| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09632754B2 |
Auto generation and linkage of source code to test cases
Aspects of the present invention disclose a system, method and program for automatic generation of source code under test case. In an example, a computer determines whether references to source code under test can be located from a test case. The computer automatically generates boiler plate code required for the creation of source code under test, wherein each section of the source code under test is associated with each section of the test case that caused its generation. The computer analyzes one or more test case syntax clues to provide additional information to form the boiler plate source code under test for the test case. The computer generates source code under test based on the type of boiler plate required for the creation of source code under test and the provided syntax clues in the test case. |
| US09632753B2 |
Spectral shaping of pseudorandom binary sequence
A pseudorandom binary sequence having a first sampling rate is generated. Based on the pseudorandom binary sequence, a digital filter generates a spectrally shaped pseudorandom binary sequence having a second sampling rate. The second sampling rate is equal to the first sampling rate multiplied by an integer upsampling factor of L>1. The digital filter includes L filter branches consisting of a first subset of one or more filter branches and a second subset of one or more filter branches. Each filter branch of the first subset generates a binary output which is equal to an input of the filter branch. Each filter branch of the second subset generates a binary output which is inverted with respect to an input of the filter branch. |
| US09632751B2 |
Arithmetic circuit and arithmetic method
According to one embodiment, an arithmetic circuit includes follows. The arithmetic unit performs an arithmetic operation including addition and multiplication to generate a first value of (n+m) bits. The rounding preprocessor performs an OR operation on lower (m−k) bits of the first value to generate a second value of 1 bit. The register stores a third value of (n+k+1) bits obtained by concatenating upper (n+k) bits of the first value and the second value. The rounding postprocessor calculates a carry bit value of 1 bit from a most significant bit of the third value and lower (k+1) bits of the third value, and adds the carry bit value to upper n bits of the third value. |
| US09632746B2 |
Automatic muting
Systems and methods for altering a volume level of an electronic device may include receiving a user input indicative of triggering a remote find operation to locate a remote control, and in response to the user input, sending a remote find instruction to the remote control. The remote find instruction may trigger the remote control to emit a sound. Systems and methods may include, in response to the user input, sending a temporary quiet instruction to the home automation device. The quiet instruction may initiate a lowering of the volume level of the home automation device while the remote control is emitting the sound as a part of the remote find operation. |
| US09632744B2 |
Audio-visual interface for apparatus
An apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code. The at least one memory and the computer program code is configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: associating at least one user interface visual display element and at least one user interface audio display element with a data representation; determining a user interface position for the data representation determining whether the user interface position for the data representation is within a visual display region; outputting the at least one visual display element when the user interface position is within the visual display region; and outputting the at least one audio display element with the user interface position wherein the outputting of at least one audio display element is generated based on the user interface position relative to the visual display region. |
| US09632743B2 |
Display component and electronic device
A display component and an electronic device using the display component are described. The display component includes a light source unit configured to emit source light; at least two beam splitting units configured to receive the source light and generate at least two reflected lights, wherein directions of the at least two reflected lights match with each other; a display unit configured to receive the at least two reflected lights and adjust the at least two reflected lights to become initial light by adding information of an image to be displayed into the at least two reflected light. |
| US09632731B2 |
Distributing capacity slices across storage system nodes
Various systems and methods are described for configuring a data storage system. In one embodiment, a plurality of actual capacities of a plurality of storage devices of the data storage system are identified and divided into a plurality of capacity slices. The plurality of capacity slices are combined into a plurality of chunks of capacity slices, each having a combination of characteristics of the underlying physical storage devices. The chunks of capacity slices are then mapped to a plurality of logical storage devices. A group of the plurality of logical storage devices is then organized into a redundant array of logical storage devices. |
| US09632727B2 |
Systems and methods for identifying storage resources that are not in use
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing a non-volatile storage medium. A storage controller receives a message that identifies data that no longer needs to be retained on the non-volatile storage medium. The data may be identified using a logical identifier. The message may comprise a hint, directive, or other indication that the data has been erased and/or deleted. In response to the message, the storage controller records an indication that the contents of a physical storage location and/or physical address associated with the logical identifier do not need to be preserved on the non-volatile storage medium. |
| US09632726B1 |
Modular device and method of operation
A modular system including a set of functionality tiles and a control tile storing a storage structure, an initialization file, and operation instructions. The method for operating a custom device made using the modular system includes: sending operation settings for each tile to the respective tile upon device initialization; operating each tile based on the operation settings; writing the output from each tile to the storage structure; monitoring data streams within the storage structure for a trigger event; reading data off the storage structure in response to occurrence of the trigger event; and processing the read data according to a processing function specified by the operation instructions. |
| US09632723B1 |
Providing a reliable distributed queuing service
A method, system, and computer-readable medium is described for facilitating interactions between software programs by providing a reliable data queuing service that enables the programs to store and retrieve elements of data queues. In some situations, the data queuing service is provided to users who purchase usage of the data queuing service for application programs executed by or otherwise affiliated with the users. In addition, accessibility of the data queuing service to remote executing programs may be enhanced via a defined API of the data queuing service, such as a Web services-based API. Availability of the data queuing service may also be enhanced in some situations by using multiple alternative distributed systems for a data queue such that each of the alternative systems stores a subset of the elements of the data queue. |
| US09632713B2 |
Secondary storage editor
Systems and methods for storage pruning can enable users to delete, edit, or copy backed up data that matches a pattern. Storage pruning can enable fine-grain deletion or copying of these files from backups stored in secondary storage devices. Systems and methods can also enable editing of metadata associated with backups so that when the backups are restored or browsed, the logical edits to the metadata can then be performed physically on the data to create a custom restore or a custom view. A user may perform operations such as renaming, deleting, modifying flags, and modifying retention policies on backed up items. Although the underlying data in the backup may not change, the view of the backup data when the user browses the backup data can appear to include the user's changes. A restore of the data can cause those changes to be performed on the backup data. |
| US09632706B2 |
Ordering of parallel data storage based on die programming durations
A method includes, in a memory system that includes multiple memory units, holding information indicative of respective programming durations of the memory units. Data is stored in a stripe that includes a plurality of the memory units, by programming the memory units in the stripe in an order that is set based on the information. |
| US09632702B2 |
Efficient initialization of a thinly provisioned storage array
In at least one embodiment, a data storage system has a plurality of non-volatile storage devices, a higher level controller and one or more lower level controllers. In response to one or more inputs, the higher level controller of the data storage system issues an initialization command specifying initialization of a storage extent. In response to the initialization command, one or more lower level controllers issue dataless initialization commands to the plurality of non-volatile storage devices. In response to the dataless initialization commands, multiple first non-volatile storage devices among the plurality of non-volatile storage devices each initialize a respective data portion of the storage extent and a second non-volatile storage device among the plurality of non-volatile storage devices initializes a data protection portion of the storage extent. |
| US09632700B2 |
Managing a shared storage system using hardware identifiers to deter data/file corruption
A method, system, and computer program product for managing a storage facility are disclosed. A potential file overlay may be detected when performing a file transfer. When a file is common to multiple systems and resides on a shared system storage volume, potential file corruption due to a data transfer request is detected and then able to be prevented. Hardware identifiers such as Universal Unique Identifiers (UUIDs) are used in managing a write of a file to shared system storage. By comparing multiple hardware identifiers, a determination is made as to whether to process the write of the file. If the hardware identifiers mismatch, the write is processed. If the hardware identifiers match, a potential file overlay is detected. Because of the potential file overlay, the write is aborted and a failure notification is returned. A successful overwrite prevention notification may also be returned. |
| US09632699B2 |
User-configurable calculator
The invention relates generally to a user-configurable calculator. Embodiments of the invention provide, among other things, a flexible graphical user interface (GUI) that allows a user to configure a virtual keypad area and/or a display area. Accordingly, a user can select calculator's keys (and corresponding functions) and/or a display type that is best suited for the problem he or she wishes to solve. A user may also create a new function and associate the new function with a virtual key. Embodiments of the invention also permit a user to define and manage multiple calculation sessions. In one embodiment, data can be shared between sessions. |
| US09632696B2 |
Presentation system to facilitate the association of handwriting input by a participant user with a page of a presentation
A display device for displaying presentation data including multiple pages, which receives the presentation data and a page number of a page displayed from a presenter device. An image of a page having the received page number from among the multiple pages is displayed in a follow mode, and an image of any given page from among the multiple pages is displayed in a write mode. A handwritten image is detected in the write mode, associated with a page number of a page displayed, and temporarily stored when a follow mode set instruction is accepted in the write mode. If a return instruction is accepted in the follow mode, the handwritten image specified by the temporary storage data is displayed superimposed on an image of the page having a page number specified by the stored temporary storage data among the multiple pages of the presentation data. |
| US09632695B2 |
Portable multifunction device, method, and graphical user interface for adjusting an insertion point marker
In accordance with some embodiments, a computer-implemented method is performed at a portable electronic device with a touch screen display. The method includes: displaying a window on the touch-sensitive display; detecting a single-finger gesture on the touch-sensitive display; in response to the detected single-finger gesture on the touch-sensitive display, displaying a magnifying screen that includes an expanded view of a first portion of the window that comprises at least a part of the texts and an insertion marker; detecting movement of a single finger on the touch-sensitive display while the magnifying screen is displayed; and in response to detecting the movement of the single finger on the touch-sensitive display, replacing the display of the expanded view of the first portion of the window with an expanded view of the second portion of the window in the magnifying screen. |
| US09632692B2 |
Method and system to implement a quasi-user interface for applications on an electronic device
A method and system to implement a quasi-user interface to manage application state transitions by activating quasi-states on an electronic device is disclosed. The method allows a user to maintain the activated quasi-states for an application for the duration determined by the presence of an object within the proximity on the electronic device. The quasi-state activated applications can be switched between a quasi-state and a non-quasi-state supported on the electronic device. Further, the method deactivates the quasi-states and the quasi-user interface when the object is lifted away from the proximity of the electronic device. |
| US09632686B1 |
Collaborative document creation
A method implemented on an electronic computing device includes displaying a document. An image of a person is received. The image of the person is overlaid onto at least a portion of the image of the document. One or more movements are received from the person. The image of the person is moved to indicate a specific area of the document. The movement of the image of the person to the specific area of the document is based on the one or more movements from the person. |
| US09632683B2 |
Methods, apparatuses and computer program products for manipulating characteristics of audio objects by using directional gestures
An apparatus for enabling manipulation of one or more audio objects may include a processor and memory storing executable computer program code that cause the apparatus to at least perform operations including detecting at least one audio object and operating a pointer in a selected direction by a user. The computer program code may further cause the apparatus to detect a gesture of the pointer in response to the operating of the pointer in the selected direction. The computer program code may further cause the apparatus to control at least one characteristic of the detected audio object in response to the detected gesture of the pointer or an indication of a selection of the at least one characteristic. Corresponding methods and computer program products are also provided. |
| US09632674B2 |
Hardware buttons activated based on focus
Methods and devices for providing one or more control buttons in connection with a multiple screen device are provided. More particularly, the screen of a multiple screen device having a current focus is identified, and one or more control buttons are provided as part of or in association with the identified screen. When a change in focus from a previously identified screen to a different screen is detected, the presentation of the one or more control buttons can also change. In particular, control buttons are presented as part of a screen having the current focus, while control buttons are not provided on or in association with a screen that does not have the current focus. |
| US09632672B2 |
Interface for clustered utility nodes
Techniques for navigating a user interface and for selecting a utility node from within a cluster of utility nodes are described herein. The user interface may display an icon representing the cluster of utility nodes. A selection (e.g., made by a user) of the icon may be received and a list of the utility nodes that are represented by the icon may be displayed. Selection of a particular utility node from the list may be received, and an action may be performed on the selected utility node. The action may include displaying utility information associated with the utility node, zooming in on the utility node, and/or receiving information from an individual with which to configure the utility node. |
| US09632671B2 |
Systems and methods for providing information pertaining to physical infrastructure of a building or property
A computer implemented system and method for displaying information pertaining to physical infrastructure in a building or on a property via a mobile software application operating or a mobile device are provided. The mobile software application includes steps of (a) optionally displaying a list of selectable buildings and/or areas at a property, (b) optionally displaying a list of selectable floors if a building having multiple floors is selected, (c) displaying a list of points of interest for the selected floor, building or area, and (d) displaying a floor plan or area map with selected points of interest highlighted. |
| US09632664B2 |
Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback
An electronic device with a touch-sensitive surface, a display, and one or more sensors to detect intensity of contacts: displays a plurality of user interface objects in a first user interface; detects a contact while a focus selector is at a location of a first user interface object; and, while the focus selector is at the location of the first user interface object: detects an increase in a characteristic intensity of the contact to a first intensity threshold; in response, visually obscures the plurality of user interface objects, other than the first user interface object, while maintaining display of the first user interface object; detects that the characteristic intensity of the contact continues to increase above the first intensity threshold; and, in response, dynamically increases the amount of visual obscuring of the plurality of user interface objects, other than the first user interface object. |
| US09632663B2 |
Adjusting in-store media to customer preferences
The disclosure provides techniques for adjusting in-store media according to customer preferences. A customer's presence or purchase is detected at an establishment, and a system at the establishment retrieves information on media preferences of the customer. A media backend then matches the customer preferences to media items (music tracks, images, videos, etc.), and the matching media items are played, displayed, or broadcast at the establishment. If multiple customers are present at the establishment or make orders, the media backend may order media items that match the customers' preferences in first-served order, or based on a ranking of the customers relative to each other or on the content of the media items themselves. |
| US09632648B2 |
Mobile terminal, image display device and user interface provision method using the same
A method of controlling a plurality of mobile terminals connected to an externally connected image display device. The method includes transmitting screen information from a first mobile terminal to the image display device; transmitting screen information from a second mobile terminal to the image display device; displaying a first mirroring screen corresponding to the screen information of the first mobile terminal in a first region of a display of the image display device, and displaying a second mirroring screen corresponding to the screen information of the second mobile terminal in a second region of the display of the image display device; tracking a cursor on the display of the image display device input from an input unit of the image display device; and controlling the first mobile terminal from the image display device when the cursor is within the first region of the display and controlling the second mobile terminal from the image display device when the cursor is within the second region of the display. |
| US09632647B1 |
Selecting presentation positions in dynamic content
Digital items of dynamic content may be navigated by content elements associated with the item of dynamic content. In some embodiments, a voice command or natural language query is obtained from a user to whom the item of dynamic content is being presented. The voice command or natural language query may be processed to identify a content element to which the user wishes to navigate. The item of dynamic content may then be presented starting at a presentation position at or near a presentation position with which the content element is associated. |
| US09632646B2 |
Electronic apparatus
Provided is an electronic apparatus including a casing, a display unit, an electrostatic capacitive touch panel, a gravity sensor, and a step. The display unit is disposed in the casing, has a predetermined shape, and displays predetermined information. The electrostatic capacitive touch panel has a shape substantially the same as the predetermined shape and determines a two-dimensional coordinate indicated by an instructing object which has some conductivity and display of the display unit passes through the electrostatic capacitive touch panel. The gravity sensor enables detection of a perpendicular direction. The step is disposed along a side of the predetermined shape, is low on an inside of the predetermined shape and is high on an outside of the predetermined shape. A nullification region at which the two-dimensional coordinate is nullified is enabled to be disposed along the side and the nullification region is disposed along the side in a perpendicular direction. |
| US09632643B2 |
Touch input device
A touch input device may be provided that includes: a touch sensor panel including a plurality of drive electrodes, a plurality of receiving electrodes and a plurality of node capacitors formed by the drive electrode and the receiving electrode; a driving part applying a driving signal to the drive electrode; a detector including a receiver which receives a signal including information on a capacitance of the node capacitor through the receiving electrode and integrates the signal; and an input capacitor connected between the receiver and the receiving electrode. |
| US09632642B2 |
Terminal apparatus and associated methodology for automated scroll based on moving speed
To improve ease of operation in a case where a display device and a small terminal apparatus are connected to each other, and coordinated display is performed. When a contact or approach of an object having a size greater than or equal to a threshold value with or toward the surface of a display panel is detected, a video or an instruction corresponding to the motion detected by the motion sensor is output. The display device, on the basis of the video or the instruction that is output, displays a video in which the position of a pointer or the like is changed in response to the motion detected by a motion sensor. |
| US09632641B2 |
Touch panel for determining real coordinates of the multiple touch points and method thereof
A touch panel for determining real coordinates of multiple touch points is provided. The touch panel for determining real coordinates of multiple touch points comprises a sensing path layer having a plurality of first paths and a plurality of second paths for detecting the raw coordinates of said multiple touch points, and an Eliminating Path Layer having a plurality of third paths for eliminating ghost coordinates of said multiple touch points from said raw coordinates to output said real coordinates of said multiple touch points. The method of determining real coordinates of multiple touch points on the touch panel is also provided. |
| US09632632B2 |
Touch module and method of fabricating the same
The present invention relates to a touch module and a method of fabricating the touch module. The method comprises: providing a substrate plate, applying an adhesive layer on the substrate plate, forming a sensing line trough and a peripheral line trough on the adhesive layer, forming a first conductive layer in the sensing line trough and a second conductive layer in the peripheral line trough, wherein the first conductive layer in the sensing line trough serves as a sensing line, covering an anti acid film on the sensing line trough, electroplating an electroplated layer on the second conductive layer in the peripheral line trough, wherein the electroplated layer plus the second conductive layer serve as a peripheral line, and removing the anti acid film. Comparing to the prior art, the invention reduces the width of the peripheral line, lowers the resistance of the peripheral line, and improves yield rate. |
| US09632630B2 |
Touch panel structure
A touch panel structure is provided. The touch panel structure includes a sapphire substrate having a crystal axis, a crystal structure and a transmittance, wherein the crystal axis includes one selected from a group consisting of c-axis (0001), a-axis (1210), a-axis (1 120), a-axis (2110), a-axis (1120), a-axis (21 10), a-axis (1210), m-axis (1010), m-axis (1100), m-axis (0110), m-axis (1010), m-axis (1100), m-axis (0110), r-axis (1011), r-axis (1011), r-axis (0111), r-axis (011 1), r-axis (1101) and r-axis (1101), the crystal structure is a single-crystal structure, and the transmittance is one of percentages larger than and equal to 80%; and a sensing module including a first sensing layer directly disposed on the sapphire substrate. |
| US09632624B2 |
Extending the functionality of a mobile device
Devices, systems, and methods are disclosed for extending the functionality of a mobile device by including a cover for the mobile device with a substantial portion of the exterior overlaid with a touch-sensitive surface. Logic stored on the cover senses a user's touch on the touch-sensitive surface and transmits the touch input to the coupled mobile device. Logic stored on the coupled mobile device may receive and interpret the touch input as a function or command of an operating system, or a function or command of a program within the operating system of the mobile device. |
| US09632614B2 |
Expanding touch zones of graphical user interface widgets displayed on a screen of a device without programming changes
A method, system and computer program product for expanding the touch zones of graphical user interface (GUI) widgets. The coordinates of the screen location of the device (e.g., mobile device) where a GUI widget is displayed on the screen is captured in response to detecting the GUI widget being displayed on the screen. A list of objects, including GUI widgets, that are currently being displayed on the screen and corresponding screen location coordinates are obtained. A GUI widget is then identified from the list of objects by matching its screen location coordinates with the captured location coordinates. An algorithm to expand the touch zone (e.g., in a right-to-left alternation) of the GUI widget is then identified based on the type of widget (e.g., list) is the identified GUI widget. In this manner, the user is able to expand the touch zones of GUI widgets in an easy manner. |
| US09632611B1 |
GOA circuit for in-cell type touch display panel
The invention discloses a GOA circuit for in-cell type touch display panel; during black screen, using a first global control signal to make a thirteenth N-type TFT conductive to raise a scan driving signal of each stage to high, using the first global control signal to make a twelfth N-type TFT conductive to pull down a voltage level of a second node, and pulling down a voltage level of a first node to avoid ineffective all-gate-on function; using a reset signal and a fourteenth N-type TFT to reset the second node to realize the normal output after awaking from black screen; during stop, setting a negative voltage as a pulse signal having same amplitude, phase and frequency as a touch signal, using a second global control signal to make the fifteenth N-type TFT conductive to output the negative voltage in pulse form to reduce cross-talk between the touch signal and a scan output end. |
| US09632610B2 |
3D touch display device, its manufacturing method and driving method
The present disclosure provides a three-dimensional (3D) touch display device, its manufacturing method and driving method. Touch sensing electrodes and liquid crystal driving electrodes are arranged alternately at an identical layer and insulated from each other in a 3D grating cell. The touch sensing electrodes and the liquid crystal driving electrodes are arranged between an insulating layer and a second substrate, and the liquid crystal driving electrode is configured to drive liquid crystals between the liquid crystal driving electrode and a first substrate to deflect horizontally at a display stage. An electrode layer arranged on a third or fourth substrate is configured to receive a touch driving signal at a touch stage so as to detect a touch operation, and receive a first common electrode signal at the display stage so as to display an image. |
| US09632607B2 |
Mobile terminal and method of controlling the mobile terminal
A mobile terminal and a method of controlling the mobile terminal are disclosed. According to the embodiment of the present invention, when a touching event for a touch input to a touch screen is generated, a writing sound source corresponding to the generated touching event is selected from a memory, and a feedback sound is output in real time, that is generated by changing a sound property of the writing sound source that is selected according to a pressure of a touch applied to the touch screen and a moving speed of the touch. This enables the user to feel as if he/she performed the writing input in the actual analog environment, and provides the use with a yearning for the analog environment and a pleasure to experience it. |
| US09632593B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and computer-readable recording medium
Provided is an information processing apparatus including an analysis unit configured to decide additional information corresponding to input information on the basis of the input information input in an extended work space in which a real object and a virtual object are operable, and a display control unit configured to receive a new operation input to the input information and execute display control of the virtual object displayed in the extended work space using the additional information. |
| US09632591B1 |
Capacitive keyboard having variable make points
Disclosed herein is an input device having variable make points. More specifically, the various embodiments described herein are directed to an input device having a key, a first button member and a second button member. A dielectric may be positioned between the first button member and the second button member. The key is also associated with a capacitive sensor that is configured to determine a change in capacitance as a distance between the first button member and the second button member changes. |
| US09632588B1 |
System and method for redirecting content based on gestures
Content such as advertisements received into a mobile device may be more appropriately displayed on an alternative device remote from the mobile device. When ad content is received into the mobile device, the user may perform a physical gesture such as movement of the device or an associated motion sensor. The physical gesture is analyzed in the mobile device and causes the ad content to be redirected to the remote device. Additional physical gestures by the user can be interpreted in the mobile device to manipulate the content on the remote device. |
| US09632586B2 |
Audio driver user interface
A method for an audio driver user interface comprising: capturing at least two audio signals (1 1, 14, 101); determining a trajectory of an audio source from the at least two audio signals (103); and generating a user interface input dependent on the trajectory of the audio source (105). |
| US09632582B2 |
Magnetic suspension system for touch screens and touch surfaces
A magnetic suspension system is disclosed for use in mounting an electronic touch screen. The magnetic suspension system may be designed to provide more or less movement in any direction, i.e., along the x-axis, the y-axis, and/or the z-axis, depending upon the application. The magnetic suspension system includes a first programmable magnet coupled to a first body and a second programmable magnet coupled to a second body. The programmable magnets simultaneously repel and attract each other in a nominal configuration such that the second body is suspended a programmed spaced-apart distance from the first body. The programmable magnets also allow movement between the first and second bodies in reaction to a force applied to the second body by a haptic actuator with a programmed spring force such that the first and second bodies return to the nominal configuration when no force is applied to the second body. |
| US09632577B2 |
Operation support device and control method thereof
An operation support device includes a manipulation input unit that outputs a manipulation command in accordance with an input from an operator, and a motion unit that causes a surgical instrument to move in accordance with the manipulation command. The manipulation input unit includes an object-to-be-detected that is gripped by the operator and a detection device that detects the object-to-be-detected. The object-to-be-detected includes a body part that has a first marker, which is detected by the detection device, disposed thereon, a manipulation part that is disposed in the body part and that is manipulated by the operator, and a second marker that is disposed in at least one of the body part and the manipulation part. |
| US09632575B2 |
Method, an apparatus and a computer program for controlling an output from a display of an apparatus
A method including: displaying information corresponding to a first output state, temporarily displaying information corresponding to a second output state while a user actuation is occurring; and displaying information corresponding to the first output state when the user actuation is no longer occurring. |
| US09632573B2 |
Medical manipulator and method of controlling the same
In a medical manipulator configured to have a manipulation unit including a first input unit and a second input unit that are exchangeable, a signal generation unit configured to process an input with respect to the manipulation unit based on a predetermined process condition and to generate a manipulation signal, an operating unit configured to be operated by the manipulation signal, and a detection unit configured to recognize a type of a used input unit, the process condition corresponded to the first input unit and the process condition corresponded to the second input unit differ, and the signal generation unit generates the manipulation signal based on the process condition corresponded to the input unit recognized by the detection unit. |
| US09632571B1 |
Low power high performance electrical circuits
A power saving mode especially useful for memory decoders has been developed. At this power saving mode, the drain-to-source voltage of every MOS transistor in a memory decoder is set to zero, while at normal operation the memory decoder supports the same functions as prior art memory decoders. |
| US09632570B2 |
Maintaining or refraining from entering a sleep mode based on received conditions by application specific sensors
A data processing device may receive, from an application running on the data processing device, an indication that one or more sensors may be associated with a user input for the application. Based on sensing information collected from the one or more sensors, a characteristic of the user input may be determined by the data processing device. The data processing device may refrain from entering a sleep mode if the characteristic of the user input matches a specific characteristic condition specified by the application. The data processing device may allow entering the sleep mode if the characteristic of the user input does not match the specific characteristic condition for a specific timeout period specified by the application. The data processing device may receive the indication, information on the specific characteristic condition and/or information on the specific timeout period via invoking, by the application, one or more application programming interfaces (APIs). |
| US09632565B2 |
Power supply mode switching method and apparatus
A power supply mode switching method and apparatus applied to an electronic device are described. The method includes detecting a mode switching signal of the electronic device; switching a power supply mode of the electronic device from a first power supply mode to a second power supply mode if the mode switching signal detected indicates to switch the electronic device from a first mode to a second mode; switching the power supply mode of the electronic device from the second power supply mode to the first power supply mode if the mode switching signal detected indicates to switch the electronic device from the second mode to the first mode. The power supply mode switching method makes the electronic device not enter into the power-off mode immediately when the user presses the power button by accident in the second mode of the electronic device. |
| US09632564B2 |
Power supply device
In a power supply device, the bridge circuit is configured by connecting, in parallel, a plurality of series circuits of an inverse-parallel connection circuit of a semiconductor switch and a diode. A control unit controls switching of a semiconductor switch so that a voltage v between AC terminals becomes zero voltage in equal periods α before and after a center point shifted from one zero crossing point in one cycle of the input current by a compensation period (angle) β calculated from a voltage applied to a resonance circuit constituted by the power receiving coil and a resonance capacitor Cr and an induced voltage of the power receiving coil, and becomes a positive-negative voltage whose peak value is the voltage Vo between DC terminals in other periods. |
| US09632558B2 |
Power supply control method for display device and display device
The present invention belongs to the field of display technology, in particular to a power supply control method for display device and a display device. The power supply control method for a display device comprises: acquiring images of a room where the display device is located; judging whether there is any person in the room; when determining that there is a person in the room, further recognizing an action state of the person in the room and judging whether the person in the room has a demand of watching the display device; according to a result of judging that there is no person in the room or that the person in the room has no demand of watching, cutting power supply of the display device off. |
| US09632556B2 |
Estimating and preserving battery life based on usage patterns
Embodiments apply user-specific usage patterns to estimate and preserve remaining battery life on a computing device. An amount of battery drain and an execution context are determined and stored for a plurality of recurring time periods. The execution context identifies operations executed by the computing device, signal strength, and other data describing the associated time period. If one of the operations is expected to be executed during a recurrence of at least one of the time periods, the expected execution is adjusted based on execution context and an estimated remaining battery life for the computing device. For example, the computing device may postpone or reschedule the operation for a time period during which the operation is expected to have a greater likelihood of completing successfully. In some embodiments, the battery preservation operations are automatically enabled at a particular threshold. |
| US09632553B2 |
Computing a unit rate of power consumed in a data center
A power distribution unit having a power supply inputs including mains, secondary, generator, and renewable can be configured to measure how much power is drawn from each of the power supply inputs over a time period and to provide data to a unit rate of power engine indicating the same. A cost information engine can be configured to provide cost information, applicable over the time period, for each of the power supply inputs to the unit rate of power engine. The unit rate of power engine can be configured to compute the unit rate of power consumed in the data center over the time period based on the power drawn from each of the power supply inputs and the cost information. |
| US09632548B1 |
Structure of power input end and power output end of power supply device
An improved structure of a power input end and a power output end of a power supply device is provided. The power supply includes a casing and a main body. A rear side of the casing is provided with a back plate having first heat dissipation holes. One side of an inner wall of the casing is provided with a power input end and a protection cover. A rear side of the protection cover is provided with an upright plate having a threaded hole and second heat dissipation holes parallel to the first heat dissipation holes. The interior of the casing is provided with two power output ends each in the form of a plate perpendicular to the back plate. The present invention lowers the sheltered area of the back plate to form a better heat dissipation structure. The protection cover can be disassembled easily. |
| US09632546B2 |
Mounting apparatus for hard disk drive and electronic device
A mounting apparatus includes a bottom plate, a supporting frame supported by the bottom plate for receiving a HDD, a receiving frame attached to the bottom plate, a latching member slidably coupled to the supporting frame, and a first elastic member coupled with the latching member. The supporting frame includes a base plate detachably engaging with the bottom plate, two opposite side plates each defining at least one through hole, two pivoting plates pivotably coupled to the side plates, and an extending plate defining an opening. The latching member includes an inserting block to extend through the opening of the extending plate under a resilient force of the first elastic member. Each pivoting plate includes at least one inserting post for extending through the through hole of the corresponding side plate and engaging in the HDD. |
| US09632545B2 |
Drive tray
An assembly can include a processor; memory accessibly by the processor; a drive tray chassis; a drive tray positioned in the drive tray chassis where the drive tray includes a first side wall, a second side wall, a member coupled to the first side wall and the second side wall that defines a dimension of a first drive bay that extends from the first side wall to the second side wall, and an intermediate member that defines a dimension of a second drive bay that extends from the intermediate member to the second side wall wherein the dimension of the second drive bay is less than the dimension of the first drive bay; and a drive accessible by the processor and positioned in one of the first drive bay and the second drive bay. Various other apparatuses, systems, methods, etc., are also disclosed. |
| US09632533B2 |
Stretchable wireless device
A wearable patch capable of wireless communications includes an adhesive layer, and a shearable circuit layer comprising a support substrate comprising one or more openings on the adhesive layer, wherein the one or more openings in the support substrate are so positioned to allow the shearable circuit layer to be sheared and elongated, and breathable. A conductive circuit is embedded in the support substrate. One or more semiconductor chips are in connection with the conductive circuit. An elastic layer is positioned on the shearable circuit layer. The one or more semiconductor chips and the conductive circuit can wirelessly communicate with an external device. |
| US09632529B2 |
Portable computer
A portable computer includes a base, a display module, at least one supporting element and at least one sliding assembly. The base includes a first area and a second area. The display module includes a connect end and a display face. Each supporting element includes a first end pivoted on a portion of the display module other than the display face and a second end pivoted on the rear end of the base. Each sliding assembly includes a slide rail disposed at least in the second area and a sliding block connected with the connect end and moved along the slide rail. Each sliding block includes at least one auxiliary sliding structure for decreasing sliding friction. |
| US09632525B2 |
Shaftless vehicle pedal with contacting position sensor
A vehicle pedal with a contacting position sensor. The pedal includes a housing with an interior housing wall that divides the housing into first and second interior housing chambers. The drum of the pedal arm is located in the first interior housing chamber and the sensor rotor is located in the second interior housing chamber. First and second housing side covers cover the first and second interior housing chambers respectively. The drum is mounted on and supported by the interior housing wall and the first housing cover for rotation of the drum in the first interior housing chamber relative to the pedal housing. A retainer with a pin and a clip extend through respective through-holes in the rotor and into respective slots in the drum and the clip engages against an interior shoulder in the drum for locking the rotor on the drum. |
| US09632522B2 |
Current mirror bias circuit with voltage adjustment
Current mirror bias circuit with voltage adjustment. A biasing system can include an input configured to receive an input current and an output configured to provide an output current. The biasing system can include a first transistor having a first base coupled to the input and a first collector coupled to a supply voltage. The biasing system can further include a second transistor having a second base coupled to the output, a second collector coupled to the input, and a second emitter coupled to a ground voltage. The biasing system can include a voltage adjustment component having a voltage adjustment input coupled to a first emitter of the first transistor and a voltage adjustment output coupled to the output. The voltage adjustment component can be configured to reduce a voltage from the voltage adjustment input to the voltage adjustment output substantially independent of a magnitude of a current through the voltage adjustment component. |
| US09632520B2 |
Method for controlling voltage based on temperature and terminal supporting the same
A method for controlling a voltage based on a temperature and a terminal supporting the same are provided. The terminal includes a temperature sensor for detecting a temperature of at least one location of the inside and of the outside of at least one system and a voltage control unit for adjusting the voltage supplied to the at least one system according to the temperature detected by the temperature sensor. |
| US09632518B2 |
Thermostat
A thermostat having a hollow body, wherein the hollow body is at least partly filled with a thermosensitive medium. A heating element is provided for heating the thermosensitive medium. The heating element is located outside of the hollow body and is at least partially insulated electrically from the hollow body. The element is connected to the hollow body in a thermally conductive manner. |
| US09632515B2 |
Pressure stabilizing mechanism and hydraulic pump equipped therewith
The present invention relates to pressure stabilizing mechanism and to a hydraulic pump including the pressure stabilizing mechanism. The pressure stabilizing mechanism comprises a frame, a piston and a first and second seals. The frame defines a piston chamber, a lower-pressure circuit and a higher-pressure inlet. The piston chamber has a first section of smaller circumference and a second section of larger circumference. The first section of the piston chamber connects the lower-pressure circuit and the higher-pressure inlet. The lower-pressure circuit further connects with the second section of the piston chamber. The lower-pressure circuit receives a fluid at a lower pressure and the higher-pressure inlet receives the fluid at a higher pressure. The piston is slidably movable in the piston chamber between an open position and a closed position. The piston slidably moves between the closed and open position upon relative variation between the lower-pressure fluid and larger surface in the second chamber with respect to the higher-pressure fluid and smaller surface in the first chamber of the piston chamber. |
| US09632503B2 |
Systems and applications of lighter-than-air (LTA) platforms
Innovative new systems and method of operating the systems, wherein the system comprises an airborne platform comprising an unmanned balloon; a payload that is separate from the unmanned balloon; a transceiver; first and second flight termination devices; at least two separate power sources for the first and second flight termination devices; a sensor; a processor; a pump; a valve; and a tether that when broken separates the unmanned balloon and the payload, are disclosed herein. |
| US09632502B1 |
Machine-learning systems and techniques to optimize teleoperation and/or planner decisions
A system, an apparatus or a process may be configured to implement an application that applies artificial intelligence and/or machine-learning techniques to predict an optimal course of action (or a subset of courses of action) for an autonomous vehicle system (e.g., one or more of a planner of an autonomous vehicle, a simulator, or a teleoperator) to undertake based on suboptimal autonomous vehicle performance and/or changes in detected sensor data (e.g., new buildings, landmarks, potholes, etc.). The application may determine a subset of trajectories based on a number of decisions and interactions when resolving an anomaly due to an event or condition. The application may use aggregated sensor data from multiple autonomous vehicles to assist in identifying events or conditions that might affect travel (e.g., using semantic scene classification). An optimal subset of trajectories may be formed based on recommendations responsive to semantic changes (e.g., road construction). |
| US09632500B2 |
Method and arrangement for configuring a system for monitoring the performance of a control loop of an industrial plant
Exemplary embodiments for configuring a system for monitoring the performance of a control loop of an industrial plant includes reading in first process data derived from measurements of at least one sensor inside the control loop during a specified control situation, calculating from the first process data a corresponding at least one performance index indicating the behaviour of the control loop and determining a first quality of the control performance depending on the difference between the at least one performance index and a corresponding threshold value. In case that the first quality of the control performance is determined to be less than good, a second quality of the control performance is determined either by calculating the second quality from an analysis of second process data or by processing a user input from a user of the system which indicates the second quality. |
| US09632498B2 |
Systems and methods of compensating for filling material losses in electroplating processes
A computer-implemented system and method of compensating for filling material losses in a semiconductor process. The computer-implemented method includes determining using a computer a pattern density difference between a first circuit pattern above a semiconductor substrate and a second circuit pattern adjacent to the first pattern. A dummy pattern is inserted between the first pattern and the second pattern so as to compensate for an estimated loss of filling material induced during electrochemical plating by the pattern density difference exceeding a threshold pattern density difference. |
| US09632493B2 |
Method of controlling a robotic work station, as a function of synchronization states, and a corresponding robotic work station
The invention relates to a method of driving a workstation (1) comprising operational units (2, 3) linked to a drive automaton (7) executing a drive program, the drive program comprising for each operational unit at least one sub-part defining a plurality of strings of actions as a function of synchronization states, the drive method comprising a phase of configuration and a phase of execution of the drive program, the configuration phase comprising the steps of selecting the units to be implemented, of parametrizing the corresponding sub-parts by selecting the string of actions to be carried out and the associated synchronization states, the execution phase comprising the step of executing the drive program thus configured. The subject matter of the invention is also a workstation allowing the implementation of this method. |
| US09632491B1 |
Reconfigurable drive current system
A reconfigurable drive current system includes drive stages, each of which includes a high-side transistor and a low-side transistor in a totem pole configuration. A current monitor is coupled to an output of each drive stage. Input channels are provided to receive input signals. A processor is coupled to the input channels and to each current monitor for generating at least one drive signal using at least one of the input signals and current measured by at least one of the current monitors. A pulse width modulation generator is coupled to the processor and each drive stage for varying the drive signals as a function of time prior to being supplied to at least one of the drive stages. |
| US09632488B2 |
Power and communication assembly for connection to remote electronic devices
An electronic device for deployment in a remote location such as a well-bore comprises two main device terminals for connection to a remote power supply and communication assembly via two electrical couplings; a power storage arrangement (C1) having two power input terminals; a device communication arrangement having two device communication terminals; a device switching arrangement (S2) for selectively connecting each of the two power input terminals or each of the two device communication terminals to a respective one of the main device terminals; and a device controller for controlling the operation of the switching arrangement. A power supply and communication assembly is also provided and arranged to be coupled to one or more of the devices. |
| US09632483B2 |
Shock absorber body for a balance of a horological oscillator
A shock-absorber body (11) for an assembled balance (6) of a horological oscillator (8), comprising a guiding portion (11a) for the shock-absorber body (1) for its mounting on a bridge (2) and a fastening element (13) for an outer end of a spiral spring (5) of the oscillator. |
| US09632482B2 |
Sub-hologram generation method and apparatus for holographic display
A sub-hologram generation method and an apparatus for a hologram display are provided, the apparatus including at least a first calculation unit configured to calculate a size of a first sub-hologram area corresponding to a first hologram object using a user viewing window, a second calculation unit configured to calculate a size of a second sub-hologram area corresponding to the first hologram object based on a size of a display pixel, and a determiner configured to compare the size of the first sub-hologram area and the size of the second sub-hologram area, and to determine a sub-hologram area corresponding to the first hologram object based on a result of the comparing. |
| US09632477B1 |
Systems for detecting an axially moveable member within a toner cartridge
An electrophotographic imaging system according to one example embodiment includes a toner cartridge including a housing having a reservoir for storing toner. A shaft is rotatably positioned within the reservoir and includes a threaded portion. A partition mounted on the threaded portion of the shaft moves axially along the threaded portion when the shaft rotates. The partition divides the reservoir into a first toner compartment and a second toner compartment. A sensing arrangement monitors an axial position of the partition along the shaft. The sensing arrangement includes a plurality of sensors arranged at predetermined axial locations relative to the shaft and a sensed member connected to the partition. The plurality of sensors are positioned to detect an axial position of the sensed member relative to the shaft for determining the axial position of the partition along the shaft. |
| US09632475B2 |
Lubricant applicator, image forming apparatus, and process cartridge
A lubricant applicator includes a lubricant, a supply member contactable against the lubricant to supply the lubricant to a target, and a lubricant gauge to detect whether an amount of lubricant remaining is less than a threshold value. The lubricant gauge includes a rotary member rotatable about a shaft, a pressing member to press and rotate the rotary member as the lubricant is consumed, a contact part of the rotary member pressed by the pressing member, and a detection part of the rotary member opposite to the contact part across the shaft of the rotary member. |
| US09632469B2 |
Image forming apparatus that obtains misregistration amount from detection result of detection pattern
An image forming apparatus includes: a detection unit configured to detect a detection pattern on a first region in a first misregistration state and the detection pattern on a second region in a second pattern in a second misregistration state, and a control unit configured to perform misregistration correction by obtaining a misregistration amount in the main scanning direction based on a detection result of the detection pattern. The detection pattern has a first edge that is tilted by a first angle with respect to the main scanning direction on the first region, and has a second edge that is running in the main scanning direction or tilted by a second angle, which is smaller than the first angle, with respect to the main scanning direction on the second region. |
| US09632466B2 |
Fixing device and image forming apparatus
A fixing device includes a casing, a fixing roller, a pressure roller, a heat source, a sensor, and a duct. The fixing roller is disposed in the casing. The pressure roller forms a fixing nip region in cooperation with the fixing roller. The fixing heat source heats the fixing roller. The sensor detects whether or not a recording medium is present in the fixing nip region. The duct is disposed on the casing. One end part of opposite end parts of the heat source protrudes out of the casing. The duct covers the one end part of the heat source and exhausts heat generated from the one end part of the heat source in a direction away from the sensor. |
| US09632459B2 |
Developing device having a feeding member with a projected portion
A developing device includes a developer carrying member for carrying a two component developer, a first feeding member rotatably provided in a first chamber, and a second feeding member rotatably provided in a second chamber. The second feeding member includes a first spiral portion, a second spiral portion provided downstream of the first spiral portion, a disk portion provided downstream of the second spiral portion, and a shaft portion provided downstream of the second spiral portion. A stepped portion is provided in the second chamber at a position downstream of the disk portion and upstream of a discharge opening and has a height high enough to oppose a lateral surface of the disk portion. In addition, a projected portion projects from a part of the disk portion that opposes the stepped portion. |
| US09632455B2 |
Developer supply container and developer supplying system
A developer supply container includes a developer accommodating portion for accommodating a developer, a discharge opening for permitting discharging of the developer from the developer accommodating portion, a drive receiving portion for receiving a driving force, and a pump portion capable of being driven by the driving force received by the drive receiving portion to alternate an internal pressure of the developer accommodating portion between a pressure lower than an ambient pressure and a pressure higher than the ambient pressure by increasing and decreasing a volume of the pump portion. A position of the pump portion is set such that the pump portion starts with a stroke in which the volume increases in an initial action of the pump portion. |
| US09632454B2 |
Cartridge and image forming apparatus
A cartridge capable of preventing careless damage or the like of a memory unit and an image forming apparatus including the cartridge are provided. A toner cartridge (22a to 22d) which stores toner used for image formation and which is detachably attached to an attachment portion (51) of an image forming station (Pa to Pd) includes: a cartridge body (27); and a memory unit (60) which is rotatably attached to the cartridge body (27), wherein before the toner cartridge is attached to the attachment portion (51) of the image forming station (Pa to Pd), an electrode terminal portion (83) of the memory unit (60) is protected from the outside by a distal end in an attachment direction C of the cartridge body (27), when the toner cartridge is attached to the attachment portion (51) of the image forming station (Pa to Pd), the memory unit (60) rotates approximately 90 degrees whereby an electrode terminal (83a to 83d) of the electrode terminal portion (83) is electrically connected to an electrode terminal (53a to 53d) of the connecting portion (53) of the attachment portion (51). |
| US09632453B2 |
Differential transformer magnetic permeability sensor
A differential transformer magnetic permeability sensor includes a substrate, a drive coil, a first differential coil, a second differential coil, a first interconnection pattern, and a second interconnection pattern. The first differential coil is disposed at a side of a first surface of the substrate, and an induced voltage is generated therein when the drive coil is driven. The second differential coil is disposed at a side of a second surface of the substrate, and an induced voltage is generated therein when the drive coil is driven. The first interconnection pattern is located on the first surface and allows the first differential coil to serve as a reference coil, and the second differential coil as a sensing coil. The second interconnection pattern is located on the second surface and allows the second differential coil to serve as a reference coil, and the first differential coil as a sensing coil. |
| US09632452B2 |
Image forming apparatus operable in writing position correction mode
Precise correction of a position of a toner image formed by an image forming station can be accomplished in a device using two-component developer. An electrostatic latent image for forming a color misregistration correction pattern for color misregistration correcting includes a first latent image pattern and a second latent image pattern at a position downstream of the first latent image pattern with respect to the moving direction of the electrostatic latent image. The toner image resulting from the development of the first latent image pattern has a width, measured in the image moving direction, which is greater than that of the toner image resulting from the development of a latent image pattern alone, which is the same as the first latent image pattern, or the toner image resulting from the development of the first latent image pattern has an image density at a downstream end portion with respect to the moving direction, which density is higher than that of the toner image resulting from the development of the latent image pattern alone, which is the same as the first latent image pattern. |
| US09632451B2 |
Developing apparatus, process cartridge and unit
A developing device includes first and second frames; a developer carrying member; an end portion seal, provided in the first frame, for sealing between an end portion and the first frame to prevent leakage; a sheet, provided in the second frame in contact with the developer carrying member along the rotation axial direction of the developer carrying member; a filler filling a space defined by the first and second frames, the end portion seal and the sheet at a connecting portion where the end portion seal and the sheet contact each other; and a projected portion provided in the first frame and projected into the space, the projected portion is spaced from the second frame, the end portion seal in the rotation axial direction. |
| US09632450B2 |
Image forming apparatus controlling driving current for adjusting light emission intensity of light-emitting element
An image forming apparatus incudes a driving unit configured to drive a light-emitting element for emitting a laser beam; a rotational polygon mirror scans a photosensitive member with the laser beam. The driving unit executes a first adjustment for causing the light-emitting element to emit light at a first light emission intensity to adjust a first driving current, and a second adjustment for causing the light-emitting element to emit light at a second light emission intensity to adjust a second driving current. During a time period after the polygon mirror has started rotating until a predetermined speed is reached, the driving unit performs the first adjustment and the second adjustment, after the polygon mirror has started rotating and before performing the first adjustment, performs the second adjustment. |
| US09632445B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording sheet. A casing constituting an outer shell of the image forming apparatus is formed in a table shape including a top plate and a leg portion supporting the top plate, the top plate including a flat working surface. The image forming unit is located inside the top plate. The top plate includes a recording sheet outlet from which the recording sheet having an image formed thereon is discharged. |
| US09632444B2 |
Charging unit
A charging unit includes: a charging member that contacts with an image holding body holding an image and charges a surface of the image holding body; a support member that supports the charging member; and a pressing member that has plural springs that expand and contract in a direction from the support member to the image holding body, and pushes the support member toward the image holding body, and at least two of the plural springs of the pressing member are formed by a single metal wire. |
| US09632441B2 |
Toner
The present invention is a toner that has toner particles that have a surface layer that contains an organosilicon polymer, wherein this organosilicon polymer has a specific substructure and the ratio [ST3], in a 29Si-NMR measurement of a tetrahydrofuran-insoluble matter of the toner particles, of the peak area for this substructure to the total peak area for the organosilicon polymer satisfies the relationship ST3≧0.40. |
| US09632438B2 |
Phase shift mask and method of forming patterns using the same
A method of forming a pattern includes: preparing a target substrate including a photoresist layer on a base substrate; aligning a phase shift mask to the target substrate, the phase shift mask including a mask substrate comparted into a first region including a first sub region and second sub regions at sides of the first sub region, and second regions at sides of the first region, the phase shift mask including a phase shift layer on the mask substrate corresponding to the first region; fully exposing the photoresist layer at the first sub region and the second regions by utilizing the phase shift mask; and removing the photoresist layer at the first sub region and the second regions to form first and second photoresist patterns corresponding to the second sub regions. Transmittance of the phase shift layer is selected to fully expose the photoresist layer in the first sub region. |
| US09632436B2 |
Optical assembly with suppression of degradation
An optical assembly including: a beam generating system generating radiation (6) at an operating wavelength, an optical element (13, 14) arranged in a residual gas atmosphere (16) and subjected to the radiation, which induces a degradation of a surface of the optical element, and a feed device feeding at least one gaseous constituent into the residual gas atmosphere, to suppress the degradation of the surface. Either a beam diameter (d) of the radiation at the surface of the optical element, lies above a threshold value (dc), thereby suppressing the degradation by the gaseous constituent, or, if the beam diameter (d) at the surface (14a) of the optical element (14) lies below the threshold value (dc) so that the effectiveness of the suppression of the degradation is reduced, at least one further device (25, 27) enhancing suppression of the degradation of the surface (14a) is assigned to the optical element (14). |
| US09632434B2 |
Reticle cooling system in a lithographic apparatus
A system for controlling temperature of a patterning device in a lithographic apparatus is discussed. The system includes a patterning device support configured to support a patterning device and a reticle cooling system configured to provide substantially uniform temperature distribution across the patterning device. The reticle cooling system includes a first and second array of gas inlets configured to provide a first and second gas flow along a first and second direction across a surface of the patterning device, respectively, where first and second directions are opposite to each other. The reticle cooling system further includes a switching control system configured to control operation of the first and second arrays of gas inlets. |
| US09632433B2 |
Patterning device support, lithographic apparatus, and method of controlling patterning device temperature
A patterning device support (1100) for controlling a temperature of a patterning device (1102) can include a movable component (1104). The movable component can include a gas inlet (1108) for supplying a gas flow across a surface of the patterning device and a gas outlet (1110) for extracting the gas flow. The patterning device support can also include a gas flow generator (1118) coupled to a duct (1114, 1116) for recirculating the gas flow from the gas outlet to the gas inlet. |
| US09632432B2 |
Exposure apparatus, stage apparatus, and device fabrication method for transferring a pattern of a reticle onto a substrate
The present invention provides an exposure apparatus which transfers a pattern of a reticle onto a substrate, including a stage configured to place the reticle, a holding mechanism configured to hold the reticle placed on the stage, a driving unit configured to drive the stage, a determination unit configured to determine a feature including at least one of a type or shape of the reticle placed on the stage, and a decision unit configured to decide, based on the feature determined by the determination unit, at least one of a holding state of the reticle held by the holding mechanism, or control regarding driving of the stage. |
| US09632430B2 |
Lithographic system, lithographic method and device manufacturing method
A lithographic system includes a lithographic apparatus and a scatterometer. In an embodiment, the lithographic apparatus includes an illumination optical system arranged to illuminate a pattern and a projection optical system arranged to project an image of the pattern on to a substrate. In an embodiment, the scatterometer includes a measurement system arranged to direct a beam of radiation onto a target pattern on said substrate and to obtain an image of a pupil plane representative of radiation scattered from the target pattern. A computational arrangement represents the pupil plane by moment functions calculated from a pair of orthogonal basis function and correlates the moment function to lithographic feature parameters to build a lithographic system identification. A control arrangement uses the system identification to control subsequent lithographic processes performed by the lithographic apparatus. |
| US09632420B2 |
Production of a volume object by lithography, having improved spatial resolution
The present invention concerns a method for producing a volume object by lithography, comprising a projection of the projection image onto a plane to be illuminated of the layer of material, which involves: moving the mask in a movement having a component along an oblique axis forming an angle with the plane to be illuminated, and transforming a movement of the mask having a component along the oblique axis forming the angle with the plane to be illuminated into a displacement of the projection image on the plane to be illuminated along the first direction of the displacement contained in the plane to be illuminated by means of a mirror that reflects the projection image coming from the mask towards the plane to be illuminated. |
| US09632419B2 |
Radiation source
A radiation source having a fuel stream generator (110) that generates and directs a fuel stream (102) along a trajectory towards a plasma formation location (104). A pre-pulse laser radiation assembly directs a first beam of laser radiation (100) at the fuel stream at the plasma formation location to generate a modified fuel target (106). A main pulse laser radiation assembly directs a second beam of laser radiation (108) at the modified fuel target at the plasma formation location to generate a radiation generating plasma (117). A collector (122) collects the radiation and directs it along an optical axis (105) of the radiation source. The first beam of laser radiation being directed toward the fuel stream substantially along the optical axis. |
| US09632418B2 |
Target material supply apparatus for an extreme ultraviolet light source
A target material supply apparatus for an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light source includes a tube that includes a first end, a second end, and a sidewall defined between the first and second ends. At least a portion of an outer surface of the tube includes an electrically insulating material, the first end receives a pressurized target material, and the second end defines an orifice through which the pressurized target material passes to produce a stream of target material droplets. The target material supply apparatus also includes an electrically conductive coating on the outer surface of the tube. The coating is configured to electrically connect the outer surface of the tube to ground to thereby reduce surface charge on the outer surface. |
| US09632414B2 |
Coating liquid to be applied to resist pattern and method for forming reverse pattern
A coating liquid to be applied to resist pattern, which can be used in place of the conventional rinsing liquid. A coating liquid to be applied to a resist pattern having a polymer having a structural unit of the following Formula (1) and a structural unit of the following Formula (2), and a weight average molecular weight of 500 to 3,500, and a solvent containing water as a main component (where R1 is a C1-8 organic group). |
| US09632413B2 |
Apparatus and method for compensating a defect of a channel of a microlithographic projection exposure system
The invention relates to an illumination system of a microlithographic projection exposure apparatus comprising (a) a plurality of channels, each channel guiding a partial beam and at least one channel comprising at least one defect, and (b) at least one optical element arranged within the at least one channel having the at least one defect, the optical element being adapted to at least partially compensate the at least one defect of the partial beam of the channel. |
| US09632409B2 |
Fullerenes
The present disclosure relates to novel fullerene derivatives, positive and negative photoresist compositions prepared therefrom and methods of using them. The derivatives, their photoresist compositions and the methods are ideal for high speed, fine pattern processing using, for example, ultraviolet radiation, extreme ultraviolet radiation, beyond extreme ultraviolet radiation, X-rays, electron beam and other charged particle rays. |
| US09632407B2 |
Mask processing apparatus and mask processing method
According to an embodiment, a mask processing apparatus is provided. The mask processing apparatus includes a stage, a laser light source and a rotary mechanism. The stage is configured to hold a mask formed with a pattern to be transferred to a transfer target substrate. The laser light source is configured to output laser light that is radiated into the mask and thereby alters the mask. The rotary mechanism is configured to rotate the stage in an in-plane direction of a pattern formation surface of the mask. |
| US09632404B2 |
Projection system for enhancing and modifying the appearance of a projection surface
The present disclosure includes a projection system for enhancing color saturation and contrast for a projected image. The projection surface includes a coat containing active materials and the projection system includes a first light source emitting light onto the surface and defining a first image on the surface and a second light source emitting light onto the surface and activating the active materials within the transparent coat to emit visible light of one or more wavelengths. The first light source defines the first image and the visible light emitted from the active materials enhances one or more characteristics of the first image. In another embodiment, the second light source may be activated when the first light source fails to define a backup or static image that may be different or the same as the image produced by the first light source. |
| US09632396B2 |
Camera lens storage and exchange device
A camera lens storage and exchange device according to the present invention includes a body having a first end and an oppositely disposed second end, where both ends are disposed along a longitudinal axis of the body. The device further includes a coupling mount disposed at each of the first and second ends, where each of the coupling mounts may be configured to, with respect to the body, receive thereto, retain therein, and release therefrom, a camera lens. The device further includes a rotational member connected at a mid-point of the body, where the rotational member may be configured to freely rotate the body about a rotational axis of the rotational member. The longitudinal axis of the body may be disposed orthogonal to and intersecting with the rotational axis of the rotational member. |
| US09632395B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling interchangeable lens system camera having reduced delay time to detect lens and accessory device information
A method of controlling an accessory device which is connected with a body unit of an interchangeable lens system camera is described. The method includes: receiving identification information of a first device from the first device through a first communication path that passes through a digital signal processing unit of the accessory device; generating combination information by adding identification information of the accessory device to the identification information of the first device; transmitting the combination information to a second device through the first communication path; and when receiving a switching signal from the second device, switching the first communication path to a second communication path that does not pass through the digital signal processing unit of the accessory device. |
| US09632394B2 |
Image pickup device and focal plane shutter
An image pickup device includes: a focal plane shutter including: a board including an opening; a shutter moving to open and close the opening; an actuator moving the shutter; and a detection portion detecting that the shutter passes through a predetermined position, an image pickup element which light enters through the opening; and a drive control portion that controls the actuator to move the shutter, wherein the drive control portion performs movement control to move the shutter at least until the shutter passes through the predetermined position, and performs brake control to decelerate the shutter while the shutter is moving after the shutter passes through the predetermined position. |
| US09632391B2 |
Wavelength selective switch employing a LCoS device and having reduced crosstalk
An optical device in which crosstalk due to scattering is reduced includes an optical port array having at least one optical input for receiving an optical beam and at least one optical output. The input and outputs extend along a common axis. A dispersion element receives the optical beam from the optical input and spatially separates the optical beam into a plurality of wavelength components. A focusing element focuses the plurality of wavelength components and a programmable optical phase modulator receives the focused plurality of wavelength components. The modulator is configured to steer the wavelength components to a selected one of the optical outputs. The programmable optical phase modulator is oriented with respect to the optical port array so that an axis along which the optical beam is steered is non-coincident with the common axis along which the input and outputs extend. |
| US09632389B2 |
Backplane for electro-optic display
A backplane for an electro-optic display comprising pixels with reduced capacitance. The pixel architecture results in a backplane with some voltage spiking, but well-suited for use with electro-optic media having at least a small threshold for switching, for example, electrophoretic media comprising particles. |
| US09632385B2 |
Electrochromic display device with intermediate display electrode containing electrically conductive fine particle and a method for manufacturing such device
Disclosed is an electrochromic display device including a display substrate, a display electrode provided on the display substrate, a first electrochromic layer provided on the display electrode, an intermediate display electrode provided above the first electrochromic layer separately from the first electrochromic layer, a second electrochromic layer provided on and contacting the intermediate display electrode, an opposed substrate, an opposed electrode provided on the opposed substrate, and an electrolyte solution provided between a surface of the display substrate on which the display electrode is formed and a surface of the opposed substrate on which the opposed electrode is formed, wherein the intermediate display electrode contains a rod-shaped, whisker-shaped, or long-fiber-shaped electrically conductive fine particle, and at least a portion of a space in the electrically conductive fine particle is filled with a material forming the second electrochromic layer. |
| US09632381B2 |
Display panel and display device
A display panel includes a first substrate on which an electrode line and a switching element are disposed, a second substrate positioned opposite the first substrate, a seal provided between the first substrate and the second substrate, a pad electrode that vertically overlaps the seal and is electrically connected to the electrode line, and a side electrode which is connected to one end of the pad electrode and includes a portion positioned on an exterior facing side of the seal. |
| US09632380B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device includes a TFT array substrate (first substrate), a counter substrate (second substrate), a liquid crystal layer, and a common electrode (first electrode), an insulating film, and pixel electrodes 21 (second electrode) that are provided on the TFT array substrate. Each of the pixel electrodes 21 has a plurality of linear electrodes 26 and a first connection portion 27. Each of the linear electrodes 26 has a main line portion 29 and a first bent portion 30. An additional capacitance portion 32 is provided integrally with the first connection portion 27 in a region along an arrangement direction of a plurality of first bent portions 30. |
| US09632376B2 |
Liquid crystal display device including switching element with floating terminal
A liquid crystal display device includes: a first substrate for which a single pixel includes: first, second and third thin film transistors on the first substrate; a pixel electrode including a first subpixel electrode and a second subpixel electrode which are connected to the first thin film transistor and the second thin film transistor, respectively; and a divided reference voltage line connected to the third thin film transistor; a second substrate facing the first substrate; a common electrode on the second substrate; and a liquid crystal layer between the pixel electrode and the common electrode and including liquid crystal molecules. The third thin film transistor includes an electrically floating gate electrode, a source electrode defined by an extended portion of a terminal of the second thin film transistor, and a drain electrode defined by an extended portion of the divided reference voltage line. |
| US09632368B2 |
Liquid crystal display pixel structure and manufacture method thereof
The present invention provides a liquid crystal display pixel structure and a manufacture method thereof. The liquid crystal display pixel structure comprises: a lower substrate, a passivation layer located on an upper surface of the lower substrate, a pixel electrode located on the passivation layer, an upper substrate, and a common electrode located on a lower surface of the upper substrate; each pixel comprises multi domains; in one pixel, the passivation layer comprises at least two trench structures having different depths, and the pixel electrode uninterruptedly covers on the trench structures, the trench structures having different depths divide the one pixel into different areas to realize that liquid crystals in different areas of the one pixel have different twisted angles under the same driving voltage. The liquid crystal display pixel structure of the present invention is capable of improving the color washout phenomenon under wide view angle, and simplifying the driving control circuit and raising the pixel aperture ratio. |
| US09632365B2 |
Display device including black conductive sealing member
A display device includes: a first panel including a common voltage wire on a first substrate, and a light blocking layer which is on the common voltage wire and exposes a portion of the common voltage wire, a second panel facing the first panel and including a common electrode on a second substrate; and a sealant between the first and second panels and electrically connecting the common electrode of the second panel and the common voltage wire of the first panel to each other. The sealant includes a first sealing portion having a first color and a second sealing portion having a second color different from the first color of the first sealing portion. The second sealing portion overlaps the exposed portion of the common voltage wire of the first panel and electrically connects the common electrode of the second panel to the common voltage wire. |
| US09632364B2 |
Display apparatus
A display apparatus includes a first substrate having a pixel region and a peripheral region surrounding the pixel region, the first substrate including a pixel disposed in the pixel region, a second substrate opposite to the first substrate, and a sealing member including a plurality of seals disposed on the peripheral region, the sealing member encapsulating the pixel region between first substrate and the second substrate. |
| US09632357B2 |
Display device
A display device comprises a display panel and a backlight unit. The backlight unit comprises: a bottom cover; a light source module mounted on the bottom cover and including: light sources arranged at uniform intervals; and a circuit board on which the light sources are mounted; a reflective layer placed above the light source module to reflect the light emitted from the light sources towards the display panel; a screening layer disposed over the reflective layer at a distance therefrom and having patterned holes to allow only a portion of the light reflected from the reflective layer to be transmitted; and a spacer disposed between the reflective layer and the screening layer to form a light guide layer defined by a vacant space between the reflective layer and the screening layer and to maintain the uniform height of the light guide layer. |
| US09632355B2 |
Display device
A display device includes a backlight assembly including a light emitting unit to emit a light and a display panel receiving the light and displaying an image. The light emitting unit includes a light emitting diode package, an optical lens, and a reflective layer. The light emitting diode package includes at least two light emitting diodes to emit lights having different colors. The optical lens covers the light emitting diode package and includes a first lens surface and a second lens surface changing an optical path of the light incident through the first lens surface. The reflective layer is partially disposed on the first lens surface. |
| US09632351B2 |
Liquid crystal display panel and manufacturing method thereof
Provided are a liquid crystal display panel and a manufacturing method thereof, and more particularly, a liquid crystal display panel including white pixels and a manufacturing method thereof. The liquid crystal display panel includes: a first substrate and a second substrate facing each other; a liquid crystal layer positioned between the first substrate and the second substrate; a plurality of color filters positioned on the first substrate and representing different colors from each other, in which at least two of the plurality of color filters overlap with each other on the first substrate to form an overlapping portion, and the overlapping portion forms a first spacer; a transparent filter positioned on the first substrate and positioned in a transmitting area of a white pixel; and a second spacer including the same material as the transparent filter. |
| US09632347B2 |
Display substrate, mask for manufacturing the same, and method of manufacturing the display substrate
A display substrate includes a substrate and a light blocking element. The light blocking element is disposed on the substrate. The light blocking element includes a first light blocking portion, a second light blocking portion, and a column spacer portion. The first light blocking portion includes an upper surface at a first height. The second light blocking portion is disposed adjacent to the first light blocking portion. The second light blocking portion includes an upper surface at a second height. The second height is less than the first height. The column spacer portion is disposed adjacent to the second light blocking portion. The column spacer portion includes an upper surface at a third height. The third height is greater than the first height. |
| US09632344B2 |
Use of LED or OLED array to implement integrated combinations of touch screen tactile, touch gesture sensor, color image display, hand-image gesture sensor, document scanner, secure optical data exchange, and fingerprint processing capabilities
A system and method for implementing a display which also serves as one or more of a tactile user interface touchscreen, proximate hand gesture sensor, light field sensor, lensless imaging camera, document scanner, fingerprint scanner, and secure optical communications interface. In an implementation, an OLED array can be used for light sensing as well as light emission functions. In one implementation a single OLED array is used as the only optoelectronic user interface element in the system. In another implementation two OLED arrays are used, each performing and/or optimized from different functions. In another implementation, an LCD and an OLED array are used in various configurations. The resulting arrangements allow for sharing of both optoelectric devices as well as associated electronics and computational processors, and are accordingly advantageous for use in handheld devices such as cellphone, smartphones, PDAs, tablet computers, and other such devices. |
| US09632340B2 |
Display device
A display device according to an embodiment includes a display panel, a first supporting member and a second supporting member that support the display panel, the first supporting member and the second supporting member being disposed so as to sandwich the display panel from a front surface side and a back surface side, the first supporting member and the second supporting member being mated with each other in a mated section, and a bonding member disposed so as to cover the mated section, the bonding member bonding the first supporting member and the second supporting member together, in which a non-adhesive region is formed in a region on an adhesive surface of the bonding member, the region facing the mated section. |
| US09632338B2 |
Liquid crystal device, liquid crystal device driving method, and electronic apparatus
In a liquid crystal device according to the invention, a pre-tilt angle of a liquid crystal layer is greater on an opposing electrode side than on a pixel electrode side. A high potential and a low potential relative to an opposing electrode potential are alternately applied to pixel electrodes through switching elements; and the opposing electrode potential is higher than a standard potential, the standard potential being a potential in which the average potential between the high potential and the low potential has been shifted by an amount equivalent to the average value of the amount of change in the potential of the pixel electrodes caused by parasitic capacitance in the switching elements when the high potential is applied to the pixel electrodes and the amount of change in the potential of the pixel electrodes caused by parasitic capacitance when the low potential is applied to the pixel electrodes. |
| US09632337B2 |
Method for manufacturing a liquid crystal display panel and a manufacturing device therefor
A manufacturing device for a liquid crystal display panel includes a stage including a first stage part and second stage part. The stage is configured to support a substrate laminate. A knife includes an entrance portion and a rigidity securing portion. The knife is configured to peel a support substrate of the substrate laminate. The stage is configured to rotate in a direction parallel with a surface of the stage. The rigidity securing portion of the knife is thicker than an entrance portion of the knife. |
| US09632331B2 |
Eyewear having a flexural member
An eyewear article having a flexing portion including first and second longitudinally disposed ribs is disclosed. In another exemplary embodiment, the flexing portion has a maximum height (H), in a direction parallel to a mid-sagittal plane bisecting the eyewear into imaginary left and right halves, that is greater than 10 mm. The eyewear article of the present invention provides a balance of fit and comfort suitable for a range of user head sizes. |
| US09632330B2 |
Eyewear with locking lens frame
A lens frame locking mechanism comprises a temple and a link member. The temple is pivotally coupled to a periphery of the lens frame, for example at a first pivot attachment. The link member is pivotally coupled to the temple and to the periphery of the lens frame, for example at second and third pivot attachments. The temple is configured to pivot with respect to the lens frame about the first pivot attachment, and the link member pivots into a locking position defined with respect to the periphery of the lens frame. |
| US09632329B2 |
Method of manufacturing a metal frame for spectacles and frame manufactured by that method
A method of manufacturing a metal frame for spectacles with a front frame, a pair of lens-carrying eyepieces of metal wire and a central bridge for support on the nose, is described, the bridge being obtained in a single piece, by bending a wire of metal material, and having a pair of corresponding lengths of wire which are capable of being attached to corresponding lens-carrying eyepieces, a recess being provided by milling on each of the lengths, each recess having at least a partial interference fit with a respective surface portion of the metal wire of the corresponding lens-carrying eyepieces, each of the lengths being welded to the corresponding portion of lens-carrying eyepieces at the location of the respective recess to attach each lens-carrying eyepiece to the central bridge. |
| US09632327B2 |
Mirror tilt actuation
Some embodiments include an image sensor and a zoom lens assembly including a plurality of movable lens elements arranged to be moved independent of one another. In some embodiments, the plurality of movable lens elements share an optical axis. Some embodiments include a lens and mirror assembly for admitting light to the miniature camera. The lens and mirror assembly includes a folded optics arrangement such that light enters the lens and mirror assembly through a first lens with an optical axis of the first lens orthogonal to the plurality of moveable lens elements. The lens and mirror assembly includes a mirror for folding the path of light from the optical axis of the first lens to the optical axis of the plurality of movable lens elements, and the lens and mirror assembly further includes an actuator for tilting the mirror. |
| US09632326B2 |
Collimator comprising a prismatic layer stack, and lighting unit comprising such collimator
The invention provides a collimator comprising a prismatic layer stack. The prismatic layer stack comprises a first prismatic layer comprising ID arranged first prisms, with first prism tops having first prism top angels, and first grooves, having first groove angles; and a second prismatic layer comprising ID arranged second prisms, with second prism tops having second prism top angels, and second grooves, having second groove angles. The first prismatic layer and the second prismatic layer are in a crossed configuration. Further, the first and second prism tops of the first and the second prismatic layers point in the same direction. The first and second prism top angels and the first and second groove angles are selected from the range of 120-160°. |
| US09632325B2 |
Liquid crystal slit grating and stereoscopic display device
The present invention discloses a liquid crystal slit grating and a stereoscopic display device, the liquid crystal slit grating includes a first grating substrate and a second grating substrate facing each other, and a plurality of photo spacers supporting between the first grating substrate and the second grating substrate; the stereoscopic display device includes a display panel and said liquid crystal slit grating which is parallel to each other. The liquid crystal slit grating of the present invention provides conditions for accurately controlling effects of the photo spacers on light transmittance or accurately controlling crosstalk caused by the photo spacers. The stereoscopic display device of the present invention provides conditions for improving 3D effect of stereoscopic display device during three dimensionally displaying. |
| US09632315B2 |
Head-mounted display apparatus employing one or more fresnel lenses
Head-mounted displays (100) are disclosed which include a frame (107), an image display system (110) supported by the frame (107), and a Fresnel lens system (115) supported by the frame (107). The HMD (100) can employ a reflective optical surface, e.g., a free-space, ultra-wide angle, reflective optical surface (a FS/UWA/RO surface) (120), supported by the frame (107), with the Fresnel lens system (115) being located between the image display system (110) and the reflective optical surface (120). The Fresnel lens system (115) can include at least one curved Fresnel lens element (820). Fresnel lens elements (30) for use in HMDs are also disclosed which have facets (31) separated by edges (32) which lie along radial lines (33) which during use of the HMD pass through a center of rotation (34) of a nominal user's eye (35) or through the center of the eye's lens (36) or are normal to the surface of the eye's cornea. |
| US09632313B1 |
Augmented reality user interface facilitating fulfillment
Disclosed are various implementations for updating information displayed in a user interface for a worker in a fulfillment center. Information changing relative to a previous user interface can be provided in response to location data that indicates the worker's location within a fulfillment center. |
| US09632312B1 |
Optical combiner with curved diffractive optical element
An optical apparatus includes a first optical element having an eye-ward facing surface and an external world facing surface substantially opposite of the eye-ward facing surface. The optical apparatus also includes a diffractive optical element (“DOE”) disposed to substantially follow a curvature of the eye-ward facing surface of the first optical element. The DOE includes a partially reflective diffraction grating configured to direct a portion of image light in an eye-ward direction where the image light is incident through an eye facing side of the DOE. The curvature of the eye-ward facing surface of the first optical element has an optical power configured to collimate the image light within an eyebox sized area. |
| US09632311B2 |
Head-up display system and head-up display
A head-up display system for display on a windowpane includes: an image-generating display device configured to generate an image; and an optical system configured to deflect the generated image onto the windowpane. The image-generating display device is an electronic paper display device, the electronic paper display device including a curved image-generating surface having a curvature, the curvature of the image-generating surface being adjustable to adjust the curvature of the image-generating surface so as to compensate for image distortion occurring due to a curvature of the windowpane. |
| US09632309B2 |
Piezoelectric and electromagnetic type two-dimensional optical deflector and its manufacturing method
In a two-dimensional optical deflector including: a mirror; two first torsion bars coupled to the mirror along a first axis; an inner frame surrounding the mirror; two piezoelectric actuators each coupled between the first torsion bars and supported by the inner frame; an outer frame surrounding the inner frame; and two second torsion bars coupled between the inner frame and the outer frame along a second axis; a first permanent magnet layer formed on at least a part of a rear-side surface of the inner frame. A base supports the outer frame. A coil is formed at the base. A magnetic flux generated from the coil interacts with a magnetic flux of the first permanent magnetic layer. |
| US09632308B2 |
Method of fabricating a MEMS device
A microelectromechanical system (MEMS) is comprised of a micromirror device attached to a semiconductor device. A first spacer layer is formed and patterned to form hinge via openings. A hinge metal is deposited above the first spacer layer to form the hinge and the hinge vias. A capping layer is formed above the hinge metal and hinge vias. A second spacer layer is formed above the capping layer and patterned to form a mirror via. The capping layer protects the hinge metal from the developer solution used in the patterning step. The capping layer is removed from within the mirror via opening. Another metal layer is deposited above the second spacer layer to form the mirror and the mirror via. |
| US09632305B2 |
Lens cap adapter for image capture device
An optical device such as a telescope may be connected to a camera through the use of a camera that acts as a lens cap for the optical system. The optical device may have an eyepiece and a housing within which a lens is retained. The adapter may have a cover portion, a housing attachment feature, an eyepiece attachment feature, and one or more camera attachment features. The cover portion may cover an end of the housing, and may have an imaging aperture. The housing attachment feature may be positioned at a periphery of the cover portion, and may attach the cover portion to the housing. The eyepiece attachment feature may be positioned proximate the imaging aperture to attach the cover portion to the eyepiece. The camera attachment features may facilitate attachment of a camera to the cover portion in alignment with the imaging aperture. |
| US09632304B2 |
Direct view optical sight with integrated laser system
A direct view optical sight including an integrated laser rangefinder. One example of the sight includes an eyepiece, an objective providing an optical aperture and configured to direct electromagnetic radiation from a viewed scene to the eyepiece, an erector tube assembly coupled between the eyepiece and the objective, the laser rangefinder configured to transmit and receive laser radiation, and a beam combiner assembly mounted to the erector tube assembly and positioned between the erector tube assembly and the objective, the beam combiner assembly configured to combine the laser radiation and the electromagnetic radiation to allow the laser rangefinder to transmit and receive the laser radiation via the optical aperture of the objective, and to maintain optical alignment of the laser rangefinder and the viewed scene during movement of the erector tube assembly. |
| US09632300B2 |
Image processing apparatus, microscope system, image processing method, and computer-readable recording medium
An image processing apparatus includes an image input unit configured to input a plurality of images acquired by imaging a specimen stained with non-fluorescent dye at a plurality of wavelength bands that are different from one another and a characteristic amount calculation unit configured to calculate a characteristic amount representing auto-fluorescence emitted by the specimen based on the plurality of images. |
| US09632293B2 |
Miniaturized optical zoom lens system
The present application provides a micromechanical (MEMS) based zoom lens system, for use in miniature device applications, such as miniature electronic imaging devices. The MEMS-based zoom lens system comprises at least four optical elements, or two Alvarez or Lohmann lenses, that are configured for passage of optical signals therethrough along an optical signal path. Each optical element is MEMS-driven and displaceable in a direction substantially transverse to the optical signal path. In use, the transverse displacement of the optical elements vary an overall focal length of the MEMS zoom lens system such as to provide an optical zoom function. A method of manufacturing a MEMS zoom lens system is also provided in a further aspect. |
| US09632291B2 |
Infrared optical system, infrared image capturing apparatus
There is provided an infrared optical system includes a light collecting lens having a curved light collecting surface for collecting infrared light incident from an object side, the lens being made of resin having a stepped shape being gradually deeper from periphery to center; and an optical path length correction element for correcting a difference in an optical path length produced by the stepped shape of the light collecting lens. The above-described stepped shape is provided to allow the lens to be thinner than the lens having the plano-convex shape. In other words, the infrared transmittance of the optical system is improved. In addition, the optical path length correction element can correct a difference in an optical path length produced by the stepped shape of the light collecting lens. |
| US09632289B2 |
Macro lens system and imaging apparatus
A macro lens system includes, in this order from an object side: a positive first lens group; a negative second lens group; a positive third lens group; a positive fourth lens group; a positive fifth lens group; and a negative sixth lens group. The first lens group is constituted by three lenses. The second lens group, the fourth lens group, and the fifth lens group are independently moved in the direction of the optical axes thereof when focusing from an object at infinity to an object at a most proximate distance. |
| US09632278B2 |
Imaging-capturing and light-sensing optical apparatus
An image-capturing and light-sensing optical apparatus has both of an image capturing function and a light sensing function. The image-capturing and light-sensing optical apparatus includes a first optical lens module, a second optical lens module and a casing. The casing has a first opening. The first optical lens module includes a first optical lens and a first optical sensor. According to the working distance or the equivalent focal length of the first optical lens module, the size of the first optical lens and the size of the first optical sensor, the maximum field of view is acquired. Consequently, the size of the first opening is determined, and the casing is slim. Under this circumstance, the image-capturing and light-sensing optical apparatus complies with the purpose of miniaturization. |
| US09632277B2 |
Image pickup lens unit and manufacturing method thereof
A small, high-performance image pickup lens unit having an IR cut filter that can be incorporated reliably therein while avoiding an increase in processing complexity. A sealing portion 14 is disposed between a lens 11 and an IR cut filter 12 in order to seal an internal space IS sandwiched between the lens 11 and the IR cut filter 12, and therefore a holder 40 can be molded integrally with the lens 11 and the IR cut filter 12 incorporated therein while preventing liquid resin MP from flowing in between the lens 11 and the IR cut filter 12. By molding the holder 40 integrally with the lens 11 and the IR cut filter 12 incorporated therein in this manner, an image pickup lens unit 100 can be reduced in size, and reductions in the number of components and the number of assembly man-hours can be achieved. |
| US09632271B2 |
Modularly mountable cable management systems and associated methods
Exemplary embodiments are directed to modular cable management systems for a rack, the rack including frame members. The systems can include a first support plate and a second support plate. The first and second support plates can be mountable in a horizontal orientation relative to the frame members of the rack. The systems can include a media patching assembly mountable in a vertical orientation relative to the rack. Embodiments are also directed to methods of mounting cable management systems to a support structure or a rack. |
| US09632270B2 |
Fiber optic housings configured for tool-less assembly, and related components and methods
Fiber optic housings configured for tool-less assembly, and related components and methods are disclosed. A fiber optic housing is provided having a top, a bottom, a right side, and a left side which removably attach to each other tool-lessly, and by other than external fastening means, thereby defining at least one interior chamber configured to support fiber optic equipment. The top, bottom, right side, and left side may be removably attached to each other by using a snap attachment integral to at least one of the bottom, the right side, and the left side. One or more mounting brackets and/or strain relief brackets may be attached to the fiber optic housing by other than external fastening means, which may be done by using a quick snap attachment integral to at least one of the sides of the fiber optic housing and the mounting brackets and/or strain relief brackets. |
| US09632269B1 |
Systems for stacking modular fiber optic cabinets, and related devices, components, and methods
A modular fiber optic cabinet system comprises a fiber optic cabinet and a transition skirt. The fiber optic cabinet comprises a cabinet top support portion, a cabinet bottom support portion, a pair of cabinet sidewalls extending therebetween, and a pair of downwardly extending cabinet flange portions. The transition skirt comprises a skirt top support portion, a skirt bottom support portion, a pair of skirt side walls extending therebetween, and a pair of downwardly extending skirt flange portions. The skirt bottom support portion of the transition skirt is configured to matingly engage with the top support portion of the fiber optic cabinet such that the skirt flange portions of the transition skirt cover respective portions of the cabinet side walls. The skirt top support portion of the transition skirt is similarly configured to matingly engage with the cabinet bottom support portion of the fiber optic cabinet. |
| US09632268B2 |
Pressure actuated sealant assembly
An enclosure includes a housing and a sealing unit that fits within a sealing unit opening of the housing. The sealing unit provides a seal around cable ports and provides a peripheral seal between the housing and the sealing unit. The sealing unit can include a sealant arrangement and an actuation arrangement for pressurizing the sealant arrangement within the sealing unit opening. The actuation arrangement can include inner and outer pressurization structures between which the sealant arrangement is positioned. The actuation arrangement includes first and second actuators each movable between a non-actuated position and an actuated position. When the first and second actuators are moved towards the actuated positions, the first and second actuators generate first and second seal pressurization forces that press the sealant arrangement between the first and second pressurization structures, and the first and second seal pressurization forces are transferred through respective first and second springs. |
| US09632263B2 |
Opto-electric hybrid board and method of manufacturing same
In an opto-electric hybrid board according to the present invention, an electrical interconnect line and an optical element are provided on a first surface of a substrate, and an optical waveguide optically coupled to the optical element is provided on a second surface of the substrate. A reinforcement layer for reinforcing the substrate is integrally mounted on the first surface of the substrate on which the electrical interconnect line and the optical element are provided, with an adhesive layer therebetween. A connector pad part for externally electrically connecting the electrical interconnect line is provided on the second surface of the substrate on which the optical waveguide is provided. With this configuration, the reinforcement layer is mounted on the substrate with high strength without adverse effects exerted on the optical element and the optical waveguide. |
| US09632259B2 |
Identification chip holding apparatus, optical fiber splicing and distribution module, optical fiber management apparatus, and method for assembling optical fiber management apparatus
The present invention relates to an identification holding apparatus, an optical fiber splicing and distribution module, an optical fiber management apparatus, and a method for assembling an optical fiber management apparatus. The optical fiber management apparatus includes the identification chip holding apparatus and the optical fiber splicing and distribution module, where a snap-on structure of the identification chip holding apparatus is fitted into an optical fiber connector, and a chip accommodating structure of the identification chip holding apparatus is installed in a hollow groove; and a chip in the chip accommodating structure implements external communication by using the chip accommodating structure and a printed circuit board. The optical fiber management apparatus in the embodiments of the present invention has good compatibility with a low cost and allows a convenient and quick operation of upgrading a common network to an intelligent network without interrupting a fiber-optic communication service. |
| US09632257B2 |
Plug-in connection
A plug part for a plug-in connection, in particular of optical conductors, includes a plug housing, in which a plug insert having at least one plug pin for receiving a conductor is arranged. The plug part can be inserted into a correspondingly designed socket part in an insertion direction (A), and includes a locking means for releasably locking the plug part in the socket part. The plug part further has an unlocking means, by means of which the locking of the locking means to the socket part can be released. The plug part includes a protective apparatus for protecting the end face of the plug pin and for moving from a closed position with a covered end face to an open position with an exposed end face by inserting the plug part into the socket part by interacting with the socket part. |
| US09632253B1 |
Variable optical attenuator with a transmitting non-attenuating diffracting prism
A variable optical attenuator is provided. The variable optical attenuator includes an input optical fiber, an output optical fiber, a non-attenuating, transmission-type diffracting prism and a prism positioning system. The input optical fiber, the non-attenuating, transmission-type diffracting prism and the output optical fiber are optically arranged such that an optical path from the input core of the input optical fiber to the output core of the output optical fiber passes through the non-attenuating, transmission-type diffracting prism. The non-attenuating, transmission-type diffracting prism diffracts an optical signal propagating from the input optical fiber to the output optical fiber such that an input portion of the optical path is non-linear with an output portion of the optical path. The prism positioning system changes a pose of the non-attenuating, transmission-type diffracting prism within the optical path thereby attenuating the optical signal. |
| US09632242B2 |
Light delivery guide
A waveguide that includes a first cladding layer, the first cladding layer having an index of refraction, n3; a gradient index layer positioned adjacent the first cladding layer; an assist layer positioned adjacent the gradient index layer, the assist layer having an index of refraction, n2; a core layer positioned adjacent the assist layer, the core layer having an index of refraction, n1; and a second cladding layer, the second cladding layer having an index of refraction, n4, wherein n1 is greater than n2, n3, and n4; and n2 is greater than n3 and n4. |
| US09632234B2 |
Light guide plate, backlight unit including the same and liquid crystal display including the backlight unit
A light guide plate includes an upper surface, a lower surface facing the upper surface, a first side surface connecting the lower surface to the upper surface, the first side surface including an inclined surface defining an acute angle with respect to the upper surface, and a second side surface connecting the upper surface and the lower surface, the second side surface being a rounded surface and facing the first side surface. |
| US09632231B2 |
Light guide plate, backlight module, and display device
A light guide plate includes a light exit surface, a reflection surface opposite to the light exit surface, and at least one light incidence surface connecting to the light exit surface and the reflection surface. The reflection surface includes a plurality of minute projection structures projecting toward interior of the light guide plate. Each of the minute projection structures includes at least two side faces coated with a high reflectivity material. The at least two high reflectivity material coated side faces form at least one included angle pointing toward the at least one light incidence surface. The minute projection structures have a distribution density that is decreased with an increase of a distance thereof from the light sources. |
| US09632229B2 |
Optical film, barrier film, light conversion member, backlight unit, and liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device having high transmittance and a high color reproduction region, which includes a backlight unit including a light conversion member; and a liquid crystal cell and in which the light conversion member includes a light conversion layer containing a fluorescent material and an optical film arranged on both surfaces of the light conversion layer, the optical film includes an optical thin film forming an air interface, and a layer directly adjacent to the optical thin film, the liquid crystal display device satisfies n(535) |
| US09632228B2 |
Light source device and display apparatus
Provided are a light source device which may disperse a force shifted in a plane direction due to a difference in thermal expansion by a reflection sheet so as to maintain good display quality, and a display apparatus using the light source device. The light source device includes a transparent plate used as a light guide plate, a light source disposed to face a part of a peripheral surface of the transparent plate along the part thereof, and a reflection sheet attached to one wide surface of the transparent plate, and the reflection sheet is provided with a plurality of cut lines formed in a prescribed range including a center thereof at a prescribed interval. Thereby, even if the transparent plate and the reflection sheet are thermally expanded in relation to the different expansion coefficients from each other, it is possible to prevent the reflection sheet from being peeled off from the transparent plate. |
| US09632225B2 |
Zoned optical waveplate
A zoned waveplate has a series of transversely stacked birefringent zones alternating with non-birefringent zones. The birefringent and non-birefringent zones are integrally formed upon an AR-coated face of a single substrate by patterning the AR coated face of the substrate with zero-order sub-wavelength form-birefringent gratings configured to have a target retardance. The layer structure of the AR coating is designed to provide the target birefringence in the patterned zones and the reflection suppression. |
| US09632211B2 |
Precipitation sensor, especially a hail sensor, and method for detecting a precipitation particle
A method for detecting a precipitation particle, and a precipitation sensor, especially a hail sensor, which includes an impact body, a transducer for registering vibrations caused by impact of at least one precipitation particle on the impact body, and a device for evaluating the electrical signals generated by the transducer. The evaluation device is provided for the purpose of separately evaluating the signals generated by the transducer in successive measurement time intervals after impact to determine the kinetic energy of the precipitation particle. |
| US09632209B2 |
Proximity sensor with light blocking compound
A sensor comprising a light emitter and light detector directly covered and encapsulated by a layer of light blocking compound. The light blocking compound can be thick enough between the light emitter and light detector to block substantially all light emitted by the light emitter from reaching the light detector directly, but be thin enough above the light emitter and light detector to allow at least some level of light emitted by the light emitter to escape out of the sensor, be reflected by another object, re-enter the sensor, and survive passing through the light blocking compound to enter the light detector. |
| US09632208B2 |
Rotational gravity gradiometer
A rotational gravity gradiometer includes a first member, a second member, a drive member and a motor. The first member is disposed above the second member orthogonal to and centered with respect to the second member. The first member includes support arms extending from the center of the first member. The second member includes a second pair of support arms extending from a center point of the second member. A mass unit is attached at a distal end of the respective first member and second member. A sensor element is attached between each mass unit a connection point of the opposite member for sensing movement of the mass unit. The drive member is coupled to the motor to drive the first member and the second member rotationally. The respective sensor elements generate a signal in response to deflection of the support arm induced by an external mass. |
| US09632203B2 |
Non-resonant logging tools with H-bridge switching
Methods and systems are provided for tools having non-resonant circuits for analyzing a formation and/or a sample. For example, nuclear magnetic resonance and resistivity tools can make use of a non-resonant excitation coil and/or a detection coil. These coils can achieve desired frequencies by the use of switches, thereby removing the requirement of tuning circuits that are typical in conventional tools. |
| US09632201B2 |
Multi-axial antenna and method for use in downhole tools
Embodiments of a multi-axial antenna system and system for measuring subsurface formations are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed. In some embodiments, the multi-axial antenna system comprising at least two co-located coils wound around a torroidal-shaped bobbin. Each coil generates a magnetic field in a mutually orthogonal direction. Signals provided to the coils may be adjusted to simulate a tilted-coil antenna system. |
| US09632198B2 |
Calibrated electromagnetic survey system
An airborne electromagnetic survey system that determines a calibration factor for its receiver system by combining low frequency sensitivity for its magnetic induction sensors, with measurements of high frequency response obtained using calibration loops. |
| US09632193B2 |
Compressive sensing
Computer-implemented method for determining optimal sampling grid during seismic data reconstruction includes: a) constructing an optimization model, via a computing processor, given by minu∥Su∥1s.t. ∥Ru−b∥2≦σ wherein S is a discrete transform matrix, b is seismic data on an observed grid, u is seismic data on a reconstruction grid, and matrix R is a sampling operator; b) defining mutual coherence as μ ≤ C S m ( log n ) 6 , wherein C is a constant, S is a cardinality of Su, m is proportional to number of seismic traces on the observed grid, and n is proportional to number of seismic traces on the reconstruction grid; c) deriving a mutual coherence proxy, wherein the mutual coherence proxy is a proxy for mutual coherence when S is over-complete and wherein the mutual coherence proxy is exactly the mutual coherence when S is a Fourier transform; and d) determining a sample grid r*=arg minr μ(r). |
| US09632191B2 |
Sound source detection device
Disclosed is a sound source detection device 1 which compares information of sound collected by sound collectors 13, 14, 15, and 16 to detect a predetermined sound source. The sound source detection device 1 includes a target determination unit 22 which arranges sound collectors at the same distance from a noise source inside a mobile object to determine a detection-target region of a sound source, and a sound source detection unit 25 which detects the direction of the predetermined sound source using information of sound of the detection-target region determined by the target determination unit 22. Accordingly, the sound source detection unit 25 does not determine sound input to the sound collectors 13, 14, 15, and 16 at the same timing as a detection target, making it possible to eliminate the influence of a noise source other than a sound source inside the mobile object in advance. |
| US09632189B2 |
Energy-sensitive fast neutron imaging detector and method for energy-sensitive fast neutron detection
An energy-sensitive imaging detector for fast-neutrons includes energy-selective radiator foil stacks converting neutrons into recoil protons. The foils are separated by gas-filled gaps and formed of two interconnected layers: a hydrogen-rich layer such as a polyethylene layer for neutron-to-proton conversion, and a metal foil layer, such as an aluminum layer, defining a proton energy cut-off and limiting a proton emission angle. Energetic recoil protons emerging from the radiator foil release electrons in surrounding gas in the gaps. An electric field efficiently drifts the electrons through the gaps. An electron detector with position sensitive readout, based on Micro-Pattern Gaseous Detector technologies (such as THick Gaseous Electron Multipliers—THGEM) or other measures provides electron amplification in gas. The charge detector has a dedicated imaging data-acquisition system detecting the drifted electrons thereby sensing the position of the original impinging neutrons. |
| US09632187B2 |
Modular positron emission tomography kit
Systems and methods for a positron emission tomography (PET) kit are described. A PET detector kit may include a gantry, a plurality of PET detector modules, and an event processing device. A PET detector module may include a housing, a crystal, a light detector, and a communication component. The housing may include at least one connective element configured to removably and adjustably couple the PET detector module to the gantry. The crystal may be located within the housing. The light detector may be configured to detect light emitted by the crystal. The communication component may be configured to communicate data from the at least one light detector to an event processing device. The event processing device may receive data from the plurality of PET detector modules and may cause the one or more processors to determine coincidence events based on the received data. |
| US09632185B2 |
Scintillator panel and method for manufacturing the same
The present invention provides a scintillator panel which is provided with a narrow-width barrier rib with high accuracy in a large area, and also has high luminous efficiency and realizes clear image quality. The present invention provides a scintillator panel including a sheet-like substrate, a barrier rib provided on the substrate, and a scintillator layer filled in cells divided by the barrier rib, wherein the barrier rib is made of a material containing a low melting point glass as a main component, and the scintillator layer is made of a phosphor and a binder resin. |
| US09632183B2 |
Mitigation of radio frequency interference (RFI) in global positioning system (GPS) signals
A technology is provided for reducing pulsed radio frequency interference. The GPS signal may be received at a GPS device. The GPS device may include a GPS receiver. The GPS signal may include a plurality of sign and magnitude bits. Pulsed RFI may be detected in the GPS signal based on samples of the magnitude bits in the GPS signal. The pulsed RFI received at the GPS receiver may be reduced by communicating a blank signal when the samples of the magnitude bits indicate the pulsed RFI. |
| US09632174B2 |
Apparatus for testing performance of synthetic aperture radar
An apparatus for testing the performance of a synthetic aperture radar is provided. The apparatus for testing the performance of a synthetic aperture radar includes: a three-axis motion platform that is coupled to an antenna and driven in roll, pitch, and yaw directions so as to reproduce motion components generated from a pointing plane of the antenna; a target simulator configured to reproduce a ground target; and a system simulator that allows the three-axis motion platform and the target simulator to work in conjunction with each other in real time, and controls the three-axis motion platform and the target simulator. Here, the three-axis motion platform may include a three-axis driver that determines the attitude of the three-axis motion platform, based on position and speed information received from the system simulator. The target simulator may include a target modulator that adjusts the amplitude of an output signal, performs range and phase delays, and reproduces a Doppler component, based on simulation target information received from the system simulator. |
| US09632169B2 |
Using inertial navigation for calibration of indoor positioning system
A method and apparatus for using inertial navigation for obtaining calibration data for an indoor positioning system are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises tracking motion of a device between known locations within a structure using inertial navigation, collecting a plurality of Wi-Fi signatures with the device while tracking the motion of the device between the known locations, and matching each of the plurality of Wi-Fi signatures to a point between the known locations, where the matched Wi-Fi signatures are for use in comparing to Wi-Fi signatures being received by the indoor positioning system to identify an indoor location of a device within the structure. |
| US09632168B2 |
Visual disruption system, method, and computer program product
Aspects of the disclosed subject matter involve airborne-based systems, methods, and computer program products for optimizing a laser-based visual disruption countermeasure scan pattern. The scan pattern can be comprised of a plurality of lasers each with their own scan pattern and may be used to disrupt an optical system of a weapon or an individual. Based on the scan patterns and/or data used to generate the scan patterns, the shape or intensity of the scan pattern or patterns can be modified. |
| US09632165B2 |
System and method for identifying and tracking 3D location of precast components
A 3-dimensional (3D) precast locating system for identifying and tracking 3D location, that includes ground elevation and geographical location, of a precast, is provided. The system comprises an RFID tag embedded within the precast, a precast lifting machinery having a hook for lifting the precast, wherein a 3D location of the lifting machinery is predetermined as a reference, and an RFID reader attached to the lifting machinery for identifying the precast by operationally reading the RFID tag of the lifted precast. The system further comprises a sensor assembly for detecting an instant 3D location of the hook with reference to the predetermined 3D location of the lifting machinery and a position translational controller for deriving an instant 3D location of the lifted precast based on the 3D location of the hook detected by the sensor assembly, with reference to the predetermined 3D location of the lifting machinery. |
| US09632163B2 |
Method and system for calibrating a shunt resistor
A shunt resistor includes: two measuring terminals for applying a measuring current flowing through the shunt resistor along a main flow direction; slot structures dividing the shunt resistor along the main flow direction to include two side flow areas of respective first widths and a main flow area of a second width; and two calibration terminals connected to the side flow areas. A circuit connected to the measuring terminals is designed to detect, and generate a signal based on, a measuring current flowing through the shunt resistor. A calibration device connected to the calibration terminals is designed to apply a reference voltage or current to the calibration terminals, and ascertain a calibration voltage based on a falling voltage across those terminals. A correction circuit connected to the calibration device and the detection circuit is designed to correct the signal generated by the detection circuit based on the detected calibration voltage. |
| US09632161B2 |
Method and magnetic resonance system for time-dependent intensity correction of diffusion-weighted MR images
In a method and magnetic resonance (MR) apparatus for time-dependent intensity correction of diffusion-weighted MR images that are acquired with a sequence of different diffusion gradient fields, different diffusion gradient fields are associated with at least one group, with the association with groups being established so that the diffusion gradient fields that are associated with the same group satisfy an orthogonality criterion. For each group, an MR result image is created from the MR images associated with the group, such that the MR result image has a suppressed direction dependency of the diffusion weighting in comparison to the constituent MR images. An intensity correction can be made based on the multiple MR result images and used to correct the constituent MR images. |
| US09632160B2 |
Determination of a pulse sequence for a magnetic resonance system
In a method and a pulse sequence determination device to determine a pulse sequence for a magnetic resonance system, control protocol parameter values are initially acquired. A determination of k-space trajectory node points within k-space then takes place in a processor on the basis of the control protocol parameter values. The determination of the pulse sequence then takes place on the basis of the k-space trajectory node points. A method for operating a magnetic resonance system uses such a pulse sequence, and a magnetic resonance system embodies such a pulse sequence determination device. |
| US09632159B2 |
Automated spectral fat saturation
A method includes recording a magnetic resonance (MR) spectrum with the aid of a high frequency (HF) coil and a magnetic resonance tomography (MRT) device. A static magnetic field results in a recording volume of the MRT device. The method also includes an automatic analysis of the MR spectrum by searching for two resonant signals in the form of a fat peak, a water peak, and a minimum between the fat peak and the water peak. Such an automatic analysis is used for an automatic decision as a function of a predeterminable criterion, as to whether a series, including a plurality of acts, or a single act is performed. The homogeneity of the static magnetic field is adjusted with the aid of at least one shim coil of the MRT device, and an HF pulse is calculated for fat saturation as a function of the result of the search. |
| US09632157B2 |
Method and apparatus for 3D magnetic resonance imaging
The present invention discloses a 3-dimension magnetic resonance imaging method which comprises: applying a slab selection gradient to a subject; transmitting a radiofrequency pulse to the subject, and exciting a slab of the subject to produce magnetic resonance signals with a continuous frequency bandwidth; performing a spatial encoding gradient across three dimensions to encode the magnetic resonance signals, wherein an equivalent encoded field of view which along the selected acceleration direction is controlled by the spatial encoding gradient, and the equivalent encoded field of view is shorter than the excited slab size of the subject; applying a separation gradient along with the spatial encoding gradient; and receiving and reconstructing the encoded magnetic resonance signals to produce 3D images. |
| US09632156B2 |
Efficient redundant haar minimization for parallel MRI reconstruction
A method for parallel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reconstruction of digital images includes providing a set of acquired k-space MR image data v, a redundant Haar wavelet matrix W satisfying WTW=I, wherein I is an identity matrix, a regularization parameter λ≧0, and a counter limit k, initializing a variable z0=Wv, and intermediate quantities p0=q0=0, calculating yi=arg minz½∥z−(pi+zi)∥22+λ∥z∥1 for 0≦i≦k, wherein z denotes values of an MR image sought to be reconstructed, updating pi+1=(pi+zi)−yi, updating zi+1=arg minz½∥z−(qi+zi)∥22+g(z), wherein g ( z ) = { 0 , z = WW T z , + ∞ , otherwise ; and updating qi+1=(qi+yi)−zi−l, wherein x=WTz is a solution of min x 1 2 Wx - Wv 2 2 + λ Wx 1 that specifies a reconstruction of the MR image. |
| US09632155B2 |
Apparatus and method for conductivity and susceptibility reconstruction
An apparatus, a method, and a recorded medium for conductivity and susceptibility reconstruction are disclosed. The apparatus for conductivity and susceptibility reconstruction includes: a susceptibility reconstruction part configured to reconstruct a susceptibility from a change in phase according to an increase in time of a multi-echo gradient echo image; a zero echo phase estimation part configured to estimate a phase at zero echo time based on a linearity of the phase change; and a conductivity reconstruction part configured to reconstruct a conductivity from the estimated zero echo phase. According to an embodiment of the invention, a multi-echo gradient echo sequence is used to not only obtain in vivo susceptibility but also obtain conductivity simultaneously. Also, an embodiment of the invention can improve the accuracy of the susceptibility measurements. |
| US09632153B1 |
Magnetic resonance imaging system
A magnetic resonance imaging configuration, system and method to straighten and otherwise homogenize the field lines in the imaging portion, creating improved image quality. Through use of calibrated corrective coils, magnetic field lines can be manipulated to improve uniformity and image quality. Additionally, when the apparatus is composed of non-ferromagnetic materials, field strengths can be increased to overcome limitations of Iron-based systems such as by use of superconductivity. A patient positioning apparatus allows multi-positioning of a patient within the calibrated and more uniform magnetic field lines. |
| US09632152B2 |
Phased array RF coil module and magnetic resonance imaging apparatus using the same
A phased array RF coil module and an imaging apparatus using the same can receive a magnetic resonance signal generated from a target object at high receive sensitivity and improve a signal to noise ratio. The phased array RF coil module includes at least one first phased array RF coil unit generating a magnetic field having a component horizontal with the surface of a target object and a second phased array RF coil unit formed horizontally with the surface of the target object and generating a magnetic field having a component vertical to the surface of the target object. The imaging apparatus using the phased array RF coil module is a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus. |
| US09632148B2 |
Sensor device
A sensor device having a first housing with a first semiconductor body and a plurality of metallic terminal contacts for electrical contacting of a first sensor, and a second housing with a second semiconductor body with a plurality of metallic terminal contacts for electrical contacting of a second sensor. A section of the plurality of terminal contacts penetrates the second housing on the face side and the second semiconductor body is arranged with a back surface on a front side of the second metal substrate. The two housings form a module, whereby the two housings are connected form-fittingly to one another in the shape of a stack by a fixing device in a way in which the bottom side of the first housing is joined to the bottom side of the second housing and the plurality of terminal contacts of the two housings point in the same direction. |
| US09632144B2 |
Voltage monitoring system and voltage monitoring module
In a voltage monitoring system, a voltage monitoring module includes an adjusting current control circuit to generate an adjusting current so that the operating current consumed by the voltage monitoring modules reaches a specified value corresponding to a first operation current setting command, and stops generating the adjusting current according to an operating current switching command; and an operating current measurement circuit to measure the operating current according to the operating current measuring command following the operating current switching command; and in which a module control circuit sends a second operation current setting command based on the operating current that was measured, and the adjusting current control circuit generates an adjusting current so that the operating current reaches a specified value corresponding to the second operating current setting command. |
| US09632143B2 |
Method for evaluating the state of charge of a battery
Method for evaluating the state of charge of a battery including at least one phase of estimating the state of charge of the battery by an estimation algorithm and at least one phase of resetting the estimation algorithm implemented during the estimation phase, which includes (i) detecting a real value of a state of charge of the battery at an instant, by (a) charging or discharging the battery, between first and second levels of state of charge; (b) measuring the voltage across the terminals of the battery during this charging or discharging; (c) evaluating the time derivative of the voltage; (d) detecting at least one particular point of this derivative corresponding to a known and predefined real value of state of charge, and (ii) resetting the estimation algorithm knowing the real value of state of charge at the given instant. |
| US09632140B2 |
Circuit for testing integrated circuits
An integrated circuit is configured to receive a test clock input and includes circuitry configured to generate test clocks from the test clock input, and test circuitry configured to use the test clocks in a test mode. |
| US09632137B2 |
Serial wire debug bridge
An integrated circuit (IC) having a bridge for interfacing a debugger and method of operating the same is provided. In one embodiment, an IC includes a debug control circuit and a debug interface block (DIB) implemented thereon. The DIB is coupled to the debug control circuit. The IC also includes an interface for a debugger and a number of interfaces for external circuits, each of the interfaces being coupled to the debug control circuit. The debug control circuit may function as a bridge for coupling an external debugger to the DIB and to external circuits coupled to the IC through corresponding ones of the interfaces. The debug control circuit may establish a connection between the debugger and one of the external circuits. Communications between the debugger and the external circuit may be conducted while bypassing the DIB. |
| US09632136B2 |
Precise estimation of arrival time of switching events close in time and space
Methods and systems for estimating arrival time of switching events include measuring two or more emission events from a device under test under different skew conditions. The two or more emission events are close in time and space when no skew condition is applied. The measured waveforms of the two or more emission events are analyzed with associated skew conditions to determine a skew value that corresponds with a time separation between the two or more emission events. |
| US09632135B2 |
Signal transmission circuit device, semiconductor device, method and apparatus for inspecting semiconductor device, signal transmission device, and motor drive apparatus using signal transmission device
Disclosed is a signal transmission circuit device (200) including a feedback signal transmission unit (210) that feeds back a control output signal (Sout) as a feedback signal (Sf) to an input side circuit (200A). A logical comparison circuit (212) detects “mismatch” between input and output by performing logical comparison between a control input signal (Sin) and the feedback signal (Sf). When a state of “mismatch” between input and output occurs, a first pulse generating circuit (202) or a second pulse generating circuit (204) outputs a first correction signal (Sa1) or a second correction signal (Sa2) corresponding to a potential (high level or low level) of the control input signal (Sin), and corrects the control output signal (Sout) to the same potential (high level or low level) as the control input signal (Sin). With such configuration, the mismatch between input and output can be automatically corrected. |
| US09632134B2 |
Generating probing map including touchdowns free of disabled probing site
A wafer is probed using a probe card including a plurality of probing sites following a first probing map in which touchdowns of the probe card involve the plurality of probing sites to identify faulty locations. Whether at least one faulty site exists is determined based on the faulty locations. When the at least one faulty site exists, a second probing map in which each touchdown is free of at least one disabled probing site including the at least one faulty site is obtained. The second probing map is selected when a first criterion formed using a first touchdown count (TDC) in the first probing map, a second TDC in the second probing map, a third TDC based on re-probing the faulty locations and a fourth TDC based on re-probing a portion of the faulty locations not induced by the at least one faulty site is met. |
| US09632127B2 |
Method for detecting an electrical continuity fault in a network of metallization strips and device for implementing same
A method and device for detecting an electrical continuity fault between a first and a second points of a network of metallization strips, including determining, from mapping, a length or a duration of a shortest path between the first and the second points, sending, at the first point, a signal in the network, detecting, at the second point, the signal sent, measuring a duration between the sending and the detection of the signal, knowing the speed of propagation of the signal in the metallization strips, determining the presence of at least one electrical continuity fault if the distance traveled calculated from the measured duration is different from the length of the shortest path determined from the mapping or if the measured duration is different from the duration to travel the shortest path determined from the mapping. |
| US09632125B2 |
Harness anomaly detection systems and methods
A vehicle may include a traction battery, a harness electrically connected with the battery, and a controller programmed to generate harness anomaly output based on data indicative of historical resistances associated with the harness and temperature and state of charge data for the battery indicative of a current resistance associated with the harness. |
| US09632124B2 |
Methods for calibrating an impedance tuner, for conducting load pull measurements, and for measuring data for noise parameters
Methods are described for measuring data in a test setup including an impedance tuner. In an exemplary embodiment, the data is data for measuring noise parameters. The data is measured versus a sweep parameter for one tuner state at a time. |
| US09632121B2 |
Electronic power converter
The present invention relates to electronic power converter suitable, in a first mode, for receiving electrical voltage and/or current magnitudes from a first device as input, for processing them using processing means capable of measuring said electrical magnitudes and servocontrolling said electrical magnitudes based on said measurements and constraints specific to a second device, and for providing the adapted voltage and/or current magnitudes to said second device. |
| US09632118B2 |
Current sensing device and method using current transformer
A current sensing apparatus includes: a temperature sensor configured to sense a temperature of a power converter; a current sensing unit configured to sense an input current of the power converter; and a central processing unit (CPU) configured to control an operation of the power converter in response to the sensed temperature of the power converter and the sensed input current of the power converter. The CPU includes a compensation unit configured to store, upon receiving an indication of the sensed temperature of the power converter from the temperature sensor, an operation voltage of at least one diode included in the current sensing unit in a map, and to compensate for an error of a sensing current based on the stored operation voltage when the current sensing unit senses the input current. |
| US09632117B2 |
Electron beam detecting device
An electron beam detecting device detects a state of an electron beam radiated by an electron beam radiation device. A plurality of wire electrodes, which are conductors, are disposed corresponding to a plurality of filaments, the wire electrodes being electrically insulated from each other, in the area in which the electron beams are radiated. The electrical current flowing through each of the wire electrodes is measured by an electric current measuring instrument (measuring unit). A CPU (determining unit) determines the radiation level of the electron beams by receiving a signal output by the electric current measuring instrument. The CPU judges that when the measuring instrument measures a decrease of the current value, an abnormal condition exists in the filament corresponding to the conductor with the lower current value. |
| US09632113B2 |
Few-moded fiber for sensing current
A few-moded fiber is doped such that spatial modes of a signal exhibit different magnetic-field-dependent effects. Based on these magnetic-field-dependent effects, one can determine the electric current that induced a magnetic field that caused these effects. |
| US09632111B2 |
Passive input filter with clamping for shunt measurements
A method and an apparatus for a shunt measurement are provided. In one embodiment a measurement unit includes an input for a source device, the source device configured to provide a first analog voltage level to be measured in a first operating mode of the source device and a second analog voltage level to be measured in a second operating mode of the source device, a control input configured to detect the operating mode of the source device and an input stage configured to minimize a reaction time of the measurement unit after a change of the operating mode of the source device. |
| US09632107B2 |
Movement amount estimation system, movement amount estimation method and mobile terminal
A movement amount estimation system, comprising a storage area to store acceleration data, for estimating a movement amount of a holder of a mobile terminal, the movement amount estimation system is configured to: detect a start time and an end time of an elevator riding time period of the holder based on the acceleration data; integrate the acceleration data from the start time to the end time to calculate a movement velocity of the holder; correct one of a movement velocity at the start time and a movement velocity at the end time based on another of the movement velocity at the start time and the movement velocity at the end time; and integrate the movement velocity corrected by the time period to estimate a movement amount of the holder when the holder uses an elevator. |
| US09632106B2 |
Method for determining the angular position of an electronic module fixed to the inner face of the tread of a tire
An angular position is determined for an electronic module fixed to the inner face of the tread of a tire fitted to a wheel of a vehicle. A sensor for measuring the radial acceleration of the wheel is integrated into the electronic module, and a variation of the radial acceleration is detected that corresponds to a position of the electronic module when it contacts the ground. This variation is used to determine a frame of reference defined by an origin and a reference unit corresponding to an angular sector of the tire having a length is shorter than a mean length of the footprint of the grounded tire, in order to determine angular positions of the electronic module in the frame of reference. |
| US09632105B2 |
Angular velocity sensor for suppressing fluctuation of detection sensitivity
An inertial force sensor that can suppress fluctuation of detection sensitivity even if an external stress is applied to the inertial force sensor. Angular velocity sensor (1), that is, an inertial force sensor includes ceramic substrate (6), lower lid (4) adhering to ceramic substrate (6) with adhesives (11a and 11b) (first adhesives), and sensor element (2) adhering to lower lid (4) with adhesives (10a and 10b) (second adhesives). The elastic moduli of adhesives (11a and 11b) are smaller than those of adhesives (10a and 10b). |
| US09632103B2 |
Linear track diagnostic analyzer
A diagnostic analyzer system includes a linear track, at least one pipetting device, and at least one diagnostic module. The linear track includes a pre-treatment lane disposed parallel to at least one processing lane. The linear track moves reaction vessels, containing samples, held by the pre-treatment lane and by the at least one processing lane. The pre-treatment lane pre-treats the samples in the reaction vessels of the pre-treatment lane. The pre-treatment lane is not connected to any diagnostic module for testing the samples in the reaction vessels of the pre-treatment lane. The at least one pipetting device transfers the pre-treated samples from the reaction vessels in the pre-treatment lane to the reaction vessels in the at least one processing lane. The at least one diagnostic module is connected to the at least one processing lane for testing the pre-treated samples transferred into the reaction vessels in the at least one processing lane. |
| US09632102B2 |
Systems and methods for multi-purpose analysis
Systems and methods are provided for sample processing. A device may be provided, capable of receiving the sample, and performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing multiple assays. The device may comprise one or more modules that may be capable of performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing the steps using a small volume of sample. |
| US09632098B2 |
Moesin fragments and uses thereof
The present application provides compositions and methods useful for detecting and monitoring autoimmune diseases in a human subject. The methods comprise providing a moesin fragment for binding to an anti-moesin autoantibody and contacting the moesin fragment with a sample obtained from the human subject. The moesin fragment comprises the entire N-terminal FERM domain of a human moesin protein. The human subject has or is suspected of having an autoimmune disease such as connective tissue disease, systemic sclerosis, Sjogren's syndrome, or systemic lupus erythematosus. |
| US09632091B2 |
Compositions and methods for prostate cancer analysis
The invention provides methods for diagnosing prostate cancer. The invention also provides novel anti-STEAP-1 antibodies and uses thereof. |
| US09632085B2 |
Rapid antibiotic susceptibility testing
Embodiments of various aspects described herein are directed to methods, compositions, kits and systems for rapid determination of antibiotic susceptibility of a microbe within hours after a sample is collected. In some embodiments, the methods, compositions, kits and systems described herein can allow determination of antibiotic susceptibility of a microbe based on a small number of microbes, e.g., as few as 5-10 microbes bound to a microbe-targeting substrate described herein. |
| US09632081B2 |
Detection method for biological substance
A detection method for a specific biological substance uses, as a color former, fluorescent substance-encapsulated nanoparticles which have biological substance-recognizing molecules. The biological substance-recognizing molecules specifically recognize a specific biological substance. The biological substance-recognizing molecules are bonded to the surface of the nanoparticles. Nanoparticles encapsulating no fluorescent substance are used as a blocking agent for preventing the fluorescent substance-encapsulated nanoparticles from being non-specifically adsorbed on a biological substance other than the specific biological substance. |
| US09632076B2 |
Microfluidic device for generating neural cells to simulate post-stroke conditions
This application provides devices for modeling ischemic stroke conditions. The devices can be used to culture neurons and to subject a first population of the neurons to low-oxygen conditions and a second population of neurons to normoxic conditions. The neurons are cultured on a porous barrier, and on the other side of the barrier run one or more fluid-filled channels. By flowing fluid with different oxygen levels through the channels, one can deliver desired oxygen concentrations to the cells nearest those channels. |
| US09632075B2 |
Prevention or attenuation of neuropathic pain by bile acids
Methods of reducing or abolishing neuropathic pain in humans and animals are discussed. In some examples administration of the apoptosis inhibitor tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA), greatly reduced both neuronal loss and the increase in glia, and partially reversed spinal nerve ligation (SNL)-induced mechanical hypersensitivity. Among RVM neurons, serotonergic (5-HT) neurons decreased by 35% ipsilateral to SNL. In some examples, the density of 5-HT immunoreactive varicosities in the superficial dorsal horn of the spinal cord was lower ipsilateral to SNL. The RVM 5-HT neurons that remained after SNL appeared to facilitate nociception. When rats that had undergone SNL were treated with the 5-HT neurotoxin, 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine (5,7-DHT), mechanical withdrawal thresholds increased significantly. In some examples nerve injury induces death of antinociceptive RVM neurons which can be reduced or abolished by TUDCA. In some examples, that the loss of RVM neurons shifts the balance of descending control from pain inhibition to pain facilitation. |
| US09632067B2 |
Leak detector
The invention relates to a leak detector comprising a first sensor for detecting a gas component (helium) in a gas taken in. Because the sensor is susceptible to saturation or contamination, a second sensor is provided. The sensor is a thermal conductivity sensor. The thermal conductivity sensor has a lower detection sensitivity, yet, at a high concentration of the gas component, it does not risk being contaminated. The two sensors together allow for a large detection range, from extremely sensitive measurements to instances with high concentrations of the gas components as those which can occur with gross leaks. |
| US09632056B2 |
Analyte test strip and analyte meter device
A test strip with an incorporated optical waveguide and deflectors punched through the optical waveguide allows light to exit through a layer of the test strip and be detected by a photo detector. Using light and a photodetector, these uniquely coded strips are identified. The waveguide can be constructed by sandwiching two layers of the test strip around a light transmissible layer. This configuration allows light to be transmitted through the test strip and out the other end, as well as allowing some light to escape the deflector. This light is detected by a photodetector mounted in the analyte test meter. The deflectors may be placed in patterns such that detection of this light indicates certain characteristics of the strip, such as non-counterfeit, regional identification, type of analyte tested, and coding information. |
| US09632051B2 |
Multi-electrode sensor for determining the gas content in a two-phase flow
A sensor for determining gas content of a two phase fluid flowing in a flow line, the sensor including a sleeve configured to be arranged in the flow line in a stream of fluid. The sleeve includes a plurality of measurement electrodes that, in pairs, define a plurality of subdivision spaces subdividing a flow section of the sleeve. The sensor also includes switch and measurement members coupled to the measurement electrodes to control switching of each subdivision space of the sleeve between a measuring state and a non-measuring state. The switch and measurement members are configured to selectively switch the state of each of the subdivision spaces independently of one another. |
| US09632050B2 |
Flexible multi-moduled nanoparticle-structured sensor array on polymer substrate and methods for manufacture
A flexible chemiresistor (CR) sensor for sensing a molecule of interest in a fluid (liquid or gas) is provided. The flexible CR sensor comprises a flexible chemiresistor (CR) module. The flexible CR module comprises a flexible substrate such polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) or polyimide (PI), and a thin film nanoparticle assembly assembled on the flexible substrate. The thin film nanoparticle assembly comprises metal or metal alloy core, ligand-capped nanoparticles and molecular linkers connecting the nanoparticles. The flexible CR sensor and an intelligent pattern recognition engine can be incorporated in a handheld device that can detect a molecule of interest in a fluid (e.g., a liquid or gas) accurately, rapidly, and without false positives. Any sensing array nanomaterial, pattern recognition, and compact/or electronic hardware can be integrated to achieve a desired detection limit and response speed. |
| US09632046B2 |
Apparatus and method for assessing thermo-mechanical fatigue related phenomena within a test material
The invention pertains to a test apparatus and method for assessing thermo-mechanical fatigue related phenomena within a test material wherein a heat source, such as a laser beam is applied to a specimen consisting of a body of the test material, thereby introducing heat to a primary heat introduction zone on the surface of the body to cause local cyclic heating. As part of the cycle, heat is removed through a portion of the specimen surface sufficiently remote from the heat introduction zone to create a substantially spherical temperature gradient within the specimen resembling that of a point source on a semi-infinite body. A stress gradient results from local thermal expansion, thus thermo-mechanically cycling the material. As a result of the thermo-mechanical cycling, phenomena including thermo-mechanically induced creep, residual stress, changes in physical properties, crack initiation and crack growth may be observed within the material, and evaluated for scientific or engineering purposes. An optional background temperature control feature may also be included to raise the background temperature of the specimen during thermal cycling. Among many useful embodiments described herein, the test method may also be configured for non-destructive use on a component, wherein the local damage or crack growth due to thermal cycling is afterwards removed and the surface blended or otherwise reconditioned as required to restore component functionality and structural integrity. |
| US09632045B2 |
Systems and methods for deterministic emitter switch microscopy
Techniques for deterministic switch microscopy include resolving at least one nitrogen vacancy center in a diamond structure. A magnetic field can be applied across the diamond structure and the nitrogen vacancy centers can be optically excited. The nitrogen vacancy centers can be switched from a dark state to a bright state or a bright state by a dark state by applying at least one microwave pulse. A fluorescent response of each nitrogen vacancy center can be detected and a nitrogen vacancy center can be resolved based on the fluorescent response of each nitrogen vacancy center as it corresponds to the orientation of the nitrogen vacancy center relative to the applied magnetic field. |
| US09632041B2 |
Computed tomography device based on straight trajectory and X-ray imaging device
A straight trajectory CT device can be used in radiation imaging. The device includes: a ray-generating unit that generates a ray within a specific range of field angle; a channel for an object to be inspected though which the object to be inspected passes; a first collimator; and a ray receiving unit provided on both sides of the channel for the object to be inspected. The ray beam is received by the ray receiving unit after penetrating the first collimator and the object to be inspected in order. The ray generating unit is static and the first collimator moves in the same direction as the ray receiving unit. This direction is parallel to the channel for the object to be inspected. The device can complete computed tomography with a minimum of one ray receiving unit, thereby simplifying the structure of the device and reducing its cost. |
| US09632033B2 |
Cellular phone based optical detection of specific nucleic acid sequences
A technique relates to determining a presence of a known nucleic acid sequence of a known molecule in a sample. A sample surface is coated with a select segment of the known molecule. Beads are coated with a first molecule. A targeted nucleic acid sequence is attached to a second molecule that binds to the first molecule, such that the targeted nucleic acid sequence is attached to the beads via first and second molecules. The sample is placed on the sample surface. The sample includes the liquid medium, beads, and targeted nucleic acid sequence being tested. Brownian motion of beads is monitored to determine whether the Brownian motion of the beads is restricted or not restricted. When the Brownian motion of beads is restricted, the presence of the known nucleic acid sequence is in the sample, thus indicating that the targeted nucleic acid sequence is the known nucleic acid sequence. |
| US09632031B2 |
System for in vitro detection and/or quantification by fluorometry
The invention relates to a system for the in vitro detection and/or quantification, by fluorometry, of at least one analyte in a sample of fluid constituting a biological material, in particular for an immunological test, including a radiation source, followed by an optical splitter for splitting the main beam into a sample-energizing beam and a reference beam, with a first photodetector means for detecting a fluorescence ray emitted by the sample and a second photodetector means for the reference beam, said system also including a generator outputting a sinusoidal carrier signal and at least one digital demodulation signal, and a digital processing means for processing, by demodulation, the signals from the two photodetector means in order to extract a fluorescence value that is characteristic of the amplitude of the fluorescence ray and a second reference value that is characteristic of the amplitude of the reference beam. |
| US09632029B2 |
Fluorescence imaging apparatus and light source unit thereof
A light source unit has two or more types of emission units which apply excitation light of three colors (blue, green, and red). The emission units share a single circuit board. LEDs of the respective emission units are mounted on the circuit board. An excitation light filter, which limits a wavelength range of light to generate the excitation light, is placed in front of each LED in direction of light emission from the LED. Each emission unit has a mounting area that faces the excitation light filter. Blue light from the LED excites resin contained in the circuit board and causes harmful light. Light shielding sections provided around the mounting area prevent the harmful light from being transmitted to another emission unit through the circuit board. Each light shielding section is composed of through holes. |
| US09632027B2 |
Surface plasmon resonance sensor cell and surface plasmon resonance sensor
The present invention provides an SPR sensor cell having very excellent detection sensitivity, the SPR sensor cell including: an under-cladding layer; a core layer formed so that at least a part of the core layer is adjacent to the under-cladding layer; and a metal layer covering the core layer. In the SPR sensor cell, the core layer includes a uniform refractive index layer and a graded refractive index layer. The graded refractive index layer is arranged between the uniform refractive index layer and the metal layer. A refractive index of the graded refractive index layer is equal to or more than a refractive index of the uniform refractive index layer, and the refractive index of the graded refractive index layer increases continuously from a surface thereof on a uniform refractive index layer side to the metal layer side in a thickness direction of the graded refractive index layer. |
| US09632018B2 |
Method and device for monitoring the integrity of a connection system
A device is configured to monitor the integrity of a connection system between first and second fluid containing systems comprising first and second pulse generators. A pressure sensor is arranged in the first fluid containing system to detect first pulses originating from the first pulse generator and second pulses originating from the second pulse generator. The device operates a monitoring method, by generating (42) a time-dependent pressure signal based on measurement data obtained from the pressure sensor such that the pressure signal contains a sequence of apparent pulses. The apparent pulses represent a superposition of the second pulses on the first pulses when the connection system (C) is intact. The device processes (44) the pressure signal to calculate a parameter value based on a pulse feature of at least one of the apparent pulses in the pressure signal. The parameter value represents a disturbance caused by the superposition of the second pulses on the first pulses, and may be given as a measure of statistical dispersion, pulse-to-pulse symmetry, or first pulse similarity. The device determines (45) the integrity of the connection system based at least partly on the parameter value. The first fluid containing system may be an extracorporeal blood circuit, and the second fluid containing system may be a human or animal subject. |
| US09632015B2 |
Hydrostatic head tester arrangement
A hydrostatic head tester arrangement has a frame, a test pressure generating device, a clamping device having first clamping ring and a second clamping ring and wherein a power gain element is connected to the first clamping ring. Further, the power gain element is connected to an actuation lever via a resilient member. |
| US09632010B2 |
Method and device for monitoring the malfunction of APU turbine vane fracture and rotor shaft jam
The present invention relates to a method and device for monitoring APU turbine vane fracture and rotor shaft jam. The method for monitoring APU turbine vane fracture and rotor shaft jam comprises: acquiring APU messages at multiple time points within a period; obtaining the operation parameters of the APU according to the APU messages, the operation parameters including at least the start time STA; calculating the average value AVG and the deviation index δ of the start time STA within the period; and determining the circumstance of the turbine vane fracture and rotation shaft jam of APU is in stable phase, decline phase or malfunction phase according to the deviation index δ. |
| US09632008B2 |
Method for detecting the failure of a charge air cooler
A method for detecting a failure of a charge air cooler placed in an air supply circuit of an engine, the circuit including an air filter and a compressor. The method is performed continuously and repeatedly. The method includes: determining temperature Tair of the air between the filter and the compressor, the temperature of the air Tapc between the compressor and the cooler, and the temperature of the air Tsras between the cooler and the engine; calculating the Tapc-Tsras/Tapc-Tair ratio, which is a parameter indicative of effectiveness of the cooler; comparing the parameter against a predetermined threshold effectiveness value; and making a diagnosis as to whether the cooler is operating correctly or incorrectly, on the basis of the comparison. |
| US09632007B2 |
Method for damping vibrations while testing a drivetrain having at least one shaft
The invention relates to a method for damping vibrations while checking a drivetrain which has at least one shaft and to a device for carrying out the method. The shaft is connected to at least one drive or load machine for adjustment of a drive or load torque, a target value of the drive or load torque being specified for the machine. A shaft torque which is dependent on the relative rotation between two points on the shaft is measured, and the measured shaft torque as such is applied to the target value of the drive or load torque. |
| US09632005B1 |
Multi order diffractive devices
Fizeau interferometers, in-flight metrology systems and methods of testing optical systems are described. Collimated or near collimated light is directed to interact with at least one diffractive focusing element of an optical system. The collimated or near collimated light is modified by the diffractive focusing element to form first diffracted light. The first diffracted light is directed to an image surface of the diffractive focusing element. A portion of light directed from the image surface is reflected by the diffractive focusing element back to the image surface as second diffracted light. The second diffracted light has a different diffraction order than the first diffracted light. The second diffracted light is detected to characterize the optical system. |
| US09632004B2 |
Methods for testing laser shock peening
A method for testing an edge of a rotor blade that has been hardened is disclosed. A shallow notch is created in the edge of the blade using a laser and the blade is then tested using an HCF process. If the blade passes the test, a deeper notch is imparted into the edge of the blade and the blade is retested. If the blade passes the second test, a third notch may be imparted into the edge of the blade and the blade is tested again. Any test failure may provide assistance in modifying the parameters used to harden the blade. The blade may be initially hardened using an LSP process. |
| US09631996B2 |
Motion detection using pressure sensing
According to an embodiment, a method of sensing motion includes receiving a first signal from a first pressure sensor and a second signal from a second pressure sensor, comparing the first signal and the second signal, and characterizing a motion based on the comparing. |
| US09631986B2 |
Rotatable temperature sensing device
A rotatable temperature sensing device. In one example, a temperature sensing device includes a first end. The temperature sensing device also includes a second end. The temperature sensing device includes a shaft coupling the first end and the second end. The shaft is configured to rotate the first and second ends together during operation. The temperature sensing device also includes a temperature sensor disposed in the first end and configured to communicatively connect to an external device, wherein the temperature sensor is configured to provide an indication of a temperature of the workpiece. |
| US09631983B2 |
Optical fiber temperature distribution measuring device
An optical fiber temperature distribution measuring device measures a temperature distribution along an optical fiber by using backward Raman scattering light generated in the optical fiber. The device includes an arithmetic controller that changes a plurality of calibration parameters in conjunction with each other on the basis of a measured temperature value and a reference temperature value at a to-be-measured point, thereby converging a calibrated value of the measured temperature to a true value. |
| US09631977B2 |
Device calibration using augmented data with hadamard variation
A method, non-transitory computer readable medium, and apparatus for calibrating a device using augmented data are disclosed. For example, the method measures k spectral values of each patch for a first plurality of patches generated by the device and a second plurality of patches generated by the reference device, creates a first augmented data set by selecting a delta (δ), wherein the first augmented data set comprises the δ applied k times to each one of the k spectral values of each one of the first plurality of patches, initializes initializing a function to create a second augmented data set for the reference device, solves the function to obtain a matrix of calibration values of the device that is based upon the first augmented data set and the second augmented data set and calibrates the device using the matrix of calibration values. |
| US09631973B2 |
Multifunction imager
A programmable multifunction spectral and/or polarization imager. In one example, such an imager includes an imaging optical subsystem configured to receive electromagnetic radiation from a distant scene, a focal plane array configured to produce an image of the scene, and a programmable polarimetry subsystem electrically switchable between an ON state in which the polarimetry subsystem receives the electromagnetic radiation and provides polarized electromagnetic radiation to the focal plane array, and an OFF state in which the polarimetry system is configured as a first substantially clear aperture that passes the electromagnetic radiation to the focal plane array. In certain examples, the imager includes a programmable spectral imaging sub-system configurable between an ON state and an OFF state. |
| US09631969B1 |
High visibility on board digital, semi-trailer scale
A scale for mounting on a semi-trailer having an air bag in the suspension and an air line connected to the air bag includes a pressure transducer for connecting to the air line and measuring the pressure in the air bag, and to send a signal correlated to the sensed pressure, a process module in electric communication with the pressure transducer and configured to receive the signal therefrom wherein the process module is configured to correlate the signal from the pressure transducer to a weight of a load on the trailer, and a display module configured to receive a signal from the process module indicating the sensed weight and display the sensed weight of the load on the semi-trailer. A method for monitoring weight includes converting pressure in the air line to a weight of the semi-trailer, which can be monitored in real-time. |
| US09631968B2 |
Fluid level detector
A fluid detector for determining a presence of a fluid within a container, the detector including a sensor assembly with a lens and a sensor element that outputs a first ultrasonic signal in response to an input electrical signal. A generally cylindrical wall extends outwardly from an outer surface of the container and defines a housing with a cylindrical central bore having a base surface. The sensor assembly is coupled to the lens so that the lens focuses the first ultrasonic signal toward the wall. The sensor assembly is positioned such that it receives a second ultrasonic signal from the wall that results from the first ultrasonic signal. The sensor assembly then generates an output electrical signal corresponding to the second ultrasonic signal. |
| US09631967B2 |
Structural unit for arrangement on a hydraulic fluid tank of a jet engine
The present invention proposes a structural unit (21) for arrangement on a hydraulic fluid tank of a jet engine having a vision device (23) and a sensor device (25), which can independently of one another determine a level of a hydraulic fluid present in a hydraulic fluid tank (1) when the structural unit (21) is arranged on a hydraulic fluid tank. A fastening device (27) is provided to fix the structural unit (21) on the hydraulic fluid tank. |
| US09631965B2 |
Offset compensation for flow sensing devices
There is described herein a flow sensing device having offset compensation and an offset compensation method, the flow sensing device having two separate and independent thermal flow sensors, each containing a heater and at least one temperature-sensitive element. The components of the two thermal flow sensors are connected such that flow-dependent contributions of each sensor into a common output signal have opposite signs after passing through a subtracting node. Heating pulses are applied to the heaters of the two thermal flow sensors out of phase, and an output signal is measured for each heat pulse applied. A net output signal is then determined by calculating a difference between a last output reading and at least one previous output reading. |
| US09631963B2 |
Solution processing apparatus, solution processing method, and non-transitory computer-readable recording medium
An apparatus is configured to perform a solution process by supplying a processing solution from a processing solution supply source to the substrate held on a substrate holder via a flow path member and a nozzle at a flow rate equal to or less than 1 mL/sec. The apparatus includes a solution transfer unit configured to transfer the processing solution to the nozzle, and connected to the flow path member, and an ultrasonic flowmeter connected to the flow path member at an outlet side from the solution transfer unit. In this embodiment, a lower limit of a flow rate range which is measured by the ultrasonic flowmeter is equal to or less than 1 mL/sec. |
| US09631961B2 |
Inductive flow meter including extended magnetic pole pieces
A magnetic flow meter includes a magnetic flow transducer positioned to sense the flow of water through the flow meter. The magnetic flow transducer includes first and second electrodes positioned on opposite sides of a measuring channel. First and second magnetic pole pieces are positioned on opposite sides of the measuring channel and orthogonal to the first and second electrodes. The magnetic pole piece includes extending tab portions that are located adjacent to the first and second electrodes on opposite sides of the first and second electrodes. The extended tabs formed on each of the first and second magnetic pole pieces reduce the induced voltage within the electrodes to increase the accuracy of the measurement taken by the magnetic flow transducer. |
| US09631958B2 |
Device for measuring flow rate of steel melt near a surface of the steel melt
A device for measuring the flow rate of steel melt near the surface thereof. The device has a flow rate detecting rod and a deflection device for the flow rate detecting rod. The deflection device for the flow rate detecting rod has a flow rate detecting rod counterweight, a deflection bearing sleeve, a deflection bearing, a deflection angle indicating board, a deflection angle pointer and a flow rate detecting rod fastening bolt. |
| US09631957B2 |
Movement system for moving an object, patient couch and method for operating a movement system
A movement system includes a drive having a drive shaft, a mechanism that converts an alteration to a rotational angle of the drive shaft into an alteration to an object position, and a rotational angle sensor for detecting the alteration to the rotational angle. The movement system includes a reference sensor for emitting a reference signal when the object enters a predetermined reference volume, and a controller communicating with the rotational angle sensor and the reference sensor. The controller is configured for determining a total rotational angle from alterations to the rotational angle detected according to the reference signal and for activating the drive for rotating the drive shaft by a reference rotational angle determined as a function of a predetermined reference positional value and the total rotational angle. The movement system also includes a calibration sensor for emitting a calibration signal when the object enters a predetermined calibration volume. |
| US09631955B2 |
Method of assembling a subsea sensor
Sensor assemblies and methods of assembling and using the sensor assemblies are provided for monitoring operational characteristics of subsea rotating devices such as subsea motors and pumps. Pressure-compensated proximity sensor tip assemblies configured to withstand subsea pressures are mounted adjacent a subsea rotating shaft for directly monitoring a position of the rotating shaft during dynamic operation thereof. An end of a sensor housing opposite a sensor tip assembly is mounted to a wall of the device housing. The sensor housing defines a fluid reservoir containing a substantially incompressible fluid therein that is in fluid communication with the interior portions of the proximity sensor tip assembly. A length of the sensor housing is adjusted to accommodate a distance between the wall of the device housing and the rotating shaft. |
| US09631954B2 |
Moving platform roll sensor system
A moving platform roll sensor system comprises an ellipsometric detector capable of detecting a polarized beam within the detector's line-of-sight, and measuring the beam's polarization state, such that the polarization state indicates the rotational orientation of the moving platform with respect to a predefined coordinate system. The ellipsometric detector comprises a venetian blind component through which the polarized beam passes, arranged such that the intensity of the exiting beam varies with its incident angle with respect to the moving platform, a polarizing beamsplitter which splits the exiting beam into components having orthogonal circular polarizations, the relative intensities of which vary with the relative polarization vector of the beam, and first and second detectors which receive the first and second orthogonal circular components and generate respective outputs that vary with the intensities of their received components. The beamsplitter preferably comprises a quarter wave plate and a polarization grating. |
| US09631951B2 |
Resolver
A resolver includes a stator core (3), winding wires (12) and a resin mold (6). The resin mold (6) contains a ring portion (4), a connector (5) and a stress reduction structure (9). The ring portion (4) covers the stator core (3). The stress reduction structure is arranged at the connecting portion between the ring portion (4) and the connector (5). |
| US09631940B2 |
Method and system for determining a route for efficient energy consumption
Various embodiments relate to determining a route for efficient energy consumption. Data defining one or more routes and one or more consumption influencing parameters which influence a consumption of an energy source of the vehicle along the one or more routes may be received at a vehicle computer. Based on the route data and the consumption influencing parameters, at least one route which minimizes the consumption of the energy source for the vehicle may be determined. For the at least one route, one or more braking strategies may be determined for implementation by a vehicle operator in the vehicle in accordance with reducing the consumption of the vehicle energy source. The one or more braking strategies may be output in the vehicle. |
| US09631939B2 |
Methods and systems for determining routing
Systems and methods are presented for sequencing locations and events and determining routing and itineraries for the sequence. In some embodiments the system may receive a starting location, a first location, and a second location in a default order. The system may determine a sequence from the starting location for the first location and the second location. The system may generate a route for the sequence with the route having transportation directions between the starting location, the second location, and the first location indicative of the sequence. The system may display the route in a graphical user interface of an application. |
| US09631933B1 |
Specifying unavailable locations for autonomous vehicles
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a vehicle for maneuvering a passenger to a destination autonomously. The vehicle includes one or more computing devices that receive a request for a vehicle from a client computing device. The request identifies a first location. The one or more computing devices also determine whether the first location is within a threshold outside of a service area of the vehicle. When the location is within the threshold distance outside of the service area of the vehicle, the one or more computing devices identify a second location within the service area of the vehicle where the vehicle is able to stop for a passenger and based on the first location. The one or more computing devices then provide a map and a marker identifying the position of the second location on the map for display on the client computing device. |
| US09631932B2 |
Crowd sourced interaction of browsing behavior in a 3D map
Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, are provided for mapping. In one aspect there is provided a method which may include sampling a position and a viewpoint of a three-dimensional map view presented at a browser while traversing the three-dimensional map; sending to a database a query including the sampled position and the sampled viewpoint; and receiving, in response to the sent query, a recommended browsing path including a recommended position and a recommended viewpoint for traversing the three-dimensional map presented at the browser. The recommended browsing path represents an aggregation including crowd-sourced information for position and viewpoint. Related apparatus, systems, methods, and articles are also described. |
| US09631931B2 |
Location watching
Techniques for watching a location of a device with respect to a destination target include obtaining a current location of a device from a localization operation, calculating an interval, and performing a next localization operation after the interval has expired. The interval may be calculated based on a velocity and a distance from the current location to a destination target. The techniques may also include calculating a displacement distance from the current location and adjusting the interval based on the displacement distance to thereby adjust a time for performing the next localization operation. The techniques may include performing state detection to determine a motion state of the device and performing the next localization operation based on the determined motion state. |
| US09631928B2 |
Gyroscope structure and gyroscope with improved quadrature compensation
A microelectromechanical gyroscope structure that comprises a seismic mass, a body element, and a spring structure suspending the seismic mass to the body element. In primary oscillation at least part of the seismic mass oscillates in out-of-plane direction. A first conductor is arranged to move with the seismic mass, and a second conductor is attached to the body element. The conductors include adjacent surfaces that extend in the first direction and the third direction. A voltage element is arranged to create between the first surface and the second surface a potential difference and thereby induce an electrostatic force in the second direction and modulated by the primary oscillation of the seismic mass. |
| US09631926B2 |
Vibration element, vibrator, vibration device, electronic device and moving object
A vibration element includes a vibrating portion, a support portion that supports the vibrating portion, and a suspension arm that couples the vibrating portion to the support portion. In addition, the suspension arm includes a meandering portion extending out the support portion and an inclination portion that couples the meandering portion to the vibrating portion. |
| US09631924B2 |
Surface profile measurement method and device used therein
To provide a technique that can measure a surface profile of any test object in a nondestructive manner and noncontact manner, highly accurately, and in a wide tilt angle dynamic range. In white light interference method using a dual beam interferometer, the technique is configured to be capable of changing a surface orientation of a standard plane with respect to an incident optical axis on the standard plane, acquires, while relatively changing the surface orientation of the standard plane with respect to a local surface orientation in any position on a test surface, a plurality of interferograms generated by interference of reflected light from the test surface and reflected light from the standard plane, and calculates the local surface orientation on the test surface from the interferograms to thereby measure a surface profile of the test surface. |
| US09631923B2 |
Real-time non-linear optical strain gauge system
A system for measuring strain includes an optical fiber having a central portion secured between two fixed points. A first light source outputs light at a first frequency and a second light source outputs light at a second different frequency. The two light sources are both coupled to a first end of the optical fiber. A back scatter detector is also coupled to the first end to receive a return light signal from the optical fiber and outputs a signal based thereon. A forward scatter detector is coupled to a second end of the optical fiber to receive a forward light signal from the optical fiber and outputs a signal based thereon. A processor receives the signals from the back scatter detector and the forward scatter detector and generates an output signal proportional to the strain between the two fixed points based on the received signals. |
| US09631922B2 |
Locator camera arrangement having multiple light sources
A method for measuring a distance includes modulating the light beam at a first frequency, receiving a second beam by the optical detector to produce a first electrical signal having the first frequency and a first phase; modulating the light beam at a second frequency different than the first frequency; receiving the second beam by the optical detector to produce a second electrical signal having the second frequency and a second. After these steps, the retroreflector is moved while modulating the light beam continuously at the second frequency; and a first distance to the retroreflector is determined based at least in part on a the first and second frequencies and phases. |
| US09631921B2 |
Intensity modulation at two frequencies for interferometric measuring of distance
A method for measuring a distance includes modulating the light beam at a first frequency, receiving a second beam by the optical detector to produce a first electrical signal having the first frequency and a first phase; modulating the light beam at a second frequency different than the first frequency; receiving the second beam by the optical detector to produce a second electrical signal having the second frequency and a second. After these steps, the retroreflector is moved while modulating the light beam continuously at the second frequency; and a first distance to the retroreflector is determined based at least in part on a the first and second frequencies and phases. |
| US09631917B2 |
Position detection method, position detection apparatus, antenna apparatus, and display apparatus
Provided are a position detection method that selects one antenna at a time from a plurality of loop antennas, transmits, through the selected loop antenna, an electromagnetic signal to a pointer that indicates a screen unit, receives, from the pointer, a resonance signal corresponding to the electromagnetic signal transmitted through the selected loop antenna, and extracts polar coordinates including a distance value and an angle value of a point on a screen unit indicated by the pointer, based on a distribution of a signal strength of a resonance signal received through each of the plurality of loop antennas, a position detection apparatus, a display apparatus, and an antenna apparatus appropriate for extracting polar coordinates. |
| US09631916B2 |
Component including structures for determinant loading
An apparatus including a first component having an exterior surface formed of a ceramic material and including a primary surface region and a plurality of secondary surface regions protruding from the primary surface region, and a second component positioned in contact with at least one of the secondary surface regions and spaced from the primary surface region to define a determinant load path between the first and second components. A method of forming the apparatus is also provided. |
| US09631915B2 |
Arm type three-dimensional measuring machine and inclination correction method of base part for supporting arm type three-dimensional measuring machine
An arm type three-dimensional measuring machine includes: a multi-jointed arm mechanism comprising a probe in a distal end; a processing part for computing a position of said probe; and an inclinometer configured to detect an inclination amount of a base part from a vertical direction in the base part for supporting the multi-jointed arm mechanism, wherein the processing part computes a position of the probe using the base part as a criterion and corrects the position of the probe using the base part as the criterion in a time-series manner based on an output from the inclinometer. |
| US09631912B2 |
Measuring instrument
A vernier caliper is a measuring instrument provided with a main scale and a slider that is slidably provided along a longitudinal direction of the main scale. The slider is provided with an operating part for a user to put his/her finger thereon so as to operate the same. The operating part is provided with a haptic notification means that notifies, through a haptic sense of the finger, that a predetermined measuring pressure has been reached by generating a resistance with respect to the finger by moving in association with the operation of the finger and by causing the resistance to change at a predetermined movement position. |
| US09631911B2 |
Lifting plug for high explosive projectile capable of forming vent by thermal fuse
The present invention relates to a lifting plug for a high explosive projectile capable of forming a vent by a thermal fuse, in which the lifting plug is mounted to a front part of a shell of the high explosive projectile such that the vent can be formed in the lifting plug by the thermal fuse when unexpected accidents such as fires or terrorism occur during storage of the high explosive projectile, so the lifting plug can induce burning or deflagrating of the thermal fuse without allowing the high explosive projectile to be detonated or exploded by accumulated heat in the high explosive projectile due to the vent, thereby improving safety of the high explosive projectile. |
| US09631907B2 |
Polymer ammunition cartridge having a wicking texturing
One embodiment of the present invention provides a polymeric ammunition cartridge having wicking texturing. |
| US09631904B2 |
Dynamic group target stand
A dynamic target stand comprising pivotally interconnected platform members including two horizontal parallel swing arms pivotally mounted to a base on two vertical parallel pivot posts and a plurality of horizontal cross members pivotally connected to both swing arms on vertical pivot axes. A motor drives the swing arms in reciprocating clockwise and counterclockwise motion. The cross members travel in reciprocating arcuate paths but maintain a fixed angular (or rotational) orientation with respect to a person taking target practice. Targets mounted to the swing may face the user's line of sight throughout their arcuate paths. Multiple targets may be mounted on the platform creating a dynamic group of targets moving at different speeds, in different lateral directions, and crossing paths from the user's perspective. The target stand is compact, portable by person, and rapidly set up and taken down without tools. |
| US09631902B2 |
Turret assembly, in particular for a fighting vehicle
The turret includes a hollow casing provided with a firearm, such as a cannon. The casing includes a front portion or shell, on which there is mounted the firearm and which defines a front cavity, which at least partially houses the firearm; and a rear portion or tail. The rear portion or tail defines a rear cavity, which houses at least one between a projectile magazine and a mechanism to load the projectiles into the breech of the firearm. The front portion or shell and the rear portion or tail are distinct from one another and are mutually mechanically assembled so that the cavities at least partially communicate with one another. |
| US09631900B1 |
Camouflage patterns
Camouflage patterns on a substrate such as a fabric comprise in a first aspect a substrate having a camouflage pattern with a set of intermixed colored blotches thereon, the colors of the set of intermixed colored blotches being selected from a group of colors comprising an Olive 527 color, a Dark Green 528 color, a Tan 525 color, a Brown 529 color, a Bark Brown 561 color and a Dark Cream 559 color. In another aspect the colors of the set of intermixed colored blotches being selected from a group of colors comprising an Olive 527 color, a Dark Green 528 color, a Light Sage 560 color, a Tan 525 color, a Brown 529 color, a Bark Brown 561 color and a Dark Cream 559 color. |
| US09631899B2 |
Ballistic and impact protective military helmet assembly
A helmet assembly is provided including a front mount configured to attach to the front of the helmet above a brim of the helmet, a mandible for protecting a portion of the user's face, a lower edge rim mounting portion such as a halo attached along the lower edge of the helmet for securing the mandible to a helmet and providing power and data conduits. The front mount provides a center top mounting arrangement that operatively connects a center top location of the face shield to a center front mount on the helmet. The mount provides frontal bracket portions for mounting accessories. The helmet assembly provides a helmet shell with a curved shape having a surrounding reinforcing ridge. A reeling system is provided for adjusting front and lower chin straps. Other improvements in helmet assemblies are also disclosed. |
| US09631898B2 |
Protective helmets
A helmet shell formed from two types of high tenacity fibers in multiple layers of fibrous materials. The fibrous materials are in the form of layers of fibrous networks in a resin matrix. There are a plurality of each type of fibrous layers. Preferably the outer set of fibrous layers is formed from aramid fibers and the inner set of fibrous layers is formed from high tenacity polyolefin fibers. There may also be employed a third type of fibrous material as an additional set of fibers and used as the outer layers of the helmet shell. The third type of fibrous layers is formed from glass fibers that are also in a resin matrix. The helmet is lightweight, has excellent ballistic resistant properties and is useful for both military and non-military applications. |
| US09631895B2 |
Shock protection for weapon mounted devices
A device for mounting on a weapon or weapon station, including, an encasement for enclosing the device, a core element that provides a functionality of the device, a planar spring that is connected internally to a side of the encasement; and wherein the core element is coupled to one side of the planar spring, so that the core element is not in physical contact with the encasement. |
| US09631894B2 |
Heated, removable, battery powered firearm grip
The invention is directed toward a heated grip for a firearm. The heated firearm grip comprises a grip body, and a rechargeable cartridge comprising a power source and an electrically resistive heating element. The grip body is shaped as a pistol style firearm grip and has a hollow internal cavity in the grip body. The grip body is interchangeable with the factory installed grip of a firearm. The rechargeable cartridge may have a shaped rigid outer body. The rigid shaped outer body may be configured to operate as a pistol clip. The rechargeable cartridge may be removably secured within the hollow internal cavity of the grip body. The rechargeable cartridge may be removed when a user presses a magazine release button on the grip body of the firearm. |
| US09631893B2 |
Handgun support device
A handgun support device is provided. The handgun support device includes a handgun rest for supporting at least a portion of a grip of a handgun therein, where the handgun rest includes a wall portion, a front support for at least a portion of a front side of the grip of the handgun, the front support protruding from a front side of the wall portion, and a back support for at least a portion of a back side of the grip of the handgun, the back support protruding from a back side of the wall portion and including a hole or gap to allow a thumb of a user to be placed through an opening thereof to support the handgun against the wall portion of the handgun rest with the user's fingers and opposing thumb. The handgun support device further includes a rigid structure extending from the handgun rest for being held against an external support. |
| US09631890B2 |
Air canister for airsoft gun
A canister of propellant releasably mounted in a stock of an airsoft gun includes a head threadedly secured to a first end of a case and including an intermediate annular groove; a plug threadedly fastened in the head and including first, second, and third O-rings; a plunger disposed through the plug into the head and including a first receptacle, a lateral first opening through the first receptacle, a second receptacle, a lateral second opening through the second receptacle, and an annular flange; a cap threadedly secured to plug and including a bottom opening communicating with the case, and a biasing member biased between a bottom and the flange; a passage member threadedly secured to the case; and a check valve threadedly fastened in the passage member. |
| US09631886B2 |
Sprung drop pendulum
A trigger assembly has a sear with a stop surface engageable with a reciprocating component for holding the reciprocating component in a cocked configuration. A trigger is movable into and out of engagement with the sear to hold and release the reciprocating component. A drop pendulum has a trigger cam engageable with the trigger. A spring acts between the trigger and the drop pendulum to bias the trigger cam into engagement with the trigger. The drop pendulum also has a head cam follower engageable with the reciprocating component. Motion of the reciprocating component acting through the head cam follower and the trigger cam forces the trigger to return to a configuration of engagement between the trigger and the sear. Use of the drop pendulum improves the stability of trigger mechanisms and effectively inhibits accidental discharge of firearms when subjected to inertial forces which occur when the firearm is dropped. |
| US09631881B2 |
Conditional system of climate control
A conditional climate control system is presented for maximizing the comfort level of the climate within a building while minimizing the usage of an on-demand energy source. An energy reserve created by an intermittent energy source or sources is monitored, and when it has surpassed a predetermined threshold level the climate conditions of a building are set to more desirable but energy intensive levels from energy-saving levels. |
| US09631879B2 |
Aluminum alloy for extrusion and drawing processes
An extrudable aluminum alloy composition includes, in weight percent, between 0.60 and 0.90 manganese, between 0.45 and 0.75 copper, between 0.05 and 0.24 magnesium, less than 0.30 iron, less than 0.30 silicon, less than 0.05 titanium, less than 0.05 vanadium, and a Cu/Mg ratio higher or equal to 3. It also relates to aluminum alloy heat exchanger extruded or drawn tube and extruded or drawn aluminum alloy tubing having the above-described aluminum alloy composition. It also relates to a heat exchanger comprising a plurality of extruded or drawn tube sections having the above-described aluminum alloy composition and a process for manufacturing same. |
| US09631875B2 |
Heat exchanger for cooling a fluid of an internal combustion engine, assembly with at least one heat exchanger and method for manufacturing a heat exchanger
A heat exchanger (10) cooling a fluid and a method for manufacturing, the heat exchanger (10) having an outer pipe section (12) in which a plurality of inner pipe sections (36) with channels for the fluid to be cooled are disposed. At least one cooling fluid channel (56) is disposed in the outer pipe section (12). The at least one cooling fluid channel (56) and the at least one channel for the fluid to be cooled are in heat contact and fluidically separated from each other. A plurality of inner pipe sections (36) open on both ends (38, 46) form of a pipe bundle (34) having ends fixed tightly in a corresponding lead-through opening (40) of an upstream end body (42) and fixed tightly with the other end (46) in a corresponding lead-through opening (48) of a downstream end body (50). |
| US09631874B2 |
Thermodynamic system including a heat transfer system having an evaporator and a condenser
A thermodynamic system includes a cyclical heat exchange system and a heat transfer system coupled to the cyclical heat exchange system to cool a portion of the cyclical heat exchange system. The heat transfer system includes an evaporator. The evaporator includes a wall configured to be coupled to a portion of the cyclical heat exchange system and a primary wick coupled to the wall. The heat transfer system further includes a condenser coupled to the evaporator to form a closed loop that houses a working fluid. |
| US09631871B2 |
Radiator module
A radiator module having a coolant inlet duct and a coolant outlet duct and two radiators. The first radiator has a first core connected between a first inlet tank and a first outlet tank and the second radiator has a second core connected between a second inlet tank and a second outlet tank. The coolant inlet duct is connected to a coolant inlet of the first inlet tank and the coolant outlet duct is connected to a coolant outlet of the first outlet tank. According to the invention a coolant outlet of the first inlet tank is connected to a coolant inlet of the second inlet tank, a coolant inlet of the first outlet tank is connected to a coolant outlet of the second outlet tank and a flow restrictor is provided in one of the first tanks in front of the first core, such that the coolant flow between the core and said one of the first tanks is restricted. |
| US09631867B2 |
Equipment and method for preheating a continuously moving steel strip
Equipment and a method for preheating a continuously moving steel strip, in particular before feeding the same into a continuous annealing or hot-dip galvanizing furnace, involves the continuous movement of the steel strip in a preheating chamber including a preheating circuit having at least one preheating tube, the inner surface of which is in contact with externally-recovered burnt gases (e.g. from the furnace). A portion of the outer surface of the preheating tube is disposed directly opposite a surface of the strip in order to provide a first preheating mode by irradiating heat onto the strip and the walls of the chamber, and a second preheating mode, mainly by convection, of a gas constituting a controlled atmosphere in the preheating chamber. |
| US09631866B1 |
Heat engine
A heat engine that utilizes a controllable heat source that includes a body comprising a dopant that has an affinity for a fuel species, preferably a hydrogen isotope. The production of heat by the heat source can be modulated by the application of electric and/or magnetic fields to the body. The hear engine includes safety features that prevent excessive heat generation. |
| US09631864B2 |
Heavy hydrocarbon removal from a natural gas stream
A method and apparatus of removing heavy hydrocarbons from a natural gas feed stream, the method comprising using first and second hydrocarbon removal systems in series such that the first system processes the natural gas feed stream to produce a heavy hydrocarbon depleted natural gas stream and the second system processes at least a portion of the heavy hydrocarbon depleted natural gas stream from the first system to produce a natural gas stream lean in heavy hydrocarbons, wherein one of said systems is a adsorption system that comprises one or more beds of adsorbent for adsorbing and thereby removing heavy hydrocarbons from a heavy hydrocarbon containing natural gas, and the other of said systems is a gas-liquid separation system for separating a heavy hydrocarbon containing natural gas into a heavy hydrocarbon depleted natural gas vapor and a heavy hydrocarbon enriched liquid. |
| US09631861B1 |
Home appliance comprising an illumination element
A home appliance, particularly a cooling device with a housing, has an illumination element positioned on the upper wall of the housing for illuminating the housing and the upper wall of the housing. The upper wall includes an illumination region which incorporates the illumination element and where the illumination element is positioned at a higher position than a lower region of the upper wall. The lower region is closer to the front side of the home appliance than the illumination element. |
| US09631859B2 |
Refrigerator water supply system
A refrigerator has a storage chamber opened and closed by a door and a water supply system to supply water to a water taking port disposed at the door. The water supply system includes a water tank and a plurality of connecting pipes. The water tank includes an elongated cylindrical shaped body and a cap configured to form a reservoir such that a section of the cap overlaps the body, a first port having a passageway integral with the elongated cylindrical shaped body, and a second port integral with the cap, the second port being aligned in a direction different from a longitudinal axis of the water tank. The connecting pipes include a first water line positioned in an opening of the first port in a direction different from the longitudinal axis of the water tank, and a second water line positioned in an opening of the second port. |
| US09631858B2 |
Adjustable shelf for a cooling device
A shelf (5) for a cooling device having supporting walls (4 and 104) of different sizes and forms and joined with each other from at least one edge so that either the first support wall (4) or the second support wall (104) are almost vertically upward to the supporting wall which enables goods disposed thereon to be carried by supporting them from below while the other supporting wall supports the goods from the sides. |
| US09631856B2 |
Ice-accelerator aqueous solution
Methods, processes, compositions, apparatus, kits and systems for chilling and cooling beverages and desserts to selected desired temperatures by adding the beverages and desserts to different mixtures of brine solutions and bags of loose ice. The invention forms and creates an aqueous solution composition of certain salinity of ice-melter (such as sodium chloride ‘salt’ and/or calcium chloride). The composition is poured in a pre-defined amount evenly over a known amount of bagged-ice in a cooler. The result is a precisely controlled and evenly distributed temperature (within a few degrees Fahrenheit) can be obtained within the ice-solution mixture. Next, canned and bottled beverages (and other items) can be submerged in the precision controlled temperature ice-solution mixture to create certain desired effects only possible by chilling items to a known temperature below 32 degrees. |
| US09631852B2 |
System and method for controlling compressor motor voltage
A variable speed drive (VSD) can be used to vary the voltage-to-frequency ratio (V/f) supplied to a compressor motor of a heating, ventilation, air conditioning or refrigeration (HVAC&R) system to compensate for varying conditions in the HVAC&R system. |
| US09631846B2 |
Seasonal thermal energy storage system
A seasonal thermal energy storage system for heat supply and removal, including an energy-storage device, a solar collector, a refrigerating unit, and a water supply device in closed-loop connection to a user terminal. The energy-storage device includes at least a heat source storage pond and a cold source storage pond. The heat source storage pond and the cold source storage pond are connected to water source via first water pumps. The water supply device includes a hot water supply pool connected to the heat source storage pond and a cold water supply pool connected to the cold source storage pond. The solar collector is connected to the heat source storage pond and the hot water supply pool via second water pumps. The refrigerating unit is connected to the hot water supply pool and the cold water supply pool via third water pumps. |
| US09631843B2 |
Magnetic device for magneto caloric heat pump regenerator
A magnetic device is provided for a magneto caloric heat pump regenerator. Magnets are arranged within two magnetic flux circuits in a manner than that provides at least four fields of increased magnetic flux density. The regenerator can be used to move working units of magneto caloric material through the fields of increase magnetic flux to provide for heating and cooling as part of heat pump cycle. The orientation of the magnets provides concentrated fields of magnetic flux to induce the magneto caloric effect while optimizing the size of the magnets required to create the fields. |
| US09631840B2 |
Single axis solar tracking system
A solar tracking system with a plurality of tracking assemblies moved by a single motor. A method and system that prevents overloading the motor or tripping a circuit breaker due to an obstructed or impeded tracker includes sensing movement of the tracker assemblies and entering into obstruction clearing modes. Obstruction clearing mode 1 (OCM1) is a high frequency adjustable mode that prompts movement for an adjustable period of time. If movement commences, the system returns to a normal mode. If there is no movement, the system enters into an obstruction clearing mode 2 (OCM2) with is an adjustable lower frequency series of attempts. If there is no movement, no further attempts are made. Each of these steps are monitored and controlled remotely. There are two types of secure connections for drivelines, torque tubes or affixing driveline linkages for high torque conditions. |
| US09631836B2 |
Device for electrically heating fluid for a motor vehicle, and related heating and/or air-conditioning apparatus
The invention relates to a device for electrically heating fluid for a motor vehicle, characterized in that it comprises: at least one heating module (2a, 2b) comprising at least one heating element (7a, 7b) and defining a circuit (7a, 7b) for guiding the fluid to be heated; a means (3) for controlling the heating element (7a, 7b), comprising an electric current switch (14a, 14b) connected to said heating element (7a, 7b) and a heat sink (15) having a first surface (19), which is to contact the fluid, and a second surface (19), which is to contact a sole plate (16) of said electric current switch (14a, 14b). The invention also relates to a heating and/or air-conditioning apparatus for a motor vehicle, including at least one such electric-heating device (1). |
| US09631828B2 |
Ventilating fan
The present invention discloses a ventilating fan mounted on a wall of an indoor side of a wind path therethrough from the indoor side to an outdoor side. The ventilating fan includes a ventilating fan hood, a filtering member, a ventilating fan body, and a ventilating fan mounting member. The filtering member is integrally formed by a frame provided with an engagement that is engaged with the ventilating fan body and a filtering screen located within the frame. The ventilating fan according to the present invention has the advantages that the filtering member can be fixedly mounted to the ventilating fan body in a simple structure manner without using fasteners such as screws, so as to facilitate the operation and save the working time. Moreover, the filtering member is not blown off to fall off when the ventilating fan hood is removed. In addition, the mounting of the filtering member in a reverse order is eliminated. |
| US09631825B2 |
Air filter assembly
An air filter assembly is configured to deliver filtered air to a room. The assembly may include a main housing having at least first and second surfaces, wherein the first surface differs from the second surface, one or more first air filters proximate to the first surface, wherein the one or more first air filters is configured to discharge a first portion of filtered air through the first surface in a direct direction, and one or more second air filters proximate to the second surface. The one or more second air filters is configured to discharge a second portion of filtered air through the second surface in a second direction that differs from the first direction. |
| US09631821B2 |
Intake drain system and method
A furnace system includes an air intake that includes a pipe portion and a seal component configured to couple with the pipe portion. The furnace system also includes an internal drain disposed internal to the air intake. The internal drain includes a trough configured to collect liquid flowing along an inner surface of the pipe portion. The internal drain also includes an opening in the trough configured to guide the liquid collected in the trough to a passage through the air intake to a location outside the air intake. |
| US09631816B2 |
Bundled tube fuel nozzle
A bundled tube fuel nozzle includes a fuel distribution body. The fuel distribution body includes a substantially flat aft wall having an inner surface axially spaced from an outer surface, a fuel stem collar axially spaced from the inner surface of the aft wall and a contoured forward wall that extends between the fuel stem collar and the aft wall. The contoured forward wall and the aft wall define a fuel plenum within the fuel distribution body. The bundled tube fuel nozzle further includes a plurality of injector tubes that are in fluid communication with the fuel plenum. Each injector tube extends from the contoured forward wall to the aft wall within the fuel distribution body and defines a premix passage through the contoured forward, the fuel plenum and the aft wall. |
| US09631810B2 |
Method of treating an exhaust gas stream
The present invention provides a method of treating an exhaust gas stream 12 from a processing chamber 10. The method comprises the steps of: conveying the exhaust gas from the processing chamber using a vacuum pumping arrangement 11, 22 or atmospheric line; abating the exhaust gas in an abatement region 18 of an abatement device 14; and injecting a cooling agent, such as a liquid 26, downstream of the abatement region to cool the abated gases in a cooling region 24 by phase change of the cooling agent. |
| US09631801B2 |
Flexible flat cable connector, direct-type backlight module, and cable arrangement device
A flexible flat cable (FFC) connector includes a bottom seat, a top cover rotatably hinged on the bottom seat, at least one elastic part disposed on the bottom seat, wherein, a top portion of the elastic part is protruded out from a top surface of the bottom seat and a bottom portion of the elastic part is extended out from a bottom surface of the elastic part, and a positioning part protruded on the top surface of the bottom seat. A free end of the top cover is provided with a bent extension portion, and the bent extension portion is used for fixing the top cover on the bottom seat. A backlight module and a cable arrangement device are also disclosed. The FFC connector can fix the FFC well. A reliable electric connection can be achieved. The assembly efficiency of the backlight module can also be increased. |
| US09631799B2 |
LED 3D curved lead frame of illumination device
A 3D curved structure and LED 3D curved lead frame for a curved surface illumination of an illumination device. First of all, draw illumination circuit with banded structure of multilayer lead frame on 3D illumination curved surface, then spread these curved circuit into plane circuit, dismantle the banded structure of multilayer lead frame of circuit into circuit pattern of single layers, use process the prototype of circuit patterns of each layer with conductive metal charge tape, and produce the prototype of banded structure of multilayer conductive frame through repeated accumulation of multi-disc charge tapes, and install the LED chip on the installation seat to get LED flat lead frame, then flex the conductive metal into LED 3D curved lead frame with jig and paste on the luminous curved surface, and package them with transparent material. |
| US09631797B2 |
Light emitting device and lighting fixture
A light emitting device has a plurality of light emitting elements, a heat spreading member on which the plurality of light emitting elements are mounted, and having a bottom face, an insulating member having a recess that includes side walls and a bottom wall, a top face of the bottom wall being in contact with the bottom face of the heat spreading member, and a circuit board having a circuit that is provided on the heat spreading member and supplies power to the plurality of light emitting elements. |
| US09631796B2 |
Illumination unit for medical use and illumination device for medical use
Various embodiments may relate to an illumination unit for medical use and an illumination device for medical use, wherein the illumination unit includes a light source and a first reflecting structure, the light source has a connecting structure, and the light source is detachably installed on the first reflecting structure by means of the connecting structure. The illumination unit for medical use and the illumination device for medical use according to various embodiments provide a convenient and simple detachable installation structure between the light source and a reflecting structure, such that the installation and maintenance are simple, and the effect of adjusting the color temperature also can be achieved according to different selection of the light source. |
| US09631793B2 |
Stack of layers comprising luminescent material, a lamp, a luminaire and a method of manufacturing the stack of layers
A stack of layers 100, a lamp, a luminaire and a method of manufacturing a stack of layers is disclosed. The stack of layers 100 comprises a first outer layer 102, a second outer layer 106 and a luminescent layer 104. The first outer layer 102 and the second outer layer 106 are of a light transmitting polymeric material and have an oxygen transmission rate lower than 30 cm3/(m2-day) measured under standard temperature and pressure (STP). The luminescent layer 104 is sandwiched between the first outer layer 102 and the second outer layer 106 and comprises a light transmitting matrix polymer and a luminescent material 108 being configured to absorb light according to an absorption spectrum and convert a portion of the absorbed light towards light of a light emission spectrum. |
| US09631790B2 |
Illumination lens for short-throw lighting
An illumination tens includes a light incident surface that defines a cavity and has a flat top surface and lateral flanks, the light incident surface configured to receive light from an underlying light emitting element, a light exiting surface having a central indentation and surrounding toroid, and a bottom surface connecting the light incident surface and the light exiting surface. The lateral flank includes a first region extending from the top surface and a second region extended from the first region, the second region is a curved surface, of which the center of the curvature thereof lies on the illumination lens, an intersection of the second region and a horizontal optical axis forms a first point, and the first point is disposed lower than a second point where the bottom surface and the light exiting surface intersect. |
| US09631789B2 |
Apparatus and method for retrofitting a fluorescent downlight illumination device
In various embodiments, a downlight illumination device is upgraded to an illumination device based on one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) via a retrofit kit that includes (i) a lighting module comprising one or more LEDs, (ii) a driver module comprising circuitry for receiving power from the power source and supplying compatible power to the one or more LEDs, (iii) a flexible conduit connecting the lighting module to the driver module and containing therewithin a plurality of wires electrically connecting the lighting module to the driver module, and (iv) an alignment bracket for attachment within the housing and configured to receive the lighting module. |
| US09631786B2 |
Vehicle lamp with predetermined positioning of shade and projection lens focal point
A vehicle lamp 10 includes a projection lens 12 which is disposed on an optical axis which extends in a longitudinal direction of a vehicle, an LED 14 which emits light which is directed towards a rear focal point F of the projection lens, an LED 16 which emits light which is directed towards the rear focal point of the projection lens, and a shade 22 which can not only form a first light distribution pattern having a first cut-off line by cutting off part of light emitted from the LED 14 but also form a second light distribution pattern having a second cut-off line by cutting off part of light emitted from the LED 16. The shade 22 is disposed so that a front edge 22a thereof is positioned further rearwards than the rear focal point F. |
| US09631785B2 |
Lighting unit and vehicle headlamp
A lighting unit (1) is provided with a reflecting surface (2, 2′, 2″) for providing an output beam of light with at least two beam patterns. A first light source (5) and a second light source (7) are arranged to illuminate substantially identical surface areas of said reflecting surface (2, 2′, 2″) and are independently controllable from each other. The reflecting surface (2, 2′, 2″) is shaped and said light sources (5, 7) are positioned relative to said reflecting surface (2, 2′, 2″) so that said first light source (5) generates an output beam of light, having a first beam pattern and said at least second light source (7) generates an output beam of light, having a second beam pattern, different from said first beam pattern. A corresponding vehicle headlamp (10) comprises at least one lighting unit (1). |
| US09631784B2 |
Recycled tire rubber barrier modular system
A recycled tire rubber barrier modular system comprising an elongated core of recycled rubber, polymer adhesive, and hardener; a base coupled to the elongated core; and two concave elongate walls which may be coupled to the elongated core and to the base. Additionally, two oppositely positioned sidewalls each of which may be coupled to the elongated core and to the base, and each sidewall may be joined to the concave elongate wall. The barrier system may further have a lateral hooking arm coupled to the elongated core above the concave elongate wall which is coupled to both sidewalls. |
| US09631780B2 |
Street lighting device for communicating with observers and associated methods
A thoroughfare lighting device comprising a housing configured to be attached to a thoroughfare surface, a plurality of LEDs configured to selectively illuminate individual lanes of the thoroughfare surface, the plurality of LEDs comprising a first set of LEDs configured to emit a generally white light and a second set of LEDs configured to emit colored light that is operable to selectively emit light so as to illuminate individual lanes of the thoroughfare surface, a driver circuit configured to operate the second set of LEDs to emit a colored light indicating the condition of a first lane of the thoroughfare surface, and an optic carried by the housing and positioned in optical communication with the plurality of LEDs. |
| US09631776B2 |
Model-based controls for selective catalyst reduction systems
Systems and methods are provided for controlling a selective catalyst reduction (SCR) system having a SCR reactor. A reductant slip set point indicative of a target slip is received as a control variable is to be utilized for maintaining an amount of a NOx composition included in a combustion gas below a selected limit. A signal transmitted by a sensor is received, and is indicative of the reductant slip downstream of the SCR reactor. An amount of a NOx reductant to be introduced to the SCR reactor is determined based, at least in part, on a relationship between the target reductant slip and the reductant slip downstream of the SCR reactor indicated by the signal. A control signal is transmitted to cause introduction of the amount of the NOx reductant to the SCR reactor to maintain the amount of the NOx composition in the combustion gas below the selected limit. |
| US09631775B2 |
Tap for a gas cylinder having a visual pressure indicator
The invention relates to a device for controlling the flow and/or pressure of a pressurized gas, and specifically to a tap for a pressurized-gas cylinder. The tap includes a body having a gas inlet, a gas outlet, and a passage connecting the inlet to the outlet. The tap also includes a valve for closing the passage, as well as a pressure indicator downstream from the closing valve. The pressure indicator is translatably operated and includes just two stable positions, i.e. one that corresponds to the presence of pressure, and the other to the absence of pressure. |
| US09631771B1 |
Manually actuatable hanger for suspending articles from a tubular carrier structure
A manually actuatable hanger suitable for suspending articles from a tubular carrier structure includes jaws that may be actuated to expand a jaw opening to receive the carrier structure, with the jaws biased toward a closed position to engage the carrier structure. The hanger further includes a pivoting gate element that is operable by a user to selectively open a gate opening to provide access to a hook portion, whereby one or more articles may be hung from an interior surface of the hook portion. |
| US09631769B2 |
Television mounting device
Television mounting devices that can be stand-alone wall mounted, wall mounted with furniture positioned in front, or attached/mounted to furniture, and that also accommodate differing types of television or other electronics and wires in an efficient and visually appealing manner. |
| US09631766B2 |
Use of inorganic materials for producing composites
A method of producing composites from inorganic materials by processing with thermoplastic forming techniques mixtures containing one or more inorganic, fine residual materials and one or more polymers based on ethylenically unsaturated monomers in the form of protective colloid-stabilized, water-redispersible polymer powders, wherein the inorganic, fine residual materials are based on inorganic materials selected from the group consisting of gypsum, lime, talc, silicas, kaolins, silicates and titanium dioxide, and wherein the composites are based on from 5 to 80% by weight of polymers based on ethylenically unsaturated monomers and from 20 to 95% by weight of inorganic, fine residual materials, based on the total weight of polymer based on ethylenically unsaturated monomers and inorganic, fine residual materials. |
| US09631763B2 |
Pipe splitting apparatus with cable engagement system
Pipe splitting apparatuses and systems including a replaceable blade, and methods therefor, are provided. In various examples, a cable retention and release mechanism is configured to releasably engage a cable and includes one or more segments of a pipe splitting apparatus including a cable passage. A segmented collet includes tapered segments and is disposed within a tapered portion of a cable passage of the one or more segments. Channel surfaces of the tapered segments together form a cable channel through the segmented collet. The cable channel is configured to widen in a disengaged position of the segmented collet and narrow in an engaged position of the segmented collet. A spring is disposed within the spring pocket of the one or more segments to bias the segmented collet distally in the engaged position. |
| US09631759B2 |
Expansion joint for pipelines
A tube is surrounded by a ring attached to a sleeve. One end of the tube is attached to a pipe of the pipeline, one end of the sleeve is attached to another pipe of the pipe line. The tube and the ring and sleeve are movable axially relatively to one another when the pipe line expands or contracts linearly. A seal between the ring and the tube ensures fluid tightness of the joint. |
| US09631754B2 |
Tubing assembly, clamp, and tubing connection method
A clamp can be used to further secure the connection between a flexible tube and a tubing connector and to eliminate or diminish fluid stasis near the connection interface. The clamp can include a hollow member having a passageway extending through the hollow member, an internal thread in the passageway, and a clamping surface in the passageway. The passageway is configured to receive the flexible tube. The internal thread is configured to engage the flexible tube and has a first diameter. The clamping surface has a second diameter less than the first diameter. A hub may be used as an adapter between the clamp and the tube. |
| US09631752B2 |
Expansion joint and steam turbine system including the same
An expansion joint that is provided between a steam turbine outlet and a condenser inlet, including: an upstream baffle tube that has one end secured to an upstream fixing end and the other end as a free end, and forms a steam channel; a downstream baffle tube that has one end secured to a downstream fixed end and the other end as a free end, the free end being relatively movable outside the free end of the upstream baffle tube; and a flexible cylinder that is formed of a non-metal material using a resin sheet, and deformable while airtightly surrounding the baffle tubes. |
| US09631750B1 |
Apparatus for aligning adjoining pipe flanges
A pipe flange alignment guide to assist in connection of adjoining bolted pipe flanges is described. The guide is comprised of first and second semi-circular body sections joined together by a clamshell hinge and a buckle assembly. Each body section has a flared bottom that forms a conical opening when the body sections are positioned around adjoining flanged pipe segments. The top of each body section forms a semi-circular cover with opening edges having a plurality of spaced apart scallops. The scallops conform to the bolt hole pattern of the adjoining pipe flanges and serve as an alignment guide for the flange attachment bolts. |
| US09631744B2 |
Aerial refueling hose
An in-flight refueling hose and method. The hose includes an inner braid including pseudoelastic shape memory alloy (e.g., nitinol) wires. These wires undergo a stress induced phase change absorbing energy to dampen oscillations of the hose in use. |
| US09631743B2 |
Releasable connector for supporting a flexible conduit
A flexible conduit having a rigid portion, a flexible portion and a releasable connector secured to the rigid portion to support the flexible conduit. The releasable connector includes a male member and a female member. One of the two members includes at least one biased plungers and the other includes at least one detent. The plungers and detents are vertically spaced along the longitudinal axes of the members. A clevis may be used to secure the releasable connector to the rigid portion of the flexible conduit. A second support connected to the male and female members may be used. Also a method of supporting a flexible conduit with a releasable connector. |
| US09631736B2 |
Low cost solenoid valve
A solenoid valve includes a housing, a bobbin and an armature. The bobbin is received at least partially within the housing and has a body about which a coil is provided. A fluid flow path including an inlet and an outlet and a valve seat is defined by at least one of the housing or the bobbin, and the armature is moveable relative to the valve seat to control flow through the fluid flow path. |
| US09631730B2 |
Valve and fluid control apparatus
A valve includes a lower valve housing, a diaphragm, and an upper valve housing. A top surface of a piezoelectric pump is bonded to a bottom surface of the lower valve housing. A circular hole portion is provided in a central portion of a region of the diaphragm that opposes a projecting portion of the lower valve housing. The diaphragm is bonded to the upper valve housing and the lower valve housing, and a divided interior of a valve housing configures a first lower valve chamber, a second lower valve chamber, a first upper valve chamber, and a second upper valve chamber. A groove is located in a wall portion of the upper valve housing that opposes the diaphragm in the first upper valve chamber. |
| US09631726B2 |
Sealing member with visible pressure and temperature indication
A sealing member for a machine may include an elastomeric body configured to fit at least partially into a recess defined in at least one of two sealing surfaces of two mating parts of the machine. The elastomeric body may include a visible indicator portion extending out from between the two mating parts. The elastomeric body may further include an elastomeric compound, and at least one of a thermochromic dye and a piezochromic dye mixed into the elastomeric compound, wherein the thermochromic dye is adapted to change color upon exposure of the elastomeric body to a temperature above a threshold temperature, and the piezochromic dye is adapted to change color upon exposure of the elastomeric body to a pressure above a threshold pressure. |
| US09631725B2 |
ESP mechanical seal lubrication
Seal sections for electric submersible pumps. Seal sections are described which include a combination of a barrier fluid to protect a seal from unfavorable ingress and control of differential pressure across the face of the seal. |
| US09631724B2 |
Brake system master-cylinder seal
A master-cylinder seal housed in a groove around a piston has a core connected to three annular and concentric lips. The core rests against a side of the groove and has: a surface provided with an interior edge followed by a peripheral platter cut by at least one channel, and an exterior crown provided with a connection zone formed by an interruption in the crown and deformable due to pressure within the seal to recreate the crown's continuity and impermeability while facilitating purging the brake system when there is no pressure in the channel and the connection zone. |
| US09631723B2 |
Vehicle and method to control rolling engagements
When a vehicle driver selects reverse while a vehicle is moving forward, a transmission controller applies friction shift elements within the transmission to create a partial tie-up condition to decelerate the vehicle. Once the vehicle slows below a threshold speed, the controller engages a selectable one way brake and releases some of the friction shift elements to engage a reverse gear ratio. |
| US09631722B2 |
Transmissions with torque and/or speed sensor arrangements
A transmission includes sensors positioned adjacent respective pairs of magnetized bands on a shaft of the transmission for detecting magnetic flux emanating from the bands in response to torque on the shaft. The transmission further includes an electronics interface assembly configured to respectively provide drive signals to the sensors and to receive from the sensors, in response to the drive signals, output signals indicative of the torque on the shaft as detected by the sensors. |
| US09631721B2 |
Oil pressure control apparatus
Oil pressure is produced by an electrical pump during an engine operation is temporarily stopped according to an idling-stop function and respectively supplied to multiple electromagnetic valves. A command value for a drive current is supplied to each of a driver circuit in order to adjust the oil pressure to be outputted from the corresponding electromagnetic valve. Such adjusted oil pressure is applied to a corresponding gear-change element and an oil-pressure a detecting device detects the oil pressure applied to the gear-change element to obtain detection value for the oil pressure. A current-command characteristic for each of the electromagnetic valves is updated based on the command value of the drive current and the detection value of the oil pressure. |
| US09631717B2 |
Planetary gear train for transmission of motor
Provided is a planetary gear train for transmission of e-bike motor, including: a carrier protrusively formed in a center with a stator axis insertion boss provided with a stator axis insertion groove in a shape corresponding to that of the stator axis for insertion of the stator axis, and mounted with a plurality of gear installation units; a plurality of planetary gears interposed rotatably mounted at an upper surface of the gear installation unit of the carrier; and a fixing pin rotatably mounting the plurality of planetary gears on the gear installation units, wherein the fixing pin includes a pin head preventing the planetary gears from deviating. |
| US09631716B2 |
Plug for a planetary pin assembly
A pin assembly for use in a planetary gear, including a pin defining a blind bore therein, the blind bore extending axially from an opening and terminating with an end face, the pin defining an inlet bore and an outlet bore, and a plug including a substantially cylindrical body including a circular base wall and a sidewall extending from its outer perimeter, the sidewall defining an inlet recess and an outlet recess. The inlet recess and outlet recess of the plug are aligned with the inlet bore and outlet bore, respectively, of the pin when the plug is inserted in the pin. |
| US09631713B2 |
Driving force transfer device for end-effector
A driving force transfer device for an end-effector, the driving force transfer device comprising at least one double shaft member which separately receives driving forces generated from first and second driving means through first and second power transfer means and transfers the driving forces to an end-effector such that the end-effector has two rotational degrees of freedom. |
| US09631711B2 |
Actuator arrangement and control surface arrangement, especially for an aircraft
An improved actuator arrangement for operating a driven element with different actuators. The actuator arrangement comprises a first actuator that drives a driven element in a first direction via a first output member and a second actuator that drives the driven element in a second direction opposite to the first direction via a second output member. The first and second actuators are configured to work in a counter-acting manner to move the driven element in the first and second directions. An additional connecting and supporting device is connected between the first and second output members to support the output members to bear transversal forces transversal to the moving direction and/or to bear pre-load force for pre-loading the actuators. |
| US09631709B2 |
Hybrid drive device for a motor vehicle
A hybrid drive device for a motor vehicle includes an internal combustion engine, an electric machine, and two planetary gear trains which are shiftable into different gear stages by shifting elements and brakes and which are connectable via input elements and output elements with a driven input shaft and an output shaft and have reaction elements which can be coupled or braked. The internal combustion engine is in driving relation to a first input shaft and the electric machine is in driving relation to a second coaxial input shaft. The two planetary gear trains are coupled to each other such that via the clutches and brake shifting of four forward gears can be implemented via the internal combustion engine and shifting of three forward gears or reverse gears can be implemented via the electric machine. |
| US09631707B2 |
Multi-speed transmission
The present disclosure provides a multiple speed transmission having an input member, an output member, a plurality of planetary gearsets, a plurality of interconnecting members and a plurality of torque-transmitting mechanisms. The plurality of planetary gear sets includes first, second and ring gears. The input member is continuously interconnected with at least one member of one of the plurality of planetary gear sets, and the output member is continuously interconnected with another member of one of the plurality of planetary gear sets. At least eight forward speeds and one reverse speed are achieved by the selective engagement of the five torque-transmitting mechanisms. |
| US09631700B2 |
Multi-function appliance knob incorporating multiple rotation modulating mechanisms
A control knob for an appliance includes an outer control ring, a stationary hub, a rotation modulating mechanism coupled to the outer control ring and engaged with an outer surface of the stationary hub, wherein the outer control ring is rotationally operable about the stationary hub at a first rate, an indicial ring positioned around the stationary hub, wherein the indicial ring engages a portion of the rotation modulating mechanism, wherein rotation of the outer control ring at the first rate causes the rotation modulating mechanism to rotate the indicial ring about the stationary hub at a second rate, the second rate being different than the first rate and an encoder shaft positioned within the stationary hub, wherein an inner gearing mechanism extends between an exterior surface of the encoder shaft and one of the outer control ring and the indicial ring. |
| US09631695B2 |
Shock absorber
A shock absorber includes a cylinder; a piston movable therein and dividing the cylinder in first and second cylinder chambers; a cylinder attachment for attachment to a first part of a vehicle and connected to the cylinder; and a piston attachment for attachment to a second part of a vehicle and connected to the piston. The piston attachment and cylinder attachment move towards one another on an inward movement and away from one another on an outward movement. The piston includes a first inward channel; a first inward valve to open the first inward channel on inward movement; a first outward channel; a first outward valve to open the first outward channel on outward movement; a second inward channel; a second inward valve to open the second inward channel on inward movement; a second outward channel; and a second outward valve to open the second outward channel on outward movement. |
| US09631693B2 |
Lateral support element, gas spring assembly and method
A lateral support element (304) include an element wall with a first surface facing away from an associated flexible wall (264) and a second surface facing toward the associated flexible wall. The lateral support element is disposed along the associated flexible wall such that an interface (334) is formed between an outer surface of the associated flexible wall and the second surface of the lateral support element. The interface is operative to generate a lateral spring-rate profile in an associated gas spring assembly that varies according to lateral displacement of the associated flexible wall and the lateral support element relative to one another. The interface can include a quantity of friction-reducing material and/or can be at least partially formed by a cross-sectional profile of the lateral support element that includes a convex profile segment. Gas spring assemblies and methods of assembly are also included. |
| US09631692B2 |
Vibration damping device
The damping device comprises a cluster of resonators with a predetermined frequency distribution, that, when attached to a main or ‘master’ structure, is capable of absorbing irreversibly its vibrational or/and acoustic energy produced by a vibrating body. the density of natural frequencies of the plurality of resonators is comprised within a curve that lies below the envelope curve determined by the formula, e( )=1/−1. |
| US09631690B2 |
Adjustable protection element for use with lifts and hoists
A protective device is positioned on poles in vehicle lifts or hoists. The device has: two arms having an outer surface and an inner surface; each inner surface having a magnetic layer; inner surfaces of the two arms forming an interior angle between 30 degrees and 150 degrees; outer surfaces of the arms forming an exterior angle of between 330 degrees and 210 degrees; and the external angle supporting a cushioning element comprising an elastomeric, compressive tube. |
| US09631689B2 |
Method and installation for applying friction lining elements to a friction lining support
A method for applying friction lining elements to a friction lining support is provided. The invention is characterized in that friction lining elements are applied simultaneously to opposite sides of the friction lining support. |
| US09631686B2 |
Electric parking brake device and release method therefor
An electric parking brake device holds a parking brake in a braking state by a rotation-linear motion conversion mechanism that converts rotation of an electric motor into a motion in a linear direction, and releases the parking brake by the rotation-linear motion conversion mechanism. In a case of releasing the parking brake, the electric motor is controlled by combining PWM control and ON/OFF control with each other. When the electric motor is driven according to the PWM control, and a predetermined time has elapsed after start of the PWM control, then the electric motor is changed to drive according to the ON/OFF control. In the ON/OFF control, a change in which a drive current of the electric motor is decreased stepwise is detected, whereby a torque drop of the rotation-linear motion conversion mechanism is detected. |
| US09631681B2 |
Gear mechanism for motor vehicles
A gear mechanism for motor vehicles includes a double clutch gear mechanism with two part gear mechanisms and a double clutch which transmits torque from the engine optionally to one of the two part gear mechanisms, with a central disk connected to a drive disk, two outer pressure application plates which are also connected to the drive disk and are moveable in the axial direction relative to the central disk, and friction disks arranged between the central disk and the pressure application plates, wherein the friction disks consist of two support carrier disks arranged parallel to each other and moveably in relation to each other, between which leaf-like spring segments are provided. To eliminate vibration problems which can occur on start-up from standstill, on load-change processes and during the gear change, the leaf-like spring segments have different spring characteristic curves with which a multistage spring characteristic is achieved. |
| US09631680B2 |
Integrated cooling system for a dry dual clutch of a dual clutch transmission
A dual clutch transmission for motor vehicles, has two transmission sections, a dry dual clutch (1), which transmits the torque from the engine selectively to one of the two transmission sections, and a cooling system having a fan impeller system for active air cooling of the dual clutch (1). To optimize the individual functional parts of the cooling system and to reduce the clutch masses, it is proposed that the central disk (3) and/or at least one contact pressure plate (4, 5) is/are designed as a fan impeller of the fan impeller system (21). The central disk (3) and/or at least one of the contact pressure plates (4, 5) has/have passages which extend radially or have a radial component. |
| US09631679B2 |
Multiple plate clutch
In a multiple plate clutch having a main spring which is provided between a clutch center fixed in an axial direction and a pressure plate displaceable in the axial direction and presses plural clutch plates in a clutch engagement direction, and a lifter plate for lifting the pressure plate in a clutch release direction, a sub spring for urging the pressure plate in the clutch engagement direction through the lifter plate is provided between the clutch center and the lifter plate, and the lifter plate is lifted by a predetermined amount or more to cut off the urging force of the sub spring to the pressure plate. |
| US09631670B2 |
Rolling bearing apparatus and lubrication unit
A lubrication unit in a rolling bearing apparatus includes a pump that supplies a lubricant to an annular space formed between an inner ring and an outer ring, and is provided adjacently to the annular space. The pump includes a needle-like nozzle having, at a tip thereof, a discharge port through which the lubricant is discharged toward an outer ring raceway groove in an outer ring. A tip of the nozzle is in contact with a shoulder portion inner peripheral surface adjacent to the outer ring raceway groove or is provided close to the shoulder portion inner peripheral surface such that a very small gap is formed between the tip and the shoulder portion inner peripheral surface. |
| US09631662B2 |
Spring clip apparatus
A spring clip fastener includes a body member, a base member, first and second carrier members on opposite edges of the base member, first and second positioning members carried by the first and second carrier members, and first and second locking members carried by the first and second carrier members. The body member is configured to receive an associated joining fastener along a first body member axis to selectively couple a first panel with the spring clip apparatus. The first and second carrier members are insertable into an opening in a second panel. The first and second locking members are directed towards the base member and include distal ends extending outwardly of the base member to selectively fasten the second panel between the distal ends and the base member. |
| US09631654B2 |
Fastening member and device having the same
A fastening member for fastening and unfastening at least two panel members includes first and second elastic arms. One panel member has a first surface. The other panel member has a second surface facing away from the first surface. Each panel member has a fixed through hole having at least a portion with a width (P1). Each elastic arm has first and second end edges respectively proximate to and relatively distal from the first surface. The first end edge has a width larger than the width (P1). A limiting arm extends from the first end edge of the first elastic arm, and includes a limiting portion that can extend through the fixed through holes of the panel members or move away from the second elastic arm when the elastic arms are pressed or released, respectively. |
| US09631653B2 |
Push-in fastener
A re-usable push-in fastener includes a fastener grommet including a plurality of deflectable legs and a fastener pin which is inserted into the fastener grommet. The grommet and pin have a pre-installation relative position in which the pin is held in the grommet, with the legs of the grommet in relaxed positions. A full installation relative position for the grommet and pin includes the pin urging the legs outwardly against the surface of a hole in an object in which the grommet is installed. |
| US09631646B2 |
Cylinder mechanism
A cylinder mechanism includes a cylinder body, a piston pole slidably installed to the cylinder body, a connecting member mounted to the piston pole away from the cylinder body, and an adjusting apparatus. The cylinder body includes two tabs protruding out from two side surfaces of the cylinder body. Each tab defines a guiding hole extending along a moving direction of the piston pole. The adjusting apparatus includes two screws and two adjusting nuts fitting about the two screws. A first end of each screw is mounted to the connecting member, and a second end of each screw is passed through the corresponding guiding hole. Each adjusting nut is connected to the second end of the corresponding screw, and the adjusting nut is configured to abut against the corresponding tab. The stroke of the piston pole is configured to adjust according as rotating the adjusting nuts. |
| US09631634B2 |
Turbocharger with friction-increasing coating
The turbocharger according to the invention has a rotor with a compressor wheel as well as a turbine wheel that is connected in a rotationally-fixed manner to the compressor wheel by means of a common shaft. The compressor wheel and the shaft are form-fittingly tensioned with one another, wherein respectively at least one or two torque-transmitting contact surfaces, which lie one atop the other, between components force-fittingly tensioned with one another, is provided with a friction-increasing coating. |
| US09631631B2 |
Bearing housing
A bearing housing for use with a centrifugal pump can include a bracket and a cradle separated from the bracket by a gap. A plurality of ribs can connect the bracket to the cradle across the gap. The ribs can be sized and configured to improve cooling to help minimize operational temperatures of the cradle. |
| US09631630B2 |
Bearing carrier for a pump
The present invention relates to a pump (10) comprising a shaft (15) supported for rotation by a bearing (38) carried by a bearing carrier (48), said bearing carrier having a generally outer radial portion (52) which is fixed relative to a pump housing (12) and a generally inner radial portion (54) which is fixed relative to the bearing, wherein the carrier is stiff in a radial direction between said inner and outer portions and flexible in an axial direction for restraining radial movement of the bearing and allowing axial movement. |
| US09631627B2 |
Columnar air moving devices, systems and methods
Air moving device includes a housing, an impeller in the housing for generating a downward air flow, and vanes in the housing in close proximity to and a selected distance below the impeller to straighten the air flow. The device produces an air flow that substantially remains in a column over a substantial distance. The method includes producing an air flow that substantially remains in a column over a substantial distance and directing the air flow from the ceiling towards the floor to provide temperature destratification of the air in an enclosed space. The method also includes directing warm air from the ceiling to the floor and storing heat in the floor, apparatus on the floor and ground under the floor. The stored heat is released when the ceiling is cooler than the floor. |
| US09631625B2 |
Axial turbine with statorless inlet formed by meridionally divided turbine housing and heat shroud
A statorless axial turbine for a turbocharger has a turbine housing assembly defining a meridionally divided scroll extending circumferentially and surrounding the turbine wheel, the meridionally divided scroll defining a first scroll extending substantially fully about the turbine wheel and a separate second scroll extending substantially fully about the turbine wheel. The turbine housing assembly defines a separate inlet for each of the first and second scrolls through which a separate exhaust gas stream is received, and separate first and second outlets for each of the first and second scrolls, respectively, through which the respective exhaust gas streams are fed into an inlet side of the turbine wheel generally in an axial direction of the turbine wheel. |
| US09631623B2 |
Stepped parting joint on a transmission housing of a fluid machine
A divisible housing of a fluid machine for a transmission to be received in the divisible housing is provided. The transmission provided for receiving in the divisible housing includes a large wheel and at least two pinion shafts which are in engagement with the large wheel. The divisible housing includes a first housing element and a second housing element which is connected to the first housing element via a parting joint. The at least two pinion shafts may be received in the parting joint. The parting joint includes a parting joint step, the at least two pinion shafts being receivable in the parting joint on both sides of the parting joint step. |
| US09631621B2 |
Compressor
A compressor includes a drive shaft, a housing, an annular rotor, and cradles. The rotor has cradle windows. The rotor can rotate within the rotor chamber together with the drive shaft while being in sliding contact with the housing at the circumferential surface. The cradles are provided in the cradle windows to be pivotable about pivot axes. When pivoting, the cradles maintain the compression chambers in an airtight state by being in contact with the housing at pivoting ends of the cradles, the pivoting ends extending along the direction parallel to the axis. The rotor chamber includes an outer operation chamber located on the outside of the rotor, and an inner operation chamber located on the inside of the rotor. The cradles, and the outer operation chamber and/or the inner operation chamber form the compression chambers, the volumes of which are varied by the rotation of the rotor. |
| US09631620B2 |
Stationary volume ratio adjustment mechanism
A screw compressor with a volume ratio adjustment mechanism. The volume adjustment mechanism is a penetration in the housing of a screw compressor. The penetration includes one or more apertures. The apertures provide a flow path between the compressor outlet and an interlobe region of the screw compressor rotors. A member resides in the penetration and is movable from a first position in which the apertures are blocked and the flow path is closed and a second position in which the apertures are not blocked and the flow path is open. By unblocking the apertures and opening the flow path, the volume ratio can be adjusted. |
| US09631619B2 |
Helical rotor of a progressing cavity pump
A helical rotor intended to be arranged in a progressing cavity pump, said progressing cavity pump being capable of pumping a multiphase fluid from a fluid reserve, the helical rotor comprising at least one mixer capable of homogenizing the multiphase fluid located in said fluid reserve. |
| US09631616B2 |
Device and method for uptake or release of a liquid
A device and a method for dosing an uptake or a release of a liquid. The device comprises a pump pumping a fluid, a pump drive driving the pump, and a fluid channel connected to the pump. A tip is connected to the fluid channel comprising an opening for the uptake or the release of the liquid. At least one flow sensor measures a flow rate of the fluid in the fluid channel. A controller monitors and adjusts the flow rate and/or pressure in the fluid channel. |
| US09631615B2 |
Control unit, tube unit, and micropump
A micropump including a tube unit including an elastic tube disposed in an arc shape, a plurality of fingers disposed radially from the arc shape of the tube, and a guide frame, which holds the tube and the plurality of fingers. The micropump also includes a control unit including a cam that presses the plurality of fingers, a drive section that applies torque to the cam, a control circuit that carries out a drive control of the drive section, and a machine casing that holds the cam, drive section, and control circuit. The tube unit is mountable in and removable from the control unit in a direction approximately parallel to the plane of rotation of the cam, and is mounted inside a space provided in the machine casing. |
| US09631614B2 |
Oil supply system
An oil supply system may include a first hydraulic pump pumping oil to a low pressure portion through a first main line, a second hydraulic pump pumping oil to a high pressure portion through a second main line, first and second check valves that are respectively disposed at one side of the first and second main lines, a first convert valve supply the oil flowing the second main line to the low pressure portion depending on the pressure of oil that is transferred from a front side of the first check valve of the first main line, and a second convert valve supplying oil flowing the first main line to the high pressure portion depending on the pressure of oil that is transferred from a front side of the second check valve of the second main line. |
| US09631612B2 |
Variable displacement type swash plate compressor
Setting of the pressure sensing mechanism which controls an opening degree of the first valve body is changed by transmitting driving force of the driving force transmission member to the first valve body via the second valve body. According to this configuration, when the second valve body has been opened while conduction of electricity to the electromagnetic solenoid has been stopped, the refrigerant gas from the discharge chamber is supplied to the control pressure chamber via the passage, the valve chamber, the communication opening, the insertion hole, the first passage, the second passage, the housing chamber, the passage, the second pressure adjusting chamber, the communication hole, the first pressure adjusting chamber, the first shaft inner passage, and the second shaft inner passage. |
| US09631608B2 |
Wind-power-plant control upon low-voltage grid faults
A wind power plant connected to an electric grid. A central plant controller is configured to carry out a method of controlling an electric output of the wind power plant in the event of a transient low-voltage fault of the electric grid. The central plant controller is configured, after a fault stage in response to detection of a low-voltage fault during which the wind turbines ride through the grid fault, to control the wind power plant during a post-fault-support stage to provide only real power, or perform voltage control. The central plant controller is configured to resume control of the wind power plant according to the nominal-grid operation mode, which prevailed before the low-voltage fault, in a nominal-grid operation stage. |
| US09631607B2 |
Ring generator
A ring generator of a wind power installation is provided comprising a stator having a peripherally extending stator ring for receiving stator windings and a rotor mounted rotatably about an axis of rotation relative to the stator, wherein the stator ring has cooling passages for cooling the stator by an air flow. A ring generator of a wind power installation is also provided having a stator, a peripherally extending stator ring for receiving stator windings, a rotor mounted rotatably relative to the stator and a stator bell connected to the stator ring for providing a pressure chamber with an increased or reduced pressure for providing an air flow through and/or along the stator and/or rotor for cooling the ring generator, wherein the stator bell has at least one fan opening provided with a fan. |
| US09631603B2 |
Wing with slipstream turbine
A wing with slipstream turbine comprising: a wing or airfoil and at least one turbine, wherein wing or airfoil has at least one partial cylindrical void in a surface and at least one turbine is partially encapsulated within partial cylindrical void. Optionally, wing with slipstream turbine may further comprise at least one slipstream outrigger to help focus the flow of the slipstream more directly on a turbine. Optionally, wing with slipstream turbine may further comprise at least one lateral outrigger to create a low-pressure area which functions to add additional energy transfer to turbine. Optionally, wing with slipstream turbine may further comprise two leading outriggers to help focus the flow of the slipstream more directly on a turbine. Optionally, wing or airfoil may further comprise a leading subcomponent, a left subcomponent, and a right subcomponent to create a super low-pressure area which functions add additional energy transfer to turbine. |
| US09631601B2 |
Wind power installation
The present invention pertains to a wind power installation (1) for generating energy, especially electric power, by means of the movement of ambient air, which installation comprises a flow channel (3), in which the ambient air is formed into a stream which flows through the channel, wherein the flow channel (3) comprises an outer jacket (5) forming its boundary, with: a first section (A) with a tapering, funnel-like cross section, into which a first portion of ambient air enters and is accelerated; a second section (B) of essentially constant cross section, in which a rotor (20) is present, which can be set into rotation by the through-flowing ambient air, wherein the second section (B) comprises a tubular extension (67); a third section (C), through which the tubular extension (67) of the second section (B) extends and which comprises a tapering, tubular inlet funnel (44), which surrounds the tubular extension (67) and serves to allow a second portion of ambient air to enter the flow channel (3); a fourth section (D), in which the tubular extension of the second section (B) terminates, and which comprises a plane of the least cross section (the “0” plane) of the flow channel through which the first and second portions of ambient air flow; a fifth, expanding, section (E); and a sixth section (F), which follows the fifth section (E), and in which at least one air acceleration device (11) is arranged. |
| US09631600B2 |
Wave energy converter
A wave energy converter to float in water, including a first body assembly having a first body and a sub-body rigidly connected to the first body by an assembly arm and a second body wherein the first body assembly and the second body being connected to one another via a first arm, the first arm being pivotally connected to at least one of the first body assembly and second body, the first body assembly and the second body also being connected to one another via a linkage that, via movement of at least a part of that linkage, allows for movement of the first body assembly and second body relative to one another in an anti-phase manner, and separation between the first body and the sub-body provides for tunability to tune the wave energy converter for use in a particular wave field. |
| US09631596B2 |
Engine starting device and engine starting method
The engine starting device for stopping, when an engine automatic stop condition is satisfied, fuel injection to the engine to automatically stop the engine, and for thereafter restarting the engine when an engine restart condition is satisfied, includes: a ring gear coupled to a crankshaft of the engine; a starter motor rotated by a current supply; a pinion gear for transmitting the rotation of the starter motor to the ring gear; a pinion gear moving part for moving the pinion gear toward the ring gear by a current supply, thereby meshing the pinion gear with the ring gear; and a fuel injection control part for restarting the fuel injection so that combustion is generated in a predetermined compression cylinder after the engine restart condition is satisfied and after the pinion gear moving part starts the movement of the pinion gear. |
| US09631595B2 |
Methods and systems for selective engine starting
Systems and methods for starting an engine are described. In one example, engine cranking speed for an engine of a hybrid vehicle is adjusted in response to operating conditions. The engine cranking speed may be reduced when capability of a battery that supplies power to rotate the engine is less than an amount of power to rotate the engine at a higher speed. |
| US09631594B2 |
Anti-rotation clip for a twist lock fuel injector
A fuel injector with an anti-rotation clip for use in conjunction with a twist lock fuel injector inserted into a receiving fuel cup. The clip includes at least one connector leg which extends at least partially over the electrical connector for the fuel injector and locks the clip against rotation relative to the fuel injector electrical connector. A protrusion on a fuel cup arm engages a notch formed in the fuel cup to lock the arm against rotation relative to the fuel cup. |
| US09631589B2 |
Fuel filter monitor for fuel streams
It has been discovered that the function of a fuel filter monitor can be accomplished without the use of SAP. The present invention provides a fuel filter monitor comprising an ePTFE membrane, a support structure adjacent to said ePTFE membrane wherein the membrane is disposed upstream of the support and said monitor prevents penetration of water to the downstream of said fuel wet monitor, where the water can be in the form of discrete water drops in the fuel, or a bulk water stream which displaces the upstream fuel. |
| US09631587B2 |
Aspirator motive flow control for vacuum generation and compressor bypass
Systems and methods are provided for engine systems including a first multiple tap aspirator with a motive inlet coupled to an intake upstream of an air induction system throttle and a mixed flow outlet coupled to an intake manifold, and a second multiple tap aspirator with a motive inlet coupled to the intake upstream of a main throttle and a mixed flow outlet coupled to the intake downstream of the air induction system throttle. During non-boost conditions, intake air may be selectably diverted around a compressor and through the first and/or second aspirator based on desired vacuum generation. During boost conditions, the first and second aspirators may function as compressor bypass valves, and intake air may be selectably directed from downstream of the compressor to upstream of the compressor via the first and/or second aspirator based on a desired compressor bypass flow. |
| US09631584B2 |
Heat storage member for canister
A heat storage member housed in a canister together with an adsorbent capable of adsorbing fuel vapor has a sealed container and a phase-change material housed in the sealed container. The phase-change material becomes semisolid gel state at the melting point of the phase-change material. The phase-change material is disposed along an entire inner surface of the sealed container such that a space capable of compensating for volume alteration of the phase-change material caused by phase-change is formed at a center of an inner space of the sealed container. |
| US09631583B2 |
Latching mechanism for a fuel tank isolation valve assembly
A vapor purge system having a tank isolation valve and a canister vent valve, where each valve includes a latching mechanism for maintaining the valves in an open position. A diagnostic test is performed on the purge system to prove that each of the valves are functioning correctly. Using latching valves in these applications reduces electricity draw from the battery and reduces electrical interference with integrated pressure sensors. The fuel tank is sealed by the tank isolation valve between the fuel tank and a vapor storage canister, and the canister vent valve provides sealing between the canister and the atmosphere, and controls venting of the canister. The tank isolation valve reduces power consumption from the battery, while the valve is being held in either an open position or a closed position by the latching mechanism, and uses only a single pulse of voltage to change the state of the valve. |
| US09631579B1 |
Seal assemblies and methods for removable precombustion chamber tip
Seal assemblies for a pre-chamber assembly include a pre-chamber body having an outer chamber surface; a pre-chamber tip; a seal covering area carried by the pre-chamber tip; at least one hard seal between the seal covering area of the pre-chamber tip and the pre-chamber body; at least one elastomeric seal between the seal covering area of the pre-chamber tip and the pre-chamber body; a fuel inlet passage in the pre-chamber body; a fuel discharge passage disposed in fluid communication with the fuel inlet passage; and a drill passage in the pre-chamber body adjacent to the seal covering area and aligned with the fuel discharge passage, the drill passage and the fuel discharge passage disposed at an angle other than 90 degrees with respect to the outer chamber surface of the pre-chamber body. |
| US09631578B2 |
Pivot thrust reverser surrounding inner surface of bypass duct
A pivot thrust reverser includes a first pivot door forming a first portion of a nacelle when stowed and second pivot door forming a second portion of the nacelle when stowed. The first pivot door and second pivot door each form a portion of a surface of a bypass duct when in a stowed position. In the deployed position the first pivot door and the second pivot door circumferentially surround a portion of an inner surface of a bypass duct such that when the pivot thrust reverser is deployed during engine operation a fan bypass stream is redirected while both a core stream and a nacelle ventilation stream flow in substantially the same manner as when the pivot thrust reverser is stowed. |
| US09631576B2 |
Piston assembly with weld support
Exemplary piston assemblies and methods of making the same are disclosed. An exemplary piston may include a piston body defining a piston axis, the piston body having a skirt and forming a lower surface of a cooling gallery. The body may include radially inner and outer body mating surfaces. The piston may further include a cooling gallery ring cooperating with the piston body to form the cooling gallery. The piston body and cooling gallery ring may be joined together along radially inner and radially outer interface regions to form a generally one-piece piston assembly. In some exemplary approaches, mating surfaces of the body and ring may be positioned adjacent a support surface configured to inhibit or prevent weld spatter formed in a process joining the ring and body from the cooling gallery. |
| US09631575B2 |
Methods and systems for improving engine starting
Systems and methods for restarting an engine are presented. In one example, fuel is injected to cylinder ports before the engine is stopped such that the injected fuel is not inducted into the cylinders before an engine restart is requested. The method may improve fuel vaporization during engine restarting. |
| US09631574B2 |
Fuel injection control device for internal combustion engine
When injecting fuel from a direct injector and a port injector such that a requested fuel injection amount is obtained in an internal combustion engine, the direct injector is driven in the following manner. After a target fuel injection amount for the fuel injection with the higher priority among fuel injection in the late stage of a compression stroke and fuel injection in the early stage of an intake stroke in the direct injector has been set on the basis of the engine operating condition, the target fuel injection amount for the fuel injection with the lower priority is set on the basis of the engine operating condition. Moreover, the direct injector is driven in such a manner that the target fuel injection amount for each of the abovementioned fuel injections set in this manner is obtained. |
| US09631572B2 |
Method and system for pre-ignition control
Methods and systems are provided for enriching an engine cylinder in response to an indication of pre-ignition. The cylinder is enriched by initially increasing a proportion of fuel delivered to the cylinder via a port injector on an open intake valve event. The cylinder is then continued to be enriched by increasing a proportion of fuel delivered to the cylinder via a direct injector. |
| US09631569B2 |
System and method for controlling operation of an engine
A method involves comparing a determined operating parameter of an engine, with a predefined operating parameter. The method further involves controlling a fuel source and an ignition source of the engine so as to operate at least one engine cylinder in a skip fire mode for at least one cycle of a crank shaft when the determined operating parameter is greater than the predefined operating parameter. The controlling involves transitioning the fuel source from a normal mode to the skip fire mode for the at least one cycle of the crank shaft either before transitioning the ignition source from the normal mode to the skip fire mode or when the ignition source is operated in the normal mode. |
| US09631567B2 |
Sensor based measurement and purge control of fuel vapors in internal combustion engines
A fuel control system for a vehicle includes a pressure compensation module that compensates an intake oxygen signal based on an intake pressure signal and that generates a compensated intake oxygen signal. A blow-by estimation module generates an estimated blow-by flow. A purge flow estimation module estimates the purge flow based on the compensated intake oxygen signal and the estimated blow-by flow. A fuel control estimation module reduces fueling to injectors of an engine of the vehicle based on the purge flow. |
| US09631565B2 |
Control method for improving nitrogen oxide purification performance
A control method for improving nitrogen oxide purification performance (NOx) includes starting NOx regeneration, comparing first and second lambda values measured at first and second lambda sensors in a control unit, checking the lean NOx trap (LNT) temperature, and measuring a second time that has elapsed after the first and second lambda values are found to be the same, and checking whether the second time is greater than or equal to a predetermined time when it is observed that the temperature of the LNT is greater than or equal to the predetermined temperature value. |
| US09631562B2 |
Variable cylinder engine
A variable cylinder engine is provided. The engine includes an engine body having a plurality of cylinders, a cooling mechanism for cooling the engine body by using a coolant, and a controller for controlling a temperature of the coolant and changing the number of active cylinders according to an operating state of the engine. The controller reduces the number of active cylinders in a reduced-cylinder operating range set within a partial engine load range, and expands the reduced-cylinder operating range to a higher engine load side as the coolant temperature becomes lower. |
| US09631558B2 |
Geared architecture for high speed and small volume fan drive turbine
A gas turbine engine includes a flex mount for a fan drive gear system. A very high speed fan drive turbine drives the fan drive gear system. |
| US09631553B2 |
Process and equipment for coal gasification, and power generation system and power generation process thereof
A coal gasification process is provided based on the grading conversion of carbon hydrogen components of coal, wherein the coal gasification process comprises a carbonization process, a carbon monoxide-producing process and a shift reaction process. By blending the coke-oven gas, carbon monoxide and hydrogen produced in the above processes in different ratios, coal gasification syngases with various carbon hydrogen ratios can be obtained. Further, the coal gasification process does not need pure oxygen to take part in the reactions, and has several advantages, such as high gasification efficiency, low equipment investment costs, less limitation on the types of coal and flexible adjustment of the gasification products. |
| US09631530B2 |
Work vehicle with controls for regenerating exhaust gas purification device
Regarding a work vehicle that includes an engine mounted on a travelling machine body and an exhaust gas purification device arranged in an exhaust gas path of the engine, it is an object to prevent the regeneration control of the exhaust gas purification device from being executed against operators' will. The work vehicle of the present invention includes a regeneration switch 329 for executing the regeneration control of an exhaust gas purification device 50, a meter panel 246 for displaying the situation of driving operations of a travelling machine body 2, and a work device 15. Then, when it is assumed that a predetermined amount or more of particulate matter in the exhaust gas purification device 50 is accumulated, the meter panel 246 notifies a regeneration control request warning and displays characters that urge stoppages of work of the work device 15 and travelling of the travelling machine body 2. |
| US09631529B2 |
Erosion resistant mounting mats
A mat for supporting a monolith, the mat comprising one or more first portions comprising fibers at least partially coated with an erosion resistant inorganic (e.g. silica) gel composition or a precursor thereof. |
| US09631521B2 |
Method for operating a combined-cycle power plant
Method for operating a combined-cycle power plant is provided. The plant includes at least a gas turbine and at least a steam power generation system. The plant activates at least one electric generator connectable to an electric grid, wherein the gas turbine includes a compressor. The steam power generation system includes a steam turbine, a heat recovery steam generator and a bypass line. The method is such that the gas turbine de-loads to a condition, where the compressor operates at its nominal speed. The method is such that the steam turbine de-loads in coordination with the de-load of the gas turbine, to a condition where the total load exported by the plant to the grid is substantially equal to zero, being both the gas turbine and the steam power generation system connected. |
| US09631520B2 |
Turbine system
Provided is a steam turbine system including: at least one high pressure turbine, and/or at least one intermediate pressure turbine, and at least one first low pressure turbine, mounted on a first rotary shaft that is coupled to drive at least one first electrical generator; and at least one further low pressure turbine, mounted on a further rotary shaft that is coupled to drive at least one further electrical generator; and the turbine system further including a steam supply system to supply low pressure steam to the low pressure turbines provided with a steam outlet to enable extraction of auxiliary process steam from a location in the steam supply system upstream of the further low pressure turbine but not upstream of the first low pressure turbine. |
| US09631519B2 |
Method for the production of a curved ceramic sound attenuation panel
A method of fabricating a sound attenuation panel of curved shape, the method including impregnating a fiber structure defining a cellular structure with a ceramic precursor resin; polymerizing the ceramic precursor resin while holding the fiber structure on tooling presenting a curved shape corresponding to the final shape of the cellular structure; docking the cellular structure with first and second skins, each formed by a fiber structure impregnated with a ceramic precursor resin, each skin being docked to the cellular structure before or after polymerizing the resin of the skins; pyrolyzing the assembly constituted by the cellular structure and the first and second skins; and densifying the assembly by chemical vapor infiltration. |
| US09631513B2 |
Vibration optimized rotor and a method for producing a vibration optimized rotor
Disclosed is a method to minimize rotor vibration of a gas turbine. According to the method an air separator is attached to the rotor, an interference is determined between the air separator and a turbine disc of the rotor, and the interference is adjusted in the range of 0.020 and 0.060 inches. Further disclosed is rotor for a gas turbine in which an axial interference between two parts attached to the rotor are in a range of 0.20 to 0.060 inches. |
| US09631508B2 |
Internally cooled seal runner
A contact seal assembly for a shaft of a gas turbine engine includes a seal runner adapted to be connected to the shaft and rotatable relative to a carbon ring. The seal runner includes concentric inner and outer annular portions radially spaced apart to define at least one internal fluid passage between the inner and outer annular portions of the seal runner. |
| US09631506B2 |
Turbine abradable layer with composite non-inflected bi-angle ridges and grooves
Turbine and compressor casing abradable component embodiments for turbine engines, with composite, non-inflected, bi-angle, “hockey stick” like pattern abradable surface ridges and grooves. Some embodiments include distinct forward upstream and aft downstream composite multi orientation groove and vertically projecting ridges planform patterns, to reduce, redirect and/or block blade tip airflow leakage downstream into the grooves rather than from turbine blade airfoil high to low pressure sides. In some embodiments the grooves are split or divided into multiple sections to interrupt flow traveling inside the groove and cause a local pressurization that reduces tip leakage flow. Some ridge or rib embodiments also have first lower and second upper wear zones. The lower zone optimizes engine airflow characteristics while the upper zone is optimized to minimize blade tip gap and wear by being more easily abradable than the lower zone. |
| US09631505B2 |
Device for cooling a wall of a component
The present invention relates to a device for cooling a wall of a component, where a fluid flow flows parallel to the wall, with at least one inflow duct, the center axis of which being arranged inclined to the plane of the wall, with a groove provided in the wall, into which issues the inflow duct, where a wall of the groove is designed contoured downstream of a discharge opening of the inflow duct and has an inflow edge facing the discharge opening, characterized in that the groove extends on both sides of the discharge opening and adjacent to the inflow edge at an angle to the direction of the fluid flow, and has a narrowing width. |
| US09631502B2 |
Blade connection of a rotor blade of a wind turbine
A fastening element (12) for arrangement in a receptacle of a rotor blade connection (17) of a rotor blade (5). The receptacle is formed on the rotor hub-side end of the, preferably flange-free, rotor blade (5). The fastening element (12) is arranged in the receptacle between an inner fastening side and an outer fastening side of the rotor blade (5) and the fastening element (12) introduced into the receptacle (10) is connected to the inner fastening side and the outer fastening side of the rotor blade (5). The fastening element (12) is formed tapered in the longitudinal extension thereof. The fastening element (12) has a connector (15) transverse, particularly perpendicular, to the longitudinal extension for a lightning protection conductor (18) of the rotor blade (5). |
| US09631498B2 |
Gas turbine blade
A gas turbine blade having a film cooling structure can reduce stress and strain that occur around the cooling holes of the film cooling structure. For example, in the gas turbine blade, a plurality of cooling holes thoroughly connected to the cooling pass formed inside the gas turbine blade are arranged in the span direction in the leading edge portion of the gas turbine blade, and the direction of the longitudinal axis of the cooling holes is made identical to the direction of principal strain occurring in the leading edge portion of the turbine blade within a range of 15 degrees. |
| US09631494B2 |
Rotor structure including an internal hydraulic tension device
A rotor structure is provided. The rotor structure includes a plurality of wheels, a main axial tie rod passing through the plurality of wheels and a first shaft and a second shaft each attached to one extremity of the main tie rod, wherein the main tie rod and the bore of an end wheel in contact with one of the first and second shafts delimit a hydraulic chamber configured to receive a hydraulic fluid, and wherein the main tie rod, the hydraulic chamber and the end wheel form an internal hydraulic tension device configured to preload the main tie rod. |
| US09631492B2 |
Non-caking rock dust for use in underground coal mines
A heterogeneous composition for use as rock dust is disclosed. The heterogeneous composition includes a fine, wet ground inorganic particulate material treated with at least one fatty acid, a salt thereof, or an ester thereof, and a coarse, untreated, dry ground inorganic particulate material. Also disclosed is a heterogeneous composition including coal dust and mine rock dust including a fine, wet ground inorganic particulate material treated with at least one fatty acid, a salt thereof, or an ester thereof, and a coarse, untreated, dry ground inorganic particulate material. The amount of mine rock dust may be sufficient to render the coal dust explosively inert. The fine, treated, wet ground inorganic particulate material may be calcium carbonate. The coarse, untreated inorganic particulate material may be calcium carbonate. The fatty acid may be stearic acid. |
| US09631491B2 |
Apparatus for forming an underground tunnel
The present disclosure provides an apparatus for forming an underground tunnel. The apparatus comprises a cutting head for removing material from a wall portion of the tunnel and thereby forming a portion of the tunnel. Further, the apparatus comprises a support structure for supporting a previously formed portion of the tunnel. The support structure is arranged to provide a supporting force against a surface of the tunnel when stationary and when being moved along the tunnel. Further, the apparatus comprises a conveyor for conveying removed material from the cutting head to a location remote from the cutting head during formation of the portion of the tunnel. |
| US09631489B2 |
Systems and methods for measuring parameters of a formation
A method of measuring parameters of a formation along multiple axes is disclosed. A formation tester tool is introduced into a wellbore. The formation tester tool includes a first probe oriented at an angle from a second probe about an axis of the formation tester tool. The first and second probes are positioned against a surface of the wellbore. Fluid is injected via at least one of the first and second probes. Pressure parameters corresponding to the fluid injected into the formation are monitored. Formation stresses about the formation fractures along multiple axes are determined based, at least in part, on the pressure parameters. |
| US09631486B2 |
Transmitter and receiver synchronization for wireless telemetry systems
A method and system are presented for transmitting data along tubing in a borehole, comprising generating an acoustic signal using a transmitter at a first location on the tubing, and receiving the acoustic signal at a receiver at a second location on the tubing. The method and system further comprise: (i) generating the acoustic signal at the transmitter at a first frequency and bit rate; (ii) receiving the acoustic signal at the first frequency at the receiver and attempting to synchronize the receiver at the first frequency, and (iiia) if the synchronization is successful, continuing to transmit the acoustic signal so as to pass the data from the transmitter to the receiver; or (iiib) if the synchronization is unsuccessful, adjusting the frequency and/or bit rate of the signal and repeating steps (i)-(iii) on the basis of the adjusted signal. |
| US09631485B2 |
Electro-acoustic transmission of data along a wellbore
A system for downhole telemetry employs a series of communications nodes spaced along a tubular body such as a pipe in a wellbore. The nodes allow hybrid wired-and-wireless communication between one or more sensors residing at the level of a subsurface formation and a receiver at the surface. The nodes employ electro-acoustic transducers providing node-to-node communication up a wellbore at high data transmission rates. A method of transmitting data in a wellbore uses a plurality of data transmission nodes situated along a tubular body to deliver an alternating electrical and acoustic transmission of data along the wellbore. |
| US09631481B1 |
Semiconductor device including leadframe with a combination of leads and lands and method
A semiconductor device includes a die pad, a plurality of first lands each having a first land first top recessed portion disposed on a first land first end distal to the die pad, and a plurality of second lands each having a second land first bottom recessed portion disposed on a second land first end distal to the die pad. A semiconductor die is electrically connected to the first and second lands. A package body, which defines a bottom surface and a side surface, at least partially encapsulating the first and second lands and the semiconductor die such that at least portions of the first and second lands are exposed in and substantially flush with the bottom surface of the package body. |
| US09631479B2 |
Hydraulic signature tester
The present invention provides a subsea apparatus for testing a hydraulic signature which has a fluid supply, a first pressure line coupled to the fluid supply, a second pressure line coupled to the fluid supply; and a pressure recording device operatively coupled to both the first pressure line and the second pressure line. A pressure recording device is capable of storing pre-determined pressure data representative of said pressure lines. The first pressure line functions at a lower pressure than the second pressure line while a pressure recording device records data to allow comparison of actual pressure data on the first and second pressure lines with said stored data. |
| US09631477B2 |
Downhole determination of drilling state
A method for determining a drilling state of a bottom hole assembly in a wellbore includes acquiring one or more downhole sensor measurements and processing the sensor measurements using a downhole processor to determine a drilling state of the bottom hole assembly. An operating state of the bottom hole assembly may be automatically changed in response to the determined drilling state. A method for computing a dynamic drilling energy of a bottom hole assembly includes acquiring at least one sensor measurement and processing the sensor measurements to obtain at least one of (i) an energy of axial motion of the bottom hole assembly, (ii) an energy of rotational motion of the bottom hole assembly, and (iii) an energy of lateral motion of the bottom hole assembly. |
| US09631474B2 |
Systems and methods for real-time evaluation of coiled tubing matrix acidizing
A matrix acidizing monitoring system wherein a sensor array is operably associated with a matrix acidizing bottom hole assembly and contains first and second sets of sensors that detect a matrix acidizing operational parameter at different times at one or more particular locations along the wellbore. This allows the effectiveness of the acidizing to be modeled. |
| US09631473B2 |
Installation for drilling a well into a soil and associated drilling method
An installation (11) for drilling a well (13) into a soil comprising: —a discharge pipe (25) connected to the well (13) for recovering a drilling mud created by the drilling fluid mixing with components from the soil; —a flow rate sensor (92) to measure at least one parameter of the recovered drilling mud and generate a parameter value; —a calculator (94) connected to the flow rate sensor (92) to receive the parameter value in order to calculate a flow rate of the recovered drilling mud using the parameter value; characterized in that it further comprises a flume (90) having a throat and an approach channel hydraulically connected to the discharge pipe (25) to receive the recovered drilling mud, the measured parameter of the recovered drilling mud being representative of a height of the recovered drilling mud in the approach channel. |
| US09631468B2 |
Well treatment
In situ channelization treatment fluids are used in a multistage well treatment. Also, methods, fluids, equipment and/or systems relating to in situ channelization treatment fluids are used for treating a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore. |
| US09631466B2 |
Simultaneous injection and production well system
Systems for simultaneously injecting and producing in a well having multiple zones. One system includes a wellbore providing first perforations extending into a first subterranean formation and second perforations extending into a second subterranean formation, a production tubing having influx ports defined therein and an annulus defined between the wellbore and the production tubing, first and second pairs of wellbore isolation devices arranged about the production tubing and axially straddling the first and second perforations to define first and second formation zones, respectively, a first bypass conduit extending between the first pair of wellbore isolation devices, a second bypass conduit extending between the second pair of wellbore isolation devices, and an injection outlet defined on the first bypass conduit for injecting a portion of the fluid into the first subterranean formation and push hydrocarbons toward the second formation zone to be produced. |
| US09631465B2 |
Apparatus and method for preventing damage to a downhole pump impeller
A method for maintaining a downhole pump impeller of a geothermal downhole pump includes locating a line shaft to a selected depth, monitoring the depth of a lowermost distal end of the line shaft using a monitor positioned at a lowermost distal end of the line shaft, determining that the depth of the lowermost distal end of the line shaft has significantly changed, and taking a corrective action to return the depth of the lowermost distal end of the line shaft to the selected depth. The depth of the lowermost distal end is monitored by directing a beam of light emitted from a housing mounted on a outer portion of the downhole pump onto a plurality of reflective elements located on the line shaft distal end, and determining whether a receiver mounted in the outer portion receives light reflected from one of the plurality of reflective elements. |
| US09631464B2 |
Pneumatic-on-top counterbalanced three-chamber cylinder for artificial lift operations
An artificial lift system for use with a subterranean well can include a cylinder having a piston reciprocably disposed therein, the piston having opposing sides, each of the opposing sides being selectively communicable with a hydraulic pressure source and a hydraulic reservoir, and the piston having another side in communication with a gas pressure source, and the gas pressure source including a gas compressor connected between gas containers. A method of controlling an artificial lift system can include connecting a cylinder to a hydraulic pressure source and to a gas pressure source, operating a gas compressor of the gas pressure source, thereby increasing gas pressure applied to the cylinder from the gas pressure source, and displacing a piston, thereby operating a downhole pump. |
| US09631461B2 |
Well flow control with multi-stage restriction
A well screen assembly includes a tubular base pipe. The base pipe has a sidewall aperture that communicates fluid between an interior central bore of the base pipe and an exterior of the base pipe. A filtration screen is around the base pipe. The filtration screen defines a lateral fluid passage along a axial length of the well screen assembly. A flow control device is coupled to the base pipe and the filtration screen. The flow control devices includes a ring sealing the lateral fluid passage from the central bore. An elongate restrictor passage is in the ring, oriented longitudinally. The elongate restrictor passage is configured to communicate fluid between the lateral fluid passage and the central bore. The restrictor passage includes an internal, square edged orifice defined by a fixed, annular protrusion. The annular protrusion extends inwardly from an interior surface of the restrictor passage. |
| US09631459B2 |
Wellbore dynamic top kill with inserted conduit
Systems, apparatus, and methods for controlling a well blowout comprising: a flow control device such as a blowout preventer on a wellbore, the primary throughbore of the flow control device for introducing control fluid into the primary throughbore portion of the wellbore throughbore to create a pressure drop within the primary throughbore sufficient to overcome the flowing blowout fluid pressure within the primary throughbore and optionally introducing control fluid into the primary throughbore using a conduit inserted directly into the wellbore throughbore to further enhance introduction of control fluid into the wellbore throughbore; and optionally a weighted fluid aperture may be positioned in the wellbore conduit, preferably below the control fluid aperture for introducing a weighted fluid into the wellbore throughbore while control fluid is also being concurrently introduced into the wellbore through the control fluid aperture. |
| US09631455B2 |
Subsea actuation system
A subsea drilling, production or processing actuation system comprising a variable speed electric motor (10) adapted to be supplied with a current, a reversible hydraulic pump (8, 28) driven by the motor, a hydraulic piston assembly (92, 101, 111, 121, 131) connected to the pump and comprising a first chamber (2), a second chamber (3) and a piston (4) separating the first and second chambers and configured to actuate a valve (91) in a subsea system, a fluid reservoir (14) connected to the pump and the hydraulic piston assembly, the pump, hydraulic piston assembly and reservoir connected in a substantially closed hydraulic system, and a pressure compensator (13, 65) configured to normalize pressure differences between outside the hydraulic system and inside the hydraulic system. |
| US09631454B1 |
Wellbore pressure control system and method for offshore well cementation stages
The present invention provides wellbore pressure control system and method for well cementation stages, and relates to the offshore oil and gas exploitation field. The wellbore pressure control system comprises: an injection pump; and a control device, configured to control the injection pump to inject a fluid or gas through an injection pipeline to a return pipeline that communicates with an annular space of the wellbore to decrease the pressure in the return pipeline and thereby decrease the pressure in the annular space, wherein, the density of the fluid or gas is lower than the density of a drilling fluid in the annular space. The technical scheme of the present invention can effectively prevent leaky zones from being fractured by high-density cement slurry in the well cementation process that may cause safety accidents such as well kick and well blowout, etc. |
| US09631453B2 |
Downhole tool and method of use
Embodiments of the disclosure pertain to a downhole tool useable for isolating sections of a wellbore that includes a mandrel and a slip comprising a one-piece configuration disposed around the mandrel. The mandrel further includes a body comprising an external surface, and an inner bore formed therein; a distal end; and a proximate end; wherein the mandrel is made of composite material, wherein a set of shear threads are disposed along a surface of the inner bore at the proximate end. |
| US09631451B2 |
Outer casing string and method of installing same
An outer casing string, including a surface casing head, and associated installation method. In some embodiments, the surface casing head includes an outer tubular member insertable through a diverter of an installed conductor system, an inner tubular member at least partially disposed within and moveable relative to the outer tubular member, and a sleeve ring rotatably coupled to the inner tubular. The outer tubular member has an annular recess. The sleeve ring includes a snap ring that is displaceable between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position, at least a portion of the snap ring is received within the annular recess, and the outer tubular member is axially immovable relative to the inner tubular member. In the retracted position, no portion of the snap ring is received within the annular recess, and the outer tubular member is axially moveable relative to the inner tubular member. |
| US09631445B2 |
Downhole-adjusting impact apparatus and methods
A downhole-adjusting impact apparatus (DAIA) mechanically coupled between opposing first and second portions of a tool string, wherein: the tool string is conveyable within a wellbore extending between a wellsite surface and a subterranean formation; the first tool string portion comprises a first electrical conductor in electrical communication with surface equipment disposed at the wellsite surface; the DAIA comprises a second electrical conductor in electrical communication with the first electrical conductor; and the DAIA is operable to: detect an electrical characteristic of the second electrical conductor; impart a first impact force on the second tool string portion when the electrical characteristic is detected; and impart a second impact force on the second tool string portion when the electrical characteristic is not detected, wherein the second impact force is substantially greater than the first impact force. |
| US09631437B2 |
Systems and methods for managing pressures in casing annuli of subterranean wells
Systems and methods for managing pressures present in an annular space defined between casing strings contained within a subterranean well. These systems and methods may include providing a pressure distribution casing that includes a plurality of pressure distribution passages and distributing fluids present within the annular space along a length of the pressure distribution casing and/or between the annular space and the subterranean formation using a portion of the plurality of pressure distribution passages. Pressure distribution passages may be present on an inner surface of the pressure distribution casing, on an outer surface of the pressure distribution casing, and/or within a wall of the pressure distribution casing and may distribute the fluids along the length of the pressure distribution casing without distributing the fluids across and/or through a wall of the pressure distribution casing, such as between the inner surface and the outer surface of the pressure distribution casing. |
| US09631432B2 |
Mud actuated drilling system
A technique facilitates drilling of a variety of a wellbores. The technique comprises providing a directional drilling system with a drill bit mounted at the end of a collar having an internal flow passage for drilling fluid. The collar is rotatably positioned in a steering structure to which a plurality of steering members is mounted for lateral motion with respect to the steering structure. The design allows the steering structure to remain rotationally stationary with respect to the surrounding borehole wall as the collar and drill bit are rotated to perform a drilling operation. The drilling orientation of the collar and the drill bit may be adjusted by routing drilling fluid from the internal flow passage to at least one of the steering members to cause lateral displacement of the steering member while the steering structure remains in the rotationally stationary position. |
| US09631428B2 |
Tree-mounted supports
Climbing devices and tree supports are provided for aiding a climber in scaling a tree, pole, or other generally vertical surface, and for supporting the climber at an elevated position along a tree or pole, such as in a standing or sitting posture. The climbing and tree supports include a body that supports one or more steps or support surfaces or handholds, a strap, cable, or other flexible securing member that is wrapped around the tree, and a retractor for stowing the flexible securing member so that it is extendable and retractable from the support. The climbing and tree supports are thus substantially self-contained so as not to require separate components for installation or use. Standoffs may be provided for stabilizing the support in a location spaced from the tree. Optionally, the steps or footrests, standoffs, and body are collapsible to compact configurations for stowage or transport. |
| US09631419B1 |
Door barricade
A door barricade is provided. The door barricade includes a metal plate having a substantially planar inside surface and outside surface. The metal plate includes at least one receiving flange protruding from at least one of the inside surface and the outside surface. A sign with indicia is releasably retained within the receiving flange. The metal plate is secured to a door, thereby preventing burglars from entering. |
| US09631416B2 |
Edge cladding
A three-dimensional edge cladding for an architectural opening that includes a forward facing portion having a substantially constant first profile along a longitudinal axis. The forward facing portion includes a plurality of spaced apart nailing flanges, stepped surface topography projecting generally forward and away from the flanges. A longitudinally extending channel receives a side facing portion having a substantially constant second profile that include a portion that is generally orthogonal to the nailing flanges. A joint cover portion for covering the section where two or more edge cladding members meet. |
| US09631414B2 |
Device for managing valuables including money
A device for managing valuables includes a housing having a service area including a printer, a primary vault attached to the housing and having a primary vault locking system for storing valuables, and a secondary vault mounted in the housing and having control electronics for operating the device. The secondary vault isolates the control electronics from the primary vault and from the service area to inhibit tampering with the control electronics. |
| US09631412B2 |
Door actuator
A door operator for opening and/or for closing a door includes a housing, an output shaft with a cam disc, and a first piston guided in the housing, which first piston bears against the cam disc. The output shaft includes a first axle body supported in the housing. The first axle body is connected to the cam disc in a torque-proof manner by a first plug-in connection. |
| US09631408B2 |
Hinge structure and image forming apparatus including the same
A hinge structure includes an attachment recessed part, an attachment member, a first rotating body and a second rotating body. The attachment recessed part is configured to have inlet and outlet part in an upper part thereof. The attachment member is configured so that an upper end part thereof is pivotably connected to the document cover. The first rotating body is configured to be provided in the apparatus main body so as to come into contact with a side of the document mounting surface of the attachment member in the inlet and outlet part in the attachment recessed part. The second rotating body is configured to be provided in a lower part of the attachment member so as to come into contact with the attachment recessed part at an opposite side of the position in which the first rotating body is provided. |
| US09631407B2 |
Insert access door
An access door for insertion into an opening in a construction surface is provided. The access door has a frame for engagement with edges of the opening in the construction surface. The frame has a channel formed therein for receiving a thermally insulative material to provide a thermal break between the frame and the construction surface. A door is operatively coupled to the frame and movable between an open position allowing access through the opening in the construction surface and a closed position preventing access through the opening in the construction surface. |
| US09631406B2 |
Magnetic gate latch
A magnetic gate latch comprises magnetic materials and a latching mechanism attracted into a keeper when the gate latch is closed by a first magnetic force and retained in a unlatched position by a second magnetic force. For example, the latching mechanism comprises a pin without a spring or other biasing mechanism biasing the spring in a direction opposite of a magnet in the keeper assembly. In one example, the pin comprises a magnet on an end of the pin opposite from the keeper assembly, which is attracted toward a ferromagnetic material when the pin is retracted into the housing. |
| US09631402B2 |
Door latch assembly
A vehicle door latch assembly for maintaining the vehicle door in a closed position including during an angled impact to the door latch of the vehicle. The latch assembly includes a catch, a pawl, and an actuator coupled to a door latch base. The catch is movable to and from a closed position wherein the catch is configured to grasp a portion of a striker coupled to the vehicle to maintain the door closed. The catch is also movable to and from an open position wherein the catch is configured to release the striker to allow the door to open. The pawl is configured to maintain the catch in the closed position until the door handle is actuated. The latch assembly includes a blocking plate including an extension member which is deformable during an impact to align with one of or both a pawl lifter and the pawl member to prevent their rotation and thereby maintain the latch assembly and the vehicle door in a latched position during such an impact. |
| US09631399B1 |
Miniaturized electronic cam lock
A very small and efficiently compact electronic cam lock has a motor-driven worm drive lock/unlock actuator that moves a blocking pin to block or to allow unlocking rotation of a locking cam of the device. A spring in the actuator provides for the actuator to move to the locking position while the cam is still in the unlocked position, but to spring into the locking position when the cam is moved back to the locking position. The lock housing includes a threaded bore for a mounting machine screw, strategically placed within the limited space of the lock mechanism. |
| US09631395B1 |
Multifunctional outdoor shelter system with variably attachable hooded garment floor and canopy
An outdoor shelter system has a bottom water-proof fabric with a perimeter and zippers circumscribing the perimeter. The bottom water-proof fabric can have a hood and be worn separately as garment. An upper fabric has zippers circumscribing its perimeter that mesh with zippers of the bottom water-proof fabric. The surface of the upper fabric accommodates at least one support pole, and is crossed by each support pole at a portion. Each of the zippers on the perimeter of the bottom water-proof fabric mate by zipping to corresponding ones of each of the zippers on the perimeter of the upper fabric to form the outdoor shelter system fully enclosed by a floor, walls and ceiling with the bottom water-proof fabric at the bottom serving as a floor and part of walls and the upper fabric on top, serving as the ceiling and part of the walls. |
| US09631393B2 |
Structural module with stop, collapsible structure, and method of erecting a collapsible structure
A structural module includes a first strut pair including a first strut and a second strut pivotably connected to each other at a first strut pair pivotable connection point, a second strut pair including a third strut and a fourth strut pivotably connected to each other at a second strut pair pivotable connection point, a first hub, a first end of the first strut and a first end of the third strut being pivotably connected to the first hub, a second hub, a first end of the second strut and a first end of the fourth strut being pivotably connected to the second hub, and a stop arrangement attached to at least one of the first hub, the first strut, and the third strut, the stop arrangement including an abutment end. The structural module is movable between a closed position in which longitudinal axes of struts of the first strut pair and the second strut pair are substantially parallel to one another. A collapsible structure and a method of erecting a collapsible structure are also disclosed. |
| US09631392B2 |
Structural post and beam connection device with friction release bracket
A post anchoring support device comprising a ground anchor having a shaft with a threaded upper portion terminating in an upper end that may be engaged and rotated by a drive tool for rotating the shaft about a vertical axis, and a lower portion for insertion into the ground, and a post receiving bracket having a base with an elongate aperture adapted to receive the externally threaded portion of the shaft, a support portion defining a support surface for abutting the end of the post, vertical planar walls extending above the support surface, each planar wall having an inside surface for abutting a side of the post, and each planar wall defining a plurality of vertically oriented elongate holes and having a raised portion on the outside surface adjacent each elongate hole adapted to abut a lower surface of a head of a fastener passing through the elongate hole and into the post to allow the fastener to travel within the elongate hole upon the application of a vertically force to the post anchoring support device sufficient to overcome a coefficient of friction between the head of the fastener and the raised portion. |
| US09631388B2 |
Floating pool water controler
Disclosed herein is a floating pool water controller for dispensing germicide and antimicrobial material into a swimming pool based upon real time pool conditions. The controller includes the ability to adjust to these ever changing conditions in real time, and, to do so remotely. The controller includes a housing adapted for floating on the pool water. Additionally, a dispenser is provided for dispensing Cu ion into the pool and includes a dispenser assembly connected to the housing. The controller is provided with a controller for adjusting the amount of Cu ion dispensed into the pool water. And, the controller includes a probe extending from the housing into the pool water for sensing pool conditions. Thus, upon sensing the pool conditions in real time, the controller can be adjusted to dispense the proper amount of Cu ion into the pool water. |
| US09631387B2 |
Apparatus for evacuating contaminants and water vapor from an area above a swimming pool
An apparatus captures and evacuates air from an area above a body of liquid, particularly a swimming pool. The apparatus exhausts the contaminants and water vapor to an area outside of an enclosure housing the swimming pool. The invention comprises an assembly mounted to a wall adjacent the body of liquid. The assembly is comprised of a top section, opposing side sections connected by the top section, and at least one flange extending from an edge of at least one side section. The wall-mounted and bench assembly may be formed integrally, but also may be formed from two or more pieces. |
| US09631384B2 |
Reconfigurable seating systems
A reconfigurable seating system may include a bank of seating units disposed in rows. Associated chairs may be arranged in the seating units, supported on support beams by chair brackets. The reconfigurable seating systems may be installed on flat floors or sloped floors and may be arranged in linear-rows and/or arched-row configurations. |
| US09631381B2 |
Safety band longitudinal and transverse control
This invention provides fall protection systems comprising a suspension fabric, supported by a grid-work of longitudinal and lateral bands, in metal building construction. The fall protection system uses safety clips to attach lateral bands to intermediate purlins, and also provides novel attachments of the lateral bands to eaves and ridges whereby the respective eave and/or the ridge absorbs an enhanced portion of the force of impact when an object falls onto the fall protection system. The invention further provides methods of installing such systems, and buildings embodying such systems. |
| US09631379B2 |
Building construction method and lifting device
A lifting device for lifting an upper portion of a building which comprises a roof and a method of constructing a building using such a lifting device. The lifting device includes a base plate arranged to be mounted to an edge region of a support and a lifting platform attached to an actuator and capable of vertical movement by means of the actuator. The base plate has a first portion arranged to abut a substantially horizontal face of the support and a second portion arranged to abut a substantially vertical face of the support. The actuator is adjustably mounted to the base plate such that the position of the actuator is horizontally and/or vertically adjustable relative to the base plate to ensure a plumb lift. |
| US09631378B1 |
Hydraulically-driven concrete finishing trowel having hydraulic fluid cooling system and method
A hydrostatically power self-propelled concrete finishing trowel has at least two coolers in a cooling system of the machine's hydraulic circuit. In the most typical case in which the first cooler is a closed loop oil cooler, the second cooler may take the form of an open loop oil cooler disposed in a flow path connecting one or more low-pressure outlets of the hydrostatic drive system to a reservoir. The closed loop oil cooler actively drops the temperature within the trowel's hydrostatic drive system, while the open loop oil cooler supplements that cooling by reducing the oil temperature in the reservoir. |
| US09631377B2 |
Tapered edge drywall connector
A joint connector for connecting abutting edges of tapered drywall is provided that includes a base, a column projecting forward from said base, and mud legs extending generally perpendicular to said column forming pockets for receipt of tapered edges of said drywall. |
| US09631374B2 |
Narrow lined modular flooring assemblies
This specification describes a tray substrate for tile flooring that can be used in narrow grout line modular floating tile assemblies. The tray is preferably made of plastic and has vertical tray edges around the top of the tray substrate with upward and downward tabs protruding from the sides of the tray substrate wherein some of the tabs are at least partially recessed under the surface of the tray. |
| US09631371B2 |
Modular and collapsible ramp system
A ramp system has a plurality of modular components adapted to be interconnected in a desired configuration. The modular components include an entry ramp module (10, 80), an exit ramp module (80) and a landing module (100, 180) therebetween. Each modular component has a flow assembly (12), handrail assemblies (14, 16) and leg assemblies (18). Each of the handrail assemblies have posts (22, 24) which are adapted to support a handrail (26). The posts are collapsible by folding inwardly towards a deck (28) of the floor assembly through operation of a folding means (30) interconnecting the floor assembly and each post of the handrail assembly. The posts of the handrail assemblies are reversibly collapsible from an erect position, where the ramp system can be used and the handrail assemblies can support users of the ramp system, to a compact position where the ramp system can be stored, packaged and transported until required for assembly on site. |
| US09631370B2 |
Gutter cleaning apparatus
The invention provides an air operated cleaning head for a roof gutter. The head has a housing defining an airflow passage with an impeller located inside the passage. A gear arrangement connects the impeller to a drive shaft for a pair of driven wheels. Guide formations maintain the wheels in engagement along an outer rail of a roof gutter. The guide formations are configured to straddle the rail with a counterbalance provided to maintain the head in balancing engagement on the rail. The counterbalance is an underslung air supply downpipe extending pivotably from the head The guide formations are provided as a radial flange on the outside of the wheels and a radial spoke arrangement on the inside of the wheels. The spoke arrangement is freely rotatable on the wheel axles. The impeller is supported in a dividing wall of the flow passage. Drive shaft switching means includes a flap valve movable between seats on opposite sides of the dividing wall to reverse rotation of the impeller and thus also the wheels. The flap valve is secured to a pivot pin with a lever extending from the pin away from the flap valve connected to the downpipe by a spring, whereby pivoting of the downpipe in one direction produces a bias on the flap valve in an opposite direction. |
| US09631367B2 |
System, method and apparatus for increasing surface solar reflectance of roofing
A roofing product has a substrate having a binder layer and roofing granules on a majority of the binder layer, such that an exposed portion of the binder layer does not have the roofing granules. In addition, particles may be located on the exposed portion of the binder layer. The particles are smaller in size than the roofing granules, and the reflective particles have a solar reflectance of greater than 10%. |
| US09631365B2 |
Interlocking wall panels for modular building units
Disclosed is a modular building construction having interlocking wall panels that mate with one another and with the frame of the building unit without screws, bolts or other fasteners, but while ensuring a water-tight fit. This configuration significantly simplifies installation of the wall panels into the skeletal frame of the modular building unit, allowing a first wall panel to be joined to an adjacent wall panel in a quick and easy installation step while maintaining the ability to later adjust and/or replace the wall panel. |
| US09631363B2 |
Steel plate structure and steel plate concrete wall
A steel plate structure and a steel plate concrete wall are disclosed. A steel plate structure, which includes: a pair of steel plates, which are separated to provide a predetermined space; a structural member, which is positioned in the predetermined space, and which is structurally rigidly joined to one side of the steel plate in the direction of gravity; and a strut, which maintains a separation distance between the pair of steel plates, can be utilized to reduce the overall thickness of a steel plate concrete wall for efficient use of space, and to reduce the thickness of the steel plates for better welding properties and larger unit module sizes. Also, the axial forces or lateral forces applied on the steel plate concrete wall may be effectively resisted. |
| US09631362B2 |
Precompressed water and/or fire resistant tunnel expansion joint systems, and transitions
A fire and/or water resistant expansion joint system for installation between substrates of a tunnel. The system includes a coating applied at a predetermined thickness to the substrates and a fire and water resistant expansion joint. The expansion joint includes a core and a fire retardant infused into the core. The core is configured to define a profile to facilitate the compression of the expansion joint system when installed between the substrates. The coating and the fire and water resistant expansion joint are each capable of withstanding exposure to a temperature of at least about 540° C. or greater for about five minutes. |
| US09631360B2 |
Insulating wall system for a building structure
The present invention concerns an insulating wall system for a building structure, wherein said wall system comprises a first wall having an exterior surface with insulation material fitted to said exterior surface of said first wall and retained by at least one elongated support member abutting the insulation material which via fastening members extending through the insulation material substantially perpendicular to the exterior surface is anchored in the first wall, and wherein the elongated support member comprises an elongated beam with one or more nail plates mounted on the insulation abutting inner surface of said beam for enhancing friction. |
| US09631358B1 |
Modular building system
A modular building system that is all-inclusive for completing a structural project from the foundation up using unskilled labor is provided. The modular building system includes a plurality of modular sections, each modular section formed from the interconnection of floor, wall, roof, and arch panel components, wherein all panel component interconnections are brought to a locking engagement by way of the same interlocking tabs and rails assembly, so that an unskilled laborer may complete a complete structural project interconnecting various types of modular building sections. |
| US09631347B1 |
System and method for stabilizing chlorine residual in a dead end water main
System and method for automatically and remotely maintaining acceptable levels of chlorine residual in the dead end branches of potable water mains so as to protect the users from high levels of coliform organisms by pumping stagnant water from the dead end branch back to a flowing water main. A solar panel serves as the source of power with batteries being used to store energy. A water circulation pump evacuates water through an insertable rigid flexible tubing from a point near the distal end of the dead end branch to the nearest flowing water main. A programmable logic controller is used to operate the pump during periods of time when there is enough available solar energy or when the batteries are sufficiently charged. |
| US09631346B2 |
Wear member retention system for an implement
A lock mechanism is provided for a wear member retention system for an implement. The lock mechanism includes a wear member engagement portion extending in one direction. A boss engagement portion extends from the wear member engagement portion in a direction generally perpendicular to the one direction. The boss engagement portion defines a threaded bore extending generally parallel to the boss engagement portion. |
| US09631345B2 |
Wheel loader and control method thereof
A mode selecting unit is configured to generate an operation signal indicating one control mode selected from a plurality of control modes including a predetermined first mode and a second mode in which a traction force is controlled to be smaller than a traction force in the first mode. A controller is configured to obtain the operation signal from the mode selecting unit and control a drivetrain in accordance with the selected control mode. The controller is configured to start controlling the drivetrain in the second mode in starting of a vehicle. |
| US09631334B2 |
Mobile marine barrier
A mobile marine barrier (1) comprising a base (2) and a hood (8) located at a distal end thereof is described. The hood (6) comprises a funnel (15) and a distal surface (18) located therein which allows the hood (6) to morph its shape, size and strength so as to give adaptable coastal protection against naturally occurring events. This is achieved by incorporating a telescopic funnel such that the length of the hood (6) and thus the area of its open end can be altered so as to vary the quantity of water directed towards the distal surface (18). The hood (16) may also comprise a mobile face (17) that forms part of variable volume chamber (26) located within the hood (8) which can be filled and emptied with fluids. |
| US09631333B1 |
Reservoir shading apparatus and method
A reservoir shading structure made of multiple consumer beverage containers. The containers each have a bottle portion, and a top portion preferably with a collar. The top portion is removed, inverted, and replaced in the bottle portion to extend into the bottle portion. The top portion is hermetically sealed to the bottle portion and a cap is welded into the top portion to hermetically seal the consumer beverage container. The consumer beverage containers are UV resistant, made of NSF/ANSI Rule 61 compliant material, and may include carbon black in their construction. Multiple consumer beverage containers are placed in a uniform layer across the surface of the reservoir to form a shading structure that reduces evaporation and microbial growth. |
| US09631323B2 |
Sanitary tissue products with superior machine direction elongation and foreshortening properties and methods for making same
Fibrous structures and/or sanitary tissue products comprising fibrous structure, and more particularly to fibrous structures comprising pulp fibers, wherein the fibrous structures exhibit unique elongation (stretch) and total foreshortening properties, and methods for making such fibrous structures. |
| US09631322B2 |
Method of applying fugitive hydrophobic treatment to tissue product
Cellulosic tissue sheets having temporary moisture barrier properties are prepared by applying a solution of reactive size in emollient at an elevated temperature to a previously formed tissue sheet. |
| US09631315B2 |
Controlling method for clothes dryer
A controlling method for a dryer is applied to a dryer, in which at least one of a heat pump system and a heater is selected as a heat source for heating air supplied in to a drum and a heat supply capacity of the heat pump system is more than that of the heater. The controlling method includes, when both the heat pump system and the heater are selected as the heat sources, turning the heat pump system on, turning the heater on after the heat pump system is normally turned on, turning the heater off to cool the drum and terminate drying after the drying is performed, and turning the heat pump system off after the heater is turned off. |
| US09631310B2 |
Methods and compositions for treating laundry items
A method for wetting laundry in a laundry treating appliance having a rotatable treating chamber in which laundry is received for treatment according to an automatic cycle of operation comprises forming an annulus of laundry within the treating chamber prior to wetting the laundry, spraying liquid onto the annulus while the treating chamber is being rotated, after the formation of the annulus, redistributing the laundry, after the redistributing, rotating the treating chamber to form an annulus of laundry, and, while the treating chamber is rotated, recirculating the liquid through the laundry. |
| US09631309B2 |
Embroidery sewing machine having function of fixing interliner and material by basting
An embroidery sewing machine having a function of fixing an interliner and a material by basting, and capable of performing embroidery sewing based on embroidery sewing data includes: a basting area accepting unit configured to perform an assisting operation for a user so as to allow the user to specify an area for basting according to a size of a material, and to accept the specification of the area for basting; a basting data generating unit configured to generate basting data according to the area accepted by the basting area accepting unit; and a basting executing unit configured to perform basting based on the basting data generated by the basting data generating unit. |
| US09631308B2 |
Sewing machine for hem
A sewing machine for hem includes a turn-back device provided in front of a needle location position on a sewing machine bed, the turn-back device turning back an edge part of cloth into a state of being folded one above the other, and then feeding the turned-back cloth. In front of the turn-back device, a feed belt and a cloth presser foot are arranged opposite to each other with a cloth feeding path in between. By virtue of operation of a rotary solenoid performed on the basis of a detection result of a detector arranged in front of the opposing portion, the cloth presser foot is raised and lowered and thereby holds the cloth in cooperation with the feed belt so as to exert a movement force in the right and left directions onto the cloth. |
| US09631307B2 |
Presser foot for sewing machine
A presser foot for a sewing machine includes: a presser main body having an opening in which an upper feed dog is to be arranged, and configured to press a cloth; a rotational shaft connected to an upper feed mechanism of the sewing machine; a guide base provided to the presser main body so as to form a single unit, and configured to guide a ribbon; right and left guides configured as a pair of members provided such that they can be relatively moved with respect to the guide base, and to guide a position of the ribbon in the width direction, and arranged symmetrically with a position at which a sewing needle moves in a vertical direction as a base position; and an adjustment screw, right and left guide bushes, configured as a linking portion that links the movements of the right and left guides. |
| US09631306B2 |
Presser foot for sewing machine
A presser foot of a sewing machine includes: a presser main body that presses a cloth; a guide base provided to the presser main body so as to form a single unit, and configured to guide a ribbon to be sewn to the cloth; a right guide and a left guide configured as members that are provided such that they can be relatively moved with respect to the guide base, that guide a position of the ribbon in the width direction, and that are arranged symmetrically with a position at which a sewing needle moves in a vertical direction as a base position; and an adjustment screw, a right guide bush, and a left guide bush, configured as a linking portion that links the movements of the right guide and the left guide such that they are positioned symmetrically with respect to the base position at all times. |
| US09631298B2 |
Method for the production of lignin-containing precursor fibres and also carbon fibres
The invention relates to a method for the production of a precursor for the production of carbon—and activated carbon fibers according to the wet—or air-gap spinning method, in which a solution of lignin and a fiber-forming polymer in a suitable solvent is extruded through the holes of a spinning nozzle into a coagulation bath, the formed thread is stretched and subsequently treated, dried at an elevated temperature and then wound up. The lignin-containing thread is an economical starting material for the production of carbon—and activated carbon fibers. |
| US09631297B2 |
Method of producing epitaxial silicon wafer and epitaxial silicon wafer
Provided is a method of producing an epitaxial silicon wafer which has high flatness at the peripheral portion and an epitaxial silicon wafer obtained by the method. In the method of producing an epitaxial silicon wafer, an epitaxial layer is formed on the top surface of a silicon wafer with a chamfered end having a width of 200 μm or less, which surface has a surface orientation of the (100) plane or the (110) plane. |
| US09631293B2 |
Electrodeposition baths, systems and methods
Electrodeposition baths, systems and methods are provided. In some embodiments, the baths, systems and methods are used to deposit metal alloy coatings. |
| US09631290B2 |
Room temperature electrodeposition of actinides from ionic solutions
Uranic and transuranic metals and metal oxides are first dissolved in ozone compositions. The resulting solution in ozone can be further dissolved in ionic liquids to form a second solution. The metals in the second solution are then electrochemically deposited from the second solutions as room temperature ionic liquid (RTIL), tri-methyl-n-butyl ammonium n-bis(trifluoromethansulfonylimide) [Me3NnBu][TFSI] providing an alternative non-aqueous system for the extraction and reclamation of actinides from reprocessed fuel materials. Deposition of U metal is achieved using TFSI complexes of U(III) and U(IV) containing the anion common to the RTIL. TFSI complexes of uranium were produced to ensure solubility of the species in the ionic liquid. The methods provide a first measure of the thermodynamic properties of U metal deposition using Uranium complexes with different oxidation states from RTIL solution at room temperature. |
| US09631286B2 |
High performance reversible electrochemical cell for H2O electrolysis or conversion of CO2 and H2O to fuel
The present invention relates to a reversible electrochemical cell, such as an electrolysis cell for water splitting or for conversion of carbon dioxide and water into fuel. The present invention relates also to an electrochemical cell that when operated in reverse performs as a fuel cell. The electrochemical cell comprises gas5 diffusion electrodes and a porous layer made of materials and having a structure adapted to allow for a temperature range of operation between 100-374° C. and in a pressure range between 3-200 bars. |
| US09631283B2 |
Substrate for printed electronics and photonic curing process
A coating layer 12 is formed on a base film 10 by heat resistant resin having a Tg (glass transition temperature) of 120° C. or more, and more preferably 200° C. or more, and a functional thin film 14 is produced by printing ink composite including conductive particles on a surface of the coating layer 12 and thereby forming an ink layer. This functional thin film 14 is sintered by heating performed by photo irradiation, and a conductive layer is formed thereby. |
| US09631280B2 |
Method of manufacturing palladium thin film by using electroless-plating method
Provided is a method of manufacturing a palladium (Pd) thin film by using an electroless-plating method, the method including: manufacturing a reaction mixture by adding Pd salt and an alkaline pH regulator to an alcohol-water mixed solution; and forming a Pd thin film by loading and stirring the reaction mixture in a substrate. Accordingly, a Pd thin film having a surface enhancement Raman scattering (SERS) effect may be easily manufactured without having to use expensive additional equipment, such as a vacuum device, and in detail, electroless-plating may be performed even on an insulating substrate formed of, for example, glass. In addition, since a size of the Pd thin film manufactured on the substrate may be adjusted, the Pd thin film may be applied to various electrochemical products. |
| US09631270B2 |
Carbon-based coating
The invention relates to a carbon-based coating (2) which as well as carbon as principal ingredient has at least one first element selected from a group consisting of the transition metals from groups 3 to 10 of the Periodic Table of the Elements, the carbon in the coaling (2) being present predominantly in sp2-hybridized form, and the coating (2) comprising at least one further element from a group encompassing silicon, germanium, aluminum, and the transition metals from groups 3 to 10 of the Periodic Table of the Elements, with the proviso that said at least one further element is not the same as the first element, and the cumulative fraction of said at least one further element in the coating (2) is between 0.1 at % and 5 at %, and the cumulative fraction of said at least one first element is between 0.5 at % and 10 at %. |
| US09631269B2 |
Thermal evaporation process for manufacture of solid state battery devices
A method for manufacturing a solid-state battery device. The method can include providing a substrate within a process region of an apparatus. A cathode source and an anode source can be subjected to one or more energy sources to transfer thermal energy into a portion of the source materials to evaporate into a vapor phase. An ionic species from an ion source can be introduced and a thickness of solid-state battery materials can be formed overlying the surface region by interacting the gaseous species derived from the plurality of electrons and the ionic species. During formation of the thickness of the solid-state battery materials, the surface region can be maintained in a vacuum environment from about 10−6 to 10−4 Torr. Active materials comprising cathode, electrolyte, and anode with non-reactive species can be deposited for the formation of modified modulus layers, such a void or voided porous like materials. |
| US09631268B2 |
Methods and systems for shape memory alloy structures
There is provided a method of training a shape memory alloy (SMA) workpiece. The method includes applying a force couple to a shape memory alloy (SMA) workpiece to impart a generally planar transformational behavior to the SMA workpiece to obtain a trained shape memory alloy (SMA) workpiece. |
| US09631264B2 |
Soft magnetic powder core
The present invention provides a soft magnetic powder core with a high electrical resistivity and a high strength. The soft magnetic powder core of the present invention is characterized in that in the soft magnetic powder core containing soft magnetic metal particles with Fe as the main component, the powder core has the structure in which oxide portions are present among soft magnetic metal particles, and the oxide portions are composed of oxides containing V, B and Fe. Further, the amount of B contained in the oxide portions of the powder core is 0.5 or more times and 5.0 or less times of the amount of V in terms of mass ratio. |
| US09631260B2 |
Copper alloy sheets for electrical/electronic part
A shear plane ratio is reduced by a dislocation density in which a value obtained by dividing the half-value width p of the intensity of diffraction of {311} plane in the surface of a Cu—Fe—P alloy sheet, by its peak height H, is 0.015 or more. In addition, a Cu—Fe—P alloy sheet with relatively small Fe content is provided with a texture in which a ratio (I (200) /I (220)) of intensity of diffraction of (1 (200)) from the (200) plane in the sheet surface to intensity of diffraction of (I (220)) from the (220) plane, is 0.3 or less. In addition, a Cu—Fe—P alloy sheet with relatively small Fe content is provided with a texture in which the orientation distribution density of Brass orientation measured by the crystal orientation analysis method using an EBSP by an FE-SEM, is 25% or more; and an average grain size in the sheet is 6.0 μm or less. |
| US09631258B2 |
Methods for extracting rare-earth metals and preparing gypsum plaster from phosphogypsum hemihydrate
The present invention relates to a method for complex processing of apatite concentrate resulting in producing concentrate of rare earth metals (REM) and plaster from phosphogypsum, a waste of sulphuric acid technology for producing phosphoric acid from apatite. The method comprises recrystallization of hemihydrate or anhydrite of calcium sulphate into dihydrate of calcium sulphate in the presence of a soluble calcium salt at concentrations of 0.075-3.75 M (in terms of Ca2+) at subacidic conditions (pH>1), and dissolution with strong acid (pKa<0) at a concentration of 0.2-8.0 M (in terms of H+). Recovery of REM into solution is up to 95%, the residual content of impurities of phosphorus, fluorine and alkali metals in dihydrate of calcium sulphate does not exceed 0.3 wt. %, 0.1 wt. %, 0.05 wt. %, respectively. |
| US09631247B2 |
Displacement of scraping rollers
An apparatus is disclosed for processing the skin side (5) of a tubular pelt (3), the apparatus comprising an elongated tapering mandrel (1) for supporting the pelt with its skin side turned outwards, a scraping device comprising a first set of primary scraping roller (6, 7) arranged on opposing sides of the mandrel and a second set of primary scraping rollers (8, 9) arranged on other opposing sides of the mandrel, the scraping device further comprising primary rotation means (6, 7, 8, 9) for rotating said primary scraping rollers during processing of a pelt so as to engage a skin side of the pelt, moving means for conducting a relative movement between the scraping device and the mandrel in the longitudinal direction of the mandrel, and displacement means for displacing at least one scraping roller in the direction of the axis of rotation of said scraping roller. |
| US09631246B2 |
Methods for treating lignocellulosic materials
The present invention relates to methods of processing lignocellulosic material to obtain hemicellulose sugars, cellulose sugars, lignin, cellulose and other high-value products. Also provided are hemicellulose sugars, cellulose sugars, lignin, cellulose, and other high-value products. |
| US09631245B2 |
Sugar melting
An arrangement for melting and cleaning a substance, such as natural sugar. The arrangement comprises a mesh belt for transporting the substance through a heating station for heating the substance so that a dissolved phase of the substance is separated from impurities in the substance through the mesh of the mesh belt substantially simultaneously. |
| US09631244B2 |
Reagent storage on a droplet actuator
A method of providing a droplet comprising one or more reagents, the method comprising, depositing a first aqueous droplet comprising the one or more reagents on a surface; drying the droplet to yield a dried composition on the surface comprising the one or more reagents; covering the dried composition with oil; and causing a second aqueous droplet in the oil to contact the dried composition and thereby resuspend one or more reagents. |
| US09631243B2 |
Methods and compositions for identifying JC virus
The disclosure relates to methods and compositions for detecting the presence of Prototype and/or Archetype JC virus in a biological sample from a subject. In some embodiments, the methods include amplifying and detecting a first nucleic acid sequence unique to Archetype JC virus in a biological sample, and a second nucleic acid sequence common to both Archetype and Prototype JC virus in the biological sample. In several embodiments, the methods can be used to identify JC virus in a biological sample from a subject at risk for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Compositions and kits for use in the disclosed methods are also provided. |
| US09631241B2 |
Complex sets of miRNAs as non-invasive biomarkers for colon cancer
Described herein are non-invasive methods, kits and means for diagnosing and/or prognosing of colon cancer a body fluid sample from a subject. Further described herein are sets of polynucleotides or sets of primer pairs for detecting sets of miRNAs for diagnosing and/or prognosing of colon cancer in a body fluid sample from a subject. In addition, described herein are sets of miRNAs for diagnosing and/or prognosing of colon cancer in a body fluid sample from a subject. |
| US09631239B2 |
Method of classifying a breast cancer instrinsic subtype
Methods for classifying and for evaluating the prognosis of a subject having breast cancer are provided. The methods include prediction of breast cancer subtype using a supervised algorithm trained to stratify subjects on the basis of breast cancer intrinsic subtype. The prediction model is based on the gene expression profile of the intrinsic genes listed in Table 1. This prediction model can be used to accurately predict the intrinsic subtype of a subject diagnosed with or suspected of having breast cancer. Further provided are compositions and methods for predicting outcome or response to therapy of a subject diagnosed with or suspected of having breast cancer. These methods are useful for guiding or determining treatment options for a subject afflicted with breast cancer. Methods of the invention further include means for evaluating gene expression profiles, including microarrays and quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays, as well as kits comprising reagents for practicing the methods of the invention. |
| US09631238B2 |
Mutations associated with cystic fibrosis
The present invention provides novel mutations identified in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene that can be used for a more accurate diagnosis of cystic fibrosis (CF) and CF related disorders. Methods for testing a sample obtained from a subject to determine the presence of one or more mutations in the CFTR gene are provided wherein the presence of one or more mutations indicates that the subject has CF or a CF related disorder, or is a carrier of a CFTR mutation. |
| US09631232B2 |
Recovery of genomic DNA from remnant extracted seed samples
This disclosure concerns the isolation of nucleic acids (e.g., genomic DNA) from plant seed material that has been defatted. In some embodiments, such nucleic acids are of sufficient quality and abundance that they may be used in an amplification-based genetic analysis technique; for example and without limitation, to make selections in a plant breeding program. |
| US09631228B2 |
Isolation of nucleic acids
Provided herein is technology relating to isolating nucleic acids. In particular, the technology relates to methods and kits for extracting nucleic acids from problematic samples such as stool. |
| US09631224B2 |
Method for measuring ethanolamine phosphate
To provide a method for simply measuring ethanolamine phosphate in a sample, and a reagent, kit, program and the like useful in the method.A measurement method of ethanolamine phosphate includes a first step of adding an enzyme, which can catalyze a reaction that forms acetaldehyde from ethanolamine phosphate, to a sample, and conducting a first enzymatic reaction to form acetaldehyde, phosphoric acid and ammonia; and a second step of quantifying at least one of the resultant acetaldehyde, phosphoric acid and ammonia to determine an amount of the ethanolamine phosphate in the measurement sample. |
| US09631216B2 |
Method for reducing heterogeneity of antibodies and a process of producing the antibodies thereof
The present disclosure relates to a method of reducing heterogeneity in antibodies during culturing, wherein the heterogeneity is due to proportion of charge variant of the antibody. The disclosure also comprises a process of growing cells in a cell culture system that results in antibodies with the reduced heterogeneity. In one embodiment antibody heterogeneity is reduced by the addition of divalent transitional metal ions such as zinc (Zn2+) to the cell culture medium. In another embodiment antibody heterogeneity is reduced by decreasing the osmolality of the cell culture medium. |
| US09631215B2 |
Recombinant production of steviol glycosides
Recombinant microorganisms, plants, and plant cells are disclosed that have been engineered to express recombinant genes encoding UDP-glycosyltransferases (UGTs). Such microorganisms, plants, or plant cells can produce steviol glycosides, e.g., Rebaudioside A and/or Rebaudioside D, which can be used as natural sweeteners in food products and dietary supplements. |
| US09631214B2 |
Method for linking and characterising linked nucleic acids, E.G. antibody encoding nucleic acids, in a composition
The invention relates to a method for linking at least two target nucleic acid molecules from a single biological compartment, comprising the steps of isolating a fraction from a sample, wherein the fraction comprises the compartment comprising at least two nucleic acid molecules, diluting the fraction and aliquoting the dilution in multiple separate reaction vessels such that each reaction vessel comprises preferably one compartment, or encapsulating the compartment in emulsion droplets such that each droplet comprises preferably one compartment; linking the at least two target nucleic acid molecules, preferably by overlap extension PCR. The method may be employed in the analysis of mutations present in a single cell and in the production of antibodies which are present in a single hybridoma. |
| US09631210B2 |
Methods for increasing production of 3-methyl-2-butenol using fusion proteins
The present invention relates to methods and compositions for increasing production of 3-methyl-2-butenol in a de novo synthetic pathway in a genetically modified host cell using isopentenyl disphosphate (IPP) as a substrate. |
| US09631208B2 |
Processing materials
Biomass feedstocks (e.g., plant biomass, animal biomass, and municipal waste biomass) are processed to produce useful products, such as fuels. For example, systems are described that can convert feedstock materials to a sugar solution, which can then be fermented to produce ethanol. Biomass feedstock is saccharified in a vessel by operation of a jet mixer, the vessel also containing a liquid medium and a saccharifying agent. |
| US09631206B2 |
Modified bacteria for the production of bioalcohol
The present invention provides a modified bacterial strain capable of fermenting both hexose and pentose sugars for production of bioalcohol wherein a promoter of pyruvate dehydrogenase operon (PDH) is replaced with a promoter of a gene that is expressed under anaerobic conditions. The present invention further provides a method of obtaining modified bacterial strain capable of fermenting both hexose and pentose sugar for production of bioalcohol. The present invention also provides a method of fermenting lignocellulosic biomass having hexose and pentose sugar using the modified bacteria for production of biomass. |
| US09631201B2 |
Engineered zinc finger proteins targeting plant genes involved in fatty acid biosynthesis
The present disclosure relates to engineered zinc finger proteins that target genes in plants involved in fatty acid biosynthesis. Methods of using such zinc finger proteins in modulating gene expression, gene inactivation, and targeted gene modification are also provided. |
| US09631200B2 |
Pathogen-inducible synthetic promoter
The invention relates to a pathogen-inducible synthetic promoter which is suitable for regulating the transcription of a nucleic acid, and includes a minimal promoter, characterized in that the minimal promoter includes a sequence motif a) dbrmwa or b) twcccmt which is disposed downstream from a TATA region and in front of a transcription starting point which is located on the minimal promoter and at which transcription of the nucleic acid to be regulated starts. |
| US09631197B2 |
Rasamsonia transformants
The invention relates to a method for carrying out recombination at a target locus in a Rasamsonia cell. The invention also relates to Rasamsonia cells, for example Rasamsonia cells produced by such a process. The invention further relates to processes in which such Rasamsonia cells are used and to the resulting enzyme compositions. The invention further relates to nucleic acid and amino acid sequences. |
| US09631192B2 |
Auto-recognizing therapeutic RNA/DNA chimeric nanoparticles (NP)
Auto-recognizing therapeutic R/DNA chimeric nanoparticles (R/DNA NP) are described that are pairs of DNA/RNA hybrids where the DNA molecules have complementary toehold sequences that promote the re-association of the R/DNA NPs when mixed resulting in the formation of RNA/RNA duplexes that act as siRNAs. |
| US09631190B2 |
Cell attachment coatings and methods using phosphorous-containing photoreagent
Cell attachment coatings for articles such as implantable medical devices and cell culture vessels are disclosed. The coatings include an intermediate coater layer which includes a phosphorous-containing component that is bonded in the coating by reacted photoreactive functional groups. The coating also include a second coated layer including an immobilized ECM protein or peptide that includes an active portion of an ECM protein that is able to serve as an outer layer to contact cells during use. The coatings promoted enhanced cell binding and growth. |
| US09631185B2 |
Fusion of bioactive molecules
Fusion-proteins containing an enzyme, preferably a feed or food enzyme, coupled to a gut surface-binding domain are presented. The fusion-proteins can be used to promote feed utilization in animals. In a particular example, a Fusion enzyme according to the invention comprising a gut-surface-binding polypeptide segment linked to a phytase show an increased resident time in the gut, which leads to an increased amount of time given to the enzyme to catalyse the corresponding reaction which finally leads to improved feed utilisation. |
| US09631183B2 |
DNA polymerases with increased substrate scope
The present invention relates to DNA polymerases displaying increased substrate scope such as improved reverse transcriptase and DNA polymerase activities, as well as improved activities for incorporating and extending modified nucleotides. In particular, the present invention relates to DNA polymerases derived from wild-type Thermus aquaticus (Taq) polymerase, comprising the mutations S515R, I638F, and M747K with regard to the wild-type amino acid sequence. The present invention further relates to nucleic acids coding for the DNA polymerases of the present invention, vectors containing said nucleic acids, host cells containing said vectors or nucleic acids, methods for the generation of DNA molecules using said DNA polymerases, kits containing said DNA polymerases, and uses thereof. |
| US09631176B2 |
Method for preparing stem cells from fat tissue
The present invention provides a method for preparing homogeneous stem cells and/or precursor cells in a large amount, in a simple and efficient manner, from human (in particular, the subject per se). The present invention further provides a method for preparing tissue implant or graft in a large amount by the use of the stem cells and/or precursor cells of the present invention. The present inventors have unexpectedly discovered that an aspirate from liposuction contains a large number of stem cells and have established a method for preparing stem cells from such an aspirate from liposuction, and thereby achieved the above-mentioned object. |
| US09631171B2 |
Microstructure biomaterials and fabrication methods therefor
Methods and systems for fabricating a micro-structured biomaterial include printing a three-dimensional structure using polymerizing radiation modulated by a digital micromirror array to project microstructure patterns into a pre-polymer material to form one or more porous scaffold sheets. The microstructure patterns have a unit-cell geometry that exhibits a negative Poisson ratio that is tunable in magnitude. |
| US09631170B2 |
Genetically inducible hydrogen peroxide resistance and production
DNA constructs as well as methods for the production of unicellular organisms capable of producing hydrogen peroxide resistance proteins are disclosed. DNA constructs as well as methods for integration of the DNA constructs into the genomes of unicellular organisms for the expression of hydrogen peroxide production proteins are also disclosed. In addition, DNA constructs as well as methods for integration of the DNA constructs into the genomes of unicellular organisms for the expression of hydrogen peroxide resistance and hydrogen peroxide production proteins are disclosed. |
| US09631169B2 |
Three dimensional tissues for high-throughput assays
Provided herein are methods of detecting responses of bio-artificial tissues to agents by performing assays using three-dimensional bio-artificial tissues. The methods are adaptable to high-throughput platforms. |
| US09631163B2 |
Liquid laundry detergent composition
The present invention relates to liquid laundry detergent compositions comprising a polyetheramine. |
| US09631162B2 |
Flexible wick
A candle wick includes a first layer of paper or dried pulp and a second layer of material selected from the group consisting of paper, silk, thread, textiles, corn fiberfill, cotton batting, bamboo fiber, soybean protein fiber, wood, alpaca hair, dried pulp, rosin, resin, and fibrous material. The first layer is attached to the second layer to form a candle wick that is pliable and shapeable from a generally flat shape to a generally curved shaped. When ignited, the material comprising the candle wick is capable of providing sufficient fuel to a flame to provide a substantially consistent burn from an upper portion to a lower portion. A wick clip includes a slot similarly sized and shaped to receive an undersurface of the pliable, shaped configuration of the candle wick. The candle wick and wick clip form a clip assembly. |
| US09631161B2 |
Method of separating oil from a liquid stillage
A method of separating oil from a liquid stillage is disclosed. The stillage includes an aqueous phase and an oil phase. The method comprises adding a separation additive to the stillage and performing at least one separation operation on the stillage to separate an amount of the oil phase from the stillage. The separation additive comprises an ester of an alkoxylated non-cyclic polyol and a fatty acid. |
| US09631158B2 |
Processes for preparing low viscosity lubricants
Disclosed are processes for forming an oligomer product by contacting a feedstock olefin containing trisubstituted olefins with a solid acid catalyst. The oligomer product can be formed at an oligomerization temperature in a range from −20° C. to 40° C. Polyalphaolefins produced from the oligomer product can have reduced viscosities at low temperatures. |