Document Document Title
US07712379B2 Uniaxially-driven controlled biaxial testing fixture
A uniaxially-driven controlled biaxial testing fixture includes a base, a first coupler mounted to the base, and a load input drive rack mounted for linear movement with respect to the base. A second coupler and a first specimen grip are both mounted to the load input drive rack. Second, third and fourth specimen grips are also mounted for linear movement with respect to the base. First, second and third drive mechanisms connect the load input drive rack to the second, third and fourth specimen grips. Together the four specimen grips are oriented to provide biaxial application of force to a test specimen.
US07712378B2 Pressure sensitive displacement sensor
A pressure-sensitive displacement sensor comprises: (A) a contact portion (11) which includes: a semi-conductive matrix layer (14) containing conductive materials with a predetermined density, wherein the semi-conductive matrix layer is formed with a soft material having elasticity and has a resistance (Rx) under a normal condition without subjecting to a contact pressure, and when the semi-conductive layer is pressed, a density of the conductive materials in the semi-conductive matrix layer is increased due to compression of the soft semi-conductive layer, which results in reduction of the resistance (Rx); a first conductive layer (12) disposed on a first surface of the semi-conductive matrix layer; and a second conductive layer (13) disposed on a second surface of the semi-conductive matrix layer; (B) a first resistor (19) having one side connected to the first conductive layer and the other side connected to a power source; (C) a second resistor (21) having one side connected to the second conductive layer and the other side connected to ground; (D) a first voltage comparator (16) having a plus terminal and a minus terminal, the minus terminal connected to the first conductive layer; (E) a second voltage comparator (17) having a plus terminal and a minus terminal, the plus terminal connected to the second conductive layer; (F) a third resistor (22) having one side connected to the power source and the other side connected to the plus terminal of the first voltage comparator; (G) a fourth resistor (23) having one side connected to the plus terminal of the first voltage comparator and the other side connected to the minus terminal of the second voltage comparator; (H) a fifth resistor (24) having one side connected to ground and the other side connected to the minus terminal of the second voltage comparator; and (I) an OR-gate (18) connected to the outputs of the first and second voltage comparators and operable to output signals in response to the outputs of the first and second voltage comparators.
US07712376B2 Method for determining a parameter characteristic of the fatigue state of a part
A method for determining an approximate value for a parameter characteristic of the fatigue state of a component as a result of a time-varying stress to which it is subjected by means of a number of load cycles should, itself, during comparatively lengthy stress cycles, enable a prognosis concerning the current fatigue state of the component, this prognosis being, in particular, adapted to the needs and suited for the real-time determination of maintenance intervals. To this end, in addition to optionally already fully completed load cycles, a first partially completed load cycle is also taken into consideration during the determination of the parameter, whereby temporary stress values for phases that have not yet been run through of the partially completed load cycle are, together with a predetermined fixed value, taken into consideration.
US07712374B2 Load detecting apparatus
A load detecting apparatus includes a strain member, a supporting member, a load input member and a strain detecting element. The supporting member is employed for supporting the strain member at a supporting portion thereof. The load input member is supported by the strain member and strains the strain member when an external load is applied thereon. The strain detecting element is provided at at least a surface of the strain member for detecting the strain generated by the load input member. Further, an outer end of the supporting portion located outwardly relative to the load input member is fixed to the strain member.
US07712370B2 Method of detecting occurrence of sticking of substrate
Sticking of a substrate occurs in a reaction chamber for processing the substrate placed on a surface of a substrate-supporting device provided with lift pins for moving the substrate up and down with respect to the surface of the substrate-supporting device. A method of detecting the occurrence of the sticking of the substrate includes: monitoring a vibration propagating in or through the reaction chamber by a sensor, which vibration is indicative of or specific to sticking of the substrate on the surface of the substrate-supporting device when being moved up from the surface of the substrate-supporting device with the lift pins; and initiating a pre-designated sequence if the vibration is detected while processing the substrate in the reaction chamber.
US07712368B2 Ultrasonic sensor having transmission device and reception device of ultrasonic wave
An ultrasonic sensor for detecting an object includes: a substrate; a transmission device for transmitting an ultrasonic wave; a plurality of reception devices for receiving the ultrasonic wave; and a circuit for processing received ultrasonic waves, which are received by the reception devices after the ultrasonic wave transmitted from the transmission device is reflected by the object. The transmission device and the reception devices are integrated into the substrate. The dimensions of the sensor are minimized, and detection accuracy of the sensor is improved.
US07712366B2 Multi-axis capacitive transducer and manufacturing method for producing it
A capacitive transducer a first part containing a first set of capacitor plates and a second part relatively movable in a plane to the first part. The second part contains a second set of capacitor plates. Both sets of capacitor plates are built on a substrate, wherein the capacitor plates form a plurality of capacitors. The second part is relatively movable in all six degrees of freedom. One set of the plurality of capacitors measures displacements in a plane and a second set of the plurality capacitors measures displacements perpendicular to the plane.
US07712364B2 Fluid level measuring device for a beverage dispenser
A level sensing apparatus and method of use for use with a beverage server to indirectly sense the level of beverage retained in the server. The server having a body for receiving and retaining beverage with an opening in the body for receiving the level sensing apparatus and beverage there through. The level sensing apparatus includes at least one capacitive sensing probe assembly retained in a housing to separate the probe assembly from contact with beverage. The housing containing the capacitive sensing probe assembly being disposable into the opening in the body of the server. The capacitive sensing probe indirectly sensing at least one level of beverage retained in the beverage server. A separate display assembly is provided and selectively couplable to the capacitive sensing probe assembly. A power source is provided and coupled to the display assembly and to the capacitive sensing probe assembly to provide power to sense and display the level of beverage in the server.
US07712357B2 Method and system for rough road indications for misfire detection
A method of operating an engine includes determining at least one characteristic of rough road performance based on at least one driveline characteristic and receiving crankshaft acceleration data. The method further includes comparing the received crankshaft acceleration data and determined characteristic, inhibiting the misfire counter based on the comparison, and operating the engine based on the disabled misfire detection.
US07712356B2 Misfire determination system and method for internal combustion engine, vehicle including misfire determination system for internal combustion engine, and system for and method of estimating rigidity of torsion element
An internal-combustion-engine misfire determination system includes: detection sections that detects the rotational speeds of the output shaft and the downstream shaft; a rigidity estimation section that performs a rigidity estimation process in which frequency components caused by a resonance due to torsion of the torsion element are extracted from the rotational speeds, and the rigidity of the torsion element is estimated based on a value obtained by comparing amplitudes of both of the extracted frequency components and on the detected output shaft rotational speed; a resonance influence component calculation section that calculates a resonance influence component caused by an influence of the resonance on the output shaft rotational speed; and a misfire determination section that determines the occurrence of the misfire in the internal combustion engine based on a rotational speed for determination that is obtained by subtracting the calculated resonance influence component from the output shaft rotational speed.
US07712352B2 Method and apparatus for storage tank leak detection
An intrinsically safe, precise, and cost effective storage tank leak detection system. Embodiments include a highly precise quartz crystal type pressure transducer, secured in a vacuum and held at a constant temperature. Said transducer is used in combination with data correction and regression techniques to yield a storage tank leak detection system with an extremely low leak detection threshold. The storage tank leak detection system is thought to be most useful for detecting very small leaks in very large storage tanks.
US07712344B2 Key-changeable lock
The invention relates to a key-changeable lock including a lock housing and a lock cylinder provided within the lock housing. The lock cylinder includes a shell for the lock cylinder, a locking hole into which a key can be inserted and a locking block mounted on the shell. A sliding block and a toothed piece are provided in the shell. The locking block is abutted against the sliding block. Several toothed slides are slidably provided within the sliding block. The locking block can be located at two working positions. At a first working position, the locking block is not held in the block groove and the teeth of the toothed piece engage with those of the toothed slide. At a second working position, the locking block is held in the block groove and the teeth of the toothed piece disengage from those of the toothed slide.
US07712342B2 Tool operated combination lock
A process for opening a combination lock having a known opening sequence with a tool having a driven portion operable only upon receipt of an authorization, the process including associating the tool's driven portion with the lock such that the driven portion automatically calibrates with the lock irrespective of the initial position of the lock and authorizing the driven portion to proceed through the known lock opening sequence of a predetermined series of clockwise and counterclockwise rotations to unlock the lock. A method of opening a combination lock with a tool, the combination lock having an opening sequence consisting of clockwise and counterclockwise rotations of a non finger manipulable lock opening component, the method including mating the tool with the lock opening component and operating the tool to rotate the lock opening component through a series of clockwise and counterclockwise rotations corresponding to the opening sequence to unlock the lock.
US07712334B2 Method for positioning a glass plate on rollers
There are the steps of conveying a glass plate by a roller conveyor including a plurality of rollers; and moving a roller in contact with the glass plate in conveyance to position the glass plate so as to conform a posture of the glass plate to a reference posture.
US07712330B2 Receiver dryer and receiver dryer integrated condenser
A receiver dryer for storing and drying a refrigerant for an air conditioner is integrally fixed to a condenser to form an assembly. A condenser has refrigerant flow passages, and also has an opening portion for assembling a receiver dryer. In a body of the receiver dryer, a desiccant and members such as a filter are inserted. The refrigerant flows into the receiver dryer from the flow passage through a hole, and flows out to the outflow passage side through a strainer. A ring-shaped protruding portion is formed on the body by bulging, and the body is fixed to the condenser by a C ring.
US07712328B2 Refrigerator and appliance system with ice and water dispensing assemblies accessible from multiple sides
A refrigerator having an ice and beverage dispenser on both the front and the back of the refrigerator improves efficiency and utilization of the refrigerator. Home floor plans include passageways through interior walls whereby a user can access a second dispenser of the kitchen refrigerator from an adjacent room, thus increasing access to the refrigerator.
US07712327B2 Heat exchanger and method for defrosting a heat exchanger
A heat exchanger and method for defrosting a heat exchanger is disclosed and which includes a heat exchanger having a fluid receiving conduit, and at least one space which is defined, at least in part, by the fluid receiving conduit, an expandable and contractible heating element which is received within the space, and which is located in heat transmitting relation relative to the fluid receiving conduit, and a biasing member mounted on the heat exchanger and the heating element and which longitudinally, and resiliently restrains the movement of the heating element relative to the heat exchanger during the expansion and contraction of the heating element relative to the heat exchanger.
US07712325B2 Modular semi-conservative and self-scaling electronics cooling system
A modular electronic cooling system with moving parts, composed of a base unit and individual modules inserted into this base unit in respect to the expected upper limit of the heat load may utilize thermoelectric power generation and the heat load itself to allow for operation independent of any external power source. By the same mechanism the cooling system scales within a range automatically reacting to and dissipating a dynamic heat load via forced convection, and doing so passively, without the need for specific programming. This cooling system uses porous material or multi-layered mesh parts, thermoelectric components, a modular assembly system and independent enclosure parts for described porous material or multi-layered mesh, an electronics control system that may be passively activated, and a motor assembly. Altogether the system provides maximum efficiency in terms of form factor.
US07712321B2 Reversing auger system
A method and apparatus for producing a chilled or partially frozen beverage is provided. The system includes a beverage hopper (32) a chilling unit (44), a rotatable mixing member (38), a sensing member (230) for detecting an occurrence of a rotation reversal condition, a controller for generating a rotation reversal signal in response to the sensing member, and a drive motor (36) coupled to the mixing member for rotating the mixing member in a first direction and a second, reverse direction in response to a rotation reverse signal.
US07712320B2 Compressor operation following sensor failure
A compressor is controlled by generating and storing a compressor operation log. In addition, a compressor operation is selected from the compressor operation log in response to a sensor failure. Furthermore, the compressor is modulated according to the selected compressor operation in response to the sensor failure.
US07712319B2 Refrigerant charge adequacy gauge
A method and apparatus for determining the sufficiency of refrigerant charge in an air conditioning system by the use of only two temperature measurements. The temperature of the liquid refrigerant leaving the condenser coil is sensed and the temperature of the condenser coil itself is sensed and the difference between these two measurements is calculated to provide an indication of the adequacy of refrigerant charge in the system. This process is refined by steps taken to eliminate measurements during transient operations and by filtering signals to eliminate undesirable noise. A permitted threshold of deviation is calculated by using probability theory.
US07712318B2 Cooling apparatus, cooling method, program, computer readable information recording medium and electronic apparatus
A cooling apparatus of supplying driving power to a cooling element from a power supply unit, to drive it, includes a driving power changing part changing a power value of the driving power supplied to said cooling element from the power supply unit, by a predetermined power value at each predetermined time interval.
US07712315B2 Augmentor variable vane flame stabilization
A flameholder for an augmentor rotates about an axis radially positioned with a turbine engine. The flameholder is in a streamlined position when the augmentor is not operating to minimize pressure loss and radar cross-section and a turbulent position when the augmentor is operating. A linkage connects the flameholder to an actuator to control the rotational position of the flameholder on the axis. Bypass airflow from the fan cools the flameholders and linkages. The length of the linkages can be varied from one flameholder to another to create asymmetric heat release within the augmentor to avoid screech.
US07712312B2 Pressure balanced swing valve for engine system
As one example, an apparatus configured to regulate flow in an exhaust passage of an internal combustion engine system is provided. The apparatus comprise a housing disposed within the exhaust passage defining a first region and a second region, where the first region includes a first stopper and a first valve plate, where first stopper completely surrounds first region, and the first valve plate seats on the first stopper to seal first region, and where the second region includes a second stopper and second valve plate, where second stopper completely surrounds the second region, and the second valve plate seats on the second stopper to seal second region, and where the first stopper; a translating mechanism coupled between first and second plates, the mechanism coupling the first and second plates through a set of gears in the housing, such that forces acting to close first plate are translated through mechanism to act to open the second plate, and vice versa; and an actuator to move the translating mechanism, where such movement causes both the first and second plates to rotate concurrently.
US07712306B2 Dynamic control of selective non-catalytic reduction system for semi-batch-fed stoker-based municipal solid waste combustion
The present invention controls reagent flow levels in a selective non-catalytic reduction (SNCR) system by more accurately predicting Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) production with a municipal waste combustor. In one embodiment, the reagent levels correspond with measured furnace temperatures. The reagent levels may have a baseline level from prior measured NOx that is then modified according to temperatures measurements. A slow controller may use NOx measurements over an extended period to define a base regent level, and a fast controller may use additional information such as the furnace temperature to modify the base regent level. The fast controller may further receive two additional signals that are added individually or together to maximize NOx control while minimizing ammonia slip from the reagent. The two signals are a feed-forward signal from the combustion controller and a feedback signal from an ammonia analyzer downstream of the combustion zone.
US07712299B2 Anti-bogdown control system for turbine/compressor systems
An anti-bogdown control system monitors and regulates operation of a turbine and a compressor to prevent underspeed trip of the turbine while avoiding surge of the compressor. A turbine speed controller receives a turbine speed signal and a turbine temperature signal, generates a surge margin setpoint, and regulates overfiring of the turbine. A surge margin controller associated with the compressor receives the surge margin setpoint from the turbine speed controller and receives a load signal from one or more sensors and modulates a compressor throttle valve so that the compressor operates at a surge margin that is approximately equal to the surge margin setpoint. In a system with multiple compressors driven by a single turbine, a surge margin controller is associated with each compressor.
US07712298B1 Chain plate structure
A chain plate structure includes a first outer link plate and a second outer link plate, and each of which includes a first/second through hole, a first/second connection hole, a first/second trough and a first/second engaging trough at two sides of the first/second connection hole. A first/second rib extends from an inner periphery of the first/second engaging trough and at least one first/second protrusion extends from the first/second rib. When the first and second outer link plates are connected to each other, the gap between two adjacent inner link plates of a chain is less than 2.3 mm.
US07712297B1 Hay rake with foldable hay rake arm
A single action hydraulic cylinder is utilized to rise a rake arm from the operating position to the transport position. An elastic mass is provided between the outer body of the hydraulic cylinder and an adjusting device, such as a nut on the stem of the cylinder. When the cylinder is actuated to rise the rake arm, the stem extends out of the cylinder body, thus freeing the elastic mass from the contact with the cylinder outer body. When lowering the rake arm to its operative position, the stem retracts and the elastic mass comes in contact with the cylinder, thereby acting against the retracting action and limiting the downward movement of the rake arm. The elasticity of the elastic mass permits small vertical movements of the rake arm to accommodate unevenness of the ground.
US07712296B2 Systems and methods for harvesting and processing leafy vegetables
An apparatus that moves through fields of leafy vegetables and trims harvested heads of leafy vegetables. The apparatus includes a body and a plurality of supports coupled to the body for movement relative thereto. The supports are configured for supporting pieces of leafy vegetables. The apparatus further includes a plurality of cutters coupled to the body that are arranged serially and a transport system for moving the supports past the cutters. A collector is included for collecting leaves cut from the vegetables.
US07712292B2 Control system for outdoor power equipment
A control system for a BBC on a mower comprises a pivotal bail and a pivotal housing that is linked to the BBC. If a push member on the housing is pushed inwardly from the side of the housing before the bail is pivoted, then a pin moves to a blocking position behind the bail. Subsequent pivoting of the bail will pivot the housing to actuate the BBC. A channel in the housing frictionally grips the bail to prevent rebound of the bail when a spring force resets the housing and the bail to their initial positions after the operator releases the bail. Movement of the push member also closes an interlock switch which will kill operation of the engine if a grass discharge outlet on the mower is uncovered.
US07712289B2 Method for the gastight packaging of objects using a film material fitting tightly on the objects and a device for the gastight packaging of objects
In the case of a method for the gastight packaging of objects using a film material fitting tightly on the objects using a vacuum, the object being placed in a tray and a deep-drawable film being attached to the tray for sealing, it is provided that a tray having at least one peripheral rim is used to form the packaging, the deep-drawable film is cut to the size of the peripheral rim, and that the deep-drawable film is subsequently and/or simultaneously applied to the peripheral rim in a gastight manner.A device preferably for carrying out this method has at least one cutting device for the deep-drawable film.
US07712287B2 Coupon insertion apparatus and method
An apparatus in one embodiment has: a positioning functionality that sequentially locates, at a predefined bight, coupons of a continuous web of coupons; a burst functionality whereby a foremost coupon is separated at the predefined bight from a next coupon of the continuous web of coupons; a staging functionality whereby the separated foremost coupon is moved to a staging position; and an insertion functionality whereby the first coupon is inserted into a container. In another embodiment the first coupon is inserted into a container only after the next coupon is separated from the continuous web. In another embodiment after the second coupon is sensed, the first coupon is burst and inserted into a container.
US07712281B2 Interlocking building block
The present building block has at least one load bearing surface, the load bearing surface of the block having mating interlocking portions comprising cores and protruding interlocks receivable in the cores. The blocks are configured so that each end of a block comprises a half interlock and adjacent ends of a pair of blocks in a course together define an interlock portion that interlocks with a mating full interlock portion carried by a block in an adjacent course of blocks. The basic building block has ends that are oblique such that rows having a preset radius can be formed or such that a linear row can be formed by placing one block front-to-back and an adjacent building block back-to-front. Disclosed are angle blocks with and without splitter wedges, stretcher blocks with and without splitter wedges, blocks for forming corners and posts, cap blocks, and blocks for capping posts.
US07712280B2 Floor panels with edge connectors
Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling.
US07712279B2 Knock-down roof curb
A roof curb is shipped in a disassembled state to an installer who assembles, sizes, locates and configures the curb to accommodate slope on any roof without welding or metal cutting. The curb includes an aluminum walls, each having a channel for receiving the bottom edge of a board, which may be taper cut according to the pitch of the roof to provide a level surface for supporting an appliance. Methods of making and installing the roof curb also are disclosed.
US07712274B2 Downwardly accessible lift-and-shift ceiling system
A suspended ceiling system comprising grid runners and downwardly accessible generally planar tiles mounted on the grid runners, peripheral tile edges having portions extending horizontally underneath an adjacent grid runner, opposed tile edges having a downwardly facing support surface, said opposed edges having a generally vertical abutment surface above its support surface and resting on an adjacent horizontal flange portion of a grid runner, the runners having locating surfaces of limited height above said flange portions and engageable with the abutment surfaces, the runners and tiles being arranged to permit one of the opposed tile edges to be lifted so that its abutment surface can be raised and thereafter be shifted towards the runner adjacent the lifted edge a distance sufficient to allow the opposite edge to drop below the flange portion of its associated runner.
US07712272B2 Symmetrical load transfer device for insulated concrete sandwich wall panels
A symmetrical load transfer device for use in insulated concrete wall panels. The symmetrical shape allows for forces induced in manufacturing, transportation, installation and nature to transfer through the device equally to both concrete wythes of the wall panel. The load transfer device is preferably made of a thermoplastic or thermoset resin matrix incorporating continuous filaments, such as glass rovings. The low thermal conductivity of the matrix of filaments and resins greatly reduce thermal bridging of the insulation layer while maintaining structural integrity of the wall panel.
US07712268B1 Screen-type storm barrier and wind abatement system
A screen-type wind abatement system is provided for protecting openings, such as window and door openings, in buildings and other structures. Both openable and non-openable systems are disclosed. A openable system includes a first frame member anchored to the structure wall, a second frame member pivotally connected to the first frame member and having a screen mounting portion for receiving an edge of a screen and a retainer, and a snap-lock mechanism for removably connecting the first and second frame members, whereby the screen is sandwiched between the second frame and the retainer in covering relation with a window or door opening. The assembly is of heavy-duty construction to resist high impact forces caused by hurricane force winds and accompanying flying debris. The snap-lock mechanism allows for quick and simple installation and removal the second frame member. A fixed system is disclosed for non-openable installations.
US07712267B2 Self centering shaft wall system
A J-runner, used in the construction of shaft walls in buildings is provided with a lifting element or ledge or both to permit simple centering of studs or shaft walls or both. By providing a lifting member in a lower J-runner, the studs or shaft walls or both can rest upon the lifting member to assist in vertically centering the studs or shaft walls or both when the shaft is fully constructed.
US07712264B2 Extendable aerial service wire mast
An apparatus for supporting an aerial service wire includes a mast capable of attachment to an aerial service wire. The mast may be extendable between at least a first position and a second position and connected to a clamp capable of attachment to a support structure. A method for supporting an aerial service wire includes attaching an extendable aerial service wire mast to a support structure, attaching an aerial wire to the extendable aerial service wire mast, and adjusting the height of the extendable aerial service wire mast.
US07712259B1 Sump cover system for underground liquid storage tanks
A quick, field installed sump cover system for below ground sumps includes a support ring, a seal between the ring and sump upper lip, preferably two compression brackets each having two spaced regions extending under riser parts, at least one elongated member coupled between the support ring and compression brackets for selectively applying tension forces therebetween causing the bracket regions to engage the riser parts and the support ring to compresses the sealing member to form liquid-tight seal with the sump lip. The sump top can be closed by a dome-cover removably coupled to the support ring. The elongated members can include chain-like members with tensioning devices that, in field installations, can accommodate various sump sizes.
US07712253B2 Fluid and nutrient delivery system and associated methods
A system and method for efficiently delivering an aqueous solution to plants includes a microporous hydrophobic tubing coated with a hydrophilic polymer that has a distal portion positionable adjacent a root system of a plant and a lumen for channeling an aqueous solution from an inlet to the distal portion. The tubing along the distal portion has a porosity adapted for permitting a flow of the aqueous solution therethrough when acted upon by a surfactant root exudate generated by the roots due to water stress. A reservoir is adapted for holding the aqueous solution therein and is situated in fluid communication with the hydrophilic device's inlet. Additional tubing can be provided for channeling a nutrient solution to the plant roots.
US07712252B2 Method of manufacturing a growth substrate
The invention relates to a method of manufacturing a culture medium on which plants can be grown. This method is characterized by a) mixing I: a particulate base material, chosen from at least one of organic and inorganic materials, with II: a thermoplastic biologically degradable binding agent, b) heating at least the binding agent in order to at least partly fluidize it, c) cooling the mixture so as to substantially solidify the binding agent and whereby at least a part of the base material becomes bonded by means of the binding agent. The method according to the invention provides an environmentally safe and plant-friendly culture medium that is biologically degradable and retains its shape well.
US07712250B2 Method for cultivating seaweed having adherence
A wild seaweed, like sea lettuce, is picked and germ cells are released from the seaweed. The germ cells then obtain adherence and are sprouted into youngs of the seaweed so that the seaweed can be cultivated artificially and productively and can be supplied as a material for biomass energy.
US07712248B2 Insect attractant releasing device
A device for uniform emission of a composition having at least one volatile liquid attractant. It is especially useful in traps to improve the monitoring of pest insect populations and/or for mass trapping of insects.
US07712246B2 Vertical rodent trap
The vertical rodent trap provides a rodent trap that is oriented in a substantially vertical direction and spaced apart from a support surface, thus requiring a rodent to achieve a substantially vertical position in order to attempt to remove bait therefrom. This vertical position of the rodent is optimal for capture and killing thereof. The vertical rodent trap includes a conventional rodent trap that is vertically spaced apart from a horizontal support surface, such as the ground. A base, adapted for being horizontally mounted on the horizontal support surface, is further provided, and the lower end of a rod is secured to the base. The rod projects upwardly from the base and supports the conventional rodent trap, both spacing the rodent trap from the base and vertically orienting the rodent trap. Preferably, steel wool is secured to a bait-receiving member of the rodent trap for retaining bait thereto.
US07712245B1 Fishing lure having a composite weight
A fishing lure includes a substantially hollow body with a composite weight pivotally positioned therein for generating a sound to attract fish to the fishing lure when it is retrieved in water. The body includes two side walls having a forward end and a rearward end. The side walls define at least two chambers within the body that are separated by an interior partition. The weight includes a tungsten knocking member cylindrical head member and a foot, with a lead base member substantially surrounding the foot. The weight has at least three sides, with one of the sides providing a base rocking surface that is opposite the tungsten knocking member. The composite weight is pivotally positioned on the base rocking surface in one of the hollow regions, such that when the fishing lure is retrieved in water, the weight will pivot from side to side within the body so that the tungsten knocker member intermittently engages the side walls to generate the desired sound and vibration to attract fish.
US07712242B2 Rail clamp mount
A rail clamp mount that may be quickly and easily firmly secured to a rail, such as a rail carried by a gun, and that may be quickly and easily released from the rail. A preferred embodiment comprises a mount base including a first rail-engaging surface; a generally U-shaped, somewhat elastic clamping member carried by the mount base and including two second rail-engaging surfaces at the ends of the legs of the U, and a third second rail-engaging surface at the end of the center section of the clamping member between the legs of the U, the second rail-engaging surfaces being opposed to and transversely spaced from the first rail-engaging surface; a cam mechanism mounting the clamping member to the mount base for imparting transverse movement to the clamping member when actuated; and an actuator for the cam mechanism including a throw handle.
US07712237B2 Clamp identification marker
A hose clamp identification marker for selectively identifying contents of a flexible hose. The hose clamp identification marker may be implemented in connection with a hose clamp and may comprise an open channel configured to straddle a hose. In this manner, the hose clamp identification marker of the present invention may be introduced to and removed from the hose clamp without disrupting continuity of treatment or requiring disassembly of the connection between the hose and a delivery device, such as a hollow needle.
US07712236B2 Apparatus and method for releasably holding fabric in place on an ironing board or the like
An apparatus and method to quickly, easily and temporarily secure fabric to an ironing board or the like to facilitate the removal of hair, lint, or other particulate matter which is adhered to the surface of the fabric. The fabric to be cleaned is positioned on an ironing board in the same manner as placing the fabric on the board for ironing. A pressure applying member is placed over the fabric to be cleaned, most commonly near the longitudinal end of the fabric. Each end of the pressure applying member is connected to a tension mechanism such as a spring or elastomeric cord. The other end of the tension mechanism is connected, in turn, to a connecting means such as a J-hook. When the connecting means are hooked over the far and near edges of the ironing board, the tension mechanism is pulled taut, forcing the pressure member down with sufficient force to hold the fabric in place against the pull of a vacuum or lint brush.
US07712234B2 Trench wall ripper apparatus
An apparatus coupled to an excavation bucket for creating a trench sidewall having indentations formed therein.
US07712230B2 Footwear upper with flexible collar assembly
A footwear upper having a collar assembly that is joined at its forward edge to the lower portion of the upper by a flexible region of material so that the collar may flex forward and rearward in relation to the lower portion of the upper. In one aspect of the invention, the upper includes a neck portion that is telescopically overlapped by the collar. In another aspect, the upper includes a gusset that extends between the lower portion and the collar, with at least a portion of the gusset being substantially hidden from view.
US07712227B2 Carriage arrangement for a machine tool
An actuation device driven by the adjusting motion of a first carriage is provided and, because of the adjusting motion of the first carriage from the first position into the second position, the adjusting motion of a second carriage can be driven from the measurement point to the rest position, and because of the adjusting motion of the first carriage from the second position into the first position, the adjusting motion of the second carriage can be driven from the rest position to the measurement point.
US07712223B2 Apparatus for azimuth measurements using gyro sensors
An apparatus for azimuth measurements comprises an elongated housing, a plurality of gyro sensors, each of the gyro sensors having an input axis for angular velocity measurements, spherical sensor holders arranged along the longitudinal direction of the housing, at least one motor for driving the sensor holders, a transmission mechanism for transmitting a rotation force from the motor to each of the sensor holders and a controller for controlling a rotation of the motor. Each of the sensor holders has one of the gyro sensors and is rotatable about a rotation axis so as to change the orientation of the input axis of the gyro sensor.
US07712220B2 Method of a double starwheel unit in multiple rows with a multi-hole manner, an instrument and the like
A method of a double starwheel unit in multiple rows with a multi-hole manner, an instrument and the like are disclosed. The double starwheel unit has a sleeve and two starwheel parallel-arranged and connecting the sleeve. The instrument has a plate-like assembly fixture and an orientation mechanism. The plate-like assembly fixture has a plurality of strip-like tools. The method combines the strip-like tools with the plate-like assembly fixture and a plurality of module holes, presses an exterior mold on the starwheel onto upper and lower surfaces of the plate-like assembly fixture, and injects a working fluid to shape the double starwheel units. The strip-like tools are engaged or disengaged by the orientation mechanism.
US07712217B2 Method for disassembling a transmission valve body assembly
An improved system and method for disassembling the valve body assembly of a motor vehicle transmission. Air automatically ejects the internal components of a valve body assembly sub-assembly, thereby eliminating the need for an operator to manually “beat” the sub-assembly to remove said internal components. The process of separating the upper and lower sub-assembly, and of pre-washing the sub-assembly, remain the same as in the prior art. As before, the operator manually removes the valve retainers and plugs in each sub-assembly. The operator then loads either sub-assembly onto tooling specifically designed for that sub-assembly (either upper or lower). Once started, the tooling begins an automated, pre-programmed sequence of (1) clamping the sub-assembly, (2) injecting air into specific valve ports to eject internal components causing them to be automatically ejected into parts bins specified for each valve port, and (3) releasing the sub-assembly that no longer contains any internal parts.
US07712214B2 Method of assembling a patch cord having a threaded connector
A patch cord including a connector attached to an end of a multi-pair cable. The connector including a threaded arrangement that engages a jacket of the multi-pair cable to secure the connector relative to the end of the multi-pair cable.
US07712213B2 Angular encapsulation of tandem stacked printed circuit boards
A method is provided for making an encapsulated stack of circuit boards. The method includes assembling the stack of circuit boards from a plurality of circuit boards, the circuit boards being spaced apart from each other; inserting the stack into an internal volume of a shell, the shell having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, an input orifice adjacent the first end, and an output orifice adjacent the second end and on a side opposite the input orifice; positioning the shell such that the input orifice is at a lowest point of any part of the internal volume of the shell, and such that the output orifice is at a highest point of any part of the internal volume of the shell; angling the shell relative to horizontal; and injecting an encapsulating compound into the input orifice to fill the internal volume of the shell with the encapsulating compound.
US07712211B2 Method for packaging circuits and packaged circuits
A method for packaging integrated circuit chips (die) is described that includes providing a base substrate with package level contacts, coating a base substrate with adhesive, placing dies on the adhesive, electrically connecting the die to the package level contacts, and removing the backside of the base substrate to expose the backside of the package level contacts. Accordingly, an essentially true chip scale package is formed. Multi-chip modules are formed by filling gaps between the chips with an encapsulant. In an embodiment, chips are interconnected by electrical connections between package level contacts in the base substrate. In an embodiment, substrates each having chips are adhered back-to-back with through vias formed in aligned saw streets to interconnect the back-to-back chip assembly.
US07712210B2 Method of providing a printed circuit board with an edge connection portion
A method of making a printed circuit board in which at least two circuitized substrates are aligned and bonded together (e.g., using lamination). A gasket is provided on one of these and a facing circuitized portion on the other. The gasket forms an effective seal about the circuitized portion to prevent heated dielectric material from contacting the circuitry. After bonding, parts of the bonded structure, including the gasket, are removed to leave a projecting edge portion having circuitry thereon. This edge portion is then adapted for being positioned within an edge connector.
US07712209B2 Magnetic rivet retention system for a rivet gun
A magnetic rivet retention system for a rivet gun, wherein a magnet is provided in a frame that is engageable with a powered handle. The magnet attracts a rivet and aligns the rivet relative to a punch and die of the rivet gun. The magnet is disposed in an internal chamber in a front bushing. The front bushing is threadably engaged with a back bushing, and both are disposed in a chamber which is provided in a C-frame. A compression spring is also disposed in the C-frame, thereby providing that the rivet gun is spring return.
US07712206B2 Method for manufacturing a magnetic write head having a trailing shield with an accurately controlled trailing shield gap thickness
A method for constructing a magnetic write head for use in perpendicular magnetic recording, the write head having a write pole with a trailing shield. After forming a magnetic write pole such as by masking and ion milling a magnetic write pole layer, a thin layer of alumina is deposited. This is followed by the deposition of a thin layer of Rh. Then, a thick layer of alumina is deposited, having a thickness that is preferably at least equal to the height of the write pole layer. A chemical mechanical polish is then performed until a portion of the Rh layer over the top (trailing edge) of the write pole is exposed. A material removal process such as ion milling is then performed to remove the exposed Rh layer exposing the thin alumina layer there beneath. Since the Rh trailing gap layer is electrically conductive it can also serve as a seed layer for electroplating the magnetic trailing shield.
US07712205B2 Method of manufacturing a magnetic head
In a magnetic head manufacturing method, a floated surface of each block having plural magnetic head elements formed and arranged on a substrate is ground and lapped in a grinding/lapping step. The grinding/lapping step contains an angle adjusting step for adjusting the angle of the floated surface of the block with reference to a magnetic-head-element formed surface of a substrate and grinding the floated surface concerned, and a finishing lapping step of lapping the floated surface at an angle adjusted in the angle adjusting step.
US07712204B2 Manufacturing method of a thin-film magnetic head
A manufacturing method of a thin-film head includes the steps of, laminating and patterning a soft magnetic layer with iron alloy that contains silicon and aluminum through a base layer on a substrate; laminating an insulating layer on the patterned soft magnetic layer; performing a chemical-mechanical polishing of a surface of the laminated insulating layer and the patterned soft magnetic layer with a first acid slurry; forming a lower shield layer by a mechanical polishing with a second weak acid, or neutral slurry with a pH different from that of the first slurry; and forming a lower shield gap layer and a magnetoresistive effect layer on the lower shield layer.
US07712203B2 Method of manufacturing a sensor apparatus
A sensor apparatus and a method of manufacturing the same are disclosed. The sensor apparatus includes: a sensor chip; a housing receiving the sensor chip; an electric conductive member connected with a terminal of the sensor chip; and a molded member covering a covered portion including a connection portion where the terminal and the electric conductive member are connected. The sensor chip is bonded to a bonding member of the housing via an adhesive member. A surface of the housing, a surface of the adhesive member, and a front surface of the sensor chip are in the same plane at a boundary part of the covered portion.
US07712202B2 Retort basket securing system
A system for securing a basket containing product securely within an autoclave or retort. The preferred embodiment of the present invention is used with rotational retorts, which generally include a rotational insert for receiving product-loaded baskets, the rotational insert rotated via a drive to rotate the baskets end over end during the autoclave process, for more efficient heat transfer. The present invention contemplates an improvement for securing the baskets within the retort, to facilitate secure rotation of the baskets and their contents, and prevent shifting of the baskets within the retort during rotation. Particularly, the preferred embodiment of the present invention contemplates the use of one or more lift bladders sandwiched between clamping platens situated along the length of the rotational insert, the lift bladders configured to expand to lift and position the baskets into a securing position for rotation, then deflate to release the baskets after processing for removal.
US07712200B2 Method for restraining a prisoner
A prisoner seat security device includes a retractable strap which hooks or clasps onto a prisoner, preferably by a restraint device on the prisoner, such as hand-cuffs. As the prison seats in the seat, the strap retracts. The officer can then lock the retraction mechanism so that the strap will not extend and the prisoner is held in place. When it is desired for the prisoner to get out of the chair, the lock is released, allowing the prisoner to stand the strap to be disconnected.
US07712197B2 Method and apparatus for crimping a multifilament thread
A method and an apparatus involves crimping a multifilament thread, wherein the thread which is produced by melt spinning is compressed to a thread plug. The thread plug is cast on the circumference of rotating processing drum for thermal treatment and is wrapped around the circumference of the processing drum with many side-by-side wraparounds. Following that, the thread plug is unravelled in an unravelling area on the circumference of the processing drum into the crimped thread which is pulled of the processing drum. To obtain a continuous and regular unravelling of the thread plug with multiple wraparounds and mutual touching of the wraparounds of the thread plug, the thread is guided at a slant from the unravelling area of the thread plug such that a growing axial space appears between the thread and the thread plug, on the circumference of the processing drum, during increasing wraparounds of the thread on the circumference of the processing drum.
US07712195B1 Flat, folded bungee cord anchored in molded base
A transverse pin (17) passes through an end loop (46) in a folded, multi-core (43) or single core (69), flat bungee cord (43, 69) to anchor the bungee cord within a molded base (49). The pin extends past the end loop of the bungee cord so as to restrain longitudinal movement thereof. The pin and end loop are molded into the base. The pin may comprise a transverse portion of a wire (19) forming a hook (25).
US07712187B2 Hinge assembly and display monitor with the same
A hinge assembly for use in a flat display monitor includes a support member, a rotational base and a pivot mechanism for rotatably connecting the rotational base to the support member. The support member includes two first sidewalls, a first resisting surface and a second resisting surface. Each first sidewall defines a pivoting hole. The pivot mechanism includes a pivotal shaft, a limiting washer and a fixing element. The pivotal shaft includes a shaft portion running through the pivoting bole. The pivotal shaft is non-rotatable relative to the support member. The limiting washer includes a first restricting surface and a second restricting surface. The limiting washer is non-rotatable relative to the rotational base with the first restricting surface and the second restricting surface configured for resisting the first resisting surface and the second resisting surface respectively.
US07712182B2 Air flow-producing device, such as a vacuum cleaner or a blower
Electrical components and vacuums. In some aspects, the invention provides an electrical component including a housing defining a passageway, a motor supported by the housing, the motor being selectively electrically connectable with a power source, a fan connected to the motor and operable to generate an airflow through the passageway, an electrical circuit supported by the housing, the electrical circuit being selectively electrically connectable with the power source, and a power-tool battery electrically connectable with the electrical circuit such that power is selectively transferred between the battery and the electrical circuit, the battery being connectable to the housing. In some aspects, the invention provides a vacuum.
US07712181B2 Hopper opening mechanism
A hopper opening mechanism for a hopper in a suction sweeping machine, the opening mechanism comprising an actuator mechanism for opening the hopper for cleaning of the hopper, wherein the actuator mechanism rotates a lid or door of the hopper and a base of or a mesh screen for a cyclone unit for cleaning of otherwise inaccessible surfaces of the machine. A tipping mechanism for the hopper inverts and raises the hopper for tipping out the contents of the hopper At the same time, the door and mesh screen are opened for facilitating the cleaning of the inside of the hopper.
US07712179B2 Convenient ticket scraper
A convenient ticket scraper is comfortable for use in scraping various surfaces and consists of a main body with a guitar pick shape and an arcuate protruding blade. The main body has a banana shaped key ring hole in one end and the arcuate protruding blade with the thickness of a coin in the other end. There is an even beveled area covered by rubber on each side of the main body for a thumb and a forefinger. An appealing version of this scraper is also disclosed.
US07712176B2 Styling brush
A hairbrush for detangling, smoothing, shaping and drying of hair and designed for improving efficiency of a conventional air blow dryer. At least one channel in the head of the brush includes an inlet that is shaped for receiving preferably heated air from a blow dryer and directing the air to exit from an outlet of the channel in an approximately reverse direction closely adjacent to the inlet thereby concentrating the drying action of the heated air.
US07712172B2 Apparatus and method of providing adjustable support and massage to a sleep system
A method and apparatus for a sleep system is provided. More specifically, the invention provides a method and apparatus for an adjustable mattress that allows the user to increase or decrease the firmness of the mattress. Furthermore, the adjustable mattress has zones of adjustability thereby allowing two users to adjust the firmness of the mattress of each user's zone. The adjustable mattress is also multimodal. The motorized foundation contains adjustable massaging units that may be used for physical therapy and relaxation. Likewise, the motorized foundation may be used in relax mode to assist in obtaining sleep and awaken mode to gently awake the user by the stimulation of the adjustable mattress.
US07712170B2 Single patient, personal use air mattress having a single perimeter seam
A single patient, personal use patient transfer mattress is provided including at least a substantially permanently stainable top sheet having a width, a length, and longitudinally oriented peripheral edges and a bottom sheet having the same width, the same length, longitudinally oriented peripheral edges and a plurality of perforations. The longitudinally oriented peripheral edges of the top and bottom sheets are sealingly fastened to one another. A plurality of baffles, each having a width and a length, are attached to an inner surface of the top sheet and an inner surface of the bottom sheet so as to be transversely oriented between the top sheet and the bottom. The baffles along with the widths of the top and bottom sheets define a radially-outwardly curved perimeter wall that is disposed between an edge of the baffles and the sealed peripheral edges of the top and bottom sheets. The radially-outwardly curved perimeter wall has a width y that is determined by the following relationship: d ⁢ ⁢ π - x 2 ≤ y where d comprises a height of the longitudinally extensive pontoon and x comprises the width of the baffles.
US07712167B2 Patient bed with a retractable side barrier
A bed with a movable side barrier comprising a main barrier element and a bottom extender is disclosed. The main barrier element is associated with a deformable parallelogram mechanism hinged to a frame of the bed, said mechanism includes a deployment bar hinged between two parallel arms, and the bottom extender is attached to the deployment bar via a horizontally-sliding connection and is constrained to slide along vertical guide means carried by the main barrier element.
US07712165B2 Bed with a retractable side barrier
A bed has a retractable barrier combining vertical movement and transverse movement. The barrier comprises two parallel arms forming portions of a deformable parallelogram system, and each arm is attached the frame by a two-element telescopic mechanism comprising an inner element and an outer element that are constrained relative to each other by a shape connection suitable for varying the transverse position of the barrier element while it is being moved vertically.
US07712164B2 Method and apparatus for improving air flow under a patient
An overlay for a patient support is provided. The overlay is coupled to an air supply and includes an air permeable three-dimensional fiber network. The overlay is integrated into or coupled to the patient support in some embodiments.
US07712152B2 Breast exposed under garment
A garment includes a body portion having a neck opening and a pair of arm openings formed therethrough. First and second breast exposing openings are formed through the body portion that are adapted to encircle and completely expose the breasts of the wearer. Thus, the body portion is free from any type of obstructive covering over the first and second breast exposing openings. The body portion may be formed from a single tube-shaped piece of material or it may be formed from a plurality of pieces of material. If desired, a bodice portion may extend from body portion. The body portion and the bodice portion may be formed from a single tube-shaped piece of material or from a plurality of pieces of material. The first and second breast exposing openings may have respective aesthetic decorations, such as decorative flower petals, provided thereabout.
US07712151B2 Inflatable protective enclosure
An apparatus and method allows for the construction of an inflatable, protective enclosure that provides a temporary, contaminant free environment for one or more individuals. The approach results in a protective suit and/or enclosure that is inexpensive, compactly stored and light-weight, yet provides a reliable source of filtered, contaminant-free air as well as upper-body and/or full-body protection for one or more persons. The protective suits/enclosures described produce an over pressure environment within the protective enclosure so that a positive flow of filtered air is maintained between the interior of the suit or enclosure and the outside environment, thus assuring that no contaminants may seep into the protected, contaminant free interior. The protective enclosures protect individuals from contact with and inhalation of noxious chemicals, inorganic and organic dust and particles, as well as radioactive particles that would ordinarily be associated with industrial emergencies and/or an intentional terrorist attack.
US07712149B2 Protective article of outer clothing
A protective article of outer-clothing (1,5) characterized in that the article: a) does not enshroud the head of the wearer; b} is not equipped with means for sensing and processing any electrical variations that the wearer's body produces; and c) incorporates an electricity conductive layer (12,14,16,17) which is selected to be of sufficiently low resistance that if, in use, prongs of a so-called stun gun are pressed against the article of clothing or located in proximity to the article and the gun is fired, the conductive layer (12,14,16,17) electrically interferes with the charge applied between the gun's prongs.