| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US07709105B2 |
Electroluminescent host material
An OLED device comprises a cathode, an anode, and has therebetween a light-emitting layer containing a phosphorescent emitter and a host comprising a first aluminum or gallium complex containing at least one 2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)pyridine ligand and at least one phenoxy ligand, wherein the phenoxy ligand is substituted by an amine or there is further present adjacent to the light-emitting layer on the cathode side a layer containing a second aluminum or gallium complex containing at least one 2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)pyridine ligand and at least one phenoxy ligand. |
| US07709101B2 |
Organic electroluminescence device
An organic electroluminescence device is disclosed which comprises an emitting layer and a hole blocking layer disposed between an electron injecting electrode (cathode) and a hole injecting electrode (anode), the material for the hole blocking layer being expressed by the following chemical formula 1: The organic electroluminescence device can improve the luminescence and driving characteristics. |
| US07709100B2 |
Electroluminescent efficiency
An organic light emitting device is provided. The device has an anode, a cathode, and an emissive layer disposed between the anode and the cathode. The emissive layer further includes a molecule of Formula I (shown below) wherein an alkyl substituent at position R′5, which is an alkyl substituent, results in high efficiency and operational stability in the organic light emitting device. |
| US07709096B2 |
Coating composition, fluorine-containing laminate and resin composition
A coating composition including an amide group-containable macromolecule compound (A) having an amide group or to have an amide group and an anti-oxidizing material (B) capable of inhibiting oxidation of the amide group. The amide group-containable macromolecule compound (A) is an amide group-containing polymer (a1) having an amide group and an aromatic ring, and/or an amide group-containing-polymer precursor (a2) to convert into the amide group-containing polymer (a1) by baking at a time of coating with said coating composition. The anti-oxidizing material (B) accounts for 0.1 to 20 mass % of a total amount of said amide group-containable macromolecule compound (A) and the anti-oxidizing material (B). |
| US07709095B2 |
Infra-red reflecting layered structure
The invention relates to an infra-red reflecting layered structure comprising a transparent substrate layer; a first metal oxide layer; a first silver containing layer, a second metal oxide layer; a second silver containing layer and a third metal oxide layer. The first, second and third metal oxide layer have a refractive index of at least 2.40 at a wavelength of 500 nm. The layered structure according to the present invention laminated on glass has a visual light transmittance (VLT) higher than 70% and a solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) lower than 0.44. The invention further relates to the use of a layered structure as a transparent heat-mirror. |
| US07709091B2 |
Composite light weight building panel and core material therefor
A core material for a composite light weight building panel formed from a settable mixture, said mixture including an acrylic, polymer-based resin comprising: 85% by volume water based copolymer emulsion of polyvinyl acetate with versatate and/or acrylic copolymers in a water emulsion; 10% water soluble colloid protector; 5% additives; such that the resin obtains a specific gravity in the range of 1000±50 g/l and an 8 Ford viscosity at 20° C. of 7±1: and the mixture having the following ratios: from 1 to 3 liters of cement; more than 2 liters of resin; from 10 to 100 liters of light weight filler material; less than 6 kilograms of water, and such that the volume of cement is more than half the volume of resin. |
| US07709090B2 |
Surface-treated calcium carbonate particles
The particles comprise a core of calcium carbonate and a coating covering at least part of the surface of the core, the coating being carried out in at least two distinct consecutive steps, each step using a different coating agent. The coating agent used in the first step is preferably a fatty acid and the coating agent used in the second step is preferably a diol or a triol. The particles can be used as a functional filler, i.e. in plastisols formulations. |
| US07709088B2 |
Inorganic fibers, fiber structure and process for their production
Inorganic fibers consisting substantially of silicon, carbon, oxygen and a transition metal, having a fiber size of no greater than 2 μm and having fiber lengths of 100 μm or greater. |
| US07709087B2 |
Compliant base to increase contact for micro- or nano-fibers
A fabricated microstructure includes a substrate, a primary fiber, and a plurality of base fibers. The primary fiber has a width less than about 5 microns. Each base fiber of the plurality of base fibers has a first end attached to the primary fiber and a second end attached to the substrate. Each base fiber has a width less than the width of the primary fiber. |
| US07709079B2 |
Methods for forming improved self-assembled patterns of block copolymers
A method for forming self-assembled patterns on a substrate surface is provided. First, a block copolymer layer, which comprises a block copolymer having two or more immiscible polymeric block components, is applied onto a substrate that comprises a substrate surface with a trench therein. The trench specifically includes at least one narrow region flanked by two wide regions, and wherein the trench has a width variation of more than 50%. Annealing is subsequently carried out to effectuate phase separation between the two or more immiscible polymeric block components in the block copolymer layer, thereby forming periodic patterns that are defined by repeating structural units. Specifically, the periodic patterns at the narrow region of the trench are aligned in a predetermined direction and are essentially free of defects. Block copolymer films formed by the above-described method as well as semiconductor structures comprising such block copolymer films are also described. |
| US07709077B1 |
Multi-zone pop stick napkin
A multi-zone napkin is provided for use with a frozen treat mounted on a stick to absorb drips. A portion of the stick can be located through a mounting slot in the napkin. A distribution zone layer passes liquid through to an absorbent zone layer and may optionally be suitable for printing on a top surface, to display artwork or other messages. The absorbent zone layer retains liquid received from the distribution zone layer. A barrier zone layer can help to retain the liquid in the absorbent zone layer and prevent drips from contacting a user's hand. In addition to absorbing drips, the multi-zone napkin may provide insulation from cold and/or may be configured to provide a soft surface against a user's hand. The napkin may also be designed to inhibit drips from the frozen treat from running off the distribution zone layer. |
| US07709075B2 |
Internal material of sole, shoe insole and boot
A web comprising a matrix fiber containing a non-elastic polyester based short fiber and an elastic composite fiber which is made of a thermoplastic elastomer having a melting point of at least 40° C. lower than a melting point of a polyester polymer constituting the short fiber and a non-elastic polyester, with the former being at least exposed on a surface of the fiber, and optionally a hygroscopic and exothermic fiber is heat molded such that the fibers are aligned in a thickness direction thereof, thereby obtaining a mat layer, onto which is then stuck a surface skin material to form an internal material of shoe, and a shoe insole and a boot are obtained by using the internal material of shoe. |
| US07709074B2 |
Optical information recording medium, method of manufacturing the same, and surface print method
There is provided an optical information recording medium which can meet opposite requirements of enhancement in ink absorption and fixation properties of an image forming layer and suppression and prevention of solid attachment of a printed portion, which has excellent printability to obtain high image quality and an excellent holding property of the printed portion, and which little makes the solid attachment on the printed surface layer occur. At this time, a thick layer can be formed even by the use of a coating solution for the image forming layer. The optical information recording medium has the image forming layer on various layers stacked on a surface of a light transmitting substrate and optically readable signals are recorded or can be recorded therein by the use of laser beams incident on the other surface of the light transmitting substrate, wherein the image forming layer includes an ink absorbing porous layer made of a resin layer containing vapor inorganic particles. A hydrophobic portion is formed in a portion beside the porous layer on the surface of a layer adjacent to the porous layer. An anchor layer is disposed under the porous layer. |
| US07709071B2 |
Label sheet design for easy removal of labels
A label sheet (1) having a release liner (16) and a column of labels (12) releasably adhered thereto is modified to allow easy removal of the labels. The liner has a weakened separation line (30) formed by cuts and ties running underneath a column of labels near the edge of the labels, and notches (18) at the top and bottom of the sheet aligned with the cuts and ties. A matrix (14) surrounding the labels, if present, also has cuts and ties, with the cuts and ties in the matrix parallel to and slightly offset from the cuts and ties in the liner. The separation lines are strong enough that the label sheet can be fed through a printer, yet weak enough that a user can tear off the liner and matrix along the separation lines, thus leaving a minor edge of a column of labels exposed for easy removal from the label sheet. |
| US07709070B2 |
Articles and methods for applying color on surfaces
Articles for applying color on a surface comprise a sheet of dry color component and an adhesive on one surface of the sheet of dry color component. The article further includes a releasable liner, and the sheet of dry color component is arranged between the releasable liner and the adhesive. Methods for providing a substantially permanent color effect on an architectural surface comprise delivering such an article to the architectural surface. |
| US07709064B2 |
Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal composition having a nematic phase that includes two components, wherein the first component is a specific four-ring compound having phenylene, one hydrogen of which is replaced by fluorine, and the second component is a specific compound having phenylene, two hydrogens of which are replaced by halogen, and a liquid crystal display device including the composition. |
| US07709063B2 |
Remote plasma apparatus for processing substrate with two types of gases
In a plasma CVD apparatus, a plate formed with a plurality of perforated holes is arranged to separate a plasma generation region and a processing region. The aperture ratio of the perforated holes to the plate is not greater than five percent. Plasma including radicals and excited species is generated from an oxygen (O2) gas in the plasma generation region, then the radicals and excited species flow into the processing region through the perforated holes. A monosilane (SiH4) gas is also supplied into the processing region, but the backward flow of the monosilane gas into the plasma generation region is suppressed by the plate. In the processing region, the radicals and the excited species and the monosilane gas result in a gas phase reaction that yields the silicon dioxide film formed on the substrate or the wafer with high quality. |
| US07709057B2 |
Method for masking selected regions of a substrate
Described herein is a method for providing a clean edge at the interface of a portion of a substrate coated with a coating system and an adjacent portion of the substrate which is uncoated. The method includes the step of forming a zone of non-adherence on the substrate portion which is to be uncoated, prior to application of the coating system. The zone of non-adherence is adjacent the interface, so that the coating system will not adhere to the zone of non-adherence, but will adhere to the portion of the substrate which is to be coated with the coating system. |
| US07709054B2 |
Particle-rod nano structures and method of forming same by spin coating
A method of forming a particle-rod nanostructure is disclosed. The method comprises preparing a mixture comprising an inorganic nanoparticle and an organic molecule in a solvent. The method further comprises spin-coating the mixture to nucleate a crystal growth of the organic molecule on the inorganic nanoparticle deposited on a substrate, yielding the particle-rod nanostructure. |
| US07709051B2 |
Method and apparatus for dyeing a layer of nanocrystalline material
Method for dyeing a layer of a nanocrystalline material on a substrate using a liquid dye, comprising the successive steps of (i) providing said layer on a substrate, (ii) providing an apparatus for dyeing said layer, which apparatus comprises at least a supply container for the liquid dye, a closable substrate holder provided with at least one inlet and at least one outlet for a substrate provided with a layer of nanocrystalline material, and conduit and circulation means for causing the liquid dye to circulate through the supply container and the substrate holder, (iii) placing the substrate with said layer in the substrate holder and closing the substrate holder, and providing a liquid dye in the supply container, and (iv) causing the liquid dye from the supply container to circulate for a determined time through the substrate holder, and apparatus for performing this method. |
| US07709050B2 |
Surface treatment for OLED material
A method is disclosed for treating an area on a surface to increase affinity for a fluid including organic light emitting diode (OLED) material. |
| US07709047B2 |
Target activated microtransfer
A method of removing a target from a biological sample which involves placing a transfer surface in contact with the biological sample, and then focally altering the transfer surface to allow selective separation of the target from the biological sample. In disclosed embodiments, the target is a cell or cellular component of a tissue section and the transfer surface is a film that can be focally altered to adhere the target to the transfer surface. Subsequent separation of the film from the tissue section selectively removes the adhered target from the tissue section. The transfer surface is activated from within the target to adhere the target to the transfer surface, for example by heating the target to adhere it to a thermoplastic transfer surface. Such in situ activation can be achieved by exposing the biological sample to an immunoreagent that specifically binds to the target (or a component of the target). The immunoreagent can alter the transfer surface directly (for example with a heat generating enzyme carried by the immunoreagent), or indirectly (for example by changing a characteristic of the target). In some embodiments, the immunoreagent deposits a precipitate in the target that increases its light absorption relative to surrounding tissue, such that the biological specimen can be exposed to light to selectively heat the target. Alternatively, the immunoreagent is an immunofluorescent agent that carries a fluorophore that absorbs light and emits heat. |
| US07709046B1 |
Medical devices comprising non cross-linked, thin and flexible aqueous coatings, and methods related thereto
Disclosed are medical devices comprising a coil, coated with a multi-layer coating system and possess the flexibility, lubricity and trackability desired in applications where such devices are utilized. The coating system comprises a non-hydrophilic polymer primer coat and a hydrophilic polymer topcoat. These coating materials do not comprise any cross-linkers or reactive functional groups, and do not require the use of a hazardous solvent. The multi-layer coating system is very thin; having a maximum dry thickness in the range of about 15 microns to about 40 microns. Also disclosed are methods for coating and using these medical devices. The coatings are applied at low temperatures, in an aqueous environment, and in such a way that the coil is coated discretely, without forming a thick layer between the coil portions. Such coating prevents substantial bridging between the loops of the coil, thus preventing the coil tip from being stiff or non-trackable. |
| US07709044B2 |
Acidic soy protein gel foods and process for producing the same
The present invention is intended to provide acidic gel foods containing soybean protein to diversify means of taking soybean protein in daily eating habits. Using the acid-soluble soybean protein as specified in the description, an aqueous solution or an alcohol-containing aqueous solution of the protein is adjusted to pH 3 to 4.5. Then an acid having 2 or more acid groups per molecule or its salt or a salt of another acid is added thereto and the mixture is heated to form a gel. Thus, acidic gel foods including a jelly-like food favorable as a food can be obtained. |
| US07709042B2 |
Process for producing a pretreated feedstock
A process for producing a pretreated feedstock is provided. The feedstock is selected from grasses, cereal straws, stover, and combinations thereof, and least about 80% of the feedstock has a particle length of between about 2 cm and about 40 cm. This process comprises wetting the feedstock in liquid, pressing the wet feedstock through one roll press or a series of roll presses to remove at least a portion of water and soluble substances from the wetted feedstock and to shear the feedstock to produce feedstock particles of a size suitable for pumping at a solids concentration of about 8% to about 20% when slurried. At least one roll press, or at least one roll press in the series of roll presses comprises rolls with circumferential v-shaped grooves. The pressed feedstock particles are slurried to produce a slurried feedstock having a consistency of between about 8% and about 20%, and the slurried feedstock pumped into a pretreatment reactor. Dilute acid pretreatment of the slurried feedstock is carried out at a temperature of 160° C. to 280° C. |
| US07709041B2 |
Low-fat cocoa powder
Techniques for processing cocoa mass are provided. In general, the techniques involve solvent extraction of cocoa fat from cocoa mass, to achieve a desirable cocoa butter and low-fat cocoa powder. In one preferred process, the cocoa mass is the result of grinding cocoa nibs, with absence of a mechanical pressing and heating step, to advantage. Preferred products and uses are characterized. |
| US07709038B2 |
Prepared foods containing triglyceride-recrystallized non-esterified phytosterols
A dietary supplement is provided which includes at least one triglyceride-based edible fat and between 3% and 50% by weight of triglyceride recrystallized phytosterols. The dietary supplement can be in the form of a capsule, pill or wafer. Additionally, the dietary supplement can be combined with protein, vitamins, minerals, or combinations thereof. |
| US07709036B2 |
Method for granulating malt extracts
A method for producing granules made from malt extract is provided. The method provides for producing granules continuously or in batches under the prevention as much as possible of non-uniform temperature distributions in the production process. Simultaneously, the controllability of the granulation in the production is improved. This is realized by linking thermal conditions in the spraying zone and the temperature conditions in other region of the apparatus. This is achieved such that the supply of the heated process gas for drying is realized exclusively in the spraying region. The reliable supply of particles into the spraying region is performed through the special geometric configuration of the apparatus under the use of gravity. |
| US07709032B2 |
Anti-allergic agent containing both ground lotus and/or extract and lactic acid bacterium
The present invention relates to an anti-allergic agent, an anti-allergic food additive and an anti-allergic food each containing both ground lotus and/or extract and a lactic acid bacterium. The anti-allergic agent, anti-allergic food additive and anti-allergic food each contain both ground lotus and/or extract and a lactic acid bacterium as the active ingredients thereby enabling amelioration and treatment of allergic diseases including pollinosis, bronchial asthma and atopic dermatitis. |
| US07709031B2 |
Angiogenic agents from plant extracts, gallic acid, and derivatives
An extract of Chinese blackberry (Rubus suavissimus) has been found to inhibit angiogenesis, and two active fractions isolated. Gallic acid was shown to be one of the active anti-angiogenic compounds by an in vitro human angiogenesis model. Aqueous extracts from other plants either known or found to have gallic acid were also found to have anti-angiogenic activity. Various derivatives of gallic acid were found to inhibit angiogenesis. The extract from Chinese blackberry also slowed the growth of a pancreatic tumor and of corneal neovascularization in rats. Extracts from pomegranate were shown to inhibit angiogenesis in fat tissue. Extracts from Rubus spp, and other plants with gallic acid, and gallic acid and its derivatives will be useful for treating various diseases associated with neovascularization, including diabetic retinopathy, psoriasis, tumors, obesity, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, etc. |
| US07709029B2 |
Calcium-containing restoration materials
A bone or dental implant material in the form of a paste includes a mixture of calcium phosphate and/or calcium-containing powders, liquid glycerol, organic acid and gelling agent. The paste is stable, resistant to washout and will harden upon exposure to water. Physical characteristics of the paste, including consistency, porosity, and hardening time, are controlled by the choice and ratio of constituents. |
| US07709028B2 |
Particulate product comprising pantethine
A particulate containing a pantethine, a light anhydrous silicic acid and a microcrystalline cellulose, in which the total content of the light anhydrous silicic acid the microcrystalline cellulose amounts to a quantity that yields a 0.6 or higher adsorptivity. The present pantethine-containing particulate has a good flowability and an adequate particle size providing excellent handling properties. It is free from impediments such as blocking, and has a good storage stability. |
| US07709026B2 |
Low concentration of peroxide for treating or preventing vaginal infections
The invention relates to a pharmaceutical vaginal composition for treating or preventing vaginal infections. The composition includes a synergistic mix of a bioadhesive, extended release formulation that decreases the pH and that contains a peroxide in an amount sufficient to increase oxygen concentration without sterilizing the vagina or substantially killing the normally-desired local vaginal flora. The invention also relates to a method of treating or preventing vaginal infections in a patient comprising inserting vaginally an amount of the pharmaceutical vaginal composition in an amount sufficient to decrease the pH and increase oxygen concentration without sterilizing the vagina or substantially killing the normally-desired local vaginal flora. |
| US07709018B2 |
Composite structures containing hyaluronic acid the derivatives thereof as new bone substitutes and grafts
A composite material comprising: (i) hyaluronic acid and/or hyaluronic acid derivatives, (ii) demineralised bone and/or biocompatible partially or totally demineralised bone tissue matrix and/or biocompatible and bioresorbable ceramic materials. This material preferably associated with at least one layer comprising a hyaluronic acid derivative may be used in the preparation of bone substitutes or grafts for the regeneration or formation of bone tissue in surgery. |
| US07709017B2 |
Implantable preparations
An implantable preparation comprises a material which can be obtained from globin that has been modified, especially chemically, to be, at least partially, soluble at physiological pH. The material is biocompatible, and biodegradable in the organism. The material may be soluble at physiological pH, or insoluble at that pH. The preparation may be in the form of a solution, suspension, paste, gel, film, sponge, powder or granules, or a solid implant. The preparation can be used for the healing, protection or filling of external skin wounds, the filling of wrinkles and skin flaws, the filling of tissue, as a device for fixing prostheses or biomaterials, or as a device for preventing adhesion. |
| US07709013B2 |
Compositions having improved soft focus effect properties
The invention relates to a composition, especially a cosmetic composition, containing at least one silicone elastomer and at least one encapsulated pigment, wherein the refractive index of the pigment is greater than the refractive index of the encapsulating material. |
| US07709012B2 |
Ophthalmic compositions containing a synergistic combination of two polymers
Ophthalmic compositions suitable for use as artificial tears or as vehicles for ophthalmic drugs are disclosed. The compositions contain a combination of two polymers that have a synergistic effect on viscosity. |
| US07709010B2 |
Papillomavirus vaccine compositions
The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising virus-like particles (VLPs) of HPV, said VLPs adsorbed to an aluminum adjuvant, and an ISCOM-type adjuvant comprising a saponin, cholesterol, and a phospholipid. In preferred embodiments, the aluminum adjuvant comprises amorphous aluminum hydroxyphosphate sulfate. Another aspect of the invention provides multi-dose HPV vaccine formulations comprising HPV VLPs and an antimicrobial preservative selected from the group consisting of: m-cresol, phenol and benzyl alcohol. Also provided are methods of using the disclosed pharmaceutical compositions and formulations to induce an immune response against HPV in a human patient and to prevent HPV infection. |
| US07709003B2 |
Method of producing an HIV-1 immune response
The present invention comprises novel and modified peptides capable of inducing an HIV-1 specific immune response without antagonizing the cytotoxic T-cell activity in order to achieve an effective prophylactic and therapeutic vaccine against HIV. The peptides are based on conserved regions of HIV gag p24 proteins. Antigens in free- or carrier-bound form comprising at least one of the said peptides, vaccine compositions containing at least one of the antigens, immunoassay kits and a method of detecting antibodies induced by HIV or HIV specific peptides using such antigens, are described. |
| US07709002B1 |
Mutated ras peptides for generation of CD8+Cytotoxic T lymphocytes
Mutant ras oncogene peptides may induce specific anti-ras cellular immune responses in vaccinated patients. Moreover, a human CD8+ CTL epitope(s) reflecting a specific point mutation in the K-ras oncogene at codon 12 was identified. The mutant ras peptide has implications for both active and passive immunotherapies in selected carcinoma patients. A nested 10-mer peptide was identified [i.e., ras5-14(Asp12)], which was shown to bind to HLA-A2 and display specific functional capacity for expansion of the in-vivo-primed CD8+ CTL precursors. |
| US07709000B2 |
Antibody recognizing a small subset of human hematopoietic cells
The subject invention pertains to antibodies that have binding specificity for an antigen that is expressed on a subset of human, hematopoietic mononuclear cells, including a hematopoietic stem cell population, but is not expressed on normal, mature myeloid cells. In one embodiment, a monoclonal antibody, MG1, is provided. This antibody is useful in methods of isolating cell suspensions from human blood and marrow that can be employed in bone marrow transplantation, genetic therapy, and in treating other diseases of the hematopoietic system. Cell suspensions containing MG1+ human hematopoietic cells are also provided, as well as therapeutic methods employing the cell suspensions. The subject invention also pertains to the novel antigen recognized by the subject antibodies. |
| US07708999B2 |
Remedies for arthritis
The invention provides an agent for preventing or treating arthritis, a cartilage protecting agent, a joint destruction inhibitor and a synovial membrane growth inhibitor comprising an anti-FGF-8 neutralizing antibody as an active ingredient, as well as a diagnostic agent of arthritis comprising an anti-FGF-8 antibody as an active ingredient and a method for judging arthritis using the antibody. |
| US07708993B2 |
Polypeptides involved in immune response
Polypeptides which comprise a receptor-ligand pair involved in T-cell activation are disclosed. Nucleic acid molecules encoding the polypeptides, and vectors and host cells for expressing the polypeptides are also disclosed. The polypeptides, or agonists and antagonists thereof, are used to treat T-cell mediated disorders. |
| US07708990B2 |
Coenzyme Q compositions persisting in blood
The object of the present invention is to provide a composition maintaining a blood coenzyme Q concentration at a high level in blood for a prolonged period of time, in order to surely attain an effect of coenzyme Q, which can be expected to manifest a superior effect in maintaining health in humans and animals.By using a composition which comprises a coenzyme Q being a mixture of a reduced coenzyme Q and an oxidized coenzyme Q with the proportion of the reduced coenzyme Q to the whole coenzyme Q of more than 95% by weight, the present invention can attain a high maximum blood concentration of a coenzyme Q as well as long maintenance of high concentration of coenzyme Q in blood for a prolonged period of time, and the area under the blood concentration curve (AUC) can be expanded. |
| US07708988B2 |
Probiotic, lactic acid-producing bacteria and uses thereof
The present invention discloses compositions and methodologies for the utilization of probiotic organisms in therapeutic compositions. More specifically, the present invention relates to the utilization of one or more species or strains of lactic acid-producing bacteria, preferably strains of Bacillus coagulans, for the control of gastrointestinal tract pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant gastrointestinal tract pathogens, and their associated diseases by both a reduction in the rate of colonization and the severity of the deleterious physiological effects of the colonization of the antibiotic-resistant pathogen. In addition, the present invention relates to the utilization of therapeutic compounds comprised of lactic acid-producing bacteria and anti-microbial agents such as antibiotics, anti-fungal compounds, anti-yeast compounds, or anti-viral compounds. The present invention also discloses methodologies for: (i) the selective breeding and isolation of probiotic, lactic acid-producing bacterial strains which possess resistance or markedly decreased sensitivity to anti-microbial agents (e.g., antibiotics, anti-fungal agents, anti-yeast agents, and anti-viral agents); and (ii) treating or preventing bacteria-mediated infections of the gastrointestinal tract by use of the aforementioned probiotic bacterial strains with or without the concomitant administration of antibiotics. While the primary focus is on the treatment of gastrointestinal tract infections, the therapeutic compositions of the present invention may also be administered to buccal, vaginal, optic, and like physiological locations. |
| US07708986B2 |
Targeted vectors for cancer immunotherapy
This invention provides compositions and methods for treating cancer. More specifically this invention is directed to a targeted retroviral vector comprising a cytokine gene that can be administered either alone or in combination with a targeted retroviral vector comprising a cytocidal gene for treating cancer in a subject. Also provided are a kit or drug delivery system comprising the compositions for use in the methods described. |
| US07708979B2 |
Thermogelling polymer blends for biomaterial applications
Thermogelling polymers are described containing poly (n-isopropyl acrylamide). Solutions of this polymer, copolymers or mixtures of the polymer with a second polymer such as poly(ethylene glycol), poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) or poly(vinyl alcohol) are liquids at room temperature and solids at body temperature. Thus, also provided are methods of implanting a hydrogel into a mammal by injecting the solution as a liquid at a temperature below body temperature into a selected site in the mammal at a temperature below body temperature, which then undergoes thermal phase transition to form a solid hydrogel in situ in the body as the implant warms to body temperature. Methods for using these thermal gelling materials in various applications including nucleus pulposus replacement/augmentation, wound care, disk replacement, cartilage replacement, joint replacement, surgical barriers, gastrointestinal devices, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, and breast enlargement are also provided. |
| US07708976B2 |
Aluminophosphate molecular sieve, its synthesis and use
A novel small pore (metallo)aluminophosphate molecular sieve is disclosed. The as-synthesized material has an X-ray diffraction pattern including the lines listed in Table 1 and is produced in the presence of fluoride ions and 4-dimethylaminopyridine as structure directing agent. The silicoaluminophosphate material has methanol conversion activity and n-hexane cracking activity. |
| US07708975B2 |
Process for making metal oxide nanoparticles
There is described a process for preparing metal oxide particles which are substantially free of coarse tail from an oxidizing agent and a vaporous metal reactant in a flow reactor; comprising, (a) directing a flow of the metal reactant into a contacting region of the flow reactor; comprising (a) passing a flow of oxidizing agent through a high temperature zone of the flow reactor to form a flow of hot oxidizing agent and directing the flow of the hot oxidizing agent onto the contacting region of the flow reactor at a flow condition sufficient to form a reaction stream comprising a flow of hot oxidizing agent, a flow of metal reactant and a diffusive flow of the hot oxidizing agent and the metal reactant, the temperature of the hot oxidizing agent being at least sufficient to initiate oxidation of the metal reactant in the diffusive flow; (c) passing the reaction stream into a reaction zone of the flow reactor, while simultaneously introducing a flow of an upper cooling fluid substantially coaxially with the reaction stream to form a fluid curtain which surrounds the reaction stream; (d) maintaining the fluid curtain while the metal oxide particles form within the diffusive flow of the reaction stream and until at least a major portion of the reaction stream is cooled to a temperature below the temperature at which metal oxide particles coalesce; and (e) separating the metal oxide particles from the reaction stream. |
| US07708973B2 |
Method for obtaining precipitated calcium carbonate particles of nanometric scale structure
Process for the production of precipitated calcium carbonate particles, structured at the nanoscale, by carbonation of milk of lime in the presence of a crystallization controller selected from the following list: polyaspartic acid, dioctyl sodium sulphosuccinate, polyacrylic acid, the molecular weight of which is between 500 and 15 000, and citric acid. When the crystallization controller is citric acid, its concentration in the milk of lime is between 5 and 15%. |
| US07708970B2 |
Process for depositing polycrystalline silicon
Polycrystalline silicon is prepared by thermally decomposing a reaction gas comprising hydrogen and a silicon-containing gas in a reaction chamber containing heated silicon, depositing additional silicon thereon, and forming an offgas; andseparating the offgas into a first fraction comprising trichlorosilane and lower boiling chlorosilanes, and a second offgas fraction comprising components having a higher boiling point than trichlorosilane;recycling the first offgas fraction to the reaction gas of a polycrystalline silicon deposition; andseparating the second offgas fraction into tetrachlorosilane and a high boiler fraction of high boilers, optionally also containing some tetrachlorosilane, and supplying the high boiler fraction to the reaction gas of a silicon deposition and heating the reaction gas to a temperature which ensures that the high boiler fraction is present in gaseous form on entry into the reaction chamber of the deposition reactor. |
| US07708968B2 |
Nano-scale metal oxide, oxyhalide and oxysulfide scintillation materials and methods for making same
Crystalline scintillator materials comprising nano-scale particles of metal oxides, metal oxyhalides and metal oxysulfides are provided. The nano-scale particles are less than 100 nm in size. Methods are provided for preparing the particles. In one method, used to form oxyhalides and oxysulfides, metal salts are dissolved in water, and then precipitated out as fine particles using an aqueous base. After the particles are separated from the solution, they are annealed under a flow of a water saturated hydrogen anion gas, such as HCl or H2S, to form the crystalline scintillator particles. The other methods take advantage of the characteristics of microemulsion solutions to control droplet size, and, thus, the particle size of the final nano-particles. For example, in one method, a first micro-emulsion containing metal salts if formed. The first micro-emulsion is mixed with an aqueous base in a second micro-emulsion to form the final nano-scale particles. |
| US07708967B2 |
Process for disposal of mercaptans
The invention provides a process for disposal of mercaptans, the process comprising the steps of: (a) contacting a feed gas stream comprising mercaptans with liquid sulphur in a sulphide producing zone at elevated pressure and at a temperature in the range of from 300 to 450° C. to obtain a liquid stream comprising sulphur and sulphide compounds; (b) optionally separating the liquid stream obtained in step (a) into a first liquid phase enriched in liquid sulphur and a second liquid phase enriched in sulphide compounds; (c) combusting at least part of the sulphide compounds at elevated temperature in the presence of an oxygen-containing gas in a sulphur dioxide generation zone using a sulphide burner to which burner oxygen-containing gas is supplied, whereby at least part of the sulphide compounds is converted to sulphur dioxide to obtain a gas stream comprising sulphur dioxide. |
| US07708962B2 |
Process for the separation and purification of hafnium and zirconium
A process for the separation and purification of hafnium and zirconium. |
| US07708960B2 |
Dry heat convection sterilization system
A dry heat sterilization system having a housing and a number of plenums to guide the flow of hot air. Hot air is forced to flow through the plenums, the intake slide duct and into the bottom of the containers. The hot air will rise and exit from the top of the container through the exhaust slide duct. Furthermore, the external surfaces of the container are also sterilized through the use of semi-pierced duct walls with adjustable diffuser panels. Hot air will re-circulate until it reaches a pre-determined temperature. The container and its contents can be safely handled once the exhaust air blower removes hot air from the system. |
| US07708959B2 |
Sterilization system and method suitable for use in association with filler devices
A sterilization system for use in association with a filler device configured for filling at least one of rigid and flexible containers comprising a sterilization chamber and a sterilant supply assembly. The sterilization chamber includes a housing, an inlet into the housing, an outlet from the housing and a product retainer assembly. These components define a cavity within which to position a portion of a fitment. The sterilant supply assembly comprises a steam generating system having a steam supply conduit extending therefrom and a joint mixing conduit coupled with the inlet into the housing of the sterilization chamber, a hydrogen peroxide storing system and a member for metering liquid phase hydrogen peroxide from the hydrogen peroxide storing system into the steam supply conduit for mixing therewith, and, in turn, introduction thereof into the cavity of the sterilization chamber. |
| US07708955B2 |
Staged alkylation in microchannels
The invention provides methods and systems for alkylating a paraffinic feed stream in a microchannel utilizing the staged addition of olefin. |
| US07708954B2 |
Nitrogen oxides purification device
A nitrogen oxides purification device has an exhaust gas heating section and a nitrogen oxides purification section. The exhaust gas heating section has a fuel injection device and a catalytic metal. The nitrogen oxides purification device is provided in a heat exchanger having a downstream exhaust gas flow passage located downstream of the nitrogen oxides purification section and an upstream exhaust gas flow passage located upstream of the exhaust gas heating section. Exhaust gas heated at the exhaust gas heating section flows through the downstream exhaust gas flow passage. The exhaust gas to be heated at the exhaust gas heating section flows through the upstream exhaust gas flow passage. Heat is transferred between the downstream and upstream exhaust gas flow passages. The nitrogen oxides purification device operates at low fuel consumption. |
| US07708950B2 |
Microfluidic device
A microfluidic device includes a processing layer and a temperature control layer. The processing layer applies a predetermined process to a subject fluid. The temperature control layer is disposed adjacent to the processing layer to give a predetermined temperature environment to the processing layer. |
| US07708947B2 |
Methods of minimizing temperature cross-sensitivity in vapor sensors and compositions therefor
The present invention relates to methods of making compositions for sensor films used for detecting chemical analytes within sensors, such as polymer-absorption chemiresistors (i.e., conductometric sensors). The sensor films have reduced cross-sensitivity to temperature, while maintaining sensitivity to the chemical analytes. The sensor matrix includes components that are associated with a first temperature coefficient of resistance, such as a polymer resin and/or a first conductive particle. The sensor matrix further comprises a second species, preferably a conductive particle, which has a second temperature coefficient of resistance that is opposite to the first temperature coefficient of resistance. The second species has an opposite influence on a resistance response of the sensor from the first species. In this manner, the sensor matrix exhibits a minimized response in resistance to any changes in temperature. |
| US07708942B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlled reoxygenation
A method and apparatus for performing coronary perfusion and cardiac reoxygenation that enables accurate control of oxygen levels in blood used for the coronary circulation. Deoxygenated blood and oxygenated blood are collected and oxygen levels are measured by sensors. The deoxygenated and oxygenated blood is then mixed and the mixed blood is measured by another sensor. The sensors provide data used to provide real-time oxygen level measurement and adjustment for blood supplied for coronary circulation. |
| US07708941B2 |
Liquid product pressure treatment method and device
A method and device related to a liquid product pressure and (optionally) temperature treatment method reduces the level of microorganisms in the liquid product to a preselected level. Utilizing the method, liquid product is diffused in a chamber with the speed of pressure variation of liquid product in one embodiment of about 109 Pa/sec. The preferred speed of the diffused drops is about 10 m/sec. The liquid product can optionally be heated before or during diffusion, and is preferably heated as a diffused liquid product by mixing it with superheated steam. The device includes a chamber and a diffuser in communication with the chamber. Optionally, the device may include a heating apparatus, such as a steam generator connected via a pressure control valve to a steam super heater, a cooling chamber connected via a pressure control valve with a condenser, a vacuum pump in communication with the chamber, units for condensation and collecting finished products and a vacuum control unit in communication with the chamber. |
| US07708932B2 |
Chilled air pressure box for thermoforming a plastic sheet and a method of thermoforming the same
A chilled air pressure box is provided for thermoforming a plastic sheet. The chilled air pressure box comprises a box, a box perimeter, an inlet valve, a compressed air source and a chilled air source. The box has an interior space within the box and defines an inlet opening. The box perimeter is for sealingly interfacing with a vacuum mold. The inlet valve is substantially disposed within the interior space, adjacent and aligned with the inlet opening such that when the inlet valve is closed the inlet opening is substantially sealed and when the inlet valve is opened the inlet opening is not sealed. The compressed air source is capable of pressurizing the interior space with compressed air and interfaces with the box. The chilled air source communicates with the inlet opening. |
| US07708929B2 |
Process for producing three-dimensional objects by means of microwave radiation
The present invention relates to a process for melting and adhering material to produce three-dimensional objects by means of selective heating via microwave radiation. Unlike selective laser sintering, the present process uses simple microwave radiation commonly available in any household. The selectivity of heating is achieved by applying one or more susceptors to selected regions of a layer composed of a pulverulent substrate, and then heating the susceptor by means of microwave radiation. The heated susceptor transfers the energy present therein to a pulverulent substrate surrounding the susceptor, and the substrate is thereby melted, providing firm adhesion within the substrate after cooling. |
| US07708928B2 |
Process for forming medical device balloons
Medical device balloons are formed from a tubular parison by a process or apparatus which establishes a controlled location (initiation zone) on the parison where radial expansion is initiated. Initiation within the initiation zone is achieved by heating the parison in that location to a higher temperature than the remainder of the parison for at least a portion of the blowing time. A variety of apparatus configurations are provided, some of which allow for the size and location of the initiation zone to be readily reconfigured. Balloons can also be modified, post-blowing, using heating apparatus and methods described. |
| US07708926B2 |
Capillary imprinting technique
The present invention provides a method for patterning a substrate with a template having a mold that features positioning conformable material between the substrate and the mold and filling a volume defined between the mold and the substrate with the conformable material through capillary action between the conformable material and one of the mold and the substrate. Thereafter, the conformable material is solidified. Specifically, the distance between the mold and the substrate is controlled to a sufficient degree to attenuate, if not avoid, compressive forces between the mold and the substrate. As a result, upon initial contact of the mold with the conformable material, spontaneous capillary filling of the volume between the mold and the substrate occurs. |
| US07708925B2 |
Nitinol frame heating and setting mandrel
An apparatus for heating and setting elements of a stent. The apparatus is a mandrel having a central core cylinder with an outer surface including a plurality of raised forms and gaps in-between the raised forms. The mandrel also includes a first and second outer cylinder, each having a curved radial end with a cut-out design similar to the shape of the plurality of raised forms. Once a stent is placed on the central core cylinder, the first and second outer cylinders are positioned on the central core cylinder such that the curved radial ends of the first and second outer cylinders align with the plurality of raised forms, shaping the stent. |
| US07708922B2 |
Method for molding synthetic resin structure
At the time of insert molding of suspension bases (500), areas of junction parts of the suspension bases (500) and flat plates (560) which are directly affected by fluidized synthetic resin when the synthetic resin is injected are varied independently so as to correct strain of suspensions (550). |
| US07708917B2 |
Method and apparatus for casting concrete elements
A method and apparatus for casting concrete elements with varying, determined length, equipped with one or with a plurality of longitudinal hollow cores, by means of a slipforming apparatus. The apparatus is movable with respect to the bed (2), said apparatus comprising forming members (10) for forming hollow cores. The mass is fed in the first step to the portion of the slab below the hollow cores, and in the second step the hollow-core forming members being brought onto the said portion of the slab and mass is being fed between the forming members and onto them. The forming member (10) for forming a hollow core comprises an attachable extension part (22). The height of a hollow core is changed by changing the extension part of the hollow core forming member. |
| US07708913B2 |
Thermochromic coloring color-memory composition and thermochromic coloring color-memory microcapsule pigment containing the same
A thermochromic coloring color-memory composition which comprises a homogeneous solubilized mixture of (A) an electron donative coloring organic compound, (B) an electron accepting compound and (C) an ester compound represented by the specific formula as a reaction medium which controls color reactions of the components (A) and (B). |
| US07708912B2 |
Variable impedance composition
A variable impedance composition according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a high electro-magnetic permeability powder in an amount from 10% to 85% of the weight of the variable impedance composition, and an insulation adhesive in an amount from 10% to 30% of the weight of the variable impedance composition. The incorporation of high electro-magnetic permeability powder including carbonyl metal, such as carbonyl iron or carbonyl nickel, in the variable impedance composition can not only suppress the overstress voltage, but also dampen the transient current. In contrast to the conventional electrostatic discharge (ESD) device, the relatively high electro-magnetic permeability carbonyl metal powder can reduce arcing as well as lower the trigger voltage of the device. The high electro-magnetic permeability characteristics can also absorb the undesirable electro-magnetic radiation that causes corruption of signal and loss of data. |
| US07708910B2 |
Ink for ink jet printing and method for preparing the same
The present invention relates to ink jet printing ink consisting of an independently dispersed metal ultrafine particles-containing liquid dispersion in which the metal ultrafine particles having a particle size of not more than 100 nm are independently and uniformly dispersed and which is excellent in characteristic properties required for ink. The ink is used in the printing or the formation of conductive circuits using an ink jet printer. The ink can be prepared by steps comprising the first step in which metal vapor is brought into contact with vapor of the first solvent according to the evaporation-in-gas technique to thus form a metal ultrafine particles-containing liquid dispersion; the second step in which a low molecular weight polar solvent as the second solvent is added to the liquid dispersion to thus precipitate the metal ultrafine particles and to extract and remove the first solvent; and the third step in which the third solvent is added to the resulting precipitates to carry out solvent-substitution and to thus give a liquid dispersion containing metal ultrafine particles independently and uniformly dispersed therein, a dispersant being added in the first step and/or the third step. |
| US07708905B2 |
Method for preparing ester compounds as bleach activators
A method for preparing an ester bleach activator compound is disclosed. The method includes (A) preparing fatty acid monoester; (B) making chloroformate by reacting the fatty acid monoester with at least one selected from the group consisting of phosgene, diphosgene and triphosgene in the presence of base; and (C) reacting the chloroformate with hydroxybenzene, its derivatives, or its salts in solvent. According to the method, the ester bleach activator compound can be made in a simple and economic way. |
| US07708902B2 |
Magnetic material, and memory and sensor using same
A magnetic material composed of ε-InxFe2-xO3 (wherein 0 |
| US07708901B2 |
Magnetorheological materials having magnetic and non-magnetic inorganic supplements and use thereof
The invention relates to magnetorheological materials comprising at least one non-magnetisable carrier medium and magnetisable particles contained therein, in addition a combination of magnetic and non-magnetic inorganic materials and/or composite particles thereof being contained. |
| US07708898B2 |
Tank screening device for use in automated cleaning of investment casting slurry tanks
A system for removing particles from a slurry tank includes a filtering device and a controller. The filtering device collects and removes particles deposited within the slurry tank and the controller controls the placement and movement of the filtering device with respect to the slurry tank. |
| US07708897B2 |
Device and installation for injecting particulate matter into an enclosure and associated method
Device, system and method for injecting organic matter into a reaction enclosure (2) of a reactor for treatment using a supercritical water oxidation method. The device comprises a body having an inner volume defining a pressurizing capacity (24) in which a mobile assembly (29) is arranged, e.g. a bellows for dividing the inner volume into two variable volume compartments including a compressing capacity compartment (32) and a hydraulic pressurizing capacity compartment (34). The hydraulic pressurizing capacity compartment is preferably connected to the outlet (15) of an aqueous phase liquid/gas separator (14) which separates the liquid and gaseous phases of the effluent leaving the reaction enclosure (2). |
| US07708896B2 |
Ion eluting unit and device loaded with same
An ion elution unit generates metal ions by applying a voltage between electrodes. Terminals are formed integrally to the electrodes. An interval between the electrodes becomes narrower from an upstream side to a downstream side with respect to a water current flowing through an inside of a casing of the ion elution unit. Terminals that are so laid as to run from the electrodes out of a casing of the ion elution unit are disposed on an upstream side with respect to a water current flowing through an inside of the casing. |
| US07708890B2 |
Method of rendering a radioactive and aqueous heat transfer liquid in a nuclear reactor to a reduced radwaste quantitative state and returning the remaining waste water volumes to an environmental release point for liquid effluents
Environmentally protective Method of treating an aqueous radioactive fluid (AF) in a nuclear reactor cycle or radwaste system to selectively capture or remove radioactive isotopes in a reduced quantitative package to minimize radwaste generated and revitalize neutron absorption capacity of nuclear reactor coolant by separately carrying away boron constituents, when B10 is later added. The method includes: demineralizing the (AF) by rough ion exchange and lowering the pH of salts, boron and non-radioactive substances so that the boron can later pass through an RO; polishing by reverse osmosis; dividing the (AF) into a permeate liquid volume and a reject liquid volume, each having certain characteristics; recycling the reject liquid volume back into demineralizing step for removing generally most of the radioactive isotopes to generate a demineralizer effluent; and conveying the permeate liquid volume to the outside ambient environmental release point for liquid effluents of the (AF); dividing the demineralizer effluent into a further permeate liquid volume and a further reject liquid volume having certain characteristics; and conveying the further permeate liquid volume to the outside ambient environmental release point of the invention. |
| US07708884B2 |
Process for aerobic-thermophilic stabilization and disinfection of sludge
A process for the stabilization and disinfection of sludge wherein a) raw sludge having a dry matter content of from 3 to 7% by weight is fed continuously or quasi-continuously into a first stage, where it remains for an average retention time of three to ten days under aerobic-thermophilic conditions to obtain a partially stabilized sludge; and b) the partially stabilized sludge is fed into a second stage in which disinfection of the partially stabilized sludge is effected at temperatures of at least 50° C., wherein prior to discharging, there is no charging until the partially stabilized sludge has been disinfected. |
| US07708883B2 |
Box filter structure
A box filter comprises of a casing and at least two filters, which are installed inside the casing and behind the influx channel and have a buffer gap between two adjacent filters; the influx channel, which is installed on the external wall of the box filter. In addition, more than one guide vane is installed at the inlet of the influx channel and the bottom of the guide vane leans against the filter so as to eliminate the clog that forms the channel and so as to stop backflow of the sewage into the aquarium or container of the sift device while the box filter or sift device is removed from the aquarium. The guide vane can effectively improve drawbacks of the box filter of a prior art as well as enhance the filtration effect. |
| US07708879B2 |
Fuel filter for diesel internal combustion engines
For diesel internal combustion engines, an improved filter unit comprising an outer casing the interior of which is separated by a filtering baffle into two separate chambers to which a fuel inlet conduit and a fuel outlet conduit are connected respectively, with said casing there being associated a device provided with sensors for measuring certain characteristic parameters for correct engine operation. |
| US07708877B2 |
Integrated heavy oil upgrading process and in-line hydrofinishing process
A new residuum full hydroconversion slurry reactor system has been developed that allows the catalyst, unconverted oil and converted oil to circulate in a continuous mixture throughout an entire reactor with no confinement of the mixture. The mixture is partially separated in between the reactors to remove only the converted oil while permitting the unconverted oil and the slurry catalyst to continue on into the next sequential reactor where a portion of the unconverted oil is converted to lower boiling point hydrocarbons, once again creating a mixture of unconverted oil, converted oil, and slurry catalyst. Further hydroprocessing may occur in additional reactors, fully converting the oil. The oil may alternately be partially converted, leaving a highly concentrated catalyst in unconverted oil which can be recycled directly to the first reactor. Fully converted oil is subsequently hydrofinished for the nearly complete removal of hetoroatoms such as sulfur and nitrogen. |
| US07708868B2 |
Variable thickness plate for forming variable wall thickness physical vapor deposition target
A variable thickness sputtering target which increases the target material thickness at strategic locations to greatly improve the yield of usable wafers per target, and a method of manufacturing such target comprising forming a generally flat and circularly shaped target blank so that a thickness dimension between the top and bottom surfaces decreases as a function of radius of the target blank. The variable thickness target blank is then formed into a variable thickness dome shaped target member having a bottom portion and a sidewall portion, wherein a wall thickness of said variable thickness dome-shaped target member is thickest proximate a center portion of said bottom portion. In one embodiment of the invention, the variable thickness target blank is formed by clock rolling (or compression rolling) the target blank with crowned rolls to obtain a variable thickness target blank. |
| US07708864B2 |
Method for refinery foulant deposit characterization
The present invention is a method to identify a refinery solid foulant of unknown composition including the following steps: obtaining a solid foulant sample, removing trapped feed from the sample with a solvent to obtain an insoluble sample, scanning the insoluble sample with a scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive x-rays, performing a thermal gravimetric analysis including an ash test on the insoluble sample to determine the presence of polymer, coke and inorganic elements, performing an elemental analysis on the insoluble sample for the elements carbon, hydrogen, sulfur, nitrogen, halogens, and metals, performing an optical microscopy on the insoluble sample to determine the presence of wax, asphaltenes, anisotropic coke and isotropic coke, and identifying the solid foulant. |
| US07708859B2 |
Gas distribution system having fast gas switching capabilities
A gas distribution system for supplying different gas compositions to a chamber, such as a plasma processing chamber of a plasma processing apparatus is provided. The gas distribution system can include a gas supply section, a flow control section and a switching section. The gas supply section provides first and second gases, typically gas mixtures, to the flow control section, which controls the flows of the first and second gases to the chamber. The chamber can include multiple zones, and the flow control section can supply the first and second gases to the multiple zones at desired flow ratios of the gases. The gas distribution system can continuously supply the first and second gases to the switching section and the switching section is operable to switch the flows of the first and second gases, such that one of the first and second process gases is supplied to the chamber while the other of the first and second gases is supplied to a by-pass line, and then to switch the gas flows. The switching section preferably includes fast switching valves operable to quickly open and close to allow fast switching of the first and second gases, preferably without the occurrence of undesirable pressure surges or flow instabilities in the flow of either gas. |
| US07708857B2 |
Process for making disposable wearing article
In a process for making disposable wearing article, a composite web running in a machine direction is formed with a pair of rectilinear slits extending in a cross direction and a notch intersecting these paired slits. A region surrounded by these slits and notch is cut away from the composite web to form a gap. In a step before the composite web is formed with the gap, second fastener means supported on a fastener base sheet strip are engaged with the associated pair of first fastener means previously bonded to the composite web opposed to each other about the gap as viewed in the machine direction and thereby the fastener base sheet strip is attached to the composite web so as to stride over the gap. |
| US07708855B2 |
Method for processing a semiconductor wafer
Disclosed is a method for processing a semiconductor wafer having plural devices divided by streets on a front surface thereof, the method comprising: adhering an adhesive film to a back surface of the semiconductor wafer; cutting the semiconductor wafer along the streets, thereby making pieces of devices; wherein the adhesive film is cut into a shape and a size identical to those of the streets by a laser beam; the semiconductor wafer is positioned such that streets coincide with cut lines of the adhesive film; the adhesive film is adhered to the semiconductor wafer. |
| US07708850B2 |
Manufacturing method of laminated metal plate and laminated metal plate manufactured by the method
In the manufacturing method of the laminated metal plate, a fluorine resin film is used as a plastic film. Prior to a flame treatment, a joint surface of the metal plate is heated with a direct flame of 900° C. to 1200° C. for 1 to 5 seconds so that the joint surface is preheated to 40° C. to 70° C. After that, the joint surface of the metal plate is heated to 250° C. to 450° C. by the follow-on flame treatment. |
| US07708848B2 |
Component bonding method and component bonding device
Provided is a component bonding method with higher bonding precision in a process of bonding an electrode of a component to an electrode formed on a flat panel. A preliminary press bonding device includes: a control unit which includes a position displacement amount correction unit to which a position displacement amount after the press bonding process is fed back and which corrects the position displacement on the next component to be preliminarily bonded; and a component position determining unit which determines a position of the component using the fed back correction amount. On the other hand, a press bonding device includes a bonding recognition device for use in the recognition of positions of the electrodes on the flat panel and the component. The bonding recognition device includes a position displacement amount calculating unit which calculates the position displacement amount based on the recognized position information. |
| US07708843B2 |
Method for making a coated steel part having very high resistance after heat treatment
The invention relates to a process for manufacturing a part having very high mechanical properties from a hot-rolled or cold-rolled steel strip, comprising precoating said strip with aluminum or an aluminum alloy, cold deformation of the coated strip, possible cutting of the excess sheet with a view to the final geometry of the part, heating of the part so as to form an intermetallic compound from the steel/precoat interface and to austenitize the steel, transfer of the part to a tool and cooling of the part in the tool at a rate such that the steel has, after being cooled, a martensitic or bainitic structure or a martensite-bainite structure. The precoating is carried out by electroplating, by chemical or physical vapor deposition or by co-rolling. |
| US07708842B2 |
Metal gasket
A metal gasket formed from a suitable iron-nickel chromium alloy includes at least one embossment that exhibits essentially full functional recovery at temperatures exceeding 1000° F. and including in the range of 1100° F. to 1600° F. or more and which is made from sheet material that is work hardened and strengthened by cold rolling, or a combination of cold rolling and precipitation hardening, without any post embossment heat treating that would act to further harden the material. Suitable iron-nickel-chromium alloys include those comprising, by weight, greater than 18% nickel; greater than 14% chrome and 0.1-10% of at least one element selected from the group consisting of Mo, Ti, V, Al, Co, Nb, Ta and Cu, with the balance being substantially Fe, wherein the gasket sheet alloy has a deformed microstructure. |
| US07708840B2 |
Method of cleaning dishes with cleaning compositions packaged in ethoxylated polyvinylalcohol materials
Method of cleaning dishes in an automatic dishwashing machine comprising providing film material consisting essentially of an ethoxylated poly(vinylalcohol) material enclosing a dishwasher detergent composition to an automatic dishwashing machine. |
| US07708839B2 |
Subsea vehicle assisted pipeline dewatering method
The present invention is directed to a pig receiver used in a dewatering method for subsea pipelines. In the dewatering method a pig is placed in one end of the pipeline filled with water and a compressed gas is introduced behind the pig; in addition the water and pig are drawn by a subsea pump operated by a submersible vehicle (SV) operating near the sea floor to a pig receiver of the present invention. A feature of the pig receiver is a gas sensor that shuts the pump off when gas enters the receiver to prevent a gas (vapor) lock of the pump. |
| US07708837B2 |
Dishwasher and corresponding control method
This invention relates to a dishwasher (1) comprising a biosensor (7) and a control method which provides an efficient, clean and hygienic washing wherein the main water supply and washing water are microbiologically analyzed in the phases of the program, and the washing water temperature and circulation period are adjusted in each phase. |
| US07708836B2 |
Device and method for testing the efficiency of an ultrasonic cleaner
A device and method that enables the reliable and reproducible testing of the cleaning efficiency of an ultrasonic cleaning device is disclosed. |
| US07708833B2 |
Crystal growing apparatus
An object of the invention is to carry out the flux method with improved work efficiency while maintaining the purity of flux at high level and saving flux material cost. The sodium-purifying apparatus includes a sodium-holding-and-management apparatus for maintaining purified sodium (Na) in a liquid state. Liquid sodium is supplied into a sodium-holding-and-management apparatus through a liquid-sodium supply piping maintained at 100° C. to 200° C. The sodium-holding-and-management apparatus further has an argon-gas-purifying apparatus for controlling the condition of argon (Ar) gas that fills the internal space thereof. Thus, by opening and closing a faucet at desired timing, purified liquid sodium (Na) supplied from the sodium-purifying apparatus can be introduced into a crucible as appropriate via the liquid-sodium supply piping, the sodium-holding-and-management apparatus, and the piping. |
| US07708831B2 |
Process for producing ZnO single crystal according to method of liquid phase growth
A method for producing a ZnO single crystal by a liquid phase growth technique, comprising the steps of: mixing and melting ZnO as a solute and PbF2 and PbO as solvents; and putting a seed crystal or substrate into direct contact with the obtained melted solution, thereby growing a ZnO single crystal on the seed crystal or substrate. |
| US07708825B2 |
Sialite binary wet cement, its production method and usage method
The technical field of the invention belongs to concrete and cement. The invention relates to a sialite binary wet cement and its package, transportation, storage and application. The sialite binary wet cement is composed of a “female body” as a primary component and a “male body” as a secondary component both of which are produced, stored, and transported separately, and are mixed together when they are used, wherein the “female body” and the “male body” each have a specific surface area of 2800-7500 cm2/g, the “female body” is mainly composed of inorganic cementitious materials and water, and it is in slurry, paste or wet powder form during the whole period of its production, storage, transportation and usage; the “male body” is mainly composed of inorganic cementitious materials, and it can be a wet form or a dry powder form. When they are used, the “female body” and the “male body” are mixed together with a small amount of regulating agents. There is no generation of dust, SO2, NOx and CO2 during production and application of the sialite binary wet cement. Therefore heavy pollution of a traditional cement industry is avoided, and energy consumption and cost of product are decreased. The starting materials of the said cement mainly come from natural mineral, various slag and cinder. The said cement can be used for building, traffic, water conservancy, mine filling, timbering, and solidation of roadbed. |
| US07708818B2 |
Air filtering assembly for use with oxygen concentrating equipment
An air filtering assembly for use with oxygen concentrating equipment, the assembly including a filter containment housing, a cover therefore, and a filter support and divider provided therein. A filter rests upon the divider, and below the divider are a series of baffles, that provide a circuitous path for the filtered air to flow, to effect sound dampening, during usage of this filter assembly in combination with the concentrator of an oxygen concentrating apparatus. |
| US07708817B2 |
Hydrocarbon emission scavenger
A hydrocarbon adsorber and a thermoplastic resin combined and formed to a porous scavenger for insertion into the air intake system of a motor vehicle engine. The resulting porous scavenger adsorbs volatile hydrocarbon molecules from raw fuel remaining in the air intake when the engine is shut off. The adsorbed molecules are then stripped or purged from the scavenger and reintroduced into the air intake when the engine is next started. |
| US07708814B2 |
Carbon dioxide absorption device
Carbon dioxide contained within exhaust gas is combined with bivalent metal ions such as calcium ions or the like in concentrated salt water to form precipitated calcium carbonate and then can be expelled out. Such an environmental friendly design is realized by a bottle upside down device with a bottle neck exit on a bottom. A piston inside the device can be elevated to a top portion to produce a near vacuum air pressure inside the device. All the brine, exhaust gas, and oxygen, ozone drawn together into the device can be accelerated to form, at least, precipitated calcium carbonate to reduce carbon dioxide contained within the exhaust gas. Chemical reaction is accelerated by a high voltage discharger below the piston and by flashing a portion of water to atomize the brine. A heater can heat up the near vacuum device to accelerate chemical reaction. |
| US07708808B1 |
Cyclone separator with rotating collection chamber
A cyclone separator including a gas inlet, a gas outlet, and a particle outlet opening, wherein a rotatable particle collection chamber is in fluid communication with the particle outlet opening. |
| US07708806B2 |
Method and apparatus for extracting carbon dioxide from air
A method and apparatus for extracting CO2 from air comprising an anion exchange material formed in a matrix exposed to a flow of the air, and for delivering that extracted CO2 to controlled environments. The present invention contemplates the extraction of CO2 from air using conventional extraction methods or by using one of the extraction methods disclosed; e.g., humidity swing or electro dialysis. The present invention also provides delivery of the CO2 to greenhouses where increased levels of CO2 will improve conditions for growth. Alternatively, the CO2 is fed to an algae culture. |
| US07708804B2 |
Process and apparatus for the separation of a gaseous mixture
A process for separating carbon dioxide from a fluid containing carbon dioxide, NO2, and at least one of oxygen, argon, and nitrogen comprises the steps of separating at least part of the fluid into a carbon dioxide enriched stream, a carbon dioxide depleted stream comprising CO2 and at least one of oxygen, argon, and nitrogen and a NO2 enriched stream and recycling said NO2 enriched stream upstream of the separation step. |
| US07708802B1 |
Gas fractionalization apparatus with built-in administrative and self-diagnostic functions
A portable gas fractionalization system with built-in administrative and self-diagnostic functions is provided. The system includes a multiple mode programmable controller which has a operations mode and a diagnostic mode that can be activated by a triggering event. The triggering event can be when a user enters a command input, when one or more process parameters deviate from a nominal value, or when the system is scheduled to perform self-diagnostics. The system also includes a multi-level user interface which is integrally formed with the system. The user interface includes a multi-level display screen and a plurality of user command functions. The diagnostic information displayed on the display screen can be in an abbreviated code form so that only technicians would be able to interpret meaning of the code. |
| US07708796B2 |
Axial flow filter element
A filter element (1), which is formed particularly of a flat element wrapped into a compact body and which along its outer circumference has at least one continuous main sealing ring (2) disposed adjacent an end face (4) on the intake side, is provided with an additional emergency sealing collar (3) which encloses the filter body and is disposed near the end face (5) on the outlet side. |
| US07708795B2 |
Air filter unit
The present invention relates to an air filter unit (1) having the shape of a tube comprising a top plate (6), having an air inlet (7) leading into the interior of the tube, whereby the top plate (6) includes fasteners (13) for removably attaching said air filter unit to a wall (2) so that the air inlet of the top plate is concentrically disposed in relation to an opening in said wall, and a sealing ring (14,15) of a resilient material surrounding the air inlet in the top plate. According to the present invention, the top plate (6) includes at least one protrusion (16) on the side thereof facing said wall (2) in use, the height of said protrusion (16) being less than the distance with which the sealing ring (14,15), when not subjected to load, projects out from the surface of the top plate. |
| US07708791B2 |
Cyclone dust separating apparatus
A cyclone dust separating apparatus for separating dust from external air drawn in thereto and discharging the separated dust, comprises at least one first cyclone body having a tubular shape and forming a first cyclone chamber where the external air is rotated; and at least one second cyclone body forming a second cyclone chamber where the air discharged from the first cyclone chamber is rotated again to separate dust, wherein the external air is drawn in through a lower end of the first cyclone chamber and discharged through an upper end of the first cyclone chamber, and the air discharged from the first cyclone chamber is drawn in through an upper end of the second cyclone chamber and discharged through an upper end of the second cyclone chamber. |
| US07708787B2 |
Electrode for electric chemical capacitor, manufacturing method and apparatus thereof
A manufacturing method for an electrode for an electrochemical capacitor according to the present invention comprises a first process (steps S1-S3) for forming a polarizable electrode layer on a current collector, a second process (step S4) for subjecting the front surface of the polarizable electrode layer formed on the current collector, to an embossment work, and a third process (step S5) for flattening the front surface of the polarizable electrode layer as has undergone the embossment work. In this manner, in the invention, the front surface of the polarizable electrode layer undergoes the embossment work, so that the polarizable electrode layer is effectively compressed, and it is consequently permitted to achieve a high volume capacitance of at least 17 F/cm3. Moreover, after the embossment work, the resulting embossment is flattened, so that porous grains contained in the polarizable electrode layer are prevented from falling off, and it is permitted to ensure a high reliability. |
| US07708785B2 |
Process for colouring and permanent shaping keratin fibres
A process for coloring and permanently shaping keratin fibers especially human hair comprising applying to the human hair: (a) an aqueous coloring composition based on at least one hair direct dye and not comprising any oxidative dye precursors and/or couplers, and rinsed off from hair with water after processing 1 to 45 min at a temperature of 20 to 45° C. and towel dried, (b) placing the towel dried hair on curlers, (c) applying an aqueous composition comprising at least one reducing agent and rinsed off from hair with water after a processing time of 2-30 min at ambient temperature and towel dried, (d) applying a composition comprising at least one oxidizing agent and processed for 2 to 15 min and curlers are taken off from hair and optionally rinsed off from hair with water and optionally towel dried, and (e) applying an aqueous coloring composition based on at least one hair direct dye is optionally mixed with a composition comprising at least one oxidizing agent and rinsed off from hair with water after processing 5 to 45 min at a temperature of 20 to 45° C., towel dried and dried with a dryer or left to dry in air. |
| US07708783B2 |
Rotating constrained liner
An acetabular component for a prosthetic hip joint generally consists of an acetabular shell and an acetabular liner. The acetabular liner includes a cup portion and at least one constraining portion. The cup portion has a hemispherical or dome-shape that defines a hemispherical cavity for receiving a femoral head of a femoral component. The constraining portions may include extensions for retaining the femoral head in the cavity of the cup portion. The liner further includes cutout portions between the constraining portions. The acetabular liner is rotatable within the acetabular shell to provide a complete range of motion to the femoral component without fear of impingement, subluxation, or dislocation of the femoral head. The constraining portions may include inclined surfaces to induce rotation of the acetabular liner within the acetabular shell. |
| US07708776B1 |
Intervertebral disk replacement system and methods
An improved total disc replacement system and related methods, wherein a pair of anchor plates, each adapted to engage a vertebral body, and a translating internal member are provided. The translating internal member boasts the ability to move or translate between the anchor plates without compromising the conformity of the interface between the translating internal member and the anchor plates. In a significant aspect, the anchor plates may be locked in place relative to one another after implantation to effect fusion between the vertebral bodies. |
| US07708774B1 |
Polyethylene oxide and silicone copolymers and their usage on medical devices
An implantable medical device includes a device body at least partially formed of a polymeric material including a base polymer and a block copolymer. The block copolymer includes at least one polyethylene oxide (PEO) block and at least one silicone (SI) block, wherein the weight average molecular weight of the block copolymer is in the range of about 400 to about 50,000. |
| US07708770B2 |
Stent delivery device with embolic protection
A delivery device adapted to insert and deploy a stent within a body lumen. The delivery device includes a guide member adapted to retain a dilation assembly and a stent within a lumen thereof until the stent is to be deployed into the body lumen. The delivery device is configured to enable simultaneous insertion of the guide member, dilation assembly, stent, and optional guidewire within a body lumen. Following deploying the stent, the delivery device can be removed, while providing the capability of optionally maintaining the guide member or the guidewire to function or act as an exchange wire for additional surgical devices. |
| US07708769B1 |
Graft attachment assembly
A graft attachment assembly that may be easily and quickly assembled is provided. The graft attachment assembly includes an attachment member including a base portion having a convex top surface and a branch portion having a passageway therethrough. The branch portion projects outwardly from the base portion. A clamp member having a concave bottom surface is configured to sealingly engage the top surface of the base portion and an opening is dimensioned to slidably receive the branch portion. The clamp member is slidable about the branch portion to a position adjacent the base portion to clamp tissue therebetween. A locking member is slidable about the branch portion and dimensioned to secure a vessel thereabout. |
| US07708768B2 |
Devices and methods for tracking an energy delivery device which treats asthma
Methods for treating a network of organs including generating a map of at least a portion of the network of organs using a rendering system; selecting at least one treatment location within the luminal passageway of the network of organs; and applying an energy therapy to the treatment location to treat the smooth muscle tissue, where the energy therapy applied to the respective treatment location is defined by a plurality of parameters that are associated with a map. Such a system allows for historical or ideal treatment parameters to be identified, visually or otherwise to actual treatment locations. Also, control systems and methods for delivery of energy that may include control algorithms that prevent energy delivery if a fault is detected and may provide energy delivery to produce a substantially constant temperature at a delivery site. In some embodiments, the control systems and methods may be used to control the delivery of energy, such as radio frequency energy, to body tissue, such as lung tissue. |
| US07708767B2 |
Polymer-based orthopedic screw and driver system with increased insertion torque tolerance and associated method for making and using same
An orthopedic screw with an internal bore and mating driver has a bioabsorbable polymer component. To increase the torque tolerance of the screw and to minimize the likelihood of the driver stripping inside the bore of the screw, the screw and driver are heat treated together to shrink fit the screw onto the driver thereby increasing the driver-to-screw contact and distributing the loading force over a greater area to protect against material failure. The heat treatment involves heating the screw to an elevated temperature and holding that temperature for a period to promote stress relaxation and/or crystallization of the material. |
| US07708765B2 |
Spine stabilization device and method
A spine stabilization device is provided including an elongate member coupled to a spinous process. One aspect includes a dynamic stabilizer in a stabilization device. |
| US07708764B2 |
Method for creating an artificial facet
An artificial facet joint includes a spinal implant rod and a connector. The connector includes a screw and a rod connecting member having structure for engagement of the rod. The rod connecting member is pivotally engaged to the screw. |
| US07708761B2 |
Spinal plug for a minimally invasive facet joint fusion system
A frustum shaped body has an aperture in a top surface and a pair of first and second opposed apertures in a side surface, first and second horizontal internal channels connect both the first and second opposed apertures. A vertical channel from the top aperture connects with the first and second channels. After the body is inserted into a hole in a facet joint, compatible synthetic or biologic material is inserted into the vertical channel until the material exits from the first and second apertures in the side surface. At least one pair of flanges on a portion of an exterior side surface of the body acts as a detent to hold the body in place within the facet joint hole. |
| US07708760B2 |
Tri-joint implant
Methods and devices are provided for replacing damaged, injured, diseased, or otherwise unhealthy elements of the spinal three-joint complex, such as the facet joints and discs. In one exemplary embodiment, a joint replacement system includes a facet replacement component that is adapted to replace and/or augment the facet joints, and a disc replacement component that is adapted to replace a spinal disc. The facet replacement component and the disc replacement component can couple to one another to allow and/or control flexion, extension, and/or lateral bending of the spine, preferably while substantially restricting posterior-anterior shear and axial rotation of the spine. |
| US07708759B2 |
Apparatus and methods for securing tendons or ligaments to bone
Apparatus and methods for repairing damaged tendons or ligaments. Various repair apparatus include an elongate tensile member and a pair of anchor structures connected for movement along the tensile member on either side of a repair site, such as a tear or laceration. The anchor structures may take many forms, and may include barbed, helical, and crimp-type anchors. In the preferred embodiments, at least one anchor structure is movable along the elongate tensile member to assist with adjusting a tendon segment to an appropriate repair position and the anchor structure or structures are then lockable onto the elongate tensile member to assist with affixing the tendon at the repair position. Tendon-to-bone repair apparatus and methods are also disclosed employing similar concepts. Tendon retrieval devices include helical members for rotating into a tendon end and subsequently moving the tendon to an appropriate operating position. |
| US07708757B2 |
Medical forceps
A medical forceps has a shaft, a handle at the proximal end of the shaft, which handle has at least one movable grip part which is pivotable about a pivot axis, at least one movable tool at the distal end of the shaft, and a force transmission element, which runs in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the shaft and is axially movable and with one end is in operative connection with the at least one movable tool and with the other end is in operative connection with the at least one movable grip part. The force transmission element is connected to a slide which is guided linearly with an exact fit in a sliding bearing and is axially movable in the direction of the force transmission element, the slide being connected to the movable grip part by means of an articulated lever, which is articulated with one end on the slide and with another end on the movable grip part. |
| US07708756B2 |
Actuation mechanism for flexible endoscopic device
An endoscopic accessory medical device is provided. The device can include a handle, a flexible shaft, and an end effector. The handle can include an actuator for operating the end effector through a wire or cable pulling member that extends through the flexible shaft. The handle and actuator can be operable with a single hand, such that the operation of the end effector can be accomplished with the same hand that is used to hold the handle and advance the end effector through an endoscope. The handle can include an actuation mechanism that is decoupled from operation of the end effector when the actuator is in a first open position, which becomes operatively coupled to the end effector when the actuator is moved to a second position, such as by squeezing the actuator, and which operates the end effector when the actuator is moved further to a third position. |
| US07708751B2 |
MRI biopsy device
A localization mechanism, or fixture, is used in conjunction with a breast coil for breast compression and for guiding a core biopsy instrument during prone biopsy procedures in both open and closed Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines. The localization fixture includes a three-dimensional Cartesian positionable guide for supporting and orienting an MRI-compatible biopsy instrument, and in particular a sleeve, to a biopsy site of suspicious tissues or lesions. A depth stop enhances accurate insertion, prevents over-insertion or inadvertent retraction of the sleeve. The sleeve receives a probe of the MRI-compatible biopsy instrument and may contain various features to enhance its imagability, to enhance vacuum and pressure assist therethrough, etc. |
| US07708748B2 |
Anastomosis device
Disclosed is an instrument for use in a procedure to effect anastomosis of a patient's bladder and urethra following a prostatectomy having a tube assembly, and an end effector assembly operably supported by the tube assembly. The end effector assembly includes a positioner assembly and an anchor driver assembly in operable mechanical communication with first and second rods of the tube assembly, so as to be actuable by movement of the first and the second rods with respect to a spine member. |
| US07708741B1 |
Method of preparing bones for knee replacement surgery
A method is provided for performing knee replacement surgery on a leg of a patient. The method includes making a cut on a posterior portion of a patella, making a cut on a proximal portion of a tibia, and making a cut on the distal portion of the femur. The cut on the patella is performed before making the cuts on the tibia and femur. |
| US07708738B2 |
Self-boring and self-tapping screw for osteosynthesis and compression
The invention provides an osteosynthesis and compression screw that is self-boring and self-tapping for the purpose of coaptation of small bone fragments. The screw comprises: a proximal portion formed by a screw head provided with an outside thread; an intermediate portion having no thread; and a distal portion provided with an outside thread. Wherein: each of the screw head and the distal portion includes at least one groove, firstly extending over the entire axial length of its thread, and secondly being formed through each thread in such a manner to form tapping means; and the terminal zone of the distal portion is provided with preparation means for preparing a housing in the bone fragments for receiving the intermediate and distal portions of the screw. |
| US07708734B2 |
Method for dynamically adjusting operation of a surgical handpiece
Method and system for adjusting the amount of energy delivered to a handpiece of a surgical system based on feedback. A table is generated that correlates differences between voltages and rates of change of a voltage of the output of a charging element of the surgical system. Charge values of the table, such as minimum and maximum charge rates, can be generated using profile pulses and the time that is required for a pulse to reach a predetermined voltage. Intermediate charge rates can be determined using interpolation or other suitable methods. The output of the charging element is monitored at a voltage source, such as a capacitor, to determine first and second voltages at different times. These voltages are reduced if necessary for compatibility with electronic components and converted into digital values. A difference between two digital values is determined, and the determined difference is used to determine a corresponding rate at which the charging element charges the voltage source. The charge rate is provided as an input to the charging element to dynamically adjust the charge rate which, in turn, dynamically adjusts the energy provided by the voltage source to the liquefaction handpiece. |
| US07708732B2 |
Methods of administering therapeutic injections
Methods of administering an injection are provided including methods of administering injections by individuals exhibiting deteriorated motor skills or impaired hand function. The method includes establishing a hand position about an injection device, including placing at least a one digit of a user' hand about the injection device and placing at least one other digit of a user's hand upon an actuator of the injection device. The hand position is substantially maintained while the injection device is manipulated and positioned to insert a needle at one end thereof into a portion of the user's skin. The hand position is substantially maintained while the user displaces the actuator of the injection device with the at least one other digit in a direction which is substantially transverse to an axis defined between a first end of the injection device and a second end of the device, the needle being located at the second end of the device. |
| US07708730B2 |
Template system for multi-reservoir implantable pump
A template system for use in conjunction with a multiple reservoir or chambered implantable infusion pump is disclosed. The template system preferably includes at least one template having opening(s) for guiding a needle or syringe to various ports of the multiple reservoir pump. Preferably, each template includes at least two surfaces for cooperating with a like portions of the implantable pump, for properly seating the template on the pump. A kit is also disclosed including three templates for guiding injections into different ports of the pump. |
| US07708729B2 |
Waist belt for absorbent garment
The invention concerns a garment (1) comprising an absorbent section (2) and a waist belt (3) attached directly or indirectly thereto. The waist belt has two belt portions (7, 8) extending on either side of said absorbent section for securing to each other around a wearer of the garment The particular handling characteristics of the belt parts of the waist belt (3) are significantly improved by manufacturing a belt stiffness of between 25 g and 90 g as measured by the modified version of test ASTM D 4032-82 CIRCULAR BEND PROCEDURE. |
| US07708727B2 |
Compact-folded article with wrap layer
A personal care article (20) has a longitudinal-direction (22), a relatively shorter, lateral cross-direction (24), a first end-section (72), a second end-section (72a), and an intermediate-section (76). The article has been operatively connected in facing relation with a wrap member (98), and the article has been folded about a first, laterally extending supplemental-fold-region (64). The article and a corresponding section of the wrap member have been folded about a second, laterally extending supplemental-fold-region (66). A preliminary-folded article (82) and a corresponding, preliminary-folded wrap member have been provided after the article has been folded about both the first and second supplemental-fold-regions. The preliminary-folded article and wrap member have also been folded along a laterally extending, composite-fold-region (96a) of both the preliminary-folded article and wrap member, to provide a composite-folded, wrapped article (114). |
| US07708726B2 |
Dosage form cap for an applicator
A cover assembly is provided for use with an applicator assembly, the cover assembly including a dosage form cap including a therapeutic agent and a cap inner surface defining a cap cavity, wherein the attachment end of the dosage form cap includes an engagement mechanism. The cover assembly also includes a cover having a cover inner surface defining a cover cavity, the cover inner surface generally conforming to the cap outer surface of the dosage form cap. Also included is a method for providing a delivery device, the method including providing a sealed cover assembly to a consumer, wherein the cover assembly includes a dosage form cap and a cover having a cover inner surface defining a cover cavity, wherein the dosage form cap is disposed within the cover cavity. The method also includes instructing the consumer to combine the cover assembly with a tampon assembly obtained by the consumer. |
| US07708724B2 |
Reduced pressure wound cupping treatment system
A reduced pressure treatment appliance is provided for treating a wound on the body of a patient. In some embodiments, the appliance comprises a cover, which is further comprised of a top cup member and an interface member. The interface member comprises flow control means, which permit exudate from the wound to flow through the flow control means into the volume under the cover, but not in the opposite direction. Also, in some embodiments, the top cup member is further comprised of a lid member, a cup body member, and lid attachment means to removably attach the lid member to the cup body member. In some of these embodiments, it is possible to access the wound for monitoring, treatment and other purposes without removing the cover from the body. In other embodiments, the wound treatment appliance also includes a vacuum system to supply reduced pressure to the site of the wound in the volume under the cover. In yet other embodiments, a suction bulb may be used to provide a source of reduced pressure to a cover that covers the wound. Finally, methods are provided for using various embodiments of the treatment appliance. |
| US07708722B2 |
Stabilized implantable vascular access port
The subcutaneously implantable vascular access port has two parts including a body and a wing. The body supports a chamber covered by a septum, with a septum held in place over the chamber by a collar. The chamber is coupleable to a vascular structure, such as through tubing extending from the body, for delivery of medical preparations. The body is preferably elongate in form. The wing is configured to be adjustable in width. In one embodiment the wing rotates relative to the body and has an elongate form similar to that of the body. When the wing is rotated it extends laterally from the body and enhances a stability of the body. In another embodiment, the wing is provided as a deformable wing which can expand laterally out of side openings of a cavern in the body into which the deformable wing is inserted. |
| US07708721B2 |
Vascular access needle
A vascular access needle assembly is provided. The needle assembly includes a housing interconnected with a needle. The housing and the needle have slots along their lengths which are aligned to form a slot extending along the entire needle assembly. A sheath interconnected with the needle extends partially about the needle and includes a slot. The vascular access needle, with the needle point exposed and needle slot closed, can be inserted into the blood vessel of a subject and a guide wire can be inserted into the blood vessel through the needle assembly. The sheath is then moved to cover the needle point and to expose the needle slot so that the guide wire can be lifted through the needle, sheath and housing slots and the vascular access needle assembly removed, leaving the guide wire in the subject. The device can also be used as a wire introducer for catheters. The vascular needle assembly can also be used as a biopsy needle for obtaining biopsy tissue wherein the edges of one or both of the needle slot and sheath slot are sharpened for cutting tissue. |
| US07708711B2 |
Ocular implant with therapeutic agents and methods thereof
Devices and methods are provided for the treatment of ocular disorders. An ocular implant has a body comprising material that includes a therapeutic drug. The body has an inlet portion and an outlet portion. The inlet portion is configured to reside in an anterior chamber of an eye when the outlet portion is disposed in a physiological outflow pathway of the eye. The outlet portion has an outflow opening such that the body drains fluid from the anterior chamber to the physiological outflow pathway. One method of treating an ocular disorder involves introducing an implant comprising a therapeutic drug into the eye such that the implant drains aqueous humor into a physiological outflow pathway and the therapeutic drug reaches eye tissue. |
| US07708705B2 |
System and method for sensing in-vivo stress and pressure
A device (4440), system and method may sense and/or analyze in-vivo pressure or stress, and may in addition sense other data such as for example, image data. An in-vivo device (4440) may include a stress or pressure sensor (4443), and possibly an additional sensor, such as an image sensor, a pH sensor, etc. In one example the stress or pressure sensor (4443) is connected to a shell (4444) of the device. |
| US07708704B2 |
Interventional medical device component having an interrupted spiral section and method of making the same
A component for use as or for incorporation within a medical instrument navigable through body vessels of a human subject is provided. The component includes a tubular portion with an interrupted spiral defined by alternating cut and uncut sections. The sum of the arcuate extents of each bridge section and a cut section adjacent to the bridge section in end-to-end fashion is neither a whole number factor of 360 degrees nor a multiple of 90 degrees; this provides uniform rigidity, flexibility, and stretch resistance in all bending planes. The device further includes multiple sections, the pitch of the spiral varying from section to section in order to vary the sections' flexibilities. |
| US07708698B2 |
Circuit for measuring breath waveform with impedance method and method and device for resisting interference of electrical fast transient
A circuit for measuring respiratory waveform with impedance method and a method and device for resisting electrical fast transient interference are provided, and wherein an output from the peak detector circuit and a reference signal are input to two input terminals of the comparator circuit, an output terminal of the comparator circuit is connected to a control terminal of the electronic switch, and one terminal of the electronic switch is connected to an output terminal of the signal amplifier circuit and the other to an input terminal of the demodulator/amplifier circuit. If a level of the output signal of the peak detector circuit is greater than the level of the reference signal, the electronic switch is switched off in response to an inversion of the output of the comparator circuit so that the interference is isolated from the next stage circuit. The present invention is prone to be implemented with significant effect. |
| US07708696B2 |
Navigation using sensed physiological data as feedback
A method for controlling a remote navigation system includes operating the remote navigation system to bring a sensor carried on a medical device successively into a plurality of locations in a predetermined pattern, and using the sensor to sense a physiological property in each location. At least once thereafter, the remote navigation system is operated to bring a sensor carried on a medical device successively into a series of locations in a predetermined pattern relative to at least one location selected from the predetermined pattern in the immediately preceding step based upon the sensed physiological property value, and uses the sensor to sense the physiological property in each location. A local extreme value of the sensed physiological property is thereby located. The physiological properties that can be sensed include electrical signals, conductivity, temperature, fluid flow rate or fluid velocity, and range of motion of a surface. |
| US07708693B2 |
System and method for detecting artifactual hemodynamic waveform data
A system and method for cardiovascular analysis includes an implantable medical device capable of generating hemodynamic pressure waveform data based upon sensed pressure. Hemodynamic waveform data is analyzed to identify artifactual data represented in the hemodynamic waveform. |
| US07708682B2 |
Method and device for planning a radiation therapy
A method and apparatus for planning a radiation therapy are disclosed. A radiation dose distribution is adapted on the basis of shape and position variations of the organs of interest determined from a comparison of a first image and a second image which were taken at different points of time during the radiation treatment process. |
| US07708681B2 |
Continuous porous bed centrifuge
A porous bed centrifuge for continuous separation of immiscible liquids, for example water and mineral oil/petroleum, obtained by a modification to conventional disk centrifuges for increasing their efficiency, wherein the disks have been substituted by a filling of solid particles that act as a filtrating and coalescent bed. |
| US07708680B2 |
Method and arrangement in cardboard creasing
The present invention relates to a method and an arrangement in a cardboard creasing machine performing creases on a cardboard blank web. The web has a width of at least two lanes of blanks in parallel to each other and comprise in at least one zone per pair of lanes an area where intentional creases on both are made transversally to a feeding direction of the machine. The crease-lines are on the male side interrupted to provide a longitudinal seal strip to an edge of each blank to become. The cardboard web is in a limited area of such an interruption intentionally and positively lifted and supported from the side of a female crease die to a level in between being in line with to being above an outermost surface of a female crease die roller of the machine. |
| US07708679B2 |
Folding device for a folding and gluing machine
Folding device for folding blanks, including an internal tool fit to cooperate with an external tool for forming a longitudinal fold in a blank, and a supporting guide fit to cooperate with the internal tool to sandwich the fold as the external tool folds the blank as the blank is conveyed. |
| US07708677B2 |
Plastic-coated roller, especially tension roller for a belt drive
The invention provides a plastic-sheathed roller, typically a tension roller of plastic for a belt drive. The roller comprises a wheel comprising an inner ring and an outer ring that are connected through radially oriented ribs arranged spaced apart on a periphery and through a central web. The wheel is mounted for rotating through a rolling bearing on a carrier element, while being supported through a running surface on a belt of the belt drive, and injection gates for injection molding are arranged distributed on a lateral surface while being spaced apart angularly non-uniformly from one another. |
| US07708673B2 |
Methods for weighting garments or orthotics and garments and orthotics thereof
Methods and apparatuses for aligning a person's center of gravity over the base of support using a weighted garment or orthotic are herein provided. These methods and apparatuses are particularly suited to individuals suffering from various balance or neurological disorders. The methods described herein involve the use of body positioning and perturbation techniques. These methods may be manual, computer assisted, or some combination thereof. In some variations, video recording equipment or other electronic equipment is used. The apparatuses of the present invention comprise a variety of weighted garments or orthotics. These garments or orthotics may take on any number of configurations. In some variations, the weighted garment or orthotic is a vest, in other variations, the weighted garment or orthotic is a brassiere, corset, shoulder pad, undergarment, belt, seating device to be used in combination with a wheelchair, tee shirt, body suit, or combinations thereof. |
| US07708672B2 |
Incremental weight and selector
A weight system includes a selector configured to selectively couple incremental weights that extend through a weight stack to a weight lift. |
| US07708668B2 |
Exercise device with flexible support elements
A stationary exercise device with flexible support elements may include a frame with a base portion. A crank system with crank arms is coupled to and supported by the frame. Right and left pivotal linkage assemblies may each have an arcuate motion member and a foot support member. The arcuate motion member may be coupled to the frame. The foot support member may be coupled to the arcuate motion member. The arcuate motion member may be oriented in a generally vertical position and the foot support member may be oriented a generally horizontal position. Flexible element coupling systems couple the right and left foot support members to the crank system. |
| US07708664B2 |
Drive unit for a mowing sickle
A drive unit for oscillatingly driven mowing sickles has a first transmission unit {1} with a first housing (5) defining a first axis (6). A rotor (7) is rotationally supported in the first housing (5) around the first axis (6). A first internal gear wheel (10) is fixed in the first housing (5) and provided with internal teeth. A toothed pinion (14) is rotationally supported in the rotor (7) around a second axis (12). The second axis (12) is radially off-set to the first axis (6). The toothed pinion (14) forms the output element of the drive unit and meshes with the first internal gear wheel (10). A second transmission unit (2) has an output (34) non-rotationally connected to the rotor (7) of the first transmission unit (1). The second transmission unit (2) is formed as a step-down gear. A motor (4), with an output shaft (45), rotationally drives the second transmission unit (2). The rotational speed N1 is reduced by the second transmission unit (2), formed as a step-down gear, to the rotational driving speed N2 of the first transmission unit (1). |
| US07708658B2 |
Rotational and retractable golf putting device
A golf putting device that comprises: (a) a rotating head that includes a retractable line, a clip that attaches the retractable line to a golf club, and a first connecting member; and (b) a base that can be inserted in a golf hole and includes a second connecting member located on top of the base. The rotating head is attached to the base by engaging the first connecting member onto the second connecting member, and the rotating head rotates on the second connecting member. In embodiments for off-hole use, the golf putting device may further include a plurality of removable legs attached to the base. The rotating head may also include a housing which encloses the retractable line. This housing includes an aperture through which the retractable line passes through. The retractable line is wrapped around a spool that includes a spring wound on an arbor. |
| US07708657B2 |
Golf ball
Golf ball 2 has a center 4, a mid layer 6, a reinforcing layer 8 and a cover 10. Base polymer of the mid layer 6 includes an ionomer resin as a principal component. A melting point of the resin composition is equal to or greater than 95° C. The mid layer 6 has a thickness of 0.5 mm or greater and 2.5 mm or less. The cover 10 includes a thermoplastic resin. The cover 10 has a nominal thickness Tc of 0.1 mm or greater and 0.9 mm or less. The mid layer 6 has recessed parts which correspond to dimples 12. In the golf ball 2, the resin composition of the mid layer 6 does not flow out from a seam when forming the cover 10. |
| US07708656B2 |
Multi-layer core golf ball
Golf balls consisting of a multi-layer core and a cover are disclosed. The multi-layer core comprises a thermoset rubber center, a thermoplastic intermediate core layer, and a thermoset rubber outer core layer. |
| US07708655B2 |
Golf ball
The invention provides a golf ball composed of a core, a cover having a plurality of dimples on an outside surface thereof, and an intermediate layer disposed between the core and the cover. The intermediate layer is formed of a highly neutralized resin material, and has a Shore D hardness below 50 and a thickness of at least 1.7 mm but not more than 6.0 mm. The cover and the intermediate layer have a difference in Shore D hardness therebetween (cover Shore D hardness−intermediate layer Shore D hardness) of from 13 to 35. The cover and the intermediate layer have a combined thickness greater than 3 mm. The ball as a whole has a deflection, when compressed under a final load of 130 kgf from an initial load of 10 kgf, of at least about 2.0 mm but not more than about 4.0 mm. The golf ball, through a combination of dimples which do not cause a loss of lift in the low-velocity, low-spin rate region of the ball trajectory and a low-spin construction, travels farther and is therefore beneficial for competitive use by both skilled and amateur golfers. |
| US07708642B2 |
Gaming device having pitch-shifted sound and music
The present invention provides an apparatus and method by which sound files may be modified within a gaming device to: (i) coincide with one or more other sound files; (ii) coincide with one or more game events; or (iii) to produce a melody or song. The gaming device includes various processors and memory storage devices that control a sound card. The sound card stores sound files having truly synthesized sounds or true sound recordings. The output sample rate of one or more sound files is pitch-shifted to produce a sound having a higher or lower pitch and that lasts for a shorter or longer length of time, respectively. |
| US07708639B2 |
Progressive gaming method, apparatus, and program product for lottery-type gaming systems
A progressive gaming method includes producing a set of game records with each game record being associated with a result in a game. Progressive prize bearing records are included in the set of game records according to a progressive win frequency rule. Each progressive prize bearing record is associated with a progressive win indicator and a progressive prize. After producing the game record set, the method includes assigning game records from the game record set to a number of players. Each game record is assigned to a respective player in response to a game play request associated with the respective player. The method also includes awarding a progressive prize to the respective player to whom a progressive prize bearing record is assigned in response to a game play request. |
| US07708632B2 |
Physical bingo card input method in a bingo gaming system
A method includes issuing a physical bingo card. This physical bingo card is associated with a layout of spots or locations and bingo designations representing a bingo card or “card bingo structure.” The method also includes identifying the card bingo structure through a player station and collecting a game play request entered from the player station with at least one additional game play request to form a game group. The game play request is associated with the card bingo structure and each additional game play request in the game group is associated with a respective additional bingo structure. Once the game group is formed, a bingo game may be conducted between the card bingo structure and each additional bingo structure to identify a bingo game result for the card bingo structure and preferably each additional bingo structure. The bingo game result for the card bingo structure is then displayed at the player station. |
| US07708631B2 |
Automatic daubing apparatus and method for electronic bingo gaming systems
Players participate in bingo-type games through player stations each having a suitable player interface. Once a player is assigned a bingo card representation and a game designation set is associated with the bingo card representation, daubing the bingo card representation may be performed manually by the player at the player's respective player station using a suitable interface at the player station. Alternatively to manual daubing, the present invention includes automatically daubing one or more bingo card representations in response to an automatic daub input made by the player at the player station using a suitable input device. |
| US07708630B2 |
Rotor-based gaming device having a system for changing the quantity of potential game outcomes for subsequent plays
A gaming device including a game operable upon one or more wagers. The game is operable for a first play and a second play. Each one of the plays involves a spin of a rotor. The rotor has a plurality of symbols and a plurality of ball landings adjacent to the symbols. A first quantity of the ball landings is available for the first play, and a lower, second quantity of the ball landings is available for the second play. The gaming device also includes an indicator that is operable to indicate information relating to the availability of the second quantity of ball landings. |
| US07708628B2 |
Gaming device having a multiple coordinate award distributor
A gaming device for providing awards to players. The gaming device includes an award distributor such as an award wheel having a plurality of sections, each of the sections having or defined by first and second coordinates, a plurality of award symbols included on the sections, an illumination device associated with the sections, a section indicator associated with the award wheel and a processor in communication with the award wheel. The gaming device determines the first coordinate of one of the groups of sections. Then, the gaming device or player spins the award wheel and the section indicator determines the second coordinate of one of the sections in the group, which indicates the section. The gaming device provides any award or symbol to the player that is associated with the indicated section. |
| US07708625B2 |
Air inlet and outlet hood
An inlet and/or outlet air hood comprising vertical storm louvers is provided that is particularly well suited for use on a Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit and other marine vessels, although its use is not so limited. The hood may comprise a basic cube shape, which affords a smaller projected footprint than conventional round- or mushroom-shaped hoods and may incorporate an internal flow shaper, such as an inlet/outlet bell, to reduce airflow resistance. In addition, the hood may be configured to incorporate an internal valve or baffle to create a watertight closure. |
| US07708624B2 |
Clip machine comprising a closure lever and a process for the production of a closure lever
The invention concerns a clip machine comprising at least one closure lever which has a bearing element defining a pivot axis, a receiving element for at least one first closure tool and a force application element for connection to a drive element, wherein the closure lever is mounted pivotably between an open position and a closed position, in which closed position the first closure tool can be brought into engagement with a second closure tool to close a clip. In that respect the closure lever is produced at least partially from a fiber-reinforced plastic composite (FRPC). |
| US07708620B2 |
Method and device for generating dry ice particles
A method for generating a jet of dry ice particles, in which liquid carbon dioxide is expanded in an expansion space (12) in order to form dry ice particles which are then introduced into a flow of a carrier gas, and the discharge of the dry ice particles from the expansion space (16) is throttled by a constriction (20, 26; 28; 30; 32; 36; 38). |
| US07708618B2 |
Method and apparatus for dry-in, dry-out polishing and washing of a semiconductor device
A polishing apparatus includes an arrangement of a plurality of units to deal with various operations and a robot having at least one arm. The plurality of units are disposed around the robot and include a loading unit for receiving thereon a, e.g. dry, workpiece to be polished, a polishing system including at least one polishing unit for polishing the workpiece, a washing system and a drying system at least including one washing unit for washing and drying the polished workpiece, and an unloading unit for receiving thereon a resultant clean and dry polished workpiece. |
| US07708612B2 |
Leash and information system assembly for a water sport vehicle
A leash and information system assembly includes a flexible strap, a flexible tether cord, a data processing module, and a display module. The flexible strap and the flexible tether cord connect a water sports vehicle to a user of the water sports vehicle. The flexible tether cord is connected to the flexible strap and the second end is configured and dimensioned to connect to the water sports vehicle. The tether cord width is substantially less than the strap width and the tether cord length is substantially greater than the strap length. The data processing module is mounted within a water-proof enclosure and positioned along one of the flexible strap, the flexible tether cord, and the water sports vehicle. The data processing module is configured with logic to receive, parse, process, and output data generated by a source external to the data processor. The display module is mounted within a water-proof enclosure and positioned along the flexible strap and in electrical communication with the data processing module. The display module includes a plurality of display symbols representing at least one of time, atmospheric weather conditions, water conditions, and global positioning. The display module is configured with logic to receive, process data communicated from the data processing module to convey the data to the user by activating at least one of the display symbols. |
| US07708610B1 |
Rowing oar system with articulating handle
An improved oar that has an oarlock assembly, which holds the main oar shaft and parallel link in line with each other while allowing them to pivot fore and aft and up and down; an oar shaft; a parallel link; and a knuckle. The knuckle positions the handle via a sleeve, and the parallel link that is positioned by a pivot on the end of an arm. Additionally, there is a universal joint between the oar shaft and the handle, in line with the parallel link pivot, that allows the blade to be feathered while keeping the handle perpendicular to the rowing shell at every point in the stroke. |
| US07708609B2 |
Watercraft reverse gate operation
A method of controlling a watercraft comprises actuating a lever, controlling a speed of rotation of an engine to be at or below a reverse gate actuation speed in response to the actuation of the lever, moving the reverse gate in response to the actuation of the lever without further driver intervention once the speed of rotation of the engine is at or below the reverse gate actuation speed, and controlling the speed of rotation of the engine in order to decelerate the watercraft in response to the actuation of the lever and the reverse gate moving without further driver intervention. A watercraft and a method of controlling the watercraft based at least in part on an angle of a helm assembly are also disclosed. |
| US07708608B2 |
Terminal and a method for inserting the terminal into a compression connector housing
A terminal for a compression connector, a terminal strip of interconnected terminals for compression connectors and a method for inserting a terminal into a compression connector housing. The terminal including a solder portion including an elongate main body extending along a first direction and a solder tail formed at one end of the main body and extending substantially perpendicular to said first direction; and a supporting member attached to the main body of the solder portion and extending substantially in said first direction. |
| US07708607B2 |
Precision printed circuit board testing tool
A precision printed circuit board testing tool includes a testing tube, having a hollow chamber for installing a second resilient element, and the testing tube being electrically connected to a second testing line; a second testing element, installed in the hollow chamber, and having a second chamber and an opening, and the second testing element being pressed against by the second resilient element; a first testing element, having an internal bushing, a first resilient element and a probe, and including a first chamber for installing the first resilient element, and the probe being installed in the first chamber and pressed against by the first resilient element, and the first testing element being electrically connected to a first testing line. The testing tool is used for testing a PCB circuit with micro resistance to prevent defectives and damages of electronic components. |
| US07708598B2 |
Electrical card connector with at least a card locking mechanism
A card connector, comprising: an insulative housing having a base, a pair of first and second raised sidewalls, and third raised sidewalls to form a receiving cavity therebetween, an insertion opening located opposite to said third raised sidewall, said base having thereon a window, each of said first and second raised sidewalls having a resilient locking arm invading laterally toward said receiving cavity; a contact module disposed within said window of the housing with a plurality of contact sections extending above a top face of the base; a metal shielding member assembled to the housing, the metal shielding member having resilient reinforcement pieces respectively located outside of said resilient locking arms. |
| US07708597B2 |
Card connector with shell
An electrical card connector 100 includes a dielectric housing or base 1, a number of contacts 2 received in the housing or base 1, and a metal shell 3 covering the housing or base 1, both sides of the housing or base 1 having passageways or positioning slot 10, both side of the metal shell 3 having beams 321 embedded into the passageways or positioning slot 10. The beams 321 mating the passageways or positioning slot 10 in an elongated direction increase the function area between beams 321 and passageways or positioning slot 10, which makes the electrical card connector 100 stable. |
| US07708596B2 |
Automotive electrical connector system and method of assembling same
Different configurations of power distribution boxes are assembled from a common set of components. A housing may receive any of several bus assemblies having taps of differing configurations. A fuse holder that protects portions of a bus assembly inserted into the housing is attached with the housing. |
| US07708591B2 |
Shield connector
A shield connector for a shielded cable including a shielding conductor provided on an outer periphery of a core wire through an insulator, and a sheath covering an outer periphery of the shielding conductor, the shield connector includes an inner metal terminal which connects to the core wire of the shielded cable, a tubular resin sleeve which receives the inner metal terminal therein and has an opening portion, a tubular outer metal terminal which receives the resin sleeve therein, has an opening portion, and is adapted to be connected to the shielding conductor. A press-contacting blade is provided on the inner metal terminal, and is adapted to be brought into press-contacting connection with the core wire from an upper side through the opening of the outer metal terminal and the opening of the resin sleeve. A support wall is formed integrally with the resin sleeve, and is disposed adjacent to the press-contacting blade of the inner metal terminal in a state that the inner metal terminal is received in the resin sleeve. The support wall has a guide portion for guiding the core wire into a central slot of the press-contacting blade by contacting the core wire before the press-contacting blade contacts the core wire when the core wire is to be press-fitted into the central slot from the upper side. |
| US07708586B1 |
Illuminated panel-mount connector receptacle
An illuminated panel-mountable receptacle is disclosed. The receptacle body may be a translucent material and may be captivated to a panel by a front nut and a rear nut. A mounting nut is slotted so that the mounting nut may be threaded onto the rear portion of the receptacle body even when a cable has already been connected thereto. The mounting nut is configured to receive a light guide so that a source of illumination can be provided at a back portion of the receptacle and propagate through the receptacle so as to illuminate the receptacle when viewed by a user. |
| US07708585B2 |
Socket connector assembly having lock-down indicator preventing overstressing
An electrical connector mounted to a printed circuit board includes an insulation housing mounted to a printed circuit board, a plurality of contacts received in the insulation housing, a load plate covering the insulation housing. And an indicator disposed on the load plate. The indicator has a indicating portion, the showing abouting against the printed circuit board and capable of changing positions relative to the load plate, so that the operator may observe an assembly process of the load plate. The electrical connector has a simple configuration and reliable connection. |
| US07708584B2 |
Semiconductor circuit arrangement
A semiconductor circuit arrangement is disclosed. In one embodiment, a semiconductor module is attached to a board using a screw, with a mechanical and electrical contact being made between module contacts on the semiconductor module and associated board contacts on the board at the same time by attachment using the screw. |
| US07708583B2 |
Electrical connector assembly with heat dissipating device
An electrical connector assembly includes an electrical connector and a heat dissipate device disposed upon the electrical connector. The heat dissipate device includes a heat plate, a heat pipe secured on the heat plate and a load plate located between the heat plate and the heat pipe. The load plate has retention sections engaging with the heat plate for positioning the heat plate on the load plate in three directions. |
| US07708575B2 |
Card connector capable of switching a card holding state with a simple structure
In a card connector for connection to a card, a connector frame defines a region allowing the card to be fitted therein and holds a contact adapted for contact with the card. For ejecting the card, an eject member is movable with respect to the connector frame and swingably holds a locking member having a locking function to lock the card. The locking member swings due to engagement with the connector frame according to movement of the eject member, thereby controlling the locking function. |
| US07708574B2 |
Memory card connector
A memory card connector (34) includes an insulative housing (36) having a terminal-mounting section (36a) which mounts a plurality of conductive terminals (44) having contact portions (44a) for engaging appropriate contacts on a memory card. The housing at least in part defines a card-receiving cavity (40) for receiving the memory card. A card eject mechanism (46) includes a slider (50) movably mounted on the housing. The slider is engageable with the memory card for movement therewith into and out of the cavity between an inserted connection position and a withdrawal position. A slide lock member (52) is mounted on the connector, independent of the eject mechanism, and is engageable with the slider to hold the slider in its inserted connection position. An ejection control member (54) is mounted on the housing for releasing the slide lock from engagement with the slider to allow the slider and memory card to be ejected. |
| US07708572B2 |
Burn-in socket having protecting device
A burn-in socket includes a base, a number of contacts received in the base, and a protecting device. The base has a first projection and a second projection. The protecting device is assembled to the base and moves from a first position to a second position relative to the base. The protecting device includes a planar bottom plate and a pair of spring arms extending upwardly from opposite sides of the bottom plate. Each spring arm has a first stopper for engaging with the first projection at the first position, and a second stopper for engaging with the second projection at the second position. |
| US07708571B2 |
Socket assembly with pick up cap
A socket assembly (1) in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a socket body (20) holding a plurality of contacts therein, a pick up cap (22) fixed onto the socket body, and a loading plate (3) capable of moving between a closed position and a open position with regard to the socket body (20). A locking device (5) is proved to lock the loading plate (3) to a closed position. The pick up cap (22) comprises a flat suction surface (220) and at least one latch (222) for latching the loading plate (3) so that the pick up cap (22) can be attached to the loading plate (3) when the loading plate (3) is in a closed position, and detached from the socket body (20) when the loading plate (3) moves away from the socket body to an open position. |
| US07708567B2 |
Connector having a plurality of connector modules and a housing that holds said plurality of connector modules with a gap between adjacent ones thereof
A connector which is capable of preventing crosstalk from occurring when a plurality of pairs of differential signal transmission contacts are arranged in a horizontal row. A housing holds a plurality of connector modules with a gap between adjacent ones thereof. Each connector module is comprised of a plate-shaped holding member, a plurality of first signal contacts held on one surface of the holding member, and a plurality of second signal contacts held on the other surface of the holding member. Positions of the respective first signal contacts of the plurality of connector modules, and positions of associated ones of the second signal contacts of the connector modules are made approximately coincident with each other in the direction of the height of the housing, respectively. |
| US07708562B2 |
Mastery-based drill and practice algorithm
A method and system for learning. Items to be learned are distributed among an unmastered pool, a ready pool, a mastered pool, and a delayed pool. Items from the unmastered pool are placed in the ready pool. A current item randomly selected from the ready pool is presented to a user who responds to the item. The current item is sent to the mastered pool if the user's response is correct and (the current item was not previously presented to the user or the user responded correctly to the current item during the last J times that the user responded to the current item). Otherwise, the current item is sent to the delayed pool followed by transferring the current item to the ready pool after K additional items are presented to by the user. J and K are each at least 1. |
| US07708560B2 |
System and method for manufacturing dental prostheses
The present invention is related to systems and methods for manufacturing dental prostheses, such as bridges and crowns. In particular, the present invention is directed to novel methods for managing machining jobs for manufacturing dental prostheses in a system having a plurality of machining devices. |
| US07708559B2 |
Dental implant system
A dental implant assembly for supporting a dental prosthesis. The assembly comprises a dental implant and an abutment. The dental implant comprises a body portion, a collar portion and a central bore. The body portion is located at a distal end of the dental implant and is configured to lie at least substantially below a crest of a patient's jawbone. The collar portion is located at a proximal end of the dental implant and forms an abutment mating surface which defines an outer edge that has a generally scalloped shape. The central bore extends through the collar portion and into the implant body portion. The central bore includes a threaded portion and a post portion. The abutment comprises a post configured to fit within the post portion of the central bore and an implant mating surface that is configured to mate with the abutment mating surface of the dental implant. |
| US07708557B2 |
Customized dental prosthesis for periodontal- or osseointegration, and related systems and methods
A dental prosthesis for periodontal integration is disclosed. Furthermore a customized dental prosthesis for osseointegration is disclosed having a first manufactured portion shaped to substantially conform to the three-dimensional surface of a root of a tooth to be replaced and a second manufactured portion shaped to substantially conform to the three-dimensional surface of a crown of a tooth to be replaced. Furthermore a customized manufactured splint is disclosed to position and fixate a tooth-shaped prosthesis. Furthermore a CAD/CAM based method of and a system for manufacturing a customized dental prosthesis replacing an extracted tooth is disclosed, where the extracted tooth is scanned regarding its three-dimensional shape and substantially copied using (a) an imaging system in-vitro like a 3D scanner or in-vivo like a cone beam CT system, (b) CNC machinery and (c) biocompatible material that is suitable to be integrated into the extraction socket and at least partially adopted by the existing tissue forming the socket. |
| US07708556B2 |
Bulk-material cooler for cooling hot material to be cooled
The aim of the invention is to design a bulk-material cooler, particularly one for cooling cement clinker, which operates according to the walking floor principle, so that its cooling grate can be composed of a multitude of ventilated cooling grate modules, which can be assembled in an easy and variable manner, in order to obtain large lengths and widths of the cooler. When these cooling grate modules move between an advancing and returning position, even lateral and/or height offset of the guiding elements can be compensated for in a kinematic manner. To this end, the invention provides that the cooling grate, when viewed over the length and width of the cooler, is composed of a multitude of modules (13, 14) ventilated with cooling air. The coupling of the cooling grate modules of each longitudinal row of cooling grate modules is effected by an articulated joint. |
| US07708552B2 |
Injection molding machine
An injection molding machine comprises a stationary platen 46 and a movable platen 40. The stationary platen 46 and movable platen 40 may be supported on a base frame 10. A mold clamping frame 56 comprises a first member 54 joined to the stationary platen 46, a second member 24 joined to the movable platen 40, and connecting members 78 and 80 for connecting the first member 54 and the second member 24 at their approximate centers. A mold clamping cylinder 50 is disposed between the first member 54 and the stationary platen 46 or between the second member 24 and the movable platen 40. The stationary platen 46 and the first member 54 are joined in a flexible manner, and the movable platen 40 and the second member 24 are similarly joined in a flexible manner. |
| US07708550B2 |
Cold runner injection mold having an insulated gate
An injection mold and an injection molding apparatus having a movable mold and a fixed mold. Each of the movable/fixed molds has bases, and a runner, a gate and a cavity are formed. The gate is composed of recesses made in mutually opposite end surfaces of sleeve-like heat insulators provided for the bases. Thereby, the gate is heat-insulated, and resin in the gate is prevented from cooling down during a pressure retention step. Thus, the resin keeps fluidity longer. |
| US07708548B2 |
Molds for fabricating stents with profiles for gripping a balloon catheter
Embodiments of stents having profiles that improve gripping of the stent on a stent delivery system are provided. Additionally, embodiments of molds for fabricating the stents are provided. |
| US07708546B2 |
Apparatus for forming structural members
A method and associated apparatus for forming a composite structural member from a charge are provided. The charge can be disposed on a first die of the apparatus and formed to a desired configuration defined by a recess of the die by inserting a second die or a tool into the recess. In some cases, the first die can include two portions that are adjustable in a transverse direction so that the recess can be opened by the insertion of the second die or tool. The second die or tool can be a substantially rigid member or an inflatable bladder. In either case, the charge can be disposed on the first die, formed, and then further processed on the first die, thereby facilitating indexing of the charge for each operation. |
| US07708540B2 |
Injection molding machine
An injection molding machine that performs a safe ejecting action of a molded article until a setting state of an ejector rod and a set forward end position for an ejection stroke of a molded article ejector are suitable for a mold in use. A resistor R1 is set to ON when a mold is changed and a resistor R2 is set to ON when a set value of the forward end position of the ejection stroke is changed. When resistor R1 or resistor R2 is ON, ejection is performed with a reduced ejecting force and at a reduced ejecting velocity. When a detected position of the ejector rod reaches the set forward end position, resistors R1 and R2 are turned OFF and thereafter the ejection is performed with a normal ejecting force and a normal ejecting velocity, to thereby prevent damage to the mold or to the molded article ejector. |
| US07708538B2 |
Oil free screw compressor
The invention downsizes and simplifies structures of a compressor and its driving system apparatus, and achieves a reduction of a noise. An oil free screw compressor is constituted by compressor main bodies compressing a gas, a motor driving rotors of the compressor main bodies via step-up gears, a gear casing storing the step-up gears, cooling apparatuses cooling a discharge air and the like. An oil tank is provided independently from the gear casing, the motor is fixed to a common base, the gear casing is integrally attached to the motor via a flange, and the compressor main bodies are integrally attached to the gear casing via the flange. Further, the cooling apparatuses are arranged in an upper side of the driving system apparatus, and a cooling fan is installed in an upper side thereof. |
| US07708534B2 |
Pressure equalizer in thrust chamber electrical submersible pump assembly having dual pressure barriers
A well pump assembly has a rotary pump with an electrical motor that contains a motor lubricant. A thrust chamber is mounted between the motor and the pump, the thrust chamber containing a thrust chamber lubricant. Seals prevent the entry of thrust chamber lubricant into the motor chamber. A pressure equalizing chamber is mounted to the motor for admitting well fluid. A first pressure barrier in the equalizing chamber equalizes the pressure of the thrust chamber lubricant with that of the well fluid. A second pressure barrier contained within the first pressure barrier equalizes the pressure of the motor lubricant with thrust chamber lubricant. |
| US07708525B2 |
Industrial gas turbine blade assembly
A gas turbine blade assembly includes a neck defining a neck cavity, and has a first end and a second end at an opposite side relative to the first end. A platform has first and second sides. The first side is disposed on and faces the second end of the neck. An airfoil is supported on the second side of the platform. The neck, platform and airfoil define an inner cooling passage extending through the neck, platform and into the airfoil. The neck defines at least one core channel extending between the cooling passage and the neck cavity. The platform defines at least one film cooling channel extending from the first side facing the neck cavity to the second side disposed exterior to the airfoil to permit cooling air to flow through the inner cooling passage into the neck cavity and through the platform exterior to the airfoil. |
| US07708521B2 |
Thermal module with centrifugal blower and electronic assembly incorporating the same
An electronic assembly includes an enclosure including a top cover and a bottom cover, and a thermal module arranged between the top cover and the bottom cover of the enclosure. The thermal module includes a centrifugal blower and a fin assembly arranged in an air outlet of the centrifugal blower. The centrifugal blower includes a top lid defining a first air inlet therein, a bottom plate defining a second air inlet therein, a sidewall disposed between the top lid and the bottom plate, with the air outlet defined in the sidewall, and a rotor disposed in an inner space formed between the top lid, the bottom plate and the sidewall. The bottom plate is separated by a distance from the bottom cover of the enclosure. The bottom plate defines an indent therein so as to widen the distance. |
| US07708518B2 |
Turbine blade tip clearance control
A system and method for actively managing blade tip clearances in a turbine engine, particularly under steady state operating conditions such as at base load, involves routing a portion of air from a rotor cooling air circuit to a vane carrier or other stationary support structure surrounding the turbine blades. Because the temperature of the air is less than the temperature of the stationary support structure, the stationary support structure will thermally contract when the air is passed in heat exchanging relation therewith. In one embodiment, the air can be passed through one or more passages extending through at least a portion of the stationary support structure. The contraction of the stationary support structure reduces the blade tip clearance because the blades do not contract. Thus, fluid leakage through the clearances is minimized, which in turn can increase engine performance. |
| US07708517B2 |
Workpiece transfer method, workpiece transfer system and workpiece transfer device
A workpiece transfer system or method is provided for transferring workpieces one set of pallets to another set of pallets using a workpiece transfer device that is movably attached to a robot. The workpiece transfer device uses mechanical devices to align the workpiece relative to the robot so that different types of workpieces can be placed into a pallet without the need of troublesome, expensive and complex image processing in which the workpiece holding positions are processed as images by using an imaging device such as a visual sensor. Preferably, the workpiece transfer device cooperates with a positional adjustment part such that the workpiece that is held by the transfer device contacts the the positional adjustment part to position the workpiece in a depthwise direction of the workpiece, a widthwise direction of the workpiece and a longitudinal direction of the workpiece. |
| US07708513B2 |
Binding elements and plurality of binding elements particularly suited for automated processes
A plurality of binding elements, each of a substantially uniform thickness, the fingers being looped over and coupled to the spine such that the inner surface of the fingers is disposed against the inner surface of the spine by an adhesive when assembled. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the outer surface of the binding element is resistant to a more permanent attachment to the adhesive such that the plurality may be stacked together, and successively decoupled or removed for insertion into a stack. The binding elements may include score lines or bends in the fingers to provide a rounded closed loop structure; optional gussets in the bends inhibit straightening of the fingers. The fingers optionally include variations in cross-section along the length to relieve certain stresses to inhibit the looped finger. The binding elements optionally include structure for facilitating interaction with an automating binding process. |
| US07708512B2 |
Compression limiter
A compression limiter assembly having a spring washer and a sleeve. The sleeve includes a cylindrical body and a flange radially extending from a first end of the body. A fastener inserted through the spring washer is received in a through aperture of the cylindrical body. The fastener includes a head, an unthreaded shank portion extending from the head, and a threaded shank portion extending from the unthreaded shank portion having a threaded diameter greater than a diameter of the unthreaded shank portion. An annular swage created proximate to the flange defines an internal protuberance extending into the through aperture of the cylindrical body. The protuberance is operable to prevent release of the fastener by contact between the threaded shank portion and the protuberance. The unthreaded shank portion is capable of lateral motion within a diameter defined by the protuberance. |
| US07708510B2 |
Fastener system, fastener system article, and method
A fastener system for retaining a loose elongate fastener in a counterbore, including an elongate fastener, such as a bolt, having a head for being received and retained in a counterbore in a structure and in generally flush relation to a surface of the structure surrounding the counterbore, and a retaining member for being secured to the structure proximate the counterbore and overlapping the counterbore to trap the loose fastener in the counterbore. |
| US07708506B2 |
Self-synchronizing tap driver for rigid tapping with starting force adjustment
Disclosed is a tap driver for rigid tapping, which includes predetermined tension and compression factors to self-synchronize the tap driver. In the preferred embodiment, the tap driver includes helical coils imparted in the tap driver body which allow the attachment body to synchronize axially in response to a force of a predetermined magnitude imparted on the tap. An additional embodiment of this invention provides such a tap driver body wherein the body allows for lateral flexure and movement to compensate for feed error and location error. |
| US07708505B2 |
Joist drill
A power tool for drilling a hole in a workpiece made of wood or a wood material. The power tool generally includes a tool housing defining a handle and a motor contained within the tool housing that includes an output shaft that spins about a motor axis. A gear housing is connected to the tool housing. An output spindle is supported for rotation about a spindle axis in the gear housing. The spindle axis is disposed about ninety degrees from the motor axis. A gear portion on the output shaft is engaged to a gear portion on the output spindle. The motor and the gear portions are configured to rotate the output spindle at a speed in range from about five thousand revolutions per minute to about twenty-five thousand revolutions per minute. A cutting member is connected to the output spindle. The cutting member includes fluted cutting blades. A carriage assembly includes a base member and a head member connected by a first post having a first compliant member and a second post. The head member slides relative to the first and second posts and against a force exerted by the first compliant member when the head member is moved toward the base member to pass the cutting member through the base member to engage the workpiece. The base member includes a generally planar face on a bottom surface of the base member that is generally perpendicular to the spindle axis. |
| US07708504B2 |
Pneumatic conveyance apparatus and process
A pneumatic nozzle capable of removing dry solid debris, liquids, and mixtures of solid and liquid waste is provided. The pneumatic nozzle uses a pressurized gas stream to push materials through the nozzle. The force of a pressurized gas stream provides a partial vacuum to allow material to be introduced into an opening of a nozzle via a slight suction force. Thereafter, individual particles and materials introduced into the pneumatic nozzle are pushed by a stream of pressurized gas through the nozzle. |
| US07708502B2 |
System and method for stabilizing landslides and steep slopes
A device for stabilizing slopes having a first plate and a second plate attached to the first plate at a non-perpendicular angle. The second plate is configured to inhibit rotation of the first plate. At least one gusset is disposed on a first side of the second plate and attaches the first plate to the second plate. At least one strut is disposed on a second side of the second plate and attaches the first plate to the second plate. A guide tube is non-pivotally attached to the first plate such that at least one of a rod and an extension of the anchor are rotatable within the guide tube. The guide tube is a hollow cylinder that is completely closed except at the ends thereof. |
| US07708500B2 |
Resin anchor with a compressible envelope containing a curable product
The resin anchor comprises an apertured tubular envelope designed to be compressed by a traction element, characterized in that it includes, on the inside of the envelope, a resin component and a hardener component that are intended to be mixed together and to cure under the action of the compression of the envelope, in order to fasten the anchor. The traction element is a stud having a threaded rod part that cooperates with a tapped traction element firmly attached to the end of the bushing. The anchor is fastened both mechanically and chemically, for either solid material or hollow material. |
| US07708490B2 |
Clamp
A clamp for clamping a cylindrically shaped structure within a hollow cylindrical structure includes means to maintain the angular and axial position of the structures fixed while the clamp is tightened. |
| US07708488B2 |
Joint unit
A joint unit of a control arm of a wheel suspension in a motor vehicle, with a housing (1) and a pivot (2), which is mounted slidingly in the housing by a spheroidal bearing surface (3). The joint unit has a catching device (4) to avoid complete separation of the housing (1) from the pivot (2). The catching device spans over part of the housing (1) in a contactless manner during normal operation. The catching device (4) has at least one flexible catching band or at least one securing strap (4.1, 4.2) with a recess (4.1.1, 4.2.1), into which protrudes a catching pin (1.1, 1.2) of the housing in a contactless manner during normal operation, or at least two securing straps (4.1 and 4.2). |
| US07708487B2 |
Binder spine
A binder spine with a generally rectangular back panel that has a width and a length. The back panel is bounded by generally opposed longitudinal edges. The opposed longitudinal edges are joined through living hinges to adjacent side panels. The binder spine is foldable along the living hinges between an open generally flat configuration and a generally closed configuration. At least one post member is located on one of the side panels, and at least one socket member is located on the other side panel. The socket and post members are aligned with one another and include generally cylindrical mating walls. The post and socket members are spaced apart in the open configuration by a distance. The socket and post members are positioned to retainingly interengage one another in the closed configuration to hold the binder spine in that closed configuration. The socket in the socket member receives the post member in a snap fit. When a system including several of these binder spines with different capacities is provided the dimensions and proportions remain substantially the same except for the post members and the width of the back panel. |
| US07708483B2 |
Unbacked fabric transport and condition system
An unbacked transport and conditioning printing system for printing a pattern on a fabric is disclosed. The system includes a fabric characterization and tension control subsystem for gathering information on variations in the fabric and an irregularity detection subsystem for detecting irregularities in the fabric, as well as, crease detection and removal. The fabric passes through a fabric drying and conditioning subsystem for characterization of the fabric. The system also includes a fabric control subsystem for advancing the fabric through a print zone, where a pattern is printed on an unbacked fabric. The fabric is transported through a drying and post-processing subsystem and a closed-loop color control subsystem. |
| US07708482B2 |
Method for controlling the operation of a printer connected to an automatic sheet feeder or roll paper holder
A printer has an ASF connection/disconnection sensor 18a as a sheet feeding device detector which detects if an ASF 60 is installed to the main printer unit 1, a roll paper holder connection sensor 38 as a roll paper holder detector which detects if a roll paper holder 40 is installed to the main printer unit 1, and a control circuit board 35 which controls operation of the main printer unit 1 according to the detection status of the ASF connection/disconnection sensor 18a and roll paper holder connection sensor 38. |
| US07708478B2 |
Actuator mechanism and a shutter mechanism
In one example, an actuator mechanism comprising: one or more coils for establishing a magnetic field; a rotating permanent magnet, which has at least one extreme position depending on the magnetic field; and driving members, which are coupled to the permanent magnet and by means of which the members coupled to the actuator mechanism are driven. In another example, an actuator mechanism comprising: one or more wires, which are manufactured of a shape memory alloy that shrinks when heated; and driving members, which are coupled to said wire and by means of which the members connected to the actuator mechanism are driven. |
| US07708476B2 |
Index-matching gel for nano-engineered optical fibers and mechanical splice assemblies and connectors using same
An index-matching gel for use with nano-engineered optical fibers is disclosed. The index-matching gel is cross-linked, which prevents the gel from wicking into the voids and down the nano-engineered optical fiber to a depth where the fiber performance and/or device performance is compromised. The formulation comprises a non-reactive constituent A, two reactive constituents B and C, and a catalyst D. The gel is pre-cured and forms a cross-linked internal network that results in a single-component gel that does not require meter mixing of an additional constituent or heat curing. The gel is suitable for use in the mechanical splicing of optical fibers when at least one of the optical fibers is a nano-engineered optical fiber. The gel is also suitable for use in fiber optic connectors wherein at least one of the optical fibers constituting the connection is a nano-engineered optical fiber. |
| US07708474B2 |
Optical transceiver module and duplex fiber optic connector
Various embodiments of duplex fiber optic connectors and optical transceiver modules are provided. One embodiment comprises an optical transceiver module comprising: an integrally-formed housing having a duplex front port with a pair of alignment holes for receiving a pair of ferrules from a duplex fiber optic connector, the duplex front port having an upper flexible retaining element and a lower flexible retaining element for retaining the pair of ferrules from the duplex fiber optic connector; an opto-electronic assembly contained within the housing; and an electrical interface extending from the integrally-formed housing. |
| US07708470B2 |
Ferrule holder and associated fiber optic connector having anti-withdrawal and anti-rotation features
The present invention relates generally to ferrule holders and associated fiber optic connectors used in optical communications networks, optical devices, and the like to optically couple optical fibers. More specifically, the present invention relates to a ferrule holder and an associated fiber optic connector having improved anti-withdrawal and anti-rotation features, such as a twin-threaded configuration, a single-threaded configuration, a splined configuration, a broached configuration, a counter-bored configuration, a dented configuration, a finned configuration, etc. These anti-withdrawal and anti-rotation features assist in holding an optical fiber in secure optical and/or physical contact with a ferrule within the ferrule holder and associated fiber optic connector. |
| US07708468B2 |
Bearing arrangement for absorbing axial loads
A bearing arrangement for absorbing axial loads, which has a plurality of axial roller bearings arranged one behind the other and each having a housing plate, a shaft plate, and rolling body sets arranged between the runner plates. In each case, the shaft plates and the housing plates are supported axially by spacer rings arranged between them. The housing plates and the shaft plates have a constant axial thickness over their entire radial extent in the region of the rolling body sets, and at least one of the shaft plates has an annular clearance at its inner circumference which is inwardly open in the radial direction. |
| US07708467B2 |
Vehicle wheel bearing apparatus
A vehicle wheel bearing apparatus has an outer member and an inner member. Double row rolling elements are freely rollably contained between the outer and inner raceway surfaces of the outer and inner members, via cages. Seals are mounted between the outer and the inner members. A backup seal is fit onto the outer circumference of the outer side end of the outer member. The backup seal has a metal core that includes a cylindrical fitting portion and an upstanding portion that extends radially outward from the fitting portion. A sealing member is integrally adhered to the metal core. The sealing member has a side lip formed so that it extends radially outward from the metal core and inclines toward the inner side surface of the wheel mounting flange to slidably contact the flange, via a predetermined interference. |
| US07708466B2 |
Lubricated bushing
A lubricated bushing is mounted in a mounting cavity in a bushing housing and has a body and a flange. The body has an axial hole formed coaxially through the body to rotatably hold a shaft of a rotor of a fan and a bottom concentric recess formed in a bottom end of the body. The flange is formed on and protrudes radially out from the outer wall of the body, is mounted against an inner wall of the mounting recess, extends longitudinally from the top end of body and is shorter than half the body. Even though the inner wall of the mounting cavity tightly compresses the flange, the compressive force cannot be effectively transmitted to the body to deform the axial hole, so the shaft is kept from seizing up in the axial hole. |
| US07708464B2 |
Deaeration valve and compression bag equipped therewith
A deaeration valve comprising two valve films 11, 12 of synthetic resin that put one on the other, having an air passage 2 defined by two seal sections 21, 22 formed by means of bonding parts of the valve films together, wherein the inlet 2a of the air passage 2 is defined by the straight line linking the respective upward flow side end sections 21a, 221a of the seal sections 21, 22; the outlet 2b of the air passage is defined by the straight line linking the respective downward flow side end sections 21b, 223b of the seal sections 21, 22; and in at least one of the seal sections 21, 22, the valve films 11, 12 are not bonded together at the line of extension 21c, 223c of the seal section 21, 22, situated on the downward flow side of the downward flow side end section 21b, 223b of the seal section 21, 22. |
| US07708462B2 |
Transmission image capturing system and transmission image capturing method
The present invention proposes a technique capable of accurately grasping position and angle of a radiation generator at the time of image capturing. At the time of obtaining a plurality of transmission images by detecting radiation emitted from a emitting generator and passing through a specimen via a predetermined member (for example, a diaphragm) by a detector for a plurality of times while changing a relative position relation and a relative angle relation of the emitting generator to the detector, an outer-edge shape of a radiation area irradiated with the radiation on a detection surface of the detector from the emitting generator is recognized. On the basis of the outer-edge shape of the radiation area and an inner-edge shape of a predetermined member, the relative position relation and the relative angle relation of the emitting generator to the detector are obtained. |
| US07708457B2 |
Watch with a polygonal bezel
A watch having a middle part including a top face arranged for receiving a polygonal bezel made of a first material. The corners of the bezel are truncated and the middle part is fitted with angular elements made of a second material, secured to the top face thereof, and arranged so as to be substituted for the truncated corners of the bezel when the latter is mounted on the middle part. |
| US07708456B2 |
Snapping and hinging arrangements, watches and associated methods
A magnet assembly connectable to a metal assembly in an engaging fashion, a metal assembly connectable with the magnet assembly in an engaging fashion and a snapping mechanism comprising the magnet assembly and the metal assembly are disclosed, to be used with a strap and a watch case. A leaf spring element and a base element to be used with a watch case are also disclosed, together with manufacturing processes and a system and method to teach the concept of time. |
| US07708455B2 |
Direct impulse escapement for timepiece
The timepiece escapement includes first (3) and second (4) impulse pallet stones secured to the balance (2) directly cooperating with the teeth of the escape wheel set (1) and a brake lever (5) periodically driven by the balance, the brake lever being provided with first (6) and second (7) locking pallet stones arranged for cooperating with the teeth of the escape wheel set (1). |
| US07708454B2 |
Mobile micromechanical element with shock controlled rotation
The mobile element includes a central rigid zone (2) provided with arms (6) extending radially from the central zone (2) towards a peripheral zone including teeth (8). The arms (6) are flexible to allow a small tangential and/or radial movement of the teeth (8) in order to absorb shocks. The invention is characterized in that the arms (6) are curved and bend gradually towards an orientation tangential to the rotation of the mobile element, in that the thickness of the arms gradually decreases, and finally, in that the ends of the arms form the teeth. |
| US07708450B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device includes an LED backlighting unit and a liquid crystal display panel disposed on the backlighting unit. The backlighting unit includes a light source of an array of LEDs and a reflector disposed so as to cover the light source and configured to reflect light emitted from the light source. And a light shielding spacer member is provided between the reflector and the LED light source. |
| US07708448B2 |
All-in-one type light guide plate and backlight apparatus employing the same
An all-in-one light guide plate, a backlight apparatus employing the same, and a method of manufacturing the all-in-one light guide plate are provided. The all-in-one light guide plate has a structure in which a plurality of protrusion type refractive elements for outputting light are integrated into the light guide member. It is possible to improve optical properties by more densely arranging the refractive elements with distance from the light source. |
| US07708446B2 |
Display film stacks and a method of modeling the films
Disclosed herein is a display film stack for a backlight display system. In one embodiment, the display system comprises: a light source, a first film comprising a first surface texture layer that is formed of a first material of a first refractive index, and a second film comprising a second surface texture layer that is formed of a second material of a second refractive index. The second film is disposed between the light source and the first film. The second refractive index is greater than the first refractive index. The light source is disposed in optical communication with the first film and the second film. The first surface texture layer and the second surface texture layer comprise unit structures independently selected from the group consisting of hemispherical structures, partial hemispherical structures, ellipsoidal structures, immersed spherical beads, ellipsoidal beads, “bell-shape” bump and complex lens shape structures. |
| US07708444B2 |
Surface light source device
A primary object of the present invention is to provide a surface light source device attaining a homogenous luminance distribution on a light emitting surface of a light guiding plate in which a dot light source having a high directivity of emitted light is employed. The device includes: a light guiding plate 5 including a plurality of primary holes in such a manner as to locate each dot light source 3 inside; and dot printing 7a being employed as an auxiliary light source means which diffuses light from the dot light source 3 to the position between dot light sources 3 being adjacent to each other, wherein the dot printing 7 is provided at a base of the light guiding plate 5 and a middle point of the connected dot light sources 3 being adjacent to each other. |
| US07708441B2 |
Moving light spots in illumination fibers
An electronic display includes a light source system and a light guide system, where the light guide system emits light features laterally, i.e., from the side, at selected positions along its length. The light source system includes one or more electronically controllable light sources and further includes optical switches or other arrangements for coupling the light sources to the optical fibers or other light guides of the light guide system. The light source system can sequentially or progressively increase the selected longitudinal position at which the light feature is emitted, resulting in the appearance of movement of the light feature along the length of the light guide system. |
| US07708440B2 |
Electric ballast and a lighting system
An electric ballast attached to the outside of a lighting system. The system comprises a lamp housing with front and rear openings, a front lens closing the front opening, a discharge lamp put in the housing, and a reflector that reflects light of the lamp toward the lens. The ballast comprises: a ballast housing which closes the rear opening and is connected with frame ground via at least one of the lamp housing and the reflector; a lamp socket and an igniter, put in the front of the ballast housing; and a power converter put in the ballast housing. The output of the converter is connected with the socket, which directly connects with the lamp, and the igniter is connected between them. Heat generating parts of the converter are put in the rear of the ballast housing, and the rear functions as a radiator. |
| US07708436B2 |
Storage compartment with an illuminated tray
According to one aspect of the invention, a storage compartment having an illuminating device mounted therein and a tray having a lens mounted thereon. The tray is movable within the storage compartment between a forward position and a rear position. The illuminating device may provide light to both the interior of the storage compartment and the tray depending upon the position of the tray. |
| US07708426B2 |
Rechargeable flashlight
The present invention provides a flashlight or device having a body with a battery, and a circuit therebetween; recharging terminals for recharging the battery and an adaptor having electrical connectors for connecting to a power supply; structural connection means on the body and or the adaptor to releasably connect the body and the adaptor; and electrical connection means on both the body and the adaptor to releasably electrically connect the terminals and the adaptor.The present invention also provides a flashlight having a body with a light means at one end, a battery, and a circuit therebetween, so that when the circuit is closed the light means will generate light; the light means including a conical reflector, a white light LED emitting a conical light output and a double convex lens portion, the double convex lens portion being located away from the LED so that the outside diameter of the double convex lens portion will a circle of light from the LED which is of substantially the same diameter. |
| US07708421B2 |
Illuminated articles of adornment
An illuminated article of adornment, such as jewelry, having a conductor loop, a magnetically connectable clasp housing a removable battery, and a medallion having internal light emitting diode (“LED”). The clasp consists of two magnetically connectable clasp components, at least one of which is adapted with an interior chamber for containing a battery power source. Each clasp component includes a vertex end connected to an electrical conductor, and a magnetically attractable base. At least one of the clasp components contains a magnet thereby allowing the clasp components to be magnetically connectable in base-to-base relation without requiring precise manual alignment. No further mechanical connection is required. Once connected the clasp completes an electrical circuit resulting in the illumination of an LED electrically connected to the necklace opposite the clasp portion. The LED is preferably connected to or embedded within a crystal to enhance the illumination effect. |
| US07708418B2 |
Support frame for electrical apparatuses
The present invention refers to a support frame (1) for wall-mounting one or more electrical apparatuses, the frame comprising a frame body (2) that can be fixed to a wall and extending around an opening (5) defining a mounting seat suitable for receiving and holding one or more electrical apparatuses. The support frame (1) is characterised in that it also includes: —at least one optical source (7.1, 7.2) suitable for generating an optical signal; —an electrical circuit (20, 10) connected to said optical source (7.1, 7.2) to supply it with an electrical power supply signal, —means (16.1, 16.2, 16.3) for housing said electrical circuit (20, 10) and said source (7.1, 7.2), foreseen in said frame body (2), the frame body (2) allowing the propagation of at least one part of said optical signal towards the outside of said body. |
| US07708411B2 |
Online wavefront measurement and display
A fast algorithm is presented which allows for substantially simultaneous acquisition, analysis, and display of a wavefront centroid image, referred to as online aberrometry. A method embodiment involves determination of an average, or most frequently occurring, wavefront aberration over a selected time interval, e.g., 20 sec. Online pupil diameter measurement allows analysis of wavefront aberration as a function of changing pupil size. A wavefront measuring apparatus is disclosed that supports online aberrometry. |
| US07708405B2 |
Pupilometer for pupil center drift and pupil size measurements at differing viewing distances
The present invention generally provides improved devices, systems, and methods for measuring characteristics of at least one eye, and particularly for measuring the physiological changes in eyes under different viewing conditions. An exemplary embodiment provides a pupilometer which measures any changes in location of a pupil center with changes in viewing distances. As the eye often moves significantly during viewing, the pupil center location will often be measured relative to a convenient reference of the eye such as an outer iris boundary. Pupil size may also be recorded, and the measurements from both eyes of a patient may be taken simultaneously. Exemplary embodiments may be configured so as to allow the vergence angle between the eyes to vary with differing viewing distances, regardless of whether one or both eyes are being measured. |
| US07708404B2 |
Ophthalmologic surgical work station
An ophthalmologic surgical work station has a microscope and a foot switch corresponding thereto. The microscope is connected to the foot switch via a console. The microscope and the foot switch are coarsely prepositioned and a change of the relative position between the microscope and the foot switch with respect to each other is only possible via a fine positioning. |
| US07708400B2 |
Protective temple covering
Disclosed are systems and methods for manufacturing sleeves, a sleeve dispenser, and a method of manufacturing inexpensive, throwaway sleeves that may be used to protect temples from chemicals, germs, bacteria, and the like. Sleeves may be inexpensively manufactured using a single inexpensive raw material as well as an inexpensive manufacturing process in which no waste material is produced. Furthermore, sleeves may be produced as a compact roll of sleeves to accommodate unobtrusive placement in areas with limited space, thereby facilitating distribution in space-limited facilities such as hair salons, spas, optometrist or ophthalmologist offices, sunglass shops, and the like. In some embodiments, the sleeves include latitudinal and longitudinal perforations that facilitate removal of pairs of sleeves from the sleeve roll and removal of each of the pair of sleeves from each other. After separation, a sleeve aperture is passed over the temple until it is fully covered and protected. |
| US07708396B2 |
Photochromic phase change inks
An ink set is made up of at least three differently colored phase change inks, for example cyan, magenta and yellow, wherein at least one of the colored phase change inks is a photochromic ink that contains a photochromic material. Upon exposure to activating radiation such as ultraviolet light, the at least one photochromic ink changes to a color different from the color of the photochromic ink prior to exposure to the activating radiation. |
| US07708395B2 |
Liquid container with wireless communication antennas
A liquid container having a memory for storing data. The memory includes a rewritable region from which the data is readable and in which the data is rewritable, and a read only region from which the data is readable and in which the data is unwritable. A first circuit overwrites the data and reads the data from the rewritable region, and a second circuit reads the data from the read only region. A first antenna is connected with the first circuit, and a second antenna is connected with the second circuit. A protecting member protects the first antenna during transportation of the liquid container and exposes the first antenna and the second antenna in use. |
| US07708390B2 |
Method of working small recess portion, method of fabricating liquid ejection head and liquid ejection head
The invention is directed to a method of working a small recess portion. In the method, prior to press-forming small recess portions arrayed in a row by pressing a predetermined number of pieces of aligned male dies to a metal base plate, the metal base plate is previously formed with a highly rigid portion at a predetermined portion at a vicinity of an imaginary line extending in a row direction along end portions of predicted press portions to which the respective male dies are pressed. |
| US07708385B1 |
Ink-jet print head
Disclosed is a multi-nozzle inkjet print head using an electrostatic field induced type. The inkjet print head in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes: a first electrode being formed in each nozzle; and a second electrode located on a side spaced from the nozzle and arranged to block between any two adjacent nozzles and inducing an electrostatic field for discharging ink from the nozzle by forming an electric potential difference between the first electrode and the second electrode. |
| US07708384B2 |
Printing apparatus
A printing apparatus which discharges an electroconductive ink includes an ink transporting head having a head main body in which a discharge port and an individual ink channel are formed, an individual electrode which is formed on a surface defining the individual ink channel, and an insulating layer which covers the individual electrode, and a transfer drum which is rotatably supported. When a drive voltage is applied to the individual electrode, since a liquid repellent property of the insulating layer is declined due to an electrowetting phenomenon, the ink is discharged from the discharge port. Furthermore, a distance between the discharge port and the transfer drum is less than a diameter of a liquid droplet equivalent to a liquid discharged at a time from the discharge port. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a printing apparatus having a simple structure, and of which a size can be reduced easily. |
| US07708381B2 |
Fluid ejection device with resistive element close to drive circuits
A fluid ejection device that has a firing chamber from which heated fluid is ejected, a heating element that heats fluid in the firing chamber and drive circuitry for the heating element. At least part of the drive circuitry is positioned within 60 microns of the heating element. |
| US07708378B2 |
Ink cartridge, ink jet recording apparatus and waste-ink cartridge
A case body of an ink cartridge has a recording ink storage chamber containing a recording ink and a waste-ink storage chamber containing an ink coagulant. The recording ink is supplied to a recording head of an ink jet recording apparatus. A head cleaning unit collects waste-ink from the recording head and feeds it to the waste-ink storage chamber. A heater heats the waste-ink and the ink coagulant in the waste-ink storage chamber, so that the ink coagulant melts and mixes with the waste-ink. The mixture of the ink coagulant and the waste-ink is cooled and solidified into gel. The gelled mixture of the waste-ink and the ink coagulant can be easily taken out of the waste-ink storage chamber by heating to liquefy it again, facilitating recycling the case body. |
| US07708376B2 |
Device for cleaning an inkjet printhead
A device cleans an inkjet printhead in a franking and/or addressing machine. The inkjet printhead is disposed in a stationary manner such that it can be pivoted in a printing window of a guide plate for the print carrier. A cleaning and sealing device is disposed behind the guide plate such that it can be displaced toward and away from the inkjet printhead. This improves the print quality, prolongs service life, and provides a high throughput rate. Spraying clear is possible both during the print carrier transport and in a rest position without the letter run being soiled. The cleaning and sealing device is disposed underneath the inkjet printhead to be displaced by an associated displacement device. A matched baffle piece is disposed underneath the inkjet printhead such that it can pivot and is coupled to the latter. |
| US07708375B2 |
Method of removing particulates from a printhead using a disposable sheet
A method of removing particulates from an ink ejection face of a printhead is provided. The method comprises the steps of: (i) flooding the face with ink from the printhead, thereby dispersing the particulates into the flooded ink; and (ii) transferring the flooded ink, including the particulates, onto a disposable sheet moving through a maintenance zone adjacent the face, wherein the sheet does not contact the face. |
| US07708366B2 |
Liquid ejection apparatus, liquid ejection system, and liquid ejection method
A liquid ejection apparatus, a liquid ejection system, and a liquid ejection method are achieved which allow starting and ending positions for ejecting liquid to be set appropriately. A controller is provided which executes position determination control for determining at least one of the starting position and the ending position for ejecting liquid from a moving ejection head onto a medium that is fed by a feed mechanism, wherein the position determination control by the controller differs for when ejecting the liquid from the ejection head to a region within a predetermined range from a front edge or a rear edge, in a feed direction, of the medium, and for when ejecting the liquid from the ejection head to a central region, in the feed direction, of the medium. |
| US07708364B2 |
Ink-jet recording apparatus and data transfer apparatus
An ink-jet recording apparatus, including plural ink-jet head units which are daisy-chain-connected to a control section and eject ink; and the control section which sends serial driving data to the plural ink-jet head units, wherein each ink-jet head unit includes a head drive control section, which includes: a serial/parallel conversion section which converts the serial driving data inputted from a pre-ceding ink-jet head unit to parallel driving data, and sends the parallel driving data to a post-ceding ink-jet head unit; an identification information setting section which sets identification information for selecting a signal essential to drive the ink-jet head unit, a data extracting section which selects the signal essential to drive the ink-jet head unit, based on identification information, and a data processing section which conducts process for driving the ink-jet head unit, by the signal essential to drive the ink-jet head unit selected by the data extracting section. |
| US07708362B2 |
Printhead error compensation
A method for calibrating one or more printheads includes printing a reference image using a first portion of image forming points of a first printhead, printing a diagnostic image using a second portion of image forming points of either the first printhead or a second printhead, detecting an optical density of the combined reference image and the diagnostic image and determining a compensation value based upon the optical density. |
| US07708357B2 |
Automatic locking apparatus used in guide rail for drawer
Disclosed is an automatic locking apparatus used in a guide rail for a drawer. The automatic locking apparatus is provided at an end portion of a fixing slider to lock a movable slider when the drawer is closed. The automatic locking apparatus prevents the drawer from being opened and smoothly locks the drawer. A stopper ring is attached to the movable slider, and the automatic locking apparatus is provided on the fixing slider to cooperate with the stopper ring. The automatic locking apparatus includes a fixing plate attached to the fixing slider, a body fixed to the fixing plate while protruding toward the movable slider, an elastic member having a substantially “C” shape and being rotatably coupled to one end of the body, and a rotating member having a substantially “reverse-L” shape and being rotatably coupled to the other end of the body. |
| US07708351B2 |
High tonnage ultra light mining truck with a greater load efficiency for off-road applications that comprises a lightweight power and traction system, a steering system and a lateral suspension and tipping system for the lightweight curved dump
The present invention refers to a high tonnage ultra light mining truck with a greater load efficiency for off-road applications that, in addition to the body, comprises a lightweight curved dump body and a knuckle joined lightweight power and traction system, a steering system, and a lateral suspension and tipping system for the lightweight curved dump body. The truck of the present invention has a payload capacity up to three times greater than that of similar trucks of the prior art. |
| US07708350B2 |
Article employing expanded thermoplastic elements and methods for making same
An article of manufacture is made by filling a container with expanded thermoplastic elements that are in a non-cured state and that possess a degree of latent foaming ability. After filling the container with the non-cured elements, the elements are allowed to cure under ambient conditions during which the blowing agent remaining in the elements in a vapor state condenses allowing air to be drawn in while the elements expand. This expansion of the elements distends and rigidifies the container where the container is allowed to expand or places an item packaged within a container of rigid construction under a tight fit. |
| US07708348B2 |
Footstool with footrest platform adjustable to different angles
A footstool with a footrest platform that is adjustable to different positions/angles. The footstool includes a first sidepiece and a second sidepiece engaged by a platform, which is adjustable to one of a plurality of possible positions corresponding to one of a plurality of possible angles. In one embodiment, the sidepieces each have two notches and the platform has protrusions or extensions that engage the notches in the respective position(s). In one position, the protrusions on the platform engage one notch on each sidepiece; in the other position, the protrusions engage the other notch on each sidepiece. |
| US07708343B2 |
Seat of vehicle
This seat of a vehicle is provided with: a center supporting block having a first supporting surface for supporting an occupant; side supporting blocks that are arranged at both sides in the width of the center supporting block, and having a second supporting surface that more protrude than the first supporting surface of the center supporting block; movable supporting blocks each arranged between the center supporting block and the side supporting blocks, and each having a third supporting surface which is flush with the first supporting surface while in an initial state; joining portions each joining between the side supporting blocks and the movable supporting block; and expanding devices that are arranged at a back side of the side supporting blocks, expand the side supporting blocks, and incline the movable supporting blocks with respect to the first supporting surface of the center supporting block. |
| US07708342B2 |
Non-slip body-conforming booster cushion seat
A body-conforming booster cushion seat having a malleable filler material so as to permit the cushion to conform to the body shape of a user when the user is seated thereon. The booster cushion seat includes a strap for securing the cushion to the chair, and the height of the cushion may be adjusted by adjusting the tension on the strap. The bottom of the cushion is provided with a textured base to prevent slipping when the textured base contacts a corresponding surface, and a safety belt is included to secure a juvenile user in place on the booster cushion seat. |
| US07708337B2 |
Sunroof apparatus for vehicle
A vehicular sunroof apparatus includes a front panel, a rear panel, a linking rod, a rod-locking part, and a slider linking part. The linking rod is connected to a rear slider provided for opening the rear panel. The rod-locking part is disposed on a vehicle roof for locking a distal end of the linking rod when the rear panel is in a fully closed state. The slider linking part is provided on a front slider provided for opening/closing the front panel. The slider linking part is designed to engage with the distal end part and to release the distal end part from the locking engagement with the rod-locking part when the front slider moves from a fully closed position to a half-open position. |
| US07708336B2 |
Chassis frame and method of manufacturing chassis frame
A cross-shaped chassis frame (1) formed by abutting and connecting the end parts of side members (12) to the outer face of a front end cross member (11), wherein the side members (12) are formed of hollow pipes, the end parts of the side members (12) are gradually expanded to form joined parts (20) expanded in flare skirt shape, and the outer edges of the joined parts (20) are allowed to abut on and welded to the outer face of the front end cross member (11), whereby the side members (12) can be jointed to the outer face of the front end cross member (11). |
| US07708335B2 |
Air-guiding device of a vehicle
The invention relates to an air-guiding device (10) of a vehicle (1), comprising a spoiler (12) fastened to a spoiler base (14), and an adjusting device (20) for adjusting the spoiler base (14) between an inoperative position, in which the spoiler (12) is essentially situated within the vehicle contour (3), and at least one first operating position, in which the spoiler (12) is deployed beyond the vehicle contour (3) in order to provide a down force effect during the journey, the adjusting device (20) comprising a pivoting-link arrangement (22, 28) coupled to the spoiler base (14) and controllable driving means for pivoting the pivoting-link arrangement (22, 28) in order to adjust the spoiler base (14) between the inoperative position and the operating position. In order to permit a greater maximum deployment angle of the spoiler, according to the invention the adjusting device (20) is suitably designed in order to overstretch a joint (26) between a front region of the spoiler base (14) and an end of a front pivoting link (22) of the pivoting links (22, 28) during deployment of the spoiler (12). |
| US07708330B2 |
Adapter for fixation of a robotic drive in a car
A device for mounting a driving robot in a motor vehicle, the motor vehicle having two driver's seat tracks and a floor, utilizing the two seat tracks of the driver's seat for anchoring purposes, the device including: a length-adjustable adapter plate that engages into both seat tracks in a hook-like manner; at least one first locking element for locking the adapter plate in the seat tracks; and at least one second height-adjustable locking element for bracing the adapter plate against the vehicle floor. |
| US07708328B2 |
Device holder and storage drawer
A device holder and storage compartment for use in a motor vehicle. The device holder and storage compartment are in the form of a slidable drawer that is concealed within a dashboard when in a closed position and extended from the dashboard when in an open position. The drawer has a generally horizontal bottom surface, a front end wall, a back end wall oppositely disposed from the front end wall, a first side wall and a second side wall adjoining the front end wall and the back end wall. All the walls are generally vertical in orientation. The drawer also has a generally vertical dividing wall spaced apart from the front end wall. The dividing wall defines a front region between the dividing wall and the front end wall and a rear region between the dividing wall and the back end wall. A front cover can be moveably attached to the drawer proximate the front end wall and move between a closed position and an open position. When in the closed position, the front cover is generally vertical and adjacent to the front end wall. In the open position, the front cover is spaced apart from the front end wall and affords viewing of a front surface of a device held in the front device holder region of the drawer. The front end wall of the drawer can have a cut-away portion which allows viewing of a bottom portion of the front display of the device. |
| US07708326B2 |
Lock device for motorcycle side trunk
A lock device capable of locking, in a closed state, a lid member for each of side trunks provided on both sides of the vehicle body rear portion of a motorcycle. The lock device includes a plurality of catch mechanisms with catches that are swingably supported by a trunk main portion via a plurality of associated pivots, respectively. The lock device so configured expands the possibility of the layout of a plurality of catch mechanisms. |
| US07708324B2 |
Collision barrier device for projecting loads
A crash barrier device including: a body portion having at least an impact portion; and a fastening portion configured to fasten the body portion to a projecting load being carried by a vehicle; wherein the impact portion and fastening portion are configured such that the impact portion is nearer to a surface traveled on by the vehicle than the fastening portion. A system for carrying projecting loads is also provided and includes: a trailer having wheels and fastener(s) for fastening the trailer to a powered vehicle; and the crash barrier device. |
| US07708317B2 |
Hollow pipe connector
A hollow pipe connector is described for interconnecting opposed ends of two hollow pipes in abutting end-to-end relationship. Preferably, but not exclusively, the pipes are hollow pile cylinders of circular cross-section. The connector is formed by two flat metal plates each having interconnecting slots whereby the plates are coupled together to form a connector of X-cross-section. Each of the plates have outer side edges having opposed sloped edge portions on a respective side of an arresting raised projection formed in the outer edge in a mid-section thereof. The sloped edge portions slope inwardly towards a respective one of the opposed ends of the connector member. The connector engages opposed end portions of pipes coupled together by a frictional retaining force exerted on the inner walls at opposed ends of the coupled pipes. |
| US07708316B2 |
Scraper structure for vehicle
A scraper structure for a vehicle includes a scraper for scraping material accumulated inside a disk wheel of a wheel. The scraper is detachably attached to a lower surface of a knuckle which rotatably supports the wheel. The scraper includes an extending portion and a bent portion. The extending portion extends inwardly in terms of a vehicle body and downwardly from the lower surface of the knuckle. The bent portion is formed by bending a lower end of the extending portion toward a front in terms of the vehicle body. |
| US07708315B1 |
Truck mud flap suspension
A suspension is provided for mud flaps to be deployed behind wheels of a vehicle. The suspension allows for resilient translation of the mud flaps, such as should they get pinched against a curb and the wheels. A housing is adapted to be coupled to a bumper or other frame portion of the vehicle. The housing supports a spring therein. Cables are coupled to opposite ends of the spring and also to one of the mud flaps. When downward forces are exerted on one of the mud flaps, the cable associated allows the mud flap to translate downward slightly and cause the spring to be extended. When the loads subside, the spring causes the mud flap to return. In one embodiment a single suspension suspends two mud flaps over separate wheels. In a second embodiment, the suspension supports a single mud flap over a single wheel or wheel set. |
| US07708314B2 |
Emergency cutting device for vehicle safety belts
The invention relates to an emergency cutting device (1) for vehicle safety belts, characterised in that it comprises locking means (6,7), acting on a safety belt (3) so as to put the same under tension; means (8) for cutting said safety belt (3); and operation means (12, 13), operatively connected with said locking means (6, 7) and with said cutting means (8); said operation means (9, 10) activating in succession said locking means (6, 7) and said cutting means (8), so as to cut said safety belt (3), and then deactivating said locking means (6, 7) thus freeing said safety belt (3) and then the user of the same. |
| US07708307B2 |
Method and structure for protecting occupant
A method for protecting an occupant seated on a seat of a vehicle in a side collision of the vehicle is disclosed. In the method, the lumbar region of the occupant is retained in a section that corresponds to the pelvis rearward of the acetabulum in the skeletal structure of the occupant by using an impact absorbing member. Specifically, the lumbar region of the occupant is retained in a section that corresponds to an ilium in the skeletal structure of the occupant. In a side collision of the vehicle, the impact absorbing member initially contacts the lumbar region in a section corresponding to the ilium. |
| US07708305B2 |
Airbag apparatus
The airbag apparatus includes an airbag folded and housed in a housing. The airbag includes an outer bag constituting an outer wall of the airbag and an inner bag disposed inside the outer bag. The inner bag includes an outlet port supplying inflation gas into the outer bag and an arm inflatable into a tapered bag contour. The arm holds down a peripheral defected region of the outer bag defected from the housing onto a top plane of a ring of a steering wheel all the while that the inner bag remains completely inflated at the operation of the airbag apparatus. |
| US07708301B2 |
Attachment mount for a tow cable on an agricultural tractor
A tow cable mounting structure for an agricultural tractor that includes a pin-connection feature for a tow cable so that an easily accessible tow connection anchored to the tractor frame can be provided on the tractor. The mounting structure includes a contoured end portion and a bracing structure to manage stress distribution in the mounting structure and the tractor chassis thereby enabling the attachment mount to be added to a tractor with minimal alteration of the chassis. |
| US07708290B2 |
Modular mobile workstation with storage capacity
The described embodiments of the present invention provide a modular mobile workstation with storage capacity. The apparatus has a modular shell that can be used for a variety of purposes, including, but not limited to, a stool and low table combination, a table and coat-rack combination, and a high table combination. The modular shell encloses a removable inner shell that can be used to store goods while traveling with the unit. In one embodiment, two large wheels cap the respective ends of the shell and allow the apparatus to roll freely behind a user. A multi-use handle is also included with the apparatus. In one embodiment, the handle is collapsible and is secured to the apparatus by a securing scarf, which also serves to hold the interlocking pieces of the outer shell together. The unit is useful for travelers needing a mobile workspace, and prevents the need for additional luggage, as it also provides storage capacity. |
| US07708285B2 |
Elastomer spring mechanical seal
A mechanical composite seal assembly for providing a seal between a rotating shaft and a static surface. The mechanical composite seal assembly includes first and second axially adjacent annular seal elements. The first and second seal elements each include a sealing edge contacting the shaft to provide a respective seal between the first and second seal element and the shaft. A static housing receives the first and second seal elements and engages the static surface to provide a static stationary seal, while concomitantly providing a flex region that engages the seal elements to form a dynamic seal therewith. |
| US07708284B2 |
Spring supported dual element face seal with a run surface sleeve
The invention provides a seal for a rotatable shaft. The seal includes an inner case mountable to the shaft and having a body and first and second flanges extending radially outward from the body. The seal includes first and second sealing discs operable to seal against the first and second flanges of the inner case. The sealing discs are immovably associated with a housing spaced from the shaft. A spring encircles the shaft and inner case to urge the sealing discs against the flanges. The spring rate of the spring is controlled to enhance sealing, reduce turning torque, and extend life of the seal. |
| US07708282B2 |
Gasket for the cylinder head of an engine of a motor-vehicle, with a structure of polymeric nanocomposite material, having integrated sensor capability
A gasket for the cylinder head of a motor-vehicle engine includes a body including a polymeric matrix containing a reinforcement material including a dispersion of nanofibers or nanotubes of electrically conductive material. Each nanotube or nanofiber has a substantially elongated shape. A uniform distribution of electrodes is associated to the body. Two layers of electrically insulating material are arranged on the top and bottom surfaces of the body, one on top of and one underneath the polymeric matrix, and designed to insulate electrically the dispersion of nanofibers or nanotubes contained therein. Control and processing means are designed to be connected to any pair of electrodes of the distribution for determining any variation of load applied in an axial direction to the gasket. |
| US07708279B2 |
Logical board game and game of chance on a star-shaped board
The present invention is directed to a logical board game featuring hexagonal primary playing fields as a playing area, and pieces, the primary playing fields being congruent geometrical figures that form a regular six-pointed star-shaped playing area that has axes of symmetry, one playing field of which is at the center of the playing area, and that the primary playing fields adjoin, by at least two of their sides, their neighboring primary playing fields. |
| US07708278B2 |
Fishing game
A fishing game is played with a rod, a reel, and line. A holder is connected to the end of the line and an engaging fabric marker is removably attached to the holder. The holder and marker are cast at a target having an engaging fabric surface. If the marker lands on the target, it remains engaged to the target and separates from the holder when the line is retrieved. |
| US07708277B2 |
Sheet delivery and sheet-processing printing machine
A sheet delivery includes an endless conveyor for conveying printed sheets, and also comprises a secondary gripper with a gripper bar by way of which the printed sheets are received from the conveyor at their trailing edges and deposited on a delivery stack. A coupler transmission generates an annular circulatory movement of the gripper bar. The coupler transmission has criss-crossing oscillating cranks. |
| US07708275B2 |
Paper materials sorting apparatus
A paper materials sorting apparatus that includes note denomination discriminating mechanism for discriminating the paper materials based on note denominations of the paper materials, cassette assignment mechanism for assigning each of a plurality of wrapping devices and/or storage devices a note denomination, and a sorting mechanism for sorting the paper materials in accordance with their note denomination and for directing the sorted paper materials to the corresponding assigned wrapping devices and/or storage devices. The sorting mechanism further contains counting mechanism for counting throughput of the sorted paper materials into each of the assigned wrapping devices and/or storage devices, comparison mechanism for comparing the throughput of each of the assigned wrapping devices and/or storage devices, and an operation display for displaying a recommended operation to reassign the note denominations of the wrapping devices and/or storage devices in order to balance the sorting load among the wrapping devices and/or storage devices. |
| US07708271B2 |
Non-contacting static brush for a sheet stacker
An apparatus for accumulating sheets in a stack, such as would be used in a printer or copier, comprises a tray for retaining sheets. A conductive member, which may include brush filaments, is disposed less than 10 mm from a location of an edge of the sheets, and does not contact any sheets on the tray. |
| US07708268B2 |
Separator and feeder with vibrator for sheets of paper medium
A pile of sheets is held by a separator/feeder and a vibrator is brought into contact with a first region of the pile with a first contact pressure. High frequency vibrations are applied from the vibrator to the sheet. A takeout mechanism is brought into contact with and pressed against the pile with a second contact pressure and sheets are taken out one by one from the top surface of the pile by the takeout mechanism. A first sensor detects the position of the vibrator and outputs a first detection signal, while a second sensor detects the uppermost surface of the pile and outputs a second detection signal. A control section selects first and second contact pressures according to the first and second detection signals and maintains the first and second contact pressures. |
| US07708267B2 |
Sheet feeding apparatus
A sheet feeding apparatus includes stacker for stacking a sheet material; a feed roller for separating the sheet material stacked on the stacker; a rotatable separation roller rotatable by being driven by the feed roller; and a torque limiter for controlling rotation of the separation roller; wherein a second or subsequent sheet material staying in a nip between the feed roller and the separation roller is separated from the separation roller by a rotational direction of the feed roller being changed from a forward rotational direction to a backward direction and by a rotational direction of the separation roller being changed to a backward direction by the feed roller during a first sheet material which is in contact to the feed roller being nipped by the nip; and a first sheet material is fed toward downstream of the nip by the rotational direction of the feed roller being changed from the backward direction to the forward direction. |
| US07708265B2 |
Sheet Feeder
A sheet feeder includes a housing having a cassette housing part recessed horizontally from the front surface toward the depth direction and a sheet feed cassette that can be drawn from the cassette housing part. The sheet feed cassette has an open top for storing sheets of paper. The sheet feeder includes a pressure plate provided pivotably about a first pivot so as to be inclined downwardly toward the depth direction of the sheet feed cassette and a pressure mechanism that presses sheets of paper against a pick-up roller when the sheet feed cassette is pushed into the cassette housing part. The sheet feeder includes a pressure plate regulation mechanism that inclines the pressure plate downwardly toward the depth direction while separating sheets of paper on the pressure plate or the pressure plate from the pick-up roller when the sheet feed cassette is drawn from the cassette housing part. |
| US07708264B2 |
Sheet feeding device and image forming apparatus
A sheet feeding device, having: a sheet feeding tray which stacks a paper sheet bundle formed by a plurality of sheets; a first blower which blows air to a side edge of the paper sheet bundle stacked on the sheet feeding tray; a second blower which blows air to a leading edge of the paper sheet bundle in a sheet conveyance direction from a forward side of the paper sheet bundle in the sheet conveyance direction; and an adsorption conveyance section which adsorbs a topmost sheet of the paper sheet bundle stacked on the sheet feeding tray and conveys the topmost sheet, wherein a first area in which the adsorption conveyance section is provided, and a second area in which a ventilation port of the first blower is provided, respectively includes an overlapping area in which the first area and the second area overlap on the sheet conveyance direction. |
| US07708262B2 |
Media handling system
Example embodiments of a media handling system are shown and described in which gears are moved by a carrier into engagement with a gear that is operably coupled to a media driver. |
| US07708251B2 |
Mechanism and method for adjusting seat height for exercise equipment
The present invention is a seat height adjustment mechanism for exercise equipment having a seat. Examples of such exercise equipment include: stationary exercise bicycles; road or mountain type bicycles; resistance strength training supporting racks or platforms (e.g., preacher curl benches, military or shoulder press racks, etc.) for use with free weights; and resistance strength training machines that employ as resistance weight plates, deflectable members, elastic bands, springs, hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic cylinders, etc. The mechanism comprises a member, a telescopic member, and an engagement member. The member extends upwardly and includes a rack. The telescopic member includes a first end telescopically received in the member and a seat end. The engagement member is coupled to the telescopic member and adapted to engage the rack. |
| US07708248B2 |
Container holder
The invention provides a device having a clamp-like structure with jaws designed to bite onto a support, and at least one of the handles shaped like a ring in order to serve as a receptacle for holding a cup-like container. A user may easily attach the device to a solid support in order to hold a liquid container. The holder may be used in work areas such as desks, tables and the like in order to prevent beverage spillage. The invention provides multiple designs that enable a device to adapt to supports with various thicknesses. |
| US07708243B2 |
Height-adjustable stand
A stand includes a frame, a sliding member, and two torsion springs. The frame has two guide rail subassemblies. The sliding member is slidably attached to the guide rail subassemblies. A first end of each torsion spring is connected to the frame, and a second end of each torsion spring is connected to the sliding member to provide an elastic force to overcome the total weight of the sliding member and a load. |
| US07708241B2 |
Wine decanting appliance and method for decanting
A decanting apparatus for wine and the like and method of use thereof wherein a source vessel is compressed within a cradle having an open end where the lip of the mouth of the source vessel communicates with the lip of a decanting receptacle. A pair of adjustable vertical support members are hinged to the open end of the cradle. The apparatus has a drive mechanism for tilting the vessel relative to the vertical support members and a control unit for operatively controlling the means for tilting, allowing for an unattended decanting operation. |
| US07708240B2 |
Computer docking system
A computer docking system comprises a support base and a docking bracket having a plurality of holding members. Each holding member is adapted to receive and support a computer display device. Each holding member is also adapted to interchangeably engage the support base to enable positioning of the computer display device in at least two different viewing orientations. |
| US07708234B2 |
Common bonding network clamp
A clamp used to create a bond between under floor wiring systems and a common bonding network is disclosed. The clamp includes a mounting bracket, a J-bolt and a split bolt for securing wires to the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket has a main body with an aperture and a slot. The J-bolt has a first end and a second end. The first end of the J-bolt is attached at the aperture of the mounting bracket and the second end of the J-bolt is positioned within the slot of the mounting bracket. The second end of the J-bolt is removed from the slot to enable the second end of the J-bolt to pivot away from the mounting bracket enabling the J-bolt to engage a floor pedestal. |
| US07708233B2 |
Apparatus and methods for mounting flat panel displays
Apparatus and methods are provided for mounting a flat panel display to an outer surface of a control panel over a panel opening therein, e.g., for retrofitting an existing display. A display is secured to a frame, and the frame is mounted to the control panel such that the display is disposed over the panel opening. Wires from the display are directed through the control panel, and coupled to circuitry behind the control panel. For example, a box with circuitry to operate the display may be mounted behind the control panel, e.g., generally opposite the display. The display may be a resized liquid crystal display, e.g., including one or more diagonal corners. The resulting display may be larger than the existing display and/or may maximize the size of an active area of a display given a fixed area available on a control panel. |
| US07708229B1 |
Circulation controlled airfoil
A system and method provides for the manipulation of the aerodynamic characteristics of airfoils and other aerostructures using blowing and/or suction. This system and method uses one or more internal cavities located within an airfoil. An internal cavity is coupled to the exterior surface of the airfoil via one or more slots. A rotary actuator is incorporated into a slot. When the rotary actuator is rotated into a first position, it forms a channel that allows fluid to pass between the internal cavity and the air surrounding the airfoil. When the rotary actuator rotates into a second position, it prevents fluid from passing through the channel between the internal cavity and the air surrounding the airfoil. |
| US07708226B2 |
Device for detecting synchronous errors of high-lift surfaces on aircraft
A device for detecting synchronous errors of high-lift surfaces such as landing flaps or slats on aircraft, having an optical conductor which is laid over at least two adjacent high-lift surfaces, a light source and an optical receiver which are allocated to different ends of the optical conductor, as well as an evaluation unit for determining a synchronous error of the high-lift surfaces on the basis of the light signal received from the optical receiver. The optical conductor is laid in such a way that the optical conductor experiences a break-free deformation due to synchronous errors and consequently causes a change of the transmitted light signals, and the evaluation unit compares the signal shape of the light signal received from the optical receiver or an optical receiver output signal derived therefrom with a nominal signal shape and determines the presence of a synchronous error on the basis of the deviation in shape between the received light signal or the optical receiver output signal derived therefrom and the nominal signal. |
| US07708225B2 |
Aircraft landing gear
Aircraft landing gear includes a retractable housing comprising an upper leg (11); a lower leg (15) including a wheel axle (16) slidingly disposed within the upper leg (11) and resiliency biassed to an extended condition; a turning collar (18) rotatably disposed about the housing and having connection means for a drag stay (17); and a steering collar (19) operatively connected to a steering motor (41) and connected to the lower leg (15) by a torque link (21, 22); in which the turning collar (18) is provided with a cam surface (24) which cooperates in use with the torque link (21, 22) to maintain the lower leg (15) with the wheel in the fore-and-aft position when in the extended condition. |
| US07708220B1 |
Electric dual condiment grinder
A cordless electric dual condiment grinder includes a hollow housing elongated to extend between a base for supporting the grinder uprightly and an opposing top, the top of the housing having a bulbous form to define two condiment reservoirs (e.g. for receiving salt and pepper respectively). A unidirectional rotary grinding mechanism is disposed in a lateral opening in each of the reservoirs. The lateral openings are on opposing sides of the housing and a tilt switch controls the direction of rotation of a reversible drive motor. One-way clutches in the transmission are provided such that each grinding mechanism is selectively rotated depending upon the direction of rotation of the motor output. The user can thus selectively dispense from one or other of the compartments by rotating the grinder through an acute angle from the upright such that the selected lateral opening faces downwardly and thus is particularly suited for use by people with limited dexterity. |
| US07708218B2 |
Jaw crusher and self-traveling crusher
A jaw crusher includes: a crusher frame to which a cross member for connecting a pair of side wall plates is provided; a fixed jaw; a swing jaw swingably hung between the side wall plates; a pair of toggle link pins both of which are disposed along a common axial direction having a first outer end pivoted on the side plate and a second inner end pivoted on a main supporter provided to the cross member; and a reaction force-receiving link mechanism including a toggle link rotatably supported by the toggle link pin. The main supporter of the cross member on which the second end of the toggle link pin is pivoted is box-shaped. |
| US07708214B2 |
Fibrous materials and composites
Fibrous materials, compositions that include fibrous materials, and uses of the fibrous materials and compositions are disclosed. For example, the fibrous materials can be operated on by a microorganism to produce ethanol or a by-product, such as a protein or lignin. |
| US07708212B1 |
Nozzle assembly
A nozzle assembly that includes upper and lower washers and a cam. A particular implementation of a nozzle assembly includes a stem coupled with a cam assembly. The stem has a nozzle in a first end which is in fluid communication with a second end of the stem. An upper washer is slidably coupled with a washer race in the stem and may have an upper washer groove and a lower washer may be coupled with the second end of the stem and have a lower washer groove. A spring element may be disposed around the stem between the upper and lower washer grooves. Particular implementations of a cam assembly may include a lower cam half slidably coupled into an upper cam half. Other particular implementations may further include the lower cam half rotationally and, in some implementations, removably indexed in relation to the upper cam half. |
| US07708203B2 |
Link object to sticker
A method of generating an association between an object and a sticker on a surface, the sticker having disposed therein or thereon coded data at least partially indicative of a sticker identity, the method including, in a computer system: receiving indicating data from a sensing device, the indicating data being at least partially indicative of the identity of the sticker, the sensing device being responsive to sensing at least some of the coded data to generate the indicating data; identifying, using the indicating data, the identity of the sticker on the surface; and, generating an association based at least partially on the sticker identity and an object. |
| US07708201B2 |
System and method for verifying the authenticity of a check and authorizing payment thereof
A system and method for verifying the authenticity and payment of a bank check at any of a plurality of banks or check cashing sites, wherein a payor or issuing site determines a first set of data including account and individualized payee data, which is communicated to a processing center for temporary storage and eventual comparison. Upon presentation of the check for redemption, the cashing site will establish a second set of data at least including the pre-printed account data and, depending on the embodiment, the individualized payee data that appears on the face of the check when presented. The second set of data is communicated to the processing center where the first and second sets of data are compared. Subsequent to comparison, authenticating data will be communicated to the cashing site, which is indicative of redemption authorization or refusal. Additional embodiments include assuring payment for and delivery of merchandise associated with an Internet commercial transaction. |
| US07708196B2 |
Modular web-based ASP application for multiple products
A method of providing business information data to a user, including allowing the user unlimited access to interactive, customizable modular applications through a single platform. The applications interface with a database to provide real-time business information data to the user, the business information data relating to an entity and being based on a unique corporate identification number associated with the entity. |
| US07708192B2 |
Bill depositing/withdrawing apparatus and method of controlling the same
A bill depositing/withdrawing apparatus having a cash slot for charging/discharging a bill or bills, comprises: a bill storage section provided inwardly of the cash slot in the apparatus to store a bill or bills, and posture changing means that changes the bill storage section to a money depositing/withdrawing posture, in which a bill or bills are received from and paid to a user through the cash slot, and to a feeding/stacking posture, in which a bill or bills are fed into the apparatus and stacked in the bill storage section, and wherein a bill or bills stored in the bill storage section are caused to project toward a user when the money depositing/withdrawing posture is assumed. |
| US07708189B1 |
Identification verification system and method
A method and apparatus is provided for verifying the validity of ID cards. A card reading device reads an ID card and transmits a request to a database server. A database is queried and a reply is sent back to the card reading device indicating whether the ID is valid. If desired, the reply can include additional information, such as a description of the ID holder. The ID verification system can be used to help verify whether an ID belongs to the ID holder. The system can also log and timestamp events for future access. |
| US07708188B2 |
Waste disposal device including a hamper accessible through a movable door
A waste disposal device comprises a container having hamper. The hamper is insertable and removable through a movable door of the container. |
| US07708183B2 |
Reflow solder oven with cooling diffuser
A diffuser plate for a reflow oven includes an upper surface and a plurality of nozzle openings therein. Each of the plurality of nozzle openings has a raised surrounding portion for restricting condensed flux on the upper surface of the diffuser plate from flowing through the nozzles. A drain hole permits condensed flux on the upper surface to flow downward through the plate. |
| US07708182B2 |
Flexible endoluminal surgical instrument
A surgical instrument comprises a first elongated member and a second elongated member, the first elongated member and the second elongated member being operatively connected and configured to rotate in opposite directions to substantially limit counter torque. The first and second elongated members are flexible shafts. The surgical instrument can be configured to apply fasteners to a tissue portion. This embodiment of the surgical instrument includes a cartridge having a plurality of fasteners, an anvil, said anvil and cartridge being relatively movable between spaced and approximated positions, and a sled disposed in the cartridge. The sled includes a cam member. The cam member is designed to drive the fasteners through tissue and toward the anvil. |
| US07708176B2 |
Web transportation guiding apparatus and method
A guiding apparatus and method for a shift generated by a web during web transportation is provided, in which a coarse position guiding module and a fine position guiding module function to directly adjust the web so as to compensate the shift occurred during the process of transportation according to a position of the web. By means of monitoring a location of the fine position guiding module at any time, a reference of the coarse position guiding module will be adjusted when the location of the fine position guiding module satisfies the condition defined in the guiding method, so as to change a position where the web enters into the fine position guiding module. |
| US07708175B2 |
Vehicular tool restraint apparatus
An apparatus is provided for securing tools with respect to a spare wheel for a vehicle. The apparatus includes a hub member that is adapted for selective securement to a central area of a spare wheel. At least one securement structure is provided on the hub member. At least one strap member is secured to the at least one securement structure. The at least one strap member is adjustable to at least partially define a variably sized opening and is configured to selectively secure at least one tool within the variably sized opening. |
| US07708174B1 |
Top sizer for garment hanger
A top sizing system for a garment hanger. The system includes a sizer seat secured to an upper portion of the hook of the hanger. The seat includes a ledge and a tab extending substantially perpendicular therefrom. The tab includes at least one guide slot. The system further includes a sizer having an internal cavity configured to receive the tab therein. The sizer has at least one guide repositioned to engage the guide slot whereupon the sizer can be moved from a first unengaged position to a second engaged position. |
| US07708173B2 |
Self-orienting aerosol apparatus and method of cleaning a trash can
An orienting skirt joined to an aerosol can, the orienting skirt having a generally arcuate rim extending outward such that when the can is placed on a flat surface, the rim urges the can into a predetermined generally stable horizontal configuration with the discharge nozzle oriented in an upright direction. A full release actuator is disposed adjacent to the valve stem of the aerosol can and has a trigger and a discharge nozzle such that when the trigger is pressed the contents of the aerosol can are dispensed through the discharge nozzle. With the discharge nozzle in an upright direction, the contents of the can are dispersed more evenly on the interior surfaces of the trash can. |
| US07708172B2 |
Drink supply container having an end member supporting gas inlet and outlet valves which extend perpendicular to the end member
A drink supply container for a machine which dispenses beverages. The drink supply container includes an end member having a side wall and a support connected to the side wall. The support is substantially positionable in a plane. The drink supply container also has a gas inlet valve, a portion of which extends along an axis that is perpendicular to the plane of the support. The drink supply container has a drink supply outlet valve, a portion of which extends along an axis that is perpendicular to the plane of the support. |
| US07708171B2 |
Pressure control device
The invention is a pressurized gas providing and gas pressure regulating device. The invention is a container with an over pressurized second chamber of pressurized gas that can be released to the exterior of the container when a valve that is integrally connected to a piston that along with a first cylinder forms a first chamber that is filled with a comparably less over pressurized gas that pushes the valve open when the gas pressure outside of the container is too low, thereby permitting the over pressurized second chamber to fluidly connect via the valve and thereby increase the pressure outside the container, such as to a volume of gas located below a piston within a fluid dispenser, the first and second chambers are shaped as cylinders and the first cylinder fits within the second chamber. |
| US07708166B2 |
Bellows dispenser
A pump assembly with a first pump to displace a first volume and a second pump to displace a second volume greater than the first volume. The first pump draws liquid from a reservoir and dispenses it to the second pump. The second pump draws in the discharge from the first pump and an additional volume of air such that the second pump discharges both liquid and air. The first pump preferably has a piston movable in a first inner chamber and the second pump has the same piston movable in a second outer chamber. The first and second chambers communicate together. In one version, a one-way valve provides flow outwardly only from the first chamber to the second chamber and the first pump discharges while the second pump draws in, and vice versa. |
| US07708165B2 |
Vent means and vent flange for a device dispensing at least one liquid and method for applying a membrane to a vent flange
A vent for a liquid dispenser includes a vent flange comprising a flange body. The vent body includes a vent wall on which the membrane is applied. The vent wall extends parallel to the geometric axis of the device so as to have a sufficiently large area available for applying the transpiratory membrane and at the same time to limit the space occupied radially by the flange. |
| US07708163B2 |
Constant force material delivery system and method
Systems, devices, and methods are provided for dispensing material from a container. Devices can include driving arrangement for providing one or more forces, and actuator for activating the driving arrangement whereby the driving arrangement causes material to be dispensed from the container. |
| US07708159B2 |
Plastic container
A plastic container having a lower supporting base portion, a sidewall portion extending upwardly from the base portion, a neck portion extending upwardly from the sidewall portion and an opening at the top of the neck portion. The container is characterized by a lowered center of gravity which provides increased stability. |
| US07708158B2 |
Calf bottle
A calf bottle is characterized by an improved neck design which prevents deposits and microbes from collecting therein. The bottle is in the form of a hollow container having top, side and bottom walls which define a chamber for receiving formula for feeding calves. The top wall includes a neck portion having a central opening and an annular lip surrounding the opening for receiving a removable nipple. The inner wall of the neck portion has a cylindrical configuration of constant diameter. |
| US07708149B2 |
System for feeding a liquid fluid through a filter
A large vault or tank receives the runoff water to be cleaned. There are one or more small tanks in the large tank (vault). Each small tank is inverted and receives water at its open lower end, from the large tank. The water entering the small tank rises, as the water level in the large tank rises, and flows upward through a filter. When the water level rises above the top of the filter it enters an outlet tube or pipe and then flows downwardly along the center-line of the filter. A float, a valve and a check valve may cause the system to function as a siphon and feed the filtered clean water to an outlet. Alternatively the siphoning effect will occur if the inside diameter of said outlet tube is small enough to form a partial vacuum. |
| US07708148B2 |
Freeze resistant water filter
A freeze resistant filter cartridge assembly, includes a filter cartridge including a filter housing and a filter media and having at least one component selected from a list of components including: the filter housing being formed of an increased elasticity polyolefin polymer having elongation and glass transition properties that allow for stretching of the housing during a freezing event rather than rupturing; a sleeve having a volume of air entrapped therein within and being disposed in the interior of the filter cartridge; and the filter housing formed of a conventional polyolefin having a wall thickness great enough to resist freeze induced expansion stresses. A method of forming a freeze resistant filter cartridge assembly is further included. |
| US07708147B2 |
Fluid filter assembly with notched case
A fluid filter assembly comprises a filter and a case. The case defines a filter chamber receiving the filter. The case comprises a notch extending into the filter chamber and engaging the filter. |
| US07708142B2 |
Child resistant packaging with slidable tray section
A package is proposed, comprising a sleeve (2) of essentially parallelepipedal shape, and an insert ((3) which can be inserted into and withdrawn from the sleeve (2) in a sliding direction (S) through an opening (4) in the sleeve (2), the sleeve (2) comprising four longitudinal walls (2a, 2c) which are essentially parallel to the sliding direction (S). The package is characterized in that the sleeve is provided with a first stop tab (7) which extends from a first (2c) to a second (2a) of the longitudinal walls, the tab being at least partly separated from the first longitudinal wall (2c) and the second longitudinal wall (2a) in that the insert has a first locking edge (9a), the insert being prevented, upon contact of the first locking edge with the first stop tab (7a), from moving out of the sleeve, and in that the first locking edge (9a) can, by elastic deformation of a part of the insert (3) by means of maneuvering by a user, be moved so that its movement past the first stop tab (7a) is made possible. |
| US07708140B2 |
Padlock display package
An exemplary display package for an item having a loop portion includes a card having a front side and a back side, a post extending from the front side of the card, and a hasp extending from the front side of the card to define a slot. The item may be attached to the display package by positioning the loop portion of the item around the post and through the slot. |
| US07708136B2 |
Carrier puck
A carrier puck is provided which can be adjusted quickly with minimal efforts, such as by using a slider, screw or other mechanical means, to allow a wide range of article shapes and sizes to be accommodated on the processing line. The carrier puck comprises a base piece, at least two substantially identical holding pieces piled in two or more stacks, a means for securing each of the stacks of holding pieces, and a means for adjusting the distance between the stacks. The two or more stacks of holding pieces enclose a void therebetween for accommodating a container. The distance between the stacks can be adjusted quickly with minimal efforts to accommodate containers of different sizes, shapes and contours. |
| US07708131B2 |
Swing auger hopper drive
A remote control drive kit for attachment to the hopper of a swing auger for driving movement of the hopper relative to the main auger includes a first drive assembly mounted on the base wall of the hopper adjacent a front edge and a second drive assembly mounted on the base wall adjacent a rear edge. Each drive assembly is mounted approximately midway across the base wall and includes a pair of drive wheels and a separate motor and is carried on a bracket arrangement which allows adjustment in a direction toward and away form the edge to accommodate different types of hopper. |
| US07708125B2 |
Piston-cylinder assembly
A piston-cylinder assembly has a working piston attached to a piston rod and dividing a working cylinder into two working spaces. An external reservoir partially filled with damping medium is provided outside the piston-cylinder assembly and is connected to one of the working spaces by a connecting pipe. The piston-cylinder assembly is provided with a stepped bore for receiving the connecting pipe, in the larger-diameter part of which a seal is held in place by the connecting pipe. |
| US07708119B2 |
Brake device for pushcart
A brake device for a pushcart includes a main movable member disposed movably within a main seat, an auxiliary movable member disposed movably within an auxiliary seat, and a connecting member interconnecting the main and auxiliary movable members. The main movable member is biased to an upper limit position, and is movable to a lower limit position so as to engage a main brake pin with a groove in a main pin-engaging member that is connected fixedly to one wheel. Hence, the connecting member moves the auxiliary movable member from a first position to a second position so as to engage an auxiliary brake pin with a groove in an auxiliary pin-engaging member that is connected fixedly to another wheel. As a result, the wheels are locked. |
| US07708117B2 |
Stairlift
The platform of a stairlift is moved along a rail in a stairwell. During the movement, the platform is automatically rotated relative to the rail about a vertical shaft, at angles depending on a position of the platform along the rail. The stairway contains, for instance, a virtually straight part and a bend, wherein the platform is rotated, at positions in the bend, at an orientation or orientations which make a smaller angle with a part of the rail going downstairs than an orientation of the platform in the straight part. In a stairwell with a wider part and a narrower part, wherein the stairwell is insufficiently wide to let the platform rotate through, at a position preceding the entering of the narrower part, the platform is rotated at an angle from which the platform can be rotated to a position for getting on and off in the narrower part without obstruction from walls of the stairwell. |
| US07708116B2 |
Fall arrester as part of a fall protection system for ladders and similar climbing routes
A catch device, as part of a fall protection for ladders and similar climbing devices, for application in a guide rail with a C-profile, includes a body and at least two pairs of rollers, arranged in the body so as to run inside the guide rail. At least one pair of rollers is rigidly fixed to the body and one roller pair is arranged to pivot about an axis at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the guide rail and which runs up to the rotational axis of the roller pair. The pivoting roller pair can be fixed in a secure position such that the pivoting roller pair is fixed on a shaft, mounted so as to rotate in the body, the upper end of the shaft projecting from the body and having an indent. A hanging latch is connected to the body which may engage in the indent. The hanging latch can be locked in the engaged position. |
| US07708115B2 |
Sound-attenuating muffler having reduced back pressure
A muffler for an internal combustion engine having a housing with an inlet end with an inlet opening formed for a flow of exhaust gases into the housing and an outlet end with an outlet opening formed for a discharge of exhaust gases from the housing; at least a first chamber, a intermediate and a last chamber sequentially arranged within the housing, the intermediate chamber containing a deflection element; a pipe passing longitudinally through the first chamber so as to open at its downstream end into the intermediate chamber, thereby directing the exhaust gases toward the deflection element; and a perforated pipe extending through the last chamber, the perforated pipe having an upstream opening into the intermediate chamber and configured to channel the exhaust gas to the outlet opening. A sound-attenuating material is deployed in at least one of the first chamber, the intermediate chamber and the last chamber. |
| US07708113B1 |
Variable frequency sound attenuator for rotating devices
A rotatable sound attenuation device is provided comprising a central portion rotatable about a first axis, a radial portion extending outwardly from the central portion and a chamber having a closed first end and a second end opening radially outwardly of the radial portion and defining a second axis therein having a radial component thereto. A piston is disposed within the chamber and is moveable to a location along the second axis in response to a centrifugal force imparted on the piston by rotation of the central portion and the radial portion about the first axis. A biasing member operates to limit movement of the piston along the second axis. A quarter wave chamber is defined by the second, open end of the chamber and the piston and has a sound attenuating length defined by the location of the piston along the second axis of the chamber. |
| US07708107B2 |
Suspension structure for a vehicle
A suspension system structure is provided which permits a suspension arm to be disposed without being affected by a driven sprocket or a brake disc. A final drive case is supported on rear portions of left and right vehicle body subframes. A driven sprocket and a brake disc are coaxially disposed on the left and right of the final drive case. The driven sprocket and the brake disc are disposed on the inside of the vehicle body frame. An upper arm and a lower arm are disposed on the outside of the vehicle body frame. Support portions of the upper arm and the lower arm relative to the vehicle body frame are overlapped partly with the driven sprocket and the brake disc in a side view to provide a guard therefor. |
| US07708106B1 |
Rear swing arm suspension for an ATV
A vehicle having a rear suspension according to the present teachings may include one or more of the following features: (a) a chassis carrying a seat, (b) at least one front wheel and at least one rear wheel coupled to the chassis, (c) a steering member for steering the at least one front wheel, (d) an engine carried by the chassis for powering the vehicle, (e) a swing arm having a first end and a second end, the first end coupled to a rear axle coupled to the rear wheel, (f) the second swing arm end coupled to the chassis at a point forward of a vertical centerline bisecting the vehicle, and (g) a suspension system operably coupled to the axle and the chassis. |
| US07708104B2 |
Hydraulic pump unit, hydraulic pump set, and working vehicle
There is provided a working vehicle having first and second hydraulic pump units operatively driven by a driving source and arranged away to each other in a width direction of the vehicle. In the working vehicle, each of the first and second hydraulic pump units includes a pump body; a port block formed with an oil passage for supplying/discharging an operating fluid to/from said pump body; a pump case connected to the port block so as to define a pump body accommodating space for surrounding the pump body; and a pump shaft for rotatably driving the pump body, the pump shaft having an input end operatively connected to said driving source. A drain port for opening the pump body accommodating space outward and a charge suction port for drawing in an oil from an oil tank in order to supply a charge oil to a hydraulic circuit fluidly connecting with the corresponding hydraulic motor unit are provided respectively in first and second assemblies formed by the corresponding pump case and port block. The drain port is provided on a wall surface other than an opposing wall surface facing each other of the wall surfaces of said first and second assemblies when arranging the first and second assemblies so that the input ends of each pump shaft are directed in the same direction. |
| US07708103B2 |
Power unit support structure
A power unit support structure to minimize vibration of a vehicle body frame. A mount bracket disposed on a vehicle body frame supports a power unit that includes a longitudinal engine. Specifically, the mount bracket is disposed substantially at a center in a vehicle width direction between a pair of right and left center side frames that form part of the vehicle body frame and extend in a vehicle fore-aft direction. The center side frames are connected together with cross members. The mount bracket is mounted to the cross members via a connection member as a vibration damping material. The power unit is then mounted to the mount bracket via a subframe. |
| US07708102B2 |
Collision detecting system
A collision detecting system for a vehicle has a pressure detecting member for detecting a pressure in a substantially closed space which is arranged at a periphery portion of the vehicle, and a vibration detecting member for detecting a vibration of the vehicle. The pressure in the space is calculated for a detection of a vehicle collision, based on pressure signals detected by the pressure detecting member and vibration signals detected by the vibration detecting member. Therefore, the influence of the vehicle vibration on the detection of the pressure in the space can be restricted, thus improving the detection of the vehicle collision. |
| US07708100B2 |
Construction machinery
After a remote control valve has been brought into a non-working state, a stop signal is to be sent from an engine controller in a controller to a governor controller in an engine to stop the engine automatically, under the condition that an illuminating lamp is turned off, after a preset allowance time has passed and when a gate lever provided at a gateway for an operator is opened (the operator gets off the machine). Further, before the engine is stopped, the operator is to be notified of the coming engine stop, and when the engine is stopped, a power supply is to be cut off automatically. |
| US07708099B2 |
Motorcycle coolant reservoir and heat shield
A motorcycle that secures engine cooling efficiency while reducing exposure of a radiator. A reserve tank disposed below the seat and inward of an exhaust pipe in the vehicle width direction exchanges cooling water with the radiator. A first heat blocking cover is disposed between the exhaust pipe and the reserve tank. The first heat blocking cover has an access hole formed therein. A second heat blocking cover covers the access hole of the first heat blocking cover. |
| US07708097B1 |
Combination mounting feature and cover for electrical components
An electrical center for a vehicle is disclosed. The electrical center may be positioned generally proximate to a continuously variable transmission. The electrical center may be covered with a cover. The cover may include a holder to hold a vehicle replacement component and/or a tool for use with a vehicle replacement component. |
| US07708095B2 |
Control apparatus and method for hybrid vehicle
A control apparatus and method for a hybrid vehicle having a first engagement element between an engine and a motor-generator and a second engagement element between the motor-generator and a drive wheel. During EV drive mode, the first engagement element disengages and the second engagement element engages to drive the vehicle using the motor-generator. During HEV drive mode, the first and second engagement elements engage to drive the vehicle using both power sources. During a third drive mode, the first engagement element engages and the second engagement element slip-engages to drive the vehicle by both power sources. When a detected temperature of the second engagement element is too high during low-speed driving, the EV drive mode is selected to enhance durability of the second engagement element. |
| US07708090B2 |
Excluder ring for earth-boring bit
An elastomeric seal ring is located between each bearing pin and each cone of an earth-boring bit. An excluder ring or band is imbedded within the inner diameter of the seal ring. A portion of the inner diameter of the seal ring as well as the excluder ring are in dynamic sealing contact with the bearing pin. The excluder ring may be harder and more wear resistant than the seal ring. The excluder ring may have lubricating properties. An outer excluder ring may be located on the outer diameter of the seal ring for engaging the cone to resist rotation. |
| US07708087B2 |
Countersink roof bit drill and method for using the same
A roof bit drill has a central shaft with a front end and a back end. The drill also has a base secured about the central shaft proximate to the front end, wherein the base has clearance channels extending axially therethrough. At least one cutting element is arranged on the base in a convex cutting pattern to permit loosened material to be evacuated. The roof bit drill may further include a drill depth locator to identify when the drill has been advanced within a mine roof to a predetermined depth. A method for using the roof drill bit is also disclosed herein. |
| US07708079B2 |
Multi-lock adapters for independent screwed wellheads and methods of using same
A multi-lock adapter used to inject high-pressure well stimulation fluids through an independent screwed wellhead includes an adapter pin having a central passageway with an internal diameter at least as large as a passageway through the wellhead. A lockdown flange secures the adapter pin to a casing mandrel of the wellhead. The lockdown flange ensures that stress on connection points to the screwed independent wellhead due to elevated fluid pressures used for well stimulation procedures does not exceed engineered specifications. |
| US07708075B2 |
System and method for injecting a chemical downhole of a tubing retrievable capillary bypass safety valve
A chemical injection system includes a TRSV; a communication nipple in operable communication with the TRSV and positioned relative to the TRSV to be downhole of a flapper closure mechanism thereof when installed in a wellbore; a chemical injection line in fluid communication with the communication nipple; and a capillary sleeve receivable at the communication nipple and configured to sealingly convey fluid from the communication nipple to a remote location without affecting operation of the TRSV and method. |
| US07708073B2 |
Heat generator for screen deployment
A screen assembly has a material that conforms to the borehole shape after insertion. The assembly comprises a compliant layer that takes the borehole shape on expansion. The outer layer is formed having holes to permit production flow. The selected conforming material swells with heat, and in one non-limiting embodiment comprises a shape memory foam that is thermoset or thermoplastic. Heat is provided by supplying a fuel (including an oxidant) to a catalyst in close proximity to the compliant layer so that the product from the catalytic reaction is heated steam which contacts and deploys the conforming material. The base pipe can have a screen over it to act as an underlayment for support of the conforming layer or alternatively for screening. |
| US07708067B2 |
Apparatus and method for estimating orientation of a liner during drilling of a wellbore
An apparatus for use in a wellbore is disclosed that in one aspect includes a drilling assembly configured for use in drilling the wellbore, a liner disposed outside a portion of the drilling assembly that includes a feature at a selected location of the liner, and a liner orientation sensor for providing signals representative of the displacement or movement of the feature relative to the drilling assembly. |
| US07708066B2 |
Full bore valve for downhole use
Downhole tools and methods for producing hydrocarbons from a wellbore. A downhole tool can include a body having a bore formed therethrough and at least one end adapted to threadably engage one or more tubulars. A sliding sleeve, adapted to move between a first position and a second position within the body, can be at least partially disposed within the body. A valve assembly including a valve member having an arcuate cross section wherein the valve member is adapted to pivot between an open and closed position within the body can be disposed within the body. A valve seat, having an arcuate cross-section adapted to provide a fluid tight seal with the valve member assembly can be disposed within the body. |
| US07708065B2 |
Identification, characterization, and application of Thauera sp. AL9:8 useful in microbially enhanced oil recovery
The present disclosure relates to isolation, identification and application of Thauera strain AL9:8 which grows on crude oil as the sole carbon source under denitrifying anaerobic conditions Thauera strain AL9:8 can be used alone or in concert with other microorganisms to improve oil recovery, bioremediation of oil or hydrocarbons in contaminated soil, ground water or bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers or oceans and/or applying to method for promoting oil pipeline maintenance, removing a build up hydrocarbon on the intersurfaces of the pipeline. |
| US07708062B2 |
Retrievable downhole packer assembly
A retrievable packer assembly for use in operations into wellbores is provided. The packer assembly comprises a continuous mandrel with a valve body including seal cups to seal against an inner surface of a casing, and a gap defined between the valve body and the mandrel to permit or prevent circulation of fluid between the interior of the mandrel and a section of the casing above the seal cups in response to the movement of the valve body. |
| US07708059B2 |
Subsea well having a submersible pump assembly with a gas separator located at the pump discharge
A subsea rotary gas separator system has a separator located adjacent the discharge of the pump for separating gas from the high pressure liquid stream exiting the pump. Some of the high pressure liquid is recycled back to the inlet of the pump to maintain a liquid-rich inlet stream for the pump. |
| US07708056B2 |
Fan controlling system and method
A fan controlling system and method is applicable to an electronic device with a fan for adjusting a temperature of the electronic device. The fan controlling system includes a plurality of temperature sensors installed in different regions inside of the electronic device for sensing temperatures around the regions, a mapping table for mapping a plurality of temperature ranges onto a plurality of rotation speeds, and a processing module for comparing the temperatures sensed by the temperature sensors and controlling the fan to rotate according to one of the rotation speeds onto which the mapping table maps one of the temperature ranges within which a highest one of the sensed temperatures is. Therefore, the fan can operate stably and does not generate a loud noise even when its rotation speed is changing, and has a longer lifespan. |
| US07708047B2 |
Cellular coverings for roll-up shades
A cellular covering for a roll-up type shade assembly is described. According to one embodiment, the covering typically comprises a plurality of cells vertically disposed on a backing sheet. Each cell is configured to self-inflate when unrolled from a roller of the shade assembly. |
| US07708044B2 |
Molding apparatus for wet friction material
A molding apparatus of a wet friction material has a pair of guide posts vertically extending on a molding apparatus main body. The pair of the guide posts passes through fifteen stages (sixteen pieces) of molding dies. A pair of pantograph-type open-close mechanisms is attached to opposite side surfaces of the molding dies. Thus, the molding dies are piled up on each other so as to come near to each other (mold clamping) and move apart from each other (mold opening). With the pantograph-type open-close link mechanism, all the molding dies are opened and closed at the same time. If the molding dies are slid at a speed of 200 mm/sec, it takes only 3.75 seconds (50 mm*15/200 mm=3.75 sec). It takes a double of that time or 7.5 seconds, that is a half of the time of a related art. |
| US07708041B1 |
Component mill for wooden construction components
A component mill for producing wooden construction components has a pair of input rollers spaced from a pair of output rollers, wherein each comprises a pair of vertically-stacked pinch rollers. The mill has an overhead X- and Y-axis track system for scrolling a high speed router bit dangling underneath a high speed motor in X- and Y-directions as the input and/or output rollers pass a board for trimming by the spinning, and perhaps scrolling and not stationed still, router bit. A control system controls the input and output rollers, and X- and Y-axis track system in concert to form a selected design of a wooden construction component output from an inputted board. |
| US07708040B2 |
High speed planer head
A high speed planer head. A threaded member having a frustoconical portion wedges against a knife, to clamp a knife to a hub for rotating the knife about an axis of revolution. The knife has a front and back side, two cutting edges and mirror image symmetry about a mirror plane passing through the knife. To cut both a planar face and two opposed, radiused corners, the cutting edges include respective linear face-cutting portions disposed between two concave, arcuate corner-cutting portions. |
| US07708039B2 |
Chipping apparatus having an adjustable cutting angle
An apparatus for chipping material, particularly wood, includes a plurality of knife carriers are arranged around a mutual axis that form the boundaries of a cutting chamber while forming a comminution path. On the knife carriers, the slicing knives, under inclusion of a cutting angle δ, are detachably attached to the comminution path. The blades of the slicing knives uniformly project into the cutting chamber. To adjust the cutting angle δ so as to adapt it to the prevailing conditions, a control element for determining the cutting angle δ is detachably arranged between the slicing knives and the knife carriers. |
| US07708036B2 |
Head for a fuel filler pipe of a vehicle
An obturating assembly includes a body having an aperture for passage to the pipe of a fuel supply spout of predetermined outer diameter and an obturator that is moveable with respect to the body. In accordance with the invention, the head further includes an access assembly having a shell through which the spout must pass before reaching the obturator, the shell having a plurality of flexible tabs generally forming an assembly of funnel shape of which the minor diameter is less than the outer diameter of the spout and of which the major diameter is greater than the outer diameter of the spout. |
| US07708035B2 |
Bottom fillable bottles and systems for charging the same
A bottle assembly is provided having a body portion defining a cavity therein, a top lid assembly connectable to the body portion, which includes a selectively deployable and retractable spout, a spout bottom lid; and a resilient tube having a lumen therethrough, wherein the lumen is occluded when the spout is retracted and the resilient tube is kinked, and wherein the lumen is opened when the spout is deployed and the resilient tube is not kinked; a trigger assembly for selectively moving the spout between a deployed and a retracted condition; and a bottom lid assembly selectively connectable to a bottom end of the body portion, the bottom lid assembly including a valve assembly to open and close a fluid path into the cavity of the body portion. |
| US07708034B2 |
Self locking sheet metal duct with a sealant
A circular sheet metal duct having a sealant applied across the longitudinal seam. The sealant will improve the efficiency and will reduce or eliminate air leakage from the longitudinal seam. The sealant is applied during the manufacturing processes so that an installer does not have to seal the duct work. The method of manufacturing the sealant is provided. |
| US07708032B1 |
Apparatus and method for installation of pipe liner
An apparatus and method for lining sewer pipes that utilize an adjustable form configured to conform to the shape and dimensions of the interior of a man-entry sized pipe line. The adjustable form can be used to position a sheet of liner material immediately adjacent the inner sewer walls. An air cushion system is utilized to reduce friction and drag between the sheet of liner material and form so that the liner sheet can be easily adjusted prior to bonding to the inner walls of the pipe line. |
| US07708031B2 |
Check valve
A check valve and method for manufacture of the check valve. The check valve comprises a substrate and a channel in the substrate. The channel has an anchor region, a channel corridor and a valve seat region. There is an elastomeric valve mechanism in the channel. The valve mechanism has an anchor portion anchored in the anchor region, an elastomeric web portion in the channel corridor and a valve plug in the valve seat region. The elastomeric web portion interconnects the anchor portion and the valve plug. The elastomeric web portion is in a stretched state such that the valve plug is forced by the elastomeric web portion against the valve seat region to seal the valve seat region. The force of the elastomeric web portion can be overcome by operative fluid pressure within the channel to separate the valve plug from the valve seat region and thereby open the channel at the valve seat region to allow the fluid to exit the channel via the valve seat region. |
| US07708029B2 |
Coupling member of pipe coupling
A coupling member is provided that comprises a valve movable between a closed position and an opening position. The valve is provided with a seal ring fixed in an annular groove formed in the valve and urged against a valve seat in the closed position. The groove has a forward annular groove portion and a rear annular groove portion shallower than the forward annular groove portion. The seal ring has forward and rear annular seal portions fitted in the forward and rear annular groove portions, respectively. The rear ring portion has substantially the same diameter as the forward seal portion. |
| US07708026B2 |
Fluid jet with noise reducing sleeve
Pressure actuated oil jets have long been used to cool the underside of the pistons in such reciprocating engines. The present disclosure is a fluid jet for providing fluid under pressure to a desired location. The fluid jet comprises a valve body, at least one fluid passage extending longitudinally within at least a portion of the valve body, a fluid pressure actuated valve element located within the valve body and moveable longitudinally therein between a valve open position and a valve closed position, and a sleeve extending inwardly within said valve body, wherein said valve element is retained within said sleeve when oil pressure drops below a predetermined threshold. |
| US07708021B2 |
Composition and method for simultaneously lightening and coloring hair
A composition and method for simultaneously lightening and coloring hair. The composition generally consists of three components, specifically, a bleaching composition, an oxidizing composition and a dyeing composition. The composition preferably lightens hair color by a plurality of levels and simultaneously deposits tones that are attractive and long lasting. In a preferred embodiment, the bleaching composition is a powder composition based on silicate and/or carbonate salts and/or persulfate salts of ammonium, potassium or sodium. The persulfate bleaching composition can be ammonia-free, if desired. The oxidizing composition is preferably an anhydrous hydrogen peroxide solution, or another source of oxygen. The bleaching composition can be mixed with the oxidizing composition to form an anhydrous creme that is applied to the hair. |
| US07708020B2 |
Smoking articles and smokable filler materials therefor
This invention relates to a smoking article having a controllable static burn rate by virtue of the particle size of a component of the smoking material thereof. The smoking material comprises a non-combustible inorganic filler, a binder, aerosol generating means, the non-combustible filler comprising a proportion of material having a mean particle size in the range of 500 μm to 20 μm. |
| US07708019B2 |
Spinal restraint device
A spinal restraint device includes a body member with a head support portion, a neck support portion, and a back support portion. Left and right body wrap portions extend from the back support portion, and left and right head wrap portions extend from the neck support portion, and these portions respectively wrap around an individual's torso and head and are secured to each other to secure the torso and head against movement. A chest flap section is provided in the left and right body wrap portions for folding away from the individual's chest, for comfort or for better access to the chest area. Declaration buckles and straps are also provided for securing the spinal restraint device (and individual) to a support board or stretcher. Other benefits are realized from the positioning of securing straps and leg straps and the dimensions of the body wrap portions. |
| US07708016B2 |
Gas conserving regulator
A gas regulator includes a delivery valve assembly having a delivery outlet and a delivery valve member engageable with the delivery outlet for controlling flow of a gas from a gas source. A timing gas chamber receives gas from the gas source. Gas pressure within the timing gas chamber controls the operation of the delivery valve member. An adjustment system controls the amount of time required for the gas to fill the timing gas chamber so as to control the length of time that the delivery valve assembly is opened to conserve gas. In other embodiments, a capacity adjustment system can adjust the capacity of a gas reservoir system. |
| US07708014B2 |
Inhalation device for transpulmonary administration
An inhalation device for transpulmonary administration comprises: a chamber (16) for containing a pharmaceutical composition which is pulverized into fine particles by an air-generated impact for dispersal in air; an air inlet flow path (2) for introducing to the chamber (16) outside air to apply the air-generated impact to the pharmaceutical composition and for injecting the outside air toward the pharmaceutical composition; an inhalation flow path (1) for inhaling the pulverized pharmaceutical composition; a housing (9) for accommodating the chamber (16), the air inlet flow path (2), and the inhalation flow path (1); a mouthpiece (10) provided at one end of the housing (9), the mouthpiece (9) being provided with a mouth-side flow path (11) which communicates with the inhalation flow path (1), and an auxiliary flow path (12). |
| US07708011B2 |
Dry powder inhaler
A dry powder inhaler (1) is to be made available, with which a particle size and particle size distribution preferred for inhalation are to be achieved and by means of which as high a line particle fraction as possible is to be realized. This is achieved by means of a dry powder inhaler (1 ) that is characterized in that provided in the inhaler (1) is a nozzle (10) through which the aerosol (9) flows before leaving the inhaler (1). |
| US07708010B2 |
Solar heating systems
Solar heating systems are provided which utilize an integrated fixture for transferring heat from a solar collector to a lower-temperature loop, e.g. a domestic hot water system or radiant heating system. The fixture provides a heat exchanger for transferring heat from the solar collector to the lower temperature loop. The fixture may also include a casting, in which are formed solar collector supply and return ports, lower temperature supply and return ports, a solar collector pump volute, and a lower temperature pump volute. The systems also include two pumps, and a temperature optimization control that varies the speed of at least one of the pumps depending on the temperature of the liquid in the solar collector. |
| US07708008B2 |
Double oven combination with an integrated cooling air and exhaust air flow arrangement
A double oven combination is configured to be “built-in” an area of a household—in other words, permanently secured relative to the household area and integrated with other elements of the household area to provide a consistent decorative appearance. The double oven combination comprises an upper oven and a lower oven each of which may be a convection or non-convection oven that cooks and heats food and other substances via radiant and convective heating, and a control panel. The double oven combination has an integrated cooling air and exhaust air flow arrangement for efficiently guiding exhaust air away from the upper oven and the lower oven while at the same time effectively flowing cooling air relative to the double oven combination to promote desired cooling of the double oven combination. |
| US07708004B2 |
Bow with rotatable grip assembly
An archery bow with a rotatable hand grip is disclosed. The archery bow includes a riser, an upper limb, a lower limb, compound cams, and a bowstring supported on the cams. The riser includes a hand grip section manufactured integrally therewith. The hand grip section includes an elongated, rigid shaft having a hand grip rotatably mounted thereto. |
| US07708002B2 |
Pressurized air shooting device
An air pressure gun to shoot a projectile, such as a golf ball, long distances using pressurized air. A flapper makes an airtight seal with an air duct to prevent air from leaking out of an air chamber. When a triggering mechanism releases the flapper, pressurized air from the air chamber can then swing the flapper open, thereby shooting the golf ball out of a barrel. |
| US07708001B2 |
Bow
A bow having an increased powerstroke allowing for reduced draw weight and increased speed. The bow is provided with a riser and a pair of limbs. A pulley is coupled to one limb and a cam is coupled to the other at a first journal point and second journal point respectively. The powerstroke is increased by locating the bowstring on the pulley and cam between the riser and the journal points. |
| US07708000B2 |
Archery bow having improved design to absorb shock reduce vibration
The present invention generally relates to an improved archery bow having a greatly enhanced ability to absorb shock, vibration and sound. In order to achieve improved sound and vibration dampening, the bow riser, and optionally the bow limbs are coated with an energy absorbing and/or dampening coating. The coating is permanently attached to the riser and/or the limbs of the bow and greatly reduces undesired vibrations and/or noise generated by and during the archery bows use, without interfering with the performance of the bow. The invention also relates to treestands and archery accessories having a low noise profile. |
| US07707995B2 |
Multi-cylinder engine fuel control method, engine fuel injection amount control method and engine operation state discrimination method using the same, propulsion apparatus for multiple engines, and fuel injection control method during crash astern in marine engine with reduction and reversal device
Rotation recognition means for recognizing a revolution of a crankshaft based on the cylinders before the combustion cycle of a cylinder in question is provided. When the supply of fuel by injection from an injector to a certain cylinder of the six cylinders has become impossible, then control is performed to change the number of cylinders targeted by the rotation recognition means so as to recognize the revolution of the crankshaft for all six cylinders whose combustion cycles are consecutive prior to the combustion cycle of the cylinder in question, and to stop the supply of fuel from the injectors for supplying fuel to cylinders whose combustion cycles are equally spaced from the cylinder to which the supply of fuel is not possible, so that the spacing between the combustion cycles in the cylinders whose combustion cycles come before and after and sandwich the cylinder to which the supply of fuel is not possible becomes uniform. |
| US07707987B2 |
Hydrogen G-cycle rotary internal combustion engine
A hydrogen G-cycle rotary vane internal combustion engine has a sodium vapor chamber transferring excess combustion heat into combustion chambers. An active water cooling system captures heat from the engine housing stator, rotor, and sliding vanes and transfers it back into the combustion cycle by premixing it with hydrogen to reduce peak combustion temperature and with an early an late stage combustion chamber injection to help transfer heat from the sodium vapor chamber, to control chamber temperature, and to increase chamber vapor pressure. A combustion chamber sealing system includes axial seals between the rotor and the stator, vane face seals, and toggling split vane seals between the outer perimeters of the sliding vanes and the stator. Sliding vanes reciprocate laterally in and out of the rotor assisted by a vane belting system. A thermal barrier coating minimizes heat transfer and thermal deformation. Solid lubricants provide high temperature lubrication and durability. |
| US07707986B1 |
Noise attenuation for internal combustion engine
A component, such as an intake manifold or a throttle body, has an air passage. A structure may extend into the air passage so that the structure intersects a part of a total air-flow passing through the air passage. The structure may have a first through-hole and a second through-hole. Each of the through-holes define a cross-sectional area that may tapers in a direction of air-flow that is passing through the air passage so that a cross-sectional area of an entrance of the respective through-hole is greater than a cross-sectional area of an exit of the respective through-hole. The structure helps attenuate acoustic noise that may occur in the component due to the air-flow. |
| US07707983B2 |
Rolling bearing, cam shaft assembly and cam shaft supporting apparatus
A cam shaft assembly is provided which includes a rolling bearing providing for effective oil feeding to a raceway. The assembly includes: a shaft 1; the rolling bearings 3 rotatably supporting the shaft 1; and cams 2 fitted on the shaft 1. The rolling bearing 3 includes a circumferential groove formed on an outer periphery of an outer ring 5 and an axial groove extending from place in the circumferential groove and opening on a lateral side of the outer ring 5. |
| US07707969B2 |
Method and apparatus for inducing artificial hibernation of marine animal
A method and an apparatus for inducing artificial hibernation of marine animal, wherein the temperature of sea water with marine animals is gradually lowered in stepwise process, while the sea water temperature is kept as is for a predetermined period of time at each step of lowering temperature, whereby the predetermined period of time maintained for each step of the lowered temperature is gradually increased to a point where changes of oxygen consumption by the marine animals greatly decreased or the changes of oxygen consumption is reached almost zero, and starting from this point, the time of constantly maintaining the sea water temperature at each step is gradually reduced to thereby ensuring a long survival rate (viability) of marine animals. |
| US07707964B2 |
Pharmaceutical dispensing apparatus and method
An apparatus and method for manufacturing a pharmaceutical dose which dispenses a variable selectable quantity of at least one pharmaceutical onto a pharmaceutical receiving medium. The quantity of the dispensed pharmaceutical(s) are controllably dispensed to customize each pharmaceutical dose to suit the needs of a particular user. The apparatus is coupled by an external telecommunication network to a remote signal source for receiving pharmaceutical quantity and type data for custom manufacturing a pharmaceutical dose. In one aspect, a replaceable cartridge contains a reservoir carrying at least one pharmaceutical component and a fluid drop generator which is mountable in the fluid dispenser. The reservoir may contain a number of separate compartments, each carrying different pharmaceutical component. |
| US07707963B2 |
System for forming multi-layer films using corona treatments
A system for forming a multi-layer film, where the system includes a backing support having a surface and a close-coupled unit configured to be disposed adjacent the surface of the backing support. The close-coupled unit includes a corona electrode and a coating die disposed at a downstream location along the surface from the corona electrode. |
| US07707958B2 |
Propulsion and steering mechanism for an underwater vehicle
A propulsion system is provided for an underwater vehicle such as a Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV). Two propellers are independently driven by motors, while the orientation of the propellers is simultaneously controlled by a third motor. A means is provided for reprogramming the control electronics that can be disabled when the vehicle is underwater. The control electronics also provides that all signals including video are transmitted to a base station without requiring coaxial cable. |
| US07707952B2 |
Liquid distribution apparatus for distributing liquid into a seed furrow
An extension for use with a planter, drill, or other farming implement having a seed tube that deposits seed in a furrow. The extension defines protrusions for attaching one or more liquid distribution apparatuses arranged to distribute liquid in a furrow well above the seeds, on the seeds, or both. |
| US07707951B1 |
System for preventing crime in high traffic areas and sites using low voltage power
A substantially automatic, robotic-like system to aid in preventing crime in high trafficked buildings and other public sites, using only low voltage power, is described. In various modes it can protect public buildings such as schools, stadiums, open air markets, banks, office buildings from entrance of persons carrying weapons or separately trying to pass weapons into a protected area, even in the event of general power loss. Here a well designed, compact solution is provided for weapons detection and the detainment of persons attempting to disrupt, destroy or harm citizens in public buildings such as schools, banks, etc. with a minimum of restriction of access by persons regularly using the facilities. In other variations, it can be used to prevent unauthorized removal of costly or dangerous items from protected buildings or areas. Here a substantially automatic method is similarly provided for detection and detention of persons attempting to illegally remove items either without paying or that are not for sale in a store setting. |
| US07707948B2 |
Foldable table
A collapsible table has a blow-molded tabletop comprising two table top halves. Each tabletop half has a substantially planar top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, an inner edge, and an opposing outer edge which is substantially parallel to the inner edge. A hinge assembly pivotally connects the two tabletop halves along their inner edges, allowing the two tabletop halves to be folded together into a storage position. Four collapsible legs are attached to the bottom surface of the tabletop halves. Each collapsible leg is operable to collapse independently of any of the other legs. A first pair of the legs collapse to positions which are substantially parallel to the outer edges of the tabletop halves, and a second pair of the legs collapse to positions which are substantially diagonal to the outer edges of the tabletop halves. |
| US07707944B2 |
Method and apparatus for applying railway ballast
A method and apparatus for spreading ballast along railways makes use of an inertial measurement system to determine where to apply ballast from a hopper car. A variety of techniques can be used to determine the location and speed of the ballast spreading train, including manual or automated visual techniques, laser technology, radar technology, radio frequency transponders, magnetic sensor, thermal imaging and aerial photogrammetry. The invention also contemplates “on the fly” surveys and terrain profiling using lasers or radar. |
| US07707939B2 |
Method of blasting
Methods of blasting rock are disclosed and claimed in which blast holes are arranged in group of 2 to 7 blast holes. Within each of the groups, adjacent columns of explosive material (12) are actuated within 5 ms of one another Initiation of blasting between the respective groups occurs at least 8 ms after completion of initiation of an adjacent group. Initiation devices (13, 24) may be located at the lower end, upper end or both ends of the respective blast holes, depending on the stress field that is intended to be generated within the rock. As a result, environmental stresses such as ground vibrations are reduced, and the efficiency of rock fragmentation are increased. |
| US07707937B2 |
Digital impression printing system
A print structure includes a pattern layer that selectively actuates one or more of a plurality of actuators to selectively form one or more wells in a print surface to create a defined pattern on the print surface. A material is applied to the one or more wells and subsequently transferred to another surface in order to transfer the pattern. |
| US07707936B2 |
Movable frame parts in a printing press
A printing unit of a printing press includes at least two frame parts whose distance from each other can be varied. Each of these frame parts include two laterally spaced frame plates. The two frame plates in each of the frame parts accommodate at least one cylinder or roller which extends between them. The two lateral frame plates in each frame part are spaced from each other in an axial direction of the supported cylinder or roller. Adjacent ones of the frame parts are connectable to each other by abutting of their respective lateral frame plates. At least three locking and/or centering devices are used to align and to lock together the lateral frame plates of adjacent ones of the frame parts. |
| US07707928B1 |
Vertical rotisserie sub-assembly
A vertical rotisserie sub-assembly, comprising: (a) a housing; (b) a motor; (c) an energy source; (d) a switch; (e) a rotating member; (f) a lower suspending member; and (g) an upper suspending member. |
| US07707925B2 |
Fluid operated pump
A pumping system comprising a pump (21) for conveying a pumped fluid using an actuating fluid. The pump comprising a rigid outer casing (25) defining an interior space (26), a tube structure (27) accommodated in the interior space (26), the tube structure (27) being flexible and substantially inelastic. The interior of the tube structure (27) defines a pumping chamber (28) for receiving pumped fluid. The tube structure (27) is movable between laterally expanded and collapsed conditions for varying the volume of the pumping chamber (28) thereby to provide discharge and intake strokes. The region of the interior space (26) surrounding the tube structure (27) defines an actuating region for receiving and accommodating actuating fluid. The pumping chamber (28) is adapted to receive pumped fluid to cause the tube structure (27) to move towards the expanded condition and the pumping chamber (28) thereby undergoing an intake stroke. The pumping chamber (28) undergoes a discharge stroke upon collapsing of the tube structure (27) in response to the action of actuating fluid in the actuating region. The pumping system also comprises a delivery means (50) for delivering pumped fluid to the pumping chamber (28) in timed sequence for causing the pumping chamber (28) to undergo an intake stroke, and means (70) for supplying actuating fluid to the actuating region in timed sequence to cause the tube structure (27) to laterally collapse whereby the pumping chamber (28) undergoes a discharge stroke. |
| US07707914B2 |
Apparatus and methods for connecting tubulars
A method and apparatus for handling tubulars is provided. In one aspect, the present invention provides a spinner having a first arm having a first roller and a second arm having a second roller, the first arm and the second arm simultaneously adjustable to retain the tubular. The apparatus also includes a third roller capable of urging the tubular against the first and second rollers, wherein at least one of the first, second, and third rollers is actuatable to rotate the tubular. In one embodiment, the spinner further comprises a fluid operated cylinder for adjusting the first arm and the second arm. The arms are adjusted by actuating the cylinder extend or retract the first arm and the second arm. |
| US07707909B2 |
Device for driving accessory machines of a gas turbine engine
A device drives auxiliary machines by using power extracted from a multi-shaft gas turbine engine. The gas turbine engine may include a LP shaft and a HP shaft. The machines may be installed in a gearbox. The device may include a first mechanical transmission between the HP shaft and the gearbox. The device also may include a hydraulic transmission between the LP shaft and the gearbox. Further, the LP shaft connects a low pressure turbine to a low pressure compressor, the HP shaft connects a high pressure turbine to a high pressure compressor, and the low pressure compressor is upstream of the high pressure compressor. |
| US07707905B2 |
Shift mechanism for a manual planetary transmission
A shift mechanism for a manual planetary transmission has a plurality of control members. Each control member has a slot configuration for each shift rail defined therein. The slot configurations are aligned among plates and a pin member is inserted in each of the slot configurations. Manipulation of any one of the plates produces movement of two or more of the pin members. The pin members are operable upon movement to select the engagement of the synchronizers, which are disposed within a power transmission. The synchronizers establish drive ratios between the input shaft for the transmission and the output shaft for the transmission. |
| US07707902B2 |
Apparatus for measuring bearing thrust load
A bearing rotor thrust sensor assembly is provided for being secured to a bearing housing having a plurality of fingers extending between a pair of opposite portions of the housing. The assembly includes a first anchor member including a first cleat and configured to couple to a first housing portion of the pair of opposite housing portions, a second anchor member including a second cleat and configured to couple to a second of the pair of opposite housing portions, and a head sensor bracket positioned at least partially between the first and second anchor members. The head sensor bracket includes a load cell including a bridge circuit for producing a signal representative of forces on said cell. |
| US07707901B2 |
Apparatus and method for measuring containment force in a wrapped load and a control process for establishing and maintaining a predetermined containment force profile
An apparatus and method for measuring containment force on a load is provided. The apparatus may include a first longitudinally extending arm configured to engage a first side of packaging material wrapped around the load. The apparatus may also include a second longitudinally extending arm configured to engage a second side of the packaging material, the second side being opposite the first side. The apparatus may further include an indicator positioned substantially perpendicularly to the first and second arms, a third longitudinally extending arm, and a force gauge configured to measure a force exerted on the third longitudinally extending arm. |
| US07707900B2 |
Torque detecting device having magnetic shield for shielding magnetic noise
A magnetic shield made of magnetic material in the shape of a thin cylinder is externally fitted and fixed on a cylindrical mold member holding magnetic flux collecting rings so that it has extended sections with appropriate length on both sides in the axial direction, and therefore magnetic noise from outside in the radial direction is shielded directly by the outer surface of the magnetic shield, magnetic noise from both sides in the axial direction is shielded by concentrating the magnetic noise on the end faces of the magnetic shield, and the influence on the magnetic flux collecting rings held in the mold member is eliminated. |
| US07707899B2 |
Force sensor chip
A force sensor chip including a semiconductor substrate having a plurality of strain resistance elements and temperature-compensating resistance elements corresponding to the resistance elements is disclosed. The structure in the periphery of parts where the strain resistance elements, which are provided to deforming parts in the action part formed on the semiconductor substrate, are disposed is the same as the structure in the periphery of parts where the temperature-compensating resistance elements in the action part are disposed. |
| US07707898B2 |
Open bore turbine flowmeter
According to the invention, a system for determining at least one property of a fluid flow through a conduit is disclosed. The system may include a bearing, at least one blade member, and a monitoring device. The bearing may be coupled with an interior of the conduit, and may include an inner race, where the inner race may rotate. The blade members may be coupled with the inner race, and may extend from the inner race toward the interior of the conduit. The blade members may rotate when a fluid flows through the interior of the conduit, and the inner race of the bearing may rotate when the blade members rotate. The monitoring device may be configured to determine a rate of rotation of the blade members. At least one property of the fluid flow may be determined based at least in part on the rate of rotation. |
| US07707897B2 |
Method of measuring multiphase flow using a multi-stage flow meter
Multi-phase flow is estimated in a flow meter having a first and a second stage by empirically deriving an algorithm for the water and gas fractions, measuring pressures within the flow meter, and estimating a total mass flow rate based on the measured pressures. A corrected total mass flow rate is calculated using a liquid/gas slip correction technique. The oil fraction can be determined from the corrected total mass flow rate and gas and water fractions. |
| US07707896B2 |
Mechanical amplification of small dimensional changes using bowing
The method and apparatus employ a resilient element having end definition points that are constrained between stops spaced apart at a separation S. The separation S is less than a free length L between the end definition points when not constrained, causing the resilient element to bow and resulting in a displacement m of a central region of the resilient element. The displacement m changes responsive to the net change in the separation S and the free length L. When the geometry is set such that the displacement m is very small, a relatively large change in displacement m results from small net changes. The change in the displacement m can be monitored to provide a micro strain gauge. The stops can be mounted to a substrate which differs from the resilient element in its response to a selected environmental stimulus to provide a sensor for the environmental stimulus. |
| US07707893B2 |
Industrial robot
An industrial robot including a tool flange at an end of an outer arm of the robot. A tool is secured to the tool flange. A sensor is configured to sense forces and/or torques applied to a tool secured to the tool flange. The sensor is built into the structure of the robot in the region of the tool flange. |
| US07707890B2 |
Acoustic sensor for proactive fault monitoring in computer systems
Embodiments of the present invention provide a system for detecting vibrations from a component. The system operates by coupling vibrations from a component to a membrane using a flexible connecting line. The membrane converts the vibrations into acoustic waves that are transmitted through a medium. Finally, a microphone detects the acoustic waves in the medium and converts the acoustic waves into electrical signals. |
| US07707886B2 |
Micro-machined gyrometric sensor for differential measurement of the movement of vibrating masses
The invention relates to a microgyroscope, that is to say an inertial micromechanical sensor dedicated to the measurement of angular velocities, which is produced by micromachining techniques, and has a novel arrangement of the modules for measuring the movement of the vibrating masses. The gyroscope comprises two symmetrical moving assemblies (30, 50; 30′, 50′) that are coupled by a coupling structure (20, 20′, 22). Each of the two assemblies comprises a moving mass (30) surrounded by a moving intermediate frame (50). The frame (50) is connected to the coupling structure (20, 20′, 22) and can vibrate in two degrees of freedom in orthogonal directions Ox and Oy of the plane of the wafer. The mass (30) is connected, on one side, to the frame and, on the other side, to fixed anchoring regions (34, 36) via linking means (40-46; 52-58) that allow the vibration movement in the Oy direction to be transmitted to the mass without permitting any movement of the mass in the Ox direction. An excitation structure (70) is associated with the frame in order to excite its vibration along Ox. A movement detection structure (90) is associated with the mass (30) in order to detect its vibration along Oy. |
| US07707882B2 |
Gauge to indicate the level of beverage held in a beverage container
An insulation beverage container (10) is provided and includes a gauge (40) for indicating the level of beverage held in the container (10). The gauge (40) includes a float (42) positioned within the container (10), a visual indicator (44) extending outside of the container (10), and a link (46) connecting the float (42) to the indicator (44) to move the indicator (44) with the float (42) as the position of the float (42) varies with the level of the beverage in the container (10). |
| US07707881B2 |
Fill level sensor or pressure sensor with an anti-adhesive coating
Described is a component for a fill level measuring device or for a pressure measuring device. The component may include a coating with a microsmooth surface so that the microsmooth surface remains essentially free of any deposits. |
| US07707879B2 |
Gear pair evaluation apparatus, gear pair evaluation program, and gear pair whose tooth surfaces are evaluated using the apparatus and program
There is provided a gear pair evaluation apparatus capable of performing accurate tooth surface analysis based on actual tooth surface measurement information without using information about a reference tooth surface. A processing unit 6 associates three-dimensional coordinate data on a gear tooth surface 102G and three-dimensional coordinate data on a pinion tooth surface 102P with each other at a predetermined meshing rotational position and converts the three-dimensional coordinate data into three-dimensional coordinate data on a cylindrical coordinate system based on the gear 101G. The processing unit 6 generates functions representing points on the pinion tooth surface 102P on the basis of the three-dimensional coordinate data on the pinion tooth surface 102P and calculates the coordinates of points on the pinion tooth surface 102P that correspond to points (grid points) on the gear tooth surface 102G by using the functions. |
| US07707876B2 |
Method for estimating tire force acting on rolling tire
A method for estimating the magnitude of a tire force acting on a rolling tire is disclosed, wherein: using at least seven sensors mounted on a tire sidewall portion, surface strain is simultaneously measured at seven measuring positions; with respect to a combination of the seven measuring positions, a coefficient matrix representing correlation with seven force components is defined, and a equation including the coefficient matrix is defined; using the data on the surface strain measured with the sensors, the equation is computed to find at least one of the seven force components, e.g. air pressure. The estimated air pressure is compared with a reference pressure, to determine whether the tire pressure is dropped or not. Further, a secondary sensor is mounted in a peculiar region where the surface strain is substantially not affected by the vertical load. |
| US07707875B2 |
Soot collection quantity measuring device for diesel particulate filter
The invention provides a soot collection quantity measuring device for a diesel particulate filter. The soot collection quantity measuring device for a diesel particulate filter includes: an anion charging unit that is provided in an exhaust pipe in front of a diesel particulate filter and has a plurality of conductor flat plates in parallel with one another, and a capacitor that is provided at the back of the anion charging unit and has upper and lower electrode plates connected to a direct-current high-voltage power supply. The soot particulates pass through the anion charging unit which is negatively charged, and the charged soot particulates are collected in the upper electrode plate by an electric field between the upper and lower electrode plate. |
| US07707871B2 |
Leak detection system with controlled differential pressure
A system for detecting leaks in a unit. The novel system includes a first mechanism for injecting a first gas into an interior or an exterior of the unit, a second mechanism for sampling gas from an exterior or an interior of the unit to determine if the first gas has leaked out of or into the unit, respectively, and a third mechanism for controlling a differential pressure between the interior and exterior of the unit during sampling. In an illustrative embodiment, the differential pressure is controlled by injecting a second gas into the exterior or interior of the unit to replace the sampled gas, and using pressure regulators to control the pressures of the first and second gases such that the differential pressure remains constant during sampling. |
| US07707869B2 |
FET-based gas sensor
An operating method is disclosed for the selective detection of a target gas in a gas mixture to be measured by a field effect transistor with a gas-sensitive layer disposed on a carrier substrate, wherein the gas mixture to be measured is prepared by an electrochemical element such that the measured gas mixture includes minimal amounts of interfering gases that interfere with the measurement of the target gas, and/or at least one target gas is activated such that it is detected by the gas-sensitive layer. |
| US07707866B2 |
Die separator cylinder
A die separator cylinder for use in separating first and second portions of a metal forming die set comprises a housing including a bore. A piston is adapted to reciprocate in the bore between an extended position and a depressed position. The die separator cylinder further includes gas flow paths leading to and from the bore that define asymmetrical gas flow rates relative to each other so that said when the bore is charged with an inert gas, the inert gas biases the piston to the extended position with a force that varies depending upon a time interval elapsed since the piston moved from the depressed position to the extended position. As such, the cylinder is configured so that during opening and closing of the press for metal-forming operations, the piston moves inward and outward with reduced force, while during periods of inactivity, the piston is biased outward with maximum force sufficient to separate the die halves of the die set to protect the die surfaces and to facilitate stacking of the die set for storage. The die separator cylinder can be configured as a stand-alone self-contained cylinder or can be configured as part of a hosed system or the like. |
| US07707864B1 |
Locking device
A lock includes a housing with a plug located in the housing. The plug is adapted to rotate in the housing about an axis. The lock also includes a moveable element comprising a first region with a first diameter, a second region with a second diameter that is less than the first diameter, and a third region with a third diameter that is less than the second diameter. The moveable element is located at least partly in the housing. The moveable element is adapted to move in an axis of motion substantially radial relative to the axis of the plug and to prevent rotation of the plug when the moveable element is in a first position along the axis of motion and to allow rotation of the plug when the moveable element is in a second position along the axis of motion. |
| US07707863B2 |
Ignition switch device
An ignition switch device is provided with a switching device 2 having a key hole 2a, and capable of being rotationally operated in a predetermined direction with an ignition key K inserted to start and stop the engine of an industrial machine, a case 3 covering the switching device 2 and formed with an insertion hole 3b allowing the key hole 2a to face the outside, a shutter 4 rotatable between a closed position where the insertion hole 3b of the case 3 is closed, and an open position where the insertion hole 3b is opened to allow the key hole 2a to face outside, and a protruding portion 7 formed within the range of rotation of the shutter 4 while protruding from the surface 3a of the case 3 and whose protruding end contacts the rear surface 4b of the shutter 4 while the shutter 4 rotates. |
| US07707860B2 |
Washing machine combined with dryer
There is provided a washing machine combined with a dryer. In the washing machine, a tub is provided, a lint collector is connected to the tub to collect lint, an air-vent pipe is connected to the lint collector, a dryer duct is connected to the tub and it is provided with a blower fan therein, and a water drain line is provided to discharge water from the tub to an outside of the washing machine. |
| US07707856B2 |
Take-off comb element
A take-off element (10) for the gentle treatment of thread and for simple handling comprises two parts (11, 12), wherein at least one of said parts is arranged so as to be adjustable in longitudinal direction relative to the other. Whereas one of the parts 11 has a longitudinal slit for receiving a thread, the other part is provided with a head (34) extending on one side away from the shaft (35), the head being movable from the outside to the thread-receiving opening (26) in order to close the opening and away therefrom in order to clear the opening. The head (34) has an oblique surface (37) which is disposed to close the thread-receiving opening (26). The new take-off element (10) does not have a hook and thus does not exhibit any problem regarding process reliability. Its part (12) has a robust slider head, thus avoiding potential deformations on the head. Considering process reliability, the take-off element (10) permits a perfect insertion and removal of the comb thread (25) of a knit fabric. |
| US07707855B2 |
Method for producing synthetic quartz glass with predetermined hydroxyl group content
A known method for producing synthetic quartz glass with a predetermined hydroxyl group content comprises the following steps: a porous SiO2 soot body is produced by flame hydrolysis or oxidation of a silicon-containing start compound and by layerwise deposition of SiO2 particles on a rotating support; the soot body is subjected to a dehydration treatment in a reaction gas-containing drying atmosphere at a drying temperature for removing hydroxyl groups; and the SiO2 soot body is vitrified into a body consisting of the synthetic quartz glass. Starting from this, and in order to permit a reproducible and reliable manufacture of synthetic, UV-radiation resistant quartz glass with predetermined hydroxyl group content and low chlorine content, it is suggested according to the invention that the dehydration treatment according to method step (b) comprises a drying phase during which ozone is used as the reaction gas, whereby the ozone content of the drying atmosphere is between 0.5% by vol. and 10% by vol. and the drying temperature is chosen in the range between 1200° C. and 1400° C., and whereby no halogens are supplied to the drying atmosphere. |
| US07707853B2 |
Process for partial shaping of flat glass or glass-ceramic articles and apparatus for performing same
In the process for partially shaping, a glass/glass ceramic article (5) is held on a planar support plate (1) by suction. The glass/glass ceramic article is heated to soften it, so that it has a viscosity below 106 dPa·s. After the softening one or more shaping dies (4) is or are moved upward through an opening or respective openings (3) in the support plate to form raised regions in the softened glass/glass ceramic article (5). The suction force is produced by a low pressure in a hollow compartment (2) below the support plate (1) and acts on the glass/glass ceramic article (5) by means of a gap (G) formed between each shaping die (4) and the support plate. Additional openings can be provided in the support plate and/or in one or more of the shaping dies to assist in applying the suction force to the glass/glass ceramic article. After solidification of the softened glass/glass-ceramic article the shaping die or dies (4) is or are withdrawn. Then the partially shaped glass/glass ceramic product is removed by compressed air and/or mechanically with lifting members (8). An apparatus for performing this process is also described. |
| US07707848B2 |
Rapid fluid cooling system and refrigeration device having same
A system for rapidly cooling a liquid in a container within a refrigerator-freezer or freezer is provided. The housing has a space for receiving a container, and a rotator rotates the container about an axis. While the container is rotating, a sprayer sprays chilled cooling medium on the container in the housing. A reservoir stores the cooling medium when the system is not being used and maintains the cooling medium at a given temperature. At least one chilling surface is preferably provided over which the cooling medium flows and where ice may be stored. A recirculator such as a pump recirculates the cooling medium throughout the system. |
| US07707846B2 |
Refrigeration unit having an audio playback device
A refrigerator having a refrigeration unit comprising a cabinet and a door. The cabinet contains a plurality of items to be cooled or frozen. The refrigerator also includes an audio playback device having a memory and a speaker. The audio playback device is adapted to store a recorded audio soundtrack on the memory and play the recorded audio soundtrack through an audio speaker. |
| US07707845B2 |
Climate control system for vehicle berths and cabs
A climate control system (10) for a cab/berth of a vehicle, comprises a climate control circuit (12) in which a first refrigerant circulates between at least an energy accumulator (20) in which an accumulator refrigerant is in heat exchange with the first refrigerant, a radiator (22) in the cab/berth to adjust a temperature of the cab/berth, and a heat-exchange unit (23). A refrigeration circuit (14) is provided for submitting a second refrigerant to a refrigeration cycle. An evaporation stage (43) is in heat-exchange relation with the heat-exchange unit (23) of the climate control circuit (12) such that the second refrigerant absorbs heat from the first refrigerant. A controller system (50) is powered by an electric power source (A) of the vehicle and selectively actuates the climate control circuit and the refrigeration circuit (14) so as to store cold or hot energy in the energy accumulator (20) when the electric power source (A) is charged, and selectively actuates the climate control circuit (12) to cool the cab/berth with the radiator (22). |
| US07707844B2 |
Thermostatic expansion valve with bypass passage
A thermostatic expansion valve is provided comprising an inlet, an outlet, first and second flow paths through the valve, a first valve element in the first flow path between the inlet and outlet, and a movable diaphragm having a first side acted on by a first fluid pressure and a second side acted on by at least a second fluid pressure. The diaphragm is movable to permit increased flow through the first flow path when the force against the first side is greater than that against the second side, and is movable to restrict flow through the first flow path when the force against the first side is less than that against the second side. The diaphragm moves in an upward direction to cause the first valve element to close the first flow path, and may continue to move in the upward direction to cause a second flow path to open. |
| US07707842B2 |
Defrost mode for HVAC heat pump systems
A heat pump, and in particular a heat pump for heating a hot water supply is provided with an improved defrost mode. The defrost mode is actuated to remove frost from an outdoor evaporator that may accumulate during cold weather operation. An algorithm for operation of the defrost mode is developed experimentally by seeking to maximize the heat transfer provided by the refrigerant. A heating system condition is experimentally related to the heat transfer capacity. One then maximizes the average heat transfer capacity to determine the optimum initiation point for the defrost mode. Further, protections are included into the defrost mode. When the heat pump is utilized to heat hot water, methods are provided to prevent the water that remains in the heat exchanger from becoming unduly heated. In one method, the water pump may be periodically operated to move the water. In a second method, a control ensures the discharge pressure of the refrigerant leaving the compressor is reduced, and that the water pump is not stopped until that reduced temperature falls below a predetermined maximum. The temperature reduction is achieved through a dual control loop wherein a temperature that is too high results in a new desired discharge pressure. The control achieves the new desired pressure by controlling the expansion device. In another protection feature, as a control determines that the defrost mode is nearing its end, an evaporator fan is run to remove melted water from the evaporator coils, and also to ensure the refrigerant leaving the evaporator does not reach unduly high pressure or temperatures. |
| US07707841B2 |
Phase cooling method and apparatus
A method and apparatus for cooling a workpiece, tool or the like by subjecting the workpiece, tool or the like to a coolant that has been heated to have a temperature near the temperature at which the coolant changes phase from liquid to gas. Thus, the coolant can quickly draw a substantial amount of heat from the workpiece, tool or the like in order to effect a phase change from liquid to gas. Typically, the coolant is preheated to within a predefined range of the phase change temperature, such as within 5° C. or even 1° C. |
| US07707839B2 |
Declogging device and declogging method
This invention relates to a declogging device (9) and declogging method used to declog and clean the precipitation of metal dusts, compressor oil and the foreign matters in the refrigeration cycle (1) in a refrigerator. |
| US07707837B2 |
Steam reforming system
A steam reforming system with high thermal efficiency, which can compensate for a reduction in the amount of steam generated in a reformer without increasing the reformer size and without limiting the degree of freedom in layout of the reformer and a gas turbine. A gas turbine and a heat recovery exchanger are additionally installed such that the gas turbine generates electric power, and flue gases of the gas turbine are employed to preheat feedstocks supplied to the reformer and to generate steam used for the pre-reforming stage. The heat recovery exchanger is disposed in a downstream channel for the flue gases (at 500-600° C.) of the gas turbine to perform heat exchange between the high-temperature flue gases of the gas turbine and the feedstocks supplied to the reformer, thereby increasing the temperature of the feedstocks to a level suitable for vaporization and desulfurization, and to a level suitable for the pre-reforming stage in a pre-reformer. Generation and superheating of steam required for the pre-reforming stage are performed by the remaining heat of the flue gases of the gas turbine. |
| US07707833B1 |
Combustor nozzle
A secondary nozzle is provided for a gas turbine. The secondary nozzle includes a flange and an elongated nozzle body extending from the flange. At least one premix fuel injector is spaced radially from the nozzle body and extends from the flange generally parallel to the nozzle body. At least one second nozzle tube is fluidly connected to the fuel source and spaced radially outward from the first nozzle tube with a proximal end fixed to the flange. The second nozzle tube has a distal end, spaced from the proximal end, with at least one aperture therein. A passageway extends between the proximal end and the distal end of the second nozzle tube, with the passageway fluidly connecting to the fuel source and the aperture. |
| US07707832B2 |
Device for injecting a mixture of air and fuel, and a combustion chamber and turbomachine provided with such a device
A device for injecting a mixture of air and fuel into a combustion chamber of a turbomachine is disclosed. The injection device has symmetry of revolution about an axis and includes radial swirl inducers of outside diameter D2, a bowl spaced axially from the radial swirl inducers, and a support ring for supporting the injection device, which is arranged around the bowl. The bowl has a cylindrical wall extended by a flared wall, the flared wall being provided with air intake holes. The support ring includes a first cylindrical portion of outside diameter D3, connected to a second cylindrical portion of outside diameter D4 spaced axially from the first cylindrical portion, the first cylindrical portion being connected to the cylindrical wall of the bowl by a plurality of support tabs. |
| US07707828B2 |
Method and apparatus for manipulating and diluting internal combustion engine exhaust gases
A system for manipulating engine exhaust gases away from inhabited areas comprises an air pressurization system coupled in fluid communication to a housing. The housing is adapted to reside adjacent a terminal portion of an exhaust pipe so that pressurized air injected into the housing entrains the exhaust gases and disperses them from the housing. |
| US07707826B2 |
System for controlling triggering of adsorber regeneration
A system, method, and software for triggering regeneration of an adsorber connected with a flow of exhaust from an engine. An exhaust sulfur flow rate module estimates a sulfur accumulation rate associated with an adsorber as a function of a flow of fuel. A sulfur removal rate module estimates a sulfur removal rate associated with the adsorber. An accumulated sulfur loading module includes a counter the value of which is increased as a function of the sulfur accumulation rate and decreased as a function of the sulfur removal rate. A combustion manager module controls an engine to regenerate the adsorber once the counter reaches an upper threshold value. |
| US07707819B2 |
Explosively driven low-density foams and powders
Hollow RX-08HD cylindrical charges were loaded with boron and PTFE, in the form of low-bulk density powders or powders dispersed in a rigid foam matrix. Each charge was initiated by a Comp B booster at one end, producing a detonation wave propagating down the length of the cylinder, crushing the foam or bulk powder and collapsing the void spaces. The PdV work done in crushing the material heated it to high temperatures, expelling it in a high velocity fluid jet. In the case of boron particles supported in foam, framing camera photos, temperature measurements, and aluminum witness plates suggest that the boron was completely vaporized by the crush wave and that the boron vapor turbulently mixed with and burned in the surrounding air. In the case of PTFE powder, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy of residues recovered from fragments of a granite target slab suggest that heating was sufficient to dissociate the PTFE to carbon vapor and molecular fluorine which reacted with the quartz and aluminum silicates in the granite to form aluminum oxide and mineral fluoride compounds. |
| US07707809B1 |
Choke prevention attachment for a running horse
An anti-choke attachment for a horse for preventing internal blockage of the horse's nasopharynx or other blockage of the horse's breathing when the horse is running or vigorously exercising. The attachment temporarily locks the horse's head against tilting downwardly or swinging sidewise. The attachment comprises a rigid plate having a lower part shaped to fit against a horse's neck and an upper part shaped to fit beneath the rear portion of the horse's jaw. An elongated, relatively thick, resilient pad arranged on the upper part is arranged to fit closely within the intermandibulary space region along the rear of the horse's head so as to prevent downward tilting and sidewise swinging of the head relative to the neck which both prevents partial blockage of the nasopharynx and helps maintain driver control of the horse. |
| US07707807B2 |
Apparatus for molding and assembling containers with stoppers and filling same
A stopper and container body are molded in the same molding machine. An assembly device, such as a pick and place robot, transfers the stopper from one mold cavity into the opening in the container body located within another mold cavity, or vice versa, to assemble the stopper and container body. Then, the assembled container body and stopper are removed from the molding machine and transported to a needle filling and laser resealing station for filling and laser resealing. A laminar flow source directs a substantially laminar flow of air or sterile gas over the mold surfaces, stoppers and container bodies, and assembly device, to prevent contamination during assembly. |
| US07707800B2 |
Beam construction and method for manufacturing the same
A beam construction, particularly a so-called doctor beam, for use mainly in pulp and paper mills to carry blade holders (7) intended to hold doctor blades. The beam (1) is a composite-construction hollow beam, which also includes at least one composite construction pre-tensioning rod (9, 10, 12). The construction has an essentially triangular cross-section. |
| US07707797B2 |
Pile anchor foundation
A circular concrete cap foundation poured in-situ within a perimeter forming corrugated metal pipe set atop or within an excavated pit and enclosing a series of circumferentially spaced pile anchors. The circular concrete cap foundation supports sets of inner and outer circumferentially spaced tower anchor bolts having their lower ends anchored to an embedded anchor ring and their upper ends projecting vertically and upwardly out the top of the circular foundation to engage the base flange of a supported tower. The pile anchors are formed with perimeter corrugated metal pipes set deep in subsurface soils with cementitious material surrounding and partially bonding to a centralized steel bolt or tendon which extends through the cap foundation. The tower anchor bolts and the pile anchor bolts are both partially encased in a PVC sleeve so that the bolts can be post-tensioned. The pile anchors are in tension only and serve to pull the cap foundation down to compress the underlying ground soils. |
| US07707790B2 |
Office system
A free-standing, partition-type furniture system adapted to subdivide an open space of a room, comprising a plurality of first partition panels, each including a first body portion having a pair of side edges, and a first screen member operably coupled to the first partition panel and laterally shiftable with respect to the first partition panel such that the first screen member extends from one of the side edges of the first body portion. The furniture system also includes a plurality of second partition panels each including a second body portion having an upper edge, and a second screen member operably coupled to the second partition panel and vertically shiftable with respect to the second partition panel such that the second screen member extends from the upper edge of the second body portion. The plurality of first and second partition panels are operably coupleable and arrangeable so as to subdivide the open space of a room. |
| US07707785B2 |
Variable girder tie
An adjustable connector with a rounded, concave seat and matching washer, a connection and a method of making a connection that ties a first building structural member to a second building structural member in conjunction with fastener means and an anchor member, especially a girder truss to the supporting wall in conjunction with screws and an anchor rod. |
| US07707783B2 |
Modular enclosure
A modular enclosure, such as a shed, may include sidewalls and a roof. The roof, for example, may include one or more roof panels. The roof may also include a truss that is sized and configured to support the roof panels. The shed may also include one or more support beams that may be connected to the truss and may be connected to one or more panels. The shed may include one or more brackets used to connect a pair of panels that are positioned at an angle to form a corner of the shed. The shed may also include a cover, which may include one or more receiving portions sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the brackets. A plurality of roof panels may be positioned within a shipping container to form storage areas or cavities sized and configured to receive all or at least a portion of one or more floor panels. |
| US07707781B2 |
Gutter cap assembly and bracket
A gutter cap forming tool is provided for use in a method of forming a gutter cap from a sheet stock blank. A roll forming operation is performed to form a reversely-turned arcuate bend in the gutter cap. The gutter cap assembly includes a gutter cap and a bracket that secures the gutter cap to a building and a gutter. |
| US07707778B2 |
Frame assembly for windows or doors with removable sash
A frame assembly for a window or patio door includes an integrally moulded unitary master frame having upper and lower horizontal members, opposed first and second vertical jamb members extending between the horizontal members, and a vertical mullion midway between the first and second vertical members. An integrally moulded unitary sash frame is slidably mounted within the master frame. The sash frame can be lifted within the master frame to facilitate installation and removal of the sash frame. The mullion can include a weather buffering chamber to reduce fluid penetration from an exterior to an interior side of the frame assembly. |
| US07707777B2 |
Doorframe structure
A doorframe structure comprises an upper guide formed of metal plate so as to have an enclosed space extending in a longitudinal direction of the upper guide, the upper guide having a constant cross section, a weather strip channel extending in a longitudinal direction of the upper guide and fixed to the upper guide, a window glass guide, made of metal plate, arranged so as to be inclined relative to the upper guide and fixed to the upper guide at one end thereof in order to guide a window glass so as to move, and a pillar outer panel, made of metal plate, for covering, on an exterior side of a vehicle, a vehicle exterior-end surface of the upper guide, a vehicle exterior-end surface of the window glass guide and an opening formed between the upper guide and the window glass guide. |
| US07707775B2 |
Power slide device for controlling sliding speed of vehicle sliding door
Under a method to control a sliding speed in accordance with this invention, the motor is initially accelerated for a predetermined reference speed, and then during the initial acceleration period, if a rotational speed of the wire drum is of and above a given value, a difference between a rotational speed of the wire drum and a rotational speed of the motor is of and above a given value, and a rate of acceleration of the wire drum is of and above a given value, the rotational speed of the motor is reduced temporarily judging the slide door is in a state of abnormal acceleration, and then the motor is accelerated again at a lower rate than the initial acceleration toward the reference speed. |
| US07707772B1 |
Spray catcher apparatus and method
A spray catcher apparatus and method includes a fluid capture surface where the fluid capture surface is conformed to direct captured fluid from the surface. A support stake includes a first end and a second end and the first end is connected with the fluid capture surface. The second end is placed near an object to which the captured fluid is directed. |
| US07707770B2 |
Watering device
A watering device for providing water to a sub-surface level is provided. The watering device includes a body portion for distributing water radially therefrom and along its length. The watering device includes an irrigation assembly for emitting water from a water source, the irrigation assembly emitting the water within the watering device, and the water then being distributed through the body portion to surrounding soil. The irrigation assembly may be supported by the body portion. The irrigation assembly may include a bubbler, and may include a check valve. The device may include a top cap including retaining structure for providing a generally vertical or other desired orientation to the irrigation assembly. The device may further include a bottom cap that generally restricts the flow of water out of the bottom of the device and cooperates with body portion to direct water radially from the device. |
| US07707768B2 |
Landscape device
A landscape device having a growth section surrounded by at least one upwardly-extending wall. Located within the growth section are a plurality of displaceable elements which are capable of being displaced by the growth of a plant located in the growth section of the landscape device. A second upwardly-extending wall may be located between the first upwardly-extending wall and the growth section, forming a reservoir between the walls. Water, soil, and other elements may be placed in the reservoir, which will contain weep holes to permit passage of water into the underlying ground. A cover plate may be positioned over the reservoir to inhibit evaporation of water. The cover plate may also include a fitting for connecting to a water source such as a hose. A method for manufacturing variations of the landscape device is also disclosed. |
| US07707766B2 |
Device and method for casting
A device for coupling to a fishing rod includes a handle which includes a member with an aperture for receiving a reel seat of a rod and an arm extending from the member comprising a grip for receiving one or more digits is provided. A device may also include a handle, which includes a cylindrical member for coupling onto a rod, an arm extending from the member and disposed at a selected angle thereto, where the arm includes a grip for receiving one or more digits. Methods for using the devices and coupling to a user to repetitively make desired casting movements are also provided. |
| US07707764B1 |
Light emitting fishing lure
A light emitting fishing lure comprising: a translucent lure head having a cylindrical lure cavity passing longitudinally through the translucent lure head, a charging terminal located within the cylindrical lure cavity, an enable terminal located within the cylindrical lure cavity and electrically isolated from the charging terminal, a ground terminal located within the cylindrical lure cavity and electrically isolated from the charging terminal and from the enable terminal, an energy source, a control circuit board, a light emitting circuit board, and a convex lens formed by the outside surface of the translucent lure head; a leader secured to a fishing line and extending through the charging terminal, the enable terminal, and the ground terminal, in the cylindrical lure cavity and connecting to a fish hook; a lure skirt attached to the translucent lure head. |
| US07707759B2 |
Device for retaining a placard within a placard holder, and methods and systems thereof
A retaining device for improving the functionality of placard holders when the placard holder is subject to transient atmospheric conditions. The retaining device includes a member used in conjunction with a placard holder to more fully secure a placard with the placard holder when transient atmospheric conditions are encountered. The retaining device may be adapted to use with many designs of placard holders, including, but not limited to, U.S. Department of Transportation approved hazardous material information placard holders. |
| US07707753B2 |
Multifunctional plow blade positioning apparatus and method
A self-adjusting snow plow for use with pickup trucks, SUVs, all-terrain vehicles or other land vehicles. The snow plow includes a mounting apparatus for attachment to a vehicle and a plow blade, preferably including a mold board and a retention apparatus assembly. The retention apparatus assembly disengageably secures the plow blade to the mounting apparatus when the plow blade is in a snow displacement position. The snow plow further includes an elongated strap selectively connectable between the plow blade and the mounting apparatus in at least one position, wherein the position is a constrained orientation wherein the elongated strap resists upward movement of the plow blade when the plow blade is disengageably secured to the mounting apparatus or an elevated orientation, wherein the elongated strap suspends the plow blade a desired distance from the ground to prevent the plow blade from contacting the ground and/or snow on the ground. |
| US07707751B2 |
Adjustable orthotic
An example orthotic is described which may include a cushioning first layer and a shell layer. The shell layer may be configured to extend longitudinally from at least the talus-navicular joint to the medial cuneiform-first metatarsal joint and laterally under at least the medial cuneiform bone when the orthotic is in use. The shell layer may be configured to receive a removable insert that alters an amount of arch support provided by the orthotic. A set of inserts may be provided to allow the example orthotic to be customized based on user support preferences. |
| US07707750B2 |
Bicycle shoe with ventilating sole
The ventilated shoe comprises an outer sole and at least two interchangeable inner soles. The inner sole in disposed in contact with and over the outer sole. The outer sole has ventilation ports at the toe portion and at the heel portion. The ventilation ports extend through the entire thickness of the outer sole. A support is provided to spacedly rest the inner sole over the outer sole in a manner to allow air to penetrate through the ventilation ports and to circulate between the outer sole and the inner sole. The inner sole may be air permeable and is used when the temperature is medium to high. Under cold temperature it is preferable to use an impermeable inner sole. |
| US07707744B2 |
Footwear with a sole structure incorporating a lobed fluid-filled chamber
A fluid-filled chamber for an article of footwear and a method for manufacturing the chamber are disclosed. The chamber may be incorporated into a sole structure of the footwear and includes a central area and a plurality of lobes extending outward from the central area. The lobes are in fluid communication with the central area and are formed from a first surface, a second surface, and a sidewall. The sidewall joins with the first surface with the second surface to seal the fluid within the chamber, but no internal connections are generally utilized to join interior portions of the first surface with interior portions of the second surface. The fluid within the chamber may be air at a pressure that is approximately equal to an ambient pressure. |
| US07707738B2 |
Digital ruler with low-friction sliding contact
A low cost digital ruler with desirable ergonomic characteristics and accuracy. A low friction sliding position indicator includes a compliant element that forces its connection pads against the ruler's electronic scale contacts, to determining measurement positions. The position indicator includes an instrument receiving feature that engages a writing instrument and moves in conjunction with it, thereby measuring a line as it is drawn. A position indicator preload arrangement includes the compliant element, which is deflected to exert a preload that forces the sliding position indicator against a housing of the digital ruler. Alignment features of the position indicator and housing have cross sections that provide a self-aligning angled interference fit, which accurately aligns the sliding position indicator, under the action of the preload force. Misalignment constraint surfaces constrain the sliding position indicator in approximate alignment by, even if an external force overcomes the preload force. |
| US07707735B2 |
Hole angularity gage and methods of operation and manufacture therefor
An embodiment of a hole angularity gage includes a gage body and a contact disc positioned within the gage body. The contact disc includes a central opening defined by an inner edge. The gage also includes a center pin that extends through the central opening, and a hole probe adapted to rotate the center pin from a primary gage axis toward the contact disc's inner edge. The gage also includes an indicator adapted to activate when the center pin makes contact with the contact disc. Another embodiment of a hole angularity gage includes a hole probe and a circuit. The circuit includes an indicator and a switch, which is adapted to close when the hole probe is rotated by an angle greater than a gage setting angle. The indicator is adapted to activate when the switch is closed. Other embodiments include methods for using and manufacturing hole angularity gages. |
| US07707733B1 |
Level vial support for a geomatics pole
A support unit for a level indicator capable of being mounted on a geomatic pole, such as a prism pole or a GPS pole. A housing of the support unit is mounted on the geomatic pole. A first holder in the housing holds the level indicator and a second holder holds a tool, such as a stylus or a hex wrench, for use along with of the support unit. The level indicator is pivotally adjustable with respect to the housing for alignment with the geomatic pole when mounted thereon. |
| US07707727B1 |
Foliage trimmers with adjustable curvature of cutting sections
The invention comprises of a trimmer body with pivotally mounted handle mechanism attached to a flexible curvature adjuster band going through a plurality of cutting units articulately arranged side by side with a flexible scissor type mechanism attached to every cutting unit and trimmer body to maintain equidistant spacing between cutting units and to prevent the formation of an uneven curvature. The curvature of the cutting section is adjusted with the release of the restraining mechanism with the thumb of one hand and the pivotal movement of the front handle mechanism with the other hand. The one hand operated foliage trimmer's cutting blades are arcually reciprocated by electromagnets. The elongated foliage trimmer's head body and cutting section's hemispherical spatial orientation is adjustable and restrainable with the rear handle mechanism. |
| US07707719B2 |
Method for protecting contacts within a connector assembly
A method for protecting contacts within a receptacle housing of a connector assembly from becoming contaminated. An example method includes inserting a connector insert into the receptacle housing, the connector insert includes a body portion having an exterior configured to correspond to at least a portion of the interior of the receptacle housing of the connector assembly. The body portion of the insert includes an opening which extends into the body portion to receive the contacts and protect the contacts from the exterior environment surrounding the receptacle housing when at least a portion of the body portion is received within the receptacle housing. |
| US07707718B2 |
Methods for assembling computers
Apparatuses and methods for preventing disengagement of electrical connectors in the assembly of computers. In one embodiment, a computer system includes a chassis, an electrical component contained within the chassis, an electrical connector engaged with a receptacle on the electrical component, and a retainer to prevent disengagement of the electrical connector from the receptacle. The retainer has a mounting portion that can attach to at least one of the electrical component or the computer chassis, and a connector interface adjacent to the electrical connector to prevent the connector from disengaging from the receptacle on the electrical component. In one aspect of this embodiment, the retainer is a one-piece retainer with a mounting portion that attaches to only one surface of the electrical component. In other embodiments, the retainer can be a two-piece retainer having a bracket and a movable retainer portion. The bracket can attach to two surfaces of the electrical component, and the movable retainer portion can be operatively coupled to the bracket so that it can be positioned adjacent to the connector to prevent the connector from disengaging from the receptacle. In either one-piece or two-piece form, the retainer can prevent disengagement of a center ribbon cable connector from a 3½-inch drive device. |
| US07707717B2 |
Method for repairing an electrode assembly
A method of repairing a used electrode device 1 is disclosed wherein the method has the steps of providing a used electrode assembly 1 having an inner conductor 9 with an integral electrode tip 3 encapsulated in an insulator body 8 having an outer conductor 10 and an outer electrode tip 4C; and pressing the inner conductor 9 with integral electrode tip 3 while holding or restraining the insulator body 8 to apply an force sufficient to overcome at least partially the adhesion forces at the mating surfaces of the inner conductor 9 and the insulator body 8. Thereafter by grasping an end 9A of the inner conductor 9 opposite the tip 3 while holding the insulator body 8 and withdrawing the inner conductor 9 from the insulator body 8 the parts can be separated. Then by measuring the amount the inner electrode tip 3 has been burnt as compared to a new tapered tip to establish a cut distance ΔX; and recutting the tip 3 by machining the burnt portion along the tip 3 taper surface toward and into a shoulder 3A of the inner conductor 9 by a distance equal to the cut distance ΔX the electrode tip can be reshaped. |
| US07707714B2 |
Method for producing a microcoil
Production of microscopic and nanoscopic coils, by rolling up conductor layers during the removal of auxiliary layers from a substrate. By removing the auxiliary layer from the substrate, for example by virtue of a sacrificial layer situated in between being selectively etched away, the auxiliary layer folds back and, if appropriate, automatically rolls up upon continuation of the removal operation and a conductor track concomitantly rolls up in the process. The auxiliary layer may be formed by two layers having different lattice constants. It is possible to produce microcoils, microtransformers, or microcapacitors constructed from said microcoils, with diameters in the nanometers or micrometers range. |
| US07707702B2 |
Load distribution devices
Load-balancing devices useful in removing bearings, such as rolling element bearings, for rotating machine maintenance and replacement. The load-balancing devices may be used to fix the position of the shaft of the machine relative to the position of the bearing bracket. |
| US07707701B2 |
Method for manufacturing a piezoelectric element
A method for manufacturing a piezoelectric element includes the steps of forming a first electrode above a substrate, forming above the first electrode a piezoelectric layer composed of a piezoelectric material having a perovskite structure, and forming a second electrode above the piezoelectric layer, wherein the step of forming the first electrode includes forming a lanthanum nickelate layer that is oriented to a cubic (100) by a sputter method, and a ratio of nickel to lanthanum (Ni/La) in a target used for the sputter method is greater than 1 but smaller than 1.5. |
| US07707698B2 |
Adjustable fastener for clothing
An adjustable fastener includes a male part and a female part, both of which are preferably made of soft pliable, sewable plastic. The female fastener part preferably has two or more spaced apart openings. Each having a broad portion and a narrow portion. The male fastener part has a base with an upstanding riser with a flange at the end of the riser. The female fastener part is made of a single thin wall which is sewn to the fabric of the garment. The base of the male part is also made of a single thin wall which is sewn to the fabric of the garment. The single wall construction of the female fastener part makes it more flexible, less easily seen, and not felt so much by the wearer. The female fastener part is provided with a bend between the openings so that it lies flat against the back when the male and female parts are coupled to the tightest position. The center of the riser of the male part is offset from the center of the flange. This allows the flange to be made larger and the narrow portion of each opening in the female part to be made smaller. |
| US07707697B2 |
Attachment device
Disclosed is an improved splicing nut of the type having a threaded nut portion and a core that is capable of being threaded into the nut portion, the nut portion and the core cooperating to receive and firmly retain a line therein. In the first embodiment of the invention, a visualization port is included in the core for providing visual access to at least a portion of the area between the nut portion and the core so that a user may quickly ascertain by looking through the visualization port whether or not a line is fully engaged with the splicing nut. Additional provision is made to cause the line to be compressed when the core is threaded into the nut portion and tightened. As a result, line slippage within the splicing nut is prevented. The invention further includes a fastening portion of the core that is exposed when the nut portion is firmly tightened onto the core. Either a pin hole or a shackle fastening means is included in the fastening portion for allowing additional hardware to be installed thereon with requiring the line to be removed from the splicing nut. |
| US07707695B2 |
Adjustable locking mechanism for protective head gear
A locking mechanism for a headgear suspension using two racks, a pinion, a driver and a lockable knob. The two racks are positioned on the suspension such that they overlap and permit engagement of the gears on the driver with teeth on the rack such that when the lockable knob is in the unlocked position the driver tightens or loosens the racks to adjust the diameter of the suspension to the user's head size. The lockable knob of the invention operates on a pull, rotate, push and lock system. There are no metal parts and the lockable knob can be locked and unlocked with one hand, by the user. |
| US07707692B2 |
Control system for roller gin
A system for controlling the feed rate of seed cotton to a roller gin utilizes a plurality of sensors to measure gin roll temperature, power requirements, seed cotton accumulation on the gin roll and/or ginned seed reflectance to dynamically vary feed rate, rotary knife speed and gin roll speed, force and position against stationary knife to increase ginning efficiency. |
| US07707691B2 |
Hinge assembly for electronic appliance and stand apparatus having the same
The present invention relates a hinge assembly for an electronic appliance and a stand apparatus having the same. The present invention comprises a hinge assembly for an electronic appliance including a bracket connected to a main body of the electronic appliance, a hinge housing connected to the bracket such that a tilt angle of the electronic appliance can be adjusted, and a supporting plate connected to the hinge housing such that a swivel angle of the electronic appliance can be adjusted. The present invention further comprises a hinge cover which covers the hinge assembly and includes a detachable portion for allowing the main body to be folded in parallel with the base plate. |
| US07707686B2 |
Truckle assembly
A truckle assembly has a housing, a rotating unit movably mounted on the housing, a limiting unit and a wheel assembly. The housing includes a body and a sleeve. A slope portion is formed inside the body and neighboring the sleeve. The rotating unit includes a central shaft, and a gear ring mounted on the central shaft for corresponding to a first side of the slope portion. The limiting unit includes a pedal, an interferential portion linking an end of the pedal, and an arresting portion linking an end of the interferential portion. The pedal has a first portion extending into the housing, and a second portion extending out of the housing. The interferential portion corresponds to a second side of the slope portion. The wheel assembly includes at least a wheel assembled on sides of the housing, and a shaft pole extending through the wheels and the pedal. |
| US07707684B2 |
Implement having adjustable handle
An implement comprising a first handle, on which are disposed control elements for the implement, and a second handle. The first handle is adjustable between a first operating position for a two-handed operation in which the implement is adapted to be guided by both the first handle and the second handle, and a second operating position for one-handed operation in which the implement is adapted to be guided by the first handle. |
| US07707683B2 |
Sweeper vacuum cleaner assembly
The present invention comprises a rechargeable battery operated combination sweeper/vacuum assembly for picking up debris that is swept into a pile. The assembly further comprises an elongated handle, a sweeper member, and a vacuum member. A compartment for housing the rechargeable battery is mounted to the upper end of the elongated handle. Mounted to the lower end of the handle is the sweeper member which further comprises a housing adapted to slidably receive the bristles of the sweeper member. Mounted to the backside of the housing is the vacuum member which further comprises a removable cover constructed in the shape of a dust pan. The removable cover of the vacuum member can be used as a conventional dust pan with the sweeper portion of the present invention. |
| US07707679B2 |
Squeegee device
A manual squeegee device for the movement of residual liquid on a surface, the squeegee device including a support element, first and second elongate blade holders and a coupling, the blade holders being in spaced apart generally parallel relationship, and each supporting a respective first and second non-absorbent flexible elongate blade each of which provides a wiping edge, the wiping edges lying in or substantially in a common plane, the support element being between the spaced apart blade holders and carrying the coupling, the coupling permitting of engagement with a handle, and permitting the handle in use to pivot universally relative to the support element. |
| US07707678B2 |
Multiple shape changing roller unit
A “multiple shape changing roller unit” comprising a slotted patterned frame handle and one of more roller cover & rod assemblies, that an operator will use to surround and act on the entire surface area of multisided objects comprising bars, posts, poles, shafts, spindles, railings, supports, and columns, while the operator is positioned on only one side of said multisided objects for purposes comprising painting, staining, dusting, polishing, striping, sanding, cleaning, wiping off or applying liquid and powder chemicals, wherein the slotted patterned handle has a uninterrupted or interrupted pattern configuration used for retaining the rod of the roller cover & rod assemblies to prevent movement while the unit is in use. |
| US07707677B2 |
Toothbrush
A toothbrush includes a head having a bristle carrying surface formed from a thin resilient flexible dome shaped membrane. An air space is located between the base of the head and the membrane so that the membrane is capable of flexing to alter its original shape during use of the toothbrush and then recover to the original shape randomly during use. In a further practice of the invention the head and/or handle have elastomeric portions at least partially surrounding an open area. These portions are readily deflectable under pressure during use to improve handling of the toothbrush and orientation of the cleaning elements. Alternatively the toothbrush includes a longitudinal hinge collinear with the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush head so as to separate the head into a pair of side by side longitudinal sections, each of which has outwardly extending cleaning elements. The hinge is made of a resilient spring-like material to urge the sections to return to their original position after the hinge has been opened as a result of the cleaning elements contacting the teeth. |
| US07707672B2 |
Method for controlling driving of drum-type washing machine and apparatus thereof
Disclosed are a method for controlling a driving of a drum type washing machine preventing vibration and noise of a drum, reducing a usage of washing water, and reducing rinse time, and an apparatus thereof. To this end, the drum is rotated with a preset equilibrium speed faster than a speed that vibration of the drum is excessively generated accordingly as a rotation speed of the drum is decreased when a dewatering process of laundry is completed, and washing water is supplied into the drum type washing machine while maintaining the drum as the preset equilibrium speed. |
| US07707669B1 |
Mattress lift
A mattress lift for elevating a bed mattress and tucking in sheets or bed covers beneath or under the bed mattress between the bed mattress and a box spring or other supporting surface comprising a lift device including a base or body having a longitudinally disposed substantially oblong recess formed in the upper surface thereof with a longitudinally disposed oblong slot formed in the base or body symmetrically disposed within the longitudinally disposed substantially oblong recess, a lift handle formed or coupled to a proximal portion of the base or body configured to be grasped by the user, a lift ramp including an inclined surface formed or coupled to a distal portion of the base or body configured to slide between the bed mattress and box spring to tuck the sheets or bed covers therebetween and a lift support device including an upper lift coupler movably or slidably disposed within the longitudinally disposed substantially oblong recess interconnected or coupled to a lower lift support member disposed beneath the base or body by an interconnecting member at least partially disposed within the longitudinally disposed oblong slot movable or slidable from the proximal end of the longitudinally disposed oblong slot to a distal end of the longitudinally disposed substantially oblong slot to support the lift device in an elevated position to hold the side edge portion and end edge portion of the bed mattress in spaced relationship relative to box spring or support. |
| US07707665B1 |
Shower water conservation apparatus
A shower water conservation apparatus (10) that conserves the shower water by storing the initially cooled water that is produced by a hot water source (124). The initially cooled water is routed by a series of pipes and timed valves into a water reservoir assembly (19), such as a bellows (20), where the water is stored for later use. The cooled water from the bellows (20) is timely released and mixed with flow of cold water from a cold water source (126). The mixed cold water is further mixed with the now hot water from the hot water source (124) before the mixed hot and cold water is manually regulated and applied through a shower head (122). |
| US07707664B1 |
Bathroom cleansing apparatus
A bathroom cleansing apparatus for use by individuals when taking a shower. The bathroom cleansing apparatus is an improved showerhead which is attached to a length of flex hose. The flex hose itself is not normally visible when the shower head is not in use, but rather, is attached to a spool that is axially mounted behind a shower wall. The flex hose winds around the spool a few times before being attached to an incoming water line. The spool itself is attached to a torsion spring, which will cause the apparatus to slowly pull any extra length of flex hose not being used back onto the spool for later use. |
| US07707661B2 |
Tissue and toilet seat-cover sanitary paper
The present invention discloses a sanitary paper that is designed to be appropriate for dual functions: (1) as a tissue paper for wiping and cleaning by a user, and (2) as a toilet seat-cover. The sanitary paper is a folded continuous sanitary paper strip comprising detachable sections of tissue paper, where some sections are toilet seat-covers which are defined by appropriate transverse seat-cover perforation lines. Various embodiments are described regarding the folding of the sanitary paper strip. A precut bowl flap, in each of the detachable seat-covers, is provided as well. The sanitary paper strip can be made of a single or multi-ply paper. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sanitary paper is made of a duplex paper, where each surface best serves the intended function of that surface. Additionally, the sanitary paper strip can be impregnated with various chemicals. |
| US07707659B2 |
Chamois for athletic shorts having relatively elastic portion and relatively inelastic portion
The present invention provides a chamois for use with athletic shorts and/or pants. The chamois comprises an elastic portion that stretches to conform to a wearer's body to reduce irritation and a relatively inelastic portion that resists stretch to inhibit breakdown of the foam in support areas. |
| US07707658B2 |
Garments with stretch fabrics
The present invention relates to various types of garments to be worn by outdoors people such as hunters and fishermen. The garments include stretch fabric portions in strategic locations to provide mobility as well as comfort and thereby allow the wearer to engage in a wide range of activities. The garments having such stretch fabric portions include pants-type garments, bib overall type garments, and coat-type garments and coverall-type garments. |
| US07707655B2 |
Self warming mask
A self warming mask is disclosed. The self warming mask includes a facing layer configured to cover at least a portion of a person's face. Attached to the facing layer is at least one thermal delivery pad. The thermal delivery pad contains an exothermic composition. Once the mask is removed from a sealed package, air contacts the thermal delivery pad causing the mask to elevate in temperature . The thermal delivery pad can be constructed so that the rise of temperature and the length of time the mask remains heated is carefully controlled. The mask product can be used in combination with a fragrance or vapor delivery device for also releasing a fragrance, a vapor, or both as the mask is heated. In one embodiment, the fragrance or vapor delivery device can be attached and removed to the mask as a user desires. |
| US07707653B2 |
Glove
A batting glove includes a plurality of finger elements, a thumb element, a top portion, and a lower portion. The finger elements cover fingers, the thumb element covers a thumb, the top portion covers a back side of the hand, and the lower portion covers a palm of the hand. Expandable material is disposed at selected areas of the thumb stall and finger stalls to overlie or underlie the center axis of rotation of selected joints of a finger or a thumb of a human hand. |
| US07707652B2 |
Exercise system and components
Described herein is an exercise system having wearable components and resistance components. For example, in one illustrative embodiment, an exercise system can include a vest, at least one adjustable band and a resistance device. The vest can have a plurality of anchors and the adjustable band can be worn on a user's arms or legs and have at least one anchor. The resistance device can comprise (a) an anchor attachment section that can be detachably connectable to at least one of the anchors of at least one of the vest and the at least one adjustable band and (b) an object attachment section that can be removably secured to an object. When the anchor attachment section is connected to at least one of the anchors of at least one of the vest and the at least one adjustable band and the object attachment section is connected to an object, the resistance device is capable of resisting movement of a user wearing said one of the vest and at least one adjustable band away from the object. |
| US07707648B2 |
Helmet with visor
A helmet 1 with a visor formed by integrally joining the preliminarily injection-molded visor 5 to a cap body 3, wherein an opening end edge 9 formed on the cap body is joined to the outer side of a joining wall 17 formed on the visor 5, and the joining wall 17 is held by the opening end edge 9 and a tongue-shaped part 31 formed on the inside of the cap body 3. The joined faces of the visor 5 and the cap body 3 are joined to each other by fusing, an intruding engagement part intruded in a through hole 22 formed in the joining wall 17 is formed at the opening end edge of the cap body 3, and the joining portion of the visor and the cap body is formed in annular shapes. |
| US07712146B2 |
System and method for dynamically extending a DRM system using authenticated external DPR modules
A rights management module controls access to a data set by processing requests for flexibly defined types of access to the data set and determines if the requested access may be granted. The requester's right for the requested type of access is verified by a verification module that may be part of the rights management core or verified through expansion rights verification modules. Extension verification modules may be contained within the data set itself or obtained from a separate store. Extension verification modules are authenticated by the rights management core. |
| US07712145B2 |
Chipset configuration authentication via manageability engine
An embodiment of the present invention is a technique to provide a secure authentication of chipset configuration. A first chipset configuration (CC) register set in an input/output (I/O) manageability engine (ME) partition authenticates and controls enabling a CC functionality. The I/O ME partition manages I/O resources shared with a processor in a secure manner. A second CC register set in a processor interface space provides the CC functionality. The second CC register set includes a global enable register having an enable field securely accessible to the I/O ME partition in a read and write-once accessibility and accessible to the processor via the processor interface space in a read-only accessibility. |
| US07712144B2 |
Secure device for sharing copy protection identification information, a rendering device for executing copy protected content based on the identification information, and corresponding methods
The present invention relates to a secure device for copy protection comprising an ID database (3) for storing identification numbers IDs for decrypting copy protected encrypted content, a transceiving means (5,2) for transmitting and/or receiving IDs to and/or from an external device via a short range transmission system and an ID handler (4) for controlling the transmission and reception of the IDs in accordance with predefined transmission and/or reception rights.The present invention further relates to a rendering device for executing copy protected content comprising a data source (18,19,20) for providing copy protected encrypted content, a receiving means (5,2) for receiving IDs for decrypting the encrypted content from a secure device (1) via a short range transmission system and a controller (11) for assigning to every copy protected encrypted content the respective ID for decrypting said content in order to execute the decrypted content.The present invention in addition relates to a method for copy protection and to a method for executing copy protected content. |
| US07712142B1 |
Document integrity
In some embodiments, techniques for document integrity may include detecting an initiator associated with a key, detecting the end of a document, determining that no terminator matching the key has been detected, and rejecting all or part of the document.In some embodiments, techniques for document integrity may include generating a key and associating the key with an initiator insertion point and a terminator insertion point. |
| US07712139B2 |
Data transmission method
A data transmission method is described, where first data is transmitted to a first processor, then second data based on the first data is transmitted to a second processor, and a check result is transmitted back to the first processor. This permits an independent check of data transmitted to a first processor by a second processor, so that abuse or prohibited use of first data in the first processor can be prevented. |
| US07712136B2 |
Controlling a message quarantine
Controlling a message quarantine is disclosed. A message scanning method is described in which early exit from parsing and scanning can occur by matching threat rules only to selected message elements and stopping rule matching as soon as a match on one message element exceeds a threat threshold. |
| US07712135B2 |
Pre-emptive anti-virus protection of computing systems
A system is provided that strongly inhibits infection and spread of computer viruses. Valid executable software files and supporting files, even files provided by mass-released commercial software, are associated with a numeric key that is unique to each individual computer running the software. For a file to be processed by the central processing unit (CPU) of the computer, the presence of a valid key must first be verified. Every valid executable file, including files relating to the operating system and application layer code, is provided with a unique key. Thus, viruses that attempt to gain access to the CPU to perform unauthorized actions, including replication, are prevented due to lack of a valid execution key. Execution keys are generated locally on each individual computer using a variety of methods. Execution keys can be regenerated if the security of a computer system has been compromised, or appears to have been compromised. |
| US07712134B1 |
Method and apparatus for worm detection and containment in the internet core
A method and an apparatus is provided that is efficient in detecting network virus and worms while using only the layer-4 information that is easily extracted from core routers and also be scalable when layer-7 information is available. Entropy analysis is used to identify anomalous activity at the flow level. Thereafter, only the contents of suspicious flows are analyzed with fingerprinting extraction. By doing so, the present invention brings together the characteristics of being deployable for real-time high data to rate links and the efficiency and reliability of content fingerprinting techniques. |
| US07712133B2 |
Integrated intrusion detection system and method
A present invention integrated intrusion detection method integrates intrusion detection information. In one embodiment, intrusion detection information is gathered from a plurality of different types of intrusion detection sensors. The information is processed in a manner that provides a consolidated correlation of the information. A response is assigned to the information and the response is implemented. |
| US07712131B1 |
Method and apparatus for storage and use of diagnostic software using removeable secure solid-state memory
A method, an apparatus, and a computer program are provided to secure diagnostic software from a software or hardware manufacturer for a computer. Traditionally, diagnostic software was distributed to professionals and other personnel in limited numbers. However, it was still possible to obtain unauthorized copies of the diagnostic software. Therefore, to alleviate the possibility of having unauthorized copies, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) memory device containing identification number can be used and a hidden partition that is inaccessible by an end-user where an encrypted version of the identification number is stored. In order to use diagnostic software, the specific USB memory device must be physically interfacing a computer. Hence, by limiting the number of USB memory devices, unauthorized copies can be prevented. |
| US07712129B2 |
System, method and program for user authentication, and recording medium on which the program is recorded
Method and system for user authentication in a federated computing environment. The method includes a first method for recording server authentication information, including: establishing a trusting relationship between a first and second server, obtaining an authentication policy of the second server, and registering the authentication policy of the second server within the first server. The method includes a second method for registering new user authentication information of a new user, including: verifying that the new user authentication information conforms to an authentication policy of the first server, and registering the new user authentication information in the first server. The method includes a third method for authenticating a user, including: receiving an access request from the user to access the federated computing environment, receiving notification based on input authentication information that the user has been authorized for the requested access, and permitting the user to access the federated computing environment. |
| US07712128B2 |
Wireless access system, method, signal, and computer program product
A system, method, signal, and computer program product for providing secure wireless access to private databases and applications without requiring a separate wireless client-server internetworking security protocol infrastructure. The wireless device (201) communicates with the wireless access service provider (205) via hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) messages, and the wireless access service provider (205) and the secure network (204) perform a RADIUS authentification for the wireless device (201). |
| US07712127B1 |
Method and system of access control based on a constraint controlling role assumption
In an RBAC system, a capability is defined as including an operation and an object on which the operation is to be performed. The capability is assigned to a role, which is in turn assigned to a user. Whether a user's request to perform an operation on an object should be authorized is determined based on whether a capability to perform the operation on the object is assigned to a role which is in turn assigned to the user. Further, the authorization is determined based on the evaluation of the constraint(s) attached to the role. If the evaluation result of the constraint(s) disallows the user to assume the role, the user is prohibited from performing the operation on the object even the user has such capability. |