| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US07645015B2 |
Determining drop weight
Embodiments of determining drop weight are disclosed. |
| US07645011B2 |
Print engine controller for receiving dot data
Provided is a print engine controller for a pagewidth printhead. The controller includes contone and bi-level decompression circuitry for decompressing a contone layer of compressed page data and a bi-level layer of compressed page data, respectively. The controller also includes halftoner and compositor circuitry for halftoning the decompressed contone layer to associated bi-level versions and compositing the decompressed bi-level layer over the halftoned contone layers. Also included is printhead interface circuitry for receiving the halftoned and composited data so as to generate print data suitable for printing by the printhead. The controller further includes line loader and formatter circuitry for receiving dot data from the halftoner and compositor circuitry to store the dot data for lines to be printed in memory circuitry of the controller and to format said lines into an order required by the printhead interface circuitry. |
| US07645007B2 |
Ink jet recording apparatus, nozzle inspection method and program thereof
In this ink jet printer, on the basis of voltage of a nozzle plate 27 at the time that a print head 24 is driven and in a state in which a predetermined potential difference has been generated between the nozzle plate 27 and the inspection area 52, a nozzle inspection is performed so as to confirm whether or not ink is in practice being ejected from each nozzle 23, so that ink can be sequentially ejected to an inspection area 52 from each nozzle. According to the nozzle inspection voltage change is detected in the nozzle plate 27 by a voltage detection circuit 54 provided on an encoder board 64 on a carriage 22. Since both the nozzle plate 27 and the voltage detection circuit 54 are installed on the carriage 22, and the distance between the two of them is shorter, they are less likely be affected by noise. In addition, there is no need to prepare a new board on which the voltage detection circuit 54 needs to be mounted. |
| US07645003B2 |
Thermally insulating wall
A refrigeration appliance includes a thermally insulating housing and a thermally insulating door. At least one of the housing and the door define an evacuated interspace and have an evacuated thermal insulation filling the interspace, a shaped, thermoplastic, substantially gas and water vapor impermeable outer cladding, and a shaped, thermoplastic, substantially gas and water vapor impermeable inner cladding. The inner cladding and the outer cladding substantially surround the interspace in a vacuum-tight manner. The cladding can be formed from polyolefins, polyvinylidene chloride, perfluoroalkoxy polymers. For reducing gas permeability, the cladding can be formed from ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer, polyacrylonitrile, and polyamide. The claddings can have co-extruded and/or laminated layers. The cladding can include a sputtered metal layer and/or a plastic/metal composite foil. The cladding can be formed from a thermoformed or blow-molded plastic. The insulation can have pressed silica or aerogel plates with a density of between 100 and 150 kg/m3. |
| US07645000B2 |
Braking system for mobile storage unit
A driving mechanism having a braking system, for use on a storage unit movable about guiding tracks, The driving mechanism comprises a frame rotatably carrying at least one driving wheel, which in turn rollably engages a floor-embedded guiding track, A toothed wheel rotatably carried by the frame is operatively connected to the driving wheel and rotates in synchronism therewith, and defines at least one first interlock member, The driving mechanism also comprises a gravity-biased second braking member defining at least one second interlock member, said second braking member movably mounted to the frame so as to be movable between a standby position in which the second interlock member clears the first interlock member, and a braking position in which the second interlock member is interlocked with the first interlock member to block rotation of the rotary first braking member and thus of the driving wheel, The second braking member is biased under the action of gravity towards the braking position when it is in its standby position, The driving mechanism further comprises a brake control member mounted to the frame, the brake control member being movable between a retaining position in which the brake control member engages and retains the second braking member in its standby position against the bias of gravity, and a release position in which it clears the second braking member to allow gravity-borne movement of the second braking member towards the braking position. The second braking member is free of any mechanical structural link with the brake control member. |
| US07644999B2 |
Idler assembly, and method for retrofitting an existing idler assembly
An idler assembly is disclosed for a shovel having a flexible track assembly. In an embodiment, the idler assembly comprises an idler gear operatively associated with the track assembly; a sleeve; a shaft, sets of splines on the shaft and on the sleeve sized for engagement, and connectors at ends of the shaft; at least one bearing block forming a bore therethrough; at least one bushing liner disposed within at least one bearing block; and at least one retaining device for constraining the shaft from withdrawal from the bearing block. A method for retrofitting a shovel with an existing idler assembly is disclosed. In an embodiment, the method comprises positioning at least one bushing liner within a bore of at least one bearing block; attaching an idler shaft and an idler gear together; and positioning the idler shaft within the at least one bushing liner. |
| US07644998B2 |
Brake control system
Even in the case that at least one braking force generating function fails, it is possible to secure a maximum braking force as well as suppressing a yaw moment generated on the basis of the failure as much as possible even at a time when whatever braking force is requested, A target braking force to a normal brake apparatus is calculated on the basis of a result of detection by a malfunction detecting portion, in such a manner that a total of braking forces generated in the brake apparatuses in respective wheels becomes as equal as possible to a requested braking force, at a time when a malfunction is generated in the brake apparatus or a braking force control portion. |
| US07644996B2 |
System and method for monitoring parking brake release
A system and method for controlling the unintended rolling of a rolling stock, the rolling stock having a driver park brake, and an in-vehicle network for signals transmission, the method comprises the steps of selecting among the signals transmitted over the in-vehicle network, a set of predefined signals, then analyzing the status of the selected signals to determine a regulation process to be applied to the rolling stock, and monitoring the regulation process. |
| US07644993B2 |
In situ co-development of oil shale with mineral recovery
A method of producing hydrocarbon fluids from a subsurface organic-rich rock formation, for example an oil shale formation, in which the oil shale formation contains water-soluble minerals, for example nahcolite, is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes the step of heating the organic-rich rock formation in situ. Optionally, this heating step may be performed prior to any substantial removal of water-soluble minerals from the organic-rich rock formation. In accordance with the method, the heating of the organic-rich rock formation both pyrolyzes at least a portion of the formation hydrocarbons, for example kerogen, to create hydrocarbon fluids, and converts at least a portion of the water-soluble minerals, for example, converts nahcolite to soda ash. Thereafter, the hydrocarbon fluids are produced from the formation. |
| US07644992B2 |
Motor vehicle seat with an underframe, a seat belt and a seat belt retractor
A motor vehicle seat with an underframe comprising two pairs of rails, each having a seat rail and a floor rail, a seat belt and a seat belt retractor. The seat further comprises a tie bar for the seat belt retractor, the tie bar extending from the one seat rail to the other seat rail and is connected to the respective one of the seat rails. The seat belt retractor is connected to the tie bar and, in one embodiment, is disposed beneath the tie bar. |
| US07644988B2 |
Child's highchair with access attachment
A highchair assembly includes a seat supported by a plurality of legs with an upstanding back wall and opposite first and second side walls. An access device is mounted to one of the side walls. The access device has an upper end located generally at the one side wall and the lower end for placement on a support surface. A child can enter and exit the highchair through use of the access device. |
| US07644984B2 |
Side shield for motor vehicle seat assembly
A cover conceals a portion of a gap formed between an adjacent pair of seat backs of a motor vehicle seat assembly. The cover includes a substantially rigid portion and a substantially flexible portion. The flexible portion of the cover has first and second flanges that extend outwardly from opposite sides of the substantially rigid portion for concealing a portion of the gap between the seat backs of the seat assembly. |
| US07644978B2 |
Vehicle floor structure for a motor vehicle
A cross member passes a longitudinal member. The cross member is connected, on its outer end, to a side sill assembly and includes a connecting portion that divides the cross member into a remote cross member portion from the outer end of the cross member, and the other cross member portion. A reinforcement element extends through the connecting portion into the remote cross member portion and terminates in at its inner end spaced by a gap from a top wall of the longitudinal member, and it extends into the other cross member portion and terminates in at its outer end in the neighborhood of the side sill assembly. It is connected to an upper inner wall of the remote cross member portion, but spaced from an upper inner wall of the other cross member portion. |
| US07644970B2 |
Mobile containerized autopsy facility
A mobile containerized autopsy facility for use in distant contamination zones, comprising at least one enclosure which includes at least one seamless and sealable compartment, which compartment meets biohazard safety level 3 and 4 requirements. The facility consists of enclosures that are most commonly a conversion of at least one standard 40×8×9.5 foot refrigerated cargo container that may be easily transported by trailers or by air to remote sites and be operational without the dependence on local infrastructure. |
| US07644968B2 |
Substrate holding device
A supporting structure is mounted on a hand body facing a circumferential edge of a substrate from below the substrate to support the substrate. First and second guiding members are mounted on the hand body, and having guiding surfaces in contact with an imaginary cylinder having an axis aligned with a reference axis of the hand body. First and second movable members are capable of moving in an imaginary plane perpendicular to the reference axis and are disposed on the radially outer-side of the circumferential edge of the substrate so as to face the circumferential edge. A driving unit simultaneously displaces the first and second movable members in the imaginary plane. The first and second guiding members and the first and second movable members are spaced apart on the circumference of the imaginary cylinder at intervals greater than the length of the arc of a segment in a substrate holding state. |
| US07644966B2 |
Vehicle bumper fascia retainer
A vehicle bumper fascia retainer is provided with a laterally extending fascia support portion, first and second front end attachment structures and first and second lamp attachment structures. The first and second front end attachment structures are disposed on opposite lateral ends of the fascia support portion for attachment to a vehicle front end. The first and second lamp attachment structures are disposed on opposite lateral ends of the fascia support portion for supporting first and second head lamp housings. |
| US07644962B2 |
Universal attachment flange
A universal attachment flange to connect equipment utilized to perform a task to various connection arrangements. A universal attachment flange is provided with a plurality of hole patterns to permit a bolted attachment of the flange to other devices that present varying patterns of bolt receiving holes. The universal attachment flange is capable of connection to a variety of four (4) hole patterns and at least one three (3) hole pattern. In one form the universal attachment flange includes a through hole threaded to receive a connection fitting. |
| US07644957B2 |
Expansion-deflecting coupling
The present invention provides an expansion-deflection coupling which allows for higher angular deflection, as well as greater axial expansion and compression with increased parallel offset movements. The coupling includes a pair of identical hubs adapted to accommodate conduits within, and a flexible hollow cylinder extending between the hubs. At least one mid-coupling is located within the cylinder, and at least two plastic funneled tubes, each of which extends securely within the cylinder between the mid-coupling and one of the hubs. One of the hubs is secured to a union coupling. |
| US07644954B2 |
Mobile fluid storage and supply apparatus and method
A trailer has a fluid storage and supply container supported on the bed of the trailer, and a containment wall surrounding the fluid storage and supply container to provide an open containment region. A drain valve controls the flow of fluid collecting in the containment region. A filter separates the fluid from any water draining from the containment region. |
| US07644953B2 |
Hammer-driven snow pole
A marker pole for embedding in a support medium for drawing attention to potentially hazardous subsurface structures within the support medium includes a generally elongate pole body molded from a generally brightly colored plastic material with a penetrating end formed with a tapered tip for insertion into the support medium, the taper being greater than forty-five degrees from a centerline longitudinal axis of the; and a metal impact cap fitted over the distal end, the impact cap including a generally cylindrical body having an access opening on one end thereof and a substantially planar surface opposing the access opening, the planar surface being in substantial contact with the upper surface of the pole body for enhanced force transmission between the impact cap and the pole body during insertion of the pole into the support medium using an impact producing tool. |
| US07644951B2 |
Energy absorption device for steering column
This invention pertains to an energy absorption device for a motor vehicle steering column in which there is mounted an adjustment slide, the adjustment slide including a female part, provided with an entry orifice, connected respectively either to a steering wheel or to a rack system, and a male part connected respectively either to the rack system or to the steering wheel, the male part sliding in the female part upon adjustment of the depth of the steering column, wherein at least one sleeve is fixed on the male part in a manner to absorb the energy by coming into contact at least partially with the entry orifice of the female part in the case of violent impact. |
| US07644945B1 |
Restraining device for child's two-wheeled bicycle training
A safety device for restraining the forward movement of a two-wheeled bicycle used for training a child, said device including a cord controller that allows for the extending, retracting and locking said cord to a manual handle, a spring clip fastener on the free end of said cord and a flexible strap that connects at one end by a loop to a bicycle seat post with the other end to a fastening ring that allows the ring to be fastened to the spring clip on the cord. The cord controller allows the user to walk behind a young child who is learning to ride a two-wheeled bike to prevent the child from accelerating away from the adult during training whereby the adult can restrain the forward movement of the bicycle whenever necessary. |
| US07644944B2 |
Multiple gear transmission for a bicycle
A multiple gear transmission for a bicycle with an input shaft and an output shaft supported in a transmission housing, whereby the input shaft is embodied to receive pedal cranks and both ends of the input shaft protrude from the transmission housing. One of the ends of the output shaft protrudes from the transmission housing and the output shaft is embodied at this end to receive a drive sprocket. At least one intermediate shaft is supported in the transmission housing parallel between the input shaft and the output shaft. Respectively, at least two gear wheels are arranged on the input shaft, the at least one intermediate shaft and the output shaft. The gear wheels arranged on at least two of the shafts can be connected in a torque-proof manner to the respective shaft via clutch mechanism. All the gear wheels are permanently meshed with another gear wheel. |
| US07644942B2 |
Active axle suspension system
An active suspension system for a rigid beam tractor axle in which the axle is connected to the chassis by two orthogonally oriented pivot points and axle movement is controlled by double-acting suspension actuators managed by a control system to improve the ride and handling characteristics of the tractor. |
| US07644941B2 |
Two-wheel axle suspension arrangement for an agricultural machine
An axle suspension for first and second implement ground support wheels, the axle suspension comprising a housing connected to the implement frame and having an interior portion supporting first and second axle carriers for pivoting about first and second pivotal axes. The axle carriers each include outwardly extending members projecting from opposite sides of the housing and upright members fixed to the outwardly extending members for pivoting therewith about the first and second pivotal axes. A connector extending between the upper ends of the upright members constrains the axle carriers for rotation in the same direction about their respective pivotal axes. |
| US07644938B2 |
In-wheel suspension
An in-wheel suspension including a tire/wheel assembly-side member that includes a tire/wheel assembly support member fixed to a tire/wheel assembly, a vehicle body-side member that supports the tire/wheel assembly support member such that the tire/wheel assembly support member can slide along a sliding axis X extending in the substantially vertical direction and rotate on the sliding axis X, and at least one of a spring element and an attenuation element that acts in accordance with sliding of the tire/wheel assembly support member. The in-wheel suspension further includes a coupling member that couples the tire/wheel assembly-side member with the vehicle body-side member, and that rotates the tire/wheel assembly support member in accordance with the sliding of the tire/wheel assembly support member. |
| US07644934B2 |
Vehicle with combined roll angle control and roll rigidity front/rear allotment ratio control, and control method for the same
When the side acceleration acting upon a vehicle body is comparatively small, the roll rigidities of a front wheel suspension device and a rear wheel suspension device are mainly controlled based upon their roll angles; while, when this side acceleration is comparatively large, the roll rigidities of the front wheel suspension device and the rear wheel suspension device are mainly controlled based upon the correlation between the roll rigidity of the front wheel suspension and the roll rigidity of the rear wheel suspension device. |
| US07644932B2 |
Gap-clearing mechanism for wheelchair
A gap-clearing mechanism for attachment to a wheelchair is disclosed. The gap-clearing mechanism has a lower member for attachment to the wheelchair, and an upper member spaced from and parallel to the lower member and being moveable relative thereto. The upper member has at least one support column securely attached thereto and depending therefrom. The at least one support column is slideably mounted relative to the lower member. There is a wheel assembly at a lower end of the at least one support column. The wheel assembly is moveable between a retracted position and an extended position. A wheelchair fitted with two such gap-clearing mechanisms is also disclosed. |
| US07644931B2 |
Drill chuck with adjustment-sleeve lock
A chuck has a drive shaft, a generally rotatable housing part adjacent the drive shaft, and a chuck body fixed to and rotatable with the shaft and formed with a plurality of guides holding respective jaws shiftable between closely spaced inner positions and widely spaced outer positions. An adjustment sleeve surrounding the body and coupled to the jaws can rotate relative to the body to shift the jaws between their positions. A latch has interengaging formations on the housing part and on the adjustment sleeve manually shiftable between a coupled position for rotationally locking the adjustment sleeve to the housing part and a decoupled position for rotation of the adjustment sleeve relative to the housing part. A torque coupler connected to the latch decouples the latch from the housing when, in the coupled position, a torque exerted between the housing and the chuck body exceeds a predetermined limit. |
| US07644930B2 |
Mechanism for providing residual thrust load on chuck actuating screw
A tool chuck may include an input shaft. A chuck actuating shaft may be mounted for rotation on the input shaft. A chuck actuating screw may be screw coupled to the chuck actuating shaft. A spring may be interposed between the chuck actuating shaft and the input shaft. Upon tightening the tool chuck, the spring may be compressed to provide force against the chuck actuating screw. |
| US07644929B2 |
Hand-held power tool with a replaceable tool fitting
A very easy-to-actuate, replaceable tool fitting is comprised in that at least one movably supported profiled body (15) on an output spindle (1) or on the tool fitting (11) of the hand-held power tool and at least one profiled recess (7) on the output spindle (1) or on the tool fitting (11) are shaped and situated in such a way that when the tool fitting (11) is slid onto the output spindle (1), the at least one profiled body (15) engages in detent fashion in the at least one profiled recess (7), achieving both an axial locking and a rotary driving of the tool fitting (11) in relation to the output spindle (1) and means (6, 8, 14) are provided, which, through a rotating and sliding motion of the tool fitting (11) on the output spindle (1), guide the profiled body (15) into the profiled recess (7). |
| US07644925B2 |
Method and apparatus for a trick-taking card game
A method and apparatus for playing a trick-taking card game for two or more players that includes two decks of playing cards: a numbered character card deck and a modifier card deck. Each player's goal is to play a card, or combinations of cards, that is/are higher in numerical rank value than their opponents' cards in order to win the trick in each round of play. Players can improve their chance of winning the round by playing, in their turn and in conjunction with one character card, one or more modifying cards that they possess in their hand to increase the numerical rank value of their played character card or decrease the numerical rank value of the other players' cards. Tricks are collected for points in multiple hands comprising a game. The player with the greatest number of points at the end of the game is declared the winner. |
| US07644919B2 |
Sheet processing apparatus and sheet bundle alignment method
When a new paper sheet is supplied onto a compiling tray, a sub-paddle holds down paper sheets having already been stacked on the compiling tray until a leading edge of the new paper sheet S touches the stacked paper sheets. Thereafter, the sub-paddle gets apart from the sheets stacked on the compiling tray with timing, with which the rear edge of the new paper sheet falls on the compiling tray. |
| US07644917B2 |
Apparatus for handling sheet products with grip assembly on rails
An apparatus for handling sheet-like products having: a truck glidable on rails, a supporting structure for an assembly for gripping a sheet, the supporting structure performing a translational motion on the truck through a lateral translational motion with respect to the direction of advancement of the truck, a grip assembly for a sheet, which is rotatably coupled to the supporting structure by way of rotation elements adapted to move it from a first raised grip configuration to a second substantially horizontal configuration, and a worktable arranged above the rails and provided with through openings that can be crossed downward from above by the grip assembly during the rotary motion from the first raised configuration to the second substantially horizontal configuration. |
| US07644908B1 |
Water aeration system
An aeration pool or tank has a bottom piping assembly with an inlet at the bottom thereof and an outlet remote from the tank a distance vertically below the inlet, and an air inlet piping assembly having an inlet above the water surface and an outlet within the tank adjacent to the inlet of the bottom piping assembly. Water under pressure flows from the tank by gravity through the bottom piping assembly and draws air through the air inlet piping assembly, mixing it with the exiting water and the aerated water flows into a second body of water across a paddlewheel to disburse the aerated water into the second body of water and create circulation to absorb additional oxygen at the surface of the second body of water. A water circulation piping assembly in the tank creates turbulence and circulation within in the water in the tank. |
| US07644907B2 |
Drum for a well access line
A drum assembly for accommodating a well access line. The drum of the assembly may include a core coupled to flanges at either side thereof. The core may be configured to accommodate the well access line thereabout. Additionally, the core may be configured with an inner portion for coupling to the flanges at an arcuate junction therebetween as well as a collar about the inner portion for directly accommodating the well access line in a stable manner. |
| US07644905B2 |
Spiral support, installation method of the same, and cable laying method using the spiral support
A method and apparatus including an easily installed spiral support useful laying a cable. The spiral support is composed of a counterclockwise spiral portion and a clockwise spiral portion, both of which are connected to each other with a reverse portion therebetween. The spiral support is installed on a messenger wire in such a way that the reverse portion is fitted on the messenger wire; the spiral support is rotated counterclockwise or clockwise; and these steps are repeated. |
| US07644899B2 |
Formed sheet interlocking bracket and saw horse using such bracket
A saw horse comprises a pair of frames each assembled from a plurality of wooden struts joined by metal formings of sheet stock. Fabric hinges join the frames at their upper ends. The metal formings are positioned and closed around the beams with piercings engaging the fabric hinges. Spreader struts are also hinged by a fabric strap that permits the spreader struts to lay in horizontal positions when the frames are pulled into an A-shape, and to be oriented in side-by-side vertical positions when the frames are folded together. |
| US07644898B2 |
Medical boom with articulated arms and a base with preconfigured removable modular racks used for storing electronic and utility equipment
The present invention is directed to a medical boom with articulated arms and a base cabinet designed to accommodate modular equipment and utility racks that include video processing, computer, and electronic, and other utility equipment that can be easy inserted and removed from the base cabinet is disclosed. The boom includes a stationary base that is configured to be installed into an operating room and one or more boom arms supported by the stationary base and configured to extend over an operating table in the operating room. The structural base includes one or more bays configured to receive a modular rack of electrical equipment. In various embodiments, the structural base cabinet further incorporates wiring to connect the equipment installed in the modular racks to video monitors and other equipment mounted on the articulated booms. The modular racks are preconfigured with a variety of electronic equipment such as computers, video processors and the like. The modular racks are installed in the base cabinet subsequent to the cabinet's structural installation in the operating room and may be readily removed or replaced at a later time. |
| US07644894B1 |
Cable management and tie-off apparatus
A rail rig apparatus includes a body having a middle portion, lower end and an upper end, a lower support having a lower support recess with a lower recess opening, the lower support connected to the lower end of the body, a rig fastener member having a first fastener body end connected to one side of the body, a second fastener body end connected to an opposite side of the body, and a fastener member body extending from the first fastener body end around the lower support recess to the second fastener end, an upper support having an upper support recess with an upper recess opening connected to the upper end of the body, and an upper rope guide mechanism connected to the upper support wherein the upper rope guide mechanism has a pair of opposed jaws defining a space therebetween to receive and secure a rope. |
| US07644893B2 |
Full authority fly-by-wire pedal system
A pedal system particularly tailored to a Fly-By-Wire (FBW) flight control system includes a double gradient linkage assembly. The double gradient linkage assembly includes a damper system and a spring system that improves yaw axis (azimuth) control of the aircraft. Control is only required when a change in the yaw axis state is demanded. Since only minimal displacement inputs to such a FBW flight control system is required, the travel of the pedals are exceeding compact, such that pilot workload is significantly reduced through the reduction in the frequency and magnitude of aircraft control inputs. |
| US07644892B1 |
Blended winglet
A capped winglet comprising a helical portion having a smooth vertical curvature of 180°±approximately 20° from the plane of the unbounded end of a wing, and a generally planar cap contiguous with the helical portion of the winglet at the end of its curvature away from the wing, the cap having a free inboard end and a chord tapered toward the free end. |
| US07644891B2 |
Spacecraft low tumble linear release system
Systems and methods for releasing a spacecraft payload at a substantially constant velocity are disclosed. A linear actuator is used that includes a spring loaded and fluid filled chamber. The spring drives against a piston within the chamber that includes a control orifice that restricts the fluid flowing from one side of the piston to the other and results in a substantially constant damped motion of the piston. The piston drives a rod from the chamber that is attached to a capture device that holds a flange of the spacecraft payload. The capture device moves along a linear guide toward an open end. Spring loaded latches are held in a closed position by the side walls of the guide as the capture device moves. The latches release the flange as exit the open end of the guide. |
| US07644885B2 |
Towel roll holder and dispenser
A towel roll holder and dispenser has a housing for receiving a towel roll therewithin. The housing has a pair of sidewalls, a base connected to the sidewalls for mounting the housing on a support surface, and a pair of cover members pivotable between a closed position and an open position. One of the cover members has an opening through which towels may be dispensed from the towel roll. The cover members are releasably fastened to the sidewalls of the housing. |
| US07644880B2 |
Particle-size reduction apparatus, and use thereof
A sterilisable particle-size reduction apparatus, component parts thereof and a method of sterilising and validating sterility thereof are provided. Also provided is use thereof to prepare sterile suspensions of drugs. |
| US07644879B2 |
Nozzle of gas stove
A nozzle for both types of gas stove of liquefied petroleum gas and natural gas includes a nozzle and an adjustable member. The nozzle member includes a gas channel, a receiving portion communicated with the gas channel. The adjustable member is received in the receiving portion, which has a plurality of apertures thereon. The adjustable member is moved to various positions to have the predetermined apertures communicated with the gas channel respectively to provide different gas supplies for the gas stove of liquefied petroleum gas or natural gas. |
| US07644878B2 |
Injector
An injector includes a nozzle hole, a needle, an actuator, a piston that is displaced in an axial direction according to extension or contraction of the actuator, an outer sleeve holding the piston slidably on its outer circumferential side and defining a pressure chamber expanded or shrunk according to displacement of the piston. When fuel pressure in the pressure chamber is increased upon extension of the actuator, the needle opens the nozzle hole. The injector further includes an inner sleeve slidably fitted around the needle and received in the pressure chamber, an urging device for urging the inner sleeve in the axial direction and for increasing or decreasing its urging force according to displacement of the piston, an engagement surface, and a fuel chamber. A gap between the fuel chamber and the pressure chamber is closed or opened when the inner sleeve annularly engages or disengages from the surface, respectively. |
| US07644876B2 |
Turning tool for turning a plumbing fitting
A turning tool (5′) for turning a jet regulator, a nozzle, an intermediate holder, a flow regulator, a non-return valve or a similar plumbing fitting (5) is provided. The fitting (5), on the outlet side, is detachably held on a plumbing water outlet armature (2) by a threaded connection or a bayonet connection, whereby the turning tool (5′) can be placed on the plumbing fitting (5) in a rotationally fixed manner. The turning tool is characterized in that the turning tool is also provided in the form of a plumbing fitting or as a component of a plumbing fitting, that he turning tool (5′) can be placed in a rotationally fixed manner on an outer or an inner periphery of the fitting (5) that is held on the water outlet armature, and or that he turning tool (5′) has a face profiling or contouring (24, 25) that can be placed in a rotationally fixed manner on a mating profiling or a mating contouring (25, 24) provided on the outlet face of the fitting (5) that is held in the water outlet armature (2). |
| US07644873B2 |
Fuel transfer arrangement
A fuel transfer system having a nozzle with an inlet in communication with a source of pressurized fuel in a portion of a fuel tank, and an outlet through which the fuel is discharged. A restrictor is arranged between the source of pressurized fuel and the nozzle. A first venturi receives fuel dispensed from the nozzle, and a second venturi receives fuel dispensed from the first venturi. The second venturi has an outlet in fluid communication with the portion of the fuel tank housing the source of pressurized fluid. |
| US07644870B2 |
Self-flushing sprinkler mechanism
An irrigation sprinkler is provided having a turret for the distribution of irrigation water that includes a self-flushing mechanism to prevent accumulation of debris in a sprinkler control member and/or the interior of the turret. The sprinkler includes a main flow path that delivers water to a nozzle for irrigation and a secondary flow path that delivers water to flush part of the member and/or interior of the turret. The secondary flow path delivers water when the sprinkler cycles on and when the sprinkler cycles off. For example, with a pop-up sprinkler, the secondary flow path would deliver fluid sometime during its movement to the elevated position and movement to the retracted position. |
| US07644868B2 |
User identity security system for computer-based account access
The inventions relate to security systems for securely accessing accounts and avoiding identity-theft scams. They include object-based passwords and passphrases. For example, the invention relates to method of verifying a user's identity to allow that user to gain access to an account. The method includes creating a first matrix of characters of size X; and upon logon, displaying a second matrix of characters of size Z, wherein Y characters represent a preselected password of the user and X>Z>Y. In this equation, X is greater than the number of letters, numbers and characters on a keyboard. |
| US07644862B2 |
Affiliate marketing system and method for retail stores
A affiliate marketing system and method for retail stores involves assigning a unique retail store identifier to a retail store and presenting the unique retail store identifier and a website address in conjunction with a product offered for sale in the retail store. A purchaser of the product may access the website and make a purchase. By entering the identity of the retail store, such as by entry of the unique retail store identifier or by selecting the retail store from a list, a commission for the purchase is allocated to the retail store. |
| US07644861B2 |
Systems and methods for providing access to wireless gaming devices
Systems and methods for controlling access to wireless gaming devices and networks are provided. For example, access is controlled through one or more levels of security check, such as a hard security check instead of or in addition to a soft security check. In a hard security check, the user employs an apparatus such as a card or other physical token that can be used to access the wireless gaming device. Such an apparatus may communicate information that identifies the user to the device or may simply be used to produce a signal without which the device is locked to users. |
| US07644856B2 |
Solder ball mounting method and solder ball mounting apparatus
A solder ball mounting method includes a step of providing a flux on electrodes of a substrate, a step of arranging a plurality of solder ball mounting masks in which ball feeding openings are formed in positions opposing to the electrodes and opening areas of the ball feeding openings are set to increase toward an upper layer on the substrate, a step of mounting solder balls on the electrodes by feeding the solder balls into the ball feeding openings while moving the solder ball mounting mask as an upper layer in a surface direction of the substrate, a step of removing the solder ball mounting masks from the substrate, and a step of joining the solder balls to the electrodes. |
| US07644855B2 |
Brazing filler metal, assembly method for semiconductor device using same, and semiconductor device
In conventional Sn/Sb type brazing filler metals, there are disadvantages that large grains in a β′ phase are likely to deposit and that cracks are likely to occur in the elements and the bonded portion, and that voids are formed when the above described special coating is provided on the die bonding plane of the semiconductor element. The brazing filler metal of the present invention comprises 5 to 20 weight % of Sb and 0.01 to 5 weight % of Te, with the balance being Sn and incidental impurities, or a brazing filler metal comprises 5 to 20 weight % of Sb, 0.01 to 5 weight % of Te, 0.001 to 0.5 weight % of P, with the balance being Sn and incidental impurities. |
| US07644850B2 |
Stapling device
A stapling device (1) with at least two stapling heads (4, 5) attached to a stapling head unit (2) for stapling sheet-like material, in particular paper, cardboard or the like, is provided, wherein the distance between at least two stapling heads (4, 5) can be adjusted relative to each other. In a stapling device (1) according to the invention, the retrofitting necessary for various products is to be simplified. This is achieved in the invention by moveably arranging the stapling heads (4, 5) relative to each other, and providing a drive unit (9, 10) for setting the stapling head distance. |
| US07644845B2 |
Security holster for pistols with attached utility device
A security holster for handguns with capability for use with a handgun with attached flashlight or laser sighting device. |
| US07644843B1 |
Reverse taper dispensing orifice seal
A dispensing system having a reverse taper dispensing orifice seal. The reverse tapered seal depends from a lid of a flip-top closure providing a sealing engagement with a dispensing spout of the flip-top closure body when in a closed position. As the dispensing spout may have a variety of shapes, the reverse tapered seal is shaped to conform to the irregularities of the contacted surfaces of the dispensing spout. The decreasing thickness of the reverse tapered seal decreases the complexity of the molding process as well as minimizing the weakening or breaking of the seal during removal from the mold cavity. |
| US07644837B2 |
Medicine supply apparatus
An object of a medicine supply apparatus which fills medicine bottles with medicines from a plurality of tablet cases is to improve a medicine filling performance and remove restrictions on the apparatus, and the apparatus comprises: a plurality of tablet cases which contain the medicines and into which the medicines can be thrown from above; a case storage section in which the respective tablet cases are juxtaposed in one stage on a plane and whose top is openably closed; and a filling device which is disposed under this case storage section and which fills the medicine bottle with the medicine dropping from each tablet case. |
| US07644835B2 |
Hand-held vessel
A hand-held vessel has a bottom wall, a sidewall and a supportive strap attached to the bottom wall and the sidewall. The bottom wall and sidewall have an inner and outer surface. The sidewall extends from the bottom wall, whereby the inner surfaces of the bottom wall and sidewall define a cavity for holding fluids or loose materials therein. The strap has a first end and a second end, whereby the first end is fixedly attached to the sidewall and the second end is selectively secured to the bottom wall. The strap is adaptable to accept a user's hand disposed between the strap and the outer surface of the sidewall. The strap urges the hand against the outer surface of the sidewall to secure the vessel to the hand and stabilize the vessel with respect to movement relative to the hand. |
| US07644829B2 |
Plastic container including a grip feature
A blow molded, hollow plastic container including two opposed, relatively longer sidewall and shoulder portions which alternate with two opposed, relatively shorter sidewall and shoulder portions. A first of the relatively shorter sidewall portions includes a grip area in the upper portion of the first relatively shorter sidewall portion, and the opposed second relatively shorter sidewall and shoulder portions includes a pour area. |
| US07644827B2 |
Beverage container shelf management system
A gravity feed. display rack for supporting and displaying merchandise features a merchandise channel support structure, and at least one merchandise channel. The channel has a merchandise support, a left wall and a right wall, the left wall and right wall adjustably located in spaced apart relationship upon the merchandise channel support structure to accommodate varying sizes of merchandise. Thus the display rack may be adjustably assembled to accommodate specific sizes of merchandise. |
| US07644825B2 |
Membrane and use thereof
The membrane producible by shaping a polymer blend or a block copolymer comprising blocks of monomer units, loading the polymer blend or block copolymer with a blowing gas concentration within the polymer blend or block polymer above a critical concentration at a temperature below a critical temperature, but above the glass transition temperature of the polymer blend/gas or block copolymer/gas mixture and finally stabilizing the foam structure is characterized in that as polymer blend a homogeneous polymer blend comprising at least one hydrophilic and at least one hydrophobic polymer and/or a block copolymer of alternating blocks of hydrophilic and hydrophobic monomer units is used, both the polymer blend and the block copolymer having a solubility relating to the used foaming gas above the critical concentration. The said membrane is used for medical purposes, especially for the haemodialysis, haemofiltration, haemodiafiltration, plasmapherese, immunotherapy, micro- or ultrafiltration or gas separation. |
| US07644824B2 |
Tension indicating screen mounting apparatus for vibrating separators
Screen separators and a screen tensioning system for separators that facilitates rapid measurement of screen tension. Each separator subframe screen is suspended between opposed subframe walls. Suitable linkages distribute vibration during the aggregate sifting process. Screen edge flanges are secured by tensioners that control a screen suspension bracket. A carriage bolt fitted through bracket orifices and the walls coaxially receive a resilient grommet captivated by an adjustable sleeve nut. As the nut is tightened, screen tension increases and the grommet diameter increases. A portable gauge with an internal U-shaped measurement sleeve is fitted over the deformed grommet to measure screen tension. A plurality of gauge calibration points bordering the deformed grommet determine applied screen tension. |
| US07644823B2 |
Product container with locking end cap
A package (10) is described that includes a sleeve (12) having at least one end defining an opening. The sleeve further includes at least one pair of locking tabs (18) extending therefrom, each locking tab including a locking edge, each locking tab being folded inwards into the opening. The package further includes a rigid end cap (14, 16) dimensioned to fit closely within the opening, the end cap including a rim (30, 32) designed so that, when the end cap is inserted into the opening, the rim engages the sleeve end and prevents the end cap from being inserted further into the opening. The end cap further includes a channel (22, 24) for receiving the pair of locking tabs, the channel having a ledge (34, 36) that engages the locking edge of each locking tab to prevent the end cap from being removed from the sleeve opening. Another described package provides a release mechanism for allowing an end cap to be removed without causing damage to the package. |
| US07644820B2 |
Transporting crate for picture frames
In the case of the picture-frame transporting crate according to the invention, a spacing which remains in the height direction between the closed cover (4) and the top side of a picture frame (7) which has been placed in position, or of a padding plate which covers the top side of the picture frame, is filled by means of a heightwise spacer (8) which is coordinated precisely, in terms of length, with this spacing. For this purpose, either a heightwise spacer (8) of appropriate length is selected from a supply or the appropriate heightwise spacer (8) is produced on site by virtue of the appropriate length being cut off precisely from a longer strip or a longer rod. |
| US07644811B2 |
Lock-up device of hydraulic torque transmitting apparatus
A lock-up device 7 includes a front cover 2, an impeller 3, a turbine 4, and a piston 22 positioned to divide a space between the front cover 2 and the turbine 4, and is engageable with the front cover 2. The piston 22 is formed with a plurality of projections 41 extending in the radial direction on a surface 42. The projection 41 has a straight front edge 51 and a straight rear edge 52, and an arced radially outer edge 53 and radially inner edge 54. The rear edge 52 in the rotation direction overlaps a straight line Ls connecting a radially inner end 52a with the rotation center O, or the rear edge 52 in the rotation direction is inclined to the straight line Ls such that a radially outer end 52b is positioned rearward of the straight line Ls in the rotation direction. |
| US07644810B2 |
Sports equipment bag with integrated stool
A sports equipment bag with an integrated stool for storing, carrying and transporting sporting equipment while providing a foot support to aide a user in donning their sporting equipment. The foot support can be utilized by a single person alone to aid in putting their own equipment on or the foot support can be used in combination with the integrated stool to assist a first person in aiding a second person in donning equipment. The stool and foot support are integrated into the bag and the foot support is positioned within the bag's internal compartment. Along the bottom portion of the bag are a pair of spaced apart ground engaging wheels rotatably and a telescopic handle may be extendable from the bag, thus making the bag, stool and foot support easily storable and transportable. |
| US07644806B2 |
Low lift truck
Low lift truck, with a load part, which has a load carrying means and is coupled with a drive part via a lift cylinder arrangement and a bar linkage for load wheels of the load carrying means, a steered drive wheel, which forms with a drive motor a drive unit, which is rotatably bearing mounted around a vertical axis by the frame of the drive part, a drawbar, pivotable in the drive part around a horizontal and a vertical axis, which is in a driving connection with the drive unit, an hydraulic power pack for the hydraulic lift cylinder arrangement, and a battery casing, connected with the load part, whereby the drive motor is a wheel hub motor and the battery casing (34) is disposed above the drive unit. |
| US07644805B2 |
Power generation system
An electrical generator is driven by gravitational force provided by a plurality of pairs of water tanks. Each pair of water tanks is suspended by an elongated chain supported by a series of pulleys. The water tanks in each pair of water tanks move between an upper position and a lower position alternately by filling selected ones of the water tanks with water and draining from the other selected ones of the water tanks. The vertical movement of the water tanks alternately filled with water is translated by ratchet wheels and bevel gear wheels to rotate the electrical generator in the same direction for generating the electrical power. |
| US07644802B2 |
Performance flow guide for improved acoustics
Flow guides in the form of extensions that project internally from the housing of an electronic consumer device can contribute to undesirable noise emissions from the device. Proposed is an improved flow guide or extension that reduces propagation of flow induced vibrations to the housing, thereby improving the overall acoustic performance of the device. |
| US07644797B2 |
Motorcycle
A motorcycle includes a vehicle body frame, a rear swing arm which is mounted on a vehicle body frame in a rockable manner by way of a pivot shaft, and a rear wheel which is pivotally supported on a rear portion of the rear swing arm and is rotated by a driving force of a drive shaft. The pivot shaft which constitutes a support portion and an axis of the rear wheel axle are arranged at the substantially same height. The drive shaft is arranged at a position upwardly spaced-apart from the drive shaft, that is, above the pivot shaft. The drive shaft includes a shaft-length variable mechanism which can change a length of the shaft. The resulting configuration provides a motorcycle having reduce weight while maintaining support rigidity of the rear swing arm. |
| US07644795B2 |
Vehicle body structure of motorcycle
Disclosed is a vehicle body structure of a motorcycle which intends to make maintenance of a rear suspension easy and arranges the rear suspension in a compact manner. The vehicle body structure includes a vehicle body frame, a swing arm, and a rear suspension interposed between the vehicle body frame and the swing arm. The vehicle body frame includes a front frame body having right and left main frame members, and a rear frame body having right and left rear frame members extending to a rear side from rear end portions of the main frame members. The rear suspension is arranged so as to be eccentric to a right direction of the vehicle body from a center of the vehicle width. The rear frame body has a layout space for the rear suspension in a lower side of the right rear frame member. |
| US07644794B2 |
Mode changeover control system for transmission in motorcycle
A mode changeover control system for a transmission wherein the starting of a vehicle can be prevented even if the transmission is changed over to the drive mode side while a side stand is in an erected position. In a motorcycle including a mode changeover mechanism for a continuously variable transmission, and a side stand, there is provided a changeover operation section changed over by the driver between operation positions corresponding respectively to a drive mode position and a neutral mode position of the mode changeover mechanism. An electronic control unit operates the mode changeover mechanism based on the changeover operation position of the changeover operation section. The control section is configured so as to continually maintain the mode changeover mechanism in the neutral mode position even if the changeover operation section is operated to a drive mode operation position while the side stand is in a stored position. |
| US07644787B2 |
Turbofan powered vehicle with spherical wheels
A vehicle having a chassis comprises a turbofan engine mounted on the chassis for providing thrust to propel the vehicle over a surface, and four wheels located about and mounted on the chassis wherein at least two of the wheels are substantially spherical or partially spherical in shape. Braking systems, steering systems and stabilizing mechanisms may be provided in accordance with various aspects of the invention. |
| US07644786B2 |
Diamond bit steel body cutter pocket protection
A drill bit that includes a steel bit body having at least one blade thereon, at least one cutter pocket disposed on the at least one blade; at least one cutter disposed in the at least one cutter pocket; at least one recess formed in at least a portion of the surface of the at least one cutter pocket, wherein the recess is adjacent a leading face of the at least one blade; and an erosion resistant material in the at least one recess is disclosed. |
| US07644782B1 |
Method for correcting positioning errors in rock drilling, and rock drilling equipment
The invention relates to a method for correcting positioning errors in rock drilling, and a rock drilling equipment. Deviation of the boom position from the theoretical position is measured as a function of the position of at least one boom joint, the measured deviations are stored in the memory of the drilling rig, and when the boom is positioned to the drilling position, its position is corrected on the basis of the stored deviation. The drilling equipment includes a memory for storing the deviations between the true position of the boom and the theoretical position calculated on the basis of the joint sensor values, and a calculating device for correcting the boom position on the basis of the deviations stored in the memory of the drilling rig. |
| US07644779B1 |
Walk-behind implement with counter-rotating attachment
A walk-behind power unit is configured to detachably mount a counter-rotating powered drum work implement on a centrally pivoted implement carrier. The pivoting of the implement carrier from a central position to either side causes the discharge of the powered drum to be located on a desired side of the work implement. The work implement can also be positioned to discharge forwardly from the powered drum member. A lift apparatus is provided to be cooperable with an associated set of support wheels to affect the positioning of the powered drum member between a lowered operative position and a raised transport position. The powered, counter-rotating drum member can be either a rotatable broom or a power rake. In the broom configuration, the lift apparatus can move the lid member, after first unlatching the lid member from the frame of the work implement, to fix the lid in an opened position. |
| US07644778B2 |
Tanks for railway trucks to transport crushed stones, gravel and other materials, particularly for railroad ballast restoring machines, trucks for railroad ballast restoring machines comprising said tanks and process for obtaining said trucks
A truck (1) for a railroad rehabilitation machine comprises a railway truck (3) and a tank (2) resting on the railway truck (3) in a removable manner. The tank (2) comprises a holding structure (5) extending along a predetermined direction (X), at least one first conveyor (8) mounted within the holding structure (5) to transport incoherent material along the predetermined direction (X) internally of the holding structure (5), and an element (22) for laying the holding structure (5) on the truck (3) for railway transport. A process for making a truck for a railway rehabilitation machine comprises the steps of arranging a railway truck (3) having a support platform (4), arranging a tank (2) for trucks of railroad rehabilitation machines in accordance with the invention and laying the tank (2) on the platform (4) of the railway truck (3) in a removable manner. |
| US07644776B2 |
Fire fighters water transfer pipe
A preassembled water transfer pipe for use in a fire fighting system includes a generally hollow conduit member formed from a predetermined material and having each of a predetermined length and a predetermined cross sectional shape and a connection member equipped with a predetermined size connection for receiving a hose one of thereon and therein disposed at one end of said generally hollow conduit member. There is a pipe support assembly disposed at an opposed end of such generally hollow conduit member. |
| US07644773B2 |
Self-conforming screen
A screen that conforms to the borehole shape after expansion is disclosed. The screen comprises a compliant outer layer that takes the borehole shape on expansion. The outer layer is formed having holes to permit production flow. The material that is selected preferably swells with prolonged contact to well fluids to further close off annular gaps after expansion. In an alternative embodiment, the screen is not expanded and the swelling of the material alone closes off annular gaps. The outer sleeve is placed over the screen and the screen is placed on a base pipe and initially expanded from within the base pipe to secure the components of the screen assembly for running downhole, while minimizing or eliminating any welding among the layers. A variety of expansion tools can be used to expand the screen or screens downhole. |
| US07644770B2 |
Downhole gas compressor
A method for producing gas from a well with low pressure involves running a bottom hole pressure test to graph a P-Q curve. The operator computes a frictional pressure drop due to friction of the gas flowing through the production tubing to the surface. A packer is set above perforations in the well. A screw pump is selected that has a capacity equal to the sum of the frictional pressure drop plus a desired wellhead pressure. The screw pump has a flow rate capacity determined from the P-Q curve. The operator may vary the frequency of a downhole motor to achieve the desired wellhead pressure. |
| US07644769B2 |
Method of collecting hydrocarbons using a barrier tunnel
The present invention relates generally to a method and means of collecting oil from a reservoir overlying a water aquifer or basement rock using a manned tunnel. A manned tunnel is used as a physical barrier to intercept oil and water flowing downward along a formation dip and to preferentially collect the oil or the water through a series of collector stations. This method can be used for oil spill clean-ups or for hydrocarbon recovery in appropriate reservoirs. |
| US07644765B2 |
Heating tar sands formations while controlling pressure
Methods for treating a tar sands formation are described herein. Methods may include heating at least a section of a hydrocarbon layer in the formation from a plurality of heaters located in the formation. A pressure in the majority of the section may be maintained below a fracture pressure of the formation. The pressure in the majority of the section may be reduced to a selected pressure after the average temperature reaches a temperature that is above 240° C. and is at or below pyrolysis temperatures of hydrocarbons in the section. At least some hydrocarbon fluids may be produced from the formation. |
| US07644764B2 |
Polyelectrolyte complexes as delayed gelling agents for oil and gas applications
A gel-forming composition for reducing the permeability of a subterranean formation or zone comprising a water soluble polymer (e.g., Alcoflood® 935) and a polyelectrolyte gelling agent comprising a polycation (e.g., polyalkylene imine) and a polyanion (e.g., dextran sulfate) is provided. The gel-forming composition is used to delay gelation in the subterranean formation. |
| US07644763B2 |
Downhole cutting tool and method
Disclosed herein is a downhole cutting tool. The downhole cutting tool including, a cutting member mounted on a rotatable shaft, a shaft-deflecting device in operable communication with the shaft, and a motor in operable communication with the shaft. |
| US07644758B2 |
Restrictor valve mounting for downhole screens
In one aspect of the invention a valve that operates in association with a downhole screen is threaded into the wall of a base pipe after being inserted through a saddle. When the valve body is threaded in, the engagement into the wall threads in the base pipe acts as a sealing force on a ring seal between the saddle and the base pipe and between the valve body and the saddle. The valve itself can be outfitted with a cover with openings that can be integral or removable and disposed at the end of the valve that is innermost to the base pipe. Preferably a series of elongated slots are used that can catch slurry if the well is to be killed while allowing subsequent production to drive the accumulated solids from well killing back into the base pipe. Another feature places the valve in a base pipe opening under a cylindrical screen section to reduce assembly time and cost of constructing an adjacent housing to one side of the cylindrical screen section to accommodate the valve. |
| US07644755B2 |
Annular electrical wet connect
A connector is made up downhole and can connect electrical signal or power circuits. The male component features one or more circumferential bands on the exterior and the female component features like bands on its interior. The bands are preferably covered with removable sleeves until the connection is made up. In the preferred embodiment, the sleeves push each other out of the way as the connection is made up. The bands are preferably cylindrically shaped on their respective supporting connection half to make easy and reliable contact when the connection halves are advanced together without need for rotation to get the desired contact. Seals surround the connected contacts after makeup to keep out well fluids. |
| US07644749B2 |
System for holding a membrane in tension
A system is provided for the holding of a membrane in tension, that system having: a frame; a plurality of frame members with longitudinal anchoring channels, the channels having first and second channel flanges. Also provided is a retention strip disposed upon at least a part of the periphery of the membrane, wherein the retention strip engages the first and second channel flanges. |
| US07644743B2 |
Pivotable towing arrangement
A towing arrangement includes a pivotal handle which allows a user to position the handle more comfortably that would otherwise be possible with a conventional towing arrangement. The relative motion of the handle can also increase the maneuverability of a piece of luggage by eliminating the need for a person to reposition his or her hand on the handle when attempting to redirect the piece of luggage. |
| US07644740B2 |
Fuel discriminating filler neck cover
A protective cover for a filler neck is designed to discriminate between different sizes of fuel nozzles. The cover includes a body portion and a movable door that covers and exposes an opening in the filler neck. The body portion has a pair of spaced body protrusions that form a gate, and the door has a ledge that may also be formed by a pair of spaced door protrusions. The protrusions on the door can be easily moved to an open position by pressing a tip of a fuel nozzle against the protrusions. The gate and the ledge are configured so that they can accommodate the fuel nozzle for only one type of fuel. |
| US07644736B2 |
PEX pipe for high pressure and high temperature applications
A flexible tubing having a PEX inner core is surrounded by a reinforcing structure, such as a braid. The reinforced flexible tubing meets NFPA Standards for the Installation of Sprinler Systems (13/13R/13D) in both residential and commercial buildings. The reinforced flexible tubing is suitable for a variety of other high temperature/high pressure applications. The tube's flexible characteristics facilitate its installation at a greatly reduced cost, especially in retrofitting existing structures. An adhesive can be used to improve the overall strength and stability of the reinforcing structure surrounding the PEX core. Optionally, a protective outer layer can be applied over the reinforcing structure. |
| US07644731B2 |
Gas valve with resilient seat
A gas valve having a valve member disposed within a valve cavity, and an elastomeric valve seat extending from a valve cavity wall into the valve cavity. The valve member is movable between an open position in which the valve member does not engage the resilient valve seat thereby permitting gas to flow through the gas valve, and a closed position in which the valve member does engage the resilient valve seat thereby preventing gas to flow through the gas valve. In some embodiments, the elastomeric valve seat extends radially into the valve cavity from a groove formed in the valve cavity wall. |
| US07644730B2 |
Method for isolating an appliance in a plumbing system
A fluid isolation valve having a valve body with a first fluid flow port, a second fluid flow port and a fluid drain port with a valve in the fluid drain port. The valve body also defines a fluid flow channel, a drain flow channel and a valve portion, wherein the valve portion is disposed in the valve body to be communicated with the first fluid flow port, the second fluid flow port and the fluid drain port. A flow diversion device is also provided and is disposed within the valve portion. The flow diversion device is configurable between a first configuration and a second configuration, such that when the flow diversion device is in the first configuration the first fluid flow port is communicated with the second fluid flow port. Consequently, when the flow diversion device is in the second configuration the first fluid flow port is communicated with the fluid drain port. The fluid flow can be decrease or stop by use of the valve within the fluid drain port. |
| US07644729B2 |
Capacity control valve
A capacity control valve has a communication path (31) for communicating a discharge chamber (11) and a control chamber (12); one valve chamber (36) in the middle of the communication path (31); communication paths (32, 31b) for communicating a suction chamber (13) and the control chamber (12); the other valve chamber (36) in the middle of the communication path (32); a valve body (40) including a first valve section (41) that opens and closes the communication path (31) and a second valve section (42) that opens and closes the communication path (32), the first and second valve sections being placed in the valve chamber (36) and performing the opening and closing operation in a manner opposite to each other; and a solenoid (60) for moving the valve body (40). The valve body (40) has a pressure receiving section (44) at its end section that is across the second valve section (42) from the first valve section (41), and the pressure receiving section (44) receives pressure in the control chamber. The pressure receiving area S3 of the pressure receiving section (44) is substantially the same as the difference between the pressure receiving area S2 of the second valve section (42) and the pressure receiving area S1 of the first valve section. The valve is reduced in size, an influence of the pressure in the control chamber is minimized, and stable capacity control with excellent response is enabled. |
| US07644728B2 |
Splitter for faucets
A splitter for faucets includes a body in which a control unit is received. The control unit includes a collar in which a ceramic disk is received. The ceramic disk has a plurality of through holes and a number of the through holes is equal to a number of the outlets of the body. A ceramic plate is connected to the ceramic disk so as to cover some of the through holes in the ceramic disk. The ceramic disk is connected with a control shaft which has a resilient member on a radial portion thereof. An end member is mounted to radial portion and includes a plurality of gaps so that when the control shaft is rotated, the protrusion on the resilient member is removably engaged with one of the gaps so as to generate a sound. |
| US07644724B2 |
Valve with electromechanical device for actuating the valve
The invention relates to an assembly comprising an electromechanical device and a self-sealing valve, and in particular, to any inflatable device that includes the assembly. In one embodiment, the assembly comprises a valve housing defining an opening through which fluid can be provided to the inflatable device, a flexible diaphragm assembly that is configured to self-seal the opening with sufficient fluid pressure in the inflatable device and to open under sufficient fluid pressure from a fluid moving device, to provide fluid through the opening to and seal the inflatable device. The assembly further comprises an electromechanical device including an actuating arm, having a first position in which the actuating arm urges open the self-sealing valve and a second position in which the actuating arm does not act upon the self-sealing valve, so as to regulate an amount of fluid within the inflatable device. With this arrangement, a small, low power, low duty cycle electromechanical device can be used. |
| US07644723B2 |
Transmix prevention lock
A method and apparatus for preventing a dense liquid such as diesel fuel from being dispensed into a storage tank that contains a less dense liquid, such as gasoline fuel and vice versa. The unloading process happens by gravity through a vertical down hole. The invention uses the gravitational flow of the fluid, a movable float that is moved by contact with a fluid of a predetermined density, and a magnetic member to activate the stopping feature. |
| US07644722B2 |
Medical valve and method to monitor intra-abdominal pressure
An apparatus for monitoring the intra-abdominal pressure of a hospitalized patient includes a urinary catheter connected to a urine valve providing selectable communication between a discharge end of the urinary catheter and either a drain or a fluid source. Preferably, the urine valve is adapted for remote actuatation and has a housing adapted to resist patient discomfort from leg-valve contact. Plumbing structure desirably maintains fluid supply and drain conduits in a substantially parallel arrangement to assist routing those conduits between a patient's legs. When the urine valve is oriented to permit communication with the fluid source, an infusion pump may be used to infuse a known quantity of fluid through the urine valve and into the patient's bladder. A pressure transducer desirably is connected in-circuit to indicate the fluid's pressure. To facilitate the infusion process, an automatic flow control device may be included in a fluid supply path and arranged to permit repetitive operation of a syringe to inject a bolus of fluid into the patient's bladder. Subsequent to a period of time in which to make a pressure measurement, preferred embodiments of the urine valve automatically return to a bladder draining position. |
| US07644721B2 |
Synchronized four-bar linkages
A mechanism that is comprised of two or more four-bar linkages is shown. Each linkage shares a common link with each adjacent linkage and the movement of said two or more linkages is synchronized by mechanical means such that said mechanism may move between a collapsed and an extended state. Said mechanical means may be in the form of additional links or geared connections. |
| US07644716B2 |
Apparatus for manufacturing a carbonaceous heat source chip
Apparatus for manufacturing a carbonaceous heat source chip, capable of drying an extrusion-molded carbonaceous heat source rod to proper hardness and supplying the same to a heat insulating material-wrapping device. The apparatus includes a hollow pipe that forms a conveying path for transporting the carbonaceous heat source rod continuously extrusion-molded by an extrusion molding machine, to the heat insulating material-wrapping device. The apparatus forms an airflow running through the hollow pipe by means of an air amplifier, and transports the carbonaceous heat source rod while drying the rod by using the airflow. |
| US07644712B2 |
Negative pressure conditioning device and forced air furnace employing same
A pneumatic signal conditioning device may have a first fluid path and a second fluid path. The first fluid path includes a first inlet and a first outlet, and is configured such that the first outlet provides a first conditioned signal representing a pressure at the first inlet. Similarly, the second fluid path is configured such that the second outlet provides a second conditioned signal representing a pressure at the second inlet. |
| US07644710B2 |
Grill
The present invention relates to a turning type charcoal roast board, and more particularly, to a turning type charcoal roast board, wherein if exchange of a used roast board is required during roast of meat using a charcoal fire, new roast rods are placed at an opening of a main body of the roast board in such a manner that the roast rods stored in a roast rod-supplying box are fed via a moving means through users simple operation of a control device for controlling the feeding of the roast rods installed on a main body of the charcoal roast board, and roast rods used at the opening of the main board are transferred to and received in a roast rod-receiving box by means of rotation of the moving means. According to the present invention, the roast board can be rapidly exchanged to prevent meat from being burned, and it is possible to eliminate inconvenience in use due to frequent exchange of roast boards. Further, roast rods that have been used for roast of meat can be easily discharged and washed, thereby ensuring convenience of use and always maintaining the roast board in a clean and hygienic state. |
| US07644707B2 |
Ignition device for an internal combustion engine
An Ignition device for an internal combustion engine including a control device and an ignition coil which is feedable on its primary side by a voltage supply unit. The control device is provided to interrupt or reduce the voltage impressed on the primary side of the ignition coil when a magnitude of a magnetic induction B on the primary side of the ignition coil is greater than a predeterminable maximum value. |
| US07644706B1 |
Breather device for an engine
The blow-by gas that has flowed from a front-stage breather-chamber inlet (33) into a front-stage breather chamber (28) floats up around a preliminary valve-seat peripheral wall (22) and a preliminary breather-passage peripheral wall (24) and flows from a breather-chamber inlet (21) into a breather chamber (3). When a breather-chamber peripheral wall (12) is removed from a breather-chamber attaching seat (11), a diaphragm valve (16) is attached to the breather-chamber attaching seat (11) and has a valve face (18) seated on a preliminary valve seat (23), and a plug (27) is taken out of a preliminary breather outlet (25), from which a breather pipe (5) is led out, thereby enabling the front-stage breather chamber (28) to be used for a single-stage breather chamber provided with the diaphragm valve (16). |
| US07644704B2 |
Fuel supply system
A fuel supply system includes a fuel pump, a filter element, a pressure regulating valve, and a filter case. The filter case is configured to cover radially inner and outer surfaces of the filter element. The filter case has a receiving portion. A bottom portion of the receiving portion and an end portion of the filter element defines therebetween an outflow chamber for storing fuel. The outflow chamber includes a partitioning member that partitions the outflow chamber into first and second outflow chamber sections. The second outflow chamber section is communicated with an inlet portion of the pressure regulating valve. The partitioning member has a communication portion that provides communication between the first and second outflow chamber sections. |
| US07644701B2 |
Fuel injection control apparatus and method in internal combustion engine
A preset waiting period is previously set on the basis of a signal in correspondence to a detection of a start point of a detection of a no-tooth portion of a signal rotor. In the case of a control for injecting a fuel after the preset waiting period has elapsed, an output of a signal indicating a start point of an actual detection of the no-tooth portion by a waveform shaping portion is delayed due to the existence of the no-tooth portion. A control computer corrects the preset waiting period to be shorter by an amount corresponding the delay. Accordingly, an accuracy of a fuel injection start timing control is improved. |
| US07644700B2 |
Fuel injection system for an internal combustion engine
The fuel injection system has at least two electrically actuated control valves for controlling the fuel injection; the control valves are each connected via electric lines to an electric control unit. In the fuel injection system, terminal elements for connection of the electric lines are provided. For a first of the control valves, a structural element is provided, on which the terminal elements for all the control valves are disposed, and which can be secured to a housing part of the fuel injection system. At least one electric connecting line from the terminal elements to the second control valve disposed inside a housing part of the fuel injection system is integrated with the structural element. |
| US07644699B2 |
Fuel system, especially of the common rail type, for an internal combustion engine
A fuel system for an internal combustion engine includes at least one first fuel pump and a pressure region into which the fuel pump pumps and which communicates with an elastic volume reservoir. The elastic volume reservoir has a characteristic pressure/volume curve, which is defined by at least two points. It is proposed that a first point is defined by a first volume at a first pressure that is somewhat greater than a vapor pressure of the fuel at ambient temperature, and that a second point is defined by a second volume and a second pressure in the pressure region that corresponds to a maximum pressure; the difference between the first and second volumes corresponds at least approximately and at least to a value by which the volume of the fuel in the pressure region decreases upon cooling down from a maximum temperature to ambient temperature. |
| US07644692B2 |
VVT control method during lock pin disengagement
A control method for an internal combustion engine of a vehicle that is used with a variable valve timing (VVT) system to promote lock pin disengagement. The method establishes if the VVT is at a lock pin position, establishes if a lock pin is not disengaged out of an associated recess, and can control the rate of movement of the VVT away from the lock pin position so that the lock pin can be disengaged out of the recess. |
| US07644689B2 |
Variable valve operating device
A variable valve operating device that makes it possible to reduce the loss in driving force transmission from a camshaft to a valve during a valve lift is provided. The rotary motion of a drive cam is transmitted to a swing member via intermediate rollers. A coupling member couples the intermediate rollers, to a swing fulcrum that is fastened to a control shaft. The swing fulcrum is positioned eccentrically to the center of the control shaft. Further, when the control shaft is positioned at a predetermined rotation position, the swing fulcrum is positioned so that the control shaft is placed between the swing fulcrum and the intermediate rollers. Preferably, the swing fulcrum, the control shaft, and the intermediate rollers are aligned. |
| US07644688B2 |
Valve actuator assembly having a center biased spool valve with detent feature
A valve actuator assembly for an engine includes a movable poppet valve, and movable first and second spool valves. The assembly also includes an intermediate channel interconnecting the first and second spool valve, a driving channel, and a first and second feedback channel interconnecting the second spool valve and the poppet valve. The valve actuator assembly includes an actuator cooperating with the first spool valve to position the first spool valve to selectively allow high pressure fluid flow to the second spool valve and the driving channel to position the engine valve. The valve actuator assembly further includes a first and second on/off valve in respective fluid communication with the first feedback channel and the second feedback channel to selectively exhaust the first and second feedback channel to control motion of the second spool valve. The second spool valve includes a detent feature operable to maintain the second spool valve in a center biased position. |
| US07644683B2 |
Method and apparatus for culturing marine larvae
An agitator is provided including an open system having a base holding a plurality of culturing beakers as well as a lid holding a tube transporting fresh seawater into each beaker, gently stirring the water within and eliminating any decaying embryos. Each beaker has at least a bottom made of mesh allowing water to flow through. The agitator can be used to culture any fragile planktonic organisms that require an extended rearing time. |
| US07644682B2 |
Round bale feeder
An elevated feeder or framework holds the round bales of feedstock off the ground while providing a convenient height for the livestock to feed from. The bale feeder is made by rigidly connecting tubular elements, of the same or different diameters together, at any angle, without the use of special fasteners. The elevated feeder holds the bales with the flat ends in a position that is the most convenient for the livestock to consume the feedstock. The elevated feeder keeps the feedstock bales off the ground by supporting the feedstock on an adjustable, flexible mesh bale support, with openings to permit rain and water to drain away from the feedstock. The mesh bale support length is adjusted by moving the mesh support clamping bars closer to or farther away from the ends of the mesh raises or lowers the bale to accommodate the feeding height of the livestock being fed. |
| US07644678B2 |
Mixing apparatus and method for the repair of can ends
This invention generally relates to a mixing apparatus and a method useful in the repair of coating adhered on a can end used in the food and beverage packaging industry. The mixing apparatus has a plurality of holding tanks in fluid communication with a first fluid delivery system and a mixer. A pressure tank is provided which is in fluid communication with the mixer. A spray device is provided which is in fluid communication with a second fluid delivery system and the pressure tank. A plurality of liquids or fluids are flowed through the first fluid delivery system, the plurality of liquids or fluids are mixed in the mixer to yield a mixed solution which is flowed to the pressure tank and the mixed solution is flowed through the second fluid delivery system and dispensed on the can end. A method for the repair of coating adhered on a can end is provided as well. |
| US07644676B2 |
Storage tank containing liquefied natural gas with butane
Disclosed is a liquefied natural gas composition. The composition contains methane, ethane and propane and butane. The composition contains a substantial amount of butane while being substantially free of hydrocarbon molecules larger than butane. |
| US07644672B2 |
Monohull sailing vessel having a lifting hydrofoil
A monohull sailing vessel (102, 202, 402, and/or 502) having a lifting hydrofoil (104 and/or 204) having a stowed position and a deployed position in which the hydrofoil extends outward of a leeward side of the hull (138). The hydrofoil may have an aspect ratio greater than 2.5:1, may be oriented at an angle of attack between 2 and 6 degrees, and may be oriented at a mean angle (124) of between 5 and 20 degrees to horizontal. The hydrofoil may have a projected area adapted provide a righting moment and a lifting force for partially but not fully lifting the vessel out of the water. The hydrofoil may have an exposed span (112) that is greater than about 7% of a height of the tallest mast (134). The vessel may include an actuation assembly (128, 228, 308, and/or 316) for moving the hydrofoil between the stowed and deployed positions. |
| US07644671B2 |
Method and system of manufacturing a mattress and components thereof
A system (10) for manufacturing a mattress (300) comprises multiple modules or stations (12, 132, 188, 200) used to sew together multiple components into a casing (252). A spring or other core (270) is inserted into the casing (252) before a top (274) is secured to the casing (252) to complete the mattress (300). Two or more flanges (261, 266) may be incorporated into the casing (252) for securing the core (270) inside the casing (252), The system (10) provides an operator flexibility to manufacture different types of mattress with minimal changes. |
| US07644669B2 |
Coal fired process heaters
An embodiment of the invention consists of a process heater with a radiant section and an overhead convection section, the radiant section having a vertical cylindrical, contiguous, helical, tubular coil, having a bottom process fluid inlet and top process fluid outlet. The process fluid coil is contained in a refractory lined enclosure of square cross section and is exposed to an up flowing stream of combustion products, generated by burning coal on a continuous, traveling, chain grate stoker. The stoker is located at the base of the radiant section, receives a continuous deposit of coarse coal, with a minimum of fines, from a hopper located at one end of the stoker chain grate and discharges essentially coal free ash at the opposite end of the chain grate, thru a nozzle provided with a water seal. One or more centrifugal solids—gas separators are provided at the radiant section flue gas outlets for the purpose of removing ash particulates from the flue gas streams, before the latter enter the overhead convection section. Since the flue gas enters the convection section very nearly devoid of particulates, the convection section may be of conventional design, utilizing bare or extended surface tubes, on closely spaced equilateral or quadrilateral centers. |
| US07644668B2 |
Feeding system for plasma melting-furnace
The present invention provides a feeding system which operates under an environment of negative pressure on feeding waste materials to prevent contaminant of a plasma furnace from leakage and so can be used in related industries of processing radioactive wastes. |
| US07644667B2 |
Table tops constructed from blow-molded plastic
Blow molded plastic structures are provided for use in various structures such as, but not limited to, tables, chairs, walls, backboards, storage bins, sports equipment and the like. The blow molded plastic structure has a first surface and a second surface extending between a first end and a second end and forming a chamber there between. A plurality of depressions is formed on the second surface and extends into the chamber. The depressions are usually unitary structures formed by a depression wall. Generally, the steeper the depression wall, the more strength is provided to the structure. In addition, where the plurality of depressions has a low profile and a greater density, increased strength is provided to the structure. The depressions may or may not be joined to the first surface. |
| US07644661B1 |
Networked electronic ordnance system
The networked electronic ordnance system connects a number of pyrotechnic devices to a bus controller using lighter and less voluminous cabling, in a more efficient network architecture, than previously possible. Each pyrotechnic device contains an initiator, which includes a pyrotechnic assembly and an electronics assembly. One or more pyrotechnic devices each contain a logic device having a unique identifier. The pyrotechnic devices are individually controlled by the bus controller by addressing the unique identifier of each logic device. Each pyrotechnic device preferably includes an energy reserve capacitor which stores firing energy upon arming. Both digital and analog fire control conditions are provided before an armed pyrotechnic device can be fired. A plurality of initiators and/or other components of the system may be packaged together on a single substrate and networked together via that substrate. |
| US07644660B1 |
Simultaneous, multi-layer pad printing transfer apparatus and method for flat and bulging pads
A pad printing system comprises, in one aspect, a flexible pad (100) with a front surface (125). One or more applicator heads (120, 130) applies one or more substances, including inks, paints, coatings, decals, water, varnish, solvents, catalysts, adhesives, and the like, to the front surface of the pad. The various substances can be applied in layers in any order. During or after application of the substance, applicator heads (140, 145) optionally apply treatments, such as radiative energy, gas, humidity, and the like, to the substance being applied. All components of the system are under the control of a controller (150) that derives information about the image to be printed from an image source (155). After an image and any overlying or underlying coatings are applied, the surface of the pad is urged into contact with a receiving object 200, whereupon the image and coatings are transferred from the pad to the receiving object. The pad is flat during application of substances to the pad. It is optionally bulged prior to transfer of the substances to the receiving surface. |
| US07644659B2 |
Cleaning apparatus for cylinder surfaces of a printing machine and spray nozzle for such a cleaning apparatus
A cleaning device for surfaces of cylinders of a printing machine is provided, having at least one nozzle 23 with a nozzle opening 4 for a jet of cleaning fluid 13, a distribution line 22 for cleaning fluids, in which the nozzle 23 is inserted, as well as a cleaning element 20 for lifting contaminants, dissolved by the cleaning fluids, off the surface of the cylinder. The nozzle 23 is embodied as a separate component and detachably inserted in the distribution line 22. The nozzle 23 is made from a soft-elastic material. The nozzle 23 is provided with a deflector surface 6 arranged downstream from the nozzle opening 4 for deflecting and fanning a jet 13 exiting the nozzle opening 4, as well as a base 1 for inserting it into a distribution line 22, and a channel 11, which extends, on the one side, to a base opening 3 and, on the other side, to the nozzle opening 4. Furthermore, the invention relates to a nozzle for insertion in such a cleaning device. |
| US07644657B1 |
Deformable pad for pad printing
A deformable pad (100) for pad printing has an initially flat side (105) and an opposite bulged side (110). An ink image (610) is applied to the flat side of the pad using an inkjet head (605) or other ink image source. The pad is then distorted using a ram (600) or hydrostatic or pneumatic source applied to a chamber (1300) so that the initially bulged side is flattened and the initially flat side bulges. After distortion, the now bulged side with the ink image is pressed against a receiving surface for transfer of the ink image to the surface. An alternative embodiment starts by deforming a pad to produce a flat surface, inking the surface with an image, then allowing the pad to relax, rendering the previously flat, image-bearing surface newly bulged. The newly-bulged surface is then temporarily urged against a receiving surface for transfer of the ink image. |
| US07644656B2 |
Liquefier
Conventional type liquefier appliance that incorporates an anti-drip system consisting of a “T”-shaped spout seal, besides the inclusion of a series of non-slip strips on the connecting gears between the drive unit and the rotary elements, which enable it to come to a sudden stop without the inertia of said elements forcing them in an upward direction, furthermore the grater disc is not fixed to the drive element by a through-screw but rather said screw is welded to its under side, while in addition the push piston terminates in a concavity which engages the piece to be liquefied during use and wherein said piston may be replaced by a feed hole reducer piston. |
| US07644654B2 |
Method of pasteurizing, monitoring PU-uptake, controlling PU-up-take and apparatus for pasteurizing
A continuous flow pasteurization apparatus for a liquid product includes a pasteurization area divided into plural pasteurization zones, each with a connection for heating and/or cooling the product, so that if production stops, it is possible to hold the temperature below the pasteurizing temperature. Upon restarting, the product is reheated to a temperature close to the pasteurizing temperature. The apparatus provides for the control and monitoring of pasteurization units (PU's). |
| US07644649B2 |
Mobile or portable apparatus with pressurized gas supply for preparing beverages or similar products
Mobile or portable apparatus for preparing beverages comprising a module for delivering a beverage by supplying a pressurized liquid, a liquid feed tank of sufficient capacity for supplying the module with several volumes of liquid for supplying more than one beverage, gas pressurizing means suitable for supplying the module with pressurized liquid, a liquid feed chamber, of which the capacity is several times smaller than the capacity of the tank, said chamber being arranged, in a module feeding configuration, to communicate with the gas pressurizing means in order to pressurize the liquid in the chamber and to inject pressurized liquid into the module and thereby permit the delivery of the liquid through the module. |
| US07644647B2 |
Hydraulic actuating device for actuating a shift rod in particular of a gearbox for motor vehicles
There is disclosed a hydraulic actuating device for actuating a shift rod in particular of a gearbox for motor vehicles, which comprises a cylinder chamber provided in or on a gear housing for accommodating a shift piston which is actively connected to the shift rod and which divides the cylinder chamber into two working chambers which can selectively be acted upon by a pressure medium from a reservoir for the latter, said working chambers being separated from one another by means of a sealing arrangement arranged on the shift piston. The sealing arrangement is designed in a valve-like manner so that, when at least one working chamber is acted upon by pressure medium, it connects said working chamber to an auxiliary chamber which is delimited by the sealing arrangement and which in turn can be connected to the reservoir for the pressure medium. As a result, a cost-effective hydraulic actuating device is provided which is vented in a simple and efficient manner during operation from the working chambers via the auxiliary chamber to the reservoir. |
| US07644646B1 |
Three position servo system to control the displacement of a hydraulic motor
A three position servo system. The servo system has a servo housing that has first and second control ports disposed therein in a cavity in fluid communication with the first and second control ports. A servo piston having at least one pressure chamber disposed therein is then used to communicate the pressure within the first and second ports into the first end of the cavity. Thus, when pressure is applied below a threshold pressure to both ports a first position is achieved, when pressure is applied above the threshold pressure in only one port a second position is achieved, and when pressure is applied above the threshold pressure in both ports a third position is achieved. Therefore, the servo system provides three different operating positions. |
| US07644641B2 |
Operating lever device
A rotor and a seat mounted on a first shell is disposed between an annular first shell and an annular second shell both constituting a damper case, thereby forming a rotary damper device. A damper lever on which the rotor is mounted is hooked on a fixing pin fixed to a body. Viscous fluid such as highly viscous oil is charged into a damper chamber formed between the rotor and the seat, and a viscous resistance is applied to the rotor and the seat. In a state in which a rotation center of the rotary damper device is deviated from a rotation center of the shaft which is rotated by the operating lever, the damper case is fixed to a flange portion of the shaft, the rotor and the seat are allowed to rotate relatively to each other by an inclining operation of the operating lever, and a resistance force from the rotary damper device is applied to the operating lever. |
| US07644638B2 |
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission has a clutch mechanism, an oil pump, and a valve body that encloses a clutch hydraulic pressure control mechanism. The valve body is arranged axially adjacent to the clutch mechanism. The oil pump is offset from an input shaft of the transmission and arranged so as to overlap the valve body and/or the clutch mechanism when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the automatic transmission. This automatic transmission improves the control response of the clutch of the transmission while avoiding an increase in the size of the transmission. |
| US07644637B2 |
Method and apparatus for transfer of samples in a controlled environment
An apparatus for the transfer of samples from an analytical instrument has a sealable transfer capsule and a means for connecting the transfer capsule to a vacuum instrument, such as a FIB, through an interface connected to the instrument. The capsule has a door that can be opened to insert a sample holder, such as a TEM sample holder, into the instrument, and then closed when the sample holder holding an excised sample is retracted back into the transfer capsule. The instrument interface contains means for sealing the instrument before the transfer capsule holding a sample is disconnected, and for purging the transfer capsule with an inert gas. The sample may thus be transported in the sealed transfer capsule without exposure to the ambient atmosphere. The sample may be transported to and connected to a glove box also purged with an inert gas for examination or further operations. |
| US07644632B2 |
Viscometric flowmeter
A meter for reproducibly and accurately measuring the delivery or flow rate of known fluids in chromatography and other pressure driven pumping systems, comprising a sense tube of known effective radius and length, coupled to a temperature measuring device, and enclosed in such a way as to allow the temperature of the tube and fluid to be measured, and optionally regulated. The invention is also useful for determining the viscosity of an unknown fluid or combination of fluids. |
| US07644629B2 |
Tensile specimen measuring apparatus and method
A tensile specimen measuring apparatus includes a generally elongated base, a generally elongated pin channel provided in the base, a measuring pin carrier slidably mounted in the pin channel of the base, at least one contact pin carried by the measuring pin carrier, at least one contact pin disposed at an end of the pin channel of the base in generally spaced-apart relationship with respect to the at least one contact pin carried by the measuring pin carrier and an electronic measuring device engaging the at least one contact pin carried by the measuring pin carrier. A tensile specimen measuring method is also disclosed. |
| US07644625B2 |
Differential pressure sense die based on silicon piezoresistive technology
A method and apparatus for designing a differential pressure sense die based on a unique silicon piezoresistive technology for sensing low differential pressure in harsh duty applications is disclosed. The pressure sense die comprises of an etched pressure diaphragm and a hole that is drilled through the sense die wherein the pressure sense die possess a backside and a front side and are associated with varying pressures. A top cap can be attached to the front side and an optional constraint for stress relief can be attached to the backside of the differential pressure sense die. The top cap and the constraint comprise of glass and/or silicon and can be attached with an anodic bonding process or glass frit process. |
| US07644621B2 |
Capped and chambered pressure sensor
The present invention relates to a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor includes a substrate assembly. The substrate assembly defines closed channels and includes a conductive layer. A conductive membrane extends from the substrate assembly and is spaced from the conductive layer. The conductive membrane defines a plurality of apertures. A cap extends from the substrate assembly to cover the membrane. |
| US07644617B2 |
Device and method for acoustic source localization in a sound measurement testbed
An enclosed test stand may be enclosed by at least two reverberant boundary surfaces. Two of said at least two reverberant boundary surfaces may abut against each other to form an edge. A first linear array of microphones may be configured to detect acoustical signals of a sound field. The linear array of microphones may be arranged along the edge. An evaluating unit may be coupled to the linear array of microphones. The evaluating unit may be configured to locate sound sources of the sound field. |
| US07644613B2 |
Flow detector device with self check
A thermal flow sensor is equipped with a self-test unit that monitors the device and generates a fault signal in the presence of a malfunction. The self-test unit can e.g. monitor the integrity of a membrane carrying the heater and temperature sensors, or it can monitor various operational parameters of the device, thereby increasing the safety of the device. |
| US07644611B2 |
Downhole fluid analysis for production logging
A downhole fluid analysis tool capable of fluid analysis during production logging that includes a phase separator and a plurality of sensors to perform analysis on the fluids collected at a subsurface location in a borehole. |
| US07644610B2 |
Automated formation fluid clean-up to sampling switchover
Apparatus and method for downhole formation fluid sampling include conveying a carrier into a well borehole that traverses a subterranean formation of interest, the carrier having a port and placing the port in fluid communication with the subterranean formation of interest. The method includes urging a fluid into the port using a fluid control device, the fluid containing a formation fluid and a contaminant, generating a first signal indicative of a first fluid characteristic of the fluid using a first test device in communication with the fluid, and generating a second signal indicative of a second fluid characteristic of the fluid using a second test device in communication with the fluid. The first signal and the second signal are processed using a processing device to estimate a level of contamination in the fluid, and a control signal is generated when the estimated level of contamination meets a predetermined value, the control signal actuating the fluid control device to direct fluid having a level of contamination at about or below the predetermined value to a fluid sampling chamber carried by the carrier. |
| US07644607B2 |
Method for monitoring the load condition of an engine and corresponding device
There is described a method for monitoring the load condition of a variable speed engine. Said method shows a determination of an actual speed and an actual load moment during operation. A warning signal is emitted when the actual load moment remains outside a monitoring range, predetermined depending on the speed, for the duration of a predetermined delayed reaction time. |
| US07644602B2 |
Method of measuring transverse sensitivity of sensor for detecting acceleration and acceleration measuring method
A sensor obtains transverse sensitivity in a sensitivity matrix of an acceleration sensor with a uniaxial vibration generator. The acceleration is measured by vibrating the table 12. As the measurement of the main axis sensitivity, transverse sensitivity Szx associated with the X-axis is obtained from measured results of the acceleration sensor 5 and measured results of a measuring instrument for measuring the surface motion of the table 12 independently. Likewise, transverse sensitivity Szy associated with the Y-axis is obtained by fixing on the table 12 the cubical block on which the acceleration sensor 5 is mounted in such a manner that the Y-axis direction defined with respect to the acceleration sensor 5 aligns with the vibration direction of the table 12. |
| US07644600B1 |
Method and device for forming an essentially flat metal blank to produce a thin-walled, shell-type body, and the use of same
The invention relates to a vacuum-assisted method and a device for forming an essentially flat blank (12) of metal into a thin-walled, shell-type body (14), especially for performing the method in accordance with one of the preceding claims, that has a supporting structure (16) forming a mold chamber (18) that holds the blank (12) during increasing deformation into the thin-walled, shell-body (14), a device (20) allocated to the supporting structure (16) for clamping the blank (12) about its circumference (22) to the supporting structure (16), that seals the reverse face (24) of the blank (12) facing towards the mold chamber (18) against the front face (26) of the blank (12) facing away from the mold chamber (18), and a device (28) allocated to the mold chamber (18) that also communicates with the mold chamber (18) for applying a vacuum and evacuating the mold chamber (18), and at least one forming tool (50) applied to the front face (26) of the blank (12) is/are allocated to the supporting structure (16), and the use of same. |
| US07644598B2 |
Vacuum valve for an I.S. machine
A vacuum valve for use with a blow mold in an I.S. machine. When the blow molds close around a parison, vacuum is applied to the wall of the blow mold. At some time following the application of the vacuum, final blow will occur blowing the parison into a bottle. This vacuum will be applied until the parison has been blown into a bottle. During the period during which vacuum is applied but final blow has not started, vacuum is reduced by operating a needle valve in the vacuum line. |
| US07644594B2 |
Method and apparatus for self-contained anesthetic gas reclamation
A method and apparatus are disclosed for recovering and separating anesthetic gas components from waste anesthetic gases to be purged from a healthcare facility. With minimal reliance on the utility infrastructure and supplies of a healthcare facility, the method and apparatus needs only electrical or mechanical power, a source of waste anesthetic gases, and an atmospheric vent in order to operate. A heat exchanger/condenser, which uses a dedicated heat transfer fluid as a refrigerant, is employed to condense anesthetic gas components from the waste anesthetic gases as either liquid condensates or solid frosts. The warmed heat transfer fluid is cooled in a separate refrigeration unit and recycled back to the heat exchanger/condenser. A preferred embodiment of the invention is a self-contained, packaged unit which can be easily accommodated in a physician's office, small animal clinic, dental office or other healthcare facility requiring effective waste anesthetic gas management. |
| US07644593B2 |
CO2 refrigeration circuit with sub-cooling of the liquid refrigerant against the receiver flash gas and method for operating the same
CO2 refrigeration circuit (2) for circulating a refrigerant in a predetermined flow direction, comprising in flow direction a heat-rejecting heat exchanger (4), a receiver (10) having a liquid portion (12) and a flash gas portion (14), and subsequent to the receiver (10) a medium temperature loop (20) and a low temperature loop (24), wherein the medium and low temperature loops (24) each comprise in flow direction an expansion device (26, 28), an evaporator (30, 32) and a compressor (46, 38), the refrigeration circuit (2) further comprising a liquid line (16) connecting the liquid portion (12) of the receiver (10) with at least one of the medium and low temperature loops (20, 24) and having an internal heat exchanger (54), and a flash gas line (50) connecting the flash gas portion (14) of the receiver (10) via the internal heat exchanger (54) with the inlet of the low temperature compressor (46), wherein the internal heat exchanger (54) transfers in use heat from the liquid flowing through the liquid line (16) to the flash gas flowing through the flash gas line (50). |
| US07644589B2 |
Cooling device for a product and a packaging and dispensing assembly for a corresponding product
A device is provided to cool and apply a product. The device includes a pressurized container configured to hold a liquefied refrigerant product. The pressurized container includes a longitudinal axis and is provided with a refrigerant product dispensing element with a product coating surface. The device also includes cooling means with at least one refrigerant product vaporization conduit connected in fluid communication with the refrigerant product dispensing element. The device further includes an applicator coating element disposed adjacent to the vaporization conduit so as to exchange heat with the vaporization conduit while the refrigerant product is dispensed from the dispensing element into the vaporization conduit. The applicator coating element typically includes a surface complimentary to an applicator so that the applicator may be coated with product. |
| US07644584B2 |
Method for modulating turbocharger braking
A method for operating an internal combustion engine includes compressing intake air using a compressor, supplying the compressed intake air to at least one combustion chamber of the engine, operating the at least one combustion chamber to output exhaust gas, and directing the exhaust gas to an inlet of a turbine configured to drive the compressor. The method also includes directing the exhaust gas from an outlet of the turbine to an exhaust system, bypassing at least a portion of the compressed intake air around the at least one combustion chamber, and adjusting a geometry of the turbine from a first configuration to a second configuration. The turbine is in the second configuration when the at least the portion of the compressed intake air is bypassed around the at least one combustion chamber. |
| US07644583B2 |
Turbocharger apparatus having an exhaust gas sealing system for preventing gas leakage from the turbocharger apparatus
Turbocharger apparatus (1) comprising a housing (4), a compressor, a turbine (40), a first inlet (39) for enabling air to be conducted to the compressor, an outlet (36) for enabling air from the compressor to be conducted to an engine, a second inlet (53) for enabling exhaust gases from the engine to be conducted to the turbine (40), a chamber (96), a bearing assembly (82) for permitting the rotation of the turbine (40), and a control system (5, 10) for controlling the speed of the turbine (40), the control system (5, 10) having an exhaust gas sealing system (8, 21, 26) which prevents exhaust gas leakage from the turbocharger apparatus (1), and which allows expansion of parts within the exhaust gas sealing system (8, 21, 26) at high temperatures. |
| US07644582B2 |
External combustion engine
An external combustion engine including a container 10 sealed with a working medium 14 in liquid phase adapted to flow, a multiplicity of evaporators 201 to 204 for heating and evaporating part of the liquid-phase working medium 14, a multiplicity of condensers 221 to 224 for cooling and condensing the working medium 14 evaporated in the evaporators 201 to 204, and an output unit 11 for outputting by converting the displacement of the liquid-phase portion of the working medium 14 into mechanical energy. The multiplicity of the evaporators 201 to 204 share a heat source from which heat is supplied thereto. The engine further includes an influent liquid amount regulation unit whereby the liquid-phase portion of the working medium 14 in a greater amount flows into the evaporators nearer the heat source upon displacement of the liquid-phase portion of the working medium 14 toward the multiplicity of the evaporators 201 to 204 from the output unit 11, while the influent liquid amount is smaller for the evaporators farther from the heat source. In this way, heat loss is reduced resulting in improved efficiency. |
| US07644581B2 |
Stirling engine
A stirling engine includes a flow path which communicates a working space of the stirling engine and a crankcase of the stirling engine. An output of the stirling engine is controlled so that the output lowers when a pressure inside the working space is higher than a pressure in the crankcase, with a transfer of a fluid in the working space to the crankcase via the flow path thereby causing a decrease in the pressure of the working space. |
| US07644580B2 |
Control coupling for changing the feeding speed of feeding members in a delimbing and cutting apparatus
A control coupling of pressurized medium in a delimbing and cutting apparatus, provided for feeding members and for changing their feeding speed, said control coupling comprising at least: a first motor and a second motor that are coupled in parallel and drive a feeding member a third motor that is a multicapacity motor comprising a first half-motor and a second half-motor and that is coupled in series with the first motor and drives a feeding member; a fourth motor that is coupled in series with the second motor and drives a feeding member; first valve members that for the purpose of free rotation allow the feedback of the pressurized medium exiting the third motor to the first half-motor; and first control members that monitor the pressure of a first line and couple the first valve members to free rotation if said pressure is lower than the set value. |
| US07644578B2 |
Vehicle exhaust aftertreatment system
A vehicle exhaust aftertreatment system for controlling emissions from an engine includes, in serial order: an exhaust outlet from the engine, an exhaust catalyst assembly that is in fluid communication with the exhaust outlet and includes a first NOx component coupled with a downstream oxidation catalyst, and a second NOx adsorber that is downstream from and in fluid communication with the oxidation catalyst of the exhaust catalyst assembly. |
| US07644563B2 |
Clamping device for a round baler
A round baler is disclosed having a bale forming chamber. A duck bill, which comprises a pair of elongate plates that are biased towards one another to grip the wrapping material between them, is movable between an advanced position and a retracted position to introduce the free end of a wrapping material drawn from a supply roll into the bale forming chamber of the baler. A cutting device is located between the retracted position of the duck bill and the bale forming position for severing the length of wrapping material wrapped around the bale in the bale forming chamber at the end of a bale wrapping cycle from the supply roll. In the invention, a clamping device is provided to apply an additional force to urge the plates of the duck bill towards one another while the duck bill is in the retracted position in order for the wrapping material to be gripped more firmly between the plates of the duck bill between bale wrapping cycles. |
| US07644562B2 |
Method of making a cartridge for a medicament respiratory delivery device
A medicament respiratory delivery device including a housing having a chamber, an inlet and an outlet generally coaxially aligned with the chamber, wherein the chamber includes a medicament cartridge having a body including a generally cylindrical passage extending through the opposed ends of the cartridge generally coaxially aligned with the inlet and outlet of the housing having thin burstable polyolefin membranes having a burst pressure of between 1.2 and 10 atmospheres stretched taut over the ends of the cartridge, such that fluid delivered to the inlet ruptures the membranes, entraining medicament contained within the cartridge passage which is delivered to the patient's respiratory system through the outlet. The method of forming the cartridge includes stretching out and bending a membrane to one end of the cartridge, preferably by heat bonding, filling the cartridge with a medicament and sealing the opposed end preferably with a second burstable membrane by stretching out a membrane over a convex surface and heat bonding. |
| US07644561B2 |
Apparatus for extracting air from packages
An apparatus for extracting air from within flexible packages having granular or otherwise flowable contents includes a package conveyor and a downwardly-open, vacuum extraction hood through which the packages are conveyed so that an upper portion of each package is moved through the extraction hood. The interior of the hood is joined in fluid communication with a vacuum source, so that air is extracted from within each package as it is conveyed through the hood. The present apparatus further includes a closing mechanism positioned immediately downstream of and in operative association with the extraction hood, whereby the upper portion of each package is maintained in a closed configuration prior to sealing, so that the interior of each package is not exposed to ambient conditions after it is conveyed out of the extraction hood, and prior to sealing of the upper portion. |
| US07644560B2 |
System and method for providing a regulated atmosphere for packaging perishable goods
A new method and system for establishing, and optionally maintaining, a desired atmosphere for perishable or atmosphere-sensitive goods during their storage and/or transportation. In one embodiment, a conveyor is used to move a pallet with goods from station to station. A mechanical arm at a sheeting station lifts goods from a pallet while one or more sheets are placed between the goods and the pallet. A bottom plate with fingers having hollow tubes holds the pallet while the pallet is being wrapped and enclosed. A portable manifold may also be connected to the hollow tubes and a controller samples and adjusts atmosphere inside the pallet via the portable manifold. |
| US07644558B1 |
Robotic case packing system
A robotic case packing system loads articles from a moving conveying system into a container. The system has a pivot drive shaft pivotally connected to a support frame for selective rotation about a selected axis of rotation and has a drive linkage operatively connected between a servo motor and to the pivot drive shaft to selectively pivot the pivot drive shaft. A two-axis-robot is mounted on the pivot drive shaft along the axis of rotation such that movement of the two-axis-robot along its two axes of movement occurs within planes substantially parallel to the axis of rotation. A controller operatively connected to the servo motor is used to selectively actuate the servo motor to rotate the pivot drive shaft in order to enable selective picking and placing of articles with the robotic case packing system. |
| US07644551B2 |
Double skin door apparatus
A hollow core door comprises a perimeter frame, and first and second molded skins. Each skin has an exterior surface and an interior surface secured to opposing sides of the frame. At least one of the skins has an outer planar area, an inner planar area, and an asymmetric profile surrounding the inner planar area and interconnecting and integral with the outer planar area and the inner planar area. The asymmetric profile area has a convex portion extending outwardly from and relative to the plane of the outer planar area. |
| US07644550B2 |
Articulating raised access floor panel
A precast under floor air delivery construction is provided which includes a plurality of precast concrete system having an upper base floor surface and a lower surface, a plurality of floor panel support means bearing directly to the upper base floor surface capable of an under floor air delivery between the floor panels and the upper surface, a plurality of access floor panels connected to the support means, and a fire protection barrier applied between the concrete slabs. |
| US07644549B2 |
Hybrid window wall/curtain wall system and method of installation
There are currently two major types of exterior building envelope finishing systems: window wall systems, and curtain wall systems. Window wall systems use panels which fit between concrete floor slaps, and hence, are prone to leakage and are not aesthetically appealing. Curtain wall systems are installed proud of the concrete slabs, so have better performance, but are expensive to install. The system of the invention has the high performance of a curtain wall system, with the ease of installation of a window wall system. The invention uses rigid panels which cover the face of a building like a curtain wall system, providing a complete gasketed seal without the need for caulking as in the case of window wall systems. The vertical mullions are notched, so that the mullions can be easily anchored to the upper and lower surfaces of the concrete slabs. |
| US07644548B2 |
Lightweight concrete compositions
A lightweight concrete composition containing from 10 to 90 volume percent of a cement composition, from 10 to 90 volume percent of particles having an average particle diameter of from 0.2 mm to 8 mm, a bulk density of from 0.03 g/cc to 0.64 g/cc, an aspect ratio of from 1 to 3, and from 0 to 50 volume percent of aggregate; where the sum of components used does not exceed 100 volume percent, and where after the lightweight concrete composition is set it has a compressive strength of at least 1700 psi as tested according to ASTM C39 after seven days. The concrete composition can be used to make concrete masonry units, construction panels, road beds and other articles. |
| US07644546B2 |
Utility pipe tape fitted in pre-construction to prevent the gaps next to utility pipes that let termites in
Disclosed is a utility pipe tape to act as a termite barrier and a support for a waterproof membrane to prevent gaps from forming between pipe and slab that lets ground termites in through the slab. |
| US07644544B2 |
Compact security shelter device for motorcycles, bicycles, four-wheelers and other small personal transportation vehicles
The invention is an apparatus that can be temporarily or permanently secured to the ground or other flat surface to provide a clam-shell like housing for storage of a personal transportation vehicle such as a motorcycle, bicycle, or a four-wheeler. It protects the vehicle from rain and other damaging weather and from persons who might wish to steal the vehicle or otherwise damage or vandalize it. It also prevents passers-by from taking stored or other items left with the vehicle. The user can, in most cases, ride the vehicle into the unit and then securely lock the lid down to the lower half of the unit. |
| US07644543B2 |
Seclusion room with movable wall
A seclusion room for patients having emotional disturbances has one moving wall positioned ahead of a fixed wall. The moving wall can be moved to an extended position to narrow the patient space leading to the main door to the room. A second door to the room enables an extraction team member enter the space between the fixed and moving wall, where the team member can remove a hatch from the moving wall and enter the space behind the patient. The team member can use the hatch as a shield to push the patient gently toward the exit door. A bench or seat disappears when the moving wall is moved to its extended position. |
| US07644540B2 |
Door opening/closing apparatus for operating multiple doors with one driving unit
A door opening/closing apparatus is provided with a motor, a first clutch which transmits power from the motor to a door opening/closing mechanism of a slide door when current is applied to the motor while breaking transmission of power to the door opening/closing mechanism of the slide door when current is not applied, and a second clutch which transmits power from the motor to a door opening/closing mechanism of a back door when current is applied while breaking transmission of power from the motor to the door opening/closing mechanism when current is not applied. |
| US07644538B2 |
Turn/tilt closure
A closure includes a frame that is selectively pivotable about a vertical axis and a horizontal axis. A drive assembly is disposed in a groove of the frame to selectively determine which axis the frame pivots about as the frame pivots between an open position and a closed position. The drive assembly includes a plurality of actuating members and a plurality of transmission rods that operatively connect adjacent actuating members to each other. Each of the actuating members and each of the transmission rods has a single tenon which is disposed in only one side of the groove. |
| US07644533B2 |
Fish-luring apparatus
An apparatus for fish-luring use with a separate fishing line includes a fishing-line-attachable shaft (e.g., a straight length of rigid wire) on which are mounted first and second rotator members. At least the first rotator is mounted rotatably and slideably for rotation and axially movement relative to the second rotator in response to water pressure when the shaft is moved forwardly in a body of water. The interaction of an irregular non-planar rearwardly facing end on the first rotator with an irregular non-planar forwardly facing end on the second rotator produces fish-luring vibrations. In one embodiment, the second rotator is also mounted rotatably and slideably, with the first rotator rotating clockwise, the second rotator rotating counterclockwise, and circumferentially spaced apart protrusions on the rearwardly facing end of the first rotator interacting with circumferentially spaced apart indentations on the forwardly facing end of the second rotator to produce the fish-luring vibrations. |
| US07644524B2 |
Walk-behind trenching machine
A walk-behind trenching vehicle incorporating a trenching boom with an endless trenching chain. The trenching boom may be connected to a forward end of the vehicle via a pivot joint that is offset from a drive axis of the trenching chain. The boom may be movable between an operating position and a transport position via a single actuator, e.g., hydraulic cylinder. |
| US07644523B2 |
Mobile vacuum boring and excavation method
A compact mobile vacuum boring, mud recovery, excavation and surface cleaning method comprising a device which will create a vacuum condition within a vacuum container and the vacuum container may be mounted on an incline slope to provide space beneath it to locate a water storage container. A vacuum conduit may be used to transport liquid or solid particles into the vacuum container. The vacuum conduit may be mounted adjacent to an articulated boom with one or more elbows and arms and the boom arm may have multiple utilities and tools attached. The vacuum tank may be mounted at a slope sufficient to assist emptying it's contents by gravity. An air filter housing may be adjacently mounted above the vacuum tank for efficiency and compactness. A dispensing device may be added to dispense a liquid or a solid from the vacuum container without eliminating the vacuum environment within the vacuum container, and said vacuum container having the ability to fill, store and dispense its contents simultaneously. The vacuum container may further comprise a means to separate a liquid from solids. |
| US07644522B2 |
Soles with adjustable and interchangeable supports
A shoe insert system with adjustable and interchangeable supports comprising: a base sole, a longitudinal arch, a heel insert, and a transverse arch; the base sole being generally planar and having a perimeter which covers the underside of a foot from the heel region up to the bottom of a person's toes, a longitudinal arch, the longitudinal arch having a d-shape with perforated holes and a row of pins sized to mate with perforations of the base sole, a heel insert, the heel insert having alternating perforated holes and pins near the edge defining a general circumference of the heel insert, the pins are sized to mate with corresponding perforated holes on the base sole, the transverse arch having a hole side and a pin side, the transverse arch having a series of perforated holes on the hole side and at least one pin sized to mate with a corresponding perforated hole on the base sole on the hole side. |
| US07644520B2 |
Detachable sole for an ankle and foot covering
A combination that preferably includes at least: a ski boot; a detachable sole detachably attached to the ski boot; and a detachable sole storage rack attached to the ski boot for use in storing the detachable sole when detached from the ski boot is disclosed. The detachable sole preferably includes at least: heel and toe chassis portions each formed from a baffled support matrix and overmolded with tread portions; and a latch assembly for securing the baffled support matrix adjacent the ski boot. The ski boot preferably provides a contoured heel portion and the latch assembly preferably incorporates a catch configured to conform to the contoured heel portion, a catch support interacting with the catch; a chassis attachment member communicating with said chassis; and an adjustment member interposed between said catch support and said chassis attachment member to accommodate a snug conformance of the catch adjacent the heel portion. |
| US07644519B2 |
Waterproof shoes with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) insteps
This present invention describes a system of waterproof shoes with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) insteps, including vamp, instep and sole, in which the waterproof welt coated with waterproof glue is gummed on the seam between the vamp and the sole; the metal section, instep, mid-sole and inner welt is formed in integration by injecting with TPU polyurethane, in which the outer and inner welts are gummed with glue and sewn firmly with threads on the opposite sides of the instep; a metal piece is put between the thin bottom and the filling materials on the bottom side of the instep. The waterproof methods (the waterproof outer surface of the instep, and the waterproof welt coated with waterproof glue and gummed on the seam between the vamp and the sole reach the purpose of saving the materials and labor, obtaining the waterproof effects which is even better than those of the traditional waterproof shoes and may provide more functionality and better visual effects. |
| US07644513B2 |
Laundry dryer and method for controlling drying course of the same
Method for controlling a drying course of a laundry dryer including the steps of (a) starting a drying course by using high temperature drying air, and sensing dryness of a drying object periodically, (b) determining a dryness saturation time point at which the dryness sensed thus exceeds a preset reference value Q, (c) determining a load of the drying object according to the drying saturation time point T_sat, and (d) varying a drying algorithm depending on the load of the drying object determined thus, whereby preventing a small amount of laundry from sticking to a drum in a drying course by varying a control algorithm of the drying motor in a case an amount of the drying object is determined to be small accurately with reference to a saturation time point of an electrode sensor. |
| US07644511B2 |
Heating and blowing apparatus
A heating and blowing apparatus includes a main body housing having an inlet port and a discharge port. An air flow path extends from the inlet pod to the discharge port. A rotatingly driven fan and a heating unit are arranged on the air flow path. A bypass flow path branches off from the air flow path and leads to an ion emission port. An ion generator including a discharge electrode and an opposing electrode is arranged in the bypass flow path Further, the apparatus includes a cover arranged at the ion emission port and having an opening through which ions pass. One or more protrusions are provided on a rear surface of the cover. The protrusions make contact with the opposing electrode such that the cover is grounded through the opposing electrode. |
| US07644491B2 |
Device for assembling composite structure incorporating flipper assemblies
A device for assembling a composite structure is disclosed. An illustrative embodiment of the device includes a table module, a first plurality of flipper devices carried by the table module and a second plurality of flipper devices carried by the table module in adjacent and adjustable relationship with respect to the first plurality of flipper devices, respectively. The first plurality of flipper devices and the second plurality of flipper devices are capable of accommodating a variation in thickness of the composite structure. |
| US07644486B2 |
Method of making a flanged body
A method for forming flanged end of an inner conductor of a coaxial resonator at one end of the conductive body. The flange is formed integral to the conductive body by flaring the end of the conductive body. The size and shape of the flange are selected to achieve a desired capacitance surface area for use in a resonator. A combination of expanding tool and calibration tool are used to control the size and shape of the flange that will be formed on the end of the conductive body. |
| US07644483B2 |
Method for reproducing a wiper blade, device for carrying out said method and wiper blade produced according to said method
The invention relates to a method to manufacture a wiper blade (10) as well as a device to perform the method and a wiper blade (10) that is manufactured accordingly, wherein the wiper blade (10) features at least a basic body (56) featuring a wiper strip (24) and a supporting element (12). According to the method, the basic body (56) is supposed to be positioned in a holding device (58) in such a way that a clearance (63) remains between the supporting element (12) and holding device (58) at least in areas. The wind deflector strip (44) is gripped, at least one claw (46, 48) formed on the wind deflector strip (44) is threaded on the supporting element (12) and the wind deflector strip (44) is placed over the supporting element (12). |
| US07644480B2 |
Method for manufacturing multilayer chip capacitor
A method for manufacturing a multilayer chip capacitor includes: forming screen patterns on mother green sheets such that a widthwise margin is not formed on the mother green sheets, the screen patterns are spaced apart from each other in the width direction and the longitudinal direction, and a width of each screen pattern is greater than a spacing between the adjacent screen patterns; forming internal electrode patterns on the mother green sheets; forming a stack of the mother green sheets; forming a capacitor body having internal electrodes by cutting the stack of the mother green sheets along cutting lines arranged in the width direction and the longitudinal direction; forming chip-protecting side members on both sides of the capacitor body such that the chip-protecting side members contact both sides of the internal electrodes, respectively; and forming a pair of terminal electrodes on the outer surface of the capacitor body. |
| US07644476B2 |
Cap for button, fixing member and button
Provided is a cap (41) for a button, of which material is a polygonal plate. The cap (41) includes a main surface covering portion (42) formed substantially at the center of the polygonal plate and a plurality of holding piece portions (44) formed by bending corners of the polygonal plate from an outer peripheral end of the main surface covering portion (42) to a rear surface side of the main surface covering portion (42). Provided between the main surface covering portion (42) and the plurality of holding piece portions (44) is a lateral side covering portion (43) around the outer peripheral end of the main surface covering portion (42). |
| US07644471B2 |
Vacuum cleaner with adjoining chamber for accessory pieces
A vacuum cleaner, comprising a housing, in which a dust chamber is embodied for housing a dust separator, which may be sealed by means of a dust chamber lid, mounted on the housing and a housing for accessory pieces which can be closed by the dust chamber lid. According to the invention, the contamination of the accessory pieces by dust from the dust chamber may be prevented, whilst maintaining easy access to the accessory pieces by means of the dust chamber lid, whereby the housing is embodied as an adjoining chamber, directly adjacent to the dust chamber which is separated from the dust chamber in a dust-tight manner by means of a separating wall. The above has the advantage of permitting a user to remove an accessory piece without getting dirty. |
| US07644468B2 |
Wringer for scrubbing buckets
The inventive wringer for scrubbing buckets basically consists of two independent tilting parts of a wringer (4) which are pivotally coupled inside the space of a support (1) fixed to the bucket mouthpiece. Said independent parts (4) are pivotally coupled with parallel axes communicating with the end spaces (3) of the support (1) and are tiltable oppositely to the resistance of spring elements (5). |
| US07644456B2 |
Slide lock for center beam of a bed frame
A bed frame or other structural construction having a locking mechanism to allow two structural members to be affixed and locked together. A first structural member sits atop of the second structural member and has a pair of posts that interfit into a pair of holes formed in the second structural member. The locking mechanism is located at an end of the first structural member and includes a slide that is movable along the longitudinal axis of the first structural member to slide between a retracted, unlocked position and an extended, locked position where the slide contacts the lower surface of the second structural member to sandwich the second structural member between the first structural member and the slide to block the structural members from moving with respect to each to withdraw the posts from the holes, thereby locking the first and second structural members together. |
| US07644454B2 |
Mechanical lifting system
The subject of the invention is a mechanical lifting system with seat which enable the disabled people with paralysis or paresis of lower limps to stand up from the wheelchair and without excessive energy expenditure take upright position in standing frame and came back to the wheelchair. This mechanical lifting system can be used in a kind of walking frame, static standing frame or mobile standing frame and is very useful in rehabilitation of disabled people. |
| US07644450B2 |
Toilet ventilation system
A premium ventilated toilet having an automated toilet ventilation system for removing noxious fumes from a bowl area of the toilet is disclosed. The ventilation system is mostly built-in to the toilet (e.g., ventilation ducts, and sensors) so that it is unobtrusive and attractive looking, however the active parts (e.g., a blower unit containing a blower impeller, a backflow shutoff valve, and electronic control circuitry) are contained in an simple housing that is unobtrusively and removably attached to the surface (preferably on the side) of the toilet base for simplified installation, maintenance, and replacement as needed. Automated operation is enabled by a non-contact occupancy (proximity) sensor and a flush sensor, both preferably built into a flush handle of the toilet. Detection of occupancy causes the ventilation system to operate and flushing turns it off. |
| US07644449B2 |
Load-bearing equipment
A load-bearing system is provided which includes a web of sufficient strength to support predetermined loads suspended from the web. The system also includes an array of apertures in the web. The apertures can be elongate slots, and the array may be such that the slots can form plural pairs of slots which can define respective positions. At each of the positions, a pouch may be attached to the web via an attachment arrangement that can form a closed loop through the respective pair of slots. |