate independently of each other, thereby providing redundancy.
US09551314B2 Internal combustion engine ignition coil apparatus
In an internal combustion engine ignition coil apparatus, a high-voltage supplying portion has: a protector that is bonded to an ignition coil main body, an electrical conductor, and a resistor that is connected in series between the ignition coil main body and the electrical conductor, and that reduces conductive noise. An electromagnetic wave absorber that shields radiated noise that is generated in the high-voltage supplying portion is mounted to an engine block so as to surround the protector and the resistor. An end surface of the resistor near the ignition coil main body is disposed so as to be aligned with an end surface of the electromagnetic wave absorber near the ignition coil main body.
US09551310B2 Valve device
A valve device includes a housing, a flow duct and a valve body. The valve body is arranged in the flow duct and bears with a sealing section against a housing-side sealing seat when the valve device is closed. The valve body is guided along a movement axis by a housing-side guide surface and bears with a stop surface against a housing-side movement limiting surface when the valve device is open to the maximum. The guide surface is provided by a guide element, and the sealing seat and the movement limiting surface are provided separately by the guide element.
US09551309B2 Fluid injector and method for operating a fluid injector
A fluid injector includes a valve body, a valve needle and axially moveable in the valve body between a closing position that prevents a fluid injection and further positions that permit the fluid injection, an armature coupled to the valve needle for displacing the valve needle away from the closing position, and a solenoid assembly including at least a first and second coil and operable to magnetically actuate the armature via an electrical signal. A method for operating the fluid injector includes applying the electrical signal to the first coil to generate a magnetic field to move the armature for displacing the valve needle away from the closing position, evaluating a voltage across terminals of the first coil, and controlling the second coil with a further electrical signal to saturate a magnetic field in a portion of the valve body between the armature and solenoid assembly during evaluating the voltage.
US09551308B2 Mounting bracket for fuel filter
A bracket for mounting a multi-compartment fuel filter assembly to an internal combustion engine is provided. The bracket includes a base plate, a first plate, a second plate, a third plate, a plurality of mounting members, a first plurality of ribs and a second plurality of ribs. The first plate and the second plate are coupled to the base plate, and are perpendicular to the base plate. The third plate is coupled to the first plate and is parallel to the base plate. The plurality of mounting members is coupled to the first plate and the first plurality of ribs is coupled to the base plate, the first plate and the third plate, and disposed perpendicular to the base plate. The second plurality of ribs is coupled to the base plate, the first plate, and the second plate, and disposed perpendicular to the base plate.
US09551305B2 Additive safety and injection system
A safety and injection system for adding an additive to fuel in a fuel chamber, includes a portable additive source having a body, an additive chamber, a memory, a fuel inlet, and a fuel outlet. The system can also include a fuel inlet valve which is connected to the fuel chamber, and includes a connector for connecting to the fuel inlet; a fuel outlet valve which is connected to the fuel chamber and including a connector for connecting to the fuel outlet. The system can further include a platform having a memory reader/writer that reads the information in memory and is capable of writing information on memory, and on which the portable additive source is placed; and at least one control unit which is connected with the memory reader/writer, which includes a user interface device for receiving control information from the user, and which controls the operation of the safety and injection system.
US09551304B2 Tank venting system and method for diagnosing same
A tank venting system of an internal combustion engine having an intake manifold, a fuel tank, and an activated carbon filter includes: a tank vent valve; at least one check valve; and a pressure sensor situated between the tank vent valve and the check valve. For diagnosing this tank venting system, a negative pressure which is lower than the ambient pressure outside the engine system is stored between the tank vent valve and the check valve. The stored pressure is changed by controlling the tank vent valve, and the change in the pressure is measured via the pressure sensor. The functioning of the tank venting line, of the check valve, and of the tank vent valve is deduced from the correlation of the opening state of the tank vent valve with the change in pressure.
US09551303B2 Exhaust gas recirculation system for an internal combustion engine and method for operating same
An exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system includes an EGR duct configured to effect fluid communication between an exhaust duct and an intake duct of an internal combustion engine; a heat exchanger having a first flow passage and a second flow passage, the first flow passage being in fluid communication with the EGR duct, the second flow passage being configured to receive a heat transfer medium from a heat transfer medium source; an upstream purge valve in fluid communication with the second flow passage of the heat exchanger, and configured to effect selective fluid communication between a purge fluid source and the second flow passage of the heat exchanger; and a controller operatively coupled to the upstream purge valve. The controller is configured to purge the second flow passage of the heat exchanger by opening the upstream purge valve.
US09551302B2 Controlling fresh air and exhaust gas flow in turbocharged internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine has a cylinder and an exhaust-gas turbocharger comprising a compressor arranged in an intake system and a turbine arranged in an exhaust-gas discharge system. Various lines are provided for conducting gases including 1) a bypass line branching off from the inlet system downstream of the compressor so as to form an inlet-side junction, and 2) a recirculation line branching off from the exhaust-gas discharge system upstream of the turbine so as to form an outlet-side junction which opens into the bypass line. A first control element at the outlet-side junction adjusts an exhaust-gas quantity conducted through the recirculation line. A second control element at the inlet-side junction has a first position that separates the bypass line from the cylinder and connects the intake line to the cylinder, and a second position that separates the intake line from the cylinder and connects the bypass line to the cylinder.
US09551296B2 Method and apparatus for nozzle thrust vectoring
A thrust vectoring system is created with a convergent-divergent nozzle having a total angle no greater than 150 degrees. A divergent portion of the nozzle has a wall at a predetermined angle of at least 12° from the freestream direction. A disturbance generator is located on the wall to induce flow separation from the wall with the predetermined wall angle sufficient for the induced flow separation to extend upstream from disturbance generator substantially to a throat of the nozzle pressurizing the wall and creating a net vector angle in jet flow through the nozzle.
US09551287B2 Internal combustion engine control apparatus and control method thereof
It is an object of the present invention to improve estimation accuracy of an air excess ratio within a fuel spray and quickly cause the air excess ratio to approximate to a target value when the engine load factor rises. An internal combustion engine control apparatus includes a parameter acquiring section to acquire an air intake parameter and a fuel parameter, a first estimation section to estimate an in-fuel-spray air excess ratio using the air intake parameter and fuel parameter, and a pressure calculation section to calculate, if the in-fuel-spray air excess ratio is less than a target in-fuel-spray air excess ratio, a necessary fuel injection pressure to match the in-fuel-spray air excess ratio with the target in-fuel-spray air excess ratio, in which if the necessary fuel injection pressure is equal to or less than a maximum injection pressure, fuel injection is to be performed at the necessary fuel injection pressure.
US09551284B2 Apparatus for controlling construction equipment engine and control method therefor
Disclosed are an apparatus and a method for controlling an engine of construction equipment, the apparatus including: a lever for generating a first signal when a state of the construction equipment is switched to an operation state or a neutral state; and an auto idle switch for generating a second signal when an auto engine idle mode is on; in which when a state of the lever is switched to a neutral state in an on state of the second signal, an engine speed is reduced to a step engine speed, when a first speed reducing step is maintained for a predetermined time, the engine speed is further reduced to an idle engine speed, and when a state of the lever is switched to an operation state while the second speed reducing step is maintained, the engine speed returned to the step engine speed.
US09551281B2 Electric probe assembly, gas turbine engine having same and method of cooling same
A gas turbine engine comprises a hot section module which includes at least one electric probe assembly surrounded by an immediate environment having a local ambient temperature. The at least one electric probe assembly includes an electric probe having a probe body, and a conduit surrounding at least a portion of the probe body. In operation, the conduit carries a fluid flowing at a temperature lower than the local ambient temperature. The at least portion of the probe body is embedded in the fluid inside the conduit. The fluid thermally insulates the probe body from the local ambient temperature of the immediate environment around the at least one electric probe assembly.
US09551280B1 Silencer panel and system having plastic perforated side wall
A silencer panel includes an acoustic absorbing material; and an enclosure surrounding the acoustic absorbing material. The enclosure includes at least one plastic, perforated side wall.
US09551277B2 Renewable combined cycle low turbine boost
A method and system for cost effectively converting a feedstock using thermal plasma, or other styles of gassifiers, into to a feedwater energy transfer system. The feedstock can be any organic material, or fossil fuel. The energy transferred in the feedwater is converted into steam which is then injected into the low turbine of a combined cycle power plant. Heat is extracted from gas product issued by a gassifier and delivered to a power plant via its feedwater system. The gassifier is a plasma gassifier and the gas product is syngas. In a further embodiment, prior to performing the step of extracting heat energy, there is provided the further step of combusting the syngas in an afterburner. An air flow, and/or EGR flow is provided to the afterburner at a rate that is varied in response to an operating characteristic of the afterburner. The air flow to the afterburner is heated.
US09551276B2 Methods and systems for surge control
Systems and methods are provided for reducing surge in a boosted engine system. One method comprises adjusting an opening of a compressor recirculation valve to allow a compressor recirculation flow based on a combination of a nominal compressor recirculation flow and a filtered nominal compressor recirculation flow. The nominal compressor recirculation flow may be calculated as a difference between a desired compressor flow rate based on a surge limit of compressor and an estimated throttle mass flow rate.
US09551275B2 Cooling system having pulsed fan control
A cooling system is provided for an engine. The cooling system may have an air cooler configured to cool intake air being supplied to the engine. The cooling system may also have a sensor configured to generate a temperature signal indicative of a temperature of the intake air and a fan in proximity to the air cooler. The cooling system may further have a controller in communication with the sensor and the fan. The controller may be configured to cause the fan to operate at a speed that is a function of the temperature signal when the temperature of the intake air is above a threshold temperature. The controller may further be configured to selectively cause the fan to pulse when the temperature of the intake air drops below the threshold temperature.
US09551274B2 Heat exchanger for cooling charge air
A heat exchanger for cooling of charge air for an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle is provided. The heat exchanger has a preliminary stage, a main stage, and a compensating component. The preliminary stage has at least one preliminary stage fixed bearing base and a preliminary stage floating bearing base. The main stage has at least one main stage fixed bearing base and a main stage floating bearing base. In a heat transfer region of the main stage, at least one main stage channel for a main stage coolant is disposed. The compensating component is configured to compensate a position difference between corresponding components of the preliminary stage and the main stage, whereby the position difference is based on a thermally induced elongation difference between the at least one preliminary stage channel and the at least one main stage channel.
US09551270B2 Control device for coolant flow in an internal combustion engine
A control device for an internal combustion engine is a control device, applied to an internal combustion engine including an EGR cooler which includes a heat exchange body made of a material including SiC. The control device includes a control unit that controls a flow rate of coolant passing through an EGR cooler to be small in a case of a temperature of the coolant not less than a predetermined value in ending the coolant stop control of the coolant stop control unit, as compared with a case of a temperature of the coolant less than the predetermined value in ending the coolant stop control of the coolant stop control unit.
US09551268B2 Cooling air intake device for vehicle
A cooling air intake device is mounted to a frame of a vehicle and includes a base plate and an intake box. The intake box is mounted on the base plate that includes a first admission section and a blocking section adjacent to the first admission section. The intake box includes a first intake compartment and a second intake compartment. The first intake compartment corresponds to the first admission section of the base plate. The first intake compartment includes a first baffle plate mounted therein. The first intake compartment has a side wall in which a first discharge section is formed. The second intake compartment is arranged above the first intake compartment in such a way that a second baffle plate is arranged between the first intake compartment and the second intake compartment. The second intake compartment includes a second admission section and a second discharge section.
US09551267B2 Heat resistant cast steel having superior high temperature strength and oxidation resistance
A heat-resistant cast steel includes, based on a total weight of the heat-resistant cast steel, 0.2 to 0.4 wt % carbon; 0.5 to 1.0 wt % silicon; 0.3 to 0.8 wt % manganese; 0.7 to 1.0 wt % nickel; 17 to 23 wt % chromium; 0.5 to 1.0 wt % niobium; 1.5 to 2.0 wt % tungsten; 0.2 to 0.5 wt % vanadium; 0.05 to 0.1 wt % cerium; 0.05 to 0.1 wt % nitrogen; and a balance of iron.
US09551265B2 Crash energy absorbing muffler
A muffler (101) for a vehicle, the muffler (101) having at least one first crumple feature (105) and at least one second crumple feature (107), the first and the second crumple features (105, 107) being configured to absorb the energy of an impact load to the muffler (101). The first crumple feature (105) is configured to deform at a first level of impact loading and the second crumple feature (107) is configured to deform at a second level of impact loading.
US09551252B2 System and method of purifying exhaust gas provided with lean NOx trap and selective catalytic reduction catalyst
A system for purifying an exhaust gas includes an engine, a lean NOx trap (LNT) mounted on the exhaust pipe, a dosing module mounted at the exhaust pipe downstream of the LNT, a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst mounted at the exhaust pipe downstream of the dosing module, and a controller for performing a denitrification (DeNOx) share between the LNT and the SCR catalyst according to a driving condition of the engine, wherein the controller predicts a NOx purifying ratio of the SCR catalyst according to the driving condition of the engine and adjusts a regeneration efficiency of the LNT based on an actual NOx purifying ratio of the SCR catalyst.
US09551250B2 Operation control apparatus and method for internal combustion engine
An operation control apparatus for an internal combustion engine includes: an exhaust emission purifier; a fuel supplying valve for supplying fuel to an exhaust passage; ignition means for igniting the fuel supplied; a warm up determining section for determining whether or not the purifier need be warmed; an exhaust heating determining section for determining whether or not the engine is in an operational state in which the fuel should be ignited and burned; an exhaust heating predicting section for predicting the transition from the operational state in which the fuel should not be ignited and burned to an operational state in which the fuel should be ignited and burned; and a heat generation temperature setting section for setting the temperature of a heating portion of the ignition means based on the result by the heating determining section and the predicting section.
US09551248B2 Method and apparatus to recover exhaust gas recirculation coolers
An apparatus for mitigating fouling within a heat exchanger device includes an internal combustion engine and an external exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) circuit. The internal combustion engine is fluidly coupled to an intake gas manifold upstream of the engine and an exhaust gas manifold downstream of the engine. The EGR circuit is fluidly coupled to the exhaust gas manifold at a first end and is configured to selectively route back exhaust gas flow as EGR flow into the intake gas manifold at a second end. The EGR circuit includes the heat exchanger device for cooling the EGR flow prior to entering the intake manifold and a surface deposit removing device configured to remove surface deposit build-up from within the heat exchanger device when the surface deposit removing device is activated.
US09551245B2 Torsion assembly for controllably providing torque to a camshaft
A torsion assembly for providing controllable torsion to a camshaft, including: a spring assembly including a first spring; and, a contact element arranged to engage at least one lobe for the camshaft. For a locked mode: the contact element is arranged to be displaced by the at least one cam lobe; the contact element is arranged to compress the first spring; and the first spring is arranged to impart a first torque to the camshaft via the contact element. For an unlocked mode, the contact element is arranged to be displaced by the at least one cam lobe and the contact element is arranged to impart a second torque, less than the first torque, to the cam shaft via the contact element.
US09551244B2 Electric motor driven simple planetary cam phaser
A cam phaser (10) dynamically adjusts a rotational relationship of a camshaft (24) of an internal combustion engine with respect to an engine crankshaft (34). A cam sprocket (20) can be driven by an endless loop power transmission member connected to a drive sprocket (36) mounted for rotation with the engine 5 crankshaft (34). The cam phaser (10) can include a planetary gear drive train (12) having a centrally located sun gear (14) connected for rotation with the cam sprocket (20), a ring gear (18) connected for rotation with the camshaft (24), and a plurality of planet gears (16a, 16b) supported by a carrier (22) in meshing engagement between the sun gear (14) and the ring gear (18). A phase adjustment gear (26) can be 10 connected for rotation with the carrier (22). The sun gear (14) can drive the planet gears (16a, 16b) in rotation thereby causing the ring gear (18) to be driven in rotation. Rotational movement the phase adjustment gear (26) can adjustably vary a cam phase position of the camshaft (24) relative to the crankshaft (34).
US09551241B2 Waste heat recovery power generation plant for sintering facility
To provide a waste heat recovery power generation plant for sintering facility capable of efficiently recovering a waste heat of a sintering machine in addition to that of a sintered-ore cooler, while restraining that sulfuric anhydride contained in an exhaust gas of the sintering machine forms drops. An SM boiler is configured to heat all of or a part of hot water generated by an SC boiler, by introducing a high temperature part of an exhaust gas of a sintering machine. At this time, a temperature of the hot water to be supplied to the SM boiler is controlled such that a temperature of an exhaust gas at an exhaust-gas temperature of the SM boiler is maintained at a temperature higher than an acid dew point.
US09551240B2 System of recycling exhaust heat from internal combustion engine
A system of recycling exhaust heat from an internal combustion engine may include an EGR line circulating a portion of exhaust gas generated from the engine to an intake side, a working fluid circulating line configured to have a working fluid satisfying a Rankine cycle, which is circulated therein, and an EGR side heat exchanging unit configured to perform a heat-exchange between an EGR gas flowing in the EGR line and the working fluid flowing in the working fluid circulating line. When a temperature of the EGR gas is equal to or greater than a reference temperature T1, the EGR gas is circulated to the intake side via the EGR side heat exchanging unit, and when the temperature of the EGR gas is less than the reference temperature T1, the EGR gas is circulated to the intake side without passing through the EGR side heat exchanging unit.
US09551234B2 Device for controlling pivotable vanes of a turbo-machine
A control device for controlling pivotable vanes of a turbo-machine, including: a plurality of pivotable vanes distributed in azimuth over at least 90° around the axis of the turbo-machine, the pivotable vanes being oriented substantially radially relative to the axis of the turbo-machine; and a control ring portion for controlling pivoting of the vanes, each vane being connected to the control ring portion by a link, the control ring portion being held around the axis of the turbo-machine by the links; wherein at least two of the links are connected to the ring portion by respective ball-joint connections, with other links being connected to the ring portion via respective sliding pivot connections.
US09551233B2 Labyrinth seal and rotating machine comprising such a seal
One of the components (15), opposite a labyrinth seal (12), is arranged sliding on a conical interface (18) of its support (7, 19) and constructed from a material with different thermal expansions, so as to reduce the clearance with the component face to face (13, 14), at steady state, at high temperature. The sealing surface (25) may be assured by a circulation of oil.
US09551232B2 Bi-directional shaft seal
A non-contacting seal is provided, including a first sealing face formed on an end of a primary ring and a second sealing face formed on an end of a mating ring. Grooves may be formed in at least one of the first and second sealing faces, such that the grooves extend from one edge of the respective sealing face to an intermediate radius of the respective sealing face. At least one groove may include an entrance edge along the one edge of the respective sealing face and a dam wall opposite the entrance edge. The at least one groove may also include two symmetric side walls extending from the entrance edge to the dam wall. The two symmetric side walls may include a first convex curve extending from the entrance edge to a transition point and a second concave curve extending from the transition point to the dam wall.
US09551230B2 Friction welding rotor blades to a rotor disk
Systems and methods are provided related to manufacturing, repairing or otherwise providing an integrally bladed rotor. In one method, a set of preform rotor blades are arranged relative to a rotor disk. The preform rotor blades are concurrently bonded to the rotor disk.
US09551227B2 Component cooling channel
A cooling channel (36, 36B) cools an exterior surface (40 or 42) or two opposed exterior surfaces (40 and 42). The channel has a near-wall inner surface (48, 50) with a width (W1). Interior side surfaces (52, 54) may converge to a reduced channel width (W2). The near-wall inner surface (48, 50) may have fins (44) aligned with a coolant flow (22). The fins may highest at mid-width of the near-wall inner surface. A two-sided cooling channel (36) may have two near-wall inner surfaces (48, 50) parallel to two respective exterior surfaces (40, 42), and may have an hourglass shaped transverse sectional profile. The tapered channel width (W1, W2) and the fin height profile (56A, 56B) increases cooling flow (22) into the corners (C) of the channel for more uniform and efficient cooling.
US09551226B2 Turbine bucket with endwall contour and airfoil profile
Turbine frequency tuning, fluid dynamic efficiency, and performance can be improved using an airfoil profile and/or an endwall contour including at least one of a pressure side bump, a pressure side leading edge bump, or a suction side trough. In particular, by including two endwall bumps on the pressure side and a trough on the suction side combined with a particular airfoil profile, performance can be further improved.
US09551224B2 Turbine and method for manufacturing turbine
The turbine includes: a shaft body supported rotatably; a plurality of turbine blade members; a casing covering the shaft body and the turbine blade row; an outer ring member that is provided on an inner periphery of the casing and includes an inner peripheral portion in which a cross-section having a uneven shape is continuous in a circumferential direction; a plurality of turbine vane members that each has a shroud fitted into the inner peripheral portion of the outer ring member and a turbine vane main body extending from the shroud to a radially inward side; and a plate member that connects at least some of the plurality of turbine vane members and covers one side of the shrouds in the axial direction, thereby sealing a shroud gap formed between the shrouds adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction.
US09551215B2 Apparatus and system for passively sampling production fluid from a well
An apparatus and system for passively sampling production fluid from a well is presented. The passive sampling device is used to split two-phase flow and provide a driving pressure differential for a sampling system. Flow through sampling systems require a low pressure differential to be utilized to take a liquid sample, so that the sample retained remains isobaric. When performed in two-phase flow, the pressure differential needs to be relatively high, potentially yielding a non-isobaric sample. By separating out the liquid content of the flow, a low driving pressure is allowed to be used. Thus, this keeps the sample isobaric at a wide range of production flow rates.
US09551212B2 Method for determining a position of a water/cement boundary between pipes in a hydrocarbon well
A method has been disclosed for determining a position of a water/cement boundary in an annular area between two concentric pipes in a hydrocarbon well. The method comprises the steps of running a well tool (10) into a central pipe of the well, where the well tool (10) comprises a tool housing (11), a pulse generator (14) and a signal recorder (16) provided within the housing (11); generating an electromagnetic pulse by means of the pulse generator, thereby providing physical vibrations in the central pipe of the well; recording reflected acoustic signals from the well by means of the signal recorder (16); repeating the generating and recording steps for different vertical positions of the pulse generator in the well; organizing the recorded signals in a two-dimensional representation; filtering the organized recorded signals in order to identify, in the two-dimensional representation, a hyperbola (B); and providing an apex of the hyperbola (B) as the determined position of the water/cement boundary.
US09551211B2 Deepwater low-rate appraisal production systems
A method for appraising a deepwater well comprising: producing a first quantity of hydrocarbon from an undersea reservoir; transporting the first quantity of hydrocarbon to a floating vessel; off loading the first quantity of hydrocarbon from the vessel; producing a second quantity of hydrocarbon from the undersea reservoir; and transporting the second quantity of hydrocarbon to the floating vessel.
US09551210B2 Systems and methods for removal of electromagnetic dispersion and attenuation for imaging of proppant in an induced fracture
Systems and methods for generating a three-dimensional image of a proppant-filled hydraulically-induced fracture in a geologic formation are provided. The image may be generated by capturing electromagnetic fields generated or scattered by the proppant-filled fracture, removing dispersion and/or an attenuation effects from the captured electromagnetic fields, and generating the image based on the dispersion and/or attenuation corrected fields. Removing the dispersion and/or attenuation effects may include back propagating the captured electromagnetic fields in the time domain to a source location. The image may be generated based on locations at which the back propagated fields constructively interfere or may be generated based on a model of the fracture defined using the back propagated fields.
US09551207B2 Pressure assisted oil recovery
Estimates of global total “liquid” hydrocarbon resources are dominated by structures known as oil sands or tar sands which represent approximately two-thirds of the total recoverable resources. This is despite the Canadian Athabasca Oil Sands, which dominate these oil sand based reserves at 1.7 trillion barrels, are calculated at only 10% recovery rate. However, irrespective of whether it is the 3.6 trillion barrels recoverable from the oil sands or the 1.75 trillion barrels from conventional oil reservoirs worldwide, it is evident that significant financial return and extension of the time oil is available to the world arise from increasing the recoverable percentage of such resources. According to embodiments of the invention pressure differentials are exploited to advance production of wells, adjust the evolution of the depletion chambers formed laterally between laterally spaced wells to increase the oil recovery percentage, and provide recovery in deeper reservoirs.
US09551206B2 Pool, large tank, or pond exchanger
An exchanger for a pool, large storage tank, or pond is described herein. In one embodiment, the exchanger includes a diffuser hub, exchanger extension arms that extend radially outward from the diffuser hub, one or more exchanger rings that intersect with the heat exchanger extension arms, and a fill tube that extends to the diffuser hub. One or both of the heat exchanger arms and/or the exchanger rings include fluid apertures that direct fluid into the pool. Fluid pumped into the fill tube may flow through into the diffuser, through the exchanger extension arms and/or the one or more exchanger rings, and out through the fluid apertures at various locations into the pool. As such, heated fluid, or fluid to be mixed, for example, may be more evenly and quickly distributed into the pool.
US09551197B2 Hydrostatic setting tool
A setting tool for use inside a well bore casing having an upper portion, a lower portion, and a wrap spring. The upper portion includes a mandrel coupled to a connecting line. The upper portion is configured to receive an input. The lower portion includes a first sleeve configured translate along an axis of the setting tool. The lower portion is selectively coupled to the upper portion. The wrap spring has a torsional preload and is coupled to the upper portion and the lower portion. The wrap spring is configured to selectively release the lower portion and upon reception of the input, such that the first sleeve is permitted to translate along the axis.
US09551196B2 Dual device apparatus and methods usable in well drilling and other operations
The present disclosure relates generally to devices and methods useable during well drilling operation. More particularly, the present disclosure pertains to a drilling rig incorporating a dual top drive apparatus useable for decreasing connection time of pipe segments useable during well drilling or other well operations, and methods of connecting pipe segments useable during well drilling or other operations.
US09551195B1 Rig with tong assembly with floating jaw and remote control
A rig with a tong assembly for manipulating tubulars can include a tong arm assembly for makeup and breakout of tubulars that has a floating jaw or non-moving jaw, a breakup arm, and a hydraulic control assembly. The tong assembly can include a remote control for remotely controlling operation of the tong assembly for improved safety.
US09551194B1 Tong assembly with floating jaw
A tong assembly for manipulating tubulars can include a tong arm assembly for makeup and breakout that has a floating jaw or non-moving jaw, a breakup arm, and a hydraulic control assembly. The tong assembly can include a remote control for remotely controlling operations and providing for improved safety.
US09551190B2 Excavation tool
In an excavation tool of the present invention, an embedding hole is drilled in a distal end portion of a tool body which is rotated about an axis line O and is moved forward to a distal end side in a direction of the axis line O. In the embedding hole, an excavation tip in which an embedding portion having an outer cylindrical shape is formed integrally with a cutting edge portion inserts the embedding portion into the embedding hole and causes the cutting edge portion to protrude from the embedding hole. In this manner, the excavation tip is rotatable around a central axis C of the embedding portion during excavation, and is attached thereto by being locked so as not to slip toward a distal end side of the embedding portion 6 in a direction of the central axis C.
US09551189B2 Polycrystalline diamond percussion drill bits using low thrust and torque for application with small diameter drill bits
A polycrystalline diamond drill bit for percussion drilling, in small holes in high silica ground. The bits are made having a bit body, and a series of insets locating in the bit body, and the bits are made using a double chisel design, or a modified double chisel design. The inserts are set into the bit body at very specific angles. The inserts have specific lengths to provide cut clearance for the bit body. The cutting angle the and radius on the tip of each insert in addition to the diameter of the inserts, provide a machine thrust pressure and machine torque pressure at low ranges when the PCD bits are used in percussion drilling.
US09551187B2 Steering head
A steering head for use with a casing, the steering head having a generally cylindrical body with a first body end with a lead edge, a second body end with a rear edge, and a body surface extending from the lead edge to the rear edge, an outer tube with an internal side generally facing the body surface, the outer tube extending from the first body end to the second body end, and a steering flap disposed on an external side of the outer tube having a first flap face facing radially inwardly and a second flap face facing radially outwardly. A biased hinge is secured to both the outer tube and the steering flap, the biased hinge being operative to retract the steering flap into a retracted position from an extending position.
US09551185B2 Top drive
A distributed drive includes a frame, a main sprocket, and a plurality of drive assemblies mounted therearound for rotation of the main sprocket. The main sprocket has a circumferential drive rim around which the drive assemblies are mounted in driving engagement with the drive rim so as to selectively rotate the main sprocket relative to the frame. Each drive assembly includes at least two auxiliary sprockets lying substantially in the plane of the main sprocket. An endless belt is mounted around the auxiliary sprockets so that a span of the endless belt spans between a pair of the auxiliary sprockets in an arc-of-contact with the drive rim. At least one of the two auxiliary sprockets is a selectively driven drive sprocket for selective rotation of the main sprocket.
US09551183B2 Ladder safety device having a building clamp assembly and a ladder hook assembly
A house clamp assembly having a fixed jaw and a slide bar mounted movable jaw, the fixed jaw opposing the movable jaw. A one-way drive means, by operation of a trigger handle grip, releasably engages the slide bar and advances the movable jaw towards the fixed jaw. The one-way drive means is incapable of moving the slide bar and movable jaw away from the fixed jaw. A return motion of the movable jaw (separating) is accomplished manually when the one-way drive means is disengaged. A braking lever, which is biased to bind the slide bar, prevents reverse motion of the slideable jaw away from the fixed jaw, except when the first lever is disengaged from the slide bar. A device for securing a ladder to a building, wherein the removed end of the slide member has a hook shape; wherein the jaws include jaw faces having multiple raised portions, wherein the releasable braking means of the building clamp assembly means includes a pivoting lever; wherein the locking member of the ladder hook assembly includes a pivoting lever, attached at one end to the body, and having a slot dimensioned to slideably receive the hook slide member therethrough; wherein the body of the ladder hook assembly includes a pair of slots dimensioned for and adapted to slideably receive the slide member therethrough; and wherein the slots are arranged to maintain the hook slide member substantially parallel to the slide bar of the building clamp assembly.
US09551180B2 System for controlling noise in a window assembly
A system for controlling noise in a fenestration assembly (e.g., a window) includes a fenestration assembly with at least one glazing and a frame. The at least one glazing has a surface. At least one sensor is coupled to the at least one glazing and is configured to generate noise detection signals. An actuator is positioned on the surface of the at least one glazing and has a plurality of regions. A controller is coupled to the sensor and the actuator and is configured to control each of the regions of the actuator to generate a different frequency based on the noise detection signals. Alternatively, each of the regions may be controlled to generate a frequency with a different phase shift based on the noise detection signals.
US09551177B2 Rotational to translational locking hinge
Techniques related to a hinge in a computing device are described herein. The techniques may include forming a shaft to move rotationally, and forming a sliding component to move translationally as a result of rotational movement of the shaft.
US09551175B2 Hinge for a motor vehicle
A hinge for the pivotable arrangement of a hood or panel on the support structure of a motor vehicle is disclosed. The hinge includes a basic part and a hinge arm pivotably mounted on the basic part at a hinge axis. The basic part includes a fastening portion which is fastened to the support structure. The basic part further includes at least one mounting bracket axially spaced from the fastening portion from at least one body outside panel.
US09551174B2 Lock assembly
A lock assembly (20) including a lock bolt (28), a first hub (36) and a first hub locker (72). The lock bolt (28) is movable between a latching position and an unlatching position. The first hub (36) is adapted to move the lock bolt (28) in response to movement of a first handle. The first hub locker (72) is positionable in at least three positions. The first hub locker (72) allows movement of the lock bolt (28) in response to torque being applied to the first handle when in two of the at least three positions and prevents movement of the lock bolt in response to torque being applied to the first handle when in another of the at least three positions. Alternatively, the first hub locker (72) prevents movement of the lock bolt (28) in response to torque being applied to the first handle when in two of the at least three positions and allows movement of the lock bolt (28) in response to torque being applied to the first handle when in another of the at least three positions.
US09551173B2 Door lock
The invention relates to a door lock provided with an oblique bolt. The objective is to decrease the external force directed into to deadlocking organs. The oblique bolt consists of slanted surfaces on both sides such that the tip part is narrower at its tip than in the back part of the tip part. The tip part has recesses in its lower part and upper part, which extend from the tip to the back part. Both recesses have a turning piece. Additionally, the oblique bolt has a support piece and flexing organs. The turning pieces guide external force up to a given turning angle via the support piece and flexing organs into the deadlocking organs.
US09551168B2 Furniture embedded locking device
A locking device to secure a compartment which allows an intelligent interaction with the user. The locking device may be incorporated into a furniture or other structure requiring locking to prevent and allow access to the compartment.
US09551167B2 Padlock retaining device
A padlock retaining device has: a) a stand-alone body, separate from any locking device or latching device, the body having one or more body attachment facilitators and b) a lock containment section attached to and extending away from the body for accepting and retaining an open padlock.
US09551165B2 Magnetic key and locking system
A magnetic key comprising: a body; a segmented magnet housed within the body; and a ferrous element housed above the segmented magnet. A protective cap for a magnetic key comprising a body; and a ferrous element housed within the body. A locking system comprises a magnetic key and protective cap.
US09551164B2 Fence/rail assembly with concealed sliding, pivotal connection, and manufacturing method therefor
A fencing/railing assembly adapted to be positioned between a pair of posts and mounted thereto includes a plurality of pickets, a plurality of rails extending transverse to the pickets, and one or more pivoting, sliding connectors for connecting a picket to a rail, with the sliding, pivotal connection concealed by the rail. The connector is slidably mounted to the rail and is pivotally connected to the picket. In one embodiment, an elongated connector strip is concealed by the rail and spans multiple pickets. In another embodiment, the assembly includes a plurality of shorter connectors, one for each picket/rail connection.
US09551163B2 Modular systems for constructing liquid storage tanks
A modular system for constructing liquid storage tanks, comprising prefabricated reinforced concrete modular elements designed and adapted to be coupled together to form the tank walls and having means for engaging the bottom slab or foundation. Optionally, the system further comprises elements which mate with the tank wall elements in order to build a covered tank. In one embodiment of the system, the modular wall elements include a prestressing wire or strand embedded in its structure and to which a tensile force is applied to produce a compressive stress in the side of the wall element that is contact with the liquid stored in the tank. Optionally, the constructing system comprises elements to form divisions or cells inside the storage tank.
US09551162B2 Method for water treatment
A method for treating a swimming pool, including introducing Mg2+ to a level from 60 ppm to 300 ppm to the swimming pool by addition of a soluble magnesium compound to the swimming pool, or Mg2+ to a level from 60 ppm to 1000 ppm by addition of a magnesium halide in addition to a further soluble magnesium compound.
US09551155B2 Building board and method for manufacturing the same
A building board includes an undercoat coating, an overcoat coating having lower pigment content than the undercoat coating and having different hue from the undercoat coating and having variations in position and thickness, an inkjet coating having different hue from the overcoat coating and is applying partially, and a clear coating successively formed on surface of inorganic base material having a plurality of wood board patterns. There also is provided a method for manufacturing a building board including the steps of applying an undercoat paint to surface of inorganic base material having a plurality of wood board patterns, applying an overcoat paint having lower pigment weight concentration than the undercoat paint and having different hue from the undercoat paint, scraping off a part of the applied overcoat paint before the overcoat paint cures, partially applying inkjet painting having different hue from the overcoat paint, and applying a clear paint.
US09551149B1 Systems and methods for efficiently assembling a structure
Embodiments described herein include systems and methods for efficiently assembling a structure. In one embodiment, a system includes multiple panels, with each panel having a frame made of multiple members. Each member of the frame has at least two pairs of passageways. Each pair of passageways can include two passageways that intersect each other in a perpendicular manner. Furthermore, each passageway may pass through, and be oriented orthogonal to, the longitudinal axis of the member. The first pair of passageways can be spaced a first distance from the first end of the member, while the second pair of passageways can be spaced a second distance from the second end of the member. In some embodiments, the first and second distances are approximately equal to one another. This consistency allows for maximum interchangeability and compatibility of the members and/or panels.
US09551144B2 Sound absorbing cover, sound absorbing assembly, and magnetic induction foam molding device
A sound absorbing cover is made of foam containing magnetic filler and is integrally molded in a three-dimensional shape so as to cover at least a part of a mating member that is a noise source. The sound absorbing cover includes side walls that cover side surfaces of the mating member and a bottom wall that covers a bottom surface of the mating member that intersects with the side surfaces of the mating member. The magnetic filler is oriented in a thickness direction of each of the side walls and the bottom wall. A sound absorbing assembly includes the sound absorbing cover and a fixing cover that is attached to the outer peripheral surface of the sound absorbing cover and that fixes, to a base, the sound absorbing cover and the mating member that is a noise source covered by the sound absorbing cover.
US09551143B2 Modular deployable shelter for camps
A modular deployable shelter for camps, comprising a body made of a flexible material, which can be deployed from a transport position to a position of use, generating an inner trapezoidal living space with a roof at an angle, characterized in that, in the position of use, the shelter comprises a rigid roof plate which closes the upper part of the body when in the deployed position, forming a ventilated space; wherein the floor of the body is closed from the bottom by a rigid floor plate; and wherein the right and left sides of the flexible body, in the position of use, have a longitudinally reinforced bellows structure, also being closed at the front and rear part thereof by rigid panels, the front panel having an opening which defines the entrance of the living space in the deployed position thereof; and wherein the sides of the body, in the deployed position thereof, have panelled reinforcements containing a reinforcement material.
US09551140B2 Dryer component
A dryer component for a bidet includes a drying member (40), a blower component (50) and a pipe component (70). The pipe component (70) includes a first separable part (72) and a second separable part (82) so as to provide fluid connection between the blower component (50) and the drying member (40). There is no hose used in the pipe component (70) and the fitting surface between the first part (72) and the second part (82) is tilted, which allows comparatively great fitting tolerances of members of the dryer.
US09551136B2 Multiple flow faucet with pivoting spout
A multiple flow faucet with passages having at least one base part installed in a mounting element, and a pivoting spout rotatably attached thereto, with at least a cold water line and a filtered water line. The filtered water line has at least one liquid-tight rotatable disconnection point at one or more of the passages.
US09551134B2 Domestic-water supply and withdrawal system for a washstand and sampling valve for such a system
The present invention relates to a domestic-water supply and withdrawal system for a washstand (8) with wall-mountable angle valves (16, 18) for cold and hot water and a washstand fitting (10) which is coupled in flow communication with the associated angle valves (16, 18) via pipe or tubing sections (12, 14). The present invention wants to indicate a domestic-water supply and withdrawal system for improving the possibility of taking samples. To this end it is suggested that a sampling valve (2) is arranged between the cold-water and/or hot-water angle valve (16, 18) and the washstand fitting (10).
US09551132B2 Automatic transmission control unit for construction equipment and control method therefor
The present disclosure relates to an automatic transmission control unit for construction machinery and a control method therefor, and when a load pressure detecting unit detecting a load pressure of hydraulic pressure supplied from a main hydraulic pump to an actuator, such as a cylinder and a hydraulic motor, is in an abnormal state, the automatic transmission control unit receives an electronic control pressure signal having little concerns of a breakdown or a malfunction, and automatically changes a travel speed of construction machinery based on the received electronic control pressure signal.
US09551128B2 Load cell for screw piling power head
A system to measure the installation torque of a screw pile is provided. The system includes a rotary drive and a universal joint-type coupler. A load pin, having at least one sensor, is mounted through the universal joint-type coupler as a pivot pin. The load pin is oriented within the universal joint-type coupler so that at least some of the installation torque is transmitted through the load pin and is measurable by the sensor. Preferably, the load pin is provided with a pair of bores, and then a plurality of sensors are mounted within the bores. More preferably, a differential bridge network is used to obtain a measurable signal from the plurality of sensors.
US09551125B2 Method for installing and servicing an apparatus recovering the kinetic energy of water, and an apparatus recovering the kinetic energy of water
The object of the invention is a method for installing and servicing an apparatus module recovering the kinetic energy of water; and the apparatus module itself. The apparatus module with wave energy recovering units is descended into the sea bottom and is kept steady at the sea bottom by the help of its own mass and the mass of the water filled into a plurality of soft and hard compartments and valve compartments in the body of the apparatus module. Correspondingly the apparatus module is lifted into the surface of the water and made floating by the help of air that is blown to the plurality of soft and hard compartments and the valve compartments in order to replace the water.
US09551124B2 Patch system and method for oil boom
An apparatus, system, and method for repairing or reinforcing a damaged oil containment boom. The apparatus includes two end connectors and a curtain attached between the two end connectors. The end connectors are attached to a damaged, existing boom via a vertically extending slot formed in each of the end connectors. After attachment, a tight seal is formed between the curtain and the damaged boom. The method for reinforcing a boom includes engaging the two end connectors to an existing boom while stretching the curtain over the damaged boom section in an overlapping relationship. Finally, the connectors are locked into place via a lock-pin mechanism. This invention creates a tight seal over the damaged area, creating a “patch” to keep out oil contaminants from the protected area. The disclosed invention can be used to repair, patch, or reinforce an existing oil containment boom.
US09551119B2 Prefabricated bridge
Bridge including a bridge deck extending in a bridge direction or longitudinal direction of the bridge, and two prefab bridge railings situated on the longitudinal side of the bridge deck, wherein the bridge deck is substantially formed by one or more slabs spanning the bridge width, wherein the bridge railing includes a lower girder provided with a bearing, particularly a bearing edge, for a longitudinal edge strip of the bridge deck.
US09551118B2 Scraper device, as well as construction machine
A scraper device for a milling drum mounted in a construction machine at a machine frame between lateral walls with a milling drum axis, with a two-part scraper blade arranged in a height-adjustable fashion behind the milling drum when seen in the direction of travel, the lower part of which can glide over the ground surface milled off by the milling drum, where the lower part of the scraper blade is adjustable in height when in operating position, it is provided that the upper part of the scraper blade is attached, at the upper end, to swivel about a swivelling axis parallel to the axis of the milling drum.
US09551116B2 Apparatus for producing foamed bitumen and method for its maintenance
The present invention relates to an apparatus for producing foamed bitumen for a road construction machine, comprising at least one mixing device having a reaction chamber, in which hot bitumen and at least one reaction fluid can be mixed together via an inlet device comprising at least one inlet nozzle and can be discharged from the mixing device via an outlet device, with at least one compressed-air device being provided, via which the inlet device and/or the outlet device can be subjected to a compressed-air stream for testing and/or cleaning purposes. The present invention further also relates to a method for maintaining such an apparatus.
US09551110B2 Fluorochemical composition and use thereof
The instant invention relates to the Fluorochemical composition comprising a dispersion or a solution of a fluorinated compound, wherein said fluorinated compound comprises the reaction product of at least two reactants A and B wherein reactant A being a compound of formula (I); Rf—O—(CF(CF3)CF2O)mCF(CF3)—X—Y—Z  (I) with Rf being a perfluorinated alkyl group, m being from 3 to 25; X being a carbonyl group or CH2; Y being a chemical bond or an organic divalent or trivalent linking group bearing a functional or difunctional isocyanate reactive group; Z being an organic group bearing at least one cationic group, reactant B being a polyfunctional isocyanate or a mixture thereof and optionally one or more isocyanate-reactive co-reactants C.
US09551107B2 Methods of treating textile surfaces
Compositions comprising a liquid and fumed silica may be applied to fabric and other textile materials as a sealant, e.g., to protect against damage or deterioration. The composition may comprise liquid droplets at least partially or completely surrounded by fumed silica. The liquid may comprise water and one or more polymers, such as anionic polymers, anionic copolymers, fluoropolymers, fluorocopolymers, acrylic polymers, and/or acrylic copolymers. Methods of treating a textile surface with the composition may include depositing the composition on the surface and brushing the particles against the surface, for example. The composition may be in the form of a powder, such that the particles remain intact on the surface upon deposition and release liquid onto the surface upon brushing, for example.
US09551103B2 Method to detect the type of a load in a laundry treating appliance
A method of determining load type in a laundry treating appliance having a treating chamber for receiving laundry, a rotatable laundry mover, and a motor operably coupled to the rotatable laundry mover includes steps to apply a perturbation force to the laundry in the treating chamber by rotating the laundry mover with the motor; determine the response of the motor torque to the perturbation force during the rotating of the laundry mover; and determine a load type based on the determined response.
US09551097B2 Device for producing absorbent body
A device for producing an absorbent body includes a rotating fiber stacking drum that includes an adsorbent molding section configured to mold fluff pulp into an absorbent body having a desired shape. The rotating fiber stacking drum further includes a cylinder having an outer circumference on which the adsorbent molding section is formed, and paired side walls that close ends of the cylinder, respectively. The device for producing an absorbent body further includes a sucking means, which is configured to generate an air flow from the outer circumference side of the adsorbent molding section toward the inside of the cylinder by sucking air in the rotating fiber stacking drum. The sucking means is connected to each of two side walls of the rotating fiber stacking drum.
US09551094B2 Fiber preform of π-shaped section, in particular for a fan platform made of composite material
A fiber preform of π-shaped section, the preform including a base with a first face and an opposite second face, legs extending from the second face, and a fiber structure woven as a single piece by three-dimensional weaving with a plurality of layers of warp or weft yarns linked interlinked by weft or warp yarns in a plurality of layers of weft or warp yarns. In each plane of the preform, the weft or warp yarns of a first group of weft or warp yarns extend continuously through the base between two opposite edges thereof, and weft or warp yarns of a second group of weft or warp yarns extend continuously from an end of one of the legs to an end of the other leg, passing via the base, with the yarns of the first group and the yarns of the second group presenting two mutual crossings.
US09551093B2 Down-proof double-layer fabric
A first fabric layer of a down-proof double-layer fabric has a plurality of first warps and a plurality of first wefts. A second fabric layer has a plurality of second warps and a plurality of second wefts. The first fabric layer and the second fabric layer have a plurality of coupling portions. In the coupling portions, the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer pass through each other repeatedly, and the first warps and the second warps are interlaced. The first warps, the first wefts, the second warps, and the second wefts are between 20 denier and 75 denier. The warp densities of the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer are between 336 pieces/in and 456 pieces/in, and the weft densities of the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer are between 220 pieces/inch2 and 300 pieces/in.
US09551085B2 Electrochemical polishing solution, process for electrochemically polishing graphite gate electrode and graphite gate electrode
The invention discloses an electrochemical polishing solution, a process for electrochemically polishing a graphite gate electrode and a graphite gate electrode, which are used for providing an electrochemical polishing solution and a polishing process to efficiently remove the contaminant on the surface of a gate electrode and improve the quality of the gate electrode. Said electrochemical polishing solution comprises 900-1000 parts by weight of water; 195-205 parts by weight of an alkaline metal hydroxide; 49-51 parts by weight of a weak acid salt; and 294-306 parts by weight of an additive.
US09551079B2 Systems and methods for producing metal clusters; functionalized surfaces; and droplets including solvated metal ions
The invention generally relates to systems and methods for producing metal clusters; functionalized surfaces; and droplets including solvated metal ions. In certain aspects, the invention provides methods that involve providing a metal and a solvent. The methods additionally involve applying voltage to the solvated metal to thereby produce solvent droplets including ions of the metal containing compound, and directing the solvent droplets including the metal ions to a target. In certain embodiments, once at the target, the metal ions can react directly or catalyze reactions.
US09551077B2 Photoelectrode used for carbon dioxide reduction and method for reducing carbon dioxide using the photoelectrode
Disclosed is an anode electrode including a nitride semiconductor layer. This nitride semiconductor layer includes an AlxGa1-xN layer (0
US09551075B2 Chemical mechanical polishing of alumina
A CMP method uses a slurry including a first metal oxide or semiconductor oxide particles (first oxide particles) in water. At least one particle feature is selected from (i) first oxide particles having a polydispersity >30%, (ii) a coating on first oxide particles including Group I or Group II ions, transition metal oxide, or organic material, (iii) first oxide particles mixed with fumed oxide particles, (iv) first oxide particles with average primary size >50 nm mixed with fumed oxide particles having average primary size <25 nm, and (v) first oxide particles with a per surface area per unit mass <100 m2/gm mixed with another oxide particle type having an average area per unit mass >150 m2/gm. A substrate having an alumina surface is placed into a CMP apparatus, and CMP is performed with a rotating polishing pad and the slurry to polish the alumina surface.
US09551074B2 Electroless plating solution with at least two borane containing reducing agents
A solution for providing electroless deposition of a metal layer on a substrate is provided. A solvent is provided. A metal precursor is provided to the solvent. A first borane containing reducing agent is provided to the solvent. A second borane containing reducing agent is provided to the solvent, wherein the first borane containing reducing agent has a deposition rate of at least five times a deposition rate of the second borane containing reducing agent, and wherein the solution is free of nonborane reducing agents.
US09551073B2 Method for depositing a first metallic layer onto non-conductive polymers
The present invention relates to the etching, activation and deposition of a first metal or metal alloy layer onto non-conductive polymers. The non-conductive polymer is etched with an aqueous solution comprising 0.75 to 3.6 g/l permanganate ions in 60 to 80 vol.-% sulfuric acid, activating with a solution comprising a noble metal and depositing a first metal or metal alloy by immersion-type or electroless (autocatalytic) plating. The first metal or metal alloy layer obtained has a high adhesion on the non-conductive polymer and serves as a plating base for electroplating further metal and/or metal alloy layer(s) thereon.
US09551071B2 Substrate support device
A substrate support device includes a plate portion including a heater plate that includes a heating element provided in the heater plate, and also including a first cooling plate provided on a bottom surface of the heater plate and having a first flow path, and a second cooling plate provided on a top surface of the heater plate and having a second flow path; and a shaft portion supporting the plate portion and including a line connected to the heating element to supply an electric current to the heating element, and a tube supplying a coolant to the first cooling plate and the second cooling plate, the line and the tube being provided inside the shaft portion.
US09551070B2 In-situ corrosion resistant substrate support coating
Corrosion resistant substrate supports and methods of making corrosion resistant substrate supports are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method of making corrosion resistant substrate supports includes exposing the substrate support disposed within a substrate processing chamber to a process gas comprising an aluminum containing precursor; and depositing an aluminum containing layer atop surfaces of the substrate support.
US09551061B2 In-situ triple junction formation to maintain electrode conductivity
In systems where insulating deposits form during normal operation, electrodes are configured so the deposits have the effect of creating in-situ triple junctions. These triple junctions enhance low level discharge activity to facilitate localized breakdown of the deposits and maintain electrode conductivity.
US09551059B2 Rare earth fluoride spray powder and rare earth fluoride-sprayed article
A powder comprising rare earth element fluoride particles having an aspect ratio of up to 2, an average particle size of 10-100 μm, a bulk density of 0.8-1.5 g/cm3, and a carbon content of 0.1-0.5 wt % is amenable to atmospheric plasma spraying. An article obtained by spraying the rare earth fluoride spray powder to a substrate undergoes few partial color changes and performs well even when used in a halogen gas plasma.
US09551058B2 Coating methods and a coated substrate
Coating methods and a coated substrate are provided. The coating method includes providing a component having an aperture formed in a surface thereof, arranging and disposing a hollow member on a portion of the surface to define a hollow space above the aperture corresponding to a shape of the aperture at the surface, applying at least one coating over the surface of the component and the hollow member to form an applied coating having an applied coating thickness, and removing at least a portion of the hollow member to expose the hollow space through the applied coating. The coated substrate includes a component having an aperture formed in a surface thereof, a hollow member arranged and disposed on the surface to define a hollow space above the aperture, and an applied coating over the surface of the component, the hollow space being exposed through the applied coating.
US09551057B2 Galvannealed layer and steel sheet comprising the same, and method for producing the same
Provided are: a galvannealed steel sheet, improved in the adhesiveness of a plated layer with a base steel sheet, as a galvannealed steel sheet, prepared by using a high-strength steel sheet as a base material; and a method for producing the galvannealed steel sheet. A galvannealed layer is formed on the base steel sheet including a high-strength steel having a predetermined composition. The average amount of Fe in the galvannealed layer is 8.0 to 12.0%. The absolute value of a difference (ΔFe) between the amount of Fe in the vicinity of an interface with the base steel sheet and the amount of Fe in the vicinity of the external surface of the plated layer in the plated layer is 0.0 to 3.0%.
US09551047B2 High-strength electric-resistance-welded steel pipe of excellent long-term softening resistance in intermediate temperature ranges
A high strength electric resistance welded steel pipe has a yield strength of 450 MPa or more and excellent resistance to softening for a long period in an intermediate temperature range and a method of manufacturing the steel pipe are provided. The steel pipe has a chemical composition containing, by mass%, C: 0.026% or more and 0.084% or less, Si: 0.10% or more and 0.30% or less, Mn: 0.70% or more and 1.90% or less, Al: 0.01% or more and 0.10% or less, Nb: 0.001% or more and 0.070% or less, V: 0.001% or more and 0.065% or less, Ti: 0.001% or more and 0.033% or less, Ca: 0.0001% or more and 0.0035% or less, in which the condition that Pcm is 0.20 or less is satisfied.
US09551041B2 Genetic loci associated with fusarium ear mold resistance in maize
The invention relates to methods and compositions for identifying and selecting maize plants with enhanced resistance to Fusarium ear mold. Maize plants generated by the methods of the invention are also a feature of the invention.
US09551038B2 System for integrated analysis of real-time polymerase chain reaction and DNA chip and method for integrated analysis using the same
Provided are a system for integrated analysis of a real-time polymerase chain reaction and a DNA chip and a method for integrated analysis using the same, and more particularly to an apparatus for integrated analysis of a real-time polymerase chain reaction and a DNA chip and a method for integrated analysis using the same. According to the method for integrated analysis of a biomaterial of the present invention, gene amplification proceeds and subsequently hybridization proceeds in a single reactor, thereby preventing contamination of the sample due to external factors, which may be caused while the sample is transferred for reaction, and automating a series of procedures such as injection of the sample, reaction of the biomaterial, and detection and analysis of results.
US09551035B2 Means and methods for diagnosing pancreatic cancer
The present invention pertains to the field of cancer diagnosis. Specifically, it relates to a method for diagnosing pancreas cancer in a subject comprising the steps of determining in a sample of a subject suspected to suffer from pancreas cancer the amount of at least one biomarker selected from the biomarkers shown in Table 1 and comparing the said amount of the at least one biomarker with a reference, whereby pancreas cancer is to be diagnosed. The present invention also contemplates a method for identifying whether a subject is in need of a pancreas cancer therapy comprising the steps of the aforementioned methods and the further step of identifying a subject in need of a pancreas cancer therapy if said subject is to be diagnosed to suffer from pancreas cancer. Contemplated are, furthermore, diagnostic devices and kits for carrying out said methods.
US09551033B2 Gene expression markers of tumor resistance to HER2 inhibitor treatment
The present invention concerns markers of resistance of HER2 expressing tumors to treatment with HER2 inhibitors, such as HER2 antibodies, including trastuzumab.
US09551030B2 Filter architecture for analytical devices
An approach to the design of the set of filters which allows for the collection of a larger portion of the optical signal while still distinguishing the presence of the various fluorophores is described. In some embodiments, the filter sets of the invention each block a smaller portion of the spectrum, allowing for a larger portion of the emitted light to be detected. The combined information from the light passing through two or more of the filters is then used to determine the presence of a given fluorophore. The filter sets of the invention can be particularly useful in integrated devices in which the light from a single molecule reaction in a small reaction region is directed to a detector or to a specific portion of a detector.
US09551029B2 Methods and kits using extended rhodamine dyes
Extended rhodamine compounds exhibiting favorable fluorescence characteristics having the structure are disclosed. In addition, novel intermediates for synthesis of these dyes are disclosed, such intermediates having the structure In addition, methods of making and using the dyes as fluorescent labels are disclosed.
US09551028B2 Nucleic acid sequence analysis
Provided are methods for sequencing a nucleic acid with a sequencing enzyme, e.g., a polymerase or exonuclease. The sequencing enzyme can optionally be exchanged with a second sequencing enzyme, which continues the sequencing of the nucleic acid. In certain embodiments, a template is fixed to a surface through a template localizing moiety. The template localizing moiety can optionally anneal with the nucleic acid and/or associate with the sequencing enzyme. Also provided are compositions comprising a nucleic acid and a first sequencing enzyme, which can sequence the nucleic acid and optionally exchange with a second sequencing enzyme present in the composition. Compositions in which a template localizing moiety is immobilized on a surface are provided. Also provided are methods for using data from analytical reactions wherein two different enzymes are employed, e.g., at a same or different reaction regions.
US09551027B2 Nucleic acid amplification
Methods and compositions for the amplification of nucleic acids and generation of concatemers are disclosed. Amplification methods provided herein may be performed under isothermal conditions. Methods and compositions may include reagents such as nucleic acid polymerases and primers.
US09551015B2 Fermentative production of ethanol from glucose, galactose and arabinose employing a recombinant yeast strain
The present invention relates to a process for the production of one or more fermentation product from a sugar composition, comprising the following steps:a) fermentation of the sugar composition in the presence of a yeast belonging to the genera Saccharomyces, Kluyveromyces, Candida, Pichia, Schizosaccharomyces, Hansenula, Kloeckera, Schwanniomyces or Yarrowia,: andb) recovery of the fermentation product,wherein the yeast comprises the genes araA, araB and araD and the sugar composition comprises glucose, galactose and arabinose.
US09551013B2 Cyclic bioconversion processes and bioreactor assemblies
Bioconversion processes are disclosed in which biocatalysts including microorganisms or isolated enzymes that are substantially irreversibly retained in the interior of an open, porous, highly hydrophilic polymer are cycled between at least two different fluid media for the bioconversion of one or more substrates to one or more bioproducts. The processes are particularly attractive for using gas phase or using liquid feedstocks containing the substrate.
US09551008B2 Tomato plants with intense phenotype and TYLCV resistance
The present invention relates to the field of tomato plants having an intense phenotype and Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV) resistance.
US09551006B2 Isolated polynucleotides and polypeptides, and methods of using same for improving plant properties
Provided are isolated polynucleotides which are at least 80% homologous to SEQ ID NO: 320, 1-319, 321-473, 836-1652, 1654-3221, 3225-3241, 3243-3630, 3632-4176 or 4177; and isolated polypeptides which are at least 80% homologous to SEQ ID NO: 760, 474-759, 761-770, 772-835 and 4178-4195, 4197-4213, 4215-4216, 4218-5334, 5336-5522, 5524-5754, 5756-6215, 6217, 6220-6223, 6230, 6232, 6235-6607, 6609-6614, 6620-7129 or 7130, nucleic acid constructs comprising the isolated polynucleotides, transgenic plants expressing same and methods of using same for increasing abiotic stress tolerance, yield, biomass, growth rate, vigor, oil content, fiber yield, fiber quality, and/or nitrogen use efficiency of a plant.
US09551004B2 Transgenic tree induced by RABG3BCA and use thereof
Provided to a transgenic tree induced by RabG3bCA and a use thereof. The transgenic tree serves to control xylem growth through RabG3b of Arabidopsis thaliana, and this function is involved in the growth of poplars. Particularly, the transgenic tree is valuable for industrial use since the increase in length of a fiber cell, which is the most important factor of determining pulp quality, is confirmed.
US09551002B2 Pericycle-specific expression of microRNA167 in plants
Provided herein are compositions and methods for producing transgenic plants. In specific embodiments, transgenic plants comprise a construct comprising a polynucleotide encoding microRNA167 (miR167), or precursor thereof, operably linked to a plant pericycle-specific promote, wherein the miR167 is ectopically overexpressed in the transgenic plants, and wherein the promoter is optionally a constitutive or inducible promoter. In some embodiments, the transgenic plant has an improved agronomic or nutritional characteristic when cultivated in nitrogen-rich conditions as compared to a wild type plant cultivated in the same conditions. Also provided herein are commercial products (e.g., pulp, paper, paper products, or lumber) derived from the transgenic plants (e.g., transgenic trees) produced using the methods provided herein.
US09551001B2 System for expression of genes in plants
The present invention provides trans-complementation systems for expressing gene products in plants. In general, the invention provides systems including a carrier vector and a producer vector, both based on plant viruses. The producer vector is defective for at least one function needed for successful systemic infection of a plant, e.g., replication, cell-to-cell movement, or long distance movement. The carrier vector supplies the missing function in trans. Certain producer vectors lack a functional coat protein coding sequence, in which case the corresponding producer vector supplies coat protein in trans. The invention also provides novel plant viral vectors and methods of use, e.g., to produce polypeptides or active RNAs in plants.
US09550999B2 Recombinant host cells comprising phosphoketolases
The present invention is related to recombinant host cells comprising: (i) at least one deletion, mutation, and/or substitution in an endogenous gene encoding a polypeptide that converts pyruvate to acetaldehyde, acetyl-phosphate, or acetyl-CoA; and (ii) a heterologous polynucleotide encoding a polypeptide having phosphoketolase activity. The present invention is also related to recombinant host cells further comprising (iii) a heterologous polynucleotide encoding a polypeptide having phosphotransacetylase activity.
US09550996B2 Targeting microRNAs for metabolic disorders
Provided herein are methods and compositions for the treatment of metabolic disorders. Also provided herein are methods and compositions for the reduction of blood glucose level, the reduction of gluconeogenesis, the improvement of insulin resistance and the reduction of plasma cholesterol level. In certain embodiments, the methods comprise inhibiting the activity of miR-103. In certain embodiments, the methods comprise inhibiting the activity of miR-107. In certain embodiments, the activity of both miR-103 and miR-107 is inhibited. In certain embodiments, such methods comprise administering a compound comprising an oligonucleotide targeted to a microRNA.
US09550995B2 Composition comprising inhibitor against PAPSS2 gene or protein encoded by gene for inducing senescence in tumor cells and method for inducing senescence in tumor cells using the same
Provided is a composition for inducing tumor cell senescence and a method for inducing tumor cell senescence using the same. The composition can inhibit a PAPSS2 gene in a tumor cell to thereby induce senescence of the tumor cell, and if the composition is used concurrently with irradiation of the tumor cell, the composition can improve the sensitivity of the tumor cell to radiation.
US09550992B2 Compositions and methods for modulating myeloid derived suppressor cells
Provided are methods and compositions for modulating the differentiation of a myeloid derived suppressor cell (MDSC). In particular, described herein are miR-142 polynucleotides and miR-223 polynucleotides that can be used to modulate differentiation of MDSCs. Increased differentiation of a MDSC population, or cells within an MDSC population, can be achieved by increasing the miR-142 and/or miR-223 polynucleotides in a MDSC.
US09550991B2 Transcription factor decoys
Decoy nucleic acid sequences comprising a sequence encoding all or part of a binding site for bacterial sigN alternative sigma54 factor are described. Uses of the decoys in antibacterial complexes and for the treatment of bacterial infections are also described.
US09550990B2 Regulation of epigenetic control of gene expression
Methods are provided for the identification of compounds that selectively modulate epigenetic changes in gene expression. Compounds, compositions, kits or assays devices, and methods are provided for modulating the expression, endogenous levels or the function of small non-coding RNAs cognate to or transcribed by heterochromatic regions subject to epigenetic regulation (i.e., promoters, enhancers, centromeres, telomeres, origins of DNA replication, imprinted loci, or loci marked by dosage-compensation), and for modulating the formation or function of heterochromatin in cells, tissues or animals.
US09550986B2 High-throughput antibody humanization
The present invention relates to improved methods for antibody engineering, e.g., humanization. In particular, the disclosure provides a high-throughput antibody humanization process that can be automated by computer-implementation.
US09550983B2 Nucleic acid sequence segment for enhancing protein expression
An isolated or a purified nucleic acid sequence for enhancing expression levels of a protein of interest, in 5′ to 3′ direction, comprises: a cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter; an eEF-1 intron repeat (eEF-1 IR); and a regular sequence, which comprises: at least one tag element, a fixable linker sequence, wherein the fixable sequence is TEV sequence; and a multiple cloning site (MCS). By means of the array of the specific promoter and eEF-1 IR, the expression and purity of the recombinant protein could be enhanced; wherein eEF-1 IR can reduce the length of vector and assist RNA polymerase II transcription. Besides, TEV sequence of the fixable linker sequence of the regular sequence can remove a tag on recombinant protein; a specific target can be inserted into the multiple cloning site.
US09550980B2 Composition and methods for the production of L-homoalanine
Healthcare costs are a significant worldwide, with many patients being denied medications because of their high prices. One approach to addressing this problem involves the biosynthesis of chiral drug intermediates, an environmentally friendly solution that can be used to generate pharmaceuticals at much lower costs than conventional techniques. In this context, embodiments of the invention comprise methods and materials designed to allow microorganisms to biosynthesize the nonnatural amino acid L-homoalanine. As is known in the art, L-homoalanine is a chiral precursor of a variety of pharmaceutically valuable compounds including the anticonvulsant medications levetiracetam (sold under the trade name Keppra®) and brivaracetam, as well as ethambutol, a bacteriostatic antimycobacterial drug used to treat tuberculosis. Consequently, embodiments of the invention can be used in low cost, environmentally friendly processes to generate these and other valuable compounds.
US09550979B2 Enzyme-altered metabolite activity
The present invention relates to mutant alcohol dehydrogenase enzymes, microorganisms comprising the mutant alcohol dehydrogenase enzymes, and methods for the production of products by microbial fermentation using the microorganisms.
US09550976B2 Methods for compact aggregation of dermal cells
The invention provides for a method for aggregating dermal papilla cells or dermal sheath cells or a combination thereof, the method comprising: growing dermal papilla cells or dermal sheath cells or a combination thereof in suspension culture; and contacting the culture with an effective amount of an enzyme, wherein a substrate of the enzyme is an extracellular matrix molecule in the suspension culture, so as to aggregate dermal papilla cells or dermal sheath cells. The culture may be a hanging drop culture and the enzyme may be a hyaluronidase.
US09550975B2 SSEA-3 pluripotent stem cell isolated from body tissue
Objects of the present invention are to provide a method for directly obtaining pluripotent stem cells from body tissue and the thus obtained pluripotent stem cells. The present invention relates to SSEA-3 (+) pluripotent stem cells that can be isolated from body tissue.
US09550974B2 Derivation of embryonic stem cells
This present invention provides novel methods for deriving embryonic stem cells, those cells and cell lines, and the use of the cells for therapeutic and research purposes without the destruction of the embryo. It also relates to novel methods of establishing and storing an autologous stem cell line prior to implantation of an embryo, e.g., in conjunction with reproductive therapies such as IVF.
US09550971B2 Universal bioreactors and methods of use
Bioreactors suitable for housing a predetermined volume of culture medium comprising a plurality of containers of approximately equal internal volume in which the culture medium resides, wherein the predetermined volume of culture medium is retained in approximately equal amounts within each of the plurality of containers during operation of the bioreactor, and wherein the internal volume of each container is selected so that the amount of culture medium in each container exceeds 50 vol. % of the container internal volume during operation of the bioreactor, and related methods of use.
US09550970B2 Culture systems, apparatus, and related methods and articles
Culture systems, devices and related methods and articles may automate the culturing or incubation process according to defined culturing protocols. Such may employ removable multi-well growth cassette. Wells may be subdivided into subwells. Such may employ removable media and waste cartridges and/or gas canisters to supply consumables, which may be supplied in kits, for example with processor executable culturing protocols. Direct fluidic coupling between growth cassettes and the removable cartridges or canisters may be employed. Operational and/or environmental conditions may be sensed or monitored, and may be used to adjust or alter operation. A microscopy subsystem may capture images which may be stored and/or analyzed. Analysis may be used to adjust or alter operation.
US09550962B2 Stable non-aqueous liquid compositions comprising a cationic polymer in particulate form
The need for a stable, compact composition providing improved fabric care benefit, that is also convenient to use, can be met by incorporating a cationic cellulose polymer into a non-aqueous composition, using a non-aqueous dispersant. Such compositions have good physical stability, with little or no clumping of the cationic polymer in particulate form.
US09550958B2 Phenate detergent preparation
A sulphurised calcium phenate detergent is made by (i) reacting hydrogenated distlled CNSL with a calcium salt and sulphur in the presence of a promoter and process solvent; (ii) reacting the product of (i) with additional calcium salt and promoter, and with a co-surfactant, and then carbonating; and optionally (iii) further carbonating the reaction mixture to obtain overbased sulphurised calcium phenate.
US09550957B2 Functional fluids comprising alkyl toluene sulfonates
Provided are formulations, methods of making, and methods of using a functional fluid of the present invention to achieve and maintain optimal frictional characteristics in machines housing that fluid, wherein the functional fluid comprises, among others, a friction-modifying amount of an alkyl toluene sulfonate salt or a mixture of alkyl toluene sulfonate salts.
US09550955B2 Friction modifiers for lubricating oils
A lubricating oil comprises a major amount of a base oil and a minor amount of an additive package, and the additive package comprises at least one friction modifier of formula I: where R is a linear or branched, saturated, unsaturated, or partially saturated hydrocarbyl having about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms or R is represented by: and R1 is a linear or branched, saturated, unsaturated, or partially saturated hydrocarbyl having about 8 to about 22 carbon atoms and R2 is hydrogen or a hydrocarbyl having about 1 to about 2 carbon atoms. Methods of using the lubricating oil to improve thin film and/or boundary layer friction in an engine are also disclosed.
US09550952B2 Method of reducing aqueous separation in an emulsion composition suitable for engine fueled by E85 fuel
A method for reducing aqueous phase separation of an emulsion comprising ethanol-based fuel and a lubricating oil comprising molybdenum ester amide complex, comprising the step of adding to the lubricating oil a dispersant polyalkyl (meth) acrylate (DPMA) in an amount from about 0.01 to about 0.5% by weight of the lubricating oil, such that the weight ratio of molybdenum to DPMA is about 2.05 or less.
US09550951B2 Water conserving syngas cleanup system
A gasification system includes a scrubber in communication with a particulate removal subsystem and a quench sub-system.
US09550948B2 Sulfone cracking using supercritical water
The invention relates to a process for removing sulfur compounds from a hydrocarbon stream. The hydrocarbon stream is contacted with water, at supercritical conditions and also subjects an effluent hydrocarbon stream to separation techniques. The resulting hydrocarbon stream is substantially free of sulfur oxides, sulfoxides, and sulfones.
US09550945B1 Local produced oil dehydrator
A portable, semi-portable, or permanent system for removing BS&W from crude oil at the local production or bulk storage site. A demulsifier is added to the crude as it enters a low shear pump which pumps the mixture through a plate and frame type heat exchanger where the incoming crude is preheated using outgoing heated and dehydrated crude. Then the incoming crude enters an oil-water separator where it is further heated by a secondary heater within the separator and passes through a special coalescing section. Water and basic sediment separate from the crude are discharged from the bottom of the separator. The heated dehydrated crude exits the separator, flows back through the heat exchanger where it is cooled as it preheats incoming crude, and then is pumped to clean oil storage. BS&W and flow monitors on the incoming crude and outgoing crude are used to control operation of the system.
US09550944B2 Process for the recovery of bitumen from an oil sand
The present invention relates to a process for the recovery of bitumen from an oil sand comprising the following phases in succession: (a) mixing an oil sand with a diluent capable of reducing the viscosity and density of the bitumen contained in said oil sand, obtaining a first mixture (slurry) comprising diluted bitumen; (b) mixing said slurry with a basic aqueous solution (BAS) possibly containing salts to increase its ionic strength, capable of removing said diluted bitumen from said oil sand containing it, obtaining a second mixture (BAS-slurry) which can be separated into (i) a liquid phase comprising said diluted bitumen, a fraction of oil sand free of the bitumen removed and water; (ii) a sediment comprising the remaining fraction of said oil sand free of the bitumen removed, water and residual hydrocarbons which can be eliminated by subsequent washings; (c) separating a liquid phase comprising said diluted bitumen removed, from said BAS-slurry mixture; (d) recovering, from said liquid phase separated in phase (c), the removed diluted bitumen contained therein.
US09550943B2 Efficient oil shale recovery method
The subject matter herein provides a biotic method for recovering one or more hydrocarbons from a feedstock that includes one or more of oil shale, bituminous tar sand, coal and cellulous at atmospheric temperature and pressure. The method comprises loading the feedstock into a container, treating the feedstock in the container with a biomedium of micro-organisms, and forming an essentially liquid mixture from the feedstock and the biomass by rotary tumbling the feedstock and the biomedium in the container. The essentially liquid mixture is then separated into the one or more hydrocarbons by centrifuging.
US09550936B2 Mobilization of heavy oil
A process for increasing mobility of heavy oil includes: disposing a solvating composition comprising a paraffinic solvent and a multifunctional solvent in a heavy oil environment including a heavy oil, the heavy oil comprising asphaltene; contacting the heavy oil with the solvating composition; and stabilizing asphaltene in the heavy oil with the solvating composition to increase mobility of the heavy oil and to form a stabilized heavy oil which includes the heavy oil and solvating composition. A method for making stabilized heavy oil includes separating resin from an oil; combining the resin and a paraffinic solvent to form a solvating composition; disposing the solvating composition in a heavy oil environment which includes heavy oil comprising asphaltene; and contacting the asphaltene with the solvating composition to make stabilized heavy oil, wherein the stabilized heavy oil comprises the solvating composition and heavy oil.
US09550934B2 Calcium phosphate cement compositions comprising pumice and/or perlite and associated methods
Methods and compositions are provided that related to cementing operations. Methods and compositions that include pumice and/or perlite as a replacement for fly ash.
US09550932B1 Additive for drilling fluid used as a shale stabilizing agent in subterranean wellbores
An additive for drilling fluid used as both a sealing agent to prevent seepage loss and a shale stabilizing agent in subterranean wellbores. The additive includes ground bituminous coal having a selected particle size distribution wherein the bituminous coal is between 60% to 80% of the additive by weight. The additive also includes solvent extracted ground flaxmeal which is between 20% to 40% of the additive by weight.
US09550928B2 Alkoxysilyl-containing adhesive sealants with intrinsically reduced viscosity
The present invention provides specific alkoxylation products, a process for preparing them, compositions which comprise these alkoxylation products, and the use thereof.
US09550927B2 Acrylic block copolymers
Acrylic block copolymers are described which are inherently tacky. Also described are compositions of the copolymers which exhibit properties enabling their use as pressure sensitive adhesives, without addition of tackifiers and/or subsequent processing.
US09550926B2 Touch panel
Provided is a touch panel. The touch panel includes a base and a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer attached to the base and including an acryl-based polymer containing an acryl polymer containing 5 to 30 parts by weight of isobornyl (meth)acrylate, and 5 to 40 parts by weight of methyl (meth)acrylate in a polymerized form. Accordingly, it can effectively inhibit penetration of oxygen, moisture or other impurities at an interface between the base and the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, or at an interface between a conductor thin film and the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer, and prevent degradation in optical properties such as visibility, etc. due to bubbles generated at the pressure-sensitive adhesive interface. In addition, when the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer is directly attached to the conductor thin film and even exposed to severe conditions such as high temperature or high temperature and high humidity, a change in the resistance of the conductor thin film may be effectively inhibited, and thus the touch panel can be stably driven for a long time.
US09550923B2 Adhesive composition for polarizing plate, polarizing plate including the same and optical display including the same
An adhesive composition for polarizing plates includes a (meth)acrylic copolymer and a biphenyl group-containing photocuring agent. A polarizing plate includes an adhesive layer formed of the adhesive composition An optical display includes the polarizing plate.
US09550921B2 Masking tape with multi-directional hand tear
A hand-tearable masking tape with a primary microstructured hand-tear pattern and at least one secondary hand-tear pattern oriented so that the tape exhibits multi-directional tear.
US09550918B2 Radically curable adhesive composition and polarizing plate including the same
There are provided a radically curable adhesive composition maintaining adhesiveness thereof even in high-humidity environments, and a polarizing plate including the radically curable adhesive composition. The radically curable adhesive composition includes: a compound represented by Formula 1; a vinyl ether-based compound; a carboxylic acid compound having at least one unsaturated double bond; and a radical initiator.
US09550917B1 Aqueous polishing slurry
An aqueous polishing slurry having enhanced wettability comprises a detergent blend which includes an anionic alkyl sulfate-based detergent and an alkylbenzene sulfonate detergent together with particulate polishing abrasive.
US09550915B2 Thermosetting powder coating material
A thermosetting powder coating material contains powder particles having a core that has a sea-island structure composed of an island portion containing a surface adjusting agent and a sea portion containing a thermosetting resin and a thermosetting agent, and a resin coating portion that coats a surface of the core.
US09550907B2 Carbon nanostructure preblends and their applications
A method for preparing a “preblend” of nano-structured carbon, such as nanotubes, fullerenes, or graphene, and a particulate solid, such as carbon black, graphitic particles or glassy carbon involving wet-mixing and followed by optional drying to remove the liquid medium. The preblend may be in the form of a core-shell powder material with the nano-structured carbon as the shell on the particulate solid core. The preblend may provide particularly improved dispersion of single-wall nanotubes in ethylene-α-olefin elastomer compositions, resulting in improved reinforcement from the nanotubes. The improved elastomer compositions may show simultaneous improvement in both modulus and in elongation at break. The elastomer compositions may be formed into useful rubber articles.
US09550906B2 Vulcanization composition having reduced allergenic potential, and elastomeric articles formed therewith
The present invention generally relates to vulcanization compositions used to vulcanize elastomeric articles, where the vulcanization compositions have reduced allergenic potential as compared to elastomeric articles formed using vulcanization compositions having non-fugitive accelerators. The present invention also relates to elastomeric articles formed using the vulcanization compositions. The invention further relates to methods for making a reduced-allergenicity vulcanization composition, and to methods for using the vulcanization compositions to vulcanize elastomeric articles.
US09550894B2 Compositions and methods for making polyesters and articles therefrom
Polyester materials, methods for making polyesters materials, and uses of the polyester materials in binder materials and articles of manufacture are disclosed. In one embodiment, a process is provided for preparing a polyester solution, including mixing monomers of at least one organic acid containing at least three carboxylic groups and at least one multi-hydroxyl alcohol containing at least three hydroxyl groups to form a reaction mixture, heating the reaction mixture to a first temperature, polymerizing the monomers at the first temperature until reaching an acid value from about 200 to about 400 mg KOH/g, adjusting the temperature to a second temperature less than the first temperature, and forming the polyester solution. The polyester materials may be mixed with cross-linking materials to form binder materials. The binder material may then be used to form articles of manufacture.
US09550891B2 Rubber composition comprising a thiazoline derivative
A rubber composition for manufacturing tyres includes one or more diene elastomers, one or more reinforcing fillers, and a vulcanization system. The vulcanization system includes one or more thiazoline compounds chosen from compounds of formula I and compounds of formula II: Certain specific thiazoline derivatives are described.
US09550890B2 Rubber composition comprising a thermoplastic filler and compatibilizer
A rubber composition, which can be used for manufacturing tires, is based on one or more diene elastomers, on one or more reinforcing fillers, and on a crosslinking system. The rubber composition includes particles of one or more thermoplastic materials chosen from thermoplastic materials with melting or softening points varying from 80° C. to 300° C. The rubber composition also includes one or more compatibilizing agents chosen from block copolymers that includes at least one diene elastomer block and at least one thermoplastic block compatible with the one or more thermoplastic materials.
US09550888B2 Low viscosity filler composition of boron nitride particles of spherical geometry and process
A low viscosity filler boron nitride agglomerate particles having a generally spherical shape bound together by an organic binder and to a process for producing a BN powder composition of spherically shaped boron nitride agglomerated particles having a treated surface layer which controls its viscosity.
US09550887B2 Rubber mixtures
A rubber mixture, comprising (A) at least one rubber selected from the group of ethylene-propylene-diene copolymer (EPDM), ethylene-propylene copolymer (EPM), chloroprene rubber (CR), chloropolyethylene (CM), chloro-isobutene-isoprene (chlorobutyl) rubber (CIIR), chlorosulfonyl polyethylene (CSM), etylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EAM), alkyl acrylate copolymer (ACM), polyester polyurethan (AU), polyether polyurethane (EU), bromo-isobutene-isoprene (bromobutyl)rubber (BIIR), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (CFM), isobutene-isoprene rubber (butyl rubber, IIR), isobutene rubber (IM), polyisoprene (IR), thermoplastic polyester polyurethane (YAU), thermoplastic polyether polyurethane (YEU), silicone rubber with methyl groups on the polymer chain (MQ), hydrogenated acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (HNBR), acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) or carboxylated acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (XNBR), (B) at least one oxidic filler, and (C) at least one silicon containing azodicarbamide of the general formula I (R1)3-a(R2)aSi—RI—NH—C(O)—N═N—C(O)—NH—RI—Si(R1)3-a(R2)a  (I). The rubber mixture is produced by mixing at least one rubber, at least one oxidic filler, and at least one silicon containing azodicarbamide of the general formula I.It may be used for moldings.
US09550884B2 Plasticizer blends of ketal compounds
The present invention is directed to formulations including a polymer and a plasticizer composition. The plasticizer composition is a blend of an alkyl ketal ester plasticizer and a second plasticizer selected from a cycloaliphatic compound, an ortho phthalate compound, a terephthalate compound, a benzoate ester compound, and a bio-based compound. The plasticizer composition is at least 10% by weight of the total of the polymer and the plasticizer composition.
US09550883B2 Cyanoacrylate compositions
Cyanoacrylate-containing compositions that include, in addition to the cyanoacrylate component, an anhydride and a maleimide-, itaconimide-, or nadimide-containing compound, are provided. Cured products of the inventive cyanoacrylate compositions demonstrate improved moisture and/or heat resistance.
US09550880B2 Method for producing devulcanized rubber and an apparatus therefor
A method for producing devulcanized rubber and an apparatus (100) therefor. The method for producing devulcanized rubber comprises the steps of (1) providing vulcanized rubber particles with a pre-determined particle size and (2) devulcanizing the vulcanized rubber particles. The vulcanized rubber particles are devulcanized mechanically by impact forces and devulcanized chemically by a chemical composition. The impact forces break sulphur-sulphur and sulphur-carbon bonds of the vulcanized rubber particles causing surfaces of the rubber to become receptive in reacting with the chemical composition and the chemical composition renders the sulphur passive to prevent reattachment of the bonds, of which the chemical composition comprises at least one accelerator, at least one inorganic activator and at least one organic activator.
US09550877B2 Thermosetting resin composition, method for producing same, method for producing cured resin product, and method for causing self-polymerization of epoxy compound
The present invention is directed to provide at least one of a novel thermosetting resin composition using an epoxy compound, a method for producing the composition, a method for producing a novel cured resin using an epoxy compound, and a novel method for causing self-polymerization of an epoxy compound. The thermosetting resin composition includes an epoxy compound, a gallium compound, and a silanol source compound. The method for producing the thermosetting resin composition includes a step of mixing the epoxy compound with the gallium compound and the silanol source compound. The method for producing a cured resin includes a step of heating an epoxy compound in the presence of a gallium compound and silanol. The method for causing self-polymerization of an epoxy compound is characterized by using a gallium compound and silanol as catalysts.
US09550875B2 Nanospike hybrid carbon black
A nanospike hybrid carbon black product includes a plurality of carbon black aggregates. Each of the carbon black aggregates has a surface with a plurality of carbon nanospike formed thereon. The carbon nanospikes may each have a length between about 5 nm and 100 nm, and a width between about 5 nm and about 50 nm. A method for manufacturing the nanospike hybrid carbon black product includes the steps of injecting a primary carbon feedstock into a carbon black reactor, and combusting the carbon feedstock under a predetermined high temperature in the carbon black reactor to form carbon black aggregates. A catalyst is then deposited on surfaces of the carbon black aggregates. A secondary carbon feedstock is injected into the carbon black reactor, and reacted with the catalyst to grow carbon nanospikes on the surfaces of the carbon black aggregates.
US09550873B2 Doped chiral polymer metamaterials
Some implementations provide a composite material that includes a first material and a second material. In some implementations, the composite material is a metamaterial. The first material includes a chiral polymer (e.g., crystalline chiral helical polymer, poly-γ-benzyl-L-glutamate (PBLG), poly-L-lactic acid (PLA), polypeptide, and/or polyacetylene). The second material is within the chiral polymer. The first material and the second material are configured to provide an effective index of refraction value for the composite material of 1 or less. In some implementations, the effective index of refraction value for the composite material is negative. In some implementations, the effective index of refraction value for the composite material of 1 or less is at least in a wavelength of one of at least a visible spectrum, an infrared spectrum, a microwave spectrum, and/or an ultraviolet spectrum.
US09550871B2 Sustainable hybrid organic aerogels and methods and uses thereof
Highly porous, lightweight, and sustainable hybrid organic aerogels with ultra-low densities and excellent material properties and methods for preparing them are provided, including, e.g., PVA/CNF/GONS, RF/CNF/GONS, and PVA/CNF/MWCNT. The aerogels are modified to have a super-hydrophobic surface, thus leading to an extremely low swelling ratio and rate of moisture absorption.
US09550870B2 Metallized nanotube polymer composite (MNPC) and methods for making same
A novel method to develop highly conductive functional materials which can effectively shield various electromagnetic effects (EMEs) and harmful radiations. Metallized nanotube polymer composites (MNPC) are composed of a lightweight polymer matrix, superstrong nanotubes (NT), and functional nanoparticle inclusions. MNPC is prepared by supercritical fluid infusion of various metal precursors (Au, Pt, Fe, and Ni salts), incorporated simultaneously or sequentially, into a solid NT-polymer composite followed by thermal reduction. The infused metal precursor tends to diffuse toward the nanotube surface preferentially as well as the surfaces of the NT-polymer matrix, and is reduced to form nanometer-scale metal particles or metal coatings. The conductivity of the MNPC increases with the metallization, which provides better shielding capabilities against various EMEs and radiations by reflecting and absorbing EM waves more efficiently. Furthermore, the supercritical fluid infusion process aids to improve the toughness of the composite films significantly regardless of the existence of metal.
US09550869B2 Styrene butadiene block copolymers for film applications
We disclose a monovinylarene-conjugated diene block copolymer containing a plurality of monovinylarene-conjugated diene mixed blocks, wherein each mixed block contains conjugated diene units and monovinylarene units in a weight ratio of about 0.05 to about 0.33. We also disclose a composition containing (a) from about 50 parts by weight to about 95 parts by weight of the monovinylarene-conjugated diene block copolymer and (b) from about 5 parts by weight to about 50 parts by weight of polystyrene; wherein the monovinylarene-conjugated diene block copolymer and the polystyrene total 100 parts by weight. We further disclose a method of shrink-wrapping an object or a group of objects by wrapping the object or the group of objects with a film containing the composition, to yield a wrapped object or group of objects, and heating the wrapped object or group of objects to a temperature and for a duration sufficient to shrink the film in at least a first direction, to yield a shrink-wrapped object or group of objects.
US09550861B2 Method for producing polyaniline having self-doping function and antistatic agent containing polyaniline produced thereby
An aniline monomer having a phosphonic acid of general formula (4) is polymerized to produce a polyaniline. In the formula, R1 is NH2 or NH3X, and X is a halogen. R2 are each independently a phosphonic acid or a salt thereof. R3 are each independently selected from the group consisting of a halogen atom, alkyl group having 1-15 carbon atoms, aralkyl group having 7-34 carbon atoms, alkoxy group having 1-15 carbon atoms, alkylthio group having 1-15 carbon atoms, alkylamino group having 1-15 carbon atoms, carboxyl group, carboxylic acid alkyl ester group wherein the alkyl group has 1-15 carbon atoms, nitro group, and cyano group. m is an integer of 1-4, n is an integer of 0-3, and the sum of m and n is 1-4. However, none of R2 and R3 is present at the para position relative to R1.
US09550859B2 ICI thickener composition and uses
A composition comprising linked segments of: (a) a polyhydroxy segment derived from a compound independently selected an acyclic polyhydric alcohol having 4 to 6 carbon atoms and 4 to 6 reactive hydroxyl groups; a cyclic polyhydric alcohol having 4 to 6 carbon atoms and 4 to 6 reactive hydroxyl groups, a poly(hydroxyethyl) polyethyleneamine having 4 to 6 reactive hydroxyl groups and combinations thereof; (b) polyoxyalkylene segments wherein each hydroxyl group of the polyhydroxyl segment is linked to a polyoxyalkylene segment; (d) and aliphatic end segments or aromatic end segments, each end segment having 6 to 32 carbon atoms and a hydroxyl reactive group, wherein the mole ratio of the polyoxyalkylene segment to the polyhydroxy segment is at least 4:1 and the mole ratio of the aliphatic or aromatic end segment to the polyhydroxy segment is at least 0.25:1.
US09550855B2 Self-healing coatings
A metallic microcapsule containing a polymeric microcapsule having one or more polymeric precursors encapsulated therein; and a metallic shell enclosing a volume containing the polymeric microcapsule is disclosed. Also disclosed is a self-healing coating composition comprising (a) a film-forming binder; and (b) metallic microcapsules, the metallic microcapsules being the same or different and containing a polymeric microcapsule containing one or more polymeric precursors encapsulated therein; and a metallic shell enclosing a volume containing the polymeric microcapsule.
US09550854B2 Amine catalysts for polyurethane foams
The invention provides polyurethane and polyisocyanurate foams and methods for the preparation thereof. More particularly, the invention relates to open-celled, polyurethane and polyisocyanurate foams and methods for their preparation. The foams are characterized by a fine uniform cell structure and little or no foam collapse. The foams are produced with a polyol premix composition which comprises a combination of a hydrohaloolefin blowing agent, a polyol, a silicone surfactant, and a sterically hindered amine catalyst.
US09550852B2 Method for producing vinyl ester urethane resins based on dianhydrohexitol compounds and use thereof
Disclosed is a method for producing vinyl ester urethane resins, in which a dianhydrohexitol-compound is reacted with a diisocyanate in the presence of a monomeric radically co-polymerizable compound as a solvent and the product is reacted with a hydroxy-substituted (meth)acrylate. As a result, vinyl ester urethane resins based on dianhydrohexitol-compounds and also based on renewable raw materials can be obtained in a simple manner with high yields. The resins are suitable as binding agents in chemical fixing engineering.
US09550850B2 Rubber composition for tire tread, and pneumatic tire using same
A rubber composition for a tire tread comprising: a diene rubber; a silica having an N2SA of from 194 to 225 m2/g and a CTAB of from 180 to 210 m2/g; and a polysiloxane represented by the average composition formula of formula (1) and contained in an amount of from 1 to 20 mass % with respect to the quantity of silica. (A)a(B)b(C)c(D)d (R1)3SiO(4-2a-b-c-d-e)/2. Also provided is a pneumatic tire having tire treads formed using the rubber composition.
US09550846B2 Flexible to rigid nanoporous polyurethane-acrylate (PUAC) type materials for structural and thermal insulation applications
Novel urethane-acrylate (UAC) Star monomers and polyurethane-acrylate (PUAC) aerogel polymers derived therefrom are described herein, along with other novel, related monomers and polymers. Also described herein are processes for preparing the UAC Star monomers, the PUAC aerogel polymers, and the other related monomers and polymers. The PUAC and related polymers herein are useful in various applications including in structural and thermal insulation.
US09550844B2 Polypropylene with broad molecular weight distribution
Propylene homopolymer having a melt flow rate MFR2 (230° C.) at least 50 g/10 min, a Mw/Mn at least 12.0 and a xylene cold soluble content (XCS) of at least 2.8 wt.-%.
US09550839B2 Copolymers of conjugated triene monomers for improved filler interaction
The present invention achieves increased filler interaction by incorporating a small amount (a few units per chain of rubbery polymer) of a conjugated triene monomer, such as alloocimene, randomly throughout the polymer chain of a rubbery polymer or at the chain ends of the rubbery polymer. The incorporation of the conjugated triene monomer leads to the formation of a polymer containing highly reactive conjugated diene units. These conjugated diene units can chemically react with carbon black leading to superior reinforcement. Alternatively, these conjugated diene units can be used for functionalization of the polymer with silica interactive/reactive groups using Diels Alder reactions. This functionalization of the rubbery polymer can conveniently be conducted in a mixer, such as a Banbury mixer, a mill mixer, or the like.
US09550834B2 Method for preparing glycan-hydrolyzed antibody, and homogeneous glycosylated antibody
The present invention is aimed to provide a method for preparing an acceptor that is N-glycan hydrolyzed antibody or a Fc fragment thereof used for producing antibody having a homogeneous N-glycan structure; a method for determining a combination of endoglycosidases for use in said preparation; and a method for measuring N-glycans linked to an antibody. The present invention is directed to a method for producing a N-glycan hydrolyzed antibody or Fc fragment thereof, comprising reacting the antibody or the Fc fragment thereof with several endoglycosidases; and a method for determining quantitative information of an objective N-glycan with a desired structure linked to an antibody or a Fc thereof, comprising a protease treatment step and a glycopeptide measurement step, etc.
US09550829B2 Compositions and methods for diagnosis and treatment of hepatic cancers
The present invention relates to methods of treating liver cancer using a Notch signaling inhibitor. Compositions and methods for the treatment of liver cancers are also provided.
US09550828B2 Oncostatin M (OSM) antagonists for preventing cancer metastasis and IL-6 related disorders
A method of treating cancer or metastasis is provided involving administering at least one oncostatin M (OSM) antagonist to a subject, wherein the subject has been diagnosed with cancer. Administration of an OSM antagonist such as a small molecule pharmaceutical is provided as well as an anti-OSM antibody, an anti-OSM aptamer, and an OSM mRNA antagonist. The OSM antagonists were found to inhibit or prevent tumor cell detachment, proliferation and metastasis in several cancer types.
US09550826B2 Glycoengineered binding protein compositions
Provided are glycoengineered populations of Fc domain-containing binding proteins with a reduced anti-drug immune response (ADA). Also provided are methods of treating disease using such compositions, and methods and host for making such compositions.
US09550825B2 Humanized anti-HMGB1 antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof
The present invention provides a humanized anti-HMGB1 antibody which specifically binds to a sequence consisting of the C-terminal 8 amino acid residues (EEEDDDDE) of HMGB1 protein and is effective for treatment or prevention of various inflammatory diseases related to this protein, as well as an antigen-binding fragment thereof. The present invention also provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising such an antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof.
US09550823B2 Fucosylation-deficient cells
An isolated nucleic acid encoding an FX protein having a serine at position 79, a lysine at position 90, a leucine at position 136, an arginine at position 211, a serine at position 289, and a combination thereof is provided. Cells having a gene encoding a modified FX protein are provided, wherein the cells exhibit a reduced ability to fucosylate a glycoprotein at a first temperature, but exhibit the ability to fucosylate the glycoprotein at a second temperature. Methods and compositions for making glycoproteins with reduced fucosylation are provided.
US09550822B2 ACTH prophylactic treatment of renal disorders
Provided herein are methods for prophylactic treatment of renal disorders comprising administration of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), or fragment, analog, complex or aggregate thereof, or any combination thereof, to an individual suspected of having, predisposed to, or at risk of developing a renal disorder.
US09550814B2 Multiple variants of meningococcal protein NMB1870
Meningococcal protein NMB 1870 has been described in the prior art. The inventors have found that NMB 1870 is an effective antigen for eliciting anti-meningococcal antibody responses, and that it is expressed across all meningococcal serogroups. Forty-two different NMB 1870 sequences have been identified, and these group into three variants. Serum raised against a given variant is bactericidal within the same variant group, but is not active against strains which express one of the other two variants i.e. there is intra-variant cross-protection, but not inter-variant cross-protection. For maximum cross-strain efficacy, therefore, the invention uses mixture comprising different variants of NMB 1870.
US09550813B2 Disulfide stabilized foldon polypeptides
Intermolecular disulfide stabilized foldon polypeptides are provided.
US09550812B2 Synthetic capsid proteins and uses thereof
The present invention relates to synthetic proteins and the uses thereof. More particularly, the invention relates to synthetic Circovirus type capsid proteins with improved properties. These proteins, or the coding nucleic acids, are useful e.g., to generate antibodies, immunogen compositions, or vaccines. The invention further relates to methods for treating and/or preventing PCV2-associated diseases in mammals using said proteins, nucleic acids or compositions. The invention also relates to compositions and methods for detecting PCV2 in a sample, using the above proteins, nucleic acids, or antibodies.
US09550808B2 Peptide inhibitors of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor
The present invention refers to biochemistry, namely to new peptide compounds having the ability to selectively block the muscle-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. The claimed compounds have common formula (I): X1-X2-X3-Pro-X4-Pro-X5 (SEQ ID NO: 54), where X1 is chosen within H, Ac—, Palm-; X2 is chosen within Trp, Tyr; X3 is chosen within Trp, Tyr; X4 is chosen within Lys, Orn, Dbu, Dpr, Arg; X5 is chosen within —OH, —NH2, —OCH3, —OC2H5, —NH—C6H5. The invention can be applied in cosmetics for smoothing mimic and age-related Wrinkles.
US09550807B2 Inflammation inhibiting compounds
The present invention relates to the use of compounds selected from the group consisting of Lys-(D)Pro-Thr, N-acyl Lys-(D)Pro-Thr, C-amide Lys-(D)Pro-Thr, and C-esters of Lys-(D)Pro-Thr; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of said compound for the treatment of inflammatory disorders. The invention also relates to the use of αMSH for inducing tolerance.
US09550803B2 Method to improve antiviral activity of nucleotide analogue drugs
An amino acid conjugate of a cyclic or acyclic nucleoside phosphonate is provided. In some cases, the amino acid conjugate is a tyrosine alkyl amide phosphonate ester conjugate of a cyclic or acyclic nucleoside phosphonate, and is useful as an antiviral compound. In certain cases, the tyrosine conjugate includes a long chain alkyl group on the carboxamide group of the tyrosine residue. In a method of preparing an acyclic tyrosine conjugate, a tert-butyloxycarbonyl (Boc) protected tyrosine residue containing a long chain alkyl group is reacted with an acyclic nucleoside phosphonate mono-ethyl ester in the presence of benzotriazol-1-yl-oxytripyrrolidinophosphonium hexafluorophosphate to produce a Boc-protected nucleoside phosphonate di-ester, and the di-ester is deethylated and deprotected to produce the tyrosine conjugate. Methods of inhibiting viral replication and methods of treating a viral infection using the amino acid conjugate are also provided.
US09550802B2 Anti-inflammatory macrolides
The invention provides novel compounds and compositions and methods for making and using the compounds and compositions. In particular, the use of organic acid salts promotes solubility. These more soluble forms are suitable for use in various diseases, notably diseases of lung, muscle, metabolism and eyesight.
US09550801B2 Synthesis of four coordinated platinum complexes and their applications in light emitting devices thereof
Platinum complexes that exhibit photoabsorption and photoemission, methods of making such complexes, and applications thereof are disclosed, including optical devices comprising the complexes.
US09550800B2 Transition metal carbene complex and method of producing the same
Provided are a transition metal carbene complex represented by the following general formula (1) and a method of producing the same. (In general formula (1), M represents for example a molybdenum atom, R1 represents for example a C1-C20 alkyl group optionally having a substituent, L1 to L3 each represent a ligand selected for example from a halogen group, R2 and R3 each represent for example a hydrogen atom or a C1-C20 alkyl group optionally having a substituent. A represents for example a nitrogen atom, and R4 to R7 each represent for example a C1-C20 alkyl group optionally having a substituent.)
US09550798B2 Compounds that are S1P modulating agents and/or ATX modulating agents
Compounds of formula (I) can modulate the activity of one or more SIP receptors and/or the activity of autotaxin (ATX).
US09550795B2 Hexahydropyrano[3,4-d][1,3]thiazin-2-amine compounds
Compounds and pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the compounds are disclosed, wherein the compounds have the structure of Formula I, as defined in the specification. Corresponding pharmaceutical compositions, methods of treatment, methods of synthesis, and intermediates are also disclosed.
US09550788B2 Substituted aminoindanes and analogs thereof, and the pharmaceutical use thereof
The invention relates to substituted aminoindanes and analogs thereof of formula I and the pharmaceutical use thereof. Medicaments which comprise compounds of this type are suitable for the prevention or treatment of diverse disorders such as, for example, of respiratory disorders, cystic fibrosis disorders, acute or chronic renal disorders or bowel disorders.
US09550787B2 Benzodiazepine derivatives
The invention relates to novel benzodiazepine derivatives with antiproliferative activity and more specifically to novel benzodiazepines of formula (I) and (II), in which the diazepine ring (B) is fused with a heterocyclic ring (CD), wherein the heterocyclic ring is bicyclic or a compound of formula (III), in which the diazepine ring (B) is fused with a heterocyclic ring (C), wherein the heterocyclic ring is monocyclic. The invention provides cytotoxic dimers of these compounds. The invention also provides conjugates of the monomers and the dimers. The invention further provides compositions and methods useful for inhibiting abnormal cell growth or treating a proliferative disorder in a mammal using the compounds or conjugates of the invention. The invention further relates to methods of using the compounds or conjugates for in vitro, in situ, and in vivo diagnosis or treatment of mammalian cells, or associated pathological conditions.
US09550786B2 4-fluoropiperidine orexin receptor antagonists
The present invention is directed to 4-fluoropiperidine compounds which are antagonists of orexin receptors, and which are useful in the treatment or prevention of neurological and psychiatric disorders and diseases in which orexin receptors are involved. The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds and the use of these compounds and compositions in the prevention or treatment of such diseases in which orexin receptors are involved.
US09550779B2 Derivatives and methods of treating hepatitis B infections
Provided herein are compounds useful for the treatment of HBV infection in a subject in need thereof, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods of inhibiting, suppressing, or preventing HBV infection in the subject.
US09550776B2 Pyridinylpyrazoloquinoline compounds
A compound represented by formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: wherein R1 represents a group represented by the formula: a group represented by the formula: or a group represented by the formula: and R2 represents a 3-methyltetrahydro-2H-pyran-4-yl group or 4-methoxycyclohexyl group.
US09550771B2 Keto-imidazopyridine derivatives as RORc modulators
Compounds of the formula I or II: or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein R1 is a group of formula (a), (b), (c); (d) or (e): and m, n, X, Y, R1, R2, R3, R4, Rb and Rc are as defined herein. Also disclosed are methods of making the compounds and using the compounds for treatment of inflammatory diseases such as arthritis.
US09550769B2 Small molecules targeting repeat r(CGG) sequences
The invention provides a series of bioactive small molecules that target expanded r(CGG) repeats, termed r(CGG)exp, that causes Fragile X-associated Tremor Ataxia Syndrome (FXTAS). The compound was identified by using information on the chemotypes and RNA motifs that interact. Specifically, 9-hydroxy-5,11-dimethyl-2-(2-(piperidin-1-yl)ethyl)-6H-pyrido[4,3-b]carbazol-2-ium, binds the 5′CGG/3′GGC motifs in r(CGG)exp and disrupts a toxic r(CGG)exp-protein complex. Specifically, dimeric compounds incorporating two 9-hydroxyellipticine analog structures can even more potently bind the 5′CGG/3′GGC motifs in r(CGG)exp and disrupts a toxic r(CGG)exp-protein complex. Structure-activity relationships (SAR) studies determined that the alkylated pyridyl and phenolic side chains are important chemotypes that drive molecular recognition of r(CGG) repeats, such as r(CGG)exp. Importantly, the compound is efficacious in FXTAS model cellular systems as evidenced by its ability to improve FXTAS-associated pre-mRNA splicing defects and to reduce the size and number of r(CGG)exp-protein aggregates.
US09550767B2 Crystalline form of (R)-7-chloro-N-(quinuclidin-3-yl)benzo[b]thiophene-2-carboxamide hydrochloride monohydrate
Crystalline Forms I and II of (R)-7-chloro-N-(quinuclidin-3-yl)benzo[b]thiophene-2-carboxamide hydrochloride monohydrate and compositions, methods of manufacture and therapeutic uses thereof are described.
US09550764B2 Fused heterocyclic compounds and their use
The present invention provides compounds of formula (I) and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, hydrates and solvates thereof for use in the treatment of cancer:
US09550762B2 Cyclopropyl fused thiazin-2-amine compounds as beta-secretase inhibitors and methods of use
The present invention provides a new class of compounds useful for the modulation of beta-secretase enzyme (BACE) activity. The compounds have a general Formula I: wherein variables A4, A5, A6, A8, and each of Ra, Rb, R1, R2, R3 and R7 of Formula I, independently, are defined herein. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds, and uses of the compounds and compositions for treatment of disorders and/or conditions related to A-beta plaque formation and deposition, resulting from the biological activity of BACE. Such BACE mediated disorders include, for example, Alzheimer's Disease, cognitive deficits, cognitive impairments, schizophrenia and other central nervous system conditions. The invention further provides compounds of Formulas II and III, and sub-formula embodiments thereof, intermediates and methods for preparing compounds of the invention.
US09550759B2 Nitrocatechol derivatives as COMT inhibitors
New compounds of formula I are described. The compounds have potentially valuable pharmaceutical properties in the treatment of some central and peripheral nervous system disorders.
US09550756B2 Pyridazinone compounds as phosphodiesterase inhibitors and methods of treating disorders
The present invention provides a compound which has the effect of PDE inhibition, and which is useful as a medicament for preventing or treating schizophrenia or so on.A compound of formula (I0): wherein R1 represents a substituent, R2 represents a hydrogen atom, or a substituent, R3 represents a hydrogen atom, or a substituent, Ring A represents an aromatic ring which can be substituted, and Ring B represents a 5-membered heteroaromatic ring which can be substituted, or a salt thereof.
US09550754B2 4,5-dihydropyrazole derivatives, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, and their use in therapy
The present invention relates to 4,5-dihydropyrazole derivatives of the formula (I) and physiologically tolerated salts thereof which are GlyT1 inhibitors. The invention further relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such 4,5-dihydropyrazole derivatives, and the use of such 4,5-dihydropyrazole derivatives for therapeutic purposes.
US09550752B2 Triazolinthione derivatives
The present invention relates to novel triazolinthione derivatives, 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 and as plant growth regulators.
US09550750B2 Indoline compounds as aldosterone synthase inhibitors
This invention relates to indo line compounds of the structural formula I, or their pharmaceutically acceptable salts, wherein the variables are defined herein. The inventive compounds selectively inhibit aldosterone synthase. This invention also provides for pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds of Formula I or their salts as well as potentially to methods for the treatment amelioration or prevention of conditions that could be treated by inhibiting aldosterone synthase.
US09550746B2 Benzofuran-2-sulfonamides derivatives as chemokine receptor modulators
The present invention relates to novel benzofuran-2-sulfonamide derivatives, processes for preparing them, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use as pharmaceuticals as modulators of chemokine receptors.
US09550740B2 Antimicrobial compounds
Provided are compounds which are useful for controlling microorganisms in aqueous or water-containing systems or in systems which are exposed to moisture, including at elevated temperature. The antimicrobial compounds are of the formula I: wherein n, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, and X are as defined herein.
US09550738B2 Bicyclic compounds as kinases inhibitors
The present invention is directed to novel bicyclic compounds, their derivatives, pharmaceutically acceptable salts, solvates and hydrates thereof. The compounds and compositions of the present invention have protein kinases inhibitory activities and are useful for the treatment of protein kinases mediated diseases and conditions. Novel bicyclic compounds disclosed herein include quinazolines shown in Formula I (X═N).
US09550734B2 Bivalent linkers and conjugates thereof
Bivalent linkers to be included in or for preparing vitamin, drug, diagnostic agent, and/or imaging agent conjugates are described.
US09550731B2 Method for phase transfer synthesis of organic peroxides
Processes and systems for synthesizing organic peroxides are provided. One or more of the reactions described herein may be performed in a continuous reactor, optionally including at least one microscale reaction channel. Additionally, at least one phase transfer catalyst may be used to facilitate reaction of components present in a multiphase reaction mixture.
US09550727B2 Method for the crystallization of 2-(4-N,N-diethyl amino-2-hydroxy-benzoyl)-benzoic acid-n-hexyl ester
The present invention relates to a method for the crystallization of n-hexyl 2-(4-N,N-diethylamino-2-hydroxybenzoyl)benzoate, to a method for the production of pourable or flowable particles of crystalline n-hexyl 2-(4-N,N-diethylamino-2-hydroxybenzoyl)-benzoate and to specific pourable or flowable particles of crystalline n-hexyl 2-(4-N,N-diethylamino-2-hydroxybenzoyl)benzoate.
US09550726B2 Methods for decolorizing compositions comprising betaines
The invention relates to a process for decolorizing a composition comprising a betaine comprising the steps of (a) providing a solution of the composition in an organic solvent, (b) contacting the solution with a decolorant, wherein the decolorant is a polar solid decolorant. The invention also relates to uses of ion exchange materials and decolorized solutions and compositions obtainable by the inventive process.
US09550724B2 Diphenylamine compounds and production method thereof
An inexpensive and convenient production method of diphenylamine compounds is provided, that can solve problems in the conventional technology such as decrease in reactivity, restriction of substituents, high temperature, high pressure, by-products or the like. Further, diphenylamine compounds useful as intermediates of medicine and agricultural chemicals are provided. Diphenylamine compounds are produced, represented by general formula (3): which is characterized by reacting aniline compounds represented by general formula (2): under the presence of base and ethers solvent, with 2,6-dichloronitrobenzene compound represented by general formula (1): and a diphenylamine compound represented by general formula (3).
US09550722B2 Compositions and methods of use of phorbal esters for the treatment of stroke
Methods and compositions containing a phorbol ester or a derivative of a phorbol ester are provided for the treatment and prevention of stroke and the sequelae of stroke. Additional compositions and methods are provided which employ a phorbol ester or derivative compound in combination with at least one additional agent to yield more effective treatment tools to treat or prevent stroke and the long term effects of stroke in mammalian subjects.
US09550718B2 Lipid comprising polyunsaturated fatty acids
The present invention relates to extracted plant lipid, comprising fatty acids in an esterified form.
US09550712B2 Acid/salt separation
The invention provides a method for preparing a carboxylic acid, which method includes the steps of providing magnesium carboxylate, wherein the carboxylic acid corresponding with the carboxylate has a solubility in water at 20° C. of 80 g/100 g water or less; acidifying the magnesium carboxylate with HCl, thereby obtaining a solution comprising carboxylic acid and magnesium chloride (MgCl2); optionally a concentration step, wherein the solution comprising carboxylic acid and MgCl2 is concentrated; precipitating the carboxylic acid from the solution comprising the carboxylic acid and MgCl2, thereby obtaining a carboxylic acid precipitate and a MgCl2 solution.
US09550710B2 Process for depolymerization of lignin
The present invention discloses a process for depolymerization of lignin to yield substituted phenolic monomers using Brönsted ionic liquid as catalyst under mild reaction conditions to obtain an overall yield of monomers up to 97%.
US09550707B2 Process for production of hydrocarbon chemicals from crude oil
An integrated process comprising to convert crude oil, comprising: converting crude oil (10) in a feed preparation facility (800) by separating the crude oil to a gas fraction (101), liquid fraction (102), and first residuum fraction in an atmospheric distillation unit (100); separating the 1st residuum to a vacuum gas oil fraction (202) and a second residuum (201) in a vacuum distillation unit (200); converting the vacuum gas oil fraction to a CU gas fraction (301,401), a CU liquid fraction (302), and an CU higher boiling fraction (303,402) in a cracking unit (300,400); and processing the second residuum fraction to DCU gas oil/lighter fraction (501) in a coking unit (500); and steam cracking at least one of the gas fraction (101), liquid fraction (102), CU gas fraction (301,401), and DCU gas oil/lighter fraction (501) to the hydrocarbon products (920).
US09550706B2 Method for oligomerising alkenes using the ITQ-39 zeolite
The invention relates to a heterogeneous method for oligomerising alkenes in order to produce hydricarbons within a diesel fraction in the present of a catalyst based on the ITQ-39 zeolite. The oligomerisation method described in the present invention includes at least: a. feeding a catalyst containing at least the ITQ-39 zeolitic material into the reactor; b. supplying the reactor with a stream that includes at least one olefinic compound; and c. enabling the catalyst containing at least the ITQ-39 material and the organic compound to remain in contact during the time required for the reaction to take place.
US09550705B2 Olefin oligomerization process
The present invention provides an olefin oligomerization process comprising the steps of: i) reducing the level of acetonitrile in an olefin feed by contacting the feed with a non-zeolitic metal oxide; and ii) contacting the olefin feed with reduced level of acetonitrile with an olefin oligomerization catalyst under conditions suitable to oligomerize the olefin.
US09550703B2 Granulation method and system
A granulation method may include feeding a graded powder into a granulator. The powder may have a particle size distribution (PSD) of at least 98% −115 mesh and at most 50% −200 mesh. The powder may have a PSD of at least 98% less than or equal to 4.2% of a median product particle size and at most 50% less than or equal to 2.5% of the median product particle size. The powder may have a PSD of between 40% and 80% between 3% and 6% of the median product particle size, between 5% and 30% between 2% and 4% of the median product particle size, and between 10% and 40% between 1% and 3% of the median product particle size. A liquid binder may be fed into the granulator. Wet granules may be discharged from the granulator and may have a moisture content of between 7% and 12%.
US09550702B2 Tubular digester
Contiguous flow anaerobic digester for mechanization of organic matter and production of fertilizer powering the conditions and performance of the anaerobic digestion process, through homogenization of the sludge and process temperature, wherein the digester is tubular shaped and comprises a biogas exhaust valve at the top of the digester. One end of the digester has a sludge outlet connection, a water- and gas-tight zipper that is resistant to the corrosive elements of digestion, and an outlet. The opposite end of the digester has a mud inlet, and a water- and gas-tight zipper that is resistant to the corrosive elements of digestion, wherein said digester further comprises at its base a gas irrigation system for biogas recirculation composed of a polymeric material resilient to the corrosive elements of anaerobic digestion.
US09550698B2 Optical glass and use thereof
An aspect of the present invention relates to optical glass, which is oxide glass including cation components in the form of 10 to 40 cation % of P5+, equal to or more than 50 cation % of a combined quantity of Ti4+, Nb5+, W6+, Bi3+, and Te4+, with a cation ratio of a combined content of Ti4+ and Nb5+ to a combined content of W6+ and Bi3+ being equal to or less than 1.3, a combined quantity of B3+, Li+, Na+, K+, Rb+, Cs+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, Ba2+, and Zn2+ which amounts to equal to or less than ⅓ of a combined content of Ti4+, Nb5+, W6+, Bi3+, and Te4+, and more than 0 % of Li+, Na+, K+, Rb+, and Cs+ combined, and which has a refractive index of equal to or higher than 2.02.
US09550697B2 Briquette used for the production of rock wool and method for the production of said briquette
The present invention relates to a briquette used for the production of rock wool and method for the production of said briquette, wherein the briquette contains a raw material comprising rock wool waste having a fiber morphology; contains a non-fibrous inorganic binder, such as sodium silicate, to bind the raw material; and an activating agent accelerating the curing process of the briquetted raw material.
US09550692B2 Method of manufacturing a feeder channel for molten glass
Feeder channel for molten glass including an infrastructure including a block self-cast and sintered in situ. Furthermore, a method for manufacturing a block of such an infrastructure and a supply channel for a glassmaking furnace are claimed.
US09550691B2 Briquette used for the production of rock wool and method for the production of said briquette
The present invention relates to a briquette used for the production of rock wool and method for the production of said briquette, wherein the briquette contains a raw material comprising rock wool waste having a fiber morphology; contains a non-fibrous inorganic binder, such as sodium silicate, to bind the raw material; and an activating agent accelerating the curing process of the briquetted raw material.
US09550690B2 Method and apparatus for removing organic substances, nitrogen and phosphorus from highly concentrated organic waste water
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for removing organic substances, nitrogen, and phosphorus from highly concentrated waste water, which includes the steps of: stirring organic waste water; mixing the waste water with an added neutralizer; supplying a flocculant to the mixture to flocculate sludge; and separating sludge and water by pneumatic dehydration, thereby continuously removing organic substances, nitrogen, and phosphorus from waste water.
US09550689B2 Fluid filtration apparatus
A fluid filtration apparatus, which includes a plurality of optical fibers each having a length, wherein one or more of the plurality of optical fibers exhibits frustrated total internal reflection, thereby emitting light along the length of one or more of the optical fibers, in combination with a photocatalyst disposed on the plurality of optical fibers and a light source interconnected to the plurality of optical fibers.
US09550686B2 Grease interceptor for a waste water stream from an exhaust fan assembly
To facilitate the collection of grease and water from commercial kitchen exhaust fans the invention provides a collection tank in communication with the drainage spout of the fan assembly. The tank has a lid for sealing the tank, a first reservoir for collecting the stream of grease and water and a second reservoir below the first reservoir for receiving water separated from the grease and water stream in the first reservoir. The first and second reservoirs are separated by a sloping plate. The tank also includes a siphoning apparatus which when connected to a source of high pressure fluid such as water or steam can purge the second reservoir of water and recycle the water back to a fan cleansing operation or to a disposal facility.
US09550685B2 Desalination apparatus and process
Disclosed herein are an apparatus and a process that can be used to remove sulfur dioxide other environmentally hazardous contaminants from a gaseous waste stream while at the same time providing a source of purified water. The process can be used for the desalination of sea or brackish water, or for the concentration of contaminated waste water. The method comprises feeding a gaseous waste stream that comprises sulfur dioxide into a diffusion tower. Feed water is sprayed onto a packing material in the diffusion tower to form a thin film of feed water on a surface of the packing material. Sulfur dioxide diffuses into the thin film of feed water to form water that contains sulfur dioxide. The gaseous waste stream is simultaneously humidified. The humidified gaseous waste stream is then subjected to direct contact condensation to obtain purified water.
US09550684B2 Process for making molecular sieves
The invention relates to a process for preparing molecular sieves, such as ZSM-57, using one or more structure directing agents selected from the group consisting of N1,N1,N5,N5-tetraethyl-N1,N5-dimethylpentane-1,5-diaminium, 1-ethyl-1-(5-(1-methylpiperidin-1-ium-1-yl)pentyl)piperidin-1-ium, 1,1′-(hexane-1,6-diyl)bis(1-ethylpiperidin-1-ium), and 1,1-diethylpyrrolidin-1-ium.
US09550683B2 Colloidal silica, and method for production thereof
The present invention provides dense silica particles with reduced metal impurities. Specifically, the present invention provides a colloidal silica produced by using an alkyl silicate as a starting material, wherein, with respect to a sample prepared by adding, as an internal standard, 1 wt. % of polydimethylsilane to a dried product of the colloidal silica, a peak area value calculated using a formula of a colloidal silica peak area/a polydimethylsilane peak area is 15 or less, the peak areas being determined by an obtained solid-state 29Si-CP/MAS-NMR spectrum. The present invention further provides a method for producing the colloidal silica.
US09550678B2 Polymeric precursors for producing graphene nanoribbons and methods for preparing them
An oligophenylene monomer of general formula (I) wherein R1 and R2 are independently of each other H, halogene, —OH, —NH2, —CN, —NO2 or a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated C1-C40 hydrocarbon residue, which can be substituted 1-to 5-fold with halogene (F, Cl, Br, I), —OH, —NH2, —CN and/or —NO2, and wherein one or more CH2-groups can be replaced by —O— or —S—, or an optionally substituted aryl, alkylaryl or alkoxyaryl residue; and m represents 0, 1 or 2.
US09550674B2 Plant for manufacturing hydrogen sulfide gas and method for exhausting hydrogen sulfide gas
An object of the present invention is to reduce costs while maintaining safety in exhausting hydrogen sulfide gas. In exhaust facilities of a plant for manufacturing hydrogen sulfide gas, the concentrations of hydrogen sulfide gas leaking from a reaction facility, a cooling facility, and a sulfur removal facility, respectively, are measured by a measuring apparatus, and when a detected concentration is less than a predetermined concentration, a valve is controlled to exhaust hydrogen sulfide gas from a first exhaust pipe into the air, on the contrary, when a detected concentration is not less than a predetermined concentration, the valve is controlled to exhaust hydrogen sulfide gas from a second exhaust pipe to a gas treatment facility.
US09550669B2 Vertical pressure sensitive structure
Embodiments related to pressure sensitive structures are described and depicted.
US09550667B1 Semiconductor structure and manufacturing method thereof
A semiconductor structure includes a first substrate, a second substrate, a first sensing structure over the first substrate, and between the first substrate and the second substrate, a via extending through the second substrate, and a second sensing structure over the second substrate, and including an interconnect structure electrically connected with the via, and a sensing material at least partially covering the interconnect structure.
US09550666B2 MEMS device with release aperture
The present disclosure provides a micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) device. In an embodiment, a device includes a substrate; a MEMS structure disposed above a sacrificial layer opening above the substrate; a release aperture disposed at substantially a same level above the sacrificial layer opening as the MEMS structure; a first cap over the MEMS structure and the sacrificial layer opening, a leg of the first cap disposed between the MEMS structure and the release aperture; and a second cap plugging the release aperture.
US09550664B2 Reducing MEMS stiction by increasing surface roughness
A mechanism for reducing stiction in a MEMS device by decreasing surface area between two surfaces, such as a travel stop and travel stop region, that can come into close contact is provided. Reduction in contact surface area is achieved by increasing surface roughness of the travel stop region. This is achieved by depositing a polysilicon layer over a dielectric layer using gaseous hydrochloric acid as one of the reactants. A subsequent etch back is performed to further increase the roughness. The deposition of polysilicon and subsequent etch back may be repeated one or more times in order to obtain the desired roughness. A final polysilicon layer may then be deposited to achieve a desired thickness. This final polysilicon layer is patterned to form the travel stop regions. The rougher surface decreases the surface area available for contact and, in turn, decreases the area through which stiction can be imparted.
US09550663B2 MEMS device
A MEMS device includes a movable section, a frame, a beam, and an electrode substrate. The frame surrounds a surrounding of the movable section. The beam extends from at least a part of the frame, and is connected to the movable section. The electrode substrate includes a fixed electrode, an extended electrode, and a substrate section. The fixed electrode is formed on the electrode substrate in at least a part of a region facing a swing section. The extended electrode is connected to the fixed electrode, and is formed on the electrode substrate in at least a part of a region facing the shaft.
US09550662B1 Method and apparatus for vending a containerized liquid product utilizing an automatic self-service refill system
A method and apparatus for vending a containerized fluid includes placing a machine-readable indicia on the container identifying the base fluid. The container may be filled and then distributed or distributed prior to filling through various distribution channels to consumers. When a consumer wishes to fill or re-fill the container, the consumer places the container adjacent a reader that interprets the indicia to identify the base fluid to be dispensed. A dispenser then fills the container through a movable fill probe that elevates as the liquid within the container rises. In some embodiments, and prior to filling, the dispenser apparatus may also query the consumer about options are provided at the time of dispensing for further dispensing various optional ingredients, including scents, flavors, colors, nutritional supplements or other additives together with the base product. In further embodiments, the dispenser may also print discount tickets or coupons that may discount the purchase of the containerized fluid or other promotional merchandise. The machine-readable indicia may include affiliate codes that permit crediting or compensating various affiliates in relation to the container filling.
US09550659B2 Battery powered work machine, and battery powered forklift
A battery-powered work machine driven with a battery, includes: a body including a bottom and a pair of sides erecting from the bottom and including a first side and a second side; a control device of the work machine mounted on the bottom; a first fuse for a driving control device and a second fuse for a cargo-handling device, provided closer to the first side than the second side; a charging device for the battery, the charging device being mounted on the bottom; and a third fuse for the charging device, provided closer to the second side than the first side.
US09550655B2 Pallet return in moving walkways
A moving walkway with a pallet return mechanism is disclosed. The moving walkway generally includes a pallet track having a passenger portion connected to a return portion through an end portion, a plurality of pallets coupled to the pallet track with each pallet extending between front and back ends, and a pallet return apparatus adapted to sequentially lower the front and back ends of the pallet to transition each pallet from the passenger portion to the return portion of the pallet track. Methods for returning the pallet on the pallet track are also disclosed.
US09550652B2 Rapid deployment frac water transfer system
A method of and apparatus for the rapid deployment of a fracturing water transferring system, along with the rapid picking up and storage of such system after use. In different embodiments the method in includes the use of a tensioning system to retrieve one or more segments of lay flat hose.
US09550650B2 Traverse device and traverse method
A traverse device and a traverse method for winding wire materials are provided. A guide roller is placed near the outer circumference of a reel body and inclined, around the rotation center (center of curvature of an R guide) located near the outer edge of the guide roller on the side near the reel body as the fulcrum, in a direction in which the roller outer edge recedes from one of reel flanges ahead in the traverse direction on the side apart from the reel body. The inclining direction is switched at the midpoint position between the reel flanges, and with the guide roller being inclined at all times, a reel is rotated while being moved in the axis direction to wind a wire material on the reel.
US09550649B2 Apparatus for propelling a coil clad hose
An apparatus for propelling a plurality of coil clad hoses simultaneously includes a plurality of modules. Each module includes a primary driven bull gear. A follower bull gear is rotatably fastened to a follower axle extending parallel to the drive axle and the follower bull gear meshes with the primary bull gear. A plurality of secondary bull gear/sprocket modules are fastened to each of the axles, each of the modules having a secondary bull gear having teeth extending to a first outer diameter and a sprocket gear having teeth extending a distance less than the first outer diameter. The secondary bull gear teeth of modules on the drive axle mesh with corresponding secondary bull gear teeth of modules on the follower axle to define between adjacent modules an opening width for receiving and passing therebetween a coil clad portion of a high pressure hose.
US09550648B2 Booklet making method and apparatus
A booklet making method includes: cutting a web of paper on one side and on another side into first and second continuous sheets, alternately bonding the first and second continuous sheets widthwise with a setting paste and a throwaway paste to form a double set continuous sheet of paper, and cutting the double set continuous sheet of paper into split double sheets of a selected longitudinal length. A plurality of split double sheets is integrally bound with an integrating paste to form a booklet-like product. Portions of the booklet-like product which are pasted and bonded with the throwaway paste are cut off to provide a plurality of booklets. Thus, by the booklet making method, booklets having an odd number of leaves or pages are formed without waste of paper and with reduced paper jams.
US09550643B2 Sheet conveying apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet conveying apparatus according to the present invention includes: a pair of conveying rollers 13 which nips and conveys a sheet; a reference member 31 which determines the position of a side edge of the sheet along the sheet conveyance direction; a plurality of pairs of skew feeding correcting rollers 32 which nip and convey the sheet conveyed by the pair of conveying rollers 13 and draw the side edge of the sheet to the reference member 31; and a switching unit which switches the pair of conveying rollers 13 and the pairs of skew feeding correcting rollers 32 between a state of nipping the sheet and a state of nip releasing the sheet, the switching unit releasing the nip of the sheet by the pair of conveying rollers 13 after the conveyed sheet is nipped by at least two of the pairs of skew feeding correcting rollers 32.
US09550642B1 Sheet feeding device and imaging forming apparatus provided with same
A sheet feeding device includes a sheet feeding unit and a feed unit. The sheet feeding unit includes a housing having a pair of wall portions. The feed unit includes a pickup roller and a sheet feed roller. The feed unit includes a holder, a shaft and a pair of bearing portions. The holder has a pair of side walls each having a bearing hole portion. The shaft extends between the pair of side walls. The pair of bearing portions are mounted in the bearing hole portions and rotatably supports the shaft. The housing includes a pair of shaft supporting portions provided on the pair of wall portions and capable of supporting the bearing portions. The feed unit is attached to the housing and the holder swings with the outer peripheral parts of the bearing portions, whereby the pickup roller is vertically movable.
US09550641B2 Paper feeding device
A braking content determiner determines a content of braking control on a rotating operation such that rotation of a paper feeding motor stops within a time required for stopping from a time point of detection of a sheet by a sheet sensor to a time point of passing of a trailing edge of the sheet through a paper feeding roller, the time required for stopping being determined based on a length of the sheet in a sheet conveying direction, a predetermined speed of the paper feeding roller, and a distance between the paper feeding roller and the sheet sensor in a sheet conveying route. A controller performs the braking control on the rotating operation of the paper feeding motor, according to the content determined by the braking content determiner, upon or prior to the detection by the sheet sensor of the sheet sent out by the paper feeding roller.
US09550638B1 Devices and methods for collecting and hauling materials
The present application discloses devices for collecting and hauling materials, and methods of using the devices. The devices generally include a post and a sheet. The post includes a number of attachment points and the sheet includes a number of connectors. The connectors are selectively attachable to the attachment points on the post to position the sheet between an open orientation for loading the materials onto the sheet, and a closed orientation for transporting the device with the materials.
US09550634B2 Part feeder and part supply method
The present invention relates to a part feeder supplying a plurality of parts, the part feeder including part supply members having a part loading path enabling the plurality of parts to be loaded in a state where postures of the plurality of parts are lined up. A part passage is provided to a first end of the part loading path, the part passage enabling the plurality of parts to pass while maintaining a fixed posture for each, and in which a gas passage is provided to a second end of the part loading path, the gas passage not enabling the plurality of parts to pass and enabling in- and outflow of a gas. The present invention, accordingly, enables reduction of equipment costs of a part feeder. The present invention is particularly advantageous for a device supplying rubber stoppers.
US09550633B2 Levitation air plate
To provide a levitation air plate that can be easily manufactured and can float a substance being conveyed such as a glass while maintaining its high rigidity and controlling a floating amount in high accuracy. A levitation air plate 1 provided with: a top plate 2 in which a plurality of air ejection holes 2c and suction holes 2d penetrating from an upper surface 2a to a lower surface 2b are arranged in alternating fashion as viewed from the upper surface, the top plate 2 having a counter-bored portion 2e on the lower surface side of each of the plurality of air ejection holes; an orifice sheet 3 having a plurality of orifices 3c penetrating from an upper surface 3a to a lower surface 3b in positions corresponding to the counter-bored portions of the top plate, and having communicating holes 3d communicated one-to-one with the suction holes of the top plate and penetrating from the upper surface to the lower surface; and bottom side plates 4, 5 having an air supply channel 4c and an air supply hole 5c for supplying air to all of the orifices drilled in the orifice sheet, and an air suction channel 4d and a suction hole 5d for suctioning air from all of the communicating holes communicated with the suction holes.
US09550631B2 Feeding device having a double-disk feed having a separated drive and method for operating such a feeding device
A feeding device for an in-line screw machine with a shaft rotating in a feed container. A conveying screw is arranged in the direction toward the longitudinal axis of the rotating shaft. At least one disk wheel is allocated to each longitudinal side in the feed container. A separate drive is allocated to each disk wheel for purposes of rotational movement.
US09550629B2 Apparatus for dispensing material
An apparatus for dispensing material includes an outlet opening with a perforated cover. A rotatable applicator dispenses material through the perforated cover and may include brushes that sweep across and penetrate the openings of the perforated cover. The housing may also contain a feed roller for regulating the flow of the material and one or more commutators for fractionating the material.
US09550624B2 Autonomous mobile picking
An order-picking method includes autonomously routing a plurality of mobile robotic units in an order fulfillment facility and picking articles to or putting articles from the robotic units in the order fulfillment facility. A material-handling robotic unit that is adapted for use in an order fulfillment facility includes an autonomous mobile vehicle base and a plurality of article receptacles positioned on the base. A visual indicator associated with the receptacle facilitates picking articles to or putting articles from the robotic unit.
US09550621B2 Pressure control fill valve
A pressure control fill valve for a pressurized dispenser container comprises a first and second end and a base, a first and second circumferential lip. The lips enable placement of the valve in an opening of a pressurized dispenser container in first a position, where a propellant gas can be filled into the container and a second position for complete closing of the container. According to the invention, the second lip of the valve is asymmetric about its circumference. This prevents the valve from being pushed out of the opening of the container in case of high over-pressure or enlargement of the opening due to a temperature increase. The invention eliminates the hazard of a loss of valve and propellant gas in case of high temperature.
US09550620B2 Devices and dispensers for sterile coverings for tablet computers and mobile phones
A sterile cover for a touchscreen device is provided that includes a transparent, electrically conductive screen area adapted to cover a screen of the touchscreen device and including a first sterile material. The sterile cover also includes a perimeter area surrounding the screen region and having an opening adapted to receive the touchscreen device and including a second sterile material. A removable sterile cover for substantially encapsulating a touchscreen device is provided that includes an opening for inserting the touchscreen device into the cover and a closure for closing the opening. A device for dispensing sterile covers for touchscreen devices is provided that includes a chamber adapted to enclose a plurality of sterile covers and an actuator adapted to move a next sterile cover of into a ready position. The device also includes a loading area adapted to hold a touchscreen device.
US09550619B2 Slot adjustment and jam clearance for pharmaceutical dispenser
Devices dispense medicine and dietary supplements in solid dosage form. The dimensions of the selection slots for the solid dosage forms in a device can be customized in depth by adding or subtracting spacers, and in width by adding or subtracting thickness inserts, or otherwise by employing components of suitable dimensions. Also, structures and methods for resolving jams of solid dosage forms are disclosed.
US09550617B2 Zipper and zipper-equipped bag
A tearing guide strip 23 is integrated with a base part 21a or 21b of at least one of a male member 2a and a female member 2b constituting a zipper 2 in a peelable manner to improve the tearing unsealing ability of a zipper-equipped bag provided with an interlocking type zipper enabling resealing and unsealing after the bag is unsealed.
US09550614B2 Light emitting device including semiconductor nanocrystals
A light emitting device includes a semiconductor nanocrystal and a charge transporting layer that includes an inorganic material. The charge transporting layer can be a hole or electron transporting layer. The inorganic material can be an inorganic semiconductor.
US09550610B2 Draw tape bag
The bag may include a draw tape that may be used to cinch closed the opening of the bag. The draw tape has at least one stretched elastomeric strip attached to the draw tape in an extended condition. The draw tape may be smaller in size than the bag sidewalls. The draw tape may include an elastic characteristic, such as patterned ribs. In one embodiment, the roll of bag is kept under tension to maintain the elastomeric strips in a stretched condition.
US09550607B2 Packing polycrystalline silicon
The present invention relates to a method for packing polysilicon in the form of chunks by introducing the chunks into a first plastic bag, the first plastic bag being introduced into a second plastic bag after the introduction of the chunks, or the first plastic bag already having been inserted into the second plastic bag prior to the introduction of the chunks into the first plastic bag, as a result of which the chunks are present in a double bag which is sealed, wherein the air present in the two plastic bags in the double bag after the introduction of the chunks is removed before the sealing of the double bag such that the total volume of the double bag relative to the volume of the chunks is 2.4 to 3.0.
US09550606B2 Detachable dispensing systems for containers
Detachable dispensing systems for containers are provided that include a handling portion having an outer ring configured to selectively secure and, alternatively, remove the handling portion about a dispensing opening of the container and an inner ring defining a circular aperture within the handling portion, a hollow rigid member slideably disposed within the circular aperture and selectively positionable between a recessed position and, alternatively, an extended position, and an extendible spout at least partially disposed in the hollow rigid member and connected to the hollow rigid member, in which the extendible spout is configured to dispense a pourable material from the container through the distal opening when the handling portion is engaged about the dispensing opening of the container. Material containers are also provided that include a container having a dispensing opening and the detachable dispensing system selectively connected to the container about the dispensing opening.
US09550602B2 Collapsible reusable carrying cases
Collapsible reusable carrying cases are provided in sizes varying from small food containers to large push cart bins on casters. The cases are assembled or disassembled from a joined flat space-saving configuration to a functioning case and vice-versa. All parts that make up a carrying case do not separate from the carrying case and no parts can be removed. The cases are formed from rigid plastic panels, and are assembled or disassembled without tools. The sides of the cases are erected progressively by hand by interlocking elements at the corners. The panels also disassemble progressively by being manually pulled apart. When folded into a flat storage or shipping configuration, the panels stay together, resisting unfolding by virtue of snaps which are either molded into the panels or bonded to them. The carrying cases are resistant to water, dirt, bacteria, molds, allergens, and inclement weather.
US09550598B2 Flattened container comprising an arched bottom with square seat
Container of plastic material having a flattened body and a bottom in the extension of the body having peripheral seat defining a seating plane the contour of which has in the same plane a large dimension A1 and a small dimension A2 that is strictly smaller than the large dimension, and an inner annular cheek substantially perpendicular to the seating plane. The bottom having a concave arch that extends from the seat towards a central zone. A height H of the cheek and a width L of the seating plane are such that 0.5 ≤ L H ≤ 2.5 . A transverse extension A of the seating plane and a transverse extension B of the body, measured near the bottom, are such that A B ≥ 0.85 .
US09550597B2 Wrapping material removal method
A material removal method for removing net wrap or twine from the outer surface of a bale of material. The method comprises the steps of cutting the net wrap or twine material along a length of the bale, placing a first spear (62, 162) of a material wind-up system (60, 160) between the bale and the material, rotating the material wind-up system to wind the net wrap or twine material around the first (62, 162) and a second spear (64, 164) and stripping the material from the first and second spears.
US09550595B2 Method for operating a chamber packaging machine
The invention relates to a method for operating a chamber packaging machine, wherein the position of a sealing bar is during the evacuation of a diaphragm checked using a sensor.
US09550589B2 Method for fastening a paper product roll entity to a pallet and a paper product roll entity wrapped by plastic foil
A method for fastening a paper product roll entity to a pallet by continuous plastic foil. The pallet has a cross direction and a longitudinal direction. A first sequence is repeated at least once. The first sequence includes wrapping the paper product roll entity such that a first continuous foil unwound from a foil head travels over the paper product roll entity and under the pallet, and moving in a cross direction a head of the foil or the pallet having the paper product roll entity on its substantially horizontal plane. After the first sequence, a second sequence is repeated at least once. The second sequence includes wrapping a second continuous foil spirally around the paper product roll entity.
US09550587B2 Packaging of polycrystalline silicon
The invention relates to a process for packaging polycrystalline silicon in the form of chunks, including the following steps: (a) providing polycrystalline silicon in a metering system; (b) filling polycrystalline silicon from the metering system, which removes fines by use of screening, into a plastic bag arranged below the metering system. The weight of the plastic bag with the polycrystalline silicon introduced is determined during the filling step and the filling step is ended after the attainment of a target weight. A fall height of the polycrystalline silicon from the metering system into the plastic bag is kept at less than 450 mm by use of at least one clamp apparatus over the entire filling step.
US09550586B2 Apparatus and methods for hypersonic stochastic switch
An apparatus and method for mitigating the shock front of a rocket or aerospace plane flying at hypersonic speeds while simultaneously distilling liquid chemical elements from the ambient air. The ensuing supercool/chilled air that is rendered as a consequence of supercooling may hence be compressed, regeneratively intercooled & flashed into liquid air. By means of extension, liquid air may be rendered as a direct result of said supercooling throughout the hypersonic regime into space. Also described are the details of an isentropically expanded hypersonic stochastic switch (a singularity), which is mainly achieved via the addition of a high pressure supersonic isentropic expansion nozzle whereby a continuous flow continuum is transformed into a stochastic flux.
US09550584B1 Deployable thin membrane apparatus
A deployable thin membrane apparatus for use with a spacecraft is provided. The apparatus includes a flexible membrane structure and a deployment mechanism for transitioning the membrane structure from an undeployed state towards a deployed state in which the membrane can perform a function needed by a spacecraft. In one embodiment, the deployment mechanism includes a plurality of pantographs that each engage the membrane structure, a rotatable disk structure that engages and coordinates the transition of the pantographs from an undeployed state towards a deployed state, and a spring system for providing energy that is used to rotate the disk structure.
US09550580B2 Strapped windshield assembly for rotorcraft
This description relates to a strapped windshield assembly for a rotorcraft. In some implementations, the rotorcraft includes an airframe, a windshield, and a plurality of independent straps connected to the airframe and the windshield, the straps operative to move independently with respect to one another. The independent movement of the straps allow relative movement of portions of the windshield in response to a strike. In some implementations, the straps are spaced every 4-6 inches along an edge of the windshield. In some implementations, the straps are over an edge of the windshield. The straps can have a modulus of elasticity of 8-12 millions of pounds per square inch (MSI). The windshield can include polycarbonate material.
US09550577B1 Electricity generation in automated aerial vehicles
This disclosure describes a system and method for operating an automated aerial vehicle wherein the battery life may be extended by performing one or more electricity generation procedures on the way to a destination (e.g., a delivery location for an item). In various implementations, the electricity generation procedure may include utilizing an airflow to rotate one or more of the propellers of the automated aerial vehicle so that the associated propeller motors will generate electricity (e.g., which can be utilized to recharge the battery, power one or more sensors of the automated aerial vehicle, etc.). In various implementations, the airflow may consist of a wind, or may be created by the kinetic energy of the automated aerial vehicle as it moves through the air (e.g., as part of a normal flight path and/or as part of an aerial maneuver).
US09550574B2 Ventilation system and method of assembly
A ventilation system for ventilating a passenger compartment of an aircraft is disclosed herein. The ventilation system includes, but is not limited to, a nozzle that is adapted to be mounted proximate an interior of the aircraft and that is configured to direct a stream of air into the passenger compartment. The ventilation system further includes a valve that is spaced apart from the nozzle and positioned upstream of the nozzle, the valve configured to control a flow of air to the nozzle. The ventilation system still further includes a conduit that fluidly couples the valve to the nozzle. The conduit is configured to convey the flow of air from the valve to the nozzle.
US09550570B2 On-board generation of oxygen for aircraft passengers
The present invention provides a system and method for supplying, generating, conserving, and managing oxygen that is ideally suited for use on-board an aircraft for supply of breathable oxygen to passengers and flight crew. The system includes several components that together optimize oxygen utilization while reducing costs from maintenance and added weight of traditional pressurized gaseous cylinders. Components of the system include a pressurized cylinder of oxygen enriched gas or a chemical oxygen generator for rapid use in emergency situations, an on-board oxygen generator (OBOG) of the ceramic oxygen generator (COG) type incorporating solid electrolyte oxygen separation (SEOS) technology, a controller, a pulsed oxygen supplier, a crew/passenger breathing mask, and one or more sensors including sensors that detect inhale/exhale phases and communicate with the controller so that flow of oxygen may be regulated for conservation and to adapt to physiological needs.
US09550569B2 Method of and frame for restraining a machine on a vehicle seat
A frame has a first frame portion configured to sit on a base of a vehicle seat and demountably receive a machine. A second portion of frame is coupled with and extends substantially upright from the first portion. The second portion is adjacent and bears against a back of the seat. Extending across the second portion from side to side is a lateral frame element. The lateral frame element enables the frame to be secured on and to the seat by way of a conventional seat belt. The frame also includes a pivoting support shown in this embodiment as a tray for supporting a box of capsules which are dispensed by the machine.
US09550567B1 In-flight reconfigurable hybrid unmanned aerial vehicle
This disclosure is directed to an unmanned aerial vehicle (“UAV”) that transitions in-flight between vertical flight configuration and horizontal flight configuration by changing an orientation of the UAV by approximately ninety degrees. The UAV may include propulsion units that are coupled to a wing. The wing may include wing segments rotatably coupled together by pivots that rotate to position the propulsion units around a center of mass of the UAV when the fuselage is oriented perpendicular with the horizon. In this vertical flight configuration, the UAV may perform vertical flight or hover. During the vertical flight, the UAV may cause the wing to extend outward via the pivots such that the wing segments become positioned substantially parallel to one another and the wing resembles a conventional fixed wing. With the wing extended, the UAV assumes a horizontal flight configuration that provides upward lift generated from the wing.
US09550565B2 Coaxial counter-rotating rotor system
A system and method to tilt coaxial counter-rotating rotor hub assemblies relative to a fuselage. The system includes a first rotor hub assembly and a second rotor hub assembly spaced apart from the first hub assembly and carried by the fuselage. The method includes pivotally attaching the first rotor hub assembly and the second rotor hub assembly to a pivot joint and thereafter tilting the first rotor hub assembly and the second rotor hub assembly about the pivot joint with a driver.
US09550557B2 Multicage-type device for filtering ballast water so as to prevent back pressure on backwash line
A filtering device for treating ballast water and more particularly, a multicage-type device for filtering ballast water to prevent back pressure, wherein the multicage-type device for filtering ballast water includes a back pressure prevention tank on a backwash line for backwashing and discharging foreign substances that are inside a filter of the device for filtering, so that backwash water and the foreign substances in the backwash line are preliminarily stored in the back pressure prevention tank thereby preventing an increase of back pressure and preventing an increase of the back pressure on the backwash line by always maintaining a level of water inside the back pressure prevention tank at lower than an inlet port that is connected to the backwash line.
US09550554B2 Controlling buoyancy of an underwater vehicle using a dual-internal-reservoir configuration to enhance efficiency of inflating and deflating an external chamber
An underwater vehicle may include a buoyancy control system configured to use a dual-internal-reservoir configuration to enhance efficiency of changing buoyancy of the underwater vehicle. The buoyancy control system may utilize an incompressible fluid (e.g., oil or water) that is transferred between a first internal reservoir and an external chamber to affect buoyancy of the underwater vehicle. In exemplary implementations, a compressible fluid (e.g., air) may be used to inflate or deflate a second internal reservoir. The second internal reservoir may be disposed within the buoyancy control system so that it can act on the first internal reservoir by applying a compressive force or a tensive force on the first internal reservoir, depending on the pressure differences between the two reservoirs.
US09550549B1 Rope cuff
A rope cuff including a plurality of shoring lines attached to an interior surface and covered with an interior flap formed from a material with a high coefficient of friction is provided. The shoring lines are braided around a mooring line to serve as a chafe guard and the interior flap frictionally engages the mooring line to maintain both the chafe guard and the cuff in appropriate positions. An adjustable hook and loop strap is attached to the exterior surface of the rope cuff to constrict the cuff around the mooring line and provide further frictional engagement between the interior of the rope cuff and the mooring line.
US09550542B2 Electric cycle
A kit for an electric cycle includes a powertrain module including a case, a battery disposed in the case, an electric motor in communication with the battery and disposed in the case, and a connecting port on the case. The kit includes a first module including a frame member configured to releasably engage the connecting port and a wheel rotatably connected to the frame member, a second module including a frame member configured to releasably engage the connecting port, and a releasable locking feature on the connecting port.
US09550540B1 Foldable vehicle for carrying a golf bag
A passenger vehicle for carrying a golf bag includes first and second front wheels and a rear wheel, a frame that may be folded into a compact position, gearing, and a steering mechanism. The frame includes a cross bar extending between the first and second front wheels, first and second front bars connected to a rear bar at a hinged connection, and a down tube connected to the cross bar, wherein the rear bar includes a receiving mechanism for releaseably receiving the down tube. The gearing includes a cassette secured to an axle extending through the cross bar. A steering mechanism for providing directionality includes a steering member within the rear bar. A first golf bag support is connected to the first and second front bars and a second golf bag support is connected to the cross bar.
US09550538B2 Bicycle saddle with a T-shaped channel
A bicycle saddle has a seat post, an adjustment base, a seat, a sliding base, and two adjusting bolts. The seat post has a supporting base having a concave top surface and a passage. The adjustment base is attached to the concave top surface of the supporting base and has a convex bottom surface and an elongated through hole. The convex bottom surface matches and abuts the concave top surface of the supporting base. The seat is attached to the flat top surface of the adjustment base and has a sliding channel. The sliding base is mounted slidably in the sliding channel and has a slot and two holding rods respectively provided with a threaded hole. The adjusting bolts are mounted through the passage, the elongated through hole, and the slot, and are screwed respectively with the threaded holes in the holding rods.
US09550532B2 Bowtie shaped roof bow
A roof bow for a vehicle is provided that has a “bow-tie” shape including a central portion flanked by two triangular portions. The triangular portions are joined to right and left roof brackets that are, in turn, joined to right and left roof rails. The bow-tie roof bow may be assembled from extruded tubular parts. The bow-tie roof bow may be assembled in a clamshell structure including an upper shell and a lower shell that are joined together by welding. The roof bow may be formed in one piece as a sheet metal stamping having side portions that are wider than the central portion.
US09550531B2 Vehicle body rear structure
A vehicle body rear structure includes a rear parcel provided between left and right vehicle body side parts, a parcel cross member bonded to the rear parcel and constituting a first closed cross section, and a parcel member and parcel support bonded to the first closed cross section and constituting the main section of a second closed cross section. The first closed cross section is configured from the rear parcel and the parcel cross member. Furthermore, the first closed cross section continues through the main section of the second closed cross section to the left vehicle body side part.
US09550521B2 Hydraulic steering arrangement
A hydraulic steering arrangement (1) is provided comprising a static steering unit (2) and an adjustable pressure source (3) connected to a pressure port (4) of said steering unit (2) and having a load sensing port (21). Such a steering unit should enable a fast reaction of the steering unit. To this end said pressure source (3) is a dynamic pressure source having an orifice (Adyn) outputting hydraulic fluid to said load sensing port (21), a load sensing line (22) connecting said load sensing port (21) and a low pressure port (11), a control valve (24) being arranged in said load sensing line (22) between said load sensing port (21) and said low pressure port (11), said control valve (24) being actuated by a control pressure within said steering unit (2) and throttling a flow through said load sensing line (22) depending on said control pressure.
US09550518B2 Electric power steering assembly
A rack drive assembly adapted for use in a vehicle electric power steering assembly includes a ball nut assembly operatively connected to a screw portion of a rack portion of a steering member of the power steering assembly for effecting axial movement of the steering member upon rotation of a vehicle steering wheel. According to one embodiment, the ball nut assembly includes a first bearing assembly disposed in the rack housing and carried by a ball nut, the first bearing assembly disposed on a first end of the ball nut adjacent a first side of the pulley; and a second bearing assembly disposed in the rack housing and carried by the ball nut, the second bearing assembly disposed on an opposite second end of the ball nut adjacent a second side of the pulley.
US09550512B2 Transport device formed from plastic sheet
A simple device for transporting materials is formed of a sheet of a flexible plastics material of generally tear drop shape to define a front tapered converging portion connected directly to a rear semicircular cupping portion. A rope passes through a pair of transversely spaced holes at the front edge to define a forwardly extending handle portion. The rope extends rearwardly along each side of the front portion to a hole at or adjacent a rear edge of the side edge and is covered by a stiffening tube. The rope passes through holes at the rear cupping portion to define a rear portion of the rope outside the sheet across the rear covered by a stiffening tube engaged over the rear portion of the rope.
US09550511B2 Height extender for control arm skate
A height extender for a control arm skate has an upper face configured to receive a control arm of a vehicle and a lower face configured to engage with an upper face of an underlying control arm skate. Extenders may be stacked.