| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US07645001B2 |
Locker shelf
A shelf having two telescoping plates secured by a toothed crank is provided for locker users. The plates have a generally rectangular shape with perimeter edges reinforced by lips and pads to engage the locker walls. Friction between the pads and the walls holds the present invention at a desired elevation. This shelf has a toothed rack upon a first plate and a crank with teeth upon the second plate. The teeth upon the crank engage the rack and turning of the crank secures the second plate relative to the first plate longitudinally at a desired width for fitting against the inner walls of a locker. |
| US07644995B2 |
Motor speed control for thermal protection
The speed of an ABS pump motor is increased during an ABS braking cycle upon determining that an extended ABS braking cycle duration is required. |
| US07644991B2 |
Chair with folding armrest
A chair for offices and the like includes at least one armrest that can be folded from a generally upright position to a folded position and visa-versa. The folding mechanism has a thin profile, thereby minimizing the thickness of the armrest and providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance. A cover for the armrest includes an elastic material that stretches to accommodate folding, and also contracts to reduce or eliminate wrinkles. The folding mechanism may bias the armrest to the folded position to overcome forces generated by stretching of the cover when the armrest is folded. |
| US07644989B2 |
Pivot mechanism, method for manufacturing it, and vehicle seat incorporating the mechanism
Pivot mechanism incorporating first and second rigid plates interconnected by a hypocycloid gear train, the first plate being formed in one piece with a circular toothing belonging to the hypocycloid gear train. A seat frame is fixed to the first plate by a weld located at the position of the toothing. |
| US07644986B2 |
Child restraint device with energy absorbing regions
Energy absorbing webbing is provided for use in child safety seat and child restraint devices. A harness system includes energy-absorbing regions into the construction of the harness to allow some release or extension of the harness during use. The energy-absorbing regions of the harness are formed using energy-absorbing webbing in a given region or regions to permit the webbing to extend or elongate so that strong forces are not fully and directly imparted to the child. The energy-absorbing region may be installed at various positions within the child safety seat and harness system and may be incorporated into the child safety harness as original equipment or as a retrofit feature. |
| US07644985B2 |
Spherically guided safety seating system
A base for fixing the safety seating system in a passenger car has an external guiding member that more than equatorially encompasses an internal guiding member for a direct spherical guiding of a removable seated newly born infant. The infant is seated with respect to the geometrical pivoting center and an overall mass axis of the rotating portions such that neck bending and head whip lashing are minimized during a vehicle crash. The encompassing spherical and direct guiding provides for a free impact aligned reorientation of the seated infant unimpeded by adjacent elements of the car that are eventually forced into contact during crash. The direct spherical guiding provides also for a lightweight construction of the rotating portions with low momentum of inertia and consequently high responsiveness of the safety seating system. |
| US07644983B2 |
Evaporatively pre-cooled seat assembly
An evaporatively pre-cooled seat assembly comprising a seat cushion, an auxiliary cooler, and an evaporative cooler. The evaporative cooler includes a plurality of parallel tubular dry channels and a plurality of tubular wet channels. The dry channels and wet channels are arranged such that they alternate from dry channel to wet channel from channel to channel. Each of the channels is defined by two parallel side walls, a top, and a bottom. A first plurality of dry channels defines a plurality of apertures in the side walls thereof for conveying air out of the respective dry channel and into an adjacent wet channel. A second plurality of dry channels alternates with the first plurality and is disposed between two wet channels and defines a plurality of cooler apertures in the tops thereof for conveying cooled air out of the second plurality of alternating dry channels and to the auxiliary cooler. |
| US07644981B2 |
Collapsible and portable chair
A portable two-frame collapsible chair comprised of an inner and outer frame with the frames hingably joined for rotating between a first position for carrying and a second position for sitting. The chair includes a flexible seat member connected to both frames. The chair further includes a flexible backrest hingably connected to the outer frame with optional armrests hingably attached. The frames can be folded into substantially the same plane when in the first position for carrying. The position for carrying includes a variety of configurations including a backpack configuration, wherein the user uses shoulder straps to carry the chair, and a roller bag configuration wherein the chair has wheels and a pull handle. |
| US07644980B2 |
Vehicle roof with a movable roof section
The invention relates to a vehicle roof with a movable roof section which can be deployed into a ventilation position by means of a deploy and/or displacement mechanism and/or then displaced above or below the vehicle roof or an at least temporarily stationary roof section for at least partially releasing a roof opening in the vehicle roof. The deploy and/or displacement mechanism comprises at least one vertical gate (9) which has at least one guide web (10), disposed perpendicular to the gate (9) and having slide tracks (15, 16) that are at least partially encircled by a slide element of a slide (8) that can be displaced along a guide rail. The gate (9) is produced from metal and the guide web (10) at least partially from plastic. In order to provide a simple and stable gate (9) having good sliding properties, the gate (9) comprises a plurality of spaced-apart openings (11) for anchoring the plastic (14) of the guide webs (10). |
| US07644979B2 |
Front-end part of a motor vehicle with an air-guiding element
A front-end part of a motor vehicle has an air scoop with an air-guiding duct to a charge air cooler between a central air inlet opening and a lateral air inlet opening of an air-guiding element. Wherein, in a pre-installation position, the air scoop is kept folded away on a central air-guiding element and, in an installation position, is folded back and can be connected to a lateral air-guiding element. |
| US07644977B2 |
Post pressurizing material treatment for bodies moving through fluid
A post pressurizing material treatment for bodies moving through fluid includes a series of compartments joined to the rear surface of the body. Each compartment is sealed by a top wall, a bottom wall, a pair of side walls and a front wall and is open at a rear end thereof. Each compartment retains at least one V-shaped base having diverging walls opening into the rear end of each compartment. Post pressurizing material is secured in a spaced between the walls of the V-shaped base for trapping fluid flow and accumulating forward pressure between the walls of the V-shaped base so as to reduce drag and propel the body forward. |
| US07644973B2 |
Anti-chucking tailgate
An anti-chucking device (14) for a tailgate assembly (12) for a vehicle (10), includes a bracket member (36) and a striker member (38). The striker member (38) engages the bracket member (36) and prevents the tailgate assembly (12) from moving in a lateral direction on the vehicle (10) when the tailgate assembly (12) is moved to an open position and a closed position. The bracket member (36) includes a first pair of tabs (50) and a second pair of tabs (52). The first pair of tabs (50) extends from the second pair of tabs (52) by a predetermined angle. The first pair of tabs (50) defines a first slot (60), and the second pair of tabs (52) defines a second slot (62). The striker member (38) pivots between the first slot (60) and the second slot (62), with the tailgate assembly (12) moving between open and closed positions. |
| US07644972B2 |
Grocery bag holder integrated with a Tonneau cover feature
This invention provides a retractable, pivotable, slidable, and removable horizontal bar device designed for containing a cover to shield the rear compartment of an automobile from view. The bar also provides for securely holding in place conventional plastic bags when such bags, filled with groceries or other items, are being transported in a vehicle, maintaining the bags in an upright, suspended position on or above the floor of the interior trunk or cargo compartment of an automobile. A pair of the bars and holding systems may be used to further provide a detachable and removable cross support bar and dual covers to cover the entire rear compartment of an automobile. |
| US07644971B1 |
Expandable motor home
This invention relates to an expandable motor home. The motor home of this invention has a lower body portion having a first floor, a front wall, a back wall and a pair of opposite side walls. The motor home also has an upper body portion having a movable upper segment and a lower segment that is connected to the lower body portion. The lower segment has a front wall, a back wall and a pair of opposite side walls. The upper segment has a front wall, a back wall, a pair of opposite side walls, and a roof. The upper segment is movable relative to the lower segment such that the upper segment has a raised and lowered position relative to the lower body portion. The motor home may have extendable rooms in the upper segment and lower segment defining separate living areas. |
| US07644964B2 |
Door wedge incorporating hook
A door wedge is provided for maintaining a door at a user-desired position. The door wedge includes a base extending along a first axis. The base has upper and lower surfaces and first and second ends. An inclined plate extends along a second axis at a predetermined angle to the first axis. The inclined plate has upper and lower surfaces and first and second ends. The first end of the inclined plate intersects the first end of the base. A hook projects from the inclined plate. The hook has a terminal end vertically spaced from the upper surface of the inclined plate. A pad is affixed to the lower surface of the base. |
| US07644959B2 |
Tube couplings for connecting a pair of conduits for carrying a cable
A tube coupling for connection to a conduit through which a cable may pass includes a coupling body having an open ended throughway to receive an end of the conduit and a tube locking device in the open end of the throughway for locking the conduit in the coupling body. The throughway has a reduced diameter section with an annular step at an end of the section facing towards the open end of the throughway to receive the end of the conduit inserted into the throughway. An annular flexible sealing member is disposed adjacent the step to be forced by an end of a tube inserted into the throughway into the reduced diameter section of the throughway. Compression of the annular flexible seal forces the seal into sealing engagement with a cable extending along the throughway to provide a seal between the coupling body and cable. |
| US07644958B2 |
Compression fitting for a heating and/or sanitary pipe
The compression fitting (10) for a heating and/or sanitary pipe comprises a fitting body (12) including a supporting sleeve (16) adapted to have a pipe end (66) slid thereonto, and a conical abutment face (20). The compression fitting (10) further comprises a complementary part (24) for the fitting body (12), which is provided with a conical receiving face (22) for abutment by the abutment face (20) of the fitting body (12). The compression fitting (10) is provided with a clamping ring (40) encompassing the pipe end (66) which can be slid on the supporting sleeve (16), and with a lock nut (42) having an inner thread (44) and being adapted to be screwed to the complementary part (24), for pressing the clamping ring (40) against the fitting body (12) and for clamping abutment on the pipe end (66) in the condition when the pipe end has been slid onto the supporting sleeve (16). The fitting body (12) comprises radially protruding fixing projections (46) for axially fixing the fitting body (12) inside the lock nut (42) to the inner thread (44) or to other internal face structures thereof, to prevent the lock nut (42) from being inadvertently detached before it is screwed to the complementary part (24). |
| US07644955B1 |
Quick coupling type fitting
A quick coupling type fitting is disclosed that connects two ends of two different pipes together in a fluid tight manner. It is designed for convenience in installation, high strength, compact size, easy manufacture with a low production cost, high efficiency and does not require the use of special tools for installation. The coupling utilizes a grab ring module that has a grab ring made with embedded stainless steel, thereby strengthening the fixing force and allowing for quick installation. A flaring surface on a retaining flange has an angle that corresponds to a tapering surface of the grab ring module. When the flaring surface and the tapering surface contact each other, the grab ring module compresses the surface of the pipe. Because the grab ring module has an outer plastic body with a small inner part, the grab ring module can be compressed to the pipe without causing fatigue of any members inside of the fitting. A specialized tool allows for quick and easy dismantling of the fitting. |
| US07644949B2 |
Airbag module assembly
A module assembly for an airbag device for protecting occupants of motor vehicles includes a carrier for the assembly, an inflatable airbag packet, a flexible protective envelope, and a fixing mechanism. The airbag packet is fixed to the carrier. The airbag packet is accommodated in the flexible protective envelope. The protective enveloped can be closed off in a gastight manner. The fixing mechanism fixes the airbag packet to the carrier. The fixing mechanism includes a holding element. The holding element, which includes a securing mechanism provided on the carrier to fix the airbag packet to the carrier, extends along an edge of the airbag packet. The securing mechanism is formed integrally on the carrier and is resiliently pivotable with respect to a lateral section of the carrier. Alternatively, the securing mechanism is fixed on the carrier as a separate assembly. |
| US07644948B2 |
Assembly with a gas bag module
In an assembly with a gas bag module at least one first detent element is designed for engagement into a second detent element, a load bearing fastening between the first and the second detent element fastening the gas bag module to a first vehicle-fixed component being closed by moving the gas bag module in an installation direction. An additional locking structure is provided which is separate from the first and second detent elements, and which connects the gas bag module with a second vehicle-fixed component. The additional locking structure exclusively determines in the installed state a final installation position of the gas bag module with respect to the second vehicle-fixed component, at least against the installation direction. |
| US07644947B2 |
Device for binding a boot to a sports article having a separate elastic return system
A device for binding a boot to a sports article, of the type including a retaining system through which the boot is fixed to the sports article with a possibility to move relative to the sports article, between a low position and a high position, of the type including a system for the elastic return of the boot toward its low position, and of the type in which the retaining system functions independently of the elastic return system, and in which the elastic return system is part of a pre-assembled unitary module. |
| US07644939B2 |
Handlebar stopper structure of vehicle
To reduce space occupied by a handlebar stopper structure of a vehicle and to lower the cost of the handlebar stopper structure. A steering shaft is attached to an input shaft provided at an upper portion of an electric power steering unit with an output shaft provided at a lower portion of the electric power steering unit being coupled to the wheel-side. An upper handlebar stopper for regulating a turning angle of the steering shaft is provided between the steering shaft and a housing that is provided at an upper portion of the electric power steering unit. The upper handlebar stopper is configured by an orthogonally-projecting member projecting in the orthogonal direction relative to and from the steering shaft and axially-projecting parts projecting in the axial direction of the steering shaft from the housing in order to regulate the turning of the orthogonally-projecting member. |
| US07644928B2 |
Brush seal
A brush seal has a bristle housing formed by a cover element and a support element. A plurality of bristles, which are wound around a core element and secured to the core element by a clamping element are positioned in the bristle housing. At least one of the support element and the cover element of the bristle housing are made of plastic. |
| US07644924B2 |
Three dimensional sudoku cube puzzle and method
This application discloses a three dimensional puzzle bearing the shape of a cube. The application also discloses a method of integrating spatial logic using a three dimensional puzzle. |
| US07644923B1 |
Automatic card shuffler with dynamic de-doubler
An automatic card shuffler includes a card input unit, card ejection unit, card separation and delivery unit and card collection unit. A card ejection unit ejects cards in a singular fashion from a stack of cards placed into the input unit. The ejected cards are passed through a dynamic de-doubler that prevents more than a pre-established number of cards from passing through. The dynamic de-doubler is able to shift positions to accommodate card that are bent, impacted by environmental conditions and otherwise worn. The cards are ejected to a stop arm maintaining the entrance to the card separation unit. Upon processor command, the stop arm raises to allow a plurality of cards to pass under to the card separation and delivery unit. A series of rotating belts and rollers act to separate the cards and propel them individually to the collection unit. A floating gate slightly forward of the stop arm dictates that a minimum number of cards are managed simultaneously. The shuffler is controlled by a processing unit in communication with multiple internal sensors. |
| US07644922B2 |
Gaming terminal with transformable cabinet
The invention relates to a method and system for operating a gaming terminal where the gaming terminal cabinet itself is an active feature or element of the wagering game. The method and system of the invention involve a gaming terminal cabinet that is transformable from a primary external configuration to a secondary external configuration. The transformation of the gaming terminal cabinet may be based on an outcome of a basic wagering game, a bonus wagering game, or both. The secondary external configuration may involve a single transformation or it may involve multiple transformations. At the end of the wagering game, the gaming terminal cabinet may be transformed back into the primary external configuration. The transformation of the gaming terminal cabinet may also be used to attract the attention of passersby when the gaming terminal is idle to thereby generate interest in the gaming terminal. |
| US07644920B2 |
Image forming apparatus with offset feed roller from separation portion
The image forming apparatus includes a chassis, a paper guide, a paper feed roller, and a paper supply portion from which the paper feed roller is configured to supply paper. The paper guide is supported within the chassis and has a base portion and a first separation portion that projects from the base portion. The paper feed roller is rotatably supported by the chassis. The paper supply portion has a guide projection on its first lateral side portion. The widthwise center of the paper feed roller is offset toward the first lateral side relative to the widthwise center of the first separation portion. |
| US07644918B2 |
Sheet discharge system
A discharge system for printed media sheets which includes a tray having a surface for supporting the media sheets; and rotating transport elements forming a discharge nip for discharging the sheets onto the tray, wherein at least one driven transport belt is arranged to engage a trailing edge of the sheet that has left the discharge nip and to exert a driving force towards the tray surface. |
| US07644915B2 |
Device for the withdrawal of individual flat mail from a thinning section
A device for withdrawing flat items of mail from a decollating section includes conveyor belts, and guide rollers. The conveyor belts extend around guide rollers and act unilaterally upon upright items of mail. The guide rollers are individually mounted, and, at an exit of the decollating section, are rotatably disposed jointly with transfer rollers of an adjoining transfer region, which are driven independently of the conveyor belts on a common guide axle. On a side of the conveying path pressure rollers are provided at a level of the transfer rollers, which press the items against the transfer rollers. The pressure rollers are mounted pivotably at a locally fixed fulcrum, which is situated in withdrawal direction upstream thereof and laterally offset from a conveying channel, and in which rollers driven synchronously with the transfer rollers are rotatably mounted. Belts forming an inlet extend over the pressure rollers and the driven rollers. |
| US07644912B2 |
Apparatus and method for leading together a number of printed webs
An apparatus and method for leading together a number of printed webs is disclosed. Using a device for leading together several printed webs into a multi-layer web sandwich with a harp formed by the deflection rolls assigned to the individual printed webs, the inclusion of air between the webs can be prevented, in that a deflecting web sandwich guide is provided in the exit area of the harp and lies at right-angles to the running direction of the web sandwich. |
| US07644911B2 |
Isolator
An elastomeric isolator has an elastomeric body which defines a void extending into the elastomeric body from one side and a void extending into the elastomeric body from the opposite side. One member for attaching the elastomeric body to a component is located inside of the two voids and another member for attaching the elastomeric body to a component is located outside of the two voids. The two voids overlap a specified distance to determine the stresses and stiffness for the isolator. |
| US07644910B2 |
Method of generating micro gas bubble in liquid and gas bubble generation apparatus
A method and an apparatus for generating gas bubbles, which can generate a large amount of micro gas bubbles having diameters of less than 15 μm, specifically less than 10 μm, in a liquid. The apparatus comprises a tube 2 having a closed end 14 at one end and an open end 15 at the other end, and a rotating bladed wheel 3 installed in the tube 2 and rotating coaxially or substantially coaxially with the tube 2. The rotating bladed wheel 3 has one or more blades 4. The face of each blade 4 is substantially parallel to the axis of a rotating shaft 5 of the rotating bladed wheel 3. Ventilation resistance between the interior of the tube 2 on the side near the closed end 14 and the outside gas is equal to or larger than that of a ventilation port 7 having an inner diameter of 0.36 time an average width d of the blades and a length of 3 mm. At least the open end 15 of the tube 2 and the rotating bladed wheel 3 are immersed in a liquid 20 and the rotating bladed wheel 3 is rotated at a peripheral speed of 5.8 m/sec or higher. |
| US07644906B2 |
Apparatus for winding an elongate strap onto a winch
The present invention relates to an apparatus for winding an elongate strap onto a winch. The winch has a hub member to which may be coupled the strap winding apparatus and a reel element fixed to the hub member about which may be wound the elongate strap. The strap winding apparatus has a protective housing and a winding assembly at least partially retained within the housing. The winding assembly includes a coupling ring sized to fit over the hub member for selective mating therewith and a spool assembly. The spool assembly has a spool member mounted in surrounding relation with the coupling ring, a cord which may be wound about the spool member and which may be pulled to urge rotation of the spool member in a first direction, and a torsion spring member connected to both the housing and the spool member. The spring member is configured to store spring energy when the cord is pulled and the spool member rotates in the first direction, and to release spring energy to the spool member when the cord is released thereby urging the spool member to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction and causing the cord to be wound about the spool member. The coupling ring has an engagement member pivotally mounted thereto. The engagement member is engageable with both the hub member and the spool member so as to allow torque from the spool member to be transmitted to the hub member via the coupling ring such that when the cord is pulled and the spool member rotates in the first direction the hub member will also rotate thereby causing the elongate strap to be wound about the reel member. The apparatus may be also be used to wind other elongate flexible elements such as webbing, a rope, a cable or a cord. |
| US07644903B2 |
Rotating pedestal with lock
A rotating pedestal with an integrated locking mechanism configured to lock the pedestal in a desired angular position. The pedestal incorporates a soft heat-resistant top rotatably connected to a fixed base. The integrated locking mechanism is a sliding latch mounted in the base. |
| US07644902B1 |
Apparatus for producing a retort thermal processed container with a peelable seal
A clamping fixture for a retort process wherein a clamping fixture is disposed about a container having a seal positioned over a container-dispensing aperture. The clamping fixture applies a force to an outer surface of the seal in order to combat internal vapor pressures, which rise during a retort process and may break the seal. A first embodiment may be used with a manual process while a second embodiment may be used with a multiple station automated retort process. |
| US07644900B2 |
Portable hanger for purse
A portable hanger for hanging a purse from a table has a base adapted to rest upon and frictionally engage the table. A plurality of links are pivotally linked to each other in series to form a chain having a first link and a last link. A pivot pin pivotally connects the base and the first link of the plurality of links. The plurality of links are adapted for pivot between a stored configuration in which the plurality of links are positioned generally adjacent the perimeter of the base, and an operative configuration in which the plurality of links form a hook adapted for hanging the purse. |
| US07644897B2 |
Display apparatus
A display apparatus includes a display main body to display an image, a base, a lifting unit having a guide frame extending from the base, a lifting member coupled to the display main body and movably coupled to the guide frame to lift the display main body along the guide frame, and a lifting spring member provided between the guide frame and the lifting member to bias the lifting member away from the base, and a locking unit to couple the guide frame and the lifting member to be detachable to each other and to lock the display main body in a predetermined position with respect to the base. Accordingly, the display apparatus is capable of lifting the display main body more safely and locking the display main body in the predetermined position. The display apparatus also has an aesthetic appearance, and the display main body may be rotated in various directions with respect to the base. |
| US07644896B1 |
Utility wire-holding apparatus and associated method
An adjustable utility wire-holding apparatus includes a partitioned pole which includes top, middle and bottom segments detachably connected to each other along an end-to-end pattern respectively. The apparatus further includes a base member, and a mechanism for freely rotating at least one of the top, middle and bottom segments. The apparatus further includes a mechanism for freely articulating the base member about the longitudinal axis while the middle and top segments remain statically disposed at a stationary position, and a mechanism for selectively biasing the base member between aligned and unaligned positions such that the base member becomes oriented along a single axis defined along a horizontal plane registered orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. |
| US07644895B2 |
Clamping device for electronic products
A clamping device for electronic products includes a combining member and a clamping base that is made of elastic steel sheet having its outer periphery coated with a layer of soft rubber and its central portion bored with a combining hole. Thus, after the clamping base is combined with an electronic product by the combining member, the electronic product can be hung on a user's girdle by turning over the elastic steel sheet of the clamping base, and an earphone line can be wound on the steel sheet in a space between the clamping base and the electronic product, having great practicability and convenience in use. |
| US07644884B2 |
Toilet paper rewinding machine
A machine used to rewind toilet paper from partial toilet paper rolls and make a single large toilet paper roll. The machine includes a pivotally mounted unwinding spool and a take-up spool mounted both horizontally over a platform. The take-up spool includes at least one plunger that extends outward from its outer surface to selectively engage the inside paper core commonly used on a roll of toilet paper roll. The take-up spool is coupled to an electric motor that rotates the take-up spool. A spring is disposed between the unwinding spool and the take-up spool to reduce tension of the toilet paper as it is rewound. During use, two partially used toilet paper rolls are placed on the take-up spool and the unwinding spool. The loose ends of paper on the partial rolls are loosely over lapped and wrapped on the take-up spool. The electric motor is then activated to wind the toilet paper from the unwinding spool onto the take-up spool. |
| US07644883B2 |
Food processor lid
A lid for a bowl of a food processor for processing a relatively large size or large volume of foodstuff including a top lid wall and a feed tube extending from the top lid wall along a feed axis. The feed tube including an inner feed surface defining a feed cavity and a mouth for accessing the feed cavity. A feed tube lid is movably secured to the mouth of the feed tube. A food pusher is movably mounted to the feed tube lid. The food pusher and feed tube lid cover the mouth of the feed tube when the feed tube lid and food pusher are in a working position. The food pusher is movable relative to the feed tube in first and second directions in the working position. The first direction is generally parallel to the feed axis and the second direction is generally perpendicular to the feed axis. |
| US07644881B2 |
Round undulating blade, blade module, and rotary assembly for shredder
The present invention relates to a round undulating blade for shredder, where a sheet metal is integrally formed into a round undulating blade to serve as the blades for constructing a blade module. The blade includes: a periphery; an undulating blade flank including at least two cambers having a first curvature and at least two cambers having a second curvature alternatively arranged with respect to the cambers having the first curvature; and hooked edges formed on the periphery of the cambers having the first curvature, wherein the undulating blade flank of the blade serves to cut paper along a longitudinal direction to form paper strips having double-tapering end, and the hooked edges serve to cut the strips along a horizontal direction into paper chips. These characteristics help to reduce the manufacturing cost, reduce the motor load and power consumption, to thereby enhance the market competitiveness. |
| US07644877B2 |
Diffuser device
This invention finds application in the field of liquid distributing devices, and more particularly relates to a sprinkler head device, for example for use in sprinkler systems for distributing liquids or the like. The device comprises a support body to be removably coupled to a sleeve for connection to an external liquid supply line, a convergent nozzle between the body and the sleeve, and a diverter member downstream from the nozzle for diverting flow and sprinkling fluid out. The device further includes main connection means for removably attaching the nozzle to the support body while preventing any accidental separation thereof upon mutual coupling and uncoupling of the sleeve to the body, thereby allowing fast and easy periodic replacement of the nozzle. |
| US07644875B2 |
Injector
An injector has an inner sleeve between a needle pressure receiving face of a needle and a rear end face of a valve body. The inner sleeve is slidably fitted to an outer periphery of a middle shaft section of the needle. The inner sleeve receives a reaction force of a spring located between the inner sleeve and a pressurizing piston, so an axial tip end (edge section) of the inner sleeve is pressed against the rear end face to achieve close contact therebetween. Thus, a volume of a pressure chamber can be reduced, so a valve opening force for lifting the needle can be acquired efficiently. Accordingly, injection of a large flow rate can be performed by increasing a lift amount of the needle and also quick lifting of the needle can be performed. |
| US07644872B2 |
Powder port blow-off for thermal spray processes
A powder port blow-off system for a plasma spray process includes a faceplate that includes a bore therein that is co-radially aligned with a nozzle of a plasma spray gun, which emits a plasma plume. A plurality of powder feed ports are arranged circumferentially around the nozzle for injecting a flow of powder particles toward the plasma plume. A plurality of powder port blow-offs are arranged circumferentially around the nozzle in order to direct blow-off gas across the powder feed ports. The powder port blow-offs are directed across the plasma plume to create a vortex for carrying away powder particles unconsumed by the plasma plume. |
| US07644871B2 |
Flux spray atomization and splash control
Methods and apparatus to improve flux spray atomization and/or splash control are described. In one embodiment, a flux nozzle includes a plurality of injection holes to deposit flux fluid through an exit hole of an air cap onto a substrate (such as a printed circuit board). The flux fluid may atomize prior to deposition onto the substrate as relatively smaller broken down flux droplets that may aid reduced spray splash. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US07644869B2 |
Auxiliary stage control of multistage thermostats
Systems and methods for the auxiliary stage control of multistage thermostats are disclosed. An illustrative multistage thermostat for a multistaged HVAC system installed within a building or structure can include a processor having a control algorithm adapted to operate the thermostat in either a normal mode for achieving rapid temperature changes within the building or structure or an economy mode for conserving energy usage. In the economy mode of operation, the thermostat can be configured to determine a target time for achieving a temperature setpoint by either delaying or suppressing activation of the system's auxiliary stage. The target time can be adjusted in part based on the past usage characteristics of the auxiliary stage, the behavior of the user, and/or the progress of the primary stage in achieving the setpoint change without operating the auxiliary stage. |
| US07644867B2 |
Business card sized storage device
A business-card sized storage device which is a thin metal housing built-in with a flash memory module. |
| US07644866B2 |
Hand-supportable code symbol reader employing coplanar laser illumination and linear imaging
A hand-supportable planar laser illumination and imaging (PLIIM) based code symbol reader includes: a hand-supportable housing having a light transmission aperture; a linear image formation and detection module having a linear image detection array; and a planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) producing device having at least one visible laser diode (VLD) for producing a planar laser illumination beam (PLIB). The code symbol reader further includes an image grabber for grabbing digital linear images formed and detected by the image formation and detection module, an image data buffer for buffering the digital linear images grabbed by the image grabber and constructing a two-dimensional digital image from a series of buffered linear digital images, and an image processing computer for processing the two-dimensional digital image so as to read code symbols graphically represented in the two-dimensional digital image. |
| US07644863B2 |
Agent using detailed predictive model
Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for monitoring and predicting various data related to an inventory. A data processing apparatus interacts with one or more business computers to obtain one of replenishment and consumption activity data related to an inventory. A model for variations in the inventory is created. The model is used to determine estimates of variation for one of currently planned replenishment activities and currently planned consumption activities. The estimates of variation are used to predict future inventory levels. A system including one or more agent computers is also described. |
| US07644860B2 |
Information processing apparatus having illegal access prevention function and illegal access prevention method
An information processing apparatus includes a first recording medium, a password input unit, a password judging unit, and a condition judging unit. The first recording medium is capable of recording programs and data. The password input unit requests a user to input a password. The password judging unit judges whether a password inputted to the password input unit and a password stored in advance coincide with each other. The condition judging unit judges, when the apparatus is started, whether a condition set in advance is satisfied. When the condition set in advance is satisfied, the information processing apparatus sets a self-erasing program in the first recording medium. The first recording medium self-erases programs and data recorded in the first recording medium according to the self-erasing program. |
| US07644859B1 |
Context-based card selection device
A card transaction device is provided for selecting virtual cards for transactions based on a context. The portable device includes a plurality of virtual cards, and a storage device for storing the plurality of virtual cards. The cards may relate to credit or debit cards, loyalty cards, reward cards, security or access cards, or identification cards, for example. The portable device includes a user interface for a user to maintain rules for selection of one or more virtual cards based on the context of the transaction. The portable device also includes a processor to process the rules and select at least one of the virtual cards based on the context of the transaction. |
| US07644857B2 |
Expandable file folder with separate cases
The present invention provides an expandable file folder with separate cases, which has a case placed in the middle of the folder, and which, as a result, has little steadiness and tends to fall down. The first and second cases between the front and rear sides of the expandable storing part are set such that the file holder can be more steady in a standing position. Two separated supporting areas form beneath the two cases. Thus the folder, when placed, will not tend to fall down. |
| US07644852B2 |
Bonding apparatus, ball forming device in said bonding apparatus, and ball forming method using said bonding apparatus
A ball forming device and method used in a bonding apparatus, including a bonding arm, a capillary attached to the bonding arm, an electronic flame off probe for forming a ball at the tip of a wire passing through the capillary, and a gas atmosphere forming unit for bringing the vicinity of the tip end of the wire into a gas atmosphere. The gas atmosphere forming unit is made of an inner wall element and an outer wall element with a hollow space section in between. The bonding arm side of the inner wall element has an inside open space which is wider than the portion of the bonding arm where the capillary is attached, and gas ejection ports are formed in the inner wall element. A gas supply pipe is connected to the outer wall element to supply, for instance, a reducing gas into the hollow space section. |
| US07644847B2 |
Flexible pack frame
A backpack frame comprises side rails defining a first profile. The first profile has a flat first base segment lying on a first reference plane, and a first concave segment leading from the first base segment to an upper end of the frame, with the first concave segment being spaced a maximum distance from the first reference plane at a first location between the first base segment and the upper end of the frame. An intermediate structure interconnects the side rails. The intermediate structure defines a second profile having a second flat base segment lying on a second reference plane parallel to the first reference plane, and a second concave segment leading from the second base segment to the upper end of the frame, with the second concave segment being spaced a maximum distance from the second reference plane at a second location between the second base segment and the upper end of the frame. The first and second locations are offset from one another. |
| US07644846B2 |
Apparatus for restricting movement of a lawn implement shaft during storage or transportation thereof
Apparatus for restricting movement of a lawn implement shaft, for use in a lawn implement support system in cooperation with a vertically upstanding support member for horizontal support of shafted lawn implements during storage or transportation thereof including a support post for supporting a first end of a shafted lawn implement in conjunction with the vertically upstanding support member for supporting a second end of the shafted lawn implement. Further the apparatus includes a shaft support hook mounted to the support post, and projecting outwardly therefrom for a predetermined distance, the support hook being curved generally vertically and at a predetermined angle away from a first generally vertical plane defined by the support post, with a distal end of the shaft support hook being curved back toward a second vertical plane defined by the support post and perpendicular to the first vertical plane to define a shaft support region intermediate the hook and the support post. The present apparatus also includes a compression pin adjustably mounted to the support post adjacent the support hook for sliding movement therealong, the compression pin including a shaft abutment surface; and a device for fixing the compression pin at a predetermined position along the support post for restrictive contact with the lawn implement shaft. |
| US07644842B2 |
Dispenser having variable-volume storage chamber and depressible one-way valve assembly for dispensing creams and other substances
A dispenser has a housing, and a variable-volume storage chamber formed within the housing and defining a substantially fluid-tight seal between the chamber and exterior of the housing for storing a substance to be dispensed. A piston is mounted within the housing, and a one-way valve is mounted within the housing and coupled in fluid communication with the variable-volume storage chamber. A compression chamber is coupled in fluid communication between the piston and one-way valve, and at least one of the piston and valve is manually depressible relative to the other between (i) a first position in which the piston is located at least partially outside of the compression chamber for permitting substance to flow from the variable-volume storage chamber into the compression chamber, and (ii) a second position in which the piston is located at least partially within the compression chamber for pressurizing substance within the compression chamber above a valve opening pressuring and, in turn, dispensing substance through the one-way valve and out of the dispenser. |
| US07644841B2 |
Blister pump dispenser
A manually operated dispenser of the type containing a diaphragm at the bottom of the bottle, such that when the diaphragm is compressed a quantity of fluid is dispensed above the bottle through a spout. This invention uses a unique diaphragm shaped like a blister, that is integrated into the bottle bottom with a slide-pin allowing the blister diaphragm to move up and down, but not side to side. The diaphragm seals to the bottle bottom during dispensing, but when the diaphragm is substantially compressed, the seal self breaks as the diaphragm edge expands radially from the diaphragm axis over bumps on the bottle bottom allowing the diaphragm to refill. At the fluid output of the spout is a channel valve nozzle that channels the fluid into a stream when the fluid flows, but when the fluid is not being dispensed, prevents fluid from flowing back into the bottle. |
| US07644840B2 |
Valve assembly for viscous fluid dispensers
A valve assembly comprising a housing and a valve member mounted within the housing rotatable about an axis and between at least a dispensing position and a further position, for instance a volume selection position during which a material can be withdrawn from a container, and, preferably, a seat for mounting and guiding the valve member within the housing, wherein at least one of said housing, valve member, and seat is made of a synthetic material and the assembly further comprises a spring, which urges at least two of said housing, valve member, and seat together. |
| US07644839B2 |
Housing for chemical irritant dispenser
A housing can be mounted to a pistol or other weapon and conveniently fired therefrom and can be used as a discrete weapon itself. A cap has a central aperture which secures the nozzle and/or valve stem of a canister of chemical irritant from movement and is secured to the proximal end of a hollow tube. A feature of the new invention is a slot access running along the length of the tube for some distance from its distal end. The tube may be either open or closed at its distal end. Toward the distal end of the tube, an interior ridge or stop cooperates with the cap aperture to secure the canister of irritant. When a canister is installed in the housing, the operator can release an irritant spray axially from the canister by pressing a digit against the side of the canister's storage cylinder and, thereby, displace its longitudinal axis along an arc. The housing need have no other mechanisms, except the housing and canister. This method also allows for convenient triggering of a spray from a canister within the housing when the housing is secured under or adjacent to the barrel of a handgun. In some embodiments an actuator compresses against a spring-loaded pusher to contact the side of the storage cylinder and move the longitudinal axis of the storage cylinder to release a spray. |
| US07644838B2 |
Food dispensing machine and method of use
A food dispensing machine and method of use that includes separately loaded, conveyed, and heated first and second food portions. A first food portion, such as a hot dog, is dispensed from a chain of portions in an sealing film via a first dispensing device, which slices the film and expels the food portion. The first food portion is loaded onto a projecting component, which transports the first food portion to a first heating device and rotates the food portion during heating. Second food portions, such as buns, within containers attached to a film so as to form a chain, are dispensed by a second dispensing device, which separates each container from the film for placement onto a tray. The tray conveys the second food portions to a second heating device, and the heated first and second food portions are combined and dispensed. |
| US07644836B2 |
Container for a stack of individually removable paper products
A container for a stack of individually removable paper products (9) such as facial tissues, handkerchiefs, towels and the like, or similar products made of non-woven material is described. The container has an upper wall (2), in which a withdrawal opening is formed which is closed by a tear-off-able lid (8) and a cavity accommodating the stack of products. The lid (8) has on its inner surface (12) an adhesive or bonding surface (11) by which the uppermost paper product (10) of the stack adheres, preferably detachably, to the lid (8). |
| US07644834B2 |
Splash minimizing lid for liquid waste receptacle
A liquid medical waste receptacle includes an open top vessel having a bottom and an upstanding wall defining an upper rim. A lid is adapted to cover the open top vessel in sealing engagement with the upper rim. The lid includes a body portion defining a recess portion. The recess portion extends into the open top vessel. In some embodiments, the recess portion makes up a majority of the body portion. In some embodiments, the recess portion has a plurality of fingers. Select fingers have a proximal section, a distal section, and an intermediate section disposed between the proximal and distal sections, wherein the proximal section or the intermediate section includes a flexibility that is greater than the flexibility of at least a portion of the distal section. |
| US07644833B2 |
Can end
A can end member for a beverage container is disclosed. The end member has a curl at least substantially defining a perimeter of the can end, a chuck wall extending downwardly and radially inwardly from the curl, and a central panel wall centered about a longitudinal axis. The central panel wall has a product side and a public side. The public side has a means for opening a frangible panel segment. The end member also has a fold joining the chuck wall with the central panel wall. The fold has an opening. A fluid is located adjacent the opening. |
| US07644831B2 |
Lightweight stackable horizontal dispensing container
A lightweight horizontal dispensing container comprising a pallet base, a pallet cover and opposed side walls of plastic material extending between the pallet base and the pallet cover may be stacked on top of similar pallet covers or below similar pallet bases. Opposed rectangular frames are secured to the sleeve and define openings on opposed sides of the horizontal dispensing container. Dunnage provides horizontal access to parts inside the container. This container enables a horizontal dispensing container to be stacked above or below conventional pallet load. |
| US07644830B2 |
Lightweight stackable horizontal dispensing container with braces
A lightweight horizontal dispensing container comprises a pallet base, a pallet cover and a three sided sleeve extending between the pallet base and the pallet cover. The container may be stacked on top of similar pallet covers or below similar pallet bases. A rectangular frame is secured to opposed walls and defines an opening on a fourth side of the container. Dunnage is located inside the container to provide horizontal access to parts inside the container. This container enables a horizontal dispensing container to be stacked above or below conventional pallet loads. |
| US07644828B1 |
Bottle/container coupling system
A container has an open top end and a closed bottom end. A chamber is provided between the top and bottom ends. The top end is formed as a neck. The bottom end is formed as a recess. The neck and recess are essentially cylindrical. The neck and recess have a common axis and an essentially common length and diameter. The recess is adapted to receive a neck of another similarly configured bottle/container system. The neck is adapted to be coupled to a recess of another similarly configured bottle/container system. |
| US07644822B2 |
Dispensing containers
A container for storing and dispensing consumer products comprises a multi-compartment molded tray formed with an array of discrete cavities for receiving consumer products. A cover film is secured to the top surface of the tray to retain the item(s) within the cavities. The cover film has pre-formed tear lines defining peripheries of an array of tear-off portions, each tear-off portion arranged so that it overlies an associated cavity to retain the item(s) in that cavity. Each tear-off portion has an associated lug portion not secured to the tray in use, for gripping by a user before removing the tear-off portion. The top surface of the tray has an array of upwardly extending protrusions positioned to be located beneath the lug portions in use to bend those lug portions upwardly out of the plane of the remainder of the cover film to make the lugs readily graspable by a user. |
| US07644821B2 |
Sealed product delivery unit with rupturing pump
Sealed delivery unit 10 (shown in exploded format in FIG. 1A) contains medication 10M, and is formed by a generally flat member 10F pressed into selective engagement with an opposed shaped member 10S. Pumping chamber 12P, enclosed between the members generates a rupturing pressure in response to an external force applied by the user (indicated by arrow F shown in FIG. 1B). Enclosed Medication chamber 12M contains the medication to be delivered. Tunnel conduit 14 provides fluid communication between the chambers for rupturing the medication chamber in response to the rupturing pressure. Perimeter seal 16 extends around the pumping chamber and the medication chamber and the tunnel conduit. The perimeter seal is secure enough to withstand the internal rupturing pressure generated during delivery. Delivery port 18 with pull-away closure 18C (see FIG. 1C) delivers the medication out of medication chamber 12M. Rupture site 18S is proximate the delivery port. Rupture flap 18F produced by the rupturing at the rupture site, is connected to the pull-away closure. The flap projects outward permitting the user to grasp the pull-away the closure and open the delivery port for delivery of the medication. |
| US07644817B2 |
Wrap-around carrier and blank
A wrap-around carrier has side end panels that facilitate erection of the carrier and closure of the carrier ends. |
| US07644813B2 |
Freewheel coupling
A freewheel coupling (1) is provided having clamping bodies (4), which are arranged between an inner ring (2) and an outer ring (3) and which have a narrow section (5). A single cage (9) is arranged between the inner ring (2) and the outer ring (3) with a plurality of pockets (10). Each of the pockets (10) has an area (12) that is narrower in the axial direction and an area (11), which is adjacent to this narrower area, which is wider in the axial direction, and which is provided for holding a clamping body (4). A spring band (6), which is arranged radially within the cage (9), has an original curvature in the unloaded state, wherein the curvature radius exceeds a radius of the cage (9), and spring tongues (13), which are provided for spring mounting of the clamping bodies (4), are directed radially inwardly. |
| US07644812B2 |
Using inferred torque converter impeller speed to control an impeller clutch
A method for controlling an impeller clutch of a torque converter includes determining a function relating a K-factor of the torque, determining a current engine torque, determining a desired impeller clutch slip, using the function determine the actual impeller speed and thus actual clutch slip, and adjusting the operating state of the impeller clutch to produce the desired impeller clutch slip. |
| US07644808B2 |
Door device of elevator
In an elevator door apparatus, an elevator door is capable of reciprocating between a door closure position for closing an elevator entrance and a door open position for opening the elevator entrance. The elevator door is driven by a door drive device. The door drive device is controlled by a door control device. The door control device adjusts the door open position based on control information for controlling an operation of an elevator, obtains a door opening/closing pattern for the elevator door to be opened and closed between the adjusted door open position and the door closure position, and controls the door drive device so that the elevator door is reciprocated in accordance with the obtained door opening/closing pattern. |
| US07644804B2 |
Sound attenuator
A fluid pathway is provided with a flow controller in at least a portion of its length wherein the flow controller comprises an active surface capable of influencing the fluid flow through the fluid pathway, the configuration of the active surface conforming to at least one logarithmic curve conforming to the Golden Section. |
| US07644801B2 |
Membrane with a high resistance against buckling and/or crinkling
A membrane (2) for an electroacoustic transducer (1) is disclosed, wherein a thickness (d) of said membrane (2) and an average Young's modulus (Eavg) of said membrane (2) are chosen in such a way that the critical load (Fbc), which causes the membrane (2) to buckle and/or crinkle, is increased compared to a reference membrane. The reference membrane made of Polycarbonate has the same shape, dimension, and stiffness in its direction of movement (MOV) as said membrane (2). According to the result of investigations on buckling and/or crinkling, said effect occurs with different critical buckling/crinkling loads for membranes of the same shape and dimension, but made of different materials, even when the stiffness of the membranes in their direction of movement—and hence their resonant frequency—is identical. |
| US07644800B2 |
Motorcycle exhaust structure
To place a muffler in a front area to make it suitable for an off-road motorcycle, A down frame extending downward obliquely from a head pipe ahead of an engine and a lower frame connected with its lower end, extending backward under the engine, are provided. A muffler is located in the vicinity of the joint between the down frame and the lower frame where its rear surface is curved forward in a convex pattern along the down frame and the lower frame. An exhaust pipe extending from a cylinder head is almost S-shaped as seen sideways and its forward curved portion and lower backward curved portion are vertically arranged with its lower end connected with a lower portion of the muffler. |
| US07644799B2 |
Vehicle safety control system
The invention is a safety control system for vehicle safety mechanisms. The novel control system uses acquired and stored data about the configuration of a vehicle passenger compartment at the time of an emergency event to determine the type, sequence and degree of safety device deployment. In one embodiment, the invention contains a novel power system employing a supplemental power supply specifically included to provide extra power beyond what is typically available from the power distribution system in conventional passenger compartment vehicle power systems. The novel power supply is routed to the appropriate safety mechanisms when the vehicle emergency event sensors, ie rollover, impact etc. detect a condition when the safety mechanism should be deployed and the extra power supply is required. |
| US07644798B2 |
Safety arrangement
A safety arrangement for detecting the position of an occupant (4) of a seat (1) which is provided with a safety belt (9) which is mounted on a retractor (10) includes a sensor (11) which measures the length of belt withdrawn from the retractor The sensor is associated with a processor unit (8) which is associated with a seat position sensor (7). By determining the position of the seat and by determining the minimum length of belt paid-out from the retractor (10) after the seat belt has been buckled in position, and by determining how additional belt has been paid-out at any incident, the position of the seat occupant (4) relative to an air-bag (19) can be determined. If the seat occupant is very close to the air-bag, the nature of deployment of the air-bag can be moderated by the central processor unit (8). |
| US07644796B2 |
Motorcycle frame structure
A motorcycle frame is provided such that the spacing between a main frame and a side plate can be easily adjusted, and joint surfaces, at which the side plates and engine hangers abut the main frame, can be easily formed. Each side plate is provided with upper and lower plate-side bosses used for adjusting the spacing between itself and a main frame. A surface of an upper first boss of the main frame, which abuts on the upper plate-side boss, and surfaces of upper second bosses of the main frame, which abut on an upper engine hanger, are provided on the same plane. In addition, a surface of a lower first boss of the main frame, which abuts on the lower plate-side boss, and surfaces of lower second bosses of the main frame, which abut on a lower engine hanger, are provided on the same plane. |
| US07644791B2 |
Exhaust and cooling systems for implementation in reduced-size vehicle
Various embodiments of reduced-size vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility vehicles (UVs) are disclosed herein. In at least some embodiments, the vehicles include frames that are wider near the front and rear sections of the vehicles than within the mid-sections of the vehicles. This, in combination with the use of shock-absorbers that are substantially vertically oriented, allows for the opening-up of large interior cavities within the front and rear sections of the vehicles within which can be positioned large front and rear internal compartments that can provide storage/carrying capacity as well as added buoyancy for the vehicle, among other things. Also, in at least some embodiments, the vehicles can include special cooling and/or exhaust systems having components that are positioned substantially within the mid-sections of the vehicles, thus further increasing the amounts of space available for the cavities/compartments within the front and rear sections of the vehicles. |
| US07644781B2 |
Walk-behind working machine throttle control
A walk-behind working machine includes a first clutch mechanism for connecting or disconnecting drive between an engine and a working member of the working machine. The first clutch mechanism includes a first clutch lever having a first activating member. A second clutch mechanism is configured to connect or disconnect drive between the engine and traveling members of the working machine. The second clutch mechanism includes a second clutch lever having a second activating member. A throttle regulating mechanism has a pivoting member for engagement with one of the first activating member of the first clutch mechanism and the second activating member of the second clutch mechanism so as to undergo pivotal movement to shift a throttle for the engine from a first opened position in which an idling engine speed is produced to a second opened position in which a working-machine-activating engine speed is produced. |
| US07644777B2 |
Fire-fighting monitor
A fire-fighting monitor includes a housing, a nozzle coupler, and a pivot joint coupler comprising an internal passageway and a pivot member. The pivot member is pivotally mounted to the housing at the outlet of the housing. The nozzle coupler is mounted to the pivot joint coupler wherein the internal passageway of the pivot joint coupler is in communication with the internal passageways of the housing and the nozzle coupler, wherein the weight at the nozzle coupler generates a gravitational moment about the pivot axis. In addition, the nozzle coupler has a central axis defining a reference line, which is offset from the first pivot axis wherein a reaction force generated by fluid flowing through the nozzle coupler generates a moment about the first pivot axis in a direction opposed from said gravitational moment. |
| US07644775B2 |
Fire-fighting installation and drive source of fire-fighting installation
The invention relates to fire-fighting installation comprising a drive source for feeding medium into at least one heat releasing spray head (4), the drive source comprising a pump unit (5) for feeding liquid into said spray head through a supply line (3) which is filled with gas to a standby pressure, a gas source (9) for maintaining the standby pressure, and a sensor (2) arranged to provide a signal for starting the pump unit in response to a change occurring in the state of the medium in the supply line. In order to rapidly start the pump unit (5) of the drive source as a result of a minor flow occurring in the supply line (3) and in order for the fire-fighting installation to be applicable to be used at low temperatures, the sensor is a flow transducer (2) arranged to provide a signal to the pump unit (5), if the flow of gas in said portion of the supply line exceeds a certain predetermined value. |
| US07644771B2 |
Fluid loss control system and method for controlling fluid loss
A fluid loss control system having a loss control valve and a plurality of zones including an isolation assembly disposed in a wellbore and a string having a stinger at a downhole most end thereof. The string is supportive of a moveable seal at a selected position uphole of the stinger, the position being calculated to cause engagement of the seal with the isolation assembly and to position the moveable seal to facilitate fluid-flow around the seal when the stinger is engaged with a seal bore of one of the plurality of zones. A method for controlling fluid loss including isolating a fluid column uphole of a pressure seal spaced from the lower completion, opening a fluid loss control valve, stabbing a stinger into a seal bore of the lower completion, and positioning the seal to facilitate fluid flow therearound. |
| US07644768B2 |
Separation device for material from a drilling rig situated on the seabed
A drilling rig device (1) situated on the seabed (11), where the drilling rig (1) is sealingly enclosed against the surroundings, wherein the drilling rig (1) is liquid-filled and provided with a separator (16) arranged to separate material (17) from the liquid. |
| US07644756B2 |
Oil recovery by injection of steam, carbon dioxide and nitrogen
Equipment for oil recovery can include three systems: a steam system, a carbon dioxide system and a nitrogen system. The three systems can include one or more of a steam pressure regulator, a steam thermometer, a steam pressure gauge, a steam flowmeter, a carbon dioxide pressure regulator, a carbon dioxide compressor, a carbon dioxide thermometer, a carbon dioxide pressure gauge, a nitrogen compressor, a nitrogen pressure regulator, a nitrogen thermometer, a nitrogen pressure gauge, assembled valves, a gas injection tube and a chemical agent valve. The three systems can be connected into a heavy oil well via the assembled valves, the gas injection tube and a down-hole tube. The equipment can integrate three pressurizing and metering systems of steam, carbon dioxide and nitrogen together. With the equipment, one, two or three of the gases may be injected into oil wells to achieve favorable results of output increase. |
| US07644754B2 |
Heat recuperator with frost protection
A recuperator for transferring thermal energy from a warm gas flow to a cold gas flow, comprising: a first group of ducts with a first connection and a second connection; a second group of ducts with a third connection and a fourth connection, wherein the ducts of both groups extend mutually parallel; a first supply for supplying the cold gas flow to the first connection; a first discharge for discharging the cold gas flow from the second connection; a second supply for supplying the warm gas flow to the third connection; and a second discharge for discharging the warm gas flow from the fourth connection. The device provides temporarily and repeatedly alternating connections from the first supply to the fourth connection; the first discharge to the third connection; the second supply to the second connection; and the second discharge to the first connection. The device further provides a control for repeatedly changing the connections utilizing two alternating valves located at opposite sides of the combination of the first and second group of ducts. |
| US07644753B2 |
Domed heat exchanger (porcupine)
Three embodiments of a heat exchanger assembly for cooling an electronic device are shown respectively in FIGS. 1-2, 3 and 4 and each comprises a flange, a dome, a plurality of condensing tubes, a shroud, and a boiler plate. In the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the dome is semi-spherical in shape and the distance measured axially along the center axis equals the distance measured laterally from or perpendicular to the center axis. In the second and third embodiments shown in FIGS. 3 and, 4, respectively, the distance measured axially along the center axis is greater than the distance measured laterally from or perpendicular to the center axis. The domes in the second and third embodiments are an ellipsoid and a semi-logarithmic body, respectively. In all embodiments, a plurality of condensing tubes aligned in fan rows and arced rows extend from the dome to distal ends to facilitate more-efficient heat transfer. |
| US07644752B2 |
Regulating heat exchange and cooling method and system for monitoring and controlling the temperatures of walls subjected to high temperatures
A regulating heat exchange and cooling method and system for monitoring and controlling the temperatures of walls subjected to high temperatures. The system is used to cool the inner wall of a thermal system having a double wall, the inner wall being subjected to temperatures equal to or greater than the physical capacity thereof. The system includes a network of tubes which is independent of the thermal system to be cooled. The tubes contain pressurized cooling water which circulates therethrough. The tubes have nozzles which spray and project water in the form of solid cones against the inner wall, the nozzles being controlled by adjustable-flow valves. The network of tubes forms an integral part of the outer wall of the thermal system to be cooled and the system also includes elements for maintaining the water projection area defined by the inner and outer walls in a vacuum condition. |
| US07644750B2 |
Method of casting components with inserts for noise reduction
The invention provides a method for manufacturing a powertrain component enclosure member, including the steps of: (A) positioning at least one insert into a mold, wherein the insert is provided with a coating to prevent bonding between the insert and the casting material; and (B) casting a wall of the powertrain component enclosure member in the mold around the insert such that a major portion of the insert is substantially non-bonded with the casting material to provide a proper interfacial boundary with the casting material for damping. |
| US07644746B2 |
Rotary ultrasonic sealer
An ultrasonic sealer comprising a hollow shaft (1) having a longitudinal axis (2) and being rotatably arranged in a housing (3) for driven rotation about its longitudinal axis (2). The rotary sealer further comprises a sealing horn (8) arranged coaxially in the hollow shaft (1) and connected to a converter (6) and preferably also a booster (7). The horn (8) is provided with a peripheral sealing area (13) outside an axial end (13) of the hollow shaft (1). The horn (8) is connected to the hollow shaft (1) by means of at least one annular, metallic support (11) extending between an outer face (14) of the horn (8) and an inner face (10) of the hollow shaft (1). The at least one annular support (11) is corrugated in cross section such that at least two grooves and one ridge arranged there between are provided between the inner face (10) of the hollow shaft (1) and the outer face (14) of the horn (8). |
| US07644745B2 |
Bonding of target tiles to backing plate with patterned bonding agent
A target assembly including a plurality of target tiles bonded to a backing plate by adhesive, for example of indium or conductive polymer, filled into recesses in the backing plate formed beneath each of the target tiles. A sole peripheral recess formed as a rectangular close band may be formed inside the tile periphery. Additional recesses may be formed inside the peripheral recess, preferably symmetrically arranged about perpendicular bisectors of rectangular tiles. The depth and width of the recesses may be varied to control the amount of stress and the stress direction. |
| US07644744B2 |
Lid sealing machine
A lid sealing machine includes a casing attached to a housing, a sealing device disposed in the casing, a container holder for supporting and moving containers into and out of the casing, a supply reel, a take up reel and a roller rotatably attached onto the housing for supporting a film material and for transmitting the film material from the supply reel around the roller and to the take up reel, and for moving the film material between the sealing device and the container holder, and for allowing the film material to be forced to seal the containers by the sealing device. A detecting device may be used for detecting a rotating movement of the roller and a movement of the film material relative to the housing. |
| US07644741B2 |
Glass filler
A glass filler defines a main body having a lower surface. An inlet and outlet are each defined in the lower surface of the main body. An outlet chamber is defined in the main body and contains an outlet valve, which includes an outlet valve housing defining a castellated edge. The outlet valve includes a cylindrical sleeve that defines an inner surface that is crenellated and configured to receive an implement that can be inserted and used by the operator to rotate the cylindrical sleeve in a manner that controls the amount of liquid exiting the outlet of the glass filler. |
| US07644739B1 |
Pressurized actuation system for inflatable structures
A pressurized actuator system for independent deployment of at least two inflatable structures having a first primary section adapted for deployment of a primary inflatable structure and second section for deployment of a secondary inflatable structure and an auxiliary source of pressurized fluid for operating said device. A control assembly for controlling a flow of pressurized fluid from the auxiliary source of pressurized into the second system is provided. Thus, the system assures independent deployment of the primary and secondary inflatable structures. |
| US07644735B2 |
Pipe insert
There is provided an insert to be sealingly mounted into a plug hole of a pipe having a sealing area surrounding the plug hole. The insert comprises an internal unit and a fastener. The internal unit and the fastener have corresponding cooperating sealing portions and mounting portions. The sealing portion of the internal unit is formed with a flange adapted to be forced into the plug hole. The flange and the sealing portion of the fastener have corresponding sealing surfaces. These surfaces are adapted to sealingly clamp therebetween the sealing area of the pipe, when the insert is mounted into the plug hole. One of the sealing surfaces being in the form of a sealing edge and the other being in the form of a conical surface. When the fastener is mounted onto the internal unit, the sealing portions of the internal unit and the fastener form therebetween a chamber. The chamber is in fluid communication with the outside environment, allowing atmospheric pressure within the chamber. |
| US07644733B2 |
Duct with spiral groove
A duct (10) for transporting a two phase mixture has a length portion of circular cross-section (12) leading, via a transition zone (14) in which the duct cross-section changes from circular to lobed, to a zone in which its cross-section exhibits at least one lobe (16) extending helically around and along the duct. The duct has a cross-sectional area which is substantially constant, or which progressively increases, over the transition zone. The transition from circular to lobed cross-section is alternatively smooth and continuous, and the transition zone occupies a duct length in which the or each lobe becomes relocated by at least one position. |
| US07644720B2 |
Retractable rod and tent
The invention relates to a retractable rod and a tent made from the rod. The retractable rod comprises a multitude of rigid skeleton joints having two axial end surfaces and side surfaces. The joints are connected through the convex-concave connection by two flexible ropes passing through the holes of the joints to form a rod. There is a storage compartment locating at one end of the rod which winds and stores the rod therein. The storage compartment comprises a shaft, a rod storage sleeve which is in an intermittent drive mode fixed to the shaft; one end of the two flexible ropes passes through the rod storage sleeve and is fixed to the shaft. The rod storage sleeve is supported and rotates between two rope-protecting boards. A tension part locates at the other end of the rod and the other end of the two flexible ropes is fixed to the tension part. The advantage of the invention is that the tent made from the retractable rod occupies a small storage space. |
| US07644718B2 |
Sump of dish washer
There is provided a sump assembly of a dishwasher. The sump assembly includes a self-cleaning filter assembly having a mesh filter, a sump cover for mounting the self-cleaning filter assembly on a top surface thereof, the sump cover having a filter supporting sleeve extending upward for supporting the self-cleaning filter assembly, a sump case seating on an upper portion of the sump cover to reserve washing water, and a fluid passage guide for discharging the washing water stored in the sump case in a predetermined direction, the fluid passage guide having a washing pump disposed therein. |
| US07644713B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining instantaneous leak during ventilatory assistance
The apparatus provides for the determination of the instantaneous phase in the respiratory cycle, subject's average respiration rate and the provision of ventilatory assistance. A microprocessor (16) receives an airflow signal from a pressure transducer (18) coupled to a port (17) at a mask (11). The microprocessor (16) controls a servo (19), that in turn controls the fan motor (20) and thus the pressure of air delivered by the blower (10). The blower (10) is coupled to a subject's mask (ii) by a conduit (12). The invention seeks to address the following goals: while the subject is awake and making substantial efforts the delivered assistance should be closely matched in phase with the subject's efforts; the machine should automatically adjust the degree of assistance to maintain at least a specified minimum ventilation without relying on the integrity of the subject's chemoreflexes; and it should continue to work correctly in the presence of large leaks. |
| US07644711B2 |
Spark arrestor and airflow control assembly for a portable cooking or heating device
A device for arresting spark and ash issuing from, and precisely controlling the ventilation of and temperature inside, a heat source-containing vessel such as a cooking grill, stove, oven, cooker, fireplace, heater, or firebox. The device comprises a spark arrestor assembly including a base plate, a cover plate, and a spark arrestor. The base plate defines an opening. The cover plate and spark arrestor are slidably mated in two channels formed in the base plate around the opening. The cover plate and spark arrestor may be adjusted to extend across or only partway across the opening as selected by a user of the device. Tabs are provided on the cover plate and spark arrestor for easy adjustment thereof. Tabs in the base plate are positioned to define a range of slidable motion of the cover plate and spark arrestor. The spark arrestor assembly engages a fire-containing or heat source-containing vessel over an opening defined by the vessel so that the vessel opening cooperates with the spark arrestor assembly opening. |
| US07644709B2 |
Wrist strap for bow string release assembly
A wrist strap for use with a bow string release assembly, including a pair of interconnected fabric limbs extending angularly from a common central area and a fabric covered magnet in the free end of each limb; the magnets being arranged to attract one another when the free end of one limb is placed proximate the free end of the other limb; and a connector strap with a connector member thereon fixed to the first limb and another connector strap with a cooperating second connector member thereon, the connector members being releasably locked together to affix the wrist strap to the wrist of a user; and a tether strap fixed to the common area, and including means to attach the tether to a bow trigger assembly. |
| US07644702B2 |
Fuel supply system for a motor vehicle
A fuel supply system for a motor vehicle has a sucking jet pump (6, 7) which is connected to a flow line (5). The valve (16, 17) reduces the cross-section of an opening (20) in a nozzle (14, 15) of the sucking jet pump (6, 7) with increasing pressure in the flow line (5). Hydraulic losses in supplying the sucking jet pump (6, 7) with fuel as a pump fluid are prevented and the conveying performance of the sucking jet pump (6, 7) is maintained, preferably, at a constant level. |
| US07644694B2 |
Collapsible pushrod assembly and method of installing a collapsible pushrod assembly
A rocker box, pushrod assembly, oil delivery system, tappets and tappet guides are provided for an engine, particularly a motorcycle engine. The rocker box includes a separable upper portion and lower portion with a seal for sealing the upper portion and lower portion when coupled together. The pushrod assembly includes an adjusting unit that collapses into a pushrod shaft. The oil delivery system includes an oil passageway(s) in a rocker shaft of a rocker arm assembly, and at least one of an oil passageway(s) in a rocker box and an oil passageway(s) in a pushrod assembly. |
| US07644690B2 |
Arrangement structure of electrically-driven actuator
An arrangement structure of an electrically-driven actuator is used in a variable valve operating mechanism capable of adjusting an operation of a valve of an engine. A part of the electrically driven actuator exposed to the outside of the engine is arranged at a position shifted in a car width direction with respect to an exothermic body provided at a periphery of the engine. |
| US07644686B2 |
Water heating distribution system
A water heating apparatus including a tank divided into first and second chambers, wherein water in the first and second chambers has first and second temperatures, respectively, a first outlet for supplying water from the first chamber, a first thermostat to measure the first temperature, a second thermostat to measure the second temperature, means for heating water in the second chamber, a pump having a pump inlet in fluid communication with the second chamber and a pump outlet in fluid communication with the first chamber, and a controller configured to initiate pumping of water from the second chamber to the first chamber when the first temperature is below a predetermined first value. The controller is also configured to initiate heating of water in the second chamber when the second temperature is below a predetermined second value, the second value being greater than the first value. |
| US07644680B2 |
Electrode assembly for non-equilibrium plasma treatment
A method and electrode assembly for treating a substrate with a non-equilibrium plasma in which the electrode assembly has two or more spaced barrier electrodes and a ground electrode spaced apart from the two spaced barrier electrodes for passage of a substrate to be treated. Plasma fluid medium is introduced between the barrier electrodes and is biased to provide a greater flow to an inlet region of the electrode assembly to help inhibit the ingress of air. Each of the barrier electrodes can be provided with central and leg sections having passages for introducing a cooling fluid into one of the leg sections and discharging said cooling fluid from the other of the leg sections. The central section can be provided with a transverse cross-sectional area less than that of the leg sections to increase velocity in the central section. |
| US07644677B2 |
Marine safety ladder
To provide a marine safety ladder that makes rescue possible within a short time, without posing any risk of contact with a pleasure boat or the like, without causing any additional concern in the operation of boats during docking and departure, without the risk of injury to a person who has fallen, etc., and without the risk of falling when the ladder is being stowed.A top hinge member (67) is connected and fixed to one end, a middle hinge member (68) is connected and fixed to the middle, and a bottom hinge member (69) is connected and fixed to the other end, respectively, to, in the width direction, the underside of a deck (2) of a floating pier (1) or of a transom step (2′) of a boat (1′); and a main ladder (20) and guide rails (30) are provided rotatable about the top hinge member (67) via top connecting members (61); and with a bottom latch element (64) being engaged with the bottom end of the main ladder (20) or members in the vicinity thereof, a sliding member (40) is located at the bottom end of the guide rails (30), and all constituting parts are stowed within the width of the deck (2) of the floating pier (1). |
| US07644674B1 |
Marine vessel stabilization system
An outrigger and hull provides outriggers mounted with hinges to plates that enable pivotal or rotatable movement of each outrigger between storage and operating positions. Locking members secure the outriggers from substantial movement when in the operating position. |
| US07644673B2 |
Emergency encapsulated lift system
A buoyancy lift system having an inflatable bladder with a tether stowed inside a canister secured to a vessel. A sealing member is slidably received within canister and secures to the inflatable bladder. Pressurized gas forces the sealing member and bladder outwardly of the canister. A stop prevents the sealing member from escaping the canister such that the sealing member creates a seal between itself and the canister at an outboard end of the canister. Pressurized gas is forced through a channel in the sealing member into the bladder to increase the displacement of a vessel. |
| US07644670B2 |
Paired single disc opener unit
An opener unit having a pair of single disc openers mounted upon a parallel linkage which may be mounted onto a tool bar or drawbar is disclosed and claimed. The pair of single opener discs may be used for controlled creation of a pair of furrows to which seed, fertilizer or other soil amendments may be delivered. The opener unit may be mounted in combination with a row clearing or cleaning unit. The opener unit may also be mounted in combination with an auxiliary depth tire or a ski, and or a furrow closing member such as a wheel, a chain or a strap. |
| US07644665B2 |
Knockdown pallet structure, and method of erecting and knocking-down the same
A new and improved knockdown pallet structure comprises a relatively flexible base panel which is fabricated from a suitable woven plastic material, such as, for example, polypropylene, and a pair of laterally spaced, longitudinally extending pockets are secured upon undersurface portions of the base panel so as to accommodate rigid support members, which may comprise rigid thermoplastic tubes or pipes, for accommodating the fork tines of a forklift truck when a pallet structure, having a palletized load disposed thereon, is to be lifted and transported. A pair of semi-rigid cross-brace members are respectively pivotally secured at first end portions thereof upon the pallet structure so as to be movable between a first operative position, at which the pair of semi-rigid cross-brace members will be disposed in a longitudinally spaced, laterally oriented mode, and a second position at which the pair of semi-rigid cross-brace members will be disposed in a laterally spaced, longitudinally oriented mode so as to be disposed parallel to the laterally spaced, longitudinally extending rigid support members in order to permit the entire pallet structure to be rolled up, folded, or otherwise knocked-down, for compact storage and transportation purposes. |
| US07644664B2 |
Track guided vehicle system
Guide tracks 56, 56 projecting in a vertical direction are provided in a right and left of a running track 50 and left and right guide rollers 20, 21 are provided on a track guided vehicle and guided using inner surfaces of the left and right guide tracks. Branching rollers 22, 23 each comprising elevating and lowering means are provided in the right and left of the track guided vehicle and outside the right and left guide tracks. Thus, branching and rectilinear progression of the track guided vehicle is controlled by switching between a state where the branching rollers 22, 23 are elevated or lowered to guide the track guided vehicle using outer surfaces of the guide tracks 56, 56 and a state where the branching rollers 22, 23 do not contact with the outer surfaces. Whether the track guided vehicle runs straight or shifts to a branch line can be controlled by contacting one of the branching rollers 22, 23 with the outer surface of the corresponding guide tracks 56, 56, which guide the guide rollers 20, 21 in the section (rectilinear progression section 52) different from the branching portion 51. |
| US07644663B2 |
Method of making inactive ballistic exercise elements and inactive ballistic element made by said method
An inactive aerial ballistic element for exercises includes a main hollow body and a ballast element. The main hollow body has an ogive, disposed in the front portion, and a closure bottom, disposed in the rear portion. The ballast element is disposed in the main hollow body, and gives to the inactive ballistic element the same ballistic features of active ballistic elements. The ballast element includes at least a monolithic body coaxially disposed in the main hollow body of the inactive ballistic element and extending at least between the ogive and the closure bottom. The ogive includes the end of the monolithic body, which protrudes from the main hollow body of the inactive ballistic element. |
| US07644662B2 |
Elastic retention ring for combustible casings
An elastic retention ring for the combustible casing of a piece of ammunition with respect to a base, the ring including two concentric substantially ring-shaped portions, one internal the other one external. The portions are linked by radial arms, and are continuous or not and have different diameters. The external portion incorporates at least one plane part and the radial arms form an angle with respect to the plane of plane part. |
| US07644653B2 |
Coffee maker brew basket
A brew basket for an automatic drip coffee maker has a funnel-shape with a relatively wide top end and relatively narrow bottom end. A stepped support ring is integral in and defines a ledge around a circumference of the brew basket. A coffee filter pod is supported on its periphery by the support ring during brewing. |
| US07644652B2 |
Device for foaming milk, comprising external suction equipment
The invention relates to a device (15) for foaming milk by means of external suction equipment (35), used as in accessory for espresso machines or similar domestic appliances. Said device comprises a fixed part that can be connected to the steam supply conduit (1) of said machines and an easily interchangeable disposable part (26) containing all parts that come into contact with the milk. The invention is characterised in that components of the disposable parts and in some embodiments of the invention even the entire disposable part consist(s) of thin-walled plastic tubes of the drinking straw type, which can be produced in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner by extrusion and subsequent thermoplastic forming. The use of the inventive device obviates the need for the inconvenient cleaning of conventional foaming nozzles and eliminates hygiene problems. |
| US07644651B2 |
Method and control arrangement for terminating accidental switch on of a deep fryer apparatus not filled with oil
Method and control arrangement for terminating an accidental switch on of a deep fryer apparatus when it is not filled with oil, the apparatus comprises a vessel having closed bottom and sides, and a horizontally formed electric heating element for direct contact with the oil within the vessel. At one or more points of the inner space of the vessel the temperature is measured, by which the accidental switch on state of the apparatus is detected and terminated at the same time in such a way that a derivative of the temperature measured at the one or more determined points is defined. The heating power is automatically cut off to terminate switched on state when the value of the derivative exceeds a predetermined threshold value. |
| US07644648B2 |
Magnet type rodless cylinder
A pair of independent cylinder holes 3, 3 are formed in a cylinder tube 2 of a flat outer shape. When a pressurized fluid is alternately supplied into the cylinder tube 2 through a port 7 formed in an end cap 5, the internal pressure for operating the cylinders acts uniformly on the cylinder tube 2 greatly decreasing stress and deflection of the cylinder tube 2. |
| US07644643B2 |
Escutcheon for making a steering wheel spoke appear symmetric about a vertical plane through the steering wheel axis when a vehicle is being steered in a straight line
A steering shaft (12) has an end toward a driver of the vehicle and is arranged to turn about an axis (27) to steer a vehicle. A hub (14) of a steering wheel assembly (13) is fastened to that end of the shaft. A spoke pattern of one or more spokes (15) extends away from the hub to a rim (17) that when grasped by the driver and turned, turns the shaft to steer the vehicle. With the rim turned to a position that steers the vehicle in a straight line of travel, the spoke pattern assumes a position of at least approximate symmetry with respect to a vertical plane through the axis. An escutcheon (24, 26) covers the one or more spokes to prevent the driver from having an unobstructed view of the one or more spokes and is positionable within a range of positions relative to the one or more spokes. The escutcheon is secured in a position within that range that presents to the driver an appearance of having essentially exact symmetry with respect to the vertical plane when the rim is in the position that steers the vehicle in a straight line of travel. |
| US07644639B2 |
Multi-speed transmission with 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. |
| US07644635B2 |
Position sensor which is intended, in particular, for measuring steering column torsion
The invention relates to a position sensor which is intended, in particular, for detecting a steering column torsion. The invention consists of: a first magnetic rotor structure (10) comprising a plurality of radially-oriented magnets; a second stator structure comprising two rings (23, 24) which extend into axially-oriented overlapping teeth (25, 26); and a third fixed collector structure (30) comprising two flux-closing parts which define at least one air gap in which at least one magneto-sensitive element is placed. The invention is characterized in that the flux-closing parts and the stator rings (23, 24) define therebetween a constant collection surface that is independent of the relative radial position of the two structures. |
| US07644634B2 |
Device for determining the rotation angle of a shaft in an aircraft
A device for determining the rotation angle of a shaft in an aircraft, the device having a shaft and a motor operable to rotate the shaft to operate a component and to detect first rotation data of the shaft. The device also includes a position pickup unit designed to detect second rotation data of the shaft, and a synchronization unit for synchronizing the first rotation data with the second rotation data. |
| US07644627B2 |
Thread forming fasteners for ultrasonic load measurement and control
An ultrasonic load measurement transducer is mated with a thread-forming fastener to provide a load indicating thread-forming fastener that can be used for the precise and reliable assembly of critical bolted joints, such as those in the automobile and aerospace industries, among others. Steps can then be taken to accurately measure and control the load in the thread-forming fastener during tightening, and to inspect the load in the thread-forming fastener after assembly. A similar result can be achieved for a thread-locking fastener by mating an ultrasonic transducer with the thread-locking fastener assembly. |
| US07644622B2 |
Micro-electro-mechanical pressure sensor
The present micro-electro-mechanical pressure sensor includes a substrate, a dielectric isolation layer, at least two electrodes, and a vibrating membrane. The substrate includes an acoustic cavity. The dielectric isolation layer is formed on the substrate, and the dielectric isolation layer includes a through hole corresponding to the acoustic cavity. The at least two electrodes are separately formed on the dielectric isolation layer. The vibrating membrane covers the through hole, and the vibrating membrane includes at least one carbon nanotube structure with two opposite ends. The two opposite ends of the carbon nanotube are respectively connected to at least a given one of the at least two electrodes. |
| US07644619B2 |
Piezoelectric vibrator and ultrasonic motor having piezoelectric vibrator
A piezoelectric vibrator and an ultrasonic motor having the piezoelectric vibrator. A piezoelectric vibrator has a multilayered piezoelectric actuator, with special internal and surface electrodes making the body vibrate in a longitudinal and bending direction when an electrical signal is inputted. It can be manufactured using conventional multilayer piezoelectric actuator manufacturing techniques, therefore, it has reduced manufacturing time and cost, as it is not necessary to go through two polarization processes, and may simplify and decrease the volume, while improving the vibration performance. |
| US07644616B1 |
Method and apparatus for tracking wheel balancer corrective weight usage
A wheel balancing system determines a type of corrective weight for application to an edge of a rim of a wheel for correcting imbalance of the wheel. One or more corrective weights are identified from a varied inventory of corrective weights. An inventory database is incremented or decremented for each identified corrective weight. Database reports can be generated that specify weight usage and inventory status. One or more wheel balancers may be coupled to a network. |
| US07644614B2 |
Flow quantity measuring device
In a flow quantity measuring device, each of upstream side and downstream side sensing resistors, which are placed on an upstream side and a downstream side, respectively, of a heating resistor, includes resistor elements, each of which forms a folded path. The folded path has a generally constant width along an entire extent thereof and is returned at each of first and second longitudinal end edges of a sensing area. The heating resistor forms a folded path, which has a generally constant width along an entire extent thereof and is returned at the second longitudinal end edge of the heat generating area. First and second ends of the folded path of the heating resistor projects beyond the first longitudinal end edge of the sensing area on a first side of the flow quantity measuring device. |
| US07644606B2 |
Photoacoustic spectroscopy system and technique for remote sensing of explosives and toxic chemicals
A user-friendly photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) system and process (technique) provides an open-field PAS instrument, unit and device to remotely sense explosives, chemicals and biological agents. The PAS system and process can include: a pulsed tunable laser, such as a CO2 laser, a reflector, such as a parabolic reflector, an acoustic reverberant resonator in which a microphone is installed, and a data acquisition and analysis system. |
| US07644605B2 |
External force detection method, external force detector and electronic device
Displacement occurring by external force between a first member (a case, for example) and a second member (an LCD holder, for example) facing the first member is applied to a detection body (an external force detector), and a loading history of the external force (fracture surfaces) is detected by deformation of the detection body occurring when the force exceeds an allowable limit. Provided are a body section and a force receiving section (a head, arms) projected from the body section. The body section is provided between the first member and the second member facing the first member and is supported by either first or second members. The force receiving section deforms when external force acting in the direction crossing a gap between the first and second members or in the direction along the gap exceeds the allowable limit. |
| US07644604B2 |
Error correction for vibratory rate gyroscope
A synchronous signal processing circuit for a dual-axis vibratory rotation-rate sensor uses a hybrid analog/digital design to provide correction for parasitic quadrature errors by the addition of synthesized correction signals in the analog domain prior to digitization. Error correction, signal demodulation and data conversions are synchronized with a signal phase-locked to the measured motion of the vibratory mass. Similarly, cross-axis error correction signals are synthesized directly from the cross axis signals. Use of these precise phase references provides for various benefits in signal noise and error matching (tracking) over wide operation conditions. |
| US07644603B2 |
Method of testing a surgical system
A method of testing a surgical system that takes advantage of the fact that in a balanced irrigation/aspiration system (inflow≧outflow) the duration of the aspiration pressure recovery to the irrigation fluid source pressure immediately following pump stop is independent of pump run time. This method provides a more reliable way of detecting restricted irrigation flow configurations not detectable by the current methods, such as marginal irrigation flow cases that could potentially lead to surgical complications (e.g. chamber collapse during post-occlusion break surge). |
| US07644592B2 |
Cooling apparatus for comestible products
A cooling apparatus comprises one or more cooling stations for installation in a support structure to provide a chilled surface for supporting a receptacle holding a comestible product. Each cooling station has a housing for being installed in the support surface and a cooling disc assembly mounted on the housing. The chilled surface is formed by a top disc of the cooling disc assembly in direct contact with a chilled fluidic cooling medium circulated through a cooling chamber of the cooling disc assembly. The housing provides a thermal barrier around the cooling disc assembly. The chilled surface provides heat transfer between the comestible product and the fluidic cooling medium in the cooling chamber to maintain the comestible product in a cooled state. |
| US07644590B2 |
Electronics architecture for a refrigerator quick chill and quick thaw system
A control system for a refrigeration system having a refrigeration compartment and a quick chill/thaw pan. A main controller board, electrically connected to a temperature adjustment board and a dispenser board through the serial communications bus, controls the temperature of the refrigeration compartment and the quick chill/thaw pan. The control system accepts a plurality of inputs to determine a refrigeration mode and to execute a plurality of software algorithms to control the refrigeration compartment as both a chill pan to rapidly chill food and beverage items without freezing and a thaw pan to timely thaw frozen items at controlled temperature levels. |
| US07644588B2 |
Magnetic refrigerator
The present invention relates to a magnetic refrigerator comprising separated hot and cold heat exchange units wherein a heat transfer fluid that exchanges a heat with a magnetic heat exchange unit having the magnetocaloric material pieces arranged to have a gap therebetween separately circulates through a solenoid valve. |
| US07644579B2 |
Emission control system
A method and apparatus to reduce the emissions of an exhaust stream is provided. One feature of the present invention includes a control unit for metering a reagent into the exhaust stream. The control unit adjusts a quantity of the reagent to be metered into the exhaust stream. One embodiment of the present invention concerns a method of removing nitrogen oxides in exhaust gases from a diesel engine by introducing ammonia into the exhaust stream. This Abstract is provided for the sole purpose of complying with the Abstract requirement rules that allow a reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure contained herein. This Abstract is submitted with the explicit understanding that it will not be used to interpret or to limit the scope or the meaning of the claims. |
| US07644577B2 |
Reducing agent metering system for reducing NOx in lean burn internal combustion engines
A reducing agent metering system for delivering reducing agent to a lean burn internal combustion engine. The reducing agent metering system includes a metering system housing, a system for metering vaporized reducing agent to the internal combustion engine, the system positioned within the metering system housing and a system for delivering an atomized stream of liquid reducing agent to the lean burn internal combustion engine, the system positioned within the metering system housing, wherein the reducing agent metering system is operable to transition from metering vaporized reducing agent to delivering an atomized stream of liquid reducing agent to the lean burn internal combustion engine. |
| US07644574B2 |
Methods and systems for gas turbine engine control
Methods and systems for controlling a dynamic response in a gas turbine fuel control system are provided. The control system includes a component model adapted to regulate a fuel supply pressure for a gas turbine, a pressure sensor adapted to sense a pressure of fuel supplied to the gas turbine, and a feedback module including integral plus state feedback, the feedback module adapted to provide a positive feedback reference signal to the component model such that a response time of the gas turbine fuel control system to changes in fuel pressure is facilitated being reduced. |
| US07644573B2 |
Gas turbine inlet conditioning system and method
A system capable of both increasing warm day output and maintaining compressor operating margin across the ambient and load range of a gas turbine combined cycle installation. The proposed solution takes advantage of the fact that both goals can be satisfied by manipulation of compressor inlet air temperature. Specifically, the system is designed to heat inlet air as may be required to maintain safe compressor operating margin at low ambient air temperatures or when burning dilute fuels. In the alternative, the system is designed to cool inlet air on warm days. |
| US07644572B2 |
Compact lightweight turbine
A turbine combustion chamber is provided with deflectors on the cold side generating vortices in a secondary gas flow into the chamber, thereby confining the flame front under variable operating conditions and cooling the chamber walls. The high-speed cantilever shaft has a longitudinal duct and an array of fine orifices in the wall of the shaft for directing pressurized oil jets that impinge on the shaft bearings with little relative speed to increasing wetting of the bearing components. Oil is supplied to the duct by means of a positive-displacement pump directly driven by the output shaft. The pump output pressure is monitored to signal the end of the start-up sequence when the turbine reaches sufficient speed. The turbo-engine further includes devices for decoupling vibrations between the three systems thereof, including a loosely-mounted removable spline pivotable at both ends for coupling the high-speed shaft to the step-down gearbox. |
| US07644571B2 |
Hose conduit element for a paint robot
A hose guiding element for routing at least one hose in a hose passageway of a robot. The hose guiding element has a least one guide passage running axially to receive the hose to be routed. The element has particular use in a wrist axis of a painting robot. |
| US07644569B2 |
Welded hand rake/fork tool with welded tine and method
A rake, pitchfork, or similar forked hand tool or tool head for mechanized machinery has welded tines. The tines each have a lower section located on the backbone of the tool head and a working section extending outwardly from the backbone. Each tine also has two lateral surfaces, two vertical surfaces and a transversely extending back edge surface therebetween. In one embodiment, welds extend the full length of one of the lateral surfaces, the full length of a vertical surface, the transverse length of the back edge surface and down the second vertical surface to the junction between the bottom of the vertical surface and the second lateral surface. Welds can also extend partially along the length of the second lateral surface for a distance not to exceed three quarters of its length. These tines have elongated fracture lines. The resulting tool is far less prone to breakage. |
| US07644567B2 |
Flexible tall crop pusher
A flexible tall crop knockdown barrier for use with rotary cutting headers in harvesting specialty crops such as grass seed. The knockdown barrier comprises a support frame mounted to the front of the header that extends forwardly and upwardly ahead of the header. A flexible barrier supported by the frame extends downwardly during idle conditions and downwardly and rearwardly as the header is propelled through the crop. The flexible curtain may be rolled around a lower spool and stowed on the support frame when not in use to improve visibility. The knockdown barrier serves to gently lean the crop forward before cutting so as to minimize seed shatter due whipping of the seed head. |
| US07644559B2 |
Self-threading sheet wrapper for round baler
A round bale wrapping mechanism that employs a pivoting carrier for two wrapping material rolls, one a stored roll and the other the working roll being dispensed. When the storage roll is to be employed, it is pivoted into contact with the material being dispensed from the working roll and pulled through the threading components of the wrapper. The storage roll thus becomes the working roll and a new storage roll may be installed in place of the empty storage roll (previously the working roll). |
| US07644557B2 |
Method of making floor panels with edge connectors
Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling. |
| US07644556B2 |
Planking system and method
A novel planking system utilizing an inventive groove design is provided. The novel groove is defined by two opposing side walls and a groove end wall. The groove side walls present two generally opposed tongue-engaging projections that automatically provide a uniform space between planks during installation, and accommodate expansion of the planks after installation by breaking away when force is exerted on the projections by an adjacent plank. The present invention is also concerned with a combination of planks having an inventive tongue-and-groove configuration, as well as inventive methods of assembling planks to accommodate the expansion and contraction of the assembled planks after installation. |
| US07644555B2 |
Floor panels with edge connectors
Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling. |
| US07644554B2 |
Floor panels with edge connectors
Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling. |
| US07644553B2 |
Panel with glue and covering, and method and device for the production thereof
The invention relates to a novel covering, especially a floor covering or similar, based on panels (9, 9′) made of wood or a derived timber product, especially (décor) laminated panels of wood or derived timber products, with a carrier on the underside and a wear layer on the visible side. Said panels are adhesively supported, can be arranged laterally and adjacently, and are provided with laterally, optionally mutually latchable or clickable positive locking elements such as grooves (92) and tongues (91). The covering is characterised in that the groove(s) (92) and/or the tongues (91) of individual panels (9, 9′) or individual surface areas thereof (921 925; 911 915) is/are provided with a filling, and a coating (95) with an extrusion (96) or similar made adhesive properties during the lateral adjacent assembly of the panels (9, 9′) which is carried out by means of the groove(s) (92) and tongue(s) thereof, and/or made out of an adhesive activator which initiates or activates adhesive properties. The invention also relates to the panels used for the covering and production thereof. |
| US07644552B2 |
Glass panel arrangement
A space-dividing wall panel has glass panels mounted on opposite faces of the wall panel to permit viewing therethrough. Each glass panel is defined by a sheet of glass and edge rails extending about the periphery of the glass. The edge rails include fixing channels on opposite sides thereof which are press-fit onto respective edges of the glass without the use of a resilient gasket within the fixing channel. |
| US07644547B2 |
Exterior sill
An exterior sill assembly preferably for a window has a preferably extruded body, and attachable facial and preferably end caps for covering open ends of a cavity defined by the body. The body has a substantially vertical flange for mounting to a structure preferably below a window frame. A sill projects outward from the flange to a distal portion and preferably a support plate spaced below the sill and projecting outward from the flange to a distal segment. Attachment features are carried between the facial, the distal portion and the distal segment for releasable engagement of the facial to the body. Fasteners disposed in-part in the cavity extend through the flange for engagement into the structure. Preferably, the fasteners are used in conjunction with respective members for distributing stress loads across the flange. |
| US07644541B2 |
Terminal for enameled electric wires
A terminal for enameled electric wires, of the type constituted by a plate-like body which forms a connecting fork with tabs which cantilever inward on the same plane of arrangement as the plate-like body; the tabs face each other so as to form a self-centering tapered opening for guiding the insertion of an electric wire with insulating enameling, the wire being adapted to be locked between the ends of the tips of the tabs and an abutment formed on the plate-like body proximate to the ends, with an axis which lies transversely to the arrangement of the plate-like body; the tips form a cut-through slot whose transverse dimensions are smaller than the diameter of the enameled wire, so as to cut through at least its insulating layer during its passage between them and provide electrical contact. At least one of the facing edges of the cut-through tips has a serrated portion in order to scrape and remove the layer of enamel from the surface of the enameled electric wire. |
| US07644537B1 |
Unattended plant watering system
An apparatus is provided for unattended watering of plants over an extended period of time utilizing a watering system that regulates a partial vacuum to control the discharge of water to the roots of the plants. A water reservoir is provided having an encapsulated interior cavity and an exterior exposed to ambient air, and having upper and lower ends. The reservoir is located above the root level of a plant to be watered. At least one drain opening is defined in the lower end of the reservoir. The upper end of the reservoir is closed and is provided with an adjustable valve, preferably a pinch valve, and an air conduit, preferably a flexible tube, that passes through the valve and extends between the interior and the exterior of the reservoir. The valve thereby interacts with the conduit to partially obstruct air flow through it, so as to maintain a partial vacuum in the upper end of the reservoir as water drains from the lower end of the reservoir. |
| US07644535B2 |
Aerated bucket for live bait
A container for live bait is provided with a bait retrieval assembly of readily available structural components which are combined in an unexpectedly useful manner to allow all operations to be carried out using one hand only. The container, which is closed with a substantially rigid lid, may be of arbitrary cross-section but is preferably either cylindrical or tapered. The bait retrieval assembly includes an L-shaped frame comprising a pair of vertical members and a pair of horizontal members on which a bowl-shaped colander is supported. The vertical members are reciprocable through openings in the lid. The vertical members are required to be in mirror image relationship with one another, and laterally spaced-apart so that the distance between the longitudinal center lines of the members in the bottom portion of the L is less than the distance between longitudinal center lines of the members in the upper portion of the L. The critical wedge-shaped configuration of the vertical members of the L-shaped frame allows the colander, with the bait in it, to be temporarily locked in position, above or near the surface of the water for easy access with one hand. The container is preferably provided with an internal drain assembly and an aerator. |
| US07644534B2 |
Planer board
The present invention relates to a planer board of novel and non-obvious construction methods and materials resulting in reduced weight. The planer board also quick release guidance device that is easier to use than prior art devices. |
| US07644532B2 |
Methods and apparatus for netting fish
A fish net and a method of netting a fish are provided. The fish net includes a pair of elongate members. A first of the elongate members includes a handle portion, a net assembly, and a body extending therebetween. The net assembly includes a frame including a mating surface, and a net coupled to the frame. A second of the elongate members includes a handle portion, a net assembly, and a body extending therebetween. The net assembly includes a frame including a mating surface, and a net coupled to the frame. The first and second elongate members are pivotally coupled together such that the net assemblies are moveable from a closed position wherein a first of the net assemblies is positioned in contact against the second of the net assemblies, to an open position wherein the two net assemblies are positioned a distance apart. |
| US07644530B2 |
Sighting device for a firearm
For a firearm sighting device with an electrical illumination device that can be turned on and off by means of a switch, the switch is embodied and arranged in or on the sighting device such that, for the conventional attachment of the sighting device on the firearm, the switch is activated mechanically to turn on the illumination device by the activation of an actuator provided in or on the firearm for setting the firearm into the armed state. By disabling the firearm, the switch is activated mechanically to turn off the illumination device. Preferably, the activation of the switch is performed using a non-contact method, for which, in particular, the configuration of the switch as a reed contact is suitable. The switch can also be part of a retrofit kit, by means of which a sighting device for a firearm can be equipped at a later time with the previously mentioned function. Here, the switch of the retrofit kit replaces a standard switch operated by hand separately from the firearm. |
| US07644528B2 |
Machine guns having detachable barrels and methods of operating the same
Machine guns having detachable barrels and methods of operating the same are disclosed. An illustrated example firearm includes a housing; a removable barrel; a latch to releasably secure the barrel in the housing, the latch having a released state and a secured state; and a carrying handle movable between a rest position and a carry position. The carrying handle cooperates with the latch such that the latch can only be moved into the released state to permit removal of the barrel when the carrying handle is at least substantially in the carry position. |
| US07644527B2 |
Multi-panel billboard accessory
An accordion sign assembly includes a sign holder and an accordion sign. The sign holder has an elongate shape and an upper surface. The accordion sign includes a plurality of sections for displaying indicia, the sections defining a top edge, a bottom edge, and being interconnected at a plurality of pleats. The accordion sign also includes a plurality of tabs connected to the bottom edge of the plurality of sections at a plurality of fold lines that are substantially orthogonal to the plurality of sections. The plurality of tabs are folded relative to the plurality of sections to extend substantially orthogonally from the plurality of sections. A plurality of fasteners secures the plurality of tabs to the sign holder. |
| US07644521B2 |
Footwear with rest support
Footwear includes a sole with a forefoot region, a heel region, and a mid-sole region positioned between the forefoot region and the heel region. A support structure is positioned within the mid-sole region. The support structure is configured to engage an object to facilitate resistance to gravitational pull. |
| US07644516B2 |
Clothes drying machine
A clothes drying machine having a temperature sensor that may be easily repaired or replaced. The clothes drying machine includes a housing forming an external appearance of the clothes drying machine, a drying tub rotatably mounted in the housing, a hot air introducing duct to introduce hot air into the drying tub, a hot air discharging duct to discharge the hot air out of the drying tub, and a temperature sensor mounted at the front part of the hot air discharging duct to detect the temperature of the hot air passing through the hot air discharging duct. The temperature sensor is mounted at the front part of the hot air discharging duct so that an operator has easy access to the temperature sensor. Consequently, repair or replacement of the temperature sensor may be easily and conveniently performed. |
| US07644512B1 |
Systems and methods for drying a rotating substrate
A method of drying a surface of a substrate is provided. The method includes supporting and rotating a substrate; applying a liquid to the substrate surface at or near a rotational center point via a liquid dispenser (so that a film of the liquid is formed on the surface); applying a drying fluid to the substrate surface at a predetermined distance from the rotational center point via one or more drying fluid dispensers; and manipulating the drying fluid dispenser(s) so that the location at which the drying fluid is applied to the substrate is moved in a direction toward the rotational center point, while at the same time manipulating the liquid dispenser so that the location at which the liquid is applied to the substrate is moved in a direction outward from the rotational center point. The liquid dispenser and drying fluid dispenser(s) noted above can be located on and/or within an assembly. The assembly can include a first dispenser, a second dispenser, and a third dispenser. The first dispenser supplies liquid while the second and third dispensers supply drying fluid, where the second dispenser has a larger opening than the third dispenser. The second and third dispensers are positioned on the assembly next to one another and spaced from the first dispenser. Further, the second dispenser is located between the third dispenser and the first dispenser, such that the first dispenser is capable of linearly leading the second and third dispensers during movement. |
| US07644510B2 |
Framing layout tape
The Layout Framing Tape provides a quick, actuate, cost effective means of laying out standard and non standard construction framing projects not previously incorporated in prior art. The user can utilize symbols, text, shapes, and a standard/metric ruler to locate these members. The Layout Framing Tape provides a simplified, modified and improved method for locating these building members.By using the appropriate location, the user can eliminate workmanship errors and locate but not limited to suds, runners and various size doors. Additionally, the Framing Layout Tape can be used to locate non standard members using the 48″ (1220 mm) ruler as a guide. It is intended to leave the Framing Layout tape in place via an adhesive backing. However, the potions of the tape not covered by a building member may be removed as the trade's person as they see fit to do. |
| US07644509B2 |
Group cutting sleeve and method
A structure and process for producing an even cut for window covering horizontal slat sets includes a cutting sleeve attached at opposite ends of the slats of a window covering horizontal slat set to be cut which gather in selective ones of the slates together for cutting in a way which minimizes collective bowing and ripping of the finished surface immediately adjacent the cut ends of the slats. The cutting sleeves can be spaced to hold groupings of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or more slats. Embodiments of the cutting sleeves can have two main opposite walls or eliminate one wall in favor of a comb topography which can load from the side. |
| US07644508B1 |
Retrofit recessed lighting installation tool
The present invention is a device for determination of the presence of an installation space behind a ceiling covering for a retrofit recessed lighting fixture by way of a small probe hole. Specifically, the invention device comprises an longitudinal rotation handle with a top end and a bottom end defining a handle axis. Extending from the top end along the handle axis lies a first section of a narrow probe rod. The height of the first section exceeds the height of a retrofit recessed lighting fixture to be installed by at least the thickness of a ceiling covering through which it will be installed. At the end of the first section extends a second section perpendicular to the first section, where the second section comprises an insertion end which is pointed so that it can be pressed through the ceiling covering material to probe the space behind it. |
| US07644507B2 |
Method for scanning a surface with the aid of a coordinate measuring machine and coordinate measuring machine
A method for scanning a work piece surface uses a coordinate measurement device. A probe element is brought into contact with the surface and the probe element is moved along the surface. The coordinate measurement device has a plurality of degrees of freedom, which are independent of one another, in the possible movements of the probe element with respect to the work piece. Maximum speeds which describe the maximum of a movement speed component of the probe element based on the respective degree of freedom are defined for the degrees of freedom. An estimated path on which the probe element is intended to move during scanning is predefined. The actual scanning path can differ from the estimated scanning path. A maximum scanning speed at which the estimated scanning path can be traveled with a constant speed of the probe element is determined. |
| US07644503B2 |
Bow sight
An archery bow sight has a sight tube which is fixed to a link arm which extends between two rotatable members mounted to a frame which is connected to the riser of a bow. The arm is pinned to the rear rotatable member at a radius which is less than the radius at which it is pinned to the front rotatable member. The rotation of the rotatable members is synchronized by a connector such as an intermediate gear, a timing belt, a rigid link, or a linked chain. By rotation of a range adjustment knob, the sight tube is caused to change simultaneously in inclination and in height in such a way that the archer may continue to view the target through the sight tube. The sight tube has a fiber optic sight point. The relationship between the rotating members and the link arm is adjustable for draw length. |
| US07644501B2 |
Collapsible handsaw frame
A handsaw for holding a saw blade for cutting is disclosed to include a handle having an cantilever bar, an extension bar pivoted to the cantilever bar and turnable relative to the handle between a received position and an extended position, a blade-retaining arm pivoted to one end of the extension bar remote from the handle and turnable about the axis of the extension bar, and two blade retaining members respectively provided at the handle and the blade-retaining arm for the mounting of a saw blade when the extension bar is turned to the extended position. |
| US07644500B2 |
Method of setting the pre-load for a ball socket joint
A method for assembling a ball and socket assembly (10) includes loading a housing (14) with a resilient preload washer (28), an inner bearing (30), a ball stud (12) and an outer bearing (36). A loading tool (50) forcefully compresses the assembled components, as a unit, to an overload compression condition (54), and then reduces the compression until an ideal compression condition (56) is achieved. The outer bearing (36) is staked in position while the loading tool (50) holds the assembled components in the ideal compression condition (56). Following the staking operation, the loading tool (50) can be removed, and a final crimping operation permanently sets the outer bearing (36) in position and holds the articulating components in the ideal, pre-load clearance established. The subject method is particularly well-suited for high production set-ups in which precise pre-load clearances must be achieved at high through put rates. |
| US07644499B2 |
Protective sleeve cover for printing roll
A protective sleeve cover is described for protecting anilox, gravure, or other costly rolls. The protective sleeve cover is cylindrical in geometry and has a means at one end for securing the cover to the roll being protected. The protective sleeve cover is readily mounted or demounted from the roll. Expansion tabs on the inner diameter of the protective sleeve cover create an interference fit with the roll being protected, causing the protective sleeve cover to deform and generate radial forces that enhance the gripping action of the protective sleeve cover to the roll. Friction pads can be added for enhanced gripping function with the roll. |
| US07644498B2 |
Method of modifying the coupling geometry in shroud band segments of turbine moving blades
A method of modifying a coupling geometry in a shroud band segment of a turbine moving blade includes the following steps: calculation of a modified coupling geometry; removal of shroud band material situated outside the modified coupling geometry; and/or application of additional material not present inside the modified coupling geometry; reworking the removal and/or application zones. The method avoids disadvantages of the prior art and provides improved wear behavior in the coupling region so as to prolong the life of the turbine blades in an effective and inexpensive manner. |
| US07644497B2 |
Component built-in wiring board and manufacturing method of component built-in wiring board
To provide a component built-in wiring board and a manufacturing method thereof capable of further improving component mounting density without deteriorating-reliability. The component built-in wiring board includes: a conductive layer (34, 35) extending in a thickness direction of the board and buried in the board without being exposed from an upper and a lower surface of the board; an electrical/electronic component (33) having a terminal and buried in the board with the terminal facing the buried conductive layer; a connecting member (36, 37) provided in a gap between the terminal of the buried electrical/electronic component and the conductive layer to electrically/mechanically connect the terminal and the conductive layer; and two upper and lower insulating layers (11, 15) which cover an outer surface of the buried electrical/electronic component excluding a portion connected to the connecting member and which are in close contact with a top and a bottom in the board thickness direction of the electrical/electronic component. |
| US07644495B2 |
Method of forming a conductive device using conductive resin-base materials
Electrical interfaces formed into a conductive loaded resin-based material. The conductive loaded resin-based material comprises micron conductive powder(s), conductive fiber(s), or a combination of conductive powder and conductive fibers in a base resin host. The percentage by weight of the conductive powder(s), conductive fiber(s), or a combination thereof is between about 20% and 50% of the weight of the conductive loaded resin-based material. The micron conductive powders are formed from non-metals, such as carbon, graphite, that may also be metallic plated, or the like, or from metals such as stainless steel, nickel, copper, silver, that may also be metallic plated, or the like, or from a combination of non-metal, plated, or in combination with, metal powders. The micron conductor fibers preferably are of nickel plated carbon fiber, stainless steel fiber, copper fiber, silver fiber, or the like. |
| US07644490B1 |
Method of forming a microelectromechanical (MEMS) device
A method of forming an actuator and a relay using a micro-electromechanical (MEMS)-based process is disclosed. The method first forms the lower sections of a square copper coil, and then forms an actuation member that includes a core section and a horizontally adjacent floating cantilever section. The core section, which lies directly over the lower coil sections, is electrically isolated from the lower coil sections. The method next forms the side and upper sections of the coil, along with first and second electrodes that are separated by a switch gap. The first electrode lies directly over an end of the core section, while the second electrode lies directly over an end of the floating cantilever section. |
| US07644487B2 |
Mechanism of producing a conductor pattern on a substrate
In a method of producing a conductor pattern on a substrate and, in particular, of producing RFID labels, the conductive base material and the substrate material are initially provided, further the conductive base material is punched to obtain a conductor pattern and a residual base material. The conductor pattern is connected to the substrate material, and the residual base material is removed. |
| US07644484B2 |
Method of manufacturing a band with a fastener
A device and method is disclosed for manufacturing a band of a desired length with a fastener attached to the band. Generally, metal band material is fed from a spindle on the device until the end of the band material is detected by the device. The device includes a positioning component that places the fastener at the desired location of the band, which is then looped through the fastener. The device then crimps the fastener to the band, positions the band at its desired length, and cuts the band to the desired length. |
| US07644479B2 |
Method of producing a piezoelectric actuator
A lower electrode 3 including a low-temperature melting layer 3A and a high-temperature melting layer 3B having mutually different melting-start temperatures is provided between a vibration plate 2 and a piezoelectric layer 4. In a calcination step of calcinating the lower electrode 3, the calcination is performed at a low temperature at which only the low-temperature melting layer 3A melts, and in an annealing-process step of the piezoelectric layer 4, the annealing process is performed at a high temperature at which the high-temperature melting layer 3B melts. At this time, in the calcination step, the melting of platinum nano-particles occurs in the low-temperature melting layer 3A, rendering the adhesion and diffusion-preventive effect. Further, in the annealing step, in the high-temperature melting layer 3B, platinum particles are melted, rendering the adhesion and diffusion-preventive effect. The degradation of piezoelectric characteristics of the piezoelectric actuator can be suppressed by the annealing process. |
| US07644478B2 |
Method of embalming with sand-filled weights
The present invention provides an embalming weighted positioning device for maintaining and/or restoring a cadaver in a substantially normal lifelike appearance before, during, and after the embalming process, comprised of a flexible, conformable adherent container that allows for the nesting of two or more containers. The container can have a fill spout with a removable cover for filling or emptying the container with particulates and/or air before, during or after the embalming process. Also provided is a method for maintaining and/or restoring the body parts of a cadaver to a substantially normal lifelike appearance by controlling body fluid deposition in the body of a cadaver, and by positioning the body parts of a cadaver before, during and/or after the embalming process, by placing at least one container on top of, under or next to a body part of the cadaver. |
| US07644477B2 |
Corpse treatment device
A closing member (16) is disengageably fitted to one end of a cylindrical-shaped guide member (4) to close an opening (4a) of the guide member (4). A water-absorbing agent (3) made of water-absorbing resin powder is accommodated in the guide member (4) toward the one end. A column-shaped plug member (2) made of water-swellable fibers is accommodated in the guide member (4) at a location closer to the other end than the water-absorbing agent (3). A push rod (5) is inserted into the guide member (4) through an opening (4b) thereof located at the other end. With the opening (4a) at the one end of the guide member (4) inserted in an anus, the push rod (5) is operated to push the water-absorbing agent (3) and the plug member (2) through the opening (4a) at the one end of the guide member (4) into a rectum. The plug member (2) absorbs water in internal contents and expands to plug the rectum, while the water-absorbing agent (3) also absorbs water in the internal contents. Thus, the internal contents can be prevented from leaking out through the anus. |
| US07644474B2 |
Apparatus on a spinning preparation machine for monitoring fibre material
In an apparatus on a spinning preparation machine, for example, a flat card, roller card, draw frame or the like, for monitoring fiber material, having at least one rotating roller that delivers fiber material, and a monitoring arrangement device that detects undesirable accumulations (build-up) of fiber material and emits an electrical signal is present. To permit immediate detection of undesirable accumulations of material in a structurally simple manner, the monitoring arrangement comprises a non-contact sensor arrangement (sensor), which is capable of detecting undesirable accumulations of fiber material. |
| US07644473B2 |
Foldable hinge
A foldable hinge comprising: a base seat and a connecting seat able of being adjusted for an included angle between them; an adjusting unit is provided in a pivotally connecting area between the base seat and a pivot connecting unit; the adjusting unit includes a cam being provided with a first slot and a second slot, a positioning member having a protruding bar adapted to extending through the first and second slots, and a press unit able to release engaging of the protruding bar in the first and second slots. When the protruding bar is in the first slot, the connecting seat is adapted to adjusting its depression angle or elevation angle relative to the base seat; when the protruding bar is in the second slot, the base seat and the connecting seat are in a mutual parallel folding state, the protruding bar can be directly extended into the first slot without pressing the press unit. |
| US07644466B2 |
Bristles, method and device for production thereof and brushes
The invention concerns a bristle for a brush, in particular a cleaning brush, a toothbrush or an application brush, wherein the bristle has a lower root region with which it can be mounted in or to a bristle support or which forms part of the bristle support, and a free length disposed outside of the bristle support above the root region which is composed of a shaft region bordering the root region and a flexing region disposed thereabove, wherein the shaft region is composed of a lower shaft base section bordering the root region and a shaft section disposed thereabove, and wherein the flexing region is composed of a lower active and flexing section bordering the shaft region and a tip section which is disposed thereabove and forms the free end of the bristle, wherein the bristle has a continuous depression-free jacket in the shaft base section and, at least in sections of the jacket in the flexing region, a profiling which is formed by elevations and/or depressions and which lies in an outer surface of the bristle. |
| US07644465B1 |
Component brush system
A component brush system for use with a drive shaft, including at least two connectable-disconnectable members. Each connectable-disconnectable member has a top surface, a bottom surface and a middle sandwiched between the top and bottom surfaces. At least one of the connectable-disconnectable members has at least one groove disposed in at least a portion of at least one of its top or bottom surfaces. The groove is located between the connectable-disconnectable members when they are connected together. The system includes at least one elongate flexible cleaning member. At least a portion of the cleaning member is located within the groove and is secured in place between the connectable-disconnectable members and a remainder of the cleaning member extends away therefrom. At least one the connectable-disconnectable members includes a drive shaft joint where the drive shaft is removably connectable with the connectable-disconnectable member. |
| US07644463B1 |
Spear method for retrievable pig
The method of retrieving a pig which is stuck in a pipeline including the steps of piercing the pig, establishing a circulation from the near end to the far end of the pig, gripping the central portion of the pig, and pulling the pig back to the proximate end of the pipeline. |
| US07644459B1 |
Therapeutic cushions and pillows and methods of their manufacture and use
A cushion or pillow device may comprise first and second tubular members joined at respective lateral portions to define valleys between the tubular members. The tubular members may comprise an outer covering and an inner portion comprising a pliable filler. The outer covering may be fabric that is joined to define the tubular members. The outer covering may be closed to contain the pliable filler. The outer cover may also have open ends for receiving inserts containing pliable filler that are placed within the outer covering. The cushion or pillow device may be manufactured in a number of manners, such as by joining of a fabric or another material to define sleeves, or by molding. The cushion or pillow device may be inserted in a case having an elongate portion for tucking between the frame and mattress of a gurney, hospital bed or the like. The elongate portion may be provided with a cutaway or slit defining separate arms, or a perforation that allows tearing to form the arms. |
| US07644455B2 |
Adjustable bed frame
An adjustable bed frame includes a frame having a first retractable device in a horizontal direction for securing a first supporting unit. The first supporting unit includes a second retractable device for securing a first mattress. Second supporting units are provided at respective sides of the frame. Each second supporting unit has a third retractable device therein for securing a second mattress. The first mattress is connected with a soft pad. The second mattress is connected with a soft pad. The first supporting unit can be pulled outward in a horizontal direction. Both the first mattress and the second mattress can be lifted upward, and the soft pads can be turned for different purposes. |
| US07644448B2 |
Protective glove having inspection port
A protective glove for a firefighter or for an emergency worker has an outer shell, an intermediate liner providing a moisture barrier, and an inner liner providing a thermal barrier, the outer shall having an inspection port, which is openable and closeable and which when opened enables portions of the intermediate liner to be visually inspected through the inspection port, the outer shell having a flap, which is positionable between a position wherein the inspection port is closed by the flap and positions wherein the inspection port is opened, the protective glove having releasable fasteners, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, for releasably fastening the flap in the position wherein the inspection port is closed by the flap. |