最新美国发明专利第2010-01-05期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

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US07642275B2	Histone deacetylase inhibitors Compounds, pharmaceutical compositions, kits and methods are provided for use with histone deacetylases (HDACs) that comprise a compound of the formulae: wherein the variables are as defined herein.
US07642273B2	Modulators of the glucocorticoid receptor, AP-1, and/or NF-κB activity and use thereof A class of novel non-steroidal compounds are provided which are useful in treating diseases associated with modulation of the glucocorticoid receptor, AP-1, and/or NF-κB activity including obesity, diabetes, inflammatory and immune diseases, and have the structure of formula (I) or (II): including a stereoisomer thereof, a tautomer thereof, a prodrug thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, where Q is selected from N, O, and S; Y is aryl or heteroaryl; Z is H, C2-6alkyl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, halo, or alkoxy; and A, B, R, Ra, Rb, Rc and Rd are defined herein. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treating obesity, diabetes and inflammatory or immune associated diseases comprising said compounds.
US07642272B2	Cannabinoid receptor ligands There are disclosed compounds of the formula I a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate of the compound, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions containing said compounds.
US07642271B2	Argatroban formulation An aqueous, stable, sterile pharmaceutical composition of the thrombin inhibitor argatroban in a solution containing an acid to solubilize the argatroban, substantially free from dehydrated alcohol is described, as well as a method for its preparation.
US07642270B2	5-oxo-5,8-dihydro-pyrido-pyrimidine as inhibitors of c-fms kinase The invention addresses the current need for selective and potent protein tyrosine kinase inhibitors by providing potent inhibitors of c-fms kinase. The invention is directed to the novel compounds of Formula I: or a solvate, hydrate, tautomer or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein: W, A, Y, Z, R101 and R200 are described in the specification.
US07642266B2	Substituted pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidines as protein kinase inhibitors In its many embodiments, the present invention provides a novel class of pyrazolo[1,5-a] pyrimidine compounds as inhibitors of protein and/or checkpoint kinases, methods of preparing such compounds, pharmaceutical compositions including one or more such compounds, methods of preparing pharmaceutical formulations including one or more such compounds, and methods of treatment, prevention, inhibition, or amelioration of one or more diseases associated with the protein or checkpoint kinases using such compounds or pharmaceutical compositions. An illustrative compound is shown below:
US07642265B2	Benzimidazoles and analogs thereof as antivirals Provided are compounds of the formula: wherein RN1 is a substituent of formula G1—NX1X2, wherein G1 is an optionally further substituted alkylene, which optionally forms, together with RN2, a cyclic group, and each of X1 and X2 is independently H or an N-substituent, or X1 and X2 together form a heterocyclic ring, or X1 together with G1 forms a cyclic group and X2 is H or an N-substituent; and each of Z1, Z2, Z3 and Z4 is H or a substituent, or two of Z1, Z2, Z3 and Z4 together form an optionally substituted ring, and further wherein at least one of Z1, Z2, Z3 and Z4 is other than H, and salts thereof, pharmaceutical compositions and methods of using the compounds. The compounds have antiviral activity.
US07642263B2	Heteroaryl benzamide derivatives for use as GLK activators in the treatment of diabetes Compounds of formula (I) wherein R1, HET-1 and HET-2 are as described in the specification, and their salts and prodrugs, are activators of glucokinase (GLK) and are thereby useful in the treatment of, for example, type 2 diabetes. Processes for preparing compounds of formula (I) are also described.
US07642262B2	Arylipiperdinopropanol and arylipiperazinopropanol derivatives and pharmaceuticals containing the same A compound having the formula (I) or its salt, hydrate, hydrate salt or solvate: wherein R1 to R4 independently represent H, halogen, OH, alkoxy, optionally substituted alkyl, aryl, or aralkyl group, R5 represents H, optionally substituted alkyl, aryl, or aralkyl group, E1 represents O, S, or —NR6, where R6 represents H, an optionally substituted alkyl, aryl, or aralkyl group, E2 represents O, S, or —NR7, where R7 represents H, an optionally substituted alkyl, aryl, or aralkyl group, A represents CH, C(OH), or N, X represents H, halogen, alkoxy, or an optionally substituted alkyl group, and Q represents an optionally substituted phenyl group, phenoxy, phenylmethyl, or cycloalkyloxy group, where when E1 represents O or S, E2 does not represent O or S, which has an action of suppressing the cytotoxic Ca2+ overload and lipid peroxidation and effective for pharmaceutical preparation for the alleviation and treatment of symptoms due to ischemic diseases, etc.
US07642255B2	Compounds and compositions as protein kinase inhibitors The invention provides a novel class of compounds, pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds and methods of using such compounds to treat or prevent diseases or disorders associated with abnormal or deregulated kinase activity, particularly diseases or disorders that involve abnormal activation of the Abl, BCR-Abl, Bmx, c-Raf, Csk, Fes, FGFR, Flt3, Ikk, IR, JNK, Lck, Mkk, PKC, PKD, Rsk, SAPK, Syk, Trk, BTK, Src, EGFR, IGF, Mek, Ros and Tie2 kinases.
US07642254B2	ATM inhibitors A compound of formula I: and isomers, salts, solvates, chemically protected forms, and prodrugs thereof, wherein: R1 and R2 together form, along with the nitrogen atom to which they are attached, an optionally substituted nitrogen containing heterocyclic ring having from 4 to 8 ring atoms; and R3 is selected from hydroxy and —NRN1RN2, where RN1 and RN2 are independently selected from hydrogen, optionally substituted C1-7 alkyl groups, optionally substituted C3-20 heterocyclyl groups and optionally substituted C5-20 aryl groups, or together form, along with the nitrogen atom to which they are attached, an optionally substituted nitrogen containing heterocyclic ring having from 4 to 8 ring atoms, and its use in inhibiting ATM.
US07642253B2	Histone deacetylase inhibitors Compounds, pharmaceutical compositions, kits and methods useful for inhibiting HDAC, thereby treating a disease state for which HDAC possess activity that contributes to the pathology and/or symptomology of the disease state. The compound is selected from the group consisting of: wherein the variables are as defined herein.
US07642250B2	N-benzyl substituted pyridyl porphyrin compounds and methods of use thereof The present invention relates to N-Benzyl-Substituted Pyridyl Porphyrin Compounds and compositions comprising an effective amount of N-Benzyl-Substituted Pyridyl Porphyrin Compounds. The N-Benzyl-Substituted Pyridyl Porphyrin Compounds include compounds of the following formula: wherein: M is Fe or Mn; f is 0 or 1; each R is independently —C(O)(amino acid residue) or —SO2(amino acid residue); and n is the number of counterions sufficient to balance the charges of the compound of Formula (A).
US07642246B2	Pure rocuronium bromide Disclosed herein is rocuronium bromide having a potentiometrical assay of from 99% to 101% in acetic acid and perchloric acid, having less than about 0.2% area by HPLC of 2β-(4-morpholinyl)-16β-(1-pyrrolidinyl)-5α-androstan-3α-ol-17β-acetate, and having at least one of the solvents ethyl ether and dichioromethane in an amount equal to or less than about 850 ppm, and 600 ppm, respectively.
US07642243B2	Method of treating arthritis and promoting growth of articular chondrocytes This invention provides a new therapeutic or prophylactic agent for arthritis such as osteoarthritis. Specifically, it provides a therapeutic or prophylactic agent for arthritis such as osteoarthritis, or an agent for promoting the growth of articular chondrocyte, comprising a guanyl cyclase B (GC-B) activator as an active ingredient; or a method for inhibiting arthritis or for promoting the growth of articular chondrocyte by activating GC-B; or a method for screening an agent for promoting the growth of articular chondrocyte or an agent capable of treating arthritis using the GC-B activity as an indication.
US07642239B2	Inhibition of placenta growth factor (PLGF) mediated metastasis and/or angiogenesis The present invention concerns methods and compositions for inhibiting angiogenesis and/or tumor growth, survival and/or metastasis. In particular embodiments, the methods and compositions may concern ligands against placenta growth factor (PlGF), such as BP-1, BP-2, BP-3 or BP-4. Some methods may comprise administering one or more PlGF ligands, alone or in combination with one or more other agents, such as chemotherapeutic agents, other anti-angiogenic agents, immunotherapeutic agents or radioimmunotherapeutic agents to a subject. The PlGF ligands are effective to inhibit angiogenesis, tumor cell motility, tumor metastasis, tumor growth and/or tumor survival. In certain embodiments, PlGF ligands may be administered to subjects to ameliorate other angiogenesis related conditions, such as macular degeneration. In some embodiments, PlGF expression levels may be determined by any known method to select those patients most likely to respond to PlGF targeted therapies.
US07642238B2	Molecular determinants of myeloma bone disease and uses thereof To identify molecular determinants of lytic bone disease in multiple myeloma, the expression profiles of ˜12,000 genes in CD138-enriched plasma cells from newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients exhibiting no radiological evidence of lytic lesions (n=28) were compared to those with ≧3 lytic lesions (n=47). Two secreted WNT signaling antagonists, soluble frizzled related protein 3 (SFRP-3/FRZB) and the human homologue of Dickkopf-1 (DKK1), were expressed in 40 of 47 with lytic bone lesions, but only 16 of 28 lacking bone lesions (P<0.05). DKK1 and FRZB were not expressed in plasma cells from 45 normal bone marrow donors or 10 Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, a related plasma cells malignancy that lacks bone disease. These data indicate that these factors are important mediators of multiple myeloma bone disease, and inhibitors of these proteins may be used to block bone disease.
US07642235B2	Macrocyclic peptides active against the hepatitis C virus Compounds of formula I: wherein D, R4, R3, L0, L1, L2, R2 and RC are defined herein; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, useful as inhibitors of the HCV NS3 protease.
US07642234B2	Beta-2-glycoprotein 1 is an inhibitor of angiogenesis The present disclosure provides a method of inhibiting angiogenesis within a tissue of interest by providing either intact or nicked β-Glycoprotein 1 (β2GP1) to cells associated with the tissue. The presence of β2GP1 inhibits angiogenesis within the tissue, in part by preventing neovascularization into the tissue. The disclosure also provides a method for treating tumors by providing β2GP1 to the tumor.
US07642230B2	Zinc-containing sustained-release composition, its preparation, and method for producing the same With a simple and high-yield production method, a zinc-containing sustained-release composition capable of stabilizing a physiologically active protein or peptide, typically G-CSF by precipitation and retaining drug efficacy for several days in a living body owing to its sustained releasability is provided. Concretely, a zinc-containing sustained-release composition produced by forming a precipitate by mixing a physiologically active protein or peptide, a water-soluble zinc salt, a water-soluble carbonate and/or a water soluble phosphate aqueous solution. The zinc-containing sustained-release composition may be administered as a zinc-containing sustained preparation by adding a pharmaceutically acceptable additive as is necessary.
US07642227B2	Cleansing and disinfecting compositions Cleansing compositions for cleaning and/or disinfecting surfaces such as hard surfaces are provided.
US07642226B2	Polyvinyl alcohol copolymer film for packaging liquid products and having an improved shelf-life Generally speaking, the present invention is a water-soluble copolymer film comprising a hydrolyzed copolymer of vinyl acetate and a second monomer, the resultant polyvinyl alcohol copolymer having a degree of hydrolysis, expressed as a percentage of vinyl acetate units converted to vinyl alcohol units, of from about 90% to 100%. The second monomer is preferably selected from the group of monomers having carboxylate functionality or sulfonate functionality. The resulting water-soluble copolymer film is disclosed for use in making pouches to contain a unit dose of liquid detergent, such as a liquid laundry detergent. However, it is an aspect of the copolymer film that film solubility is not significantly affected adversely by the detergent. Such film produces pouches having a greater storage shelf-life over prior art water-soluble film.
US07642223B2	Methods of generating a gas in a plugging composition to improve its sealing ability in a downhole permeable zone Methods of servicing a wellbore include generating gas in a plugging composition in situ within a permeable zone in the wellbore, thereby improving the ability of the plugging composition to seal the permeable zone. The gas may be generated via a chemical reaction by, for example, introducing first and second reactants to the plugging composition that can react at ambient temperatures in the wellbore. In an embodiment, the first and second reactants are concurrently pumped into the wellbore via separate flow paths within two concentric conduits to the permeable zone where they are allowed to contact each other in the presence of the plugging composition. In another embodiment, the first reactant, the second reactant, and a retarder for slowing the reaction between the two reactants are concurrently pumped to the permeable zone. In yet another embodiment, one of the reactants is encapsulated to delay a reaction between the two reactants.
US07642221B2	Substituted thien-3-yl-sulphonylamino(thio)carbonyl-triazoline(ethi)ones The invention relates to novel substituted thien-3-yl-sulphonylamino(thio)carbonyl-triazolin(ethi)ones of the general formula (I) in which Q1, Q2, R1, R2, R3 and R4 are each as defined in the description, and to salts of the compounds according to formula (I), to processes and to novel intermediates for their preparation and to their use as herbicides.
US07642220B2	2-(substituted phenyl)-6-amino-5-alkoxy, thioalkoxy and aminoalkyl-4-pyrimidinecarboxylates and their use as herbicides 2-(Substituted phenyl)-6-amino-5-alkoxy, thioalkoxy and aminoalkyl-4-pyrimidinecarboxylic acid and its derivatives are potent herbicides demonstrating broad spectrum of weed control.
US07642209B2	Silicon nitride sintered material and method for manufacturing A silicon nitride sintered material includes a silicon nitride crystal and a grain boundary layer that contains at least two of a first metal silicide (a metal silicide having, as a first metal element, at least one selected from the group consisting of Fe, Cr, Mn and Cu), a second metal silicide (a metal silicide having, as a second metal element, at least one of W or Mo) and a third metal silicide (a metal silicide having a plurality of metal elements including the first metal element and the second metal element), wherein the grain boundary layer has neighboring phase where at least two of the first through third metal silicides exist in contact with each other.
US07642207B2	Unitary absorbent multilayered core The present invention is directed to a unitary absorbent core including a first fibrous absorbent layer of (a) natural fibers, synthetic fibers or a mixture thereof, (b) a binder which is a synthetic binder fiber or powder, a hydrophilic emulsion polymer binder or a mixture thereof, the fibrous absorbent layer having an upper surface and a lower surface, the lower surface in contact, optionally coextensively in contact, with an upper surface of a synthetic carrier which has a lower surface integral with a first hydrophobic vapor-transmissive moisture barrier. The present invention is also directed to a receptacle for food incorporating the unitary absorbent core. The present invention is also directed to a filter element incorporating the unitary absorbent core.
US07642205B2	Rapid thermal processing using energy transfer layers A method that is performed for heat treating a semiconductor wafer in a process chamber, as an intermediate part of an overall multi-step technique for processing the wafer, includes applying an energy transfer layer to at least a portion of the wafer, and exposing the wafer to an energy source in the process chamber in a way which subjects the wafer to a thermal profile such that the energy transfer layer influences at least one part of the thermal profile. The thermal profile has at least a first elevated temperature event. The method further includes, in time relation to the thermal profile, removing the energy transfer layer in the process chamber at least sufficiently for subjecting the wafer to a subsequent step. An associated intermediate condition of the wafer is described.
US07642202B1	Methods of forming moisture barrier for low k film integration with anti-reflective layers A nitrogen-free anti-reflective layer for use in semiconductor photolithography is fabricated in a chemical vapor deposition process, optionally plasma-enhanced, using a gaseous mixture of carbon, silicon, and oxygen sources. By varying the process parameters, a substantially hermetic layer with acceptable values of the refractive index n and extinction coefficient k can be obtained. The nitrogen-free moisture barrier anti-reflective layer produced by this technique improves plasma etch of features such as vias in subsequent processing steps.
US07642198B2	Method for evaluating crystal defects of silicon wafer A method for evaluating crystal defects of a silicon wafer comprising: etching a surface of the silicon wafer by immersing the wafer in an etching solution; and observing etch pits formed on the etched surface of the wafer, wherein the silicon wafer of which crystal defects are evaluated has low electrical resistivity of 1 Ω·cm or less, and the etching solution is a mixture of hydrofluoric acid, nitric acid, acetic acid and water further including iodine or iodide, in which a volume ratio of nitric acid in the etching solution is the largest among volume ratios of hydrofluoric acid, nitric acid, acetic acid and water, and the etching solution is adjusted to have an etching rate of 100 nm/min or less for the silicon wafer. Thereby, there is provided a method for evaluating crystal defects of a silicon wafer with low electrical resistivity by using a chromium-free etching solution without toxic chromium with high capability of detecting defects.
US07642197B2	Method to improve performance of secondary active components in an esige CMOS technology According to various embodiments, there are eSiGe CMOS devices and methods of making them. The method of making a substrate for a CMOS device can include providing a DSB silicon substrate including a first bonded to a second layer, wherein each layer has a (100) oriented surface and a first direction and a second direction and the first direction of the first layer is approximately aligned with the second direction of the second layer. The method can also include performing amorphization on a selected region of the first layer to form a localized amorphous silicon region and recrystallizing the localized amorphous silicon region across the interface using the second layer as a template, such that the first direction of the first layer in the selected region is approximately aligned with the first direction of the second layer.
US07642193B2	Method of treating a mask layer prior to performing an etching process A method of pre-treating a mask layer prior to etching an underlying thin film is described. A thin film, such as a dielectric film, is etched using plasma that is enhanced with a ballistic electron beam. In order to reduce the loss of pattern definition, such as line edge roughness effects, the mask layer is treated with an oxygen-containing plasma or halogen-containing plasma or a noble gas plasma or a combination of two or more thereof prior to proceeding with the etching process.
US07642190B2	Method of forming thin insulating layer in MRAM device A method of forming a thin insulating layer in an MRAM device makes it possible to effectively prevent the insulating layer from being locally thinned, creating a short circuit or other defect. The method includes forming lower patterns for the MRAM device on a semiconductor substrate. An insulating layer for covering the lower patterns is formed. Portions of the insulating layer which are substantially thicker relative to other portions of the insulating layer are selectively dry etched using a photoresist mask. The insulating layer is planarized a chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process so that the insulating layer remains at a thickness larger than a target thickness. The surface of the planarized insulating layer is plasma dry etched or wet etched such that the insulating layer is reduced to the target thickness.
US07642184B2	Method for dual damascene process The present disclosure provides a method of dual damascene processing. The method includes providing a substrate having vias formed therein; forming an under-layer in the vias and on the substrate; applying a solvent washing process to the under-layer; forming a silicon contained layer on the under-layer; patterning the silicon contained layer (SCL) to form SCL openings exposing the under-layer within the SCL openings; and etching the substrate and the under-layer within the SCL openings to form trenches.
US07642183B2	High power, high luminous flux light emitting diode and method of making same A high power, high luminous flux light emitting diode (LED) comprises a substrate, a light-emitting structure, a first electrode and a second electrode. The LED has a top surface layout design in which the first electrode has a number of legs extending in one direction, and the second electrode has a number of legs extending in the opposite direction. At least portions of the legs of the first electrode are interspersed with and spaced apart from portions of the legs of the second electrode. This provides a configuration that enhances current spreading along the length of the legs of both electrodes.
US07642181B2	LOCOS self-aligned twin well with a co-planar silicon surface A method and system for providing a twin well in a semiconductor device is described. The method and system include masking a first portion of the device such that a second portion of the device is exposed. A sacrificial layer has a first portion on the first portion of the device and a second portion on the second portion of the device. In one aspect, an oxidation stop layer may be below the sacrificial layer. The method and system include implanting a first well in the second portion of the device, exposing the first portion of the device after the first well is implanted, and oxidizing the second portion of sacrificial layer after the exposing. The method and system further include implanting the second well in the first portion of the device after the oxidizing and planarizing the device after the second well is implanted.
US07642178B2	Semiconductor device, method for manufacturing the same and method for evaluating the same A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes steps of: forming a first epitaxial film on a silicon substrate; forming a trench in the first epitaxial film; and forming a second epitaxial film on the first epitaxial film and in the trench. The step of forming the second epitaxial film includes a final step, in which a mixed gas of a silicon source gas and a halide gas is used. The silicon substrate has an arsenic concentration defined as α. The second epitaxial film has an impurity concentration defined as β. The arsenic concentration and the impurity concentration has a relationship of: α≦3×1019×ln(β)−1×1021.
US07642176B2	Electrical fuse structure and method An electrical fuse and a process of programming the same are presented. An electrical fuse comprises a lower level silicide layer on a non-doped or lightly-doped polysilicon layer, an upper level conductive layer, and a tungsten contact coupled between the lower level silicide layer and the upper level conductive layer. The tungsten contact and a neck portion of the silicide layer are the programmable portion of the electrical fuse. High post-programming resistance is achieved by a first programming phase that depletes silicide in the silicide layer, followed by a second programming phase that depletes tungsten in the tungsten contact.
US07642174B2	Laser beam machining method for wafer A laser beam machining method for a wafer, wherein an operation of irradiating the inside of a wafer with a laser beam L along each of planned dividing lines is repeated a plural number of times from a position proximate to a back-side surface of the wafer toward a face-side surface of the wafer so that a plurality of composite layers each including a denatured layer and a cracked layer extending from the denatured layer toward the face-side surface are formed stepwise at intervals (first laser beam irradiation step). Subsequently, each of some of non-cracked layers between the composite layers is irradiated with the laser beam L so as to extend the cracked layer of a given one of the composite layers and to cause the cracked layer to reach the denatured layer of the composite layer which is adjacent to the given one composite layer. The denatured layers and the cracked layers which are sufficient for enabling the wafer to be split are formed by a reduced number of laser beam irradiation operations.
US07642171B2	Multi-step anneal of thin films for film densification and improved gap-fill A method of annealing a substrate comprising a trench containing a dielectric material, the method including annealing the substrate at a first temperature of about 200° C. to about 800° C. in a first atmosphere comprising an oxygen containing gas, and annealing the substrate at a second temperature of about 800° C. to about 1400° C. in a second atmosphere lacking oxygen. In addition, a method of annealing a substrate comprising a trench containing a dielectric material, the method including annealing the substrate at a first temperature of about 400° C. to about 800° C. in the presence of an oxygen containing gas, purging the oxygen containing gas away from the substrate, and raising the substrate to a second temperature from about 900° C. to about 1100° C. to further anneal the substrate in an atmosphere that lacks oxygen.
US07642170B2	Phase change memory cell with roundless micro-trenches A method for constructing a phase change memory device includes forming a first dielectric layer on a substrate; forming a first conductive component in the first dielectric layer; forming a second dielectric layer over the first conductive component in the first dielectric layer; forming a conductive crown in the second dielectric layer, the conductive crown being in contact and alignment with the conductive component; depositing a third dielectric layer in the conductive crown; and forming a trench filled with chalcogenic materials having an amorphous phase and a crystalline phase programmable by controlling a temperature thereof to represent logic states, wherein the trench extends across the conductive crown, such that the trench is free from a rounded end portion caused by lithography during fabrication of the phase change memory device.
US07642169B2	Method of making a bipolar junction transistor Embodiments relate to a bipolar junction transistor and a method for manufacturing the same. An oxide pattern may be formed on a P type semiconductor substrate. A low-density N type collector area may be formed in the semiconductor substrate. First spacers may be formed at sidewalls of the oxide pattern, and a low-density P type base area may be formed in the semiconductor substrate. Second spacers may be formed on sidewalls of the first spacers. A high-density N type emitter area may be formed in the low-density P type base area between the second spacers, and a high-density N type collector area may be formed in the semiconductor substrate at an outside of the first spacers. The bipolar junction transistor may be realized through a self-aligned scheme using dual nitride spacers. A base width between the emitter area and the low-density collector area may be narrowed by the width of the second spacer.
US07642164B1	Method of forming self aligned contacts for a power MOSFET A method for providing self aligned contacts for a trench power MOSFET is disclosed. The method includes, etching trenches in a substrate through a mask of silicon nitride deposited on an oxide layer, forming a gate oxide layer on the walls of the trenches, applying polysilicon to fill the trenches and to cover the surface of the mask of silicon nitride, removing the polysilicon from the surface of the mask of silicon nitride and applying a photoresist mask to cover a location of a gate bus. The method further includes recessing polysilicon plugs formed in trenches that are located in the active area to form recesses above the polysilicon plugs, filling recesses formed above the polysilicon plugs formed in trenches that are located in the active area with an insulator, applying a fourth photo resist mask to define contact windows that are opened in the nitride layer, and selectively etching the silicon nitride film and leaving flat surfaced oxide buttons covering the trenches that are located in the active area. Moreover, electric contact trenches are defined using self-aligned spacer operations, and a fifth photo resist mask is applied to pattern metal contacts that reach the semiconductor device active areas.
US07642163B2	Process of forming an electronic device including discontinuous storage elements within a dielectric layer An electronic device can include a nonvolatile memory cell having DSEs within a dielectric layer. In one aspect, a process of forming the electronic device can include implanting and nucleating a first charge-storage material to form DSEs. The process can also include implanting a second charge-storage material and growing the DSEs such that the DSEs include the first and second charge-storage material. In another aspect, a process of forming the electronic device can include forming a semiconductor layer over a dielectric layer, implanting a charge-storage material, and annealing the dielectric layer. After annealing, substantially none of the charge-storage material remains within a denuded zone within the dielectric layer. In a third aspect, within a dielectric layer, a first set of DSEs can be spaced apart from a second set of DSEs, wherein substantially no DSEs lie between the first set of DSEs and the second set of DSEs.
US07642156B2	Three-dimensional flash memory cell Embodiments relate to a three-dimensional flash memory cell and method of forming the same that may be improve the uniformity of flash memory cell by removing a width difference of a polysilicon pattern when forming a floating gate of flash memory device, to thereby improve the reliability of semiconductor device. The process may be simplified due to the self-alignment in the step of forming the polysilicon pattern, which may improve the yield.
US07642155B2	Semiconductor device with metal nitride barrier layer between gate dielectric and silicided, metallic gate electrodes A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes: sequentially depositing a gate insulating film 104 composed of a high dielectric constant film containing one or more metallic element(s) selected from a group consisting of Hf, Zr, Al, La and Ta, a barrier film 106 composed of one or more metal nitride selected from a group consisting of TiN, TaN and WN, a metallic film 108 and a polycrystalline silicon film 110 on the semiconductor substrate (p-type semiconductor substrate 102a) to form a multiple-layered film; and silicidizing a lower portion of the polycrystalline silicon film 110 to form a lower layer (forming a first silicide layer 110a) by conducting a heat treatment of the multiple-layered film to diffuse the metal of the metallic film 108 into the polycrystalline silicon film 110.
US07642149B2	Method for producing semiconductor device A method for producing a semiconductor device which includes: a semiconductor base, a hetero semiconductor region made of a semiconductor material different in band gap from a semiconductor material for the semiconductor base, and so configured as to form a hetero junction in combination with the semiconductor base, a gate insulating film so configured as to contact with the hetero junction between the semiconductor base and the hetero semiconductor region, a gate electrode so configured as to contact with the gate insulating film, a source electrode connected to the hetero semiconductor region, and a drain electrode connected to the semiconductor base. The method includes: forming the following in a self-aligning manner, by using a certain mask material: a source contact hole for the source electrode, and the gate electrode.
US07642148B2	Methods of producing semiconductor devices including multiple stress films in interface area A semiconductor substrate includes a first transistor area having a first gate electrode and first source/drain areas, a second transistor area having a second gate electrode and second source/drain areas, and an interface area provided at an interface of the first transistor area and the second transistor area and having a third gate electrode. A first stress film is on the first gate electrode and the first source/drain areas of the first transistor area and at least a portion of the third gate electrode of the interface area. A second stress film is on the second gate electrode and the second source/drain areas of the second transistor area and not overlapping the first stress film on the third gate electrode of the interface area or overlapping at least a portion of the first stress film. The second stress film overlapping at least the portion of the first stress film is thinner than the second stress film in the second transistor area. Related methods are also described.
US07642146B2	Semiconductor CMOS devices and methods with NMOS high-k dielectric present in core region that mitigate damage to dielectric materials The present invention facilitates semiconductor fabrication by providing methods of fabrication that selectively form high-k dielectric layers within NMOS regions. An I/O dielectric layer is formed in core and I/O regions of a semiconductor device (506). The I/O dielectric layer is removed (508) from the core region of the device. A core dielectric layer is formed in the core region (510). A barrier layer is deposited and patterned to expose the NMOS devices of the core region (512). The core dielectric layer is removed from the core NMOS devices (514). A high-k dielectric layer is formed (514) over the core and I/O regions. Then, the high-k dielectric layer is removed (512) from PMOS regions/devices of the core region and the NMOS and PMOS regions/devices of the I/O region.
US07642138B2	Split-channel antifuse array architecture An anti-fuse memory cell having a variable thickness gate oxide. The variable thickness gate oxide has a thick gate oxide portion and a thin gate oxide portion, where the thing gate oxide portion has at least one dimension less than a minimum feature size of a process technology. The thin gate oxide can be rectangular in shape or triangular in shape. The anti-fuse transistor can be used in a two-transistor memory cell having an access transistor with a gate oxide substantially identical in thickness to the thick gate oxide of the variable thickness gate oxide of the anti-fuse transistor.
US07642136B2	Method and apparatus for reducing stresses applied to bonded interconnects between substrates A method (200) is provided for reducing stresses applied to one or more bonded interconnects (106) of a substrate (103) and a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) (104). The method comprises the steps of coupling (204) a compound (108) on a top surface of the substrate, wherein the compound has the property of expanding when a heat profile is applied thereto, coupling (206) a cover (102) to the PCB that overhangs at least a portion of the compound, and applying (208) the heat profile to the compound and optionally the cover and/or PCB. More than one apparatus implementing the method is also included.
US07642135B2	Thermal mechanical flip chip die bonding A thermal mechanical process for bonding a flip chip die to a substrate. The flip chip die includes a plurality of copper pillar bumps, each copper pillar bump of the plurality of copper pillar bumps having a copper portion attached to the die and a bonding cap attached to the copper portion. The process includes positioning the die on the substrate such that the bonding cap of each copper pillar bump of the plurality of copper pillar bumps contacts a corresponding respective one of a plurality of bonding pads on the substrate, and thermosonically bonding the die to the substrate.
US07642131B2	Decoupling capacitor closely coupled with integrated circuit An integrated circuit module, decoupling capacitor assembly and method are disclosed. The integrated circuit module includes a substrate and integrated circuit die mounted on the substrate and having die pads and an exposed surface opposite from the substrate. A plurality of substrate bonding pads are positioned on the substrate adjacent the integrated circuit die. A decoupling capacitor assembly is mounted on each integrated circuit die and includes a capacitor carrier secured onto the exposed surface of the integrated circuit die and a decoupling capacitor carried by the capacitor carrier. A wire bond extends from the decoupling capacitor assembly to a die pad and from a die pad to a substrate bonding pad.
US07642130B2	Manufacturing method of wiring substrate A bonding pad and flip chip pads in which the surfaces are formed by different metals are juxtaposed on a substrate. The substrate is immersion-treated with a first adhesive treatment liquid which contains an adhesive giving compound for reacting with only a metal surface and giving adhesion properties and is adjusted to a pH value for forming adhesive layers on both of the metal surfaces of the flip chip pads and the bonding pad. Solder powder is attached to the adhesive layers formed on each of the metal surfaces of the pads. Then, the substrate is again immersion-treated with a second adhesive treatment liquid which contains an adhesive giving compound for reacting with only a metal surface and giving adhesion properties and is adjusted to a pH value for forming the adhesive layers on the metal surfaces of the flip chip pads while peeling the adhesive layer of the metal surface of the bonding pad. Subsequently, the solder powder attached to only the flip chip pads is melted by performing reflow after the solder powder is attached to the adhesive layers formed on only the flip chip pads.
US07642129B2	Ball-mounting method for coplanarity improvement in large package A method of forming a packaging structure and the packages formed thereof are provided. The method includes providing a package having a top surface and placing solder balls on the top surface of the package. A coplanar surface is then placed against the solder balls, wherein the surface is non-adhesive. A reflow process is performed to the solder balls, so that top surfaces of the solder balls are substantially coplanar. The coplanar surface is then removed.
US07642125B2	Phase change memory cell in via array with self-aligned, self-converged bottom electrode and method for manufacturing An array of “mushroom” style phase change memory cells is manufactured by forming a separation layer over an array of contacts, forming an isolation layer on the separation layer and forming an array of memory element openings in the isolation layer using a lithographic process. Etch masks are formed within the memory element openings by a process that compensates for variation in the size of the memory element openings that results from the lithographic process. The etch masks are used to etch through the separation layer to define an array of electrode openings. Electrode material is deposited within the electrode openings; and memory elements are formed within the memory element openings. The memory elements and bottom electrodes are self-aligned.
US07642124B2	Structure and fabrication of self-aligned high-performance organic FETs A low channel length organic field-effect transistor can be produced in high volume and at low cost. The transistor structure includes successively deposited patterned layers of a first conductor layer acting as a source terminal, a first dielectric layer, a second conductor layer acting as a drain terminal, a semiconductor layer, a second dielectric layer, and a third conductor layer acting as the gate terminal. In this structure, the transistor is formed on the edge of the first dielectric between the first conductor layer and the second conductor layer. The second conductor layer is deposited on the raised surfaces formed by the dielectric such that conductive ink does not flow into the trough between the dielectric raised surfaces. This is accomplished by coating a flat or rotary print plate with the conductive ink, and applying the appropriate pressure to deposit the materials only on the raised surfaces of the dielectric. The second metal is automatically aligned to the layer beneath it. Due to this self-alignment and the short channel formed by the thickness of the dielectric material, a high-performance FET is produced without the requirement of high-resolution lithography equipment.
US07642121B2	LED bonding structures and methods of fabricating LED bonding structures A method is disclosed for fabricating an LED The method includes providing an LED chip having an epitaxial region comprising at least a p-type layer and an n-type layer, an ohmic contact formed on at least one of the p-type layer or the n-type layer, and a bond pad formed on the ohmic contact. The bond pad has a total volume less than about 3×10−5 mm3. The LED chip is bonded to a submount via thermocompression or thermosonic bonding.
US07642119B2	Method for manufacturing image sensor A method for manufacturing an image sensor is provided. The method can include forming an oxide layer on a color filter layer, forming a first oxide layer microlens by etching the oxide layer, forming a second oxide layer microlens on the first oxide layer microlens, and forming a third oxide layer microlens on the second oxide layer microlens.
US07642118B2	Image sensor fabricating method A method of fabricating an image sensor includes forming a first SiO2 layer on a color filter layer, patterning a photosensitive layer on first SiO2 layer, patterning the first SiO2 layer through a first etching process, forming a second SiO2 layer on the first SiO2 layer, and forming a micro-lens by etching the second SiO2 layer.
US07642117B2	CMOS image sensor Embodiments relate to a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor. According to embodiments, the CMOS image sensor may include a semiconductor substrate, an interlayer insulating layer, a color filter layer, an overcoat layer, and a plurality of microlenses. The semiconductor substrate may include a plurality of photodiodes and transistors with a constant interval. The color filter layer may be formed on the interlayer insulating layer, and respective color filters of the color filter layer correspond to respective photodiodes. The overcoat layer may have rounded trenches at a portion corresponding to each photodiode and may be formed on a surface of the semiconductor substrate. Each of the plurality of microlenses may have a convex lens shape and is formed inside the trench.
US07642114B2	Micro electro mechanical device and manufacturing method thereof To manufacture a micro structure and an electric circuit included in a micro electro mechanical device over the same insulating surface in the same step. In the micro electro mechanical device, an electric circuit including a transistor and a micro structure are integrated over a substrate having an insulating surface. The micro structure includes a structural layer having the same stacked-layer structure as a layered product of a gate insulating layer of the transistor and a semiconductor layer provided over the gate insulating layer. That is, the structural layer includes a layer formed of the same insulating film as the gate insulating layer and a layer formed of the same semiconductor film as the semiconductor layer of the transistor. Further, the micro structure is manufactured by using each of conductive layers used for a gate electrode, a source electrode, and a drain electrode of the transistor as a sacrificial layer.
US07642113B2	Semiconductor wafer dividing method An element is formed on the major surface of a semiconductor wafer, and a groove is formed in the back surface of the semiconductor wafer along a dicing line or chip dividing line by a mechanical or chemical method. A modified layer is formed by irradiating the groove with a laser, and the semiconductor wafer is divided by using the modified layer as a starting point. The back surface of the semiconductor wafer is removed to at least the depth of the groove.
US07642112B2	Method of manufacturing bonded substrate stack A method of manufacturing a bonded substrate stack includes a bonding surface processing step of processing at least one of first and second substrates each containing silicon and having a bonding surface, and a bonding step of bonding the bonding surface of the first substrate and the bonding surface of the second substrate. The bonding surface processing step includes an OH group increasing step of increasing OH groups on the bonding surfaces, and a moisture content decreasing step of heating the bonding surfaces where the OH groups have been increased at a temperature falling within a range of 50° C. to 200° C. to decrease moisture contents of the bonding surfaces.
US07642109B2	Electrical connection in OLED devices A method of making an OLED device, including providing a substrate having a first electrode and a conductive bus line provided over the substrate and organic EL media provided over the first electrode and over the conductive bus line; forming a radiation absorbing structure associated with the conductive bus line; exposing the radiation absorbing structure to radiation to produce heat sufficient to ablate a portion of the organic EL media thereby forming an opening in the organic EL media; and forming a second electrode over the organic EL media, and through the opening in the organic EL media thereby forming an electrical connection between the second electrode to the conductive bus line.
US07642107B2	Split transfer gate for dark current suppression an imager pixel A pixel with a photosensor and a transfer transistor having a split transfer gate. A first section of the transfer gate is connectable to a first voltage source while a second section of the transfer gate is connectable to a second voltage source. Thus, during a charge integration period of a photosensor, the two sections of the transfer gate may be oppositely biased to decrease dark current while controlling blooming of electrons within and out of the pixel cell. During charge transfer the two gate sections may be commonly connected to a positive voltage sufficient to transfer charge from the photosensor to a floating diffusion region.
US07642101B2	Semiconductor device having in-chip critical dimension and focus patterns A semiconductor device is fabricated to include one or more sets of calibration patterns used to measure line pitch and line focus.
US07642099B2	Manufacturing method for ferroelectric memory device A manufacturing method for a ferroelectric memory device includes: forming a ferroelectric capacitor on a substrate, the ferroelectric capacitor including a lower electrode, a ferroelectric film, and an upper electrode; forming a first hydrogen barrier film that covers the ferroelectric capacitor by a chemical vapor deposition method; forming a dielectric film on the first hydrogen barrier film; forming a sidewall composed of the dielectric film on a side of the ferroelectric capacitor by etching back the dielectric film; forming a second hydrogen barrier film on the first hydrogen barrier film and the sidewall by a chemical vapor deposition method; and forming an interlayer dielectric film on the second hydrogen barrier film.
US07642096B2	Liquid expansion thermometer and microcalorimeter A calorimeter is provided for measuring a quantity of heat. The calorimeter has a liquid constrained so as to allow expansion of the liquid solely in one dimension along a single axis such that liquid expansion may be measured on the basis of light impinging along the single axis of liquid expansion by means of a non-contact displacement transducer. Interferometric optical means for remote measurement of multiple microcalorimeters permits parallel monitoring of multiple chemical reactions and the performance of parallel biochemical assays.
US07642091B2	Human trophoblast stem cells and use thereof Existence of human trophoblast stem (hTS) cells has been suspected but unproved. The isolation of hTS cells is reported in the early stage of chorionic villi by expressions of FGF4, fgfr-2, Oct4, Thy-1, and stage-specific embryonic antigens distributed in different compartments of the cell. hTS cells are able to derive into specific cell phenotypes of the three primitive embryonic layers, produce chimeric reactions in mice, and retain a normal karyotype and telomere length. In hTS cells, Oct4 and fgfr-2 expressions can be knockdown by bFGF. These facts suggest that differentiation of the hTS cells play an important role in implantation and placentation. hTS cells could be apply to human cell differentiation and for gene and cell-based therapies.
US07642088B2	Device for susceptibility testing of bacterial pathogens and vaccine strains in poultry Device for susceptibility testing of bacterial pathogens and vaccine strains in poultry with a microtiter plate comprising a plurality of wells and at least one well with a coating containing an antibiotic of a marker of a vaccine strain for the vaccination of poultry.
US07642086B2	Labeled probe bound object, method for producing the same and method for using the same A method for labeling an object, which is effective when multiple types of labels are given as necessary even to a very small object such as a fine particulate substrate for use in fixation of biological substances such as probe molecules or nucleic acid primers that are used for a bioassay is provided. Further, an object given the labels is provided. Multiple types of labels can be given as necessary even to very small objects by using materials for labeling prepared in accordance with the composition condition of contained atoms corresponding to at least binary system n-digit numerical value information using a plurality of types (n types) of atoms selected beforehand as part of materials constituting the object, and presence/absence of the selected individual atoms contained or the level of the contents thereof. Further, the bioassay can be performed by the object labeled by the labeling method.
US07642085B2	Protein arrays The invention provides proteins attached to solid supports, and methods of preparing such solid support-bound proteins are provided. The proteins are attached to solid supports by means of an unnatural amino acid incorporated into the protein, which unnatural amino acid includes a reactive group that can react with a second reactive group that is attached to a solid support.
US07642082B1	Methods for determining the presence of staphylococcal enterotoxin A gene in a sample The present invention relates to methods and assays for determining the presence of staphylococcal enterotoxin A in a sample through detection of a nucleic acid encoding staphylococcal enterotoxin A.
US07642079B2	Proteases, nucleic acids encoding them and methods for making and using them The invention is directed to polypeptides having protease activity, polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides, and methods for making and using these polynucleotides and polypeptides. The polypeptides of the invention can be used in a variety of diagnostic, therapeutic, and industrial contexts. The polypeptides of the invention can be used as, e.g., an additive for a detergent, for processing foods and for chemical synthesis utilizing a reverse reaction. Additionally, the polypeptides of the invention can be used in food processing, brewing, bath additives, alcohol production, peptide synthesis, enantioselectivity, hide preparation in the leather industry, waste management and animal degradation, silver recovery in the photographic industry, medical treatment, silk degumming, biofilm degradation, biomass conversion to ethanol diodefense, antimicrobial agents and disinfectants, personal care and cosmetics, biotech reagents, in increasing starch yield from corn wet milling and pharmaceuticals such as digestive aids and anti-inflammatory (anti-phlogistic) agents.
US07642077B2	Biocomposite comprising co-precipitate of enzyme, silicate and polyamine This invention relates to a method of immobilizing biocatalysts including protein and cells by co-precipitation with silicate or organosilicate matrices through the action of an organic template molecule. The organic template molecule is in general a polyamine such as polyethylenimine (PEI), or polypeptide compound bearing at least two or three basic residues selected from the group consisting of lysine, arginine, histidine, proline, hydroxyproline, N-methylhistidine, ornithine, taurine, δ-hydroxylysine, and δ-hydroxy-ω-N,N,N trimethyllysine. The invention is also directed to a silica biocomposite comprising co-precipitates of active biocatalysts, silica or organosilicates, and an N-containing organic template molecule. Such silica biocomposites are useful in biocatalysis, and other applications requiring an immobilized biocatalyst. Preferred biocatalysts for this invention are enzymes and whole cells.
US07642072B2	Optimized interferon-beta gene A new nucleic acid molecule that is codon-optimized to expressbeta interferon in Escherichia coli with greater efficacy.
US07642070B2	Tumor suppressor gene A full-length cDNA encoding novel proteins involved in the control of cell proliferation (human Gros1-L and S) was successfully isolated from the human testis cDNA libraries. A full-length cDNA encoding the mouse homologues of the human Gros1 (mouse Gros1-L and S) was also isolated. The colony forming activity of cells exogenously expressing Gros1-L was significantly reduced, while that of cells expressing Gros1 antisense RNA was significantly increased.
US07642060B2	Rapid resuscitation, growth, capture and detection of microorganisms A method and system for the detection and identification of a target pathogen in a sample is disclosed. The method and system involve the use of a capture matrix throughout resuscitation, growth, and detection. The method includes the steps of: placing the sample in a sampling container containing a medium (preferably a growth/resuscitation medium); optionally homogenizing the sample; placing a capture matrix in the sampling container with the sample; incubating the sample in the medium for a pre-determined amount of time at an appropriate temperature; optionally removing the capture matrix from the sampling container; and detecting the presence of the target pathogen in the sample.
US07642055B2	Two-color real-time/end-point quantitation of microRNAs (miRNAs) The present invention is directed to methods, reagents, kits, and compositions for detecting target polynucleotide sequences, especially small target polynucleotides such as miRNAs, between two samples. A pair of linker probes can be employed in two different reactions to query a particular species of target polynucleotide. A pair of detector probes, a single forward primer specific for the target polynucleotide, and a reverse primer can be employed in an amplification reaction to query the difference in expression level of the target polynucleotide between the two samples. In some embodiments a plurality of small miRNAs are queried with a plurality of linker probes. The plurality of queried miRNAs can then be decoded in a plurality of amplification reactions.
US07642049B2	Method for identifying HIV-1 protease inhibitors with reduced metabolic affects through detection of human resistin polymorphisms The invention provides a novel in vitro method for identifying HIV-1 protease inhibitors with reduced potential for inducing metabolic abnormalities. The invention further provides diagnostic methods for identifying patients who may be at risk of developing metabolic abnormalities subsequent to the administration of an HIV-1 protease inhibitor. The invention also provides novel polynucleotides associated with the incidence of HIV-1 protease inhibitor induced metabolic abnormalities. The invention also provides polynucleotide fragments corresponding to the genomic and/or coding regions of these polynucleotides which comprise at least one polymorphic locus per fragment. Allele-specific primers and probes which hybridize to these regions, and/or which comprise at least one polymorphic locus are also provided. The polynucleotides, primers, and probes of the present invention are useful in phenotype correlations, medicine, and genetic analysis. The invention further relates to diagnostic methods for using these novel polynucleotides in the diagnosis, treatment, and/or prevention of HIV-1 protease inhibitor induced metabolic abnormalities.
US07642046B2	Method for monitoring recruitment of proteins to the intracellular domain of a receptor in intact cells The present invention relates to an immunological method and kit for monitoring recruitment of a protein to the intracellular domain of a receptor in intact cells.
US07642038B2	Method for forming pattern, thin film transistor, display device, method for manufacturing thereof, and television apparatus To provide a display device which can be manufactured with higher efficiency in the use of material through a simplified manufacturing process, and a method for manufacturing the display device. Another object is to provide a technique by which patterns of a wiring the like which constitutes the display device can be formed to a desired shape with good control. In a method for forming a pattern according to the present invention, a mask is formed over a light-transmitting substrate; a first region including a photocatalyst is formed over the substrate and the mask; the photocatalyst is irradiated with light through the substrate to modify a part of the first region; a second region is formed; and a composition containing a pattern forming material is discharged to the second region, thus, a pattern is formed. The mask does not transmit light.
US07642037B2	Integrated circuit lithography A method of generating an imaging pattern using a mask having a mathematical (e.g., Fourier-space) representation of an imaging pattern in an imaging plane. In addition to the foregoing, other method aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present application. Other methods and apparatuses are also disclosed.
US07642034B2	Polymer, resist protective coating material, and patterning process A polymer comprising repeat units having formula (1) wherein R1 and R2 are hydrogen or C1-C12 alkyl, or R1 and R2 may bond together to form a ring, and R30 is hydrogen or methyl is used to formulate a resist protective coating material. A protective coating formed therefrom on a resist film is water-insoluble, dissolvable in alkali aqueous solution or alkaline developer, and immiscible with the resist film so that the immersion lithography can be conducted in a satisfactory manner. During alkali development, development of the resist film and removal of the protective coating can be simultaneously achieved.
US07642028B2	Imaging members Novel surface layers for photoreceptors are provided. The surface layers are a polymeric composition including a resin and a cyclic polymer.
US07642026B2	Electrophotographic photoreceptor, method of producing the same, process cartridge, and image-forming apparatus The invention provides an electrophotographic photoreceptor that includes a cylindrical support, and a charge-generating layer and a charge-transporting layer on the cylindrical support, wherein a content per unit volume of a charge-generating material in the charge-generating layer increases from a center portion in an axial direction of the cylindrical support towards both end portions thereof, and a thickness of the charge-generating layer in an axial direction of the cylindrical support is 95% or more and 105% or less relative to an average thickness of the charge-generating layer.
US07642025B2	Electrophotographic photoreceptor, method of producing the same, process cartridge, and image-forming apparatus The invention provides an electrophotographic photoreceptor having a cylindrical support, and a charge-generating layer and a charge-transporting layer on or above the cylindrical support, wherein the thickness of the charge-generating layer is increased from the central portion in the axial direction of the cylindrical support towards both end portions thereof, and the difference in thickness between the two end portions is 2.5% or less of an average thickness of the charge-generating layer. Also disclosed are a method of producing the electrophotographic photoreceptor, a process cartridge including the electrophotographic photoreceptor, and an image-forming apparatus.
US07642024B2	Image-forming apparatus and image-forming process An image-forming apparatus comprises: an image carrier; a charging unit; a latent image forming unit; a developing unit that uses a toner maintaining a non-color-developing state when provided with coloring information through exposure to light; a coloring information providing unit that provides the toner image with coloring information by exposing the toner image to light having a predetermined wavelength determined depending on the color not to be developed based on color component information of image data; a transfer unit; a fixing unit; a color-developing unit that develops a color of the toner image provided with the coloring information; and a control unit that controls the coloring information providing unit to expose a background region on the image carrier to light having a predetermined wavelength for preventing color development of the toner.
US07642023B2	Color image forming method An object of the present invention is to provide a color image forming method capable of forming full color images desired for a precise reproduction to the color tone of high resolution and a halftone in high-end apparatuses. Disclosed is a color image forming method employing 6 kinds of chromatic color toners and a black toner, each toner containing particles having a median particle diameter (D50) of 3-7 μm in terms of volume, a decline starting temperature of a storage elastic modulus of 10-40° C., a temperature of 70-130° C. in the storage elastic modulus range of 103-104 Pa, and a primary diameter of 40-800 nm.
US07642017B2	Reflective photomask, method of fabricating the same, and reflective blank photomask The reflective photomask may include a substrate, a reflective layer formed on the substrate, an absorption pattern formed on the reflective layer and over a first portion of the substrate. A compensatory portion may be formed over at least a second portion of the substrate. The second portion is adjacent to the first portion, and the compensatory portion is thinner than the absorption pattern.
US07642016B2	Phase calibration for attenuating phase-shift masks A phase metrology pattern for attenuating phase masks. The phase error of this pattern can be determined to high accuracy by aerial image measurements. This pattern can be used to create an optical phase standard for calibrating phase metrology equipment for attenuated phase masks, or as a witness pattern on a product mask to verify the phase accuracy of that mask. The pattern includes an effective line to space ratio and can be tested using a microscope or stepper system or can be measured directly using a detector for the 0 order diffraction measurement.
US07642014B2	Positive electrode active material containing a lithium-containing composite metal oxide and nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery A positive electrode active material and a nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery containing a lithium-containing composite metal oxide having a composition represented by: Li1+yM1−y−zM1zPO4 where M is at least one of Co and Ni, and M1 is at least one of Mg, Zr and Al, the molar ration y is larger than 0 and smaller than 0.5, and the molar ration z is larger than 0 and not larger than 0.5 is provided.
US07642008B2	Rechargeable battery A rechargeable battery includes an electrode assembly including a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator interposed between the two electrodes, a container for receiving the electrode assembly inside, and a cap assembly fixed to the container. The cap assembly includes a cap plate fixed to the container, an external terminal disposed in the cap plate to electrically be coupled with the electrode assembly, and a tubular body that surrounds the external terminal to fix the external terminal to the cap plate. The external terminal includes at least one groove formed toward inside of the external terminal for fastening the external terminal to the tubular body.
US07642007B2	Battery pack and its method of manufacture The battery pack has a battery, output terminals to bring out the battery electrodes, and a molding holder to connect to the battery as well as retain the output terminals. The battery pack is molded with at least the battery, the molding holder, and its connecting region inserted into a molded plastic resin region. The molded plastic resin region exposes output terminal surfaces, and also joins the battery, output terminals, and molding holder as a single unit.
US07642002B2	Device for cooling batteries of an electronically and/or hybrid powered vehicle A device for cooling batteries, particularly of an electric and/or hybrid vehicle comprises a pair of compartments (1, 12) in communication with one another, including a first compartment (1) housing the batteries distributed among adjacent columns and a second compartment (12) housing at least a blower (14). One of these compartments (1, 12) has an air intake aperture (5) while the other compartment (1, 2) has a discharge aperture (5) for discharging the admitted air to the outside. The first compartment (1) is equipped with means for modifying the dynamics of the air passing through it, starting from an axial circulation of air along the columns of batteries.
US07642000B2	Fuel cell electrode, membrane-electrode assembly, and fuel cell system An electrode for a fuel cell, and a membrane-electrode assembly and a fuel cell system that include the electrode are disclosed. An electrode for a fuel cell that includes an electrode substrate, a first channel formed in the electrode substrate, a first hydrophilic interface formed on an inner surface on one side of the first channel which guides liquids, and a first hydrophobic interface formed facing the first hydrophilic interface which guides gases, makes it possible for water obtained as a side product at the cathode to be separated from air without additional devices, so that it has a potential for utilization not only in portable electronic devices but also in low-capacity power source devices.
US07641998B2	Conductive mono atomic layer coatings for fuel cell bipolar plates An electrically conductive separator element and assembly for a fuel cell which comprises an electrically conductive substrate having a monoatomic layer coating overlying the substrate. The monatomic layer coating may comprise an electrically conductive material, for example, a noble metal, desirably Ru, Rh, Pd, Ag, Ir, Os and preferably Au. Methods of making such separator elements and assemblies are also provided.
US07641996B2	Fuel cell A fuel cell capable of improving heat exchange efficiency with respect to tubular fuel cells is provided. A fuel cell includes a hollow electrolyte membrane, hollow electrodes arranged on an inside and an outside of the electrolyte membrane, respectively, and an internal charge collector arranged inside of the electrolyte membrane and the electrodes, wherein the internal charge collector is hollow and made of a nonporous member.
US07641991B2	Magnetic recording medium A magnetic recording medium is provided that comprises a non-magnetic support and at least one magnetic layer above the support, the magnetic layer comprising a ferromagnetic powder dispersed in a binder, and the binder comprising a polyurethane resin having a weight-average molecular weight of 200,000 to 400,000. There is also provided a magnetic recording medium that comprises a non-magnetic support, a non-magnetic layer above the support, the non-magnetic layer comprising a non-magnetic powder dispersed in a binder, and at least one magnetic layer above the non-magnetic layer, the magnetic layer comprising a ferromagnetic powder dispersed in a binder and the binder of the magnetic layer and/or the non-magnetic layer comprising a polyurethane resin having a weight-average molecular weight of 200,000 to 400,000.
US07641987B2	Organic electroluminescent device An organic electroluminescent device comprising: a pair of electrodes; and at least one organic compound layer between the pair of electrodes, the at least one organic compound layer including a light emitting layer, wherein the light emitting layer contains at least one host material and at least one luminescent material, and the host material is a compound represented by the formula (I) as defined herein.
US07641986B2	Phosphorescent dendrimers for use in light-emitting devices A light emitting device having at least one layer that contains a phosphorescent organometallic dendrimer with a metal cation and two or more coordinating groups as part of its core and wherein at least two of said coordinating groups each have a dendron attached, at least one of which dendrons comprises at least one nitrogen atom which forms a part of an aromatic ring system or is directly bonded to at least two aromatic groups.
US07641979B2	Poly(vinyl butyral) pellets The present invention is in the field of thermoplastic polymeric compositions, and, specifically, the present invention is in the field of poly(vinyl butyral) formation, storage, and use in multiple layer glazing panel interlayers, among other uses.
US07641978B2	Coated article having low-E coating with ion beam treated IR reflecting layer and corresponding method A coated article is provided that may be used as a vehicle windshield, insulating glass (IG) window unit, or the like. An ion beam is used during at least part of forming an infrared (IR) reflecting layer(s) of such a coated article. Advantageously, this has been found to improve sheet resistance (Rs) properties, solar control properties, and/or durability of the coated article. Other layers may also be ion beam treated in certain example embodiments.
US07641977B2	Applications of nonconjugated conductive polymers Nonconjugated conductive polymers, which are all polymers that have a ratio of double bonds to total bonds of less than ½ are doped or used to produce compositions with unexpected characteristics in this invention. A light emitting structure can be produced by coating a quartz or glass substrate with a high work function metal which has a nonconjugated conductive polymer film on the metal and a low work function metal deposited on the nonconjugated polymer. The electrical conductivity of nonconjugated polymers can be greatly increased by doping the polymer with a dopant. The mechanical and elastomeric properties of a nonconjugated polymer can be changed by doping the polymer. The electro-optic effect and the refractive index of a nonconjugated conductive polymer can be greatly changed by doping the polymer. Among the nonconjugated polymers are styrene-butadiene-rubber (SBR), poly(β-pinene) and cis-1-4 polyisoprene. The enhancement of the nonlinear optical effect is due to the special charge-transfer complex structure and formation of nano-optical domains. Among the doping materials are electron acceptors such as iodine and antimony pentachloride. A heated mixture of iodine and sulfur produces a faster rate of vulcanization of rubber than using sulfur alone. A method of controlling insect breeding is provided which involves exposing the insects to tires that have been vulcanized using iodine.
US07641973B2	Conductive member for image-forming apparatus A conductive layer of a conductive member for an image-forming apparatus is composed of a conductive polymer composition containing an ionic-conductive addition salt. The conductive polymer composition has a continuous phase and one or more uncontinuous phases including at least one first uncontinuous phase. The continuous phase and the uncontinuous phase form a sea-island structure. A salt capable of dissociating into cations and anions is unevenly distributed to the first uncontinuous phase. A polymer composing the first uncontinuous phase has a higher degree of affinity for the salt capable of dissociating into cations and anions than a polymer composing the continuous phase to prevent the salt (or the cations, the anions) from shifting out of the first uncontinuous phase or out of the polymer composition. The conductive polymer composition can contain melamine cyanurate so that it is flame-retardant.
US07641972B2	Surface-modified nanoparticles comprising polysiloxane modifier, their preparation and use The invention relates to surface-modified nanoparticles composed of metal or semimetal oxides or hydroxides and having been reacted on their surface with a modifier, with formation of covalent bonds. The modifier is a polysiloxane. The invention also relates to a process for preparing the nanoparticles, to their use as fillers in coating materials, plastics, foams and nail varnishes, and to dispersions which comprise the nanoparticles.
US07641962B2	Fibre privacy or room-divider panel Rigid, non-woven fibre panels that are used as privacy screens, partitioning, room dividers or as workstation surrounds, for example, are described. The panels are strong and may be self supporting, have good acoustic properties, and preferably have a substantially smooth surface. They are made from a single, substantially homogeneous, layer of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibres, of which a substantial proportion may be of recycled PET. The panels are generally produced by mixing PET fibres into a web, which is then carded, cross-lapped, needle punched, calendered and thermally bonded, preferably using a heated roller.
US07641958B2	Membrane for use in sutured or sutureless surgical procedures An improved, polymeric surgical membrane, which can be used in a variety of surgical procedures, such as sutured and sutureless duraplasty procedures. For sutureless applications, a textured, discontinuous, outer polymer layer is provided which encourages rapid incorporation and anchoring into surrounding tissue. In cooperation with the discontinuous first layer, a second elastomeric layer provides elasticity and resilience. A third barrier layer is provided to essentially eliminate adhesions and irritation to surrounding tissue. In those applications requiring anchoring sutures, the second elastomeric layer “self-seals” against the sutures, essentially eliminating the leakage of blood, cerebrospinal fluid, or other fluids. In addition, the composite structure of the present invention has a high degree of suture retention strength is polymeric with a high degree of biocompatibility, is thin and very flexible.
US07641956B2	Honeycomb structure The honeycomb structure is an aggregate type honeycomb formed from a plurality of cells assembled together side by side laterally and cell walls isolating adjacent ones of the cells from each other by joining with a sealant layer (adhesive layer) or integral type honeycomb monolith, and a sealant layer (coating layer) provided on the outer surface of the aggregate type honeycomb or the integral type honeycomb monolith. The sealant layer (adhesive layer) or a sealant layer (coating layer) formed on the outer surface of aggregate type honeycomb or the integral type honeycomb monolith contains oxide particles, inorganic binder and a coloring agent.
US07641942B2	Process for coating fluoroelastomer fuser member using fluorine-containing additive A process for producing a fuser member coating including a) adding and reacting a fluoroelastomer, a crosslinking agent, a polar solvent, and a fluorine-containing polysiloxane additive to form a coating solution, and b) providing the coating solution on the fuser member to form a fuser member coating, wherein the fluorine-containing polysiloxane additive has pendant fluorinated groups.
US07641940B1	Method of applying photocatalysts to thermoplastic surfaces Thermoplastic surface modification is achieved with photocatalysts, such as titanium dioxide, tungsten oxide and mixtures thereof. A uniform coating of a powdered photocatalyst is applied to a thermoplastic surface that is wetted with an organic solvent. The coating is in a range between approximately 1.5 mg/cm2 to approximately 2.5 mg/cm2. After the uniform coating of photocatalyst is dried, the thermoplastic surface is heated to a temperature above its softening temperature, usually in a range between approximately 80° C. to approximately 130° C.; then, a mild pressure is applied to imbed the photocatalyst into the surface of the thermoplastic sheet. The method of modification is inexpensive, long-lasting and non-detrimental to the thermoplastic surface. A surface is provided with improved aesthetic appearance, extended lifetime and sustained protection from undesirable growth of nuisance organisms, such as algae, fungus, bacteria, mold, mildew and the like.
US07641938B2	Method for manufacturing carbon nanotube composite material A method for manufacturing the carbon nanotube composite material includes the steps of: providing a substrate, the substrate having a surface; forming a catalyst film in a special predetermined pattern on the surface of the substrate; forming a carbon nanotube array on the catalyst film to obtain the carbon nanotube array having a special predetermined pattern; providing a pair of protective layers, the protective layers being attached on a corresponding portion of ends of CNT array; filling clearances existing among CNTs of the CNT array and between the two protective layers with a matrix material; and removing the protective layers from CNT array.
US07641933B2	Integrated capacitor assembly A single layer capacitive device including a portion of pre-fired ceramic material and one or more terminations is formed with manufacturing steps that are easily modified to customize size and other aspects of such devices. The single layer devices may be utilized by themselves or selectively combined with MLCs to form integrated capacitor assemblies yielding many desirable performance characteristics in a monolithic assembly. An exemplary integrated capacitor assembly advantageously provides customized frequency response and capacitance in limited real estate. Predictable and generally constant or “flat” impedance versus frequency is afforded mainly by the properties of the single layer device, while higher capacitance is provided mainly from features of one or more associated MLCs. High structural integrity of exemplary integrated capacitor assemblies is achieved due to the disclosed attachment methods. Exemplary integrated capacitor assembly embodiments of the presently disclosed technology have been found to provide effective DC blocking from 20 kHz to 40 GHz.
US07641932B2	Use of a phosphate mixture for the production of concentrated solutions and brine for the food industry Production of a phosphate mixture for brines used in the food industry, which comprises a) 60 to 85 weight % of a clear soluble potassiumtripolyphosphate (KTPP) with a P2O5 content of 46.0 weight % to 47.0 weight % and a K2O/P2O5 mole ratio of 1.7 to 1.78, b) 15 to 39 weight % sodiumpolyphosphate, c) 1 to 5 weigth % MxH3-xPO4, with M=Na, K and x=1,2,3 and/or MxH4-xP2O7, in which M=Na and x=2,3,4 and when M=K then x=4; wherein the phosphate mixture has a pH value of 8 to 10 and exhibits a turbidity in water and brines of <5 TE/F.
US07641931B2	Industrial tomato process and product obtained thereof The invention relates to a tomato pulp composition wherein the particle size is not greater than 2.5 which does not contain seeds or peels from the tomato and has a lycopene concentration which is 5 to 15 folds higher than the lycopene concentration in the tomatoes from which said pulp is obtained. The invention further provides an industrial process for obtaining tomato pulp and tomato concentrate from tomato juice. The invention further provides a method for controlling the viscosity and lycopene concentration of tomato products, tomato concentrate or modified tomato juice, by separating a part of the pulp from the tomato juice from which said tomato products are obtained.
US07641922B2	Preparation and application of transhintotalphenolic acid A process for preparing tanshintotalphenolic acid and the use of the product are disclosed. The process comprises: tanshin is hot-extracted with water, the extract is separated and refined by polyamide column and macroporous adsorption resin column, and lyophilized to obtain tanshintotalphenolic acid. The yield of the final end product is more than 4 percent based on the amount of crude drug and the content of totalphenolic acid is more than 80 percent. The tanshintotalphenolic acid obtained can be used as the medicine for preventing and treating cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases and so on.
US07641920B2	Methods and compositions for maintaining or enhancing feeding characteristics in post-receiving stressed animals The present invention relates to methods and compositions for maintaining or enhancing feeding characteristics of post-receiving stressed animals using a saponin composition. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method for increasing feed intake of an animal after a post-receiving stressful event comprising administering an effective amount of a composition comprising saponins to the animal. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method for increasing weight gain of an animal after a post-receiving stressful event comprising administering an effective amount of a composition comprising saponins to the animal.
US07641919B2	Anti-bacterial plant compositions The invention provides a pharmaceutical composition which comprises a pharmaceutical carrier and at least one compound selected from the group consisting of cobaltocene-octamethyl, stigmastan- 3,5 -diene, galoxolide, benzyl salicylate, eucalyptol, and α-pinene. Also provided is a method of preparing a composition having antimicrobial activity comprising extracting a plant material in an organic solvent, contacting the extracted material to a chromatographic column, and eluting from the chromatographic column with a mobile polar phase to obtain a composition. The plant material is from Mammea Americana, Marchantaceae polymorpha, or Callistemon citrinus. Also provided is a method of inhibiting the growth of a mycobacterium, comprising administering a composition comprising a carrier and at least one compound selected from among cobaltocene-octamethyl, stigmastan, 3,5 -diene, friedelin, galoxolide, benzyl salicylate, eucalyptol, and α-pinene.
US07641915B2	Lipid nanoparticle based compositions and methods for the delivery of biologically active molecules The present invention relates to novel cationic lipids, transfection agents, microparticles, nanoparticles, and short interfering nucleic acid (siNA) molecules. The invention also features compositions, and methods of use for the study, diagnosis, and treatment of traits, diseases and conditions that respond to the modulation of gene expression and/or activity in a subject or organism. Specifically, the invention relates to novel cationic lipids, microparticles, nanoparticles and transfection agents that effectively transfect or deliver biologically active molecules, such as antibodies (e.g., monoclonal, chimeric, humanized etc.), cholesterol, hormones, antivirals, peptides, proteins, chemotherapeutics, small molecules, vitamins, co-factors, nucleosides, nucleotides, oligonucleotides, enzymatic nucleic acids, antisense nucleic acids, triplex forming oligonucleotides, 2,5-A chimeras, dsRNA, allozymes, aptamers, decoys and analogs thereof, and small nucleic acid molecules, such as short interfering nucleic acid (siNA), short interfering RNA (siRNA), double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), micro-RNA (miRNA), and short hairpin RNA (shRNA) molecules, to relevant cells and/or tissues, such as in a subject or organism. Such novel cationic lipids, microparticles, nanoparticles and transfection agents are useful, for example, in providing compositions to prevent, inhibit, or treat diseases, conditions, or traits in a cell, subject or organism. The compositions described herein are generally referred to as formulated molecular compositions (FMC) or lipid nanoparticles (LNP).
US07641914B2	Acid-sensitive compounds, their preparation and uses Novel acid-sensitive compounds comprising a cyclic ortho-ester that is acid-sensitive, and their salts, and comprising at least one hydrophilic substituent. These compounds are useful, for example, for forming conjugates (liposomes, complexes, nanoparticles and the like) with biologically active substances and releasing them into cellular tissues or compartments whose pH is acidic, or as nonionic surfactant for stabilizing particles encapsulating a biologically active substance and then destabilizing them in acid medium, or alternatively as a vector covalently linked to a therapeutic molecule so as to release said therapeutic molecule into the cellular tissues or compartments whose pH is acidic.
US07641913B2	Isolated species of Steinernematid nematode and methods of white grub control therewith An isolated Steinernematid nematode of the species Steinernema scarabaei (ATCC accession No. PTA-6988) is provided which is entomopathogenic to the larvae of scarab beetles, e.g., Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica), oriental beetles (Exomala (=Anomala) orientalis), European chafer (Rhizotrogus majalis), Asiatic garden beetle (Maladera castanea), masked chafers (Cyclocephala spp.), and May/June beetles (Phyllophagaspp). A biopesticide composition is provided which comprises an insecticidally effective amount of Steinernema scarabaei. Biopesticide compositions are described which, in addition to Steinernema scarabaei, further comprise at least one neonicotinoid insecticide, e.g., imidacloprid. Methods are provided for controlling the larvae of at least one species of scarab beetle comprising applying a biopesticide composition to the locus of the larvae wherein the composition comprises an insecticidally effective amount of an isolated entomopathogenic nematode of the species Steinernema scarabaei.
US07641910B2	BASB027 proteins and genes from Moraxella catarrhalis, antigens, antibodies, and uses The invention provides BASB027 polypeptides and polynucleotides encoding BASB027 polypeptides and methods for producing such polypeptides by recombinant techniques. Also provided are diagnostic, prophylactic and therapeutic uses.
US07641909B2	Avirulent, immunogenic flavivirus chimeras Chimeric flaviviruses that are avirulent and immunogenic are provided. The chimeric viruses are constructed to contain amino acid mutations in the nonstructural proteins of a flavivirus. Chimeric viruses containing the attenuation-mutated nonstructural genes of the virus are used as a backbone into which the structural protein genes of a second flavivirus strain are inserted. These chimeric viruses elicit pronounced immunogenicity yet lack the accompanying clinical symptoms of viral disease. The attenuated chimeric viruses are effective as immunogens or vaccines and may be combined in a pharmaceutical composition to confer simultaneous immunity against several strains of pathogenic flaviviruses.
US07641907B2	Dengue serotype 1 attenuated strain The invention relates to live attenuated VDV1 (VERO-Derived Dengue serotype 1 virus) strains which have been derived from the wild-type dengue-1 strain 16007 by passaging on PDK and sanitization on Vero cells. The invention further relates to a vaccine composition which comprises a VDV1 strain.
US07641903B2	Anti-CD70 antibody and its use for the treatment and prevention of cancer and immune disorders Disclosed are CD70 binding agents, such as anti-CD70 antibodies and derivatives, that induce a cytotoxic, cytostatic or immunomodulatory without conjugation to a therapeutic agents as well as pharmaceutical compositions and kits comprising the antibody or derivative. Also disclosed are methods for the treatment and prevention of CD70-expressing cancers and immunological disorders comprising administering the CD70 binding agents to a subject.
US07641899B2	Methods for inhibiting IL-TIF-induced proliferation of hematopoietic cells using the cytokine receptor Zcytor16 Cytokines and their receptors have proven usefulness in both basic research and as therapeutics. The present invention provides a new human cytokine receptor designated as “Zcytor16.”
US07641894B2	Stimulating neutrophil function to treat inflammatory bowel disease Immune stimulatory amounts of hematopoietic colony stimulating factors are administered to patients with inflammatory bowel disease. The factors include G-CSF and GM-CSF. These factors induce and maintain remission of the disease and its manifestations, whether within the intestine or without.
US07641893B2	Conformable solvent-based bandage and coating material Liquid hemostatic coating materials comprise a cyanoacrylate monomer and a solvent system comprising a volatile, non-reactive liquid that is non-stinging and non-irritating to a user. The material forms a coating or bandage in the form of a film that when applied and adhered to a surface or to the skin of a user inhibits the application surface from adhering to another surface.
US07641892B2	Tooth whitening compositions and delivery systems therefor Stain-removing oral compositions, such as gum compositions are herein provided. The compositions include an orally acceptable carrier and a stain-removing anionic surfactant. The surfactant includes a fatty acid salt having at least one hydroxyl functionality. The fatty acid salt may be a salt of ricinoleic acid, and may be combined with a chelating agent and/or an abrasive. The chelating agent may be a polyphosphate and the abrasive may be a silica abrasive.
US07641888B2	Membrane apparatus and method of preparing a membrane and a method of producing hydrogen The present invention discloses a method, apparatus and method of manufacturing an apparatus; all to produce hydrogen gas, particularly synthesis gas. Preferred embodiments of the invention include an alpha alumina membrane which has been treated with a TiO2 wash coat on one side and has an active gamma alumina layer on an opposite side. A metal catalyst, preferably rhodium, is deposited within the pores of the alumina. Oxygen travels through the membrane and is activated before contacting methane on the other side of the membrane and forming synthesis gas through partial oxidation of the methane. Embodiments of the invention have a number of benefits including the high conversion rate of oxygen (100%), the separate feed streams of methane and oxygen which allow for optimal ratios to be used without danger of explosion, and the opportunity to vary the feed rates without changing the products formed. Normally gaseous hydrocarbons recovered from remote oil wells (e.g. offshore oil wells) can thus be converted to synthesis gas and then to normally liquid hydrocarbons via a Fischer-Tropsch type reaction. The normally liquid hydrocarbons are easier to transport away from the remote oil well than normally gaseous hydrocarbons.
US07641885B2	Method for making a carbon nanotube film The present invention relates to a method for making a carbon nanotube film. The method includes the steps of: (a) forming an array of carbon nanotubes on a substrate; and (b) press the array of carbon nanotubes using a compressing apparatus, thereby forming a carbon nanotube film.
US07641884B2	Method for fabricating carbon nanotubes and carbon nano particles Disclosed is a method of fabricating carbon nanotubes and carbon nano particles, the method comprising: providing a plurality of carbon micro carriers on a silicon substrate; forming a plurality of carbon nano particles on the carbon micro carrier by a first gas; and reacting with a second gas to provide a plurality of carbon nanotubes. Thus the carbon nanotube can be formed without the use of a metal catalyst. The carbon nanotubes can easily separate from each other without the problem of non-uniformity, because the carbon micro carrier used is in a microscale size.
US07641883B2	Method for separating carbon nanotubes, method for dispersing carbon nanotubes and compositions used for the methods The separation of carbon nanotubes into metallic carbon nanotubes and semiconducting carbon nanotubes is made to be possible simultaneously with the dispersion of the carbon nanotubes by using viologen.
US07641880B2	Room temperature synthesis of GaN nanopowder In the direct production of GaN by the metathesis of Li3N and GaCl3 or GaBr3 or GaI3, the reaction rate and yields can be greatly enhanced by including diethyl ether in the reaction system.
US07641879B2	Methods of synthesis of isotopically enriched borohydride and methods of synthesis of isotopically enriched boranes The invention provides new methods for the synthesis of isotopically enriched metal borohydrides, metal tetrahydroundecaborate salts, and decaborane from isotopically enriched 10B-boric acid or 11B-boric acid. The invention is particularly useful for synthesis of isotopically enriched sodium or lithium borohydride, MB11H14 (where M is Li, Na, K, or alkylammonium), and decaborane.
US07641878B2	Fly ash beneficiation systems with sulfur removal and methods thereof A system and method for beneficiation of fly ash particles which at least partially reduces sulfur emissions includes at least one mixing reactor with a chamber and at least one exhaust, at least one fly ash source connected to provide fly ash particles to the chamber, at least one sorbent source, and at least one fluid supply system. The sorbent source provides at least one type of sorbent particles to be mixed with the fly ash particles to reduce sulfur emissions. A mass of the fly ash particles in the chamber is greater than a mass of the sorbent particles in the chamber. The fluid supply system provides at least one fluid to the chamber during a beneficiation of at least a portion of the fly ash particles in the chamber.
US07641874B2	Microwave induced destruction of impurities from biogas and nitrogen oxides from engine exhaust Granulated Activated Carbon (GAC) is used to remove hydrogen sulfide (H2S) from the biogas produced in an anaerobic digester. The cleaned biogas is then combusted in a reciprocating engine. The exhaust of the engine is passed through a heat exchanger and then through GAC in an adsorber to adsorb nitrogen oxides (NOx) and any sulfur oxides (SOx). The GACs containing NOx, H2S, and SOx, are transported to a microwave reactor, mixed, and exposed to microwave energy. The H2S and NOx are desorbed from the GAC and chemically combined to produce nitrogen, carbon dioxide, sulfur and water. Unreacted nitrogen oxides or hydrogen sulfide are transported to a second reactor containing carbon media to be reacted by a further microwave process. Sulfur is removed with a filter as a solid and the remaining inert components are vented to the atmosphere. The GAC is regenerated and reused to remove additional H2S and NOx.
US07641867B2	Apparatus for processing perfluorocarbon An exhaust gas containing a perfluoride component (PFC) and SiIF4 is conducted into a silicon remover and brought into contact with water. A reaction water supplied from a water supplying piping and air supplied from an air supplying piping are mixed with the exhaust gas exhausted from the silicon remover. The exhaust gas containing water, air, and CF4 is heated at 700° C. by a heater. The exhaust gas containing PFC is conducted to a catalyst layer filled with an alumina group catalyst. The PFC is decomposed to HF and CO2 at a high temperature exhausted from the catalyst layer is cooled in a cooling apparatus. Subsequently, the exhaust gas is conducted to an acidic gas removing apparatus to remove HF. In this way, the silicon component is removed from the exhaust gas before introducing the exhaust gas into the catalyst layer. Therefore, the surface of the catalyst can be utilized effectively, and the decomposition reaction of the perfluoride compound can be improved.
US07641864B2	Thermal sensor connector for pressure vessel A connector for a pressure vessel includes a connector assembly having a first plurality of contacts, and a receiver assembly configured to be positioned within a receiver aperture formed in a closure of the pressure vessel and having a second plurality of contacts. The receiver assembly is configured to receive the connector assembly and place each of the first plurality of contacts in electrical contact with a corresponding one of the second plurality of contacts. A seal is provided between the connector assembly and the wall of the pressure vessel, for substantially sealing the receiver aperture from pressure within the vessel. The connector assembly is configured to be coupled to a product carrier, and sensors positioned in the vessel are coupled via the connector assembly to a data acquisition unit. When the closure is lowered onto the vessel, the receiver assembly contacts the connector assembly coupled to the carrier, closing the electrical contacts connecting the sensors to the acquisition unit.
US07641862B2	Analytical test element and method for blood analyses An analytical test element for blood analyses is provided having an application site and a microfluidic channel structure in fluid communication with the application site. The channel structure includes at least first and second analytical channels for receiving first and second portions of a blood sample applied to the application site. The first analytical channel includes a first analytical site to determine the total haemoglobin value (Hb) of the blood sample. The second analytical channel includes a second analytical site to determine a glycohaemoglobin value (HbA1c) of the blood sample.
US07641860B2	Modular and reconfigurable multi-stage microreactor cartridge apparatus A modular and reconfigurable multi-stage microreactor cartridge apparatus provides a manifold for removably attaching multiple microfluidic components such as microreactors. The microfluidic components are attached at microfluidic component ports having two input/output terminals, which microfluidic component ports are connected via connections internal to the manifold to other microfluidic component ports providing a microfluidic circuit. The microfluidic component may be a microfluidic circuit plug-in or a cartridge having a mounting block with two input/output terminals and a fastener aperture and fluidic tubing having a first and second transport portion and a body portion, the three portions being disposed in substantially parallel planes and the body portion being would in a coil around a spool. The coil is connected to the mounting block by either epoxy protector or L-bracket. The cartridge has a first and a second remote input/output terminal connected to the first and second transport lines respectively.
US07641857B2	Measuring apparatus used for determining an analyte in a liquid sample, comprising polymer electronic components A measuring apparatus for determining an analyte in a liquid sample includes the following apparatus components: a test element with a test field for applying the liquid sample, the test element experiencing a detectable modification due to the analyte to be determined, a detector which detects the modification and generates an electrical detector signal as a function of it, an evaluation circuit arranged downstream of the detector, which evaluates the detector signal to form a measurement result, a display device connected to the evaluation circuit for displaying the measurement result, and an electrical power supply for supplying electrical power to the electrical apparatus components. At least some of the electrical apparatus components are formed on the basis of polymer electronics so that the analyte can be determined straightforwardly, conveniently and inexpensively.
US07641855B2	System for automatically storing and reprocessing patient samples in an automatic clinical analyzer A system for automatically testing a sample aliquot retained in temporary storage in environmentally controlled conditions on an automated clinical analyzer for a period of time without requiring operator intervention.
US07641854B2	Multifunctional multireactor control system with dynamic multiple protocols, templates and digital notebooks and methodology A system and a methodology for controlling multifunctional multireactor chemical synthesis instruments employ real time automatic controls, calculations, feedbacks and optional graphic tracking of parameters, process characteristics and events and offer templates for designing otherwise complex sequences for the bench chemist, physicist or biologist. Automatic lab notebook construction is also provided as well as remote monitoring and control options, warning alarms and shut down alarms.
US07641852B1	Sterilizer with vacuum-assisted air removal A sterilizer for medical instruments is compact and designed to be placed on a table top. The sterilizer provides includes a cavity for receiving a cassette holding the instruments to be sterilized. A stream circuit provides steam to the cassette for sterilization, and the time required for sterilization is reduced by withdrawing air from the cassette by application of a vacuum. The cavity is evacuated at the same time as the cassette to prevent application of high stresses to the cassette during the vacuum-assisted withdrawal of air. The time for sterilization is further reduced by use of dual heat exchangers to reduce the volume removed from the cassette.
US07641850B2	Method and apparatus for strengthening of powder metal gears by ausforming A technique for net shaping gear teeth of a high performance power transmission gear from a powder metal workpiece includes heating a powder metal workpiece in the form of a near net shaped gear blank having gear teeth surfaces above its critical temperature to obtain an austenitic structure throughout its surfaces, isothermally quenching the workpiece at a rate greater than the critical cooling rate of its surfaces to a uniform metastable austenitic temperature just above the martensitic transformation temperature, rolling the gear teeth surfaces of the workpiece to a desired outer peripheral profiled shape between opposed dies, each die having an outer peripheral profiled surface, while holding the workpiece at the uniform metastable austenitic temperature, the gear teeth surfaces undergoing densification, plastic deformation, and strengthening as a result of the rolling operation, and cooling the workpiece through the martensitic range to thereby harden the surfaces of the gear teeth.
US07641849B2	Injector for injecting particulate material into metallurgical furnaces An injector for injecting particulate material into a metallurgical furnace has a first tubular barrel and a housing defining a chamber having an inlet for particulate material, a first gas inlet and a particulate material/gas outlet connected to the rear end of the first barrel. The first air inlet has a first nozzle operable to inject gas into the chamber at a supersonic velocity when gas at suitable pressure is passed through the nozzle. A second tubular barrel surrounds the first barrel in spaced relationship therewith. The second barrel has a second gas inlet adjacent its rear end and a second nozzle adjacent its front end. Gas under pressure supplied to the second gas inlet passes between the barrels and is discharged at supersonic velocity from the front end thereof adjacent gas and entrained particulate material discharged from the first barrel so as to shroud the particulate material.
US07641843B2	Method and device for producing a decorative ornamental part with symbol in relief The invention describes a method for producing a decorative ornamental part, eg a control key, having a symbol in relief that is defined by a clearance gap free as far as possible of webs and connections in the frame of the control key, wherein the decorative ornamental part is back-injected with a plastic melt by the plastic injection moulding process. In order to obtain a surface on the visible side of the inner part which is free of traces of clamping and retaining it is proposed: that the production method consists of a cutting operation to produce the clearance gap, that the stamping punch carrying out the cutting operation remains as a place-holder in the cut contour of the clearance gap during the injection operation, and that the subsequent injection operation producing a bond ensures the exact connection of the contour of the cut free inner part to the frame of the ornamental part.
US07641838B2	Catheter with a transparent shaft An intraluminal catheter having at least a section of the catheter shaft being relatively transparent, and the method of manufacture thereof. In a presently preferred embodiment, the intraluminal catheter is a balloon catheter having a transparent shaft section formed of a polyetheretherketone polymeric material. The substantially transparent shaft section, of the catheter, is amorphous, and is substantially free of water marks and gels that would limit the transparency.
US07641837B2	Production method of rolled optical film having coating layer, rolled optical film, polarizing plate and liquid crystal display A method for producing a roll film provided with a coat layer comprising the steps of: (i) producing a roll film; (ii) applying a first embossing treatment along a longitudinal direction of the roll film on a part of a lateral direction of the roll film; (iii) applying a coat layer on the roll film; (iv) applying a second embossing treatment along a longitudinal direction of the roll film on a part of a lateral direction of the roll film; (v) heat treating the roll film at a temperature of 50 to 150° C. for a duration of 1 to 30 days while the roll film is rolled in a roll.
US07641834B2	Method for manufacturing a hollow fiber composite component and intermediate products for the manufacture An intermediate product for the manufacture of a hollow fiber-composite component having a shape and dimensions, includes a three-dimensional, hollow preform of reinforcing fiber material corresponding to the shape and the dimensions with a three-dimensional reinforcing fiber structure which is formed from at least one planar, single- or multi-layer blank of two-dimensional, web-like reinforcing fiber material matching the dimensions, and a closable total cross-sectional profile with at least two hollow chambers located adjacent to each other and separated from each other by a rib-like partition. The partition is formed by an overlap region of the at least one blank which is stitched in two dimensions by a compacting seam which fixes the shape and dimensions of the rib-like partition as well as its position relative to adjacent regions of the blank and prefixes, precompacts and reinforces the reinforcing fiber material in the region of the partition. In addition, a method for the manufacture of a hollow fiber-composite component by means of such an intermediate product.
US07641832B2	Process for the continuous production of a composition comprising rubber, hydrocarbon resin and solvent The process for the continuous production of a composition comprising rubber (20), a hydrocarbon resin (22) and a solvent (26) provides for the use of at least two two-screw extruders (10a, 10b) placed in series. These extruders may be of the contrarotating type or, preferably, co-rotating.
US07641831B2	Method for manufacturing plastic products A method for manufacturing plastic product includes the steps of: forming a work piece (30) in an injection molding apparatus, the work piece (30) including at least an original product (34), a butt end (36), and gate (32), the gate (32) connecting a corresponding original product (34) with the butt end (36); precutting the gate (32) in a mold before the work piece (30) has completely cooled; removing the work piece (30) from the injection molding apparatus; separating each original product (34).
US07641822B2	Master information carrier for magnetic transfer and a method for producing the carrier A method of producing a master information carrier by scanning a track a number of times. The method produces a master information carrier has a pattern of a magnetic layer representing information to be transferred to a high-density recording slave medium where the track width is not larger than 0.3 μm. The pattern is drawn by scanning a given track a plurality of times with an electron beam whose drawing diameter is smaller than the track width.
US07641818B2	Ga-In-O amorphous oxide transparent conductive film, and transparent conductive base material comprising this conductive film formed thereon A sintered body target for transparent conductive film fabrication is chiefly composed of Ga, In, and O; has a Ga content ranging from 49.1 at. % to 65 at. % with respect to all metallic atoms; is chiefly constructed from a β-GaInO3 phase and an In2O3 phase; provides an In2O3 phase (400)/β-GaInO3 phase (111) X-ray diffraction peak intensity ratio that is 45% or less; and has a density of 5.8 g/cm3 or more. A transparent conductive film obtained by using a sputtering technique is an amorphous oxide transparent conductive film chiefly composed of Ga, In, and O, so that a Ga content ranges from 49.1 at. % to 65 at. % with respect to all metallic atoms, a work function is 5.1 eV or more, and a refractive index for light with a wavelength of 633 nm ranges from 1.65 to 1.85.
US07641817B2	Silver powder and method for producing same There is provided a method for producing a silver powder having excellent dispersibility and capable of forming a paste which do not form suspended matters by phase separation and which is printed on a substrate to form a film having a uniform thickness. In this method, an alkali or a complexing agent is added to an aqueous silver salt containing solution to form a silver oxide containing slurry or an aqueous silver complex salt containing solution. After or before silver particles are deposited by reduction by adding a reducing agent to the silver oxide containing slurry or aqueous silver complex salt containing solution while stirring it, at least one chelating agent selected from the group consisting of compounds having an azole structure, dicarboxylic acids, hydroxy carboxylic acids and salts thereof is added to a silver power containing slurry solution as a dispersing agent.
US07641816B2	Semiconductor rubber composition and semiconductive rubber roller A semiconductive rubber composition contains copolymerized rubber containing ethylene oxide; chloroprene rubber; and acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber. A conductive rubber roller has a conductive rubber layer composed of the semiconductive rubber composition on an outermost layer thereof.
US07641814B2	Liquid crystalline polymer barrier resin films and processes thereof Disclosed is a single layer or multilayer polymeric structures that comprise a liquid crystalline polymer barrier resin. Such films have improved optical clarity and lower surface roughness measurements, without sacrificing desired barrier properties. These structures are useful for many packaging applications including pouches and bags and lidding applications.
US07641813B2	Antifreeze compositions Disclosed is an antifreeze composition comprising a) a water soluble liquid alcohol freezing point depressant, b) a triazine based compound of formula I, c) a mixture of tolutriazole compounds of formulae II and III, d) 2-ethylhexanoic acid or alkali metal salts thereof, e) heptanoic acid or alkali metal salts thereof and f) water, where the compounds of formula I are where Z is a C1-C11 alkylene group, X is hydrogen or an alkali metal, R1 and R2, independently are hydrogen or methyl, R3 is a group —NR4R5 where R4 is C1-C12 alkyl or -Z-COOX and R5 is hydrogen or C1-C12 alkyl; and where the compounds of formulae II and III are
US07641808B2	Azeotropic compositions comprising fluorinated olefins for cleaning applications The present invention relates to azeotropic or azeotrope-like compositions comprising a fluorinated olefin having the formula E- or Z-C3F7CH═CHC3F7, and at least one alcohol, halocarbon, hydrofluorocarbon, fluoroether, or alkanes and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the one compound selected from the group consisting of alcohols, halocarbons, fluoroalkyl ethers, hydrofluorocarbons, alkanes is either methanol, ethanol, iso-propanol, n-propanol, trans-1,2-dichloroethylene, cis-1,2-dichloroethylene, n-propyl bromide, C4F9OCH3, C4F9OC2H5, HFC-43-10mee, HFC-365mfc, heptane, or combinations thereof. In another embodiment, these compositions are useful in cleaning applications as a degreasing agent or defluxing agent for removing oils and/or other residues from a surface.
US07641804B2	Filter unit, filter device and filtration process for fluids A filter unit (10) and a filter device formed from several such units for filtering a fluid, especially a process fluid such as required for chip-removing machining processes. The filter units (10) each comprise a frame (11) and a filter medium (16). The frame (11) has support webs (12), which reinforce the frame (11) and support the filter medium (16). The support webs (12) are arranged on the downstream side (18) of the filter medium (16) to prevent clogging on the upstream side (17) and permit a simple removal of the filter cake. The filter units (10) are stacked on each other in alternating orientation such that the upstream sides (17) or the downstream sides (18) of two adjacent individual filter units (10) face each other. The frame (11) forms unfiltered fluid and filtered fluid flow nozzles (13), (14) through which the fluid to be filtered or the filtered fluid can flow.
US07641803B2	Filter cartridges for fluid intake systems A filter cartridge including a frame that is formed of one or more fluid conductive members and has a fluid outlet and a plurality of spaced inlets; and a flexible fabric material that allows the flow of water therethrough, the flexible fabric material being connected to the frame in a manner defining an internal zone, whereby substantially all fluid entering the internal zone from an opposite side of the flexible fabric material passes therethrough; wherein, upon connection of the fluid outlet to a fluid intake system, fluid is drawn through the flexible fabric material into the internal zone, thereby filtering the fluid, and filtered fluid is drawn through the plurality of spaced inlets and passes to the fluid outlet for delivery into the fluid intake system. A system and method for filtering fluid intake are disclosed.
US07641801B2	Method for removing manganese from nickel laterite waste liquors A method and system of removing or decreasing waste liquor manganese concentration to less than about 1 mg/L total manganese without the precipitation of significant amounts of magnesium. The method and system include steps for treating the waste liquor using three separate circuits in which in the first circuit, manganese is reduced, for example, from about 2 g/L to <500 mg/L using pH adjustment with a suitable neutralizing agent; and in the second circuit, the final target manganese level is achieved by oxidative precipitation using a suitable oxidizing agent. Part of the precipitated manganese product, e.g., MnO2, is recycled to the oxidative precipitation circuit as seed and the balance proceeds to a third circuit wherein the precipitated manganese product is re-dissolved, and then recycled to the first neutralization circuit. In the first neutralization circuit and the second oxidative precipitation circuit, the process conditions are selected to minimize the precipitation of magnesium, e.g., Mg(OH)2.
US07641798B2	Waste water treatment method and waste water treatment apparatus A waster water treatment apparatus has micro-nano bubbles generation tanks, mixing tanks, a submerged membrane tank, a contact oxidation tank, and an activated charcoal adsorption device. In the micro-nano bubbles generation tanks, micro-nano bubbles are added to the waste water. In the mixing tanks, the waste water containing micro-nano bubbles is mixed with sludge containing microorganisms. In the contact oxidation tank, the waste water containing organofluoric compounds is microbially treated by the micro-nano bubbles added to the waste water. The micro-nano bubbles activate microorganisms in the waste water. Thereby organofluoric compounds are microbially decomposed with effect.
US07641794B2	Blood processing filter A flexible blood filter allowing smooth flow of a liquid and being excellent in separation resistance, pressure resistance and centrifugation resistance. The blood processing filter, includes a first filter element for removing aggregates from blood, a second filter element for removing leukocytes provided in the downstream of the first filter element, and a third filter element having gas permeability of 3 to 40 cc/cm2/sec per thickness of 1 cm provided between the second filter element and the outlet port. The filter contains a seal zone at a peripheral section which contains five layers including a layer of molten material and layers of molten material mixed with filter element material.
US07641792B2	Water circulation systems for ponds, lakes, municipal tanks, and other bodies of water A circulation system for bodies of water. In one set of embodiments for larger bodies of water, modified horizontal plate designs are provided at the entrance of the draft hose. The plate designs have sections that pivot downwardly as the flotation platform and depending draft hose are rapidly raised in high wave conditions to let the water escape downwardly out of the hose. Adaptations to the floats for the elongated arms of the platform are also made to essentially eliminate the creation of any damaging torques on them from high waves. Another set of embodiments are particularly adapted for smaller systems in municipal water tanks for thorough mixing of the water and treatment to kill undesirable ammonia oxidizing bacteria and prevent or at least inhibit their return.
US07641791B2	Control system A control system comprising a timer based controller and a valve wherein the timer-based controller has a fixed period and the timer based controller regularly cycles the valve between a first condition and a second condition with the first portion of the cycle directing a first flow of water through a dispensable material and the remaining portion of the cycle directing a lesser flow of water through the dispensable material.
US07641789B2	Process to prepare a base oil having a viscosity index of between 80 and 140 Process to prepare a base oil having a viscosity index of between 80 and 140 starting from a distillate or a de-asphalted oil by (a) contacting the feedstock in the presence of hydrogen with a sulphided hydrodesulphurization catalyst comprising nickel and tungsten on an acid amorphous silica-alumina carrier and (b) performing a pour point reducing step on the effluent of step (a) to obtain the base oil.
US07641785B2	Method of measuring blood component and sensor used in the method A sensor for blood component analysis that can correct the effect of a hematocrit easily is provided. The sensor includes an analysis portion including a working electrode, a counter electrode, and a reagent portion. The reagent portion includes an oxidoreductase that reacts with the blood component and a mediator, and the blood component is measured by causing a redox reaction between the blood component and the oxidoreductase in the presence of the mediator and detecting a redox current generated by the redox reaction by the working electrode and the counter electrode. In this sensor, the reagent portion further includes a hemolyzing agent (e.g., sodium cholate) for hemolyzing an erythrocyte, and when detecting the redox current, the erythrocyte is hemolyzed with the hemolyzing agent so as to cause hemoglobin released to an outside of the erythrocyte to react with the mediator and a current generated by this reaction also is detected to correct an effect of a hematocrit.
US07641783B2	Plating solution, process for producing a structure with the plating solution, and apparatus employing the plating solution A stable FePt plating solution is provided. Further, a process for electroplating is provided for producing an FePt magnetic material having an especially strong coercive force and excellent properties by using the plating solution. The plating solution contains ionic Fe, ionic Pt, and a complex agent, at a molar ratio (Fe/Pt) of the ionic Fe to the ionic Pt ranging from 0.75 to 3.
US07641781B2	Method for coating a substrate In a method for coating a substrate, and a coated object, in a first step, in an external current-less or electrolytic manner, nickel and/or cobalt and/or platinum are deposited on a substrate in a deposition bath. In the deposition bath, particles are additionally suspended which contain at least one metal selected from Mg, Al, Ti, Zn and no Cr, the particles becoming occluded in the coating. In a second step, the actual protective layer is produced by heat treatment. The coating of component parts may be used for aircraft turbines or gas turbines or for garbage incineration systems having temperature-resistant protective layers against high temperature corrosion.
US07641780B2	Two-dimensional microfluidics for protein separations and gene analysis The invention provides a microfluidic apparatus for performing 2-D biomolecular separations. The microfluidic 2-D device may include first and second planar substrates which include at least a first dimension microchannel extending in a first direction and an array of second dimension microchannels extending in a second direction, preferably, orthogonal to the first dimension. The ends of at least some of the microchannels are in fluid communication with a plurality of reservoirs. The substrates may further include a number of microchannels and reservoirs. The reservoirs are in electrical communication with a plurality of electrodes and voltage power sources. The device enables two dimensional separations of proteins, DNA and other biomolecules. According to another aspect of the invention, an array of tertiary microchannels extending in a third direction may be utilized.
US07641774B2	Manufacturing process for perpendicular magnetic recording medium A perpendicular magnetic recording medium is manufactured having excellent thermal stability and recording performances across the entire disk surface. In one embodiment, the recording layer includes at least two layers deposited by using a reactive sputtering method under an oxygen-containing atmosphere at a deposition rate larger than the second recording layer which is formed on the first recording layer while depositing the first recording layer on the intermediate layer.
US07641773B2	Process for producing layers and layer systems, and coated substrate A method of producing substrates with functional layers which have high optical properties and/or a high surface smoothness, in particular a low turbidity and significantly lower roughness, is provided. The method includes a sputtering process for coating a substrate with at least one functional layer, the sputtering process being interrupted at least once by the application of an intermediate layer with a thickness of less than 20 nm.
US07641772B2	Distiller with pressure-difference maintenance A distillation unit (10) employs a fluid circuit (FIG. 8) in which a counterflow heat exchanger (102, 104, 106, 108, 110) transfers heat from condensate and concentrate to feed liquid to be distilled. The pumping system (100, 238) that drives fluid through the circuit is arranged to keep the pressure in the counterflow heat exchanger's condensate higher than that in its feed-liquid passage. This tends to discourage the contamination that could otherwise occur in the concentrate if the fluid isolation ordinarily maintained between those passages is compromised.
US07641770B2	System for recovery of hydrocarbons from tar sands A system for recovering hydrocarbons from tar sands includes a heated enclosure 66, one or more input conveyors 60, 67 move tar sands through the heated enclosure, provide a flow line with a temperature gradient of at least 150° F., and mechanically move the tar sands along the flow line. A heated rotary drum 74 is in fluid communication with the flow line, and condenser unit 94, 98 receive vapors from the flow line and the rotary drum and output hydrocarbons. One or more discharge conveyors 76 discharge stripped sands from the rotary drum. Control valves 80, 82 seal a vacuum downstream from the discharge conveyors, and control valves 34, 46 seal vacuum upstream from the one or more input conveyors. Various types of vacuum pumps may be used to maintain a selected vacuum between the control valves.
US07641763B2	Apparatus and method for removing coating film An apparatus and a method for removing a coating film capable of stable treatment for removing unnecessary coating film at a substrate edge are provided. A substrate is clamped by approach stages from front and rear directions on a chuck, and fixed when accurate registration thereof is achieved. Then, the substrate edge is moved back and forth together with the chuck and the approach stage, so that the edge of the substrate is introduced in a space between an upper piece and a lower piece of a fixed arm portion. While the substrate is being moved, a solvent is fed from a nozzle portion onto a surface thereof and a purge gas is fed through a purge gas feeding pipe, so as to remove the coating film from the surface of the substrate by sucking and discharging the solvent and dissolved coating film through a discharge pipe.
US07641760B2	Method of thermal adherend release and apparatus for thermal adherend release A method of thermal adherend release, wherein a part of adherends adherent to a heat-peelable pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet having a heat-expandable layer containing a foaming agent are selectively released from the pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet by partly heating the heat-peelable pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet, wherein the method comprises previously heating a sticking site of an adherend to be released at a temperature at which the heat-expandable layer of the heat-peelable pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet does not expand and then heating the sticking site of the adherend in the heat-peelable pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet at a temperature at which the heat-expandable layer expands to thereby selectively releasing the adherend.
US07641757B2	Method of making a tubular body for a catheter, sheath or lead A method of forming a tubular body for a catheter, sheath or lead comprises extruding a polymer core having an integrally formed core wall, first lumen, and second lumen, placing a first layer over an outer circumferential surface of the extruded polymer core, and bonding the first layer to the circumferential surface of the extruded polymer cover via a reflow process. The first and second lumens are mandrel free during the reflow process, and a temperature of the reflow process is below a softening point of the polymer core to maintain a collapse free first and second lumen.
US07641755B2	Assembly for forming a ceramic arc discharge vessel and method of manufacture An assembly for forming a hollow, ceramic arc discharge vessel for high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps is described wherein a means for self-alignment of two molded sections is provided. In particular, the sealing surface of one section of the arc discharge vessel is provided with a convex surface and the sealing surface of the other section is provided with a concave surface. The radius of the convex sealing surface is smaller than the radius of the concave sealing surface so that the sections may self-align during joining, preferably without gas entrapment in the seal.
US07641750B2	Method for fixing several layers of textile along a line, particularly along the edge of a textile item and item produced thus A process for fixing several textile thicknesses along a line, and particularly an edge of a textile article, of the type by which two stitched sewing threads are used, namely the lower and the upper is provided. One of the threads changes state at a first predetermined temperature. A glue for thermogluing the thicknesses is provided. The glue acts at a second predetermined temperature. The state changing thread melts at a first temperature that is lower than the second temperature. The other thread is eliminated after the state changing thread has melted. This results in a perfectly placed seamless assembly.
US07641749B2	Method and machine for labelling a succession of containers by means of a number of independent labelling stations A method and machine for labelling a succession of containers, whereby each container is identified to assign to the container one of a number of possible types, and the container is then fed along a labelling path through a number of labelling stations, each of which applies respective labels to containers falling within a respective category, and is activated to apply the label to the container if the container falls within the respective category.
US07641748B2	Highly energy-producing compound A highly energy-producing compound which can be used, for example, as an explosive, propellant, oxidant and the like, and which includes an alkyne unit in which at least one hydrogen atom has been replaced by a trinitromethyl-C(NO2)3 group.
US07641743B2	Compositions and methods for darkening and imparting corrosion-resistant properties to zinc or other active metals Methods and compositions that serve to both darken a zinc or other active! metal surface and impart corrosion-resistant properties thereto, are disclosed. The compositions include an aqueous solution containing about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent ammonium chloride and about 0.1 percent to about 5 percent ammonium molybdate. The compositions utilize particular ratios of concentrations of ammonium chloride and ammonium molybdate.
US07641733B2	Method and apparatus for growth of multi-component single crystals A method and apparatus for growth of uniform multi-component single crystals is provided. The single crystal material has at least three elements and has a diameter of at least 50 mm, a dislocation density of less than 100 cm−2 and a radial compositional variation of less than 1%.
US07641732B2	Use of new fast-setting mortars for preparing products by means of pouring in foundry earth moulds Described herein is the use of new cementitious mortars with a high degree of fluidity and short consolidation times in the production of cementitious products by means of pouring in foundry moulds. The mortars used contain water, a fast-setting cement, fluidifiers and/or superfluidifiers, setting regulators, and aggregates having a specific granulometric distribution. The aggregates are made up of two fractions with different grain size such that the ratio between the characteristic grain diameters of the two fractions is comprised between 2.2 and 3.2. The new mortars thus obtained have values of fluidity 2-3 times higher than those of mortars produced with traditional aggregates. The mortars thus produced are particularly suitable for filling, in a homogeneous way and without any application of vibration, foundry earth moulds; solidification in the moulds takes place in a short time and leads to the formation of products, including ones of a complex shape, with precise outlines and having good mechanical characteristics.
US07641730B2	Glass flake and method of manufacrturing the same The present invention provides a glass flake having sufficiently high visible-light absorptivity. The glass flake of the present invention includes a glass composition that contains a transition metal oxide such as an iron oxide and that allows the glass flake to have a visible-light transmittance of 85% or lower measured with an A light source when the glass flake has a thickness of 15 μm. In this glass composition, it is preferable that the content of Fe2O3 (T−Fe2O3) in terms of the total iron satisfies the following formula, expressed in mass %: 10
US07641728B2	Ink composition and method for forming the same An ink composition includes an at least partially intercalated metal oxide colorant and an ink vehicle.
US07641727B2	Electrode level difference absorbing print paste and method of producing electronic device A production method of an electronic device comprising the steps of forming a stacked body by stacking green sheets and electrode layers having a predetermined pattern and firing the stacked body. Before forming the stacked body, a blank pattern layer is formed on a space portion of the electrode layer having a predetermined pattern. The electrode level difference absorbing print paste for forming the blank pattern layer includes at least ceramic powder and a binder resin, and a polymerization degree of the binder resin is made equal to or more than that of a binder resin included in slurry for forming the green sheet. The binder resin of the electrode level difference absorbing print paste includes polyvinyl butyral resin with a polymerization degree of 1400 or more, a butyralation degree of 64 to 74 mol % and an acetalization degree of 66 to 74 mol %.
US07641725B2	Phthalocyanines and their use in ink-jet printing A mixture of compounds of Formula (1) and salts thereof: wherein: M is 2H, Si, a metal, an oxymetal group, a hydroxymetal group or a halometal group; Pc represents a phthalocyanine nucleus; R1 is H or optionally substituted C1-4alkyl; R2 is optionally substituted alkyl or optionally substituted heterocyclyl; R3 is H or optionally substituted C1-4alkyl; R4 is optionally substituted hydrocarbyl; w is 0.1 to 3.7 x is 0.1 to 3.7; y is 0.1 to 3.7; z is 0.1 to 3.7: and provided that the groups represented by y and z are different. Also compositions and inks, printing processes, printed material and ink-jet printer cartridges.
US07641724B2	Mixtures of reactive dyes and their use Dye mixtures comprising at least one dye of formula (I) together with at least one dye of formula (II) wherein the radicals are as defined in the claim, are suitable for dyeing or printing cellulosic fiber materials, while having a good build-up behavior, and yield dyeings of a deep shade having good fastness properties.
US07641722B2	Ink composition including surface modified coloring agent An ink composition includes a self-dispersible coloring agent that includes an ionic group and a non-ionic linear or cyclic ester or amide moiety on a surface of the coloring agent at a mole ratio of about 1:10 to about 10:1, an organic solvent, and water. The coloring agent has a modified surface, so that stability of the ink can be increased due to an interaction between the coloring agent and the organic solvent, the particle size of the coloring agent can be kept uniform, an adhering force with respect to a substrate is increased to minimize bleeding between colors of a printed image, waterfastness and rubfastness in dry and wet conditions are increased to obtain an excellent colorfastness, and resulting in a high quality printed image and an excellent storage stability.
US07641719B2	Apparatus for the separation of at least one constituent of a gas mixture by pressure swing adsorption The gas separation apparatus comprises a flexible wall which is maintained in a placed position on an upper end of an adsorbant material; the volume between the wall and an upper dome communicates with one of inner and outer chambers on both sides of the adsorbant (4). The invention can be used to separate air components.
US07641715B2	Composite material and use thereof for controlling thermal effects in a physicochemical process The invention relates to a composite material, a method for controlling the thermal effects generated in a physicochemical process using said material, and applications of the material and the method.The composite material comprises an active solid and a phase change material. The phase change material takes the form of micronodules having an average size of between 1 micron and 5 millimeters and it is selected from materials with a liquid/solid phase change temperature of between −150° C. and 900° C. The active solid is selected from solids that can be used in a method involving reversible physicochemical processes that are exothermic in one direction and endothermic in the opposite direction.
US07641713B2	Method for reducing Cr in metallurgical slags containing Cr A method for reducing the chromium content from a metallurgical slag, in which the slag is charged onto an iron bath in the liquid state and the reduction of Cr is effected by the iron bath having a C content of 2 to 4% by weight, wherein a) the Cr-containing slag having a Cr content of 2 to 20% by weight is charged onto an iron bath having a C content of below 1% by weight, whereupon b) the carbon content of the iron bath is raised to about 2 to 4% by weight by the addition of carbon carriers at the simultaneous supply of energy, c) the liquid slag having a Cr content of about 0.1% by weight is tapped after the reduction of Cr, d) a cooling agent, preferably scrap, is added to the iron melt and the C content of the melt is lowered to below 1% by weight, and e) a portion of the Cr-containing melt is tapped in the liquid state, while the remaining portion is left in the converter in the liquid state for the treatment of the subsequent melt.
US07641712B2	Method and system for producing metallic iron nuggets Method and system for producing metallic nuggets includes providing reducible mixture (e.g., reducible micro-agglomerates; reducing material and reducible iron bearing material; reducible mixture including additives such as a fluxing agent; compacts, etc.) on at least a portion of a hearth material layer. In one embodiment, a plurality of channel openings extend at least partially through a layer of the reducible mixture to define a plurality of nugget forming reducible material regions. Such channel openings may be at least partially filled with nugget separation fill material (e.g., carbonaceous material). Thermally treating the layer of reducible mixture results in formation of one or more metallic iron nuggets. In other embodiments, various compositions of the reducible mixture and the formation of the reducible mixture provide one or more beneficial characteristics.
US07641710B2	Tool for coldforming operations with improved performance The present invention relates to cemented carbide for steel tire cord drawing operations. The cemented carbide comprises WC with an ultra fine grain size and greater than 5 and less than 10 wt-% Co, including grain growth inhibitors (V and/or Cr) and with a specific relation between HV30 and cobalt content.
US07641704B2	Method for the preparation of a carminic acid lake A method for the preparation of carminic acid lakes, novel carminic acid lake compositions and their uses in foods, such as yogurt, fruit preparations, beverages, other miscellaneous food products that may need a stable red color, and in cosmetics.
US07641703B2	Composition for the coloring of keratinous fibers comprising a halochromic compound and/or the dye corresponding to this compound, and method of use thereof Disclosed herein is the use, in the coloring of keratinous fibers, such as human keratinous fibers, such as the hair, of a composition comprising at least one compound chosen from the compounds of formula (I) comprising a cyclic group G including a ring H capable of opening, the dyes corresponding to the compounds of formula (I) wherein the ring H is open, and the addition salts thereof: and a method for treating keratinous fibers employing this composition.
US07641702B2	O-Aminophenol derivatives and colorants containing said compounds o-Aminophenol derivatives of the general formula (I) or physiologically compatible, water-soluble salts thereof, in which X is oxygen, sulfur or N—R4; R1, R2, R3 may be identical or different and, independently of one another, are hydrogen, a halogen atom, a cyano group, a C1-C4-alkoxy group, a C1-C6-alkyl group, a C1-C4-alkyl thioether group, a mercapto group, a nitro group, a trifluoromethane group, a —C(O)H group, a —C(O)CH3 group, a —C(O)CF3 group, an —Si(CH3)3 group, a C1-C4-hydroxyalkyl group or an aminomethyl group; R4 is hydrogen, a C1-C6-alkyl group, a C1-C4-hydroxy-alkyl group, a phenyl group or an acetyl group; and colorants containing said compounds for keratin fibers.
US07641699B2	Femoral head calcar loading prosthesis Provided is a novel hip replacement implant system that includes a ball assembly having a ball trunnion, the ball assembly being configured as a replacement for the head of the femur and capable of being secured by the ball assembly trunnion to a calcar implant element that can be securely seated in the calcar bone of the femoral neck, thus maintaining the load transfer function of the calcar bone of the femoral neck. A method of using the device is also provided.
US07641689B2	Surgically implantable knee prosthesis A prosthesis is provided for implantation into a knee joint compartment between a femoral condyle and its corresponding tibial plateau. The prosthesis is configured to be translatable with respect to the tibial plateau during knee articulation, and includes a body having a generally elliptical shape in plan and a pair of opposed surfaces including a substantially flat bottom surface and an opposed top surface.
US07641683B2	Stretchable anti-buckling coiled-sheet stent A stent-graft having an exo-skeleton attached to a tubular graft, the tubular graft having a peripheral wall defining a lumen therein extending between first and second ends. The exo-skeleton may assume contracted and enlarged conditions, and includes one or more serpentine elements, each extending both peripherally and axially along at least a portion of the peripheral wall. Coiled-sheet stents are provided on the ends of the tubular graft for anchoring the ends within a body passage. Each serpentine element is a zigzag structure extending peripherally about the peripheral wall, with a plurality of serpentine elements distributed axially along the peripheral wall. The serpentine elements are individually attached to the peripheral wall and/or connector elements may extend between adjacent serpentine elements. Alternatively, each serpentine element may define a generally sinusoidal shape extending axially along the peripheral wall. The tubular graft may have a bifurcated end from which a tubular graft extension segment may extend and to which a docking limb may be attached. A plurality of serpentine elements may also be attached to the extension segment and the docking limb.
US07641679B2	Cryosurgical fluid supply Improved systems, devices, and methods for delivering cryogenic cooling fluid to cryosurgical probes such as cryosurgical endovascular balloon catheters take advantage of the transients during the initiation and termination of cryogenic fluid flow to moderate the treatment temperatures of tissues engaged by the probe. A flow limiting element along a cryogenic fluid path intermittently interrupts the flow of cooling fluid, often cycling both the fluid flow and treatment temperature. This can maintain the tissue treatment temperature within a predetermined range which is above the treatment temperature provided by a steady flow of cryogenic fluid. In another aspect, room temperature single-use cooling fluid cartridges are filled with a sufficient quantity of cryosurgical fluid to effect a desired endovascular cryosurgical treatment.
US07641672B2	Suture anchor A suture anchor includes a placement portion frangably connected to an attachment portion. The attachment portion includes an outwardly projecting barb. During insertion of the suture anchor within a bore hole formed on a bone, the barb scores at least a portion of the bone bounding the bore hole. Once the suture anchor is disposed within the bore hole, a withdrawal force is applied to the suture anchor such that the attachment portion thereof rotates within the bore hole and disconnects from the placement portion. In an alternative embodiment, the suture anchor can be formed without the outwardly projecting barb.
US07641666B2	Prosthetic spinal disc replacement The present invention relates generally to a prosthetic spinal disc for replacing a damaged disc between two vertebrae of a spine. The present invention also relates to a method for implanting a prosthetic spinal disc via posterior or posterior lateral implantation. Other surgical approaches for implanting the prosthetic disc may also be used. The present invention also involves a method for implanting the prosthetic spinal disc while either avoiding or minimizing contact with the spinal cord and nerve rootlets, or reducing the time and extent that they need to be repositioned during implantation.
US07641663B2	Femoral reference tibial cut guide A femoral reference tibial cut guide for cutting the proximal tibia to receive a tibial implant. The cut guide references the femur to determine the appropriate tibial resection.
US07641661B2	Adjustable resection guide An adjustable resection guide is provided for guiding cutting of the tibia and/or femur during knee replacement surgery.
US07641659B2	Spinal access instrument A method of, and surgical instrument for accessing first and second pedicle locations of a spinal column area. The surgical instrument including a blade member slidably positionable along first and second wires. The instrument having a nested arrangement of members, including a portal member having an elongated aperture to access the first and second pedicle locations. The nested arrangement further including a plurality of members configured and sized to incrementally expand the access opening to the spinal column area.
US07641657B2	Method and apparatus for providing posterior or anterior trans-sacral access to spinal vertebrae Methods and apparatus for providing percutaneous access to vertebrae in alignment with a visualized, trans-sacral axial instrumentation/fusion (TASIF) line in a minimally invasive, low trauma, manner are disclosed. A number of related TASIF methods and surgical tool sets are provided by the present invention that are employed to form a percutaneous pathway from an anterior or posterior skin incision to a respective anterior or posterior target point of a sacral surface. The percutaneous pathway is generally axially aligned with an anterior or posterior axial instrumentation/fusion line extending from the respective anterior or posterior target point through at least one sacral vertebral body and one or more lumbar vertebral bodies in the cephalad direction. The provision of the percutaneous pathway described herein allows for the formation of the anterior or posterior TASIF bore(s) and/or the introduction of spinal implants and instruments.
US07641647B2	Medical device with modified marker band A marker band and medical devices such as catheters and guidewires that include a marker band. A marker band may include a generally cylindrical body portion having one or more slots or openings defined therein. The marker band is configured for being secured to a medical device. Methods of making and using a marker band and a medical device having a marker band are also disclosed.
US07641646B2	Catheter aperture with attachable structure An elongate catheter shaft is provided, having a side port aperture through a side wall of the catheter shaft between proximal and distal ends of the shaft. The side port aperture is open to a lumen. Embodiments of the present invention are directed to attached structures disposed in the side port aperture. The attached structures described herein are directed to biasing the catheter shaft in the region of a side port aperture in a straight or curved configuration that resists undesired flexure in the region of the side port aperture and to providing ease of wire guide passage.
US07641645B2	Combination thrombolytic infusion catheter and dilator system The present systems combines a drug delivery catheter and a dilator apparatus for use in lysing of clots wherein an internal dilator has a central lumen and an outer catheter is arranged coaxially about said internal dilator. An annular space for fluid passage is sealingly formed between an outer wall of the internal dilator and an inner wall of the outer infusion catheter. Apertures are located in the outer wall of the outer catheter for distributing fluid from the annular space. The internal dilator has a tip element and the outer catheter has an end opening so that together the end opening is occluded by the tip element which protrudes beyond the outer catheter when the outer catheter is arranged coaxially about the internal dilator and additionally the internal dilator is removable from the outer catheter to enable the introduction of a larger guide wire for further medical procedures.
US07641639B2	Body fluid suction reservoir The present invention provides a body fluid suction reservoir including a flexible bag, two plates for supporting the bag, and a spring put between the two plates. The body fluid suction reservoir further includes a lock having a hook and a release part and consisting of a member different from the two plates, by which lock the spring is held in a state compressed between the two plates, and the held state is releasable. The lock has flexibility and is held by one of the plates so as to be deformable from a first state in which the hook is engaged with the other plate to a second state in which the hook is not engaged, and the lock is urged to take the first state.
US07641634B2	Contact and penetration depth sensor for a needle assembly An apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a needle to contact and penetrate tissue. The apparatus also includes a device coupled to the needle, wherein the device detects the needle contacting the tissue, and measures depth of tissue penetration.
US07641631B2	Dilatation balloon having a valved opening and related catheters and methods Dilation catheters including a mechanism used in, for example, removing gas or air from the catheters are disclosed. A dilation catheter may include an elongated tubular member having a distal end and a proximal end, a proximal handle proximate the proximal end of the tubular member, and an inflatable balloon proximate the distal end of the tubular member with inflatable balloon being in fluid communication with a fluid port to supply inflation liquid to the inflatable balloon. The inflatable balloon may include an opening for permitting gas to exit the inflatable balloon. In the proximate location of the opening, an expandable material or a barrier material that permits gas to exit through the opening, while retaining inflation liquid in the inflatable balloon.
US07641630B2	Drainage catheter hub with locking cam The drainage catheter hub includes a locking cam for securing a suture to maintain an anchor configuration of the distal end of the drainage catheter. The locking cam is rotatable to a first position for securing the suture and a second position for releasing the suture. The locking cam includes a tapered surface which includes a release portion and a securement portion. The release portion allows movement of the suture while the securement portion cooperatively engages the suture in connection with the seat to minimize movement of the suture.
US07641628B2	System and method for high pressure delivery of gas-supersaturated fluids A system and method for generating a gas-supersaturated fluid and delivering the fluid at high delivery pressures to thereby prevent bubble nucleation is disclosed. The system comprises a housing for containing a removable fluid assembly for housing a fluid to be gas-supersaturated and a drive assembly for delivering the fluid to a delivery site. The housing assembly comprises a cylinder and a piston which may be advanced along the inner surface of the cylinder to pressurize and to deliver the fluid. To generate a gas-supersaturated fluid, the housing assembly is removed from the system housing, filled with a fluid, and gas is introduced at or slightly above the desired gas partial pressure into the cylinder. To deliver the gas-supersaturated fluid, the fluid assembly is returned to the system housing and the drive assembly advances the piston to increase the hydrostatic pressure to the desired delivery pressure and, after opening a valve, to deliver the gas-supersaturated fluid at the desired high delivery pressure to a delivery site.
US07641625B2	Composite limb guard A post amputation limb protection to be applied to newly or recently amputated transtibial, transradial or transfemoral residual limbs comprises an inner soft liner for placement on and around the limb above the end of the stump, an end pad for placement over the stump, a shell for placement over the end pad and inner soft liner, medial and lateral struts for placement along the length of the limb over the inner soft liner, attachment structures on the various components and strap closures for securing the components to the limb, and a waist belt and suspensor, for attachment to the assembly to keep the assembly in place.
US07641622B2	Guide wire A guide wire includes an elongated flexible wire body and a tubular member disposed so as to cover the outer periphery of a portion of the wire body on the distal end side. The tubular member includes a lamination portion having an inner layer and an outer layer made of a resin material, and a reinforcing member disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer and formed by winding a wire material spirally. The reinforcing member reinforces the lamination portion.
US07641619B2	Barometric pressure correction based on remote sources of information The invention includes systems and methods for converting absolute pressure data acquired in anatomical environments to gauge pressure data using an implant configured to monitor pressure. The implant is configured to communicate with an external controller, which is configured to communicate with a remote microprocessor that includes real-time barometric pressure data for one or more geographic locations.
US07641617B2	Wrist blood pressure gauge A convenient, inexpensive wrist blood pressure gauge whereby a cuff can easily be adjusted to the height of the heart merely by adding a simple structure. A lenticular sheet (display body (14)) whose visible image varies according to an angle in relation to a sight line (S) of a measurement subject is provided to a wrist blood pressure gauge (1) worn on a wrist (Mt) of the measurement subject (M), wherein a specific image is visible to the eyes (Ma) of the measurement subject when the wrist is set at the correct height in relation to the heart (H), and a different image is visible to the eyes of the measurement subject when the wrist is not in an appropriate height range.
US07641616B2	Blood pressure monitoring system and method of having an extended optical range A system and method for monitoring blood pressure of a wearer has an inflatable arm cuff that is selectably inflatable to differing air pressures that incorporates a fabric having both a light transmission property and a light reflection property when the fabric is illuminated with light having wavelength(s) in the range from about 400 to about 2200 nanometers. A radiation source and a detector are attached to the fabric in relative positions such that the reception of incident radiation by the detector is directly affected by a change in the amount of light transmitted through the fabric relative to the amount of light reflected by the fabric as the fabric stretches in response to motion in the body of a wearer due to changes in the flow of blood through an artery disposed beneath the fabric occurring in consonance with variations in the air pressure within the inflatable cuff.
US07641615B2	Method and device for removing oscillatory artefacts from invasive blood pressure measurement data The invention relates to a method for removing oscillatory artefacts caused by pressure waves in a fluid-filled trans-luminal catheter from invasive blood pressure measurement data, including the steps of setting up a model for the measurement data, fitting the model to the measurement data, identifying the model components, representing the oscillatory artefact, and removing the oscillatory artefact from the measurement data. The invention also relates to a respective device for acquiring and correcting invasive blood pressure measurement data.
US07641612B1	Blood loss detection for hemodialysis system A blood loss detection device for a hemodialysis system having a blood intake line, a dialysis machine including a pump, with the dialysis machine in communication with the blood intake line, and a blood return line in communication with the dialysis machine. The detection device includes a patch having an exterior edge and an opening through the patch forming a target for receipt of the return blood line. A slit through the patch extends between the exterior edge and the opening. A primary loop circuit terminates at two ends at the slit. An early warning alarm circuit loop terminates at two ends at the slit. An emergency shut-down circuit loop terminates at two ends at the slit. A modular connector connects the patch to an alarm activated by the early warning alarm circuit and to a switch mechanism activated by the shut-down circuit in order to shut down the dialysis machine and the pump.
US07641611B2	Method and apparatus for remote blood alcohol monitoring A tamper proof transdermal alcohol content monitoring device is made up of analog and digital sides which are securely attached to the human subject to be monitored. The analog side has a sampling circuit which draws a measured insensible skin perspiration sample from the skin of the subject and measured with an electrochemical fuel cell. A distance measurement of the device from the skin of the subject and temperature of the sample are monitored along with the transdermal alcohol content, and converted to digital signals which are transmitted to a modem when the monitor is in proximity to the modem. The signals are stored in the modem and uploaded to a central monitoring station. Automatic alerts may be sent from the central monitoring station to a supervising agency. The supervising agency may also access the information through secured dedicated websites via the Internet.
US07641603B2	Stretching device The present invention pertains to an exercising apparatus comprising a coupling mechanism and a synchronizing mechanism. The coupling mechanism is a rack assembly that includes two elongated bars extending longitudinally within the deck of the apparatus. The elongated bars receive a vertical arm of a platform when inserted through longitudinal slots of the deck. Each end of the elongated bar terminate with a wheel for rolling on a respective trough. The elongated bars further including vertical teeth disposed on the inner surface of each elongated bar for engaging the synchronizing mechanism. A pinion assembly includes a central wheel that rotates about a vertical axis. The external teeth of the central wheel are thereafter meshed with the vertical teeth of the elongated bars to provide synchronous movement as the elongated bars reciprocate.
US07641602B2	Weightlifting system with positionable handles A weightlifting system includes a weight arm system having a handle which may be mounted in one of a multitude of clocked positions. A handle engagement member extends radially from the handle adjacent the end section and includes a multitude of radially extending engagement male members to take the shape of a gear or multi-pointed star. The multitude of radially extending engagement members of the handle engagement member corresponds with a multitude of radially extending engagement members which defines an arm engagement member on the weight arm about an opening. The handle engagement member is the opposite of the handle engagement member such that the handle engagement member is received therein at a multitude of clocked positions as defined by the multitude of radially extending engagement handle members and the multitude of radially extending engagement arm members. The handle is clocked to a desired position relative the weight arm and an internal threaded section of a weight horn or knob is threaded to a threaded section of the handle to axially retain the handle within the weight arm.
US07641600B2	Apparatus for positioning a component of an exercise device An exercise device including at least one positionable component configured to be positioned by a user. The exercise device includes a frame to which a collar is mounted. The positionable component includes a member that is slidably received within the collar and may be positioned by sliding the member to a selected position. A locking assembly is coupled to the collar and is operable to lock the member in a selected position within the collar, to release the member from the locked position, and when released, to allow the member to slide within the collar. The locking assembly includes a cam pivotably mounted to the collar and a cam follower assembly selectively biased by the cam against a portion of the member disposed inside the collar. The locking assembly also includes a pair of engagement members disposed inside the collar opposite the cam against which the cam biases the member.
US07641599B2	Exercise therapy device An exercise therapy device includes pedals, a pedal rotation shaft connected to the pedals, a load motor for driving the pedal rotation shaft, and a load control device for controlling the load motor to cause rotating motion of the pedal rotation shaft to be started by the load motor.
US07641598B2	Translating support assembly systems and methods for use thereof An exercise apparatus comprises: a frame; a crank system comprising first and second crank coupling locations, the crank system being supported by the frame; a right foot support member comprising a first right guide element; a left foot support member comprising a first left guide element; a right movable member comprising a second right guide element; a left movable member comprising a second left guide element; a first flexible support system comprising a first flexible element, the first flexible element coupled to the frame and the first and second right guide elements and operative to move the first crank coupling location when the right foot support member moves; and a second flexible support system comprising a second flexible element, the second flexible element coupled to the frame and the first and second left guide elements and operative to move the second crank coupling location when the left foot support member moves.
US07641596B2	Golf swing simulator and exercise device In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, an exercise device comprises a support structure comprising a support member and a support arm having an upper support arm portion and a lower support arm portion. The support arm is mounted to the support member by a pivot assembly comprising a longitudinal pivot control mechanism and a lateral pivot control mechanism. The longitudinal pivot control mechanism is configured to allow the support arm to be selectively positioned at a first angular orientation in a longitudinal plane and the lateral pivot control mechanism is configured to allow the support arm to be selectively positioned at a second angular orientation in a lateral plane orthogonal to the longitudinal plane. The exercise device further comprises a yoke pivotably attached to the upper support arm by a yoke attachment member for rotation about a yoke rotation axis. The yoke is configured for engagement by a user in an exercise orientation and for selective rotation about the yoke rotation axis by the user.
US07641587B2	Fuel quality indication for adaptive transmission control A control system and method for adaptively controlling transmission ratio shifting in an electronically controlled transmission. A refueling event is detected. After the detected refueling event, fuel consumption is monitored for a predetermined period during which a change in composition of fuel to the engine reaches or approaches a steady state. During the period, the rate of adapting transmission shift controls is modified to respond quicker to the change in shift characteristics induced by differences in torque produced by the engine. Implementing this method can improve transmission shift quality while the quality of fuel reaching an engine is in transition.
US07641573B2	Articulating batting tee A fully articulated batting tee including a first support post with a telescoping stem for height-adjustable support of a baseball. The first support post extends downward from the ball to the ground to provide a first point of ground-support. A lateral support assembly comprises a plurality of lateral struts joined at one end to the first support post and extending laterally therefrom to a second support post. A pivoting coupling is mounted on the second support post, and the coupling includes a plurality of collars for insertion of corresponding struts (each of the collars slidably supports a corresponding one of the lateral struts therein). The second support post extends downward to a practice plate and is anchored thereto, thereby providing a second point of ground-support. The combination of height-adjustment, lateral adjustment and pivoting provide a fully articulating batting tee that can position the ball anywhere over or around the practice plate.
US07641569B2	Putter with vibration isolation A golf club head with a vibration damping insert is disclosed. The club head includes a face member, a damping member, and a body member. The damping member is sandwiched between the face member and the body member and extends along a large percentage of the face member. The damping layer attenuates vibrations, providing consistent feel across the length of the striking face.
US07641568B2	Golf club head having ribs Described herein are embodiments of a golf club head having at least one rib with an external portion. For example, according to one embodiment, a wood-type golf club head includes a body that has at least one wall defining an interior cavity. The golf club head further includes at least one rib projecting from the at least one wall. The at least one rib can include an internal portion located within the interior cavity and an external portion located without the interior cavity.
US07641566B2	Golf exercise device A golf exercise device is disclosed that can be used for stretching the shoulder and back muscles. The device expands to a length that allows the user to place the device behind the user's head and grasp each end with the user's hands. The device collapses to a size small enough to easily fit into a golf bag. The center portion of the device is padded for comfort while the user is stretching. Clips can also be included to secure the device to the external portion of the golf bag. The device can hold golf balls in one end, and a net for retrieving golf balls from water hazards in the other. Zippered pockets can be attached to the device to hold personal items such as mobile phones, PDA's, sunglasses, car keys, or the like. Net-type bags with drawstring closures can also be included with the device.
US07641565B2	Method and apparatus for detecting the placement of a golf ball for a launch monitor A novel method and apparatus for detecting the placement of a golf ball for a launch monitor is disclosed. The method comprises capturing an image of a scan zone that is adjacent to the launch monitor and in the field of view of the launch monitor's image sensor, analyzing the scan zone image for the placement of an object, and determining if the object is likely the golf ball. An apparatus is also disclosed that implements the golf ball detection method.
US07641561B2	Dust cover for a steering shaft A dust cover for a steering shaft includes a bush of low-frictional material, through which a steering shaft penetrates; a plurality of bellows made of rubber, provided in an axial direction of the steering shaft, and arranged between the bush and a panel for sealing the clearance; and an annular seal lip in contact with the outer periphery of the steering shaft.
US07641560B1	Take-up in drum actuation drive trains A linkage coupling a drum foot pedal rotor to a drum beater apparatus comprising in combination an elongated link, a first universal joint coupling the rotor to the link, and a second universal joint coupling the link to the apparatus, at least one of the universal joints coupling first and second components relatively rotatable about a transverse axis, two transversely spaced bearings carried by the first component, each bearing including annular inner and outer races and bearing balls located between the races, there being members tightly coupling the inner races to the second component at transversely spaced locations, whereas the inner races are offset transversely relative to the outer races to thereby clamp the balls transversely between the races, and immobilizing means joining the outer races to the first component, and/or the members to the second component.
US07641559B2	Tripod constant velocity universal joint A tripod constant velocity universal joint including an outer joint member having axially extending track grooves formed at three circumferentially equispaced positions in the inner periphery. A tripod member having a trunnion barrel adapted to be fitted to a shaft for torque transmission and trunnion journals radially projecting from three circumferentially equispaced positions in the trunnion barrel. Rollers respectively attached to the trunnion journals for rotation through a plurality of needle rollers and received in the track grooves. Each roller is guided at its outer peripheral surface by roller guide surfaces formed in opposite lateral walls of the track groove. A skew angle of the needle rollers is controlled so that it is within a predetermined specified value.
US07641558B2	Constant velocity joint An annular member is installed on a circular cylinder section of a trunnion, and a roller member, in the inner periphery of which a needle bearing is held, is installed on the circular cylinder section. The needle bearing is held between a flange section formed on one end of the roller member and the annular member installed on the trunnion with a predetermined gap between them. Further, a gap (X) between the needle bearing and the annular member is set to satisfy the following relationship. X>R/2·(1/cos θ max−1) where R: Radius of rotation of the center of the roller member relative to the center axis of an outer member. θ max: Maximum inclination angle of an inner member.
US07641557B2	Flexible coupling A flexible coupling capable of transmitting moments and comprising a first member having a longitudinal axis (30) connected by at least three joints (27) to a second member (41) having a longitudinal axis substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the first member, the joints being circumferentially spaced apart about said axis, each joint comprising a first part (27) on one of the members and a second part (31) on the other member, the parts of each joint interfitting so that moments can be transmitted between said members by the joints and so that relative sliding and rotational movement can take place between the parts of teach joint, the joint parts on at least one of the members being flexibly arranged (41) so that the members may articulate relative to one another.
US07641553B2	Live event interactive game and method of delivery The disclosure describes a computer-implemented method of providing an event related game. The method includes receiving event data associated with a media broadcast at a computer, generating a printable game set, and providing the printable game set in an electronic format configured for printing by a user. The printable game set includes at least one game card and a set of trade tickets. The at least one game card includes a list of game events associated with the media broadcast. Each trade ticket of the set of trade tickets identifies a game event.
US07641546B2	Cooling apparatus and method for controlling the same A cooling apparatus and a method for controlling the same are disclosed. The cooling apparatus is adapted to cool a system in which a heat source generating heat is arranged. The cooling apparatus includes an air stream forming unit which cools the heat source to a certain temperature, a sensing unit which includes a supplied-air temperature sensor for sensing a temperature of air supplied into the system, and a discharged-air temperature sensor for sensing a temperature of air discharged out of the system, an altitude detecting unit which detects an altitude of the system, based on the sensed supplied-air temperature and the sensed discharged-air temperature, and a cooling controller which controls the air stream forming unit, based on the detected altitude.
US07641545B2	Ventilated window for indoor air quality improvement in buildings An airflow window system that includes at least three glazing layers positioned roughly parallel to each other to define at least two internal airflow cavities within the window system. A first of the glazing layers is adjacent a first of the airflow cavities, a second of the glazing layers is adjacent a second of the airflow cavities, and a center glazing layer is between the first and second glazing layers and separates the first and second airflow cavities. Airflow cavity openings are located adjacent the uppermost and lowermost extents of each airflow cavity, and airflow is enabled through the first airflow cavity between the openings thereof and enabled through the second airflow cavity between the openings thereof. The window system operates as a crossflow heat exchanger capable of supplying fresh outdoor air to an enclosed indoor space, while thermally tempering the incoming fresh air with outgoing indoor air.
US07641540B2	Polishing pad and cushion layer for polishing pad A polishing pad includes at least a polishing layer and a cushion layer and is characterized in that the difference in hardness in Shore D hardness between the polishing layer and the cushion layer is 3 or more.
US07641536B2	Brassiere construction Wings attached to form the back panels of a brassiere are provided with the male and female fastener elements in the form of patches by ultrasonic welding of the patches to the diecut fabric wings. The male and female fastener elements are preferably of the snap type hook and eye plastic fastener elements which can be injection molded or ultrasonically bonded to the patches.
US07641535B2	Artificial eye assemblies An artificial eye for use in animated plush toys has a one-piece eyeball and lid that are integrally molded. The eye further includes a shaped member and a retaining post. A crossplate of the shaped member is preferably curved to correspond to the curvature of the eye, and is operative to animate a portion of plush contiguous to the eye. The portion of plush to be animated has an attached elongated flap which includes a forked free end wherein each branch of the forked end includes a hole. The elongated flap is inserted into the doll's body or head cavity, and each branch is tucked under the curved crossplate of the shaped member. The retaining post engages the holes near the ends of each branch, thereby fixedly retaining the flap to the eye. When the eye is rotated the plush portion also moves thereby simulating movement of an eyelid. A socket and eyelid plush extension assembly may be employed for receiving the plush at the eye members for securing the plush thereto facilitating movement of the plush with the eye assembly.
US07641533B2	Electroluminescent display device, method for manufacturing the same, and electronic equipment A transparent cathode electrode technology for an electroluminescent display device having a top emission structure, provides a top emission type electroluminescent display device and a method to manufacture the same. Oxidation of a substrate film can be reduced or prevented during the film formation of a metal oxide. Electronic equipment including this display device is also provided. A first electrode, a function layer including a luminescent layer, and a transparent second electrode made of a metal oxide are laminated on the substrate in that order from the lower surface. At this time, the oxygen concentration in the second electrode is made to vary in the film thickness direction, and the oxygen concentration in the vicinity of the interface between the second electrode and the function layer is made lower than the average oxygen concentration in the second electrode.
US07641532B2	Method of manufacturing fluorescent lamps by securing leads within the lamp's eyelets without exerting external tension to the leads A lamp includes a reflector including a reflective portion, a heel, and a nose, wherein the nose includes an opening. A light source is disposed in the reflector. A pair of leads connects to the light source. An eyelet protrudes through the opening in the nose and receives one of the leads. A positioning member is disposed in the heel portion of the reflector. The positioning member includes an opening to receive the light source.
US07641530B2	Method of forming an organic EL panel An organic EL panel and a method of forming the same, in which a bottom electrode of an organic EL device is flattened at the surface so that organic layers deposited thereon have uniform thicknesses, thereby avoiding the occurrence of leak currents and allowing favorable luminescence characteristics. The organic EL panel has an organic EL device formed on a substrate, the device comprising the bottom electrode, the organic layers including at least an organic luminescent layer, and a top electrode. The bottom electrode has an etched surface obtained by chemically etching a polished surface of an electrode material film. The organic layers are formed on the etched surface.
US07641527B1	Marine outboard engine exhaust system A marine outboard engine has an upper motor cover, a lower cover, an engine, a driveshaft, a gear case, a rotor shaft, and a bladed rotor. First and second exhaust housings are disposed in the lower cover below the engine. The second exhaust housing at least partially surrounds the first exhaust housing. A first exhaust chamber is formed by the first exhaust housing. The first exhaust chamber fluidly communicates with the engine. A second exhaust chamber is formed between the second exhaust housing and the first exhaust housing. The second exhaust chamber fluidly communicates with the first exhaust chamber. A third exhaust chamber formed between the second exhaust housing and the first exhaust housing below the second exhaust chamber is also disclosed. The third exhaust chamber fluidly communicates with the second exhaust chamber and an exterior of the marine outboard engine.
US07641525B2	System and method for controlling a waterjet driven vessel A method for controlling a marine vessel having first and second steering nozzles and first and second trim deflectors comprises generating at least a first set of actuator control signals and a second set of actuator control signals. The first set of actuator control signals is coupled to and controls the first and second steering nozzles, and the second set of actuator control signals is coupled to and controls the first and second trim deflectors. The acts of generating and coupling the first set of actuator control signals and the second set of actuator control signals result in inducing any of a net yawing force, a net rolling force, and a net trimming force to the marine vessel without inducing any other substantial forces to the marine vessel by controlling the first and second steering nozzles and the first and second trim deflectors. Also disclosed is a system for controlling a marine vessel.
US07641522B2	Electrical-connection device, particularly for photovoltaic-cell solar panels An electrical-connection device, particularly for photovoltaic-cell panels, has: a first electrical terminal, designed to be connected to apparatuses for generation or use of electrical energy and to extend in a fixed position through a wall for support of the connection device; a seal for fluid-tight coupling of the first electrical terminal to the supporting wall; a second electrical terminal connected to the first electrical terminal and to an electrical wiring external to the supporting wall; and an electrically insulated liquid-tight chamber, housing at least partially the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal.
US07641521B2	Electrical connector with compensation loops A electrical connector includes a housing and a plurality of contacts within the housing configured for mating engagement with mating contacts of a mating connector. The electrical connector also includes a compensation component housed within the housing. The compensation component has a substrate with a first trace plane and a second trace plane, and the compensation component has a plurality of traces arranged on the first trace plane. The traces are electrically connected to selected ones of the contacts. At least one of the traces includes a compensation loop arranged on the first trace plane, and at least one of the traces includes a compensation loop arranged on the second trace plane. The compensation loop provides at least one of electrical and thermal compensation.
US07641520B2	Flexible connector assembly The present invention is directed to a linear connector assembly comprising a plug connector (22) and a receptacle connector (24). The plug connector (22) includes an elongated member (26), and an electrical contact (72) disposed about a portion of the elongated member. The receptacle connector (24) includes a wall defining a cavity (44) dimensioned to sealingly receive the elongated member, and an electrical contact having a surface disposed in the wall for electrical connection with the plug contact. The electrical contacts of the plug connector (22) and the receptacle connector (24) have spherical surface portions whereby a spherical interlace between the electrical contacts is formed upon make-up and reduces voltage drops between the contacts.
US07641516B1	Electrical connector A connector (200) is provided that comprises a dielectric body (DB), pins (302), and a plate (800). Each pin is captured within DB (404) so as to extend therethrough. Each pin is defined by a pair of nubs (410, 510) extending from DB's opposing faces (408, 604), respectively. Each nub is movable along an axis aligned with an elongated length of the pin. The plate is formed of a planar conductive material secured to DB adjacent to a first opposing face. The plate comprises apertures through which the pins extend in a first direction. At least one aperture is sized and shaped to form an electrical connection between the plate and selected pins. Resilient spring fingers (RSF) are formed on a periphery of the plate. Each RSF (1006) extends away from DB in a direction between a plane defined by the first opposing face and first direction of the pins.
US07641514B2	Electrical connector assembly An electrical connector assembly (100) includes a connector holder (2) defining a plurality of positioning cavities (2101) therein, and at least a slot (2103) located in a front portion of each of the positioning cavities; a plurality of grounding members (5) respectively mounted to the positioning cavities, each of the grounding members (5) having a body portion (50), a first contacting portion (51) connected to a front edge of the body portion, a second contacting portion (52) connected to a back edge of the body portion and at least an arm (53) connected to a lateral edge of the body portion, said at least an arm received in the at least a slot, and the first contacting portion disposed out of the connector holder; a plurality of connectors respectively mounted to the positioning cavities, each of the connectors having a metallic shell contacting the second contacting portion; and a metallic cage (4) enclosing the connector holder and the connectors, with the first contacting portion contacting inner surface of the metallic cage.
US07641513B2	Upgradeable telecommunications patch panel and method of upgrading same An upgradeable patch panel assembly and associated method of upgrading a patch panel assembly. The upgradeable patch panel assembly including a panel base having an aperture sized to receive a scanner interface cable. The method including removing a first cover from the panel base, inserting a scanner interface cable through the existing aperture in the panel base, and attached an upgraded cover to the panel base. Upgrading the patch panel assembly is completed while the assembly remains mounted to a frame and without disconnecting rear cable connections. The upgraded patch panel assembly provides jack-occupancy monitoring capabilities.
US07641504B1	Electrical connector backshell adapter An electrical connector backshell adapter for terminating sheathed electrical cables, the electrical connector backshell adapter having a housing having a first and at least a second port, the electrical connector backshell adapter further having a cable sheath termination nipple having a proximal end, the cable sheath termination nipple overlying the housing's first port, the cable sheath termination nipple's proximal end being fixedly attached to or formed wholly with the housing; the electrical connector backshell adapter further having a seam extending through the housing, the seam further extending through the cable sheath termination nipple, the seam dividing the housing into first and second housing sections, the seam further dividing the cable sheath termination nipple into first and second nipple sections, and the electrical connector backshell adapter further having a hinge connected operatively to the housing's first and second housing sections for motions of the first and second housing sections between opened and closed positions.
US07641496B2	ZIF socket connector having improved guiding mechanism system An electrical connector (1) of the present invention includes an insulative base (10) defining a plurality of passageways (101) to receive a plurality of conductive terminals (19) therein, a base plate (142) retained in the insulative base, a cover (12) movably assembled on the base, a cover plate (142) retained in the cover and a cylindrical actuator (16). The base defines a through hole (1021) thereof. The base plate defines a through hole (1421) and a guiding slot (1422). The cover defines a plurality of passages (124) corresponding to the passageways of the insulative base and a through hole (123). The cover plate defines a through hole (1411) and a guiding portion (1413) sliding in the guiding slot. The cylindrical actuator is received and rotating in said through holes. At least one inner edge of the through hole of the base plate extends outwards to form an edge portion with a smooth surface thereon.
US07641491B2	Load control device having a flexible connector A load control device has a modular assembly to allow for easy adjustment of the aesthetic and the color of the load control device after installation. The load control device comprises a user interface module and a base module. The user interface module includes an actuation member for receiving a user input and a visual display for providing feedback to the user. A connector of the base module is adapted to be coupled to a connector of the user interface module, such that the base module and the user interface module are electrically connected. The connector of the base module is adapted to move along a longitudinal axis and a lateral axis of the dimmer, such that the actuation member is easily aligned within an opening of a faceplate.
US07641489B1	Safety plug socket The present invention discloses a safety plug socket, which mainly includes a sliding insulating base disposed within an outer housing. A pair of contact conducting strips is located on a bottom surface of the sliding insulating base, and conductive clips disposed internal of a pair of socket holes extend to the bottom portion of the outer housing and form folded strips. When a pair of plug terminals is correctly inserted, then the sliding insulating base is pressed down, thereby causing the lower contact conducting strips to make conductive contact with the folded strips, and causing clips on the conductive clips to make contact with the inserted plug terminals to supply power for use by an electronic product. When a plug is incorrectly inserted or metallic foreign body is inserted, then no electric conduction is realized.
US07641486B2	Lever-type connector and method of operating it A first housing (10) and a second housing (30) are connected by leverage brought about by the engagement of pinions (24) of a lever (20) rotatably supported on the first housing (10) and racks 33 of the second housing (30). In the process of rotating the lever (20), cam action brought about by the engagement of cam grooves (25) of the lever (20) and cam followers (37) of the second housing (30) is exhibited. This cam action prevents the first housing (10) from being inclined with respect to the second housing (30) with engaged positions of the pinions (24) and the racks (33) as supports.
US07641485B2	Lever-type connector and a connector assembly Locking projections (31) formed on resiliently deformable resilient arms (30) hold a lever (20) at an initial position by engaging locking recesses (18). Resilient escaping portions (19), on which the locking projections (31) slide in the process of rotating the lever (20) between an assembled position and the initial position, are resiliently deformable in directions away from the locking projections (31). Upon rotating the lever (20) from the assembled position to the initial position after the lever (20) is assembled with a first housing (10), both the resilient arms (30) and the resilient escaping portions (19) are resiliently deformed. Thus, as compared with the case where only the resilient arms (30) are resiliently deformed, degrees of resilient deformation of the resilient arms (30) are reduced, wherefore deformations of the locking projections (31) to be crushed can be suppressed.
US07641482B2	Electrical connector having contacts with improved retaining portions An electrical connector includes an insulating housing having a longitudinal and a lateral wall defining a top face and at least one contact. The lateral wall defines a slot thereon. The contact includes a main body located one the top face of the lateral wall and a contacting arm located above the longitudinal wall, a connecting portion extending from an inner edge of the main body and a retaining portion extending from an outer edge of the main body. The retaining portion is retained and received in the slot. A pressed portion laterally extends from the main body.
US07641476B2	Rotatable magnetic electrical connector A rotatable quick disconnect electrical connector assembly is provided. The assembly includes a male component and a female component, which have a mating fit together and which have an electrical connection when in mating contact. The connection is further enhanced by magnetic attraction, one of either the male or female components having a magnetic material and the other having a magnet-sensitive material. Each of the male and female components has a generally circular cross-section, to permit relative rotation through unlimited degrees in clockwise and counterclockwise directions. The components may be made separately. A system of such connectors is also provided (e.g. for displays).
US07641474B2	Method and system for arranging a paint color display One aspect of the present invention provides a method for systematically arranging paint color samples for convenient browsing and identification of desired colors by shoppers. Paint color sample cards are arranged on a two-dimensional display surface such that colors of similar hue are categorized or grouped together (e.g., along a column). Groups of paint color sample cards having different base hue or color are arranged such that there is a gradual transition between paint colors from one region to the next region. For instance, the colors of sample cards may gradually change from column to column across a two-dimensional display. Additionally, within each color group, paint color sample cards are arranged from most chromatic to least chromatic colors. Another aspect of the invention provides for accent color sample cards to be displayed adjacent to the various base color groups.
US07641471B2	Piezoelectric lighter with increased security A piezoelectric type of lighter, with a flame generation device (30), including a gas jet release mechanism (36) and a piezoelectric mechanism for generation of a spark (50), characterized in that the lighter includes two actuators (32, 34) which are displaced following a pivoting movement under the action of a force applied by a user, between a first position called rest position and a second position called the active position, whereby at least one of the actuators, called the first actuator, can be displaced independently of the second actuator and acts on at least one of the mechanisms, called the first mechanism. The lighter can produce a flame from the lighter when the two actuators have been pivoted.
US07641465B2	Rotor for a rotary tablet press A rotor for a rotary tablet press, which has an upper and a lower punch guiding for upper and lower punches, which co-operate with bores of a die plate which is arranged between the upper and the lower punch guiding, wherein the punches have shafts, which are sealedly axially movable in guiding bores of the punch guidings by means of a sealing arrangement, and wherein means act between the shafts and the guiding bores which prevent a rotation of the pressing punches in the punch guidings, characterised in that the shafts have an out of round profile in the cross section, and the cross section of the guiding bores is complementary.
US07641464B2	System and method for centering a clay plug on a potter's wheel A system and method for centering a clay plug on a potter's wheel before rotation of the potter's wheel includes a rotatable adapter having a central axis aligned with the central axis of the potter's wheel, a rotatable toroidal disk bat whose central axis is aligned with central axis of the rotatable adapter, and a clay plug having a central axis aligned with the central axis of the rotatable toroidal disk bat.
US07641457B2	Internal gear pump The invention relates to an internal gear pump including: a rotor member including an outer rotor provided with inner teeth to which a torque supplied from a driving device is transmittable; an inner rotor provided with outer teeth engageable with the inner teeth of the outer rotor so to be driven by a rotation of the outer rotor, wherein a rotation axis of the inner rotor is eccentric with respect to a center of the rotor member; a pair of housings provided on opposite sides of the rotor member and the inner rotor to support the rotor member and the inner rotor; and at least one rolling bearing provided between at least one of the housings and the rotor member.
US07641447B2	Removable sensor support for a hollow-rotor helicopter The present invention relates to a support (20, 24, 26) for a stationary article surmounting a helicopter rotor (11), which support comprises a hollow structure presenting a longitudinal axis (25); the hollow structure comprises two hollow parts (20, 24) of elongate shape along said longitudinal axis that are designed to be engaged one in the other and to be mutually stressed in twisting along said common longitudinal axis.
US07641446B2	Turbine blade A turbine blade 29 for a gas turbine engine 10 having an axis 20, the turbine blade 29 comprising: an aerofoil 30 including a high pressure surface 36, a low pressure surface 34, a root portion 38 and a tip surface 40 extending transverse from the high and low pressure surfaces 36 and 34, the high and low pressure surfaces 36 and 34 curve from the root portion 38 to the tip surface 40 in a direction that is substantially tangential to the axis 20 of the engine 10; and an air leakage restricting member 32 on the tip surface 40, the air leakage restricting member 32 being configured to substantially prevent leakage of air over the tip surface 40.
US07641442B2	Device for controlling clearance in a gas turbine The turbine casing includes a circumferential wall coaxially surrounding a ring that surrounds the moving blades of the turbine. The casing includes a plurality of perforations delivering air for ventilating the outside face of the circumferential wall in uniform manner.
US07641440B2	Cooling arrangement for CMC components with thermally conductive layer A CMC wall (22) with a front surface (21) heated (24) by a working fluid in a gas turbine. A back CMC surface (23) is coated with a layer (42) of a thermally conductive material to accelerate heat transfer in the plane of the CMC wall (22), reducing thermal gradients (32-40) on the back CMC surface (23) caused by cold spots (32) resulting from impingement cooling flows (26). The conductive material (42) may have a coefficient of thermal conductivity at least 10 times greater than that of the CMC material (22), to provide a minimal thickness conductive layer (42). This reduces thermal gradient stresses within the CMC material (22), and minimizes differential thermal expansion stresses between the CMC material (22) and the thin conductive layer (42).
US07641439B2	Flow passage structure for refrigerant compressor A flow passage structure can be disposed in a multi-stage centrifugal refrigerant compressor having a deswirl vane and a return channel bend. The flow passage structure includes a two-way flow passage having a first outlet and a second outlet, for diverging externally injected refrigerant; a first side discharge flow passage connected to the first outlet of the two-way flow passage and having a first side outlet disposed below the deswirl vane, such that the diverged refrigerant can be discharged into the return channel bend and uniformly mixed with the refrigerant in the return channel bend; and a second side discharge flow passage connected to the second outlet of the two-way flow passage and having a second side outlet disposed below the deswirl, vane, such that the diverged refrigerant can be injected into the return channel bend and uniformly mixed with the refrigerant in the return channel bend.
US07641433B2	System and method of trimming a bound document A method of trimming a plurality of sheets bound together, in which each of the plurality of sheets defines a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge that collectively define a fore edge of the closed bound document, comprising selecting a first portion of the plurality of sheets, folding the first portion of the plurality of sheets at a first fold angle and in a first fold direction, and trimming the folded first portion of the plurality of sheets near the first portion edges included in the first portion to partially achieve the desired edge effect for the bound document. The first portion of the plurality of sheets is greater than one sheet of the plurality of sheets. The first fold angle and the first fold direction are configured to achieve a desired fore edge effect.
US07641432B2	Partially coated fastener assembly and method for coating A fastener assembly includes a row of fasteners having a head, a tip, and a portion of a shank coated with a polymer composition. The polymer composition includes a polymer material such as polyurethane and metal particles. The polymer composition is used to provide improved corrosion and ultraviolet radiation resistance when used with naturally corrosive or pressure preservative treated wood. The fastener assembly is coated with the polymer composition by vacuum coating a dispersion of the polymer composition in a solvent such as water and removing the solvent.
US07641431B2	Fastening device for heat sink A fastening device for a heat sink includes a one-piece shaft. The shaft includes a head at one end thereof, an engaging section at an opposite end thereof, a connecting section between the head and the engaging section, and a tray extending above the engaging section. A spring surrounds the connecting section between the head and the tray of the shaft. A gasket engages with the connecting section of the shaft and is retained between the spring and the tray of the shaft. In this way the shaft, the spring and the gasket are assembled. The gasket extends a downward, annular sidewall for engaging in the heat sink, by which the fastening device can be stably fixed to the heat sink. A back plate extends a nut toward the shaft for engaging with the engaging section of the shaft.
US07641428B2	Floating fastener base and pocket A floating fastener base and pocket are disclosed. The base and pocket permit the adjustable positioning of a stud, such as a striker bolt, prior to final assembly and tightening. A floating fastener base has one or more flanges which fit within a pocket created by one or more respective flange receptacles formed on a substrate. The floating fastener base is inserted into the floating fastener base pocket. This provides a fastening base for a stud wherein the fastening base and the stud are positionally adjustable prior to final retention of the stud, typically accomplished by tightening of the stud.
US07641425B2	Adjustable holding systems Adjustable holding systems may include a fixed or portable base with a base opening and clamp assembly. The base opening is defined by a back surface, two side surfaces, and a partial front surface. A guide assembly may be movable within the base opening when the clamp assembly is in a clamped position. The guide assembly is interlocked with the base and is securable within the base opening such that the guide assembly has infinite adjustability within the base opening. The clamp assembly may include a spring operatively coupled to the clamp follower to accommodate variations in workpiece thickness when the clamp follower is in a clamped position. Both the base and guide assembly may have an exit hole adapted to allow waste material generated during drilling to exit a drilling area. The exit hole in the base also may be adapted to serve as a chip breaker.
US07641421B2	Offshore vessel An offshore vessel suitable for laying a pipeline on the seabed, having a pipeline-laying installation of the S-lay type. The offshore vessel has one or more connecting stations disposed on a working deck. The connecting stations are for connecting pipeline sections in a substantially horizontal orientation. A stinger engages on a first side of a hull secured to offshore vessel at an engagement point and protrudes outside the hull, and forms a downwardly directed support for pipeline moving towards the seabed. A hoisting crane is disposed on the first side of the hull, comprising a substantially hollow vertical column comprising a top, a foot, and a body disposed between the foot and the body.
US07641412B2	Ball-point pen A ball-point pen, wherein a cover member (6) is fitted to a joint member (3) connecting a writing tip (1) rotatably supporting a writing ball (2) at the tip thereof to an ink storage tube. When the cover member (6) is fitted to the joint member (3) along the outer peripheral surface thereof, a part of the cover member does not come within 0.2 mm (within the range of the chain double-dashed line) from around the writing tip. Thus, even if the accuracies of parts and assembly machines are dispersed, a problem with an existing ball-point pen wherein a cover member is brought into contact with a writing tip and the writing tip is damaged in an assembly step can be avoided.
US07641409B1	Single-use cosmetic package A single-use cosmetic package has a pouch with a front wall and a back wall. A wand is stored in the pouch. Upper and lower seals hermetically seal the perimeter of the pouch. A middle seal divides the pouch into a product reservoir in a lower half of the pouch and a dry chamber in the upper half. The wand projects from a handle end in the dry chamber through the middle seal to an applicator end in the product reservoir. A dog-bone shaped sealing structure on the wand forms a hermetic seal with the middle seal. The dry chamber is opened by pulling opposite tabs to peel the front wall from the back wall. When the wand is pulled from the pouch, a flange on the wand expands the middle seal to form a wiper opening in the product reservoir. The wiper opening is sized to wipe the applicator end of the wand, or an applicator attached to the end of the wand.
US07641408B2	Recording apparatus A recording device for effecting recording on a recording material by a recording head, said recording device including a recording unit including a reciprocally movable carriage for carrying the recording head, a platen for supporting a recording material at a position opposed to said carriage, and a feeding roller, disposed upstream of said platen, for feeding the recording material, a recording chassis supporting said carriage, said platen and said feeding roller, and a sheet feeding unit including a feeding path for feeding the recording material to said feeding roller from a plurality of feeding portions, and a side chassis supporting said feeding path at both lateral sides with respect to a moving direction of the recording material, whereby said recording chassis of said recording unit and said side chassis of said sheet feeding unit are fixed to each other.
US07641406B2	Bevel inspection apparatus for substrate processing A substrate processing apparatus includes an indexer block, an anti-reflection film processing block, a resist film processing block, a development processing block, a resist cover film processing block, a resist cover film removal block, and an interface block. The interface block includes a bevel portion inspection unit. The bevel portion inspection unit inspects a bevel portion of a substrate to determine whether or not the bevel portion of the substrate is contaminated. The substrate whose bevel portion is determined to be contaminated and the substrate whose bevel portion is determined that it is not contaminated are respectively subjected to different types of processing.
US07641401B2	Optical element holder and optical communication module Disclosed are an optical element holder and an optical communication module. The optical element holder comprises a pedestal having a pair of fixing sections, a pair of holding sections and a stress-suppressing section. The fixing sections are formed in opposing end portions of the pedestal for being welded to a carrier. The holding sections are formed to face the pedestal in an inner position than positions where the fixing sections are formed so as to hold the optical element by pinching it therebetween. The stress-suppressing section prevents a welding stress, which is generated when the fixing sections are welded to the carrier, from affecting the holding sections.
US07641399B2	Method and apparatus for multi-directional fiber optic connection A method and apparatus are disclosed that permit multi-directional fiber optic connections to a device. The multi-directional aspect of the fiber optic connections permit the connections to be aligned closely with the direction of travel of the fiber optic cables that interface with the device. Closely aligning the fiber optic connections on the device with the fiber optic cables' direction of travel maximizes the bend radius of the fiber optic cable near the point of connection or eliminates the bend altogether and reduces the likelihood of a broken fiber or signal attenuation.
US07641397B2	Optical connector The head end surface of an optical fiber (2) and the head end surface of an optical fiber (12) are butted to each other in an alignment member (22) of an adapter (21). In the butting, because one of the members clasping the optical fiber (2) is a plate (4a) that is short, the optical fiber (2) is bent and buckled between the left end of the short plate and the right end of the alignment member. Members clasping the optical fiber (12) are a long plate (14b) and a V-grooved base plate (13), and the optical fiber (12) is therefore horizontally fixed between each of right ends of the long plate and of the V-grooved base plate (13) and the left end of the alignment member. This results that the head end surface of the optical fiber (2) and the head end surface of the optical fiber (12) are in tight contact with each other, achieving excellent optical transmission between both optical fibers.
US07641394B2	Bearing apparatus for a wheel of vehicle A vehicle wheel bearing apparatus has an outer member and inner member. The inner member includes a wheel hub and inner ring. The outer member and inner member include respective raceway surfaces. Double row rolling elements are freely rollably contained between the outer and inner raceway surfaces, respectively, of the outer member and the inner member. At least the inner side rolling elements of the double row rolling elements are tapered rollers. A pitch circle diameter of the inner side rolling elements is set smaller than a pitch circle diameter of the outer side rolling elements. A substantially conical recess is formed at an outer side end portion of the wheel hub. The depth of the recess extends near to a shaft shaped portion beyond the bottom of the inner raceway surface of the wheel hub. The thickness of a portion of the wheel hub where the inner raceway surface is formed is set within a predetermined range. The outer side wall of the wheel hub is formed to have a substantially constant thickness along the inner surface of the recess.
US07641391B2	Ceiling mount for X-ray system The invention relates to an X-ray installation having two ceiling mounts (20, 30), to which the X-ray tube (26) respectively the X-ray detector (36) are fixed. The ceiling mounts comprise crossbeams (21, 31), which are mounted on the guide rails (11, 12) so as to slide in the longitudinal direction (Ls, LD) and which in turn carry carriages (22, 32) slidable in the transverse direction (Ts, TD). Length-adjustable arms (23, 33) are secured to the carriages (22, 23) and at their ends are mounted transverse arms (24, 34) rotatable about a vertical axis of rotation (R1S, R1D). The transverse arms in turn carry equipment carriers (25, 35) rotatable about axes of rotation (R2S, R2D), to which lastly the X-ray tube (26) respectively the X-ray detector (36) are secured.
US07641389B2	Magnetic devices A sensor comprises a reference sample arranged to be subject to at least one variable physical parameter such that a variation in the value of the at least one variable physical parameter causes a change in the magnetisation of the reference sample, means for measuring the magnetisation of the reference sample, and means for determining in dependence upon the measured magnetisation whether there has been a variation in the value of the at least one variable physical parameter, wherein the reference sample comprises a Heusler alloy.
US07641385B2	Heating apparatus, heating apparatus control method and noncontact thermal sensing device A fixing apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention includes a non-contact temperature detecting element 81 allocated in non-contact with a heat roller, the sensing element detecting a temperature of the heat roller. The non-contact temperature sensing section 81 includes a thermopile P which detects a target temperature Pt of a heat roller 2, a temperature element CPU 100 which estimates an ambient temperature at the periphery of the thermopile P and computes an estimated ambient temperature SQt, and a thermister Q which detects an ambient temperature Qt at the periphery of the thermopile and outputs the ambient temperature Qt at an output voltage of a predetermined rate with respect to a total output voltage value corresponding to the estimated ambient temperature SQt.
US07641379B2	Press fit electronic component Disclosed is a press fit electronic component for a light emitter. The electronic component comprises at least one light emitter and at least one connection lead in electrical communication with the light emitter, the lead being configured for forming a frictional fit with a corresponding hole, the lead further being sufficiently rigid to withstand a compressive insertion force into the hole.
US07641378B2	Liquid crystal display and backlight module thereof A backlight module including a first frame, a light guide plate, and a light source is provided. The inner surface of the first frame has at least a first reflection area. In addition, the light guide plate is disposed in the first frame and located beside the first reflection area, and the light guide plate has a light incident surface. Moreover, the light source is disposed in the first frame and between the first reflection area and the light incident surface. The first reflection area is suitable for reflecting a part of the light emitted from the light source to the light incident surface. A liquid crystal display using the backlight module is also provided.
US07641376B2	Surface light source device and display device using same The present invention provides a surface light source device capable of reducing luminance non-uniformity near point light sources and near between the point light sources adjacent to each other, and a display device of high display quality. The surface light source device includes: a plurality of LEDs arranged at a predetermined spacing; a light guide plate that emits, as a surface light, light emitted from the point light sources and entered into at least one side surface, through a light emission surface perpendicular to a light incident surface; reflecting sheets disposed respectively on a light anti-emission surface and near the LEDs in the light guide plate; and a casing having an opening part at a location corresponding to the light emission surface of the light guide plate, and holding the LEDs and the light guide plate and the reflecting sheets. The surface light source device further includes, near between the LEDs adjacent to each other, light introducing means for introducing the light emitted from the LEDs into the light emission surface or the light anti-emission surface.
US07641373B2	Backlight unit Disclosed is a backlight unit which illuminates a display panel from a rear surface thereof, including at least: tubular lamps arranged in parallel to the panel; and a reflecting member which reflects light from the lamps toward the panel, wherein the reflecting member is divided into a first region opposed to an area near an electrode provided in an end portion of the lamp and a second region nearer to a middle area than the first region, the first region having a higher reflectance than the second region. In another backlight unit, a reflecting member is divided, with respect to the arrangement direction of the lamps, into an end lamp near region which is opposed to a lamp arranged in end portion and a middle region which is nearer to a middle area than the end lamp region, the end lamp region having a higher reflectance than the middle region.
US07641368B2	Front bezel with light directing device A front bezel includes a main body (10) defining a light-pervious area (142) therein, a light-directing member (20) secured to the main body, a shielding plate (30) pivotably secured on the light-directing member, and a gear member (40) rotatably secured on the light-directing member. The light-directing member has a light-directing portion (22) defining a space for securing a light source (60) therein. The space communicates and aligns with the light-pervious area. The light-directing portion defines an installing opening (226) communicating with the space. A plurality of teeth is formed on the shielding plate. The gear member has a plurality teeth (41) meshing with the teeth of the shielding plate, and is rotatable to pivot the shielding plate to cover one portion of the space in which light source is secured, and thereby prevent the light emitting out of the space.
US07641366B1	Dual mount lantern A lighting fixture capable of mounting in a plurality of orientations comprises a wall mount assembly having a front canopy rotatably secured to a rear canopy and a lamp housing assembly capable of a plurality of orientations secured to said rotatable front canopy and capable of rotation therewith. The lamp housing assembly may further include a motion sensor integral thereto whereby the rotation of the housing assembly does not affect the performance of the motion sensor.
US07641365B2	Linear light concentrator An optical element including a unitary, non-circularly-symmetrical, piece of optically-transmissive material, which has at least first and second surfaces for concentrating light from a light source onto a linear target region, such that at least one of the first and second surfaces is curved, and such that a first portion of the light is concentrated onto the linear target region by reflection from the first surface, while a second portion of the light is concentrated onto the linear target region by refraction at the second surface.
US07641362B2	Electronic device lighting system A lighting system for an electronic device comprising at least one movable lens to cover a light source.
US07641354B1	Flashlight casing containing retractable tools An assembly that combines a flashlight with at least one secondary tool element. The flashlight has an elongated casing. At least one tool element is provided. The tool element is coupled to the elongated casing of the flashlight, wherein the tool element is capable of moving reciprocally with respect to the elongated casing between a retracted position and an extended position while remaining coupled to the casing. The tool element lays parallel to the central axis of the flashlight and protrudes beyond the front of the flashlight when in its extended position. A locking mechanism is provided for selectively locking the tool element into its extended position. As such, the tool element can be locked into an extended position in front of the flashlight or retracted back into a stored position along the casing of the flashlight.
US07641353B2	Light attachment A light attachment for fastening to a carrier structure including a light source (4), a battery (5) and a light source controlling switch (23) comprising a casing (1) with a front side and a rear side and including a head portion (16) with a first opening (17) for the light source (4) in the front side and an elongated body portion with a second opening for a switch actuating arm in the front side and further comprising a removable elastic sleeve (6) for surrounding at least partially the elongated body and the carrier structure to urge and fasten the rear side of the casing (1) to the carrier structure.
US07641348B2	Integrated portable computer projector system An integrated portable computer projector system comprises an image projector integrally couplable to a computer device.
US07641347B2	Multilayer control of gobo shape A control of gobos defend by records in the gobo. The gobos are formed by menued shapes.
US07641346B2	Method and apparatus to increase the contrast ratio of the image produced by a LCoS based light engine A transmissive LCD is placed in optical series with pixels of an image. The transmissive LCD is set to full transmissivity when bright pixels of the image pass through the transmissive LCD. Transmissivity is decreased where pixels darker than a darkening threshold pass through the transmissive LCD. A darkening curve representative of an amount of darkening performed by the transmissive LCD provides an amount of darkening to be performed on each pixel. Preferably, the darkening curve gradually darkens pixels more as the pixels themselves are darker. The darkening curve may be implemented as a formula or a look-up table in software or drive electronics that energize the transmissive LCD. Both the darkening threshold and the darkening curve may be user selectable.
US07641338B2	Fundus observation device Image forming part 220 forms a 2-dimensional image of the surface of the fundus oculi Ef (fundus oculi image) and a tomographic image of the fundus oculi Ef. The fundus oculi image 212a and the tomographic image Ga captured at the first examination time and the fundus oculi image 212b and the tomographic image Gb captured at the second examination time are stored in an image storage part 212. Position information generating part 214 generates the position information 213a indicating the position of the tomographic image Ga in the fundus oculi image 212a and the position information 213b indicating the position of the tomographic image Gb in the fundus oculi image 212b. The generated position information 213a and 213b are stored in information storage part 213. Image processing part 230 adjusts the position between the tomographic images Ga and Gb based on such position information 213a and 213b.
US07641334B1	Earplug apparatus The ear protection apparatus is provided as ear protection with various means of attachment to existing eyeglasses and also as ear protection including eyeglasses. Various embodiments provide multiple means for multiply adjustable positioning of the ear protection. Multiple plane adjustments are provided, with flex tubes with memory comprising a part of those adjustments. Refined earplug design provides for relaxed fit to a variety of ear sizes and shapes.
US07641333B2	Protective eyewear including auxiliary lenses An eyewear assembly includes an outer first frame, at least one outer first lens, an inner second frame, and at least one inner second lens. The assembly includes a mechanism for holding the first frame and first lens in front of a user's face. The second frame has a mechanism for attachment to the first frame, to hold the second frame between the user's eyes and the first lens. The at least one second lens is carried by the second frame. The second frame includes a first frame portion that mounts the second lens and a second frame portion overmolded onto the first frame portion defining portions of the outside surface area of the second frame. The first frame portion is of a relatively hard material and the second frame portion is of a relatively soft material. A shock-absorbing pad can be fit between the first and second frames.
US07641325B2	Non-conductive fluid droplet characterizing apparatus and method A fluid droplet characterizing apparatus and method includes a pressurized source of a non-conductive fluid in fluid communication with a nozzle channel and a characterization electrode. The pressurized source is operable to form a jet of the non-conductive fluid through the nozzle channel. At least one portion of the characterization electrode is electrically conductive and contactable with first portion and thereafter a second portion of the non-conductive fluid jet. The at least one electrically conductive portion of the characterization electrode is operable to transfer a first electrical charge to a region of the first portion of the non-conductive fluid jet and transfer a second electrical charge to a region of the second portion of the non-conductive fluid jet.
US07641322B2	Printing apparatus A printing apparatus includes: a common liquid chamber that stores electrically conductive liquid; plural liquid transfer paths extending from the common liquid chamber to a print medium; a liquid deriving and transferring unit that selectively derives liquid from the common liquid chamber to the plural liquid transfer paths and transfers liquid to the print medium; and a liquid transfer controlling unit that controls the liquid deriving and transferring unit. The liquid deriving and transferring unit has: plural electrodes respectively provided along the plural liquid transfer paths; a voltage applying unit that selectively applies a voltage to the plural electrodes; and an insulating film provided on surfaces of the plural electrodes and adapted to reduce, when the voltage applying unit applies a voltage to one of the electrodes, liquid repellency of a part corresponding to the one of the electrodes.
US07641320B2	Ink jet head and method of manufacture thereof An ink jet head has a plurality of first ink chambers (3) front end portions of which open at an end surface (A) of the substrate and rear end portions of which are blocked, and a plurality of second ink chambers (4) front end portions of which open at an end surface (B) on the opposite side to the end surface (A) and rear end portions of which are blocked. Furthermore, this ink jet head has electrodes formed upon inner walls of the first ink chambers (3) and the second ink chambers (4), a first common ink chamber (6) formed between the rear end portions of the second ink chambers (4) and the end surface (A) and communicated with the first ink chambers (3), and a second common ink chamber (7) formed between the rear end portions of the first ink chambers (3) and the end surface (B) and communicated with the second ink chambers (4). And this ink jet head has a nozzle plate covering the first ink chambers (3) and the second ink chambers (4), and having nozzle holes formed to correspond to those ink chambers.
US07641319B2	Driving device and driving method of a liquid drop ejecting head, and liquid drop ejecting device There is provided a driving device of a liquid drop ejecting head, includes: a piezoelectric element for causing expulsion of liquid drops from an ejector which ejects liquid drops, a first electrode of the piezoelectric element being connected to a predetermined voltage; a switching section connected to a second electrode of the piezoelectric element, and able to switch among three states which are a charging state of the piezoelectric element, a discharging state of the piezoelectric element, and an open state; and a control section controlling switching of the switching section in a cycle which is shorter than a charging time or a discharging time of the piezoelectric element by the switching section.
US07641311B2	Ink jet print head and manufacturing method thereof An ink jet print head includes a print element substrate having an ink ejection energy generator, a support substrate to support the print element substrate, and an ultraviolet light and heat combination setting adhesive bonding the print element substrate to the support substrate. A bonding surface of the support substrate on which the print element substrate is supported is formed with an ultraviolet light reflection prevention surface that prevents a reflection of ultraviolet light.
US07641307B2	Maintenance device used for cleaning a print head of an ink cartridge A maintenance device used for cleaning a print head of an ink cartridge includes a housing including a stopper, and a wiper holder installed inside the housing in a rotatable manner. The wiper holder includes a gear. The maintenance device further includes a wiper fixed on the wiper holder, and a sled installed on the housing in a slidable manner. The sled includes a rack geared with the gear of the wiper holder for driving the wiper holder to rotate when a carrier of the ink cartridge pushes the sled. The maintenance device further includes a lock lever pivoted to the sled for wedging the stopper so as to fix the sled, and a first elastic component connected to the housing and the sled for pulling the sled when the lock lever departs from the stopper.
US07641306B2	Wiper blade member for ink jet recording head, ink jet recording apparatus having wiper blade and ink jet recording method A wiper blade member can maintain a high water repellency even for a pigment ink. The wiper blade member, which can eliminate a deposit on an ink discharge face of an ink jet recording head, is made water repellent by a condensate of a fluorine-containing hydrolysable compound. The condensate increases a fluorine content significantly and shows a strong adhesion to a substrate (blade) by the presence of the hydrolysable group. The condensate strongly adheres to the substrate by a condensation reaction only by hydrolysis, but the adhesion can be further improved by photo- or thermocuring. The curing reaction can be executed at a relatively low temperature, without causing damage to the blade constituting the substrate.
US07641304B2	Printhead maintenance system comprising foaming system and foam transport assembly A printhead maintenance system for maintaining a printhead in an operable condition is provided. The maintenance system comprises: (a) a printhead having an ink ejection face; (b) a foaming system for providing a liquid foam on the face; and (c) a foam transport assembly comprising: a transfer surface for receiving the foam or a collapsed foam from the face and a transport mechanism for feeding the transfer surface through a transfer zone and away from the printhead. The transfer zone is adjacent to and spaced apart from the face.
US07641303B2	Drop emitting apparatus A drop emitting apparatus including a manifold, a viscoelastic structure acoustically coupled to the manifold, and a plurality of drop generators fluidically coupled to the manifold.
US07641298B2	Heat-insulated wall A heat-insulated wall has two outer covering layers which are disposed at a distance from one another and are constructed at least substantially vacuum-tight. The two outer covering layers are connected to one another in a vacuum-tight manner by a connecting profile that runs along their contour and has a U-shaped cross section. The two outer covering layers together with the connecting profile enclose an intermediate space that can be evacuated and filled with an evacuable heat insulating material. At least one tubular bushing for cables or the like runs through the intermediate space. The bushing connects apertures to one another that are formed the spaced-apart outer covering layers. The tubular bushing is provided on its two end sections with a flange-shaped expanded and flattened region by which the bushing is fixed in a vacuum-tight manner on the mutually facing inner sides of the two outer covering layers.
US07641297B2	Rack mountable to a computer cabinet without using a tool The present invention discloses a rack mountable to a computer cabinet without using a tool, and the rack includes a slide module and a latch element, and the slide module includes an adjusting element and a latch element. The latch element includes at least one hook extended horizontally and at least one protruding pillar proximate to the hook. During installation, the hook is latched into a positioning hole of the computer cabinet, and a turning member of the latch element is turned to extend the protruding pillar deep into the positioning hole, so that the hook will not be separated from the positioning hole when the protruding pillar is pressed. On the other hand, users simply need to return the turning member to its original position to separate the protruding pillar from the positioning hole, so as to disassemble the rack.
US07641295B2	Foldable host unit case for a computer with joint mechanisms A foldable host unit case for a computer with joint mechanisms includes four holding posts and the upper ends of the holding posts connect with a neighboring holding post with first foldable connecting rods and second foldable connecting rods respectively. The lower ends of the holding posts are joined to four ends of a cross connecting rod set such that the holding posts are capable of being extended to constitute a firm structure. Hence, the host unit case is capable of being extended conveniently and quickly and being folded conveniently to reduce the volume thereof during being packaged.
US07641288B1	Omni-directional wheel design for construction cost reduction This invention relates generally to an apparatus design that minimizes fabrication and assembly costs for an omni-directional wheel.
US07641286B2	Plough guide for a chain-pulled plough A plough guide trough for plough guides of chain-drawn coal ploughs, comprising two superposed chain guide ducts separated by an integrally cast sliding spacer member, with a top guide strip, a bottom guide beam and a bottom slideway for guiding the plough. The top chain guide duct is covered by a front wall comprising the guide strip and merging into the guide beam and a slot lead-through for a plough guiding hook or plough knife is formed between the guide beam and the slideway. Pockets in the front wall receive a toggle coupling for neighboring plough guide troughs, wherein the front wall, the guide strips, the guide beam, the pockets and a back wall comprising the slideway form a one-piece casting extending over the length of the plough guide trough.
US07641280B2	Head rest device When a pressure receiving plate provided at a seat back moves to a rear side of a vehicle body when a vehicle is collided from behind, a Bowden cable transmits movement of the pressure receiving plate to a headrest ascending mechanism as a tensile load, thereby quickly ascending a headrest to reliably hold a head of an occupant. The Bowden cable transmits only the tensile load, and hence the Bowden cable is not buckled. Reduction in weight is made possible as compared with the case using a rod for transmitting a compression load. Since the Bowden cable is light, it is not required to unreasonably place the pressure receiving plate at a position near the headrest ascending mechanism for reduction in weight, and hence the pressure receiving plate can be placed at the optimal position where a sufficient driving force is obtained at the time of collision. Thus, a headrest is ascended with favorable responsiveness upon a rear-end collision of a vehicle while using a thin transmission member with low rigidity.
US07641279B1	Storage compartment for a chair A storage compartment and method of locking the storage compartment to an arm rest of a chair are provided. The storage compartment may include a housing having a cavity for receiving articles and a cover movable relative to the housing between a closed position and an open position. Openings may be defined in opposing sides of at least one of the housing and the cover for receiving an arm rest of a chair. The storage compartment may also include a locking mechanism moveable between a locked condition and an unlocked condition such that the housing and cover can be positioned around an arm rest of a chair and the locking mechanism can prevent removal of the storage compartment from the arm rest.
US07641276B1	Frame structure for a foldable chair A frame structure for a foldable chair comprises a front interconnecting supporting unit, a rear interconnecting supporting unit, a lateral interconnecting supporting unit, an armrest unit, a seat supporting unit, an armrest unit, and a transverse supporting rod. The front interconnecting supporting unit is installed with a front leg unit, a crisscrossed supporting unit. The rear interconnecting supporting unit comprises a rear leg unit, an arc-shaped supporting unit of which one end of each section is curved in shape. Each of the lateral interconnecting supporting unit includes two board members pivotally crisscrossed connected with each other between the front and rear leg unit. Beneath the armrest unit, a gliding rod is extending along thereof and a connecting joint is protruding there from. The transverse supporting rod is formed with a connecting plate, a rod and a connecting joint.
US07641272B2	Vehicle body structure A vehicle body structure includes a roof panel, a front structural support member and an optional extension member. The front structural support member includes a first A-pillar attachment end, a second A-pillar attachment end, a front edge extending between the first and second A-pillar attachment ends and a rear edge extending between the first and second A-pillar attachment ends. In a first configuration, the roof panel attaches to the front edge and also to another region of the front structural support member. In a second vehicle configuration, the extension member is attached a rear edge of the front structural support member and extends to a position on the roof panel that is located vertically above the front structural support member when the front structural support member is in an installed orientation.
US07641269B2	Vehicular body structure In a vehicular body structure, left and right front pillars are provided closer to the longitudinal centerline of a vehicle than left and right corner sections of a compartment of the vehicle. First corner window (26) provided adjacent to one of the left and right front pillars (13) which is more remote from a driver's seat (24) has a greater opening area than a second corner window (25) provided adjacent to the other of the left and right pillars (11) which is closer to the driver's seat.
US07641268B2	Assembly of a bodywork part and a headlight glass for a motor vehicle In an assembly of a bodywork part and a headlight glass for a motor vehicle that cooperate by elastic deformation, the headlight glass has an outline designed to be engaged in an opening in the bodywork part. The opening is defined by an outline in the bodywork part that is substantially complementary to the outline of the headlight glass. At least part of the outline of the bodywork part cooperates with the outline of the headlight glass by elastic deformation.
US07641266B2	Central pillar and ducting for automotive vehicle An automotive vehicle is provided having a vehicle body with a passenger compartment between a vehicle floor, a vehicle roof and side pillars. A pair of passenger seats are oriented within the passenger compartment with a center console mounted therebetween. A central structural pillar extends from the center console to the vehicle roof for supporting a central region of the vehicle roof. A ducting assembly is provided with a central duct extending upward from the center console adjacent to the pair of passenger seats and in fluid communication with a heating and cooling system. An outlet port is provided on the central duct for directing the air to the seating row.
US07641265B2	Vehicle window assembly with horizontal slider A flush-flush horizontal vehicle window assembly is provided that includes a sliding panel with guide pins, formed with a load-bearing shoulder, on sliding panel corners, and a frame defining a window opening. The frame is attached to two fixed panels. Upper/lower tracks are attached above/below the window opening. Each track has a leading and a trailing guide path formed through a surface of the respective tracks, where the pins partially project into the guide paths and where load-bearing shoulder surfaces smoothly and reliably slide on the track surfaces. Each leading guide path is “S” shaped and each trailing guide path is shaped in a perpendicular manner at one end, which causes the sliding panel to smoothly enter and seal the window opening in a flush manner. An aesthetically pleasing flush-flush slider results when the sliding panel is in the plane of the window opening and further in the plane of the outer vehicle body panel.
US07641261B2	Extended travel sliding door mechanism A sliding door moves between a closed position and an open position over a vehicle opening. A track is mounted along the vehicle and extends to a remote end. The length of the track is less than the distance traveled by the sliding door. A door bracket mounted to the sliding door has a slot extending parallel to the track with first and second ends. A roller bracket has rollers received by the track and is movable between a first position proximate the opening and a second position at the remote end of the track. The roller bracket includes a pin slidably received in the slot to shift between the first and second ends of the slot. The pin is pivotally retained at the first end of the slot when the sliding door is closed. The pin is retained at the second end when the sliding door is open.
US07641260B2	Power supply apparatus for sliding door A power supply apparatus for a vehicular sliding door is provided, including a power supply line electrically coupled to a power supply; a power supply line protector including a rectangular-shaped case and disposed in the vehicular sliding door, in which the power supply line is housed in a bent state; a power supply line path in the case which controls the bent line; a slider received in, and slidable along, a length of the case; an extension spring by which the slider is urged toward one end side of the case; and a slit-shaped opening in an underside of the case; wherein a side portion of the line is drawn out through the slit-shaped opening and secured to a vehicle body side; and wherein a power supply line portion, which has been drawn out from another end side of the case, is connected to appliances inside the door.
US07641259B2	Rain shelter control system and method for doorway In a rain shelter control system for vehicular doorways, an electronic key ECU causes exterior signal transmitters to periodically transmit request signals. When a portable device receives the request signal in an arrival range of the request signals, the portable device generates a response signal responsive to the request signal. When a receiver receives the response signal from the portable device, the electronic key ECU operates to automatically open any of rain shelters near the portable device, so that a holder of the portable device and passengers fold their umbrellas under the opened rain shelters, so that they can get into a vehicle without being exposed to rain. Besides, the electronic key ECU operates to automatically open the rain shelter when they get off the vehicle.
US07641258B2	Convertible top and convertible A top for a convertible has a linkage with which a plurality of roof sections can be displaced between a closed position and an open position. The rearmost roof section is configured as a rear window frame, and the linkage has a control link which is mounted pivotally on a bracket which can be fastened or is fastened to the vehicle. The linkage has a clamping hoop and a coupling linkage for controlling the kinematics of the rear window frame, said coupling linkage having a front coupling link and a rear coupling link which are mounted pivotally on the clamping hoop and on the rear window frame. In order to stabilize the top in its end positions, for the rear coupling link, there is formed on the clamping hoop a front stop against which the rear coupling link bears when the top is closed, and a rear stop against which the rear coupling link bears when the top is open.
US07641257B2	Seating arrangement A seating arrangement is provided in a vehicle to enable a wheelchair occupier to be carried safely in the vehicle, whilst having only a minimal effect on the total number of passengers that can be carried. The seating arrangement includes two adjacent seats, one adjacent the side of the vehicle and the other adjacent the aisle of the vehicle. The seat adjacent the side of the vehicle can be moved from a first position to a second position in which a clear space exists on the side of the second seat which is remote from the aisle. The second seat has a seat squab which is moveable to a position in which the seat squab does not obstruct the space in front of the back-rest of the seat, and the second seat is moveable laterally towards the side of the vehicle and axially of the vehicle.
US07641253B2	Adjustable shelving system for vehicles Adjustable storage units for a vehicle and a method for providing such units are disclosed. The storage units generally include opposing end panels connected by a connecting member along the rear of the end panels. One or more shelf supports are releasably connected to the inner surface of the end panels only through apertures in the end panels. Shelves and/or drawer systems are made from polymer materials are then disposed between the end panels. The end panels may also be made of polymer materials. The storage units are adjustable or reconfigurable by removing the shelves or drawers and repositioning the shelf supports or drawer supports as desired.
US07641251B1	Collapsible truck rack and method of use A collapsible truck rack that can be assembled and disassembled easily without the use of tools. The rack can be stored in the interior periphery of the truck bed so as not to appreciable diminish the capacity of the truck bed for the placement therein of items to be transported. The rack does not increase the profile of the vehicle when in the collapsed position and therefore reduces drag during transport. An X-load is added to reduce shift of the load during turns. An optional brace can be bolted to the top surface of the periphery of the truck bad. An optional canvas cover can be used to cover the collapsed rack to secure and protect the rack when not in use.
US07641250B2	Body molding with integral lock for a vehicle A body molding with integral lock feature that is located within a channel formed in a body of a vehicle includes an elongated cover portion that is generally planar, with opposed side edges, an upper surface and a lower surface and opposed side edges. A retention member projects radially from the lower surface of the cover portion. The retention member includes at least two links interconnected via a joint, and each link is formed from a thermoplastic material having a predetermined link durometer. The joint is made from a thermoplastic material having a predetermined joint durometer. The link durometer is greater than the joint durometer, so that the retention member has a first predetermined shape prior to installation in the channel and a second predetermined shape after installation in the channel, to maintain the retention member in the channel via interference contact between a contacting joint and the channel.
US07641245B2	Vehicle rear structure A vehicle rear structure is provided. The structure includes: a bumper reinforcement disposed such that the length direction thereof extends along a vehicle width direction; a bumper cover provided at a vehicle rear side of the bumper reinforcement; a reflector provided on the bumper cover such that a functional reflecting portion thereof is disposed directed towards the bumper reinforcement; and a reflector protecting member provided in the bumper reinforcement, including a bumper cover abutting portion that abuts the bumper cover during a vehicle rear collision, and a reflector accommodating portion capable of accommodating the reflector with a space when the bumper cover abuts the bumper cover abutting portion.
US07641238B2	Vehicle wheel fender flap To provide a wheel fender flap that is less susceptible to swinging during the use thereof and capable of retaining an appealing feature, the wheel fender flap arranged to confront a vehicle wheel, includes a generally elongated flap body supported by a vehicle body structure and a reinforcement member separate from the flap body, but used to increase the rigidity of the flap body.
US07641235B1	Vehicle hitch attachable transporting dolly A transporting dolly attachable to a vehicle includes a metal frame having a base with a top surface and a bottom surface mounted on opposed peripheral side brackets, a peripheral front bracket and a peripheral rear bracket. A center support member and outer support members are secured to the bottom surface of the base. The center support member is integrally formed as a hitch connector to engage with a conventional trailer hitch receiver. The top surface of the base provides an area to carry cargo. Swivel jacks are mounted on the frame to allow the frame to be raised and lowered, and additionally provide means to move the dolly with an attached demountable handle.
US07641233B2	Occupant restraint device and occupant restraint system An occupant restraint system which is activated instantaneously at an vehicle accident to protect an occupant's body against a disaster. An occupant restraint system (A) is provided on the back (1a) of a seat (1) with a shoulder top restraint device (4) for restraining the right shoulder portion of the occupant (2). The occupant restraint system (A) is provided on the side portion of the back (1a) of the seat (1) with a shoulder side restraint device (5A), which includes: a motor (12) adapted to be actuated by a sense signal of a motor vehicle accident; an instantaneous turning mechanism unit (13) driven by the motor (12); bifurcated arms (14A) mounted on the instantaneous turning mechanism unit (13); and a shoulder receiving portion (15A) mounted on the other ends of the bifurcated arms (14A) for protecting the shoulder side (3b) of the body of the occupant (2).
US07641230B2	Extended fill inflation apparatus Disclosed are methods, systems, and apparatus for inflating airbags. In one embodiment, an initiator is deployed to open an exit gas port, through which the airbag is inflated. The airbag is primarily inflated via gas from a first gas chamber and is substantially maintained in an inflated state for a predetermined period of time primarily via gas from a second gas chamber. In one embodiment, an airbag inflator is provided which comprises a first gas chamber, a second gas chamber, and an intermediate chamber assembly. The intermediate chamber assembly comprises a first gas port positioned adjacent to and in fluid communication with the first gas chamber and a second gas port positioned adjacent to and in fluid communication with the second gas chamber. The inflator is configured to allow a greater flow rate of gas through the first gas port upon deployment than through the second gas port.
US07641229B2	Seat control structure for occupant classification systems An occupant classification system is provided based upon the use of an array of electrical switches arranged between a seat trim and a reactive surface. The switches produce selective outputs signals as an engaging surface makes contact with one or more of the switches when an occupant occupies the seat. The output signals are interpreted into a control signal to distinguish between occupants for controlling an inflatable restraint system. The occupant classification system also includes a control structure which defines a distance between the array of switches and the engaging surface that is greater than zero when the seat is unoccupied so that the switches are insensitive to the initial forces applied to the seat through the seat trim. The distance between one or more of the switches and the engaging surface decreases to zero when the occupant occupies the seat to produce the selective output signals.
US07641223B2	Knee airbag apparatus for a motorized vehicle A supplemental inflatable restraint system (SIR) is provided for use with a vehicle having a passenger compartment with an instrument panel at a forward end therein. The SIR includes a cavity having an opening formed in a lower portion of the instrument panel. An inflatable cushion is operable to transition through the opening from a non-expanded state, in which the cushion is inside the cavity, to an expanded state, in which the cushion is substantially outside the cavity. A fluid dispensing apparatus is operable to regulate transition of the cushion from the non-expanded state to the expanded state. A hush panel is attached to the lower portion of the instrument panel such that the panel is not visible to a vehicle occupant seated upright and adjacent thereto. The hush panel is configured to cover the opening, and is characterized by the absence of an outer surface with an appearance finish.
US07641221B2	Impact absorbing airbag inflator An impact absorbing airbag module is disclosed. The module includes a chassis that holds an inflator, and is connected to a mounting system. The chassis includes a forward side wall, a first lateral side wall, a second lateral side wall, and a rear side wall. One of the side walls includes a deforming zone that includes a first angled portion and a second angled portion. In some cases, the deforming zone extends around the periphery of the chassis.
US07641220B2	Airbag fold bracket An airbag system in a motor vehicle including one or more inflatable airbags and at least one airbag fold bracket configured to indicate the location of at least one airbag fold of the inflatable airbag. The airbag fold bracket may also be configured to maintain the position and shape of the airbag fold of the inflatable airbag while in the undeployed state. Furthermore, the airbag fold bracket may be configured to adjust and tune the deployment of the inflatable airbag.
US07641219B2	Arrangement for fixing the gas generator of an air bag unit An arrangement for fixing a gas generator of an air bag unit. The gas generator is securely fixed in the generator chamber and both radial and axial tolerances, in particular of the gas generator, are compensated using a plate-like, spring-elastic fastening element that is pressed in the area of the end of the gas generator lying opposite the fixed bearing between the outer circumference thereof and the inner circumference of the generator chamber axially projecting through the gas generator. After the pressing in, the fastening element is arched into the generator chamber in the axial direction in a section between the outer wall of the gas generator and the inner wall of the generator chamber in the axial direction.
US07641213B1	Bicycle training wheel assembly having a tension adjustable function A training wheel assembly for a bicycle includes an upright support bracket mounted on a frame, a first pivot arm pivotally mounted on the support bracket, a training wheel rotatably mounted on the first pivot arm, a second pivot arm pivotally mounted on the support bracket, and an adjusting mechanism mounted between the first pivot arm and the second pivot arm to adjust a movable allowance or relative position between the first pivot arm and the second pivot arm. Thus, each of the training wheels is movable upward to leave the ground or downward to contact the ground so that the user needs not to remove the training wheels from the frame of the bicycle when not in used, thereby facilitating the user operating the training wheel assembly.
US07641209B2	Vehicle conversion assembly and method of converting a vehicle A conversion assembly for enabling or improving wheelchair accessibility to a front-wheel-drive vehicle, wherein said assembly comprises rear suspension mountings for fixing to the structure of the vehicle in place of an existing rear suspension such that a portion of a floorpan of the vehicle of sufficient width to accommodate the width of a wheelchair can be lowered between said rear suspension mountings. A method of converting a front-wheel-drive vehicle to enable or improve wheelchair accessibility to the vehicle, the method including the steps of removing an existing rear suspension from the vehicle, installing rear suspension mountings to the vehicle, one at each side of the structure of the vehicle, and lowering a portion of the floorpan of the vehicle between said rear suspension mountings.
US07641208B1	Vehicle roll control system with self-centering actuator A system is disclosed for controlling the roll of a motor vehicle. The system comprises a selective lock connected between an unsprung portion of the vehicle and a sprung portion of the vehicle.
US07641207B2	Front suspension and steering system for cycles and motorcycles without tilting of the front wheels The present invention offers a front suspension and steering system for cycles and motorcycles. A mainframe with two front wheels and one rear wheel, the front wheels have flat surface tires, a 2-axial hub, having a wheel axle to support the two front wheels and a tilting axis below the wheel axle, a steering arm, having a tilting axle, the tilting axle can rotate in the tilting axis when the steering arm is tilting, the steering arm is connected to the mainframe by two wish bones and can rotate in the steeling axis. During turning, the body and the rear wheel are tilting to the side of turning to keep the center of gravity on the side of turning to balance the centrifugal force, but the front wheels and the 2-axial hub do not tilt, such that it is more stable and safe during turning.
US07641202B1	End effector with moveable jaw assembly to manipulate an article Apparatus for manipulating an article, such as a cutting tool. A moveable jaw member includes first and second inclined surfaces, with the second inclined surface being substantially parallel to the first inclined surface and non-parallel to a central axis. A support structure provides stationary first and second guide surfaces along which the respective first and second inclined surfaces contactingly move. This maintains the jaw member in a selected angular alignment with the central axis as the jaw member advances in a direction orthogonal to the central axis to engage a side of the article. A second jaw member is preferably provided so that the article is clamped between the first and second jaw members. A spring preferably biases the jaw members apart and resists inward movement thereof. A base surface advances along the central axis to contactingly advance and retract the jaw member(s).
US07641195B2	Sheet conveying apparatus and image forming apparatus The sheet conveying apparatus includes a first member configured to convey a sheet along a predetermined conveying path while holding the sheet, a second member configured to convey a sheet along the predetermined conveying path while holding the sheet, and a changing unit configured to change a first state in which the first member and the second member convey the same sheet along the predetermined conveying path and a second state in which the first member and the second member convey different sheets in the predetermined conveying path according to a length of a sheet along the predetermined conveying path.
US07641194B2	Drum for conveying a sheet A drum for conveying a sheet has a cohesive sheet-guiding surface provided at little effort or cost and includes a drum body, a jacket forming a circumferential surface and a device for fixing the jacket onto the drum body. The jacket is located above a gap formed in the drum body so as to extend parallel to a longitudinal axis. The device for fixing the jacket includes at least one tensioning body that acts on the jacket in the region of the gap and is adjustable in radial direction.
US07641191B2	Sheet conveying apparatus and image forming apparatus An oblique feeding roller and a reference guide are provided on a re-conveying path for conveying a sheet in which an image has been formed on one side by an image forming unit to the image forming unit again. The sheet is obliquely fed by the oblique feeding roller. A side edge of the sheet abuts to a reference surface provided for the reference guide along a sheet conveying direction, thereby correcting the oblique motion and a positional deviation of the sheet. The reference guide is moved to a position according to a length in a width direction of the sheet which is conveyed by a movement of a cam.
US07641187B2	Automatic sheet feeding apparatus and recording apparatus Automatic sheet feeding apparatus/recording apparatus include a feed roller 11 for feeding sheets out of a stack holding unit, a separation roller 12, in contact with the feed roller 11, for separating the sheets one by one; a return lever 13 for pushing back sheets to the stack holding unit and aligning them; and flanges 14 integrally turning with the feed roller; wherein the feed roller 11 and the return lever 13 do not overlap with each other but the flanges 14 and the return lever 13 do overlap in a side view during one turn of the feed roller 11. With the configuration, the apparatus can utilize the sheet conveying face of the feed roller longer and more effectively, and to eliminate the rush-in phenomenon, namely letting the tips of sheets enter deep into the feeding apparatus inadvertently at the time of setting the sheets into the sheet stack holding unit.
US07641186B2	Sheet feeding/conveying method and sheet feeding/conveying apparatus A sheet material feeding apparatus has a rotatable pressure plate for stacking sheet materials, a pickup roller for feeding the sheet material stacked on the pressure plate, a feed roller for feeding the sheet materials fed by the pickup roller and a separation roller contactable with the feed roller. A registration roller corrects oblique feeding of the sheet material by being abutted against the separated sheet material by the feeding roller and the separation roller, and after the registration roller rotates in synchronism with the pickup roller and the feed roller to start feeding the sheet material, pressure of the pressure plate against the pickup roller is released, and thereafter the feed roller and the separation roller are spaced apart from one another.
US07641185B2	Vacuum pick mechanisms A vacuum pick mechanism (100) for picking sheet media comprising control circuitry (126), a pump (110), a suction cup (106), a pick line (112) connecting the pump (110) to the suction cup (106), a pressure sensor (122) arranged to measure the pressure within the pick line (112) and a motor arranged to drive the pump, the control circuitry being arranged to receive the pressure measured by the pressure sensor and to control the motor to drive the pump such that a predetermined target pressure is measured by the pressure sensor.
US07641184B2	Image reading and recording apparatus In the image reading and recording apparatus, a separating and feeding unit, a paper end detecting unit, a reading unit, a conveying unit, and a recording unit are arranged in this order from the upstream of the conveying direction. The separating and feeding unit has a switching unit for selectively switching between a separating function of separating the uppermost one of stacked sheets and a feeding function of feeding each separated sheet at a predetermined speed. After a sheet is separated, switching from the separating function to the feeding function is carried out before the paper end detecting unit detects the top end of the sheet.
US07641182B2	Rigid jounce bumper and gas spring assembly including same A rigid jounce bumper includes a body and at least one support segment projecting axially from an end of the body. The rigid jounce bumper is formed from a substantially non-elastic material such that the rigid jounce bumper can support axially-applied loads without undergoing substantial axial deflection. The at least one support segment is capable of displacement relative to the body when under laterally-applied loads. A gas spring assembly having such a rigid jounce bumper is also included.
US07641181B2	Distributed power suspension system The present invention relates to a vibration control or vehicular suspension system. In one embodiment, the system uses a liquid spring filled with a compressible liquid. In such an embodiment, a suspension system, in addition to being able to change stiffness and damping properties, has the ability to level a vehicle or other structure or device to a desired height and compensate the level height for the addition or subtraction of load. Further, the liquid spring can provide either spring force or both spring and damping forces.
US07641176B2	Tensioning tool and method for using same A tensioning tool for applying tension to string-like material includes a first member having a first handle section and a first engaging section opposite the handle section facing a first direction for receiving and engaging a first strand. A second member is pivotally connected to the first member and has a second handle section and a second engaging section opposite the second handle section. The second engaging section faces a second direction opposite the first direction for receiving and engaging a second strand, and moving the handle sections of the first and second members towards each other urges the first and second engaging sections apart. The first strand can be attached to the second strand so that when the first and second handle sections are moved toward each other the first and second engaging sections move away from each other thereby tensioning the first strand.
US07641175B1	Valve body and seal A valve body substantially symmetrical about a longitudinal axis has at least one internal space and comprises guide means and two separately formed portions joined by at least one cylindrical web. One or more passages spaced apart from the longitudinal axis allow fluid communication between at least one internal space and space external to the valve body. At least one internal space may be substantially filled with a substantially incompressible flowable substance to facilitate pressure equalization across the valve body. Forging or casting valve body portions to near-net-shape prior to joining minimizes machining necessary to achieve a final desired shape. Increased valve durability and reduced metal wear arise from reduced valve body weight and correspondingly reduced impact loading as the valve body moves to seal against a valve seat. Valve sealing may be aided by an elastomeric seal in a peripheral integral seal retention groove of the valve body.
US07641174B2	Dome check valve A valve comprising an inlet housing, an outlet housing, an elastomeric valve element having a generally dome-shaped configuration with a central integral stem positioned substantially concentrically therewith, the inlet housing and outlet housing being fastened together at a joint with the elastomeric valve element positioned therein and the valve element including a plurality of longitudinal ribs formed along an outer annular periphery of a lower end of the dome-shaped configuration that define flow channels that allow fluid flow from across an upper surface of the dome-shaped configuration through the flow channels.
US07641173B2	Faucet with automatic temperature control and method Embodiments of the present invention provide a faucet having a first sensing arrangement adapted to detect a presence of one or more objects, in a first predetermined region, and adapted to turn a fluid flow on when the one or more objects is present, and further adapted to turn the flow off when the object is removed. Embodiments also include a second sensing arrangement adapted to detect a presence and/or a movement of one or more objects, in a second predetermined region and adapted to adjust a temperature of the fluid based on the presence, or movement of the one or more objects.
US07641168B2	Mould for aluminothermic welding of railway rails, at least one of which is worn This present invention concerns a mold for the aluminothermic welding of railway rails. The compressible lining (58) used to seal the molding die in relation to leakages of the weld metal in the liquid state is limited to the parts of the contact surfaces (52) of the parts (19) of the mold on the rails to be welded, corresponding to the bottom, the sides and the top of the foot, to the sides of the web and below the head. The rigid refractory material of the parts (19) is exposed in the parts (67, 71) of the contact surfaces corresponding to the sides and the top of the head, and suitable to be removed selectively from the latter. This makes it easy to adapt the mold to rails with different degrees of wear.
US07641164B2	Power seat slide apparatus for vehicle A power seat slide apparatus for a vehicle includes a first rail adapted to be fixed to a vehicle floor, a second rail adapted to be fixed to a vehicle seat and slidably supported relative to the first rail, a screw shaft screwed to a nut member which is fixed to the first rail, the screw shaft including an end portion and a stepped portion, a washer engaged with the stepped portion of the screw shaft, a gear member to which the end portion of the screw shaft is inserted, a fastening member provided at the end portion of the screw shaft, and a gear box fixed to an end of the second rail. The gear box includes a support bracket, a gear housing, and a plate. The stepped portion of the screw shaft is arranged in such a manner that the washer is connected thereto in the gear housing.
US07641153B2	Directed energy off-body heating for supersonic vehicle shockwave and sonic boom control Methods and apparatus for suppressing noise. The present invention provides a method that includes directing a laser at a first volume of gas and directing microwave radiation to a second volume. The method includes selecting the location of the second volume so that it is overrun by a shockwave system of a supersonic vehicle. Preferably, the directing of the radiation is from a vehicle that flies at high altitude and is of practical length (e.g., 100-400 feet or more). The radiation may be pulsed and steered. The present invention also provides a system including a laser and microwave antenna for controlling the noise of a supersonic vehicle. The laser is directed at a first volume while the antenna is pointed at a second volume that envelops the first volume. The location of the second volume is such that it will be overrun by the shockwave system of the vehicle.
US07641151B2	Electric sail for producing spacecraft propulsion A spacecraft propulsion system includes a plurality of wires (102) or other electrically conductive elongated members deployed from a main body (101) into respective radial directions. An electric potential generator (605) generates an electric potential on board the main body (101). The electric coupling between the electric potential generator (605) and the elongated members is controlled (604) so that all or some of the elongated members (102) assume a high positive potential. An auxiliary propulsion system (203) rotates the main body around a rotational axis (502) that is perpendicular to the radial directions, thus creating a centrifugal supporting force to the elongated members.
US07641150B2	Solid propellant-based space propulsion device Disclosed is a space propulsion device capable of continuous operation using a solid propellant having high density and excellent handleability. The solid propellant-based space propulsion device comprises solid-propellant support means for supporting a solid propellant, a solid-propellant attachment surface for permitting the solid propellant to be attached thereon, solid-propellant feed means for feeding the solid propellant to an attachment position on the solid-propellant attachment surface, adhesion-energy supply means for heatingly melting or sublimating the solid propellant in the attachment position to adherently attach the solid propellant onto the solid-propellant attachment surface, solid-propellant transfer means for transferring the solid propellant to a release position for releasing the solid propellant, and propulsive-energy supply means for energizing the transferred solid propellant to release the solid propellant from the solid-propellant attachment surface at the release position, as a propulsive jet, while accelerating the solid propellant in a direction approximately perpendicular to the solid-propellant attachment surface. The solid-propellant transfer means is designed to move the solid-propellant attachment surface in such a manner that a area of the solid-propellant attachment surface for adherently holding the solid propellant is returned to a position adjacent to an end of the solid propellant in a repetitive manner.
US07641143B2	Web material dispenser A web dispenser comprising a housing for holding at least one roll of web material therein. A mandrel connects to the housing for maintaining at least one roll of web material thereon and facilitating the rotation of the roll of web material to dispense the web material from the roll. A mounting block is affixed to the housing for mounting the housing to a wall at an acute angle relative to the wall. This results in the ergonomic presentation of web material to a stationary user.
US07641139B2	Clutch device for seatbelt retractor A quick acting clutch, the quick acting clutch comprising: a friction plate; a clutch plate movably mounted to the friction plate about a center of rotation of the friction plate and the clutch plate, the clutch plate being configured to rotate with respect to the friction plate; an actuator arm pivotally mounted to at least one of the friction plate or the clutch plate, the actuator arm being configured to amplify movement of a first end of the actuator arm and rotational movement of the friction plate relative to the clutch plate moves the first end of the actuator arm; and a lock pawl pivotally mounted to the clutch plate for movement between a locking position and an unlocking position, the lock pawl and a second end of the actuator arm each being configured to contact each other and rotational movement of the friction plate with respect to the clutch plate causes movement of the first end to be amplified at the second end such that the second end of the actuator arm and the actuator arm contacts the lock pawl and the lock pawl is moved from the locking position to the unlocking position.
US07641134B2	Method for isolating aleurone particles The invention relates to a method and device for separating a mixture made of particles of a first particle type and a second particle type, especially aleurone particles and shell particles made of comminuted bran, said particles being scarcely distinguishable in terms of size and density, into various types of particles. Separation occurs according to particle-type specific triboelectric charging of said particles in a first active area and subsequent separation of the differently charged moving particles in an electric field.
US07641132B2	Dispersion and aeration apparatus for compressed air foam systems A dispersion and aeration apparatus including a nozzle portion (11) having a first passage (14) having at least one inlet (15) and at least one outlet (16) for a first fluid, and a second passage (17) having at least one inlet (18) and at least one outlet (19) for a second material, the first passage outlets (16) located so that the first fluid mixes with the second material as it exits the second passage outlet (19) to aerate and disperse the second material in a predetermined direction.
US07641130B2	Methods and apparatus for optimizing aerosol generation with ultrasonic transducers The invention is an apparatus and methods for optimizing the performance and protecting one or more aerosol generating transducers from deterioration while operating in a chemically reactive aqueous solution by utilizing one or more protective barrier techniques to eliminate chemical interaction between the aqueous solution and the transducers. The method of the present invention produces an aerosol producing transducer with the transducer housing and assembly to be constructed in such a way as to assure its efficient and effective long-term and problem free operation in an aqueous solution that is chemically reactive.
US07641128B2	Rail brace assembly A rail brace assembly is adapted to buttress the head of a stock rail selected from one of two different stock rail groups mounted on the top surface of a brace plate. The assembly includes a stop block assembly also is affixed to the brace plate top surface. A rail brace moveable between a first brace position in which it buttresses the head of a rail from a first stock rail group and a second brace position in which it buttresses the head of a rail from a second stock rail group, has a pair of spaced side walls, a upwardly facing top surface, first rail group head and base fishing surface contact areas, second rail group head and base fishing surface contact areas, a first rail group brace plate contact surface and a second rail group brace plate contact surface. An elastic fastener cooperates with a clip housing to clamp the rail brace against the stock rail. When the rail brace is in the first brace position the first rail group head and base fishing surface contact areas engage the rail head and base fishing surface areas, the first rail group brace plate contact surface contacts the brace plate and the second rail group head fishing surface contact area engages the stop block assembly. When the rail brace is in the second brace position the second rail group head and base fishing surface contact areas engage the head and base fishing surfaces of the stock rail, the second rail group brace plate contact surface contacts the brace plate and the first rail group head fishing surface contact area engages the stop block assembly.
US07641124B2	Magnetic data recording device A Q-Chip MEMS magnetic device comprises a thin-film electronic circuit for implantation in the Track-2 area of a magnetic stripe on the back of a credit card. The Q-Chip MEMS magnetic device periodically self-generates new sub-sets of magnetic data that are to be read in combination with other magnetic data that is permanently recorded in the surrounding surface of the magnetic stripe. A collocated battery and microcontroller provide operating power and new data for magnetic bit updates. A swipe sensor triggers such updates by sensing electrical contact with a legacy card reader. Several thin-film coils of wire are wound end-to-end around a common, flat, ferrous core. These are driven by the microcontroller. In one instance, such core comprises “hard” magnetic material with a coercivity of 200-300 Oersteds. Magnetic data written from the corresponding adjacent coils will persist for later readings by a legacy card reader. In another instance, the core comprises “soft” magnetic material with a coercivity of about one Oersted. A media stripe of “hard” magnetic film material overlays respective coils to receive magnetic data transfers. Magnetic data written from the corresponding adjacent coils will persist in the overlaying hard media for later readings by a legacy card reader. In a data input mode, the thin-film coils can be used as readers to provide updates and new programming to the microcontroller.
US07641123B2	Method and apparatus for contactless interface on ICC supporting high speed interface An integrated circuit card includes a plurality of electrical contacts; and a memory to store information, the memory being allowed to communicate with a processor via the plurality of electrical contacts. One set of electrical contacts are allowed to be allocated by the processor to support an operation in at least one mode depending on a presence of a certain protocol mode detected by the processor. The integrated circuit card is operable in various modes including both contactless and high speed protocols, a contactless only without the high speed protocol and the high speed protocol only without the contactless protocol.
US07641122B2	Mobile device having an IC card function To provide a technology for making it possible to control enable/disable of an IC card function provided in a mobile device. A mobile device including an IC card unit for executing an IC card function, and a communication unit for carrying out communication through a radio telephone line detects a voltage of a battery unit for supplying an electric power to each of the IC card unit and the communication unit, judges whether or not the IC card function can be used in accordance with the detected voltage value, and issues an enable/disable instruction to the IC card unit in accordance with the Judgment results.
US07641121B2	Multi-protocol memory card According to some embodiments of the present invention, a multi-protocol non-volatile memory (“NVM”) card may include a NVM array, at least two protocol units, and a controller adapted to provide an external application access to the NVM array with the use of one of the protocol units. The controller or control logic may select which protocol unit to use based on a signal or other indicator of the protocol used by the external application. According to some embodiments of the present invention, a method of operating a multi-protocol memory card may include switching between a first and a second protocol or mode of the card based on a signal from an application attempting to access to the NVM card.
US07641120B2	System for embedding machine-readable information with fluorescent materials Disclosed is a system for embedding and recovering machine readable information on a substrate, including an image forming device containing at least two fluorescent marking materials, wherein the image forming device receives data representative of the machine readable information, and forms an image corresponding to the data in a machine readable code format with the at least two fluorescent marking materials on the substrate, and a document reading device including a radiation emitting unit that emits radiation effecting fluorescence of a first fluorescent marking material and/or second fluorescent marking material, and a reader that detects the data in the image on the image receiving substrate while the first fluorescent marking material and/or second fluorescent marking material is fluorescing.
US07641119B2	Bar code label sticker Bar code label sticker including a base having a first cutoff line for separating the base into two parts, and a sticker attached on the base, the sticker having a second cutoff line parallel to the first cutoff line at a position spaced a predetermined distance to one side from the first cutoff line, thereby permitting easy management of goods.
US07641118B2	Memory card socket using a dual-ported USB interface In order to greatly simplify the electronics of devices utilizing memory cards, a new type of interface specification is presented which is called DPXD for a “Dual Ported eXtended Digital” memory card. The DPXD interface specification comprises an electrical 5 signal set definition based upon a new dual USB concept call Dual Ported USB or DPUSB, a mechanical and electrical definition for a memory card socket, an associated memory card signal and mechanical specification for a memory card, and a mechanical definition for cables compatible with the DPXD socket.
US07641117B2	Data processing and communications device with interchangeable modules A portable, hand-held data terminal of modular structure includes a base module with a keyboard and a display screen. A data and communications module may be selected from a number of different data and communications modules, each having different types of data communications transceivers, or including in addition data collection devices, such as shelf label readers or bar code readers. The base module includes a microprocessor-controlled data communications and control interface having a predetermined protocol. To adapt the various types of data and communications modules for selection of any one thereof to become attached to the base module and function therewith, each of the data and communications modules includes a microprocessor operable to function as an emulator to interact with the microprocessor of the base module and communicate with the microprocessor of the base module in accordance with the protocol of the data communications and control interface of the base module.
US07641116B2	Vote by mail envelope An envelope for use in containing and authenticating a ballot is presented. The envelope has a containment region dimensioned to receive a ballot or other desired document in accordance with the particular application with which the envelope is used and has a pre-defined area on the back to carry the signature of a person such as a voter using the envelope to vote by mail. A flap portion outside the pre-defined area is used to seal the containment region. A window cover is substantially in registration with the pre-defined signature area to obscure the signature in a first operative configuration and to reveal the pre-defined signature area in a second operative and to re-obscure the signature area after the signature area has been revealed whereby the ballot remains sealed during the pre-defined signature area obscured, revealed and re-obscured configurations. The window cover is arranged for automatic removal by mechanical opening means for automated processing.
US07641112B2	Transaction card with seeds A financial transaction card includes a substantially biodegradable substrate, a plurality of seeds, and an account identifier. The plurality of seeds is coupled with the substantially biodegradable substrate such that the plurality of seeds is embedded within and substantially surrounded by the substantially biodegradable substrate. When the financial transaction card is inserted into a planting composition, the substantially biodegradable substrate decomposes leaving the plurality of seeds planted in the planting composition. The account identifier is securely connected to the substrate and links the substantially biodegradable substrate to a financial account. The account identifier is machine readable by a point-of-sale terminal. Stored-value card assemblies, methods of encouraging purchase and facilitating use of a stored-value card, and other embodiments are also disclosed.
US07641110B2	Real time prepaid transaction bidding Electronic transaction networks are described that are operable to find a pathway to complete an electronic data exchange for a prepaid transaction account. The networks may include an intermediary node, in electronic communication with a transaction point node where transaction information is input, and a plurality of processing nodes that can communicate with an account provider node that administers the prepaid transaction account. The intermediary node receives transaction data that may include an account identifier from the transaction point node, and identify one or more of the processing nodes that can form part of the pathway. The pathway may include the transaction point node, the intermediary node, at least one of the processing nodes, and the account provider node. In addition, the intermediary node may find the processing node that forms the pathway for the highest transaction commission when more than one of the processor nodes can form part of the pathway.
US07641108B2	Device and method to assist user in conducting a transaction with a machine A device for assisting a user to perform a transaction on a machine is described. The device receives data that specifies a transaction mode to use for processing an image and accesses a knowledge base to provide data to configure the device for the transaction mode, the data including data specific to the transaction mode. The device receives an image or images of a portion of a machine that the user will use to perform the transaction and processes the image or images to identify a pattern of controls on the machine and to detect the presence of a user-controlled pointing item over controls on the machine. The device announces to the user the name or function of the control closest to an end of the user-controlled pointing item.
US07641107B1	Fault monitoring and notification system for automated banking machines An automated banking machine includes a card reader operative to read data from user cards and to use the data read by the card reader in operation of the machine. Status messages are received from automated banking machines operating in a network. The messages are received by an event management system operating at least one computer in operative connection with a data store. The data store includes information representative of the banking machines in the network, status messages generated by the banking machines and actions to be taken including entities to be notified of conditions which cause status messages to be sent by the various banking machines.
US07641102B1	Private viewing case for I.D. cards and the like A private viewing case includes a rear wall that extends upward from a support surface and has an orthogonally extending bottom flange formed therewith that is removably fastened to the support surface. First and second coextensive stabilizing arms have a rear end attached to oppositely seated top rear wall edges and are orthogonally registered therewith. First and second privacy panels are abutted to exterior sides of the stabilizing arms and extend downwardly therefrom in such a manner that an inner space defined therebetween, and have rear edges adjoining the rear wall. A dome-shaped top cover is pivotally connected to the rear wall, has a front edge traversing between the stabilizing arms, and includes a polarizing filter that eliminates light from passing therethrough, preventing bystanders from seeing through the cover. The user's card is seated beneath the top cover and between the privacy panels thus prohibiting bystanders from acquiring sight thereof.
US07641101B2	Method of assembling a cooling system for a multi-component electronics system A cooling system assembly method including: providing a support fixture having a multi-level support surface and multiple positioning dowels extending therefrom; positioning multiple liquid-cooled cold plates on the support surface employing the multiple dowels, the dowels providing relative positioning and alignment of the cold plates for facilitating subsequent coupling thereof to electronic components to be cooled; sealing multiple coolant-carrying tubes in fluid communication with the cold plates; and sealing a header subassembly to the coolant-carrying tubes to provide an assembled liquid-based cooling system. In operation, the support fixture facilitates shipping of the assembled cooling system by maintaining the components in fixed relation. A transfer fixture is employed in removing the cooling system from the support fixture and placing the cooling system in engagement with the electronics system. The transfer fixture includes multiple clips engaging and holding components of cooling system in fixed relation when removed from the support fixture.
US07641100B2	Cold formed battery terminal A method and apparatus for cold forming a battery terminal having a base and an insert. The insert includes a first portion encapsulated within the base and a second portion that extends beyond a first side of the base.
US07641092B2	Swing gate for device lockout in a curved cutter stapler A linear surgical stapler adapted for applying a plurality of surgical fasteners to body tissue includes an anvil structure and a cartridge housing containing a plurality of surgical fasteners. The cartridge housing and anvil structure are relatively movable between a first spaced apart position and a second position in close approximation with one another. A firing mechanism is associated with the cartridge housing for ejecting the surgical fasteners from the cartridge housing to be driven against the anvil structure. A lockout mechanism interacts with the cartridge housing for selective activation and deactivation. The lockout mechanism includes a swing gate tab secured to the cartridge housing at a position adjacent a lockout lever, such that firing of the linear surgical stapler rotates the swing gate tab releasing the lockout lever for preventing further firing of the used cartridge housing.
US07641088B2	Nail gun with nail alignment adjustment device A nail gun includes a housing having a first locking element, an opposite second locking element, and a sliding groove, a safety mechanism including an actuation member in the sliding groove, the actuation member having an end nose, and a nail alignment adjustment mechanism including a lever pivotably secured to the housing, a spring having a first end secured to the other end of the lever and a second end affixed to the actuation member, and a spring-biased selector including a shank passing the lever, and a knob secured to the shank. Pivoting the knob from a first position to a second position will cause the nose to contact a first workpiece. Pivoting the knob from the second position to the first position will cause the nose to dispose above a second workpiece and align a nail with a through hole of the second workpiece.
US07641087B2	Dispensing device for adhesive tape A dispensing device for adhesive tape has a flat cylindrical base member with a coaxial axle element inside for the mounting of a roll of adhesive tape. A slit is provided along the wall of the cylindrical base member through which the tape is pulled out. On a section of the wall adjacent to the slit, a curved rectangular buckle is hinged to the wall, which can be flipped away from the slit to be held at an appropriate included angle with the wall. A cutting blade is provided along the outer edge of the buckle for cutting the tape while the end of the remaining tape is automatically adhered to the edge of the buckle. When the buckle is closed to the wall, the exposed segment of the tape is folded between the buckle and the section of wall.
US07641084B1	Adjustable clothes hanger and associated method An adjustable clothes hanger includes a hollow body provided with a chamber formed therein, first and second arms conjoined to the body and disposed exterior of the chamber, and a mechanism for slidably and linearly displacing the first and second arms along respective linear paths in such a manner that the first and second arms simultaneously extend and retract along opposed flanges of the body. The device further includes first and second hooks partially seated within the chamber and disposed along the flanges. Each of such first and second hooks has top ends terminating outwardly from the chamber and traversing respective travel paths of the first and second arms when the primary and secondary dials are rotated in corresponding directions such that the first and second arms are engaged and stopped from traveling therebeyond.
US07641082B2	Applicator for particulate matter An applicator for dry particulate matter has an operating module body having a handle and trigger. The applicator lacks a back-pack and particulate matter is instead stored in a flexible tube. A flow path in the body is partially blocked and fully opened by a battery operated reciprocating gate valve that can be operated by the trigger on the body's handle. The tube is long enough to pass around a user's neck when the operating module is held by a hand of the user's extended arm, so that the free end can be manipulated by the user's other hand. A microprocessor in the body is adapted to regulate the operation of the gate valve to adjust the quantity of particulate matter dispensed according to user inputs.
US07641080B2	Dispensing mechanism using long tubes to vary pressure drop A fountain-style carbonated soft drink dispenser includes a housing adapted to attach to a beverage container, an actuator for selectively opening a fluid conduit, and one or more long tubes that vary a pressure drop across the dispensing assembly and convey fluid. The resistance through the tube(s) is decreased as the pressure within the container decreases so as to maintain a substantially constant flow rate throughout dispensing.
US07641079B2	Aerosol can valve and cover assembly A cover and trigger assembly is provided that includes having a valve that can be actuated for dispensing the contents of the can through an outlet of the valve. The assembly includes an annular component having a helical surface is secured to the can, and a cover coupled to the annular component. The cover has an opening through which a trigger extends, and the cover is rotatable relative to the helical surface on the annular component for rotatably raising or lowering the cover relative to the annular component. The raising or lowering of the cover respectively prohibits or permits movement of the trigger member to actuate the valve, thereby controlling dispensing operation of the valve.
US07641070B2	Low cost spill-resistant cup for liquids The improved low cost Spill-Resistant Cup for storing and dispensing liquids resists spilling when shaken or vibrated suddenly. The improved cup has a scoop-like-baffle and a push tab that separates the body of the cup with the mouthpiece of the cover. An opening is created when the push tab is pressed and the push tab springs back to close the opening when the pressure is released. When the improved cup is tilted and the tab pushed down for pouring, such that the liquid level inside the storage chamber of the cup chamber is higher than the liquid level at the opening, no liquid pours out of the cup. The liquid starts to flow out of the mouth opening after the cup is tilted beyond a start-to-pour angle. The start-to-pour angle is reached when the cup is tilted permitting the outside air to pass through the opening of the scoop-like-baffle and into the storage chamber.
US07641069B2	Vacuum processing apparatus The invention provides a highly reliable plasma processing apparatus having stable sealing performance. The vacuum processing apparatus comprises a vacuum vessel having its inside decompressed; an opening disposed in a wall of the vacuum vessel for communicating the inside with the outside thereof and through which a sample to be processed is taken in and out; a valve body 701 disposed outside the wall for airtightly sealing or opening the opening; and a drive unit for driving the valve body to carry out the sealing or opening operation, the drive unit comprising a first member 705 coupled to an actuator 702 that moves along a substantially linear first direction as a result of operation of the actuator, a second member 706 coupled to the first member 705 that moves along a substantially linear second direction that intersects with the first direction, and the valve body 701 coupled to the second member that seals the opening as a result of the movement of the second member.
US07641068B2	Liquid hydrogen storage tank with common-access tube as port for pipes into the inner vessel A cryogenic storage tank having an insulated inner vessel disposed within an outer vessel. A common-access tube or conduit is used to route the various fluid flow lines into the interior of the inner vessel. The use of a common-access tube reduces the number of obstructions that the insulation must accommodate and facilitates the production of the storage tank.
US07641067B2	Trashcan having the ability to conform a trash bag A trash container that can conform a trash bag to the trash container's interior comprising a container having an interior surface for receiving a trash bag; a suction opening disposed in the container for allowing fluid communication between an interior and an exterior of the container when a suction force is applied to the suction opening; a conduit carried by the container's interior surface in fluid communication with the suction opening; a plurality of air channels extending between an interior air passage and an exterior of the conduit to allow air to flow into the interior air passage of the conduit; whereby, air may be drawn through the plurality of air channels into the interior air passage and evacuated through the suction opening, thereby causing the trash bag to conform to the interior surface when a suction force is applied to the suction opening.
US07641066B2	Collapsible container A collapsible container with latches provides a more consistent knockdown force in more situations. At least one of the engaging surfaces of the latch is curved outwardly toward the other engaging surface. This provides substantially tangential contact between the surfaces, even when the wall is deformed slightly by the knockdown force. The tangential contact provides consistent frictional force resisting the knockdown force.
US07641063B2	Modular rack conversion apparatus and method Some embodiments of the present invention provide structure that can be installed within a warehouse-type rack to convert the rack for use as a merchandise and display rack. In this manner, warehouse-type racks can be provided with a greater degree of adjustability to accommodate a larger number of shelving and product storage and display configurations. The structure installed within a warehouse-type rack can include secondary uprights connected to secondary front-rear stretchers. Preferably, the connections between the secondary uprights and the secondary front-rear stretchers are adjustable so that the secondary uprights can be secured in different positions within the warehouse-type rack. In some embodiments, the secondary uprights can be secured in different front-rear positions in the rack and/or can be secured in different vertical positions with respect to the secondary front-rear stretchers.
US07641062B2	Wire gripper and article suspension system A wire gripper having a gripping mechanism capable of gripping two wires at a desirable position thereof for suspending a heavy article without a rotation of the article around an axis of each wire is provided. The wire gripper (1) has an inner sleeve (10) and an outer sleeve (40). The inner sleeve (10) is formed with two wire-insertion bores (11) and two pairs of ball-set bores (21), each bore open at both the wire-insertion bores and an outer surface of the inner sleeve. And, the inner sleeve (10) has a tapered outer surface formed at a portion where the ball-set bores are formed. A spring 60 biases the inner sleeve (10) so that the tapered outer surface of the inner sleeve (10) contacts the tapered inner surface (41a) of the outer sleeve (40). Large-diameter balls (31) and small-diameter balls (31) are received in the ball-set bores (21) and protrude partially into the wire-insertion bores (11) so as to press the wire with three balls in the four balls.
US07641061B1	Retail hanger display system A retail display system for increasing density of merchandising of products, by using the otherwise unused space of existing display configurations. A hanger display configuration, which may hold vertical strip displays, is installed in such a manner as to adapt to a diverse range of product packaging and shelving fixture types, efficiently provide signage, pricing and scanning information, and to reduce theft. The hanger display configuration can be manufactured for a specific product and specific quantity of such product. Faceplates have clamps on the rear face for clamping the faceplates to seldom-used non-shelve portions of the rack display and other store fixtures, such as bars, stanchions, corners, etc.
US07641060B2	Modular, customizable window covering hardware system The window hardware system of the invention comprises a variety of different types of poles in different finishes, colors and styles. A variety of different types of finials are also provided in different colors, materials, styles and shapes. A variety of different types of separate collars are also provided where certain types of collars may match the color, style and finish of the poles. A connection mechanism is provided to connect the finial, collar and pole to one another such that any combination of finial, collar and pole can be assembled. The body of the finial can have a modular construction such that the finial can be assembled from a variety of components to create a custom look.
US07641059B2	Modular device for the support of casks A modular device for the support of casks includes a base structure on which the casks are supported in multiple rows and/or columns formed by at least two, substantially parallel bars, with specular form and geometry, with one end of each of the bars being fitted with a male joining element and the opposite end fitted with a complementary female joining element. Each bar includes at least one pair of upper facing support elements in the form of wedges with facing inclined surfaces, arranged with a mutual separation on the upper side of each of the bars so that they support a cask in a stable position, and at least one other pair of respective lower facing support elements, which are separated, but arranged on the lower side of the bar and in positions that are supported on a lower cask in use.
US07641056B2	Desktop organizer An embodiment of an organizer for a desk or other horizontal surface having an extending portion includes an elongated base assembly having a clamping member and a cover member for attaching to the extending portion, at least one fastening device for attaching the clamping member to the surface and for attaching the cover member to the clamping member, a pair of vertical supports adapted to be attached to the cover member and each support including a plurality of holes, and a plurality of horizontal accessory supporting rods extending from the slots in one of the vertical supports to the corresponding holes in the other vertical support.
US07641054B2	Composite semipermeable membrane, production process thereof, and element, fluid separation equipment and treatment method for boron-containing water using the same A composite semipermeable membrane, which comprises a separating functional layer comprising a reactant of polyfunctional amine with polyfunctional acid halide, wherein a water-soluble organic material is in contact with the separating functional layer, and the separating functional layer has a boron removal ratio of 95% or more, when seawater at 25° C. having a pH of 6.5, a boron concentration of 5 ppm and a TDS concentration of 3.5% by weight is permeated under an operation pressure of 5.5 MPa.
US07641050B2	Medicine pack The present invention relates to a novel type of medicine pack comprising a plurality of blister units (1), said blister units (1) each having a protective case (6), with a blister strip (4) located therein, the blister strip (4) being fixedly connected to the protective case (6), and the protective case being able to be unfolded or opened out, and also, if appropriate, an outer package (5, 5a) for receiving the blister units (1).
US07641049B1	Self-warming sanitary wipe apparatus A self-warming sanitary wipe apparatus comprising a container with lid, stepped lip, and seal across the lip. The container further comprises an indented outlet with overlapping leaves which prevent air incursion into the container. Specifically interactively folded wipes are housed within the container and are dispensed progressively from the outlet. The wipes are saturated with an emollient, a disinfectant, and a warming gel. The warming get provides and exothermic reaction when exposed to air, thereby self-warming the wipes.
US07641046B2	Water-resistant combination case for handheld electronic devices Combination case for providing a versatile protective case for a handheld device, such as a PDA. The combination case has a rigid inner shell that attaches to an outer shell with a mounting plate. The handheld device is inserted into the rigid inner shell, which is then attached to the rear panel of the outer shell. The rigid inner shell is a three-sided shell that holds the handheld device and allows free access to the LCD display and operational components on the device when the outer shell is open. A soft inner shell may be used instead of the rigid inner shell. This soft inner shell attaches to the outer shell with the mounting plate and provides a water-resistant enclosure for the device.
US07641044B2	Conveyor chain for travel way A conveyor chain for a travel way on which an operator and/or a work carriage are reliably moved in a nonskid manner. The conveyor chain has a series of modules, each with a nonskid material loaded upper surface with front and rear hinge portions for connecting the modules to each other by connecting pins. The nonskid material loaded upper surface has hollows with the hollow surfaces recessed below the upper surface. The upper surface includes a number of supporting ribs project upwardly from the hollow surfaces and terminate flush with the upper surface, so that the transfer of the work carriage is easy and a back bend radius is decreased. Miniaturization and simplification of the conveyor are attained.
US07641043B2	Loading and unloading apparatus The present invention provides a loading and unloading apparatus comprising in mutual cooperation a conveyor device (3) adjacent a roller table (2), where said conveyor device and roller table are pivotably mounted on a carrying structure (5), which structure, in use is vertically extendable and retractable.
US07641042B2	Drive chain or belt brush cleaner and method An inverted coil brush assembly is particularly useful for the cleaning of a chain or belt and the like as a hand tool or part of an apparatus through which the chain or belt moves. The inverted coil brush assembly has an open coil structure with a long lead and can easily be threaded on and removed from a belt or chain. The tool is sufficiently flexible that the axial hole (ID) through its center can be enlarged or contracted by axial elongation or compression of the tool. The tool and its method of application and use enable it to be used as a hand tool or as a component in a transmission for example. It may be adjusted manually or automatically. The tool preferably has a lead or space between adjacent coils of from about ¼ to 2 times or more the outside diameter (OD) of the coil. The OD to ID ratio may vary from our 2:1 to about 7:1. A preferred ratio is about 3:1.
US07641035B2	Roller stand An out-feed roller support stand having a sturdy, stable base that folds for compact storage. A support mast that telescopes into and is adjustable within the base supports a work support head that includes an adjustable cross bar on which a row of pivoting caster wheels are mounted. An alternative embodiment includes a ramp for guiding sagging ends of work-pieces up onto the caster wheels. Both the height and angle between the adjustable cross bar and floor are adjustable after the position of the support mast has been adjusted in order to position the support head in roughly the correct location.
US07641034B2	Document conveying system A chute system for conveying articles, preferably documents, from an upper to a lower elevation in a building. The system includes a vertical post, an outer wall that is concentric therewith, and a helical chute wound around the post. The chute is secured at an inner edge to the post and at an outer edge to the wall. The chute comprises a plurality of chute segments secured together in stepped relationship to each other. Each chute segment has a triangular upper wall disposed at a first angle to the post and sloping downwardly toward the outer wall. The upper wall is simultaneously disposed at a second angle to the horizontal and slopes generally downwardly toward a lower end of the post. Each chute segment further includes a first flange extending upwardly from the upper wall and a second flange extending downwardly from the upper wall. Adjacent chute segments are secured together by welding the second flange of a first chute segment to the first flange of a second chute segment.
US07641033B2	Wet type multi-plate clutch The present invention provides a wet type multi-plate clutch comprising a first friction engaging element coaxially arranged within a clutch housing, a second friction engaging element alternately disposed with the first friction engaging element and a piston for applying an axial load to engage the first and second friction engaging elements with each other and wherein a projection protruding toward the piston is provided on the clutch housing and a recessed portion is provided in the piston so that a relative rotation between the clutch housing and the piston is prevented by engaging the projection with the recessed portion.
US07641031B2	Control apparatus for vehicle When a traveling state is in an engagement range of a lock-up clutch, an ECU executes a program including a step of executing slip control if preconditions are satisfied and learning start conditions are satisfied, a step of updating a learning value if an output value is not greater than an FF control value+α or not smaller than the FF control value+β, and a step of engaging the lock-up clutch.
US07641027B2	Brake disc A brake disc of the type comprising a braking band, a connecting portion and connecting spokes made in a single piece. In said disc at least one spoke exhibits an active section reduction that is sufficient to prevent vibrations and whistling during the braking phase. The disc, according to the present invention, is not subject to vibrations and possesses a limited gyroscopic effect and mass.
US07641025B2	Disc brake having an electrically driven adjusting device A disc brake is provided, especially for utility vehicles, that comprises a caliper that overlaps a brake disc, a brake application device disposed in the caliper that applies the brake and at least one adjustment device comprising an electrical drive. The disc brake is further provided with a mechanical device that blocks the adjustment device driven by an electromotor against an augmentation of the release play that exceeds a threshold value caused by the electromotor drive.
US07641024B2	Operating residential elevator An elevator for transporting a person between two floors of a building includes at least one carriage and a lifting system. The elevator includes a control system and door sensors detecting the opening and closing of doors covering a hoist way. The control system detects a first opening and closing of a door in front of the carriage and activates the lift system to move the carriage to an opposite floor. Upon detecting a second opening and closing of a door in front of the carriage, the control system places the lift system in a standby state. Upon detecting a third opening and closing of a door in front of the carriage, the control system again activates the lift system to move the carriage to an opposite floor.
US07641021B2	Hand-actuated operating device for an operator's control station of an industrial truck A hand-actuated operating device for an operator's control unit for an industrial truck, having a stationary, raised rest for the ball of the thumb that is disposed laterally beside and in front of the standing or sitting operator, including an upper support area on which the ball of the thumb of the operator's hand is adapted to be placed from top, a forward surface facing away from the operator and a surface facing the operator, wherein the forward and backward surfaces are dimensioned so to allow the support for the ball of the thumb to be gripped between the fingers and a proximal portion of the ball that faces the wrist, a portion located in front of the forward surface which is lowered with respect to the support area is disposed such as to allow the fingers of the hand resting on the support area to be placed at an angle, and at least one control element for a function of the industrial truck is disposed on the end of the lowered portion that is located opposite the support area so as to enable its actuation by at least one finger.
US07641020B2	Hand rail for a walkie/rider truck A hand rail for a walkie/rider truck and a conversely U-shaped hand rail has a grab bar, and a control housing being arranged on the grab bar which includes control elements for the lifting and lowering of the load carrying fork, for the horn and for a fast speed mode. The housing is located at the lower side of the grab bar such and the grab bar in the area of the control housing is formed such that the grab bar can be seized by the operator above the control housing in order to obtain a secure support and/or to actuate a control element.
US07641016B2	Straddle-type vehicle A straddle-type vehicle that can be accelerated rapidly by a simple operation irrespective of a selected drive mode includes a control unit that executes first control of switching between a plurality of drive modes A and B, and in each of at least two of the drive modes A and B, and second control of shifting the change gear to a kick-down state A1 or B1 in which the speed change ratio is lower than that of the drive mode A or B, according to operation of a shift-down operation member.
US07641015B2	Motorcycle A motorcycle includes a rear swing arm which has upper and lower arms and an arm body. The upper and lower arms are vertically swingably attached to either a body frame or an engine via pivot shafts that are disposed in vertically spaced relation to each other and extend parallel to each other toward a rear wheel. The arm body is swingably connected to a rear end of the upper and lower arms via support shafts for supporting the rear wheel.
US07641013B2	Battery mounting structure for hybrid vehicles A battery mounting structure for hybrid vehicles is provided, which can easily mount a battery structure in a vehicle and easily change the position of the battery package between a vertical position and a horizontal position.
US07641009B2	Power output apparatus, vehicle equipped with power output apparatus, and control method of power output apparatus Upon incompletion of abnormality detection of an air-fuel ratio sensor provided in an exhaust pipe of an engine during operation of the engine (steps S310 and S320), when the state of charge SOC of a battery is lower than a preset reference charge level Sref or when the accelerator opening Acc is not less than a preset reference opening Aref (steps S330 and S340), the abnormality detection is not performed (step S350). When the state of charge SOC of the battery is not lower than the preset reference charge level Sref and when the accelerator opening Acc is less than the preset reference opening Aref (steps S330 and S340), the abnormality detection is performed to identify abnormality or normality of the air-fuel ratio sensor based on an air fuel ratio AF output from the air-fuel ratio sensor (steps S360 to S420). The drive control cuts off a fuel supply to the engine, controls a motor to enable motoring of the engine, and ensures output of a torque demand to a driveshaft, while the abnormality detection is performed.
US07640998B2	Excavation apparatus An excavation apparatus having a mast, a sled slidably mounted thereon, a sled driving system for downcrowding and upcrowding the sled along the mast, and non-rotatable but extendable kelly sections that prevent slippage of the sled on the mast. An outer kelly section is attached to the sled, and an inner kelly section is extendable therefrom and retractable therein. A bushing maintains slidable alignment of the kelly sections on the mast. The inner kelly section is automatically powered into and out of the outer kelly section a distance proportional to the distance that the sled is downcrowded or upcrowded along the mast while preventing slippage. A rotary motor, attached to the sled, rotates a telescopic shaft housed within the kelly sections. A transmission secured to the lower end of the inner kelly section increases downhole torque. A boom connector downcrowds and upcrowds the mast for additional drilling depth capability.
US07640988B2	Hydraulically controlled burst disk subs and methods for their use A method and apparatus for treating a subterranean section surrounding a wellbore with a fluid. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a three-dimensional tubular element capable of fluid flow in a wellbore with at least one burst disk with a pre-determined pressure rating positioned at a desired location on the tubular wherein the burst disk ruptures at the pre-determined pressure at the desired location on the tubular in the wellbore. The method provides the ability to choose the order in which the subterranean interval sections surrounding a wellbore are treated with fluid.
US07640987B2	Communicating fluids with a heated-fluid generation system Some embodiments of a supply tube system for use in a wellbore may have multiple tubes, a number of which can be readily coupled to a downhole steam generator or other heated-fluid generator device. In certain embodiments, the system may include a connector that simplifies the process of coupling the supply tube system to the steam generator and provides for fluid communication between each supply conduit and the associated input port of the steam generator.
US07640986B2	Device and method for reducing detonation gas pressure A perforating gun has a gun carrier extending in a longitudinal direction and a loading tube located within the gun carrier. The loading tube extends in the longitudinal direction and a shape charge is supported by the loading tube. The shape charge has a casing, an explosive, and a liner, the casing opening in a first direction and having a centerline extending in the first direction, the first direction being essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. A liquid implant is located adjacent to the shape charge in the first direction and intersecting the centerline.
US07640980B2	Thermal processes for subsurface formations A process may include providing heat from one or more heaters to at least a portion of a subsurface formation. Heat may transfer from one or more heaters to a part of a formation. In some embodiments, heat from the one or more heat sources may pyrolyze at least some hydrocarbons in a part of a subsurface formation. Hydrocarbons and/or other products may be produced from a subsurface formation. Certain embodiments describe apparatus, methods, and/or processes used in treating a subsurface or hydrocarbon containing formation.
US07640977B2	System and method for connecting multiple stage completions A technique is provided to facilitate connection of multiple stage completions. A first completion stage is deployed at a wellbore location. Subsequently, the next completion stage is moved downhole into engagement with the first completion stage. The completion stages each have communication lines that are coupled together downhole via movement of the completion stages into engagement.
US07640972B2	Spiral heat exchanger The invention relates to a spiral heat exchanger including a central cylinder (5) and at least two spiral sheets (6, 7). The sheets extend from the cylinder to form a first spiral-shaped flow channel (8) for a first medium and a second spiral-shaped flow channel (9) for a second medium. The cylinder forms an inner space within the cylinder. The cylinder includes a first opening (11) communicating with the first flow channel and a second opening (12) communicating with the second flow channel. A pipe (14) extends into the inner space of the cylinder. A first communication channel, communicating with the first flow channel via the first opening, is formed within the pipe. A second communication channel, communicating with the second flow channel via the second opening, is formed in the inner space outside the pipe.
US07640968B2	Heat dissipation device with a heat pipe A heat dissipation device includes a base (10), a heat radiator (40) mounted on the base (10), and two heat pipes (20) connecting the base (10) and the heat radiator (40). The base (10) has a bottom face adapted for contacting with a heat-generating electronic component. The heat pipes (20) each comprise an evaporating portion (22) embedded in the base (10) and a condensing portion (24) extending from an end of the evaporating portion (22). The heat radiator (40) comprises first and second fin assemblies (42, 44) each having two contacting faces (43, 45), the condensing portions (24) of the heat pipes (20) are sandwiched between the contacting faces (43, 45) by the first and second fin assemblies (42, 44), and an opening is enclosed by the first and second fin assemblies (42, 44) and receives an electric fan (50) therein.
US07640965B2	Creating a well abandonment plug A method is provided of in-situ casting well equipment wherein a metal is used which expands upon solidification. A body of such metal is placed in a cavity in a well. Before or after placing the metal in the cavity in the well, the body is brought at a temperature above the melting point of the metal. The metal of the body in the cavity is solidified by cooling it down to below the melting point of the metal.
US07640954B2	Head for a fuel filler pipe of a vehicle An obturating assembly includes a body having an aperture for passage to the pipe of a fuel supply spout of predetermined outer diameter and an obturator moveable with respect to the body, able to assume an obturating position in which it conceals the passage aperture and a freeing position in which it does not conceal it, the obturator being driven towards the freeing position by that spout when it meets the obturator during a thrusting movement of the spout into the head. In accordance with the invention, the passage aperture is provided in an oblique wall or wall portion, with the angular offset between the orientation of said obturator in the obturating position and the transverse orientation being at least equal to 20°.
US07640952B2	Method for manufacturing a surgical device for extracting a foreign object A method for manufacturing the surgical device for removing a foreign object from a body and a retrieval basket of the device are described. The retrieval basket is adapted for entrapping and retaining the object located in the body. The basket comprises a structure having a proximal end and a distal end. The structure is formed by a plurality of filaments fabricated from a single or several wires. The filaments extend from the proximal end towards the distal end, and are bound together to define a plurality of strands. The strands ramify at corresponding branching points into loops having various shapes and sizes. At least a part of the loops are overlapped and/or interlaced so as to define a net, and thereby impart structural rigidity and dilatation ability to the basket when opened. The method of manufacturing the retrieval basket includes selecting at least one wire; weaving the basket from the wire by overlapping and/or interlacing the filaments so that to form a net at least in the vicinity of the distal end; and binding the filaments for forming a shape of the retrieval basket.
US07640951B2	Glass cloth and film substrate using the same Glass cloth which is formed of a warp yarn and a weft yarn of the same glass yarn, wherein a ratio of warp yarn width to weft yarn width is not less than 0.80 and not more than 1.20 and a ratio of an elongation rate in a length direction when a load in a range of 25 N to 100 N per 25 mm width of the glass cloth is added in a warp yarn direction, to an elongation rate in a width direction when said load is added in a weft yarn direction is not less than 0.80 and not more than 1.20.
US07640945B2	Oneway valve for automatically inflatable air cushion A oneway valve for an automatically inflatable air cushion includes a valve body having an air inlet port and an air outlet port, a valve seat mounted in the valve body and formed with a plurality of conducting holes connected to the air inlet port and the air outlet port, and a valve stem movably mounted in the air inlet port and movable to seal the conducting holes. Thus, the oneway valve prevents the air from leaking from the air cushion during the inflation process and prevents the air from entering the air cushion during the deflation process, so that the air cushion is inflated and deflated completely and exactly.
US07640943B2	Collapsible shelter with flexible, collapsible canopy The collapsible shelter includes a truss and canopy framework that permits a flexible, collapsible canopy to be moved between a raised position and a lowered position. The collapsible shelter includes at least three legs supporting flexible poles removably mounted to the tops of the legs and forming the framework of the canopy. X-shaped truss pairs of link members are connected to each of the legs on each side of the shelter between adjacent legs.
US07640933B1	Hybrid textured/polished respiratory mask seal and respiratory mask using same A seal for a respiratory mask that includes a first end portion adapted to be coupled to a mask shell, a second end portion for sealing engagement with a face of a patient, and a sidewall extending between the first end portion and the second end portion. At least a portion of the second end portion includes a textured area having a first rms surface roughness that is greater than a second rms surface roughness of a non-textured area of the seal. The area of increased surface roughness provides the patient contacting portion of the seal with a silky feeling to maximize patient comfort and the effectiveness of the seal without impairing the sealing ability.
US07640932B2	Nasal cannula for acquiring breathing information A method of monitoring breathing of a patient with a nasal cannula. The method comprising the steps of forming the nasal cannula with at least one nare, and at least one nare having a primary inlet/outlet opening formed in a remote end thereof. Coupling the nasal cannula to a detection device for monitoring breathing characteristics of the patient while the patient is sleeping. Detecting breathing characteristics of the patient, while the patient is sleeping, via at least the primary inlet/outlet opening of the nare and sending the detected breathing characteristics of the patient to detection device for evaluation.
US07640931B2	Revolutionary solar collecting system A revolutionary solar collecting system for effectively and efficiently harnessing the sun's energy is shown. The system tracks the sun and maintains a constant spatial focal point or sub-focal point to at least partially condense the sun's rays into a high-energy beam that may or may not be redirected to a predetermined location or locations for generating electrical power, heat energy, steam, and/or any other well-known applications In industry and research areas. The revolutionary system of the invention is low-cost, low maintenance, and is capable of significantly reducing energy costs.
US07640930B2	Air-inlet assembly for a gas cooking appliance In one aspect, an air inlet system for a gas cooking apparatus is provided having at least one gas burner and a burner box around the gas burner. The air inlet system has a sealed cooktop configured to cover the burner box. The cooktop has at least one peripheral vent cut configured to vent outside air into the burner box to provide air for the gas burner. The system further includes a vent trim attached to the cooktop and covering the vent cut. The vent trim has a surface with openings above a top surface of the cooktop. The openings are configured to allow outside air to enter the vent cut through the vent trim.
US07640929B2	Barbecue grill cooking chamber with grease control structures The present invention provides a barbecue grill assembly comprising a cooking chamber with a cover and a firebox. The cover is moveable between an open position and a closed position. The cover has an inner surface and an internal lip extending from a lower edge region of the inner surface. The firebox has a rim at an upper portion of the firebox wherein the rim defines a periphery of the firebox. When the cover is in the closed position, the internal lip is positioned inward of the firebox periphery. This means that the internal lip is positioned within the perimeter of the firebox, as defined by the rim. The grill assembly further comprises a burner element positioned in the firebox, a cooking grate positioned in the firebox above the burner element, and a frame assembly adapted to support the cooking chamber.
US07640928B2	Cutting machine for cutting fiber-cement materials and method operation and use A method of cutting a sheet of fiber-cement and cutting machine programmed to effect such a method is disclosed. The method includes aligning a cutting plane of the sheet with at least one blade of a first cutting station. The sheet is cut along the cutting plane to sever a strip from the sheet. A plank is formed either by the act of severing the strip from the sheet or by advancing the sheet along the path to align another cutting plane of the sheet and cutting the sheet along the cutting plane with the at least one cutting blade. The plank so formed is advanced along a path to a second cutting station.
US07640927B1	Multiple function paintball marker bolt A paintball marker using a lightweight bolt design suing a composite bolt structure with a light weight body and precision sear release edge adapted for consistent sear over the life of the marker. The composite bolt structure also has a spring retention end with a sear access slot and sear retraction ramp for guiding the sear to the precision release edge.
US07640925B2	Pneumatic assembly for a paintball gun A pneumatic assembly for a paintball gun preferably includes a bolt slidably arranged on a valve stem. The bolt is preferably moveable between an open and a closed position. The bolt preferably provides a firing mechanism for the paintball gun by permitting compressed gas from a compressed gas storage area to flow through the bolt to fire the paintball gun when the bolt is closed but preventing the transfer of compressed gas through the bolt when the bolt is open. An internal area of the valve stem can be arranged to communicate with the compressed gas storage area to increase the effective volume of the compressed gas storage area without increasing the size of the paintball gun. This can permit lower pressure operation of the paintball gun. A supply of compressed gas to the compressed gas storage area can be cut off during firing to improve gas efficiency.
US07640921B2	Fuel supply apparatus and vehicle provided with the same An injector bracket 10 is provided inside an air cleaner 5. The injector bracket 10 comprises a rectifying wall 10a bulging into a main chamber 5b, and a stream-line guide wall 10b in opposition to an air current M having passed through an element 8. The injector bracket 10 functions as a partition and forms a separate chamber 10e partitioned from the main chamber 5b in the air cleaner 5. An upstream injector unit 7 is arranged in the separate chamber 10e. The rectifying wall 10a is in the form of a symmetric blade.
US07640920B2	Fuel vapor processing apparatus The present invention includes a first canister disposed within an intake air passage. The first canister communicates with a fuel tank via a second canister, so that a fuel vapor produced within the fuel tank can be purged by the second canister and further by the first canister. The second canister communicates with the intake air passage via a purge passage. The negative pressure within the intake air passage may be applied to the first and second canisters via the purge passage, so that the fuel vapor adsorbed by the first and second canisters can be desorbed or purged and can then be returned into the intake air passage.
US07640919B1	Fuel system for protecting a fuel filter A fuel system is disclosed. The fuel system has a first pump supplying fuel at a first pressure. The fuel system also has a fuel filter fluidly connected downstream of the first pump. The fuel system further has a second pump receiving fuel at a second pressure and fluidly connected downstream of the fuel filter. The fuel system additionally has a first passage fluidly connecting an outlet of the first pump to an inlet of the first pump. The fuel system also has a valve located within the first passage and configured to selectively allow fuel flow through the first passage. The fuel system further has a second passage fluidly connecting an inlet of the second pump to the valve, wherein the second pressure acts on the valve to affect fuel at the first pressure to flow to the inlet of the first pump via the first passage when the second pressure is greater than a predetermined pressure.
US07640916B2	Lift pump system for a direct injection fuel system An economical method for controlling a lift pump operating as part of a direct injection fuel system is described. According to the method, the lift pump is operated at efficient operating conditions and then stopped until additional fuel is requested.
US07640914B2	Engine output control system and method A system for an engine, comprising a cylinder located in the engine, a turbocharger coupled to the engine, a first injector for injecting a first fuel into said cylinder, wherein said first injector is a direct cylinder injector where said direct cylinder injector delivers a liquid including an alcohol, a second injector for injecting a second fuel into said cylinder, wherein said second injector is a port injector, where said port injector delivers a liquid including gasoline, a catalytic device configured to receive exhaust gases produced by at least the cylinder, and a controller configured to vary an amount of said first and second fuel injection during engine operation based on operating conditions, where amounts of variation of said first and second fuels are set to maintain a substantially stoichiometric mixture, the controller further configured to increase a relative amount of injection of the second injector in response to an indication of engine knock during a first operating condition, decrease engine boosting in response to the indication of engine knock during a second condition; and retard ignition timing in response the indication of engine knock during a third condition.
US07640910B2	Opposed piston internal-combustion engine with hypocycloidal drive and generator apparatus An opposed piston, internal-combustion engine including a cylinder with a bore and opposed pistons disposed within the bore is provided with one or more hypocycloidal drives that convert the linear motion of a piston to rotary output motion. An electrical generator includes an opposed piston, internal-combustion engine with a coil mounted to the skirt of a piston and a hypocycloidal drive connected by a rod to the piston. The construction of the hypocycloidal drive imposes a sinusoidal period on the linear motion of the piston. As the piston transports the coil though a magnetic field, a sinusoidal voltage is induced in the windings of the coil.
US07640906B2	Hydraulic valve lash adjuster with idle stroke function for a valve train of an internal combustion engine A hydraulic valve lash adjuster with idle stroke function for a valve train of an internal combustion engine, said hydraulic valve lash adjuster comprising a piston (2, 2′, 2″) that is guided for displacement in a piston housing (4) and elastically supported against said housing (4), said piston (2, 2′, 2″) comprising a low pressure chamber (3) that communicates via an axial opening (7) in a piston bottom (8) with a high pressure chamber (5) defined by the piston housing (4) and the piston (2, 2′, 2″), and further comprising a control valve (9, 9′, 9″, 9′″) acting between said pressure chambers (3, 5), said control valve (9, 9′, 9″, 9′″) comprising a valve closing body (10, 10′, 10″) that can be brought to bear sealingly against a valve seat (15, 15′) that surrounds the axial opening (7) on a piston body undersurface (18) and is received in an element (12, 12′) that limits a closing body stroke (17), and said control valve (9, 9′, 9″, 9′″) further comprising a control valve spring (11) that loads the valve closing body (10, 10′, 10″) with a spring force in opening direction, and an idle stroke being produced during a collapsing movement between the piston (2, 2′, 2″) and the piston housing (4) during which said valve closing body (10, 10′, 10″) is hydraulically loaded in closing direction against the action of the control valve spring (11) by a pressure build-up in the high pressure chamber (5), whereby a retarded pressure build-up can be obtained through a flow control device (23, 23′) arranged on a high pressure chamber-side and comprising a flow control element (24, 24′) and a medium pressure chamber (19) that extends between the flow control element (24, 24′) and the axial opening (7) of the piston (2).
US07640905B2	Engine cover mounting structure In an engine cover mounting structure, an internal portion of an elastic member comprises a small diameter hole portion having a small inside diameter and a large diameter hole portion having a large inside diameter which continues to the small diameter hole portion, the relationship between an outside diameter W1 of a head portion which engages with the elastic member and an inside diameter W2 of the small diameter hole portion is set to be W1>W2, and the relationship between an inside diameter W3 of the large diameter hole portion and an outside diameter W4 of a leg portion is set to be W3≧W4, the large diameter hole portion and the small diameter hole portion are made to communicate with each other in a step-like fashion, and at least part of a portion to be restrained is provided on an outer circumferential side of the large diameter hole portion.
US07640901B2	Intake control apparatus for an engine and method An engine intake control apparatus for an engine that comprises at least one combustion chamber operatively connected to an intake port and an intake valve associated with each intake port, wherein the intake valve is adapted to open and close the intake port is disclosed herein. The intake control apparatus comprises a variable valve operating mechanism and a controller. The variable valve operating mechanism is configured and arranged to selectively change a valve closing timing and a valve lift amount of the intake valve. The controller is configured and arranged to control the variable valve operating mechanism when the engine is in a low load condition. The valve closing timing is determined such that an actual compression ratio of the engine is reduced relative to the actual compression ratio when the engine is operating in a high load condition. The valve lift amount is smaller when the engine is in the low load condition relative to the valve lift amount when the engine is in the high load condition. A method for controller an engine is also disclosed.
US07640900B2	Variable valve operating device The present invention relates to a variable valve operating device and makes it possible to inhibit friction during driving force transmission and provide high durability through the use of a compact configuration.A first roller 170, which comes into contact with a drive cam surface 124 of a camshaft 120, has a larger diameter than a second roller 172, which comes into contact with a slide surface 156 of a swing member 150. A coupling shaft 174 couples the first roller 170 to the second roller 172 so that the rollers 170, 172 can rotate independently. The slide surface 156 is curved toward the drive cam surface 124.
US07640896B2	Ammonia storage for on-vehicle engine Ammonia is used as precursor source of hydrogen fuel in an on-vehicle internal combustion engine. Ammonia is stored as, for example, a ligand in an on-vehicle transition metal composition. Upon demand for hydrogen by the vehicle's engine control system, ammonia is expelled as a gas from some of the composition and the ammonia gas is dissociated into a mixture of hydrogen and nitrogen and delivered as a fuel-containing mixture to the engine. In a preferred embodiment, the hydrogen is used as a supplement to gasoline as a fuel for engine operation.
US07640892B2	Nail and claw quick detection apparatus and method A detection device for the quick of an animal claw incorporates a sensor device and scan system technology into a hand-held device that locates the location for a proper cut, avoiding cutting the quick and avoiding pain to the animal. The scan system technology may include a light sensor, an infrared sensor, a laser sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or an intensity transducer. A control circuit determines the position status of the device and applies a mark on the claw to designate a position that is safe to clip in order to avoid the quick of the claw.
US07640889B2	Assembly for feeding and milking animals, and a method of feeding and milking animals An assembly and method for feeding and milking animals is disclosed. The assembly is provided with an area where the animals are allowed to move freely, with a number of juxtaposed feeding stations for the animals, and with a retaining device for retaining an animal at a feeding station. The retaining device can be activated for retaining an animal and can be deactivated for releasing an animal. A mobile milking robot connects at least one teat cup to a teat of an animal, a computer system controlling the operation and movement of the milking robot. The mobile milking robot is a self-propelled mobile milking robot, and the retaining device is fixedly disposed at the feeding station.
US07640887B2	Surface wave excitation plasma generator and surface wave excitation plasma processing apparatus The present invention provides a surface wave excitation plasma generator in which surface wave excitation plasma is efficiently generated. A surface wave excitation plasma generator including an annular waveguide and a dielectric tube is provided. The annular waveguide 2 includes an inlet 2a for introducing a microwave M, an end plate 2b for reflecting the microwave M introduced and propagating within the waveguide, and a bottom plate 2c on which slot antennas 2d are formed at a predetermined interval. When the wavelength of the microwave M in the waveguide is λg, the length from position b through positions c, d, e to position f on the bottom plate 2c, i.e. the circumferential length (π×D1) of the annular waveguide, is set as 2 λg, and the positions b, c, d, e, f are spaced apart at an interval of λg/2. Since the slot antennas 2d are arranged at two positions c and e, the interval between these two slot antennas 2d is equal to the wavelength λg in the waveguide.
US07640885B2	Liquid processing method and liquid processing apparatus In a nozzle unit 4 equipped with processing-liquid nozzles 4A to 4J, an air layer 73 and a solvent layer 74 for processing liquid are successively formed outside a processing-liquid layer 71 included in the tip of each nozzle 4A (4B to 4J). Next, the solvent layer 74 in the nozzle 4A is thrown out into a drain part 62 of a standby unit 6 and subsequently, the processing liquid is supplied from the nozzle 4A to the surface of a wafer W, performing a coating process. After completing the coating process, the processing liquid remaining in the nozzle 4A is sucked and continuously, respective tips of the nozzles 4A to 4J are dipped into respective solvents in solvent reservoir 62A to 62J, respectively. From this state, by sucking in the nozzle 4A, there are newly formed, outside the processing layer 71 in the tip of the nozzle 4A, an air layer 73 and a solvent layer 74. Thus, in supplying a substrate, such as semiconductor wafer, with a processing liquid by use of a nozzle unit having a plurality of processing-liquid nozzles integrated, it is possible to prevent dryness of the processing liquids in the respective nozzles while preventing the nozzle unit from being large-sized.
US07640884B2	Firehose coupling exit indicator A direction indicator device captured between couplers of ends of firehose sections that point to the source of the firehose and to safety. The direction indicator device includes a gasket-like annular body which fits over the male threads of the male coupler and is captured between annular ends of the abutting male and female coupler bodies. Direction pointing fingers, integral with the annular body, point toward the hose section to which the male coupler is attached and are angularly oriented to fit between longitudinal lugs of the male coupler. A lip is provided on an inwardly facing surface at each finger tip to hinder removal and to prevent inadvertent removal of the device from the male coupler body.
US07640877B1	Dense phase distribution branch A branch for distributing granular material includes an inlet portion, a transition portion downstream of the inlet portion, and an outlet portion downstream of the transition portion. Each portion has a critical air flow rate that is required to cause the granular material to flow through the respective portion. The branching that occurs at the transition portion results in the critical air flow rate of the transition portion being greater than the critical air flow rate of the inlet portion, typically requiring an amount of air at least equal to the critical air flow rate of the transition portion to flow granular material through the branch. In the disclosed branch, the inlet portion is oriented relative to the outlet portion such that applying air to substantially equal the critical air flow rate of the inlet portion results in granular material being urged by gravity to move through the transition portion and into the outlet portion.
US07640865B2	Rail car shunting device for road-rail operation A rail car mover for road-rail operation is enabled for shunting rail cars that are guided on two parallel rails. The rail car mover has a bogie and wheels which are mounted thereon and have rubber tires. Each wheel is assigned a bolt element, or a disk, which can be moved by way of an adjusting device from a first retracted position for the road mode in which the ground-side end face of the bolt element is located above the rolling level of the wheel, beyond the rolling level in the direction of the ground into a second deployed position for the rail mode in which the ground-side end face of the bolt element is located underneath the rolling level in such a way that the external circumferential faces of the bolt element of two wheels which are assigned to one another extend along the inner lateral edges and/or the outer lateral edges of the rails in order to guide the wheels.
US07640863B2	System for storage and retrieval of warehousable objects A track system for storage and retrieval of materials for use with warehousing vehicle that rides upon tracks in horizontal configuration for storage locations, and that is capable of switching to and riding a sloped track to ascend or descend vertically. A set of transition exchanges allows the vehicle to access multiple levels of storage “flooring” or shelving. The exchanges use ramps, or movable sections of railway, that may be moved out of the way of a set of wheels of the vehicle, while other ramps are set in place to provide support to some wheels of the vehicle, whereby the vehicle may selectively either travel along the elevator track, or to move between elevator track and level storage locations.
US07640859B1	Stacked ordnance A stacked ordnance device provides a disposable and non reusable projectile weapon for passive area defense or denial. A stacked ordnance device has multiple projectiles and charges positioned sequentially in a barrel. A sensing module triggers a control module to enter a firing sequence. The firing sequence is the order and timing by which an electronic ignition system ignites firing charges and thereby shoots the projectiles. A mount positions the stacked ordnance device. The controller can also trigger a disabler that renders the stacked ordnance device unfit for subsequent use.
US07640858B1	Stacked pellet flare assembly and methods of making and using the same The present invention relates to a flare pellet assembly for generating visual and/or infrared energy output, and to methods of making and using the same. The flare pellet assembly generally includes a stack of flare pellets, the individual pellets of which may exhibit an at least generally tapering geometry. These flare pellets may be stacked in a manner that substantially prevents motion of one flare pellet relative to another flare pellet. This stacked arrangement of the flare pellets, along with one or more grooves that may be defined in and/or between adjacent flare pellets, may be said to at least generally enable the resultant flare pellet assembly to provide one or both infrared and visual energy output that reaches desired countermeasure energy output specifications without sacrificing structural integrity of the flare pellet assembly.
US07640855B2	Clamping device for a printing plate Disclosed is a clamping device (02) for fastening a plate (03) to the periphery of a cylinder (01). Said clamping device (02) comprises a first clamping element (04), a pivotally mounted second clamping element (06), a spring part (07), and a bracing element that is embodied as a pivotable spindle (08) and is movable between a clamping position in which the bracing element maintains the plate in a clamped state between the clamping elements and a released position in which the clamping elements release the plate. The spindle (08) is mounted in a groove so as to be displaceable, is fixed in an intermediate space between the spring part (07) and the second clamping element (06), and is pressed against the second clamping element by means of the spring part in the clamping position.
US07640847B2	Method and device for measuring the texture of cooked grains A method and device for assessing end point of cooking of dhal and rice with good reproducibility are disclosed. Pulses are generally consumed as dhals after cooking to soft texture. Measurement of end point of cooking of dhals, rice etc is very subjective and current methods are not very satisfactory. An innovative device and an objective method for carrying out the same were developed. This works on the principle of determining the “spread area” during progressive cooking for dhals as well as rice, and reading the cooking time form a graph plotted. The device developed for the purpose can be used to exert the desired force for pressing the cooked grain and the area to which the grain spreads is determined by counting the number of squares from an appropriate graph sheet as “spread area” is plotted against the period of cooking a progressive increase was observed. The time at which, there was a sudden increase in the spread area or when a change in the slope of the curve (sudden deflection/steadiness) occurred was considered as cooking time of the sample (dhal/rice) being cooked. The method now reported corroborated well with the standard instrumental methods. This invention provides an objective and reliable method for assessing end point of cooking of dhal and rice with good reproducibility.
US07640846B2	Diverter valve and channel for brewed beverage maker The invention relates to a brewed beverage maker with a diverter valve assembly placed between a heater and a showerhead, the diverter valve assembly fluidly connected to both the heater and showerhead. Opening the beverage maker during a brew cycle automatically causes at least a portion of the fluid passing through the diverter valve assembly to be diverted to a channel that directs the fluid to a point downstream of the showerhead in the brew cycle. In one embodiment of the invention, the diverted fluid is directed to a filter basket. The channel may optionally include a basin to collect and direct the diverted fluid. The outlet of the diverter valve assembly may form the showerhead.
US07640844B2	Coffee machine with improved coffee outlet A coffee machine includes: a base, a basal body locating above the base, a coffee pot located above the basal body, a first coffee exit located in the bottom of the coffee pot, a coffee outlet located under the first coffee exit, the coffee outlet includes a receiving water base, a top lid; a first pin joint part and a second pin joint part respectively located at both sides of the first coffee exit, one end of the receiving water base pivotally joins the first pin joint part, another end of the receiving water base extends to the second pin joint part and outside of the bottom of the coffee pot, a second coffee exit is beside the another end of the receiving water base, a third pin joint part is between the second coffee exit and the second pin joint part.
US07640843B2	Cartridge and method for the preparation of beverages A cartridge for use in a beverage preparation machine, the cartridge containing one or more beverage ingredients and being formed from substantially air- and water-impermeable materials, the cartridge comprising an inlet for the introduction of an aqueous medium into the cartridge and an outlet for discharge of a beverage produced from the one or more beverage ingredients, wherein the one or more beverage ingredients is a liquid chocolate ingredient.
US07640841B2	Annular seal and pump including same A seal includes a seal body forming an annular sealing surface. The annular sealing surface includes an annular ridge protruding substantially radially from the annular sealing surface. The seal body includes an annular cavity. The seal also includes first and second annular springs located adjacent to each other in the annular cavity.
US07640840B2	Automated launch mating system In one embodiment, an automated system for mating a launch device to a launch platform may include a launch platform having a first electrical connector, and a interface member attached to the launch device. The interface member may include a second electrical connector configured to automatically couple to the first electrical connector of the launch platform.
US07640837B2	Table saw with improved safety system A table saw having an adjustable blade, a detection system to detect contact between a person and the blade, and a brake mechanism to engage and stop the blade upon detection of contact between the person and the blade is disclosed. The saw includes a brake positioning system that adjusts the position of the brake mechanism to maintain the brake mechanism in an operative position relative to the blade as the position of the blade is adjusted. The saw also may include a retraction system that urges the blade downward, away from a user, upon detection of contact between a person and the blade. The retraction system may include a releasable gear. The saw may be constructed so that the blade is adjustable up and down around a pivot point downstream of the blade relative to the feed direction.
US07640834B2	Systems and methods for trimming rolls of sheet material Systems and methods for trimming a roll of sheet material are provided. A representative system incorporates a core anchor that is configured to be inserted into the hollow core of a roll of sheet material and removably secured therein. The system also includes a cutting tool rotatably attached to the core anchor. During trimming of a roll of sheet material to which the core anchor is secured, the core anchor rotates with the roll as the roll is rotated.
US07640830B2	Locking adjustment turret A locking adjustment turret for rifle scopes includes a stationary portion mounted on an outer tube of the scope, a rotating adjustment portion supported in the stationary portion and including an adjustment knob such that rotation of the knob results in axial motion of a shaft toward and away from an inner tube of the scope, and a locking mechanism on the rotating adjustment portion that locks the shaft in a desired position. The locking mechanism includes a pin that engages a detent mechanism in the rotating adjustment portion, preventing rotation of the rotating adjustment portion. The locking mechanism is operated with a lock knob that sits atop the adjustment knob and is accommodated by a recess in the top of the adjustment knob.
US07640828B2	Seat drive motor and power seat system A housing is held by a bracket of a vehicle seat and receives a worm wheel and a threaded shaft. The shaft is driven linearly through the worm wheel. One end of the housing contacts the bracket and includes a receiving recess, which is recessed in the axial direction of the worm wheel. A sensor unit is installed in the recess of the one end of the housing and includes a support wall, which supports the housing relative to the bracket in the axial direction of the worm wheel.
US07640827B2	Gear unit of small motor Driving torque outputted from a motor portion is transmitted to a worm from a motor shaft, further to a helical gear from the worm, and is taken out to the outside from an output shaft which rotates together with the helical gear with a fixed shaft fixed to a gear box as a center. This fixed shaft is constructed in a hollow and cylindrical shape having an opening in which one end portion thereof has been opened, and a ceiling surface in which the other end portion thereof has been closed, and one end portion of this fixed shaft is subjected to dislocation preventive work, and is fixed to a gear box made of resin by pressing-in or insert molding. The other end portion of the fixed shaft is formed with the dislocation preventive structure of the output shaft and the helical gear installed to the fixed shaft.
US07640821B2	Circulating member for a ball screw A circulating member for a ball screw is disposed on a nut, the nut is formed with Gothic type threads, and the circulating member of the ball screw is formed with return path for enabling the balls to circulate. The connecting ports at both ends of the return path for connecting the threads of the nut are shaped in Gothic style, thus eliminating the level difference and consequently preventing the balls from being struck and jammed.
US07640820B1	Ball screw assembly and spacer elements therefor A ball screw assembly has an axially extending screw with an external helical groove and a nut with a through bore for receipt of the screw. The through bore has an internal helical groove adapted for cooperation with the external helical groove to define a ball raceway. A plurality of load bearing balls is disposed in the raceway for rolling contact with the internal and external grooves. A spacer is disposed between adjacent ones of the load bearing balls to prevent the balls from contacting one another. Each of the spacers has at least three pairs of diametrically opposite concave dimples adapted for contact with the load bearing balls at separate times from one another.
US07640818B2	Multi-speed transmission with a countershaft gearing A transmission is provided having a dual clutch, to achieve torque flow through a countershaft gearing arrangement. The countershaft gearing arrangement includes a plurality of co-planar gear sets having gears that are selectively connectable to a plurality of countershafts. At least one transfer gear set transfers torque from the counter shafts to an output shaft. The output shaft is connected to a final drive unit that has a final drive unit output shaft that is transverse to an input member connected at one end to a torque converter and at the other end to the dual clutch.
US07640817B2	Method for determining the state of a wooden support A method for determining the state of preservation of a wooden support and establishing a diagnosis in order to find out whether the wooden support is in a state which is suitable for use, in a state requiring a maintenance operation or in a state requiring its elimination includes measuring the hardness of the wooden support and the hygrometricity of the wooden support. The method further includes determining the species of the timber of the wooden support, determining the treatment previously applied to the wooden support, calculating the resulting safety residual stress, comparing the value of the calculated safety residual stress with an observed average safety residual stress and establishing a diagnosis depending on this comparison.
US07640813B2	Process for operating a Coriolis mass flow rate measurement device A process for operating a Coriolis mass flow rate measurement device, with at least one measurement tube (10) through which a medium flows and which is subjected to vibration excitation that leads to resulting vibrations of the measurement tube (10), a first indicator quantity being used for detection of a multiphase flow. For detection of the multiphase flow, an additional, second indicator quantity that is independent of the first indicator quantity is used. Thus, a process for operating a Coriolis mass flow rate measurement device (1) is attained with which the detection of multiphase flows, especially of two-phase flows, is reliably possible without the need to make assumptions regarding the properties of the individual phases of the flowing medium.
US07640811B2	Ultrasonic inspection apparatus, system, and method Improved apparatus, systems, and methods for inspecting a structure are provided that use a pedestal robot mounted on a rail system, a probe extension coupler, and an inspection probe capable of performing pulse echo ultrasonic inspection. A probe may also include sled appendages and an axial braking system to inspect over holes and off edges. A probe may also include an ultrasonic pulse echo transducer array for high rate inspection; the transducer array may be mounted in a bubbler shoe for individually coupling each of the transducers in the array. A rail system may also include an optical encoder for providing location information for the robot and axial braking system. A probe extension coupler presses the inspection probe against the structure for adjusting to changes in surface contours.
US07640809B2	Spot welding inspecting apparatus A spot welding inspecting apparatus is provided with: a gun chip; a signal transmitting part; an ultrasonic sensor; an inner cylinder; a through hole; a partitioning cylinder; a first flow path; a second flow path; and a third flow path.The inner cylinder is inserted to an outer cylinder of spot welding gun and holds the ultrasonic sensor. The through hole is provided on the inner cylinder. The partitioning cylinder surrounds the through hole and is inserted into a gap between the ultrasonic sensor and the outer cylinder. The first flow path is formed between the inner cylinder and the partitioning cylinder by passing the through hole from an inner portion of the inner cylinder. The second flow path is formed at the gun chip to be circulated around a front end of the partitioning cylinder. The third flow path is formed between the outer cylinder and the partitioning cylinder. A cooling agent flows in an order of the first flow path, the second flow path and the third flow path.
US07640807B2	Semiconductor Sensor A semiconductor sensor of the present invention is capable of preventing a diaphragm portion of the sensor from being damaged if a weight collides against a semiconductor integrated circuit substrate of the sensor and is further capable of preventing the diaphragm portion from being bent significantly even when a semiconductor sensor element of the sensor is disposed inside a distorted or deformed casing. A rear surface of the semiconductor integrated circuit substrate 7 is joined onto a wall surface of the casing 9 that defines a receiving chamber of the casing. A support portion of the semiconductor sensor element is joined onto a front surface 7a of the semiconductor integrated circuit substrate 7. A shock absorbing layer is formed on the front surface 7a of the semiconductor integrated circuit substrate 7 at least on a part thereof facing the weight 3 of the semiconductor sensor element 7, for suppressing the bouncing of the weight 3 when the weight 3 collides against the semiconductor integrated circuit substrate 7.
US07640806B2	Capacitive physical quantity sensor A capacitive physical quantity sensor includes a sensor element and a detecting element. The sensor element includes first and second fixed electrodes facing a movable electrode. A first voltage is applied to the first fixed electrode and a second voltage is applied to the second fixed electrode. The detecting circuit includes a capacitance-voltage conversion circuit, in which an operational amplifier, a capacitor and a switch including a P-channel MOS transistor and a N-channel MOS transistor are disposed. The transistors have a back gate potential, which is approximately equal to an average voltage of the first voltage and the second voltage.
US07640805B2	Proof-mass with supporting structure on integrated circuit-MEMS platform Provided is a micro-electromechanical-system (MEMS) device including a substrate; at least one semiconductor layer provided on the substrate; a circuit region including at least one chip containing drive/sense circuitry, the circuit region provided on the at least one semiconductor layer; a support structure attached to the substrate; at least one elastic device attached to the support structure; a proof-mass suspended by the at least one elastic device and free to move in at least one of the x-, y-, and z-directions; at least one top electrode provided on the at least one elastic device; and at least one bottom electrode located beneath the at least one elastic device such that an initial capacitance is generated between the at least one top and bottom electrodes, wherein the drive/sense circuitry, proof-mass, supporting structure, and the at least one top and bottom electrodes are fabricated on the at least one semiconductor layer.

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