Document Document Title
US07704645B2 Method of generating writing pattern data of mask and method of writing mask
A method of generating writing pattern data of a reflective mask for use in a non-telecentric exposure tool comprises obtaining a vertical position profile by measuring vertical positions of a plurality of X, Y coordinates arbitrarily set on the surface of a blank mask substrate when mounted on a mask stage, or by measuring and calculating a flatness profile, calculating unevenness of the blank mask substrate surface from the vertical position profile, calculating a shift amount of an image position, generated in a wafer mounted on a wafer stage of the exposure tool, in accordance with the unevenness of the blank mask substrate and parameters of a non-telecentric optics of the exposure tool, and obtaining corrected writing pattern data by correcting design pattern data of the reflective mask based on the shift amount of the image position and a reduction ratio of a projection optics of the exposure tool.
US07704644B2 Zero-alignment method for tunable fabrication of three-dimensional photonic crystals by multiple-exposure laser interference using diffraction gratings patterned on a single mask
A method for fabricating three-dimensional photonic crystal structures includes providing a layer of photosensitive material; introducing a laser beams into the material; reintroducing the laser beams into the photosensitive material during a second exposure; combining results from at least the first and second exposures to produce a three-dimensionally periodic pattern in the photosensitive material. A related system includes a laser source; a grating array having a plurality of diffraction gratings located thereon; a mask plate located on a photoresist layer and arranged in registration with the grating array; a rotating shutter arranged between the grating array and the laser source, said rotating shutter being suitable for periodically blocking light from the laser source; wherein each of the diffraction gratings is positioned and oriented so as to converge all first-order diffracted spots to a common point lying in a plane of a back side of the mask plate.
US07704641B2 Organic/inorganic composite porous film and electrochemical device prepared thereby
Disclosed is an organic/inorganic composite porous film comprising: (a) a porous substrate having pores; and (b) an active layer formed by coating a surface of the substrate or a part of the pores in the substrate with a mixture of inorganic particles and a binder polymer, wherein the inorganic particles in the active layer are interconnected among themselves and are fixed by the binder polymer, and interstitial volumes among the inorganic particles form a pore structure. A method for manufacturing the same film and an electrochemical device including the same film are also disclosed. An electrochemical device comprising the organic/inorganic composite porous film shows improved safety and quality, simultaneously.
US07704640B2 Non-aqueous electrolyte secondary cell
A non-aqueous electrolyte secondary cell excellent in cycle characteristics is provided. This purpose is achieved by the following structure. A non-aqueous electrolyte secondary cell has a positive electrode having a positive electrode active material, a negative electrode having a negative electrode active material, and a non-aqueous electrolyte having a non-aqueous solvent and an electrolytic salt. The positive electrode active material has a lithium-cobalt compound oxide having added therein at least zirconium. The non-aqueous electrolyte has LiBF4 at from 0.05 to 1.0 mass % of a total mass of the non-aqueous electrolyte and unsaturated cyclic carbonate at from 1.0 to 4.0 mass %. The true density ratio of the positive electrode is 0.72 or greater, the true density ratio being represented by formula 1 shown below: (Formula 1) True density ratio=active material apparent density of electrode active material layer÷true density of active material.
US07704638B2 Battery and battery module
A power-generating element containing a stacked electrode assembly (10) and an electrolyte solution is disposed in an accommodating space of a plastic battery case (13). The entirety of the battery case (13) is enclosed air-tightly and liquid-tightly in an outer cover made of an aluminum laminate. An opening (13A) of the battery case (13) is sealed by sealing members (16a, 16b) disposed and melt-bonded so as to cover an opening (13A) of the battery case 13 and to sandwich current collectors (14, 15) of the power-generating element from both sides. The outer cover is sealed at at least a location corresponding to the opening (13A) of the battery case (13).
US07704635B2 Electrochemical device and method of manufacturing electrochemical device
An electrochemical device comprises a laminate including a first electrode layer, a separator layer, and a second electrode layer laminated in sequence; an electrolytic solution infiltrating the laminate; and a resin part covering an outer periphery of the laminate. The second electrode layer has an area smaller than the area of the separator layer and the area of the first electrode layer. The surface of the separator layer opposing the second electrode layer is provided with a noncontact part kept away from the second electrode layer. The noncontact part is formed like a ring along the outer periphery of the separator layer. The resin part further covers the noncontact part of the separator layer.
US07704634B2 Method for designing redox flow battery system
The present invention provides a method of designing a redox flow battery system that can prevent system efficiency loss caused by weak generation power or load power at the time of electric charge or discharge, without using any lead storage battery, and can also provide further improved system efficiency. In the present invention, generating equipment that varies irregularly in output of power generation is provided with the redox flow battery to smooth the output of power generation. An average value of output distribution of the battery with respect to the smoothed output of power generation and standard deviation are determined. Then, at least either of a specified output of the battery and a specified output of the converter for converting the battery output is determined based on the standard deviation.
US07704633B2 Polymer electrolyte battery
In a polymer electrolyte battery including a battery element having a cathode and an anode coiled through a polymer electrolyte, a section of the battery element perpendicular to the coiling axis has a curved form. As compared with a polymer electrolyte battery having a flat plate type battery element curved, the former battery has an extremely low possibility of short-circuit at the end of an electrode and excellent battery characteristics.
US07704632B2 Electrochemical cell having a vent assembly with a rupturable seal member
An electrochemical cell with a vent assembly that reliably prevents resealing of a vented seal member is provided. The vent assembly seals the end of a container that includes a first electrode, a second electrode, a separator located between the first and second electrodes and an electrolyte in contact with the electrodes and separator. The seal member includes a diaphragm with a hinge along one edge and a vent along another edge. The hinge and vent are located so that, relative to the longitudinal axis of the vent assembly, the hinge is closer to the vent than to the cell's terminal cover.
US07704631B2 Secondary battery with improved shock resistance
In a secondary battery (1) comprising a battery case (2) for accommodating an electrode plate group (3) and an electrolyte, with one open end of the battery case (2) being sealed with an assembled sealing plate (11) that accommodates a safety mechanism (17) for exhausting pressure in the event of pressure build-up in the battery case (2) exceeding a predetermined level, at least one part (13a) of vent holes (13a, 13b, 13c) in the assembled sealing plate (11) facing the inside of the battery case (2) is constituted of an aperture that results from formation of a turned-out portion (23), the distal end of the turned-out portion (23) being allowed to abut on an insulating plate (4a) that makes contact with one end of the electrode plate group (3) so as to restrict movement of the electrode plate group (3). This can prevent malfunctioning due to displacement of the electrode plate group (3) when an impact or vibration is applied.
US07704629B2 Direct oxidation fuel cells with improved cathode gas diffusion media for low air stoichiometry operation
A cathode for use in a direct oxidation fuel cell (DOFC) comprises a gas diffusion medium (GDM) including a backing layer and a microporous layer comprising a fluoropolymer and an electrically conductive material, wherein loading of the fluoropolymer in the microporous layer is in the range from about 10 to about 60 wt. %. In use, a concentrated solution of a liquid fuel is supplied to an anode and an oxidant to the cathode of the fuel cell, and the fuel cell may be operated at a low oxidant stoichiometry ξc not greater than about 2.5.
US07704626B2 Isolated and insulated stack end unit inlet/outlet manifold headers
The present invention isolates the fluid streams flowing into and out of a fuel cell stack from the terminal plates so that the fluid streams and terminal plates do not come into contact with one another. The prevention of the fluid streams from contacting the terminal plate eliminates corrosion concerns associated with the terminal plate. The present invention accomplishes this isolation through the use of headers having fluid passageways therein that route the fluid streams in and/or out of the fuel cell stack while preventing contact between the fluid streams and the terminal plate.
US07704622B1 Ion conducting organic/inorganic hybrid polymers
This invention relates to a series of organic/inorganic hybrid polymers that are easy to fabricate into dimensionally stable films with good ion-conductivity over a wide range of temperatures for use in a variety of applications. The polymers are prepared by the reaction of amines, preferably diamines and mixtures thereof with monoamines with epoxy-functionalized alkoxysilanes. The products of the reaction are polymerized by hydrolysis of the alkoxysilane groups to produce an organic-containing silica network. Suitable functionality introduced into the amine and alkoxysilane groups produce solid polymeric membranes which conduct ions for use in fuel cells, high-performance solid state batteries, chemical sensors, electrochemical capacitors, electro-chromic windows or displays, analog memory devices and the like.
US07704619B2 Fuel cell system and method of controlling same
A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell having a stack composed of stacked cells that generate electrical power from anode gas and cathode gas; a cell voltage measuring device connected to the cells to measure the voltages of the cells, the cell voltage measuring device outputting a first predetermined value as a measurement value when the voltage of the cell being measured is at or below a detection limit; a stack voltage measuring device connected to the stack that measures the voltage of the stack; and a control unit that restricts the current flowing though the fuel cell when the difference between the sum of the individual voltages of the cells measured by the cell voltage measuring device and the voltage of the stack measured by the stack voltage measuring device exceeds a second predetermined value.
US07704618B2 High temperature fuel cell system and method of operating same
A high temperature fuel cell stack system, such as a solid oxide fuel cell system, with an improved balance of plant efficiency includes a thermally integrated reformer, combustor and the fuel cell stack.
US07704614B2 Process for fabricating patterned magnetic recording media
A method of fabricating a patterned magnetic recording medium, comprises steps of: (a) providing a layer stack including an uppermost non-magnetic interlayer; (b) forming a resist layer on the interlayer; (c) forming a first pattern comprising a first group of recesses extending through the resist layer and exposing a first group of spaced apart surface portions of the interlayer; (d) filling the first group of recesses with a layer of a hard mask material; (e) selectively removing the resist layer to form a second pattern comprising a second group of recesses extending through the hard mask layer and exposing a second group of spaced apart surface portions of the interlayer; and (f) filling the second group of recesses with a layer of a magnetically hard material forming a magnetic recording layer.
US07704608B2 Method of preparing nano-structured surface coatings and coated articles
The invention relates to new processes for the preparation of antireflective coatings and coated substrates, as well as articles produced by these processes. These coatings can include one or more layers made of materials which form nano-structured and/or nano-porous surfaces. The process can include applying a cross-linkable hard coat to a substrate, partially curing or cross-linking the hard coat, and then applying a second coat carried by a solvent or mixture of solvents capable of swelling the partially cured hard coat. The second coat is then cross-linked and grafted to the hard coat to produce a durable coated substrate with antireflective properties.
US07704607B2 Silicone rubber compositions for the sealing and encapsulation of electric and electronic parts
A silicone rubber composition containing 0.5-90% by weight of a metal powder and curable into a non-conductive silicone rubber having a volume resistivity of at least 1×109 Ω·cm is useful for the sealing and encapsulation of electric and electronic parts because the metal powder is sulfided with a sulfur gas into a metal sulfide powder which prevents or retards the sulfur gas from reaching the electric and electronic parts.
US07704606B2 Method for achieving recoat adhesion over a fluorinated topcoat
A method for repairing a basecoat/clearcoat finish or coating comprised of a fluorinated organosilane topcoat. A fluorinated urethane additive is added to the fluorinated organosilane topcoat composition to improve recoat adhesion with the repair basecoat.
US07704602B2 Iodine/iodide-containing hot melt coatable adhesive, methods and uses therefor
An iodine/iodide-containing hot melt coatable adhesive is provided. This adhesive is prepared by mixing iodine and an iodide salt, individually or in combination, with solubilizing liquids. The iodine and iodide salt are combined with a pre-adhesive composition in a hot melt mixer, with an iodine/iodide complexing agent being present in the mixture. The mixture is mixed at a temperature from about 130° C. to about 200° C. and sufficiently to form an iodine/iodide-containing hot melt coatable adhesive. Alternatively, the iodide may be generated in situ. The adhesive so prepared may be packaged for coating on a substrate at a later time, or may be immediately coated to form an adhesive composite. Adhesive composites, particularly surgical incise drapes, are provided incorporating this hot melt coatable adhesive.
US07704600B2 Grout powder containing a fluorochemical compound
The invention relates to grout powder for admixture with water to produce grout. The grout powder comprises cement powder and is characterized in that the grout powder has been mixed with a fluorochemical compound. The present invention further relates to a method of preparing grout powder for admixture with water to produce grout, comprising mixing grout powder comprising cement powder with a fluorochemical compound. Still further, the invention relates to an alternative method for making the grout powder, which method comprises treating at least one of the components of the grout powder with a fluorochemical compound.
US07704596B2 Subsurface inclusion of fugitive objects and methodology for strengthening a surface bond in a hybrid ceramic matrix composite structure
A hybrid ceramic matrix composite (CMC) structure 10 and method for fabricating such an structure are provided. A CMC substrate 12 includes layers 16, 18, 20 of ceramic fibers. Fugitive objects 22 are disposed on at least one of the plurality of layers prior to laying a subsequent layer of ceramic fibers. An outer surface of the subsequent layer influences a shape of the outer surface of the substrate by defining protuberances 24 on the outer surface of the substrate where respective cavities 26 are formed beneath respective protuberances upon dissipation of the fugitives. A liquefied ceramic coating 34 is deposited on the outer surface of the ceramic substrate to fill the cavities. When the ceramic coating is cured to a solidified state, the cavities containing the solidified coating constitute an anchoring arrangement between the ceramic substrate and the ceramic coating.
US07704593B2 Cutting tool and method of producing the same
A cutting tool having coating layers which are formed on the cutting tool substrate made of hard material, and the coating layers are composed of an inner layer of AlTiN, an interlayer of TiN, and an outer layer of Al2O3. The cutting tool is preferably produced by subjecting its substrate to surface-cleaning and surface treating by projection of flexible abrasives before forming the coating layers. The total thickness of the coating layer on a flank of the cutting tool is preferably in the range of 2 to 80 μm, and, further, it is preferable that thicknesses of the inner layer, the interlayer, and the outer layer on the flank are 0.5 to 35 μm, 1.0 to 40 μm, and 0.5 to 5 μm, respectively.
US07704589B2 Absorbent garment with color changing fit indicator
An absorbent article having a built-in size indicator is disclosed. The size indicator, for instance, comprises a stretchable panel that changes color when stretched. The panel may change color to indicate that the article is the correct size for the wearer or may change color to indicate that the article is too small. Still another embodiment, the stretchable panel may change from a first color indicating that the article is too large, to a second color that indicates the article is the correct size, and to a third color that indicates the article is too small. The stretchable panel may be made from any suitable color changing materials. For example, in one embodiment, the panel may include a gathered layer that is printed with a particular color only at the peaks of the gathered layer. As the gathered material is stretched, the material changes color due to the newly exposed regions. In other embodiments, the stretchable panel comprises a film that changes color when stretched. For example, the film may comprise a polyethylene that crystallizes when stretched or may comprise a polarized film that increases in polarization when stretched.
US07704586B2 Plastic molded bodies having two-dimensional and three-dimensional image structures produced through laser subsurface engraving
The present invention relates to plastic molded bodies having two-dimensional or three-dimensional image structures produced in the interior through laser subsurface engraving. The plastic molded bodies are made of plastic materials which have a content of nanoscale metal oxides having particle sizes from 1 to 500 nm, both the plastic material and also the included metal oxide being transparent to the laser light used for producing the image structures. The plastic materials from which the molded bodies are manufactured particularly contain metal oxides having particle sizes from 5 to 100 nm at a content of 0.0001 to 0.1 weight-percent. Typical metal oxides are nanoscale indium-tin oxide or antimony-tin oxide.
US07704585B2 Paper including watermarks and/or embossings
The invention relates to improvements in paper, and in particular to the use of watermarks and/or embossings for strengthening paper sheets and documents made therefrom. The invention therefore provides a sheet of paper having at least three corners and three sides joined at said corners, wherein corner reinforcing watermarks are provided at each of said corners. Alternatively, or in addition, corner reinforcing embossings are provided at each of said corners.
US07704580B2 Information recording medium
An information recording medium comprising: a first recording layer in which a first recording track path to record therein record information is formed; and a second recording layer which is laminated on said first recording layer and in which a second recording tack path to record therein the record information is formed in a direction opposite to the first recording track path, in one recording layer of said first and second recording layers, a predetermined area in which focus leading of laser light is performed reflecting the laser light, in the other recording layer of said first and second recording layers, a facing area which faces the predetermined area not reflecting the laser light.
US07704579B2 System for seaming high-modulus, high-tenacity, low-elongation fabrics
A seaming system for forming a seam is disclosed, wherein the seam consists of at least two opposed sections of high-modulus, high-tenacity, low-elongation fabric sections joined by a tape. The system comprises a seamer head, and a seamer base that includes a topography configured to impart a predetermined pressure gradient to the adhesive layer, tape, and fabric sections of the seam. The resultant seam has a cross-section or thickness profile that generally corresponds to that of the applied pressure gradient. As such, the constructed seam more efficiently distributes stress imparted from any applied load.
US07704576B2 Thermal transfer sheet, process for producing the same, and image formed object produced by transfer of said thermal transfer sheet
This invention provides a hologram thermal transfer sheet that can realize thermal transfer treatment with high efficiency. The thermal transfer sheet comprises a base material sheet and a transparent transfer layer provided separably on the base material sheet, characterized in that a hologram layer is provided on at least a part of the transparent transfer layer. There are also provided a process for producing the thermal transfer sheet and an image formed material produced by the transfer of this thermal transfer sheet.
US07704572B2 Adhesive for polarizing plate, polarizing plate, method for producing same, optical film and image display
An adhesive for polarizing plate used in order to provide a transparent protective film on at least one surface of a polarizer, comprising a crosslinking agent in the range of more than 30 parts by weight and 46 parts by weight or less relative to 100 parts by weight of a polyvinyl alcohol-based resin having an acetoacetyl group, is excellent in water resistance.
US07704566B2 Liquid crystalline medium
The invention relates to a liquid-crystalline medium based on a mixture of polar compounds of positive dielectric anisotropy, characterised in that it comprises one or more compounds of the formula I and one or more compounds of the formula IA in which R1, R2 ring A, ring B, L1-4, Z1, Z2, X1, X2 and a are as defined in claim 1, where the proportion of the compounds of the formula I in the medium is at least 18% by weight.
US07704565B2 Method of making a layered component with vector discrimination in a variable deposition rate process
A method of making a layered component with an improved surface finish by a shape metal deposition process is provided. The method comprises the steps of discriminating a first set of vectors on an exterior portion of the component from a second set of vectors on an interior portion of the component, and depositing a layer of metal material based on the vectors discriminated at different rates, wherein the material is deposited on the exterior portion at a high resolution and a slow rate, and the material is deposited on the interior portion at a low resolution and a fast rate.
US07704562B2 Process for improving the adhesion of polymeric materials to metal surfaces
A process is disclosed for the purpose of increasing the adhesion of a polymeric material to a metal surface. The process comprises plating the metal surface with a layer of electroless nickel, electroless cobalt or electroless (or immersion) tin followed by phosphating the plated layer prior to bonding the polymeric material thereto. The process is particularly suited to treating printed circuit board inner-layers and lead frames.
US07704559B2 Epoxy resins with improved elasticity
A water-dilutable epoxy resin composition ABC of an epoxy resin AB and an emulsifier C, a process for its preparation, and a method of use thereof to make elastic coating films that impart good corrosion resistance even in thin layers. The epoxy resin AB featuring, in its polymer chain, moieties derived from aliphatic polyethers B1 having at least 4 carbon atoms in the alkylene group or from aliphatic polyesters B2 based on linear, branched or cyclic aliphatic polyhydric alcohols B21 and linear, branched or cyclic aliphatic polyvalent acids B22, where the average number of hydroxyl or acid groups in B21 or B22 is at least 1.9. The emulsifier C is a reaction product of an aliphatic polyol C1 and an epoxy resin C2.
US07704555B2 Electrochromic device with self-forming ion transfer layer and lithium fluoro-nitride electrolyte
A method of preparing an electrochromic device involves forming multiple layers of selected materials on a substrate in a vacuum processing chamber. A first of these layers is an electrode layer deposited directly on the substrate and used for making contact to a subsequently deposited precursor film, preferably tungsten oxide, from which an electrochromic layer is formed by lithium loading in the presence of ionized nitrogen. This not only forms the electrochromic layer by diffusion of the lithium into the tungsten oxide, but also forms a thin lithium nitride ion transfer layer on the then exposed surface. Subsequently, a lithium fluoro-nitride electrolyte layer is formed on the ion transfer layer by evaporation from a lithium fluoride source in the presence of ionized nitrogen. An ion storage layer, which may be a vanadium oxide and a transparent second electrode layer are subsequently vacuum deposited.
US07704550B2 Method for the manufacture of an insulation board
In a method for the production of an insulated plate for a gradient coil, bodies that serve as spacers for the creation of flow paths for a casting resin are produced on a base by a plate having apertures therein being used to spread the bodies on the base or to mold the bodies on the base from a moldable material.
US07704545B2 Drug-polymer coated stent
The present invention provides a method and system for loading drug onto a stent. The method comprises positioning at least one polymer coated stent on a mandrel, positioning a drug infused sheath onto the stent and diffusing drug from the sheath into the polymer coating of the stent. The system includes a drug coated mandrel and sheath positioned adjacent to and in contact with a polymer coated stent.
US07704544B2 System and method for coating a tubular implantable medical device
A system and method for coating a tubular implantable medical device, such as a stent, using an applicator and a coating composition are provided.
US07704540B2 Soy compositions having improved organoleptic properties and methods of generation
The present invention provides soy meat compositions with improved organoleptic properties and methods of identifying soybeans with improved organoleptic qualities. The invention also provides methods for producing soy compositions with improved organoleptic properties and for creating plants producing soybeans with such characteristics.
US07704533B2 Compositions and methods of inducing hair growth utilizing Continus coggygria
Compositions and methods for inducing hair growth and improving hair quality utilizing extracts of Cotinus coggygria in an amount effective to induce hair growth when applied topically to an area of the skin on which hair growth is desired.
US07704532B1 Method for altering allergenic protein in the environment
Described are compositions and methods for use thereof for prevention or mitigation of allergic reactions in humans and animals. Novel compositions comprised of, e.g., an acidic salt solution of aluminum, calcium or magnesium, are provided for topical or contact application to physically and/or chemically alter an allergenic protein present in the environment and thereby lower the allergenicity of the protein. The compositions of the invention, e.g., comprised of aluminum sulfate, can be used to deactivate many types of proteinaceous allergens such as dust mite and cockroach body dust, animal dander, dried saliva, mold spore antigens, airborne pollen protein and the like. Compositions can be applied on an as needed basis to a wide variety of surfaces, interiors, furniture, pet bedding, plants and the like. The compositions provided may also be utilized to mitigate allergens present on clothing, e.g., for use in commercial dry cleaning or in household laundry applications.
US07704523B2 Microbial cellulose wound dressing for treating chronic wounds
The invention relates to a wound dressing comprising a microbial-derived cellulose for treatment of specific types of chronic wounds, including pressure sores, venous and diabetic ulcers. The wound dressing is capable of donating liquid to dry substances is also capable of absorbing exudating wounds.
US07704520B1 Methods of promoting enhanced healing of tissues after cardiac surgery
Resorbable polylactide polymer healing membranes and methods of their applications are disclosed. In a broad embodiment, the invention features methods for inducing proper tissue healing after an open heart surgery. In one embodiment, the methods includes a step of forming a patch with a healing membrane over the open pericardium to induce proper tissue healing and placement in other open heart surgery procedures to facilitate re-entry by the surgeon.
US07704517B2 Topical cosmetic composition containing hybrid silicone composite powder
The present invention relates to a topical cosmetic composition that has improved non-oily feel comprising: (a) a hybrid silicone composite powder having a spherical shape with particle diameter ranging from 2 to 10 μm, of which each particle has a composite structures consisting of two interpenetrating polymer networks of polydimethylsiloxane (PMS) and polymethylsilsesquioxane (PMSQ). These two interpenetrating polymer networks are joined together by physical entanglements instead of chemical bonds; (b) a volatile cosmetic fluid; (c) a silicone fluid with viscosity ranging from 2 to 350 cSt; (d) an oil base consisting of an oil, wax, oil gelling agent or the mixture thereof; (e) a surface active agent; (f) a cosmetic pigment; and (g) an optional aqueous gel containing glycerin, glycols and an aqueous thickening agent. The cosmetic composition provides an improved skin sensory feel and a superior matte finish, and is useful for skin treatment, makeup and personal hygiene products.
US07704513B2 Nucleic acids and polypeptides specific for pathogenic strains of the Neisseria genus
The invention concerns nucleic acids coding for polypeptides specific of the Neisseria genus pathogenic strains, the corresponding polypeptides, and their diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
US07704501B2 Antibodies binding to human ataxin-1-like polypeptide
This invention relates to IMX97018, a new members of the human ataxin-1-like polypeptide family, methods of making such polypeptides, and to methods of using them to diagnose and treat neurological conditions and to identify compounds that alter IMX97018 polypeptide activities.
US07704498B2 ErbB4 antagonists
The present invention concerns methods and means for controlling excessive proliferation and/or migration of smooth muscle cells, and in particular for treating stenosis, by using antagonists of a native ErbB4 receptor. The invention further concerns a method for the identification of ErbB4 agonists and antagonists capable of inhibiting or enhancing the proliferation or migration of smooth muscle cells.
US07704492B2 Methods for delivering DNA to muscle cells using recombinant adeno-associated virus virions
The use of recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) virions for delivery of DNA molecules to muscle cells and tissue is disclosed. The invention allows for the direct, in vivo injection of recombinant AAV virions into muscle tissue, e.g., by intramuscular injection, as well as for the in vitro transduction of muscle cells which can subsequently be introduced into a subject for treatment. The invention provides for sustained, high-level expression of the delivered gene and for in vivo secretion of the therapeutic protein from transduced muscle cells such that systemic delivery is achieved.
US07704488B2 Dendritic and star-shaped contrast agents for medical devices and bioabsorbable radiopaque bulk material and method for producing same
In accordance with the present invention, a high intensity radiopaque contrast agent is disclosed. The agent may be coated on or incorporated within bulk materials, which may then be subsequently utilized to fabricate a radiopaque medical device. Primary effects through chemistry include higher radiopaque concentrations per unit weight of the radiopaque element or agent. Secondary effects include selective placement of the radiopaque elements which may further enhance the radiopacity of the device with reduced requirements of the radiopaque agent. Such a radiopaque contrast agent may be produced in various forms such as a dendrimer and/or incorporated as the end groups of polymeric chain. In addition one can incorporate biological and/or pharmaceutical agents in combination with the present invention.
US07704486B2 Precious metal water-gas shift catalyst with oxide support modified with rare earth elements
A water gas shift catalyst comprising a platinum group metal dispersed on an inorganic oxide support modified with a carbon-containing burn-out additive and a rare earth oxide. A water gas shift catalyst containing alumina, a platinum group metal, and oxides of Pr and Nd are also disclosed.
US07704483B2 High surface area tetragonal zirconia and processes for synthesizing same
A zirconia-containing composition and processes for synthesizing same. The composition comprises least about 99.9 percent tetragonal phase zirconia, based on the total crystalline zirconia in the zirconia-containing composition as determined by x-ray diffraction (XRD). The composition also has a substantially spherical morphology and comprises less than 100 wppm chlorine, based on the total weight of the zirconia-containing composition. The zirconia-containing composition has an average surface area of at least 80 m2/g and an average particle size of less than about 10 microns.
US07704479B2 Highly accessible, nanotube electrodes for large surface area contact applications
An highly porous electrically conducting film that includes a plurality of carbon nanotubes, nanowires or a combination of both. The highly porous electrically conducting film exhibits an electrical resistivity of less than 0.1 O·cm at 25 C and a density of between 0.05 and 0.70 g/cm3. The film can exhibit a density between 0.50 and 0.85 g/cm3 and an electrical resistivity of less than 6×10−3 O·cm at 25 C. Also included is a method of forming these highly porous electrically conducting films by forming a composite film using carbon nanotubes or nanowires and sacrificial nanoparticles or microparticles. At least a portion of the nanoparticles or microparticles are then removed from the composite film to form the highly porous electrically conducting film.
US07704476B2 Process and plant for producing sulfuric acid from gases rich in sulfur dioxide
The present invention relates to a process and a plant for producing sulfuric acid, in which a starting gas containing sulfur dioxide at least partly reacts with molecular oxygen in at least one contact with at least one contact stage to form sulfur trioxide, and in which the sulfur-trioxide-containing gas produced is introduced into an absorber and converted there to sulfuric acid. To achieve that only small gas volumes must be supplied to the first contact stage, based on the amount of sulfur dioxide used, with at least the same capacity of the plant and by using conventional catalysts, it is proposed in accordance with the invention to supply to the first contact stage a contact gas with a sulfur dioxide content of more than 16 vol-% and with a volumetric ratio of sulfur dioxide to oxygen of more than 2.67:1.
US07704473B2 Method and device for controlling exhaust emission from internal combustion engine
A purification method excellent in removing particulates or the like from exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine, in particular, a diesel engine or the like. The purification method uses an exhaust gas purification apparatus including an oxidation zone installed with an oxidation catalyst supporting both platinum and palladium, and a filtering zone installed with a particulate filter, along exhaust gas flow at the exhaust gas passage of an internal combustion engine. Hydrocarbon-based liquid is supplied to the inflow side of the exhaust gas of the oxidation zone at the time when 2 to 10 g of particulates per 1 liter of the particulate filter are caught, to raise temperature of the exhaust gas up to equal to or higher than 550° C. by the oxidation catalyst so as to make the residue of the particulate filter combusted.
US07704468B1 Method for forming an extraction agent for the separation of actinides from lanthanides
An extraction agent for the separation of trivalent actinides from lanthanides in an acidic media and a method for forming same are described, and wherein the methodology produces a stable regiospecific and/or stereospecific dithiophosphinic acid that can operate in an acidic media having a pH of less than about 7.
US07704467B2 Weekly floater pool sanitizer
A composition for the treatment of a liquid, particularly a body of water, such as a swimming pool, spa, or the like. The composition includes calcium hypochlorite, a water soluble zinc salt for controlling algae, and sodium aluminate as an agglomerating agent that may safely be combined with said calcium hypochlorite and said zinc salt. A floating chemical dispenser for containing and dispensing chemicals to treat a body of water. The dispenser includes an upper end float, a container adapted to contain chemicals, the container removably joined with the upper end float, and a free end float joined with the container. The free end float is configured so that a central axis of the container and upper end float is not substantially orthogonal to a surface of the water.
US07704462B2 Method and apparatus for producing aligned carbon nanotube thermal interface structure
The invention relates to a method and apparatus for producing aligned carbon nanotube thermal interface structures using batch and continuous manufacturing processes. In a batch process a capacitor is immersed in a bath containing a slurry of thermoplastic polymer containing randomly oriented carbon nanotubes and energized to create an electrical field to orient the carbon nanotubes prior to curing. In a continuous process, slurry carried by a conveyor receives the nanotube aligning electric field from capacitors positioned on both sides of the conveyor bearing the slurry.
US07704457B2 Automatic, field portable analyzer using discrete sample aliquots
An automated apparatus and method for analyzing liquid samples by forming discrete sample aliquots (boluses) in an elongated conduit which contains a hydrophobic carrier liquid. Aliquots may be analyzed by adding at least one reagent to the sample aliquot that reacts selectively with an analyte contained therein. The reaction product, which is selective for the analyte of interest and proportional to its concentration, is measured with an appropriate detector. Intrinsic sample properties of the sample may also be measured without the need for adding chemical reagents. The invention enables simple and accurate testing of samples using time honored wet-chemical analysis methods in microliter volume regimes while producing remarkably small volumes of waste.
US07704454B1 Methods and devices for processing blood
Methods, devices and device components are presented for blood processing. Particularly, methods, devices and device components are presented for separating blood into blood components and collecting one or more separated blood components, which reduce the incidence of blood vessel infiltration and enhance donor comfort. In one aspect, the invention provides blood processing methods having a return flow rate which decreases systematically during a return time. In another aspect, the invention provides blood processing methods having a removal flow rate, return flow rate or both which are derived from a subject's total blood volume. In another aspect, the present invention provides blood processing methods wherein the fraction by volume of removed blood corresponding to collected components is selected to optimize blood processing efficiency and enhance the purities of collected blood components.
US07704443B2 Carbothermic aluminum production apparatus, systems and methods
Apparatus, systems and methods for carbothermically producing aluminum are disclosed. The systems may include a reactor and an electrical supply. The reactor may include a plurality of side-entering electrodes and a top-entering electrode. The electrical supply may be operable to supply multiphase current to the side-entering electrodes and/or the top-entering electrodes. The electrodes may be in communication with a molten bath of the reactor, and the multiphase current supplied thereto may be passed through the bath to heat the reactor. The amount of current supplied to various electrode sets may be adjusted to facilitate tailored heating of the molten bath.
US07704442B2 Process for producing honeycomb structure
A process for producing a honeycomb structure by obtaining clay from a cordierite-forming raw material containing an alumina source, a silica source, and a magnesia source; and forming the clay into a honeycomb shape, wherein a material having, in its volume particle size distribution, a 50 volume % particle size (V50) [μm] of 1 to 25 μm is used, as each of alumina source, silica source, and magnesia source; and a material having, in the volume particle size distribution of the whole cordierite-forming raw material, a ratio of 90 volume % particle size (Vall90) [μm] to 10 volume % particle size (Vall10) [μm] [a volume particle size distribution ratio (Vall90/Vall10)] of 10 or less and a difference (Vall90−Vall10) between 90 volume % particle size (Vall90) [μm] and 10 volume % particle size (Vall10) [μm] of 25 μm or less is used, as the cordierite-forming raw material.
US07704441B2 Method for making air-laid structures
A method for forming air-laid fibrous articles. The steps of the method can include providing a stream of loose air-entrained first fibers, providing a core pocket operatively related to the stream of loose air-entrained first fibers, the core pocket including a central foraminous forming surface and an edge foraminous forming surface, applying a negative pressure to one of the foraminous forming surfaces, applying a positive pressure to the other foraminous forming surface, depositing the first fibers on one of the foraminous forming surfaces, providing a stream of loose air-entrained second fibers, operatively relating the core pocket to the stream of loose air-entrained second fibers, applying a negative pressure to one of the foraminous forming surface, and depositing the second fibers on that foraminous forming surface.
US07704437B2 Applicator for cosmetics
A compounded rubber, which is made up of an NBR polymer, an organic peroxide and a blowing agent, to which 1 to 100 parts by weight of a synthetic silicic acid serving as a reinforcing filler and 10 to 200 parts by weight of precipitated calcium carbonate having a prismatic particle shape and serving as a filler are added to 100 parts by weight of the NBR polymer, is extrusion molded by a continuous extruder, and heated by HA heating and UHF heating in combination throughout the rubber to cause vulcanization and expansion, thereby providing a thick sponge having a homogenous cell structure. The sponge is passed through press rolls, and the resulting sheet stock is cut or punched with a cutting or punching machine into pieces of a desired form to obtain an applicator for cosmetics.
US07704436B2 Cosmetic applicator and its production method
A cosmetic applicator is made of a rubber latex foam which has been solidified by microwave irradiation. The foam satisfies (i) a bubble fineness corresponding to 9 bubbles/mm2 or more, (ii) flexibility of 0.7 N/cm2 or less in initial Young's modulus indicated by 50% compressive stress, and (iii) bulk density of 0.14 g/cm3 or less.
US07704428B2 Method for manufacturing diaphragm for use in electroacoustic transducer
A method for manufacturing a diaphragm for use in an electroacoustic transducer in a multi-layer structure which includes a first diaphragm layer of synthetic resin molded in a predetermined shape by injection molding and a second diaphragm layer layered in intimate contact on the first diaphragm layer and made of substance different from the first diaphragm layer, includes executing successively a pre-molding step and an injection-molding step, thereby providing the multi-layer structure. The pre-molding step includes attaching a non-molded sheet-like material which is a raw material of the second diaphragm layer to a mating surface of one of the die part of an injection molding die, and closing thereafter the injection molding die to give the sheet-like material a predetermined diaphragm shape. The injection molding step includes injecting synthetic resin material constituting the first diaphragm layer into the injection molding die thus closed thereby to form the first diaphragm layer.
US07704427B2 Process for producing resinous laminated member
A process for producing a resinous laminated member, which is provided with an inclining first resinous layer, a decorated layer disposed parallelly to the first resinous layer, a second resinous layer disposed parallelly to the first resinous layer and an engaging portion extending obliquely to the first resinous layer, includes the steps of molding a primary molded product by molding the first resinous layer with a first forming mold's first-inner-surface molding cavity surface and at the same time shaping a film, which makes the decorated layer, with the first-inner-surface molding cavity surface while extending the film parallelly to the first-inner-surface molding cavity surface's extending direction, and molding the second resinous layer integrally with the primary molded product with a second forming mold while disposing the primary molded product parallelly to the obliquely-extending direction of the produced resinous laminated member's engaging portion in the second forming mold.
US07704425B2 Pattern replication with intermediate stamp
The invention relates to a two-step process for transferring a pattern from a template (1) to a target surface of a substrate, by creating an intermediate flexible polymer stamp (5) from the template in a primary step, and then using the polymer stamp to make an imprint in a radiation-sensitive moldable layer on the target surface in a secondary step. In the secondary step, the process steps of pressing the polymer stamp and the substrate against each other, UV exposure of the moldable layer through the polymer stamp, and postbaking of the radiated moldable layer, are all performed at a control constant temperature, in order to eliminate damages to the pattern created in the moldable layer caused by thermal expansion effects.
US07704424B2 Method of making models
A method of a seamless model free of bond lines. The method includes the sequential steps of providing a substructure having an exposed outer surface, applying a modelling paste to a structure support in the form of a continuous layer, curing the applied modelling paste, and machining the cured layer of modelling paste to the desired contour. The modelling paste a low density curable composition prepared from thixotropic epoxy or polyurethane containing microballoons.
US07704423B2 Method for expansion injection molding
An injection-foaming molding process for manufacturing a formed article by injecting a molten resin containing a foaming agent into a cavity of a mold being retained in an openable state and then expanding the cavity by opening the mold to allow the resin to foam includes: i) a step of discontinuing a cavity of a mold from a resin-reserving section located at front end of a screw immediately after the completion of injection of a molten resin containing an expandable resin into the mold cavity; and ii) a step of keeping the resin-reserving section under pressure at least equal to back pressure for charging during a period from the completion of injection to start of charging the molten resin containing the expandable resin for next shot, decreasing pressure in the resin-reserving section to back pressure for charging, and then starting the charging. According to the process, a molding cycle can be shortened and a lightweight formed article by foaming having high rigidity and good appearance can be obtained.
US07704418B2 Manufacturing optical elements
An optical element is manufactured using a replication tool comprising a negative structural feature defined in a replication side of the replication tool, and a peripheral feature formed in the replication side of the replication tool adjacent the negative structural feature. The negative structural feature defines the shape of the optical element. A replication material is disposed between a substrate and the replication tool, which are moved toward each other. The peripheral feature confines the replication material to a predetermined area of the substrate. The replication material can be hardened to form the optical element from the replication material attached to the substrate.
US07704414B2 Image-forming method employing a composition
A composition comprises a solvent, and an electroconductive substance and an amphiphilic block copolymers having a polyalkenyl ether repeating-unit structure, or a block copolymer enclosing an electroconductive substance. A black ink composition comprises a fine particulate metal having an average particle diameter of not more than 20 nm, an amphiphilic block copolymer, and a solvent. A method for forming an electroconductive pattern by applying the composition. A method for forming an electroconductive pattern by applying a composition comprises a block copolymer enclosing an electroconductive substance, system to form an electroconductive pattern on the substrate.
US07704407B2 Oxygen-absorbing container cap
The present invention provides an oxygen-absorbing resin composition, which is superior in oxygen absorbability, absorbs oxygen remaining in the container after sealing, keeps the contents in the container in good preservation, and improves moldability, dispersibility of the oxygen absorbent, stability of the oxygen absorbing performance, performance of preventing peeling and separation of the oxygen absorbent from the base resin, rigidity of the sealing part, and the like, which become problems in the case of including an oxygen absorbent having high oxygen absorbability and low compatibility with the base resin, as well as provides an oxygen-absorbing container cap and an oxygen-absorbing container plug using the same.The present invention provides an oxygen-absorbing resin composition characterized by being obtained by dispersing and blending an oxygen absorbent containing 20% or more of particles having a particle diameter of 1000 μm or less at a ratio of 20% or less to a base resin.
US07704406B2 Glycol-free aqueous antifreeze compositions comprising dicarboxylic acid salts
The present invention relates to an aqueous antifreeze composition comprising 10 to 50% by weight of one or more dicarboxylic acids, preferably aliphatic dicarboxylic acids having 4 to 12 carbon atoms in the form of the alkali metal, ammonium or alkaline earth metal salt. Preferably, these salts are used in combination with at least one further substance.This gives antifreeze compositions with a good frost protective action, good heat conductivity and good protection against corrosion.
US07704405B2 Material mixtures for heat storage systems and production method
A mixture for heat storage devices has a phase change material and particulate expanded graphite. The material mixtures are produced by mixing phase change material and expanded graphite as powders or in molten form, and shaping the mixtures into shaped bodies.
US07704404B2 Refrigerant compositions and use thereof in low temperature refrigeration systems
A process for obtaining low temperature refrigeration in an existing or new low temperature refrigeration system designed to operate with, or suitable for use with, or capable of being used with HCFC-22 as the refrigerant, the refrigerant composition being a refrigerant composition comprising difluoromethane (HFC-32), pentafluoroethane (HFC-125) and tetrafluoroethane (HFC134a), the three components being present in the composition in amounts such that the operating characteristic of the refrigerant composition in regard to superheat is provided at an acceptable level and the operating characteristics of the refrigerant composition in regard to cooling capacity, mass flow and efficiency (COP) characteristics, when employed as the refrigerant in a low temperature refrigeration system, are each at least 95% of the operating characteristics of chlorodifluoromethane (HCFC-22) if HCFC-22 were to be employed as the refrigerant in such low temperature refrigeration system.
US07704402B2 Optical element manufacturing method, optical element, Nipkow disk, confocal optical system and 3-D measurement device
An optical element manufacturing method includes: disposing a light-shielding layer (14) that includes at least an Si layer as an uppermost layer, on a substrate (12) used as a base member, forming an optical aperture (14a) at the light-shielding layer (14) and forming a fine recession/projection structure (MR) at a surface of the uppermost layer through dry etching.
US07704396B2 Coaxial full-flow and bypass oil filter with spring/gasket arrangement
A fluid filter includes a first filter, a second filter coaxial with the first filter, an inlet adjacent the first and second filters, a first outlet adjacent the inlet, and a second outlet at a distal end from the inlet and the first outlet. Further, the first and second filters may be housed in a unitary canister or a canister that has a canister body coupled to a removable canister cap. First and second springs urge each of the filters into sealing contact with respective gaskets at opposite ends of the device.
US07704394B2 Hollow fiber membrane cartridge
A hollow fiber membrane cartridge comprising a bundle of multiple hollow fiber membranes arranged so as to be vertical in an immersion vessel and comprising bond fixing layers capable of bond fixing of the hollow fiber membrane bundle at both ends thereof, wherein the morphology of each of the bond fixing layers is selected from the group consisting of a triangle, a rectangle and a hexagon, and wherein at least an edge of upper side bond fixing layer, the hollow of the hollow fiber membranes opens, and wherein the hollow fiber membrane bundle at a filtration zone side interface of the upper side bond fixing layer is in the form of multiple wisps.
US07704393B2 Hollow fiber membrane module and method for making thereof
It is an object of the present invention to provide a hollow fiber membrane module which maximizes the efficiency of removing scale-like contaminants generated at the water treatment using hollow fiber membranes, and a method of manufacturing the same. The hollow fiber membrane module includes hollow fiber membranes for making water treatment due to the pressure difference, and a collector fixing the hollow fiber membranes in bundle. A treated-water tube is extended to the inside of the collector, and communicated with the inner passage of the hollow fiber membranes to deliver the water treated through the hollow fiber membranes. A diffuser is installed at the collector to diffuse bubbles to the hollow fiber membranes. An air tube is extended to the collector, and connected to the diffuser to feed air. Dividers are installed over the collector to partition the hollow fiber membranes into a plurality of bundles.
US07704391B2 Molecular arrangement magnetic treatment apparatus and method
A molecular arrangement magnetic treatment apparatus and method includes a material container with an inlet and an outlet where the material to be treated is introduced at the inlet and is released at the outlet and where the material container is sized so as to provide an enclosed space into which the material expands and loses velocity. A material passageway is connected at one end to the inlet and at another end to the outlet such that the material must pass through the material passageway. And at least one pair of magnets is provided that are oriented such that material in the passageway must pass between a north pole and a south pole of the pair of magnets. In one embodiment, the at least one pair of magnets is self aligning such that the north pole and the south pole are free to move so that the north pole and the south pole are always facing each other. In another embodiment, a precipitator is connected with the material container and negatively charged material is precipitated from the material after the material has been negatively charged.
US07704388B2 Reusable liquid chromatographic columns
A reusable liquid chromatographic column consists of three parts, a column body with an integral outlet port molded on one end, a sealing insert with an inlet port, and a perforated cap providing downward force to compress the sealing insert into the column body. A wedge-like seal is employed to seal the connection between the sealing insert and the column body. Two filters on both ends of the column body are used to prevent escape of packing materials from the column chamber under pressure. Hand tightening is adequate to seal the connection by screwing the perforated cap onto the column body. The column is reusable due to its simple disassembling and reassembling processes. It is also disposable due to its inexpensive fabricating materials and manufacturing process.
US07704387B2 Fryer filtration arrangement
A fryer filtration arrangement utilizes certain automated components.
US07704381B2 Biomass thermal oiling
A process for the production of hydrocarbon-containing oils, in which a starting material containing a sugar and/or a sugar derivative is thermally cleaved, including a reaction step in which the starting material is brought into contact with a contact oil which has an initial boiling point of at least about 200° C. at a pressure of about 1013 mbar with formation of a reaction phase at a reaction temperature in the range of from about 200 to about 600° C. and a pressure in the range of from about 0.1 to about 50 bar. The process also includes a processing step in which the reaction phase is separated into a low-boiling fraction and a high-boiling fraction. At least a portion of the high-boiling fraction is recirculated into the reaction step as contact oil. The invention also relates to a system for this process which is equipped with an oilification module.
US07704380B2 Method of removing sulfides including hydrogen sulfide and mercaptan
In accordance with the present invention, a method of removing sulfide(s), which is safe, is effective over long periods at low cost, and exerts no adverse influences on the environment. The present invention relates to a method of removing sulfide(s), characterized in that a medium containing sulfide(s), including hydrogen sulfide and mercaptan(s), is allowed to come into contact with 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diyl diacetate. Also, the present invention relates to the method, wherein the medium is a solid, liquid, or gas. In accordance with the present invention, sulfide(s), including hydrogen sulfide and mercaptan(s), can efficiently be treated so that they may be removed at low cost without the need for large-capacity equipment. In addition, the present invention can be safely practiced because there is no generation of byproducts that irritate the skin.
US07704377B2 Process and installation for conversion of heavy petroleum fractions in a boiling bed with integrated production of middle distillates with a very low sulfur content
Disclosed are a process and an installation for treatment of a heavy petroleum feedstock, of which at least 80% by weight has a boiling point of greater than 340° C., wherein the process includes (a) hydroconversion in a boiling-bed reactor operating with a rising flow of liquid producing a hydroconversion effluent; (b) separation of hydroconversion effluent into a gas containing hydrogen and H2S, a fraction comprising gas oil, and a naphtha fraction; c) hydrotreatment, by contact with at least one catalyst, of at least said fraction comprising gas oil, producing a hydrotreatment effluent; and d) separation of hydrotreatment effluent into a gas containing hydrogen and at least one gas oil fraction having a sulfur content of less than 50 ppm, wherein the hydrogen supply for the hydroconversion and hydrotreatment is delivered by a single compression system.
US07704370B2 Process for jointly obtaining a chlorine derivative and crystals of sodium carbonate
An aqueous solution of sodium chloride is electrolyzed in a cell (1) with an ion permselective membrane to produce, on the one hand, chlorine (16) which is converted in a chlorine production unit (6) and, on the other, an aqueous sodium hydroxide solution (19), which is carbonated using a flue gas (13) from an electricity and steam cogeneration unit (5), and the resulting carbonated solution (18) is evaporated to produce sodium carbonate crystals (21).
US07704364B2 Full wave rectified power water treatment device
A fluid treatment device includes an AC power source connected to first, second and third conductors. A electromagnetic field generating device is positioned adjacent to a fluid conduit, electrically connected to the first and third conductors to form a first circuit. A second electromagnetic field generating device is positioned adjacent to a second fluid conduit, electrically connected to the second and third electrical conductors to form a second circuit. A circuit element in the first circuit initiates a high frequency electromagnetic field at said first electromagnetic field generating device during a first half of the AC wave form in the first circuit, and a circuit element in the second circuit initiates a high frequency electromagnetic field at said first electromagnetic field generating device during a second half of the AC wave form in the second circuit.
US07704357B2 Potentiometric sensor
A potentiometric sensor, especially a pH-sensor or redox-sensor, includes: an elementary sensor for registering a potentiometric parameter, especially a pH-value or a redox potential; and an interface for issuing a potentiometric-parameter-dependent signal to a superordinated unit, especially a transmitter; wherein the potentiometric sensor of the invention has a digital data memory, which is permanently connected with elementary sensor.
US07704356B2 Gas sensor array with electrochemical gas generator
A compact gas sensor array, to which a test gas can be admitted without the use of mechanical components and whose readiness for measurement is interrupted during the calibration only briefly. The array includes a combination of an electrochemical gas sensor (3) and an electrochemical gas generator (2). A gas channel (1) is provided from the gas generator (2) to the measuring electrode (9) of the gas sensor (3). The measuring gas from the environment of the gas sensor (3) has free access to the measuring electrode (9).
US07704353B2 Electrode assembly for the electrochemical treatment of liquids with a low conductivity
The invention relates to an electrode assembly for the electrochemical treatment of liquids with a low conductivity. Said assembly comprises electrodes (1, 2), between which a polymer solid electrolyte (3) is situated. The electrodes are pressed against one another by means of a compression device (9, 10; 91) and are configured in such a way that the assembly can be traversed by the liquid. To produce said assembly simply and to ensure that it is flexible and easy to use, the compression device (9, 10; 91) is supported on the electrodes (1, 2).
US07704348B2 Apparatus and method for fabricating bonded substrate
A bonded-substrate fabricating apparatus capable of reducing defective bonded substrates fabricated. A transfer robot sucks the outer edge area of the bottom surface of a substrate and spouts gas toward the bottom surface of the substrate to carry the substrate into a vacuum process chamber of a press machine while keeping the substrate horizontally. A press plate holds the substrate, which is held by the transfer robot, by suction.
US07704347B2 Reinforced plastic foam cup, method of and apparatus for manufacturing same
A reinforced plastic foam cup including a body which defines an open top end and a closed bottom end, wherein the top end has a greater diameter than the bottom end. The body includes a reinforced tapered side wall that extends from the bottom end to the top end. A substantial portion of the reinforced tapered side wall includes a plastic foam layer, a pressure sensitive adhesive layer and a rigid material layer. Such reinforced plastic foam cup provides an improved tactile feel and enhanced insulation and rigidity properties.
US07704344B2 Tire building drum and tire building method
Tire building drum and tire building method, capable of assembling tire component members with high accuracy. A tire building drum is used, which includes at least one core body, which is disposed at an axial inside of a pair of bead lock means, and which comprises a plurality of sheets of rigid support members disposed in a toroidal shape and adapted to be displaced and thereby expanded or contracted. Bead cores are locked by the bead lock means, respectively, and a center portion of a carcass band is bulged while displacing the bead lock means close to each other. Back side portions of the carcass band are folded to radial outsides around the bead cores, respectively. The core body is then radially expanded to the maximum diameter while locking the bead cores, and tire component members are assembled onto the radially expanded core body.
US07704341B2 Method and apparatus for mechanically bonding material webs
In a method and apparatus for forming a bonded web comprised at least in part of a polyester, a first material web and a second material web are arranged in opposed relationship with each other at least along those portions of the first and second material webs to be bonded together. At least one of the first and second material webs is comprised at least in part of the polyester. The opposed webs are transported in a machine direction to the nip of a bonding apparatus comprised of a first bonding member and a second bonding member defining the nip therebetween for passage of the opposed first and second material webs therebetween in the machine direction. A shear force is applied to the webs generally in the machine direction at the nip and the webs are mechanically bonded together at the nip while the shear force is applied to webs.
US07704339B2 Method of heat treating titanium aluminide
A gamma titanium aluminide alloy consisting of 46 at % aluminium, 8 at % tantalum and the balance titanium plus incidental impurities has an alpha transus temperature Tα between 1310° C. and 1320° C. The gamma titanium aluminide alloy was heated to a temperature T1=1330° C. and was held at T1=1330° C. for 1 hour or longer. The gamma titanium aluminide alloy was air cooled to ambient temperature to allow the massive transformation to go to completion. The gamma titanium aluminide alloy was heated to a temperature T2=1250° C. to 1290° C. and was held at T2 for 4 hours. The gamma titanium aluminide alloy was air cooled to ambient temperature. The gamma titanium aluminide alloy has a fine duplex microstructure comprising differently orientated alpha plates in a massively transformed gamma matrix. The heat treatment reduces quenching stresses and allows larger castings to be grain refined.
US07704337B2 Method for making a slide member
A sliding surface 4A of a shoe 4 undergoes laser radiation in a shape of a large number of parallel lines to form a large number of swollen portions 6 and concave portions 7 in adjacent positions thereof. The swollen portions 6 and the inner side thereof become direct-hardened portions 11 with a high hardness and the concave portions 7 and the inner side thereof become double-hardened portions 12, which are lower in hardness than the swollen portions 6. After the laser hardening, the sliding surface 4A undergoes lapping up to a position of an imaginary line 15 to delete the relief and form a flat and smooth plane. Thereafter the sliding surface 4A undergoes buffing so that portions with a low hardness are chipped off more than portions with a high hardness to form a large number of minute irregularities on the sliding surface 4A.
US07704335B2 Refractory metal intermetallic composites based on niobium-silicides, and related articles
A refractory composition is described, containing niobium, silicon, titanium, and at least one of rhenium and ruthenium. The amount of silicon in the composition is at least about 9 atom %, and the amount of titanium present is less than about 26 atom %, based on total atomic percent. Turbine engine components formed from such a composition are also disclosed.
US07704334B2 Zirconium-niobium oxygen-containing alloy and method for producing said alloy
The invention relates to zirconium-based alloys and methods for manufacturing thereof and may be used in nuclear power engineering. The invention, as claimed, solves the task of obtaining a zirconium-based alloy used for manufacturing fuel rods for the nuclear reactor core, which possess improved engineering and operational properties. The said zirconium-based alloy contains its components in the following weight percent ratio: niobium—0.9-1.1, oxygen—0.05-0.09, zirconium—the rest, and has the structure consisting of alpha-zirconium with oxygen irregularity zones not exceeding 30 nanometers, zirconium sub-oxide of non-stoichiometric composition, and beta-niobium. The inventive method of manufacturing the said alloy includes making stock of zirconium-containing material and niobium pentoxide as oxygen-containing and niobium-containing materials, stock treatment and manufacturing an ingot having the above composition.
US07704331B2 Technique for the growth of planar semi-polar gallium nitride
A method for growing planar, semi-polar nitride film on a miscut spinel substrate, in which a large area of the planar, semi-polar nitride film is parallel to the substrate's surface. The planar films and substrates are: (1) {10 11} gallium nitride (GaN) grown on a {100} spinel substrate miscut in specific directions, (2) {10 13} gallium nitride (GaN) grown on a {110} spinel substrate, (3) {11 22} gallium nitride (GaN) grown on a {1 100} sapphire substrate, and (4) {10 13} gallium nitride (GaN) grown on a {1 100} sapphire substrate.
US07704330B2 Method for adapting a rinsing program in a dishwasher machine, and corresponding dishwasher machine
A method for adapting a rinsing program in a dishwasher machine, and a dishwashing machine configured to perform the method, the method enabling the rinsing program run of a dishwasher machine to be adapted in such a way that satisfactory cleaning and drying performances are achieved even when using a combination rinse aid. To this end, the rinsing program run is adapted if there is insufficient salt, if the softening device is switched off, and if the dishwasher machine is on.
US07704325B2 Crystal forming apparatus and method for using same
A crystal forming apparatus and method for using the apparatus, the method including depositing a precipitant solution in a site, incubating the site, during which time volatile vapor evaporates from the precipitant solution and accumulates in the site, and pumping the accumulated volatile vapor away from the site. An exemplary apparatus includes a sealed site except for a vent on the sealed site. In one embodiment, the vent is a passive vent that inhibits vapor diffusion out of the site. In another embodiment, the vent is an active vent that opens in response to a pressure differential. The present invention accelerates and controls the crystal growth process by pumping volatile vapor away from the sealed site.
US07704324B2 Apparatus for processing materials in supercritical fluids and methods thereof
An apparatus and method for processing materials in supercritical fluids is disclosed. The apparatus includes a capsule configured to contain a supercritical fluid, a high strength enclosure disposed about the capsule and a sensor configured to sense pressure difference between an interior and an exterior of the capsule. The apparatus also includes a pressure control device configured to adjust pressure difference of the capsule in response to the pressure difference sensed by the sensor. The apparatus further includes at least one dividing structure disposed within the capsule that divides the capsule into a seed growing chamber and a nutrient chamber.
US07704320B2 Colloidal crystallization via applied fields
The methods provided use external fields such as light and electricity as a means of directing the crystallization of concentrated colloidal systems. Not only can nucleation be directed, crystal melting can be carefully controlled and light-induced crystal diffraction used as a means of directing light propagation. A number of factors play a significant role on the crystallization rate and location, including the intensity of the light field, the magnitude of the electric field, the colloid concentration, the colloid size, and the colloid composition. In varying these parameters, kinetics in these processes are extremely fast when compared to traditional colloidal crystallization approaches.
US07704314B2 Concrete pump primer
An improved composition for and method of priming a concrete pump line is provided. The flowable composition comprises a solid particulate mixture and water, the particulate mixture being comprised of solvatable polymeric material preferably selected from a group consisting of polyacrylamide, polyacrylate and mixtures thereof; an organic complexing agent preferably of urea; and a buffering agent preferably of citric acid. The invention provides a flowable composition exhibiting improved coating and lubrication to the inner walls of a concrete line as it passes therethrough. The flowable composition mixes quickly with water to form a clear solution, hydrates quickly upon being mixed with water, and provides a composition for use in priming concrete pump lines that does not utilize cement or priming grout slurry.
US07704313B2 Surfactant-free cleansing and multifunctional liquid coating composition containing nonreactive abrasive solid particles and an organosilane quaternary compound and methods of using
Cleansing and multifunctional coating compositions containing an organosilane quaternary compound, nonreactive abrasives, and hydrogen peroxide in aqueous formulations are used to improve water and soil repellency and residual antimicrobial activity on surfaces. Various surfaces may be treated including metal, glass, plastics, rubber, porcelain, ceramic, marble, granite, cement, tile, sand, silica, enameled appliances, polyurethane, polyester, polyacrylic, melamine/phenolic resins, polycarbonate, painted surfaces, wood, and the like.
US07704306B2 Manufacture of electroless cobalt deposition compositions for microelectronics applications
A method of preparing an aqueous electroless deposition composition for electrolessly depositing Co or a Co alloy onto a substrate in manufacture of microelectronic devices by treating water or an aqueous electroless deposition composition with a deoxygenating treatment to reduce the oxygen concentration.
US07704305B2 Heat exchange module of a sorptive type and a method for the manufacture thereof
As conventional heat exchange modules, adsorptive agents of an inorganic type such as silica gel, zeolite, active alumina, active carbon and molecular sieve have been used. While these adsorptive agents have characteristics of high moisture absorptive ability and easy handling, they have problems of durability, regenerating temperature and generation of bacteria or fungi. An object of the present invention is to solve these problems which are noted in the inorganic adsorptive agents and to provide a heat exchanger module of a energy conservation type having a high heat exchange efficiency and a method for the manufacture thereof. The present invention is a heat exchange module of a sorptive type, characterized in that, a moisture absorptive layer in which a sorptive agent of an organic polymer type comprising organic polymer having hydrophilic polar group and cross-linking structure in a molecule is an essential component, saturated moisture absorbing rates at 20° C. and 65% RH and 90% RH are not less than 20% by weight and not less than 40% by weight, respectively and the difference in the saturated moisture absorbing rates under such a condition is not less than 20% by weight is formed on a metal surface having excellent heat conductivity.
US07704303B2 Filter for absorbing odoriferous matter from ambient air
A filter for absorbing odoriferous matter from ambient air has a single body with a line of weakness that extends across at least a portion of the body and divides the filter element into at least two separately usable sub-filters. The line of weakness permits the separation of the single filter element into the sub-filters without the use of a tool. The filter element can be used in combination with varying size air purification units. The filter element can be placed in the filter housing of a large air purifier or after separation the sub-filters can be used in multiple correspondingly sized smaller air purifiers.
US07704300B2 Device and a method for cleaning of a gas
The invention refers to a device and a method for cleaning a gas containing particulate impurities. The device includes a main separator having an inlet for the gas, an outlet for the gas and a rotating member provided between the inlet and the outlet. The rotating member is adapted to bring the gas to rotate for separating by means of centrifugal forces a main amount of the particulate impurities from the gas, wherein a rest amount of the particulate impurities remains in the gas. The device also includes an additional separator adapted to separate substantially the whole rest amount. The additional separator includes an electrostatic filter.
US07704299B2 Methods of hydrogen sulfide treatment
The present invention provides a method of treating a process fluid that includes assembling a modular system, flowing the process fluid through the modular system, the flowing the process fluid through the modular system including degassing the process fluid, neutralizing the process fluid, reducing an amount of one of the group consisting of entrained gases, oil and solids in the process fluid, monitoring and analyzing the process fluid for at least one of the group consisting of engrained gases, oil, and solids, and flowing the process fluid out of the modular system for disposal.
US07704295B2 Honeycomb structure and exhaust gas treatment device
A honeycomb structure includes a first end face and a second end face substantially parallel to each other, a peripheral face interconnecting the first end face and the second end face, a ceramic block including plural through cells with partition walls inbetween, the cells extending from the first end face to the second end face, and a coating layer forming the peripheral face of the honeycomb structure. The thickness of the coating layer at the second end face is greater than at the first end face.
US07704293B2 Turbulence device used for air filtration system
The invention is related to a turbulence device used for air filtration system. The turbulence device comprises a porous plate and a spoiler. The porous plate has a plural number of holes located on one side of the spoiler. The spoiler has a square hole. The turbulence device in the invention is used for an air filtration system and its testing to increase even mixing of the air and a plural number of fine particles in the air and increase the efficiency for the air filtration system. In the testing of the air filtration system, even mixing of the air and the fine particles can improve the accuracy of the air filtration system and avoid the use of unqualified air filtration system to harm the environment.
US07704292B2 Fluid filter
The present invention discloses a fluid filter for screening carbon-microparticles exhausted from diesel engines, such filter has two types of structure, i.e. the plate type and the preferable tube type, which includes plurality of multilayer corrugated filtering rings and flat filtering rings, a central tube, and an outer casing; the innermost layer of the flat filtering rings is welded onto the central tube, and the outermost layer of the flat rings is welded onto the outer casing; the multi-layer corrugated filter rings are coaxially alternated within the flat filtering rings and formed with a zigzag manner, wherein side edges of each of the corrugated filtering rings are respectively welded onto neighboring flat filtering rings so as to form a continuous filter core with ‘Z’ shaped side endings, wherein two sides of the Z shaped side endings of said filter core are alternatively applied as fluid inlet and fluid outlet.
US07704290B2 Cyclone dust collecting apparatus for vacuum cleaner
A cyclone dust collecting apparatus for a vacuum cleaner according to the present disclosure includes a cover having a suction port forcing entering air to form a whirling air current; a cyclone body connected to the cover, the cyclone body having a discharging pipe discharging the entered air; a grill disposed at the discharging pipe; and a grill cleaning unit movably disposed at the discharging pipe so as to remove dust attached to the grill.
US07704286B2 Reactive dyestuff composition and their use
A dye composition, which comprising: (a) a mono azo dye of the formula (I) wherein R, R1, K, Y and m are defined the same as the specification; and (b)at least one azo dye selected from the group consisting of the following formula (II), (III) and (IV), wherein R, R2, R3, Y, (W)0˜3, (W′)0˜3, D, D1 and D2 are defined the same as the specification. These kinds of dye composition with good stability and build-up. The dye composition are suitable for dyeing and printing of materials containing either cellulose fibers, such as cotton, artificial cotton, linen, and artificial linen, or synthetic polyamide, such as wool, silk, and nylon etc. Dyed materials with excellent properties can be obtained, showing especially outstanding performance in of wash-off, built-up, level-dyeing, photochromism, wet-fastnes, ghosting fastness and light fastness.
US07704285B2 Composition for coloring a keratin material, comprising at least two components, and coloring processes
Processes for coloring a keratin material, comprising applying to the keratin material, in the presence of oxygen, at least one component (A) comprising, in a physiologically acceptable medium:—at least one dye precursor chosen from compounds comprising at least one aromatic ring comprising at least two hydroxyl groups borne by two successive carbon atoms of the at least one aromatic ring, and at least one catalytic system comprising at least one first catalyst (1) chosen from Mn(II) and Zn(II) salts and oxides and/or at least one second catalyst (2) chosen from alkali metal hydrogen carbonates and alkaline-earth metal hydrogen carbonates followed by applying at least one component (B) comprising at least one acidic composition to fix the shade and followed by applying at least one component (C) comprising at least one alkaline composition to increase the intensity of the color or to modify the shade and optionally fixing the new color or shade obtained by applying a new application of at least one composition (B).
US07704284B2 Xanthene dyes
Disclosed are compounds of formula (1a), wherein R1 is N+R8R9; R8 and/or R9 independently from each other are hydrogen; C1-C12alkyl; or phenyl-C1-C4-alkyl; or R8 and/or R9 are a bivalent C3-C6alkylene radical which is linked to the carbon atoms C1 or C2 respectively and, together with the linking nitrogen atom form a 6 to 16-membered carbocyclic ring; R2 is NR10R11; or OR10; R10 and R11, independently from each other are hydrogen; C1-C12alkyl; or phenyl-C1-C4alkyl; or R10 and/or R11 are a bivalent C3-C6alkylene radical which is linked to the carbon atoms C3 or C4 respectively and, together with the linking nitrogen or oxygen atom form a 6 to 16-membered carbocyclic ring; or R10 and R11 together with the linking nitrogen atom form a 4 to 8 membered carbocyclic ring; R3, R4, R5, R6 and R7 independently form each other are hydrogen; C1-C12alkyl; halogen; NR12R13; or a radical of formula (1a); R12 and R13 independently from each other are hydrogen; C1-C12alkyl; phenyl-C1-C4alkyl; or a radical of formula (1a2); V is —O—; Or —NR15; R14, R15 R-16 and R17 independently from each other are hydrogen; or C1-C5alkyl; and Hal is a halogen atom; and wherein at least one of R3, R4, R5, R6 and R7 is hydrogen. The compounds are useful for dyeing of keratin-containing fibers with or without reducing agents.
US07704282B2 Orthopaedic element with self-contained data storage
An orthopaedic element has an information storage portion. A transmitter portion and an internal power source portion may be associated with the body of the orthopaedic element. Information, such as data related to the orthopaedic element, patient or caregiver can be stored in the information storage portion. The transmitter portion is coupled to the information storage portion and the internal power source portion. The stored information is selectively transmitted to an external receiver and data interpretation device.
US07704279B2 Bi-directional fixating transvertebral body screws, zero-profile horizontal intervertebral miniplates, expansile intervertebral body fusion devices, and posterior motion-calibrating interarticulating joint stapling device for spinal fusion
An apparatus and method for joining members together using a self-drilling screw apparatus or stapling apparatus are disclosed. The screw apparatus includes a shell and first and second first screw members having tapered ends and threaded bodies that are disposed within the shell. A drive mechanism rotatably drives the first and second screw members from the shell in opposite directions and causes the screw members to embed themselves in the members to be joined. The screw apparatus can be used to join members such as bones, portions of the spinal column, vertebral bodies, wood, building materials, metals, masonry, or plastics. The stapling apparatus includes first and second lever arms rotatably joined together at a fulcrum, and the lever arms rotate in opposite directions. First and second cartridges are disposed at the ends of the lever arms. Each cartridge is capable of holding a staple including a bracket, a nail member and an alignment slot. When the ends of the lever arms are rotated towards each other the staples from the cartridges are interlocked. The staples can be also be used to join members such as bones, portions of the spinal column, or vertebral bodies.
US07704272B2 Method for introducing an ultraviolet light activated viral vector into the spinal column
In accordance with the present invention, methods and structures are provided for the treatment of functional spinal unit injuries through the use of light activated gene therapy to induce bone fusion through the introduction of a desired gene into a patient's spinal tissue. Methods and structures are also provided for the utilization of ultraviolet light activated gene therapy to repair/rebuild an injured intervertebral disc through the introduction of a desired gene into a patient's spinal tissue. An implant system including a light probe and an implant with which r-AAV is integrated is also provided.
US07704270B2 Variable offset connectors and bone fixation methods
A bone fixation assembly for use in spinal fixation surgery is disclosed. The bone fixation assembly has a rod receiving portion, a sliding component, a first locking element, and a second locking element. A method of fixing two vertebrae with respect to each other is also disclosed.
US07704264B2 Apparatus and methods for forming and securing gastrointestinal tissue folds
Apparatus and methods are provided for forming a gastrointestinal tissue fold by engaging tissue at a first tissue contact point and moving the first tissue contact point from a position initially distal to, or in line with, a second tissue contact point to a position proximal of the second contact point, thereby forming the tissue fold, and extending an anchor assembly through the tissue fold from a vicinity of the second tissue contact point. Adjustable anchor assemblies; as well as anchor delivery systems, shape-lockable guides and methods for endoluminally performing medical procedures, such as gastric reduction, treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, resection of lesions, and treatment of bleeding sites; are also provided.
US07704259B2 Mechanically registered videoscopic myringotomy/tympanostomy tube placement system
Devices, systems, methods, and kits for treating the tissue structures of the ear make use of a guide structure that can mechanically register a treatment probe with a target region of a target tissue, the guide structure being fittingly received in an auditory canal and often comprising a conformable body such as a compressible foam, or the like. The guide structure may include an articulating mechanism for selectively orienting the treatment probe toward the target region of, for example, a tympanic membrane. The guide structure may also support a videoscopic image capture device, illumination transmitting optical fibers, an aiming beam transmitter, and the like. Such structures facilitate myringotomy, tympanostomy tube placement, and the like, under local anesthesia in a doctor's office.
US07704252B2 Sternal reconstruction system
A sternal reconstruction system for securing parts of a sternum includes at least one flexible cable with crimp fitting, at least one cannulated screw and at least one reconstruction plate. Circumferential or parasternal fixation may be brought about by use of a sternal reconstruction system including a flexible cable and crimp fitting alone; a sternal reconstruction system including a flexible cable, crimp fitting and cannulated screws; or a system including a flexible cable, crimp fitting, cannulated screws and one or more reconstruction plates. The reconstruction plates are typically planar, having an upper and a lower surface, and containing generally perpendicular and transverse plate holes. The generally perpendicular plate holes are countersunk to better accommodate the heads of the cannulated bone screws. Also provided is a kit for sternal reconstruction.
US07704246B2 Shielded intraocular probe for improved illumination or therapeutic application of light
An intraocular light probe has a mask or shield at its distal end which forms a directed light beam for intraocular illumination of target tissues or application of therapeutic light. The mask or shield serves to more fully focus, intensify and direct the beam toward the target tissues and directs light away from other tissues and away from the eyes of the surgeon, lessening unwanted glare. The probe may be placed beneath a surgical instrument, whether as part of or separate from an infusion sleeve. The mask or shield is opaque or semi-opaque and made of a soft, semi-rigid or rigid material. The shield can be rigid enough to serve as the shaft of an instrument with a probe or manipulator at its distal tip. It may also be reflective on the side adjacent to the fiber bundle to help direct, magnify, and intensify the beam of light.
US07704241B2 Drapeable sanitary absorbent napkin
An absorbent article including a cover layer, a barrier layer and an absorbent system arranged between the cover layer and the barrier layer, the absorbent article being drapeable and possessing the absorbency attributes required of a sanitary napkin.
US07704237B2 Medication dispensing apparatus configured for rotate to prime and pull/push to inject functionality
A medication dispensing apparatus having a manually operable plunger axially shiftable relative to the apparatus housing. The plunger is pullable relative to the housing in a proximal direction to cock the apparatus, and when the plunger is then manually pushed back toward the housing, a piston within a medicine container of the apparatus is shifted to force medication from a needle assembly at the distal end of the apparatus. The medication dispensing apparatus also includes a priming mechanism which is operated by rotating an externally accessible driver portion to prime the apparatus for use, which priming can be performed whether or not the apparatus is in a cocked state.
US07704231B2 Hand-held electronically controlled injection device for injecting liquid medications
A hand-held, electronically controlled injection device (1) for injecting preset doses of liquid medications, having a housing (2) for receiving a cartridge (4) containing the liquid medication and having a contact surface (16) for contacting a patient's skin; and actuator elements (41) for moving the cartridge (4) within the housing (2) to and from the contact surface (16).
US07704226B2 External infusion device with programmable capabilities to time-shift basal insulin and method of using the same
An external infusion device for delivering insulin from a reservoir into a body of a user includes the capability to deliver time-shifted basal insulin. The external infusion device includes at least one drive mechanism operatively couplable to the reservoir to deliver insulin into the body of the user, at least one processor to control the external infusion device, at least one power supply, at least one display device operatively coupled to the processor to provide visual information to the user, at least one input device operatively coupled to the processor to allow the user to command the processor, and a housing. Time-shifting of basal insulin occurs when a portion of basal insulin is added to a bolus, to a current basal rate, or to a bolus and a current basal rate.
US07704213B2 Method and device for determining the blood flow in a blood-conducting tube
A measurement method for determining the blood flow rate QF in blood carrying lines is provided. It may be used in particular to determine the blood flow in a patient's vessel, which is connected to the extracorporeal circulation of a blood treatment machine by an arterial line and a venous line. According to the method, the net rate dX/dt of a variable X is determined, with X being derived from a physicochemical variable Y of the blood with the help of values YA and YV which are adequately constant over time and which respectively characterize the physicochemical property in the arterial line and the venous line during the measurement interval. The net rate dX/dt is then used to determine the blood flow rate QF. The targeted use of indicators is not necessary.
US07704212B2 Reusable invasive fluid pressure monitoring apparatus and method
The present invention is an apparatus and method for invasive bodily fluid pressure measurements using a pressure sensing assembly that is partially reusable. An embodiment includes a system for measuring a bodily pressure level having a support structure that includes at least one reusable pressure transducer that has a sensing face positioned on an exterior portion of the support structure, and a disposable pressure plenum having an inlet in fluid communication with a selected location within the body of a living being that is configured to be removably and slidably engaged with the support structure.
US07704204B2 Intrabody introduced device and medical device
In transmitting images picked up by an intrabody introduced device to outside a test body, synchronizing signals of the image signal are set to signal patterns in the same high-frequency band as for the image signal and not used for the image signal. This enables a receiver to stably binarize the synchronizing signal and thus to acquire favorable image signal. For example, in a clipping circuit provided in a signal processing circuit in a capsule type endoscope (an example of an intrabody introduced device), image information of a high-intensity portion is clipped out of image information acquired by an imaging section and a pattern generation circuit allocates signal patterns within the clipped intensity range as horizontal and vertical synchronizing signals.
US07704200B2 Exercise apparatus, especially for exercising of the back musculature
The invention concerns an exercise apparatus, especially for exercising the back musculature of a user (10) with a support surface (110) to accommodate the user (10) along the longitudinal axis (30). The reclining area (112) of the support surface (110) is largely formed by a number of transverse elements (120, 120a) arranged in succession on the longitudinal axis (30), which accommodates the user (10) preferably in the prone position, the transverse elements (120, 120a) being mounted to pivot around the longitudinal axis (30) to execute a see-saw movement.
US07704197B2 Dumbbell weight selection structure
A dumbbell weight selection structure includes an extension rod disposed at any end of a handle unit. The extension rod is disposed with a selection unit, which contains a selection mechanism and multiple weight plates are disposed thereon. The selection mechanism includes a slide plate linked to drive the selection plate set to travel. A locking hole to insert by the selection plate set is disposed at where appropriately on each weight plate. The slide plate is moved to change connection of the selection plate set corresponding to the locking holes of multiple weight plates to select quantity of weight plates to be attached to the dumbbell as desired for achieving discretional adjustment of the overall weight of the dumbbell.
US07704191B2 Dual treadmill exercise device having a single rear roller
The present invention provides an exercise device that generally includes two treadles pivotally connected with a frame so that the treadles may pivot up and down about an axis. Each treadle includes a tread belt that provides a moving surface like a treadmill. Each tread belt is supported by a front roller and a rear roller, which is common to both treadles. The treadles are interconnected to provide an alternating upward and downward movement relative to each other. Opposing end portions of the rear roller are rotatably supported at the rear end of the frame. Outer sides of rear end portions of the treadles are rotatably supported by the outer end portions of the rear roller, and inner sides of rear end portions of the treadles are coupled with the frame through an inner support structure that defines a virtual pivot.
US07704188B2 Method for the operation of a transmission device with several hydraulically actuated shift elements
A method is described for the operation of a transmission device (3) with several shift elements (5, 6) actuated hydraulically by a pressure source (4) for engaging and disengaging various transmission ratios and with several electric actors (7, 8) of a hydraulic system of the transmission device (3) for the adjustment of actuating pressures for the shift elements (5, 6). When an engine start-stop function calls for a combustion engine (2) of a drivetrain comprising the transmission device (3) to be switched off, the energizing current of the actors (7, 8) is adjusted from an operating level (I_B) in which the respective actors (7, 8) are energized with a current appropriate for producing an operating-situation-dependent actuation pressure in the shift elements (5, 6), to a standby level (I_S). When the engine start-stop function calls for the combustion engine (3) to be switched on, the energizing current of the actors (7, 8) is adjusted from the standby level (I_S) to the operating level (I_B). The energizing currents of the actors (7, 8) are changed from the standby level (I_S) to the operating level (I_B) in a defined time sequence.
US07704185B2 Hybrid powertrain torque control
A method of regulating a torque output of each of an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric machine (EM) in a hybrid powertrain system includes determining a desired axle torque of the hybrid powertrain system and arbitrating the desired axle torque and a first plurality of torque requests in an engine control module (ECM) of the hybrid powertrain system to provide an arbitrated axle torque request. The method further includes arbitrating a torque request, which is based on the arbitrated axle torque request, and a second plurality of torque requests in a hybrid control module (HCM) to provide a final torque request, and generating ICE control signals and EM control signals based on the final torque request.
US07704180B2 Multi-speed transmission
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes.
US07704177B2 Transmission with continuously variable transmission ratio
A power-split transmission having several ranges of transmission ratios with continuously variable speed reductions. A drive shaft is connected to two shafts of a variable speed drive unit via a distributor gear whose shafts are in turn connected with the input shafts of a parallel gearbox via respective clutches. Two ranges of ratios only differ from each other through the reduction of the input shaft of the parallel gearbox and their output shafts. An additional embodiment includes a variable speed drive unit, a first planetary drive that is connected with a drive shaft, an input shaft of the variable speed drive unit and a connecting shaft, as well as a second planetary drive that is connected with the connecting shaft of the output shaft of the variable speed drive unit, and an output shaft and an electric motor that is nonrotatably connected with the connecting shaft.
US07704176B2 Electrically variable transmission device using multiple pairings of electrical machines
There is provided a transmission device having an electrically variable output that employs three electrically powered motor-generators, or machines. The electrically-variable transmission device comprises first, second and third electrical machines coaxial to and coupled to a plurality of planetary gear sets. Each planetary gear set coupled to a main shaft operative to transmit torque therebetween and operative to transmit torque to an output. There is an input mechanically coupled to one of the planetary gear sets. This transmission device can transmit mechanical power with a continuously variable ratio of the input shaft speed to the output shaft speed using two of the electric motors at a time, forming an input-split or either an output-split or a compound-split. A selectively actuable brake device is operative to multiply torque output from the second electrical machine.
US07704172B2 Bicycle front derailleur
A front derailleur is configured to be accurately mounted to a bicycle frame in a prescribed mounting position. The front derailleur has a chain guide, a front derailleur main body, an intermediate piece and a fastening piece. The front derailleur main body has a mounting part with a curved mounting face having a circular arc arranged around a first pivot axis extending in a first direction. The intermediate piece has a first curved abutting face mating with the curved mounting face of the mounting part to pivot relative to each other about the first pivot axis, a second curved abutting face having a circular arc arranged around a second pivot axis extending in a second direction perpendicularly arranged relative to the first direction, and a first through hole extending in a third direction generally perpendicular to the first and second directions and passes through the first and second abutting faces.
US07704171B2 Reinforced lacrosse head
A reinforced lacrosse head having improved strength includes a pair of opposing sidewall portions each having a top end and a bottom end, a scoop portion extending between the sidewall portions, a base portion extending between the bottom ends of the sidewall portions, and a throat portion extending from the base portion for attachment to a lacrosse handle. This reinforced lacrosse head has one or more reinforcement members that are coupled to one or more portions of the lacrosse head.
US07704169B1 Universal baseball practice system
A baseball practice system for training one in pitching, throwing, fielding, catching, and batting. The practice system is portable and collapsible having a removable pitching component on one side and a batting and netting on the other side. The pitching component has a strike-zone opening and one or more pockets in a catch sack in back of the strike-zone opening. The netting is of an elastic material suited to rebound a ball thrown on the netting for the purpose of practicing throwing, catching, and fielding. A ball component, attached to elastic cords, is suspended outward and downward from a forward extending member adjacent to the top of the baseball practice system. An adjustment and locking member adjacent to the rear of the forward extending member adjustably secures in place an upper cord which is attached to a ball.
US07704168B1 Self-righting tee ball stand
A self-righting tee ball stand with a base, an adjustable length ball support stanchion and a flex connector joining the base and stanchion to easily yield when the stanchion is struck and to cause the stanchion to return to an upright orientation. The flex connector includes a two-piece rigid outer housing containing a helical spring encased in a cylindrical bellows.
US07704167B1 Accurate putting device
An accurate putter device comprises a frame having a pair of blinds slidable within an aperture in the frame. A thumb dial mounted on each side of the frame controls a particular blind to narrow the golfer's line of sign through the aperture so that the golfer may line-up the putt and read the grade or angle of the green towards the hole. The thumb dials are coupled to the threads running through the blinds to move the blinds to and fro along tracks in the frame to line-up the ball with respect to the hole.
US07704165B2 Golf ball support or tee
The invention relates to a novel golf ball support or tee comprising a lower part which is fixed to the practice surface and an upper part which is disposed above ground. The upper end of the upper part comprises a surface which receives the golf ball. According to the invention, the support comprises an obstacle-forming protrusion which prevents the ball from moving during the positioning thereof. Said protrusion extends upwards from at least one side of the upper part of the device, such that, when the ball is in the rest position on the receiving surface, the protrusion and the ball are not in contact with one another.
US07704162B2 Metal wood club with improved hitting face
A hitting face of a golf club head having a location of longest characteristic time shifted away from the geometric center of the hitting face. In one embodiment, the hitting face is made from multiple materials. In another embodiment, the hitting face as a central zone that is thicker than the surrounding material. In another embodiment, a dense insert is attached directly or indirectly to a plate-like face insert at or near the geometric center of the insert. In another embodiment, the central zone of the hitting face is reinforced with ribs. In another embodiment, the central zone is elliptical with varying thickness. In this embodiment, the central zone minor axis is thinner than the major axis. The central zone is positioned within the hitting face such that the minor axis is oriented from the low heel region to the high toe region.
US07704160B2 Apparatus for weighting golf club shaft
An apparatus for selectively adding weight to the hollow shaft of a hand-held implement. One embodiment includes an upper cylindrical member, a lower member, and an expansion ring that fits between the upper and lower members. These components are sized slightly smaller than the inside diameter of a hollow shaft, such as a golf club shaft. Each component includes an axial bore, through which a screw with an elongated barrel extends. The axial bore of the upper member is enlarged at its upper terminus to receive the cap of the screw, and the axial bore of the lower member is threaded to receive the screw. This assembly is inserted into a hollow shaft, and as the screw is tightened, the lower member is drawn into the upper member, compressing the expander ring axially causing it to expand radially until a friction fit with the inside surface of the hollow shaft is achieved.
US07704159B1 Interchangeable golf club system
This is an interchangeable golf club system, which allows particular golf club heads to be interchanged on the shaft of a golf club. Additionally, the length of the golf club can be adjusted using this same device. A set of locking rings allow appropriate adjustment of the length of the club or the replacement of the golf club head are provided.
US07704158B2 Temporary golf club shaft-component connection
A temporary shaft-component connection for assembling a selected golf club shaft with a club head and/or hand grip segment, to facilitate custom club design and fitting to suit the needs and preferences of an individual golfer. The temporary shaft-component connection is particularly designed for use with nonmetallic club shafts formed from a graphite-based composite material or the like having a range of different lengths and stiffness (whip) characteristics. In a shaft-head connection, a metal adapter insert is mounted onto a lower end of the club shaft and includes one or more flat surfaces for reception into a matingly shaped socket in the hosel of a selected club head to prevent relative rotation between the club shaft and head. A compression nut carried on the shaft is threaded onto the hosel to axially engage and retain a thrust flange on the shaft or adapter or adapter insert, to prevent axial separation of the club head and shaft.
US07704154B2 Golf swing trainer
A golf swing modeling device includes a base having a first row of sensors, a striking row of sensors, a second row of sensors and a third row of sensors. The various sensors output individual signals. The striking row of sensors comprises a striking row inside sensor and a striking row outside sensor. A ball striking assembly has a lower ball mounted on a lower ball arm which is mounted on a lower retainer and an upper ball mounted on an upper ball arm which is mounted on an upper retainer. The upper ball has a sensor which outputs a signal when struck. A striking face of the lower ball is placed between the striking row inside sensor and striking row outside sensor. A processor receives individual signals from the sensors. The processor calculates club speed, and club head orientation from individual signals, and the processor provides output.
US07704151B2 Self-attaching female fasteners, method of forming same and strip of interconnected fasteners
A method of forming pierce and clinch nuts by rolling a section having the desired cross-section, punching equally spaced bores through the central pilot portion and then punching configured openings through the central pilot portion having convex arcuate surfaces and eliminating sharp corners. The strip of interconnected self-attaching fasteners may be installed directly from the strip in a panel, fed in bulk or separate fasteners interconnected by frangible connectors. The resultant self-attaching nut includes a central pilot portion having a bore through the top face, integral flange portions extending from opposed sides and the pilot portion includes convex arcuate faces reducing or eliminating stress cracking and propagation of stress cracks.
US07704150B2 Sliding type constant velocity universal joint
The constant velocity universal joint includes a plurality of vehicle body attachment flanges provided apart from each other in the outer circumferential direction of the joint outer ring and partly protruding in the radial direction. The joint outer ring has a flower outer circumferential shape corresponding to the inner circumferential shape, and the vehicle body attachment flanges are provided at outer recesses positioned between the track grooves of the joint outer ring. In this joint, the number of the balls is six, and the pitches of the ball tracks are random, unequal and not less than 55.
US07704149B2 Fixed type constant velocity joint
A fixed type constant velocity joint includes an outer ring (1), an inner ring (2), torque transmitting balls (3), a cage (4), and a pre loading mechanism in which either a pressing section for axially applying an elastic pressing force or a receiving section for receiving the pressing force from the pressing section is disposed in the cage (4), the other being disposed in the inner ring (2). The axial clearance between the inner ring (2) and the cage (4) is greater than the axial clearance which is due to the radial clearance of the track, and the axial clearance which is produced by the radial clearance of the track is 2.5-6.5 times as large as the radial clearance of the track. Further, the center of the outer spherical surface (2b) of the inner ring (2) is shifted to the spread side of the ball tracks (1a, 2a) over the center of the inner spherical surface (4b) of the cage, thereby improving the cross operation.
US07704148B2 Tripod type constant velocity joint
In a tripod type constant velocity joint, in order to produce a recovery couple to correct the inclination of the rolling direction of a roller and to reduce surface pressure without using angular contact provided by a Gothic arch-shaped roller guide surface, it is arranged that where r1 and r2 are the minimum and maximum values, respectively, of the radius of curvature of the generatrix for the outer peripheral surface of the roller within the range where solid contact is effected by elastic deformation of the contact section between the roller and the roller guide surface under a predetermined torque load with respect to the radius of curvature of the roller guide surface, the radius of curvature (r) of the generatrix be set in the range r1≦r≦r2.
US07704145B2 Method and apparatus for use of a network by a casino
A casino receives activity from a player, both in-house and on-line. The player's activities are combined in a single account stored by the casino. The combined activities can then be used to the player's benefit, for example by awarding benefits to the player, allowing the player to access his activity across a network, or by preparing for the player a tax statement based on his year-to-date activities.
US07704142B2 System and method for facilitating trades for bonus activity in gaming systems
A system and method for allowing gaming device participants to effect trades of player assets for improved odds of attaining gaming bonus events. A player engages in play of a gaming activity, such as a slot game, which includes a standard mode of play and a bonus mode of play. Player assets are traded for an increased probability of attaining a bonus event associated with the bonus mode. A trade amount is surrendered by the player as part of the trade, and the probability of the player attaining the bonus event increased, thereby allowing the player to engage in bonus activity sooner, more frequently, or when otherwise less available to the player.
US07704141B1 Slot machine game having a plurality of ways for a user to obtain payouts based on the selection of one or more symbol positions in the symbol matrix (“Lucky Spot”)
A slot machine enables the selection of one or more symbol positions in a symbol matrix to provide additional and/or enhanced awards (“Lucky Spot”). The preferred embodiment of the present invention offers a new “wandering” wild symbol with an associated multiplier value, as follows: During each spin, the slot game randomly selects one of fifteen symbol positions as the Lucky Spot; A multiplier value is associated with the Lucky Spot from within a range of 2 to 5; The Lucky Spot and associated multiplier value are then displayed in the symbol matrix in the selected symbol position; After each spin, the slot game issues Lucky Spot awards based on the winning combinations using the Lucky Spot; and Alternatively, the Lucky Spot concept can also be implemented in various alternative methods.
US07704137B2 Gaming machine with feature triggering scheme
A gaming apparatus and method of conducting a wagering game are disclosed. The wagering game includes a basic game and a bonus game triggered by the basic game. The apparatus tracks a number of the basic games played since a predetermined event, and alters a probability of triggering the bonus game based on the tracked number.
US07704136B2 Double draw video poker games
A method, apparatus, and computer readable storage medium for implementing improvements in video poker games. A second draw can be offered to the player, allowing the player an additional chance to improve the player's hand. The second draw can be always offered or triggered upon predefined conditions.
US07704135B2 Integrated game system, method, and device
The present invention provides an integrated game with five subsystems: (i) electronic spell-casting system, (ii) card game system, (iii) user-created card system, (iv) system for replacing the use of dice and/or random number generation; and (v) board game system. Spell-casting system provides a physical input mechanism, e.g., sensor-equipped “magic wand”, and a verbal input mechanism which together trigger a spell. Cards form formations affecting their powers and are marked as “spent” by being placed under another card. Users create their own cards through a Web-accessible site. Random number (generated by computer or dice) usage is replaced by “challenges,” i.e., player-performed tasks. Chess pieces follow standard rules but are deployed one-by-one, as are squares of the chess board. Licensing information is available through www.inventerprise.com.
US07704132B2 Device for carving, boning, and defatting slaughtered animals
A device (1) for carving, boning, and defatting slaughtered animals is provided having a handle (3), with a head part (9) mounted at its front end. The head part (9) carries a knife carrier (21) with a rotatably mounted circular knife (17). The knife carrier (21) can be connected to the head part (9) via guiding cams (27) which are inserted into recesses (29) at the head part (9).
US07704122B2 Customized polish pads for chemical mechanical planarization
A polishing pad for chemical mechanical planarization of a film on a substrate is customized by obtaining one or more characteristics of a structure on a substrate. For example, when the structure is a chip formed on a semiconductor wafer, the one or more characteristics of the structure can include chip size, pattern density, chip architecture, film material, film topography, and the like. Based on the one or more characteristics of the structure, a value for the one or more chemical or physical properties of the pad is selected. For example, the one or more chemical or physical properties of the pad can include pad material hardness, thickness, surface grooving, pore size, porosity, Youngs modulus, compressibility, asperity, and the like.
US07704120B2 Posterior-form enhancement device
The posterior-form enhancement device includes a garment and two posterior-form pads. Each posterior-form pad is formed by attaching one first posterior-form piece to one second posterior-form piece. The garment is used for covering the lower body part of a person, and in its rear side has two pockets adjacent to the posteriors of wearers for placing the posterior-form pads respectively. Each first posterior-form piece includes a bag for encasing a volume of gel. The second posterior-form pieces are respectively adjacent to the first posterior-form pieces in the pockets, wherein the first posterior-form piece is near an external surface away from wearers' posteriors of while the second posterior-form piece is near an internal surface adjacent to wearers' posteriors. The shape and size of the pockets are determined by the shape and size of the posterior-form pad. The posterior-form pads can be put into or taken out of the pockets.
US07704119B2 Remote control game system with selective component disablement
A remote control game system comprises two or more game sets, each game set having one or more remote control vehicles and an associated control console. Each of the remote control vehicles comprises: a vehicle body; one or more offensive components mounted with the vehicle body; each of the offensive components operable to communicate at least one offensive signal; one or more sensors mounted with the vehicle body, each of the sensors operable to detect the offensive signal, and in response, to generate a hit signal; and one or more drive components. The drive components are (a) responsive to commands from the control console, to move the vehicle body and operate the offensive components, and (b) responsive to the hit signal to degrade operation of one or both of the vehicle body and offensive components.
US07704114B2 Gate controlled field emission triode and process for fabricating the same
This invention relates to a process for fabricating ZnO nanowires with high aspect ratio at low temperature, which is associated with semiconductor manufacturing process and a gate controlled field emission triode is obtained. The process comprises providing a semiconductor substrate, depositing a dielectric layer and a conducting layer, respectively, on the semiconductor substrate, defining the positions of emitter arrays on the dielectric layer and conducting layer, depositing an ultra thin ZnO film as a seeding layer on the substrate, growing the ZnO nanowires as the emitter arrays by using hydrothermal process, and etching the areas excluding the emitter arrays, then obtaining the gate controlled field emission triode.
US07704112B2 Portable personal self-operating life tube
A portable personal self-operating life tube is disclosed, in which when a user is drowned in water due to a marine disaster or a fire and sinking of a ship, it automatically operates, so the user can save his life by just wearing the tube, and the tube is able to keep a user's a body temperature until a rescue comes after the tube is expanded along with the above features, and a life tube can be easily used without a particular care by improving the problems found in a conventional art in which a user feels bad when wearing a life tube since a conventional life equipment is not customized, and it is not portable and is not easy to use.
US07704110B2 Engine starting system for a marine outboard engine
A marine outboard engine for a watercraft is disclosed. The marine outboard engine includes a starter motor operatively connected to the crankshaft of the engine and a capacitor electrically connected to the starter motor. The capacitor is powering the starter motor to initiate rotation of the crankshaft. An alternator is operatively connected to the engine and is electrically connected to the capacitor for charging the capacitor when the engine is operating. A starting system and a method for operating a starting system of a marine outboard engine are also disclosed.
US07704109B2 Structure for mounting cables for boat propulsion unit
A mounting structure for cables for a boat propulsion unit that enables easy insertion of cables into a pass-through hole, as well as highly reliable water-sealing is provided in a bottom cowling of the boat propulsion unit. The cables are inserted in through-holes in a rubber grommet by opening up a slit in the rubber grommet, and then inserting the rubber grommet in a pass-through hole in the port section. The rubber grommet is fit into the pass-through hole in the pressurized condition to water-seal the pass-through hole. The pass-through hole is molded integrally with the bottom cowling. A retaining plate is wrapped around the rubber grommet to prevent the slit from opening up, and the grommet is accommodated in the pass-through hole together with the retainer plate. Then, the retainer plate is fastened to the port section by mounting bolts. Thus, the rubber grommet is fixed within the pass-through hole, and provides water-sealing by filling the gap around the cables within the pass-through hole.
US07704108B2 Outboard motor including shift shaft rotating mechanism
An outboard motor is provided that can include an exhaust guide, a shift shaft, a shift shaft rotating mechanism, and a shifting mechanism. The exhaust guide, on which an engine can be mounted, can be utilized to fix the relative positions of an axis of the shift shaft and a body of the shift shaft rotating mechanism for facilitating highly accurate and well-executed shifting of a propeller to or from one of forward and reverse rotating directions. The shift shaft can be rotatably supported by the exhaust guide, and the shift shaft rotating mechanism can be fixed to the exhaust guide. Further, the shift shaft rotating mechanism can be configured to selectively rotate the shift shaft.
US07704107B1 Conductive coil connector for reconfigurable electrical circuit element
A configurable electrical circuit element housing used as a building block in prototyping and demonstrating electric circuits. A label (10) with a circuit element graphic (11) attaches on an electrically insulated housing top (20). Underneath is an alternating arrangement of electrically insulated connector guide walls (22) and guide posts (21) forming a square-like perimeter surrounding a circuit element (40). Circuit element leads (41) attach to bent coil connector binding posts (31) inside the housing. The bent coil connector binding posts, on sides for which they are installed, are the ends of bent coil connectors (30). The bent coil connectors bend around the guide posts forming arcs external to the square-like perimeter. The guide walls help form the arcs by pinching the bent coil connectors. The arcs of the bent coil connectors are resilient connectors which interface with similar connectors forming a bent coil connector coupling (50) interweaving their coil loops.
US07704106B2 Electrical terminal and spring-force terminal connection therefor
The invention describes a spring-force terminal connection (2) for electrical conductors with a busbar section (5) and a bent leaf spring (3), which has a bearing limb (7), which is supported on the busbar section (5), a spring bend section (11), which adjoins the bearing limb (7), and a clamping limb (8), which adjoins the spring bend section (11), for fixedly clamping a conductor to the busbar section (5). Those parts (12a, 12b) of the leaf spring (3) which merge with the bearing limb (7) and the clamping limb (8) run in the spring bend section (11) at least partially parallel to one another and bear against one another.
US07704105B2 Installation control unit with a connecting terminal arrangement
An installation switch having a housing and a connecting arrangement for a conductor having a terminal shoe. The connecting arrangement includes a socket having an interior, an insertion opening, and an access opening, and a screw having a screw head and a screw shank disposed in the interior of the socket. The screw is actuatable longitudinally between an open and a clamped state. The arrangement further includes a connection plate having a screw hole with threads for threadably engaging the screw when in the clamped state, and a retaining device preventing the screw from being removed when in the open state. The arrangement is configured so that the open state allows the shoe to be inserted into the insertion opening, the clamped state provides the screw being engaged with the shoe, and access to the screw is provided via the access opening of the socket to actuate the screw.
US07704103B1 Low profile terminals
A terminal for mating with a blade contact includes a planar bottom extending between a front end and a rear end. A slot is formed in the planar bottom for receiving the blade contact, and the slot includes a front edge and a rear edge. Deflectable beams extend from the bottom across the slot for engaging the blade contact. At least one beam extends at least partially across the slot from the front edge and at least one beam extends at least partially across the slot from the rear edge. The beams are configured to engage opposite sides of the blade contact when the blade contact is mated with the terminal.
US07704101B2 Electric connector
An electric connector includes: an insulating body, having holes aligned in a widthwise direction thereof at an equal pitch distance in a plurality of levels shifted in phase and spaced apart from one another in correspondence with contacts of a mating connector; a plurality of levels of contact groups, each including L-shaped contacts with tip end sides thereof being received and retained in the holes and base end sides thereof being disposed along a rear face of the body, lead portions at rear ends of the contacts being aligned in a line in the widthwise direction at a pitch distance t; and a dielectric spacer, disposed in a blank region on the rear face of the body, the blank region being defined by adjacent ones of the contacts with base end sides thereof spaced apart at a distance “n×t,” the n being an integer not smaller than two.
US07704099B1 Manual disconnect system
A manual disconnect system includes a battery part, a disconnect part, a circuit assembly and a fuse assembly with a fuse connector and a circuit connector connected to the battery part. The battery part has a main compartment and a fuse assembly subcompartment. The disconnect part is releasably connected to the battery part. The fuse assembly is releasably received by the fuse assembly subcompartment. When the disconnect part is connected to the battery part, the fuse assembly and the fuse connector are electrically connected together and the circuit assembly and the circuit connector are electrically connected together. Upon detaching the disconnect part and the battery part from each other, the circuit assembly and the circuit connector are electrically disconnected from one another while the fuse assembly remains releasably connected to the battery part in the fuse assembly subcompartment and electrically connected to the fuse connector.
US07704097B1 Connector assembly having an electromagnetic seal element
A connector assembly includes a shielding cage, a center plate and an electromagnetic seal element. The shielding cage includes side walls with ports disposed between the side walls. The ports receive mating connectors through a mating interface of the shielding cage. The center plate includes transverse walls disposed between and coupling the side walls of the shielding cage to one another. The center plate separating the ports and defines a chamber between the transverse walls and the side walls of the shielding cage. The electromagnetic seal element is disposed in the chamber of the center plate and engages the transverse walls of the center plate to prevent electromagnetic interference within the center plate from radiating through the mating interface.
US07704090B2 Housing for a card edge connector assembly
A card edge connector for electrically connects a mother board with a daughter board. The card edge connector includes an upper card edge connector with an insulating housing provided with a daughter board receiving recess. Latch arms extend from the insulating housing at both ends of the daughter board receiving recess. Each of the latch arms has a holding arm extending substantially parallel to a support arm. The holding arm is connected to the support arm by a folded portion. At least a portion of the support arm is divided into a first support section and a second support section. The first support section and the second support section each has an inclined portion extending diagonally away from the holding arm.
US07704089B2 Modular slim connector
A floating type electrical connecting device, comprises: first and second electrical connectors. The first electrical connector includes a first insulating housing, and a plurality of first conductive terminals. The first insulating housing has a first mating surface, a plugging surface located on an opposite side of the first mating surface, two side surfaces respectively connected at opposite left and right sides of the first mating surface and the plugging surface, and a plurality of first terminal grooves extending from the mating surface to the plugging surface through the first insulating housing. In addition, a vertical lateral protruding edge is formed at each side surface adjacent to the first mating surface, and protruding from the side surface. The second electrical connector includes a second insulating housing, and a plurality of second conductive terminals. The second insulating housing has two sliding grooves respectively for receiving the two lateral protruding edges.
US07704085B1 Cover module of electronic device and control method thereof
A cover module of an electronic device and a control method thereof are provided. The cover module includes a body, a flexible connecting element, and a flip cover. The body has an opening exposing the connector. A sidewall of the opening has a first fixing structure. The flip cover is in the opening, and a sidewall of the flip cover has a second fixing structure locked with the first fixing structure. The flexible connecting element is connected between the body and the flip cover. When a force is applied to the flip cover, the flexible connecting element is deformed, the flip cover moves with the deformation of the flexible connecting element, and the locking between the first and the second fixing structures is released to cause the flip cover swinging open away from the body with a part of the flexible connecting element as an axis.
US07704084B1 USB connector extension/retraction device for USB flash drive
An improved USB connector extension/retraction device for a USB flash drive includes a moving cover for coupling with a flash memory unit (which has a USB connector), a resilient bar element, and two springs. The moving cover is assembled with a railed housing to form the USB connector extension/retraction device. The moving cover can be pushed forward and secured in position so that the USB connector of the flash memory unit is extended out for use. When not in use, the USB connector is retracted automatically so as to be hidden for protection. In addition, the USB connector extension/retraction device allows the USB flash drive to have a reduced volume.
US07704081B2 Electrical connector having signal and power contacts
An electrical connector includes a dielectric housing having a tongue including an upper surface, a lower surface, and opposite side surfaces. A plurality of signal contacts are held by the housing and are exposed along the upper surface. At least one power contact is held by the housing and is exposed along one of the opposite side surfaces. Optionally, the tongue and signal contacts define an eSATA mating interface configured for mating with a plug of a serial cable defining an eSATA plug interface.
US07704071B2 Actuator with LED penlight for piezoelectric lighter
Disclosed is an actuator for a piezoelectric cigarette or utility lighter with a LED penlight incorporated as an independent light source. The actuator is located at the top of a standard piezoelectric lighter behind the lighter's burner. The actuator activates the lighter when it is depressed and makes contact with a piezoelectric unit that initiates release of gas into the burner while simultaneously emitting a spark in the area of the burner to ignite the gas. The penlight feature consists of an LED light assembly incorporated into the actuator's top cap situated so as to depress the piezoelectric unit. The LED light assembly consists of a light emitting diode mounted on a platform, the whole of which is configured to fit within the LED top cap whereby the platform is a bottom wall of the LED top cap and contains a power source in the form of a battery holder that fits between the piezoelectric unit and the outer casing of the lighter. A pressure switch on the actuator operates the penlight.
US07704070B2 Heat transfer system for the combustion of a fuel heating of a process fluid and a process that uses same
A heat transfer system and use thereof. The heat transfer system provides for the combustion of a fuel and the use of heat energy released by the combustion to heat a process fluid and to preheat the fuel and oxidant prior to their combustion. The heat transfer system includes three tubes with a fuel introduction tube surrounded by an oxidant introduction tube that is surrounded by a process tube. A heat transfer system having the appropriate geometry may provide for the flameless combustion of the fuel. The heat transfer system may also be integrated into other systems such as heat exchangers and catalytic process systems.
US07704069B2 Injection molding apparatus having swiveling nozzles
Injection molding apparatus has upper and lower mold halves that split along the center line of the parison cavity and the gate opening leading thereto. Each hot melt injection nozzle is received within a tubular insert cup having a reduced diameter tip that is seated within the gate opening. The cup is mounted to the lower mold half so as to remain secured thereto as the upper mold half opens and closes the mold. The base end of each nozzle has a swivel ball and socket relationship with the manifold block which supplies it with hot melt, while the tip end of each injection nozzle has a swivel ball and socket type interface with the interior front end of the insert cup, thus providing for dimensional variations in the parts of the tooling that arise during non-uniform thermal expansion and contraction thereof.
US07704066B2 Heat insulating stamper structure
A heat insulating stamper is disclosed. The heat insulating stamper includes an uppermost section made of a metal material, a lowermost section made of the same material as the uppermost section, and a middle section having a heat conductivity lower than the uppermost section. The middle section includes the same metal material as the uppermost section and the lowermost section, and heat insulating portions.
US07704059B2 Compressor having a helmholtz type resonance chamber with a lowermost end connected to a gas passage
A compressor includes a first muffler chamber communicating with a first cylinder chamber, and a second muffler chamber communicating with a second cylinder chamber. The first muffler chamber and the second muffler chamber are communicated with each other by a gas passage. The gas passage is communicated with a Helmholtz type resonance chamber by a connecting passage. The connecting passage is connected to a lowermost end of the resonance chamber. Therefore, oil contained in the refrigerant gas, even if having entered into the resonance chamber, is discharged through the connecting passage located at the lowermost end of the resonance chamber to outside of the resonance chamber. Thus, since oil is not accumulated in the resonance chamber, the resonance chamber keeps generally constant in capacity at all times.
US07704058B2 Piston pump
A piston pump including a pump housing, a piston provided at the inner bore of the pump housing and assembled with an annular sealing member to form a pump chamber. The piston is configured to slide at an inner wall of the inner bore. The annular sealing member is assembled with the piston so as to slide at the inner wall of the inner bore in the axial direction together with the piston. And a first sliding range of the piston relative to the inner wall of the inner bore and a second sliding range of the annular sealing member relative to the inner wall of the inner bore do not overlap each other in the axial direction.
US07704050B2 Immersion pump equipped with a float control device
The present invention relates to a synchronous pump structure, particularly to an immersion pump (1) equipped with a float control device (3) and comprising a synchronous electric motor (2) with a permanent magnet rotor (8). The pump (1) is so structured that the float (16) of the control device (3) is incorporated in an envelope (11), externally associated with the body (15) of the pump (1). A sensor element (4) of the control device (3) housed in the pump body (15) in correspondence with the float (16) is also provided.
US07704046B1 Turbine blade with serpentine cooling circuit
A turbine blade with a 5-pass serpentine flow cooling circuit to provide cooling for the blade. A first leg of the serpentine circuit is formed along the leading edge region of the blade, while the last leg is formed along the trailing edge region. The serpentine flow circuit includes a first root turn and a second root turn and a cooling air collector cavity formed in the blade attachment region and between the two root turns. A first metering hole connects the first root turn with the collector cavity, and a second metering hole connects the second root turn with the collector cavity. A portion of the cooling air flow from the first root turn is diverted through the first metering hole and into the collector cavity. This diverted cooling air then flows through the second metering hole and into the second root turn to be rejoined with the cooling air than passed through the serpentine circuit in the mid-chord region. The recombined cooling air flow then passes up the last leg of the serpentine circuit and is discharged through a row of exit holes spaced along the trailing edge of the blade.
US07704045B1 Turbine blade with blade tip cooling notches
A turbine rotor blade for use in a gas turbine engine, the rotor blade including a squealer pocket on the blade tip to provide a seal between the blade tip and the outer shroud of the engine. A row of film cooling holes extend along the pressure side wall and the suction side wall of the blade near the tip and discharge film cooling air up and over the blade tip. Associated with each of the film cooling holes is a notch formed on the edge of the tip rail in which each notch is located above a film cooling hole and functions to collect and accelerate the cooling air discharged from the film cooling hole up and into the blade tip. The notches reduce the effective thickness of the blade tip in order to reduce the heat load, and increase the effective convection surface area for the cooling air flow. The notches also function to maintain the film layer of cooling air over the blade tip longer than in the prior art without the notches.
US07704039B1 BOAS with multiple trenched film cooling slots
A blade outer air seal for use in a gas turbine engine, the BOAS including a plurality of first diffusion and impingement cooling air cavities separated by stiffener ribs, each diffusion and impingement cavity being connected to a cooling air supply cavity through a first metering and impingement hole. Each diffusion and impingement cavity is connected to a plurality of trenched diffusion slots that open onto the surface of the BOAS and form a series of V-shaped slots. A plurality of second metering and impingement holes connect each slot to the respective first diffusion and impingement cavity. The trenched diffusion slots are angularly offset from a normal direction to the BOAS surface, and the second metering and impingement holes are offset at about 90 degrees from the slots so that both diffusion and impingement cooling occurs within the slots. The array of separated diffusion and impingement cavities and metering holes allow for the cooling flows and pressures to be regulated for each area of the BOAS.
US07704036B2 Drive source and transportation robot
The invention includes a base member attached to a casing. The inside of the casing can be a vacuum atmosphere. A partition wall is provided on the base member, the base member separating an air atmosphere and the vacuum atmosphere. A rotating member (a rotating portion of a driving source) is provided on the base member at a position different from the rotating member. An armature, which is a dust source, is provided on the air atmosphere side of the partition wall, thereby maintaining high cleanliness on the vacuum atmosphere side. Providing the partition wall and the rotating member at different positions eliminates the necessity of consideration on the rigidity of the partition wall for supporting the rotating member, thereby reducing the thickness of the partition wall. In addition, it is possible to reduce affection by deflection generated by the inertia or vibration caused by rotation of the rotating member, so that a distance between the armature and a magnet in the rotating member can be narrower than the related art. Accordingly, high accuracy in stopping positions can be realized.
US07704031B2 Substrate processing apparatus
When FOUPs (front opening unified pods) (80a, 80b) are mounted on shelves (111d, 121c), respectively, shelves (121a, 121b, 121c) are moved in the vertical direction by cylinders (127a, 127b, 127c), respectively. The FOUP (80b) is thereby moved above the FOUP (80a) to create a space (129), for ensuring a transport path (AR6) for the FOUP (80a). The FOUP 80a can therefore be transported to a shelf (141) without moving the FOUP (80b) to another shelf, achieving improved throughput of substrate processing.
US07704029B2 Arrangement for releasably holding a component in a fixed position on a shaft
The arrangement comprises parts coaxially mounted on the shaft, the parts including: a lockplate in rotational engagement with the shaft, the lockplate having a first side and a second side, the first side of the lockplate being in engagement with the component; a nut in threaded engagement with the shaft, the nut having a circumferential outer groove, a side of the nut being in pressing engagement with the second side of the lockplate; a damping element mounted in the groove and partially outwardly protruding therefrom; a lockwasher provided around the nut and in rotational engagement with the lockplate, the lockwasher having an interior surface in interfering engagement with the damping element; and a retaining element connected to the nut and to the lockwasher, the retaining element preventing the lockwasher from moving away from the lockplate.
US07704027B2 Anchor bolt and installing method thereof
It is an object of the present invention to make it possible to install an anchor bolt while securing the pull-out strength of the anchor bolt even when the anchor bolt installation position encounters a reinforcement in concrete. An anchor bolt according to the present invention includes a first anchor bolt 2 having an embedded portion shorter than a reinforcement covering margin, a second anchor bolt 7 having an axis at a position deflected from an axis of the first anchor bolt 2, and a coupling member 5 integrally fixing the first anchor bolt 2 and the second anchor bolt 7. Further, in an installing method of an anchor bolt according to the present invention, when a first anchor hole bored at the anchor bolt installation position encounters a reinforcement, a second anchor hole is bored at a position in a direction other than the arrangement direction of the encountered reinforcement, to thereby install the anchor bolt according to the present invention.
US07704023B2 Automatic deflashing RRIM
A cutting tool assembly is provided for removing flash portions and gates from a molded article. The cutting tool assembly includes a holder device including an upper plate, a cylindrical collar, and a bearing disposed between the upper plate and the cylindrical collar to allow movement of the cylindrical collar relative to the upper plate. The cutting tool assembly further includes a cutting member fixedly secured to the cylindrical collar wherein movement of the cylindrical collar relative to the upper plate provides the cutting member with degrees of rotational freedom to float relative to the molded article during trimming of the flash portions and gates.
US07704022B2 Motorized precision spindle apparatus
A motorized precision spindle apparatus (10) including an outer cartridge spindle (12) supported on a motor cartridge spindle (14) and a motor-driven outer cartridge spindle shaft (16) supported for rotation on bearings (22) disposed between the shaft (16) and an outer spindle shaft housing (20). A tool holder (26) releasably holds a tool in position for rotation with the shaft (16). A draw-bar (30) is supported through the shaft (16) and the motor cartridge spindle (14) for reciprocal axial motion, is connected to the tool holder (26), and is biased in an axial direction that causes the tool holder (26) to grip a tool (28). An actuator (32) is connected to the draw-bar (30) and moves the draw-bar (30) in a direction opposite the bias, thereby releasing any tool the holder may be holding. An isolation tube (36) is supported within the motor cartridge spindle (14), is connected to the shaft (16), and supports the shaft (16) against transmitting axial forces to the bearings (22).
US07704020B1 Core drilling machine
A drilling assembly for drilling holes in concrete structures. The assembly includes a base assembly defining a longitudinal axis and adapted to support at least two concrete structures, for example, on turntables positioned in spaced apart relation along the longitudinal axis. A drilling machine is movably mounted to the base assembly between the turntables for movement along the longitudinal axis, and includes a drill assembly having first and second drill bits each substantially aligned along the longitudinal axis and facing substantially opposite directions. In this manner, the drilling machine includes an in-line, dual drill bit assembly which allows the machine to move along a single horizontal axis for both drilling operations and for traversing between the turntables. Advantageously, the present assembly combines the traverse and drilling axes of the drilling machine into a single horizontal axis, thus eliminating the need to traverse the machine between a pair of turntables along a first horizontal axis and to perform drilling operations along a second horizontal axis.
US07704014B2 Process for removing contaminants from contaminated soil
The invention relates to a process for removing contaminants from contaminated soil with the aid of a stripping gas. In the process a biologically active layer is present in or on the soil. The process comprises the following steps: a) there is created in the soil a medium whose resistance is lower than the resistance of the surrounding soil, b) the stripping gas is injected in the soil at the depth of and/or beneath the contaminant, c) the contaminants are volatized with the stripping gas, whereupon the stripping gas with the contaminants largely flows to the biologically active layer via the medium whose resistance is lower than the surrounding soil.
US07704013B2 Prefabricated breakwater
The present invention relates to a breakwater, particularly, to a prefabricated breakwater which is assembled in a stepped manner, having the improvements in the construction workability and prevention of the marine pollution due to the permeability of ocean currents together with the original wave dissipation function for the protection of ships or all kinds of the establishments in the harbor. The prefabricated breakwater according to the present invention comprises a plurality of unit blocks, each of which has engaging grooves at the constant distance at the top and bottom thereof, the unit blocks being assembled to form a current passage; a dissipating blocks in a plate shape having a plurality of engaging grooves at the tap and bottom or sides thereof at the constant distance; the unit blocks and dissipating blocks being assembled in a crosswise and longitudinal directions to form an hexagonal block assembly; the dissipating blocks being assembled in a stepped manner so as to be higher in an open sea direction; and the hexagonal block assemblies being connected to form a breakwater.
US07704010B2 Security device for manhole access opening
A manhole security device for securing a manhole access opening includes a circular barrier adapted to rest on a manhole cover support flange of a manhole frame. Locking members on the barrier are movable between a locked position in which the locking members are adapted to engage the manhole frame and an unlocked position in which the locking members are not adapted to engage the manhole frame. A biasing mechanism on the barrier is adapted to bias each locking member to its locked position. A rotatable locking mechanism on the barrier engages the locking members and has a locking rotational position wherein the locking members are in the locked position and an unlocking rotational position wherein the locking members are in the unlocked position. The locking mechanism has a security lock adapted to receive a security key that applies a rotational torque to the locking mechanism. A latch on the barrier is adapted to releasably retain the locking mechanism in the unlocking rotational position without the security lock being engaged by the security key. A security tool for use with the security device is also disclosed.
US07704005B2 Ring mechanism having locking element operatively connected to lever
A ring mechanism for retaining loose-leaf pages comprises a housing and hinge plates supported by the housing for pivoting motion relative to the housing. Rings for retaining the loose-leaf pages comprise ring members mounted on the hinge plates for movement with the hinge plates between an open and closed position. An actuator mounted on the housing is moveable between a first position in which the ring members are open and a second position in which the ring members are closed. The actuator is in continuous engagement with the hinge plates when the ring members are closed resisting movement of the actuator. A travel bar is operatively connected to the actuator for movement with the actuator. The travel bar resists movement of the actuator when the ring members are open.
US07704004B2 Applicator
An applicator in which paint flow is facilitated utilizing a grip pump bias to a paint distributor such as a roller. The roller is configured within a head such that paint is appropriately distributed with limited leakage in order to allow easy operation for distributing paint upon a surface. The application is arranged to operate at elevated or displaced positions and allow greater paint flow control.
US07704003B2 Liquid applicator
This liquid applicator (10) provides a container (14) having a valve assembly (50). The valve assembly (50) includes a unitary closure (12) having a passage with a partition (28) dividing the passage into first and second portions (26) and (27) providing a valve opening. A plunger (16) provides a valve element which has an intermediate tapered portion (29) received within the partition (42) opening to provide flow of liquid from the container (14). A spring (20) overfits the plunger (16) and engages a retainer (22) at the end of the closure (12) and a nib (18) interfits the closure first passage (25) to engage the plunger (16) to provide longitudinal movement of the plunger (16) to open the valve assembly (50) to dispense liquid from the container (14) and into the nib (18) when pressure is applied to move the plunger (16) out of the valve opening. A second embodiment includes a comparatively thin wall of the closure (112) adjacent the second chamber (127) and closure (112) may include a flange portion (131) for more evenly distributing the retainer load to the closure wall (127) defining the second chamber (127).
US07704000B2 Printer dock with two position tray
A printer dock for use with a digital data terminal, has a housing having a paper inlet portal, a first tray receiver, and a second tray receiver. The first tray receiver adjoins the paper inlet portal. The second tray receiver is disposed in spaced relation to the paper inlet portal. A printer engine is disposed in the housing. The printer engine has a paper path extending from an entrance facing the paper inlet portal. A device interface is operatively connectable to the data terminal and the printer engine. A paper tray is alternately mountable in a use position and a storage position. The paper tray, in the use position, is located in the first tray receiver and is disposed in operative relation to the printer engine. The paper tray, in the storage position, is located within the second tray receiver.
US07703999B2 Sheet feeder, image-forming apparatus, and image-reading apparatus
A sheet feeder includes first and second rollers, a power source, and first and second drive units. The first and second rollers can be independently rotated to apply a feeding force to a sheet. The sheet feeder can switch the first drive unit to a meshing state and the second drive unit to an escape state so as to input a rotational driving force from the power source to the first drive unit and can also switch the first drive unit to the escape state and the second drive unit to the meshing state so as to input the rotational driving force from the power source to the second drive unit.
US07703998B2 Mounting assembly for printer
There is disclosed a mounting assembly for mounting and securely latching a printer and a label supply roll. The mounting assembly is almost entirely constructed of fabricated sheet metal by cutting and bending. The mounting assembly is well suited to mount the printer and a supply roll in any attitude for example on a table, or on a wall or overhead in a forklift truck.
US07703992B2 Single piece diplexer and triplexer housing
A single piece optoelectronic module housing is disclosed herein. The housing comprises a first receptacle configured to receive a first optical assembly, a second receptacle configured to receive a second optical assembly, and a third receptacle configured to receive an optical fiber. In some embodiments at least one angled surface configured to have a filter placed thereon is included. In other embodiments, two or more angled pocket receptacles configured to have one or more optical elements placed therein are included. Further embodiments include at least one compliant press fit feature implemented as part of one of the receptacles. The optoelectronic module housing is a single piece housing configured such that the receptacles and other components are integral parts of the single piece housing.
US07703987B2 Universal adapter
The invention relates to an adapter of the type where a coupling for glass fiber plug-in connectors is inserted from the front into a front plate and is locked by a spring. The inventive adapter comprises a one-piece or two-piece housing which comprises at least on one side a flange projecting from the cross-section of the housing against which the front plate rests, at least one plug-in connector recess which is disposed on the front end and/or rear end with respect to the front plate, and at least one form-fit detachable locking device for the plug-in connector. Every plug-in connector recess comprises an opening for alternately receiving at least two of three different plug-in connector types LX.5, LC and MU of and one respective locking device suitable for the respective type. The adapter can be configured as a simplex plug-in coupling for alternately receiving all three types, or as a duplex plug-in connector for alternately receiving the plug types LX.5 and LC. The inventive adapter further comprises a pin for actuating an opening flap of the plug type LX.5 on a displaceable element on a side wall of the adapter. The adapter can further be closed by a pivoted cap that is detachably mounted on the housing, and a catch spring, actuated from the front and disposed on the housing, that engages behind the front plate and releases the catch spring from the front plate.
US07703985B2 Bearing, a wind turbine and methods of manufacturing a bearing
The invention relates to a bearing for a wind turbine comprising bearing rings with raceways, and at least one row of bearing balls or rollers positioned between said raceways. At least one of said raceways comprises one or more indentation areas in relation to a standard shape of the raceways. The invention also relates to a wind turbine and methods for manufacturing a bearing.
US07703984B2 Rolling bearing
A rolling bearing comprises a roller, a roller shaft provided inwardly of the roller, and rolling elements provided between the roller and the roller shaft, the roller shaft having a nitrogen-rich layer and is configured such that its race surface, on which the rolling elements run, has not smaller than 11 in the JIS austenite grain size number and not smaller than HV653 in the Vickers hardness number, at both ends not greater than HV300, and at its core beneath a widthwise midpoint of the race surface not smaller than HV550.
US07703981B2 Linear guideway with a synchronous connector
A connector for a linear guideway is integrally formed by injection molding. The mold assembly of making the connector includes an upper mold, a lower mold and a pin. The variable cross section design of the pin enables the connector to have a plurality of ring-shaped portions with more than two different radial thicknesses, so that the distances between the respective rolling elements are different, and the frequencies of the respective rolling elements are also different, and as a result, the resonance sound pressure caused by the linear guideway and the machine are reduced. In addition, the variable cross section design of the pin reduces the manufacturing difficulty of making a relatively long connector.
US07703980B2 Resealable flexible packaging
A flexible envelope having a body initially scaled at one end in a zone designed to be opened, the body including at least two walls (26A, 26B) whereof the longitudinal edges are bound together along a longitudinal weld (14) extending over the height of the body, at least one of the walls (26A, 26B) extending outside the body beyond the longitudinal weld (14) to form a flap (36). The package has a weakened line (42) constituting an incipient tear formed on the flap (36) along the longitudinal weld (14), the weakened line (42) delimiting on the flap (36) a strip (43A) at least locally detachable from the package body and an adhesive (44) borne by a strip (43A), the adhesive (44) being designed to enable the strip to be subsequently bonded against the package outer surface.
US07703979B2 Radiation device for human body inspection
Disclosed is a radiation device for the human body inspection. The device includes a X-ray generator for radiating radiation; a detector for receiving the radiation radiated from the X-ray generator; a first flexible member connected with the X-ray generator for hoisting the X-ray generator; a second flexible member connected with the detector for hosing the detector; and a driving device for synchronically driving the X-ray generator and the detector through the first and second flexible members, and at the same time, the X-ray generator and the detector are spaced from each other a predetermined distance in a horizontal direction. The radiation device for the human body inspection according to the present invention can ensure that the radiation source and the detector can be operated synchronically during the whole inspection process; thereby the quality of radiation imaging is increased. Furthermore, the radiation device for the human body inspection according to the present invention is allowed to save cost and reduce noise.
US07703976B2 Sensor apparatus
A sensor apparatus including a plurality of sensors, and a measurement device. The plurality of sensors being divided into sensor groups with each sensor group having a number of sensors. The groups being arranged such that the sensor groups are electrically matched. The sensors in a sensor group coupled in parallel with each other to form a sensor ladder. A measurement device is arranged to compare electrical signals from each sensor group and to output an indication signal, wherein the measurement device is coupled to each sensor ladder at an intermediate position and in that the coupling position of each sensor ladder are electrically equivalent to one another. Also provided by the present invention is a method of monitoring a plurality of sensors.
US07703972B2 Back light unit
A back light unit is disclosed. The back light unit includes a laser light source having a superior system organization efficiency and color reproducibility, and achieves uniform illumination by diffusing laser beams onto a light guide panel.
US07703971B2 LED display
An LED display includes a substrate on which an LED device including an LED element is mounted. The display also includes a light exit surface through which light emitted from the LED device exits. The light exit surface is spaced from the LED device mounting surface of the substrate in the substrate's thickness direction. The LED device is provided at a position which does not overlap the position of the light exit surface in the in-plane direction of the substrate. The LED display further includes a reflection region for reflecting light traveling from the LED device between the light exit surface and the substrate toward the light exit surface.
US07703969B2 Backlight unit having multilayer light deflecting film
A backlight unit includes a light guide plate having opposite side surfaces and a peripheral edge surface. A part of the peripheral edge surface is a light entrance surface, and one of the opposite side surfaces is a light exit surface. A light source is disposed adjacent to the light entrance surface of the light guide plate. A light deflecting film is disposed adjacent and parallel to the light exit surface of the light guide plate. The light deflecting film has a multilayer construction wherein light reflecting layers and light transmitting layers are stacked one by one alternately. The light reflecting and transmitting layers are tilted at a predetermined angle to the light exit surface.
US07703963B2 Light guiding strip and double-sided planar light apparatus
A light guiding strip and a double-sided planar light apparatus are provided. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the double-sided planar light apparatus includes a plurality of light guiding strips, wherein the plurality of light guiding strips are positioned in a planar arrangement, each of the plurality of light guiding strips including a first plurality of light emitting surfaces disposed toward a first direction and a second plurality of light emitting surfaces disposed toward a second direction, each of the plurality of light guiding strips further including a first end and a second end configured to receive light, wherein the plurality of light guiding strips emit light from the first and second plurality of light emitting surfaces. Reflectors and light diffusion patterns on the light guiding strips provide control and independence over the two sides of the planar light apparatus.
US07703962B2 Lighting device for a vehicle with a reflector compatible with several models of lamp
A lighting device usable in a vehicle, the lighting device comprising at least a reflector and a lamp, wherein the reflector further includes an orifice. The lamp may be mounted in a lamp holder, the lamp holder being coupled to the reflector and positioned at least partly in the office. In addition, the orifice located within the reflector may be configured to work with a variety of lamp holders, including at least a discharge bulb lamp holder and a halogen bulb lamp holder.
US07703954B2 Vehicle lamp
A vehicle lamp includes a lamp body having a front opening, a transparent cover covering the front opening to form a lamp chamber, and a lamp unit, which forwardly irradiates light, disposed in the lamp chamber. The vehicle lamp includes an aiming device having an output shaft coupled to one of an upper surface and a lower surface of the lamp unit, and a fulcrum portion coupled to the other of the upper surface and the lower surface of the lamp unit. The output shaft is movable in a front-and-rear direction with respect to the lamp body, and is rotatable around an axis extending in a vertical direction. The fulcrum portion supports the lamp unit by a single fulcrum allowing the lamp unit to be tilted in the vertical direction and in a horizontal direction.
US07703939B2 Light fixture support assembly
In an embodiment of a light fixture support assembly for securing a light fixture to a fixed surface, the assembly includes a fixture-support member and a surface-attachment member. The fixture-support member has proximal and distal ends and also includes walls defining a compartment and further defining a first opening at the proximal end of the fixture-support member for communication with the surface-attachment member. The walls further define a second opening for communication with the light fixture. The fixture-support assembly also has a neck portion extending from the proximal end and the neck portion has a flange portion extending from it. The surface-attachment member includes a proximal end attached to the fixed surface and a distal end configured to engage the neck portion, whereby the fixture-support member is supported by the surface-attachment member when the neck portion is inserted into the fixture-support member.
US07703937B2 Hands free light emitting diode (LED) illumination device
A reading light ring including a battery powered LED as the source of illumination. The reading light ring is intended to be worn on the index finger and operated by means of a thumb operated switch located on the side of the ring. The light emitted by the LED is preferably blue to green in wavelength so as to improve visual acuity in low light environments while minimizing the impact on the human eye readjusting from lighted to dark conditions. The LED is positioned so as to direct most of its light at an angle which would allow the illumination of a document held in the device bearing hand and allow the LED to be shielded by the opposing hand. The device is preferably waterproof and shock resistant.
US07703936B2 Illumination device, light guide plate, surface light source device and illumination unit
An illumination device, surface light source device, and an illumination unit are provided that provide increased and uniform emission brightness. The device includes parallel fluorescent lamps between a reflection sheet and light flux control member. A back face of the light flux control member includes recesses and curved surfaces connected to locations corresponding to those of the fluorescent lamps. Each recess and curved surface includes light entering surfaces. An entering surface causes light coming to areas corresponding to the fluorescent lamps, included in the light reaching a light diffusing member, to diverge smoothly. Another light entering surface and convex curved surface causes light coming to areas, which do not correspond to the fluorescent lamps, adjacent to areas corresponding to the fluorescent lamps to have light intensity increased to that of the light coming to the areas corresponding to the fluorescent lamps.
US07703934B2 Power outage light socket device
A power outage socket device that may be installed on a variety of lamps or light fixtures. The bottom of the device has a male connector adapted to be inserted into the light socket on the lamp or light fixture, in place of the light bulb. A female socket adapted to receive the light bulb is located on the top of the device. The male connector may be recessed. When power is interrupted, emergency power is provided to one or more emergency light sources on the device to provide light. Emergency power is provided by one or more batteries, which may be rechargeable. The device also may include means for connecting a lamp harp, or for allowing a lamp harp to pass through the device. A photoelectric light sensor may be used to detect ambient light and control whether emergency light is provided when normal power is interrupted.
US07703930B2 Positioning interfaces for projection display devices
Described herein are devices that provide projection-type video output in a portable and flexible design. The design includes a projection chamber, a base, and an interface that permits relative positioning between the projection chamber and base. The base maintains the position of the display device. The projection chamber includes components responsible for the production of images based on received video data and components responsible for the projection of those images. Relative pointing between the projection chamber and base allows the projection chamber to be pointed—and an output projected image to be positioned—with minimal effort.
US07703924B2 Systems and methods for displaying three-dimensional images
Systems and methods for displaying three-dimensional (3D) images are described. In particular, the systems can include a display block made from a transparent material with optical elements three-dimensional disposed therein. Each optical element becomes luminous when illuminated by a light ray. The systems can also include a computing device configured to generate two-dimensional (2D) images formatted to create 3D images when projected on the display block, by a video projector coupled to the computing device. The video projector is configured to project the 2D images on the block to create the 3D images by causing a set of the passive optical elements to become luminous. Various other systems and methods are described for displaying 3D images.
US07703922B2 Relaxed confocal catadioptric scanning laser ophthalmoscope
A number of additional embodiments and optical constructions of a relaxed confocal catadioptric scanning laser ophthalmoscope (SLO) are disclosed. They improve the functionality of microperimetry (MP), and the integration of the existing instrument with the capabilities of high speed Fourier domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT/SS-OCT). The improvements pertain to enhanced acousto-optic modulation with regard to rise-time and combination of wavelengths, enhanced control of illuminating beam characteristics and separation of illuminating and returned light within the SLO, enhanced electronic control and options for the galvanometer and polygon scanners, additional use of liquid crystal spatial light modulation, and the modalities under which Fourier domain OCT can be integrated within the SLO.
US07703921B2 Method and device for tracking eye movements
A method and a device for tracking eye movements that ensure a reliable tracking of eye movements with simple operation. To this end, irradiation ensues through the pupil from outside the eye. Light emitted from the pupil is used to determine the position of the eye.
US07703915B2 Lens blank, and a method and a mold for fabricating it
A lens blank having a base prefitted with an insert and peripheral ejector marks on the base provided outside an outermost portion of the insert. The ejector marks are carried by a tab of the base having extra thickness on the same side as the insert, and a recess in its other side, the recess forming an element for centering the spacer of an adjacent blank, which is superposed thereon.
US07703913B2 Eyeglasses
The present invention is related to a pair of eyeglasses, comprising at least a lens, at least a pair of temples, at least a pair of engaging elements, and at least a connecting element. The lens includes at least a pair of engaging elements disposed on the left and right opposite sides of the lens, and the engaging elements include a C type engaging portion. The pair of temples include at least a connecting element disposed at one end of the temples to be pivotally connected to the engaging elements of the lens, and the connecting element includes at least a connecting pillar and is at least partially suspended. Wherein when the connecting element and the engaging elements are pivotally connected to each other, the connecting pillar of the connecting element is disposed in the C type engaging portion for the pivotal connection of the lens and the temples to be completed in a simple and fast way.
US07703906B2 Solid ink stick fabrication by fiber extrusion
A method of manufacturing an ink stick for use in a phase change ink jet imaging device includes heating phase change ink material to an extrusion temperature at which the phase change ink material is in a malleable state. The ink is then extruded through an extrusion orifice to form at least one extruded ink filament having at least one cross-sectional dimension transverse to the extrusion direction that is less than approximately 12 mm. The at least one ink filament is then accumulated.
US07703905B2 Method for treating inkjet liquid, recording apparatus using the same, liquid storage tank, liquid absorber for liquid storage and liquid treatment apparatus
The present invention relates to a method for treating liquids used in inkjet recording including, providing a first printing liquid and a second printing liquid that is capable of reacting with the first printing liquid to cause coagulation and thickening if mixed with the first printing liquid, and exposing the first and second printing liquids to each other to form a mixture, wherein when the mixture includes a coagulation-thickening preventing agent which prevents the reaction of the printing liquids.
US07703899B2 Ink-jet head
An ink-jet head has a flexible tube, a passage component, a tubular joint protruding from a surface of the passage component and fitted into the tube, and a cap covering a portion of the tube fitted with the joint. A hole is formed on the surface of the passage component. The cap includes a tubular portion having such an inside diameter as to allow the tube to pass therethrough, a protrusion protruding inward from an inner surface of the tubular portion, and an extending portion extending toward the hole from an end of the tubular portion confronting the surface of the passage component. An end of the protrusion is positioned between an inside diameter position and an outside diameter position of the portion of the tube fitted with the joint. A hook engageable with a peripheral edge of the hole is formed at the extending portion.
US07703893B2 Inkjet system, method of making this system, and use of said system
An inkjet system including a printhead with an ink-fillable chamber operatively connected to a piezoelectric actuator and provided with a nozzle for the ejection of ink drops in response to the energization of the actuator, which actuator is connected to a measuring circuit for measuring an electrical signal generated by the actuator in response to the deformation thereof, wherein the system is configured such that a natural frequency of said system corresponds substantially to a natural frequency of a disturbance in the system.
US07703890B2 Printhead with backflow resistant nozzle chambers
A printhead that has an array of ink ejection nozzles, an array of chambers adapted to store ink for ejection through each of the nozzles respectively, a plurality of ink inlet channels for feeding ink the array of chambers, and a plurality of actuators, one of the actuators being positioned in each of the chambers respectively for ejecting drops of ink through the nozzle. A plurality elongate ink feed channels is connected to the ink inlet channels. Each of the ink inlet channels is long and narrow relative to the dimensions of the chamber such that ink in said chamber is restricted from flowing out during ink drop ejection by viscous drag generated by the ink inlet channel. This enhances the droplet ejection efficiency as less of the pressure pulse generated by the actuator is lost to ink back flow.
US07703887B2 Head unit, droplet ejection apparatus, method of manufacturing panel from base, image display apparatus and electronic apparatus
A head unit includes first to fourth droplet ejection heads. The first and second droplet ejection heads are arranged along a first direction parallel to nozzle arrays so that the nozzles constitute a first consecutive long nozzle array when viewed from a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Also, the nozzles of the third and fourth droplet ejection heads constitute a second consecutive long nozzle array. In the first to fourth droplet ejection heads the nozzle arrays are arranged side by side in the second direction and the first nozzle array is shifted with a half pitch in the first direction with respect to the second nozzle array when viewed from the second direction. The nozzles of the first and second droplet ejection heads are arranged so as not to overlap with the nozzles of the third and fourth droplet ejection heads when viewed from the second direction.
US07703884B2 Printhead assembly with support permitting fastening of PCB external thereto
A printhead assembly comprises an elongate support structure; a series of side wall sections extending a length of the support structure and defining ink supply channels, edges of the walls delineating a gap; a plurality of carriers positioned end-to-end in the gap and supported by said edges of the walls, the carriers defining a recess and ink supply passages in fluid communication with the recess and the ink supply channels; and a printhead integrated circuit mounted in each recess to receive ink from the ink supply channels. The elongate support structure is configured to permit a printed circuit board (PCB) to be fastened to an outside of the support structure so that the PCB can be connected to the printhead integrated circuits.
US07703883B2 Ink jet recording apparatus
An ink jet recording apparatus includes a carriage for mounting therein a recording head which executes a recording operation by discharging ink onto a recording material, a conveying roller for conveying a recording material, and a cap for covering a discharge port of the recording head. In addition, a pump generates a negative pressure in an interior of the cap, a lock member, adapted to be rotated in synchronism with the rotation of the conveying roller, locks movement of the carriage, and a drive transmission mechanism transmits a driving power of the conveying roller to the pump. The drive transmitting mechanism is equipped with a delay mechanism for delaying transmission of the driving power to the pump until the conveying roller has been rotated by an amount corresponding to an amount of rotation of the lock member for shifting the carriage from a locked state to an unlocked state.
US07703881B2 Print head cleaning member
A print head cleaning member allowing simplification of the structure and downsizing is obtained. This print head cleaning member comprises a spent ink cartridge and a cleaning component including a mounting portion of resin for mounting the cleaning component on the ink cartridge and a cleaning portion. The ink cartridge is used as a guide portion for bringing the cleaning component into contact with the print head.
US07703879B2 Ink jet recording apparatus
An ink jet recording apparatus is structured to perform discharges in the capping status when preliminary discharges are performed in a shot number larger than a predetermined number, and perform discharges in a cap or a preparatory port other than the cap when the preliminary discharges are performed in a shot number less than the predetermined number. With the structure thus arranged, it is made possible to implement the suppression of the mist generation due to the preliminary discharges, and to make the time of recording on a recording medium shorter as well.
US07703878B2 Liquid discharging apparatus and method for detecting malfunctioning nozzles on the basis of image data
To shorten time for an abnormal discharge test and time for cleaning; and to reduce the amount of drain ink used at the time of the abnormal discharge test and the cleaning. A liquid drop discharging apparatus comprising: a plurality of nozzles that discharge liquid drops; a sensor that detects a malfunctioning nozzle at which abnormal discharge occurs when the liquid drop is supposed to be discharged therefrom; and a controller that determines whether the liquid drop is discharged or not from each of the nozzles on the basis of image data, the controller causing the sensor to detect the malfunctioning nozzle among the nozzles that are determined to discharge the liquid drops on the basis of the image data.
US07703873B2 Method and apparatus for image registration
A method of registering an image onto a sheet of media on an imaging surface of a printer having a printhead for imaging onto the sheet, comprising: detecting a position of said sheet of media being advanced onto the imaging surface using a first sensor positioned along said media path upstream of the printhead; and firing the printhead at a time based on the detected position and a calibrated distance between the sensor and the printhead.
US07703871B2 Liquid ejecting device and method of controlling liquid ejecting device
A liquid ejecting device includes a head unit group in which head units are arranged in a second direction perpendicular to a first direction in which a head unit having a nozzle group formed by aligning nozzles that eject liquids and a landing target relatively move with each other. The liquids are ejected based on ejection serial data that represents ejection or non-ejection of each of the nozzles, and the nozzle group includes a preliminary nozzle corresponding to an area outside a regulated landing area of the landing target. The liquid ejecting device further includes a meandering correction pattern forming unit that forms a meandering correction pattern along the first direction in a margin outside the regulated landing area of the landing target and a meandering correction pattern detecting unit that detects the meandering correction pattern formed in the landing target by the meandering correction pattern forming unit.
US07703867B2 Liquid container with liquid detecting unit
A liquid container detachably mounted on a liquid consuming device, the liquid container includes: a liquid containing portion; a liquid supply portion that is connected to the liquid consuming device; a liquid guide path that guides a liquid stored in the liquid containing portion to the liquid supply portion; an air communicating opening that introduces air from the outside into the liquid containing portion according to consumption of the liquid in the liquid containing portion; and a liquid detecting unit that is provided in the middle of the liquid guide path and detects an inflow of the air into the liquid guide path so as to detect that the liquid of the liquid containing portion is exhausted to a predetermined amount, wherein, a dam portion is provided in the liquid guide path such that its upper end is disposed above in a vertical direction a circumferential upper portion of a liquid inflow opening causing the liquid to flow into the liquid detecting unit.
US07703864B2 Folded and glued display container having integral shelf elements erected by displacement of support panel
A rectilinear folded and glued container with tiered shelves has multiple shelf panels cut out of a front panel with which the shelf panels, and main container front, side and back panels are integrally connected. The container has an internally placed shelf-raising panel that is attached to the shelf panels as part of a fold and glue processing technique that produces a knocked down flat container to be erected. The shelf raising panel preferably is an integral panel that is separate from the main container panels so as to be relatively movable, and is affixed to the shelf panels. Displacing or translating the shelf-raising panel during erection of the container from its knocked-down-flat configuration articulates the shelves into position. The shelf raising panel can be captured between top and bottom ends of the erected container, thus fixing the erected container and articulated shelves in a rigid shape.
US07703862B2 Brake hydraulic pressure control device
In a brake hydraulic pressure control device for a vehicle, a plurality of electromagnetic valves are mounted on a first surface of a housing, while an electric motor for driving pumps built in the housing are mounted on a second surface of the housing opposite to the first surface. A cover member for covering the electromagnetic valves is attached to the first surface, and a main ECU for controlling the electromagnetic valves and the electric motor is arranged in a space defined by the cover member and the first surface. One or more spaces are formed between the electric motor and the second surface to receive a plurality of pressure sensors for detecting hydraulic pressures at various parts in a hydraulic brake device of the vehicle.
US07703855B1 Vehicle seat assembly
A vehicle seat includes a seat frame with at least one attachment point, a foam pad overlying the seat frame with at least one attachment opening and a flexible seat trim cover. The flexible seat trim cover overlies a front surface of the foam pad. The seat trim cover has at least one attachment member extending through the attachment opening. The attachment member is secured to the attachment point of the seat frame to hold the seat trim cover against the front surface of the foam pad.
US07703850B1 Retrofit height adjustable seat
A retrofit height adjustable seat for a chair having a support frame includes a base for connection to the support frame, a seat movably connected to the base by a displacement mechanism, a bracket connected to the base and an elastic member removably connected to the bracket and for interconnecting the seat to the support frame, thereby positionably securing the seat to the support frame. A collapsing seat back with pivoting arms is also provided.
US07703849B2 Vertebral column support apparatus and method
The methods and apparatus taught herein provide an elongated spine support member integrated into or attached to a chair for providing improved back support. According to one embodiment of a chair, the chair comprises a seat, back and elongated spine support member. The back includes inner and outer sections. The inner section is spaced inwardly from opposite sides of the back and extends generally vertically through a substantial portion of the height of the back. The outer section extends along opposite sides of the inner section. The elongated spine support member is generally vertically extending and forms a part of the inner section of the back. The elongated spine support member is configured to engage and support at least two of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar regions of the vertebral column of a person seated in the chair.
US07703841B2 Vehicle body assembly
A vehicle body assembly having a set of castings. Each member of the set of castings interlocks with another member of the set of castings to create a vehicle body structure.
US07703838B2 Clutch mechanism for power device
A clutch mechanism of the present power device comprises a fixed gear member, a moving gear member engaged with the fixed gear member when moving to a clutch connecting position, an armature for moving the moving gear member to the clutch connecting position when rotated relatively to the moving gear member, an electromagnetic coil unit for applying a brake resistance to the armature, and a clutch holding surface for abutting against the moving gear member when the electromagnetic coil unit is turned off in the clutch connecting state and for holding the moving gear member at a brake-clutch connecting position. The abutment of the moving gear member against the clutch holding surface is released by rotating the moving gear member relatively to the armature in a state in which the electromagnetic coil unit is operated.
US07703836B2 Window assembly for school bus
A window module for a school bus includes a frame, a fixed window panel affixed to a portion of the frame, a perimeter panel secured to another portion of the frame and defining an opening at the other portion of the frame, and a movable window panel. The movable window panel is slidably positioned at the frame and movable along channel members and interiorly of the fixed window panel when opened and interiorly of and generally at the perimeter panel when at least partially closed. The exterior surfaces of the fixed window panel and of the perimeter panel may form a generally flush surface at an exterior of the school bus when the window assembly is installed at the school bus.
US07703834B1 Modular bumper system
A modular reconfigurable bumper system for an off road vehicle includes a center base mountable to the front of the vehicle. The center base has ends, a top face, and a front face. A pair of first mounting locations having associated mounting holes are located on the front face of the center base adjacent its ends and a pair of second mounting locations having associated mounting holes are located on the top face adjacent the ends of the center base. A pair of third mounting locations are located on the ends of the center base. A plurality of optional accessories including end plates, end extenders, an overrider, a prerunner, a stinger, and D-rings are selectively mountable to the center base, all via the first, second, and third mounting locations. The system also includes a rear bumper assembly mountable to the back of the vehicle and having a hinged spare tire carrier and D-rings selectively attachable to the rear bumper via common fourth mounting locations.
US07703832B2 Breakaway visor
A breakaway visor for use in a vehicle includes a visor body and a molded tubular member having a first end and a second end wherein the first end is rotatably supported with respect to the roof of a vehicle via a visor mounting bracket. The visor arm also includes an elbow portion arranged a predetermined distance from the first end of the molded tubular member. The visor arm also includes a metal tubular insert member arranged within the molded tubular member. The metal tubular insert member will have a first end within the molded tubular member and arranged a predetermined distance from the first end of the molded tubular member. This first end of the metal tubular insert member will define the break point for the breakaway visor.
US07703831B2 Windshield unit for saddle-ride type vehicle
A pressure difference rearward of a windshield is efficiently corrected in a windshield unit for a saddle-ride type vehicle provided with two types of air ducts for directing the air flow from the front of the vehicle to the upside of the vehicle and to the rear of the windshield. A windshield unit includes an air duct for allowing an air introduction port opening toward the front of the vehicle to communicate with an air blowout port opening toward the upside of the vehicle and a second air duct for allowing a second air introduction port opening toward the front of the vehicle to communicate with a second air blowout port disposed rearward of the air duct to open toward the rear of the vehicle. The second air blowout port is disposed within the left-right width of the air blowout port of the air duct.
US07703827B2 Motor vehicle hatch with a storable rear window
The invention relates to a motor vehicle (1) having a hatchback (h1) that is movable in at least one position of a rear window (H4), wherein the rear window (H4) can be separately moved from its closed position in the areas (H2, H3) surrounding the hatchback (H1) and opposite thereto into a release position, wherein the rear window (H4) can be stored in an area in the vehicle body (6) that is spaced from the hatchback (H1).
US07703823B2 Wafer holding mechanism
A wafer holding mechanism for holding a wafer of the type used in the manufacture of semiconductor devices is herein described. The mechanism has a first plate having a number of offsets that define at least one lip that extends radially inward of the offsets. A second plate is positioned adjacent the first plate and generally between the first plate and the lip such that one or more fingers coupled to the second plate oppose the lip that depends from the first plate. When the second plate is moved to a closed position, the at least one lip and the one or more fingers cooperatively grasp an edge of a wafer therebetween. The wafer holding mechanism is coupled to a drive that rotates the wafer before an imaging mechanism for capturing images of the wafer as it rotates.
US07703821B2 Ergonomic shroud for medical gas cylinders
The present invention provides a handle or shroud for carrying or manipulating portable gas cylinders and gas cylinder valves for the administration of medical gases, such as oxygen. The shroud of the present invention provides improved safety and versatility to the handling process of such cylinders and valves. In one embodiment, the handle or shroud allows an individual to lift the cylinder, valve and shroud from about 26″ off the ground or floor with the wrist turned up.
US07703820B2 Bumper reinforcing cross-member
The invention relates to a bumper cross-member including an elongated body having a three-dimensional configuration formed from several metal sheet elements joined together by welding and shaped. The three-dimensional configuration has a non-uniform open transversal section along the body. The method includes joining several metal sheet elements together by welding in order to produce a flat tailored blank and shaping the tailored blank to produce the body. Shaping is carried out by hot or cold stamping. The several metal sheet elements can be joined either mutually adjacent or overlaid by different welding techniques, they can be of different of identical thicknesses and of the same type or different types of steel.
US07703818B2 Vehicle door latch striker
A striker assembly for use with a vehicle door latch is disclosed. The striker assembly may include a U-shaped strap that mounts to vehicle body structure, and a striker pin that is mounted to the strap. The striker pin may include a neck that is peened to form a head and neck that fills a countersunk pocket in a pin support arm of the strap. The strap may also have a base plate that mounts to vehicle structure and includes one or more water drain channels and a coined edge to better control water drainage and intrusion.
US07703816B2 Vehicle door checker having a water management dam
A vehicle door checker is provided that includes a housing attachable to a vehicle door, an arm having a first portion attachable to the vehicle, and wherein a second portion of the arm moves through the housing when the door is moved. The door checker also includes at least one slider held within the housing that is in sliding contact with the second portion of the arm inside of the housing. At least one biasing member is held within the housing, the biasing member biasing the slider against the second portion of the arm. A water management dam provides a barrier in the housing such that water is prevented from accumulating within the housing and freezing, wherein such freezing would cause damage to the housing and/or prevent the biasing member and slider from moving.
US07703813B1 Electrical connector with snap fit retaining ring with improved holding and grounding tangs
A snap fit electrical connector assembly and a snap fit retainer ring circumscribing the smooth outlet end portion of a connector body wherein the retainer ring is formed from an elongated blank of spring steel material having a leading edge and a trailing edge wherein a holding tab is formed out of the plane of the blank and is cantileverly bent inwardly when formed into a ring. The holding tab is providing with an inwardly bent lip at the free end thereof arranged to be snap fitted in a corresponding slot formed in the outlet end portion of the connector body for securing the retainer ring and the outlet portion of a connector body. The retainer ring is also formed with a series of longitudinally combined locking and grounding tangs which are cantileverly bent radially outwardly of the ring for securing and electrically grounding the connector assembly to an electrical box.
US07703812B2 Quick coupling
The invention relates to a quick coupling comprising a base plate and a support plate, with the mounting frame being guided movably at the base plate and having means for connection to the support plate. In accordance with the invention, the support plate is moved toward the base plate by means of the mounting frame to close the coupling.
US07703807B2 Seat belt retractor
A seat belt retractor for a safety belt including a seat belt spindle for winding up and unwinding the safety belt and a tensioning drive. The seat belt spindle includes a gas generator, a drive wheel and a supply pipe which connects the gas generator and the drive wheel. A plurality of thrust members are present in the supply pipe which, after triggering the gas generator, are accelerated and indirectly or directly drive the drive wheel for winding up the safety belt. An inertia coupling is arranged between the drive wheel and the seat belt spindle. The inertia coupling comprises coupling elements which, during an acceleration of the drive wheel, pivot outward and are directly or indirectly coupled to the seat belt spindle.
US07703804B2 Telescopically adjustable steering column assembly including an adjustment stop having minimal effect on impact loads
A steering column assembly includes a column jacket adjustable along a longitudinal axis and collapsible along the longitudinal axis in response to a collision event. A compression bracket is mounted to the column jacket and defines a telescope slot having an adjustment portion and a continuation portion. A shaft extends through the telescope slot with the column jacket and the compression bracket moveable relative to the shaft during adjustment and collapse of the steering column assembly. A stop is detachably coupled to the compression bracket and partially covers the telescope slot to prevent movement of the shaft into the continuation portion during adjustment. The stop detaches during collapse to permit the shaft into the continuation portion. A lever rotates with the shaft and includes a tab for engaging the stop when the lever is in an unlocked position to prevent detachment of the stop during adjustment.
US07703803B2 Safety net
A safety restraint system for a vehicle includes a safety net stored in a wall mounted cartridge wherein a guiding bar, securable in a locking mechanism, steers the safety net away from the wall and provides a secured space around a bunk. The safety net is secured adjacent to the bunk using a locking bar. The safety net may be provided with one or several safety belts at least partly attached to the safety net.
US07703802B2 Air bag and folding method therefor
The present invention relates to an air bag that has a gas-introducing hole and is folded and housed in a container and that includes a pair of first zigzag folded portions, the first zigzag folded portions being formed by respectively folding both side portions and collecting them at a center in a lateral direction; and a second zigzag folded portion that is formed by folding zigzag the first zigzag folded portions in a direction that intersects with a folding direction of the first zigzag folded portions.
US07703795B2 Transformable cart and seating apparatus
A device that serves multiple purposes by being transformable between various states. In one state, the device operates as a cart such as is typical for transporting items to the beach for fishing or sunbathing. In another state, the device operates as a chair with a back to provide seating for a user. Finally, the device can also be adjusted to a storage state which decreases its size for easy storage. The device can be adjusted between the various states without having to use tools or without having to worry about storing, securing or keeping track of a bunch of lose parts. The device is particular well suited for fishing and can include fishing pole holders, a shade panel and cup holders.
US07703790B2 Anti-jackknifing tractor trailer system
An anti-jackknifing system is provided for tractor trailers. The anti-jackknifing system includes pressure vessels mounted to the tractor for extending and retracting pins. The pins are positioned adjacent to the trailer kingpin so as to extend or retract into slots formed in plates mounted to the apron of the trailer. A controller is provided for automatically extending or retracting the pins based upon speed measurements made by a speed sensor such as the tractor's speedometer or separate GPS sensor. The controller connects to the speed sensor and pressure vessels and causes the pins to project into the race plate slots in the event that the vehicle exceeds a predetermined speed threshold and causes the pins to retract from the race plate slots in the event the vehicle has reduced its speed below a predetermined threshold.
US07703785B2 Bicycle derailleur system
A bicycle derailer assembly that is mounted concentrically with an axle of a rear wheel assembly. The derailer is constructed to be mounted to the bicycle such that the derailer is pivotable about a common axis with the rear wheel and such that the rear wheel can be removed from the bicycle without interfering with the connection of the derailer to the bicycle. The derailer system provides a derailer that is robust and reduces interference of the derailer with the performance of bicycle maintenance.
US07703784B2 Vehicle structure
A vehicle side panel step structure includes a step, a mounting structure and a sub-side body panel. The mounting structure movably couples the step to the structural support for movement of the step between a retracted step position and an extended step position relative to a structural support of the vehicle. In the extended step position the step is approximately horizontally oriented relative to a main side body panel of the vehicle. A sub-side body panel is coupled to the mounting structure to move between a fascia mating position when the step is in the retracted step position and a non-fascia mating position when the step is in the extended step position. The sub-side body panel includes a contoured edge configured such that in the retracted step position the contoured edge of the sub-side body panel and a contoured edge of the main side body panel at least partially define the wheel well.
US07703783B2 Suspension arm having a shaft projecting therefrom and method for press fitting the shaft into a bore of another member
A suspension arm includes a shaft having a free end extending from an end of the suspension arm and a base end embedded within the said end of the suspension arm, and this shaft is configured to be press fitted into a tubular member of a compliance bush assembly. An opening is formed in the said end of the suspension arm that allows an anvil (41) to be inserted therein to engage the base end of the shaft so that the force of a press fitting process is prevented from affecting the remaining part of the suspension arm. Thus, the press fitting process can be facilitated because very little effort is required to place the suspension arm ready for a press fitting process, and the fixture for holding the suspension arm during a press fitting process can be simplified.
US07703779B2 Spindle cooling device
A spindle with cooling fins is disclosed. The spindle has raised cooling fins on an outside exterior surface. The fins create cooling channels which direct air upward when the vehicle is in motion. The redirected air passes over and around the brake and hub assemblies. This effectively dissipates heat from the brake and hub assemblies and will help to prevent overheating and premature failure of the parts.
US07703777B2 Portable cart with an air compressor and electrical generator
A portable contractor cart for use on construction sites that have not yet been hard wired includes a frame having front and rear wheels and arranged on the upper deck side of the frame from front to back are a 50 foot electric cord reel and a 50 foot compressed air line, an air compressor, an electrical generator, a refrigerated cooler and a weatherproof radio/cd player. A handle is mounted to the rear of the frame and a pivotable foot brake is interconnected to the rear axle for locking and unlocking the rear wheels, and the cart can be motorized wherein a motor and pulley arrangement would be mounted to the underside of the frame. Snaps are spaced about the periphery of the frame for attaching a covering thereto thereby protecting the cart when it is left outside on the job site. A welder generator for a TIG or MIG welder can also be mounted on the frame in place of the air compressor, and a trailer hitch can extend from the front of the frame for towing the cart from site to site.
US07703776B1 Shopping cart and hand truck and golf bag cart and garden cart
Tall, lightweight folding shopping cart (FIG. 1) provides high-level detachable basket (44U) for easy basket transfers down to checkout counter, car trunk and home counter or table. Basket-support ledges (43U and 43L) on cart enable transfer of basket weight by sliding leverage rather than by lifting. Additional container (44L) increases cart capacity and flexibility in use. With baskets removed, cart serves as an all-purpose vehicle, ready to carry a strapped-on golf bag, luggage (FIG. 6), garden materials, furniture and other household burdens. Its lightweight folding character encourages new uses where carts have rarely gone before. On a family camping trip, for example, it can carry a folded tent to the campsite, and later deliver an ice chest of drinks and a food basket to the beach. Wheels (36L and 36R) are mounted for quick detachment to increase the storage compactness of an unloaded cart.
US07703773B2 Seal ring and method
A seal ring 10 for sealing between first and second members 12, 14 each having an outer groove surface 16, 126 and inner groove surface 18, 127 includes a metal seal body 26, 42, 52, 60, 70, 80, 92, 110, 122, 140 for engagement with the outer groove surface on the first and second members, and a metal flexible flange 30, 32, 44, 46, 54, 56, 62, 64, 76, 78, 88, 90, 94, 96, 112, 114, 128, 144, 146 with a cantilevered end of a flexible flange providing substantially line contact sealing engagement with the inner groove surface on respective first and second member. The metal flexible flange is configured for being fluid pressure energized, and is deformed beyond its elastic limit when securing members secure the first member to the second member.
US07703772B2 Prize dispensing mechanism and game device
A pusher-type prize dispensing device in which each of two support plates on which a bonus prize is placed is pivotally supported on one end on an axis of which the axial direction coincides with the horizontal and depth direction, and is locked almost horizontally by allowing the other end to be suspended on a locking member. A suspended string is tied to a bent upper portion, and the other end of the support plate is suspended on the top surface of a lower portion, whereby the locking member locks the support plate. When a weight member falls from a stationary table, the locking member moves rotationally due to the fall of the weight member so that the upper portion moves downward, whereby the support plate falls downward, causing the prize P placed on the top surface of the support plate to fall toward a prize receiving port.
US07703764B2 Inverting document feeding device with flap portion
A document feeding device includes a document placing tray, a document ejection tray disposed above the document placing tray, a feeding path, a first reversal path, a second reversal path, and a reversing mechanism. The document ejection tray has a flap portion capable of rocking up and down to provide a first ejection mode and a second ejection mode. The reversing mechanism is configured to temporarily eject part of a document to the document ejection tray.
US07703750B2 Storage apparatus
A storage apparatus is disclosed. The storage apparatus comprises a mounting mechanism, a hoist system and a storage member. The hoist system, which is attached to the mounting mechanism, comprises at least one pulley. A hoist wire is disposed within each of the at least one pulleys. A hoist wire mount receives a first end of each of the hoist wires and also includes a power source. Finally, the storage member is affixed to a second end of each of the hoist wires.
US07703749B2 Integrated air compressor and winch
An integrated air compressor and winch is provided that utilizes a source of rotary motive power for driving both a winch drum and compressor mechanism. The integrated air compressor and winch is preferably provided with a gear case that is operable to provide an appropriate gear reduction for driving the winch drum while providing an appropriate drive speed for operating the compressor.
US07703743B2 Valve drive device, its control method and pump
A valve drive device may include a motor, a rotational member rotated by the motor, a linearly moving member engaged with the rotary member, a converting mechanism for converting rotation of the rotational member into linear movement of the linearly moving member, a diaphragm valve for opening or closing an opening part by linearly moving member, and an urging member for closing the opening part through the diaphragm valve. The linearly moving member is linearly moved by the rotational member and the opening part is closed by the diaphragm valve in a state that the rotational member and the linearly moving member are in a non-engagement state. The valve drive device may be mounted on a pump having an inflow path and a plurality of outflow paths.
US07703742B2 Electroactive polymer devices for controlling fluid flow
The invention describes devices for controlling fluid flow, such as valves. The devices may include one or more electroactive polymer transducers with an electroactive polymer that deflects in response to an application of an electric field. The electroactive polymer may be in contact with a fluid where the deflection of the electroactive polymer may be used to change a characteristic of the fluid. Some of the characteristic of the fluid that may be changed include but are not limited to 1) a flow rate, 2) a flow direction, 3) a flow vorticity, 4) a flow momentum, 5) a flow mixing rate, 6) a flow turbulence rate, 7) a flow energy, 8) a flow thermodynamic property. The electroactive polymer may be a portion of a surface of a structure that is immersed in an external fluid flow, such as the surface of an airplane wing or the electroactive polymer may be a portion of a surface of a structure used in an internal flow, such as a bounding surface of a fluid conduit.
US07703738B2 System and method for assembling a structure
Certain exemplary embodiments can comprise a system comprising a first bracket, which can be adapted to be coupled to a first pole. The first bracket can comprise a collar defining a cavity, which can be adapted to receive the first pole. The system can comprise a second bracket, which can be adapted to be coupled to a second pole. The second bracket can comprise a collar defining a cavity, which can be adapted to receive the second pole. The second bracket can be adapted to be rotateably coupled to the first bracket via a hinge. The second bracket can be adapted to be releaseably coupled to the first bracket via a substantially non-destructively removable fastener.
US07703735B2 Hanger system
A hanger system includes a first part and a second part, which is connected to the first part in different directions. The first part has a first body and a round first hanger and a first housing connected to the first body. The first housing has a first polygonal tapered recess. The second part has a second body with a round second hook, a polygonal tapered end piece, which can be inserted into the first polygonal tapered recess in a desired direction so as to meet different needs in practical use.
US07703734B2 Slide mounting bracket structure
A slide mounting bracket structure includes a main bracket, an auxiliary bracket, a first engaging member, a second engaging member, an actuating element, a linking member and an elastic element. The main bracket is provided with the actuating element and the linking member at its inner side, and the auxiliary bracket is provided with the first engaging member and the second engaging member at its outer side. The actuating element corresponds to the first engaging member. The linking member has a part penetrating the main bracket, and has a support stand corresponding to the second engaging member, which further drags the auxiliary bracket to engage in sliding, and brings a second folded plate to depart from a first folded plate.
US07703726B2 Height-adjustable furnishing system
A height-adjustable furnishing system includes a base component, a plurality of legs, a height adjustment mechanism, and a platform component. The base has a planar bottom surface and a top surface with a plurality of attachment points for pivotally attaching two, three or four legs. The height-adjustment mechanism is adjustably attached between the base component and at least one of the plurality of legs, or between a forward leg and a rear leg. A platform component is pivotally attached to the plurality of legs to form a parallelogram linkage when viewed from the side. The height-adjustment mechanism may include a gas spring, a cam clamp, a travel block, a release lever, a cable release, a release trigger and may also be hand- or foot-operated. The entire system folds to a generally planar configuration for storage. The legs are erect when they are approximately 10 degrees from vertical.
US07703725B2 Adjustable tripod stand
An adjustable tripod stand having independently adjustable legs that includes an upright tube member for supporting an object, such as a drum, at its upper end. Independently movable collar members slidably mounted on the upright member and longitudinally adjustable relative to and past one another and to an upright portion for selective positioning thereon. A releasable fastener on the collars secures them to the upright member at selected positions. Three movable leg members are connected at their upper ends, two to one of the collar members and one to the other collar member. Movement of the collar members permits the stand to be erected in limited or confined areas. The stand preferably includes a leg extender member slidably mounted on the exterior one of the leg members, which is movable a selected distance permitting the stand to be positioned on different levels, such as stairs.
US07703724B2 Device for reducing repetitive injury with improved multi-axis mounting
A device for operating a computer mouse has improved multi-axes mounting to the arm of a desk chair. The device comprises a platform with a holding area for the computer mouse. The platform should be sufficiently sized for a computer operator's forearm to rest thereon. The improved mounting for this device includes a rod from which at least two brackets are connected. One bracket rotatably connects to this rod and the other bracket slidably connects to same. Preferably, a braking mechanism prevents the platform from being rotated too far about the chair arm and dumping all holding area contents.
US07703721B2 Regolith container for use with a structure on an extraterrestrial mass
A regolith container for use with regolith on an extraterrestrial mass is disclosed. The filled container covers a portion of a spacecraft to provide the spacecraft with a measure of protection against space debris and radiation. The container can be compartmentalized to reduce the loss of regolith should from the container if a single compartment is penetrated.
US07703720B2 Method and apparatus for parachute reefing control
An apparatus for controlling the drag area growth of a parachute canopy during airborne descent with sensors attached to the payload for facilitating modification of the schedule of release of a parachute canopy reefing mechanism. A control processor is included that can receive and/or calculate a schedule for disengaging the reefing on the parachute. One or more wireless transmitters at the payload transmit the releasing signal from the payload to the reefing mechanism normally located adjacent the parachute canopy. The control processor can also be configured to receive input information from multiple sensors attached to the payload that monitor parameters such as altitude, position, load force, dynamic pressure, time and others to facilitate instantaneous recalculation of the disreefing schedule responsive to such conditions.
US07703719B1 Scope adjustment method and apparatus
A rifle scope system allows adjustment of the scope while a shooter maintains the shooting posture and the scope sight picture. The scope system comprises an adjustment system comprising an electromechanical mechanism that responds to a signal from a remote controller manipulated by the shooter without having to significantly disturb the shooting posture. The adjustment system allows the shooter to adjust the scope's point of aim to coincide with a bullet's point of impact at a target. Such adjustment can be performed either by the shooter. Alternatively, such adjustment could be performed by a processor configured to adjust the point of aim based on a ballistic parameter associated with the bullet or the shooting environment. The adjustment system allows such processor-determined adjustments to be effected in a quick manner.
US07703717B2 Transport vehicle magnetically induced wheel rotation
A transport vehicle wheel assembly comprising a set of rotating components and a set of static components wherein an applied electrical current applied to conductive material incorporated into at least one components structural matrix of one set of components gives rise to primary magnetic fields which interact with reactive magnetic fields associated with material incorporated into at least one components structural matrix of another set of components and gives rise to rotational forces which act on the rotating components of said transport vehicle wheel assembly to induce controlled forward rotation of a wheel and having regenerative braking and reverse drive ability thus allowing controlled retardation assistance.
US07703715B2 Transfer tool
A transfer tool of the present invention comprises a pair of cases, and a hinge which connects the cases such that they can relatively move between a use position and an open position, wherein an outer edge of one of the first and second cases is provided outward of the hinge, a portion of the one case located outward of the hinge and an outer edge of a portion in the vicinity of the portion of the one case located outward of the hinge as a hinge corresponding portion are continuous with an outer edge of another portion of the one case, and a hinge corresponding portion of the other case is provided with an retraction space which can receive the hinge corresponding portion of the one case.
US07703713B2 Adjustable blades for wood chippers and method
Adjustable blades for wood chippers and cutters include one or more blades of selected length, thickness and width, fitted with one or more bevelled blade seats in the rear blade edge, which blade seats, in a first embodiment, receive corresponding bevelled inserts having threaded openings fitted with an insert mount screw and a pair of adjusting screws. The mount screws serve to seat the inserts firmly in the blade seats and reverse-manipulation of the adjusting screws in the inserts provides adjustment of the fit of the adjustable blades in a cutting or chipping head, to compensate for re-sharpening of the blades. A method for adjusting the fit of wood cutter and chipper blades in a cutting or chipping head, which includes the steps of providing one or more bevelled insert seats in the rear edge of the blades opposite the cutting edge; placing a correspondingly-shaped bevelled insert in the insert seat or seats; threading an insert mount screw and a pair of adjusting screws through the insert; tightening the insert mount screw against the blade in the insert seat or seats and reverse-manipulating the adjusting screws to extend the adjusting screws from the insert to fit the blades in a chipping or cutting head. In a second embodiment heated babitt metal is poured into a mold receiving the adjustable blades and fills the bevelled blade seat or seats. The liquified babitt metal flows rearwardly of the blade in the mold to solidify and define a babitt extension of selected width that compensates for metal lost in the blade-sharpening operation.
US07703706B2 Variable arc nozzle
A variable arc sprinkler nozzle is provided for distribution of water through nearly any adjustable arcuate span. The nozzle includes one or more arcuate slots formed by the helical engagement of spiral surfaces of a deflector and a nozzle body. A user may rotate a portion of the nozzle body to select the arcuate span of the one or more slots. A matched precipitation rate feature is adjustable to proportion the amount of water directed to the deflector depending on the extent of the arcuate span. Further, edge fins on the deflector and nozzle body channel water flow at the two edges of the distribution arc to increase the throw radius and to provide fairly uniform water distribution at the edges of the arc.
US07703704B2 Spray gun
In a spray gun for spraying paint and similar media, there is provided a gun housing and a reservoir tank removably attached to the gun housing for holding the medium to be sprayed. The reservoir tank is configured as a commercially available storage container, for example in the form of a paint can, and is directly attached via an adapter to a projection connected to the gun housing. Thus, commercially available storage containers, differing considerably in their dimensions, can be directly fitted onto the gun housing in a short time and by a reliable method. Viscosity settings and transferring of media to be processed from one container to another are therefore not necessary, and the medium can be matched to the particular working implement and application.
US07703702B2 Pneumatically operated device having check valve vent and method for making same
A pneumatically operated device. The pneumatically operated device comprises a movable member disposed within a housing. The movable member is operable to control operation of the device. Pressurized air is directed to a first side of the movable member to drive the movable member in a first direction to operate the device. The pneumatically operated device comprises a check valve disposed through an opening in the housing to enable air to vent from a second side of the movable member. The check valve may comprise a flexible cover extending over the opening and biased against the housing to form a seal.
US07703700B2 Rotary atomizing-head type coating machine
A rotary atomizing-head type coating machine, wherein a paint passage for flowing a paint to a rotary atomizing-head, a turbine air passage flowing a turbine air to the turbine of an air motor, a discharge air passage for flowing the turbine air after driving the turbine to the outside in the form of a discharge air, and a heat insulating air discharge passage of a heat insulated air passage axially extending while surrounding the discharge air passage and allowing hot heat insulated air to flow therein are formed in the bottom part of a housing body forming a housing. Thus, even if the turbine air expanded in a heat insulated state and reduced in temperature flows in the discharge air passage, the housing can be prevented from being cooled by the discharge air by flowing a heat insulated air with a temperature higher than that of the discharge air in the heat insulated air discharge passage.
US07703697B2 Liquid discharge apparatus and method for aligning needle-like substances
A liquid discharge apparatus for aligning needle-like structures. The apparatus includes a tapered nozzle having an entrance and a discharge opening. The nozzle is tapered in such a manner that its diameter decreases towards the discharge opening. The diameter of the nozzle at the entrance is larger than the length of the needle-like structures, and the diameter of the discharge opening is larger than the diameter of the needle-like structures and smaller than the length of the needle-like structures. By passing through the nozzle, the needle-like structures are aligned.
US07703691B2 Multiple device and/or user association
Methods and devices are provided for automating a login process and user/device associations. A user's preferred device settings and/or functions may be provisioned automatically. Some implementations provide an automated log out or “sleep” when a user leaves one or more of the devices. Users may be automatically identified and associated. The “presence” of members of a user group may be determined as required for one or more actions to be taken. Some user groups control devices according to which members of a group may have access to certain functions, information, etc., and which may not.
US07703689B2 Support system for recycling glass material
A support system for recycling a glass material to which an electronic tag is attached, having a storing device for storing information about plural types of glass materials corresponding to plural glass material identification data that are stored in electronic tags attached to glass materials, a reading device for reading a glass material identification data from an electronic tag that is attached to a discarded glass material, a determining device for determining a particular type of the discarded glass material based on the glass material identification data read by the reading device by referring to information about the types of glass materials stored in the storing device, and a displaying device for displaying the type of the discarded glass material.
US07703688B2 Method of communication between a smart card and a host station
A card-like portable article having a microcontroller comprises a memory that contains a set of instructions allowing the microcontroller to communicate in accordance with a first communication protocol. The card-like portable article further comprises an interface for converting commands in accordance with the first communication protocol into commands in accordance with a second communication protocol and vice versa. Preferably, the first communication protocol is in conformity with the ISO 7816-3 standard and the second communication protocol is in conformity with the USB standard.
US07703678B2 Electronic monetary instrument employing an electronic-ink layer for visually displaying the monetary value thereof in a particular currency
An electronic monetary instrument including an addressable display assembly including a layer of electronic ink including a bi-stable non-volatile imaging material. The electronic monetary instrument includes an integrated circuit structure having a storage element for storing a unique encrypted serial number uniquely identifying the electronic monetary instrument and other information representing its monetary value in a particular currency, as well as for storing instructions, programs and data. The integrated circuit structure also includes a programmed processor in communication with storage element. A signal receiving structure receives electromagnetic signals from an activation module, using the antenna structure. The monetary instrument displays graphical indicia representing at least the monetary value of the electronic monetary instrument in a particular currency.
US07703676B2 Encrypting the output of a card reader in a card authentication system
Systems and methods for encrypting the output of a card reader in a card authentication system are provided. In one embodiment, the invention relates to a method for reading a data card having an intrinsic magnetic characteristic and recorded data on the data card using a read head including a magnetic sensor having a housing, an analog to digital converter located within the housing and a processor located within the housing, the method including generating an analog signal indicative of the intrinsic magnetic characteristic and the recorded data of the data card, converting the analog signal into a digital signal, generating a magnetic fingerprint based on the intrinsic magnetic characteristic from the digital signal, extracting the recorded data from the digital signal, encrypting at least a portion of the recorded data, storing the magnetic fingerprint and the recorded data, and outputting the encrypted at least the portion of the recorded data.
US07703675B2 System for performing computer-based operations
A system for performing computer-based operations is disclosed. The system includes a printer for printing visible information and coded data tags on a surface substantially simultaneously. Each coded data tag encodes a region identifier for uniquely identifying a description of a region on the surface, and a position in the region. The description associates at least one instruction with one or more positions in the region. The system further includes a sensor for sensing at least one coded data tag and for generating a signal indicative of the sensed coded data tag. A computer system receives the signal, determines the region identifier and the position, relates the position to the at least one instruction using the description, and executes the at least one instruction.
US07703671B2 Monitoring device and security system
The present invention provides for an integrated global biological activity detection, traffic tracking and scheduling, and boundary/border security system. Detection apparatuses of the system are preferably placed in a stream of currency such as in financial institutions and other sites of currency exchange, and are also placed in or about transportation vehicles and linked into a data collection, analysis, and graphical information system to provide early warning for security activities. Detection apparatuses located in and about transportation vehicles are combined with a system for routing vehicles into security corridors and with a system of notification, scheduling, and monitoring to enhance the capacity of authorities to insure security and efficient trade movement particularly as it approaches boundaries and borders.
US07703668B2 Compact protocol and solution for substantially offline messaging between portable consumer device and base device
A method for providing messaging between a portable device and base device is provided. The method included communicating one or more message codes maintained in the portable device to the base device. The base device then composes a message for a user of the portable device using a dictionary of message codes. The message codes have corresponding message values, which are used to generate the message for the one or more message codes. The generated message is then provided to the user.
US07703667B2 Management and application of entitlements
A method and system for managing and applying entitlements is described herein. An identity integration server centrally manages data associated with entitlements for a plurality of identities. The integration server may select one of a plurality of workflows. One or more of a plurality of entitlements to be used in the workflow are selected, and a set of identities for which the workflow is applicable is selected. A determination is made as to whether the workflow should be run on the identities. If so, then the workflow is initiated. The one or more entitlements are then added to a granted entitlements list. Then, a separate process may be initiated to apply the one or more entitlements to the one or more identities.
US07703664B2 Paperboard container having curvilinear portion
The present invention relates to composite paperboard containers and methods for making the same. Specifically, the present invention includes a curvilinear container comprising a tubular body formed convolutely or via spiral winding from a single paperboard ply or multiple plies as commonly known in the art. The tubular body includes opposing ends that can be sealed by paperboard, metallic, plastic, or membrane-type end closures so as to preserve the consumable products typically enclosed by the container. The curvilinear container includes a tubular body having a curvilinear portion wherein the diameter of the tubular body varies along the length of the curvilinear portion. A plurality of radially projecting ribs are distributed about the circumference of the curvilinear portion as collection areas for excess tube wall material and thereby accommodate reduction of the tube wall diameter within the curvilinear portion.
US07703662B2 Conductive ball mounting apparatus and conductive ball mounting method
In a conductive ball mounting apparatus for mounting one conductive ball on each of a plurality of pads which are provided on a substrate and on which an adhesive is formed, the conductive ball mounting apparatus includes: a conductive ball container for containing a plurality of conductive balls therein and having an opening to pass through the plurality of conductive balls; a substrate holder disposed over the conductive ball container to face the opening, and holding the substrate in such a manner that the plurality of conductive balls and the plurality of pads face each other and the substrate is disposed over the conductive ball container with a space therebetween; and a conductive ball supplying unit for supplying the plurality of conductive balls to the plurality of pads via the opening by moving up the plurality of conductive balls.
US07703661B2 Method and process for reducing undercooling in a lead-free tin-rich solder alloy
Briefly, a novel material process is disclosed wherein one or more nucleation modifiers are added, in trace amounts, to a lead-free tin-rich solder alloy to produce a solder composition with reduced or suppressed undercooling temperature characteristics. The modifier being a substance which facilitates the reduction of extreme anisotropic properties associated with body-centered-tetragonal tin based lead-free solder. The addition of the nucleation modifiers to the solder alloy does not materially effect the solder composition's melting point. As such, balls of solder with the nucleated composition freeze while other solder balls within the array remain in the melt. This effectively enables one substrate to be pinned to another substrate by one or more predetermined solder balls to secure the package while the remaining solder joints are in the liquid state.
US07703660B2 Method and system for weld bead sequencing to reduce distortion and stress
In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method and system of determining the weld bead sequence on a mechanical component is disclosed. In one specific embodiment, the sequence is determined by numerical analysis of a plurality of weld bead sequences to determine the weld bead sequence. Then, after this sequence is determined, a weld overlay is placed onto the mechanical component using the sequence. In particular embodiments, a weld bead sequence is applied to a boiler tube panel wherein the sequence begins at the crown of the tube, progresses down the walls of the tube to the tube and membrane interface, and concludes on the membrane. The new bead sequence reduces residual and distortional stresses as created by applying a weld overlay.
US07703658B2 Apparatus and method for semiconductor wafer bumping via injection molded solder
An improved apparatus for filling patterned mold cavities formed on a surface of a mold structure with solder includes an injector head assembly comprising a solder reservoir having a bottom surface with an elongated slot for injecting solder into the mold cavities and a carriage assembly configured to carry and scan the mold structure under the injector head assembly. The mold structure is brought into contact with the solder reservoir bottom surface and a seal is formed between an area of the solder reservoir bottom surface surrounding the elongated slot and the mold structure surface and then the mold structure is scanned under the injector head assembly in a first direction from a starting position to a finish position for filling the mold cavities and in a second direction opposite to the first direction for returning back from the finish position to the starting position.
US07703656B2 Friction stir welding tool and friction stir welding apparatus
An object of the present invention is to provide a friction stir welding tool which enables friction stir welding of a wide range of materials, from low-melting temperature metallic materials including aluminum to high-melting temperature metallic materials including steel.An entire friction stir welding tool or a tool tip including a pin is made of Mo alloy having a dual phase microstructure of Mo and intermetallic compound Mo5SiB2. It is desirable that the Mo alloy be composed of 6.0 to 10.0 mol % of Si, 10.0 to 20.0 mol % of B, and 20 to 60% of Mo-phase volume content. This Mo alloy tool has excellent high-temperature strength and wear-resistance properties and hardly deform and wear when used for the welding of steel.
US07703654B2 Counter-rotating spindle for friction stir welding
A counter-rotating spindle includes a shoulder tool, a pin tool inserted in the shoulder tool, a first motor that is connected with the pin tool and rotates the pin tool, and a second motor that is connected with the shoulder tool and rotates the shoulder tool. The direction and the speed of the rotation for the pin tool may be selected independently from the speed and direction of rotation of the shoulder tool enabling optimization of the friction stir welding process. Counter-rotating the pin tool and the shoulder tool may improve the mixing abilities and efficiency of the pin tool and may prevent the galling effect between the pin tool and the shoulder tool. The counter-rotating spindle may be used, for example, for continuous path friction stir welding and spot welding of aluminum and its alloys, including cast alloys, as well as joining similar and dissimilar alloys.
US07703652B2 Paper tool construction
A paper tool includes a base having a front end and a rear end and a drive arm pivotally coupled to the base about a first pivot axis. The drive arm includes a front portion proximate the front end of the base and a rear portion proximate the rear end of the base. The stapler also includes a handle pivotally coupled to the base and a drive member supported by the handle rearwardly of the first pivot axis such that, when the handle pivots relative to the base, the drive member engages the rear portion of the drive arm to pivot the drive arm about the first pivot axis.
US07703651B2 Driving tool
A striking cylinder 6 is disposed within a body 1. A main air chamber 7 for reserving compressed air therein is disposed at an outside of the striking cylinder 6. A cylinder cap 8 for covering the striking cylinder 6 and the main air chamber 7 is fixed at an upper portion of the body 1. A lower portion of a cylindrical head valve 13, which opens and closes the main air chamber 7 and the striking cylinder 6 and is configured in a manner that upper and lower external diameters thereof are the same, is disposed at an outside of the striking cylinder 6. A cylindrical inner wall 10 and a cylindrical outer wall 11 are integrally formed at a lower surface of the cylinder cap 8. A piston stop 12 for defining a top dead center of a striking piston 5 is provided at an inside of the cylindrical inner wall 10. The head valve 13 is slidably provided between the cylindrical inner wall 10 and the cylindrical outer wall 11.
US07703649B2 Collations for fasteners of various lengths
In one aspect of the invention a collation comprises a plurality of sleeves for supporting and carrying a plurality of fasteners through a magazine, wherein each of the plurality of sleeves have a front and a predetermined length of between about ¼ and about 0.4 inch, each of the plurality of fasteners have a predetermined length of between about ¾ inch and about 1½ inch and a tip located at a predetermined position from about 0.05 inch behind the sleeve front to about ¼ inch beyond the sleeve front, frangible bridges integrally connecting the plurality of sleeves together in a serial array and facilitating the separation of a leading one of the plurality of sleeves from remaining ones of the plurality of serially arranged sleeves when a drive member of the fastener driving tool drives a leading one of the fasteners disposed within the leading one of the sleeves, and a plurality of protrusions from the sleeves for engaging the rails in the magazine. In another aspect, a system of collations comprises a plurality of first collations each having a plurality of sleeves each having a front, the sleeves holding first fasteners having a tip located at a predetermined position relative to the sleeve front, and a plurality of second collations each having a plurality of second sleeves each having a front, the second sleeves holding second fasteners having a different length than the first fasteners and a tip located at the same predetermined position relative to the front of the second sleeves.
US07703643B2 Device for pumping viscous materials, without dripping and method of the same
Device for pumping viscous materials, particularly sealant and grease, without dripping and method of the same are characterized by storing a predetermined portion of the driving energy in form of an angular and/or linear displacement of a torsional spring. This very portion of the stored energy will be released at the end of the operation when the operator let go the trigger, whereby the released energy will drive the final transmission and the end part of the final transmission to move backwards for a predetermined amount of displacement. This backwards movement of the end part of the final transmission causes the volume of viscous material to expand suddenly; this expansion of the volume of viscous material compensates the compression of the viscous material from the dispensing process, which will also draw back the viscous material on its way outward for to work and for to drip.
US07703636B2 Frozen food dispensing device and method
A device and method are provided for dispensing a quantity of food to be cooked. The device includes a freezer, a storage container located in the freezer, means located in the freezer for dispensing a predetermined quantity of food from the storage container into a secondary container, and means for dispensing the quantity of food from the secondary container to a location outside the freezer. The means for dispensing a predetermined quantity of food may be, for example, a magazine with dual spiral flights for dispensing food items one at a time, or a vibratory conveyor cooperating with a device for determining a quantity of food in the secondary conveyor and means for terminating the dispensing when a predetermined quantity of food is sensed. The secondary container may have an opening in its bottom and be movable laterally to align its opening with an opening in the freezer.
US07703635B2 Memorabilia container
A memorabilia container includes a receptacle for the memorabilia. The receptacle has opposite, upstanding side walls and an upstanding rear wall joining the side walls. The side walls and the rear wall have respective upper edges. A side lid is hingedly connected to each side wall. The side lid hinges are attached to the side walls such that the side walls do not open beyond a predetermined angle. Each side lid has an interior surface, an exterior surface, and an outer edge. The side lids close together with their outer edges abutting. A rear lid is hingedly connected to the rear wall. The rear wall hinge is attached to the rear wall such that the rear wall does not open beyond a predetermined angle. The rear lid has an interior surface and an exterior surface. The rear lid closes first, and the side lids close together over the rear lid. Photograph retainers are mounted on interior surfaces of the side lids and the rear lid.
US07703634B2 Air valve for a cap provided with mouthpiece for drinking
An air valve for the cap of a liquid container comprising an annular membrane. The cap has at least one air passage opening. A holding element having an encircling groove that is open toward the inside of the cap is fixed to the inside of the cap. This holding element has at least one air inlet opening connected to the air passage opening of the cap and which leads into the groove. A ring can be placed or is placed inside the groove. Also provided is a mouthpiece for drinking from a liquid container, which is made, in essence, of elastic material and placed on a cap provided with the inventive air valve.
US07703631B2 Container
The present invention is directed toward a novel container system that is designed to hold and store liquids, such as for example, paints, stains, and various other coatings. The container system generally includes a base member, a shelf that is contained within the base member, and a lid. The shelf is provided with the base member and is designed to accept an application device, such as for example a paint roller. A lid is also provided with the container so that a fluid may be provided and stored as part of an all-inclusive delivery system.
US07703625B2 Container lid formed as a laminate having a built-in opening feature, container incorporating same, and method for making same
A lid for a container having a built-in opening feature comprises a flexible laminate comprising an upper layer and a lower layer, a pair of radially spaced concentric lines of weakness being formed in the upper and lower layers, respectively, wherein the upper and lower layers in an annular region between the lines of weakness are readily peeled apart, and wherein the upper and lower layers outside the annular region are laminated together with an adhesive providing a bond with a greater peel strength than that required to separate the layers in the annular region. An integral tab is formed in the upper layer by a U-shaped cut line. A distal end of the tab opposite from the two ends of the cut line is within an adhesive-free region of the laminate. The ends of the cut line are in an adhesively laminated area of the laminate.
US07703623B2 Lid Device
A lid device driving an opening operation of a lid body by an urging member such as a coil spring and capable of opening the lid body securely. Of a guide portion for guiding an engaging end of the urging member of the lid device, a first guide portion for guiding the engaging end in moving the lid body from a closed position to an open position is provided with an initial guide portion and a later guide portion so that the urging member releases a large urging force when the engaging end is guided by the initial guide portion.
US07703621B2 Moisture retention seal
Provided is a moisture retention seal for use with a package. The moisture retention seal includes an opened-ended canister having a plurality of canister sealing surfaces. Snap-fitted with spatial interference to the canister at its opened-end, is a moisture retention closure having a plurality of closure sealing surfaces. Each canister sealing surface cooperates with a corresponding one of the closure sealing surfaces to form a plurality of partial seals. At least one of the partial seals includes a micro-bead surface comprising one or more small, inwardly directed, narrowly spaced-apart, micro-bead elements. The package that includes a moisture retention seal of the present invention employs only molded parts and does not require gaskets or secondary seals.
US07703619B2 Package with peel-off closure
The invention relates to a package suitable for containing a perishable product, comprising a first shell element provided with an upright circumferential edge and a central portion for accommodating said perishable product, as well as a closure element provided with a circumferential edge which closure element is placed with its circumferential edge on the upright circumferential edge of said first shell element in an adhering and closing manner and wherein said closure element is provided at its circumferential edge with a protruding lip, which lip does not adhere to the circumferential edge of said first shell element, for the purpose of peeling off said closure element from said first element. Near said lip the two circumferential edges are provided with a closed channel being in communication with said central portion, and wherein at least one of said circumferential edges is provided with a fracture line extending substantially perpendicularly to said channel.
US07703616B2 Telescopable sliding beam
The present disclosure relates to a telescopable sliding beam comprising a sliding beam box and at least one first and one second sliding beam, which are telescopable into each other, the first sliding beam being mounted in the sliding beam box such that it can be telescoped out, where at first the first sliding beam can be telescoped out, and after the same has telescoped out to a desired point, the second sliding beam can be telescoped out, whereas during backward retraction, the second sliding beam can first be retracted to a desired point and subsequently the first sliding beam can be retracted.
US07703607B2 Carton with removable portion
There is provided a carton having a top panel, side panels and base panels. The carton has a removable portion, defined by lines of weakening, which removable portion when removed exposes a single top area which shows at least part of the tops of all of the articles held in the carton. In preferred arrangements, a single top area of the panel remains at one of the ends of the carton.
US07703606B2 Partially heat shrinkable cover for decorating a flower pot
The present invention relates to methods for providing decorative covers, decorative collars and decorative cover-collar combinations for covering a flower pot. The decorative covers and/or collars are formed from a variety of configurations of heat shrinkable sheet of material placed over all or a portion of a peripheral surface of the flower pot and then heated to shrink the sheet of material into a pressing engagement against the outer peripheral surface of the flower pot.
US07703605B2 Router bit case
A router bit case that includes a bottom half that having a plurality of router bit-shaped recesses with a substantially flat bottom surface that includes a sloped portion and a deepened cavity. The router bit case also includes a top half having a plurality of recesses formed therein, a plurality of hinges and a closing device.
US07703603B1 Expandable software packaging
A software box or package with reduced original dimensions may be configured to be manipulated to form a box with at least one dimension that is longer than the original dimensions. For example, the box may be manipulated to form an expanded box with a longer height, depth, and/or width than the un-expanded box. In some embodiments, one or more sides of the box may be unfolded and/or one or more internal boxes may be unfolded or pulled out of the un-expanded box to form the expanded box. The expanded box may be used to store documents, back-up software copies, instructions, etc. The expanded box may have a height and width approximately the same as a file folder and may be stored in a filing cabinet. Such software boxes may include boxes for tax software, real estate software, résumés, etc.
US07703601B2 Hybrid mesh belt
A hybrid mesh belt having a mesh portion with side edges attached to modular plastic chains. The chains are provided with cavities on the bottom side. The cavities are suitable for engaging with driving sprockets that engage with the chains.
US07703600B1 Transport belt with link carcass
The present invention provides a transport or conveyor belt structure, particularly for use in heavy duty environments such as mining, aggregate and ore handling and other industrial conditions, where the belt preferably comprises a carcass that is made from identical cross-shaped interengaging metal links embedded within the body of the belt so as to provide both strength and flexibility. A method of making such a belt comprising building up layers of belt material and links is also described as are unique structures for joining and splicing belt ends or sections.
US07703599B2 Method and apparatus for reversing direction of an article
A method of reversing direction of an article is disclosed by engaging an article with a first belt to move the article in a first direction; disengaging the article from the first belt; and then engaging the article with a second belt to move the article in a second direction. An apparatus to reverse direction of an article is also disclosed by a first belt rotating in a first direction; a second belt rotating in a second direction; the first belt engaging an article at a first time while the second belt is disengaged with the article, the first belt disengaging the article at a second time, and the second belt engaging the article at a third time while the first belt is disengaged with the article.
US07703596B1 System and method for case orienting
A case positioner system for orienting a case from an upended position to a corrected position has a frame, a conveyor translatably arranged relative to said frame, a bottom projection positioned below said conveyor, an abutment member interconnected to said frame and positioned above said conveyor, and a translator connected to the bottom projection. The bottom projection is movable between an upward position and a downward position. The abutment member is movable between an upper position and a lower position. The translator moves the bottom projection upstream on said conveyor when said abutment member is in said lower position.
US07703595B2 Method and device for transporting multiple items
A method and device are provided for transporting items, in particular postal consignments. A transport process is performed from an intermediate store to a continuation point. Each item that was conveyed to the intermediate store before generation of a start signal is removed from the intermediate store. The items transported are transferred from the intermediate store into a transport device. A record is stored of which items were conveyed to the intermediate store between generation of the start signal and generation of an end signal. The items transported in the transport device are removed from the transport device. For each item that was transported, a data record that has been stored for the item is determined. The stored data record is determined exclusively from the data records generated for those items that were conveyed to the intermediate store between generation of the start signal and generation of the end signal.
US07703592B2 Bill accetor with improved face panel
A bill acceptor includes a main body attached with a bill box at the back side, a transmission mechanism for carrying a bill or license into a passage in the main body for examination by a recognition unit inside the main body and returning the rejected bill or examined license and carrying the examined bill to the bill box, and a face panel, which is fastened to the front side of the main body and has an insertion slot for the insertion of a bill/license into the passage and a finger guide portion disposed at one lateral side of the insertion slot for the insertion of a finger to bias a jammed license out of the insertion slot.
US07703590B2 Torque converter with turbine one-way clutch
The present invention broadly comprises a torque converter including a turbine and a one-way clutch rotationally connected to said turbine and an output hub for said converter. The one-way clutch rotationally disconnects the hub and the turbine when the hub receives torque from an input transmission shaft. In some aspects, the one-way clutch is a ratchet clutch. The converter can include a torque converter clutch to lock a cover and the turbine. In some aspects, the converter includes a torque converter clutch to connect a cover, the one-way clutch, and the hub and the torque converter clutch transmits torque from the hub to the cover to start a drive unit connected to the cover. The converter can include a damper element rotationally connected to the torque converter clutch and the turbine, one-way clutch, or hub. The one-way clutch is rated to operate under multiplied drive unit torque.
US07703588B2 Wheel assembly of luggage
The present invention relates a wheel assembly of a luggage, which has two wheels side by side and the control assembly. The control assembly has a switch device for manipulation to brake the wheels. The control assembly has a fixed position to be manipulative by user easily. The wheels have small widths that makes the luggage may run on a carpet without having to draw the luggage with great strength.
US07703584B2 Divided disk brake arrangement
A divided disk brake arrangement has a braking disk (13) with braking surfaces (11), and a disk holder (12), which is connected in a torsion-proof manner to the braking disk (13) and secured by a screw connection. The disk holder (12) and the braking disk (13) are mounted so that they can move relative to each other in the radial direction to compensate for different thermal expansions. At least one conical surface (18; 21) is provided in the region where the screw connection bears against the braking disk (13).
US07703580B2 Actuator for an electromechanical brake, a brake including such an actuator, a vehicle including at least one such brake, and a method of implementing said actuator
The invention relates to an actuator for an electromechanical brake, the actuator comprising a pusher and a first drive member arranged to move the pusher in register with a stack of disks and to apply a braking pressure to the stack of disks, the actuator including a second drive member comprising a piezoelectric assembly suitable for modulating the braking pressure applied to the stack of disks. According to the invention, the piezoelectric assembly is disposed inside the actuator so as to present an end that is stationary.
US07703577B1 Door hinge lubricator
A door hinge lubricator includes a tube, a wicking material and at least one attachment device. At least one lubrication opening is formed through a wall of the tube. Each lubrication opening could be a hole or a slot. The wicking material is inserted into an inner perimeter of the tube. The wicking material is saturated with a lubricant, such as oil. Each end of the tube is sealed with an end plug or the like. The at least one attachment device is preferably attached substantially in-line with the at least one lubrication opening. It is preferable to place the single attachment device on each end of the tube. The door hinge lubricator is attached to one of the hinge plates, adjacent the hinge pin. Lubricant will be wicked into the joints between the opposing hinge plates. After a door hinge stops squeaking, the door hinge lubricator may be removed.
US07703576B2 Fire escape apparatus
Fire escape apparatus comprising a main elongated hollow tubular member with an elongated slot and a relatively short auxiliary tubular member of similar construction. The main member is mounted on an exterior building wall and the auxiliary member extends therefrom to a building opening such as a door or window. A spherical member at the end of a flexible connecting line running to a building occupant is entered in the auxiliary tubular member and is controlled in its descent by frictional engagement with gradually arcuate spring-like members.
US07703575B2 Three-dimensional tessellated acoustic components
A set of acoustic components having complementarily tessellated shapes such that they may be nested together to constitute a rectangular parellelepiped, suitable for efficient storage and shipping. Each component also has a flat side. The shape set is further defined such that many aesthetically attractive, sculpture-like configurations may be created through installation of the components on a flat surface of a building such as a wall or ceiling, while substantially modifying the acoustic properties of the building feature. Acoustically absorptive, reflective, and diffusive components can be used in combinations with each other in order to achieve desired acoustic treatment of the building feature. Several methods of fabrication of the acoustic components are disclosed.
US07703571B2 Determination of the absolute position of a steering system through a linear sensor on the rack
The invention relates to a steering system of a motor vehicle with a rack, which is connected on the end side with steerable wheels and which pivots said wheels through a lateral movement. The steering system has a position sensor which continuously determines the position of the rack and emits corresponding position signals.
US07703570B2 Steering wheel mounting for transmission shift controls
A steering wheel (20) that has an axis of turning (64) axis for steering a motor vehicle that has an engine, a drivetrain, a transmission that provides different gear ratios for coupling the engine to the drivetrain, and a transmission controller that in an automatic mode automatically shifts the transmission from one gear ratio to another in response to changing vehicle torque requirements and in a manual mode shifts the transmission from one gear ratio to another in response to manual actuation of a shift command device. A module (36) contains both the shift command device (58, 60) and a mode selection device (62) for selecting between the automatic and manual modes.
US07703569B2 Motorcycle
A motorcycle with a fuel injection valve oriented to the umbrella back of an intake valve to improve engine performance. An engine is mounted in a lower portion of a leg shield panel member) that forms a stride part. An intake passage is connected to a forward-tilted cylinder head of the engine and extends backward in the lower side of the leg shield. A throttle body into which a throttle valve is built is interposed in the vicinity of an engine connection part of the intake passage. A fuel injection valve is disposed inside space surrounded by the throttle body, the cylinder head and the leg shield when viewed from the side of the motorcycle.
US07703566B2 Integrated automotive tie bar and upper condenser, radiator and fan module brackets
An upper CRFM attachment modality which provides assembly simplification, structural strength, design efficiency, and reduced vehicle weight. The tie bar, particularly the inner tie bar component thereof, is integrally provided with a pair of upper CFRM brackets. A pair of elastomeric frustoconical studs are attached to the top end of the upper CRFM, wherein the frustoconical studs self-aligningly interface, respectively, with a stud hole of each of the upper CRFM brackets as a powertrain cradle carrying the CRFM is lifted toward the engine compartment.
US07703565B2 Disposition structure of drive device for vehicle
There are provided plural suspension links, one end of each of which is coupled to a wheel and the other end of each of which is coupled to a vehicle body. The suspension links are disposed so as to extend substantially in a vehicle width direction. A drive motor is disposed so as to be offset from a center of a wheel on a side that is away from disposition location of the suspension links. The drive motor and the wheel are coupled by a drive-force transmitting mechanism so that a drive force can be transmitted. Accordingly, there can be provided the disposition structure of a drive device for a vehicle that can provide both the drive motors and the suspension links without any improper interference, ensuring proper controlling of the wheel positions.
US07703563B2 Control of hybrid power regeneration during cruise control
A method of applying regenerative braking on a hybrid vehicle may include operating the hybrid vehicle in a cruise control mode to maintain a desired vehicle speed, determining whether an actual vehicle speed is greater than the desired vehicle speed, and braking the hybrid vehicle using a regenerative brake system. The braking may be applied during operation in the cruise control mode when the actual vehicle speed is determined to be greater than the desired vehicle speed to charge a battery system that powers an electric drive motor of the hybrid vehicle.
US07703561B2 Power steering system
In order to reduce a steering torque during stoppage of a vehicle, according to the invention, opposite drive torques in normal and reverse directions are applied to a left rear wheel and a right rear wheel when a driver steers a steering wheel in a state where the vehicle stops, whereby a moment to turn the vehicle is generated, and an assist torque for steering the steering wheel is generated.
US07703560B2 Cutting element with canted interface surface and bit body incorporating the same
The present invention provides a cutting element having a cylindrical body having a canted end face on which is formed an ultra hard material layer and to a bit incorporating such cutting element. One or a plurality of transition layers may be provided between the ultra hard material layer and the cutting element body.
US07703558B2 Drilling tool for reducing cutter damage when drilling through formation changes, and methods of design and operation thereof
A drilling tool including at least two cutting elements (e.g., redundant or upon a selected profile region) sized, positioned, and configured thereon so as to contact or encounter a change in at least one drilling characteristic of a subterranean formation along an anticipated drilling path prior to other cutting elements thereon encountering same is disclosed. Methods of designing a drilling tool are also disclosed including placing such cutting elements upon the cutting element profile in relation to a predicted boundary surface along an anticipated drilling path. Methods of operating a drilling tool so as to initially contact a boundary surface between two differing regions of a subterranean formation drilled with at least two cutting elements is disclosed. The cutting elements configured on drilling tools and methods of the present invention may be designed for limiting lateral force or generating a lateral force having a desired direction during drilling associated therewith.
US07703554B2 Slip groove gripping die
A toothed pipe gripping die insert has textured surfaces on the die surface opposite the pipe gripping teeth to reduce the insert-to-insert carrier contact surface area to increase unit loading such that selected loads forcing the die insert against its carrier impresses the textured pattern into the carrier surface to reduce the tendency for the die insert to slide on the die carrier surface.
US07703550B2 Down hole motor with locking mechanism
A down hole motor assembly with a locking mechanism, and methods for operating said down hole motor assembly. The down hole motor has a housing operatively connectable at an upper end to a drill string. A shaft is disposed within the housing and operatively connected to a motor portion of the down hole motor. A locking mechanism is configured to selectively transmit torque from the housing to the shaft when engaged.
US07703547B2 Hand-held impact tools having anti-vibration protection
Impact tools (e.g., riveters) are provided with anti-vibration protection by a cushion pad and an elastomeric sheath. The cushion pad may be formed of a shape-conformable elastomeric material which is adapted to being conformably placed onto a rear surface of the impact tool handle, while the elastomeric sheath is preferably sized and configured so as to removeably envelop the impact tool handle and the cushion pad. The cushion pad may have a widthwise dimension such that lateral edge regions of the cushion pad are adapted to being at least partly folded over and onto respective side surface portions of the impact tool handle. In some implementations, the cushion pad has a lengthwise dimension such that the cushion pad is adapted to being positioned adjacent to a rear end of the impact tool housing and extends therefrom to a position adjacent a lower surface of the impact tool handle. According to some implementations, the cushion pad may include an adhesive on at least a front surface thereof so as to be capable of being adhesively affixed to the rear surface of the impact tool handle. A releasable front sheet may be provided so as to cover the adhesive on the front surface thereof. Alternatively or additionally, the cushion pad may include an adhesive on a rear surface thereof and a releasable rear sheet covering the adhesive on the rear surface. The cushion pad may also have a patterned or unpatterned rear surface. The cushion pad may be formed of low density polyurethane foam, while the sheath may be formed of EPDM rubber.
US07703543B2 Fire fighting foam dispensing system and related method
A fire fighting foam dispensing system includes a water inlet adapted to receive a flow of water, a first variable speed pump adapted to inject foam concentrate into the flow of water, a second variable speed pump adapted to inject foam concentrate into the flow of water, a foam outlet adapted to discharge fire fighting foam, a measuring apparatus adapted to measure flow rate in at least one of the water inlet and the foam outlet, and a system controller adapted to detect the flow rate from the measuring apparatus, and activate the second variable speed pump only upon the measured flow rate exceeding a predetermined flow rate value.
US07703541B2 Rotary actuator mechanism for a downhole tool
A tool that is usable with a well includes a movable element and a curved actuator. The curved actuator is adapted to move in a curved path that at least partially surrounds a longitudinal axis of the tool to actuate the element.
US07703540B2 Manipulatable spider components adapted for cooperation with a vertically reciprocating control line guide
A method and apparatus are provided for installing control lines and pipe into a well. The pipe-holding spider that is normally mounted on the rig floor is adapted for easy disassembly and reassembly when the pipe slips within the spider are not engaged with the outer surface of the pipe string so that upon disassembly, a control line guide becomes vertically movable. The control line guide is adapted for being controllably elevated to a distance above the rig floor, thereby providing personnel access to a portion of the length of the pipe string below the elevated control line guide and above the rig floor for securing control line to the pipe string using a fastener.
US07703535B2 Undersea well product transport
An apparatus and corresponding method of use extracts, cools, and transports effluents from subterranean, sub-sea oil formations to distant shore based processing facilities. The effluents, mostly crude oil, are conveyed rapidly to a cold flow generator near the oil wellhead on the sea bottom using the cold seawater to chill the effluents to a dispersed mixture including generated solids. The mixture is transported close to sea bottom temperatures, slowly, with small pressure drops, in low-cost submerged bare pipes over long distances to on or near shore processing facilities that can produce useful hydrocarbon products more cost effectively than at sea processing facilities. The apparatus eliminates or minimizes the need for heated or insulated pipe, the need for large floating processing structures, the need for sub-sea processing equipment, and/or the need for chemical additions to production flow.
US07703534B2 Underwater seafloor drilling rig
A subsea drilling system comprises a pressurized drilling capsule that is sealed against the subsea environment and houses equipment for manipulating a drillstring that extends through an opening in the drilling capsule to the exterior of the capsule. A drilling fluid handling assembly is contained within the drilling capsule that communicates drilling fluid through the drillstring and returns the drilling fluid to the water's surface via a drilling fluid conduit. A seafloor unit engages the seafloor and the drilling capsule to position the drilling capsule relative to the seafloor, and includes an opening for passing the drillstring into the seafloor. A pressurized transport unit is movable between the drilling capsule and a support vessel at or near the water's surface for delivering personnel and supplies to the drilling capsule. A method of drilling using the subsea drilling system is disclosed.
US07703529B2 Gel capsules for solids entrainment
Disclosed are methods of treating a producing well by removing wellbore solids. Accordingly, a first, polymer containing fluid is placed in the solids bed, and a second, viscosifying fluid is then placed into the solids bed thereby agitating the solids in the bed and causing the formation of a gel capsules when mixed with the biopolymer fluid. These gel capsules are capable of trapping or entraining the agitated solids. The gel capsules typically have a relatively high volume and a relatively low density, thereby making their removal from the wellbore easier.
US07703526B2 Apparatus and method for characterizing a reservoir
An apparatus and method for characterizing a subsurface formation is provided. The apparatus includes a tool body, a probe assembly carried by the tool body for sealing off a region of the borehole wall, an actuator for moving the probe assembly between a retracted position for conveyance of the tool body and a deployed position for sealing off a region of the borehole wall and a perforator extending through the probe assembly for penetrating a portion of the sealed-off region of the borehole wall. The tool may be provided with first and second drilling shafts with bits for penetrating various surfaces. The method involves sealing off a region of a wall of an open borehole penetrating the formation, creating a perforation through a portion of the sealed-off region of the borehole wall and testing the formation.
US07703525B2 Well perforating and fracturing
A system and method for perforating and fracturing enables sealing device on a working string to be actuated to substantially block passage of fluids through the wellbore. Without removing the working string from the wellbore, the working string is released from the sealing device, the wellbore is perforated, and the wellbore pressurized up-hole of the sealing device to fracture the wellbore.
US07703523B2 Apparatus and method for use in a well bore
Apparatus for use above and below a restriction in a well bore and a method of operation is described. The apparatus comprises an upper element, such as a wiper, operable in the well bore above the restriction and a lower element, which may be a lower wiper, operable in the well bore below the restriction. A drop ball sized to pass through the restriction is released from the upper element and thereby passes through the restriction to operate the lower element. In one embodiment, the apparatus is incorporated into a running tool, which may be used to hang liners by dimple forming.
US07703521B2 Polymeric microspheres as degradable fluid loss additives in oilfield applications
Methods and apparatus for forming a fluid for use within in a subterranean formation including crosslinking a polymer along the surface of microspheres in a water-in-water emulsion and introducing the microspheres into the subterranean formation. Methods and apparatus for forming a fluid for use within in a subterranean formation including crosslinking a polymer along the surface of microspheres in a water in water emulsion, isolating the microspheres from the emulsion, and introducing the microspheres into the subterranean formation. Methods and apparatus for forming a fluid to treat a subterranean formation including introducing a crosslinkable polymer, partitioning agent, and crosslinker into a solvent, crosslinking the crosslinkable polymer, isolating beads of the crosslinkable polymer from the partitioning agent, introducing the beads into a fluid for treating a subterranean formation.
US07703520B2 Sand control screen assembly and associated methods
Methods are provided including a method comprising: placing a sand control screen in the wellbore penetrating the subterranean formation, wherein the sand control screen comprises: a base pipe having at least one opening in a sidewall portion thereof; a swellable material layer disposed exteriorly of the base pipe and having at least one opening corresponding to the at least one opening of the base pipe; a telescoping perforation operably associated with the at least one opening of the base pipe and at least partially disposed within the at least one opening of the swellable material layer; and a filter medium disposed within the telescoping perforation; and introducing a consolidating agent into at least a portion of a subterranean formation. Additional methods are also provided.
US07703519B2 Combined hydrogen production and unconventional heavy oil extraction
A method of producing hydrogen and extracting heavy oil from underground reserves is provided. This method includes providing a carbon monoxide source stream and a water vapor stream to a first reactor, wherein the first reactor comprises a water shift reactor and a membrane-type separation device. This method also includes separating the products of the water shift reactor, thereby producing at least a hydrogen-rich stream, and a high pressure off-gas stream. This method also includes providing the high pressure off-gas stream and an oxidant stream to a combustion chamber. This method also includes combusting the oxidant stream and the high pressure off-gas stream as at least part of a combustion cycle thereby producing a hot injection gas stream. This method also includes combining the hot injection gas stream with a liquid water stream, wherein the combined stream may be used to heat the underground reserve sufficiently to release petroleum hydrocarbons therefrom.
US07703514B2 Optical fiber system and method for wellhole sensing of fluid flow using diffraction effect of faraday crystal
A system and method for optically determining the rate and/or direction of fluid flow in a conduit within wellholes, using the diffraction effect of Faraday crystals through which continuous light is transmitted within optical fibers.
US07703513B2 Wax barrier for use with in situ processes for treating formations
Methods for forming a barrier around at least a portion of a treatment area in a subsurface formation are described herein. A material including wax may be introduced into one or more wellbores. The material introduced into two or more wells may mix in the formation and congeal to form a barrier to fluid flow.
US07703510B2 Interventionless multi-position frac tool
Fracturing tools for use in oil and gas wells are disclosed. The fracturing tools have a run-in position and two operational positions. A sleeve disposed in the bore of the fracturing tool comprises a sleeve port alignable with a first port in the housing of the frac tool, i.e., the first operational position, during fracturing operations. A second port having a restriction member is disposed in the housing and is closed by the sleeve during fracturing operations. After fracturing operations are completed, a return member in the frac tool moves the sleeve from the first operational position to a second operational position for production operations. In this second operational position, the first port is closed and the sleeve port is aligned with the second port. Movement of the sleeve from the first operational position to the second operational position is performed without the need for an additional well intervention step.
US07703500B2 Bracket and head rail assembly
A bracket and head rail assembly is provided. A recess is formed at both ends of the upper portion of a head rail. The recess is sunken at both sides to form a first slot and a second slot. The bracket includes a body and a fastener, wherein a claw is extended from the body, and an elastic part is extended from the fastener and bears against the body, such that the fastener is slidably disposed in the body. When being assembled, the first and second slots are easily locked with the claw and the fastener, and alternatively, they are exchanged with each other for locking with the claw and the fastener respectively. Then, the head rail and the fastener are designed into a thin configuration, and then, formed by bending and processing sheets, so as to achieve the advantages of simple assembly, mass production, and nice appearance.
US07703497B2 Tyre mounting/dismounting machine
A tire mounting/dismounting machine (1), comprising a base (2), rotating means (3) for supporting and blocking a wheel (100) and a column (4) associated to the base (2), a first arm (7) and a second arm (8) being slidably mounted on the column (4), an upper first debeader tool (13) and a lower second debeader tool (9) being mounted respective at free ends of each arm (7, 8). Mounted at the free end of the first arm (7) is a head (10) which is rotatable with respect to an axis (Y), from which head a mounting tool (11), a dismounting tool (12) and the first debeader tool (13) project, the tools (11, 12, 13) being mounted in reciprocal positions such that the tools (11, 12, 13) do not interfere with one another and such that by rotating the head (10) with respect to the first arm (7) a same work position can be reached for each of the tools (11, 12, 13). Means for blocking (14, 15, 16, 17) are associated to the head (10) in three different positions, a same work position for each of the tools (11, 12, 13) corresponding to each of the three different positions.
US07703494B2 Apparatus for manufacturing bonded substrate
The present invention provides an apparatus for manufacturing a bonded substrate that suppresses a defect in the bonded substrate. When the pressure in a vacuum chamber is at the atmospheric level, upper and lower chuck units respectively attract substrates through vacuum. When the vacuum chamber is depressurized, each chuck unit electrostatically attracts the associated substrate. During the depressurization of the vacuum chamber, the pressure for attracting each substrate to the associated chuck unit is controlled to be equal to the pressure in the vacuum chamber. This prevents each substrate from falling from or moving relative to the associated chuck unit. The first and second substrates are thus bonded together and accurately aligned.
US07703483B2 Peristaltic syringe filling station
The present invention is directed to a syringe filling station that can fill a syringe with a specified volume of fluid. In one embodiment, the syringe filling station comprises a reservoir attachment, a fluid delivery system, a syringe retaining guide, and a pump to move fluid from a reservoir to a syringe. The fluid delivery system may comprise a sterile consumable cartridge that is insertable into the filling station and defines a fluid pathway from a reservoir to a syringe. The syringe filling station may also include a user interface. An operator can input commands into the user interface to specify the amount of fluid to dispense into the syringe. The user interface may be connected to a processor that controls the rate of pumping and thereby can fill a syringe with a desired amount of fluid. The filling station may also include sensors that detect air in the tubing, depletion of the reservoir, among other things.
US07703477B2 Fluid control valve
A fluid control valve for use with apparatus for medical use. Commercially available valves which operate by electrical, hydraulic or pneumatic means are often expensive and bulky. They may require excessive power to operate them and can be noisy during operation due to moving parts and fluid flow through internal pathways. The valve of the present invention has a valve seal (1) mounted between inlet (A) and outlet ports (B), with the seal including a valve closure member (4) operated by means of a control fluid fed through a control port (C) in the valve body. In operation a pressure differential acting to open and close the valve is set up between the inlet and outlet ports and the control port to operate the valve. This design results in cost savings and performance benefits compared with the prior art.
US07703475B2 Piston for a linear spool valve
A piston for a linear spool valve, the valve comprising a body having a inner surface. The body is made of a material with a relatively low heat expansion coefficient α1. The piston comprises a contact member having an outer surface and being adapted to reciprocate within the body of the valve so that the outer surface is in contact with the inner surface. The contact member has at least a first layer made of a material with a heat expansion coefficient α2 essentially greater than α1, i.e. α2>>α1, and at least a second layer made of a material with a heat expansion coefficient α3 close to α1. This causes the contact member to be adapted to behave, along said outer surface, as a material having a heat expansion coefficient essentially closer to α1 than to α2. One of the layers constitutes an outer layer of the contact member and comprises the outer surface.
US07703469B2 Portable adjustable shade structure
The present invention is a canopy structure comprising a frame and a canopy. The frame comprises a plurality of arms and legs, where each of the arms extends outwardly from a central connecting member to a leg, each arm and leg being joined by a leg connecting member. Preferably, each leg is telescopic and is lockable and the central connecting member preferably comprises a releasable locking mechanism. The present invention further comprises a mechanism by which the canopy surface can be tilted to angles relative to the ground.
US07703467B2 Decontamination and contaminant processing system and method
A personnel decontamination and containment system is disclosed. This system includes a plurality of components positionable on a selected location for establishment of a multi-station decontamination and containment facility to decontaminate personnel and to contain contaminants collected during the decontamination process. The components can include a plurality of collapsible frame and roof assemblies, wall and roof covers, a weapons clearing assembly, a weapons storage locker, a hanging bar, a signage assembly, collapsible containment hamper assemblies, a covered dispensing assembly, a shuffle box, a multi-wipe dispensing assembly, and a transportable containment enclosure. The enclosure is shaped and sized to removably retain the system's components for transportation or the like.
US07703466B1 Mounting assembly
A furniture joinery comprises a slide rail having a plurality of grooves, at least one slide block slidably disposed in the slide rail, the slide block having a plurality of slides for engaging the slide rail, at least one of the plurality of slides having a neck and a head, the grooves receiving the neck therein.
US07703461B2 Rotary rinser
A rotary rinser 1 which injects dual fluids includes a rotary valve 11 in which an admixture of one of the fluids into the other fluid is prevented.A stationary valve member 28 is formed with a chemical liquid supply passage 60 and an air supply passage 48 while a rotary valve member 16 is formed with a chemical liquid discharge passage 18 and an air discharge passage 24. As the rotary valve member 16 rotates, a supply passage and a discharge passage for each fluid move into and out of communication. Sliding surfaces into which the chemical liquid passages 60 and 22a open (sliding surfaces of a chemical liquid stator 34 and a chemical liquid distributor 22) and sliding surfaces through which the air passage 48 and 24 move into and out of communication (sliding surfaces of the rotary valve member 16 and the air distributor 49) are disposed at different radial positions and at different elevations.
US07703457B2 Nasal mask and system using same
A nasal mask assembly that includes a seal member defined from a unitary piece of elastomeric material. The seal member defines a nose receiving cavity and has a first end portion and a second end portion generally opposite the first end portion. A first opening in the first end portion allows at least a portion of a nose to enter the nose receiving cavity such that the nares of the patient communicate with the nose receiving cavity. The seal member includes a neck portion defined in the second end portion and a second opening defined in the neck portion in communication with the nose receiving cavity. A reinforcement area is provided on the side walls of the seal member. The reinforcement area comprises a saddle shaped contoured area on each side of the seal member. Each saddle shaped area has an upper and a lower protrusion portion for providing supporting contact with the face.
US07703456B2 Facemasks containing an anti-fog / anti-glare composition
A coating composition that is incorporated into a facemask to reduce fogging and glare is provided. For example, in one embodiment, the facemask contains a shield or visor formed from a transparent substrate having at least one surface applied with the coating composition of the present invention. The present inventors have unexpectedly discovered that one or more water-soluble organic polymers, such as ethyl hydroxyethylcellulose, may be utilized as a principal component of the coating composition to reduce fogging and glare in a simple, yet effective manner.
US07703451B2 Oven door
An oven door includes upper fixtures, lower fixtures and middle frames which are attached to a front glass of the door. One or more panes of glass are mounted behind the front glass and are spaced from the front glass. As a result, air can circulate through a space behind the front glass. In addition, a door handle is coupled to the front glass using a through-hole formed in the front glass, spacers formed on the upper fixtures, and screws going through the spacer and the through-hole, and into the door handle. Outside air introduced from a bottom of the front glass goes out through a side of a space contacting the front glass and thus cools only the space contacting the front glass. Since the heavy division members are supported by only the lower fixture, the oven door can be easily assembled and disassembled when damaged.
US07703450B2 Quick drawer change system
A grill that includes a base and, residing thereupon, a cooking surface in the form of a grate for supporting food to be cooked by the grill. A first removable drawer is positionable beneath the grate having at least one burner. A source of combustible fuel, such as a pressurized gas, is contained within a tank located within the base of the grill. A fuel line emanating from the pressurized tank terminates at a control valve having a first gas transmitting position facilitating the combustible fuel fed to the at least one burner and a second gas blocking position preventing the combustible fuel to be fed to the at least one burner. The control valve is capable of assuming the first gas transmitting position only if the first removable drawer has been fully positioned beneath the cooking surface. When an alternative drawer, such as one containing charcoal is employed, fuel from the pressurized tank is blocked from emanating from the tank.
US07703447B2 Animal food dispenser
A dispenser for launching morsels of animal food one at a time. The dispenser includes a grip portion, a hopper for retaining a supply of morsels of animal food, and a launching chamber. A propelling mechanism, activated by a trigger mechanism associated with the grip portion, launches a morsel of food out of the launching chamber. According to one embodiment, the propelling mechanism is a plunger and at least one spring, wherein the plunger is adjustable between a loading position wherein a top portion of the plunger is substantially withdrawn from the launching chamber to permit a morsel of food to pass into the launching chamber, and a ready position wherein the plunger extends at least partially into the launching chamber to prevent additional morsels of food from passing through the inlet into the launching chamber.
US07703446B2 Single nozzle direct injection system for rapidly variable gasoline/anti-knock agents mixtures
Engine management system for operation of a direct injection spark ignition gasoline engine. The system includes a gasoline engine, a source of gasoline and a source of an anti-knock agent. Gasoline and anti-knock agent are introduced into a proportioning valve that delivers a selected mixture of gasoline/anti-knock agent to a high pressure pump. At least one injector receives the selected mixture from the high pressure pump and delivers the mixture into a cylinder of the engine. The engine management system provides a rapidly variable mixture of directly injected anti-knock agent and gasoline which prevents knock as the engine torque increases.
US07703445B2 Fuel supply system
A fuel supply system of the present invention is characterized by including: a fuel reformer (4) for producing a reformed gas-containing fuel by causing discharge in a raw liquid fuel; and a fuel supply device (8) for supplying the reformed gas-containing fuel or a mixture of the reformed gas-containing fuel and the raw fuel into a combustion chamber of an engine (5).
US07703443B2 Fuel supply devices
The present invention includes a fuel supply device for installation within a fuel tank. The fuel supply device includes a fuel pump, a fuel filter, a reservoir cup or a sub-tank. The fuel pump and the fuel filter are disposed within the reservoir cup, so that the fuel within the reservoir cup is pumped by the fuel pump and is thereafter filtrated by the fuel filter. A first coupling device couples the reservoir cup to the fuel tank. A second coupling device couples the fuel filter to the reservoir cup. A third coupling device couples the fuel pump to the fuel filter, so that the fuel pump can swing about a swing axis. The second coupling device is positioned within a substantially vertical plane including the swing axis.
US07703442B2 Method for operating an internal combustion engine
In an internal combustion engine, gasoline is injected directly into a combustion chamber and ignited by auto-ignition. The characteristics map range within which fuel is ignited by auto-ignition is enlarged by supercharging the internal combustion engine.
US07703440B2 Control system for internal combustion engine
A control system for an internal combustion engine having at least one fuel injection valve for injecting fuel into a combustion chamber of the engine. A compression end temperature in the combustion chamber is estimated. A target compression end temperature is calculated according to an operating condition of the engine. A main injection and a plurality of pilot injections before the main injection are performed by at least one fuel injection valve. A fuel injection amount in a first-performed pilot injection of the plurality of pilot injections is controlled so that the estimated compression end temperature coincides with the target compression end temperature.
US07703439B2 Vehicle control system
A method for controlling an engine having an intake manifold and an outlet control device coupled to the manifold for controlling flow exiting the manifold and entering at least one cylinder of the engine, the engine further having an inlet control device for controlling flow entering the manifold, the method comprising determining a driver torque command; calculating a desired cylinder charge based on said driver torque command; adjusting the outlet control device to provide said desired cylinder charge; and adjusting the inlet control device based on intake manifold pressure.
US07703438B2 System and method for facilitating homogeneous charge compression ignition
A method of maintaining homogeneous charge compression ignition when a temperature within a combustion chamber decreases below an autoignition temperature in an engine that is configured for homogeneous charge compression ignition under at least some engine operating conditions and for spark ignition under at least some engine operating conditions, the method comprising selectively heating contents of the combustion chamber with a glow plug.
US07703436B2 Control device of internal combustion engine
A control device of an internal combustion engine determining a target throttle opening degree based on a target intake air amount which can simply and reliably detect any control abnormality is provided. The control device of an internal combustion engine determining a target throttle opening degree based on a target intake amount compares the target intake air amount and an intake air amount measured by an air flow meter to detect a control abnormality. By this control device, it is possible to simply and reliably detect a control abnormality in the process of determination of the target throttle opening degree or control of the throttle valve.
US07703435B2 System and control method for selecting fuel type for an internal combustion engine capable of combusting a plurality of fuel types
A system and method for improving fuel usage of a dual fuel engine is described. Fuel type is delivered to engine cylinders in response to operating conditions.
US07703434B2 Method and apparatus for controlling ignition timing in a compression-ignition engine operating in an auto-ignition mode
A method for controlling timing of ignition of a fuel charge in a compression-ignition engine operating in a controlled auto-ignition mode wherein the engine includes controllable intake and exhaust valve actuation systems is described. The method comprises determining a preferred ignition timing for a cylinder charge and a mass of the fuel charge based upon operator torque request. A portion of the fuel charge is partially oxidized during a negative valve overlap period immediately prior to a compression stroke. Magnitude of the portion of the fuel charge is based upon the preferred ignition timing of the cylinder charge. A remainder of the fuel charge is injected into the cylinder during the compression stroke.
US07703432B2 Bearing system having a floating bearing mechanism
A bearing mechanism for mounting a connecting rod to a crankshaft is disclosed. The bearing mechanism may include a first bearing half-shell forming a first semicylindrical member and a second bearing half-shell forming a second semicylindrical member. The second bearing half-shell may be assembled to the first bearing half-shell to form a cylindrical member. The cylindrical member may include an outer surface, an inner surface, and at least one end.
US07703430B2 Portable gas powered internal combustion engine arrangement
A gas powered internal combustion engine in which the gas is provided from pressurized liquid gas in an LPG container and in which the LPG container is rigidly mounted adjacent to the internal combustion engine at a preselected angle to be in conductive heat transfer relationship to the internal combustion engine and in vibration receiving relationship to the internal combustion engine whereby the liquified gas in the LPG container is heated and the effective surface area thereof is increased.
US07703429B2 Balancing shaft unit
A balancing shaft unit for balancing inertia or torque in an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle. The balancing shaft unit includes a housing part and at least one balancing shaft having at least one counterweight. The housing part is made in one piece and has at least two integrated bearing sections with a respective bearing opening. A respective cut-out is formed at longitudinal ends of the balancing shaft in which a respective bearing pin is arranged that is rigidly connected to the balancing shaft and which has a cylindrical bearing section that is supported in a respective one of the bearing openings.
US07703427B2 Lifelong-lubricated camshaft drive for an internal combustion engine
A camshaft adjusting device for an internal combustion engine is provided. A functionally reliable camshaft adjusting device designed for a long-lasting operation is obtained when the camshaft adjuster (13) has a lifelong lubrication located in the housing (28, 36, 37) sealed from the surrounding area be sealing covers (36, 37). The camshaft adjuster is not required to be mounted inside the cylinder head (33), but can be mounted as a separate unit on the cylinder head (33) of the internal combustion engine independent of the lubricating oil circuit. This expands, in particular, the range of possibilities for use of the camshaft adjuster (13) with a belt drive.
US07703423B2 Vehicle and propulsion system including an internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine (300) for a vehicle, such as a motorcycle (20), includes a crankcase (380), two banks of cylinders (320a, 320b) projecting from the crankcase (380) in a V-configuration, a plurality of pushrods (364), and a plurality of camshafts (360a, 360b, 360c) supported by the crankcase (380). The two banks of cylinders (320a, 320b) include a first cylinder bank that projects from the crankcase (380) to a first cylinder head (340a), and a second cylinder bank that projects from the crankcase (380) to a second cylinder head (340b). The plurality of pushrods (364) extend between the crankcase (380) and the first and second cylinder heads (340a, 340b), and the plurality of camshafts include only the first, second and third camshafts (360a, 360b, 360c).
US07703419B1 Animal toe nail covering and method of manufacture
A new and improved animal toenail sheath or cap, a method for its manufacture and various methods for securing said cap to an animal's toenail. The improved toenail cap utilizes a double dip polymeric manufacturing process to produce a layered cap, each layer being capable of having a different durometer, thickness or color than that of the adjacent layer. The cap may also contain a series of internal cleats to help secure the cap to the animal's toenail. Various adhesive methods, some of which are included in the manufacturing process, are also disclosed for adhering the nail cap to the animal's toenail.
US07703411B1 Vibrational excited frame food coating apparatus and methods of use thereof
The present invention is directed to an excited apparatus for coating food product with a coating. The apparatus includes an elongate pan having proximal and distal portions; a screen located in the distal portion and adapted to screen coating; an elongate frame; a motorized vibrator adapted to impart energy to the elongate frame at an angle β below horizontal; a plurality of springs mounting the elongate pan to the elongate frame, the springs being mounted at an angle θ above horizontal; another elongate frame; a plurality of dampeners mounting the two elongate frames; another elongate pan having proximal and distal portions, the elongate pan mounted to the other elongate pan and adapted to feed coating to the other elongate pan; a soft roller rotationally actuated by a ratchet assembly, the ratchet assembly engaged by the elongate pan; and, a recycle assembly for transferring screened coating to the elongate pans, wherein the elongate pan's vibrations have longitudinal and vertical vector components at a predetermined amplitude and frequency. The excited apparatus further includes a waterfall distributor member mounted to the elongate pan, the waterfall distributor including one or more transverse rows of a plurality of angular slots.
US07703409B2 Device for use as a bookmark or for promotional purposes
A bookmark or promotional device comprises a plurality of pockets aligned side-by-side with the opening of the pocket being at the edge of the bookmark. The pockets contain advertising or other promotional material as inserts. The devices are produced in different versions for different audiences and are distributed through a variety of channels generally free of charge to customers.
US07703400B2 Table with a swivelable table top
Table with a top which can pivot around a lockable pivot axis characterized in that each of two centrally located table legs is connected at the top end by a mounting assembly to a frame part, which carries the table top. A force-transmitting device is provided in at least one of the frame parts. A handle is connected to the force-transmitting device, and the pivot axis can be released by actuating the handle against the force of at least one spring to allow the table top to pivot.
US07703399B2 Package, palletized load, and method of forming the same
A package or palletized load comprises a lower section of elongated articles which are disposed in a side-by-side abutting array and are upended so as to be supported upon one of the longitudinally extending side surfaces thereof. Additional elongated articles, disposed in an array comprising multiple rows and columns and forming an upper section of the package or palletized load, are then stacked atop the lower section of the package or palletized load. Due to the fact that the articles comprising the lower section of the package or palletized load are relatively inflexible along their transverse extents, the elongated articles disposed within the upper section of the package or palletized load will be properly supported so as not to be adversely affected by means of gravitational forces to which the multiplicity of elongated articles will be subjected during shipping, handling, transportation, and storage.
US07703392B2 Pressure based method and apparatus for applying a decoration onto an object
A method and an apparatus for applying a decoration onto an object (50) use a chamber (22) that can be divided by a deformable foil (10) into a first space (24) and a second space (26). Said foil (10) comprises a carrier film (20), a decoration layer (16), and, at least, a varnish layer (18). The first and second spaces (24, 26) are evacuated simultaneously and, thereafter, a pressure gradient is generated to press the foil (10) against the object (50) to be decorated and to transfer at least the decoration layer (16) and the varnish layer (18) onto the object (50).
US07703390B2 Roller grill separating device
A roller grill separating device having a clip capable of being attached to a grill roller, a center section, and upper sign clips to hold supplemental signage. The center section stabilizes the device and prevents it from rotating. The center section accommodates a cross bar, a separator bar, a thermometer, and signs. A plurality of devices can be used to form a wall or the device can be used with a separator bar and a crossover bar to create a separate area on the grill so that uncooked products do not touch cooked products. One or more device can be replaced with a flavor identification device. The flavor identification device includes a slide-in signage area for sign clips that are used for identifying and marketing different types of food products such as hot dogs. The device is inexpensive to make, is sanitary and made of a heat resistant material.
US07703389B2 Cooking apparatus with cooking characteristic monitoring system
A cooking apparatus with an information exchange system that involves an assembly featuring a cooking apparatus such as a smoker or an electric turkey fryer and an information exchange system that provides for local and/or remote monitoring of cooking characteristic that preferably includes food item temperature probing that is displayed externally on the cooking appliance as in a local remote cooking characteristic information conveyance device that are preferably either in unidirectional of bi-directional.
US07703386B1 Smoker apparatus
A smoker apparatus is disclosed that provides a smoker cabinet having upper and lower end portions. The cabinet has a top, a bottom and a side wall or walls and an interior. The cabinet includes a plurality of vertically spaced apart shelves mounted within the cabinet interior. A cabinet door that enables access to the shelves. A gaseous fuel supplied burner element is positioned next to the lower end portion of the cabinet, the burner element being removably connectable to a source of gaseous fuel. A pair of containers is mounted within the cabinet below the shelves and above the burner element. One of the containers is preferably a water container for containing water. The other of the containers being a wood chips container for containing wood chips, wherein the wood chips container is positioned in between the water container and the burner element. A slide bracket supports the containers, the slide bracket positioned generally in between the burner element and the shelves. An access door is provided that is much smaller than the cabinet door, the access door extending vertically a distance at least spanning the vertical dimension of the containers. Either container can be removed laterally from the cabinet at least a partial distance by sliding it laterally upon the slide bracket and at least partially through the access door.
US07703384B2 Height-adjustable food transfer platform
A food transfer platform incorporating a stove unit elevates to different heights, by an extendible column, and can move along a floor.
US07703383B2 Cappuccino preparation
Method for preparing cappuccino wherein at least one coffee pad filled with ground coffee and an instant and/or liquid creamer are utilized, the method further comprising the following method-steps: hot water is forced under pressure through the coffee pad for obtaining coffee extract;—the coffee extract is supplied under pressure to at least one nozzle for obtaining a coffee extract jet, the coffee extract jet is aimed at a first buffer reservoir already filled with the creamer so that in the first buffer reservoir the cappuccino is formed and the cappuccino is discharged from the first buffer reservoir.
US07703382B2 Water dispenser and filter cartridge for use therein
A water dispenser including a water inlet adapted to receive water from a water supply, a water filter operative to filter water received from the water supply via the water inlet, a water outlet operative to provide filtered water received from the water filter, a water spill collector and a pivotably mounted drainage-equipped water container support having a first operative orientation underlying the water outlet and defining a downwardly inclined water spill drainage pathway communicating with the water spill collector and a second, non-operative, orientation not underlying the water outlet.
US07703379B2 Coffee maker and microwave oven and method for controlling the same
A coffee maker and microwave oven includes: a room for mounting various electric parts on an inside thereof; a case at one side of the room; a water tank in an upper space of the case; a funnel under the water tank having a filter for extracting coffee; a water supply pipe having a first pipe connected to the water tank, and a second pipe for supplying water to the funnel directly; a water supply tube on a bottom of the case, having one end connected to the first pipe, and the other end connected to the second pipe; a heater tube in contact with the water supply tube, the heater tube having a heater for heating the water passing through the water supply tube; and a temperature sensing unit in the vicinity of the heater tube for measuring a temperature of the heater.
US07703378B2 Beverage heating method and beverage heater apparatus using the same
A beverage heating method includes the steps of: preheating a thermal storage heater unit in a predetermined temperature; dispensing a cool beverage from a beverage container via a dispensing conduit; heating the cool beverage by passing it through the thermal storage heater unit; and supplying the hot beverage from the thermal storage heater unit. A beverage heater apparatus includes a beverage container, a thermal storage heater unit, a liquid-dispensing valve, a control unit and a dispensing conduit. The beverage container connects with a heat-exchanging channel provided in the thermal storage heater unit. The thermal storage heater unit stores heat energy in a predetermined temperature by preheating. The control unit has a sensor to detect the temperature of the thermal storage heater unit. The liquid-dispensing valve is switched on or off to control the dispensing conduit which supplies cool beverage from the beverage container to the thermal storage heater unit.
US07703377B2 Bend-resistant piston/cylinder unit
A piston/cylinder unit is disclosed. The piston/cylinder unit includes a pressure tube having one end; a piston rod axially movable in the pressure tube, the piston rod extending through the one end of the pressure tube so that a portion of the piston rod is disposed outside the pressure tube; a casing tube attached to the portion of the piston rod, the casing tube at least partially enveloping the pressure tube; and a bush attached to the pressure tube, wherein the bush is disposed between the casing tube and the pressure tube so that the casing tube is axially movable relative to the pressure tube via the bush.
US07703371B2 Carrier rope apparatus and method
The present invention is related to an apparatus and method for a carrier rope for use in the transport of paper webs in paper threading machine systems. The carrier rope constructed in accordance with the invention comprises a multi filament yarn assembly (A) having an initial twist, a composite yarn assembly (B) comprising mono filament yarn imparted around the multi filament yarn assembly via a second twist, wherein the multi filament yarn assembly (A) is not further twisted, a braided plait assembly (C) comprising a braid of composite yarn assemblies, and a carrier rope (D) comprising a braid of braided plait assemblies.
US07703366B2 Front bevel indicator/front bevel lock
A gear and shaft assembly that translates the bevel of a power tool to an indicator more easily readable by an operator provides a front bevel indicator and locking mechanism. A locking mechanism is conveniently placed within reach of the operator and directly controls the motion of the gear assembly. The front bevel indicator may provide a higher resolution of the tilt angle by selection of the various gear ratios of the gears that translate the bevel position of the power tool mounted in the rear to the front of the mount of the power tool.
US07703364B2 Card slot punch device
A punch device for punching parallel slots in sheets to facilitate the mounting of card-like objects on sheets. The device comprises a male plate on which at least one pair of cutting projections are mounted. The device also comprises a female plate moveably hinged to the male plate through which rectangular slots are formed, each slot being so positioned as to correspondingly face one of the cutting projections in the male plate. The hinge assembly comprises an axle part and a swivel part. The axle part comprises cams and the swivel part comprises grooves. The cams are positioned to penetrate the grooves and wrap around over an angle less than the whole circumference of the axle part.
US07703361B2 Shaving razors and cartridges
Shaving razors and cartridges are featured that include one or more shaving aid portions. In some instances, the razors and cartridges include a shaving aid holder, configured to allow the shaving aid portion to deflect when pressure is applied to a surface of the shaving aid portion during shaving.
US07703358B2 Adjustable clamp for securing shuttering panels
A clamp including two mutually opposed substantially L-shaped members pivotably connected to an intermediate holder supporting the side profile sections of the panel frames to be secured, wherein the two L-shaped members are pivotably interconnected via a central shaft extending through the intermediate holder and said L-shaped members are further pivotably connected to said intermediate holder via two further transverse shafts extending through respective mounting apertures in the intermediate holder.
US07703356B2 Tool assembly, system and method, for driving threaded members
A system and tool assembly for driving threaded members includes, a set of interlocking torque transfer modules for transferring a torque between a driver coupled with a first one of the modules and a threaded member coupled with a second one of the modules. At least one of the modules has a body and a torque transmitting geartrain housed within the body, the geartrain includes an input gear rotatable about a first axis and an output gear rotatable about a second, different axis. The input gear includes a first connecting interface configured to receive an input torque from a driver, and the output gear has a second connecting interface configured to output an output torque to a threaded member, such as a bolt or sparkplug.
US07703355B2 Recoilless hammer
The invention relates to a recoilless hammer which comprises a hammer head (2) having a handle seat (4) and a hammer handle (3) to be inserted in said handle seat (4). The handle seat (4) is completely covered in the peripheral direction by an elastic material (5). The end of the hammer handle (3) facing the handle seat (4) is provided with a metal sleeve (7) which is seated with its sleeve end (8) in the material (5) and which is provided with a sleeve collar (12) and, at its free end, with a chamfered section (13) for insertion between securing webs of the handle seat (4).
US07703354B2 Method of forming a nozzle retention body
A method for forming a nozzle retention body suitable for engagement to a drill bit includes manufacturing an unfinished nozzle retention body which includes an upper end and a lower end. The upper end forms an inlet that transitions into a flowbore. The lower end has a nozzle receptacle passage machined therein toward the flowbore at an angle with respect to the lower end of the flowbore.
US07703353B2 Drive unit connected to a transmission output for producing forward and reverse device
A drive unit located in a power path between a transmission output and the wheels of a vehicle for reversing the direction of the transmission output includes a gear set including an input driveably connected to the transmission output, and a gearset output alternately rotating in a forward rotary direction and an underdriven reverse rotary direction relative to the speed and direction of the transmission output. A drive mechanism transmits power between the gearset output and the wheels.
US07703352B2 Hydrostatic-mechanical transmission
A hydrostatic-mechanical transmission with a radial piston motor (1) which has a crankshaft (2) that drives a spur gear (7) and the crankshaft (2) is rotatably mounted at three bearing points (12, 13, 14).
US07703347B2 Transmission for motorized track system
A track system (18) of the type used to adjust the position a supported element such as vehicular seat (12) includes a pair of base rails (20) that slidably interact with a respective pair of driven rails (22). A transverse rail (24) is attached to each of the driven rails (22) so that the driven rails (22) slide together as a unit. A motor (34) is supported on the transverse rail (24) and includes a pair of drive shafts (36) emanating from either end. The drive shafts (36) carry on their distal ends' respective worm gears (38) which are contained within a transmission assembly (26). The worm gears (38) mesh with external teeth on respective drive nuts (54) which interact with a lead screw (28) that can be oriented to either remain stationary relative to the base rails (20) or can be rotatably fixed within the driven rails (22). The drive nut (54) is prevented from causing objectionable noise and premature wear in operation by the inclusion of one or two compressible washers (66).
US07703346B2 Multi-speed transmission with countershaft gearing
A transmission is provided having a dual clutch and a countershaft gearing arrangement. The countershaft gearing arrangement includes a plurality of co-planar gears sets having gears that are selectively connectable to at least two countershafts. Moreover, one of the gears of the plurality of co-planar gears sets that provides a reverse gear ratio is selectively connectable to a first countershaft and is in mesh with only one other gear of the plurality of co-planar gears sets that is selectively engagable to a second countershaft.
US07703343B1 Apparatus for taking measurements in access manholes
An apparatus for measuring three-dimensional spatial locations of pipes and other features in manholes and similar structures. A laser distance meter or other electronic distance measuring device is supported centrally in the manhole opening by a pivot assembly that permits the device to both rotate in the horizontal plane and pivot in the vertical plane. Electronic angle sensors record the distance and orientation of the laser distance meter at each measurement point, from which the three-dimensional spatial location of the pipe or other feature is then calculated.
US07703335B2 Load test system
A load test system includes a test bed frame which extends horizontally along a first axis and includes two rolling beams moveably mounted securely in the test bed frame for being moved to desired position. The rolling beams have plural attachment locations for attaching a test lift device. A hydraulic power station is located spaced perpendicular from the test bed frame along a second axis and includes a hydraulic cylinder with a line connected to the hydraulic cylinder at one end, which is connectable to a test device at another end for applying a load when the test device is attached to the test bed. Beam members connect the hydraulic power station and the test bed frame to form a rigid structure.
US07703334B2 Bandage type sensor arrangement and carrier assembly therefore, and method of manufacture
A bandage type sensor arrangement wherein the sensor includes two parts movable with respect to each other, a carrier assembly is connected to the sensor parts for maintaining the sensor parts in place prior to use, and that is readily detachable for releasing the sensor parts while providing a connection of the sensor parts to a surface to be monitored. A cover is included as part of the carrier assembly to protect the operation of the sensor.
US07703333B2 Deformation sensor
A deformation sensor, which has excellent workability and a high degree of freedom in shape design and which can detect deformation and load in a wide area of components and portions, has a main body of sensor, electrodes which are connected to the main body of sensor and can output electric resistances, and a restraining component which restrains elastic deformation of at least a part of the main body of sensor. The main body of sensor has an elastomer, and spherical conductive fillers which are blended into the elastomer at a high filling rate in an approximately single-particle state, and is elastically deformable. In the main body of sensor, as an elastic deformation increases, the electric resistance increases.
US07703331B2 Instrumented tabular device for transporting a pressurized fluid
The invention relates to an instrumented tubular device for transporting a pressurized fluid notably in the field of oil exploration and in that of the transport of gas or hydrocarbons. This device comprises a tube in which this fluid flows, with which are associated means for measuring the main deformations of this tube, and means for measuring the temperature of the fluid in the tube. This tube is equipped with measurement means integral with its surface and offset by at least one remote optical cable towards an electronic measurement system. These measurement means are means for assembling at least two non-parallel optical fibers which comprise at least three assemblies of at least two optical gages with Bragg gratings attached to at least three measurement locations and connected to the remote optical cable via optical fibers. At least one assembly further comprises a temperature gage.
US07703325B2 Method for relieving residual stress in an object
A method for relieving residual stress in an object includes: (a) applying a vibration energy to the object over a frequency range; (b) monitoring vibration behavior of the object over the frequency range so as to identify a reference frequency, where the vibration amplitude of a fundamental wave component of the wave pattern is approximately one third of a maximum vibration amplitude of a resonate frequency of the object, and an optimum frequency, where the frequency and the vibration amplitude of the harmonic wave component of the wave pattern are respectively larger than those of the harmonic wave component of the wave pattern of the reference frequency; and (c) applying the vibration energy to the object at the identified optimum frequency for an extended period of time.
US07703324B2 MEMS tuning fork gyro sensitive to rate of rotation about two axes
A two-axes rate sensing MEMS system. The system includes two proof masses, two drive components, two drive sense components, two orthogonal sets of substrate electrodes, and a processing device. The processing device is in signal communication with the two proof masses, the two sense components, or the two sets of substrate electrodes. The processing device determines the rate of rotation about two orthogonal axes based on signals received from the two proof masses, the two sense components, or the two substrate electrodes. Rotation about one axis will induce proofmass motion in the plane of the substrate. Rotation about an orthogonal axis will induce proofmass motion out-of-plane of the proofmasses. The sensing scheme independently detects these proof mass motion, which can infer rate of rotation.
US07703323B2 Isometric exercise device
The invention provides for a hand-held isometric exercise device comprising a handle portion and at least one load cell arranged to receive a load when the device is gripped by the handle portion and urged against the surface, the device having at least one contact portion on the underside thereof for contact with the said surface to transmit the load to the said at least one load cell.
US07703322B2 Liquid level detecting device and method of manufacturing same
A liquid level detecting device for detecting liquid level contained in a tank includes a float and an arm that moves in a prescribed manner when liquid level changes, a permanent magnet for forming a magnetic field, a hall IC for generating an electric signal in response to the motion of the magnetic field, a rotary member linked with the arm and the permanent magnet for moving the magnetic field relative to the hall IC as the float and the arm move, a terminal member for connecting the hall IC to an outside control circuit; and a mold body including a resinous holder for holding the hall IC and the terminal member. The resinous holder includes a sheath for insulating the hall IC from heat and mechanical stress generated when the mold body is formed.
US07703321B2 Level meter
The invention relates to a level meter which comprises a tank (1) which can at least be partially filled with a medium and has a bottom (12). The level meter further comprises a first measuring device (2) having a float (23) in the interior (14) of the tank (1) for indicating the level of the medium inside the tank (1). Said measuring system is disposed in the top section of the tank (1) and in parallel to a path of displacement of the float (23). An aligning unit 94) comprises at least one fixing element (41; 43; 45; 47) for fixing at least one lower section (32) of the meter tube (30) on the bottom (12) in relation to the path of displacement of the float (23) and at least one medium passage (42; 44; 46; 48) for allowing the medium to flow between the interior (14) of the tank (1) and the interior of the meter tube (30).
US07703317B2 Method and apparatus for sampling formation fluids
A method of retrieving a formation fluid from a formation adjacent a borehole wall includes estimating at least one of a permeability of the formation and a viscosity of the formation fluid. A first tool is selected based on the estimation, the first tool being selected from one of a heating and sampling tool, an injection and sampling tool, and a coring tool. An attempt to retrieve a formation fluid sample from the formation is then made with the first tool, and a formation fluid sample is retrieved from the formation. A second retrieval process may then be initiated, in which the second retrieval process includes increasing the mobility of the formation fluid.
US07703311B2 Key system for a rotating barrel lock
A key system including a key for use with a barrel lock having a rotating locking mechanism. The key includes a grip portion and a shank portion operatively attached to the grip portion. The shank portion includes at least one cam surface for rotatably engaging the rotating locking mechanism to permit rotation of the mechanism in one of a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction, but not the other direction, to lock the barrel lock.
US07703309B2 Electric steering lock device and assembling method
An electric steering lock device has a lock body to be installed in a mounting hole part of a steering column post of a vehicle, a drive part which generates a rotation drive power, a rotation shaft to be rotated by the rotation drive power of the drive part through a gear mechanism, a lock stopper to be screwed with the rotation shaft to move axially by rotating of the rotation shaft, a lock bar which moves between a lock position for locking a steering shaft by movement of the lock stopper and an unlock position for unlocking the steering shaft, and a bush. The bush has a load receiving part to receive thrust loading of the rotation shaft at least at one side of the rotation shaft, an installation claw part to be installed by inserting in a hole part of the lock body, and a bearing claw part to receive radial load by fitting to be slidably rotatable with an external diameter of the rotation shaft.
US07703304B2 Apparatus for quantitative solidification of molten salt by using vacuum transfer and dual vessel
Provided are an apparatus and method for manufacturing a solidified salt that is easy to treat in size and shape by using a vacuum transfer and a dual vessel. In the apparatus for quantitative solidification of a molten salt, a molten salt is introduced into a first vessel, and a second vessel is disposed inside the first vessel and quantitatively supplied with the molten salt. A molten-salt transferring unit quantitatively transfers the molten salt from the first vessel to the second vessel by vacuum pressure. A valve controls a discharge of the molten salt from the second vessel. A mold receives the molten salt from the second vessel and solidifies the molten salt. Accordingly, the molten salt can be stably discharged to the mold by quantitatively transferring the molten salt at vacuum pressure within the dual vessel, and a predetermined size and shape of the solidified salt can be manufactured, thereby processing and collecting the solidified salt safely.
US07703303B2 Magnetic disk glass substrate manufacturing method
A magnetic disk glass substrate manufacturing method includes a step of polishing a surface of a glass substrate to a mirror surface, a gas heating process step of causing a heated atmosphere and the glass substrate to contact each other so as to heat the glass substrate at a temperature T0, a step of causing a chemically strengthening salt melted exceeding a freezing temperature TF and the glass substrate to contact each other so as to chemically strengthen the glass substrate at a temperature T1, a gas cooling process step of causing a gas coolant and the glass substrate to contact each other so as to cool the glass substrate to a temperature T2, and a liquid cooling process step of causing a liquid coolant and the glass substrate to contact each other so as to cool the glass substrate to a temperature T3, the above-mentioned steps being included in this order, wherein the temperature T2 is set to a temperature less than the freezing temperature TF of the chemical strengthening salt in a gas cooling process.
US07703300B2 Pulse systems and methods for detaching ice
A pulse system for detaching ice includes a power supply for applying a high-power heating pulse to the interface between ice and an object such as a cold plate of an ice making system, an ice-container, a heat-exchanger, a refrigerator surface or an airplane wing. Pulse heating may be generated within a metal foil or resistive film disposed upon an object to be deiced, or a capillary tube proximate the object to be deiced. An interfacial layer of ice is melted and the ice is released from the object. A force, for example gravity, pressure of vaporization or mechanical scraping, removes the ice from the object.
US07703297B2 Refrigerator with a water and ice dispenser having a motorized chute extension door
A refrigerator having an ice and water dispenser. The dispenser includes an ice chute door actuated by an electric motor for reducing energy consumption over traditional solenoid activated doors.
US07703293B2 Refrigerator and operating method thereof
A refrigerator comprises a main cabinet formed with a storage compartment, a partition which partitions the storage compartment into a first storage compartment, a second storage compartment, a multipurpose compartment; a first evaporator provided to the main cabinet to generate cool air supplied to the first storage compartment; a second evaporator which is provided to the main cabinet to generate the cool air supplied to the second storage compartment; a first sub cool air duct which guides the cool air generated from the first evaporator to the multipurpose compartment; a second sub cool air duct which guides the cool air generated from the second evaporator to the multipurpose compartment; and at least one sub cool air supplying apparatus provided to the first sub cool air duct and the second sub cool air duct to supply the cool air from the first evaporator and the second evaporator to the multipurpose compartment.
US07703292B2 Apparatus and method for increasing ice production rate
A refrigerator includes a housing defining a freezer storage compartment, an evaporator operatively coupled to the freezer storage compartment and configured to cool the freezer storage compartment, and an evaporator fan positioned to move air across the evaporator. The refrigerator also includes an ice maker positioned within the freezer storage compartment, a dispenser in flow communication with the ice maker and configured to dispense ice, and a control system configured to receive a signal from said dispenser indicating dispensing of a first amount of ice from the dispenser, the control system configured to activate the evaporator fan in response to the signal, the evaporator fan operating continuously for a time period upon activation.
US07703291B2 Contained environmental control system for mobile event data recorder
An environmental control system, or data pack, is provided in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. The system allows for audio and video recording on hard drive media in situations where temperature, vibration and humidity would otherwise have prevented the use of such technology. The system can be used in conjunction with an event recorder for use in motor vehicles, trains and the like. The environmental control system includes a thermoelectric module connected to the hard drive and to a housing. The thermoelectric module is for transferring heat between the hard drive and the housing in response to an applied voltage in order to maintain a hard drive temperature within a hard drive operable temperature range. The vehicle operating temperature range includes temperatures outside the hard drive operable temperature range.
US07703289B2 Internal fuel manifold having temperature reduction feature
A fuel manifold assembly for a gas turbine engine comprises an annular fuel manifold and a plurality of fuel nozzles circumferentially distributed about the fuel manifold. The fuel manifold has at least one fuel conveying passage in fluid flow communication with the plurality of fuel nozzles and defines at least one location susceptible to overheating between two of the plurality of fuel nozzles. A slot extends through the fuel manifold in the susceptible location to reduce heat transfer in the fuel manifold while maintaining the fuel manifold assembly dynamically balanced.
US07703286B2 Internal fuel manifold and fuel fairing interface
A mounting system for an annular internal fuel manifold disposed within a gas turbine engine includes a fuel inlet assembly having a heat shield extending about at least a portion of an inner fuel inlet tube. The heat shield has a distal end engaged with the fuel manifold and has a radially outwardly projecting shoulder proximate an opposed proximal end thereof. The proximal end of the heat shield is received within a bushing disposed within a corresponding opening of a supporting casing. The shoulder of the heat shield retains the bushing in place.
US07703285B2 System and method for generating electricity from super critical water oxidation process
Systems and method for generating electricity using heat from a SCWO reaction. The system may comprise a pump that pumps the mixture undergoing the SCWO reaction to a pressure above the critical pressure point for the mixture. The pressurized mixture is heated, by a heating system, above the critical temperature point for the mixture. The SCWO reaction occurs in a reaction chamber. The reaction chamber is in thermal communication with a vessel that holds water such that the heat from the mixture heats the water into steam. The steam powers a steam turbine, which is connected to an electrical generator to thereby generate electricity.
US07703283B2 Automotive air blowers
An automotive air blower, in particular a supercharger, comprises an air pump, such as an air impeller (2) connected to the output shaft (4) of a transmission system, the input shaft of which is connected, in use, to the engine of a motor vehicle. The input and output shafts (6, 4) are connected to respective branches of a three-branch epicyclic differential gearset. The third branch of the gearset and the input shaft (6) are connected to the rotor (20, 22) of respective electrical machines, the electrical connections of the stators (24, 26) of which machines are connected together via a controller (27) arranged to control the flow of electric power between them.
US07703279B2 Programmable cylinder, system and method for changing velocity of a machine element within a cylinder
A programmable cylinder, a system and a method change a velocity of a machine element within a compartment. A light detector within the compartment determines that the machine element is located at a first position or at a second position and/or is moving at a first velocity or at a second velocity. Switches determine that the machine element may be located at the first position or at the second position and/or is moving at the first velocity or at the second velocity. A microprocessor transmits a control signal to a transducer to alter an electrical current of the transducer to move valves of the compartment between an open position and a closed position. A compressed fluid within the interior of the compartment is changed via the valves. The machine element is accelerated and/or is decelerated to the first velocity or to the second velocity via the compressed fluid. A graphic user interface and/or a terminal accesses and controls the microprocessor and/or the transducer to move the machine element at the first velocity or at the second velocity within the compartment.
US07703277B2 Exhaust gas purifying apparatus for internal combustion engine
An exhaust gas purifying apparatus for an internal combustion engine comprises a casing which forms a part of an exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine and houses therein an occlusion-reduction type NOx catalyst and a reducing agent supply device which supplies a reducing agent to an interior of the casing on an upstream side of the NOx catalyst. The reducing agent supply device injects the reducing agent in a flat form in a direction intersecting a center line of the NOx catalyst from a nozzle hole disposed in the casing.
US07703272B2 System and method for augmenting turbine power output
A method and system augments shaft output of gas turbine engines that can be used in multiple modes of operation. The system comprises a washing unit capable of injecting atomized water into the gas turbine engine, thereby obtaining a release of fouling material from the at least one compressor blade; and at least one water injection unit capable of injecting atomized water into the air stream of the gas turbine engine's inlet duct or at the gas turbine, under the control of a computational fluid dynamic model, in order to increase a mass flow of said air flow, wherein the power output from said gas turbine engine can be augmented.
US07703269B2 Harvesting machine improvement
A scale or leaf for a berry picking machine and a collector scale assembly including the scale. A freely rotating circular disc on the free end of the scale when attached to a rail of the machine is the most distinctive feature of the comma shaped scale.
US07703264B2 Machine and method for packaging groups of products
To orient groups of products to be packaged in a plastic film the groups (G) are wrapped in lengths of film and fed between two series of opposite conveyor belts (211, 212). Each series of belts comprises several parallel belts controlled at proportionally variable speeds to cause the group (G) to rotate through approximately 90° about an axis orthogonal to the direction of feed.
US07703260B1 Circular motion case packing system
An apparatus, system and method in which containers are packed with articles for shipping, handling, and storage purposes. The apparatus includes a rotating disc having arms, which carry packing heads. A conveyor system provides articles and empty containers for packing. The method is further described as being of an un-interrupted nature and therefore the apparatus and method will be referred to as a continuous motion case packing machine.
US07703259B2 Apparatus for transporting rolls during packing
An assembly for moving paper, board and cellulosic web rolls in a roll packaging system includes a plurality of roll handling stations incorporating at least one receiving station for the entry of rolls into the system, one wrapping station for winding at least one wrapper course on the periphery of the rolls, and at least one other station, and an indexing conveyor having a car for moving the rolls which is adapted to move synchronously into positions coinciding with each one of said roll handling stations. The car of the indexing conveyor is adapted to move on at least three different elevation levels named as a base elevation level 0, a first elevation level and a second elevation level. Additionally, at least a portion of the car coinciding with one station is on an elevated level in regard to the other parts of the car coinciding with the other stations.
US07703258B2 Main tee connection
A main tee with separate clips affixed on its ends for splicing the tee with identical tees in end-to-end butt joints. The tee and clip form a pocket for receiving the projecting end of an opposing clip with a uniform low insertion force. The clip is self-aligning with the pocket and when interconnected the clips precisely align the coupled tees both vertically and horizontally. The clips, formed of relatively strong material, have mutually engageable locking surfaces that ensure a strong joint.
US07703256B2 Multi-piece attachment mounting clamp for trapezoidal rib profile panels
A clamp (42) is mounted on a hollow rib (18) of a panel assembly (142). The clamp (42) includes a first clamping member (46) and a separate second clamping member (82). The first clamping member (42) includes a first section (50) that is disposed beyond a top wall (30) of the rib (18), and that includes an arcuately-shaped recess (58). The second clamping member (82) includes a convex, arcuately-shaped distal end (90) that is disposed within the recess (58) of the first clamping member (42) to allow the second clamping member (82) to pivot relative to the first clamping member (46) at least generally about the distal end (90) to secure the clamp (42) to the rib (18). An attachment (150) may be mounted on the clamp (42).
US07703251B2 Solid panel for decoration
A 3-dimensional decorative panel is disclosed to easily embody a wanted 3-dimensional shape by using Styrofoam having good heat insulation and workability. The panel includes a drain groove (22) formed on a side of the Styrofoam (20) for draining a rainwater, and a metal plate (10) coupled to a rear surface of the Styrofoam (20), the metal plate having a plurality of bent portions (11), and a reinforcing core (12) being attached to the metal plate 10. A polygarde (30), silicon (31), a polygarde (30), a primer (32), and a colored layer (33) are sequentially layered on a surface of the Styrofoam (20) in order to enhance a durability of the Styrofoam (20).
US07703248B2 Hollow interconnecting panels as lost formwork
An elongated building element (14) to form a series of walls (10) to (13). The elements (14) each have longitudinally extending flanges (21) that snap engage with longitudinally extending grooves (19) in the next adjacent element (14). Accordingly the wall (10) is constructed by joining the elements (14) in a direction transverse their general direction of extension. If so required the elements (14) may be filled with concrete.
US07703245B2 Loading dock door seal
A seal system is utilized with flat, rough, and/or ribbed wall surfaces and includes a top dock pad and two substantially parallel side dock pads, which substantially frame a doorway at a loading dock. The dock pads are secured to the wall by a plurality of mounting brackets. The dock pads include a first foam layer coupled to a rear portion of a backing structure. The first foam layer operates to accommodate, or substantially “fill-in”, any surface irregularities of the building wall surface, such as a rough wall texture and rib surfaces, to provide an airtight or substantially airtight seal between the building and the seal structure. The dock pads also include a second foam layer coupled to a front portion of the backing structure. The second foam layer is employed to create an effective seal between the building and a rear portion of a vehicle.
US07703241B2 Security gate
A security gate for controlling passage of personnel through an accessway to or from a controlled-access region, the security gate including: (a) a first support structure deployed on a first side of the accessway; (b) a second support structure deployed on a second side of the accessway opposite the first support structure; (c) for each of the first and second support structures, a first set of vertically-spaced elongated barrier elements extending from the support structure in a first barrier formation and a second set of vertically-spaced elongated barrier elements extending from the support structure in a second barrier formation; and (d) a mechanical actuator system deployed so as to synchronously move at least the first and second barrier formations of the first and second support structures such that: (i) the first and second barrier formations assume a first state in which the first barrier formations are spaced apart to allow entrance of a person into the gate from an entrance side while the elongated barrier elements of the second barrier formations of the first and second support structures are at least partially interspaced so as to prevent passage of a person from the gate to an exit side, and (ii) the first and second barrier formations assume a second state in which the second barrier formations are spaced apart to allow exit of a person from the gate to an exit side while the elongated barrier elements of the first barrier formations of the first and second support structures are at least partially interspaced so as to prevent entry of a person from the entrance side into the gate.
US07703237B2 Apparatus for cultivating cucumber, eggplant. et al.
An apparatus for cultivating a cucumber, eggplant or the like includes a fastening element for allowing an opened cover body to be fastened into a closed state or a closed cover body to be separated into an opened state by causing a catching protrusion opened along the longitudinal direction of the cover body, and a plurality of catching steps to allow the cover body to be coupled and fastened when catching steps are hooked on a catching protrusion, and a cover body distortion prevention projection formed protruding from the catching protrusion to fix opposite sides of each of the catching steps when each catching step is hooked on the catching protrusion. Cover body separation/opening supports are formed, respectively, on the top of each catching step and on the catching protrusion such that the fastened cover body can be unfastened and opened.
US07703233B2 Avian decoy
An avian decoy comprising a body having a hollow interior; a support movable between a retracted position and an extended position; and an extremity movable between a retracted position and an extended position; the extremity including a foot and a leg; the leg having a first end positioned within the hollow interior of the body and having a second end attached to the foot.
US07703228B2 Collapsible structures
A collapsible structure has first and second panels, each panel comprising a top side, a foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, and a fabric covering portions each frame member to form the panel for each frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation. The panels are hingedly connected to each other along their top edges. An image is provided on the fabric of at least one of the panels, and a weight is coupled to the first panel.
US07703226B2 Container with reflective surface for creating a multi-effect visual display
A container for creating a multi-dimensional visual display or illusion. The container includes sidewall and a visual display assembly mounted on an exterior surface of the sidewall. The display assembly may be provided in one or more labels attached to the exterior surface and includes a reflective surface attached to a rear portion of the sidewall. A primary image is positioned between the reflective surface and exterior surface of the sidewall. The sidewall is curved and the reflective surface and primary image are mounted to conform to this curved shape. A framing element is provided on a front portion of the sidewall with background images on an inward facing surface. The framing element includes a view port providing a line of sight through the container onto the primary image and reflective surface, which reflects the background images to the viewer so as to appear behind the primary image.
US07703221B2 Sole assembly
A sole assembly suitable for use in footwear, the sole assembly including a flexible base (12) having an underside surface (13) which includes a forward region (31), a rearward region (32) and an intermediate region (33) therebetween. The sole assembly further includes a plurality of individual sole elements (14) on the underside surface, each element including a body section (15) and a connecting section (17) which is operatively secured to the underside surface (13) of the flexible base (12), the sole elements (14) being arranged on the underside surface of the flexible base such that at least some of the body sections (15) of adjacent sole elements have overlapping sections.
US07703219B2 Shoe inner sole
An inner sole for a shoe, the inner sole having a heel portion, a mid-area portion, a metatarsal portion, a metatarsal/toe transition portion and a toe portion. Force absorbing, compressible blisters, each having a perforation, extend across the heel portion, the mid-area portion and the metatarsal portion. There are truncated blisters in the metatarsal portion and no blisters in the toe portion. Orifices are disposed between the blisters and truncated blisters, and are in the toe portion. The orifices dissipate moisture from a user's foot. Also disclosed is a shoe arrangement including the foregoing inner sole, and layers including a breathable and/or moisture permeable layer and a fluid-absorbing layer.
US07703212B2 Method and apparatus for vehicle service system optical target assembly
A machine vision vehicle wheel alignment system optical target assembly incorporating an adaptor for attachment of an optical target to a vehicle wheel assembly. The adaptor includes at least three contact points for abutment against surfaces of a vehicle wheel assembly, and an attachment mechanism configured to grip surfaces of a tire mounted to the wheel rim to hold the optical target assembly in contact with the wheel assembly surface. The optical target is secured to the adaptor, and maintained in a fixed relationship to the wheel assembly thereby during a vehicle wheel alignment measurement procedure.
US07703211B1 Easy lift saw platform
An extendable tree trimming saw is made easy to handle by providing a foot plate on which to rest the weight of the pole and a winch for raising and lowering the saw. The extendable pole is pivotally connected to the foot plate, preferably through a coil spring or elastomeric mass that aides in holding the pole upright and restoring it to an upright position after a cutting operation.
US07703208B2 Manufacturing process for roll-formed vehicle panels
An improved vehicle box assembly with an upright front or side panel defined by a monolithic one-piece roll-formed steel sheet member having a desired three-dimensional configuration. The sheet steel member is roll-formed in the lengthwise direction thereof. The panel has a channel, preferably a closed tubular channel on the front panel, roll-formed along one edge of the sheet steel during forming of the panel. The closed tubular edge rail is preferably closed by a seam weld which extends lengthwise therealong and is performed in line with the roll-forming operation. The roll-formed panel is preferably provided with a flat shelf deformed horizontally to extend lengthwise along the panel downwardly from the top rail.
US07703206B1 Universal wheel pylon
A wheel pylon includes a tubular mounting shaft that slidably receives a tubular support shaft. A helical spring is disposed within the shafts and a stop, formed from a resilient material, is mounted upon an end of the support shaft. The wheel pylon extends axially to accommodate wheel discs having different axial recess depths.
US07703202B2 Method for manufacturing a transmission line equalizer
A method for manufacturing an equalizer used to compensate a digital signal passed by a transmission line, in which the digital signal can be presented as a frequency-domain function. The method includes measuring a the transmission line scattering-parameter; performing an integration and a differentiation about the transmission line scattering-parameter, the frequency-domain function, the ideal gain, and an equalizer scattering-parameter to get the component impedances of the equalizer; and manufacturing the equalizer circuit with the derived component impedances.
US07703198B2 Method of manufacturing capacitor-embedded low temperature co-fired ceramic substrate
A method of manufacturing a capacitor-embedded low temperature co-fired ceramic substrate. A capacitor part is manufactured by firing a deposition including at least one high dielectric ceramic sheet to form a capacitor part. A plurality of low temperature co-fired green sheets are provided. Each of the low temperature co-fired green sheet has at least one of a conductive pattern and a conductive via hole thereon. A low temperature co-fired ceramic deposition is formed by depositing the low temperature co-fired green sheets to embed the capacitor part in the low temperature co-fired ceramic deposition. The embedded capacitor part is connected either to the conductive pattern or the conductive via hole of an adjacent green sheet. Then the low temperature co-fired ceramic deposition having the capacitor part embedded therein is fired.
US07703197B2 Process for depopulating a circuit board
Apparatus and methods for removing components from a circuit board. A conveyor transports circuit boards having components attached with solder through a heating section. When the solder has been melted by application of electromagnetic radiation, the circuit board is subjected to mechanical forces that dislodge the components to be removed from the circuit board. In one embodiment, the electromagnetic radiation is supplied by heaters operating at color temperatures in the vicinity of 973 Kelvin. The components are recovered in a form that allows their reuse.
US07703195B2 Methods of manipulating electrical wall fixtures
A method for the safe and easy installation of wall-mounted electrical switches utilizing a multi-functional tool. The tool is temporarily attached to a magnetically-attractive surface of a fixture using one or more magnets. The fixture may be safely held using the tool.
US07703190B2 Tooling system and method
A tooling system includes a plurality of elements arranged in an array, each element being moveable longitudinally relative to the other elements in the array and having a first end. The system further includes a device, adapted to adjust the relative longitudinal positions of the elements such that the free ends of the elements define approximately a desired surface contour and a device for retaining the elements in their adjusted positions. The first end of each element may be provided on a machinable portion removably mounted to a base portion, the arrangement being such that the free ends of the elements can be machined to produce the desired surface contour. The tooling system may include a plurality of elements arranged in an array, the elements of the array being movable between a closed position in which the elements contact one another and are secured in position, and an open position in which the elements of the array are spaced apart and are capable of vertical movement relative to one another, wherein it also includes a drive device for opening and closing the array.
US07703188B2 Thermal shroud and method of making same
An injection molding hot runner nozzle and a method of making such a nozzle are disclosed that improves heat transfer along the length of the nozzle. The nozzle includes a nozzle body and a heating element located on an outer surface of the nozzle body having a form-fitting thermally conductive shroud that conforms to a profile of the nozzle and the heating element.
US07703186B1 Casket and burial system
A casket and burial system for human remains includes a casket fabricated from plastics and polymer composites, such as glass-fiber reinforced plastic. The casket includes a base member, a cover member fitting atop the base, and top and bottom closure panels having one or more ports for use in replacing the ambient atmosphere within the sealed casket with a selected gas or fluid such as nitrogen, or to inject a plastic foam into the free space remaining in the casket. The casket is preferably interred in a vertical attitude as that arrangement allows up to four caskets to fit within a standard grave plot.
US07703184B2 Device for creating a seal between fabrics or other materials
A device for forming a seal includes upper and lower seal members, and a slider, wherein mating surfaces of the seal members interlock. In at least one embodiment, a lifting rib and closure bar on the slider cooperate with a lifting wing and closure bar groove on the upper and lower seal members, respectively. By moving the slider in one direction, the lifting rib lifts the upper seal member from the lower seal member. Moving the slider in the opposite direction causes the upper and lower seal members to interlock. In another embodiment, a slider has an intermediate lateral member connected on one side the slider top, and connected on the other side to the slider bottom. A breakaway sealing device is also provided, allowing a person to break the closed seal. A beginning stop block is also provided that includes a means for securing the upper seal member.
US07703181B2 Cord tensioning apparatus and method of securing a cord using the same
A cord tensioning apparatus includes a first cord guide, a second cord guide, and a cord cleat coupled between the first and second cord guides, the cord cleat including a groove, the cord cleat adapted to grip a portion of a cord occupying a cord gripping region within the groove. The first and second cord guides are adapted to receive a cord and restrict a movement of the cord within the cord cleat.
US07703180B2 Pressure botton
A pressure button, of the type comprising a male portion and a female portion, to be applied on flaps to be connected, the female portion comprising a fixing element for fixing an active female element, the latter including a plurality of resilient tabs which are mutually arranged with a ring arrangement about a housing recess for housing a projecting part of the male portion. The active female element of the button comprises an annular body to which a clamp element including a plurality of points projecting outside of the active female element is affixed.In particular, the assembling means for assembling the female portion are so arranged as to operate at a separated and moved away position from the resilient tabs, thereby the assembling of the female portion, for applying the latter on a respective material flap, can be performed without modifying the mutual shape and/or arrangement of the resilient tabs, thereby preserving the rated clamping pressure of the button.
US07703177B2 Hinge device and mobile apparatus having the same
A mobile apparatus includes a main body, a display part, and a hinge device. The hinge device opens and closes the display part from the main body and allows the display part to rotate. The hinge device includes a sliding unit that slides with respect to the main body, and a rotary unit rotatably formed with the sliding unit to engage the display part. The hinge device requires less installation space so that the mobile apparatus may be more compact. Furthermore, there is no visible installation line of the hinge device so that the mobile apparatus may have a more refined design.
US07703174B1 Snap on wheels
Snappable wheel holders for environmental control units such as radiators, heaters, fans and air conditioners. Wheel holders can attach wheels to brackets located underneath the units by mateably attaching male protruding ends into female slots. Plastic triangular pieces can snap into openings to lock the wheel holders to the brackets. The brackets can be attached underneath the units by clamping U-bars with wing nuts.
US07703172B2 Complex type cleaner
A cleaner includes: a body provided with a dust collecting container for storing dust; a fan motor installed at the body and generating a suction force; a vacuum cleaning head disposed at a lower side of the body, for sucking dust when vacuum cleaning; and a water cleaning head mounted at the vacuum cleaning head, and provided with a suction head through which contaminated water is sucked when water cleaning and a water collecting container for storing contaminated water sucked through the suction head. As a suction nozzle for sucking contaminated water and a water collecting container for storing the contaminated water sucked through the suction nozzle are integrally formed and installed at a suction head, a cleaner capable of reducing the number of parts and a production cost, and employing a small capacity fan motor is provided.
US07703163B2 Toothbrush with enhanced cleaning effects
A toothbrush is provided for cleaning and/or massaging of teeth and gums having a mechanical vibratory element and a head having cleaning/treating elements on a plurality of different types of cleaning areas which provide for an enhanced cleaning, scrubbing and massaging effect. The cleaning/treating elements have different physical characteristics so that in addition to providing a varied cleaning/treating effect from the cleaning/treating elements themselves there is enhanced treatment as a result of the movement of the cleaning/treating elements imparted by the mechanical vibratory device.
US07703161B1 Vehicle extrication preparatory tool
A vehicle extrication preparatory tool includes an elongated body portion with an ergonomic bend in the middle. A handle is provided forward of the bend extending in an upward direction perpendicularly to the rear section of the body. Incorporated into the upward end of the handle is a window punch. A pry bar is attached to the rearward end of the body portion. Incorporated into the forward end of the tool is a swivel segment. The swivel segment incorporates both a windshield spike and a windshield saw blade. In the open position, the saw blade extends from the swivel segment, running parallel with the front section of the body and the spike extends upward from the swivel segment perpendicular to the rear section of the body. When closed, the saw blade fits inside a slot in the body portion extending from the swivel segment inline with the front section of the body and the spike extends downward perpendicular to the rear section of the body from the swivel segment.
US07703160B2 Inflatable mattress
An inflatable mattress has a body and a coverlet. The body is hollow, is inflatable and has a top, a sidewall and at least one first engaging member attached to the sidewall of the body. The coverlet is mounted detachably on and covers the body and has at least one second engaging member attached to the coverlet and corresponding respectively to and detachably engaged respectively with the at least one first engaging member on the body. The coverlet is mounted tightly on the body and would not be shifted by persons' movement on the inflatable mattress.
US07703159B2 Method and apparatus supporting babies being fed
A ridged base with a ridge above/adjacent to a platform zone providing surface(s) for a baby. The system preferably includes ridged base positioned over support base. Support base provides layer of flexibly firm material of depth. The ridged base may approximate any of multiple shapes. Wearer of system may chose shape optimized for them and/or best supports baby's positioning needs. The width of the baby feeding system preferably fits most nursing chairs. A separable cover attaching to a belt. Using the belt includes the belt adjustably fastened, after going around a person wearing the system. The worn version of the baby feeding system is a product of using the belt. The belt releases without tending to wake baby allowing wearer to create released baby feeding system, as a product of this process. A process choosing invention's components with commitment to pay revenue. Chosen component(s), system and revenue are process products.
US07703158B2 Patient support apparatus having a diagnostic system
A patient support including a frame and a mattress supported by the frame. The frame includes a deck support and a deck supporting the mattress.
US07703154B2 Safety lid
An embodiment of the safety lid system includes a container having an interior chamber and a lid moveably connected to the container, an arm having a locking end is functionally connected to the lid, and a holding device having an interior channel adapted for disposing a portion of the locking end is connected to the container. The locking end of the arm is moveable from a locked position wherein the locking end is disposed within the channel of the holding device securing the lid to the container in a position restricting access to the interior chamber and an unlocked position wherein the locking end is removed from the channel. The arm may be biased toward the container wherein when the system is in the locked position the arm must be urged outward from the container to lift the lid from the container.
US07703153B2 Combination hat and sunglasses/goggles
The present invention provides a combination hat and sunglasses/goggles, in which the sunglasses/goggles are pivotally moveable relative to the hat, between a raised, out of the way position to a lowered position with the eyepiece in front of the wearer's eyes, through an elongated aperture in the front brim of the hat. In addition, the sunglasses/goggles can be fully detached and removed from the hat, so that they can be used as regular sunglasses. The combination is easy to assemble and disassemble, and simple and convenient to operate, providing versatility and reduced risk of loss of components of the combination.
US07703150B2 Child's vest
An inexpensive, multi-purpose, durable garment in the nature of a child's vest for general wear which easily accepts the shoulder strap of a vehicle seat belt system regardless of the child's seated position in the vehicle, is light in weight, easy to put on and take off, comfortable to wear, encourages the habit of seat belt use and is appealing and attractive to children.
US07703149B2 Protective covers for drivers and vehicle passengers
A bib for use by an individual seated in a vehicle having a vehicle cup holder mounted in the vehicle adjacent the seated individual, includes an upper section for covering at least a portion of the seated individual's front torso which is attached in such a way as to maintain the upper section in a substantially vertical position on the seated individual, a lower section for covering the seated individual's lap and thighs, and a lateral section extending from the lower section to beyond the vehicle cup holder, with a portion of the lateral section adapted to be inserted in the vehicle cup holder and releasably maintained therein. The bib includes an upper absorbent surface for absorbing liquid spills and a lower impermeable surface for preventing liquid spills from contacting the seated individual or the vehicle.