Document Document Title
US07736788B2 Pattern molding of polymeric flow channels for micro fuel cells
The invention relates to a method for large scale manufacturing of polymeric micro fuel cells using a metallic mold. The method includes creating a Gaussian-shaped channel on a first substrate using a laser; sputtering a metallic seed layer over the first substrate using a first metal; electroplating a second metal over the seed layer to create a negative mold; releasing the negative mold from the first substrate; fabricating a plurality of second substrates, each having a Gaussian-shaped channel, and using the negative mold to fabricate multiple fuel cells. The method provides lower cost and greater flexibility as compared with conventional ablation and etching processes of manufacturing of polymeric micro fuel cells.
US07736787B2 Ceramic membranes with integral seals and support, and electrochemical cells and electrochemical cell stacks including the same
Ceramic membranes with integral seals and support, and related electrochemical cells and cell stacks. The membrane comprises a thin electrolyte layer supported on a porous electrode layer which in turn is supported on a thick ceramic support layer, preferably a ceramic electrolyte support. The support layer is divided into a plurality of self-supporting thin membrane regions by a network of thicker integrated support ribs. The thin electrolyte layer and thick ceramic support layer preferably define a sealing perimeter surrounding the porous electrode layer.
US07736780B2 Fuel cell membrane containing zirconium phosphate
The present invention provides for a compound having the following structure: Zr(O3PZqYnX)2-m(03PR)m, wherein X=a functional group such as CO2H, PO(OH)2, and SO3H, and SO2NHSO2W, wherein W=aryl of 6 to 10 carbon atoms or Y; Y=perfluoro-linear, branched or cyclic alkylene group, wherein the alkylene is 1-20 carbon atoms, or a fluorinated group containing at least one substituent selected from the group consisting of oxygen, chlorine and bromine; Z=alkylene of 1-12 carbon atoms, aryl of 6-10 carbon atoms, or a heterocyclic aryl group of 3-10 carbons atoms; R=alkyl of 1-12 carbon atoms, aryl of 6-10 carbon atoms, substituted alkyl, or substituted aryl, wherein the substituent is selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, perfluoroalkyl, alkyl of 1-12 carbon atoms and aryl of 6-10 carbon atoms; n=0 or 1; q=0 or 1; and m=0 to 1.5; with the proviso that when n=0, and q=1, Z=at least one heterocyclic group having 3 to 10 carbon atoms, 1 to 5 nitrogen atoms and 0 to 4 oxygen atoms. The invention also provides a polymer electrolyte membrane, a catalyst coated membrane and a fuel cell having this compound.
US07736779B2 Proton-conducting polymer membrane containing polyazole blends, and application thereof in fuel cells
The present invention relates to a proton-conducting polymer membrane which comprises polyazole blends and is obtainable by a process comprising the steps A) preparation of a mixture comprising polyphosphoric acid, at least one polyazole (polymer A) and/or one or more compounds which are suitable for forming polyazoles under the action of heat according to step B), B) heating of the mixture obtainable according to step A) under inert gas to temperatures of up to 400° C., C) application of a layer using the mixture from step A) and/or B) to a support, D) treatment of the membrane formed in step C) until it is self-supporting, wherein at least one further polymer (polymer B) which is not a polyazole is added to the composition obtainable according to step A) and/or step B) and the weight ratio of polyazole to polymer B is in the range from 0.1 to 50.
US07736778B2 Proton conducting polymer membrane comprising phosphonic acid groups containing polyazoles and the use thereof in fuel cells
A proton-conducting polymer membrane comprising polyazoles containing phosphonic acid groups is obtainable by a process comprising: A) mixing one or more aromatic or heteroaromatic tetraamino compounds with one or more aromatic or heteroaromatic carboxylic acids or derivatives thereof which contain at least two acid groups per carboxylic acid monomer, with at least part of the tetraamino compounds or the carboxylic acids comprising at least one phosphonic acid group, or mixing of one or more aromatic or heteroaromatic diaminocarboxylic acids, of which at least part comprises phosphonic acid groups, in polyphosphoric acid to form a solution or dispersion; B) optionally heating the solution or dispersion obtained by step A) under inert gas to temperatures of up to 350° C. to form polyazole polymers; C) applying a layer using the mixture from step A) or B) to a support, thus forming a membrane, and D) partially hydrolyzing the polyphosphoric acid moieties of the membrane from step C) until it is self-supporting.
US07736773B2 Dual power supply for electronic devices
A dual power supply assembly for providing power to an electrical device includes a fuel cell and a battery in electrical communication with the fuel cell. The fuel cell and the battery act in tandem to supply power to the electrical device. Either the fuel cell of the battery may be removed from the dual power supply assembly without interrupting the continuous operation of the electrical device.
US07736771B2 Apparatus and method for generating and using multi-direction DC and AC electrical currents
Multi-directional currents are generated in a medium by cyclically reversing the direction of a conventional current applied to at least one of at least two electrodes so that an electromotive force (EMF) pulse travels from side of the electrode to the other, changing the direction of current in the medium. The multi-directional currents may be used to accelerate electrolytic processes such as generation of hydrogen by water electrolysis, to sterilize water for drinking, to supply charging current to a battery or capacitor, including a capacitive thrust module, in a way that extends the life and/or improves the performance of the battery or capacitor, to increase the range of an electromagnetic projectile launcher, and to increase the light output of a cold cathode light tube, to name just a few of the potential applications for the multi-directional currents.
US07736764B2 Surface enhancing coating for gypsum-containing floor underlayments
A coating for preparing a floor underlayment to receive an adhesive includes a water-soluble, latex polymer, a defoamer and a dual-function surface enhancing agent. The surface enhancing agent includes a set accelerator that also functions to cross link the adhesive, hardening the surface of the underlayment using at least two mechanisms. One embodiment of the invention is a dry mixture that forms a coating when added to water. The dry mixture includes from about 10% to about 50% of the redispersible polymer by weight based on the mixture, from about 50% to about 90% of the surface enhancing agent and from about 0.15% to about 0.25% of the defoamer by weight based on the mixture. Other embodiments describe a liquid coating formed by adding from about 1 to about 8 parts water to 1 part of the dry mixture by volume based on the mixture.
US07736761B2 Buffer layer for thin film structures
A composite structure including a base substrate and a layer of a mixture of strontium titanate and strontium ruthenate is provided. A superconducting article can include a composite structure including an outermost layer of magnesium oxide, a buffer layer of strontium titanate or a mixture of strontium titanate and strontium ruthenate and a top-layer of a superconducting material such as YBCO upon the buffer layer.
US07736759B2 Yttria-stabilized zirconia coating with a molten silicate resistant outer layer
A turbine engine component is provided which has a substrate, a yttria-stabilized zirconia coating applied over the substrate, and a molten silicate resistant outer layer. The molten silicate resistant outer layer is formed from gadolinia or gadolinia-stabilized zirconia. A method for forming the coating system of the present invention is described.
US07736757B2 Light emitting material and organic light-emitting device
A polymer light emitting material, wherein the material has a light emitting mechanism based on transition from an excited triplet state to a ground state or transition through an excited triplet state to a ground state of an electron energy level, and the material comprises a nonionic light emitting part which constitutes a part of the polymer or is bound to the polymer. The polymer light emitting material exhibits high light emission efficiency above 5%, which is the limit of external quantum efficiency of fluorescence and can be designed so as to have a large area and hence are suitable for mass production of organic light emitting devices.
US07736756B2 Light emitting device containing phosphorescent complex
An OLED device comprises a cathode, an anode, and has therebetween a light emitting layer comprising a phosphorescent emitter represented by Formula (I): LnM  (I) wherein each L is a cyclometallated ligand with at least one containing a coumarin group, M is Ir or Pt, and n is 3 when M is Ir and 2 when M is Pt. The invention also comprised the compound of formula (I).
US07736754B2 Display device
In a stacked display device with light-emitting units composed of organic layers and stacked together, the use of a stable material in at least a portion of a charge generation layer makes it possible to achieve improvements in environmental stability and also to attain an improvement in the efficiency of injection of charges from the charge generation layer into the light-emitting units. The display device can be readily fabricated. In a display device (11) provided with a plurality of light-emitting units (14-1)(14-2), each of which includes at least an organic light-emitting layer (14c), stacked together between a cathode (16) and an anode (13), and also with a charge generation layer (15) held between the respective light-emitting units (14-1)(14-2), at least a portion of the charge generation layer (15) is composed of an oxide or fluoride which contains at least one of alkali metals and alkaline earth metals.
US07736752B2 Pt/Pd alloy wires, strips or reshaped parts hardened by oxide dispersion, and process of producing the same
A wire, strip or reshaped part is produced from an alloy based on platinum, palladium or a mixture of platinum and palladium and hardened by oxide dispersion. The wire, strip or reshaped part cross-section exhibits a peripheral zone in which at least one relatively easily volatilized oxide generator is depleted by at least 25%. In addition, a process is provided for production of such a wire, strip or reshaped part, in which a porous skin is produced thermally on the wire, strip or reshaped part, and the porous skin is compacted by conversion into a soft or impermeable skin.
US07736751B2 Coating for components requiring hydrogen peroxide compatibility
The present invention provides a heretofore-unknown use for zirconium nitride as a hydrogen peroxide compatible protective coating that was discovered to be useful to protect components that catalyze the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide or corrode when exposed to hydrogen peroxide. A zirconium nitride coating of the invention may be applied to a variety of substrates (e.g., metals) using art-recognized techniques, such as plasma vapor deposition. The present invention further provides components and articles of manufacture having hydrogen peroxide compatibility, particularly components for use in aerospace and industrial manufacturing applications. The zirconium nitride barrier coating of the invention provides protection from corrosion by reaction with hydrogen peroxide, as well as prevention of hydrogen peroxide decomposition.
US07736750B2 Coated non-metallic sheet having a brushed metal appearance, and coatings for and method of making same
An article includes a substrate, e.g. a glass sheet having a first major surface and an opposite second major surface having a textured surface to provide a predetermined pattern on the second surface of the substrate, and an overlay, e.g. a coating over the pattern. The percent of visible light transmittance, and percent visible light reflectance, of the substrate and the overlay is selected such that the pattern is visible when the article is viewed through one of the surfaces of the substrate or overlay. In one non-limiting embodiment, the substrate is glass and the article has a metallic appearance. In another non-limiting embodiment, the overlay is a transparent coating deposited on the second surface of the glass sheet into grooves of the pattern. Other non-limiting embodiments include the substrate having a Delta % haze of greater than 15%, and a protective overcoat over the coating.
US07736747B2 Silicon parts joined by a silicon layer preferably plasma sprayed
A method of joining two silicon members and the bonded assembly in which the members are assembled to place them into alignment across a seam. Silicon derived from silicon powder is plasma sprayed across the seam and forms a silicon coating that bonds to the silicon members on each side of the seam to thereby bond together the members. The plasma sprayed silicon may seal an underlying bond of spin-on glass or may act as the primary bond, in which case through mortise holes are preferred so that two layers of silicon are plasma sprayed on opposing ends of the mortise holes. A silicon wafer tower or boat may be the final product. The method may be used to form a ring or a tube from segments or staves arranged in a circle. Plasma spraying silicon may repair a crack or chip formed in a silicon member.
US07736746B2 Glazing
A glazing suitable for undergoing a thermal treatment such as toughening or bending, comprising a multilayered coating deposited on a glass sheet, and also to a toughened and/or bent glazing and a multiple glazing comprising such a toughened and/or bent glazing. The multilayered coating includes: a) a zinc-tin mixed oxide containing at least 12% tin, b) a first silver-based infrared reflecting layer, d) a dielectric, e) a second silver-based infrared reflecting layer, g) a zinc-tin mixed oxide containing at least 12% tin, h) an upper protective layer based on the nitride or oxynitride of Ti, Zr, Hf, V, Nb, Ta, Cr, alloys thereof, or based on the nitride or oxynitride of the alloy or one or more of these metals with Al and/or B. The glazing has a high thermal insulation that is most suitable for use in the building industry.
US07736743B2 Heat curable, thermally expandable composition with high degree of expansion
Compositions containing at least one liquid epoxy resin, at least one solid epoxy resin, at least one propellant, at least one curing agent and at least one mica-containing filler produce expandable, thermally curable binder systems which may be used without the addition of hollow glass beads for the production of stiffening and reinforcing laminates and for the production of stiffening and reinforcing moldings. Said laminates according to the invention are suitable for the stiffening and reinforcing of components, in particular in the automotive industry, such as car body frames, doors, boot lids, engine bonnets and/or roof parts. In addition, the mouldings that may be produced from said binders are suitable for the stiffening and reinforcing of hollow metal structures, in particular of hollow car body parts such as body frames, body supports and posts or doors in the automotive industry.
US07736741B2 Single-wall carbon nanotube heterojunction
A single-wall carbon nanotube heterojunction is provided. In the single-wall carbon nanotube, a semiconductive single-wall carbon nanotube and a metallic single-wall carbon nanotube are joined with each other in a longitudinal direction thereof.
US07736739B2 Expanded PTFE articles and method of making same
Unique PTFE structures comprising islands of PTFE attached to an underlying expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) structure and to methods of making such structures is disclosed. The ePTFE material may or may not have been exposed to amorphous locking temperatures. These unique structures exhibit islands of PTFE attached to and raised above the expanded PTFE structures.
US07736736B1 Masking tape assembly
A masking tape assembly has first and second tapes with sticky front faces secured, back-to-back, in overlying relation by a folded hinging tape adhered between them adjacent the first edges so that first edges of the tapes and the fold are aligned. A protective tape covers the adhesive on the second tape. The assembly is mounted on one of two portions of a surface to be painted with the first edges aligned on the border between the portions, paint is applied to the other portion extending also over the aligned first edges; the protective tape removed and the second tape pivoted into adhesion with the other portion. The first masking tape and hinging tape are removed exposing the one portion and paint applied to the one portion to extend over the edge of the second tape, then removed so that the painted portions meet in a clean border.
US07736735B2 Coating composition, undercoating composition, multilayer body having coating film made of such composition, photocatalyst coating film, and molded body
The coating composition of the present invention contains an organic-inorganic hybrid polymer and a polysiloxane having a specific molecular weight, wherein the organic-inorganic hybrid polymer is prepared from a specific silane compound and a specific silyl group-containing polymer, and the weight ratio (Wa/Wb) between the silane compound content (Wa) and the silyl group-containing polymer content (Wb) is within the range from 5/95 to 50/50 (provided that Wa+Wb=100). The coating composition enables to obtain a coating film excellent in transparency, adhesion to organic substrates and radical resistance, and the coating composition has excellent storage stability.
US07736734B2 Cutting tool insert
The present invention relates to a cutting tool insert for metal machining comprising a substrate with a first coating and an outermost PVD-layer. The insert further comprises clearance faces and rake faces intersecting to form cutting edges having essentially no edge radius. The first coating has been removed so that the outermost PVD-layer is the only layer on the clearance face at least close to the cutting edge. The present invention also relates to a method of making such an insert. The inserts according to the present invention gives an increased tool life.
US07736732B2 Protective coating for components of a gas turbine engine
A method for producing an erosion-resistant protective coating is disclosed. At least one lacquer material is provided wherein the lacquer material is a phosphate or silicate mixed with particles. Then, at least one layer of the lacquer material or each lacquer material is applied to a component that is to be protected from erosion. Then the applied lacquer layer or each applied lacquer layer is converted to a glass layer.
US07736729B2 Blast energy mitigating composite
A blast energy mitigating composite useful for protecting a surface or an object from a blast, shock waves, or stress waves caused by a sudden, violent release of energy is described. Certain configurations of the blast energy mitigating composite may include a energy mitigating units contained in an energy mitigating matrix. The energy mitigating units may comprise a porous energy mitigating material such as carbon foam.
US07736727B2 Electrically insulating film and method
A halogen-free electrically insulating film is prepared from a composition including particular amounts of a poly(arylene ether), a hydrogenated block copolymer of an alkenyl aromatic compound and a conjugated diene, and a triaryl phosphate. The electrically insulating film may be prepared by an extrusion and/or calendering method. Uses of the electrically insulating film include, for example, shielding applications in power supply housing, printed circuit board insulation, backlit aircraft in flight panels and displays, business equipment insulation, computer rack partitions, and television and monitor insulation.
US07736719B2 Protection panel for aircrafts
Protection panel (3) for an aircraft suitable for being associated with at least a portion of the surface to be protected, consisting of a plurality of layers associated with each other made of aramid fibre in which at least one of said layers consists of an aramid fibre or unidirectional fabric.
US07736718B2 Compact no-turn athletic equine boot, laminate and method
A laminate comprising a tough, flexible, hard layer and a cushion layer for uses such as in making a compact, athletic equine boot that resists turning on the animal's hoof when the animal such as a horse is jumping, running and turning in water, mud, sand and sawdust comprising a bell portion having a cushiony layer on the interior of a relatively rigid or hard shell, an internal compressible protrusion, a fastener to secure the boot on the hoof, the hard shell being flexible and strong to resist blows from over-reaching rear hooves. The invention also includes a method of making the laminate comprising a layer of a tough, flexible, strong material and a cushiony layer.
US07736716B2 Textile products having flame retardant properties and methods of manufacture
A textile product with enhanced flame and/or smoke retardant properties and a method of forming the same is disclosed. The textile product is comprised of a textile material having a primary layer or backing with intumescent particles coated, sprayed, sprinkled, or otherwise applied to the upper surface thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the particles may be incorporated into the tufting primary or backing. The intumescent particles may also be complexed with additional agents, such as antimicrobial agents, softening agents, pliability agent, stain resistant agents, waterproofing agents, static resistance agents and combinations thereof.
US07736708B2 Micropattern retardation element
The present invention relates to a micropattern retardation element requiring no stretch processing and no extremely high positioning accuracy in cutting films, and the like, and having the retardation region controlled in width of a micron unit, and a producing method therefore. Said micropattern retardation element can be obtained by forming a liquid crystalline or non liquid crystalline polymer thin film layer having photoactive groups, on a substrate, and then, after orientation treatment in a micropattern form, forming a birefringence layer so as to contact with said polymer thin film layer, so that birefringence molecules of said birefringence layer are oriented according to orientation of photoactive groups in said thin film. Said retardation element is used in a three-dimensional display, and the like.
US07736706B1 Decorating guitar shaped articles
Apparatus and methods of decorating guitars and other stringed musical instruments are disclosed. In one aspect, a method may include UV printing a first portion of a decoration over a first region of at least part of a guitar using a first ink drop size, and UV printing a second portion of the decoration over a second region of said at least part of the guitar using a second ink drop size. In another aspect, a method may include UV printing a mask layer over a surface of at least a portion of a guitar using a first amount of image constriction and a first amount of feathering, and UV printing a decorative layer over at least a portion of the mask layer using a second amount of image constriction and a second amount of feathering.
US07736705B2 Two-slot coating of photosensitive members
This method to make an original photoconductor or replacement element uses a two-slot coating process to substantially simultaneously deposit a new SMTL coating layer and a thinner overcoating on an already existing SMTL layer or on a substrate. The total thickness of the existing SMTL layer plus the new SMTL layer plus the overcoating thickness should not exceed the thickness of a belt area of a marking machine or corresponding components in the to be replaced photoconductor element or the tolerances set for said SMTL and overcoating layer when making a new belt.
US07736704B2 Process for applying a protective layer
To protect a base metal layer (1) against high-temperature corrosion and high-temperature erosion, an adhesive layer (3) based on MCrAlY is applied to the base metal layer (1). The adhesive layer (3) is coated with an Al diffusion layer (4) by alitizing. The diffusion layer (4) is subjected to an abrasive treatment, so that the outer built-up layer (4.2) on the diffusion layer (4) prepared by alitizing is removed by the abrasive treatment. A ceramic heat insulation layer (2) consisting of zirconium oxide, which is partially stabilized by yttrium oxide, is applied to the diffusion layer (4) thus treated.
US07736697B2 Atomic layer deposition of tantalum-containing films using surface-activating agents and novel tantalum complexes
Atomic layer deposition processes for the formation of tantalum-containing films on surfaces are provided. Also provided are novel tantalum complexes that can be used as tantalum precursors in the disclosed deposition processes.
US07736695B2 Oil-in-water capsule manufacture process and microcapsules produced by such process
A novel method of forming oil in water process is disclosed. According to the invention process are obtained by steps comprising dispersing an oil soluble amine modified polyfunctional polyvinyl monomer and an oil soluble bi- or polyfunctional vinyl monomer along with a thermal or UV free radical initiator (optionally included in one or both of the oil or water phases) and an organic acid into an internal phase oil; heating or UV exposing for a time (and temperature) sufficient to oligomerize the amine modified polyfunctional polyvinyl monomer and oil soluble bi- or polyfunctional vinyl monomer forming a pre-polymer. Thereafter the process involves adding to the oil phase oil a water phase comprising a dispersion in water of an anionic emulsifier (and optionally initiator), and adding an emulsifying agent. Emulsification of the oil phase into the water phase (O/W) is controlled through the quantity of water employed. The emulsion is then UV exposed or heated for a time (and temperature) sufficient to decompose the free radical initiators in the oil and/or water phases; thereby forming microcapsule wall material at the interface of the water and oil phases.
US07736693B2 Nano-powder-based coating and ink compositions
Nano-powder-based coating and ink compositions, methods for producing and using these compositions, and articles prepared from these compositions are described.
US07736692B2 Process for applying an adhesion primer to a window
A process for applying an adhesion primer to a window. The process includes the steps of directing light (11) onto the window (10) to illuminate a portion (13) of the window and then applying an adhesion primer along the illuminated portion of the window. If the adhesion primer contains a component that evaporates, then the process can further include the step of forming an infrared image (19) of the window as the component evaporates to indicate the area of application (20) of the adhesion primer. If the adhesion primer contains a component that fluoresces when illuminated by ultraviolet light, then the process can further include the step of illuminating the window with ultraviolet light (22) to indicate the area of application (23) of the adhesion primer.
US07736686B2 Meat emulsion products and methods of making same
Meat emulsion products and methods for producing meat emulsion products are presented. Meat emulsion products are produced that have realistic fiber definition. In an embodiment, the meat emulsion products comprise a protein, a fat and a plurality of colors and/or textures. The meat emulsion products further comprise a plurality of linear strands of fiber-like material affording the meat emulsion product a realistic meat-like appearance.
US07736685B2 Method and device for liquefying of a powdery fat based product particularly in the production of chocolate and the like
The invention relates to a method for lowering the viscosity of a fat based mixture comprising solids and fat that have been previously refined to a powdery mass characterized in that the powdery mass is submitted to elongational flow effective as such to provide breaking up of the agglomerates and intimate interactions of the solids with the fat thereby resulting in the production of a pasty mass with coating of the solids with the fat. The method enables to replace conching in a traditional conche or at least reduce conching time or increase the subsequent loading and throughput of the fat based mass in traditional conches.
US07736683B2 Method to increase the foaming capacity of spray-dried powders
A method is provided for producing a powdered soluble foaming composition comprising amorphous particles having internal voids filled with atmospheric pressure gas. The method includes subjecting a spray-dried composition to an external pressure and heating the composition at a temperature below the glass transition temperature. The composition is depressurized to result in at least a portion of vacuous internal voids of the composition to be filled with atmospheric pressure gas.
US07736676B2 Synergistic composition for the treatment of diabetes mellitus
A synergistic composition for the treatment of diabetes in a subject in need thereof, said composition-comprising Trigonelline of concentration ranging between 20 to 30%, amino acids of concentration ranging between 20 to 60%, and soluble fiber of concentration ranging between 10 to 60%, optionally along with pharmaceutically acceptable additives, a process thereof and also, a method of treating diabetes.
US07736671B2 Embolization
Embolization, as well as related particles, compositions, and methods, are disclosed.
US07736667B2 Shell-and-core dosage form approaching zero-order drug release
Drugs are formulated as oral dosage forms for controlled release in which the release rate limiting portion is a shell surrounding the drug-containing core. The shell releases drug from the core by permitting diffusion of the drug from the core. The shell also promotes gastric retention of the dosage form by swelling upon imbibition of gastric fluid to a size that is retained in the stomach during the postprandial or fed mode.
US07736666B2 Self emulsifying drug delivery system
The present invention claims and discloses a pharmaceutical composition suitable for oral administration, in form of an emulsion pre-concentrate, comprising (i) a compound of formula (I); (ii) one or more surfactants; (iii) optionally an oil or semi-solid fat; said composition forming an in-situ oil-in-water emulsion upon contact with aqueous media such as gastrointestinal fluids. The composition may optionally also comprise one or more short-chain alcohols. The pharmaceutical composition is useful in the treatment of pain and inflammation.
US07736656B2 Immunogenic compositions and vaccines for Ebola
Using CTL epitopes to the Ebola GP, NP, VP24, VP30, VP35 and VP40 virion proteins, a method and composition for use in inducing an immune response which is protective against infection with Ebola virus is described.
US07736654B2 Nucleic acids and corresponding proteins useful in the detection and treatment of various cancers
Novel genes designated and set forth in FIG. 2 and their respective encoded proteins, and variants thereof, are described wherein a gene of the invention exhibits tissue specific expression in normal adult tissue, and is aberrantly expressed in the cancers such as those listed in Table I. Consequently, of gene products of a gene of FIG. 2 provide diagnostic, prognostic, prophylactic and/or therapeutic targets for cancer. A gene of FIG. 2 or fragment thereof, its encoded protein, or variants thereof, or a fragment thereof, can be used to elicit a humoral or cellular immune response; antibodies or T cells reactive with a gene product of FIG. 2 can be used in active or passive immunization.
US07736652B2 Antibody fusion proteins: effective adjuvants of protein vaccination
The present invention provides methods of use of various antibody-immunostimulant fusion proteins as adjuvants of antigenic protein vaccinations to elicit humoral and/or cellular immune responses in vaccinated subjects. Compositions which include these fusion proteins and innate and/or exogenous antigenic proteins are also provided.
US07736651B1 Alpha emitting constructs and uses thereof
The present invention discloses alpha particle emitting, radioactive constructs capable of killing large tumors (>1 mm in diameter), or other cells involved in human or animal diseases such as virus infected cells, autoimmune cells, or other pathological cells, including normal cells, that are targets for destruction, to achieve a therapeutic result. The alpha emitting constructs have high specific activity.
US07736650B2 Anti-IL-12 antibody based vectors, host cells, and methods of production and uses
Antibody expression vectors and plasmids can incorporate various antibody gene portions for transcription of the antibody DNA and expression of the antibody in an appropriate host cell. The expression vectors and plasmids have restriction enzyme sites that facilitate ligation of antibody-encoding DNA into the vectors. The vectors incorporate enhancer and promoter sequences that can be varied to interact with transcription factors in the host cell and thereby control transcription of the antibody-encoding DNA. A kit can incorporate these vectors and plasmids.
US07736645B2 EG-VEGF nucleic acids and polypeptides and methods of use
The present invention is directed to novel polypeptides designated herein as EG-VEGF and to nucleic acid molecules encoding those polypeptides. Also provided herein are vectors and host cells comprising those nucleic acid sequences, chimeric polypeptide molecules comprising the polypeptides of the present invention fused to heterologous polypeptide sequences, antibodies which bind to the polypeptides of the present invention and to methods for producing the polypeptides of the present invention. Also provided herein are methods of screening for modulators of EG-VEGF. Furthermore, methods and related methods of treatment are described herein which pertain to regulating cellular proliferation and chemotaxis.
US07736644B2 Antibodies directed to the deletion mutants of epidermal growth factor receptor and uses thereof
The present invention relates to novel antibodies, particularly antibodies directed against deletion mutants of epidermal growth factor receptor and particularly to the type III deletion mutant, EGFRvIII. The invention also relates to human monoclonal antibodies directed against deletion mutants of epidermal growth factor receptor and particularly to EGFRvIII. Diagnostic and therapeutic formulations of such antibodies, and immunoconjugates thereof, are also provided.
US07736643B2 Method for screening of a lipase having improved enzymatic activity using yeast surface display vector and the lipase
The present invention relates to a method for screening of the lipase having improved enzymatic activity using yeast surface display vector and the mutant lipase prepared by the same, more particularly to the method comprising; 1) cloning lipase gene into surface display vector, 2) preparing mutant lipase gene library of the step 1 by mutagenic PCR, 3) transforming the mutant lipase gene library of the step 2 and surface display vector into host cell, and 4) measuring the activity of the mutant lipase displayed in the surface of the transformed host cell and selecting the mutant lipase prepared by the same. The method of the present invention can screen the lipase having improved enzymatic activity. So, it can effectively be used for the various fields, such as food and detergent industry.
US07736640B2 Methods of treating and detecting cancer using viruses
The invention provides a method of treating cancer in a mammal comprising administering to the mammal an effective amount of virus, particularly Newcastle Disease Virus or other Paramyxovirus. The invention also provides a method of treating cancer in a mammal comprising administering such viruses to the mammal in combination with another agent such as a chemotherapeutic compound, immunoadjuvant, cytokine, or immunosuppressive agent. The invention further provides a method of detecting cancer cells in a mammal using Paramyxovirus as an imaging agent and as an indicator of cancer cell growth in the mammal. The invention further provides genetically engineered Paramyxoviruses, and kits containing the viral compositions disclosed by the invention.
US07736638B2 Interleukin-15 antagonist peptide
Current invention is related to the molecular pharmacology branch particularly to a peptide belonging to the Interleukin-15 sequence (IL-15) which is able to inhibit IL-15 biological activity, analogues or mimetic of such peptides. In the current invention it is shown that the peptide inhibits both IL-15-induced T cells proliferation upon binding to the IL15 receptor a subunit (IL15Rα) and TNFα-mediated apoptosis.Besides, this invention is related to the use of this peptide in the treatment of several pathologies where aberrant IL-15 or IL-15Rα expression is associated to the disease progression.
US07736635B2 Branched molecular scaffolds for linking polymer residues to biologically active moieties
Branched molecular scaffolds are provided which are capable of linking two polymer residues (derived, for example, from polyethylene glycol) to two, three or four residues derived from biologically active molecules (e.g. from whole antibodies or from functionally active fragments or derivatives thereof), the latter being attached to the scaffold by means of hydrolytically stable linkages.
US07736634B2 Process for the preparation of polyorganosilylated carboxylate monomers or polymers thereof
The present invention relates to polyorganosilylated carboxylate monomers or polymers thereof, comprising a polyorganosilylated carboxylate monomer of the general formula (I) or a polymer thereof, wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 each independently represent hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkyloxy, aryl, aralkyl or halogen radical optionally substituted by one or more substituents independently selected from the group comprising alkyl, aralkyl, aryl, hydroxy, halogen, amino or amino alkyl radicals, R7 represents hydrogen, alkyl radical or —COOR9, wherein R9 represents an alkyl group, R8 represents hydrogen, alkyl radical or —CH2—CO2—(SiR4R5O)n—SiR1R2R3, and n represents a number of dihydrocarbylsiloxane units from 3 to 20. The invention also relates to the use of these monomers or polymers as coating compositions including antifouling coating compositions.
US07736633B2 Method for enhancing effects of colorants and conditioners
Methods are provided for enhancing the longevity of the binding of various benefit agents to hair and skin. Applications of traditional and non-traditional colorants and conditioners to hair and skin are amended with compositions of hair or skin-binding peptides respectively. The presence of the hair or skin-binding peptide compositions act to increase the longevity of the applied colorant or conditioner on the hair or skin.
US07736630B2 Products for preventing penetration into the skin
The present invention relates to novel cosmetic and/or dermatological compounds and compositions for the photoprotection of human skin and/or hair against the damaging effects of UV radiation, in particular solar radiation. In another embodiment the invention relates to compositions and compounds for topical application comprising at least one photoprotective compound for topical application comprising of hydroxylated derivatives of natural Jojoba wax/oil or its synthetic substitute, esterified with carboxylic acids or aminoacids bearing UV-absorbing groups.
US07736629B2 Red herbal dentifrice
A dentifrice composition of the invention can be applied to teeth and/or gums by any conventional A dentifrice composition comprises (a) calcium carbonate having properties of particle size and angularity effective to provide mild abrasivity to dental enamel; (b) red iron oxide of low abrasivity in an effective amount on which to impart red color to the composition; and (c) a herbal component comprising at least one botanical or extract thereof, in a total herbal component amount effective to promote oral health.
US07736626B2 HFA supension formulations containing an anticholinergic
The invention relates to propellant gas formulations containing suspensions of the crystalline monohydrate of (1α,2β,4β,5α,7β)-7-[(hydroxydi-2-thienylacetyl)oxy]-9,9-dimethyl-3-oxa-9-azoniatricyclo[3.3.1.02,4]nonane-bromide.
US07736625B2 Light stabilized in vivo stain composition and method of manufacture
Photochemical demethylation reactions in solutions of thiazine dyes, in which the dye molecules act as both sensitizer and substrate, are reduced by quenching triple-state dye molecules, returning them to the unreactive ground state.
US07736617B2 Method for recovering iodine
An object of the present invention is to provide a method for recovering iodine, which can be carried out simply and economically without practicing mixing processing operation of iodine-containing material, an alkali metal compound and a solvent in advance before introducing to a combustion furnace. The object of the present invention can be attained by a method for recovering iodine which comprises feeding an iodine-containing solution containing iodine and/or iodine compound, a basic alkali metal compound solution and/or a basic alkaline earth metal compound solution separately to a roasting furnace, oxidatively decomposing a combustible material by heat treatment, and absorbing iodine and/or iodine salt contained in a component at heat treatment exit with water or an aqueous solution.
US07736615B2 Device structure of carbon fibers and manufacturing method thereof
An aggregate structure of carbon fibers, organized by a plurality of carbon fibers, includes, an aggregate of the carbon fibers aligned in a lengthwise direction, in which a density of the carbon fibers at one side end is different from a density of the carbon fibers at the other side end.
US07736610B2 Actinium radioisotope products of enhanced purity
A product includes actinium-225 (225Ac) and less than about 1 microgram (μg) of iron (Fe) per millicurie (mCi) of actinium-225. The product may have a radioisotopic purity of greater than about 99.99 atomic percent (at %) actinium-225 and daughter isotopes of actinium-225, and may be formed by a method that includes providing a radioisotope mixture solution comprising at least one of uranium-233 (233U) and thorium-229 (229Th), extracting the at least one of uranium-233 and thorium-229 into an organic phase, substantially continuously contacting the organic phase with an aqueous phase, substantially continuously extracting actinium-225 into the aqueous phase, and purifying the actinium-225 from the aqueous phase. In some embodiments, the product may include less than about 1 nanogram (ng) of iron per millicurie (mCi) of actinium-225, and may include less than about 1 microgram (μg) each of magnesium (Mg), Chromium (Cr), and manganese (Mn) per millicurie (mCi) of actinium-225.
US07736604B2 Multi-port flow control valves
Multi-port flow control valves are provided wherein the outlet ports may be opened in cascade fashion to allow fluid to flow through the outlet ports into at least two conduits in which the opening of the outlet ports is controlled by a signal indicating the need for fluid in the conduits. The valves are particularly useful for controller the supply of heating/cooling fluid to multiple heating/cooling coils employed to control reactions. In a preferred embodiment the opening of the ports is controlled according to the heat measured in the reaction.
US07736602B1 Mercury monitoring system and reaction chamber for enhancing conversion of elemental mercury gas into oxidized mercury
A reaction chamber enables a reaction between received elemental mercury gas and an oxidizing agent gas. The reaction chamber includes a porous (or permeable) medium through which to pass the elemental mercury gas and the oxidizing agent gas. Passing of the elemental mercury gas and the oxidizing agent gas through the porous medium supports a number of useful functions. For example, the porous medium enhances mixing of the elemental mercury gas with the oxidizing agent gas to enhance a reaction. Also, the porous medium increases an amount of surface area in a reaction chamber on which reactions (e.g., heterogeneous surface reactions) can take place between the elemental mercury gas and the oxidizing agent gas to form oxidized mercury gas. Accordingly, the reaction chamber configured to include a porous medium enhances a conversion of elemental mercury gas into oxidized mercury gas.
US07736592B2 Microfluidic devices fabricated by direct thick film writing and methods thereof
The present invention relates to a process for producing a microfluidic device which involves providing a substrate with a surface and writing a first flowable material on the surface of the substrate. The first flowable material is then solidified to form spacer elements, each with a top surface distal from the surface of the substrate, and a second flowable material is written on the surface of the substrate. A cover having a surface is provided and applied to the substrate, with the surface of the cover contacting the top surfaces of the spacer elements. The second flowable material is solidified to form walls, where the walls, the surface of the substrate, and the surface of the cover form flow channels of a microfluidic device. The resulting microfluidic device is also disclosed.
US07736588B2 Apparatus and method for detecting undesired residues in a sample
Detection arrangement and method for detecting presence of a residue in a sample include determining color values of the sample, associated with the L*a*b color model. A value of a composite parameter Z is calculated as follows: A=wL+waa+wbb where wL, wa and wb are weighting factors having a value depending on the residue and the sample. A determination is made whether or not the sample comprises more or less than a predetermined amount of the residue in dependence on the value of the composition parameter Z. In a preferred embodiment, the arrangement is used to detect antibiotic residues, e.g. penicillin-G, in food products, elg. Milk, or body fluids, e.g. blood, urine.
US07736586B2 Melting furnace with agitator
There is provided a melting furnace with an agitator. The melting furnace with an agitator includes a melting furnace that contains melt, and an agitator that agitates the melt by an electromagnetic force. The agitator includes a first electrode that is provided at an arbitrary position of the melting furnace so as to come in contact with the melt contained in the melting furnace, a second electrode that is provided near a bottom wall of the melting furnace so as to come in contact with the melt, a first magnetic field device that is provided outside the melting furnace so as to face the bottom wall of the melting furnace and makes a north pole face the bottom wall, and a second magnetic field device that is provided outside the melting furnace so as to face the bottom wall of the melting furnace and makes a south pole face the bottom wall. The first and second magnetic field devices are disposed with a gap in a certain direction.
US07736582B2 Method for consolidating tough coated hard powders
A method of consolidating particulate materials into articles having combinations of properties not available by conventional processes by liquid phase sintering. These particulate materials are comprised of core particles individually coated with layers of a metal compound having a relatively higher fracture toughness than the core, such as WC or TaC. These coated particles include an outer layer comprised a metal, such as Co or Ni. The particles with these coatings are pressed to form an article and the article densified at pressures and temperatures where full density is achieved without the degradation of the material forming the core particle.
US07736574B2 Perlite composition and method of making the same
Improved methods for the production of lightweight, rigid, insulative perlite/cement solid articles such as bricks (62) are provided wherein expanded perlite is first treated with a cement binder followed by application of cement with subsequent mixing and forming. In preferred forms, a continuous belt (12) is provided with laterally spaced apart stations (22-28) for application of perlite, binder, water and Portland cement, respectively, onto the belt (12); these materials are then mixed in a drum mixer (38) to produce a mixture (61) which is poured into a frame assembly (44) for final curing/hardening.
US07736571B2 Polymer shrink tubes and novel uses therefor
Novel polymer shrink tubes, such as fluoropolymer shrink tubes and novel uses thereof. The polymer shrink tubes include at least one three-dimensional pattern formed along at least a portion of the inner surface of the tube. The polymer shrink tubes can be used for, for example, embossing a pattern into a polymer tube. Further use includes, for example, forming a catheter with at least one channel located in the catheter wall.
US07736569B2 Apparatus and method for dispensing carbon fiber into concrete
The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for selectively dispensing reinforcement material into a concrete component. The apparatus is capable of providing, positioning and embedding any form of rolled reinforcement materials into both prefabricated concrete components and cast-in-place concrete components which can be operated by a minimal number of personnel in a timely and economical manner, and which can be used to mass produce concrete components.
US07736564B2 Process of making a high strength polyolefin filament
A filament having excellent incision resistance includes as a primary component a polyethylene filament having a weight-average molecular weight of 300,000 or less and a ratio of a weight-average molecular weight to a number-average molecular weight (Mw/Mn) of 4.0 or less as determined in the state of a filament as well as a modulus of 500 cN/dtex or more. This filament is useful to produce a fabric excellent in incision resistance, a fibrous material for reinforcing mortar or concrete, and a rope, each of which comprises the filament. The filament can be produced by drawing a non-drawn polyolefin filament which comprises a polyethylene having a weight-average molecular weight of 60,000-600,000, a ratio of a weight-average molecular weight to a number-average molecular weight (Mw/Mn) of 4.5 or less, and a rate of birefringence (Δn) of 0.008 or more, at a temperature not higher than the α-relaxation temperature of the non-drawn filament.
US07736562B2 Die assembly and production process for profile extrusion
The invention discloses an improved die assembly for the extrusion of thermoplastic resin cellulosic fiber composite profiles meant to minimize and substantially prevent the occurrence of melt fracture on the surface of the extruded composite profiles. Comprising the die assembly are a balanced flow passage having a heated compression zone, a heated transition zone, a heated converging die zone, a die land, which corresponds to at least a portion of the downstream end of the flow passage and is cooled to temperature below the melting point temperature of the thermoplastic resin. The invention also discloses a production process for composite profiles which include the steps of providing resin and fiber, producing a composite compound, processing the compound through an extrusion system, extruding the compound through the die assembly to form the desired profile, cooling the profile and cutting it to length. Also disclosed are products produced by the production process.
US07736559B2 Binding wood using a thermosetting adhesive composition comprising a protein-based component and a polymeric quaternary amine cure accelerant
Thermosetting adhesive compositions for use in e.g., particleboard or fiberboard, wherein the compositions comprise a blend of a protein-based component and a polymeric quaternary amine cure accelerant, can provide the fast tack-building and curing, as well as ultimately good bonding characteristics normally associated with synthetic resin compositions. Preferably, the polymeric quaternary amine cure accelerant is the reaction product of a polyamidoamine and epichlorohydrin.
US07736554B2 Method of manufacturing a part out of impervious thermostructural composite material
A method of manufacturing a part out of impervious thermostructural composite material, the method comprising forming a porous substrate from at least one fiber reinforcement made of refractory fibers, and densifying the reinforcement by a first phase of carbon and by a second phase of silicon carbide. The method then continues by impregnating the porous substrate with a composition based on molten silicon so as to fill in the pores of the substrate.
US07736548B2 Non-linear optical device with long grating persistency
A non-linear optical device comprising a polymer configured to provide a grating holding ratio of 20% or higher after about four minutes, wherein the polymer comprises a first repeating unit comprising a first moiety having formula (M-1) and a second repeating unit comprising a second moiety having formula (M-2), as defined herein.
US07736535B2 Phosphor and vacuum ultraviolet excited luminescent element
A phosphor having high luminescence when excited by vacuum ultraviolet ray and a vacuum ultraviolet radiation excited light-emitting device comprising the phosphor. The phosphor comprises a metal oxide comprises at least one metal element M1 selected from the group consisting of Ca, Sr and Ba, at least one metal element M2 selected from the group consisting of Y, La, Gd and Lu, at least one metal element M3 selected from the group consisting of Si and Ge and oxygen, and at least one metal element Ln1 selected from the group consisting of Ce, Pr, Nd, Pm, Sm, Eu, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, and Mn, as an activator.
US07736533B2 Liquid crystal composition, liquid crystal device, reflective display material and light modulating material
A liquid crystal composition including a liquid crystal and at least three anthraquinone dyes, at least two of the anthraquinone dyes having a substituent represented by the following Formula (I): wherein in Formula (I), * represents a linking position; R25 and R26 each independently represent an alkyl group, a halogen atom or an alkoxy group; R27 represents an alkyl group, an acyl group or an alkoxy group; R28 and R29 each independently represent a hydrogen atom or a substitutent; T1 represents an arylene group or a heteroarylene group; Z represents an oxygen atom, a sulfur atom or a carbonyl group; m represents an integer of 0 to 2; and i represents 0 or 1, wherein when i is 1 and Z is an oxygen atom or a sulfur atom, R27 is not an alkoxy group, and when i is 1 and Z is a carbonyl group, R27 is not an acyl group.
US07736532B2 Composition for reducing the transmission of infrared radiation
Provided is a composition comprising a nonmicellar twisted nematic liquid crystal having cholesteric near infrared-reflecting properties and at least one near infrared absorptive material. This composition reduces the transmission of near infrared radiation. The composition can be used as a layer, optionally in conjunction with polymeric films, polymeric sheets, rigid sheets, and the like, to form multilayer laminates. In some embodiments these multilayer laminates are useful as solar control windows or window films to reduce energy consumption necessary to cool the interior of a structure such as an automobile or building.
US07736531B2 Composition and method for storing and releasing hydrogen
A chemical system for storing and releasing hydrogen utilizes an endothermic reaction that releases hydrogen coupled to an exothermic reaction to drive the process thermodynamically, or an exothermic reaction that releases hydrogen coupled to an endothermic reaction.
US07736528B2 Plasma processing apparatus and plasma processing method
A tray 15 for a dry etching apparatus 1 has substrate accommodation holes 19A to 19D penetrating thickness direction and a substrate support portion 21 supporting an outer peripheral edge portion of a lower surface 2a of a substrate 2. A dielectric plate 23 has a tray support surface 28 supporting a lower surface of the tray 15, substrate placement portions 29A through 29D inserted from a lower surface side of the tray 15 into the substrate accommodation holes 19A through 19D and having a substrate placement surface 31 at its upper end surface for placing the substrate 2. A dc voltage applying mechanism 43 applies a dc voltage to an electrostatic attraction electrode 40. A heat conduction gas supply mechanism 45 supplies a heat conduction gas between the substrate 2 and substrate placement surface 31. The substrate 2 can be retained on the substrate placement surface 31 with high degree of adhesion. This results in that the cooling efficiency of the substrate 2 is improved and processing is uniformed at the entire region of the substrate surface including the vicinity of the outer peripheral edge.
US07736526B2 Method of filtering phosphate utilizing a rotary table filter or horizontal table filter
The present disclosure is directed to a filter support having a surface with a plurality of perforations therein. At least one spray bar may be substantially fixed adjacent to the surface of the filter support. A spray bar may include a plurality of nozzles for directing a pressured fluid toward the filter support. The filter support may further include a motor for causing the filter support to move in a cyclical manner while the spray bar directs pressurized fluid toward the filter support.
US07736520B2 Sequential chlorination for control of wastewater disinfection byproducts
A process for the reduction of N-nitrodimethylamine (NDMA) and for control of trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs) formation in fully nitrified wastewater effluent, comprising first adding chlorine to the effluent, then adding combined chlorine.
US07736516B2 Filter for the removal of substances from blood products
A filter for the removal of substances from blood product has a porous element of a polymeric material consisting of a polyether-ester copolymer or of a polymer blend comprising said copolymer.
US07736514B2 Method for extracting lactic acid from aqueous suspensions
The invention relates to a method for the continuous extraction of lactic acid from an aqueous suspension containing solids. According to said method, the aqueous suspension containing solids is brought into contact, in a counter-current, with an organic solvent that is partially miscible with water, in a column provided with filling agents which have a surface consisting of hydrophobic material, in such a way as to form an aqueous phase and an organic phase, such that the organic phase is guided as a dispersed phase in a section of the column comprising filling agents.
US07736513B2 Liquid-solid fluidized bed waste water treatment system for simultaneous carbon, nitrogen and phosphorous removal
Biological nutrient removal (BNR) in wastewater treatment to remove carbonaceous substrates, nutrients and phosphorus, has recently become increasingly popular worldwide due to increasingly stringent regulations. Biological fluidized bed (BFB) technology, which could be potentially used for BNR processes, can provide some advantages such as high efficiency and compact structure. This present invention incorporates the fixed-film biological fluidized bed technology with the biological nutrient removal in a twin liquid-solid fluidized bed, which has achieved the simultaneous elimination of organic carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus, in a very efficient manner and with very compact space requirements. The BNR-LSFB has two fluidized beds, running as anoxic/anaerobic and aerobic processes to accomplish simultaneous nitrification and denitrification and to remove carbonaceous substrates, nutrients and phosphorus, with continuous liquid and solids recirculation through the anoxic/anaerobic bed and the aerobic bed. The new BNR-LSFB system is not only an excellent alternative for conventional activated sludge type BNR technologies but is also capable of processing much higher loadings and suitable for industrial applications.
US07736512B2 Method for the production of natural energy from waste
The method aims at obtaining from waste and more particularly from municipal solid waste (MSW) the energy contained therein at the highest level for industrial use by means of natural technologies and with low environmental impact. The method, denoted by the acronym NEW (Natural Energy from Waste) operates through the following process phases: a) aerobic digestion of the putrescible biological part to produce stabilized waste which is easy to handle, b) separation of a fraction rich in materials with a high heat value, c) storage of the residue, rich in biodegradable and inert substances, compacted into appropriate geometrical shapes in bioreactors which can be activated and sealed, d) activation of the bioreactors with water and their service in time during anaerobic digestion to supply biogas to be used for the production of energy, e) bio-stabilization and dehydration of the residual material of the anaerobic treatment with air, f) possible recovery of the materials produced in this way. In this way the energy contained in the waste, is extracted at the most refined level in the form of plastic, plastic/paper and methane for energy uses with maximum yield and reduced production of ash, and the end material leaving the bioreactors is fully exhausted of its energy content and inertised.
US07736511B2 Feedback system for enhancing elimination of biomass in sewage sludge
Already-treated sludge is fed back into incoming sewage, and is effective to supply nutrients needed for the microbiological breakdown of the sludge. The feedback sludge has a solids content of 10% or more, and has been sheared and heated to drive its viscosity down to 10,000 cP or less. In sludge done that way, nutrients are preserved and presented to the sewage to be treated in highly liquidized and solubilized form, whereby the nutrients are very bio-available to the microbes in the sewage. Large improvements in the elimination of biomass can result.
US07736498B2 Solution treatment apparatus and solution treatment method
In the present invention, a plurality of exhaust paths connected to a plurality of cup bodies surrounding substrate holding portions respectively are joined together for common use, and the openings of exhaust rate adjustment sections provided on the exhaust paths are adjusted with reference to data in which combinations of the numbers of rotations of the substrate holding portions are associated with combinations of set exhaust rates of the exhaust paths when solution treatment is performed by rotating the substrate by the substrate holding portion. According to the present invention, the cup body can be exhausted at an intended exhaust rate at all times independently of the state where the substrate in which cup body is subjected to which process.
US07736497B2 Dewatering system
Systems and methods for dewatering drilling fluid including a feeder, an aging tank, a polyductor configured between the feeder and the aging tank and a flocculant solution pump fluidly connected to the aging tank. Further, the system includes a portable skid to house the feeder, the aging tank, the polyductor, and the flocculent solution pump. In certain embodiments, the polyductor is configured to mix a liquid with a dry flocculant from the feeder, and disperse a resultant flocculent solution in the aging tank, the aging tank is configured to receive the flocculant solution, and the flocculant solution pump is configured to remove the flocculant solution from the aging tank.
US07736496B2 Dual pump water treatment system for automatic top off
A dual pump water treatment system for automatically replenishing the water level within a tank of a marine reef aquarium by alternating between a calcium solution reservoir and an alkalinity solution reservoir. The calcium reservoir is in connection with a first pump, while the alkalinity reservoir is in connection with a second pump. The system includes a pair of water level sensors in communication with a solid state relay on a printed circuit board of a switch box. When the water level drops the sensor triggers the relay to turn on the calcium reservoir. When the water level is replenished the first pump is turned off. When the water level drops again, the sensor triggers the relay to turn on the alkalinity reservoir. When the water level is replenished the second pump is turned off. The cycle is repeated based on water level in the tank.
US07736490B2 Systems, methods, and catalysts for producing a crude product
Systems and methods for contacting a crude feed with one or more catalysts produces a total product that include a crude product are described. The crude product is a liquid mixture at 25° C. and 0.101 MPa. The one or more catalysts may include one or more vanadium catalysts. Methods and compositions of the one or more vanadium catalysts are described. One or more properties of the crude product may be changed by at least 10% relative to the respective properties of the crude feed. In some embodiments, hydrogen is generated.
US07736484B2 Method for grafting and growing a conductive organic film on a surface
The present invention relates to a process for grafting and growing a conductive organic film on(to) an electrically conductive or semiconductive surface in which the grafting and growing of the film are performed simultaneously by electro-reduction of a diazonium salt that is a precursor of the said film on(to) the said surface cathodically polarized at a potential greater than or equal, in absolute value, to the electro-reduction potential of the diazonium salt relative to a reference electrode.The invention finds an application especially in the protection of surfaces, the manufacture of localized conductive coatings, of chemical sensors in the fields of chemistry and molecular biology, the manufacture of biomedical equipment, etc.
US07736483B2 Method for electroplating metal wire
A method for electroplating low-resistance metal wire for resolving the problem to fabricate the metal wire on large-area substrate through the technology of photolithographing and etching in the prior art. Then the invention improves the RC-delay characteristic of circuit on large-area substrate and reduces the number of masks for processing of a structure of gate overlap lightly-doped drain (source) (GOLDD).
US07736481B2 Electrophoresis device and electrophoresis method
To reduce the elongation of the migration time for the first electrophoresis cycle in successive electrophoresis cycles and improve the reliability of electrophoresis analysis. The present invention relates to making the condition of a migration medium at the start of the first electrophoresis analysis in successive electrophoresis analyses after the temperature in a thermostatic oven reaches a desired preset temperature substantially the same as the conditions after the successive electrophoresis analyses. Preferably, a voltage is applied to a separation medium filling a capillary during preheating of the thermostatic oven. Preferably, the temperature in the thermostatic oven during preheating is set higher than the temperature in the thermostatic oven during electrophoresis analysis. Preferably, a buffer solution is heated during preheating of the thermostatic oven. Preferably, the capillary is filled with a preheated separation medium during preheating of the thermostatic oven. According to the present invention, the reliability of the first electrophoresis analysis in successive electrophoresis analyses is improved.
US07736477B2 Probe for measuring electric potential of cell
A probe for measuring an electric potential of a cell includes a plate having a surface having a first cavity provided therein, and a sensor element provided in the first cavity. A second cavity is provided in the bottomsurface of the first cavity. The first flow passage having first and second openings is provided in the plate. The first and second openings of the first flow passage open to the second cavity and outside the plate, respectively. The sensor element includes a thin plate, and a supporting substrate provided around the thin plate and in the first cavity of the plate. The thin plate has a through-hole therein having a first opening and a second opening communicating with the second cavity of the plate. The first flow passage allows fluid to flow therein. A sucking device is coupled with the second opening of the first flow passage as to suck the fluid flowing in the first flow passage. This probe can measure an electric potential of a cell floating in solution as it is in this environment.
US07736474B2 Plating apparatus and plating method
A plating apparatus securely carries out a flattening plating of a substrate to form a plated film having a flat surface without using a costly mechanism, and without applying an extra plating to the substrate. The plating apparatus includes a substrate holder; a cathode section having a seal member for watertightly sealing a peripheral portion of the substrate, and a cathode electrode for supplying an electric current to the substrate; an anode disposed in a position facing the surface of the substrate; a porous member disposed between the anode and the surface of the substrate; a constant-voltage control section for controlling a voltage applied between the cathode electrode and the anode at a constant value; and a current monitor section for monitoring an electric current flowing between the cathode electrode and the anode, and feeding back a detection signal to the constant-voltage control section.
US07736468B2 Belts and roll coverings having a nanocomposite coating
The present invention relates to a urethane-based coating having nanoparticles for improving the characteristics of a papermaking process belt, roll cover and belts used in textile applications. For example, the present invention improves resistance to flex fatigue, crack propagation, groove closure and wear characteristics of urethane coatings on such belts and roll coverings. The present invention also improves the resistance to water and oil permeation characteristics of urethane coated belts and roll coverings.
US07736462B2 Installation for processing a substrate
The invention relates to an installation, in particular a vacuum processing installation for processing a substrate (130), in particular a semiconductor wafer, comprising a processing station. Said installation comprises a frame (110), to which is clamped a carrier (120), for holding and/or transporting the substrate (130), whereby the latter (130) can be fastened by its entire surface to said carrier (120). The processing station preferably comprises a chuck electrode (140) with a flat outer surface (141) and the carrier (120) can be positioned parallel and adjacent to said outer surface (141) of the chuck electrode (140). The carrier is composed in particular of a non-conductive dielectric material and is provided on one side with a conductive layer (122), in such a way that the chuck electrode (140) and the carrier (120) form an electrostatic chuck.
US07736458B2 Method of attaching fluidic MST devices to a support member
A method of attaching a MST device to a support member with an adhesive film, the MST device having an attachment face and a first fluid conduit connected to a first aperture in the attachment face; the support member having a mounting face and a second fluid conduit connected to a second aperture in the mounting face; and, the polymer film has an opening for fluid communication between the first aperture and the second aperture, the method comprising the steps of: forming the opening in the polymer film; aligning the opening with at least part of the second aperture; applying heat and pressure to attach the polymer film to the mounting face; and, positioning the MST device such that the opening is aligned with at east part of the first aperture. By pre-drilling the holes in the film, the attachment process is quicker and the resulting fluidic seal in more reliable.
US07736457B2 Printed wiring board manufacturing method
The present invention intends to provide a novel printed wiring board manufacturing method by which printed wiring boards can be manufactured with efficiency. A method of manufacturing a printed wiring board (FIG. 1B) according to the present invention includes a step for preparing two sets of copper clad laminates (FIG. 2A), a step for bonding the copper clad laminates (FIG. 2B), steps for forming lands on both surfaces of a bonded laminate (FIGS. 2C to 2E), steps for forming respective resin layers on both surfaces of the bonded laminate and forming via hole openings to form respective via holes (FIGS. 2F to 2L), a step for forming a resin layer and forming a via hole opening to form a via hole (FIG. 2M), a step for separating the bonded laminate from each other (FIG. 2N) and steps for forming via hole openings from the bonded surface of the separated laminate to form via holes (FIGS. 2O to 2T). Via holes (33-1, 33-2) formed on the resin layer and a via hole (42) formed on the laminate are opened in the opposite directions.
US07736455B2 Methods for manufacturing a paint roller with grooved substrate
A method for improving strength of the finished product in paint roller manufacturing processes and other continuous processes for producing tubular goods from polymers. The method utilizes a substrate such as a polypropylene strip with grooves on its surface. The grooved substrate is fed onto a mandrel to form a tube. Adhesive is applied upon the grooved surface of the grooved substrate. A cover may be applied about the tube, and the resulting product is then cut into finished-size paint rollers. The hardened adhesive in the grooves may operate to reduce the hoop-force which would otherwise tend to unwind the wound substrate. The method in certain embodiments provides a reduction in cost and weight of the finished product.
US07736454B2 Method for incorporating an annular antenna and electronics into a tire
Apparatus and a method for pre-cure application of an antenna assembly to a tire comprises the method steps: forming within a rigid core defining an interior surface of the tire a core recess complementarily configured to the antenna assembly; positioning the antenna assembly within the core recess; building an uncured carcass of the tire around the rigid core entrapping the antenna assembly within the core recess; cross-bonding the antenna assembly to the inner surface of the tire during a cure cycle; and removing the cured tire and assembly from the rigid core.
US07736450B2 Varying fluence as a function of thickness during laser shock peening
A method for laser shock peening an article, such as a gas turbine engine airfoil, with varying thickness by varying a surface fluence of a laser beam over a laser shock peening surface as a function of the thickness beneath a laser shock peened spot formed by the beam on the surface. The fluence may be equal to the thickness multiplied by a volumetric fluence factor, the volumetric fluence factor being held constant over the laser shock peening surface. The volumetric fluence factor may be in a range of about 1200 J/cm3 to 1800 J/cm3 and more particularly about 1500 J/cm3. The method may include varying energy in the laser beam using a computer program controlling firing of the laser beam. A device such as an optical attenuator external to a laser performing firing may be used to vary the energy.
US07736444B1 Method and system for manufacturing electrical silicon steel
Grain oriented electrical steel is made in a manner that the grains are selectively grown to obtain a crystal structure known as cube-on-edge and the grains are largely aligned in the rolling direction. Selection of chemistry and process route along with thin slab continuous casting enables the production of Grain oriented electrical steel such that less energy is consumed in the process, certain process steps can be combined, yield is better and the product can be manufactured within a wider process control tolerance.
US07736442B2 Method for activating surface of base material and apparatus thereof
A method for activating the surface of a base material and an apparatus thereof, which is suited to be utilized for pretreatment in electrochemical treatment such as, for example, electroplating or the like, in which the surface of a base material such as metal can be subjected to degreasing treatment and oxide film removing treatment simultaneously, efficiently and rationally, in which productivity can be enhanced and the equipment cost can be reduced, and in which a waste solution can be rationalized so that the solution can be reutilized and the environmental pollution can be prevented. A method for activating the surface of a base material in which the surface of a member to be treated is subjected to degreasing treatment or oxide film removing treatment. Pressurized carbon dioxide is dissolved in a predetermined quantity of water, thereby preparing an oxide film removing solution having a predetermined acidic concentration.
US07736440B2 Method and apparatus for preventing adherence of solid products in gas exhaust pipe and exhaust gas abatement device with same apparatus
A solid product removal method for removing a solid product adhering to a gas exhaust pipe member having a rinsing water inlet pipe member with a tip opening located inside the gas exhaust pipe member for feeding rinsing water into the inside of the gas exhaust pipe member from the tip opening thereof; hence a solid product formed newly upon reaction with the rinsing water and adhering thereto can be rinsed off with the rinsing water introduced from another tip opening located at a different position; and therefore, an adherence of the solid product can be prevented from heating the inner face of the gas exhaust pipe member. A scraping member for scraping the solid product stuck to the inner face of the gas exhaust pipe member may be used.
US07736436B2 Detachable edge ring for thermal processing support towers
An edge ring for use in batch thermal processing of wafers supported on a vertical tower within a furnace. The edge rings are have a width approximately overlapping the periphery of the wafers and are detachably supported on the towers equally spaced between the wafer to reduce thermal edge effects. The edge rings have may have internal or external recesses to interlock with structures on or adjacent the fingers of the tower legs supporting the wafers or one or more steps formed on the lateral sides of the edge ring may slide over and then fall below a locking ledge associated with the support fingers. Preferably, the tower and edge ring and other parts of the furnace adjacent the hot zone are composed of silicon.
US07736432B2 Ready-mix concrete using recycled concrete aggregate
A ready-mix concrete and method for making the ready-mix concrete having mix proportions that include at least 70% course recycled aggregate and fly ash is provided. The ready-mix concrete including cement, air, water, sand and a remaining percent of virgin course recycled aggregate such that the coarse recycled aggregate combines to 100% of the required course aggregate.
US07736431B2 Lightweight structural concrete provided with various wood properties
A lightweight structural concrete with screw-ability and nail-ability similar to wood is composed of non-structural and ultra lightweight aggregate such as expanded perlite of a particular size distribution and amount, entrained air cells of another specific size distribution and amount, and dense cementitious composition of a cement binder, a fine grade structural filler no larger than masonry sand grade, a pozzolan, and optional micro-fibers for reinforcement. This structural concrete matrix is optimized to hold 13 gauge T-nails and bugle head wood screws with thread ranging from 8 to 11 threads per inch and diameter of 0.10″ to 0.137″. The resulting concrete will have consistent screw-ability and nail-ability similar that of wood.
US07736428B2 Antiglare coating and articles
The present invention relates to articles comprising an antiglare layer, coating compositions suitable for making antiglare layers, methods of making an antiglare article, and methods of making antiglare coating compositions. In some embodiments the article is a (e.g. illuminated) display article such as a touch screen. The antiglare layer comprises aggregate inorganic oxide particles in a cured inorganic polymer matrix.
US07736427B2 Inkset, ink cartridge, inkjet recording method, and recorded matter
An inkset comprising at least a yellow ink composition, two types of magenta ink compositions of different color density, and a cyan ink composition: the magenta ink composition containing as a colorant at least one type of compound expressed by the formula M-1, and at least one type of compound expressed by the formula M-2, the yellow ink composition containing as a colorant at least one type of compound expressed by the formula Y-1 the cyan ink composition containing as a cyan dye at least one type of compound selected from the compounds or salt thereof expressed by the formula C-1.
US07736426B2 Phase change inks containing colorant compounds
Phase change inks comprising a carrier and a colorant of the formula wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R, Y, CA, A-, m and n each, independently of the others are as defined herein.
US07736425B2 Ink set for ink-jet recording, ink for ink-jet recording and method for forming image
An ink set for ink-jet recording is provided defined by an evaluation indicator approximately corresponding to an evaluation sensed by human eyes without relying on a color difference (ΔE) or an optical density difference (ΔOD) at the time of evaluating a long-term storage stability of the ink set for ink-jet recording. In the ink set for ink-jet recording which contains a yellow ink, a magenta ink and a cyan ink, values of hue angle change (Δh), between before and after lightfastness tests, of print regions corresponding to respective inks formed on glossy paper by using the yellow ink, the magenta ink and the cyan ink are not more than about 3° for the yellow ink, not more than about 2° for the magenta ink, and not more than about 6° for the cyan ink.
US07736423B2 Aqueous composition for outdoor paints, indoor paints, facade paints and roof paints
The present invention relates to an aqueous composition for outdoor, indoor, facade and roof paints having a biocidal action.
US07736413B2 Method for using fracture resistant electrodes in a carbothermic reduction furnace
Graphite electrodes for the production of aluminum by carbothermic reduction of alumina are either submerged in the molten bath in the low temperature compartment or they are horizontally arranged in the side walls of the high temperature compartment. The electrodes are manufactured by using a mixture of coke particles covering the complete particle size range between 25 μm to 3 mm and by using an intensive mixer to effectively wet all coke particles with pitch. The electrodes have a flexural strength of at least 20 N/mm2. By using a complete range (continuum) of particle sizes in conjunction with an intensive mixer, the geometric packing of the particles is significantly improved, hence the material density is increased and thus a higher mechanical strength as well as improved electrical conductivity in comparison to conventional graphite electrodes is achieved.
US07736411B2 Renewable process for manufacturing ground and soil treatment compounds using plant by-products
The invention relates to a renewable process for manufacturing ground and soil treatment compounds using plant by-products. The invention further relates to products of that process, including an anti-slip compound for use on snow- or ice-covered surfaces, and to a related fertilizer compound for improving plant growth. The described compounds primarily comprise organic by-products of timber processing operations. In addition, the invention relates to a renewable energy and resource process.
US07736410B2 Air cleaner configured for receipt of various sized filter cartridges; components thereof; and, methods
An air cleaner assembly is provided, which is configured for alternate installation therein of different sized filter cartridges. Features of the air cleaner assembly and components for use therewith, are described. Also methods of assembly and use are described.
US07736409B2 Cyclone processing system with vortex initiator
A cyclone-type processor has a vortex initiator positioned thereabove and an exhaust sleeve extending through the initiator and into the processor. A blower connects to the initiator chamber by a duct having a divider wall that separates the duct into an air-only channel and an entrained material channel. A feed inlet feeds material to be processed into the air flow of the entrained channel. The vortex initiator includes an outer annular chamber and an inner annular chamber open to the cyclone processor and is engaged by the duct to convey air into the outer chamber and air entrained material into the inner chamber. The inner and outer chambers and slots therebetween cooperate to cause the air flow to form a vortex and to urge entrained material away from the inner wall. The system may include additional cyclone stages for further material treatment.
US07736408B2 Removable dust collecting receptacle
A removable dust collecting receptacle for use in a dust compartment of a vacuum cleaner, comprising a dust separator, which functions according to the centrifugal force principle and which has a dust collecting compartment for collecting a dust fraction separated out of the air by the dust separator. The suction power of the vacuum cleaner is maintained over a long period of time by virtue of the fact that the dust collecting receptacle has at least one second dust collecting compartment for collecting at least one second dust fraction separated out by a separating device. The fine dust collected in the second dust collecting compartment via the separating device can no longer reach the filter, and the filter surface is prevented or largely prevented from being clogged by fine dust.
US07736407B2 High aspect ratio and multi-curvature separator, and hybrid air cleaner using the same
An inertial separator includes a main duct having a first half with high aspect ratio and positive curvature and a latter half with larger average curvature and an outside wall section removed; a part for sucking boundary layer formed on the side of the outside wall of the latter half with the section removed; a curved duct of a final collection part succeeding the part for sucking boundary layer, having a larger mean curvature and a smaller radial channel width than the latter half of the main duct, with an outside wall section removed; and a collection chamber part formed on a side of the outside wall of the curved duct with the section removed. A hybrid air cleaner combines the inertial separator with an air filter, removably having an allergen suction device sucking allergen from hair, bedding and so on, and a separated blowing mouth whereby the suspended allergen may be transported away during a patient's sleep.
US07736404B2 Methanol steam reforming catalysts, steam reformers, and fuel cell systems incorporating the same
Methanol steam reforming catalysts, and steam reformers and fuel cell systems incorporating the same. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst includes zinc oxide as an active component. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst further includes at least one of chromium oxide and calcium aluminate. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst is not pyrophoric. Similarly, in some embodiments, steam reformers including a reforming catalyst according to the present disclosure may include an air-permeable or air-accessible reforming catalyst bed. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst is not reduced during use. In some embodiments, the methanol reforming catalysts are not active at temperatures below 275° C. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst includes a sulfur-absorbent material. Steam reformers, reforming systems, fuel cell systems and methods of using the reforming catalysts are also disclosed.
US07736398B2 Method of manufacturing conductive polymer electrolytic capacitor
A method is described for manufacturing a conductive polymer electrolytic capacitor. The method includes a step of aging a capacitor element including an electrolyte containing a conductive polymer and an ionic liquid by applying an aging voltage y (V) to the capacitor element to satisfy the following formula (1) or the following formula (2). In the following formulae (1) and (2), x represents a forming voltage for a valve metal. An electrolytic capacitor having a high withstand voltage is implemented by this method. 0.5x≦y≦x(0
US07736397B2 Method for manufacturing capacitor embedded in PCB
A method for manufacturing a capacitor embedded in a PCB includes: preparing a copper clad lamination (CCL) substrate having a reinforcement member and copper foils formed on both surfaces of the reinforcement member; planarizing surfaces of the copper foils of the CCL substrate; forming a dielectric layer on the planarized surface of the copper foils; and forming a top electrode on the dielectric layer.
US07736392B2 Bulking of upper esophageal sphincter for treatment of obesity
A method for treatment of obesity involves implantation of bulking devices within the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) to inhibit swallowing, thereby limiting food intake and treating obesity. One or more bulking devices are implanted within or near the UES to create a partial obstruction, partially impair UES muscle function, or both. The bulking devices make swallowing difficult, limiting the rate of food intake by a patient, and discouraging the patient from quickly consuming an excessive amount of food at one time.
US07736382B2 Apparatus for optical stimulation of nerves and other animal tissue
A nerve-stimulation device and method using light to provide a source of precise stimulation on one or more nerve fibers. In some embodiments, this simulation is provided through a device and method wherein a laser- or LED-light-generating source is operatively coupled to an optical fiber, which in turn is coupled to a plug in the end of a holder in a sheath. Light is then passed from the light source through the optical fiber to the holder and out a selected optical tip on the sheath to provide an efficacious amount of light to simulate nerves. In some embodiments, the device is constructed from non-magnetic material such as glass, plastic or ceramics. In some embodiments, the light emanating from the optical tip can be controlled manually or automatically. Some embodiments omit the fiber and use light directly from the laser diode.
US07736376B2 Living body wall fixing tool used in endoscope
A living-wall fixing tool for use with endoscopes, including first and second fixing members, first and second cord like members, an elastic stopper, and a slackening means. The first fixing member is to be inserted into a second organ through a hole formed through first and second organs. The second fixing member is to be detained in the first organ. The stopper is slidably mounted on the first cord-like member. The slackening means slackens the first cord-like member. When the slackening means is operated, the second cord-like member is pulled, whereby the first fixing member is pulled into the first organ through the hole.
US07736373B2 Methods and devices for tissue reconfiguration
Methods and devices are provided for reconfiguring a tissue within a hollow body organ using an entirely endoscopic approach in order to effectively reduce flow of fluid contents into a second hollow body organ in fluid communication with the first.
US07736372B2 Apparatus and methods for endoscopic suturing
Apparatus & methods for endoscopic suturing are described herein. A distal tip of the endoscopic device engages the tissue and then approximates the engaged tissue to form a tissue fold. A needle body positioned within a flexible catheter is deployed into or through the newly created tissue fold where it is then detached or released from the endoscopic device. The needle body has a length of suture which depends therefrom and can be used to secure the tissue fold. The entire endoscopic device or its tissue engaging assembly can then be rotated relative to the tissue fold while maintaining engagement with the tissue to maneuver the flexible catheter to the opposing side of the penetrated tissue fold. This procedure can be repeated any number of times to create an interrupted, continuous, or running suture to secure the tissue fold.
US07736366B2 Bone graft forming guide
A bone graft forming guide for providing a bone graft and a method of forming a bone graft. The guide includes a main body including a holder for holding a graft material and guide containing a pattern generally corresponding to the desired shaped of the bone graft. The forming guide may include a hole guide containing a plurality of hole guides arranged in a pattern generally corresponding to the desired shape of the bone graft. The forming guide may further include a cutting guide containing a pattern corresponding to the desired shape of the bone graft.
US07736362B2 Catheter balloons
The present invention relates to catheter balloons wherein the balloon are constructed of hydrophilic energy conductive polymers. It also relates to catheter balloons that self-anchor at a target site in a patient's body. Finally, it relates to catheter balloons with very small cross-sectional profiles at the distal end.
US07736360B2 Devices and methods for creating continuous lesions
The present invention discloses devices and methods for creating multiple lesions using ablation devices in anatomical regions such as the heart, for example to treat cardiac arrhythmias. The present invention discloses methods and devices to create continuous lesions using area ablation devices. The present invention discloses various embodiments of reference assemblies for accurately positioning ablation devices having ablating portions, especially deployable ablation portions adapted for area ablation. The ablation devices are positioned using the reference assemblies in the anatomy to create one or more lesions. The present invention also discloses several method embodiments for creating continuous lesions using deployable ablating portions to produce two or more overlapping lesions.
US07736355B2 Intravascular foreign matter suction assembly
An intravascular foreign matter suction assembly is insertable into a blood vessel having a relatively small diameter and exhibits a high suction force. The intravascular foreign matter suction assembly includes a combination of a guiding catheter for being inserted to an ostium of a coronary artery of the aorta and a suction catheter inserted in the lumen of the guiding catheter and extending farther than the distal end of the guiding catheter for removing foreign matter in a blood vessel which exists at a target location in the coronary artery. The suction catheter includes a tubular portion provided on the distal end side and a wire portion provided on the proximal end side of the tubular portion and wherein the wire portion has a distal end embedded in a wall which forms the tubular portion.
US07736344B2 Infusion medium delivery device and method with drive device for driving plunger in reservoir
A delivery device includes a durable housing portion and a separable disposable portion that selectively engage and disengage from each other. The disposable housing portion secures to the patient-user and may be disposed of after it has been in use for a prescribed period. Components that normally come into contact with a patient-user or with infusion medium are supported by the disposable housing portion, while the durable housing portion supports other components such as electronics and a drive device. A reservoir is supported by the disposable housing portion and has a moveable plunger that operatively couples to the drive device, when the disposable and durable housing portions are engaged.
US07736341B2 Protective sheath for winged needle with keyhole for releasably retaining tubing and packaging incorporating same
A protective sheath for a winged needle has a hilt with a keyhole for releasably receiving a length of tubing. Methods of the invention include forming a U-shaped bend in the tubing and inserting it into the keyhole prior to packaging.
US07736338B2 Infusion medium delivery system, device and method with needle inserter and needle inserter device and method
An infusion medium delivery system, device and method for delivering an infusion medium to a patient-user, includes a needle inserter device and method for inserting a needle and/or cannula into a patient-user to convey the infusion medium to the patient-user. The needle inserter device and method operate to insert a needle and cannula into a patient-user's skin and automatically withdraw the needle from the patient-user, leaving the cannula in place and in fluid flow communication with a reservoir. The delivery device may include a base portion and a durable portion connectable to the base portion, and wherein the base portion can be separated from the durable portion and disposed of after one or more specified number of uses. The base portion supports the reservoir and the needle inserter device, while the durable portion supports a drive device for selectively driving the infusion medium out of the reservoir and into the needle and/or cannula.
US07736328B2 Dialysis system having supply container autoconnection
A dialysis system includes a dialysis instrument including at least one pump actuator; a disposable cassette operable with the at least one pump actuator, a plurality of supply lines connected to the disposable cassette, each supply line including a supply line connector and a supply line tip protector; a plurality of dialysis fluid containers, the dialysis fluid containers each including a solution line having a solution line connector and a solution line tip protector; and an auto-connection mechanism including a solution line connector holder, a supply line connector holder, one of the holders fixed, the other of the holders moveable, and a moveable tip protector remover.
US07736326B2 Lachrymal plugs and methods for setting same
The invention concerns lachrymal plugs, and methods for setting said devices. It concerns a lachrymal plug (10) designed to be inserted in the lachrymal canaliculi (5), said plug, optionally provided with an axial duct, comprising on its outer walls flexible elements (11) foldable on said walls to enable the plug to be inserted in the lachrymal duct and adapted to straighten up once the lachrymal plug is set, so as to maintain the latter in position. The invention generally concerns means for controlling the flow of tears running from the surface of the eye towards the nasal cavity.
US07736321B2 Computer-assisted diagnostic hearing test
Method and System are disclosed for a computer-assisted diagnostic hearing test. The computer-assisted diagnostic hearing test includes an ambient noise monitoring module configured to monitor an ambient noise in a surrounding environment, a patient information module configured to receive patient information and hearing related tests selections, and a pure tone threshold module configured to facilitate manual testing of a pure tone threshold test. The computer-assisted diagnostic hearing test further includes a speech reception threshold module configured to facilitate manual testing of a speech reception threshold test, and a speech discrimination module configured to facilitate manual testing of a speech discrimination test.
US07736320B2 Self-condensing pH sensor and catheter apparatus
The present invention is a system for monitoring a patient's breath chemistry comprising a plurality of components, including a self-condensing pH sensor distally mounted on a catheter, a transmitter with hydration sensing circuitry for the pH sensor, and, a processing receiver/data recorder. The specifically designed self-condensing pH sensor located on the distal end of the catheter is designed to be inserted into the patient's airway. Monitoring of a patient's breath pH is accomplished by using the miniaturized self-condensing pH sensor, providing for real-time monitoring of patient airway pH values.
US07736319B2 Ischemia detection using heart sound timing
A system comprising a heart sound sensor to produce a heart sound signal representative of at least one heart sound. A signal analyzer circuit measures a baseline time interval between a first detected physiologic cardiovascular event and at least one second detected physiologic cardiovascular event. At least one of the first and second detected physiologic cardiovascular events includes a heart sound event obtained from the heart sound signal. The sensor analyzer circuit determines that an ischemic event occurred at least in part by detecting a specified measured subsequent change from the established baseline time interval. Other systems and methods are disclosed.
US07736318B2 Apparatus and method for monitoring and communicating wellness parameters of ambulatory patients
The monitoring device incorporates transducing devices for converting the desired measured parameters into electrical signals capable of being processed by a local computer or microprocessor system. The device interacts with the ambulatory patient and then, via a modem or other electronic communication device, transmits the measured parameters to a computer located at a remote site. At the remote location. the various indicia of the ambulatory patient's condition are monitored and analyzed by the medical professional caregiver. To provide the ambulatory patient with an added level of convenience and ease of use, such monitoring device is contained in a single integrated package.
US07736314B2 Ultrasonic technique for assessing wall vibrations in stenosed blood vessels
A real-time signal processing technique for ultrasonic imaging of tissue vibrations for localizing the source of a bruit in a 2D image with respect to the anatomy and/or for obtaining simultaneous information about vibrations and the underlying blood flow. The bruit can be quantitatively assessed using an ensemble of ultrasound echoes. Signal processing enables estimation of wall displacement and the display of time-resolved vibration spectrum. Vibrations are detected and color-coded according to their amplitude and frequency and overlaid on the B-mode and/or color-flow image in real time. Proposed vibration imaging algorithms use data acquired during conventional ultrasonic color-flow imaging and the clutter signal, normally suppressed in color-flow imaging, to detect and characterize tissue vibrations. Three vibration imaging algorithms based on parametric modeling of vibrations and other criteria distinguish between clutter, blood flow, and vibrations. The techniques are usable to detect, locate, image, and quantitatively grade stenoses in blood vessels.
US07736313B2 Detecting and classifying lesions in ultrasound images
A method for determining a candidate lesion region within an ultrasound image. The method includes the steps of: accessing a digital ultrasound image of anatomical tissue; segmenting spatially contiguous pixels in the ultrasound image into a plurality of regions in accordance with substantially similar intensity values and spatial smoothness constraints; and selecting, from the plurality of regions, one or more candidate lesion regions having an intensity value lower than a pre-determined intensity value. In one arrangement, the one or more candidate lesion region is classified into at least one of the following classes: benign, malignant, or unknown.
US07736312B2 Acoustic monitoring system
An acoustic monitoring system that is able to verify the success or failure of the positional adjustment of a valve without the need for additional energy during non-invasive reprogramming is provided. The acoustic monitoring system includes a programmer for generating a sequence of commands to adjust the valve mechanism, and for receiving acoustic signals for analysis, a transmitter to implement the command and adjust the valve, and a sensor for detecting an acoustic signal generated from the valve during execution of the commands. A method for using the acoustic monitoring system is also provided.
US07736311B2 System for automated measurement of skin perfusion pressure
An automatic skin perfusion measuring system including instrumentation that automatically analyzes perfusion measurements to identify motion artifact and SPP values and a sensor placement device is provided. The instrumentation is configured to ignore motion artifact. Perfusion measurements are designated as SPP values if various criteria are met. SPP value criteria pertain to factors including cuff pressure, perfusion, perfusion change percentages relative to previous and subsequent perfusion measurements, and whether perfusion measurements are increasing or decreasing relative to previous and subsequent perfusion measurements. The sensor placement device assures reliable data is produced when multiple measurements are desired.
US07736309B2 Implantable sensor method and system
Systems and methods for non-vascular sensor implantation and for measuring physiological parameters in areas of a body where the physiological parameters are heterogeneous. An implant unit is implanted in an area of a body and a foreign body capsule is allowed to form around the implant unit area. A sensor may be directed into a body cavity such as, for example, the peritoneal space, subcutaneous tissues, the foreign body capsule, or other area. A subcutaneous area of the body may be tunneled for sensor placement. Spatially separated sensing elements may be used for detecting individual amounts of the physiological parameter. An overall amount of the physiological parameter may be determined by calculating a statistical measurement of the individual sensed amounts in the area. Another embodiment of the invention, a multi-analyte measuring device, may include a substrate having an electrode array on one side and an integrated circuit on another side.
US07736308B2 Surgical retractor
A surgical retractor immobilizes tissue at a surgical site. A preferred embodiment of the retractor is used during minimally invasive direct coronary bypass procedures to arrest movement of the grafting site while the heart continues pumping. Tape or thread can be used to connect the artery to the retractor with a holder.
US07736296B2 Intracardiac blood pump
Disclosed is an intracardiac blood pump with a flexible screen between which discharge ports are located. The pump parts are connected to the flexible screen which catches the axially discharged flow and deflects the same in an axial direction. The delivery rate of the pump is increased by preventing impact losses and swirls at the discharge ports.
US07736295B2 Delivery system and method for interstitial radiation therapy using custom end spacing
A delivery system and method for interstitial radiation therapy comprising a strand made of material, which is bio-absorbable in living tissue and a plurality of radioactive seeds dispersed in a predetermined array within the strand. The strands can have custom end spacings, which allow the optimal placing of seeds within the treatment tissue by implanting a plurality of strands to the same depth. A plurality of these strands can be implanted at the same time by the use of a guiding device. In certain embodiments, a custom end spacing within a needle is not attached to the strand in the needle. In certain embodiments, the custom end spacing, seeds and spacers within a needle are loose, i.e., not part of a strand.
US07736293B2 Implants for use in brachytherapy and other radiation therapy that resist migration and rotation
In one embodiment a therapeutic member includes a radioactive source and a material (e.g., a bio-absorbable polymeric material) that encapsulates the radioactive source. An outer surface of the encapsulating material includes a plurality of protrusions to reduce a tendency of the member to migrate and rotate within a patient's body after implantation. In an embodiment, the encapsulating material includes an anchor mechanism that extends from at least one of the longitudinal ends of the radioactive source to reduce a tendency of the member to migrate and rotate within a patient's body after implantation. Embodiments of the present invention are also directed to strands that include similar protrusions and/or anchor mechanisms. Additionally, embodiments of the present invention are directed to spacers that resist migration and rotation. Embodiments are also directed to radiopaque markers that resist migration and rotation. This abstract is not intended to be a complete description of the invention.
US07736290B2 Sheet folding apparatus, sheet folding unit and image forming apparatus
A sheet folding apparatus, including: a stacker configured to stack a plurality of sheets; a first folding roller configured to rotate around a first axis; a second folding roller configured to rotate around a second axis which is in parallel with the first axis and biased to the first folding roller separably to make a nip together with the first folding roller therebetween; a blade unit configured to push a surface of the plurality of sheets stacked by the stacker, into the nip; a first support configured to support the blade unit and configured to move linearly in a common tangential direction of the first folding roller and the second folding roller at the nip; and a second support configured to support the blade unit, configured to move linearly in the common tangential direction when the blade unit passes a section between where the blade unit starts touching at the plurality of sheets and where the plurality of sheets approaches the nip, and configured to deviate the blade away from the common tangential line to the second folding roller side with blocking deviating the blade unit away from the common tangential line to a first folding roller side when the plurality of sheets approaches the nip.
US07736289B2 Cutting-and creasing-wheel assembly, and a method for cutting and creasing a compressible material
A cutting- and creasing -wheel assembly includes a cutting tool, such as a circular disc having a continuous or a serrated cutting edge. The disc is rotatable and supported between a pair of rotatable creasing- wheel halves, the creasing-wheel halves being of equal radial dimension. The disc is controllable for movement between a non-operative position wherein the cutting edge is withdrawn radially inside the outer peripheries of the creasing-wheel halves, and an operative position wherein the cutting edge is projecting radially outside the peripheries. The method of slitting a corrugated or otherwise compressible material involves the provision and control of a cutting tool, preferably a circular disc having a continuous or serrated cutting edge. The disc is arranged to be rotatable and movably supported between a pair of rotatable creasing-wheel halves of equal radial dimension in a cutting- and creasing wheel assembly.
US07736288B2 Method and apparatus for producing bag with mouth member
A method is provided for producing a bag with a mouth member by liquidtightly melt-bonding a mouth member comprising a thermoplastic resin and a bag unit comprising a relatively soft flexible film, in which uniform surface temperature of the mouth member is realized, generation of an A-shaped gap is prevented, and a bag with a mouth member excellent in the liquidtightness of the melt-bonded part between the mouth member and the bag unit is produced; and also a production apparatus therefor is provided. The method comprises a preheating step of heating a tubular mouth member while rotating it around the cylinder axis thereof, and a melt-bonding step of inserting the heated mouth member into the opening part of a bag unit and pressing, and thereby melt-bonding the mouth member to the opening part of the bag unit.
US07736286B2 Exercise system utilizing elastic bands
An exercise system is disclosed that is configured to provide mounting surfaces for elastic resistance training elements. The system has a frame having first and second vertical columns and one or more supports configured to rest on a floor surface to maintain the frame in a substantially vertical orientation. The system also has first and second extendable members that are slideably disposed within the first and second vertical columns, and one or more rings coupled to the first and second extendable members that function as attachment points to secure one or more elastic resistance training elements to the system. The position of the rings is adjustable to allow a variety of exercises with the elastic training element.
US07736278B2 Releasable connection mechanism for variable stride exercise devices
The present invention provides for a variable stride exercise device having a variable size close curved striding path during use. The exercise device described and depicted herein utilizes various configurations of linkage assemblies, cam members, and other components, connected with a frame to allow a user to dynamically vary his stride path during exercise. An exercise device conforming to aspects of the present invention provides a foot path that adapts to the change in stride length rather than forcing the user into a fixed size path. Some embodiments of the exercise device include a lockout device that selectively eliminates the variable stride features of the exercise device and allows the user to exercise in a stepping motion. Other aspects of the present invention relate to a releasable connection mechanism that can be used to selectively and/or automatically limit or eliminate the variable stride feature of an exercise device.
US07736273B2 Electrical signal analysis to assess the physical condition of a human or animal
The invention is a human and animal performance data acquisition, analysis, and diagnostic system for fitness and therapy devices having an interface box removably disposed on incoming power wiring to a fitness and therapy device, at least one current transducer removably disposed on said interface box for sensing current signals to said fitness and therapy device, and a means for analyzing, displaying, and reporting said current signals to determine human and animal performance on said device using measurable parameters.
US07736269B2 Electro-hydraulic control system with three-position dog clutch actuator valve
An electro-hydraulic control system is provided for a transmission, which is preferably a countershaft transmission, that has a three-position dog clutch actuator valve to control the position of a three-position dog clutch. At least one of the positions of the dog clutch actuator valve is established by pressurized fluid directed to the dog clutch actuator valve by two logic valves, both of which are controlled to direct pressurized fluid elsewhere in the hydraulic control system, as well.
US07736264B2 Eight speed automatic transmission with dual area clutch piston
A transmission includes four planetary gearsets and five torque transmitting devices operative to provide eight forward speed ratios. At least one of the torque transmitting devices is engaged during two different speed ratios. The torque transmitting device includes a piston partially defining two separate and independently pressurizable chambers. Accordingly, the transmission enables both chambers to be pressurized for speed ratios in which a high torque capacity is required of the torque transmitting device, and only one of the chambers to be pressurized for speed ratios in which a low torque capacity is required of the torque transmitting device.
US07736262B2 Power train of automatic transmission
The present invention relates to a power train of an automatic transmission that outputs twelve forward speeds and three reverse speeds by operations of first and second input units, first and second output units, and a plurality of friction members that connect operating members of the first and second input units and the first and second output units to an input shaft, other operating members of the first and second input units, and the first and second output units, or a case.
US07736259B2 8-Speed Transmission
The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes three planetary gear sets having six torque-transmitting devices, a fixed interconnection and a grounded member. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is selectively connected to at least one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, the transmission housing and with the input member, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
US07736258B2 8-speed transmission
The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes three planetary gear sets, six torque-transmitting devices, one fixed interconnection and a grounded member. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio.
US07736257B2 Differential gear apparatus for vehicle
Pinion gears are rotatably carried within pinion gear receiving openings formed in a differential case. The inner pinion gear holding surfaces of the receiving openings are enlarged inwardly to form extensions to hold not only portions of the pinion gears that are located outwardly and that are to be held, but also part of inner meshing portions of the pinion gears that are disposed in meshing engagement with side gears in an overlapping manner. This construction prevents a tilting of the pinion gears and improves the durability.
US07736256B2 Electric power steering device for vehicles applying assist power to rotary member surrounding tie rod connecting bar
To construct an electric power steering device in which the assist power decreases only the torque required for rotating the steering wheel, while the control of the steering angle of the steered wheels follows basically the rotation of the steering wheel by the driver, except when the steering angle of the steered wheels is changed by an actuation of a vehicle behavior control device, by a tie rod connecting bar supported to make a linear motion, a rotary member rotatable around the tie rod connecting bar, a rotation conversion device for converting a rotation of a steering shaft to a rotation of the rotary member, a rotation/linear motion conversion device for converting a rotation of the rotary member to a linear motion of the tie rod connecting bar, and a power assist electric motor to give a rotational force to the rotary member.
US07736249B2 Digitally controlled, user programmable and field relocatable table tennis robot
A table tennis robot system characterized in that all the motion control mechanisms of the robot are digitally controlled and fully user programmable and the robot can be positioned in a wide space range of the machine side of the playing field using a unique design of ball catching and recycling net (MB).
US07736246B2 Baseball bat swing training aid
A baseball bat swing training aid includes a housing having an inner cavity for storing a plurality of balls therein. A tube is extendable between storage and use configurations. The tube is disposed within the housing in the storage position. A ball holder is disposed on an end of the tube.
US07736245B2 Golf club shaft and golf club
A golf club shaft 2 made of a fiber-reinforced resin having a weight W of 30 to 55 g calculated as a shaft having a length of 46 inches and an average flexural rigidity EIa of 1.5 to 4.0 kgf·m2 and satisfying the equation: EIa≧0.1W−1.5. Since it is light weight but has a relatively high flexural rigidity, a golf club can be swung at high speed without deteriorating the flight direction performance.
US07736243B2 Golf club attachment mechanisms and methods to attach golf clubs
In one embodiment, a golf club attachment mechanism comprises a hosel adapter with a first slot coupler across a top portion of the hosel adapter, and a shaft adapter with a second slot coupler across a bottom portion of the shaft adapter. The second slot coupler of the shaft adapter is complementary to the first slot coupler of the hosel adapter. The first slot coupler and the second slot coupler couple together to restrict a rotational movement of the hosel adapter relative to the shaft adapter. Other embodiments are disclosed herein.
US07736242B2 System for determining performance characteristics of a golf swing
An instrumented golf club system and methods are disclosed. A variety of golf swing parameters are measured by the instrumented golf club and wirelessly transmitted to a portable computer device. The portable computer device generates a user interface that displays the golf swing parameters against preferred golf swing parameters. The instrumented golf club system allows a golfer to receive feedback in real time while playing golf.
US07736240B2 Rodeo or riding device
A riding device includes one or more cranks rotatably attached to a base, and a rider support supported on a carrier and movable relative to the base for supporting a rider, and a moving device for moving the carrier and the rider support relative to the base in an elliptical and reciprocating action, the rider support may be moved in different moving strokes relative to the base and may be adjusted up and down relative to the carrier. The base includes a column having a pivotal arm coupled to the carrier with a link for allowing the carrier and the link to be moved up and down relative to the base and for allowing the carrier and the rider support to be moved in different elliptical and reciprocating actions by the crank.
US07736234B2 MRAM as critical event storage for powered down gaming machines
Gaming machines and systems having MRAM and MROM are disclosed. MROMs for storing boot programs and other Read Only code are formed by cutting write connections or not providing PCB socket leads to MRAM write pins, or by using memory hubs to prevent writing to MRAMs. A tale-tale board or other logging device monitoring activities at various components while primary machine power is down records to MRAM, which can be dual ported to the logging device and MGC. Various components can each have dedicated logging devices and MRAMs. One MRAM associated with the brain box replaces both DRAM and NVRAM of regular machine architectures, and is used for dual purposes of regular operational use and as safe storage to facilitate a state recovery. Prioritization of data during the storage process is rendered unnecessary. Another MRAM associated with the back plane board stores data associated with the exterior housing or terminal.
US07736232B2 Methods and systems for implementing a secondary game across a plurality of gaming machines
A method of operating a plurality of networked gaming machines in which each of the plurality of networked gaming machines is configured to enable a same or a different primary game to be played, may include steps of (randomly, for example) selecting a gaming machine of the plurality of gaming machines; activating a secondary game on the selected gaming machine for a limited period of time and generating a player-perceptible indication that the secondary game is active on the selected gaming machine. When the limited period of time has elapsed, a step of de-activating the secondary game on the selected gaming machine may be carried out, whereupon the method may revert to the selecting step. The secondary game appears to the players on the casino floor as a roving and unpredictable opportunity to win additional prizes or bonus, or to be able to enter large outcome games, with animations, sounds and/or other enticing effects running from one gaming machine to another. Players may attempt to “follow” the secondary game as it “moves” or “jumps” from one gaming machine to another, thereby further animating the casino floor.
US07736227B2 Apparatus and method for dispensing prizes
A device for dispensing prizes includes a housing having a plurality of compartments, a door attached to the housing for coving the compartments, and a lock for limiting access to the compartments. The contents of the compartments are visible from the outside. Each compartment contains a prize, such as a diamond. The housing may be part of, or linked to, a gaming device. When a player wins a game, which entitles the player to select a tangible award, the device signals this fact to the player. The player then selects a compartment by pressing an input device located on the housing. An attendant opens an external door, and inserts an electronic key into a receptacle associated with the selected compartment, and enters a required code into the key. The compartment then opens, and the player obtains the prize. The device may also include an inventory control system which preferably uses an RFID apparatus for monitoring the contents of each compartment, and for keeping records of an inventory of prizes.
US07736226B1 Method for increasing base game play in a casino using a jackpot or progressive prize
A method for creating extra profit from gaming machines (games of chance used in a casino or bingo-hall setting) using progressives, where the progressive amount shown to players is not the amount collected from game play; rather, it is the value which is the sum of payments made from an annuity purchased using the full amount of the contributions made to the progressive, called the amortized value. The amortized value is used to create player excitement and increased base game play in casino environments.
US07736225B2 Slot machine and playing method thereof
A slot machine of the present invention comprises: a display to which a plurality of symbols are arranged; a BET switch that allows a BET input; an input switch that allows an input of a rank order of the symbols; and a controller, the controller allowing an input of an additional BET from the BET switch for a predetermined period of time after the start of a rearrangement of the plurality of symbols arranged to the display until the rearrangement of symbols, accepting the input of the rank order from the input switch if there has been an input of an additional BET, and generating a predetermined bonus if a quantitative order of the numbers of the respective symbols displayed to the display is same as the rank order inputted from the input switch when the plurality of symbols arranged to the display have been rearranged.
US07736223B2 Electronic gaming method and system having preview screen
An electronic gaming method and system with a game preview display. A field of game symbols is presented on the game display to the player as a preview for deciding whether or not to play the displayed game. If the player decides to play the game, the player selects a field element to turn the symbol displayed into a wild symbol. The player's selection of the field element for the wild symbol location is received by the game software which determines and displays each winning combination of symbols that is formed by such wild symbol location selection. A new game field can then be constructed and previewed on the game display.
US07736219B2 Method of playing an interactive fantasy boxing league game
In the method of playing a professional boxing fantasy league game players select names of real professional boxers from a database to staff their fantasy gyms and manage the fantasy gyms during a season in which real boxing matches take place between the selected boxers to determine which of the players is better at selecting and managing the boxers for his or her fantasy gym. The fantasy boxing competition is scored by assigning boxer point values according to a predetermined, unique and specific set of criteria according to the actual results of real boxing matches that take place between the selected boxers during the game. A cumulative total of gym points for each gym based on the boxer point values acquired by the boxers of the gym when they are active and on the gym roster determines the competition winner.
US07736218B2 Straw chopper and spreader for a combine harvester with improved fin design
A straw chopper is mounted at the rear hood of a combine harvester and includes a housing with a feed opening and a discharge opening and a rotor mounted in the housing comprising a hub with a plurality of blades mounted on the hub for chopping the fed materials and accelerating the chopped materials for discharge. A tailboard has a plurality of guide fins arranged relative to the housing so as to receive the chopped materials from the discharge opening to engage onto a guide surface and guide fins of the tailboard construction for spreading of the chopped materials to the sides. On each side of the tailboard an outermost one of the guide fins has a first fin portion extending downwardly from the bottom surface to an lowermost edge, a second fin portion inclined from the lowermost edge downwardly and toward the contact side of the fin and a third fin portion inclined from the second portion to the concave side and toward the bottom surface.
US07736216B2 Sander having removable platen
A tool for moving an abrasive media. The tool includes a tool body, a platen, a drive system and a retaining knob. The platen has an exterior platen surface and a knob aperture that is formed through the exterior platen surface. The drive system is housed in the tool body and configured to move the platen. The drive system includes an output member with a first threaded portion. The retaining knob is received through the knob aperture in the exterior platen surface of the platen. The retaining knob has a knob portion, which has an exterior surface, and an attachment member with a second threaded portion that is threadably coupled to the first threaded portion. The platen surface and at least a portion of the knob surface are co-planar. A related method is also provided.
US07736215B2 Polishing tool and polishing method and apparatus using same
A polishing tool comprising a support member, and polishing means fixed to the support member. The polishing means is composed of felt having a density of 0.20 g/cm3 or more and a hardness of 30 or more, and abrasive grains dispersed in the felt. A polishing method and apparatus involving pressing the polishing means against a surface of a workpiece to be polished, while rotating the workpiece and also rotating the polishing tool.
US07736206B1 Integrated tilt/trim and steering subsystem for marine outboard engines
A marine outboard engine is disclosed which comprises a drive unit, a tilt/trim/steering subsystem and a stern bracket adapted for connection to an associated watercraft. The tilt/trim/steering subsystem connects the drive unit to the stern bracket and comprises a first rotary actuator carrying the drive unit for pivotal movement about a steering axis that extends generally vertically, and a second rotary actuator connected to the first rotary actuator and supporting the first rotary actuator and the drive unit for pivotal movement about a tilt/trim axis that extends generally horizontally.
US07736205B2 Human powered watercraft
Human powered watercrafts, propulsion systems, and methods of propulsion are provided. A watercraft having an upper deck is configured with a cam plate having a pedal above the deck and a plate and cam below the deck, the cam engaging a cam follower of a fin bar, the fin bar having a substantially vertical propelling fin at an aft end and a pivot to the craft at a forward end. In another embodiment the craft receives two cam plates with pedals, a plurality of fin bars and two propelling fins, all operatively interconnected by a pulley and belt such that a leg thrust upon a pedal opens the fins and an opposite leg thrust upon the opposing pedal closes the fins, propelling the craft. In still another embodiment, an open, hollow surfboard remove-ably receives the propulsion system and a user activate-able buoyancy compensator making a submersible human powered watercraft.
US07736202B1 Contact assembly for attachment to an electronics module
A power electronics module includes an electronics module and a connector housing. The electronics module includes at least one interface section having at least one conductive surface. At least one connector is configured for attachment to the electronics module to establish electrical communication between the connector and the electronics module. The connector includes a connector housing, an insulative housing, a terminal and a biasing device. The insulative housing is supported by the connector housing. The terminal is configured to transmit electrical current to the conductive surface of the electronics module. The biasing device is configured to bias the terminal in a first direction to establish electrical contact with the conductive surface and the conductive surface biases the terminal in a second direction, opposite the first direction.
US07736199B2 Contact retention assembly
A contact retention assembly includes a body, an outward angled tine and an inward angled tine. The body extends between a front end and a back end. The outward angled tine extends from the body to a housing engagement surface and is configured to engage a portion of a housing. The inward angled tine extends from the body to a contact engagement surface and is configured to engage a contact in order to retain the contact within the assembly. The inward angled tine extends from the body in a different direction than the outward angled tine.
US07736195B1 Circuits, systems and methods for implementing high speed data communications connectors that provide for reduced modal alien crosstalk in communications systems
A communications outlet includes eight outlet tines positioned adjacent one another and defining four pairs of outlet tines. The fourth and fifth outlet tines define a first pair, the first and second outlet tines define a second pair, the third and sixth outlet tines define a third pair, and the seventh and eighth outlet tines define a fourth pair. Each outlet tine has a free end near to which a plug contact is adapted to touch and each outlet tine has a fixed end coupled through a corresponding conductive trace to a corresponding conductive wire termination contact. The communications outlet includes a first modal alien crosstalk compensation stage connected to the outlet tines associated with the second, third, and fourth pairs. The first modal alien crosstalk compensation stage includes independent capacitive components operably responsive to differential signals on the third pair to introduce common mode signals onto the second and fourth pairs that have the opposite polarity of common mode signals on the second and fourth pairs at points where the plug contacts connect with the outlet tines.
US07736193B2 Audio and video plug and socket having integrated video contact
An audio and video plug is provided, comprising a male audio plug having at least one audio signal plug contact and one audio ground plug contact, the plug being characterized by a substantially cylindrical video ground plug contact located radially outward said male audio plug, and being electrically insulated from said male audio plug, and at least one video signal plug contact being located inward of said video ground plug contact, and being electrically insulated from said video ground plug contact. Further an audio and video socket is provided, comprising a female audio socket having at least one audio signal socket contact and one audio ground socket contact, and a video signal socket contact being electrically insulated from said female audio socket, the socket being characterized by at least one video ground socket contact located radially outward said female audio socket, and being electrically insulated from said female audio socket and said video signal socket contact.
US07736191B1 Implantable connector with protected contacts
An implantable connector electrically connects multi-conductor leads to an implantable medical device such as a neurostimulator. The connector is assembled directly into a hermetic feedthrough of the implantable device and utilizes the feedthrough housing as a sustaining structure for connector clamping. The receptacle contacts detachably connect proximal lead contacts to corresponding feedthrough pins, which provide pass-through connections to electronic circuitry contained in a hermetically sealed case. The receptacle contact has resilient contact tines designed to engage a corresponding lead contact in a sliding manner. The receptacle contact is integrated with a contact guard which protects the receptacle contact from inadvertent handling damage. The contact guard is substantially more rigid than the resilient contact to resist deformation. The contact guard protectively shields the receptacle contact tines and prevents unintended contact tine excursion. In one embodiment, the contact guard is pre-attached to the receptacle contact prior to joining to the feedthrough pin. In another embodiment, the contact guard is an integral part of the feedthrough pin. Numerous embodiments with contact preload are provided.
US07736187B2 Electrical connector assemblies and joint assemblies and methods for using the same
An electrical joint assembly for connecting a plurality of conductors includes a busbar hub and a plurality of limiter modules. The busbar hub includes an electrically conductive busbar body and a plurality of conductor legs extending from the busbar body. The limiter modules each include a fuse element. Each of the limiter modules is connected to a respective one of the conductor legs and is connectable to a respective conductor to provide a fuse controlled connection between the respective conductor leg and the respective conductor. Each of the limiter modules is independently removable from the respective one of the conductor legs.
US07736185B2 Connector shield termination in limited clearance installations
Apparatus and methods provide for the termination of shields within and around a cable at a connector in limited clearance environments. According to embodiments described herein, a shield termination fixture includes a base, at least one insert aperture, at least one retainer, and a mechanism for terminating cable shields. The base attaches to a connector and defines the insert aperture through which a cable will enter the fixture for connection to the connector. A signal wire of the cable is connected to the connector and a wire shield is positioned between a base wall adjacent to the insert aperture and a shield retainer. The shield retainer is secured to the base, compressing and terminating the wire shield. A cable shield may be terminated via compression between a cable shield retainer and the shield retainer, between the shield retainer and the base, or via fixed attachment to a retainer.
US07736182B2 High speed electrical connector having improved housing
An electrical connector (1) includes a housing (10) and a number of wafers (20). Each wafer has a number of contacts (30) each having a contacting portion (31). The housing includes an insulative base (11) having a number of chambers (115) and a number of spacers (13) mounted on the insulative base. Each spacer includes a main portion (131), and a number of finger-shaped portions (132) formed on the main portion. Each finger-shaped portion has a floor (133) and a number of projecting walls (134,135) projecting laterally from the floor to form a plurality of passageways. The finger-shaped portion inserted in the chamber of the insulative base. Each passageway has an open front end (137) and an open rear end (138), the contacting portion of the contact inserted into the passageway from the open rear end toward the open front end.
US07736181B1 Coaxial cable connector interface
A coaxial cable connector interface for allowing signals to be transmitted over a coaxial transmission line between devices includes a coaxial cable and a cable connector that allows the coaxial cable to be attached to the devices. The coaxial cable includes a solid outer conductor that has corrugations to increase flexibility of the coaxial cable. The cable connector has a crimp portion that surrounds an end portion of the outer conductor of the coaxial cable. The crimp portion conforms to the corrugations of the outer conductor, thereby creating an interface with the corrugations that attaches the cable connector to the coaxial cable by maintaining an axial load between the cable connector and the coaxial cable. Additionally, the coaxial cable connector interface includes a sealing element and a protective boot for preventing moisture from bridging the interface and causing cable performance reduction.
US07736180B1 Inner conductor wedge attachment coupling coaxial connector
A coaxial connector with a connector body provided with a connector body bore. The outer conductor electrically coupled to the connector body. An insulator supporting an inner contact coaxial with the connector body bore. A grip ring seated in an annular grip ring groove of the inner contact. The grip ring groove provided with a wedge surface having a taper between the connector end of the wedge surface and the cable end of the wedge surface. The grip ring movable along the wedge surface, longitudinally within the grip ring groove. The grip ring provided with a grip surface oriented to engage a surface area of the inner conductor as the inner contact is coupled with the inner conductor by insertion of the coaxial cable into the connector body bore. The grip surface dimensioned to couple with the surface area, inhibiting removal of the inner conductor towards the cable end.
US07736179B2 Refrigerator with plug-in power supply
A plug-in power supply for a refrigerator used to charge portable electronic devices includes an auxiliary power supply mounted in an auxiliary power supply compartment, and a removable module, having an electrical connector, mounted in an electrical connector cup. A portable electronic device is charged by placing the device in the connector cup and coupling the device to the electrical connector. Power is then supplied from the auxiliary power supply to the portable electronic device.
US07736172B2 Cable assembly
A cable assembly in accordance with the present invention comprises an insulative housing defining a supporting portion with an upper surface and a pair of fixing portions disposed at two sides of the supporting portion with a top surface higher than the upper surface, and a receiving space defined by the supporting portion and the pair of fixing portions; a flexible flat cable supported by the supporting portion of the insulative housing and received into the receiving space; an upper shell assembled to the insualtive housing and defining a main body portion covering to the flexible flat cable and a pair of positioning portions respectively attached to the pair fixing portions thereof, the upper shell having a recessed main body portion relative to the pair of fixing portions and received into the receiving space; and a pair of latch members respectively mounted on the pair of fixing portions.
US07736169B1 Chip module sliding connector
The electrical connector includes a body having a terminal-receiving area, at least one terminal disposed in the corresponding terminal-receiving area, a cover sliding along a sliding route and assembled on the body. The top surface of the cover has an insertion area with holes. When the cover slides to a position, the insertion area is corresponding to the terminal-receiving area for pins of a chip module passing through the insertion area and terminal-receiving area to electrically connect with the terminal. At least one receiving plane is disposed on the top of the cover for holding. The receiving plane is higher than the insertion area. The two opposite sides of the cover outside the insertion area have a lateral protrusion protruding upwards. The lateral protrusions are parallel to the sliding route of the cover.
US07736165B2 Electrical connector assemblies and methods for forming and using the same
An electrical connector for use with a conductor includes a housing, a conductor member and a flowable sealant. The housing defines a port. The port includes: an entrance opening; an exit opening; and a conductor passage extending between and communicating with the entrance and exit openings, the conductor passage being adapted to receive the conductor therethrough. The conductor member is disposed in the housing. The sealant is disposed in the conductor passage. The sealant is adapted for insertion of the conductor therethrough and to the conductor member such that the sealant provides a seal about the inserted conductor. The sealant is positively pre-pressurized prior to insertion of the conductor into the sealant.
US07736160B2 Distributor connection module
The invention relates to a distributor connection module used in the telecommunication and data technology field. Said distributor connection module comprises a housing which comprises a cavity wherein at least two conductor plates are arranged, and the housing comprises at least one opening in a front side wherein two connector modules can be inserted. A pivotable protection frame is arranged on the housing, which can adopt at least two positions. In a first pivoted position, the connector module is free and in a second position, the protection frame is arranged in a parallel manner in relation to the front side.
US07736159B1 Pluggable connector with differential pairs
A pluggable connector that includes a housing having an inner surface that defines a housing cavity. The housing cavity extends along a central axis to an opening of the housing cavity. The opening is sized and shaped to mate with a mating connector moving along the central axis. The connector also includes a plug insert that is positioned within the housing cavity. The plug insert extends along the central axis and forms contact cavities therein that extend parallel to the central axis. The plug insert has an outer surface that is separated from the inner surface of the housing by a spacing. The connector also includes differential pairs. Each differential pair has two mating contacts that extend parallel to each other along a contact plane of the differential pair and within corresponding contact cavities. The contact planes of at least two adjacent differential pairs are perpendicular to one another.
US07736158B2 Electrical junction box with a decreased height size and waterproof function
An electrical junction box comprising a casing body including a bottom wall and a side wall extending upward from the bottom wall; a circuit board contained in the casing body; a connector housing disposed in a cutout section in the side wall and adapted to be coupled to a mating member; a filler filled in a space enclosed by the bottom wall, side wall and connector housing; and a packing disposed in a clearance between the cutout section and an outer peripheral surface of the connector housing to seal the clearance.
US07736156B2 Connector assembly with improved solder tails
A connector assembly (100) adapted for electrically connecting with a complementary connector along a mating direction includes an insulative housing (2) defining a mating port, a number of contacts (3) disposed in the housing, a circuit board (4) located on a rear side of the housing and including a front surface facing to the rear side of the housing and an opposite rear surface, and a number of solder tails (8) located behind the rear surface of the circuit board and electrically connecting the contacts with the printed circuit board.
US07736155B2 Connector
A connector capable of ensuring reliability of contact even when a mating object to be connected, which is fitted to a receiving portion of a housing, is tilted. The receiving portion for receiving a plug-side connector is formed in the housing. A plurality of first socket-side contacts including contact portions are arranged in the housing. Each contact portion protruding into the receiving portion can be brought into contact with a first plug-side contact of the plug-side connector. A plurality of second socket-side contacts including contact portions are arranged in the housing. Each contact portion protruding into the receiving portion can be brought into contact with a second plug-side contact of the plug-side connector. Protruding portions are formed in the housing, for suppressing displacement of the plug-side connector in the receiving portion.
US07736154B2 Board to board connector
A board mounted connector for a board to board connector system is disclosed which can be smaller, provide a more robust connection to a conductive circuit on a printed circuit board while allowing for a high degree of circuit design freedom on the board circuit due to the terminal insertion from the mating side of the housing where the terminals are generally above a bottom portion (33) of the non-conductive housing (31) adjacent the board. The housing (31) is provided with fitting holes (37) extending from an end surface (32d) on the side which mates with the male housing (21). The female terminals (35) have anchor portions (36) to be fitted into the fitting holes (37) of the female housing (31) and contact portions (35b) to engage terminals in a mating connector. Forward end portions (36a) of the anchor portions (36) are soldered to a circuit terminal of the board (3). Cut out portions (39) in the rectangular frame portion (32) allow for the solder joint between the end portion (36a) and the conductive circuit (38) to be inspected.
US07736150B2 Module-based education
The invention is a system and method for conveying information, job skills, academic courses, and/or other forms of learning (collectively “education”). The subject matter being taught is organized into small modular units called content modules. Content modules can be invoked in a highly flexible manner and order, based on interactions with the user. A learning matrix selectively identifies which content module is to be subsequently invoked, on the basis of user goals, test results, prerequisites relating to the subject matter, empirical evidence relating to how persons typically learn the particular subject, prior content modules invoked by the user, and/or any other potentially relevant characteristic. By incorporating information relating to the user, the user's performance, the subject matter, and/or empirical data relating to how people learn the specific subject matter, subsequent content modules can be selected to specifically tailor the learning process to the specific context of the user.
US07736148B2 Method of and means for teaching accounting concepts and procedures
A method of teaching accounting principles is disclosed in which two different colors are used to distinguish that which is owned and owed from that which has been used and earned. This is to establish the concept of double entry accounting. Question sets are used to distinguish assets, liabilities, income and expenditure from one another to facilitate their proper treatment in books of account. Words other than commonly accepted accounting words are used to denote accounting concepts before the teaching method moves on to using the commonly accepted accounting words.
US07736146B2 Medical handpiece having an angled shaft
A medical, in particular dental-medical, handpiece, having a shaft, having a forward shaft section and a rearward shaft section, which defines an obtuse angle with regard to each other, having a working head at a forward end of the forward shaft section, which is tapered towards the working head, and having a drive shaft in the shaft, which drive shaft has a forward drive shaft section and a rearward drive shaft section, which stand in drive connection with one another, the forward end of the forward drive shaft section standing in drive connection with a tool holder moveably mounted in the working head, and the forward drive shaft section being mounted in a receiving sleeve. The receiving sleeve can be screwed in, from the rear, into the forward shaft section.
US07736145B1 Candle wick straightening method and apparatus
A method and apparatus for inserting wicks into candles formed in jars or containers characterized by a device comprised of a hollow tube, sealed on one end, in which a wick and wick base can snugly fit, and a crosspiece having width greater than width of the mouth of a jar so that after candle wax is poured, the wick straightening device is inserted into the jar and is removed after the wax has cooled so that the wick will remain straight even after the candle wax has cooled.
US07736140B2 Interior cooling body for a blowfilm system, blowfilm system, and process for producing a blowfilm
Numerous aspects concerning a blow film system are improved by the present invention.
US07736138B2 Compressor with continuously inclined surface
A compressor comprises: a cylinder with a compression space; a suction port and a discharge port which communicate with the compression space in the cylinder; a support member which closes an opening of the cylinder; a rotary shaft which is rotatably supported on the support member; a compression member whose one surface crossing an axial direction of the rotary shaft is inclined continuously between a top dead center and a bottom dead center and which is rotated and compresses a fluid to discharge the fluid via the discharge port; and a vane which is disposed between a suction port and the discharge port, abuts on one surface of the compression member and partitions the compression space in the cylinder into high and low pressure chambers.
US07736137B2 Scroll Compressor
A scroll compressor, wherein a guide passage facing the supply passage of a fixed side substrate part is formed at the outer peripheral portion of a fixed scroll engaged with a movable scroll along the axial direction of the fixed scroll. A lubricating oil is stored in an oil storage tank surrounded by a set of weir walls formed along the guide passage and the movable side substrate part of the movable scroll facing a fixed side spiral wall. The movable side substrate part is radially displaced by the turning action of the movable scroll to supply the lubricating oil stored in the oil storage tank to the movable scroll side.
US07736136B2 Compressor including separation tube engagement mechanism
The present invention provides a compressor capable of arranging a refrigerant discharge port regardless of the location of a separation chamber. In this compressor, a separation tube is pressed in through an opening of the separation chamber, and by engaging a regulating ring with an engagement groove provided in the inner wall of the separation chamber, the movement of the separation tube in the anti-insertion direction is regulated. Therefore, unlike the conventional compressor, a refrigerant discharge pipe for regulating the movement of the separation tube in the anti-insertion direction need not be connected to the upper part of the separation tube, and the refrigerant discharge port can be arranged freely regardless of the location of the separation section.
US07736133B2 Capsule for two downhole pump modules
Upstream and downstream pump assemblies are mounted in a capsule having a bulkhead between the upstream and downstream pump assemblies, dividing the capsule into upstream and downstream chambers sealed from each other. In a dual operation mode, well fluid flows through the inlet of the capsule into the upstream chamber, where it is pumped to a first pressure level by the upstream pump assembly and discharged into the downstream chamber. The downstream pump assembly then pumps the well fluid to a second pressure level and discharges the well fluid out the outlet of the capsule. The assembly has also an upstream pump assembly only operational mode and a downstream pump assembly only operational mode.
US07736130B2 Airfoil and method for protecting airfoil leading edge
An airfoil is disclosed having a concave pressure side and a convex suction side defining a chord length, and a leading edge and a trailing edge. A leading edge protective strip is adhered by a bond layer to and protectively covers the leading edge and respective predetermined portions of the pressure side and suction side of the airfoil body from the leading edge downstream towards the trailing edge. The predetermined portion of the suction side covered by the leading edge protective strip is less than the predetermined portion of the pressure side covered by the leading edge protective strip.
US07736123B2 Plasma induced virtual turbine airfoil trailing edge extension
A trailing edge vortex reducing system includes a gas turbine engine airfoil extending in a spanwise direction, one or more spanwise extending plasma generators in a trailing edge region around a trailing edge of the airfoil. The plasma generators may be mounted on an outer wall of the airfoil with first and second pluralities of the plasma generators on pressure and suction sides of the airfoil respectively. The plasma generators may include inner and outer electrodes separated by a dielectric material disposed within a grooves in an outer hot surface of the outer wall of the airfoil. The plasma generators may be located at an aft end of the airfoil and the inner electrodes flush with the trailing edge base. A method for operating the system includes energizing one or more of plasma generators in steady state or unsteady modes.
US07736121B2 Tortilla destacking device
Disclosed herein is a destacking device for dispensing planar food products, such as tortillas, from a stack bottom. In some embodiments of the invention, the device includes a frame and a carriage assembly configured for linear reciprocation with respect to the frame. The carriage assembly has a drum that rotates in response to linear reciprocation of the carriage assembly, and a suction lip is positioned proximal a wall of the drum. A stack of tortillas can be disposed on the suction lip, and a negative pressure is applied to close the suction lip and “suck” a bottommost tortilla against the lip. A movable arm has a leading edge for cooperating with the suction lip to separate the bottommost tortilla from a next bottommost tortilla. The drum rotates the suction lip and tortilla, and the vacuum is released to allow the tortilla to fall downwardly onto an endless belt.
US07736117B2 Linkage assembly
A linkage assembly that includes a pivot pin cartridge disposed to connect pivotably a lift arm and a lever of the linkage assembly along an axis including the cartridge. The pivot pin cartridge includes a pin, at least one bushing pivotably disposed about at least a portion of the pin, and a pair of sleeve bearing inserts free-floatingly positioned about the pin and within at least a portion of the bushing. The rear tilt lever is coupled to the bushing for rotation about the pin, while at least one of a pair of side plates of the lift arm is coupled to the pivot pin.
US07736114B2 Releasable connection between members
A trailer (T) and a dock (D) are provided with substantially identical slat conveyors (10, 12). Each conveyor (10, 12) has alternating conveyor slats (36, 36′) and lifting/holding slats (38, 38′). The trailer (T) is backed up to the dock (D). Upper portions of the lifting/holding slats (38, 38′) are coupled together at their ends. The confronting ends of the conveying slats (36, 36′) are also coupled together. A mechanism carried by the dock (D) raises and lowers the upper portions of the two sets of lifting/holding slats (38, 38′) a drive mechanism carried by the dock (D) where it reciprocates both sets of conveying slats (36, 36′).
US07736113B2 Apparatus for transporting a motor vehicle in a parking system
Disclosed herein is a vehicle transport apparatus for parking systems. The vehicle transport apparatus of the present invention includes a first platform, onto which a vehicle is placed, a second platform, which is provided in a parking space, and a pair of carriers and which move between the first platform and the second platform. Each carrier includes a main frame, a drive wheel which is provided in the main frame, a drive motor which rotates the drive wheel; a pair of arms which are rotatably mounted to each of opposite sides of the main frame, and a hydraulic device which rotates the arms. The arms lift the wheels when extracted from the main frame, and the carriers transports the vehicle lifted by the arms from one platform to another platform.
US07736111B2 Device for holding screw-like means in position
This device for holding screw-like means (1) in position in a through-hole (2) in a first part (3) for clamping the first part to a second part is characterized in that it comprises a one-piece tongue (4) comprising a central portion provided with a tapped hole (5) for receiving screw-like means (1) and either side of which extend two resilient wings (6, 7) intended to engage with clearance in apertures (8, 9) in the first part to allow the screw-like means to be held in position with clearance in the hole (2) in this first part.
US07736109B2 Multi-position ball lock/quick release pin bushing/retainer
An exemplary retaining assembly for a ball lock pin includes a bushing assembly configured to attachably engage an object. The bushing assembly has an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface defines an engagement portion configured to receive locking balls urged therein in engagement. The outer surface is configured to be received within the object. The bushing assembly can include any suitable bushing member as desired, such as a press fit bushing, a serrated press fit bushing, a diamond knurl bushing, a key insert bushing, a template bushing, and the like. The bushing assembly can be a lock bushing configured to receive therein a lock ring. The lock ring can be inserted into the lock bushing and around a tapered portion of a shaft of a ball lock pin to help prevent the ball lock pin from being removed from the bushing assembly.
US07736108B1 Structural blind anchor bolt
An anchor assembly having a nut which is pivotably connected to a sleeve which is slideable along a rod housing. The nut is pivotable to and from a position in vertical alignment with rod housing and a position perpendicular to the rod housing in which a threaded nut opening is in vertical alignment with a opening of the rod housing. A flange is disposed above the rod housing and a stop washer is disposed above the flange, the rod insertable within both the flange and washer. The threaded rod is insertable through the rod opening of the rod housing and threadable within the threaded opening of the nut when the nut is in a position perpendicular to the rod housing. When the nut of the anchor assembly is positioned into vertical alignment with the rod housing, the assembly can fit into a narrow hole. Once the nut clears the opening, the nut moves into the position perpendicular to the rod housing so that the rod may be threaded through the nut opening. The rod is threaded through the nut opening until the washer contacts the flange at which point the nut is drawn up to a bottom side of a substrate surface by way of the slideable sleeve.
US07736104B2 Docking and securement system for wheeled mobility devices
A docking device for use with a wheeled mobility device having a device interface on a rear thereof includes a securing mechanism to dock with the device interface. The securing mechanism is adapted to dock with the device interface upon rearward motion of the wheeled mobility device relative to the docking device regardless of the horizontal position of the mobility device over a range of horizontal positions of the mobility device. The securing device can also be adapted to dock with the device interface regardless of the angle of the device interface relative to the docking device over a range of angles of the device interface. Further, the securing device can be adapted to dock with the device interface regardless of the vertical position of the device interface relative to the docking device over a range of vertical positions of the device interface.
US07736103B1 Lawn mower cover device
A lawn mower cover device for storing and securing a lawn mower for storage or transport includes a container receiving the lawn mower to protect the lawn mower. The container has an open rear end to permit the lawn mower to be inserted into the container. A handle is coupled to the container. The handle is graspable to facilitate relocation of the container. A door is hingedly coupled to the handle. The door is selectively pivoted over the open rear end of the container to close the open rear end. A plurality of wheels is rotatably coupled to the container. The wheels roll along a support surface to facilitate relocation of the container.
US07736099B2 Gear milling tool with replaceable cutting inserts
A cutting tool assembly adapted to be coupled to a cutter head for manufacture of a gear. The cutting tool assembly includes a cutting insert and a holder adapted to couple the cutting insert to the cutting head. The holder includes a pocket defined by a back surface and at least one lip member that provides a force directed against the cutting insert toward the back surface to thereby retain the cutting insert within the pocket during cutting operations.
US07736098B2 Concrete rebound shield and method of use
A concrete rebound shield and method of use is disclosed. The concrete rebound shield includes a bell defining an opening adapted to receive a feed hose. A collar nests within the opening of the bell and attaches to the feed hose such as to retain the bell onto the feed hose. The bell is adapted to substantially surround the feed hose and direct hydrated concrete toward a selected area.
US07736097B2 Environmental barrier device
An environmental barrier device includes a first member and a second member. The first member may be constructed of a first sheet material. The first member may have a memory retaining shape. The first member may be normally oriented in a generally upright position and resiliently deflectable from the generally upright position. The second member may be secured to the first member. The second member may be constructed of a second sheet material. The second sheet material may be flexible and may define a filter media. The filter media may allow the passage of water and preclude the passage of dirt and silt. The environmental barrier device includes a lower portion for positioning below ground level and an upper portion for positioning above ground level. The environmental barrier device may be driven over or otherwise deflected from a generally upright orientation and the first member may automatically return the environmental barrier device to the generally upright orientation.
US07736095B2 Pile assembly for engineering and construction works
A conventionally available pile for civil engineering work is constructed such that the pile has in its inside a core body with wedges that stick into soil deep in the ground and function to prevent the pile from coming out of place. A problem exists with such a pile in that placing the core body at an appropriate position inside the pile is difficult. A pile for civil engineering work of this invention enables a core body to be placed at an appropriate position and labor required for the placement to be reduced. A pile (1) for civil engineering work is characterized in that, for example, a guide rail (4) that enables a core body (6) to be guided is provided inside a body of the pile (1), the core body (6) is guided through the guide rail (4), and wedges (6a, 6b) are appropriately guided to cut/pushed-in openings (2a, 2b, 3a, 3b).
US07736089B2 System and method for prevention of beach erosion
A system and method for prevention of erosion utilizing a sub-tidal platform designed to be lodged at a beachhead. The sub-tidal platform will be placed under water and will contain at least one or a plurality of main trusses exhibiting a curvilinear convex shape and containing a plurality of gates and at least one or a plurality of intermittent trusses exhibiting a curvilinear convex shape and containing a plurality of gates which, when in their closed position, decelerate material entrained with liquid and allow for deposit of said material in the spaces formed by the trusses.
US07736088B2 Rectangular load plate
A generally rectangular load plate for transferring loads between a first cast-in-place slab and a second cast-in-place slab separated by a joint. The load plate being adapted to transfer load between the first and second slabs directed essentially perpendicular to the intended upper surface of the first slab, and allowing relative movement between adjacent concrete slabs along the joint between the slabs with minimal joint opening between the slabs. A pocket former embedded within the first slab may also be included to position the load plate and create void space on the sides of the load plate to permit the relative movement. A compressible material along the side of the load plate may also be used to permit the relative movement. Neither the void space created by the pocket former nor the compressible material are dependent upon the existence of a significant gap in the joint between the concrete slabs.
US07736087B1 Portable highway warning device
A portable highway warning device includes any number of elongated rumble strips each fabricated of a suitable flexible polymeric material. Embedded within each rumble strip are a plurality of laterally spaced metal plates or bars to provide ballast to each rumble strip. The metal plates or bars run transversely across the width of each rumble strip with sufficient spacing therebetween to permit each rumble strip to be rolled up lengthwise from end to end when not in use.
US07736085B2 Bollard system
A bollard, which is positioned in a structure having a grade level, includes an outer member having a first section extending above the grade level; an inner member having a filler material; and a connector operationally connecting the inner member and the outer member, wherein the inner member straddles the grade level and is rotatable relative to the outer member.
US07736083B2 Device for connecting two rotating shafts, in particular in a turbomachine
Device for connecting two rotating shafts (10, 12), one driving and the other driven, comprising rectilinear splines (20) formed on the driving shaft (10) and engaged in complementary rectilinear splines (22) of the driven shaft (12), the splined region of the driven shaft having, in the vicinity of one of its longitudinal ends, at least one cylindrical portion (26) having a greater torsional flexibility.
US07736077B2 Ink ribbon cartridge with take-up shaft resistance means
An ink ribbon cartridge including a cartridge frame, take-up shaft connecting members, and supply shaft connecting members is provided. The take-up shaft connecting members support and rotatably connect ends of a take-up shaft to the cartridge frame and the supply shaft connecting members support and rotatably connect ends of a supply shaft to the cartridge frame. At least one of the supply shaft connecting members includes a rotation member, an intermediate body, an urging member, and a spool portion, the spool portion is arranged substantially inside the supply shaft. The intermediate body is arranged between a portion of an inner surface of the rotation member and a portion of an outer surface of the cartridge frame, and the urging member is arranged substantially inside at least one of the spool portion and the rotation member and urges the inner surface of the rotation member closer to the outer surface of the cartridge frame.
US07736075B2 Printing arrangement incorporating two-part adhesive application
A printing arrangement includes a driving station configured to drive print media along a path. The driving station includes a pair of opposed pinch rollers between which the print media can be pinched when driven. A printing station is configured to print upon the print media. The printing station includes a pair of opposed printheads on opposite sides of the path and between which the print media can pass to be printed on opposite sides. An adhesive application station is configured to apply adhesive to the print media. The adhesive application station includes a pair of applicators on opposite sides of the path and is configured to apply respective parts of a two-part adhesive to opposite sides of the print media.
US07736070B2 Double mold optocoupler
Double mold opto-coupler and method for manufacture. A first subassembly is formed that includes a light detector. The first subassembly is molded with a first mold material to form a molded first subassembly. A light source is attached to the molded first sub-assembly to form a second sub-assembly. The second sub-assembly is molded with a second mold material to form a final assembly with predetermined dimensions.
US07736058B2 Chuck tape and packaging bag with chuck tape
Disclosed are a reclosable tape that can be manufactured easily and stably, exhibit excellent adhesion strength regardless of a material type of a sealant layer (innermost layer) of a base material film of a bag body and good formability of an engaging portion in manufacturing; and a packaging bag with the reclosable tape. The reclosable tape 1 includes a male member 11 and a female member 12 and the packaging bag with the reclosable tape are so arranged that: a belt-shaped base 13 of the reclosable tape 1 includes a seal portion 14 and a base portion 15; a resin forming the base portion 15 has a melting point higher than that of a resin forming the seal portion 14; and the resin forming the seal portion 14 contains 50 mass % or more of a metallocene-type linear-low-density polyethylene having density of 920 kg/m3 or lower, melt flow rate of 5.0 g/l 10 min or lower.
US07736055B2 X-ray device
In order to achieve a consistently good image quality, an X-ray device has an X-ray source in the form of an X-ray radiator (1) and an X-ray detector (2) with a precisely defined mutual arrangement, and a subsystem (5-7; 10-11) for detecting any deviation between the actual mutual arrangement and the precise mutual arrangement of X-ray source and X-ray detector (2). Optical detection of deviations is preferably provided.
US07736053B2 Bolometric on-chip temperature sensor
Disclosed are embodiments of an improved on-chip temperature sensing circuit, based on bolometry, which provides self calibration of the on-chip temperature sensors for ideality and an associated method of sensing temperature at a specific on-chip location. The circuit comprises a temperature sensor, an identical reference sensor with a thermally coupled heater and a comparator. The comparator is adapted to receive and compare the outputs from both the temperature and reference sensors and to drive the heater with current until the outputs match. Based on the current forced into the heater, the temperature rise of the reference sensor can be calculated, which in this state, is equal to that of the temperature sensor.
US07736052B2 Multipoint digital temperature acquisition system
A digitally based system is designed to sense temperatures at a plurality of places and transmit temperature data along a hard-wire cable or distributed (wireless) network to an integrated data collection and control appliance. The system can perform single “spot” measurements or arrange multiple readings in a database for later use. Semiconductor-based sensors with digital output and data transmission capabilities allow large numbers of sensors to be placed along extended lengths of signal cable consisting of only three or four wires. The device incorporates electrical insulating materials, encapsulants, and mechanical strain relief designed to protect the sensors and transmission lines from failures related to exposure to extreme cold. Though described here for cold region applications, the embodiment of this invention encompasses moderate and tropical environments as well, or temperatures ranging from −40 C to +85 C.
US07736050B2 Fluid mixing device using cross channels
Provided is a fluid mixing device which produces a series of solutions with a concentration gradient. The fluid mixing device includes: a plurality of first channels disposed parallel to each other on a layer, and into which an equal amount of diluent flows from its upstream; a plurality of second channels formed perpendicular to the first channels on an adjacent layer to the layer on which the first channels are formed, and into which an equal amount of sample solution flows from its upstream; and via holes formed at at least one intersection between each of the first channel and a plurality of second channels so that a predetermined amount of sample solution flows from the second channels into corresponding first channels, wherein a series of solutions with different concentrations is produced in the first channels depending on the amount of sample solution that flows into the first channels through the via holes. Thus, a series of solutions with different concentrations is output from the first channels.
US07736048B2 Segmented auger for a concrete dispensing apparatus
A segmented auger mechanism is mounted in the hopper of a concrete dispensing apparatus used to distribute a hydrated concrete mixture into a horizontally disposed form to manufacture pre-cast concrete structures, such as concrete wall panels used to form a foundation for a residential or commercial building. The auger mechanism is formed of connected segments that can be individually and independently removed from the concrete structure for service and repair. The auger is rotatably supported by a pair of end bearings supported on the opposing end walls of the hopper of the dispensing apparatus, and by at least one interior bearing rotatably supporting a jack shaft having opposing half-round connecting portions for attachment to a corresponding connecting portion on the auger shaft. Removal of a segment of the auger mechanism facilitates the removal of the entire auger mechanism to minimize the down time of the concrete dispensing apparatus.
US07736043B2 Light emitting panel assemblies
Light emitting assemblies include a light emitting panel member having at least one light input surface for receiving light from at least one light source and a pattern of deformities that vary on or in at least one surface to cause light to be emitted from the panel member. At least a portion of the light input surface may have faceted reflective or refractive surfaces or a lens array in close proximity to each light source for maximizing or otherwise changing the light emitted from each light source.
US07736042B2 Back light unit
Provided is a back light unit. The back light unit includes a light guide plate having a light guide pattern part; at least one light emitting unit provided at a sidewall of the light guide plate, and irradiating light to the light guide plate; a keypad positioned over the light guide plate, and comprising a resin layer, a base resin layer, a character opening part having a character shape, a key assembly provided at one side, and a key adherence film provided on an upper surface of the base resin layer; and a printed circuit board comprising a metal dome switch positioned under a lower surface of the light guide plate.
US07736041B2 Lighting and/or signalling device for a motor vehicle comprising an outer wall provided with a heat exchange zone
A lighting and/or signalling device for a motor vehicle comprising an outer wall delimiting the interior and exterior of a closed chamber, a casing, a closing glass closing the casing, the glass and casing forming at least partly the outer wall of the chamber, at least one light source inside the chamber, at least one heat exchange zone for transferring heat from inside to outside the chamber outer wall including the heat exchange zone, the heat exchange zone being able to be in contact with a fluid capable of circulating in the region of this heat exchange zone, so that the fluid enables heat emitted in the region of the heat exchange zone to be evacuated.
US07736040B2 Vehicle headlamp system and vehicle headlamp for use therein
A vehicle headlamp system and a vehicle headlamp are provided. The headlamp system includes a plurality of headlamps, one headlamp disposed on each of the right and left sides of a front end portion of a vehicle. Each of the headlamps includes a lamp body having an opening portion, a transparent cover attached to the opening portion to form a lamp chamber, and a plurality of lamp units arranged inside the lamp chamber along a width direction of the vehicle. An outer side portion of the transparent cover extends toward a rear side of the vehicle. Each of the lamp units includes a light emitting element disposed such that a light emitting surface thereof faces an inner side in the width direction of the vehicle, and a reflector disposed on an inner side of the light emitting element to forwardly reflect light from the corresponding light emitting element.
US07736039B2 Vehicle lamp
A vehicle lamp is provided with a first unit having a first main reflector for reflecting light from a first semiconductor light emitting element to a front side, and a second unit having a second main reflector for reflecting light from a second semiconductor light emitting element to the front side. A light emitting region of the first unit and a light emitting region of the second unit are arranged to be separated from each other. An additional optical unit for receiving light irradiated from the first and the second units to irradiate to the front side is arranged between the first unit and the second unit such that a light emitting region of the additional optical unit connects the light emitting region of the first unit and the light emitting region of the second unit to be optically recognized as a single light emitting region as a whole.
US07736037B2 Bi-functional lighting mechanism based on rotary actuator
A projector assembly having a light source and a reflector body positioned proximately to the light source for reflecting light forward along an axis of the projector assembly. Mounted to the reflector body is a lens. The lens is in front of and at a distance from the light source to focus the light into a beam pattern. An actuator is mounted to the reflector body and includes a pair of rotatable shafts extending from opposing ends along an axis that is perpendicular to and below the axis of the projector assembly. A light shield is mounted onto the rotatable shafts of the actuator and is rotatable between a first position, wherein substantially all of the light below the axis of the projector assembly is blocked, and a second position, wherein at least a portion of the light below the axis of the projector assembly is allowed to project forward through the lens.
US07736036B2 Lamp unit of vehicle headlamp
An upper portion region and a lower portion region at a front side surface of a projector lens are constituted as up and down direction diverging portions provided with a plurality of lens elements extended substantially in a horizontal direction by a vertical sectional shape formed in a recessed and projected shape relative to a reference face of the front side surface. After diverging light emitted from the upper portion region and the lower portion region to a front side in an up and down direction, a diverging degree thereof is made to be able to be controlled accurately to thereby pertinently shade off the cutoff line. A spectroscopic color appearing at an upper vicinity of the cutoff line owing to a spectroscopic light phenomenon brought about when light reflected from a reflector transmits through the projector lens is made to be inconspicuous.
US07736034B1 Auxiliary fender mounted turning signal light system
A board is adapted to be secured to the exterior of a vehicle above each of its wheels. Each board has a plurality of fender lights. Electrical components include supplemental wiring. The supplemental wiring couples the boards and their fender lights to a battery, switch and conventional turning signal lights of a vehicle. In this manner when an operator energizes the conventional turning signal lights, the fender lights will flash with the corresponding conventional turning signal lights.
US07736030B2 Solid-state illumination lamp structure
A solid-state illumination lamp structure includes a sleeve, a first electrode, a second electrode and a light-emitting assembly. The first electrode is mounted on one end of the sleeve and the second electrode is mounted on the other end of the sleeve. The light emitting assembly is mounted inside the sleeve and includes a circuit substrate, at least one light-emitting diode and two conducting assemblies. The two conducting assemblies are electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode, respectively, so that the light emitting assembly emits light.
US07736029B2 Lens array and illumination module
A lens array includes a first lens group with rows of first lenses having first optical surfaces, a second lens group with rows of second lenses having second optical surfaces, and a reference plane. Each first and second lenses extend along a first axis. The second lenses are disposed at two sides of the first lens group along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. An optical axis of the second optical surface is perpendicular to the first and second axis. An optical axis of the first optical surface is perpendicular to the first axis and has an angle larger than 0 degree and smaller than 6 degrees with the optical axis of the second optical surface. The reference plane perpendicular to the second axis passes through the first lens group. A normal vector of each first optical surface on the optical axis points away from the reference plane.
US07736028B2 Light source apparatus, lighting apparatus and projection display apparatus
A light source apparatus comprising a lamp having a light emitting portion of generating light, a first concave mirror having a first opening provided on a light-using side on which the generated light is used and a second opening provided on an opposite side to the light-using side and having the light emitting portion of the lamp placed inside, and a second concave mirror having a predetermined size to reflect on the light emitting portion side of the lamp the light which comes or should come out of the second opening and placed at a predetermined position in relation to a position at which the second opening is provided, and wherein the size of the second opening is provided so that an amount of the used light becomes substantially maximum.
US07736025B2 Illumination system comprising mechanical dimming device
An illumination system (10), comprising an illumination source (2) and a mechanical dimming device (4) for dimming the amount of light generated by the illumination source (2) and emanating from the lighting apparatus, comprising an array of partially overlapping blades, the array of blades being mechanically operable to define an optical passageway there through of variable cross sectional area, wherein each blade comprises at least one overlapping segment and at least one non-overlapping segment, the overlapping segments being a color filter and the non-overlapping segments being a shutter. In a preferred embodiment the color of the color filter is in the range from yellow to amber to red. This arrangement is especially useful with a high intensity lamp as the illumination source, and provides for natural dimming of the light produced by the illumination source over the range of from about 0 to 100% causing a color change in the projected light that resemble natural sunset.
US07736023B2 Selectable GOBO animation for a multiparameter light
A multiparameter lighting apparatus is disclosed that allows an operator of a central controller to remotely choose a first rotation of a selected gobo of the multiparameter lighting apparatus. The first rotation is typically a substantially smooth rotation. A second rotation can also be chosen, wherein the second rotation causes an animation of the selected gobo.
US07736018B2 Luminaire with main and accent light sources
A luminaire contains a main light source the light of which is emitted by the luminaire, and an additional light source the light of which is mixed with the light of the main light source before the emission thereof. A part of the light issued by the additional light source is, with respect to the light emitted by the main light source, issued by the luminaire housing directed to the side or to the rear side.
US07736016B2 Light source unit
A light source unit includes a linear light source portion including a plurality of glass-sealed LEDs, a heat radiation portion including a heat radiation plate connected to the linear light source portion, and a case including an outside wall that is disposed apart from the linear light source portion and the heat radiation portion, a support portion connecting the outside wall to heat radiation portion, and a vent hole formed in the outside wall.
US07736010B2 Refrigerator having lamp apparatus
A refrigerator having a lamp apparatus includes: a lamp receiving part formed at a recess portion of a rear wall surface of a storage space of the refrigerator; a light source unit installed at the lamp receiving part and being parallel to the rear wall surface of the storage space; and a lamp cover for diffusing light emitted from the light source unit. Because the light source unit and the lamp cover are provided at the lamp receiving part formed at a recess portion of the rear wall surface of the storage space of the refrigerator, both upper and lower ends of the storage space may be uniformly illuminated.
US07736009B2 Dustpan with integral illumination source
This invention describes a hinged dust pan comprising a light source that is designed to illuminate a floor or other flat work surface in front of the dustpan for the purpose of locating and collecting small hard to see objects. This can be for the purpose of cleaning or simply locating a small valuable object. The light source is fashioned such that it provides a very low grazing angle of illumination that it skims across a surface. Small objects or particles are visible as being brighter than the surroundings and set off by a long shadow on the side of the particle away from the light.
US07736008B2 Dustpan with an integrated illumination source
This invention describes a dust pan comprising a light source that is designed to illuminate a floor or other flat work surface in front of the dustpan for the purpose of locating and collecting small hard to see objects. This can be for the purpose of cleaning or simply locating a small valuable object. The light source is fashioned such that it provides a very low grazing angle of illumination that it skims across a surface. Small objects or particles are visible as being brighter than the surroundings and set off by a long shadow on the side of the particle away from the light.
US07736007B2 Polarization linkage of high dielectric constant pivoted planar solar concentrator mirrors
A highly polarizable high dielectric constant positioning and motion control of the elements (approximately planar mirrors) of a Fresnel reflector solar concentrator tracking heliostat array wherein the elements are suspended with the center of mass above the swivel point, below the swivel point, or have an internal-swivel. The torque to produce angular deflection, and rotational motion is provided by induced and/or permanent dipole coupling to an electronic grid. The force interaction is greatly enhanced by securing a high dielectric material adjacent to each mirror. Thus forces and torques are produced without the use of motors. This allows maximization of solar energy focused by a low-profile concentrator array onto a receiver. Dynamic motion can be controlled over a wide range of dimensions from nanometers to decimeters.
US07736004B2 Three-dimensional display device
A three-dimensional display device includes a plurality of projection portions to project a plurality of images, respectively, a plurality of wedge-shaped light guide plates corresponding to the plurality of projection portions, respectively, to emit the plurality of images, respectively, and a plurality of directional diffuser screen corresponding to the plurality of wedge-shaped light guide plates, respectively, to diffuse or transmit the plurality of images.
US07735998B2 Multi-layered multifocal lens with blended refractive index
The lens of the present invention relates to multifocal spectacle lenses, including bifocal and trifocal lenses, with improved cosmetic appearance, optical performance and wide visual field. The lens comprises a plurality of axially layered and bonded lens sections of continuous curvature at least one of which has a changing refractive index incorporating a refractive index blend area oriented transverse to a meridian of the lens. The blend eliminates visibility of the joining area of adjacent portions of generally constant refractive index and the abrupt magnification shift and image jump typical of segmented multifocal lenses. The areas of generally constant refractive index provide the refractive powers for corresponding discrete vision portions of the lens. The other layer(s) of the lens incorporates a constant or similarly changing refractive index.
US07735993B2 Print medium having coded data and an orientation indicator
A print medium for use in a mobile device having a printer, the print medium comprising: a laminar substrate defining first and second opposite faces; first coded data in a first data format disposed in a first data region on the laminar substrate, the first coded data encoding first information; and at least one orientation indicator indicative of an orientation of the print medium.
US07735991B2 Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus is advantageous in miniaturization even though a mechanism for adjusting a head gap is included. The recording apparatus includes a carriage for detachably holding a cartridge, a platen for supporting one surface of a recording medium, and a conveying roller and an eject roller for conveying the recording medium. The platen is constructed so that it is rockable with an axis of the eject roller as a rotation center and is switchable between at least two positions.
US07735990B2 Recording liquid, liquid cartridge emitting device and liquid emitting method
Disclosed is an ink liquid used in a printer device of the ink jet system for recording an image or letters/characters. A surfactant containing an organic compound represented by the following chemical formula 1: where m and n are integers not less than 1, is contained in an ink 2 to prevent blurring or bleeding from being produced at a point of deposition of an ink liquid droplet.
US07735988B2 Low-gloss ink-jet ink
Non-visible ink jet printing ink composition for marking a substrate, having at least one marking compound absorbing light outside the visible wavelength range of about 400-700 nm, and which contains a hydrocarbon compound, having two to six carbon atoms carrying two or three hydroxyl groups, as a non-particulate matting agent, so as to adapt the gloss of the ink-jet printed marking to the gloss of the substrate.
US07735987B2 Liquid-droplet ejecting apparatus
A liquid-droplet ejecting apparatus including a liquid ejecting head having an ejection opening from which a droplet of a liquid is ejected, a first tank in which a liquid storing chamber storing the liquid to be supplied to the liquid ejecting head and a gas chamber storing a gas are formed, a second tank storing the liquid to be supplied to the liquid storing chamber, a gas-permeable film which closes a communication portion at which the gas chamber and liquid storing chamber communicate with each other, separates the gas chamber and liquid storing chamber from each other, and allows the gas to pass therethrough but does not allow the liquid to pass therethrough, a suction passage in communication with the gas chamber, a sucking device sucking the gas from the gas chamber through the suction passage, and a pressure control device disposed in the suction passage and communicating an internal space of the suction passage with an external space of the suction passage when an internal pressure of the suction passage decreases below a threshold lower than the atmospheric pressure due to the sucking of the gas by the sucking device, in order to inhibit the internal pressure of the suction passage from excessively decreasing.
US07735984B2 Liquid container
An ink tank includes two stirring members having different masses in an ink containing chamber. The two stirring members are moved by an inertial force according to movement of a carriage and stir ink. The two stirring members have different movement start times and movement speeds.
US07735982B2 Digital photofinishing system cartridge
A cartridge for a digital photofinishing system having a digital processor and a printer arranged to receive drive signals from the digital processor; the cartridge being arranged to be mounted removably in juxtaposition to the printer and having a source of print media and a source of printing fluid, both of which are arranged to be delivered on demand to the printer.
US07735980B2 Fluid flow device for a printing system
A printing system and method of printing are provided. The system includes a liquid drop ejector operable to eject liquid drops having a plurality of volumes along a first path. A fluid flow source is operable to produce a first fluid flow that interacts with the liquid drops to cause liquids drops having one of the plurality of volumes to begin moving along a second path. A fluid flow source is operable to produce a second fluid flow. The second fluid flow including a flow component substantially parallel to the first path.
US07735979B2 Ink-jet printer and head for the same
A cavity unit of an ink-jet printer head includes elongated pressure chambers, a manifold, and communicating channels between pressure chambers and the manifold. Each of the communicating channels has a first straight portion and a second straight portion which are recesses extending in a longitudinal direction of the pressure chambers, and a bent portion which communicates the first straight portions and the second straight portions. In a plan view, each of the communicating channels overlaps entirely with a pressure chamber communicating with the communicating channel. Accordingly, there is provided an ink-jet printer head having a substantial throttle resistance and a long communicating channel, in which there is no effect of a cross-talk between the pressure chambers.
US07735973B2 Liquid discharge head and method for manufacturing liquid discharge head
A liquid discharge head includes a substrate including energy-generating elements that generate energy used to discharge a liquid, discharge ports through which the liquid is discharged, and a channel-forming member having a channel in which the liquid flows and which is communicatively connected to the discharge ports. The channel-forming member includes a first layer and a second layer. The first and second layers are formed from negative-type photosensitive resin compositions containing a photopolymerization initiator. The first layer is located between the second layer and the substrate. The content of the photopolymerization initiator in the first layer is greater than the content of the photopolymerization initiator in the second layer.
US07735971B2 Printhead with elongate nozzles
An inkjet printhead comprising: an array of ink chambers, each having a nozzle, an elongate actuator for ejecting ink through the nozzle; wherein, the nozzle has an elongate shape with its long dimension aligned with that of the elongate actuator.
US07735970B2 Thermal bend actuator comprising passive element having negative thermal expansion
A thermal bend actuator, having a plurality of elements, is provided. The actuator includes a first active element for connection to drive circuitry a second passive element mechanically cooperating with the first element. When a current is passed through the first element, the first element expands relative to the second element, resulting in bending of the actuator. The second element includes a material having negative thermal expansion.
US07735967B2 Actuator for manipulation of liquid droplets
A liquid conveying substrate comprises: rectangular electrodes which are disposed on the substrate surface and whose surfaces are covered with a dielectric with a water repellent surface; first axial electrode columns where the rectangular electrodes are coupled in an x direction; and second axial electrode columns where the rectangular electrodes are coupled in a y direction. Accordingly, electrodes necessary for conveying liquid droplets can be arranged on one substrate, and the number of mechanisms for controlling the potential can be suppressed.
US07735966B2 Liquid-ejection integrated circuit device having nozzle shield
A liquid-ejection integrated circuit device is provided which has a substrate having a plurality of liquid inlet channels, a plurality of liquid ejection nozzles on the substrate and a nozzle shield. Each nozzle has a liquid ejection port in communication with a respective inlet channel operable to eject liquid when displaced. The nozzle shield has a plurality of apertures in alignment with respective liquid ejection ports and struts connecting the shield to the substrate so that the nozzle shield is spaced from the nozzles.
US07735960B2 Head cartridge and liquid ejection apparatus
A head cartridge and a liquid ejection apparatus are provided in which cleaning performance of cleaning means is improved using a liquid absorbing force of a wiping member produced along with restoration of temporarily increased elastic displacement of the wiping member. An elastic displacement h (height of a projection) of a cleaning roller temporarily produced by the projection arranged at a position in the foreground of ink ejection nozzles in the cleaning direction of a nozzle surface is established to satisfy the following condition: h>(Vu/Vr)(L+n/2−φ/2), where the restoring speed of the elastic deformation of the cleaning roller is denoted as Vu; the moving speed of the cleaning roller is denoted as Vr; the movement distance of the cleaning roller from a restoring initiation point of the elastic deformation to the center of the liquid ejection nozzles is L; the contact width between the cleaning roller and the nozzle surface is n; and the diameter of the ink ejection nozzle is φ.
US07735959B2 Ink-jet recording apparatus
An ink-jet recording apparatus comprises an ink-jet head, a wiper, a drive mechanism, and a wiping controller. The wiper wipes off ink adhering to an ink ejection face on which nozzle openings are formed. The wiping controller controls the drive mechanism so that the wiper, while kept in contact with the ink ejection face, moves relative to the ink-jet head in a wiping direction which is oriented from one end to the other end of the ink ejection face, and also so that the wiper becomes spaced apart from the ink ejection face at a point between a nozzle opening nearest to the other end and a changing position. The changing position is a position at which ink adhesivity changes to become larger along the wiping direction and provided between the other end and the nozzle opening nearest to the other end.
US07735957B2 Suction recovery method of ink jet printing apparatus and ink jet printing apparatus
To provide a suction recovery method of an ink jet printing apparatus by which ink can be securely filled to an ink flow path and a nozzle while minimizing an amount of ink discharge during a suction recovery to prevent an adverse effect such as invited bubbles. The suction recovery method firstly performs the first suction step for generating a negative pressure for sucking a filter section for separating bubbles from the filter section. Thereafter, a second suction step is performed to generate a negative pressure for sucking an ink in the ink flow path and a large nozzle. Thereafter, a third suction step is performed to suck ink from a small nozzle.
US07735956B2 Recovery device and recovery method
A recovery device comprising: a cap configured to cover a nozzle face in which a plurality of nozzle groups are formed; and a cap holder supporting the cap; wherein the cap includes: a sealing lip being configured to sealingly contact the nozzle face; a plurality of partitioning lips that partition an inside area surrounded by the sealing lip into a plurality of compartments corresponding to the respective nozzle groups; and a plurality of suction openings provided in the respective compartments; and wherein a common flow path, which is communicated with suction openings of some or all compartments and connects the suction openings to a negative pressure source, is formed in the cap or in the cap holder, or by a space containing faces of the cap and the cap holder opposed to each other.
US07735953B2 Liquid jetting apparatus
The liquid jetting apparatus includes a head member having a nozzle, a supporting member that that can support a medium, a scanning mechanism that can cause the head member to relatively move with respect to the medium, and a liquid jetting unit that can jet liquid from the nozzle. An area storing unit stores a relative area to which liquid can be jetted from the nozzle while the head member is caused to relatively move by the scanning mechanism. An out-of-jetting micro-vibrating-area setting unit can set out-of-jetting micro-vibrating areas before and after the relative area. A micro-vibrating unit causes liquid in the nozzle to minutely vibrate. An out-of-jetting micro-vibrating controlling unit causes the micro-vibrating unit to operate when the head member is located in the out-of-jetting micro-vibrating areas, while the head member is caused to relatively move by the scanning mechanism, based on the out-of-jetting micro-vibrating areas and head-position information.
US07735952B2 Method of bonding a micro-fluid ejection head to a support substrate
A substantially planar micro-fluid ejection device, where the micro-fluid ejection head is covalently bound to a substantially planar support material, and a method of making the same.
US07735949B2 Printing position adjusting method and printing system
The present invention relates to a printing position adjusting method capable of performing dot adjustment value acquisition processing that can accommodate diversified user needs of recent years, and a printing system capable of achieving the adjusting method. The printing position adjusting method according to the present invention provides a plurality of types of dot adjustment value acquisition processing capable of acquiring an adjustment value for matching printing positions, and enables selection of a single appropriate dot adjustment value acquisition processing type among the plurality of types of dot adjustment value acquisition processing according to the type of the print medium to be used. Consequently, a user will be able to suitably execute dot adjustment value acquisition processing with high accuracy in correspondence with the desired high level of quality.
US07735946B2 Apparatus and method for ink jet printing
The present invention provides an ink jet printing apparatus and a method for controlling temperature for the ink jet printing apparatus wherein the temperature of a print head, which may lower during printing, is controlled before printing without using any sub-heater to allow a favorable ejection condition to be established without reducing the head temperature below a predetermined value. Thus, scan width information and dot count information are acquired before a carriage starts scanning to determine the heating temperature of the print head on the basis of the information.
US07735938B2 Method to reduce carbon brake wear through residual brake force
The method for reducing aircraft carbon brake wear involves monitoring the commanded initiation of braking, and setting a residual brake clamping force to a predetermined minimum residual brake clamping force, which is maintained following the commanded initiation of braking to prevent release of braking during taxiing of the aircraft. The minimum residual brake clamping force is applied despite a commanded release of braking until at least one predetermined control logic condition occurs.
US07735930B2 Width control device of armrest for vehicles
Disclosed herein is a width control device which automatically controls the width of an armrest, provided in a seat of a vehicle, in response to the body type of a passenger, thus enabling the passenger to sit in a comfortable position.
US07735929B2 Infinitely adjustable two-way head restraint
A head restraint includes at least one post adapted to engage a vehicle seat. The head restraint assembly also includes a bun which is moveably attached to the at least one post. A locking clasp is fixed relative to the bun and has an open configuration and a closed configuration. The open configuration allows movement of the bun relative to the at least one post to a position between a first and second position. The closed configuration inhibits movement of the bun relative to the at least one post.
US07735928B2 Head-rest for a seat back-rest, in particular for a vehicle seat back-rest
The head-rest for a seat includes an inverted U-shaped frame including two vertical branches and a horizontal branch. The horizontal branch includes two rigid sections connected together by a flexible material to allow a longitudinal, angular and/or alignment offset.
US07735920B2 Child seat and method for monitoring installation of the child seat
A child seat and a method for monitoring installation of the child seat are provided. The child seat includes a child seat frame configured to receive a child occupant. The child seat frame is configured to receive a seat belt webbing for securing the child seat frame to a vehicle seat. The child seat further includes a first bladder configured to contact the seat belt webbing. The first bladder has a fluid therein. The child seat further includes a first pressure sensor fluidly communicating with the fluid in the first bladder. The first pressure sensor is configured to output a first signal indicative of an amount of pressure in the first bladder. The child seat further includes a controller coupled to the child seat frame configured to receive the first signal and to compute a first tension value based on the first signal. The controller is further configured to generate a second signal to induce a first device disposed on the child seat frame to indicate when the first tension value is less than a first predetermined tension value.
US07735918B2 Office components, seating structures, methods of using seating structures, and systems of seating structures
Office components are described that include a base, a seat supported by the base. a microprocessor, and a load sensor electrically coupled with the microprocessor and mechanically coupled with the seat and, based on movement thereof, operative to detect occupancy of the seat and provide a signal to the microprocessor indicative thereof. The load sensor may be a strain gauge, a piezo device or combination thereof.
US07735916B2 Detachable saddle and pad-replaceable saddle set
A detachable saddle and a pad-replaceable saddle set are provided. The detachable saddle comprises a base, a pad and a fastening device, wherein the base has a top surface, the pad has a bottom surface, and the fastening device, disposed between the top surface of the base and the bottom surface of the pad, is adapted to detachably assemble and substantially form a cushion space between the base and the pad. The pad-replaceable saddle set comprises said base, said fastening device and a plurality of pads, wherein each pad is assembled with the base to form a complete detachable saddle. Thereby, cyclists may conveniently and readily detach and replace the pads of the pad-replaceable saddle set.
US07735915B2 Picnic table
A picnic table may include a table top, bench tops and one or more legs or support assemblies. The support assemblies may be movable between a collapsed or storage position and an extended or use position. When the support assemblies are in the extended or use position, the support assemblies may contact or engage supports that are sized and configured to limit movement of the support assemblies. The picnic table may also include one or more positioning members, which may be sized and configured to help position, locate and/or guide various components of the picnic table. In addition, the picnic table may include one or more retaining members, which may be sized and configured to releasably receive and retain a portion of the legs and/or support assemblies when the legs or support assemblies are in the collapsed position.
US07735912B2 Powered furniture
A lift-recliner chair includes a base portion including a load bearing structural support frame having a pair of upstanding rigid side panels. The chair also includes a seat portion pivotally connected to and at least partially supported by the side panels. Moreover, the chair includes a back portion pivotally connected to the seat portion and an actuator assembly for moving the seat portion with respect to the base portion and the back portion with respect to the seat portion for altering the configuration of the chair. The actuator assembly is enclosed, at least partially, by the side panels.
US07735911B2 Collapsible high chair for children
A collapsible high chair for children comprises a frame, a seat portion, a backrest and an adjusting mechanism, all of which are sequentially connected with. The adjusting mechanism further comprises a pivotal member and a first engaging unit for connecting the seat portion with the frame at a first portion and a second portion of the pivotal member. Two actuating pieces of the first engaging unit respectively cooperate with two rods and make the rods be removed from the pivotal member at the first portion so as to allow the seat portion being pivotally rotated about the second portion. Also, the backrest can be rotated relative to the seat portion, so that the volume of the collapsed high chair is very small. Besides, the seat portion includes at least a movable piece with a bump for be engaged into the slits with different height at the arm of the seat portion to adjust the tray in height.
US07735910B2 Plasma wind deflector for a sunroof
A wind deflector for a sunroof. The wind deflector includes a first electrode proximate an edge of a sunroof opening. A second electrode is proximate the first electrode. An insulator is intermediate the first and second electrodes. A power supply is coupled to the first and second electrodes. An electrical signal generated by the power supply is coupled to the first and second electrodes. An electric field generated between the electrodes due to the electrical signal ionizes air proximate the electrodes, thereby deflecting an air flow field away from the sunroof opening.
US07735907B2 Pillar for motor vehicle and tool for making the same
A stamped metal panel used as part of a pillar of a motor vehicle includes a main wall, an outer side wall, an inner side wall and a transitional portion. The outer side wall extends from one side of the main wall. The inner side wall extends from an opposite side of the main wall and forms a generally U-shaped cross section with the main wall and the outer side wall. The inner side wall has a first wall that extends from the main wall and a second wall that extends from an end of the first wall opposite from the main wall. The transitional portion extends arcuately between the first wall and the second wall. The transitional portion is substantially tangential with at least the first wall of the first side wall to facilitate removal of the panel from between upper and lower halves of a stamping tool.
US07735903B2 Utility vehicle
A utility vehicle includes a vehicle body frame having a left side portion and a right side portion, a front seat affixed to the vehicle body frame, a rear seat affixed to the vehicle body frame provided to the rear of the front seat, and a rear floor affixed to the vehicle body frame provided between the front seat and the rear seat. A first roof support structure includes a first left pipe member and first right pipe member that extend generally in the vertical direction from the vehicle body frame, a second roof support structure includes a second left pipe member and a second right pipe member that extend generally in the vertical direction from the vehicle body frame, and a third roof support structure includes a third left pipe member and third right pipe member that extend generally in the vertical direction from the vehicle body frame.
US07735898B1 Folding truck bed cover system
The present invention is a folding truck bed cover system that includes a pair of truck bed covers, a pair of bed rails, a pair of supporting braces, and a folding roof cloth. The truck bed covers can rotate flat to cover the truck bed or to a vertical position via a gas strut that is mounted along the front wall of the truck bed. The folding roof cloth can be draped over the truck bed covers when in a vertical position, and therein said folding roof cloth is secured via the bed rails.
US07735894B2 Tailgate assemblies and vehicles including same
A tailgate assembly is provided for a cargo bed of a vehicle. The tailgate assembly includes a support panel and a tailgate panel. The support panel is configured for attachment to a vehicle such that the support panel is selectively pivotable between horizontal and vertical positions. The tailgate panel is attached to the support panel. The tailgate panel is configured to selectively define an end wall for the cargo bed when the support panel is in the horizontal position. The tailgate panel is configured to selectively define a step when the support panel is in the vertical position. A vehicle including a cargo bed having such a tailgate assembly is also provided.
US07735887B2 Robot hand apparatus
A robot hand apparatus (1) includes a base (2); a motor (M); a first-link (10) supported by the base (2) while allowing the rotation around a first axis (S1), which is in parallel to an actuation axis (G) of the motor (M) and is positioned apart from the actuation axis (G), the first-link (10) has a first guide path (11b) movably supporting a control axis (42); a second link (20) which connects with the actuation axis (G) and supports the control axis (42), and moves the control axis (42) within the first guide path (11b) in accordance with the rotation of the actuation axis (G); and a finger link (F1) supported by the first link (10) while allowing the rotation around a second axis; and the finger link (F1) directly or indirectly links with the control axis (42) and is rotated by the actuation of the control axis (42).
US07735884B2 Releasable trailer door lock
A system of locking a door is disclosed. The system according to the present invention comprises a releasable keeper that secures a door locking mechanism to keep a door secured to an enclosure in a locked position. A release mechanism that is operated from the interior of the enclosure releases the releasable keeper from the enclosure and enable the door to be opened and prevents people from becoming trapped within the enclosure by a locked door. In an exemplary embodiment, the release mechanism is operated by a lever that operates a pulley system to disengage the release mechanism from the releasable keeper.
US07735882B2 Flush-mounting multipoint locking system
A surface-mounting multipoint lock includes an elongated housing having a lower end, an upper end, and a mounting member. The lock is configured for attachment along and external to a non-hinged vertical edge of a swinging panel along substantially a full extent of the non-hinged vertical edge. A plurality of spaced latch bolts in the housing include an upper latch bolt proximate to the upper end of the housing, and a lower latch bolt proximate to the lower end of the housing. The latch bolts are substantially laterally movable between a locked position and an unlocked position.
US07735875B2 Device and method for making and using a pipe coupling device
A pipe coupling device that secures a first pipe to a second pipe. The pipe coupling device includes a collet disposed within a collar having a fastening mechanism. The collet includes a first collet portion that interlocks with a second collet portion to form a seal that fastens the first pipe securely to the second pipe.
US07735871B2 Seat belt retractor and pretensioner combination
The invention relates to a seat belt retractor including a pretensioner especially for use in motor vehicles. The seat belt retractor includes a spool belt which supports belt webbing of the seat belt and rotates in the take-up direction of the safety belt when the pretensioning drive coupled to the belt spool is activated. The belt spool is associated with a drivewheel with recesses on the periphery thereof for accepting mass bodies acting as drive means for pretensioning the seat belt. The mass bodies are stored in a tube, which tangentially flows into the drivewheel, and the mass bodies are accelerated in the tube by means of a gas generator arranged at one end of the tube.
US07735864B2 Roll support structure padding
Roll support structure padding for use in a motor vehicle having a roll support structure formed of interconnected rigid members. The padding is formed of a two component flexible integrated skin molded polyurethane. The padding is formed in generally elongate body having a recess for partially encasing the support structure members. The body has a thickness of approximately 2.5 centimeters and is compressible to gradually decelerate a vehicle occupant coming into contact with the padding. Sections of the padding are installed on the support structure to partially encase the support structure members in padding and provide protection from impact, for the operator of the motor vehicle.
US07735863B2 Ejection mitigation panel
An ejection mitigation system for use in a motor vehicle including one or more inflatable airbags and at least one ejection mitigation panel which is not integral with an inflatable airbag and wherein the ejection mitigation panel is attached to at least one point below the belt line of the motor vehicle.
US07735861B2 Hybrid type gas generator containing a metal charge
The present invention relates to a gas generator for a motor vehicle safety device. The generator includes at least a combustion chamber and a gas tank. The combustion chamber contains a pyrotechnic initiator and pyrotechnic charge for generating gas and including at least one oxidizing material. Combustion of the charge is triggered by the initiator. The gas tank is closed towards the combustion chamber by a capsule. The capsule is suitable for giving way during combustion of the charge in order to release the gas from the tank and exhaust it towards the outside. The combustion chamber contains a metal charge of at least one metal. The metal charge is distinct from the pyrotechnic charge.
US07735860B2 Inflator with vent
An apparatus (10) includes an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (14) and an inflator (16) for providing inflation fluid for inflating the protection device. The inflator (16) includes an inflation fluid control structure (100). The control structure (100) includes discharge openings (116) for directing inflation fluid into an inflatable volume (72) of the protection device (14) and vent openings (118) for venting inflation fluid outside the inflatable volume. The control structure (100) also includes a vent member (132) actuatable from an open condition permitting inflation flow through the vent openings (118) to a closed condition blocking inflation fluid flow through the vent openings.
US07735859B2 Safety arrangement for use in a motor vehicle
A safety arrangement to provide protection for an occupant in a motor vehicle includes a seat-belt provided with a measuring device to measure energy absorbed by the seat-belt. The measuring device may determine the length of safety-belt paid-out after a retractor locks, the belt being paid-out against a force provided by a force-limiter. The energy absorbed is calculated and is used to control the vents of a ventable air-bag. The air-bag is vented if a substantial part of the energy of the occupant is absorbed by the seat-belt, but is not vented if a large proportion of the energy has not been absorbed by the seat-belt.
US07735858B2 Airbag device
The disclosed airbag device may protect a vehicle occupant in a vehicle seat of a motor vehicle. The airbag device may comprise an airbag cushion that functions as a side airbag and as a curtain airbag so as to cover an area of a portion of an interior side wall of the vehicle, a portion of a window glass, or a combination thereof upon deployment. The airbag cushion may have a width in fore and aft directions and a height which result in the portion of window glass, the portion of the interior side wall, or the combination thereof being covered in a vicinity of the vehicle occupant such that a thorax, a pelvis, a shoulder and a head of the vehicle occupant are protected from directly contacting adjacent interior side surfaces of the motor vehicle during a crash event.
US07735857B2 Curtain-type airbag apparatus and airbag module
This curtain-type airbag apparatus is provided with: an airbag which is arranged along a top edge of a vehicle body and develops in a curtain-shape manner along an inside of a window; and an inner cover which covers a vehicle interior side of the airbag. The inner cover is supported by the vehicle body via a hinge member having a reversed U-shape.
US07735855B2 Bracket for securing side airbag for automotive vehicle
A bracket for securing a side airbag for an automotive vehicle is provided. The bracket includes a mounting plate formed of a synthetic resin material, and including a main body and a coupling part projecting from an upper surface of the main body and having a hole, and a bracket clip including two support plates in contact with front and rear surfaces of the coupling part and having through-holes in communication with the hole, and a bent part connecting the two support plates at each one side.Therefore, it is possible to protect the bracket to prevent damage to or deformation of the bracket when a bolt is screwed, thereby maintaining the side airbag in an optimal state.
US07735854B2 Ramp bracket assembly of air bag for vehicles
A ramp bracket assembly for a vehicle air bag is configured to be mounted to an inner panel of the vehicle. The assembly includes a first ramp bracket with a first engagement portion, and a second ramp bracket with a second engagement portion removably engaged with the first engagement portion. The second engagement portion is disengaged from the first engagement portion in a vehicle impact, such that the assembly absorbs shock and guides deployment of the air bag. Alternatively, a ramp bracket for a vehicle air bag is configured to be mounted to an inner panel of the vehicle. The inner panel has an engagement groove, and the ramp bracket has an engagement portion, removably engaged into the engagement groove, and disengaged therefrom in a vehicle impact such that the bracket absorbs shock and guides deployment of the air bag.
US07735853B2 Side curtain air bag deflector bracket
A side curtain air bag deflector bracket is provided. A powerful inflator is used that quickly fills a large side curtain air bag. Where an inflator pipe meets the air bag, there is a tendency for the air bag to deflect upwards due to the high volume of air being introduced into the bag in a short period of time. The bracket deflects the side curtain air bag so that, during this type of expansion the air bag can not migrate up into the roof lining structure of the vehicle. The bracket includes a first portion with an arched deflector that deflects the air bag, during expansion, along a path that is close to the surface of the vehicle door. The bracket also includes a second portion that includes a mounting flange and transverse deflector oriented transversely to the arched deflector.
US07735849B1 Compact fifth wheel locking mechanism
In a fifth wheel hitch, a locking mechanism for retaining a trailer kingpin within a fifth wheel slot. The locking mechanism includes a jaw assembly comprised of two opposing jaw members pivotally attached at one end to the underside of the hitch plate, a longitudinally sliding cam interposed between the jaw members with a tip that contacts a bumper. The bumper is pivotally attached to tie bar that has its rear most end pivotally attached to the underside of the hitch plate. The mechanism also includes a wedge member and a secondary lock member pivotally attached thereto, where the lock member has a guide extension inserted through a guide hole in the tie bar. Rotation of the tie bar inward causes the wedge member and secondary lock to move inward until the wedge member is seated to the rear of the closed jaw assembly and the secondary lock rotates to engage a detent.
US07735848B2 Pintle hitch adaptor for drawbar or DMI bumper
A pintle hitch adaptor enables a vehicle equipped with a drawbar or DMI bumper to tow trailers having different towing components. The pintle hitch adaptor comprises a sleeve that fits over arid is held to the drawbar. A pintle hitch is mounted to the sleeve. Aligned holes in the sleeve and the drawbar receive a hitch ball shank. A trailer tongue with a cup or eye engages the ball. A pintle hitch latch locks to prevent disengagement of the trailer tongue cup or eye from the ball. Shoulders on a pintle hitch post prevent: the latch from contacting the cup. Alternately, the ball can be removed, and a tow pin can to used between a hole in the trailer tongue and the drawbar and sleeve holes. A locking screw on the sleeve holds the sleeve and drawbar holes in alignment when the ball is removed.
US07735847B2 All terrain adapter for a wheelchair
An all terrain adapter for a wheelchair that removably clamps onto the foot support of the wheelchair and supports a relatively large diameter, slightly inclined swivelling nose gear wheel at an extended distance from the foot support to stabilize the wheelchair when it is being pushed over soft or uneven surfaces and which swivels around when the wheelchair is moved forward to lift the front wheels of the wheelchair clear of the ground.
US07735844B2 Laminated skateboard
A method of manufacturing a reinforced skateboard deck during the skateboard deck manufacturing process with adhering non-wood materials to the laminate ply's of wood with non-wood materials and the steps of adhering the non-wood material to the wood ply laminate for installation on the top wood laminate and or between any of the laminated layers of the skateboard deck during the normal laminating process and a method of manufacturing a skateboard deck during the skateboard deck manufacturing process with the installation and adhering of a strip or strip's of non-wood metallic material to a laminate ply of wood with the method comprising of the steps of adhering the non-wood metallic material to the wood ply laminate creating a center core cartridge with the non-wood metallic material installed for the installation during the normal skateboard deck laminating process.
US07735843B2 Stroller brake system
A stroller is provided having a stroller frame supported by at least one wheel and a handle. The handle includes a brake operator that is coupled to a brake assembly at the wheel. The brake operator is movable between a first position whereby the brake assembly is disengaged from the wheel, and a second position whereby the brake assembly engages the wheel to retard the wheel motion.
US07735839B1 Vehicle air suspension providing integral wheelchair lift
A motor vehicle has a frame assembly with a generally flat platform for supporting a wheelchair within the interior compartment of the vehicle. Air cylinders couple the frame assembly to wheel assemblies operate to move the frame assembly to an up vehicle driving position and to a down position wherein the platform engages the vehicle support surface or ground whereby the wheelchair can be moved directly onto the platform.
US07735836B2 Clip gasket termination
A hollow oven gasket has a flexible tubular member with tubular wall and fasteners in the form of clips that are captured within and extend through the wall. First and second free ends of a length of the gasket material are brought together in a termination to form a closed loop gasket member. The first end of the device is at least partially collapsed to form a male end. The second opposing end is left uncollapsed to form a female end. The male end is received within the female end to form a joint held together by engagement of the clips adjoining the joint with an oven face surrounding an oven mouth or an oven door.
US07735834B2 Two-stroke internal combustion engine with oil ring
A two-stroke internal combustion engine having a seal assembly disposed between a piston and a running surface. The seal both lubricates and prevents exhaust of combustion gases. A first element, which ensures gas tightness, is received in a countersunk portion of the running surface. A second element, which ensures oil tightness, is partially embedded into the first element. A biasing element presses the second element against the first element so that the second and third elements are at least partially held within the first element.
US07735833B2 Double padded finger seal
The present invention generally relates to sealing devices used in conjunction with two relatively rotatable members and having a fluid seal there between. Finger seals are utilized to achieve sealing between a rotating member and a stationary member. As such the present invention involves a double padded finger seal with both pads oriented axially in the same direction. The sealing apparatus may optionally utilize a padless third laminate. In other embodiments, the present invention provides variations of the basic double padded finger seal with pad configurations utilizing various arrangements and geometries of the padded area.
US07735832B2 Moving target system for training in marksmanship and target identification
A target moving configuration includes a weighted base, a shooter's target, a target-moving assembly rotationally connected to the base and a hinge pivotally connecting the target thereto. A target-fall control device operatively connects the hinge to selectively pivot the target when activated. The control device has a balloon, a lock with a removable key, and a pull cord connecting the balloon to the key, which cord holds the key in the lock while the balloon is intact. A target motion device has a drive shaft, a drive cord connected to the target moving assembly and the drive shaft. An electric motor is connected to the drive shaft for rotating the drive shaft. A controller is operable to selectively and randomly power the motor to, thereby, move the target movement arm with respect to the base. Multiple targets and assemblies are provided and connected to the drive shaft for independent movement.
US07735825B2 Original feeding device
In one embodiment of the original feeding device of the present invention, an original feeding device causes a drawing roller to contact an original, and draws the original for forwarding by rotating the drawing roller, and is provided with an original pressing member that generates frictional force on the original surface at a position on the side further upstream in a forwarding direction of the original than the drawing roller.
US07735820B2 Sheet delivery apparatus with sheet extraction device
A sheet delivery apparatus includes sprockets and delivery grippers, a sheet delivery device, a switching cam, and conveyor belt, driving roller, and driven roller. The sprockets and delivery grippers hold and convey a sheet. The sheet delivery device delivers the sheet conveyed by the sprockets and delivery grippers. The switching cam is arranged upstream of the sheet delivery device in a sheet convey direction to release the sheet held by the sprockets and delivery grippers. The conveyor belt, driving roller, and driven roller are arranged below the switching cam to convey the sheet released by the switching cam in the sheet convey direction.
US07735814B2 Clamp with clamp force sensor
A clamp including at least one clamping element (e.g., clamping jaw, clamping strap, etc.) and a hand-operated actuator operative to move the clamping element in a clamping direction, and a clamping force sensor in operative connection with the clamping element.
US07735812B2 Vibration-damping device
A vibration damping device (10) comprising an axisymmetric elastomeric body (20), which has a base side (40), a periphery (50), and a through hole (60). The body comprises an integrally bonded cup-shaped axisymmetric structure (70), which has a base portion (80), a side wall (90), and an opening (100) encompassing the through hole. The base portion and the side wall adjoin to the base side and periphery, respectively. The elastomeric body has a groove (110) encompassed by the side wall, which groove extends along and close to the periphery, and is adapted to receive a separately provided axisymmetric snubber member. A vibration damper assembly comprising two vibration-damping devices of said kind.
US07735811B2 Hydraulic load centering spring perch
A spring perch assembly for automatically centering a load applied to a spring is provided. The assembly includes a body portion and a base portion which when engaged may tilt relative to one another. When disposed between a spring and an applied load, the assembly automatically centers the load along the spring's natural centerline.
US07735808B2 Method and system for performing operations on a wind turbine
A wind turbine has a nacelle frame and a first hoist substantially permanently mounted on the frame. The method comprises the processes of hoisting a second, more powerful hoist and crane on the frame with the first hoist; removably mounting the second hoist and the crane on the nacelle frame; hoisting a winch using the second hoist and the crane on the frame, and removably mounting the winch on said frame; performing operations involving handling heavy parts employing said winch; and removing and lowering said winch, crane, and second hoist from the frame.
US07735806B2 Panel removal tool and method
A panel removal tool includes a plastic handle, a forked portion at a first end of said plastic handle, wherein said forked portion further comprises a fulcrum, and a blade portion at a second end of said plastic handle, said second end being opposite said first end.
US07735800B2 Adaptable planter mounting system
An adaptable planter mounting system includes a holder having a platform and at least one pair of arms configured to support a planter. The platform and at least one of the arms are provided with apertures. At least one pair of brackets are adjustably and removably attachable to the platform and the arms to provide a variety of mounting arrangements including a post-top mounting arrangement, a rail mounting arrangement, and a wall-top mounting arrangement.
US07735797B2 Adjustable pivoting device for a panel display
An adjustable pivoting device for panel display has a body and a mounting assembly. The body has a controller that is capable of longitudinal movement and two motivating elements that are capable of transversal movement. The controller has actuating slots formed slantwise through the controller. Each motivating element has a latch and an engaging element slidably mounted in one of the actuating slots of the controller, thereby the motivating elements are moved transversely when the controller is moved. The mounting assembly is pivotally mounted with a stand and has two latching elements that rotate simultaneously with the stand and has multiple teeth selectively engage the latches to limit a rotation of the stand. Accordingly, the adjustable pivoting device allows the stand to be adjusted to different positions for freely changing a status or an angle of the panel display and is convenient in use.
US07735794B1 Adjustable fixture mounting bracket for suspended ceiling
A fixture support assembly for supporting a lighting or fan fixture on a drop ceiling having a grid supporting structure. The assembly includes a U-shaped bar with an upward directed channel and a channel bottom, two end brackets integral with the bar, a clamp member slidable within the channel, and an electrical box. The end brackets include an inner leg for resting on the horizontal ledges of adjacent T-rails and outer legs for loosely fitting over the top of the T-rails. A slot is provided in the channel bottom extending from one end to slightly past the center of the bar. A fastening arrangement connects the electrical box to the clamp member and in a loosened state enables positioning of the electrical box with respect to the bar.
US07735792B1 Reversible mounting bracket for open office identification
The mounting bracket has a flange which reaches in between portions of the open office structure and releasably engages in the slots in the post of the open office structure. The releasable engagement comprises tee-shaped hooks, configured so that they engage reversibly in the slots in either of the posts on the left or right side of the office entryway opening. A web on the flange carries an identification plate.
US07735791B2 Supporting arm with a suction cup and a holder for attaching various equipment within a mechanical linkage
A supporting arm with a suction cup and a handle for attaching various equipment within a mechanical vehicle. The arm is composed of a suction cup, a push button, which slides within a housing, a rigid part, connected with the housing, and a hinging part, connected with the rigid part by means of a joint. The arm is provided with an elastic support for resting on a dashboard, which is situated opposite to the mounting joint of the suction cup under its hinged part, and with a ball joint, located above the elastic support and connected to the handle, which is fitted with an electrical connection.
US07735788B2 Patient care equipment management system
An equipment support system has a first telescoping arm and a second telescoping arm. The arms are pivotable relative to a room wall about a generally vertical axis and are extendable and retractable along respective generally horizontal axes. A first equipment support is coupled to the first telescoping arm and is configured to support patient care equipment thereon. A second equipment support is coupled to the second telescoping arm and is configured to support patient care equipment thereon.
US07735782B2 Flow surface for a three-dimensional boundary-layer flow, especially on a swept wing, a swept tail plane or a rotor
A flow surface (16), e.g. on a swept aircraft wing, has a three-dimensional boundary-layer flow. The surface is defined by a spanwise direction (z) and a chordwise direction (x). In or on the flow surface excitation locations (22) are arranged, exciting primary disturbances. The disclosure is characterized in that the excitation locations (22) are arranged such that benign steady primary disturbances are excited and maintained on a sufficiently-high amplitude level as longitudinal vortices respectively crossflow vortices, suppressing naturally growing nocent primary disturbances by a non-linear physical mechanism. The benign primary disturbances preserve a laminar flow, such that unsteady secondary disturbances, which may initiate turbulence and which, otherwise, are excited in streamwise direction by nocent primary vortices, are suppressed or at least stabilized.
US07735776B2 Air inlet for a turbofan engine
The present invention relates to an air inlet for a nacelle of a jet engine with a front fan, comprising an upper part (115S), a lower part (115I), an inner lateral part (115int) and an outer lateral part (ext), defining a leading edge (115) between an external wall (111) of the nacelle and an internal wall (113) forming the air supply channel of the jet engine. According to the invention, the air inlet is characterized in that the leading edge of the outer lateral part (115ext) is to the rear with respect to the leading edge of the inner lateral part (115int).Preferably, the leading edge of the upper part (115S) is likewise to the rear with respect to the leading edge of the lower part (115I).
US07735773B2 Aircraft
The invention relates to an aircraft comprising a fuselage and at least two substantially hollow cylindrical lifting bodies which are applied to the fuselage and comprise a plurality of rotor blades which extend over the periphery of the lifting bodies, the periphery of the lifting bodies being partially covered by at least one tail surface. The aim of the invention is to provide an aircraft with an extremely high degree of maneuverability, compact dimensions and economy of fuel. To this end, the lifting bodies are driven by at least one drive unit and respectively comprise a cylindrical axis which is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis (1a) of the aircraft.
US07735770B2 Electric dispenser for dispensing sheets from a roll of perforated web material
An electronic dispenser for dispensing measured perforated sheets from a roll of perforated web material includes a housing, and a roll carrier disposed in the housing to rotationally support the roll of perforated web material. An electrically driven feed mechanism is disposed in the housing to dispense the sheets of web material therefrom. The feed mechanism includes rollers defining a drafting zone through which the web material is conveyed. The web material is drawn in the drafting zone to an extent necessary to at least partially separate the web material along a perforation line prior to the perforation line passing through the drafting zone.
US07735764B2 Hammer assembly
A hammer assembly (51) for a glass bottle breaking apparatus comprises a shaft (52), a series of collars (53) secured on the shaft (52) and spaced one from another longitudinally of the shaft (52), a series of links (58) each being pivotally connected to a corresponding one of the collars (53) and a series of hammers (55) each being connected for pivotal movement relative to a corresponding one of the links (58), the arrangement being such that the links (58) are each provided with a curved profile (65) for locating an adjacent portion of the shaft (52) so that if, in operation, one of the hammers (55) should strike a glass fragment obstruction without dislodging it immediately, the link (58) associated with the hammer (55) will wind up on the shaft (52) thus reducing a radial displacement between the link (58) and the shaft (52) and drawing the hammer (55) under the obstruction without causing jamming of the apparatus.
US07735763B2 Pill crusher with pill holder verification and safety features
A pill crusher device and method including a base and a lid movable between open and closed positions with respect to the base. The base includes a pill cup holder for holding a cup with one or more pills therein. The cup may include a flange that is keyed to the cup holder to prevent the cup from rotating with the cup holder. A head protrudes from the inside surface of the lid and is shaped to nest within the cup either directly against the pills, or against a second cup placed in the first cup with the pills located between the two cups.
US07735759B2 Method for the production of a flowable powder of a fluoropolymer compound and flowable powder produced according to the method
In order to provide a simple and economical method for the production of a flowable powder of a fluoropolymer compound, there is proposed a method for the production of a flowable powder of a fluoropolymer compound from a dry mixture, which contains at least one fluoropolymer material and at least one filler, including the steps of pressing the dry mixture into lumps and crushing the lumps to form the flowable powder.
US07735754B2 Flat atomizer pump
A flat pump for producing liquid spray or for producing an atomized liquid stream may have a thickness of 6 millimeters or less. The flat pump may include an internal reservoir (3), a valve (19), a valve conduit (45) and a vortex chamber (49) wherein fluid from the reservoir may be pumped through the valve, along the valve conduit, and into the vortex chamber. An atomized liquid stream, spray, or mist formed in the vortex chamber may be expelled from the flat pump.
US07735753B2 Flat atomizer pump
A flat pump for producing liquid spray or for producing an atomized liquid stream may have a thickness of 6 millimeters or less. The flat pump may include an internal reservoir, a valve, a valve conduit and a vortex chamber wherein fluid from the reservoir may be pumped through the valve, along the valve conduit, and into the vortex chamber. An atomized liquid stream, spray, or mist formed in the vortex chamber may be expelled from the flat pump.
US07735750B2 Liquid ejection head
The repellency increasing structure includes a substrate, if a surface of the substrate is flat, a flat surface of which shows lyophilic property with respect to a liquid having a surface tension lower than that of water and multiple recesses multiple and/or projections that are formed in the surface of the substrate. Inner walls of the recesses and outer walls of the projections are substantially parallel to a thickness direction of the substrate. The structure further includes a repellent layer that covers the recesses and the projections. In the liquid ejection head, a solution ejection surface around multiple through-holes of a ejection substrate corresponds to the surface of the substrate of the repellency increasing structure in which the recesses and/or the projections are formed. In the stain-resistant film, the substrate of the repellency increasing structure is a support film.
US07735745B2 Device for joining rails
The present invention is directed at an improved device for joining together abutting railway rails between two railway ties. The rails to be joined together have a head portion, a web portion and a toe portion. The joining device includes first and second elongated metal joint bars for holding the abutting ends of the rails together. The joint bars span the ends of the rails and hold the rails together by mounting to the rails. The joint bars are mounted to each rail on opposite sides of the web portions of each rail. The joint bars are configured to mount to the web portions of the rail between the head and toe portion of each rail.
US07735741B2 Method for production of a card with a double interface and microcircuit card obtained thus
A method for production of a microcircuit card, includes the production of a card with electronic component connector pins for an electronic component within the thickness thereof and provided with a cavity with a base and defined by a slope on which the connector pins are arranged and production of a module including a support film with external contacts on an external face thereof and internal contacts on an internal face thereof. An anisotropic flexible conducting adhesive is then applied to the periphery of the internal face of the film, a resin more rigid than the adhesive is introduced into the cavity of the body, the module is inserted into the cavity such that the anisotropic adhesive is located opposite the periphery of the slope of the cavity, the anisotropic adhesive is thermally activated under pressure and the resin polymerized.
US07735737B2 Automatically-triggered digital video-imaging based code symbol reading system supporting ambient illumination mode automatically selected by adaptive control process
An Automatically-triggered digital video-imaging based code symbol reading system providing a high degree of adaptability to ambient illumination levels and having great dynamic range. The system includes an illumination subsystem, having an active illumination mode and an ambient illumination mode. During object illumination and image capturing operations, the exposure quality of a captured frames of digital video image data is analyzed, and based on the results of such exposure quality analysis, system control parameters (SCPs) are automatically reconfigured. In the event that the exposure quality analysis indicates excessive exposure levels in captured frames of digital video image data, then a new set of SCPs is reconfigured, controlling the illumination subsystem to operate in its ambient illumination mode, whereby, ambient illumination is allowed to flood the field of view and form digital images on the image detection array during object illumination and video-imaging operations.
US07735733B2 Multiple account wireless payment device
A payment device includes an integrated circuit (IC) to store at least two account numbers. The payment device also includes an antenna coupled to the IC to selectively transmit a selected one of the account numbers. The IC includes at least three terminals by which the IC is coupled to the antenna and to at least one other device.
US07735729B2 Biometric sensor
Methods and systems are provided for biometric sensing. An illumination subsystem provides light at discrete wavelengths to a skin site of an individual. A detection subsystem receives light scattered from the skin site. A computational unit is interfaced with the detection system. The computational unit has instructions for deriving a spatially distributed multispectral image from the received light at the discrete wavelengths. The computational unit also has instructions for comparing the derived multispectral image with a database of multispectral images to identify the individual.
US07735727B2 Reward system and method for cash replacement system
A reward system and method for cash replacement cards wherein a card is issue by a bank or other financial institution to a cardholder. Such a card may be a credit or debit card and provides for a reward, not available to the general public, to the cardholder, based on his or her usage, in the form of a commodity that has a known history of increasing in value over time, such as diamonds.
US07735715B2 Dispensing solder for mounting semiconductor chips
A method for mounting a semiconductor chip onto a substrate comprises the steps of positioning a solder dispenser over the substrate and passing a length of solder wire through the solder dispenser to the substrate. The feeding of the wire to the substrate in a feeding direction is controlled with a wire feeder. The solder dispenser is moved relative to the substrate with a positioning device along at least one of two orthogonal axes that are substantially perpendicular to the feeding direction contemporaneously with feeding the solder wire to the surface of the substrate to dispense a line of molten solder onto the substrate. The semiconductor chip is then mounted onto the molten solder that has been dispensed onto the substrate.
US07735711B2 Method of testing bonded connections, and a wire bonder
A method of testing wire-bond connections between a bonding wire and a substrate surface. The wire-bond connections are produced by a bonding head with a bonding tool and a wire clamp associated with the bonding tool under pressure and the action of ultrasound and/or heat. After the bonded connection has been created, the bonding head or the bonding tool is raised a short distance away from the bonding site, the bonding wire is firmly gripped by the wire clamp and the bonding head. The wire clamp with bonding wire gripped therein is raised for a second distance, during which process the tensile force acting on the bonding wire is detected.
US07735708B2 Reflow furnace
In a second horizontal plate (18a) bottoming an atmosphere recovery box (18), there are formed circular holes (21) between blowout pipes (20) adjacent to each other. Each of partition walls (2) positioned above a conveyor (5) includes an upper portion formed from a heat-insulating wall (2a) including a heat-insulative material having a thickness of T, and a lower portion formed from a metallic-plate wall (2b) extending downward from the heat-insulating wall (2a) toward the conveyor (5). The pitch P2 of the blowout pipes (20) across the metallic-plate wall (2b) is substantially same as the pitch P1 (12 mm) of the blowout pipes (20) disposed inside each of the chambers (R1 to R5) and adjacent to each other.
US07735706B2 Apparatus for the connection of strips
The invention relates to an apparatus and a method for clamping, cutting, and joining strips to a continuous strip. Said device comprises a clamping device (125), a cutting device (155), and a joining device (195). The clamping device, cutting device, and joining device are kinematically coupled to each other.
US07735705B2 Device and method for joining the faces of parts
Device for joining faces of parts having great longitudinal extension by friction welding. The device includes first and second clamping arrangements structured and arranged to position ends of the parts against one another. At least one of the first and second clamping arrangements is axially movable with respect to another of the first and second clamping arrangements. At least one of the first and second clamping arrangements is movable along a direction that is parallel to a part cross-sectional plane defined by an end face of one of the parts.
US07735701B2 Backpack for carrying weapons
A backpack with a receptacle and a tether has been devised whereby the user has a convenient place for the storage and carriage of a weapon, such as an archery bow or a long gun firearm. The backpack has the advantage of allowing the removal of the weapon from the backpack without first removing the pack from the user's back. It is equipped with at least one shoulder strap. In an ideal embodiment, a waist belt is included to facilitate the stabilization of the backpack, as well as to contribute to the load bearing functions of the backpack.
US07735699B2 Dispensing closure having a flow conduit with key-hole shape
A dispensing closure has a flow conduit that provides a sufficient flow restriction to prevent unwanted spurting of the product when the container is initially opened. The dispensing closure includes a closure body with an upper deck and a flow conduit extending through the upper deck. The flow conduit includes an entry orifice having an entrance axis and an exit orifice having an exit axis. The entrance axis is parallel to, but not co-linear with, the exit axis to provide a non-linear flow path from an interior of the closure to the exterior of the closure.
US07735690B2 Covering device for a liquid product dispensing member
A device for encasing a system for dispensing a liquid product, provided mainly with an evacuation conduit, the downstream end of which opens to the outside, characterized in that it includes, on the one hand, a compartment respectively delimited by a back wall and a front wall with an outlet orifice in it and, on the other hand, at least one elastic return element supported by the said system on the side opposite the downstream end that can retract such as to allow the said system to be inserted in the said compartment and can then rest against the back wall to as to insert and maintain the end of the said conduit in the outlet orifice.
US07735689B2 Manually actuated dispensing device provided with actuation locking means
The present invention is a fluid dispensing device, connectable/disconnectable to/from a container. The device, actuable by a trigger, comprises both closing means comprising a turnable nozzle and means for locking the sliding of a dispensing piston.
US07735686B2 Vacuum switch multi reservoir dispenser
A vacuum controlled valve mechanism providing two separate one-way valves, one for each of a pair of collapsible fluid containing reservoirs with each valve being in an initial sealed condition preventing flow therethrough until by operation of the pump mechanism a threshold vacuum is exceeded and with the threshold vacuum of a first of the valves being greater than the threshold vacuum of the other, second of the valves. When the threshold vacuum of the first valve is exceeded, that first valve separately permits dispensing of fluid from its reservoir under vacuum conditions less than the threshold vacuum of the first valve and the second valve until the first reservoir is substantially empty after which further operation of the pump mechanism creates a vacuum which exceeds the threshold vacuum for the second valve after which the second valve permits dispensing of fluid from the second reservoir.
US07735682B1 Wrist-worn wipes dispenser
A wipes dispenser includes a generally tubular transparent housing adapted to be worn about a person's wrist with a plurality of wipes contained within the housing. The housing also has an opening through which the wipes are dispensed. In a second embodiment, the opening may be covered with a hinged resealable cap that may cover or uncover the opening as needed.
US07735676B2 Crate for containers
A crate includes a bottom wall including a plurality of dividers defining a plurality of container pockets and a peripheral wall extending upward from a periphery of the bottom wall. The bottom wall and peripheral wall are thermoformed from a single sheet of plastic, such as recycled PET bottles. Optional features include stabilizing feet, a peripheral lip that prevents shingling and flexible retainers protruding into the pockets to provide a tighter fit with bottles.
US07735673B2 Re-sealable can mechanism
A device is disclosed for re-closing an opening in a can having a tab opener. The device comprises a mount piece having an overall shape and flexibility that enables it to be pushed through at least one aperture formed in the tab opener thereby securing the device to the tab opener. The device further comprises a plug portion attached to the mount piece and configured to engage and at least partially close an opening in the can.
US07735671B2 Non-fragmenting pressure relief apparatus
Non-fragmenting pressure relief apparatus includes at least one circular rupture disc having a central asymmetric bulged section and a peripheral flange portion. A semi-circular line of weakness extends around the periphery of the bulged section and presents a hinge portion between the ends of the line of weakness. A hold-down member for the rupture disc having an inner opening surrounding the bulged section of the disc is provided with a unitary segment that extends into the inner opening of the hold-down member. The spaced end extremities of the line of weakness extend beneath the hold-down member segment. The hinge portion of the disc upon rupture of the disc bends about a fulcrum defined by the outer margin of the hold-down segment, which in conjunction with deflection of the segment of the hold-down member contributes to anti-fragmentation of the disc.
US07735669B2 Modular case assembly device
A modular case assembly device including: a lower case, wherein a front wall and a rear wall protrude from a bottom plate respectively, and a left wall and a right wall protrude from left and right sides of the bottom plate respectively, and protruding pieces are punched out from upper edges of the left and right walls; an upper case structured from an upper plate and left and right side wall plates; and resilient springs, each of which is formed a press portion, a through hole and a connecting portion are further respectively formed of the press portion; The protruding pieces of the lower case transversally cross and rest atop the position fixing portions, which assist in increasing stability of the assembled upper case and lower case, and effectively provide convenient and fast assembly and disassembly.
US07735668B2 Large-volume container comprising two parts and a support device located in the connection region
What is described is a plastic container consisting of two container parts (12, 14) which are connected to one another in an opening region. Each container part (12, 14) has a single connection frame (26, 28) which includes the connection opening. The container parts (12, 14) can be connected to one another along the facing connection frames (26, 28). At least one connection frame (26, 28) includes a support device (30, 34; 54) which extends in the connection frame (26, 28) in the vertical direction.
US07735667B2 Sleeve nut of plastic material
A plastic screw cap includes two cap halves, which are produced as plastic injection-molded parts and have an internally threaded segment and an inwardly directed ring shoulder segment. The two halves of the screw cap can be pushed together, for example, on the inlet connection of the valve body of a flap valve by tongue-and-groove joints. One cap half has two hook-like ends, each of which is provided with an inwardly sloped clamping sidepiece and a groove for receiving the tongues formed on the two ends of the other half of the screw cap.
US07735665B2 Child-resistant flip-top dispensing closure, package and method of manufacture
A child-resistant dispensing closure includes a base having a deck with a dispensing opening, a peripheral skirt extending from the deck, and an inner wall extending from the deck for securing the closure to a container. An axial passage extends from the deck between the peripheral skirt and the inner wall, and opens radially outwardly through the peripheral skirt. A pair of spaced ledges are disposed in the axial passage. A lid is molded integrally with the base and is coupled by a hinge to the base so as to be pivotable between a closed position overlying the deck and an open position spaced from the deck. The lid has a latch arm that resiliently extends from a periphery of the lid. The latch arm has a pair of oppositely extending tabs for engagement with the ledges to lock the lid in the closed position. The latch arm is directly manually engageable by a user from a radial direction external to the closure to pivot the latch arm radially inwardly within the passage and release the tabs from the ledges so that the lid can be pivoted toward the open position drawing the latch arm out of the axial passage.
US07735663B2 Neck of a synthetic resin bottle
A resource-saving neck of a synthetic resin bottle having high resistance to pressure and heat and a high, stable sealing property is provided. The part is aimed at equalizing an effect of thread-formed portions on the crystallization of a molten resin material along the circumferential direction of the part. These objectives are achieved by (1) forming screw threads of a multi-threaded screw structure on the outer surface of the neck wall, each screw thread comprising a main thread, with a starting and ending extension, with a width and height thereof being reduced gradually; (2) disposing the starting extension of a screw thread vertically above the ending extension of another thread; and (3) whitening the entire part by thermal crystallization. Sinks are prevented in the neck wall, and the height can be restricted despite increase in the diameter.
US07735662B2 Upper block
A crane having an upper block, a lower block, a drum, and two ropes. The upper block includes an equalizer having a yoke to which the ropes are connected. The connections between the ropes and the yoke include load cells that measure the forces carried by each of the ropes. The upper block includes a fail-safe system that prevents failure of the upper block in overload conditions.
US07735658B2 Classification apparatus for powdery substance
A classification apparatus including a magnetic stirrer composed of main body (1) and rotor (2) and, arranged on the main body of the magnetic stirrer, classification tube (3). The interior of the classification tube is provided with classification compartments (A-E) partitioned from each other by divider plates (5a-5b). The lowermost classification compartment (A) is furnished with gas emission conduit (7). In the classification compartment (A), the rotor (2) of the magnetic stirrer is arranged. From gas supply source (8), a high-pressure gas is fed into the gas emission conduit. By means of the gas emitted from the gas emission conduit, a vortex flow rising from the lowermost classification compartment sequentially toward higher classification compartments is generated in the classification tube. Simultaneously, the rotor of the magnetic stirrer is rotated, so that powdery substance (O) within the classification compartment (A), while being conveyed by the vortex flow, undergoes particle size classification in each of the classification compartments.
US07735655B2 Screen and method for screening pulp
A screen and a method for screening pulp. The screen comprises a body, a screen cylinder arranged inside the body for screening the pulp, and an accept chamber and an accept aggregate connected with it for removing the accepted pulp fraction from the screen. The accept chamber is arranged between the screening surface of the screen cylinder and the screen body and it is arranged to expand in the radial direction of the screen cylinder outwards from the screen cylinder continuously in the longitudinal direction of the screen cylinder towards the line which is parallel to the radius of the screen cylinder and corresponds to the cross-section of the body and on which the accept aggregate is arranged.
US07735654B2 Screening arrangement
A screening arrangement in a vibrating screen for screening of material, such as crushed stone, gravel or the like, the screening arrangement having directing means provided on top of the screening arrangement to direct the material to be screened, such that the directing means are arranged to direct or adjust the width of screening material in relation to the amount of material to be screened, and to achieve a continuous optimal layer of the material to be screened.
US07735652B2 Apparatus and method for continuous particle separation
The invention is directed to an apparatus and a method of separating particles, such as cells, from a heterogeneous fluid, such as blood, where the particles have a large range of sizes.
US07735649B2 Packaging assembly for containing and displaying a product
A packaging assembly for containing and displaying a product includes a unitary material adapted for configuration into a tray. The tray includes a tray bottom, a first side wall formed integrally with the tray bottom, and a second side wall formed integrally with the tray bottom and opposed to the first side wall. The first side wall has a transverse cross sectional area of a first predetermined shape and the second side wall has a transverse cross sectional area of a second predetermined shape, the second predetermined shape being different from the first predetermined shape. The tray also includes a side notch defined in at least a portion of the first side wall cross sectional area and a bottom notch defined in at least a portion of the second side wall cross sectional area. The side notch has a height substantially equal to the height of the first side wall and the bottom notch has a height less than the side notch height.
US07735646B2 Toolbox with wheel chocks as supports
The tool box comprises a lower bin having a pair of opposed sidewalls, a front wall, a rear wall, and a bottom wall that define a storage space, the bottom wall comprising a first recess and a second recess; and a lid coupled to the lower bin by a hinge and movable between a closed position and an open position. The lower bin and the lid support the weight of a person standing on the lid when the lid is in the first position. The lower bin and lid are positionable at a first height when the bottom wall is in contact with a floor and is positionable at a second height when the first recess receives the first chock and the second recess receives the second chock. The toolbox may also comprise an insert configured to divide the internal cavity between a lower space and an upper space and comprising an aperture. An object stored in the lower space may extend through the aperture in the insert into the upper space.
US07735644B2 Case for electrical device and method of using same
A case (100) for an electrical device includes: (a) a first portion (110) with a bottom surface (111); (b) a second portion (121) adjacent to the first portion; (c) a third portion (122) adjacent to the second portion; (d) a fourth portion (123) adjacent to the third portion; and (e) a fifth portion (132) with an interior surface (235) and adjacent to the fourth portion. In this embodiment, at least one of the first portion or the third portion is configured to be removably coupled to the electrical device. Additionally, when the case placed in an open configuration, the first portion is capable of being located over the fifth portion with the bottom surface of the first portion adjacent to the interior surface of the fifth portion.
US07735642B2 Three piece snap fit ejectable disc case
An ejectable disc case is made up of three pieces—a bottom piece, a top piece, and a movable tray, all of which can formed by injection molding and then assembled together by snap fit. The bottom has a hole through which a disc can be ejected and two bottom grooves engaged by groove mechanisms of the tray. The tray has a disc perimeter support for supporting a perimeter of the disc in the tray in the retracted position, a disc locking mechanism for holding the perimeter of the disc in the tray in the retracted position, a center disc rest connected to the disc perimeter support by a center disc rest slant ramp, and a hook with a hook prong that extends upwardly from the center disc rest. The hook prong moves upwardly through the disc hole and engages the disc center to secure the disc center when the tray moves from the extended position to the retracted position but disengages the disc and moves downwardly through the disc hole when the tray moves from the retracted position to the extended position. The bottom side wall through which the disc is ejected has one or more downwardly sloping ramps to actuate disengagement of the disc from the hook prong as the tray moves from the retracted position to the extended position. The tray can have multiple tray holes within the disc perimeter support to decrease the amount of material required for construction of the tray.
US07735640B2 Carrier capable of hanging from a side of a container
A carrier is formed of foldable sheet material, the carrier being usable with a container. The container has a top, a bottom and sides, the top having a handle, and at least one of the sides having a mouth for emptying contents from the container. The carrier includes a bottom, side panels adjoined and connected to the bottom, and a handle panel formed with at least one of the side panels. The handle panel includes a first aperture for fitting over the handle on the top of the container such that at least a portion of one of the side panels of the carrier rests against a side of the container.
US07735617B2 Lever system for actuating a clutch
A lever system for actuating a clutch in the power train of a motor vehicle or of a disc brake, including: a lever (7) with a first side (7.1) rotatably supported on a pivot (8) and with a side (7.2) in functional connection with a pressing means (6). The lever (7) rests on a movable fulcrum (12) provided by a moveable support unit (10) that is displaceable in radial direction relative to the rotation axis of the clutch or the disc brake and which is displaceable using a motor-driven (15) spindle (14. The moveable support unit (10) rests on a raceway (11) and includes two roller sets (20.1, 20.2) each with rollers (21, 22, 22.1, 22.2). Each of the roller set (20.1, 20.2) includes at least three rollers (21, 22, 22.1, 22.2) and at least two of the rollers (22.1, 22.2) include approximately equal first diameters.
US07735616B2 Dog clutch
A dog clutch includes a first engagement face and a second engagement face provided on a surface of a driving rotor and a driven rotor with the two surfaces being opposite each other. The first engagement face engaging with its counterpart when a driving force of the driving members is generated. The second engagement face engaging with its counterpart when the driving member receives the driving force from the driven member. The strength of the engagement portion is balanced reflecting the operational torque changing as a power transmission direction changes. A projection drawing to a plane perpendicular to a rotational axis of a driving rotor and of a driven rotor, the inward extension line of the first engagement face passes through a position offset from the position representing the rotational axis, and the inward extension line of the second engagement face passes through the position representing the rotational axis.
US07735614B2 Impact attenuator for vehicle and method
An impact attenuator, which is arranged to be flexible longitudinally as well as sideways, has a rear part with two wheels, an attenuating part, a front part with two pivot wheels, and a coupling part for connection to a vehicle. The coupling part has a damper for dampening part of the force during a collision against the impact attenuator. During a minor collision against the impact attenuator the collision force is mainly absorbed by the damper. The damper regains after a collision its original position and the impact attenuator can remain operative. During a larger collision against the impact attenuator, the collision forces are also absorbed by the attenuating part.
US07735611B2 Identification of incoming peak traffic
A method and system for effectively identifying an incoming peak traffic situation in an elevator system is provided. To allow faster detection of a peak traffic condition, use is made of both information obtained from traditional peak hour identification and history data obtained from statistics regarding the numbers of passengers. Traditional peak hour identification monitors the car weight and the number of calls in real time. Statistics provide information regarding typical rush hours in the building. In the method of the present invention, the number of passengers gathering on the lobby floor is forecast on the basis of statistics at the moment when the next elevator is at the lobby floor, ready to take in passengers. When the forecast number of passengers exceeds the car load threshold value for traditional peak hour identification, an incoming peak traffic mode can be activated reliably already on the basis of a single peak elevator.
US07735610B2 Method for controlling a braking unit of a rope transport installation and braking unit
The invention relates to a method for controlling a braking unit of a rope transport installation and braking unit. The command signals of a first brake are modulated, until the installation is stopped, by a first modulation circuit integrated in the control unit to automatically regulate the running speed of the rope according to a first predetermined deceleration setpoint curve activated by a braking order. The command signals of a second brake are simultaneously modulated by a second modulation circuit integrated in the control unit to automatically regulate the running speed of the rope according to a second predetermined deceleration setpoint curve activated by the braking order, the instantaneous value of the second setpoint curve being at all times greater than the value of the first setpoint curve.
US07735608B2 Progressive distributor comprising displaceable pistons
A progressive distributor including three or more control pistons (SA to SD), each of which can be displaced in a respective housing bore (A to D) of a distributor housing (G). The pistons are pushed alternately into their two final positions in the corresponding housing bore (A to D) by a lubricant which is supplied under pressure via a housing inlet (E), whereby a specific quantity of the lubricant (VSA to VSD) is delivered by means of an outlet (A1 to A8) on a respective front face. The outlet leads from one of two annular grooves (R) of the housing bore (A to D) of the respective preceding control pistons (SA to SD). The control pistons (SA to SD) are controlled sequentially by the lubricant as a result of the two respective annular grooves (R) in such a way that the following control piston (SA to SD) can only be displaced by the lubricant if the piston displacement of the preceding control piston (SA to SD) has been fully or almost fully completed.
US07735602B2 Muffler structure
A muffler structure capable of suppressing generation of abnormal noise in the muffler even when the outer and the inner tubes expand thermally. Provided is a double-pipe muffler structure including an inner tube and an outer tube. In the muffler structure, an annular front step portion and an annular rear step portion are formed in the inner tube, while the step portions is brought into contact, from inside, with the outer tube and thus are supported by the outer tube. The outer tube supports the front and the rear step portions by being brought into close contact with the step portions partially and elastically.
US07735601B1 Engine noise
In order to provide noise suppression, bumps or undulations are provided on a nozzle surface in order to vary the convergent-divergent ratio between that surface and an opposed nozzle surface. By such an approach, a circumferential variation in the shock cell pattern is created and the flow is deflected so as to enhance turbulent mixing thereby suppressing noise.
US07735600B2 Monolithic acoustically-treated engine nacelle inlet panels
An acoustic, noise-attenuating panel for an aircraft engine nacelle inlet. The panel includes at least three layers: (a) a perforated film; (b) a sound attenuating core; and (c) a structural layer. The structural layer has through-holes adapted for receiving fasteners that are configured to engage structure of an engine nacelle. The structural layer is fabricated, at least at its ends, of a material sufficiently strong so that when fasteners are engaged in the through-holes in the layer's ends, the fasteners retain the acoustic panel in a nacelle inlet under conditions of use. Alternatively, or in addition, the structural layer ends may be reinforced at the through-holes with reinforcing strips.
US07735599B2 Sound wave guide structure for speaker system and horn speaker
A sound wave guide structure for a speaker system comprises a sound passage space connecting an inlet opening 11 to an outlet opening 12. The sound passage space branches in plural stages in a range from the inlet opening 11 to the outlet opening 12, thereby forming a plurality of sound wave guide paths extending from the inlet opening 11 to the outlet opening 12.
US07735597B2 Steering apparatus for vehicle
A steering apparatus for vehicle comprises a steering shaft including a first portion connected to a steering member and a second portion connected to steerable wheels; a transmission ratio variable mechanism capable of varying a transmission ratio as a ratio of a steered angle of the steerable wheels to a steering angle of the steering member; and a reaction-force compensation motor for compensating a steering reaction force of the steering member caused by the operation of the transmission ratio variable mechanism. The transmission ratio variable mechanism includes a differential mechanism for differentially rotatably interconnecting the first and second portions; and a differential-mechanism motor for driving the differential mechanism. Both an axis of a rotary shaft of the differential-mechanism motor and an axis of a rotary shaft of the reaction-force compensation motor are aligned with an axis of the steering shaft.
US07735594B2 Working vehicle
There is provided a working vehicle 1including the right and left vehicle frames reinforced by an upper connecting member and a lower connecting member near the engine, thereby eliminating the conventional need for e.g. highly rigid cylindrical members in constructing the right and left vehicle frames.An engine frame for mounting an engine are connected with a pair of right and left vehicle frames, and a transmission case is placed between rear portions of the right and left vehicle frames. The right and the left vehicle frames are connected via an upper connecting member and a lower connecting member. The engine has an output portion provided with a flywheel, which has its outer circumference surrounded by the right and the left vehicle frames and the upper and the lower connecting members.
US07735591B2 Powered wheelchair having an articulating beam and related methods of use
A powered wheelchair includes a frame, a chair, a pair of drive wheels, a pair of rear wheels, and a pair of front wheels. Each front wheel is part of a front arm assembly that is rigidly coupled to a drive via a mounting plate. The mounting plate is connected to the wheelchair frame by a pivot. The drives are transversely mounted. The batteries are disposed rearward of the drives. The rear wheels are part of an articulating beam assembly and are positioned to provide access to the batteries from the rear of the wheelchair with ease.
US07735590B2 Saddle ride, fuel cell powered vehicle
A fuel cell powered vehicle includes radiators disposed on left and right sides on the skew rear side of a front wheel in relation to the vehicle body front-rear direction. A secondary battery is disposed between the left and right radiators. A thin plate-shaped inner cowl is disposed between the secondary battery and the front wheel. Duct mechanisms surrounding the radiators are provided on the left and right sides of the inner cowl and inside a cowling. Each duct mechanism includes introduction ports for a running airflow, and a discharge port that is fitted with variable-type louvers. A voltage converter unit is accommodated in a straddled part of the vehicle. Radiating fins of the voltage converter include plate-like members erected in the vehicle body front-rear direction that are directed toward the upper side of the vehicle body and are exposed to the exterior of the vehicle body.
US07735589B2 Housing structure of in-wheel motor
A housing structure of an in-wheel motor, the housing structure being formed by combining a plurality of divided housings, the housing structure receiving at least an electric motor for revolving a wheel, the housing structure includes a suspension side divided housing having a fixing boss for fixing the housing structure to a suspension system, and a connection side divided housing connecting to the suspension side divided housing and having a connection boss formed in a position corresponding to a position where the fixing boss is formed.
US07735588B2 Suspension system for suspending a wheel having a motor therein
A suspension system 10 for a vehicle for suspending a wheel 1 is disclosed. An outer rotor type motor 20 is provided within the wheel 1. The motor 20 has a stator (28, 30) provided on an outer surface of a cylindrical member 24 that defines space 70 open to at least an inboard side of the vehicle, and a rotor (22,26) rotatably supported by the cylindrical member 24. The wheel 1 receives the motor 20 and is connected to the rotor (22,26). The mounting portions of suspension arms (50,52,54) are provided on an inner surface of the cylindrical member 24.
US07735585B2 Hard material insert for a drill and a drill with the hard material insert
A hard material insert (1) for a drill (2, 2′) includes an axially central reinforcement (3) provided in the insert, and two diametrically opposite, radial arms (4) each having a cross-section tapering radially outwardly, opposite free side (8) and connection side (7), with the free and connection sides (8, 7) of one of the radial arms (4) being arranged alternatively to the free and connection sides of another of the radial arms (4), and a concave recess (6) provided on the connection side (7).
US07735584B2 Percussion hammer for enlarging drilled holes
The present invention relates to a percussion hammer for enlarging drilled holes. The hammer comprises an external outer wear sleeve (5), an inner cylinder (7) mounted co-axially within the outer wear sleeve (5), a tubular torque shaft (3) disposed axially and centrally of the hammer assembly, and extending longitudinally through the assembly. The hammer further comprises a sliding piston (6) mounted for reciprocating movement within the inner cylinder (7) and outer wear sleeve (10) and about the tubular torque shaft (3) to strike a hammer bit (1) for reciprocal movement in a chuck (4) adjacent a forward end of the hammer assembly. The hammer bit (1) has a central bore (46) through which the torque shaft (3) extends, such that the torque shaft (3) protrudes forwardly of the hammer.
US07735582B2 Insertable devices for retention systems, structures for attachment and methods of use
Insertable devices include a body and at least one substantially circumferential groove in an outer side surface of the body. An aperture in a receiving device comprises at least one annular recess extending radially into a sidewall thereof. At least one resilient split ring fits partially into both the at least one substantially circumferential groove of the insertable device and the at least one annular recess in the aperture. Methods of inserting the insertable device into a receiving device and of removing the insertable device from a receiving device are also disclosed.
US07735580B2 Device for charging a drilling device and drilling apparatus
The invention relates to a device for charging a drilling device of an earth or rock drilling apparatus with a double rod. The device has a rotatable revolver magazine, which is designed with double receiving spaces for receiving two tube parts that are inserted into one another.
US07735575B2 Hammer drill with hard hammer support structure
A drill housing supports an output spindle comprising a material that is relatively soft. The non-rotating hammer member can be mounted around the output spindle, adjacent its forward end, and adjacent the relatively soft material of the drill housing. The non-rotating hammer member can include support slots located along its edge. Support rods that are made of a relatively hard material can extend through the support slots to support the non-rotating hammer member. A plurality of recesses can be provided in the relatively soft material of the drill housing to support the non-rotating hammer member. A hammer mode shift mechanism can be configured to move the non-rotating hammer member along the support rods between a first position corresponding to a non-hammer mode and a second position corresponding to a hammer mode. The relatively hard support rods support the non-rotating hammer member to thereby resist damage to the relatively soft material of the housing member.
US07735573B2 Lawn perforating tool and method of using same
Disclosed herein is a lawn perforating tool and method of using same to prepare new lawn or garden areas or distressed regions of existing lawns or gardens for the planting of seed, example of which include, but are not limited to, grass seed, clover seed, wildflower seed, and the like. The lawn perforating tool of the present invention is particularly configured to provide in the soil and dead grass holes or indentations of a size, shape, and depth that is optimal for receiving and germinating new grass seed and of a density and distribution suitable to provide the resulting grass with a visually desirable pattern, rendering new growth indistinguishable from old growth.
US07735572B2 Carrier strip system and method for different diameter fasteners
A carrier strip system includes a plurality of discrete carrier strips respectively receptive of fasteners of substantially different dimensions the strips having internal features configured to engage the fasteners, the strips further having substantially identical external dimensions said external dimensions being substantially symmetrical with respect to a virtual surface defined by inclusion of axes of the plurality of discrete fasteners, and the external dimensions being engagable with a single setting tool magazine such that fasteners with different dimensions have consistent alignment within a single setting tool magazine and method.
US07735571B2 Device for extinguishing fire by injection of a gas generated by the combustion of a pyrotechnic block
Extinction device with a generator of gas through combustion of a pyrotechnic block connected to means of distributing said generated gas in the fire zone. The device further comprises means of regulating the pressure generated in order to impose an oxygen concentration profile in the fire zone. Said regulation means may for example be a controlled valve or arise from the lay out of the pyrotechnic generator.The device is particularly suited to aircraft engine fires since it does not use halogenated fire extinguishing agents.
US07735568B2 Packer cup systems for use inside a wellbore
The present invention provides a packer cup system for use inside a wellbore comprising a packer cup and a backup component coupled thereto. In one configuration, the backup component further comprises an angled support member and a rubber ring disposed between the angled support member and the packer cup. The support member is configured to facilitate uniform expansion of the rubber ring.
US07735564B2 Logging tool deployment systems and methods with pressure compensation
Systems and processes are provided for facilitating transfer of downhole devices through a reversibly sealable wellhead fixture capping a well under pressure, without jeopardizing operators, equipment, or the well itself. An open ended pressurizable vessel is provided that is sized and shaped to accommodate a substantial portion of a particular downhole device, such as a logging tool. The vessel includes a mating flange for coupling its open end to a reversibly sealable wellhead fixture. A pressure can be equalized between an internal cavity of the pressurizable vessel and the wellbore. Once the pressure has been equalized, a channel can be opened between the pressurizable vessel and the wellbore, allowing for transfer of the downhole device in a preferred direction, either into or out of the wellbore. One or more robotic systems can be provided to further expedite manipulation of at least one of the tool and the vessel.
US07735561B2 Subsea adapter for connecting a riser to a subsea tree
A method and system for performing intervention and workover operations on a subsea well are provided, as well as an adapter for connecting a lower end portion of a conduit extending from a vessel with an upper portion of a lower marine riser package associated with a subsea tree. The method includes providing a lower marine riser package connected to an upper portion of a subsea tree associated with a subsea well, and a conduit extending from a vessel toward the lower marine riser package. The conduit is connected to the lower marine riser package with an adapter. A portion of a conduit bore of the conduit above the adapter is sealed from a chamber in the adapter, and a portion of a bore extending through the lower marine riser package is sealed from the chamber. The adapter is opened for access to the chamber from the sea.
US07735559B2 System and method to facilitate treatment and production in a wellbore
A technique enables simultaneous deployment of both treatment equipment and screen assemblies for use during production. The technique utilizes a multi-stage well treatment system deployed in a wellbore to enable treatment of a plurality of sections along the wellbore. Additionally, a plurality of screen assemblies are positioned at the plurality of sections, and each screen assembly comprises a valve to control the flow of fluids through the screen assembly.
US07735556B2 Method of isolating open perforations in horizontal wellbores using an ultra lightweight proppant
An improved method for building a plug in a horizontal wellbore using a fluid pill pumped into the wellbore at the end of a fracturing treatment. The fluid pill includes a high concentration of an ultra lightweight proppant, such as a neutrally buoyant proppant or an ultra lightweight proppant mixture. The fluid pill is pumped down the wellbore until it almost reaches fractures within a zone of interest. The pumping is then ceased or reduced, allowing the fractures to partially close. The ultra lightweight proppant remains suspended within the fluid pill while stationary. The pumping is then resumed at a very slow rate or as a short pump burst, thus causing the proppant in the fluid pill to bridge off until a bridge plug is formed.
US07735554B2 System and method for recovery of fuel products from subterranean carbonaceous deposits via an electric device
A system for gasification of carbonaceous deposits below the ground surface comprising: an injection well assembly comprising one end positioned at the ground surface and the opposite end of the injection well assembly located within the carbonaceous deposit; a production well assembly comprising one end positioned at the ground surface and the opposite end of the production well assembly located within the carbonaceous deposit; a non-vertical reaction shaft assembly located within the carbonaceous deposit a distance below ground surface, the non-vertical reaction shaft having a length and comprising an injection end in communication with the end of the injection well assembly located within the carbonaceous deposit and a production end in communication with the end of the production well assembly located within the carbonaceous deposit; and a mobile electric device configured to move within the non-vertical reaction shaft assembly. A method for gasifying underground carbonaceous deposits using an electric device.
US07735551B2 Method and system for fracturing subterranean formations with a proppant and dry gas
A method and system for stimulating underground formations is disclosed. The method includes injecting pressurized gas and low concentrations of proppant material at a rate and pressure sufficient to fracture the formation and allow for placement of the proppant in the fracture, followed by allowing the fracture to close on proppant to create a high-permeability flow channel without the use of liquid fracturing fluids or liquefied gases.
US07735546B2 Heat exchanger bypass valve having temperature insensitive pressure bypass function
A by-pass valve for a heat exchanger circuit includes a chamber, a fixed surface secured against movement relative to the chamber, a by-pass port including a valve seat located in the chamber, an actuator located in the chamber and that moves relative to the valve seat in response to a temperature of the actuator, a valve member, a spring contacting the surface and the valve seat and producing a force urging the valve member to engage the valve seat and to close the by-pass port, the spring having no structural connection to the actuator, and a return spring secured to the actuator and contacting the valve member for urging the actuator to retract and the valve member to open the by-pass port.
US07735541B2 Sheet material tensioning apparatus
A sheet material tensioning apparatus includes frame members interconnected one with another to define a closed contour. The apparatus applies tension to sheet material by imposing a separation between frame members to expand the closed contour. Beneficially, the sheet material tensioning apparatus includes an edge-bridging mechanism, such as a spline, to span the gap between the separated frame members. The edge-bridging mechanism maintains the continuity of the edge supporting the sheet material. The sheet material apparatus may include a crossbar assembly to add rigidity to long frame members, while maintaining planar alignment even under considerable compression.
US07735539B2 Fire-resistant smoke-suppressant device
A deployable heat and smoke obstacle is disclosed. A screen is wound around a shaft over a passageway in a building or a vehicle. The shaft can rotate in response to an alarm signal to deploy the screen over the passageway to prevent smoke and heat from passing through the passageway. The screen includes magnetic sheets that engage a corresponding magnetic surface near the passageway to hold the screen in place over the passageway. The screen also includes heat-sensitive fasteners that deform when heated to engage corresponding holes in the passageway to hold the screen in place over the passageway.
US07735537B2 Portable wall-partition
Disclosed is a portable wall-partition that includes a plurality of panels and at least one hinge that connects each of the plurality of panels to a neighboring panel. A foot is positioned on a lower edge of each of the plurality of panels. The foot includes a first extension and a second extension. Each of the extensions includes a distal end thereof. The first and the second extensions are connected to each other at a proximal end (opposite the end having a wheel) to form a vertex. The foot also includes a spring located at or near the vertex. The spring biases the first and the second extensions toward each other.
US07735536B2 Filament winding apparatus
A filament winding apparatus for rotating in a predetermined direction a core material that is supported by a supporting portion, and for winding around the core material, an elongated material which has flexibility and which is impregnated with an unhardened synthetic resin material, the filament winding apparatus includes a plurality of feeding portions for feeding a plurality of elongated materials, and a plurality of guiding mechanisms which are positioned around the core material so as to correspond to the plurality of elongated materials that are drawn from the plurality of feeding portions, through which the corresponding elongated materials are passed, wherein at least one of the supporting portion and the plurality of guiding mechanisms are movable in a rotation axial direction, from a winding operation range in which the elongated materials can be guided by the guiding mechanisms to winding positions at which the elongated materials are wound around the core material, to an attachable/detachable position at which the plurality of guiding mechanisms is separated relatively from the core material and the supporting portion.
US07735535B2 Shaping and laying a tire belt ply
Method of laying a tire belt ply on a form, using one or two transporters each having gripping assemblies, for gripping and moving the gripping sectors situated at the two longitudinal ends of a belt ply. The front and rear edges are aligned, after having determined the angular geometry of the ply edges by means of a suitable device, by independently moving at least one gripping sector of each of the front and rear areas. This method makes it possible to align edges having high curvatures and to lay a belt ply on a curved form.
US07735533B2 Heavy duty tire with silica-rich polyisoprene rubber based intermediate transition layer
This invention relates to a heavy duty tire (e.g. heavy duty truck tire) designed for a load bearing capacity of at least 4,000 pounds (1814 kg) with a tread of a cap/base construction with at least one underlying silica-rich, cis 1,4-polyisoprene rubber based intermediate transition rubber layer to promote a reduced internal heat generation for the heavy duty tire and to therefore promote a load carrying heavy duty tire which is more durable for the long haul. Such heavy duty tire tread is intended for use with heavy loads in which internal heat is expected to be generated within the tire, including the tire tread, during use.
US07735531B2 Planing head for a planing machine and method of manufacture thereof
A planing head, cylindrical body for a planing head and a method of manufacture thereof are provided. The planing head includes a cylindrical body having an axis of rotation, an outer surface around the axis of rotation, and opposite first and second end faces. A plurality of blade assemblies is arranged along the outer surface. A plurality of grooves is provided in the outer surface and each groove is configured to receive a respective one of the plurality of blade assemblies. A hydraulic pressure system for supplying a hydraulic pressure to each of the blade assemblies is provided. The hydraulic pressure system includes a plurality of transverse channels for receiving a pressurised hydraulic fluid and a plurality of oblique channels hydraulically linking the plurality of transverse channels. Each transverse channel extends at least partially through the cylindrical body.
US07735530B1 Rotary dangle head having continuous rotation
A rotary dangle head having continuous rotation includes a rotator, a continuous rotary hydraulic union and a dangle head. The rotator includes a support base, a slewing ring, a mounting plate and a ring rotator. The slewing ring includes an outer bearing ring and an inner bearing ring. The dangle head includes a retention bracket and a processing head. The processing head is pivotally retained by the retention bracket. The outer bearing ring is attached to a bottom of the support base. The inner bearing ring is attached to a top of the mounting plate. The ring rotator drives the outer bearing ring. The retention plate is attached to a bottom of the mounting plate. The continuous rotary hydraulic union is connected to hydraulically driven components mounted to the processing head.
US07735528B2 High pressure gas tank cooling by ejector pump circulation
Apparatus wherein the compression heat of refueling of a high pressure storage tank is evacuated from the interior of the tank in which a gas circulating within the tank passes through an ejector pump powered by the mechanical energy of the refueling gas as the gas traverses from the high pressure refuel depot to the storage tank and the circulating gas absorbs the refueling heat and carries the heat to a cooling system before the gas is introduced into the tank for storage.
US07735525B2 Thermally insulated apparatus for liquid chromatographic analysis
A thermally insulated apparatus provides a substantially adiabatic environment for elevated temperature liquid chromatography applications. The thermally insulated apparatus minimizes or eliminates temperature gradients between columns and mobile phases, and maintains a temperature at or near the set point of an operably coupled heating means. The apparatus is also effective when used in conjunction with a liquid mobile phase heater such as those provided by an HPLC column compartment or a metal capillary of sufficient length to heat the liquid mobile phase.
US07735523B2 Self-extending electrical hose
A hose construction adapted for efficiently conveying fluids while extended, but capable of neatly contracting to a fraction of its extended length for storage or transportation, while integrally incorporating lines for electrical requirements. Storage may be within an outer hose and may be triggered via closure of a valve within a nozzle so that negative pressure causes contraction of the folds of the hose. The contracted hose has a length that is a fraction of its normal extended length. The hose construction incorporates a wire reinforcing member which may bias the hose for self-extension and may also function as part of the electrical system. The electrical lines may comprise stranded copper wires to conduct power and/or serve as a remote activation circuit. The hose configuration may have a cover with external folds, which maximizes flow and provides a cushioning outer diameter to prevent damage to the hose.
US07735521B2 Valve arrangement, particularly for spray damping units for printing machines
Valve arrangement for spray damping units of printing machines with at least one valve for controlling a flow of liquid, in which the valve includes a housing with an inlet and outlet, into which a valve body arrangement is inserted with the help of a fast-action closure.
US07735519B2 Water inlet device for mounting a valve body on a deck background of the invention
A water inlet device is adapted for mounting a valve body that is formed with a water inlet hole on top of a deck. The water inlet device includes a fixing unit adapted to be secured to the deck and formed with a water supply hole, a connecting unit, and a switch unit. The connecting unit includes a connecting component adapted to be secured to the valve body, and a coupling unit that permits rotation of the connecting component relative to the fixing unit between a first position, where the connecting component is separable from the fixing unit, and a second position, where the connecting component is non-separable. The switch unit is retained rotatably on the fixing unit, is coupled co-rotatably and separably to the connecting component, and blocks the water supply hole when the connecting component is at the first position.
US07735515B2 Valve system
A valve system both controls fuel flow by means of a valve and senses the condition of the valve. The valve is actuated by an actuator via a rotatable shaft. Light is transmitted by a laser diode, via a polarising filter (which is mounted to rotate with the shaft), down the shaft, and is reflected by a mirror which directs the light back up the shaft via the filter to a receiver, which is able to detect different directions of polarisation of the light received. The polarisation of the light received by the receiver indicates whether the valve is open or shut. If no light is received a fault is deemed present. Thus, the condition of the valve is checked directly by means of an apparatus remote from the valve and the fuel.
US07735512B1 Floor drain installation system
A floor drain installation system includes an adaptor attached to a drain pipe projecting from the ground, a coring sleeve having a bowl-shaped upper end attached to or integral with the adaptor, and a coring plug received within the bowl of the receiver to close off the drain pipe during pouring of a concrete floor and to create a space for subsequent reception of a drain head and grate.
US07735509B2 Distribution valve monitor and distribution valve incorporating same
A distribution valve monitor to monitor the operation of a distribution valve of the type having an inlet and a plurality of outlets, which couples the outlets to the inlet according to a desired fluid distribution pattern comprises a plurality of non-contact sensors disposed at spaced locations about the distribution valve to sense activation of the valve to different operating conditions. A controller communicates with the sensors and records data representing the operation of the valve. The recorded data is examined to detect improper operation of the distribution valve.
US07735508B2 Rotary slide valve
A rotary slide valve, in particular for speed-dependent power steering systems in motor vehicles, has a torsion bar, a rotary slide, and a control bushing. The control bushing is pressed onto a pinion and the torsion bar is inserted into a torsion bar bore of the pinion. The control bushing is connected rotation-fast to the pinion by shaping. The torsion bar has teeth that are pressed into the torsion bar bore of the pinion and that connect the torsion bar to the pinion rotation-fast.
US07735507B2 Baffled tank for a vehicle
A tank for transporting liquids is provided. The tank includes a tank vessel having an internal baffle system including an X-shaped baffle arrangement that extends through the interior of the tank vessel in the longitudinal direction. A plurality of entry hatches can be provided in the tank vessel for permitting access into the interior of the tank vessel. Each entry hatch has a removable hatch plate and is sized to allow a person to enter the tank therethrough. At least selected ones of the baffles in the tank have access openings therethrough. Each access opening has an associated pivotal baffle door that is movable between open and closed positions. The access openings are provided in the baffles such that a person can traverse through the interior of the tank between two of the entry hatches. The tank also is equipped with a variable volume system.
US07735505B2 Erectable canopy with reinforced roof structure
The quickly erectable canopy shelters include a plurality of legs connected together by an extendible perimeter assembly of link members. The roof structure is formed by a pole members pivotally mounted to the upper ends of the legs so as to extend across the shelter, and movable between a lowered position and a raised, upwardly arching position. The pole members are pivotally coupled to a central hub, and each of the pole members is formed of pole sections hinged to permit downward folding and upward unfolding until they are fully extended. Corner support strut members are pivotally mounted to the extendible perimeter assembly of link members adjacent to the legs, to support the pole members. The outer ends of the pole members are pivotally connected to the upper ends of the legs by pivoting link members that pivot between a lowered position and a raised position extending above the legs when the shelter is extended. In the raised position the pivoting link members rotate outwardly to absorb downward forces exerted on the roof structure and transmitted outwardly by the pole members.
US07735504B2 Erectable shelter with collapsible central roof support
A telescoping pole assembly for an erectable, collapsible shelter, includes first and second hollow telescoping sections slidably connected together, the first telescoping section being slidably disposed within the second telescoping section, and a spring loaded detent pin mounted to the second telescoping section. A weighted internal stop member is slidably disposed within the first telescoping section for movement between a first position and a second position. The internal stop member blocks the spring loaded detent pin in the first position, and the internal stop member does not block the spring loaded detent pin in the second position.
US07735502B1 Compact, all-weather temporary shelter
A compact, temporary shelter that includes at least two vertical frame members aligned transversely over a base frame. Each frame member includes two opposite straight lower sections, two curved eave sections, two optional straight roof sections and a curved, central peak section. Adjacent frame members are interconnected by a plurality of purlins. The shelter includes an inner liner disposed over the inside surfaces of the frame members. The inner liner creates wall air spaces between two adjacent frame members and an upper attic and a lower living space that are partially isolated. When attached to an HVAC unit, air from the living space and flows and circulates into the wall air spaces between the frame members and into the attic. From the attic, air travels through a vent opening formed on an end cover to the outside environment. Located inside the shelter is a flexible air sock that connects at one end to the output port on the HVAC unit to evenly distribute the air into the living space. Because the frame member includes straight sidewalls and the inner lining forms a relatively high ceiling, greater storage and living space is created.
US07735501B2 Mobility assistance apparatus and method
A mobility assistance apparatus and a method for improving the mobility of a person using a walking aid, such as a cane, crutch, or walker, involve use of a device for ground engagement with ambulating using the walking aid. In a preferred example the device is a resilient lower extremity prosthesis that is capable of storing and releasing energy to generate propulsive force to aid mobility. The prosthesis has a foot, ankle and shank. The shank has a lower portion that is anterior facing convexly curved for generating forward propulsion with ambulating to aid mobility.
US07735495B2 Partial cap hair accessory
A support structure and a hair accessory utilizing the support structure are disclosed. The support structure is configured to engage and surround substantially only a rear portion of a user's head, and according to an embodiment the support structure includes a crown segment, a central support member, a crossing member, and a plurality of side segments. The hair accessory includes a plurality of hair strand retention members attached to and extending across the support structure and a plurality of hair strands extending from each hair strand retention member.
US07735494B2 Tabacco smoking apparatus
The invention provides a tobacco smoking apparatus that enables a person to smoke, namely inhale and exhale smoke and other combustion products from burning tobacco, while isolating and protecting others from a substantial portion of the combustion products, including smoke, smoker's exhale and odor, that are produced from smoking tobacco.
US07735492B2 Nasal respiratory devices
Described here are methods, devices, and kits for altering the flow of air in a respiratory cavity such as the nostrils of the nose. These methods and devices may be useful for affecting a physiologic benefit in patients suffering from a variety of medical diseases, particularly those that may benefit from “pursed-lip” breathing and non-invasive ventilation, such as COPD, heart failure, sleep apnea, and other medical disorders. The devices are typically removable devices that may be placed over or in a respiratory cavity to increase resistance to airflow within the respiratory cavity. Resistance to expiration may be selectively increased relative to inspiration. Removable nasal devices are described.
US07735491B2 Methods of treating respiratory disorders
Described here are methods for altering the flow of air in a respiratory cavity such as the nostrils of the nose. These methods and devices may be useful for affecting a physiologic benefit in patients suffering from a variety of medical diseases, particularly those that may benefit from “pursed-lip” breathing and non-invasive ventilation, such as COPD, heart failure, sleep apnea, and other medical disorders. The devices are typically removable devices that may be placed over or in a respiratory cavity to increase resistance to airflow within the respiratory cavity. Resistance to expiration may be selectively increased relative to inspiration. Removable nasal devices are described.
US07735489B2 Endotracheal tube, device for use in medical procedure through natural opening and medical procedure through natural opening
An endotracheal tube according to the present invention is used by being installed into a patient so as to use it together with a device having an insertion section which is inserted into the body. A portion overlapping with the device inserted into the patient is formed as a flat shape; and furthermore, an outer face portion formed along a longitudinal direction of a cross-section, of the portion formed in the flat shape contacts the device.
US07735488B2 Tracheal insert allowing passage of a selected substance
A medical device has a cuff adapted to be positioned in the trachea of a subject with a patient tube, and a first tube having a distal end coupled to the cuff and a proximal end communicable with the surroundings. More effective and simpler sample taking and/or dosing of medicament is achieved by a second tube that is coupled with a distal end to the cuff and communicable with the surroundings via a proximal end, together with a pumping device that is connected to the proximal end of the first tube and to the proximal end of the second tube in order to circulate a fluid through the cuff. The cuff has a membrane that is permeable to a specific substance, the membrane being disposed to allow transfer of the specific substance between the interior and the exterior of the cuff.
US07735482B2 Combustion control system
The combustion control system described herein is the top assembly of a combustion chamber. It was developed as part of an efficient wood burning fire place. The assembly presumes that there is some sort of baffle above the fire directing the flames to the front and a non-airtight glass door. The object is to burn cleanly, efficiently, with a minimum of creosote on the glass and with a relatively low cost non-airtight construction. A single damper blade regulates the flue opening, the combustion air supply and dilution air for the chimney. The blade also acts as a deflector to provide a long combustion path and heat extraction. A bimetal element automatically adjusts the damper as the combustion process changes.
US07735481B1 Oven rack having hinged rollers
An oven includes an oven cavity having multiple pairs of horizontally disposed guide slots recessed into the side walls of the oven cavity. At least one oven rack is configured with at least two wheels mounted on axles secured to at least one hinged support along an edge of the oven rack. After the oven rack is inserted into the oven cavity, the hinged support is pivoted to move the axles of the wheels to a generally horizontal position to cause the wheels to engage the horizontal slots and support the oven rack. The oven rack is removed from the oven cavity by lifting the oven rack to cause the wheels to disengage from the horizontal guide slots and to pivot so that the axles are at an angle with respect to the horizontal position. With the wheels disengaged from the guide slots, the oven rack is readily removable from the oven cavity.
US07735480B2 Door locking mechanism for an oven having French-style doors
A cooking appliance having first and second oven doors that combine to extend across and close off a frontal opening of a cooking chamber includes a latching mechanism for locking the first and second oven doors in a closed position. The latching mechanism includes a fixed support plate and a motor having an output shaft to which is rotatably mounted an eccentric drive member. Preferably, the motor is fixedly mounted to the support plate. The latching mechanism further includes first and second latch members each having a first end portion pivotally attached to the eccentric drive member extending to a second end portion defining a hook element. When the motor is activated, a guide mechanism directs the second end portions of the first and second latch members to a locking position leading the hook members into engagement with the first and second doors.
US07735477B2 Internal EGR control system for internal combustion engine
An internal EGR control system for an internal combustion engine, which is capable of controlling the internal EGR amount with accuracy, when controlling the internal EGR by changing both the exhaust cam phase and the exhaust valve lift. An internal EGR control system for an internal combustion engine controls internal EGR in which combustion gases are caused to remain in a cylinder. An ECU sets a target cam phase serving as a target of the exhaust cam phase, and controls a variable exhaust cam phase mechanism such that the exhaust cam phase becomes equal to the target cam phase. ECU 2 sets a target lift of an exhaust valve according to a detected actual cam phase and calculated valve-closing timing, and controls a variable exhaust valve lift mechanism such that the lift of the exhaust valve becomes equal to the target lift.
US07735474B2 Injector mounting arrangement
An injector mounting arrangement for use in an engine, the injector mounting arrangement including: a fuel injector having one or more resonant modes of vibration, an engine cylinder housing, and a clamping arrangement including a clamping member for applying a clamping load to the injector so as to clamp the injector to the cylinder housing wherein the clamping load is applied at or substantially at a vibration node of one of the one or more modes of vibration of the fuel injector so as to damp or substantially prevent transmission of injector generated noise to the cylinder housing.
US07735473B2 Connection head structure of high pressure fuel injection tube
A connection head structure of a high pressure fuel injection tube is provided to avoid an interference between an annular flange and an opposing part by sufficiently maintaining an tube axial direction length of the connection head and to obtain a good sealability to prevent leaking during autofrettage processing with a high pressure of not less than 300 MPa. A connection head structure of a high pressure fuel injection tube includes, on a connection end portion of a thick walled fine steel tube, a spherical seat face, an annular flange, and a circular conic face that continuously extends from the seat face, wherein a washer and a fastening nut are assembled, characterized in that when a thick walled fine steel tube has t (wall thickness)/D (outer diameter)<0.3, an tube axial direction distance L1 from a connection head end to the back face of the annular flange is from 0.38 D to 0.7 D, a spherical body radius R of the seat face is from 0.45 D to 0.65 D, and an outer diameter D1 of the annular flange is from 1.2 D to 1.4 D, wherein an inner circumferential face of the connection head includes a two stage tapered face having a cross section outline in a tube axial direction of the steel tube that broadens toward the aperture of the tube.
US07735472B2 High-pressure fuel supply apparatus and control apparatus for internal combustion engine
In an internal combustion engine provided with a high-pressure fuel pump, if the discharging rate of the high-pressure fuel pump is greater than the injection quantity of fuel injected from a injector with the high-pressure fuel pump remaining uncontrollable due to failure or the like, it is probable that the fuel pressure in a common rail unintentionally rises to affect the injector. A high-pressure fuel supply apparatus is provided to solve such a problem.A high-pressure fuel supply apparatus according to the present invention is configured such that if the high-pressure fuel supply apparatus or a control apparatus thereof causes malfunction to increase the pressure in the common rail, the pressure in the common rail does not exceed pressure affecting the flow characteristic and spray characteristic of the injector after recovery from the malfunctioning state.
US07735467B2 Engine with progressive dual bore electronic throttle body
An engine wherein a progressive throttle body includes two side by side throttle bores with throttle blades of equal size. A primary throttle opens from closed to an idle position with slowly increasing flow providing excellent idle and low engine speed air control. A secondary throttle opens slightly after the idle airflow position of the primary throttle and then opens more quickly, equaling the primary throttle opening near half throttle. Thereafter, the throttles open together, raising the airflow to maximum when both throttles are fully open. Both throttles are driven by a single electronically controlled motor or other actuator through two gearboxes that provide the varying flow curves. Throttle position sensors on both throttle shafts feed back throttle positions to an electronic controller to provide needed data for electronic throttle control in response to throttle commands. Additional features are disclosed.
US07735463B2 Engine air intake arrangement for a vehicle
A vehicle having moving funnels separated from stationary funnels that suppresses any decrease in intake efficiency. The moving funnels are arranged on an intake side of the stationary funnels to lead air to an engine. A funnel holding section holds the moving funnels and includes opened holes. The moving funnels are moved straight between separated positions in which openings of the moving funnels are separated from openings of the stationary funnels, and abutment positions in which the openings of the moving funnels abut against the openings of the stationary funnels. The opened holes pass air on an upstream side to a downstream side.
US07735462B2 Piston for an internal combustion engine and combination a piston provided with an oil injection device
A piston for an internal combustion device, has at least one cooling channel, with at least two sections which, when seen from above, are located along the piston axis and/or on different levels in the radial direction, and/or the two or more cooling channels are provided, and at least two of the cooling channels are located on different levels along the piston axis and/or in the radial direction when seen from above, and that at least a supply and/or discharge element extends in an least parallel manner on the piston axis.
US07735460B2 Method and apparatus for operating standard gasoline-driven engines with a readily-available non-volatile fuel, thereby obviating the use of gasoline
The conventional spark plug of a gasoline engine is removed and replaced with a high-power spark plug capable of delivering very high power (e.g., one megawatt) over a relatively-narrow time interval (e.g., 20 nanoseconds). Next, the gasoline is replaced with a readily-available non-volatile fuel (e.g., JP-8). The gasoline—and its transportation, storage, handling and/or use—is eliminated altogether, thereby removing a strategic and tactical threat from enemy and terrorist forces who otherwise would be targeting the gasoline tanks. Additionally, or alternatively, the fuel in the line (or the fuel injector) may be heated to start a cold engine or under cold ambient temperatures.
US07735456B2 Pet vehicle safety restraint device
A pet vehicle safety restraint device for protection of household animals, the device including a one piece molded base frame having a pet seating floor and a back panel, the pet seating floor and the back panel being in a substantially ninety degrees relationship to one another; a harnessing system designed to contain the upper torso of a pet and containing an adjustable and flexible chest band; and a first adjustable leash, a second adjustable leash and a third adjustable leash, the adjustable leashes connecting the harnessing system, and subsequently a pet, to the one piece molded frame wherein the one piece molded frame is ultimately connected to the vehicle by means of a vehicle seat belt.
US07735454B1 Dispenser-tube deer feeder
A dispenser-tube deer feeder having a feeder tube (1), a feeder lid (2), a feeder wall (3) and a feeder floor (4) has at least one dispenser tube (5) sized to receive a deer snout, but not larger animal snouts. The dispenser tube is extended laterally from the feeder tube proximate the feeder floor. A dispenser (13, 18, 19) in conveyance communication from the feeder tube to the dispenser tube can be structured for allowing select constituencies of granular or liquid feed to be dispensed into the dispenser tube for deer to eat. A positioner (29, 30, 31,) is provided for positioning the dispenser tube a predetermined distance above a ground surface for access by deer but not shorter animals with snouts the same size or smaller than deer snouts. At least one positioner attachment (10, 25) is provided for attaching the feeder tube to a central post, a side post or an overhanging tree or structure.
US07735445B2 Deployable marker banner structure and system
A deployable marker banner structure and system including (a) an elongate, rollable/unrollable fabric body having opposite ends, a long axis, and opposite faces, (b) shape-forming biasing structure operatively connected to the body, applying shape-forming biasing forces thereto at plural, spaced locations distributed along the body's long axis in a manner whereby, with the body unrolled, the biasing structure produces complex, alternating, longitudinally distributed convex and concave topography portions in the body's faces, with at least one each of such convex and concave topography portions disposed in each face of the body, and with each convex topography portion in one face of the body corresponding, and being complementary, to a companion concave topography portion located directly in the opposite face of the body, and (c) facial visibility-enhancing structure operatively present at least on the convex topography portions in the body's faces, urged by the mentioned topography portions into complex convex curvatures.
US07735443B1 Boarding aid for inflatable dinghy
A boarding aid assists a person in embarking on and disembarking from a deployed inflatable dinghy. A handgrip bar is supported by a support structure selectively coupled with the dinghy so as to be placed across the beam of the dinghy, with the handgrip bar spaced from the bow and the stern of the dinghy, at an elevated position which renders the handgrip accessible for ready grasping by a person remaining essentially erect as the person steps aboard or leaves the dinghy. Upon selective uncoupling of the support structure from the dinghy, the support structure and the handgrip bar will be released for stowing apart from the dinghy.
US07735440B2 Inflatable restraint for missiles and missile canisters
An inflatable restraint, and method of using the same, is used to provide support and shock isolation for missiles, torpedoes, missile canisters or the like in naval vessels. The inflatable restraint features a structural collar, at least one inflatable bladder and at least one interference member. The interference member is attached to the inside of the structural collar and the interference member is fully adjustable to ensure a snug fit during the loading of the missile, torpedo or missile canister into the structural collar. Once the missile, torpedo, missile canister or the like is properly inserted into the structural collar, the at least one inflatable bladder, which is also attached to the inside of the structural collar, is inflated to restrain the object. The pressure of the inflatable bladder may be regulated to provide variable spring constants and stiffness.
US07735438B2 Ground driven seed metering system with a continuously variable transmission
An agricultural seeding machine includes at least one tool bar, and a plurality of row crop units, with each row crop unit coupled with a respective tool bar. Each row crop unit includes a seed meter; a ground engaging wheel; a continuously variable transmission (CVT) driven by the wheel; and a rotatable drive element coupled between the CVT and the seed meter.
US07735434B2 Multiple-hearth furnace
The inventive multi-level furnace comprises a furnace wall delimiting a cylindrical space having a vertical axis, a plurality of beds defining the levels inside said cylindrical space and at least one scraping arm which is provided with a wall scraper and associated with the bed in such a way that it is rotatable about the vertical axis of the furnace. During scraping arm rotation, said wall scraper defines a scraped area on the internal surface of the furnace wall which comprises a plurality of wall cavities forming a row of access openings in the scraped area, thereby making it possible to avoid the formation of a hardened crust adhered to the internal surface of the furnace wall and to develop braking shocks in the scraping arm.
US07735430B2 Thermoformed platform
Articles constructed of a plurality of scuffed sheets have improved sheet-to-sheet bond strength and surfaces with high coefficients of friction. Articles constructed out of three scuffed sheets include exterior intumescent polymeric surfaces resisting the spread of combustion flames and insulating the interior surfaces from the high temperature of fire. Articles include electronic apparatus sending an emergency 911 call to a remote monitoring station. Articles are advantageously reinforced with optional rigidifying structures without article modification. Members are joined with snap together features providing an assembled article. Articles include handles for ergonomic manipulation by workers. Articles include elements amenably receiving unitization accessories. The article improvements are demonstrated in the form of industrial platforms, particularly material handling pallets.
US07735429B2 Connector for support structures
A connector selectively connects at least two support structures to provide a larger, rigid support structure. The connector includes a body portion from which extends downward a center support portion. A pair of outer sleeves extend downwardly from the body portion on opposite sides of the center support portion, each outer sleeve extending downwardly less than the center support portion. In use, the outer sleeves are inserted through openings in the support structures into the feet of the support structures. The body portion rests on the decks of the support structures and the center support portion extend downward from the body portion between the support structures. The center support portion is sized to extend to the floor when the connector is connected to the support structures.
US07735427B2 Shock absorber
The invention relates to a shock absorber (100), in particular for use as an additional irreversible shock-absorbing stage together with a component for transferring force. In order to achieve the reliable dissipating of high impact energies, a shock absorber (100) comprising the following is indicated in accordance with the invention: a base plate (1); a force-transferring element (3) having a tensioning element (4); an energy-absorbing element in the form of a deformation tube (5) which is connected by a first end section to the base plate (1); and a connecting element (6) for the disengageable connecting of the force-transferring element (3) to a second end section of the deformation tube (5), wherein the connecting element (6) is pressed against the tensioning element (4) such that the deformation tube (5) is braced between the tensioning element (4) and the base plate (1) without play.
US07735425B2 Conveyor system with a conveyor carriage with axially aligned track rollers
A conveyor system (10) includes a conveyor course (12), which has a curved portion and two tracks (22, 24) located one above the other, and a conveyor carriage (14); each of the tracks (22, 24) is assigned at least one horizontal track roller (34, 36) of the conveyor carriage (14), and at least one of the tracks (22, 24) is assigned a further horizontal track roller (34, 36), which is spaced apart in the conveying direction (L) from the one track roller (34, 36) associated with the same track (22, 24). The axes of rotation (A, B) of the two track rollers (34, 36) are located in alignment with one another; and, whenever both tracks (22, 24) are each assigned a further track roller (34, 36), the axes of rotation (A, B) of these further track rollers (34, 36) are likewise in alignment with one another.
US07735424B2 Overhead traveling vehicle system and method of transporting processing equipment into, or out of position around the overhead traveling vehicle system
An overhead traveling vehicle travels along a rail suspended from an upper position. Further, a buffer is suspended from an upper position. The buffer can be retracted from a storage space for an article, or the buffer is foldable compactly.
US07735423B1 High visibility ordnance
A munition has an external surface. The munition may be of any type. The external surface includes a coating on at least part of it. Coatings may be, for example, paints, tapes, appliqués or other materials. The coating on the munition includes one or more of reflective material, phosphorescent material and fluorescent material. The reflective, phosphorescent and/or fluorescent coatings are applied to the munition prior to its being deployed. The reflective, phosphorescent and/or fluorescent materials in the coatings are visible at a safe distance from the munition and help to identify unexploded ordnance.
US07735422B2 Shotgun-barrel projectile with intercalation and cartridge
The invention relates to a ball cartridge (1) for a shotgun with an intermediate means (2) which can be built into a cartridge (20). The bullet (1) has a cylindrical free area (10) on the lower side thereof and the intermediate means (2) is embodied as a piston (21) on the end thereof facing the bullet (1) and the diameter thereof is adapted to the free area (10). In order to provide a solid link between the bullet (1) and the intermediate means (2), the bullet (1) is placed on the piston (21) or vice-versa and is pushed into the free area (10) and wedged during the piston (21) shot.
US07735421B2 Method for manufacturing a printing form and printing form with thermally insulating layer
Reusable printing forms and thermal image setting on the printing forms is optimized in terms of performance. A method for manufacturing the printing form, in particular a rewritable printing form, having a thermally insulating layer, is distinguished by the fact that the thermally insulating layer is produced by the configuration of individual layers to form a layer sequence as a multilayer system. A printing form which is manufactured by the method according to the invention can have images set on it with a low power image setting device, as it is possible to effectively prevent heat from dissipating in an undesirably pronounced manner, for example into a metallic carrier.
US07735414B2 Container receiving unit with even distribution of beverage
A container receiving unit for use in an apparatus for preparing a beverage includes a receiving space for receiving a container arranged for holding a beverage base material, a reservoir for containing beverage, and a distribution system which has an inlet connected to the reservoir, at least two outlets for dispensing beverage, and a liquid flow path extending from the inlet to the outlets. The liquid flow path has a device for reducing the speed of beverage flowing from the reservoir to the outlets during operation. The relatively high speed that is generated at an earlier stage of operation in the apparatus is diminished in the distribution system to a level at which the beverage can be distributed evenly over the outlets. In this manner all cups will be provided with an even amount of beverage.
US07735411B2 Pistol with semi-rigid locking
A pistol including a grip, a barrel slide movable on the grip in a firing direction, and a barrel capable of being interlocked with the barrel slide. A first locking device includes a projection provided on the outer contour of the barrel and has a forward-facing first inclined surface. A second locking device includes a lever pivotably guided in the barrel slide and a dog having a rearward-facing, second inclined surface cooperating with the first inclined surface. The unlocking means includes a stop that is provided in the grip and cooperates with a lug of the barrel. When the barrel impacts against the stop and the barrel slide continues its movement, the inclined surfaces slide relative to each other, and the lever is pivoted against the force of a spring such that the dog releases the barrel slide.
US07735408B1 Mortar tube with cooling fin
A cooling fin for a mortar tube comprises a plurality of discrete nibs disposed on an external surface of the mortar tube wherein the nibs are arranged in longitudinal rows spaced circumferentially around the mortar tube. Preferably, the number of longitudinal rows of nibs is thirty-six. The nibs have a substantially square cross-section.
US07735406B1 Latch for suppressor
A latch for mounting a suppressor to a firearm is disclosed that allows interfacing with and securely attaching to the weapon's flash hider without the need to use threads and the rotational movement commonly associated with attaching suppressors to a firearm. The latch consists of a primary latch and a secondary latch. The primary latch moves in a vertical plane, fits into the grooves on a standard flash hider, and is rotationally indexed to the flash hider when locked. The secondary latch attaches to the top of the primary latch, securing the primary latch when it is fully locked by pivoting around and downwards, and locking to the suppressor. The primary latch compensates for the considerable tolerance range of the outside diameter of the flash hider. The latch has minimal thermal coupling to the suppressor and engaging/disengaging the primary latch plate and the secondary latch can be accomplished with one hand.
US07735404B2 Belt skiver apparatus
A belt skiver is adapted for forming recesses along a conveyor belt end in preparation for mounting a lacing therein. The belt skiver includes a cutting mechanism movable relative to the conveyor belt end, and having an upper blade positioned to remove an upper surface layer from a top portion of the conveyor belt, and a lower plate positioned to remove a lower surface layer from a bottom portion of the conveyor belt. The belt skiver also includes a drive mechanism shifting the cutting mechanism relative to the belt end laterally along the belt end, and whereby the upper and lower blades contemporaneously sever both the upper surface layer and lower surface layer from the belt end.
US07735403B2 Alignment system for a fence for a table saw
Embodiments of an alignment system for a table saw are disclosed, wherein the table saw has a rotatable blade that extends through its table top, the table top having spaced indicia oriented in a direction parallel to the plane of the blade, comprising an elongated fence having first and second end portions, at least the first end portion having a mechanism for securing the fence on the table saw, an elongated portion attached to the first end portion and extending over the table top, the fence being normally oriented so that the elongated portion is parallel to the plane of the blade and being laterally adjustable relative to the blade, at least two light emitting units mounted on the fence at spaced locations along the length of the fence, each unit configured to direct light on a first side of the fence toward the indicia and enable an observer to determine if the fence is oriented parallel to the indicia.
US07735401B2 Boring tool with adjustable chamfer cutter
A cutting tool having a cutting portion located proximate to one end. The cutting tool including a recessed chip flute formed along the shank of the tool away from the cutting edge. The tool includes a chamfering cartridge which is clamped to the tool shank along the chip flute. The chamfering cartridge performs a chamfering or deburring operation while allowing chips from the cutting portion to pass through the flute and away from the tool and workpiece.
US07735400B2 Torque releasing clutch for a screw driver blade
A torque releasing clutch for a screw driver blade is installed in a connect rod, including a spring, ball holes for fitting steel balls, and a washer respectively in the holes to restrict the spring and the steel balls within the groove of the clutch so that the clutch moves forward and backward regularly. When a screw is driven in an object for a preset depth, the clutch may push forward the screw driver blade so that the torque-releasing steel balls may release the screw driver blade in time. Then, even if the screw driver should still have some torque, it might only rotate the connect rod idly, keeping the driver blade immovable. Thus the remaining torque might not damage the blade slot of the screw, in addition to avoiding the remaining torque returning to a user of the screw driver and harming the user.
US07735396B2 Wave gear drive having negative deflection meshing tooth profile
A rigid internal gear and a flexible external gear of a wave gear drive are spur gears of module m. The number of teeth of the external gear is smaller by 2n (n is a positive integer) than that of the internal gear. The deflection of the major axis of the elliptical rim neutral line on the principal cross-section of the external gear is set at 2κmn (κ<1). On the principal cross-section, the meshing of both gears is approximated by rack meshing. The locus M of movement of a tooth of the external gear caused by the rotation of a wave generator is determined. A part AC of the locus M of movement from the inflection point A of the locus M of movement to the deepest position B of meshing is determined on the entering side of meshing of the teeth toward the major axis of the locus M of movement. A first similar curve FG generated by multiplying the curve part AC by &lgr; is employed as the tooth profile of the external gear, and a second similar curve DE generated by multiplying the curve part AC by (&lgr;+1) is employed as the tooth profile of the internal gear. The tooth whole depth is increased wherever possible so that the range of the tooth profile of the internal gear may be the greatest at which the tooth tip touches the locus M of movement of the tip of tooth of the external gear, thus realizing a wave gear drive of high ratcheting torque.
US07735395B2 External speed sensor and method
An electronic communication wire connecting an input speed sensor and a computer controller in a transmission system is provided. The electronic communication wire connects at one end to the input speed sensor through a first aperture in the transmission case and at the other end to the computer controller through a second aperture in the transmission case. Thus, the electronic communication wire is attached at both ends to internal devices but it partially exists external to the transmission case along the length of the electronic communication wire. The connection between the electronic communication wire and the input speed sensor is sealed with at least a single O-ring while the connection between the electronic communication wire and the computer controller is sealed with at least a pair of O-rings. A method of electronically connecting the input speed sensor and the computer controller externally of the transmission case is also provided.
US07735393B2 Brake pedal apparatus
A brake pedal apparatus including: (a) an operating pedal disposed pivotably about a first axis; (b) a pivot member disposed pivotably about a second axis and connected to the operating pedal via a link mechanism so as to be pivoted about the second axis in response to a depressing operation of the operating pedal; and (c) an output member for receiving an output generated by pivot motion of the pivot member. The link mechanism includes (i) a first connecting link connecting the operating pedal and the pivot member with first play, and (ii) a second connecting link connecting the operating pedal and the pivot member with second play. In a first region before a characteristic switching point of a pedal stroke of the operating pedal, the pivot member is pivoted through the first connecting link, while a lever ratio is changed according to a first lever ratio characteristic. In a second region beyond the characteristic switching point, the pivot member is pivoted through the second connecting link, while the lever ratio is changed according to a second lever ratio characteristic.
US07735392B2 Thumb/twist throttle control device
A thumb-twist throttle control device for vehicles includes a control device housing, a twist-type throttle control device mounted thereon which includes a rotatable handle and a thumb-type throttle control device mounted thereon generally adjacent the twist-type throttle control device, the thumb-type throttle control device including an outwardly-extending lever pivotably mounted on the control device housing. A throttle control device control mechanism is operatively interposed between the twist-type and the thumb-type throttle control device and the throttle of the vehicle and is operative to select one of the twist-type and the thumb-type throttle control device and to operatively connect the selected one of the twist-type and the thumb-type throttle control device to the throttle of the vehicle for operation thereof, with each control device being independently operable to control the throttle yet are not simultaneously operable, i.e. only one may control the throttle at any one time.
US07735390B2 High-speed parallel robot with four degrees of freedom
The invention relates to a high-speed parallel robot with four degrees of freedom comprising four kinematic chains (1) articulated at one of their ends to a mobile platform (4) carrying the tool (5) and at their other end, through a rotational joint (2), to an actuador integral with a base plate (3). The mobile platform (4) is formed by four members (11), (11′), (12), (12′), linked together by means of articulated linkages (13), at least two of the members being parallel to each other, forming an articulated mobile platform with one degree of freedom in the plane of the mobile platform. The actuators are positioned with any orientation in the base plate (2) and preferably at 45°, 135°, 225° and 315°.
US07735389B2 Double clutch transmission
An input system includes an input shaft portion, including a first and second input shafts, bearings, rotatably supporting the input shaft portion; and clutches, for transmitting rotational power to the first or second input shafts. An output system includes a first and second output shafts, and a plurality of driven gearwheels, which mesh with drive gearwheels of the first and second input shafts. Driven gearwheels for low gears disposed on the second output shaft are submerged in lubricating oil in an oil reservoir provided below the second output shaft. Drive gearwheels for low gears are disposed adjacent to the bearings. Tooth width dimensions of the drive gearwheels for the low gears are larger than tooth width dimensions of the driven gearwheels for the low gears. Exposed tooth width portions of the drive gearwheels constitute oil splashing portions which splash lubricating oil splashed by the driven gearwheels on to the bearings.
US07735387B2 Selector drive for automatic manual transmission of motor vehicles
A selector drive for automatic manual transmissions has an electric motor, the rotational motion of which can be transmitted to the selector mechanism for the selection of a selector position by way of a mechanical transmission chain. An electric motor (1) of the mechanical transmission chain is an electric motor with defined step width, whereby the required step number for the selection of the selector position in the selector mechanism can be determined through fixed geometrical conditions or distances according to the stipulations of the individual step angle of the electric motor and the distance between the selector positions.
US07735386B2 Power generation device
A rigid arm pendulum is combined with a helical device attached to the pendulum horizontal axle to provide a double reciprocating action. While the pendulum reciprocates in rotary fashion about the axle, describing successive arcs of less than 360 degrees, the axle simultaneously produces a reciprocating action about its longitudinal centerline. A pumping action is thereby developed in line with the longitudinal centerline of the axle. This pumping (linear reciprocating) action can be utilized for a variety of requirements, including a hydraulic pump and a system to drive an electric generator.
US07735380B2 Method and system of coordination of measurement subsystems of a flow meter
Coordination of measurement subsystems of a flow meter. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are flow meters comprising a spool piece that defines a central passage, a first plurality of transducer pairs mechanically coupled to the spool piece, a first control electronics electrically coupled to the first plurality of transducer pairs (the first control electronics configured to selectively activate each transducer pair of the first plurality of transducer pairs), a second plurality of transducer pairs mechanically coupled to the spool piece, a second control electronics different than the first control electronics (the second control electronics electrically coupled to the second plurality of transducer pairs, the second control electronics configured to selectively activate each transducer pair of the second plurality of transducer pairs). The first and second control electronics communicatively coupled and configured to coordinate activation of their respective transducer pairs.
US07735379B2 Electrode for magnetic flow sensor
There is described a fluid flow sensor (10)for sensing a flow (F) of a fluid (120) through a region. The sensor (10) comprises a magnetic circuit (50, 60a, 60b) for applying a magnetic field (70) to the region, and electrodes (40a, 40b) for sensing a potential (V) generated in operation between the electrodes (40a, 40b) in response to the fluid (120) flowing through the magnetic field (70). Each electrode (40) includes a metal element (130; 300; 400; 500), a metal halide element (110; 310; 320; 410; 520), and an electrically conductive porous element (100; 330; 420; 530). The porous element (100; 330; 420; 530), hinders progressive loss of the metal halide element (110; 310, 320; 410; 520), to the flow (F) and provides an electrically conductive path between the flow (F) and the metal halide element (110; 310; 320; 410; 520), and thereby to the metal element (130; 300; 400; 500). Inclusion of the porous element (100; 330; 420; 530) provides the sensor (10) with increased operating longevity without compromising its measurement noise performance.
US07735377B1 Laser bond inspection using annular laser beam
Methods, systems, and apparatuses are provided for generation of focused stress waves that selectively apply tensile stress to local regions of a bonded article.
US07735372B2 Electronic pressure switch
An electronic pressure switch has only two terminals, a resistance measuring bridge pickup, an amplifier unit downstream of the resistance measuring bridge, a comparator connected to the amplifier unit and a switching stage downstream of the comparator achieves a lower residual current in the blocked state and a lower voltage drop in the switched state. The resistance measuring bridge has a high internal resistance and the amplifier unit supplies both an analog measurement signal corresponding to the analog measured value of the resistance measuring bridge and a threshold value to the comparator at low resistance. A high-resistance balancing network is assigned to the resistor network, and an in-phase regulator on the input side limits and controls the supply voltage of the resistance measuring bridge, the amplifier unit, the comparator and the balancing network and the switching stage is made as a shunt controller triggered by the output of the comparator.
US07735369B2 Immersion ultrasonic test part holder, system and method for nondestructive evaluation
A part holder for immersion ultrasonic testing having a solid buffer material with acoustic properties that match the immersion fluid is disclosed. Test systems and methods are also disclosed.
US07735368B2 Acceleration sensor
An acceleration sensor of the present invention is a heat sensing type acceleration sensor, and includes a heating chip formed with a heating element on a surface thereof, and a sensor chip formed with a thermocouple element on a surface thereof and disposed so that the surface faces the surface of the heating chip.
US07735367B2 Vehicle wheel balancer system with projection display
A wheel balancer includes a microprocessor configured to receive data associated with a vehicle wheel rim and tire assembly imbalance from at least one sensor, and to identify optimal correction weight plane locations, as well as to present the operator with the imbalance correction weight arrangement. The microprocessor is further configured to control a projection display system disposed to project a two-dimensional image onto a surface of the vehicle wheel rim and tire assembly, to facilitate completion of a wheel imbalance correction procedure.
US07735365B2 Safe and accurate method of chemical inventory management on location
The present invention provides a method of measuring an amount of a substance depleted from a storage unit, including the steps of: supporting the storage unit on a vehicle, measuring a first weight of the storage unit and any liquid substance contained in the storage unit, allowing a quantity of the liquid substance to be discharged from the storage unit, measuring a second weight of the storage unit and any liquid substance contained in the storage unit, and determining the amount of liquid substance discharged or allowed to be discharged from the storage unit based on the first weight measurement and the second weight measurement.
US07735361B2 Testing device for a cam-driven fuel injection system, in particular a pump/nozzle or pump/line/nozzle injection system
A test apparatus serves to test cam-driven fuel injection systems. The apparatus includes a camshaft which can act on a piston of the fuel injection system at least indirectly via a lever. It is proposed that the lever have a multiplicity of fastening positions for an actuating element which can act on the piston and that the fastening positions be disposed at different distances from a pivot axis of the lever.
US07735358B2 Self-sensing tweezer devices and associated methods for micro and nano-scale manipulation and assembly
The present invention provides a self-sensing tweezer device for micro and nano-scale manipulation, assembly, and surface modification, including: one or more elongated beams disposed in a first configuration; one or more oscillators coupled to the one or more elongated beams, wherein the one or more oscillators are operable for selectively oscillating the one or more elongated beams to form one or more “virtual” probe tips; and an actuator coupled to the one or more elongated beams, wherein the actuator is operable for selectively actuating the one or more elongated beams from the first configuration to a second configuration.
US07735349B2 Correlation of ultrasound images and gated position measurements
A calibration apparatus includes a motion assembly, which is arranged to move an imaging probe through a calibration point having known coordinates. The imaging probe includes an ultrasound transducer and a position sensor for acquiring concurrently a first sequence of ultrasound images and a second sequence of position measurements. The apparatus further includes a marking circuit, which is arranged to mark an ultrasound image that is acquired by the ultrasound transducer in the first sequence when the imaging probe is at the calibration point. A processor is arranged to calibrate a time offset between the first and second sequences by associating the marked ultrasound image in the first sequence with a position measurement in the second sequence whose coordinates match the coordinates of the calibration point.
US07735344B2 Drum type washing machine
A drum type washing machine includes a rotary drum having an approximately horizontal or slanted rotational axis; an outer tub for accommodating the rotary drum therein; a driving motor for rotating the rotary drum; a detergent case for accommodating detergent therein; a first water supply unit for supplying water into the outer tub via the detergent case; a second water supply unit for supplying water into the rotary drum through a front opening thereof; and a controller for controlling operations of the driving motor and the first and the second water supply unit to execute a washing process during which water is supplied first up to a first water level, and the rotary drum is rotated at a first rotational speed for a time period, and then water is supplied up to a second water level, the first water level being lower than the second water level.
US07735343B2 Sealing head for machines for thermal treatment of filaments
A sealing head for machines for the thermal treatment of filaments, includes a frame (1) fixed to a pressurized chamber traversed by a conveyor belt, a pair of superposed horizontal rollers (2 and 3), which are pressed against opposite surfaces of the conveyor belt, and sealing elements (4 and 5) to form a sealed closure between the rollers (2 and 3) and the frame (1). The sealing elements (4 and 5) to form a sealed closure between the rollers (2 and 3) and the frame (1) are each provided with integrated lubricating elements (4′, 5′), under pressure or by capillarity. The invention is more particularly applicable to the field of the textile industry, in particular the treatment of filaments by thermal treatment machines presently called thermofixation machines.
US07735341B2 System for making clipped thermoplastic yarns
A system for making clipped thermoplastic yarns or filaments, such as chipped glass yarns, including at least a die co-operating with at least a cutting machine located in extension of each other. A mechanism sizes the yarns and/or filaments coming from the die. The system further includes at least one return mechanism and a floor. Further, a mechanism displaces and positions the cutting machine in at least two positions, the first position being beneath the floor and the second position being above the floor. A first opening is provided in the floor through which the cutting machine is moved.