Document Document Title
US07745175B2 Polynucleotides encoding Clostridium perfringens alpha toxin proteins
This invention pertains in part to the development of a vaccine for poultry against necrotic enteritis (NE). The vaccine utilizes a protective antigen that is a mutated, full-length, non-toxic Clostridium perfringens (Cp) α-toxin protein (Mcpa). Utility of this vaccine was demonstrated by reduction of lesion severity in NE challenge trails, for example. Also disclosed herein are novel approaches for producing this vaccine in significant quantities. One exemplified approach involves producing NE vaccine (mutated alpha toxin) in bacterial expression systems, preferably utilizing the Pseudomonas fluorescens system, for commercial use in controlling NE in the poultry industry. The subject vaccines can be administered preferably to chickens in several different ways. A novel, Type VI alpha toxin from chicken isolates of Cp is also disclosed.
US07745174B2 Hybrid hepatocyte growth factor gene having high expression efficiency of two heterotypes of hepatocyte growth factor
The present invention relates to a hybrid Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) gene which is prepared by inserting an inherent or foreign intron between exons 4 and 5 in HGF cDNA, which has a base sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2. The gene has high expression efficiency and simultaneously expresses two heterotypes of HGF and dHGF (deleted variant HGF). Further the gene may be used for treating or preventing ischemic or liver diseases.
US07745166B2 Human lysosomal protein and methods of its use
The gene associated and causative of classical late infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (LINCL), CLN2, has been identified and characterized. The translation product of this gene is a novel protease and a deficiency in this activity results in LINCL. Identification of CLN2 will not only aid in the prevention of LINCL through genetic counseling but provides strategies and test systems for therapeutic intervention. In addition, further characterization of this previously unknown lysosomal enzyme may provide useful insights into other more common human neurodegenerative disorders. Finally, the utility of a general approach for determining the molecular bases for lysosomal disorders of unknown etiology has been demonstrated.
US07745162B2 Compositions and methods for measuring levels of bioactive human hepcidin
The invention provides compositions and methods for measuring human serum hepcidin levels. The invention provides methods for the oxidative refolding of a hepcidin polypeptide to a form that is mature, bioactive and folded as in the native configuration and molecular mass; a method for measuring the level of native, bioactive hepcidin in a vertebrate animal.
US07745158B2 Detection of secreted aspartyl proteases from Candida species
Methods and devices for the detection of proteins secreted by the hyphal growth form of Candida species are disclosed. The disclosed devices may constitute a method for the diagnosis of acute or chronic infections, including candidiasis, caused by microorganisms of the species Candida, such as C. albicans, for example. The devices of the present invention incorporate antibodies specific to secreted aspartyl protease proteins whose expression is upregulated upon the conversion of the Candida species from the commensal to the pathogenic form. The antibodies may be used in assays to allow the diagnosis of candidal infections and disease conditions. Either monoclonal antibodies or polyclonal antibodies may be used, and in the case of the monoclonals, the specific epitopes of the SAP protein may be detected as well as the SAP protein itself.
US07745155B2 In-vivo monitoring of circulating apoptotic cells
The present invention provides methods and systems for performing in vivo flow cytometry. In one embodiments, selected circulating cells of interest of a subject are labeled with fluorescent probe molecules. The labeled cells are irradiated in-vivo so as to excite the fluorescent probes, and the radiation emitted by the excited probes is detected, preferably confocally. The detected radiation is then analyzed to derive desired information, such as relative cell count, of the cells of interest. In some embodiments, the circulating cells comprise apoptotic cells whose detection can allow, e.g., non-invasive monitoring of the efficacy of a cancer treatment, such as an anti-tumor or an anti-angiogenic therapy.
US07745153B2 Pyrocatechol violet-metal protein assay
A method for protein determination utilizing a pyrocatechol violet-metal complex, a composition used in the protein determination assay, and a kit.
US07745152B2 Method for determining genotoxicity
Methods and reagents for determining the genotoxicity of a compound based on genomic responses to contact therewith are provided.
US07745150B2 Methods for the detection and monitoring of congestive heart failure
Disclosed herein are methods of detecting and/or prognosing congestive heart failure by detecting a proteolytic fragment of caspase-3 such as the p17 fragment or the p12 fragment. The congestive heart failure can be of any etiology, such as systolic or diastolic heart failure, ischemic or non-ischemic cardiomyopathy.
US07745149B2 Tumor markers for ovarian cancer diagnosis
The present invention relates to a tumor marker for diagnosis of ovarian cancer, which is selected from the group consisting of galectin-1, cathepsin B, MHC class I antigen, heat shock protein (HSP) 27, ubiquitin carboxy-termal esterase L1, plasma retinol-binding protein (PRBP), transthyretin, SH3 binding glutamate-rich protein, tubulin-specific chaperone A, RNA binding protein regulatory subunit, γ-actin, tropomyosin and calcium/calmodulin-stimulated cyclic nucleotide phosphatase. The ovarian cancer is diagnosed effectively and efficiently based on detecting the expression levels of the tumor markers in the invention from the ovarian tissue sample of an individual to be diagnosed.
US07745148B2 Random homozygous gene perturbation to enhance antibody production
The invention reflects enhanced antibody expression of an antibody of interest by cell lines transformed by random homozygous gene perturbation methods to either increase or decrease the expression pattern of a gene of the cell line other than the antibody of interest. The transformed cell line exhibits specific productivity rates, SPR, for the RHGP transformed cell liens of 1.5 or more, as compared with the antibody expressing cell line parents prior to transformation by RHGP. A knock out or anti-sense construct may be devised to reduce expression of the target gene, a promoter may be inserter to enhance expression of the target gene. The antibodies expressed by the transformed cell lines exhibit the binding properties of their parent cell lines prior to transformation with RHGP, and increase Total Volumetric Production of said antibody by said cells in a given volume.
US07745145B2 Method for stabilization of proteins in solution
The present invention relates to a method for stabilization of analytes in solutions of solubilized body samples. The method comprises the steps of solubilizing the body samples obtained from a subject in a suitable sample medium and stabilizing said body sample contained within the sample medium by heating said sample medium for a certain period of time. A further aspect of the invention is a method of a denaturing immunoassay of proteins in solution. The method comprises the steps of bringing a sample containing proteins into contact with a denaturing agent and heating said sample in the presence of the denaturing agent to allow the protein to be denatured.
US07745139B1 Peptides of the AT1 receptor and their uses
Disclosed are peptides of the AT1 receptor and their use for eliminating specifically binding, cell-physiologically active, pathological antibodies in preeclampsia and malign hypertension. The peptides may, for example, be used for the diagnosis of preeclampsia. Peptides having the sequence AFHYESQ (SEQ ID NO: 1), AVHYQSN (SEQ ID NO: 2), SHFYQTR (SEQ ID NO: 3), GYYFDTN (SEQ ID NO: 4) or ENTNIT (SEQ ID NO: 5) are preferred.
US07745138B2 Methods for determining drug responsiveness
The invention provides a diagnostics assay for measuring the responsiveness to a drug by comparing the mRNA levels of a gene that responds to the drug, such as a steroid, to the mRNA levels of a gene that does not respond to the drug. Methods according to the invention are useful for predicting the ability of a patient (or a tissue, body fluid or cell sample in vitro) to respond to a drug or steroid at any stage of their treatment (i.e., before, during or after), and to monitor the patient (or a tissue, body fluid or cell) over time to assess continued responsiveness to the drug or steroid.
US07745123B2 Cell cycle reporting cell line
The present invention relates to non-destructive and dynamic means for determining the cell cycle position of living cells. The invention provides stable cell lines which can be used to determine the cell cycle position, together with methods for measuring the effect of a test agent on the cell cycle position.
US07745121B2 Polymorphism in the macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) gene as marker for prostate cancer
The present invention relates to the risk assessment, detection, diagnosis, or prognosis of prostate cancer. More specifically, this invention relates to the detection of certain polymorphism in the promoter region of the MIF gene to determine the risk, detect, diagnose, or prognosticate prostate cancer. Applicants have discovered that the presence of a −173C and/or −749 (CATT)7 or more repeat predispose an individual to prostate cancer.
US07745120B2 Cell culture and method for screening for a compound useful in the treatment or prevention of hepatic cirrhosis
The present invention provides a cell-culturing model and a method for screening compounds which can be applied in treating or preventing hepatic cirrhosis. The cell culturing model comprises a population of hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) derived from co-culturing, and at least one population of the cells comprises a nucleotide sequence fragment of a reporter gene and a cell specific regulatory sequence. The cell-culturing model of the present invention can be applied in high throughput screening for effective compounds of medication, and also in understanding the functional mechanism of the effective compounds.
US07745118B2 Comparative genomic resequencing
The present invention is an improved method of resequencing DNA using microarrays to rapidly map and identify SNPs, deletions and amplification events present in the genome of an organism. The method is performed by hybridizing a reference and a test genome to two separate arrays with each array exhibiting a specific intensity pattern. The intensity differences between the reference and the test genome arrays are used to produce a mutation map. The mapped differences are resequenced on a set of resequencing arrays to identify specific genetic mutations.
US07745114B2 Compositions and methods for identifying and targeting cancer cells of alimentary canal origin
Screening and diagnostic reagents, kits and methods for metastatic colorectal cancer or primary and/or metastatic stomach or esophageal cancer are disclosed. Vaccines compositions and methods of for treating and preventing metastatic colorectal cancer or primary and/or metastatic stomach or esophageal cancer are disclosed.
US07745112B1 Genetic indicators of tobacco consumption
There are disclosed genetic screens for predicting the likely extent of tobacco consumption in human subjects based on screening for the presence or absence of genetic variants shown to be associated with tobacco consumption in smokers.
US07745107B2 Method for assaying flowing media for microbial toxins
Testing of flowing media for microbial toxins via whole blood incubation in a flow vessel containing a separation element and assaying for mediators.
US07745105B2 Method of preparing soft tissue for a biological scaffold by lyophilizing, heating and elastase treatment
A method for preparing a scaffold material for use in the prosthesis therapy is disclosed. The method comprises (a) lyophilizing a segment of native soft tissue of mammalian origin, heating the lyophilized tissue at a temperature of 100-200° C., and incubating the tissue with elastase to selectively remove elastin leaving the extracellular components mainly comprised of collagen.
US07745103B2 Product with concave-convex pattern on its surface and method of forming the concave-convex pattern
A method of manufacturing an decoration film includes the steps of forming a semi-finished decoration film formed with a concave-convex pattern on a surface in a method of manufacturing a printing plate including exposure, cleaning, and drying from a photosensitive resin film; and irradiating laser on the concave-convex pattern of the semi-finished decoration film and removing an unnecessary portion to smooth concave-convex parts and/or provide difference in height of a convex part and depth of a concave part of the concave-convex pattern.
US07745100B2 Polymers, methods of use thereof, and methods of decomposition thereof
Polymers, methods of use thereof, and methods of decomposition thereof, are provided. One exemplary polymer, among others, includes, a photodefinable polymer having a sacrificial polymer and a photoinitiator.
US07745098B2 Polymer compound, positive resist composition and method of forming resist pattern
A polymer compound having a structural unit (a0) represented by a general formula (a0-1) shown below, and a structural unit (a1) that is derived from an acrylate ester containing an acid dissociable, dissolution inhibiting group but is not classified as said structural unit (a0). [wherein, R represents a hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group, or a halogenated lower alkyl group; A represents a divalent aliphatic cyclic group that may have a substituent; B represents a divalent hydrocarbon group that may have a substituent; r represents an integer of 0 or 1; and R1 represents an acid dissociable, dissolution inhibiting group]
US07745093B2 Water soluble resin composition and method for pattern formation using the same
In the present invention, in a water soluble resin composition for use in a method for pattern formation in which a covering layer is provided on a resist pattern formed of a radiation-sensitive resin composition capable of coping with ArF exposure to increase the width of the resist pattern and thus to realize effective formation of higher density trench or hole pattern, the size reduction level of the resist pattern layer can be further increased as compared with that in the prior art technique, and, in addition, the size reduction level dependency of the coarse-and-fine resist pattern can be reduced. A method for pattern formation using the water soluble resin composition is also provided. The water soluble resin composition which is usable for the method for pattern formation applicable to ArF excimer laser irradiation comprises a water soluble resin, an acid generating agent capable of generating an acid upon heating, a surfactant, a crosslinking agent, and a water-containing solvent.
US07745090B2 Production method of lithographic printing plate, lithographic printing plate precursor and lithographic printing method
A method for producing a lithographic printing plate is provided, wherein, in the non-alkaline development of a lithographic printing plate precursor having a protective layer, even if the protective layer components are mingled into the developer, the reduction in development removability of the image recording layer and the generation of development scum can be inhibited; an on-press development type lithographic printing plate precursor with excellent inking property, high scratch resistance, satisfied on-press developability and good fine line reproducibility is provided; and a lithographic printing method is provided, each of which is a method for producing a lithographic printing plate, comprising: imagewise exposing a lithographic printing plate precursor comprising a support, an image recording layer and a protective layer, and rubbing the plate surface by a rubbing member of an automatic processor in the presence of a developer at a pH of 2 to 10 to remove the protective layer and the image recording layer in the unexposed area; a lithographic printing plate precursor comprising a support, an image recording layer removable with a printing ink and/or a fountain solution, and a protective layer containing a polyvinyl alcohol having a carboxyl group and/or a sulfonic acid group within the molecule; and a lithographic printing method comprising on-press development.
US07745088B2 Non-magnetic toner
Provided is anon-magnetic toner including toner particles each containing at least a binder resin, a colorant, and a wax component, and an inorganic fine powder, in which: (1) when a temperature in a temperature range of 50 to 80° C. at which a loss tangent (tan δ) shows a maximum is represented by T1, a storage elastic modulus of the toner at the temperature T1 (G′(T1)) satisfies a relationship of 5.00×107≦G′(T1)≦1.00×109 (dN/m2); (2) a continuous temperature range with a width of 15° C. or more in which the loss tangent (tan δ) is 0.80 to 2.00 is present in the temperature range of 50 to 80° C.; and (3) the loss tangent (tan δ) is 1.00 or more in a temperature range of 120 to 160° C.
US07745087B2 Electrostatic image developer, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus
An electrostatic image developer contains a toner and a carrier having a resin coating layer formed on the surface of a core material containing a ferrite component, wherein a ratio R1/R2 is from 0.88 to 0.92 where R1 is the resistance value (Ω) of the developer having a toner concentration of 2 mass % in a state formed into a magnetic brush, at an applied voltage of 104 V/cm, and R2 is the resistance value (Ω) of the developer having a toner concentration of 12 mass % in a state formed into a magnetic brush, at an applied voltage of 104 V/cm.
US07745084B2 Toner, developer including the toner, and image forming method, image forming apparatus and process cartridge using the toner
A toner including a binder resin and a colorant, wherein a pellet of the toner which is prepared by applying a pressure of 15 kg/cm2 to the toner has a tensile strength of from 900 Pa to 10,000 Pa, and wherein the toner has a methanol wettability of from 25 to 65% by volume, wherein the methanol wettability is measured by a method in which the toner is dispersed in a mixture solvent of water and methanol, and methanol is added to the toner dispersion while checking the transparency of the dispersion to determine a transparency fall starting point, wherein the methanol wettability is defined as {Vm/(Vm+Vw)}×100, wherein Vm represents a total volume (ml) of methanol in the dispersion at the transparency dropping point, and Vw represents the total volume of the pure water added.
US07745083B2 Electrophotographic photosensitive member, process cartridge, and electrophotographic apparatus
An electrophotographic photosensitive member has a support, a charge generation layer containing a charge-generating material and a binder resin, provided on the support, and a hole transport layer containing a hole-transporting material, provided on the charge generation layer. The charge generation layer contains a phenanthrene compound having a structure represented by the following formula (2): wherein Z201 and Z202 each independently represent an oxygen atom, a ═C(CN)2 group or a ═N-Ph group; R201 represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a nitro group, a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl group or a substituted or unsubstituted alkoxy group; and R202 represents a halogen-atom-substituted alkyl group.
US07745078B2 Method and system for manufacturing a reticle using character projection lithography
A method for manufacturing a surface, the surface having a multiplicity of slightly different patterns, is disclosed with the method comprising the steps of designing a stencil mask having a set of characters for forming the patterns on the surface and reducing shot count or total write time by use of a character varying technique. A system for manufacturing a surface is also disclosed.
US07745075B2 Method for fabricating color filter substrates
A method for fabricating color filters includes: providing a substrate; forming a dry film having a top layer and a bottom layer on the substrate; performing a patterning process on the dry film to form a patterned dry film having a plurality of banks and openings, wherein each of the openings is located between two adjacent banks; disposing at least one color filter material in each of the openings; and removing the top layer of the dry film.
US07745074B2 Mask blank substrate, mask blank, exposure mask, mask blank substrate manufacturing method, and semiconductor manufacturing method
In a mask blank substrate to be chucked by a mask stage of an exposure system, the flatness of a rectangular flatness measurement area excluding an area of 2 mm inward from an outer peripheral end surface on a main surface of the mask blank substrate on its side to be chucked by the mask stage is 0.6 μm or less, and at least three of four corner portions of the flatness measurement area each have a shape that rises toward the outer peripheral side.
US07745073B2 Method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, stencil mask and method for manufacturing a the same
Preparing a stencil mask comprising a silicon thin film in which an opening for selectively irradiating charged particles to a semiconductor substrate is provided and whose irradiation surface on which the charged particles are irradiated is implanted with an impurity, and selectively irradiating charged particles to the semiconductor substrate using the stencil mask which is opposingly arranged on the semiconductor substrate.
US07745072B2 Method of correcting critical dimension in photomask and photomask having corrected critical dimension using the method
Provided are a method of correcting a critical dimension (CD) in a photomask and a photomask having a corrected CD using the method. The method may include providing a substrate that is transparent with respect to an incident light, forming shielding patterns on the substrate to form a photomask, detecting a CD error region of the shielding patterns, and forming a correction film to vary an intensity of the incident light in the CD error region to correct critical dimensions (CDs) of circuit patterns formed by the shielding patterns.
US07745071B2 Large-sized glass substrate
A large-sized substrate having a diagonal length of not less than 500 mm and a ratio of flatness/diagonal length of not more than 6×10−6 is disclosed. By use of the large-sized substrate for exposure of the present invention, the exposure accuracy, particularly the register accuracy and resolution are enhanced, so that it is possible to achieve high-precision exposure of a large-sized panel. With the processing method according to the present invention, it is possible to stably obtain a large-sized photomask substrate with a high flatness, and since the CD accuracy (dimensional accuracy) at the time of exposure of the panel is enhanced, it is possible to perform exposure of a fine pattern, leading to a higher yield of the panel. Furthermore, by applying the processing method according to the present invention, it is also possible to create an arbitrary surface shape.
US07745069B2 Structure and methodology for fabrication and inspection of photomasks
A photomask, method of designing, of fabricating, of designing, a method of inspecting and a system for designing the photomask. The photomask, includes: a cell region, the cell region comprising one or more chip regions, each chip region comprising a pattern of opaque and clear sub-regions corresponding to features of an integrated circuit chip and one or more kerf regions, each kerf region comprising a pattern of opaque and clear sub-regions corresponding to features of an integrated circuit kerf; a clear region formed adjacent to a side of a copy region, the copy region comprising opaque and clear sub-regions that are copies of at least a part of the cell region; and an opaque region between the clear region and the cell region.
US07745062B2 Fuel cell having coolant inlet and outlet buffers on a first and second side
A separator comprises a first and second metal plates laid over each other. A cooling medium flow passage is integrally provided between the first and second metal plates. The cooling medium flow passage has inlet buffer portions communicating with a cooling medium inlet communication hole, outlet buffer portions communicating with a cooling medium outlet communication hole, and linear flow passage grooves linearly extending in the direction of arrow B and that of arrow C.
US07745061B2 Electrolyte membrane for fuel cell having hollow inorganic fine particles
An electrolyte membrane for a fuel cell includes: a proton conductive material in which hollow inorganic fine particles having through-holes on the surface of the hollow inorganic fine particles, are filled with an electrolyte resin; and a non-proton conductive polymer.
US07745058B2 Non-aqueous solvent, non-aqueous electrolyte compositions, and non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery
A non-aqueous solvent is provided that includes ethylene carbonate in a range from 5% or more to less than 60%, propylene carbonate of 40% or less, and diethyl carbonate of 40% or more, as mass ratios. The non-aqueous electrolyte compositions are formed by further adding an electrolytic salt and, if necessary, unsaturated cyclic carbonic ester and a high molecular compound into the non-aqueous solvent. A non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery is formed by using the non-aqueous electrolyte compositions.
US07745056B2 Electrolyte for lithium secondary battery comprising chelating agent and lithium secondary battery using the same
Disclosed herein is an electrolyte for lithium secondary batteries comprising: a chelating agent, which forms complexes with transition metal ions in the battery, and at the same time does not react and coordinate with lithium ions; a non-aqueous solvent; and an electrolyte salt, as well as a lithium secondary battery comprising the electrolyte. The chelating agent, which is contained in the electrolyte for lithium secondary batteries, can suppress a side reaction in which transition metal ions are reduced and deposited as transition metals on the anode. Also, the chelating agent can suppress internal short-circuits in the battery and the resulting voltage drop of the battery and a reduction in the safety and performance of the battery, which can occur when transition metals are deposited on the anode.
US07745052B2 Paste electrolyte and rechargeable lithium battery containing the same
The present invention provides a paste electrolyte comprising an organic solvent of not high dielectric constant, soluble lithium salts, and clays, with the clays being swollen by the solvent, and rechargeable lithium batteries containing the paste electrolyte. The paste electrolyte according to the present invention can improve the electrochemical properties and cycling stability of rechargeable lithium batteries by limiting the anionic transport between anode and cathode without significantly decreasing the lithium transport rate, particularly during fast charge and discharge.
US07745051B2 Insulated separator for electrical energy storage system
An electrical storage system includes a first electrode, a second electrode, an insulated separator, and an electrolyte. The second electrode is spaced from the first electrode. The insulated separator is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The separator further includes an agar and a fiber material. The electrolyte surrounds the first electrode and the second electrode.
US07745048B2 Rechargeable lithium polymer battery
Disclosed is a rechargeable lithium polymer battery comprising a negative electrode including a negative active material layer deposited on a substrate, a positive electrode including a positive active material; and a polymer electrolyte including a lithium salt, an organic solvent, and a polymer.
US07745046B2 Secondary battery
A secondary battery includes: an electrode assembly including positive and negative electrodes; a container adapted to receive the electrode assembly; a cap assembly having at least two terminals exposed outside the container, the cap assembly being adapted to be fixed to the container to seal the container; and lead elements adapted to electrically connect the terminals and the electrode assembly. A center of the terminals are aligned with a center of the electrode assembly, and the lead elements are spaced apart from the center of their respective terminals and adapted to be connected to their respective terminals and the electrode assembly.
US07745039B2 System and method for controlling a rechargeable battery
A control system for a rechargeable battery including at least two electrochemical generators electrically connected by a power line. The system includes a protection unit and at least two control units respectively connected to the terminals of each electrochemical generator. Each control unit is designed to measure at least one operating parameter pertaining to the generator and to command the protection unit by transmission of carrier currents on the power line. The control system dispenses with the master processor for commanding the battery protection units and reduces the connecting wires by dispensing with the measurement leads designed to transmit the measurements of the operating parameters of each generator to the master processor.
US07745038B2 Alkaline dry battery and sealing gasket therefor
In an alkaline dry battery using a polyamide resin sealing gasket that is placed between a battery case and an anode terminal plate without using a stiffening member and seals the battery case in an airtight manner, the sealing gasket includes a first and a second thin wall parts and is formed of polyamide resin, polyhexamethylene dodecanamide.
US07745037B2 Membrane electrode assembly for solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell
A membrane electrode assembly for a solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell includes an anode electrode, a cathode electrode, and a polymer electrolyte membrane sandwiched by the electrodes, the catalyst layer of the cathode electrode containing a catalyst supporting particle in which a precious metal is supported on heat-treated carbon black or activated carbon, an ion conductive material, and a crystalline carbon fiber. Heat treatment is preferably applied at 2,500 to 3,000° C. (degrees Celsius).The membrane electrode assembly provides superior power generation performance.
US07745036B2 Direct oxidation fuel cell system and membrane electrode assembly thereof
A membrane electrode assembly for a direct oxidation fuel cell includes a proton-conductive electrolyte membrane and an anode and a cathode sandwiching the electrolyte membrane. The equivalent weight of the proton-conductive substance contained in the catalyst layer of the anode is greater than the equivalent weight of the proton-conductive substance contained in the catalyst layer of the cathode. This invention reduces the performance deterioration caused by repetitive swelling and contraction of the electrolyte contained in the catalyst layer upon changes in operating conditions or upon repetitive start and stop of operation, thereby making it possible to provide a fuel cell with a high output and high performance.
US07745033B2 Polymer electrolyte fuel cell and separator for polymer electrolyte fuel cell
In a polymer electrolyte fuel cell wherein a plurality of unit cells are arranged in a flat manner oriented in the same direction, and the prescribed adjacent unit cells are electrically connected in series so as to connect the plurality of unit cells in series, a flat-type polymer electrolyte fuel cell is made possible by providing at least one of a through hole connecting portion, a filled via connecting portion and a bump connecting portion in an insulating portion located between the prescribed adjacent unit cells, electrically insulated from the unit cells and having a thickness approximately equal to that of the unit cell, for establishing electrical connection between the prescribed adjacent unit cells.
US07745023B2 Structured material for the production of hydrogen
The present invention provides composite biological devices that include biological material as an integral component thereof. The devices can be used for producing hydrogen gas, for example.
US07745021B2 Transition metal complex and light-emitting device
A light-emitting device comprising a pair of electrodes and one or more organic layers disposed between the electrodes, the one or more organic layers comprising a light-emitting layer. At least one of the organic layers comprises a transition metal complex containing a moiety represented by the following formula (1): wherein M11 represents a transition metal ion; and R11, R12, R13, R14, R15, R16 and R17 represent a substituent or a single bond, respectively, or a tautomer thereof.
US07745019B2 Light emitting element and light emitting device and method of manufacturing light emitting element
A light emitting element of the present invention includes a pair of electrodes, a layer containing a composite material, and a light emitting region; wherein the layer containing a composite material contains an organic compound and an inorganic compound; the light emitting region contains a material having a high light emitting property and a material having a high carrier transporting property, and a region containing high concentration of the material having a high light emitting property and a region containing high concentration of the material having a high carrier transporting property are alternately stacked in the light emitting region.
US07745017B2 Organic electroluminescent device and method for producing the same
An organic electroluminescent device and a method for producing the same, the organic electroluminescent device including a luminescent layer produced by a vapor-deposition method disposed between a pair of electrodes, the luminescent layer containing at least one host material and at least one metal complex including a partial structure represented by formula (I): wherein M represents a metal atom, R1, R2 and R4 to R8 each independently represent a hydrogen atom or a substituent, and R3 represents a group represented by formula (II), an alkoxy group or an aryloxy group: wherein R11 to R13 each independently represent a hydrogen atom or a substituent, provided that at least two of them each independently represent an alkyl group or an aryl group.
US07745016B2 White organic electroluminescence device
An organic electroluminescence device emitting white light which comprises at least two light emitting layers and an electron transporting layer comprising a heterocyclic derivative having nitrogen atom or silicon atom which are disposed between a pair of electrodes, wherein the energy gap of a host compound in each light emitting layer is in a specific range, the energy gap of the heterocyclic derivative having nitrogen atom or silicon atom in the electron transporting layer is in a specific range, and the ionization potential of the heterocyclic derivative having nitrogen atom or silicon atom in the electron transporting layer and the ionization potential of the host compound in the light emitting layer adjacent to the electron transporting layer satisfy a specific relation. The organic electroluminescence device provides a great efficiency of light emission under a low voltage and has a long lifetime, and exhibits no change in the chromaticity.
US07745015B2 Organic electroluminescent device and method for manufacturing same
An organic electroluminescent device comprises a plurality of stacked layers of polymeric materials soluble in an organic solvent. As a polymeric material forming a lower layer, a polymeric material is selected having a molecular weight greater than the molecular weight of a polymeric material of a layer to be formed on the lower layer. As an organic solvent for dissolving the polymeric material forming the lower layer, an organic solvent is selected having a dielectric constant greater than the dielectric constant of an organic solvent for dissolving the polymeric material forming an upper layer. With a light emitting layer being the lower layer and an electron transport layer being the upper layer, it is preferable that the electron transport layer includes a polymeric material having hole blocking property. With a light emitting layer being the lower layer and an electron transport layer being the upper layer, it is preferable that the repeating unit of the polymeric material forming the light emitting layer and the repeating unit of the polymeric material forming the electron transport layer include the same chemical structure.
US07745013B2 Solder foams, nano-porous solders, foamed-solder bumps in chip packages, methods of assembling same, and systems containing same
A foamed solder or a nano-porous solder is formed on a substrate of an integrated circuit package. The foamed solder exhibits a low modulus that resists cracking during shock and dynamic loading. The foamed solder is used as a solder bump for communication between an integrated circuit device and external structures.
US07745009B2 Low-emissivity glazing
Low emissivity glazing which is an assembly of thin layers including at least one metal layer reflecting infrared rays between one or more dielectric layers located between the metal layer and the glass sheet and on the metal layer, the light transmission of one clear float glass sheet 4 mm thick coated with said layers being not less than 83%, the metal layer being selected such that the emissivity is not higher than 0.042.
US07745003B2 Particles having a functional multilayered structure
The present invention relates to particles having a functional multilayered structure based on substrates, characterized in that the substrates are coated with one or more layers of one or more polymers and one or more layers of one or more silanes, process for the production thereof, and the use thereof.
US07745000B2 Surface-modified plexifilamentary structures, and compositions therefor
The present invention is concerned with flash-spinning a surface-modified structure such as a plexifilimentary yarn or a microcellular foam.
US07744997B2 Water contact indicator
The present invention discloses an adhesive article. The adhesive article comprises a first layer comprising a transparent film, the first layer having a first major surface and a second major surface. Additionally, the adhesive article comprises a second layer comprising a fluid transport substrate, the second layer having a first major surface and a second major surface, the first major surface of the second layer being in contact with the second major surface of the first layer and a third layer comprising a fluid transportable ink, the third layer being associated with the second major surface of the second layer. The adhesive article then comprises an adhesive layer.
US07744996B2 Adhesive structure and method for manufacturing the same
An adhesive structure for use in a liquid crystal display (LCD) and a method for manufacturing the adhesive structure are provided. The adhesive structure includes a releasing paper which is provided with two anisotropic conductive films (ACFs) thereon. When the adhesive structure is attached onto the LCD, the two ACFs can be simultaneously attached onto the glass substrate of the LCD for connecting the integrated circuit and flexible printed circuit, respectively.
US07744995B2 Multi-layer coatings for substrates
A multi-layer coating for application to a substrate including a paint coating layer, a metallic coating layer, and a clear coating layer. The metallic coating layer includes chromium metallic flake pigment. The multi-layer coating may be resistant to discoloration in acids including, without limitation hydrofluoric acid, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid and combinations thereof.
US07744994B2 Coating composition, coated article and a method to manufacture the same
The invention pertains to a coating composition, a coated material formed therewith, and a method for coating the material with the coating composition.
US07744990B2 Thin film support substrate for use in hydrogen production filter and production method of hydrogen production filter
In a through hole closing process, a metal plate is attached to one surface of a conductive base member having a plurality of through holes by the use of a magnet, in a copper plating process, a copper plating layer is formed on the conductive base member and the metal plate exposed within the through holes, from the side of the conductive base member where the metal plate is not attached, thereby to fill up the through holes, in a film forming process, a Pd alloy film is formed by plating on the surface of the conductive base member after removal of the metal plate, and in a removal process, the copper plating layer is removed by selective etching, thereby to produce a hydrogen production filter that is used in a reformer of a fuel cell so as to be capable of stably producing high purity hydrogen gas.
US07744987B2 Optical polarizing films
Multilayer films are provided that exhibit a colored appearance when viewed at an oblique angle as a result of one or more reflection bands in the visible region of the spectrum. The films however provide no substantial reflection bands in either the visible or near infrared regions for light normally incident on the film. The films can be made to shift from clear at normal incidence to an arbitrary designed color at an oblique angle without necessarily becoming cyan.
US07744985B2 Image-recording material support, method for producing the same, and image recording material
The present invention provides an image recording material support which contains a paper, wherein the paper contains at least a pulp; and the content ratio of long fiber pulp having a fiber length of 0.7 mm or more in the paper relative to the entire pulp content is 20% or less; and also provides a method for producing an image recording material support which includes beating a pulp using a refiner equipped with beating plates having an average blade angle of 10 degrees or less.
US07744980B2 Low CTE cordierite honeycomb article and method of manufacturing same
Disclosed is a honeycomb ceramic article that exhibits a primary crystalline phase of cordierite having a coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), wherein CTE<1.5×10−7/° C. over the temperature range of about 25° C. to about 800° C.; a total porosity, P, of at least 28%, a transverse I-ratio, IT, of less than 0.92; and a pore size distribution wherein at least 60% of the total pore volume is comprised of pores having diameters between 0.5 μm and 5.0 μm. Also provided is a ceramic honeycomb article comprising a phase of cordierite and exhibiting a mean CTE <1.0×10−7/° C. (from 25 to 800° C.) in at least one direction, and 28%≦P≦33%. Methods of manufacturing ceramic articles comprising the aforementioned cordierite compositions are also disclosed.
US07744978B2 Resin molding
A resin molding is made by integrally joining a first resin molded part configured with a concave portion and a second resin molded part configured with a convex portion so that the concave portion and the convex portion are mated together. The resin molding includes a cavity that is in communication with the convex portion and the concave portion when the convex and concave portions are mated into each other, and a joining resin filled into the cavity. The first and second molded parts and the joining resin are composed of the same resin or similar resins.
US07744972B2 Stabilized polyethylene material
Stabilized polyethylene materials which offer an advantageously balanced combination of thermal, mechanical and processing properties, and which maintain their physical properties in chlorinated water environments are disclosed. The materials include an antioxidant system with components to provide extraction resistance in hot water environments and additionally provides oxidation resistance to both chlorine in the water interior of the pipe and oxygen in contact with the pipe's exterior.
US07744970B2 Multilayer laminates comprising twisted nematic liquid crystals
Provided are multilayer laminates having one or more layers comprising twisted nematic liquid crystals and one or more layers of a polymeric sheet comprising a polymer with a modulus of 20,000 psi (138 MPa) or less. The twisted nematic liquid crystal layers reflect infrared radiation. Thus, the multilayer laminates are useful to reduce the transmission of infrared energy. For example, in some embodiments the multilayer laminates are useful as windows to reduce energy consumption necessary to cool the interior of a structure such as an automobile or building. Preferably, the multilayer laminates retain the beneficial properties of safety glass. The multilayer laminates may include additional layers such as infrared absorbing layers, half wave plates, and the like, to minimize the transmission of infrared energy. The multilayer laminates may also include further additional layers such as polymeric films, polymeric sheets, rigid sheets, and the like.
US07744969B2 Retardation film and method for production thereof
The present invention provides a method for producing a retardation film of a polypropylene resin, the method comprising subjecting a film of a polypropylene resin to longitudinal stretching and transverse stretching which are performed sequentially, wherein the transverse stretching comprises the following steps, and a polypropylene resin retardation film which is obtained by such a method and has both a high axial retardation and a uniform retardation:a step of preheating the film at a preheating temperature which is equal to or higher than the melting point of the polypropylene resin;a step of stretching the preheated film in the transverse direction at a stretching temperature which is lower than the preheating temperature; anda step of heat setting the film stretched in the transverse direction.
US07744968B2 Cyclobutane and spiro[3.3]heptane compounds
The present invention relates to cyclobutane and spiro[3.3]heptane compounds, to a process for the preparation thereof, to the use thereof as components in liquid-crystalline media, and to electro-optical display elements which contain these liquid-crystalline media.
US07744964B2 Vacuum roll coated security thin film interference products with overt and/or covert patterned layers
A method for forming an optically variable device upon a substrate comprises the steps of: patterning a reflective layer on the substrate using an oil-ablation technique; removing oil residue from the first side of the substrate using a first glow discharge; and depositing thin-film layers so as to be supported by the substrate to form the optically variable device. Optionally, oil residue is removed from the second side of the substrate using a second glow discharge.
US07744963B2 Nanolithography methods and products therefor and produced thereby
In one aspect, a method of nanolithography is provided, the method comprising providing a substrate; providing a scanning probe microscope tip; coating the tip with a deposition compound; and subjecting said coated tip to a driving force to deliver said deposition compound to said substrate so as to produce a desired pattern. Another aspect of the invention provides a tip for use in nanolithography having an internal cavity and an aperture restricting movement of a deposition compound from the tip to the substrate. The rate and extent of movement of the deposition compound through the aperture is controlled by a driving force.
US07744960B2 Process for coating fluoroelastomer fuser member using fluorinated surfactant
A process for producing a fuser member coating including a) adding and reacting a fluoroelastomer, a crosslinking agent, a polar solvent, and a fluorinated copolymer surfactant to form a coating solution, and b) providing the coating solution on the fuser member to form a fuser member coating, wherein the fluorinated copolymer surfactant includes a copolymer selected from the group consisting of a fluorinated acrylate copolymer and a fluorinated polyether copolymer.
US07744953B2 Method for forming self-cleaning coating comprising hydrophobically-modified particles
A method for forming self-cleaning coating comprising hydrophobically-modified particles. Micro- or nano-particles are treated with a hydrophobic agent and an additive to form larger particles with the hydrophobic agent and the additive bonded thereto. A binder or crosslinker is attached to the larger particles by forming chemical bonds with at least one of the additive, the hydrophobic agent, and the particles, thus forming a coating material capable of forming self-cleaning coating.
US07744950B2 Process for producing a cable with a recyclable coating comprising a thermoplastic polymer and a dielectric liquid
A process for producing a cable, such as, for medium-tension or high-tension power transmission or distribution, having at least one coating layer made of a thermoplastic polymer material. The process includes at least the following steps: (a) extruding a thermoplastic material of at least one thermoplastic polymer and at least one dielectric liquid; (b) passing the thermoplastic material through at least one static mixer; and (c) depositing and shaping the thermoplastic material around a conductor belonging to the cable so as to obtain a layer of thermoplastic coating on the conductor.
US07744948B2 Method for manufacturing electroluminescence device
An electroluminescence device includes a tubular first electrode, an electroluminescence layer formed on an inner surface of the first electrode, and a second electrode formed on an inner surface of the electroluminescence layer. A method for manufacturing the electroluminescence device includes: causing the inner surface of the first electrode to be lyophilic with respect to an electroluminescence layer forming liquid; conducting the electroluminescence layer forming liquid into and out of the inside of the first electrode, thereby forming a liquid film of the electroluminescence layer forming liquid on the inner surface of the first electrode, which inner surface is lyophilic with respect to the electroluminescence layer forming liquid; and forming the electroluminescence layer by drying the liquid film of the electroluminescence layer forming liquid formed on the inner surface of the first electrode.
US07744945B2 Method of tablet enrobing
An ingestible tablet (10), e.g. of a medicament, is enrobed to produce a tamper-evident coating by vacuum forming a film (40, 46) of material, preferably hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, onto the surface of the tablet.
US07744943B2 Edible mix and method of making the same
An edible mix includes granulated lemon juice solids, granulated citric acid or granulated malic acid, and encapsulated natural lemon oil. In one embodiment, the edible mix also includes granulated maltodextrin, granulated ascorbic acid, and granulated lactose. In one embodiment, the components of the edible mix are mechanically mixed together to form a substantially homogeneous composition. In one embodiment, several of the components are blended by an agglomeration method.
US07744937B2 Chemoprotectants from crucifer seeds and sprouts
The present invention is directed to chemoprotectant precursor compositions provided from crucifer seeds and sprouts and methods for their preparation. Treatment of aqueous extracts from crucifer seeds or sprouts with adsorbents substantially increases the ratio of certain highly chemoprotectant precursor compounds (alkyl glucosinolates such as glucoraphanin, a.k.a. sulforaphane glucosinolate) to undesirable compounds such as indole glucosinolates (for example 4-hydroxyglucobrassicin). The method provides an extract which has a ratio of glucoraphanin to 4-hydroxyglucobrassicin of about 70 or greater. The resulting extract has improved color and odor and may be dried or used directly as an additive in a variety of foodstuffs.
US07744931B2 Methods for treating oral cancers with herbal compositions
The inventive subject matter relates to methods for treating oral cancers, comprising administration of a composition comprising therapeutically effective amounts of supercritical extracts of rosemary, turmeric, oregano and ginger; and therapeutically effective amounts of hydroalcoholic extracts of holy basil, ginger, turmeric, Scutellaria baicalensis, rosemary, green tea, huzhang, Chinese goldthread, and barberry. The inventive subject matter further relates to methods for modulating gene expression of genes selected from the group consisting of interleukin-1α, interleukin-1β, heme oxygenase 1, aldo-keto reductase family 1, member C2, colony stimulating factor 3, leukemia inhibitory factor, heat shock 70 kDa protein, and combinations thereof, by administration of an effective amount of said compositions.
US07744928B2 Methods and compositions for treatment of lesioned sites of body vessels
Methods and compositions for inducing apoptosis of cells, such as macrophages, at a lesioned site of a body vessel are disclosed herein. Nitric oxide can be directly or indirectly delivered to a treatment site to increase macrophage apoptosis. Delivery can include site specific delivery of nitric oxide gas, nitric oxide in aqueous solution or a substance(s) which releases nitric oxide or causes nitric oxide to be generated from an endogenous source. Delivery can be achieved by a delivery system such as a catheter assembly, stent or other suitable device.
US07744920B2 Use of liposomal glucocorticoids for treating inflammatory states
The present invention provides the use of a glucocorticoid (GC) or of a GC derivative encapsulated in a liposome for the preparation of a pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of an inflammatory associated condition in a subject, provided that said condition is not associated with a neurodegenerative disease or disorder. A specific use concerns a liposomal formulation comprising methylprednisolone sodium hemisuccinate (MPS) for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
US07744919B2 Block copolymer micelle composition having an enhanced drug-loading capacity and sustained release
A micelle drug composition having an enhanced drug-loading capacity and improved sustained-release characteristics comprising an amphiphilic block copolymer including at least one hydrophilic blocks and at least one hydrophobic blocks. The block copolymer comprises functional groups selected from the group consisting of carboxyl, amine, hydroxyl, amide, thiol and sulfonic acid groups, in the hydrophobic block chain of the copolymer, and the average number of the functional groups range from 1.1 to 30.
US07744913B2 Fillers and methods for displacing tissues to improve radiological outcomes
Certain embodiments include a method of improvising radiological outcomes by introducing a filler to between a first tissue location and a second tissue location to increase a distance between the first tissue location and the second tissue location, and administering a dose of radioactivity to at least the first tissue location or the second tissue location. Collagen and hyaluronic acid are examples of fillers. Certain embodiments include a medical device having a biocompatible, biodegradable filler material, wherein the device comprises at least a portion that has a shape that substantially conforms to Denovillier's space between the rectum and prostate. Certain embodiments include a kit, the kit comprising a filler and instructions for placing the filler between a first tissue location and a second tissue location to increase a distance between the first tissue location and the second tissue location.
US07744907B2 Ex vivo animal or challenge model as method to measure protective immunity directed against parasites and vaccines shown to be protective in the method
The invention relates to an ex vivo animal or challenge model as a method to identify protective (recombinant) proteins and rapidly measure protective immunity in intestinal segments directed against parasites and vaccines directed against parasitic infections. The invention further relates to vaccines directed against infection with parasites, such as Fasciola hepatica, which vaccines contain protective (recombinant) proteins identified and shown to be protective in studies using the ex vivo model. The invention further relates to protective (recombinant) proteins obtained from newly excysted juveniles (NEJ) of Fasciola hepatica. The protective (recombinant) protein corresponding to an NEJ protein has an apparent molecular weight of 32 kD and an N-terminal amino acid sequence comprising the sequence XXDVSWPFWDRMYNY (SEQ ID NO:1).
US07744906B2 Pain relief agents
The present invention concerns the use of a heat shock polypeptide and/or an encoding nucleic acid sequence in the manufacture of a medicament for use in the relief of pain. In particular the invention concerns the use of chaperonin. The invention further provides methods of relieving pain medicaments containing the heat shock polypeptides.
US07744904B1 Stabilization of Clostridium botulinum neurotoxin complex
A stable composition including botulinum neurotoxin and a cyclodextrin and a method of preserving botulinum neurotoxin and for producing a botulinum neurotoxin composition with improved stability properties in an efficient and economically advantageous manner. The invention seeks to alleviate the problems associated with rapid degradation or denaturation of botulinum neurotoxin by providing a novel composition that exhibits improved stability properties. The botulinum neurotoxin is preferably stabilized by forming a cyclodextrin inclusion complex.
US07744901B2 Influenza hemagglutinin and neuraminidase variants
Polypeptides, polynucleotides, methods, compositions, and vaccines comprising (avian pandemic) influenza hemagglutinin and neuraminidase variants are provided.
US07744900B2 Enhancement of the immune response for vaccine and gene therapy applications
Expression cassettes are provided comprising a promoter operably linked to a nucleic acid molecule which, when transcribed in vivo, forms double-stranded RNA that induces the production of interferon. Expression cassettes also are provided comprising a promoter operably linked to a ribozyme or antisense nucleic acid molecule which, when transcribed in vivo, forms a ribozyme or antisense RNA molecule that stimulates an immune response. In addition, expression cassettes are provided comprising a promoter operably linked to a ribozyme or antisense nucleic acid molecule which, when transcribed in vivo, stimulates apoptosis. Finally, gene delivery vectors are provided which contain such expression cassettes, host cells containing the gene delivery vectors, and methods of utilizing the expression cassettes, gene delivery vectors, and host cells.
US07744899B2 Recombinant herpes simplex virus useful for treating neoplastic disease
Recombinant herpes simplex viruses comprising DNA encoding cytokines and methods for treating neoplastic diseases using the inventive recombinant viruses are disclosed.
US07744897B2 Human immunodeficiency virus gp41 mimetibody polypeptides
HIV gp41 mimetibody polypeptides and encoding polynucleotides are disclosed. Methods of utilizing the polypeptides to reduce or inhibit HIV fusion with a cell membrane and entry into target cells are also disclosed.
US07744888B2 Methods of modulating T cell or natural killer cell activity with anti-P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 antibodies
Compounds that bind to P-Selectin Glycoprotein 1 (PSGL-1) on the surface of T cells or natural killer (NK) cells can be used to induce T cell or NK cell depletion and/or to induce T cell or NK cell apoptosis. The compounds and methods of the invention can be used to control unwanted T cell- or NK cell-mediated immune responses in conditions such as autoimmune diseases, transplant rejection, and allergic diseases.
US07744887B2 Human antibodies interacting with HIV gp41
Human scFvs are disclosed which interact with a conformational epitope along the pre-hairpin, N-helix coiled coil structure within the heptad repeat 1 (HR1) region of gp41 of HIV. These antibodies, as well as IgG conversions, are shown to neutralize diverse HIV isolates. Isolated nucleic acid molecules are also disclosed which encode relevant portions of these antibodies, as well as the purified forms of the expressed antibodies or relevant antibody fragments, such as VH and VL chains. The antibody compositions disclosed within this specification may provide for a therapeutic treatment against HIV infection by reducing viral load levels within an infected individual, thus prolonging the asymptomatic phase of HIV infection. These antibodies will also be useful in assays to identify HIV antiviral compounds as well as allowing for the identification of candidate HIV vaccines, such as HIV peptide vaccines.
US07744886B2 Methods for interfering with rank signaling
Disclosed herein are methods for interfering with RANK signaling by administering blocking antibodies that bind a RANKL polypeptide and inhibit the binding of the RANKL polypeptide to a RANK polypeptide.
US07744885B2 Methods of treating vascular inflammatory pathology using anti-TNF antibodies and fragments thereof
Anti-TNF antibodies, fragments and regions thereof which are specific for human tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) and are useful in vivo diagnosis and therapy of a number of TNFα-mediated pathologies and conditions, as well as polynucleotides coding for murine and chimeric antibodies, methods of producing the antibody, methods of use of the anti-TNF antibody, or fragment, region or derivative thereof, in immunoassays and immunotherapeutic approaches are provided.
US07744875B2 Surrogate therapeutic endpoint for anti-CTLA-4 based immunotherapy of disease
The present invention provides a method of treatment using human sequence antibodies against human CTLA-4. In particular, methods of treating cancer are provided.
US07744866B2 IL-1β binding antibodies and binding fragments thereof
An IL-1β binding antibody or IL-1β binding fragment thereof comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 26 and SEQ ID NO: 11, and related nucleic acids, vectors, cells, and compositions, as well as method of using same to treat or prevent a disease. IL-1β binding antibodies or IL-1β binding fragments thereof are provided which have desirable affinity and potency.
US07744847B2 Upgrading of zircon
A process for upgrading an inferior grade of zircon to a superior grade thereof includes mixing the inferior grade of zircon, in comminuted form, with at least one mineralizer, to obtain a zircon/mineralizer mixture, which is a calcined product. The calcined product is washed, and thereafter, in a comminution step, the washed calcined product is comminuted to obtain a superior grade of zircon, which is suitable for use as a glaze opacifier.
US07744840B2 Selective catalytic reduction system and process using a pre-sulfated zirconia binder
A selective catalytic reduction (SCR) process with a palladium catalyst for reducing NOx in a gas, using hydrogen as a reducing agent is provided. The process comprises contacting the gas stream with a catalyst system, the catalyst system comprising (ZrO2)SO4, palladium, and a pre-sulfated zirconia binder. The inclusion of a pre-sulfated zirconia binder substantially increases the durability of a Pd-based SCR catalyst system. A system for implementing the disclosed process is further provided.
US07744835B2 Nanostructure material, method for the preparation thereof
The invention relates to a nanostructured material.The material is a nanostructured carbonaceous material composed of agglomerates of small needles of Li1+αV3O8 and of β-LixV2O5 (0.1≦α≦0.25 and 0.03≦x≦0.667) surrounded by a noncontinuous layer of spherical carbon particles.It is obtained by a process consisting in preparing a carbonaceous precursor gel by bringing carbon, α-V2O5 and a Li precursor into contact in amounts such that the ratio of the [V2O5]/[Li] concentrations is between 1.15 and 1.5 and that the (carbon)/(carbon+V2O5+Li precursor) ratio by weight is from 10 to 15 and in subjecting the gel to a heat treatment comprising a 1st stage at 80° C.-150° C. for 3-12 h and a 2nd stage between 300° C. and 350° C. for 10 min to 1 hour, under an nitrogen or argon atmosphere.Applications: positive electrode active material.
US07744834B2 Method for manufacturing metal nanoparticles
A method for manufacturing metal nanoparticles, the method including forming a mixture by dissociating a metallic salt of a metal selected from the group consisting of Ag, Pd, Pt, Au and an alloy thereof as a metal precursor in fatty acid; and adding a metallic salt of a metal selected from the group consisting of Sn(NO3)2, Sn(CH3CO2)2, and Sn(acac)2 as a metallic catalyst into the mixture and mixing the mixture and the metallic salt. According to the method, metal nanoparticles have a uniform particle size distribution and a high yield by performing in a non-aqueous environment without using any organic solvent, and are environmentally friendly due to no use of a reducing agent.
US07744832B2 Instrument container having multiple chambers with flow pathways therebetween
A multi-chamber instrument container for microbially deactivating medical, dental, veterinary and mortuary instruments and articles. A pressure differential between chambers causes fluid flow therebetween, thus flowing fluid through internal passages of instrument extending between the chambers.
US07744830B2 Catalyst for microelectromechanical systems microreactors
A microreactor comprising a silicon wafer, a multiplicity of microchannels in the silicon wafer, and a catalyst coating the microchannels. In one embodiment the catalyst coating the microchannels comprises a nanostructured material. In another embodiment the catalyst coating the microchannels comprises an aerogel. In another embodiment the catalyst coating the microchannels comprises a solgel. In another embodiment the catalyst coating the microchannels comprises carbon nanotubes.
US07744825B2 N-phase ozone generator
A compact, inexpensive, large-capacity ozone generator with increased ease of apparatus maintenance. An ozone power supply includes an n-phase inverter for obtaining an AC voltage having a predetermined frequency and outputting an n-phase AC voltage waveform; n reactors and an n-phase transformer for converting an n-phase AC voltage to a high AC voltage; n high-voltage terminals for outputting the n-phase high AC voltage; and a low-voltage terminal having a common potential. Ozone generator units are electrically divided into n pieces within a discharge chamber. Each ozone generator unit includes n high-voltage electrode terminals and one low-voltage electrode terminal, common to all ozone generator units. Each ozone generator unit supports an n-phase AC discharge to generate ozone.
US07744824B2 On-board fuel desulfurization unit
The athermal sorbent bed regeneration system of the present invention includes a main fuel supply, at least one sorbent bed, a source of microwave energy, and a secondary fuel supply. The main fuel supply has a first concentration of an impurity and the secondary fuel supply has a second concentration of the impurity that is less than the first concentration of the impurity. The sorbent bed adsorbs the impurity. The microwave energy source regenerates the sorbent bed for reuse.
US07744817B2 Manifold assembly
A manifold assembly that directs fluid to and from individually selectable sample receiving trays of a tissue processing system includes a manifold, fluid conduits machined in the manifold, and valves that may be selectively configured to provide a direct fluid path to or from a particular tray. The valves are controlled by a controller that positions each valve such that a desired path is created. Pressure is created in supply and/or drain bottles to supply or drain fluid from the trays supported by the manifold assembly. Independently operated heaters are provided on the manifold assembly to heat the trays to desired temperatures. Thermoelectric cooling elements may also provided to cool the heaters and/or trays.
US07744813B2 Oxidation resistant high creep strength austenitic stainless steel
An austenitic stainless steel displaying high temperature oxidation and creep resistance has a composition that includes in weight percent 15 to 21 Ni, 10 to 15 Cr, 2 to 3.5 Al, 0.1 to 1 Nb, and 0.05 to 0.15 C, and that is free of or has very low levels of N, Ti and V. The alloy forms an external continuous alumina protective scale to provide a high oxidation resistance at temperatures of 700 to 800° C. and forms NbC nanocarbides and a stable essentially single phase fcc austenitic matrix microstructure to give high strength and high creep resistance at these temperatures.
US07744808B2 System and method for producing shot from molten material
Systems and methods are presented for producing shot from molten material, in which two or more sprays of inert gas, such as an upper or primary spray followed by one or more lower or secondary sprays, are used to break apart large molten droplets into shot as the molten material is dropped from a crucible orifice. The upper or primary gas feed in one application acts to initially break the stream or droplets into initial droplets of a lesser size or to flatten the droplets, with the second spray then breaking up the intermediate droplets into yet smaller shot particles to be cooled and collected.
US07744805B2 Method for rapidly heating and cooling a mold
A mold for forming, molding or welding thermoplastic tubing extends through the aperture of an apertured spool supporting an RF energized coil to inductively heat a center section of the mold. A source of air is channeled through a manifold to flow about the center section of the mold and through the space between the mold and the aperture in the spool to rapidly cool the mold. Thermal chokes on each side of the center section of the mold impede heat transfer and a heat sink connected to each thermal choke serves to dissipate any heat build up. The spool may be translated along the center section of the mold to a predetermined location commensurate with a predetermined heat profile. The mold includes a passageway extending therethrough for receiving the tubing; by appropriate dimensioning, the passageway will accommodate the use of a mandrel to support the tubing to be formed, molded or welded. The mold may be split to permit separation within the confines of the aperture in the spool and subsequent withdrawal of the formed, molded or welded tubing.
US07744801B2 3D modeling device and 3D modeling method for supplying material with high precision
A 3D modeling device performs repeatedly a step of cutting a subsidiary material layer formed of a subsidiary material and cutting a modeling material layer formed of a modeling material. The 3D modeling device comprises at least one of a subsidiary material supplying device which discharges the subsidiary material drop by drop from an outlet positioned apart from a region in which the subsidiary material is to be applied at a predetermined distance, and a modeling material supplying device which discharges the modeling material drop by drop from an output positioned apart from a region in which the modeling material is to be applied at a predetermined distance. Since the material can be applied with high precision, a high-quality 3D molded object is provided.
US07744798B2 Method of forming film on molded body, method of producing molded body with film formed thereon, mold for producing molded body with film formed thereon
When integrally producing a lamp holder, which is provided with a lamp body and a lens portion, by using a mold-sliding injection system, a lamp holder having a reflection surface formed on the interior surface thereof is produced. A fixed mold is provided with a vacuum deposition apparatus, wherein a lamp holder having a reflection surface is produced by a reflection surface forming process, which is provided between a primary injection process for molding a lamp holder and a lens portion and a secondary injection process for integrating the lamp holder and the lens portion by matching the same together, for vacuum-depositing the reflection surface on the interior surface of the lamp holder.
US07744794B2 Extrusion process
The present invention relates to the extrusion of a composition comprising tetrafluoroethylene/hexafluoropropylene copolymer, 10-60 wt % inorganic particulate filler, and hydrocarbon polymer for dispersing the filler in the copolymer, preferably 0.1 to 5 wt % hydrocarbon polymer, at low temperatures, e.g. up to 650° F. (343° C.).
US07744793B2 Apparatus and method for growing fullerene nanotube forests, and forming nanotube films, threads and composite structures therefrom
The present invention provides apparatus and methods for growing fullerene nanotube forests, and forming nanotube films, threads and composite structures therefrom. In some embodiments, an interior-flow substrate includes a porous surface and one or more interior passages that provide reactant gas to an interior portion of a densely packed nanotube forest as it is growing. In some embodiments, a continuous-growth furnace is provided that includes an access port for removing nanotube forests without cooling the furnace substantially. In other embodiments, a nanotube film can be pulled from the nanotube forest without removing the forest from the furnace. A nanotube film loom is described. An apparatus for building layers of nanotube films on a continuous web is described.
US07744789B2 Method for curing a thick, non-uniform rubber article
Finite element analysis or thermocouple probes are used to determine the state of cure for each zone of a non-uniform, thick rubber article, such as a large tire or a tread for a tire. From this knowledge of those cure-limiting zones, heat transfer elements are added to the mold to enhance the transfer of heat into these cure-limiting zones and to provide a more optimum cure. The use of heat transfer pins and/or mini-sipes are an efficient and practical means of reducing total cure time in the press and optimizing cure state without substantially affecting the performance of the article such as the tire. Reductions in cure time of 10% or more are demonstrated.
US07744786B2 Method and device for manufacturing extremely fine particles and porous materials by controlled low temperature drying
A method and device for manufacturing extremely fine particles and porous materials by controlled low temperature drying. An ambient-pressure and ambient-temperature atomizer atomizes a particle precursor solution to create a precursor mist. The precursor mist and dryer gas are fed into a dryer tube through a tangential inlet (swirl generating inlet). The mixed stream forms a helical flow structure within the dryer tube. The swirling mist undergoes drying and particle formation at a relatively low temperature. The flow continues to swirl and drying process continues with repeated passes until the required drying duration is reached. This dryer structure allows for a compact dryer with full control of residence time.
US07744784B2 Method for preparing diorganomagnesium-containing synthesis means
A diorganomagnesium-containing synthesis means, a method for its preparation and its use.
US07744783B2 Method of making non-flammable thermal insulatiion foam and products made by the method
The present invention is directed to a method of preparing non-flammable thermal insulation foam, comprising the steps of (a) providing a mixture comprising (1) at least one water soluble alkali metal silicate, (2) optionally, at least one filler, and (3) at least one inorganic material which releases non-flammable gases when exposed to heat; (b) applying the mixture to a support or mold; and (c) heating the mixture to form the non-flammable thermal insulation foam.
US07744780B2 Yttrium oxide material, member for use in semiconductor manufacturing apparatus, and method for producing yttrium oxide material
A substrate of an electrostatic chuck, which is a member for use in a semiconductor manufacturing apparatus, is formed of an yttrium oxide material that contains yttrium oxide (Y2O3), silicon carbide (SiC), and a compound that contains a rare-earth element (RE), Si, O, and N. The yttrium oxide material contains RE8Si4N4O14 as a compound that contains a rare-earth element (RE), Si, O, and N, wherein RE may be La or Y. Y8Si4N4O14 is produced during a sintering step of a raw material that contains the main component Y2O3 and an accessory component Si3N4. Y8Si4N4O14 and SiC in the yttrium oxide material improve mechanical strength and volume resistivity.
US07744779B2 Nickel-rhenium alloy powder and conductor paste containing the same
A nickel-rhenium alloy powder comprising nickel as a main component, 0.1 to 10% by weight of rhenium, and having an average particle size of 0.05 to 1.0 μm is provided. The nickel-rhenium alloy powder has a surface oxide film containing a nickel oxide and a rhenium oxide, and the amount of oxygen in the surface oxide film is 0.1 to 3.0% by weight relative to the total weight of the powder. The nickel-rhenium alloy powder is suitable, in particular, for forming internal electrode layers of a multilayer ceramic electronic component. The obtained powder is homogeneously mixed and dispersed in an organic vehicle, together with other additives as needed, to prepare a conductor paste. The surface oxide film allows bringing the sintering shrinkage behavior of electrode layers and ceramic layers closer to each other when the nickel-rhenium alloy powder is used, in particular, for forming internal electrodes of a multilayer ceramic electronic component. Moreover, there occurs no electrode spheroidizing caused by oversintering. and thus thinner, dense internal electrodes having excellent continuity can be formed.
US07744777B2 Water dispersible polyanilines made with polymeric acid colloids for electronics applications
An electronic device is provided which is a thin field effect transistor, a field effect resistance device, photosensor, photoswitch, light-emitting diode, light-emitting diode display, phototransistor, phototube, IR detector, diode laser, electrochemic displays, electromagnetic shielding device, solid electrolyte capacitors, energy storage device, memory storage device, biosensor, photoconductive cell, photovoltaic device, solar cell or diode, and comprises at least one layer comprising a composition comprising at least one polyaniline and at least one colloid-forming polymeric acid. Methods for making such devices are also provided.
US07744775B2 Heat transfer fluid compositions for cooling systems containing magnesium or magnesium alloys
In one embodiment, a corrosion inhibiting composition is formed by combining: (a) an inorganic phosphate; (b) a water soluble polyelectrolyte polymer dispersant; (c) a tri or tetracarboxylic acid; and (d) at least one additional component comprising at least one of a C4-C22 aliphatic or aromatic mono- or dicarboxylic acid, a silicate and at least one of a silicone or a silicate stabilizing siloxane compound, and mixtures thereof. Also disclosed are heat transfer fluids that include about 5% to about 99% by weight of freezing point-depressing agent; about 1% to about 95% by weight of water; and the disclosed corrosion inhibitor composition. A method of reducing corrosion in a heat transfer system containing one or more components that contain magnesium or a magnesium alloy requires that the system and the magnesium containing components be in contact with the disclosed heat transfer fluid.
US07744770B2 Device transfer method
A device transfer method is provided. The device transfer method is disclosed by which, when a laser ablation technique is used to selectively exfoliate devices arranged on a substrate, the energy is transmitted efficiently to transfer the devices with a high degree of accuracy and at a high speed. A laser irradiation apparatus is used which includes a laser light source for generating a laser beam, a reflection section for reflecting the laser beam toward a required direction, and a control section for controlling whether or not the laser beam is to be irradiated in an interlocking relationship with the reflection section. The laser beam is selectively irradiated on a plurality of devices arranged on a transfer source substrate to cause laser ablation such that the selected devices are transferred to a transfer destination substrate by the selective laser ablation.
US07744769B2 Gas for removing deposit and removal method using same
The invention relates to a gas for removing deposits by a gas-solid reaction. This gas includes a hypofluorite that is defined as being a compound having at least one OF group in the molecule. Various deposits can be removed by the gas, and the gas can easily be made unharmful on the global environment after the removal of the deposits, due to the use of a hypofluorite. The gas may be a cleaning gas for cleaning, for example, the inside of an apparatus for producing semiconductor devices. This cleaning gas comprises 1-100 volume % of the hypofluorite. Alternatively, the gas of the invention may be an etching gas for removing an unwanted portion of a film deposited on a substrate. The unwanted portion can be removed by this etching gas as precisely as originally designed, due to the use of a hypofluorite. The invention further relates to a method for removing a deposit by the gas. This method includes the step (a) bringing the gas into contact with the deposit, thereby to remove the deposit by a gas-solid reaction.
US07744757B1 Connection between filtering cap and container
A filtering assembly includes a container and a filtering cap which is connected to a connection end of the container. A flange extends spirally from an outside of the connection end and includes a positioning portion which is the longest section of the flange. The filtering cap includes an inner skirt and an outer skirt, wherein the inner skirt has a groove defined in an inside thereof the flange can be engaged with the groove. The groove has a positioning port which is the deepest portion of the whole groove. A plurality of bosses extend from an inside of the outer skirt. The positioning portion is engaged with the positioning port and the bosses are engaged with the wave-shaped ring when the filtering cap is located onto the container.
US07744754B2 Plant for wastewater treatment
A plant for wastewater treatment is provided by an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The plant for wastewater treatment includes a reactor into which wastewater and air flow into and depart from; multi-layer sludge separating portions, wherein pollutants in wastewater can be decomposed by increasing an amount of dissolved oxygen because upward moving time of intruded wastewater and air bubbles can be increased by including a reactor divided into upper and lower sides, and fluidity of wastewater may be improved by forming a residential space; and carriers located between the sludge separating portions and including a large amount of microbes, wherein wastewater treatment is performed by a biological reaction caused by contact between the carriers and wastewater.
US07744753B2 Coking apparatus and process for oil-containing solids
A process for upgrading unconventional or heavy oils such as, tar sands, shale oil, or bitumen. This process may include a coking scheme in which oil-containing solids, of suitable size, are fed directly into the riser of an FCC unit. Contacting a hot stream of solids causes vaporization and produces a gaseous product stream. The gaseous product may be separated out in a separating vessel and coked or unconverted oil-containing solids may be transferred to a gasifier for combustion at high temperatures to remove the coke and residual oil. Syngas from the gasifier may be converted to hydrogen using a water gas shift reaction. The hydrogen may be used for hydroprocessing.
US07744749B2 Diesel oil desulfurization by oxidation and extraction
The reduction in the sulfur-containing content of diesel fuel is achieved by oxidation in the presence of a catalyst followed by a liquid-liquid countercurrent extraction.
US07744748B2 Process for desulphurizing a hydrocarbon feed by adsorption/desorption
A process for reducing the quantity of sulphur present in a hydrocarbon feed such as a gasoline or a gas oil, comprises: d) bringing said feed containing sulphur-containing compounds into contact with an adsorbent having a selectivity for sulphur-containing compounds under conditions for producing, at the outlet from the contact zone, a desulphurized effluent which is collected, said adsorption being carried out in the liquid phase or in the gas phase; e) gas phase desorption of the sulphur-containing compounds present on said adsorbent using a hydrogen-containing gaseous fluid derived from a hydrodesulphurization zone to obtain a gaseous effluent comprising hydrogen and desorbed sulphur-containing compounds; sending the gaseous effluent from step b) to said hydrodesulphurization zone and desulphurizing it therein.
US07744742B2 Integration of molecular redistribution and hydroisomerization processes for the production of paraffinic base oil
The process as described herein produces a moderately aromatic isoparaffinic base oil from a distillate range product. This process comprises: (a) providing a distillate range paraffin feed comprising paraffins and cycloparaffins; (b) mildly reforming the distillate range paraffin feed to convert at least a portion of the cycloparaffins to alkylaromatics and provide a mildly reformed distillate range stream; (c) treating a stream comprising the mildly reformed distillate range stream in a molecular redistribution reactor to provide a distributed stream; (d) dewaxing at least a portion of the distributed stream to provide a dewaxed stream; (e) combining at least a portion of the dewaxed stream with the stream to be processed in the molecular redistribution reactor to provide the distributed stream; and (f) isolating a moderately aromatic isoparaffinic base oil from the dewaxed stream. According to another aspect, the process generates low ring content isoparaffinic base oil by hydrotreating the moderately aromatic isoparaffinic base oil.
US07744734B2 High current density cathode for electrorefining in molten electrolyte
A high current density cathode for electrorefining in a molten electrolyte for the continuous production and collection of loose dendritic or powdery deposits. The high current density cathode eliminates the requirement for mechanical scraping and electrochemical stripping of the deposits from the cathode in an anode/cathode module. The high current density cathode comprises a perforated electrical insulated material coating such that the current density is up to 3 A/cm2.
US07744733B2 Gas venting system
A system to vent a moist gas stream is disclosed. The system includes an enclosure and an electrochemical cell disposed within the enclosure, the electrochemical cell productive of the moist gas stream. A first vent is in fluid communication with the electrochemical cell for venting the moist gas stream to an exterior of the enclosure, and a second vent is in fluid communication with an interior of the enclosure and in thermal communication with the first vent for discharging heated air to the exterior of the enclosure. At least a portion of the discharging heated air is for preventing freezing of the moist gas stream within the first vent.
US07744732B2 Continuous plating system and method with mask registration
A continuous plating system with mask registration is disclosed herein that uses drums and rollers with protruding pins which engage with guide holes in a masking belt and a lead frame. Through engagement with the pins the masking belt is keyed to the lead frame as the lead frame passes through a plating solution tank.
US07744731B2 Sputtering apparatus of forming thin film
A sputtering deposit apparatus capable of depositing a thin film having uniform sheet resistance value is provided. The sputtering deposit apparatus is arranged with at least two magnetron sputtering units within a film deposit chamber. On the upstream side in the substrate transfer direction 43 of the target shield 55 provided on the magnetron sputtering unit disposed on the most upstream side in the substrate transfer direction, of at least the two magnetron sputtering units, there is disposed the first cathode shield 62 which is electrically insulated.
US07744727B2 Distillation method
A method for distilling ethanol from a mash includes feeding a fluid to a first distillation column. The fluid and a distillate of the first distillation column are delivered to a second distillation column. The fed fluid and/or distillate of the second distillation column is/are purified in a first and/or last step of the method by a membrane separation process.
US07744726B2 Twin wire for an ATMOS system
Dewatering system for dewatering a web. The system comprises a former, a belt press, and a structured fabric comprising a paper web facing side and being guided over a support surface and through the belt press. The structured fabric runs at a speed differential relative to a wire of the former. This Abstract is not intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification, nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
US07744721B2 Plasma processing apparatus
A plasma processing apparatus including a processing chamber for subjecting an object to plasma processing, a gas inlet, an evacuation device, a sample stage for the object, a power supply, and at least one induction coil. The at least one induction coil enables generation of the plasma in the processing chamber and is formed by connecting a plurality of identical coil elements in a parallel circuit-like arrangement so that current flows in each of the plurality of identical coil elements in a same direction when viewed from the sample stage.
US07744718B2 Microsystem component and method for gluing microcomponents to a substrate
A method for gluing microcomponents to a substrate (1) during the production of microsystem components includes the steps of applying a reactive or non-reactive hot melt type adhesive (5) to the microcomponent (18) and/or the substrate (1), heating the hot melt type adhesive (5), and placing the microcomponent (18) onto the substrate (1). The hot melt type adhesive (5) is on the contact surfaces between the microcomponent (18) and the substrate (1) during and after gluing.
US07744713B2 Process for producing absorbent core structures
The present invention is method for forming a sandwich structure having a pattern of particulate material enveloped between a carrier material and a cover material. The method allows accurate forming of pre-determined pattern at high production speed. Such a method is particularly useful in the manufacture of disposable absorbent articles, such as baby diapers.
US07744710B2 Impact resistant explosive compositions
An explosive composition comprising a high density hydrocarbon compound selected from the group consisting of xylitol, sucrose, mannitol, and mixtures thereof and at least one energetic material. The high density hydrocarbon compound and the at least one energetic material form a substantially homogeneous explosive composition. A method of producing an explosive composition that is insensitive to impact is also disclosed.
US07744705B2 Group I-III-VI quaternary or higher alloy semiconductor films
This invention relates to group IB-IIIA. VIA quaternary or higher alloys. More particularly, this invention relations to group IB-IIIA-VIA quaternary or pentenary alloys which are suitable for use as semiconductor films. More specifically, the invention relates to quaternary or pentenary alloys which are substantially homogeneous and are characterized by an x-ray diffraction pattern (XRD) having a main [112] peak at a 2θ angle (2θ(112)) of from 26° to 28° for Cu radiation at 40 kV, wherein a glancing incidence x-ray diffraction pattern (GIXRD) for a glancing angle of from 0.2° to 10° reflects an absolute shift in the 2θ(112) angle of less than 0.06°.
US07744691B2 Energy conserving pozzolan compositions and cements incorporating same
Pozzolan compositions incorporate glassy, amorphous particulates derived from byproducts of processes in which substantial energy was invested in generating those byproducts, at least one of which comprises amorphous calcium silicate slag generated as a byproduct of phosphorous production. The calcium silicate particulate is blended with one or more additional pozzolans, preferably one or more particulates of a material selected from the group consisting of fused silica of the type generated as a byproduct of making refractory grade fused silica and cullet glass of the type rejected from glass making processes. Pozzolanic cements incorporating up to about 50% by weight of such pozzolan compositions are also disclosed.
US07744688B2 Paper coating pigments
The present disclosure relates to a coating composition for use in producing a coating on paper and other substrates comprising an aqueous suspension of a particulate pigment together with a binder, wherein the particulate pigment comprises a mixture of: a first pigment component comprising particulate ground calcium carbonate (GCC) having a particle size distribution (psd) steepness factor ranging from about 30 to about 45; and a second pigment component comprising particulate precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) having a psd steepness factor ranging from about 55 to about 75. The particulate pigment may optionally further include a particulate kaolin clay.
US07744687B2 Inorganic aqueous putty or liquid suspension, thermally insulating, non toxic, fire retardant
The present invention consists of an aqueous putty or liquid suspension, formed by a mix of components a) and b) which are described as follows: a) an anhydrous silicate of an alkaline metal or alkaline terreous, in any of its forms (in dust, particles, granulates or fibers), or a hydrated silicate of an alkaline metal or alkaline terreous (in dust, particles, granulates or fibers), or a mix of both, b) a component of titanium, and optionally, in addition, of components c), d), e) and f), described as follows: c) one or more neutral or acid salts, of mono or poli ammonia, d) fungicide components, e) antibacterial components, and f) odor-controlling components. This putty can be utilized to stop or retard fire, as a coating or incorporated into granulated or aminated components, or in finished moulded products and similar items.
US07744686B2 Frost-preventive composition
The invention provides a frost-preventive composition which strongly defrosts and melts ice and which prevents frosting for a long period of time and which does not run or sag when applied to a wall surface or the like.The frost-preventive greasy composition of the invention contains (a) at least one species selected from among glycols, glycol ethers, polyalkylene glycols, polyalkylene glycol derivatives, glycerin, and glycerin derivatives, (b) at least one species selected from among soaps, urea compounds, silica gel microparticles, lecithin, and polysaccharides, (c) at least one metal salt selected from among carboxylic acid metal salts, nitric acid metal salts, phosphoric acid metal salts, metal chlorides, and metal bromides, and (d) at least one species selected from among sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers, castor oil, hydrogenated castor oil, polyoxyalkylene castor oils, and polyoxyalkylene hydrogenated castor oils, in specified proportions, respectively.
US07744684B2 High capacity gas filter system with indicator
The present invention relates to a high capacity gas filter system. The metal filter of the system includes a visible indicator which indicates when the filter is spent. The indicator is preferably a non-reactive glass tube with indicator material therein. The glass tube can be protected to maintain gas flow integrity in case the glass tube breaks. The filter is attachable to or removable from its connecting base using a cooperating threaded knob and threaded bolt such that the filter is pulled tightly onto the base and forced off of the base depending on how the knob is rotated.
US07744680B2 Vacuum-cleaner bag and method for extending the service life of vacuum-cleaner bags
Described is a vacuum-cleaner bag which is made of an air-permeable filter material and forms a closed dust-collecting chamber, the vacuum-cleaner bag containing a material which can be whirled up under a given air flow.
US07744678B2 Powdered lime composition, method of preparing same and use thereof
Powdered lime composition having a BET specific surface area that is equal to or greater than 25 m2/g and a BJH total pore volume obtained from nitrogen desorption that is equal to or greater than 0.1 cm3/g, and furthermore comprising an alkali metal. The alkali metal content is equal to or greater than 0.2% and equal to or less than 3.5% based on the total weight of the composition. There is also described a method of preparing the composition and use thereof to reduce flue gases.
US07744677B2 Systems and methods for processing methane and other gases
Systems and methods for processing methane and other gases are disclosed. A representative method in accordance with one embodiment includes directing a first portion of a gas stream through a first adsorbent while exchanging heat between a second adsorbent and a third adsorbent. The method can further include directing a second portion of the gas stream through the third adsorbent while exchanging heat between the first and second adsorbents. The method can still further include directing a third portion of the gas stream through the second adsorbent while exchanging heat between the first and third adsorbents. In further particular aspects, the adsorbent can be used to remove carbon dioxide from a flow of methane. In other particular aspects, a heat exchange fluid that is not in direct contact with the adsorbents is used to transfer heat among the adsorbents.
US07744668B2 Multi-cyclone dust separating apparatus of vacuum cleaner
The multi-cyclone dust separating apparatus includes a first cyclone unit including a first outer tub with a first air inlet and a cylindrical element with a first air outlet, and whirling air from the first air inlet to separate dust therefrom, the cylindrical element being disposed in the first outer tub to form a first cyclone chamber, along with the first outer tub; a second cyclone unit including a plurality of cyclones, each having a second air inlet for drawing in dust-laden air from the first cyclone chamber, to provide a second dust separation; and a dust bin including a first dust collecting chamber for collecting the dust separated by the first cyclone unit and a plurality of second dust collecting chambers for collecting the dust separated by the second cyclone unit.
US07744667B2 Cyclone separating apparatus for a vacuum cleaner
A cyclone separating apparatus for a vacuum cleaner includes a first cyclone having an inclined part and adapted for separating dust and air; a first dust chamber adapted to be disposed substantially around the first cyclone and to be in fluid communication with the first cyclone; at least one second cyclone for separating dust and air adapted to be disposed above the first cyclone and to be in fluid communication with the first cyclone; and a second dust chamber adapted to be in disposed within the first cyclone and to be in fluid communication with the second cyclone.
US07744662B2 Coal drying method and equipment, method for aging reformed coal and aged reformed coal, and process and system for producing reformed coal
In drying coal to be used as fuel for a coal-fired boiler, the coal is dried at a temperature of 80 to 150° C. by using combustion exhaust gas having passed through an air heater for the coal-fired boiler. Moreover, after medium-quality or low-quality coal is heated to a temperature of 300 to 500° C. at a heating rate of not less than 100° C. per minute and then cooled to a temperature of 250° C. or below at a cooling rate of not less than 50° C. per minute, the resulting reformed coal is cooled to a temperature of 70° C. or below and stored for 1 month or more in a state of isolation from the atmosphere. In producing the aforesaid reformed coal, the medium-quality or low-quality coal is heated by using combustion exhaust gas obtained at the outlet of an economizer included in the coal-fired boiler equipment or at the outlet of a denitrator included therein.
US07744659B2 Method of making non-aqueous electrochemical cell
A method of making a lithium electrochemical cell includes treating the cathode active material with an agent that includes lithium but not sodium. A cathode including the cathode active material, an anode, a separator, and an electrolyte are assembled in a housing to provide a cell containing less than 1500 ppm by weight of sodium.
US07744658B2 Indole-derived styryl dye comprising an alkylene linker, a dye composition comprising this dye, and a process for lightening keratin materials using this dye
The disclosure relates to the dyeing of keratin materials using indole-derived styryl dyes comprising an alkylene linker. Disclosed herein is a dye composition comprising an indole-derived styryl dye comprising an alkylene linker, and a dyeing process with, for example, a lightening effect on keratin materials such as hair, using said composition. Disclosed herein are novel indole-derived styryl dyes comprising an alkylene linker and the uses thereof in lightening keratin materials. This composition makes it possible to obtain a coloring with a lightening effect which can be resistant and visible on dark keratin fibers.
US07744654B2 Dry-cleaning article, composition and methods
Dry cleaning and fabric-treatment compositions, methods and articles incorporating the same that are suitable for use in drying machines, such as hot air drying machines found in households, apartments, and laundromats, which are normally adapted to dry wet garments and the like from a washing machine. In some embodiments, the composition includes at least one organic solvent, with the at least one organic solvent forming the greatest weight percentage of the active components in the composition. In some embodiments, the composition also may include water and/or at least one surfactant, emulsifier, perfume, and/or application-specific composition. In some embodiments, the article includes a dispenser from which the composition is selectively dispensed onto a dry garment or other object to be cleaned. In some embodiments, the dispenser includes an internal chamber containing the composition, and the composition is dispensed onto objects prior to placing the objects in a drying machine.
US07744653B2 Vacuum pump with shock absorption and controlled rotation for prosthetic devices
A vacuum pump having shock absorption and controlled rotation for use in an artificial limb. The pump includes a housing having a first chamber, and a shaft configured to be received by and to reciprocate within the first chamber, the housing and shaft forming a pump chamber. A piston may be coupled to the shaft and positioned within the pump chamber, and intake and exhaust ports are fluidly coupled to the pump chamber. Rotational structure is mounted with respect to the pump to provide controlled rotation of the shaft relative to the housing, and shock absorption structure is included within the pump to provide shock absorption for the shaft. Both a pneumatic spring and a mechanical spring element may be provided for the shock absorption structure. An optional adapter couples the shaft to the pylon of an integral pylon prosthetic foot.
US07744650B2 Vertebral body replacement implant
A vertebral body replacement implant having an upper and a lower support plate and two load-bearing elements, the mutual spacing of which is adjustable and of which at least one is connected in an articulated manner to a support plate, the load-bearing element in the region of the articulated connection to the support plate having a bearing projection with a spherical lateral support surface having a complimentary design to the contact surface of the support plate or a bearing part connected thereto, the contact surface extending in peripheral direction at least over 180°, the support plate or the bearing part is mounted on the bearing projection pivotably about a pivotal axis that extends parallel to the support plate, and a releasable clamping device that clamps the bearing projection and the support plate or the bearing part in the contact region of the lateral surface and/or of the contact surface against one another.
US07744646B2 Method of preparing an intraocular lens for implantation
A tool configured to prepare a dual-optic accommodating intraocular lens for implantation can comprise a first portion and a second portion. The first portion can comprise a base and at least one elongate guide associated with the base. The first portion can be in contact with and not movable relative to a first optic of the lens during at least a portion of the preparation of the lens. The a second portion can comprise an actuator having an engagement surface in contact with a second optic of the lens and at least one protrusion extending away from the engagement surface. The protrusion can be configured to extend into engagement with the elongate guide. The first and second portions can be movable relative to each other as permitted by the guide(s) and protrusion(s) to move the optics so that the lens takes on a more compact condition for implantation.
US07744644B2 Medical articles having regions with polyelectrolyte multilayer coatings for regulating drug release
The medical articles which including the following: (a) a ceramic or metallic region whose surface includes a plurality of depressions, (b) a multilayer coating region including multiple polyelectrolyte layers deposited over the surface of the ceramic or metallic region; and (c) a therapeutic agent disposed beneath or within the multilayer coating region. According to another aspect of the present invention, medical articles are provided, which include: (a) a ceramic or metallic region, (b) a multilayer coating region including multiple polyelectrolyte layers deposited over a surface of the ceramic or metallic region, the multilayer coating region including a plurality of protuberances; and (c) a therapeutic agent disposed within regions beneath the protuberances. Also described herein are methods of making such medical articles, and methods of administering a therapeutic agent to a patent using such medical articles.
US07744640B1 Thermal treatment garment and method of thermally treating body portions
A thermal treatment garment of the present invention includes an outer structure layer, an interior lining formed of a gel material that directly contacts a body portion of a user when the garment is worn by the user and a thermal treatment layer to thermally treat and control temperature of the garment. The thermal treatment layer heats and/or cools the gel material to a selected temperature or selected temperature range and is controlled by a controller. In an exemplary embodiment, the garment includes a cap to thermally treat the user's head, where the structure layer has a generally convex outer surface and the interior surface of the gel layer is generally concave and contoured to engage with and at least partially envelop at least one selected portion of the user's head.
US07744638B2 System for stabilization of fractures of convex articular bone surfaces including subchondral support structure
A fracture fixation system is provided for a fracture of a head portion of a long bone which has subchondral bone defining a convex articular surface, and particularly the proximal humerus. The system includes a plate element positionable on the long bone substantially opposite the head portion of the long bone and on a first side of the fracture, and a post element extending from the plate and into the head portion and across the fracture.
US07744637B2 Method for restoring vertebral body height
A method for distracting, in a given direction, and supporting the opposite endplates of a vertebral body includes consecutively inserting a plurality of wafers between the endplates to create a column of wafers. The column of wafers is oriented between the endplates so as to expand in the given direction as the wafers are consecutively added to the column to restore the vertebral body height.
US07744636B2 Locking mechanism
A locking mechanism including a non-threaded, self-adjusting locking device for locking a rod in place within a screw and rod assembly. A non-threaded, self-adjusting locking device for locking a rod in place within a screw and rod assembly. A spring for locking a rod in a screw and rod fixation assembly. A assembly including an implant body including a rod seat for seating a rod therein, a biasing device seat for seating a biasing device therein, and a biasing device seated in the biasing device seat for biasing a rod against a rod seat. A method of biasing a rod against a rod seat in a screw and rod fixation assembly.
US07744630B2 Facet repair and stabilization
An implant for use with the opposing facets of two adjacent vertebrae includes a facet bearing body having a cavity for receiving a filler material, and at least one fixation wing for securing the facet bearing body to at least one of the two vertebrae, wherein the facet bearing body is positionable between the opposing facets and the at least one fixation wing is fixable to at least one of the two vertebrae. The filler material may be an in situ curable polymer such as bone cement, a polyurethane or an elastomer. To stabilize the adjacent vertebrae, the facet bearing body is inserted between the opposing facets of the adjacent vertebrae. The at least one fixation wing is fixed to at least one of the two adjacent vertebrae. The filler material is injected into the cavity and allowed to harden.
US07744626B2 Skin seal with inflatable membrane
A skin seal or trocar stabilizer with an inflatable balloon in the shape of a dumbbell, where the balloon may be stored within a cannula for easy placement in an incision and inflated to deploy the balloon inside the body, and a portion of the balloon expands inside the cannula, whereby medical instruments may be passed through the skin seal into a laparoscopic workspace while the balloon is inflated, thereby allowing the use of normal short surgical instruments during laparoscopic procedures and during insufflation.
US07744624B2 Extraluminal sealant applicator and method
An apparatus for applying sealant to a target tissue of a surgical site is provided. The apparatus includes a handle, conduit and an end effector. The handle has means configured and adapted for operating the end effector and dispensing biological sealant to the surgical site via the end effector. The conduit stores and/or carries sealant towards the end effector. The end effector is configured to clamp around a body organ or tissue and apply and confine biological sealant in a substantially uniform manner thereto.
US07744623B2 Vessel occlusion clamp
A surgical clamp for occluding a body conduit includes first and second jaws moveable relative to each other in a generally parallel relationship. A handle assembly is operable to move the jaws relative to each other between a space position and proximate position. The first jaw has an elongate configuration characterized by a length and a width. First portions of the first jaw have in cross section a first shape which remains generally constant in area along the first jaw, while second portions have in cross section a second shape which varies in area along the length of the first jaw. The resulting clamp has a low profile jaw design which dimensional-shaped cross section which provide increased stiffness and reduced flexibility.
US07744622B2 Surgical instrument
A surgical instrument system for use in surgical procedures is disclosed. The surgical instrument system includes a guide assembly, a surgical tip assembly, and a drive unit. The guide assembly includes an elongated portion having a central axis of rotation, and a distal end that is positioned a radial distance away from the central axis. The surgical tip assembly may be attached to the guide assembly. The drive unit is coupled to the guide assembly for rotating the guide assembly and thereby rotating the surgical tip with respect to the central axis.
US07744620B2 Valvuloplasty catheter
The present invention provides an aortic valvuloplasty catheter which, in one preferred embodiment, has a tapered distal balloon segment that anchors within the left ventricle outflow track of the patient's heart and a rounded proximal segment which conforms to the aortic sinuses forcing the valve leaflets open. In addition, this embodiment of the valvuloplasty catheter includes a fiber-based balloon membrane, a distal pigtail end hole catheter tip, and a catheter sheath.
US07744612B2 System and method for protecting neurovascular structures
Devices and methods for protecting the neurovascular structures about the vertebral column are provided. One embodiment of the invention comprises a neuroprotective stent or device adapted for placement in an intervertebral foramen of a vertebral column and configured to resist compression or impingement from surrounding structures or forces. The stent or device may further comprise a flange or hinge region to facilitate attachment of the device to the vertebrae or to facilitate insertion of the device in the foramen, respectively.
US07744611B2 Minimally invasive valve repair procedure and apparatus
A clip of a self-closing type is used for valve repair. The clip is generally U-shaped with two end points separated from each other when it is constrained to be in an open configuration, but tends to coil up to assume its natural closed configuration if the constraint is removed. At least one end point is connected through a suture to a tissue-penetrating needle. A needle holder has an outer tube and an inner member which has a slit at the front and is slidable inside the outer tube. They are designed such that the slit can grab the needle tightly or release it as the inner member is moved backward or forward with respect to the outer tube. With the needle secured at the front, the needle holder is passed through a cannula inserted through an incision and the needle penetrates the leaflets such that the clip can be positioned with its end points hooked to the pair of leaflets to be stitched together. If the clip is released from the suture thereafter, it tends to coil up, reducing the distance between the end points and pulling the leaflets together. A double-arm clip assembly with each of the end points of the clip attached through a suture to a separate needle may be similarly used for valve repair. Such a double-arm clip assembly may contain two of such clips mutually connected by means of a flexible connector such that two leaflets are held together by the connector, with the two clips each anchored to a corresponding one of the leaflets.
US07744605B2 Medical instrument with a touch-sensitive tip
The invention relates to a medical instrument comprising an instrument body (8), an instrument tip (5) and a tracking means (1,2, 4), characterized in that said instrument tip (5) is fitted with a touch-sensor (3) which detects a contact between said tip (5) and an object, for example a patient. It is preferably realized as an indicator device or pointer, in particular as a registering pointer for instrument tracking systems.
US07744604B2 Shape memory polymer medical device
A system for removing matter from a conduit. The system includes the steps of passing a transport vehicle and a shape memory polymer material through the conduit, transmitting energy to the shape memory polymer material for moving the shape memory polymer material from a first shape to a second and different shape, and withdrawing the transport vehicle and the shape memory polymer material through the conduit carrying the matter.
US07744603B2 Method of implanting an intraocular lens system
There is disclosed an accommodating intraocular lens for implantation in an eye having an optical axis. The lens comprises an anterior portion which in turn comprises an anterior viewing element and an anterior biasing element. The lens further comprises a posterior portion which in turn comprises a posterior viewing element in spaced relationship to the anterior viewing element and a posterior biasing element. The anterior portion and posterior portion meet at first and second apices of the intraocular lens. The anterior portion and the posterior portion and/or the apices are responsive to force thereon to cause the separation between the viewing elements to change. Additional embodiments and methods are also disclosed.
US07744598B2 Reducing instrument for spinal surgery
An instrument is provided for use in orthopedic surgery for reduction of a connecting member such as a spinal rod toward an implant such as a bone screw. An embodiment of the instrument includes handle portions that are pivotable relative to each other and biased apart, and arm portions pivotable relative to each other and to the handle portions. Distal portions of the arm portions, which may be offset from the arm portions, provide structure for engaging a connecting member and an implant. Squeezing the handle portions force the distal portions of the arm portions together, forcing together the connecting member and the implant. A toothed bar and pawl may be provided to retain the instrument in a squeezed state.
US07744593B2 High-frequency power supply device and electrosurgical device
A high-frequency power supply device and an electrosurgical device are provided which can automatically control the output of an appropriate high-frequency current in accordance with the condition of a biological tissue to be treated. A phase detection unit detects respective phases of a high-frequency voltage and a high-frequency current outputted in a high-frequency power generation unit, and thereafter a phase difference calculation unit calculates the phase difference based on the respective phases. Meanwhile, an impedance calculation unit calculates the impedance on the basis of respective magnitudes of the high-frequency voltage and the high-frequency current. In this case, on the basis of at least one of the impedance and the phase difference and the output state of an instruction signal, a control unit performs a control to output a high-frequency voltage and a high-frequency current having a predetermined waveform. Accordingly, the output of the appropriate high-frequency current can be automatically controlled.
US07744591B2 Foam electrode and method of use thereof during tissue resection
Assemblies and methods are provided for resecting a portion of tissue to be removed (e.g., unhealthy tissue, such as cancerous tissue) from a portion of the tissue to be retained (e.g., healthy tissue) within a patient is provided. An electrically conductive fluid, such as saline, may be absorbed into a hydrophilic electrode. Electrical energy (e.g., radio frequency (RF) energy) is conveyed to or from the hydrophilic electrode while being moved in proximity to the tissue along a resection line, whereby tissue adjacent to the resection line is coagulated. A resection member, such as a blunt resection member or a resection electrode, which may be on the same device as the hydrophilic electrode, is used to separate the tissue along the resection line to resect the tissue portion to be removed from the tissue portion to be retained.
US07744587B2 Surface modified reinforcing member for medical device and method for making same
Medical devices, medical device components, and methods of making the same. For example, one embodiment provides a method of making a reinforcing member adapted and configured for use in a medical device. The method includes providing one or more structural elements adapted and configured for creating the reinforcing member, the one or more structural elements including a surface having a portion with an initial surface area, and treating at least the portion of the surface of the one or more structural elements to provide a final surface area that is greater than the initial surface area. The one or more structural elements are used in creating the reinforcing member. The reinforcing member can then be incorporated into the structure of the medical device.
US07744585B2 Catheter with directed flow design
A catheter includes an elongated catheter body having a proximal portion and a distal portion. A first longitudinally accessible lumen and a second lumen extend side by side within and along the proximal portion, and the first lumen and the second lumen form a single common lumen within the distal portion which extends to a distal end of the distal portion. The first lumen and second lumen are co-axial within the distal portion prior to forming a single common lumen.
US07744584B2 Methods and kits for volumetric distribution of pharmaceutical agents via the vascular adventitia and microcirculation
Methods and kits for delivering pharmaceutical agents to the adventitia and other regions outside the external elastic lamina (EEL) surrounding a blood vessel utilize a catheter having a needle. The needle is positioned in up to 5 mm beyond the EEL and delivers an amount of pharmaceutical agent sufficient to circumferentially permeate around the blood vessel and, in many cases, extend longitudinally and radially along the blood vessel. Confirmation that a delivery aperture of the needle lies beyond the EEL may be required before delivering the pharmaceutical agent.
US07744578B2 Absorbent article
An absorbent article having leakage preventing walls that longitudinally exert an elastic contractive force to bend a main body. Each leakage preventing wall is provided, between front and rear ends, with a constraint portion so as to locally constrain an allowable rising height of the leakage preventing wall. Thus, the leakage preventing wall takes a shape that can easily conform to a curved surface of the wearer's body.
US07744572B2 Catheter anchoring system
A catheter anchoring system is provided to securely anchor to a patient's skin a catheter and fluid supply tube interconnection. The anchoring system comprises a retainer configured to receive a catheter adaptor in a variety of positions. The adaptor interconnects the catheter and the fluid supply tube. In one embodiment the adaptor has a radial recess that circumscribes the adaptor. The anchoring system additionally includes a flexible, adhesive anchor pad which can supports a tube clip, as well as the retainer. The retainer includes a channel that is configured to receive the adaptor in a snap-fit manner. The retainer also includes a plurality of laterally arranged projections that extend from a channel wall and into a channel. Each radial recess is sized to receive and to capture at least a portion of the projection of the retainer so as to inhibit the adaptor from moving within the channel.
US07744571B2 Tearaway sheath assembly with hemostasis valve
A tearaway sheath assembly (100) having a splittable sheath tube (102) a splittable hub (110), a splittable valve (150) and a split cap (180). The valve (150) is of the elongated duckbill type and having a slit (158) almost completely across the distal end wall (154) such that two diverging sides (156) of the distal valve portion may be moved apart during insertion therethrough of a dilator or a catheter. A two-part cap (180) is affixed to the hub proximal end (120) and traps a seating flange (168) of the valve between itself and a seating groove (136) of the hub. Pairs of opposed gaps (184,122) of the cap (180) and the hub (110) are aligned with frangible sections or seams (108) of the sheath tube (102) and frangible sections (172) and slits (166) of the valve, facilitating splitting of the assembly (100) when desired by the practitioner to peel it away from the inserted catheter.
US07744564B2 Apparatus and methods for delivering stem cells and other agents into cardiac tissue
A system for delivering an agent to tissue surrounding a target vessel includes an elongate delivery device and a source coupled to a proximal tubular portion of the device. A first lumen extends through the tubular portion and an expandable sheath of the device, wherein the expandable sheath has a proximal end that surrounds and overlies a distal end of the tubular portion. The device further includes a stiffening member, attached to the sheath, and a balloon attached to the stiffening member, at a location spaced apart from the sheath. A second lumen extends, within the tubular portion and the stiffening member, to the balloon. A volume of fluid may be delivered, from the source, through the first lumen and into a section of the target vessel that is downstream from the expandable sheath and upstream of the balloon, in order to expand the sheath, fill the section and apply a pressure sufficient to cause extravasation of the section.
US07744560B2 Implantable drug delivery system responsive to intra-cardiac pressure
The invention is directed to techniques for monitoring the condition of a patient, such as a patient having congestive heart failure, and appropriately modifying the patient's drug therapy as a function of a pressure in the patient's heart, such as the estimated pulmonary artery diastolic pressure. The drugs may be administered by an implanted drug delivery device. The drug selection, the drug dosage or both may be controlled as a function of the pressure and/or the activity level of the patient.
US07744554B2 Cassette alignment and integrity testing for dialysis systems
A method for aligning a disposable cassette within a dialysis machine includes actuating a pump head toward the disposable cassette and to contact a pumping portion of the disposable cassette and shift the disposable cassette if need be into proper operational alignment and locking the disposable cassette in place.
US07744549B2 Massage device
A massage device includes a base cover having a fix bore defined in its backside; a guiding device disposed in the base cover; and a moving base received in the base cover and movably mounted on the guiding device. The moving base has a securing hole defined therein. The massage device further includes a bolt with a locking portion, and the locking portion is inserted in both the fix bore and the securing hole.
US07744546B2 Apparatus and method for lower-limb rehabilitation
The invention relates to an apparatus for rehabilitation treatment of patients with lower limb paralysis or physical strength weakening, and more particularly, to an apparatus and method for lower limb rehabilitation treatment and exercise. The apparatus and method allows a user to exercise both lower limbs separately, and which can detect changes in the angle of lower limb joints and the magnitude of weight loaded on lower limbs to determine the exercise condition, exercise intensity and motor ability of the respective lower limbs to provide corresponding feedback to the user, thereby enabling effective rehabilitation treatment.
US07744543B2 Guide block for biopsy or surgical devices
One embodiment having features of the invention is directed to a guide block for an MRI device which has a block body with a proximal face, a distal face, and four parallel passageways extending between the two faces. The first passageway is centrally disposed, the second passageway is disposed vertical or horizontal to the first, the third passageway is located diagonal to the first and has a longitudinal opening in fluid communication with the first passageway, and the fourth passageway is diagonal to the first and in an opposite side of the body from the third passageway. In an alternative embodiment the guide block has at least one passageway that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis.
US07744539B2 Ultrasonic endoscope
A distal hard part in an insertion portion is provided with an ultrasonic transducer in which a large number of ultrasonic vibrators are arranged in the circumferential direction. The ultrasonic transducer is shaped like a cylinder. Each member that constitutes an endoscopic observation section is passed through this tunnel-like passage. Each ultrasonic vibrator is provided with a single common electrode and individual electrodes the number of which corresponds to the number of the ultrasonic vibrators. Flexible boards and are provided on the proximal and distal end sides of the ultrasonic transducer. Wires are connected to these flexible boards. The wires from the flexible board are extended without changes, whereas the wires from the flexible board are reversely turned from the distal end side, are then passed through the tunnel-like passage, and are extended in the direction of an angle part.
US07744535B2 Method and apparatus for acoustoelastic extraction of strain and material properties
An ultrasound machine processes ultrasonic data according to acoustoelastic properties of the materials to obtain strain information without specific assumptions with respect to the material properties of the measured material or a variety of different material properties normally not obtained by ultrasound machines.
US07744527B2 Surgical coring system
Novel surgical tools and methods for off-pump surgery are described herein. A novel coring system is disclosed which employs a balloon catheter and a coring tool which is adapted to be threaded on to a guide wire. The guide wire serves as a track upon which the coring tool is guided. Embodiments of the coring tool ensure complete removal and excision of cored tissue. In addition, the described coring system prevents blood loss during off-pump surgery. In an embodiment, a surgical coring tool comprises a hollow body having an open distal end and a closed proximal end. The open distal end has a cutting edge. The hollow body comprises a vacuum connection to apply suction from said hollow body. The surgical coring tool also comprises a hollow elongate member disposed coaxially within said hollow body. The elongate member is adapted to be inserted on to a guide wire.
US07744523B2 Drive circuit for magnetic stimulation
The inventive technique includes devices and methods for generating a magnetic field. One such device may include an inductor for generating a magnetic field and a power source for providing power. Such a device may also include a semiconductor switching device that operatively couples the inductor and power source, wherein the semiconductor switching device directs power from the power source to the inductor to generate the magnetic field.
US07744518B2 Folder having a retractable covering cam for changing operating mode
This folder includes a device for cutting sheets from a web of paper, a folding cylinder which is provided with movable retention devices and movable blades for folding the sheets cut from the web, a cam for controlling the movement of the movable retention devices by contact with cam followers, a cam for controlling the movement of the tucking blades by contact with cam followers, and at least one covering cam.The covering cam includes two semi-cams which can each be moved radially between a retracted position and an extracted position, the covering cam being in a configuration for straight operation when the semi-cams are in a retracted position and in a configuration for collect operation when the semi-cams are in an extracted position.
US07744510B1 Waist exercising device
A waist exercising device has a waist cushion, a weight roundel and a centrifugal weight assembly. The weight roundel is mounted rotatably on the waist cushion and has a cavity defined in the weight roundel and a pivot shaft formed in the cavity. The centrifugal weight assembly is mounted in the cavity and has an arm and a weight. The arm is connected pivotally to the pivot shaft. The weight is connected to the arm and generates centrifugal force and has at least one detachable weight element. A beginner may use less weight elements and a skilled user more for tailored difficulty exercise.
US07744504B2 Control apparatus of vehicle
A vehicle control apparatus is provided which can detect a rotating speed drop of an engine generated together with a clutch connection so as to be set to a trigger of a control start. An engine rotating speed at a time of issuing the trigger is set to a target rotating speed, and a rotating speed feedback control having an engine torque as an operation amount is carried out. An ignition retard and a fuel cut are provided as an operator for engine torque in addition to an intake air amount operation by an electronically controlled throttle.
US07744502B2 Method for driving a parallel hybrid drive train of a motor vehicle with several drive units
A method for driving a parallel hybrid drive train of a motor vehicle with at least one internal combustion engine, one electric motor and an output. The electric motor is arranged in the drive train between the output and the internal combustion engine. A shifting element is arranged between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor. A hydrodynamic torque converter is arranged between the electric motor and the output. A target output torque applied at the output is subject to the slip hydrodynamic torque converter, is produced by at least the internal combustion engine and the electric motor, and is determined with reference to at least the required target output torque, an actual turbine speed of the hydrodynamic torque converter, or a an equivalent speed of the parallel hybrid drive train, and the actual speed of the electric motor.
US07744501B2 Automatic vehicle stop control method
A stop control method which is intended for a heat engine of a vehicle that is equipped with a reversible electric machine. According to the invention, a decision is made to stop the heat engine as a function of: (i) steady conditions which are essentially stable prior to a stopping phase; and (ii) variable conditions which can change following a positive test on the steady conditions and prior to a stopping phase, said steady conditions being tested prior to the variable conditions. The invention is suitable for motor vehicles.
US07744500B2 Electronic locking differential with direct locking state detection system
An axle assembly with an electronic locking differential that employs a locking mechanism having components that are fixed to one another along an axis such that they co-translate with one another when the actuator that effects the locking and unlocking of the differential is operated.
US07744494B2 Multi-modal ionomeric golf ball compositions
Compositions for golf balls including multi-modal ionomers that can be used in any layer of a golf ball, e.g., an outer cover layer or inner cover layer. The compositions of the invention can be a blend of a multi-modal ionomer and a conventional ionomer, highly neutralized polymer, acid copolymer, or other suitable thermoplastic polymer.
US07744493B2 Multi-layer core golf ball
The present invention is directed to an improved golf ball displaying the desired spin profile and having a generally rigid, thermoset polybutadiene outer core surrounding a relatively soft, low compression inner core. In general, this golf ball has an inner core and at least one outer core layer surrounding the inner core. The inner core has a hardness less than a hardness of the outer core and a specific gravity less than or equal to the outer core specific gravity. Overall the inner core compression and outer core are formulated to provide a combined overall core compression of greater than about 50, preferably greater than about 70. A cover layer is provided to surround and to cover the outer core layer.
US07744492B2 Multi-piece solid golf ball
The present invention provides a multi-piece solid golf ball having a core obtained by molding under heat a specific rubber composition and having a cover of at least three layers which encases the core. By optimizing the deflection of the core under a specific load, optimizing the hardness at the center of the core and the hardnesses of the innermost cover layer, outermost cover layer and intermediate cover layer, setting the combined thickness of the cover layers to at least a specific value, and forming the innermost cover layer of a highly neutralized ionomer resin composition, a sufficient reduction in the spin rate of the ball on shots taken with a driver can be achieved, enabling the distance traveled by the ball to be increased.
US07744487B2 Golf clubs and golf club heads having feel altering systems
Golf club heads include: (a) a body having a ball-striking face and a rear face, the body defining a cavity; (b) a bridge member extending across the cavity, wherein the bridge member is provided to affect, at least in part, a position of a center of gravity of the club head; and (c) a feel altering element provided between the bridge member and the rear face. The feel altering element may affect a wide variety of parameters that relate to the “feel” of the golf club head when it strikes a golf ball, such as the sound produced by the club head during the strike, the vibrational response of the club head during the strike, the swing characteristics of the club head (e.g., weight, center of gravity position, etc.), and the like.
US07744486B2 Golf club head
A golf club head is disclosed. The golf club head comprises a main body, a striking plate and a thermoplastic elastic vibration-absorbing material. The main body includes a chamber. The striking plate is disposed on the front side of the main body. The thickness of the striking plate is between 0.76 mm and 2.25 mm. The thermoplastic elastic shock absorber is formed in the chamber of the main body and touches the back of the striking plate, wherein the density of the thermoplastic elastic vibration-absorbing material is between 0.5 g/cm3 and 1.3 g/cm3.
US07744485B2 Golf putter heads and removable putter weights
Embodiments of golf clubs, golf club heads and removable golf club weights are generally described herein. According to certain embodiments, an example golf club head comprises a face for striking a golf ball, a backside portion, a sole portion, and one or more removable weights. According to such embodiments, the example golf club head may further comprise a vibration damping composition disposed between the removable weights and the golf club head.
US07744483B2 Electronically traceable golf club incorporating a programmable transponder
A golf club is provided with a transponder that will transmit a coded signal when polled. The transmitter is small enough to fit into the golf club and does not need an external power supply. A data base associated with the coded signal is a depository of information related to the golf club.
US07744481B2 Method for achieving an optimal golf stance
According to the present invention there is provided a method for positioning a person in an optimal stance for hitting a golf ball along an intended path toward a target. The method including the steps of: (a) holding an end of a golf club in one hand that is used by the person as a lower hand in a conventional golf grip; (b) positioning the club such that a striking surface of the club faces the target and is spaced behind the ball relative to the target; (c) placing both feet side-by-side at a distance from the ball and lateral to the intended path; (d) orienting the person's arm by which the club is held so as to locate the person's elbow of the arm as close as possible to the navel and/or spine of the person; (e) re-gripping the club with both hands; and (f) moving said feet apart so as to locate the front foot further forward of the ball and said back foot further rearward of the ball prior to swinging the club.
US07744480B2 One camera club monitor
This application relates to a single camera monitoring system useful for determining parameters relating to a striking instrument as it approaches an object. The monitoring system may be used to determine the swing characteristics of a golf club as it approaches and impacts with a golf ball. The accuracy of the single camera system may be comparable to the accuracy of more complex, multi-camera systems. The application also relates to methods for calibrating a single camera system.
US07744477B2 Bank shot guide for billiards
The bank shot guide for billiards has at least one visible marking which may be disposed on a pool cue shaft, tape measure, floor, or floor accessory adapted to be easily observable by the shooter while setting up a pool shot on a pool table. The markings can be aligned along the length of the pool cue shaft, tape measure, floor, or floor accessory at predetermined distances to provide graphical symbols that can aid a player in calculating bank angle game parameters applicable to the game table being played on. The markings are designed to represent extensions of readily observable existing diamond markings typically located on the pool table side rails. Groups of the markings may be color coded and/or rotationally separated from each other to visibly display the appropriate group of markings applicable to a particular length of pool table being used.
US07744471B2 Tactical defense device having baton and spray dispensing capabilities
A non-threatening combination baton and spray dispenser that can be readily employed was a baton or as a dispenser without requiring complex re-orientation or concentrated aiming, including an expandable baton having a mounted connector coupling that facilitates connection to an end of an irritant spray dispenser disposed in axial alignment with the baton. The connector coupling supports a switch mechanism readily operable by the user's thumb while grasping the connector coupling to selectively dispense spray axially from the dispenser with the baton in either its retracted or expanded positions. The dispenser preferably utilizes the barrel and lens support end of a flashlight to facilitate use as a flashlight or for conversion to receive a pressurized chemical irritant cartridge, and enables selective interchangeability of nozzle plates of different color exposed surfaces to simulate a flashlight lens, provide a dark, non-reflective color during night maneuvers, or use a bright color so that a subject is readily aware that an irritant spray dispenser is pointed at him. The switch mechanism includes a safety button selectively operable to prevent unintended actuation of the dispenser.
US07744470B2 Console for use in combination with an entertainment machine
A console for receiving an entertainment machine thereon is disclosed, which includes side- and rear walls that are defining a space for use as a foot rest space, which space is illuminated by associated lighting.
US07744466B2 Storage medium storing a game program, game apparatus and game controlling method
A video game apparatus includes a CPU, and the CPU advances a game according to input data transmitted from a plurality of controllers. A plurality of players share each controller to utilize it in turn. Each player selects in advance a character as his or her own avatar. When a certain player's (Designation: Mr. or Ms. kk) turn has come, a voice message for urging the change like the following is output from the speaker of the controller: “Take places with Mr. or Ms. kk!” Similarly, when the next turn is a relevant player, and the player directly before finishes playing, a voice message for urging a preparation like the following is output: “Mr. or Ms. kk, prepare for your turn.”
US07744463B2 Image generation system, program and information storage medium
A parameter of a consumption item (fuel, life) consumed as a game progresses is calculated. When a setting of a game termination condition changes, a rate of change of the parameter of the consumption item is changed according to the change of the setting. The game termination condition is a condition relating to the number of laps on a course, a time limit of a game or a game quota. The rate of change of the parameter of the consumption item is increased as the number of laps on a course is reduced, as the time limit of a game is shortened, or as the game quota is reduced. When a value of the parameter of the consumption item becomes equal to zero as a game progresses, the movement or motion of an object is disabled. The parameter of the consumption item is changed from an initial value set by a player with the rate of change which has been specified based on the game termination condition set by the player.
US07744459B2 Game system including slot machines and game control method thereof
A game system has a plurality of slot machines, each slot machine having a controller for executing a basic game, and transmitting a signal for making a transition to the roulette game when a prescribed symbol combination is stopped on a payline; a second game device for executing the roulette game, which is provided as a physically separate device from the slot machines; a display for displaying images according to a game status of the second game device; and a center controller capable of communicating with these devices by being connected with them through a network. If the roulette game is already executed when a signal for requesting a transition to the roulette game is received from a slot machine, the center controller keeps a transition to the roulette game waiting, and controls that slot machine and the second game device to start the roulette game at a timing where a transition to the roulette game becomes possible.
US07744453B2 Gaming machine with history display
A gaming system comprises a history display and a controller. The history display tracks a plurality of past outcomes of a wagering game. The controller awards a bonus if a current outcome of the wagering game has a predetermined association with at least one of the displayed plurality of past outcomes.
US07744452B2 Concurrent gaming apparatus and method
A system for concurrent gaming comprises a gaming server and a client computer connected to the gaming server by means of an open communication network. The gaming server is instructable by the client to randomly select multiple, concurrent hands of playing cards to a player in a turn of a game of Caribbean Stud poker. The compositions of the multiple, randomly selected concurrent hands is transmitted by the gaming server along the communication network to the client computer where they are displayed to the player, under program control as part of a simulation of the game of Caribbean Stud poker. Gaming server also generates the gaming server also randomly selects a hand associated with a dealer in the game, the composition of the dealer's hand being also transmitted by the gaming server to the client computer and displayed as part of the simulation. The player then makes desired game play decisions, in turn, as a function of each one of the, multiple concurrent hands and the dealer's hand.
US07744449B2 Method for processing poultry
A method for processing poultry, includes supplying live poultry, stunning the live poultry in a stunning device, placing the stunned poultry into product carriers advanced along a conveyor, killing the poultry and removing the feathers from the dead poultry in a plucking device. Downstream of the plucking device, the poultry is exposed to an electrical stimulation, an electrical voltage being applied across the carcass of the poultry. A method for controlling process parameters, especially the time and duration of execution of working steps in a process of mechanized working of slaughtered poultry, includes evaluating the tenderness of a specified meat portion prior to a due processing step and, after this evaluation, setting the important process parameters for the particular processing step to an optimal value.
US07744448B2 Temperature control of the mass flow in a filling machine
A method and a filling machine for the temperature control of a mass flow in a filling machine, wherein the mass flow passes through several sections. In order to also process temperature-sensitive types of filling material reliably with the minimum outlay, the temperature of the filling material is measured in several sections of the filling machine and the temperature of the filling material is controlled by a heating/cooling device to a certain temperature in dependence of the measured temperatures.
US07744447B2 Abrasive disc
An abrasive disc comprises a disc substrate having a peripheral portion, plural abrasive chips each having an abrasive layer on a metal piece and being arranged in the peripheral portion of the disc substrate with a predetermined space, a suspension plate placed between the disc substrate and abrasive chips, and an elastic sheet placed between the disc substrate and the suspension plate so as to isolate the disc substrate from the suspension plate in order to absorb mechanical shock generated in operation of the abrasive disc. The abrasive chips are fastened to the suspension plate. Each of the abrasive chips has abrasive surfaces including a top abrasive surface and peripheral surfaces and the outer peripheral portion and the inner peripheral portion are declined to the top surface.
US07744444B2 Centerless feed-through super-finishing device having a lapping system containing a freely-disposed abrasive
A centerless feed-through super-finishing device including: first and second feed-through rollers having first and second longitudinal outer surfaces; a metallic part having a generally cylindrical section, disposed between the outer surfaces, wherein a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical section is generally aligned with the outer surfaces, the cylindrical section having a metal working surface, the outer surfaces disposed in a near-parallel fashion; a rotating mechanism for rotation of the rollers along respective longitudinal axes thereof, and for effecting thereby a rotation of the cylindrical section, wherein an angle between the rollers is selected such that rotation of the rollers propels the cylindrical section between the rollers; and a lapping system including: a lapping tool having a polymeric contact surface disposed to contact the working surface, and a lapping mechanism, associated with the lapping tool, adapted to exert a load on the contact and working surfaces; and abrasive particles, freely disposed between the contact and working surfaces, wherein the contact surface and the lapping mechanism are adapted, and the abrasive particles are selected, such that the relative motion under the load effects lapping of the working surface, and wherein the surfaces of the rollers are covered with a polymeric material.
US07744434B2 Oscillating-foil type underwater propulsor with a joint
An oscillating-foil type underwater propulsor with a joint provided in the invention, the propulsor including a streamline foil having a foil surface being parallel to a water surface and a span length of at least twice as long as an average chord length of the streamline foil, and a heaving mechanism undergoing heaving motion perpendicular to a propulsion direction of the propulsor and having a transmission section, wherein the transmission section is pivotally connected to the streamline foil to form a joint, the joint being provided at the middle of the span length and having a rotation center located within a circular area, which has a radius of one third of the average chord length and is centered at the point one third of the average chord length ahead of the lifting center of the streamline foil.
US07744433B2 Jet-propulsion personal watercraft
A jet-propulsion personal watercraft includes an engine configured to generate a driving power for generating a propulsion force to propel the watercraft, an engine speed changing system configured to be able to change an engine speed of the engine, a determiner configured to determine whether or not to execute control for effectively steering the watercraft at start of deceleration, and an engine controller configured to control the engine speed changing system based on information received from the determiner. The engine controller is configured to, when the determiner determines that the control for effectively steering the watercraft should not be executed, control the engine speed changing system so that a decrease rate of the engine speed immediately after the determination is smaller than a decrease rate of the engine speed in a case where the determiner determines that the control for effectively steering the watercraft should not be executed.
US07744432B2 Squib connector connecting structure of airbag inflator
A squib connector connecting structure of an airbag inflator comprises a shunt bar connector and a retainer sequentially inserted into an insertion hole of an inflator, and a squib connector inserted into retainer. Further, a guide groove is formed at insertion hole of inflator and a body of squib connector is fully fitted into guide groove.
US07744430B1 Electrical connector for electronic modules
An electrical contact includes a body extending along a longitudinal axis. The body includes a mating contact portion for electrical connection with an electronic module, an intermediate portion extending from the mating contact portion, and a mounting contact portion extending from the intermediate portion for electrical connection with a circuit board. The mounting contact portion extends from the intermediate portion at a bend. The mounting contact portion extends from the bend to an end portion. The body also includes a push surface formed when a carrier strip that initially connects the electrical contact to other electrical contacts is separated from the electrical contact. The push surface is offset from the bend along the longitudinal axis in a direction away from the mating contact portion.
US07744428B2 Audio signal switcher
The present invention provides an audio signal switcher including a jack switcher and a plug switcher. The jack switcher includes an audio jack and a first USB port. The first USB port includes a first data pin, a second data pin, a power pin, and a ground pin. The audio jack includes a left track segment, a right track segment, and a ground segment, which are electrically isolated coupled to at least three pins of the first USB port. The plug switcher includes an audio plug and a second USB port. The second USB port also includes a data pin, a second data pin, a power pin, and a ground pin. The audio plug also includes a left track segment, a right track segment, and a ground segment, which are electrically isolated coupled to at least three pins of the second USB port according to a connection between the audio jack and the first USB port. The plug switcher can be connected to the jack switcher by a USB cable.
US07744423B2 USB connector conversion device
The present invention is directed to a connector converting device adapted for connecting a host unit having a plug to an external unit through a cable. The connector converting device is connected to the host unit having a first plug serving as data input/output interface to and from an external unit. The connector converting device comprises a first jack to which the first plug is connected, and a second jack to which a second plug of the cable of the external unit is connected, wherein the first jack and the second jack are electrically connected.
US07744420B2 Connector system for connecting a first part and a second part, connector assembly and device board
A method including providing a connector having a plurality of signal contacts and non-signal contacts. A circuit trace element is provided to be disposed within the connector. The circuit trace element has a ground structure. The circuit trace element has at least two non-signal traces, a first one of the non-signal traces being electrically connected to the ground structure by a connection within the circuit trace element and a second one of the non-signal traces being connectable to the ground structure through a separate electrical component. The second non-signal trace may serve to power an active signal conditioning element within the second connector or, in the absence of the active signal conditioning element, may be connected to the ground structure through the separate electrical component.
US07744415B2 Midplane especially applicable to an orthogonal architecture electronic system
A midplane has a first side to which contact ends of a first differential connector are connected and a second side opposite the first side to which contact ends of a second differential connector are connected. The midplane includes a plurality of vias extending from the first side to the second side, with the vias providing first signal launches on the first side and second signal launches on the second side. The first signal launches are provided in a plurality of rows, with each row having first signal launches along a first line and first signal launches along a second line substantially parallel to the first line. The second signal launches are provided in a plurality of columns, with each column having second signal launches along a third line and second signal launches along a fourth line substantially parallel to the third line.
US07744411B2 Sealed electrical connector part
This connector part includes an insulating housing provided with a plurality of sockets for receiving a contact, which have a rear contact insertion end; a joint, which is provided with a plurality of cable passages corresponding to the sockets and which is placed in said housing behind the sockets; and a cable-guiding grid, which is fixed in the housing behind the joint, supporting the latter, said grid being provided with a plurality of cable passages corresponding to the sockets. It also includes a member for blocking the passages of the grid, which is fixed on said grid and is designed for being pierced selectively for the insertion of contacts into a predetermined group of sockets. The invention also relates to a piercing tool, which is designed for being used with one such connector part, and to a corresponding wiring method.
US07744410B2 Sinking type electrical connector and assembly of the sinking type electrical connector and a circuit board
A sinking type electrical connector is adapted for coupling to a circuit board. The sinking type electrical connector includes a body and at least one limiting unit. The body has a front end portion, a connecting portion provided in the front end portion, and a top surface. The limiting unit is provided at one side of the body and includes a plurality of limiting portions respectively located at different levels. A selected one of the limiting portions of the limiting unit which are at different levels is brought to engage the circuit board so that a distance from the top surface of the body to the circuit board is changeable.
US07744405B2 Conduction terminal and adapter for conduction terminal
In a current conducting terminal in contact with the positive electrode of a battery (A) and with the negative electrode of a battery (B) in order to conduct current between the two batteries (A), (B), a conductive polymer is placed between the positive electrode side electrode 1, which is in contact with the positive electrode of the battery (A), and the negative electrode side electrode (2), which is in contact with the negative electrode of the battery (B).
US07744402B2 Cable conductor assembly with protective stiffener
A cable connector assembly (100) includes an insulative housing (2) including a front mating portion and an opposite rear end, and a pair of wing portions (29) extending along a front-to-rear direction from the rear end to form a terminating area therebetween, a number of contacts (3) received in the insulative housing with tail portions (32) exposed beyond the rear end of the insulative housing and in the terminating area, a cable (4) including a number of conductors (40, 42) electrically connecting with corresponding tail portions of the contacts in the terminating area to form a number of terminations and an outer jacket enclosing the conductors, a stiffener (8) defining a receiving cavity receiving the outer jacket of the cable and assembled between the pair of wing portions of the insulative housing to locate in the terminating area, and a cover (5) enclosing the rear end of the insulative housing, the terminations between the cable and the contacts, and the stiffener.
US07744398B1 Locking device for an electrical connector
A low-profile locking clip is installable on a surface-mount header of a printed circuit board to secure one or more inserted plug connectors in mating engagement with the surface-mount header to prevent unintended loosening and disconnection. The locking clip comprises a plurality of catch members that engage with respective lead pins of the surface-mount header and a top wall that includes one or more recesses for receiving a detent tab on a corresponding plug connector to prevent withdrawal of the plug connector.
US07744396B2 IC socket and IC socket assembly
An IC socket for receiving an IC package having a plurality of electrical contacts on a bottom face thereof is disclosed. The IC socket has an insulating housing that receives the IC package and a plurality of elastic contacts, one end each being secured to the insulating housing, and a remaining end of each contacting at least one of the electrical contacts on the bottom face of the IC package. The IC socket also has a spring member carried by the insulating housing that determines an accepting position for the IC package being accepted into the insulating housing, and that restrains an amount of horizontal movement of the IC package caused by bending of the elastic contacts as the IC package is pressed down.
US07744393B2 Codable motor connector
The invention concerns a motor connector for supplying voltage to a polyphase motor, with a connector housing that contains a number of electrically conductive pass-through elements whose number matches the number of electrical supply lines to be connected. By means of said pass-through elements, the supply lines can be connected electrically to contacts of a connecting plug mounted on the outside of a motor hosing of the polyphase motor, said contacts being connected to the winding conductors of the motor. The operating mode of the motor in delta or star connection can be selected by internal bridge configuration of the pass-through elements. For this purpose, the connector housing has a coding section that is separated from the connection section for the supply lines, with the coding section preferably designed as an enclosed coding chamber so that the connection section forms a connection chamber that is separated from the coding chamber. The bridge configuration is designed as an internal plug connection and is performed by means of a coding plug.
US07744387B2 Multi-level cell (MLC) rotate flash memory device
A portable USB device is described herein. According to one embodiment, a portable USB device includes a core unit having a USB plug connector coupled to one or more multi-level cell (MLC) flash memory devices and an MLC flash controller disposed therein. The device further includes a housing for enclosing the core unit. The device further includes a swivel cap having a top surface and a bottom surface by bending a flat panel into a U-shape block having an opening end, a close end, and two side-openings, where the top and bottom surfaces of the swivel cap include a rivet opening align with each other. The housing having the core unit therein is sandwiched by the swivel cap using a set of rivets through the rivet openings of the housings and the swivel cap. The core unit can be rotated with respect to the rivet set in and out of the swivel cap.
US07744386B1 High amperage busway system
An electrical busway system comprising a busway uniquely configured for cutting to length in the field. Special connector devices are also disclosed, with features for engaging and immobilizing busway insulators to assure accurate initial alignment of conductors and contact elements prior to joining of connector devices with busway sections. An accessory device, specially adapted to the new busway design, includes a rotatable contact element, slideably received in its rotatable support, which progressively displaces a spring as the contact element is rotated into contact with a busbar carried by a busway insulator. Good electrical contact at both ends of the slideable contact element is assured. The accessory device also includes a positioning element which is rotatable with, but rotationally advanced with respect to, the contact elements, to accurately position, and substantially immobilize an insulator element prior to the contact elements being rotated into restricted, busbar-receiving recesses in the insulator element.
US07744383B2 Grounded connector
Ground connections are made between first and second electrical connectors (1, 27). The first connector has a first sleeve (5) and has contact elements (23) mounted on the first sleeve. The second connector has a second sleeve (31) with slots (35) that receive the contact elements (23) when the connectors mate. Locating ribs (21) lie forward (F1) of the contact elements to align the slots in the second sleeve with the contact elements.
US07744382B2 Electrical connector with improved contact arrangement
An electrical connector (100) defining an inserting port (10) for connecting a corresponding plug, includes a first contact module and a second contact module fixed with each other. The first contact module includes a first housing (1) and a number of first contacts (31) insert molded in the first housing (1). The first housing (1) has a tongue (12) extending into the inserting port (10). Each first contact (31) has a first contact portion (311) extending to a free end of the tongue (12). The second contact module includes a second housing (2) and a number of second contacts (32) insert molded in the second housing (2). Each second contact (32) has a second contact portion (321) extending out of the second housing (2). The second contact portions (321) extend to the tongue and offsetting with the first contact portion (311) along a length direction of the tongue (12).
US07744379B2 Electric connection box
The present invention provides an electric connection box capable of carrying out insertion accurately when a plurality of connection terminals provided at a terminal holding member to a plurality of inserting grooves of a terminal inserting member, as a result, capable of preventing deformation of the connection terminal. The electric connection box of the invention includes a terminal holding member having a front surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface and including a plurality of terminals mounted on the front surface so as to be projected from the front surface, an source terminal mounted on the first side surface so as to be projected from the first side surface in a direction in which the terminals align, a guide projected streak mounted on the second side surface along a direction in which the terminals are projected so as to be projected from the second side surface, and a terminal inserting member including a plurality of inserting grooves in which the terminals are inserted, a terminal guide groove in which the source terminal is inserted, and a streak guide groove in which the guide projected streak is inserted.
US07744378B2 Plug for connection strips and method for the production thereof
The invention relates to a plug (11) for terminal blocks in telecommunications and data system equipment, comprising a lower part (1) and an upper part (12) of plastic, which are interconnected, and at least one contact element (5), which can be inserted into a tapping contact of a terminal block, with the lower part (1) being made longer than the upper part (12) and having galvanically metallized structures, which form at least the contact element (5) and extend as far as the lower edge (9) of the lower part (1), and also a method for its production.
US07744377B2 Electrical connector with low profile contacts
An electrical connector includes: an insulating housing having a plurality of passageways; a plurality of contacts retained in the passageways of the insulating housing, the contact having a retaining beam engaged with the insulating housing, a first contacting beam extending from the retaining beam, a second contacting beam opposite to the first contacting beam and a connecting portion connected with the first and second contacting beam. The second contacting beam and the connecting portion define an acute angle between 10° to 40° to make the contact in a low profile. The insulating housing has a blocking portion with a large thickness protruding into the passageway to downwardly block the second contacting beam from upwardly moving.
US07744376B2 Socket connector with power blade
A power blade is provided for a socket connector that connects a module card to a circuit board. The power blade includes a bus extending along a longitudinal axis, and a plurality of individual electrical contacts extending from the bus such that the electrical contacts are each electrically connected to the bus. The electrical contacts are located adjacent one another along the longitudinal axis. Each of the electrical contacts includes a side mating portion configured to electrically connect to the module card. The side mating portions of the electrical contacts lie in approximately a common plane.
US07744373B2 Dispersion burner for firefighter training
A firefighting trainer includes a tank for containing a volume of a non-combustible dispersion medium such as water. The water resides within the tank having an upper surface of the water exposed through an open upper end of the tank. A fuel distribution system distributes a combustible fuel into the tank beneath the water surface. An air distribution system distributes an oxygen containing gas (such as air) into the tank beneath the upper water surface. An ignition system ignites a mixture of a vapor of the fuel and the air at the upper surface of the water. A screen covers the open end of the tank and is spaced from the upper surface of the water. The screen has open spaces permitting passage of flame through the screen.
US07744370B2 Dental device for insertion of a crown
The dental device for insertion of a crown is a tool for marking an occlusally reduced tooth prior to application of a crown thereon, and for testing whether the tooth has been sufficiently reduced for proper application of the crown. The dental device includes a marking portion frangibly joined to a resistance testing portion. The marking portion includes a marking layer formed of a transferable material so that, following occlusal reduction of the tooth, the marking portion is separated from the resistance testing portion, and the marking layer is positioned against an upper surface of the tooth. The patient bites down on the marking layer to mark raised regions of the upper surface of the tooth, and subsequently bites down on the resistance testing portion, to test if the tooth has been sufficiently reduced for application of a crown thereon.
US07744368B2 Multi-mode lighter
The present invention relates to a lighter which a user actuates by at least two different modes of operation. In the first mode, a plunger member is positioned to allow a biasing member to oppose movement of an actuating assembly so that a user releases fuel and ignites the lighter only if a high-actuation-force is applied to the actuator. In this first mode, the lighter resists operation by unintended users by requiring a user to have a predetermined level of strength to actuate the lighter. In the second mode, the plunger member is moved to a different position so that the biasing member does not oppose movement of the actuating assembly to the same extent as the first mode so that a user may release fuel and ignite the lighter if a low-actuation-force is applied to the actuator. Moving the plunger member from the first position to the second position preferably requires the user to have a predetermined level of cognitive abilities and/or physical characteristics in order to resist use by unintended users.
US07744366B2 System and method for improving the thermal efficiency of a heating system
A system and method for providing a heating system with good thermal efficiency by adjusting combustion air flow in response to fuel-input rate changes over a wide range. An AC motor operates in a slip mode whereby as the fuel-input rate changes, the combustion air density is affected. In response, changes in the load and thus the speed of the motor occur. Consequently, the quantity of combustion air flow increases in response to a fuel-input rate increase. The motor switches to a synchronous speed in response to the fuel-input rate reaching a set value, e.g., 70 percent of maximum rate.
US07744363B2 Valve device of injection molding device
A valve device is configured for obturating an opening of a channel defined in an injection molding device. The valve device includes a plug movably received in the channel, and a resilient member connected with the plug. The plug includes an obturating portion for obturating the opening of the channel. The resilient member is configured for driving the plug to its original position where the obturating portion obturates the opening, after the opening of the channel is opened.
US07744361B2 Apparatus for forming hollow moldings having thin film on inner surface
The method employs a stationary mold having depositing recesses equipped in its inside with a deposition element such as a target electrode, and movable molds made slidable. A primary molding is performed to form a body portion and a cover member to have joint portions around their opening. The body portion left in the vertically sliding mold is deposited after it was densely covered with the depositing recesses. Next, the deposited body portion and the cover member, as left in the molds, are registered and mold clamped, and the molten metal is injected to integrated the joint portions.
US07744356B2 Screw vacuum pump with male and female screw rotors having unequal leads
In a screw vacuum pump 30, equal lead screws each in the range of 1 to 4 leads are added on the discharge side of male and female screw rotors (4) and (5) having a continuously changing screw gear helix angle, at a final lead angle of the male and female unequal lead screw rotors on the discharge side that continuously change in helix angle following the advance of the screw gear helix.
US07744353B2 Fluid pump and high-pressure fuel feed pump
A fluid pump has a cylinder supporting a plunger and a pump housing formed with dissimilar metals. A pressing mechanism presses the cylinder and the pump housing relative to each other so that a pressurizing chamber is sealed through a pressing surface between the pump housing and the cylinder. The number of seal points can be reduce, and a reduction in reliability can be eliminated while realizing a reduction in weight of the pump housing and a reduction in cost due to increase in cutting capability, by using a soft material such as an aluminum alloy for the pump housing.
US07744348B2 Method of producing a hot gas component of a turbomachine including an embedded channel
A component, especially a hot gas component of a turbomachine, has at least one passage (7, 7′), especially a cooling passage, which is embedded in an outer wall (5) of the component (1) of the turbomachine and basically extends parallel to the surface (6) of the component (1). The component (1) has a basic body (8) and at least one coating (9) which is applied to the basic body on the outside, and the passage (7, 7′) on one hand is formed by a cavity which is formed in the basic body (8), and on the other hand is closed off towards the surface (6) of the component (1) by the coating (9).
US07744345B1 Wind power generator
A vertical axis wind turbine provides a rotor assembly which rotates on bearing assemblies affixed to a rotor shaft supported by a base, the rotor assembly having vertical blades mounted between top and bottom plates, and power takeoff means to provide power by direct mechanical linkage or to drive an electrical generator. The rotor assembly is partially enclosed by a housing. Attached to the side of the housing is a wind vane. Attached to the bottom side of the housing are rollers. The wind vane, in combination with the rollers, act to rotate the housing to a position that will permit the wind to act upon the exposed vertical blades.
US07744344B2 Vane coupling
Vanes are generally hollow with a passage through which service pipes extend. These service pipes must be connected such that they can allow for thermal expansion and contraction but also anti rotation features are needed in order to prevent damage when a supply coupling is connected through a pipe end. This anti-rotation feature is generally provided between a top hat and a pipe end through flanges. In order to allow reduced spacing between the top of the vane and a casing the flanges are arranged to allow at least recessing of a first flange into a passage opening profile whereby those flanges inter-engage with second flanges at a surface interface to prevent rotation.
US07744338B2 Fluid turbine systems
Various fluid turbine systems and methods are described. The turbine can be a vertical axis wind turbine configured to generate power from wind energy. The turbine system can have a blade assembly. The blade assembly can have a plurality of blades rotatable about an axis. The turbine system can have a concentrator positionable upwind and in front of a return side of the blade assembly. The concentrator can define a convex surface facing the wind. The turbine system can also have a variable concentrator positionable upwind of a push side of the blade assembly. The variable concentrator can be adjustable between a first position and a second position, the variable concentrator being capable of deflecting more wind toward the turbine in the first position than in the second position.
US07744336B2 Rebar separator with inflatable vibrational cushions and torsion bar vibration transferral
A rebar separator having a crossbar situated atop one or, preferably, two vibrational insulators which are preferably inflatable cushions. Preferably, there are two or more such crossbars on one or two inflatable cushions. At least one vibrational motor is in contact with at least one crossbar. And preferably each crossbar slopes from a first end to a second end. A source of fluid is in communication with each inflatable cushion. Preferably, the vibrational insulators are placed on top of first and second longitudinal channels of a horizontal rack.
US07744334B2 Gooseneck semi-trailer
The present invention relates to a semi-trailer, comprising a gooseneck chassis and a container lifting device with at least one crane part displaceable along the chassis. The chassis comprises frame portions which are vertically displaced relative to each other, where the available vertical space for driving the displaceable crane part is limited particularly in the transition between said frame portions. The displacement of the crane part on one frame portion of the chassis takes place by means of a linearly operating, longitudinally variable elongate actuator, which both in the retracted and in the extended state is positioned substantially within the height limits of the chassis and has a substantially constant angle to the chassis. A vertically articulated link arm is at one end connected to a driving part of the actuator and at the other end articulated to said displaceable crane part.
US07744333B2 Apparatus and method for retrieving, transporting and delivering portable storage units
Disclosed is a vehicle that is employed in retrieving, transporting and delivering portable storage units (“PSUs”). The vehicle can achieve retrieval and/or delivery within tight spaces via telescopic frame and hoist assemblies. A rearward support assembly is included for stabilizing the entire apparatus during both retrieval and delivery. The vehicle can take the form of either a trailer or an integrated vehicle. The various components of the present invention, and the associated method will be described in greater detail hereinafter.
US07744330B2 Container packer system and method
A container packer system includes a transfer base, which receives a container packer adapted for movement longitudinally between retracted and extended positions with respect to the transfer base. The transfer base includes a power subsystem with a motor or engine driving an hydraulic pump for powering hydraulic piston-and-cylinder units of the system, including a container packer piston-and-cylinder unit for hydraulically extending and retracting the container packer. The container packer generally encloses an interior adapted for receiving bulk material for transfer to a transport container, which can comprise a standard shipping container, a trailer or some other bulk material receptacle. The container packer includes a push blade assembly longitudinally movably mounted in its interior and actuated by a push blade piston-and-cylinder unit. A container packer method includes the steps of loading the interior of the container packer with bulk material in its retracted position on the transfer base, locating a transport container in alignment and behind the transfer base, hydraulically inserting part of the container packer into the transport container, hydraulically emptying the container packer of bulk material into the transport container with the push blade assembly, retracting the push blade assembly within the container packer and extracting the container packer onto the transfer base.
US07744325B2 Booklet making method, booklet making system, and program
This invention provides a booklet making method including a cutting size setting step of setting a cutting size on the basis of a difference amount between a layout position of an image when a layout interval between images printed on a printing medium is minimum and a layout position of an image when the layout interval between images is maximum; an image printing step of adjusting the layout interval between the images printed on the printing medium in accordance with a position of the printing medium upon binding, and printing an image on the printing medium; a binding step of binding a plurality of printing media bearing images to prepare a printing medium bundle; a folding step of folding the printing medium in half; and a cutting step of cutting an edge of the printing medium bundle on the basis of the cutting size.
US07744323B2 Retractable nail device
A retractable nail includes a head portion having a striking surface and a slot through the striking face. The slot is configured for receiving a removal tool. The nail includes a piercing part the head portion and the piercing part. A longitudinal main body is positioned between the longitudinal main body includes a front side, rear side and two lateral sides. The front and rear sides include respective front and rear helical thread segments formed along a longitudinal length of the main body. The threads are filled or covered with a plastic material, epoxy, glue, composite or the like to prevent damage to the helically threads when the device is hammered or bored with a pneumatically or electrically powered nail gun into a solid material.
US07744319B2 Destruction-free press connection on pyromechanical securing elements
The invention relates to a pyromechanical securing element for the mechanical connection of two components. The securing element comprises a covering and a pyrotechnical propellant charge is arranged in the head part thereof, said propellant charge being adjacent to an adapter, and securing means or a stop for the first component are arranged on the rear part of the covering and a second component can be pushed onto the covering between the first component and the head part. The covering on the head part comprises expected fracture indents extending in the longitudinal direction which tear open the covering in the head area when the propellant charge is ignited and the first component is rigidly connected to the second component in order to allow the adapter to bend. The aim of the invention is to securely anchor the covering to the adapter without using extreme force. Said invention is characterized in that the groove is arranged in the adapter in such a manner that it at least sectionally surrounds the outer periphery thereof, and that a radially protruding collar is arranged on the outer surface of the cover before the cover is anchored to the adapter, and the groove disposed in the adapter is flush with the collar of the cover and at least one part of the collar is pressed into the groove in order to anchor the cover with the adapter.
US07744317B2 Plant and stem design and method of making
A lifelike carving product and a method of producing the same is provided. The product may be utilized as an onlay or integral part of architectural elements to show designs of plant, fruit, and/or vegetable. The product includes at least one plant body, at least one stem, and a realistic fruit-stem/vegetable-stem interface. The plant body may include a flattened area, a stem receptacle whereat a plant end of the stem converges to the plant body, and an arcuate rim that at least partially surrounds the plant end in the stem receptacle. The realistic fruit-stem/vegetable-stem interface may be formed with the stem converging to the plant body perpendicularly with respect to a tangent line, or with a stem centerline of the stem aligning with a stem plane.
US07744314B2 Clamping device for buoyancy bodies
Buoyancy unit for use on a riser for sub sea applications, particularly for great depths, with a clamp 11 to be tensioned around the riser 16, and with a tensioning member 18 to damp the clamp 11. Buoyancy bodies 26, 27 are provided to engage with the clamp 11, said clamp 11 having at least one arched element 12-15 providing an annular structure to enclose the riser and to be pressed thereto with a tensioning strap 18. The buoyancy bodies 26, 27 are attached to the arched segments, The clamp 11 is cast from of a concrete material where at least the outer shell or layer is provided to prevent the intrusion of water, the casting of the clamp preferably containing powdered aplite.
US07744313B2 Fixed security barrier
A barrier for stopping unwanted watercraft and subsurface intruders from entering into a port or off-shore structure is provided. In one embodiment, the invention is a barrier comprised of a vertical net structure supported from the sea floor. The barrier comprises vertical supports and a net assembled between the vertical supports with a system of ropes and energy absorbing devices. The structural components of the barrier are designed and configured in a manner as to absorb and displace the kinetic energy generated by an explosive laden small watercraft traveling at a high rate of speed. In another embodiment, invention is a barrier system installed around the perimeter of a water side or offshore facility. This barrier system comprises a bottom founded perimeter fence having a gate system and a series of barriers comprised of a vertical fence structure supported from the sea floor. This barrier system is designed to control access and to protect a water side or offshore facility from potential terrorism threats.
US07744312B2 Offshore pipe string system and method
A pipe string (44) is pulled out by a tug boat (30) from a floating structure (12) such as a production vessel, as pipe sections (54, 56) are connected in series on the vessel, to eventually lay the pipe string in a catenary curve from the vessel to the sea floor and then along the sea floor to a distant subsea well head (86). To save time and cost in coupling the pipe sections, lower fatigue resistant pipe couplings, such as non weld-on couplings (120) that include a threaded sleeve (134), are used to connect pipe sections that will lie in a quiescent zone such as on the sea floor (zone Az), and in a zone (Cz) lying along the middle of the catenary curve. Higher fatigue resistant pipe couplings such as weld-on couplings (150) are used along active zones such as top and bottom zones (Dz, Bz) of the catenary curve.
US07744311B2 Light-weight versatile J-lay system
A vessel has a substantially vertical frame attached to a vessel support structure, an upper clamping element vertically displaceable along the frame via a displacement member, a lower clamping element aligned with the upper clamping element, a loading device for supplying a pipe segment to the upper clamping element, and a control device adapted to control the displacement member and the upper and lower clamping elements for lowering the pipe segment by the displacement member along a pipe trajectory, with the upper clamping element being engaged on the pipe segment, while the lower clamping element is disengaged, with the lower clamping element being situated on the vessel support structure, with a transverse track extending from a side position on the vessel to a position alongside the pipe trajectory, and a support member which is displaceable along the track to be situated in the pipe trajectory.
US07744309B2 Hydraulic power generating system
A hydraulic power generating system is disclosed. The hydraulic power generating system includes a looped rail, a plurality of pulleys moving along the looped rail, a plurality of water receiving plates, each being installed to each of the pulleys, side plates which are hingedly coupled to left and right side portions of each of the water receiving plates by hinge shafts, and spread adjusting devices which make the side plates spread against a direction of water flow. Accordingly, since the spread direction of the side plates hingedly coupled to both side portions of the water receiving plate can be changed forward and backward according to the direction of water flow so as to receive a larger amount of water, efficiency in generating power using water energy increases.
US07744308B2 Drainage element of ovate shape and method of making
The drainage element is formed of a tubular mesh that is filled with loose fill elements of polymeric material, deformed into an ovate cross-sectional shape and cured at an ambient temperature to hold the elements in a compacted state to define a rigid drainage element. The drainage element may be fabricated with a perforated pipe to be joined to other like drainage elements in a drainage system.
US07744306B2 Preformed thermoplastic indicia for airport runways and taxiways
Disclosed is an alkyd resin-based pre-manufactured thermoplastic airport runway signage that is applied in relatively large sections onto an airport runway. The pre-manufactured preformed thermoplastic formed as a continuous sheet and wound onto a take-up spool. The runway surface is prepared with a CCS epoxy primer and the preformed thermoplastic is unwound from the take-up spool and positioned onto the runway surface. When the pre-manufactured thermoplastic signage is in a desired location it is initially rolled conforming to the runway surface. Heat is applied to the rolled surface to a preferred temperature with an infra-red (IR) heater to melt and adhere the pre-manufactured thermoplastic signage into the runway surface.
US07744305B2 Manhole with locking device
The present invention relates to a manhole (10) with a locking device, and more particular to a manhole with a locking device, which comprises a manhole frame (20) having a plurality of insertion slots (24) inwardly protruded from an inner circumferential surface thereof, each insertion slot (24) having a latching protrusion (26) formed in such a manner that a top surface of the insertion slots (24) is partially opened; a bearing member (30) having a female screw portion formed on the center thereof and a plurality of fastening pieces (36) radially formed outwardly from the outer circumferential edge thereof, so that the bearing member (30) is detachably fastened to the manhole frame (20); and a manhole cover (40) having a through-hole (41) centrally formed therein so that an upper portion of the vertical screw rod (42) is rotatably inserted into the through-hole (41), the vertical screw rod (42) having a male screw portion (45) formed on the lower portion thereof so as to be threadably fastened to the female screw portion (35) of the bearing member, a head portion (43) formed on the upper portion thereof so as to abut against an upside surface of the manhole cover (40), and a support portion (44) formed on the upper portion thereof so as to abut against an underside of the manhole cover (40), so that the manhole cover (40) is closed by rotating the head portion (40) of the vertical screw rod (42). Thus, in a case of the manhole (10) mounted on a vehicle road, the manhole cover (40) is prevented from being separated from the manhole frame (20) without permission by a vehicle running at a high speed as well as from frictional noise generated between the manhole cover (40) and the manhole frame (20). Further, in a case of the manhole (10) mounted on the waterside of a river, the manhole (10) maintains its watertightness and is readily opened and closed by an operator.
US07744304B2 Socket hinged construction casting assembly
A manhole or hatch cover assembly includes a frame defining an opening and a cover having a top surface, a bottom surface and a perimeter sized and dimensioned for receipt in the frame opening. The cover is coupled to the frame through a hinge connection and moveable between a closed positioned resting across the opening in the frame and an open position. A latch is pivotally coupled to the cover adjacent the hinge. The latch is selectively rotated onto the frame to retain the cover in the open position.
US07744299B1 Tube with resilient applicator and scraper for dispensing texture materials
A dispensing system for patching an untextured portion of a destination surface to substantially match an existing structure of an existing sprayed on texture pattern on the destination surface surrounding the untextured portion. The dispensing system comprises a container, a sponge member, and a scraper member. Texture material is arranged within the container. The sponge member defines an applicator surface and a sponge opening. The sponge member is secured to the container to such that the container opening and sponge opening are substantially aligned. The scraper member is detachably attached to the container.
US07744296B2 Camera module having colloid layer surrounding sensor
A camera module (200) includes a lens module and a base (210) with a sensor installed thereon. The base is provided with at least two supporting protrusions (222) extending therefrom. Each protrusion is oriented the lens module, and the lens module is fixedly to and contacts with the at least two supporting protrusions. A colloid layer surrounding the sensor is sandwiched between the second end of the holder and the base. Electronic components are disposed on the circuit board and covered by the colloid layer.
US07744292B2 Optical fiber landing indicator with distributed temperature sensor calibration
An optic fiber cable landing indicator includes a housing; a landing head receptive to an optic fiber cable plug and translatable within the housing; and an electronics module at the housing and responsive to movement of the landing head to initiate a signal readable at a remote location confirming landing of the optic fiber cable and method to confirm fiber optic landing.
US07744291B2 Early self-validation of persistent memory during boot in an optical transceiver
An operational optical transceiver configured to self-validate a boot image loaded from the persistent memory early in the boot process. The optical transceiver includes a persistent memory, a controller, and a system memory. The controller initializes the boot process and begins to load information from the persistent memory to the system memory. Next, the controller detects early in the boot process boot image verification data in the information being sent to the system memory. The controller then determines if the boot image verification data has an expected value. If the verification data includes the expected value, the controller continues the boot process. If the verification data does not include the expected value, the controller will retry the boot process a predetermined number of times and will enter a default operational state if the expected value is not detected while retrying the boot process the predetermined number of times.
US07744289B2 Seamless display manufacturing method
A seamless display manufacturing method includes fixing a light emitting source in a backlight module; fixing an optical film on the light emitting source; placing a partitioned structure on the optical film; aligning or overlapping the side edges of main bodies of adjacent liquid crystal panels, and putting them over the partitioned structure; and providing a protection layer having a micro-structure over a main body of a liquid crystal panel, thus forming an LCD display. A seamless display, comprises: a backlight module, that includes a plurality of light emitting sources; an optical film; a partitioned structure; a plurality of LCD panel main bodies; a protection layer having a micro-structure; and a locking portion. The main bodies of a plurality of liquid crystal panels are put together through aligning or overlapping their respective side edges, and then are covered over the partitioned structure.
US07744287B2 Connector enclosure
A connector enclosure for enclosing a cable assembly includes a main body that has a first body portion and a second body portion. The first body portion is adapted for selective releasable engagement with the second body portion. Each of the first and second body portions defines a cavity having a first connector portion and a second connector portion. The cavity of each of the first and second body portions cooperatively defines a passage through the main body. The passage is configured to retain a cable assembly.
US07744285B2 M28876/NGCON/D38999 to MTP adaptor and a kit containing the same
An M28876/NGCON/D38999 to MTP adaptor is disclosed as a low cost substitute for high density fiber systems. The MTP adaptor has a mechanical footprint that is substantially similar to a standard M28876/NGCON/D38999 connector. A kit is also provided that comprises an MTP cable, a pair of ST to MTP fan out cables, and a plurality of M28876/NGCON/D38999 to MTP adaptors.
US07744283B2 Bearing for alternator and bearing for pulley
A bearing for alternators and a bearing for pulleys for reducing hydrogen embrittlement or cracking is used when the bearing is in an environment having a severe condition, such as, when hydrogen is generated from grease or the like. The bearing includes a rolling element, an inner ring and an outer ring, and at least one of the rolling element, where the inner and outer rings have a nitrogen enriched layer containing austenite crystal grains having a grain size number exceeding 10.
US07744279B2 Orientation sensing apparatus for radiation imaging system
A radiation imaging system includes a radiation head with a radiation source and an adjustable angular orientation. A radiation image detection device has a photostimulable medium that records an image according to radiation emitted from the radiation source. A measurement sensor apparatus, preferably inertial, is coupled sequentially to the photostimulable medium to provide three-dimensional data for determining the angular orientation of the photostimulable medium and to the radiation source for determining its angular orientation. There is at least one indicator responsive to the orientation data from the measurement sensor apparatus for indicating an orientation adjustment of the radiation source is needed in at least one direction.
US07744275B2 Optical fiber temperature sensing device
An optical fiber temperature sensing device has a sensor body; a light source housed in the sensor body; a temperature measuring optical fiber disposed outside the sensor body and extended to a temperature measurement site, wherein, when a light is emitted from the light source into the temperature measuring optical fiber, Stokes light intensity and anti-Stokes light intensity of backscattered light generated in the temperature measuring optical fiber are detected to determine a temperature at the temperature measurement site; a reference temperature optical fiber disposed inside the sensor body; and a controller that is operable to control an output of the light source by monitoring Stokes light intensity and anti-Stokes light intensity of backscattered light generated in the reference temperature optical fiber.
US07744271B2 Double sided tourbillon
The invention relates to a tourbillon mechanism comprising at least one platform, a balance arranged on the face of the platform(s), an escapement mechanism being arranged on the other face.
US07744262B2 Backlight module with nonlinearly arranged light emitting diodes and liquid crystal display with same
An exemplary backlight module includes a light guide plate, and a light source positioned for illuminating the light guide plate. The light source includes a plurality of LED units, and each LED unit includes a red LED, two green LEDs, and a blue LED. Each red, green, and blue LED has a center. In each LED unit, the centers of the red LED and the blue LED are at two opposite sides respectively of an imaginary line defined between the centers of the green LEDs.
US07744261B2 Vehicle lighting system
A vehicle lighting system includes a plurality of lamps having their own inherent respective light distribution characteristics. The plurality of lamps includes a first lamp to irradiate an area excluding a nearest field area just in front of a vehicle, and a second lamp which irradiates only the nearest field area. The plurality of lamps are operable to be simultaneously or selectively lit, and are operable so that irradiation lights of the lamps are combined so as to obtain a particular light distribution characteristic in accordance with various driving conditions of a vehicle.
US07744258B2 Outdoor LED lamp assembly
An outdoor LED lamp assembly includes a receiving member and an LED lamp mounted on the receiving member. The LED lamp includes a heat sink and a plurality of LED modules mounted on the heat sink. The receiving member includes a bottom plate. A plurality of screw assemblies extends through the bottom plate to engage with the receiving member to mount the bottom plate on the receiving member. Each of the screw assemblies includes a screw and a circlip snapping the screw. The screw includes a head and a thread portion extending from the head. The threaded portion threadedly engages in the receiving member. The bottom plate of the receiving member is sandwiched between the head and the circlip. A wire interconnects the receiving member and the bottom plate. The screws are remained on the bottom plate when the screws are loosened from the receiving member.
US07744257B2 Heat dissipation device for LED lamp
A heat dissipation device adapted for removing heat from LED modules of an LED lamp includes a plurality of heat sinks, a plurality of fin sets and a plurality of heat pipes extending through the fin sets and thermally connecting the heat sinks and the fin sets together. The heat sinks each have a base plate with a bottom surface which is kept in contact with corresponding LED modules and a plurality of fins arranged on a top surface of the base plate. Each of the fin sets consists of a plurality of flakes and defines a plurality of air passages between the flakes. Air can flow through the heat dissipation device from a place thereunder to a place thereabove via the air passages between the flakes of the fin sets.
US07744252B2 Sustainably constructed heat dissipating integrated lighting surface
A lighted heat dissipating panel made of sustainable renewable materials such as recycled aluminum and soy-based urethane, for use in architectural or shelving applications. The panel may be flat, rectangular, curvilinear, or of varying cross section so as to include any three-dimensional shape as desired. Lightweight materials such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, resin, soy-based urethane, and similar materials are used in combination with thermally conductive structural materials, such as expanded aluminum honeycomb, preferably fabricated from recycled aluminum, to provide a stiff, lightweight, machinable, moldable, and thermally conductive panel for use with lighting elements. Lighting elements are housed within the panel, providing illumination as desired. Heat is transferred from the lighting elements through the panel to the supporting structure and radiated from the panel itself, providing cooling effect for the lighting elements, reducing the temperature in the immediate vicinity of the lighting elements and providing for longer lighting element life.
US07744249B2 High-pressure discharge lamp, lamp unit and image display device
The present invention provides a high-pressure discharge lamp having a long life.A high-pressure discharge lamp (100) comprises a light emitting part (4); first and second sealing parts (6, 8); first and second electrodes (10, 11); a first conductive lead (21) wound around the first sealing part; a first lead wire (22) electrically connecting the first conductive lead to the first electrode; a second conductive lead (25) wound around the second sealing part; and a second lead wire (26) connecting the second conductive lead to the first electrode. The second lead wire detours the light emitting part to avoid being affected by heat.After the lamp is turned off, the temperature of base parts of the electrodes immediately falls, and much mercury can be collected in the vicinities of the base parts.
US07744247B2 LED lamp having double-side heat sink
An LED lamp includes a heat sink having a base and a plurality of fins extending from the base. A plurality of LED modules is thermally attached to the base of the heat sink. A lamp frame surrounds the LED modules on the heat sink and is hermetically mounted to the heat sink. A lens is hermetically attached to the lamp frame and covers the LED modules. The fins includes a plurality of first fins extending from a first face of the base of the heat sink, and second fins extending from a second face of the base. The LED modules are located between the second fins. A pole has a top end engages with the lamp frame. The pole is used for mounting the LED lamp at a desired position, for example, a sidewalk of a street.
US07744246B2 Portable luminaire
A portable luminaire includes an optical module, a power source and a housing. The optical module has at least one light emitting diode (LED) that emits light with a wide divergence, a non-imaging optical element and a transparent window. The non-imaging optical element (NIO) has a refractive member located around a LED optical axis and a total internal reflection member located around the refractive member. The refractive member and the total internal reflection member are integrated in a single transparent element having a mutual focal point. The NIO element collects a significant amount of light emitted by the LED with wide divergence located at the focal point to compress the collected light with high efficiency into a required pattern with a generally different angular distribution in a horizontal plane and a vertical plane, and to direct the compressed light outside of the luminaire.
US07744245B2 Prism sheet and backlight module using the same
An exemplary prism sheet includes a transparent main body. The main body includes a first surface, a second surface and a plurality of conical frustum micro-depressions and a plurality of triangular pyramidal micro-depressions. The first surface and the second surface are on opposite sides of the main body. The conical frustum micro-depressions are formed in the first surface and the triangular pyramidal micro-depressions are formed in the second surfaces. A backlight module using the present prism sheet is also provided.
US07744243B2 Lighting device and lighting method
A lighting device comprising two or more solid state light emitters which emit light in the range of 430 nm to 480 nm and one or more lumiphors which emit light in the range of 555 nm to 585 nm. Also, a lighting device comprising two or more solid state light emitters. The lighting devices make a mixture of light which in the absence of any other light would be within an area defined by coordinates (0.32, 0.40), (0.36, 0.48), (0.43, 0.45), (0.42, 0.42), and (0.36, 0.38). The lighting device may further comprise one or more 600 nm to 630 nm light emitters, and the lighting device may emit light within ten MacAdam ellipses of the blackbody locus. Also, packaged solid state light emitters and methods of lighting.
US07744241B2 High brightness light source using light emitting devices of different wavelengths and wavelength conversion
A wavelength division multiplexer and etendue conserved optics are used to combine multiple wavelength LED lights into a combined light. The combined light, with higher intensity and higher power than the light from an individual LED, is used to excite a wavelength conversion material such as phosphors to generate a high brightness and high power light. Light generated by multiple LEDs of the same wavelength may be coupled into a optical fiber bundle before inputting it into the wavelength-division multiplexer, further increasing the brightness and power. The wavelength conversion material may generate light of three different color under excitation by different LED lights, or a white light with higher brightness and higher power. Such a light source can be used in image display devices such as a projector or in illumination systems.
US07744239B2 Protection shield and grip for flashlight
A thermally-insulating, glow-in-the-dark, protection shield and grip for a flashlight. The shield encircles the switch so that the switch cannot inadvertently be turned ON to discharge the batteries.
US07744238B2 Input device having multi-stage indicating lamp
The present invention relates to an input device having a multi-stage indicating lamp. The input device includes a case and an electronic lighting module. The electronic lighting module includes a printed circuit board, a first electronic lighting element, a second electronic lighting element, a light guide post member, a light-shielding member, a lamp cover and a button. By means of the light guide post member and the light-shielding member, the possibility of scattering the light beams is reduced.
US07744236B2 Underwater lamp
An underwater lamp includes a cylindrical shaped shell with two opposite ends being open, a lens being received at one of the two opposite ends of the shell, and a sink base attaching to the other one of the two opposite ends of the shell. An interior space is defined among the shell, the sink base, and the lens. A light generating element for emitting light is received in the interior space and thermally attached to the sink base. The light generating element has an emitting surface facing the lens. At least one opening is defined in the lamp for fluid flowing into the interior space.
US07744232B2 Decorative luminary
Decorative luminary for providing an aesthetically pleasing ambiance. The decorative luminary may include a shade. The shade may be disposable. The decorative luminary may also include a base. A light source may also be included as well. The present invention also relates to a method for making a decorative luminary of the present invention.
US07744227B2 Projector including a turn table for shifting a lens barrel
A projector includes an image forming device, a projection lens for projecting an image produced by the image forming device, and an external case which accommodates the image forming device and at least a part of the projection lens and has an opening through which a light emission end of the projection lens is exposed. The projection lens has a lens barrel and a plurality of lenses equipped within the lens barrel. The lens barrel has a fixed part and a movable part. A turn table for shifting the movable part of the lens barrel in the direction of the optical axis of the projection lens is provided. The direction of the rotation axis of the turn table is substantially perpendicular to the optical axis of the projection lens. The top surface of the turn table is exposed through the outer surface of the external case.
US07744226B2 Projection type image display apparatus
A projection type image display apparatus has: an illumination optical system generating illumination light; a projection optical system projecting an image light onto a screen; a digital micromirror device (DMD) modulating the illumination light so as to form the image light; and a reflection mirror arranged in a position opposite to an optical path of the illumination light entering the DMD. The reflection mirror reflects an off-light reflected by the DMD in an “OFF” state in a direction separated from a projection light reflected by the DMD in an “ON” state.
US07744219B2 Binocular indirect ophthalmoscope fixation light
A binocular indirect opthalmoscope assembly and fixation light system is disclosed for easily directing the patient's line of sight in a direction that places the optic nerve and surrounding vessels in the center of the examiner's view. The fixation system includes two fixation light assemblies that may be mounted onto the binocular indirect opthalmoscope assembly and activated by a motion sensor.
US07744217B2 Apparatus and method for determining an eyeglass prescription for a vision defect of an eye
The disclosure relates to a method for determining an eyeglass prescription for a vision defect of an eye. In certain embodiments, the method includes optimizing a caustic in the area of the retina of the eye for a light ray passing through the eyeglass prescription and the eye. The disclosure further relates to an apparatus that is suitable for carrying out the method.
US07744215B2 Multiple layer multifocal composite lens
Aspects of the present invention provide multiple-layer composite lenses comprising two or more materials and methods for making the same. A multi-layer composite lens of the present invention can use multiple surfaces to form optical elements that can contribute to a total desired add power. The multiple contributing elements can be aligned so as to be in optical communication to form multiple stable vision zones to enhance optical performance and vision experience of the wearer. Distributing the total desired add power across multiple appropriately aligned optical elements that are in optical communication with one another can reduce the total distortion of the lens, minimize the number of optical discontinuities introduced and reduce the visibility of any introduced optical discontinuity. A surface of the multiple-layer composite lens can comprise a combined progressive structure and substantially constant optical power structure or a cropped progressive structure.
US07744214B2 System, apparatus and method for correcting vision with an adaptive optic
An electro-active spectacle lens is disclosed. The disclosed lens includes a first lens optic. The disclosed lens also includes a first electro-active zone positioned in a cooperative relationship with the first lens optic. In certain embodiments, the electro-active lens includes a range finder positioned in a cooperative relationship with the electro-active lens.
US07744209B2 Media conveyance system of an ink ejection image forming apparatus
In an image forming apparatus, a nip roller group for pressing a face of a conveyance belt on which a recording medium is held includes a pair of first end pressing parts which are arranged in the width direction of the conveyance belt at a distance corresponding to the recording medium having a predetermined size, and a first center pressing part which is arranged between the pair of first end pressing parts. Herein, a pressing force of the first center pressing part is set to be smaller than pressing forces of the first end pressing parts.
US07744208B2 Printer with ink transfer roller and cleaning station
A printer has a chassis with a pair of guide rails. A retractable print media tray assembly is arranged on the guide rails in a displaceable manner. At least one print engine is arranged on the chassis and has an ink ejecting printhead assembly configured to eject ink onto an associated ink transfer roller. At least one cleaning station is engaged with a respective ink transfer roller and configured to clean residual ink from the transfer roller, subsequent to transfer of ink from the transfer roller onto the print media.
US07744204B2 Liquid discharge apparatus and liquid discharge device group capable of changing fluid resistance
A liquid discharge apparatus includes a nozzle, a pressure chamber, a liquid supply chamber, a liquid supply passage, and a fluid resistance changing mechanism. A liquid pressure in the pressure chamber is configured to be changed to discharge liquid from the nozzle. The liquid supply passage extends in a connecting direction to connect the liquid supply chamber and the pressure chamber. The fluid resistance changing mechanism is configured to change a fluid resistance of the liquid supply passage.
US07744203B2 Needle and manufacturing method thereof
The distance between an end of a contour of the curved area at which a straight line extending longitudinally of the pipe through the axis of the hole intersects with the contour of the curved area, and an end of the hole that is the nearest to the end of the contour of the curved area longitudinally of the pipe, is larger than the distance between an end of the contour of the curved area at which a straight line extending laterally of the pipe through the axis of the hole intersects with the contour of the curved area, and an end of the hole that is the nearest to the end of the contour of the curved area laterally of the pipe, when viewed along the central axis of the through hole.
US07744200B2 Inkjet printer and control method thereof
An inkjet printer includes a print head having a plurality of nozzles; a plurality of ink cartridges storing inks of different colors, respectively, to be supplied to the print head; and a pressure applying section for applying pressure in an ejecting direction to the inks in the nozzles of the print head by supplying compressed air to the ink cartridges, and the pressure applying section has a pump for supplying compressed air to the ink cartridges through an air channel provided between the ink cartridges and said pump; and a charge tank provided in the air channel, for temporarily keeping the compressed air, and, after increasing the pressure in the ink cartridges, charge tank and air channel by the supply of compressed air from the pump, the compressed air is released to the print head and the pressure is applied to the inks in the nozzles of the print head.
US07744198B2 Inkjet head printing device
There is provided an inkjet head printing device, which includes an inkjet head that has an ink flow channel unit including a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink and a plurality of pressure chambers respectively provided for the plurality of nozzles, and has a piezoelectric actuator unit including a plurality of electrodes. The inkjet head further includes a pulse controller that generates a plurality of types of ejection pulse patterns having different phases and drives the plurality of electrodes corresponding to the plurality of nozzles which are to eject the ink using the plurality of types of ejection pulse patterns.
US07744191B2 Flexible printhead module incorporating staggered rows of ink ejection nozzles
A printhead module assembly includes a printhead integrated circuit (IC) assembly. The printhead IC assembly includes a plurality of ink ejection nozzles arranged to form staggered rows. The printhead IC assembly defines a plurality of ink channels for supplying ink to the ink ejection nozzles. A flexible printed circuit board (PCB) is electrically connected to supply both power and data to the IC assembly. A support sheet defines a plurality of ink holes. The IC assembly is bonded to the support sheet so that the ink channels are aligned with the ink holes.
US07744184B2 Mechanical dithering of printing mechanisms
A system includes a control module that communicates with a printhead having nozzles, that detects a malfunctioning nozzle, and that generates control signals when the malfunctioning nozzle is detected. The system includes a vibration generator that selectively vibrates the printhead along a first axis of a print medium based on the control signals. The first axis is selected from a group consisting of parallel and perpendicular to a second axis of motion of the print medium. The printhead vibrates synchronously with at least one of a speed of the print medium and timing of firing of the nozzles.
US07744181B2 Printer controller for monitoring an ink drop count
Provided is a printer controller for a pagewidth printer having a printhead configured to print according to print quality information. The printer has a paper transport mechanism for transporting a sheet of paper along a media path through the printer. The controller includes a processor having an address, data and control bus, an expander unit and a decoder unit each coupled to the bus and configured to decompress a bi-level black layer and a continuous tone (contone) layer of a page to be printed. The controller also includes a replaceable ink cartridge arranged in the media path and having a first integrated circuit (IC) interfaced with the processor, the first IC containing the print quality information. Also included is a second IC interfaced to the processor. The processor is configured to count a number of drops of ink printed by the printhead, to update a remaining drop count of the ink cartridge using the counted drops printed and to write an updated remaining drop count to the second IC each time a page has been printed. The processor is also configured to control the paper transport mechanism during printing.
US07744178B2 Rack-mounted rail system
A racking system for storing equipment in a rack includes a rail that is configured to be attached to the rack and a housing that receives the equipment. One of the housing and rail includes a catch, and the other of the housing and the rail includes a slot for engaging the catch. The catch is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the catch engages the slot and extends away from a surface of either the housing and the rail, and in the second position, the catch is withdrawn from engaging the slot. The catch rotates upon moving between the first position and the second position, and the catch is biased towards the first position.
US07744173B2 Ice bucket retainer for refrigerator
A refrigerator is provided with a cabinet having a door that is openable by a user to provide access to a refrigeration compartment. A storage bin is located in the refrigeration compartment and accessible upon the opening of the cabinet door. A mounting system is arranged for the storage bin, supporting the storage bin for movement into and out of the refrigeration compartment. A latch is carried on the cabinet door to be selectively engaged by the user with a latch receiving portion of the storage bin. When the latch is engaged with the latch receiving portion, the storage bin will be pulled out of the refrigerator upon the opening of the cabinet door, and when the latch is disengaged from the latch receiving portion, the storage bin will remain in the refrigeration compartment, unless manually moved by the user.
US07744172B2 Computer enclosure with interchangeable I/O plate
A computer enclosure includes a rear plate defining a through opening therein, a mounting bracket secured on the rear plate to cover the through opening of the rear plate, and an interchangeable I/O plate. The mounting bracket includes a top wall perpendicular to the rear plate and, a front wall parallel to the rear plate. The top wall forms an engaging tab thereon. The front wall defines a through opening therein corresponding to the through opening of the rear plate. The I/O plate is configured for covering the through opening of the front wall of the mounting bracket, and defines a securing hole therein for receiving the engaging tab of the mounting bracket. A locking piece is formed on the I/O plate and together with the I/O plate sandwiches an edge of the through opening of the mounting bracket therebetween.
US07744170B1 Weather resistant container for displaying building permits and storing construction documents
A weather resistant permit display apparatus includes a base, a cover hingedly connected to the base and a permit display panel connected to the base inside of the cover when the cover is in a closed position. A transparent portion of the cover allows a permit mounted on the display panel to be viewed through the closed cover. The display panel may be hingedly connected to the base to provide access to a document bin positioned behind the display panel.
US07744168B2 Brake control system
A brake disabling device for a vehicle includes an electronic control unit (ECU) for receiving a signal indicative of a direction of the vehicle. A control device communicates with the ECU for disabling brakes associated with a steer axle of the vehicle as a function of the direction of the vehicle.
US07744165B2 Spoked wheel for tires
A spoked wheel includes a rim with a plurality of holes for a respective plurality of nipples and an equal plurality of spokes secured to the rim by these nipples. The nipples are arranged to be fitted so as to be substantially gastight in the respective holes in the rim for the purpose of fitting tubeless tires to the rim.
US07744159B2 Height adjustment mechanism for armrest
An armrest adjustment mechanism is disclosed. The armrest adjustment mechanism includes a sleeve, a tubular member, a slider, a long plate, a fixing plate, a guiding plate, a retaining block, a lower base, an armrest pad and a lever arm. The armrest adjustment mechanism features on that: an insertion hole is disposed on upper end of the long plate while the lever arm is arranged inside a space between the armrest pad and the lower base. The lever arm inserts through the insertion hole on top end of the long plate so that the long plate hangs on the lever arm, working as a load. One end of the lever arm is arranged on one side of the lower base, working as the fulcrum while the other end of the lever arm is arranged on an opposite side of the lower base correspondingly. A push member projecting from a corresponding opening of the lower base is arranged on the other end of the lever arm, working as the effort. Thus the push member is moved upwards by being pushed by the user from the outside or elastically turned back to the original position so as to make the lever arm (like a Type-2 lever) drives the long plate to move upwards synchronously. Therefore, the adjustment of the armrest height is achieved.
US07744154B2 Energy-dissipation system
A child restraint includes a juvenile vehicle seat and an energy-absorption apparatus coupled to the juvenile vehicle seat. The energy-absorption apparatus is configured to absorb external energy associated with an external impact force applied to the energy-absorption apparatus.
US07744152B2 Collapsing truss for a vehicle seat
A collapsing truss that completes a four-bar mechanism of a vehicle seat coupled to a vehicle floor. The vehicle seat includes a seat back coupled to a cushion structure via the collapsing truss which incorporates a pivot and a latch which engages on a pin. The collapsing truss includes a floor bracket coupled to the vehicle floor. A seat back bracket is coupled to the seat back and floor bracket. A cushion bracket is pivotally coupled to the cushion structure, the floor bracket, and the seat back bracket. The joints of the collapsing truss are defined by the seat back pivot, the cushion back/seat back bracket pivot, and the latch engagement pin. The seat back moves about the pivot when the collapsing truss operates.
US07744151B2 Sunshade assembly and open roof construction provided therewith
A sunshade assembly includes a flexible sunscreen, a rotatable winding shaft for winding and unwinding the sunscreen and two opposed guides for cooperation with two opposed longitudinal edges of the sunscreen. Each guide extends longitudinally in a curved manner in a plane which substantially is perpendicular to the sunscreen and in parallel to the respective longitudinal edge of the sunscreen. Longitudinal edge sections of the sunscreen are less stretchable than the remainder of the sunscreen and are tensioned in the longitudinal direction of the sunscreen.
US07744147B2 Deflector for responding vehicle speed
The present invention relates to a deflector for responding a vehicle speed including a deflector body installed at a door frame to rotate diagonally toward the rear of the vehicle, wherein one end of the deflector body in the front of the vehicle is connected via a hinge and the other end thereof in the rear of the vehicle is configured in a form of a free end; a solenoid connected to the deflector body and pushing up or down the deflector body; a piezoelectric element installed in a division channel and sensing the intensity of wind being in contact with the same; and an ECU adjusting a projection height of the deflector body in multiple levels by applying control current corresponding to three levels to the solenoid on the basis of the vehicle speed, a status of a rear door glass, and a sensing signal of the piezoelectric element.
US07744146B2 Reinforcement structure for upper portion of vehicle door
Disclosed herein is a reinforcement structure for an upper portion of a vehicle door comprising, an inner panel disposed in a vehicle cabin, an outer panel disposed so as to be spaced apart from the inner panel with a receiving space therebetween, and a reinforcement panel bonded to the inner panel so as to form a closed section space, upper and lower portions of the reinforcement panel being bonded to the inner panel so as to form the closed section space therein.
US07744142B2 Strap bed lift
A vehicle includes at least two items that move vertically between a lowered position and a raised position. In one embodiment, one of the items is a seating unit having a seat back and a seat base such as a couch or a dinette. The seating unit may convert into a bed. In another embodiment, one of the items may be a bed. The vehicle may also include a cargo area which is configured to receive an off-road vehicle. One or more of the items may be lifted in the cargo area to provide additional cargo space in the vehicle. The vehicle may also include other items that move vertically such as a desk, a table, a workbench, an entertainment center, an appliance, a television, a sink, a cupboard, a cabinet, a shelf, and/or a counter.
US07744140B2 Gripping device
A mooring connector or pipeline recovery tool comprising a mandrel (10) around which is concentrically disposed a ball cage (11) having balls (12) protruding therefrom so that relative longitudinal movement of the mandrel (10) and ball cage (11) causes the balls to ascend ramped surfaces of the mandrel (10) thus to protrude outwardly through the ball cage (11). The conventional arrangement of balls in regular rows and columns is replaced by helical rows or random arrays of the balls thus to avoid excessive grooving and deformation of the wall of a receptor into which the connector is inserted.
US07744136B2 Remote refuse collection and bagging device and method
Disclosed is a remote collection and bagging device for a sanitary and convenient means for collecting and disposing of refuse or fecal matter at a distance from a user. The device comprises a handle and trigger, a foldable extension shaft, a cable attached to the trigger and slide bars, the slide bars also connected to a set of claws which are spring biased in a normally open position and a bag retention mechanism. The claws have teeth that intermesh with each other when in a closed position such that the teeth extend past each other in order to get beneath the refuse or material being collected. Once refuse is collected, the device can be raised to a horizontal position thereby causing the collected material to fall into the attached bag for easy disposal.
US07744135B2 Adjustable striker bolt system and method
An adjustable striker bolt assembly includes a mount having a first slot oriented along a first axis and a second slot oriented along a second axis. The second axis is disposed at a predetermined angle to the first axis. The adjustable striker bolt assembly further includes a striker bolt supported in the second slot of the mount.
US07744134B2 Connecting insulated duct
A connector assembly is used in connecting one duct section to another, at least one of the duct sections being an insulated duct. The assembly comprises a plurality of first elements, and a plurality of second elements, each first element including attachment means for attachment of an end face of a duct section thereto, and, in use, at least one second element engages with two first elements.
US07744133B2 Jointed head with temporary clamp for stirling machine
A clamping apparatus for allowing pre-close-out access to the head of a Stirling machine and facilitating subsequent close-out welding of the head. The head is axially separable into removable and fixed portions that engage each other. Each portion has an annular flange extending radially outwardly at its engaging end, and each flange has an annular groove. O-rings are seated in the grooves. A temporary sealing ring surrounds and engages the O-rings. Clamping rings seat against axially opposite sides of the abutting annular flanges. Fasteners draw the rings together, thereby drawing the fixed and removable portions of the head together and securing them against relative axial movement. For close-out of the machine, the clamping rings, temporary sealing ring, and O-rings are removed and the grooved annular flanges serve as weld reliefs for final hermetic close-out welding.
US07744129B2 Areal security element and method for producing it
An areal security element for security papers, documents of value and the like, with at least two different areal security features (20, 22) disposed one above the other, which each are recognizable upon viewing the security element from opposite sides, wherein the first security feature (20) has a thin-layer element (42) provided with an areal diffraction structure (46) with color shift effect, which contains a first reflection layer (40) with a first color effect, the second security feature (22) has a second reflection layer (44) provided with an areal diffraction structure (46) for producing a diffractive image, which shows a second color effect different from the first color effect, and wherein the thin-layer element (42) of the first security feature (20) and the reflection layer (44) of the second security feature (22) are provided with the same areal diffraction structure (46).
US07744125B2 Occupant safety device for roof reinforcement
An occupant safety device for a motor vehicle having a roof. The safety occupant device comprises a support structure slidably mounted within the vehicle that, upon actuation, extends vertically upwardly within the vehicle to cooperate with the vehicle's roof to increase the amount of weight that the roof can support. The support structure includes an overhanging top portion having a length and a direction of overhang that, upon actuation of the support structure, provide early roof engagement in the event of roof crush.
US07744123B2 Method and apparatus for controlling an actuatable restraining device using XY side satellite accelerometers
An apparatus is provided for controlling a vehicle actuatable occupant restraining system. A central crash accelerometer senses crash acceleration at a central vehicle location provides a first crash acceleration signal. A side-satellite accelerometer senses crash acceleration substantially parallel with a front-to-rear axis of the vehicle and provides a signal indicative thereof. A controller actuates the actuatable occupant restraining system in response to the central crash acceleration signal and the side-satellite signal.
US07744122B2 Driver side aspirated airbags
Airbag module mounted in connection with a steering wheel includes an inflator for generating gas and arranged on the steering wheel assembly, a conduit between the inflator and the interior of the airbag, and an aspirating structure arranged in connection with the conduit for enabling air from a passenger compartment to flow into the conduit and thus into the interior of the airbag. The airbag may be housed in a housing in a middle of the steering wheel. The aspirating structure may include one or more nozzles and/or one or more valves to allow for air flow from the passenger compartment into the conduit and prevent reverse flow. The inflator may include propellant distributed around an outer wall of the inflator.
US07744119B2 Airbag device and airbag for saddle-ride type vehicle
An airbag device and an airbag for a saddle-ride type vehicle is provided to efficiently utilize space in the vehicle body when installed therein, by using customized ways of shaping a housing case of the airbag and of folding the airbag so as to correspond to the shape of the housing case. The airbag device includes a housing case. The housing case includes a concave shape surface. The concave shape surface faces a steering stem. The housing case is disposed behind the steering stem so as to cover a rear of the steering stem with the concave shape surface. The airbag device includes an airbag housed in the housing case. The housed airbag corresponds to a shape of an inner peripheral surface of the housing case having the concave shape surface.
US07744118B2 Knee protecting airbag device
In a knee protecting airbag device of the present invention, an airbag is folded and housed on the front side of the knees of a seated passenger. The airbag is protruded rearward of a vehicle from a protruding opening and expanded and inflated upward, when an inflating gas flows in. And, the airbag is arranged on the front side of the knees of the passenger between a member on the body side and the knees of the passenger thereby to protect the knees of the passenger. The protruding opening has a transverse width size set within a range of ⅛ to ⅔ of the transverse width size of the airbag having completed its expansion and inflation.
US07744115B2 Airbag-releasing structure, inner case, and airbag device
An airbag-releasing structure capable of smoothly releasing an airbag in the vehicle, an inner case, and an airbag device are provided. In one form, the inner case of the present invention includes the inner panels connected to the inside of the outer panel, and the side walls defining the space for housing the retainer. Each inner panel includes the supporting portion connected to the fixing portion of the outer panel, the flap portion welded to the door portion, and the hinge portion formed between the supporting portion and the flap portion. The hinge portion has the apex section, the connecting section adjacent to the supporting portion, which connects the supporting portion and the apex section, and the connecting section adjacent to the flap portion, which connects the flap portion and the apex section. The connecting section adjacent to the supporting portion and the connecting section adjacent to the flap portion each have a straight section extending in the direction in which the airbag is released.
US07744114B2 Pushchair for elderly or disabled adults foldable in two planes
The present invention relates to a push chair for elderly or disabled adults, of the type formed of two tubular sides, with a seat and a backrest with collapsible structure fixed between them, capable of being brought closer and farther by means of two pantograph-shaped crosspieces interposed between them, characterized in that the two sides are simultaneously moved close and folded, in such a way that the front wheel of each side is placed in vertically aligned position above the back wheel.
US07744112B2 Low profile saddle mount
A low profile saddle mount for use in the transportation of vehicles including a saddle body configuration capable of withstanding increased load capacity over conventional saddle mounts is disclosed. The saddle mount generally includes a pair of laterally spaced support plates and a substantially tubular cross member extending therebetween. Each of the support plates is at least partially disposed inside the cross member at opposing ends thereof and secured therein using at least one dampening or filler plate. The configuration of the support plates in combination with one or more filler plate provides limited yield/deflection of the saddle body during operation and provides a load dissipation function, thereby permitting the support plates to withstand an increased load capacity.
US07744107B2 Four-bar linkage suspension device for a wheeled vehicle
A shock-absorbing suspension device includes a mounting rod mounted on a wheeled vehicle frame, a wheel rod mounted on a vehicle wheel axle and forward of the mounting rod, a counteracting member pivotally mounted on the mounting rod and having forward and rearward ends forward of the wheel rod, a primary linking bar disposed to couple one of the forward and rearward ends to the wheel rod so as to permit swinging of the counteracting member, a cantilever arm extending forward from the mounting rod to terminate at a bearing end, and a force transmitting member disposed to couple the bearing end to the other one of the forward and rearward ends to thereby minimize the impact of shock on the mounting rod.
US07744106B2 Vehicle step with hinged pedestal mount
A vehicle step assembly uses hinged pedestals, attitude links and an energy storage device to position step stringers and an attached step beam in a generally horizontal and elevated deployed position, while permitting a space-saving tucked-in stowed position.
US07744105B2 Isolated spring clamp group
A clamp assembly of a vehicle leaf spring suspension is disclosed. The clamp assembly has an axle bracket secured to a vehicle axle and a top cap secured to the axle bracket by mechanical fasteners to define an axle seat. The axle bracket and top cap may include interlocking keys and keyways to cooperate with the mechanical fasteners in transmitting the load from the vehicle axle. A spring seat of the leaf spring is received within the axle seat and is tapered. The tapered spring seat, when combined with a deformable liner in the axle seat, effectively eliminates the inactive portion of the leaf spring to increase the effective length of the spring and minimize the spring rate.
US07744104B2 Suspension arm and cushion arm structure for vehicle
A suspension arm and cushion support structure for a vehicle. A knuckle support part of a rear suspension arm is formed of a plate member extended to the vehicle body inner side relative to a rim of a wheel element so as to cover the lower side of a boot covering a connected part between a drive shaft and a universal joint. The knuckle is supported by the rear suspension arm, and rotatably supports a wheel of the vehicle. A cushion is provided for absorbing shocks transmitted to the wheel, the lower end of the cushion being coaxially supported on the knuckle support part of a lower part of the rear suspension arm.
US07744100B2 Truck assembly for a skateboard, wheeled platform, or vehicle
A method of propelling a wheeled platform, which includes creating a source of energy upon a first change in orientation of the platform relative to an axle housing of the wheeled platform by rotating the platform around an axis approximately parallel to a longitudinal axis of the platform. The source of energy is stored and released to propel the wheeled platform.
US07744094B2 Mechanical seal device
A mechanical seal device includes a rotational seal ring connected to a rotational shaft, having a rotational seal surface and arc-shaped grooves arranged on the rotational seal surface. The grooves are sectionalized by partition walls. A stationary seal ring has a stationary seal surface facing the rotational seal surface of the rotational seal ring. A spring biases the stationary seal ring against the rotational seal ring. Outlet portions are formed on the stationary seal surface of the stationary seal ring and connect with a fluid supply path for supplying a pressure fluid. A circumferential direction length (W3) of each outlet portion is made to be ½ of a circumferential direction length (W1) of each partition wall or longer (W3≧W1/2); and a circumferential direction length (W3) of the outlet portions is made to be shorter than a circumferential direction length (W2) of the arc-shaped grooves (W3
US07744091B2 Identity guessing game and methods of playing
An identity guessing game includes a plurality of identities to be guessed. Each identity is provided on a media in a manner permitting selection of one identity by a player for a round of play. The game also includes a plurality of clue sets, each clue set having multiple clues relating to a respective one of the identities. Each clue within each clue set is provided on a media so as to be presentable one at a time to a player during the round of play. A game can be played by selecting or providing a first identity to be guessed and a first set of clues each relating to the first identity. A first player is presented with at least one clue of the first set of clues. The first player can then determine whether to guess the first identity and move to the next step or to be presented with another of the first set of clues. The first player guesses the first identity when all of the first set of clues have been presented or when the first player decides to guess the first identity having been presented fewer than the entire first set of clues.
US07744089B2 Ball practice device
The present invention relates to a ball practice device, which comprises a frame, a net, a base bracket and a supporting assembly. The supporting assembly is interposed between the frame and the base bracket, and is configured for supporting the frame together with the base bracket. The net is attached to the frame and is connected to the frame by a connecting member which the net can be disassembled from.
US07744084B2 Method and device for diverting flat objects
In a transport method, a leading object is diverted from an initial direction to a target direction and transported and stopped by a guiding facility. If the following object has reached a specific position during transport in the initial direction, the guiding facility triggers continuation of the transport of the leading object, diverts the following object to the target direction, and transports the following object in the target direction. If a determined sum of the thicknesses of the objects is less than or equal to a predetermined thickness limit, continuation of the transport of the leading object is triggered such that the following object moves onto the leading object when diverted and overlaps the leading object when transported in the target direction. If the thickness sum is greater than the thickness limit, continuation of the transport of the leading object is triggered such that a gap exists between the objects.
US07744082B2 Paper-sheet feeding device with kicker roller
A paper-sheet feeding device including a kicker roller configured to contact a forefront paper-sheet of a plurality of stacked paper-sheets and kick out the forefront paper-sheet; a feed roller to feed-out the paper-sheets to be kicked out by the kicker roller; and a press-fitting roller press-fit against the feed roller to provide a gate unit adapted to separate the paper-sheets to be fed by the feed roller, into one sheet. The kicker roller includes a base part and a high friction part formed in part of the outer circumference of the base part along the circumferential direction and configured to kick out the forefront paper-sheet. The feed roller includes a base part and a high friction part formed over the entire outer circumference of the base part and configured to contact the surface of the paper-sheet to be kicked out by the kicker roller to perform feed-out of the paper-sheet.
US07744080B2 Sheet feed device and image forming apparatus
A sheet feed device includes a sheet storage portion, a pick-up unit, a sheet-feed separation unit, and an air blower. The sheet storage portion stores a stack of sheets. The pick-up unit picks up the sheets stored in the sheet storage portion. The sheet-feed separation unit separates and feeds one by one the sheets picked up by the pick-up unit. The air blower blows air against a lateral side face of the stack of sheets stored in the sheet storage portion. The pick-up unit picks up the sheets while the air blower blows air and before the sheet-feed separation unit starts to operate.
US07744078B2 Methods and apparatus for storing slip-sheets
The present invention provides a method and apparatus for storing a slip-sheet removed from a stack of interleaved slip-sheets and printing plates. A materials handling system separates a slip-sheet from a media stack that includes image recordable materials. A slip-sheet separates each of the image recordable materials from one another in the media stack. The slip-sheets removed from the stack are stored in a movable slip-sheet holder.
US07744074B2 Sheet processing apparatus and sheet processing method
A sheet processing apparatus includes a hole punching section arranged orthogonally to a conveying path of a sheet, a moving mechanism which moves the hole punching section along a direction orthogonal to the conveying path, a detection unit which is arranged upstream from the hole punching section and which moves by being interlocked with the hole punching section and detects a lateral edge of the sheet conveyed thereto, and a control unit which controls the moving mechanism in accordance with the result of detection by the detection unit and varies the position of the hole punching section, thus controlling the punching processing position. The control unit causes the hole punching section to be moved in the direction to the retreat position along with the conveying of the sheet, causes the hole punching section to retreat by a prescribed quantity with reference to the result of detection by the detection unit, then causes the hole punching section to be moved in the opposite direction, and controls movement to the punching processing position in accordance with the result of detection by the detection unit.
US07744072B2 Positioning device
An exemplary positioning device used for moving a workpiece to a targeted position, the positioning device includes: a pulling member, a platform, a guiding member, two opposite positioning members, and a cable. The guiding member is located on the platform. The positioning members are located on the guiding member. The cable connects the pulling member with the two guiding members. The pulling member is capable of pulling the two positioning members to move along the guiding member via the cable.
US07744068B2 Insulation for a steam carrying apparatus and method of attachment thereof
A steam dispersion system including insulation is disclosed. The steam dispersion system may include a steam dispersion tube with at least one opening defined on an outer surface of the steam dispersion tube and a hollow interior. The insulation covers at least a portion of the steam dispersion tube, the insulation defining an opening aligned with the opening of the steam dispersion tube, wherein the insulation meets 25/50 flame/smoke indexes for UL723/ASTM E-84 and has a thermal conductivity less than about 0.35 Watts/m-K (2.4 in-hr/ft^2 deg F.). A nozzle defining a throughhole may be placed within the opening of the steam dispersion tube, the throughhole being in fluid communication with the hollow interior of the steam dispersion tube to provide a steam exit.
US07744062B2 Apparatus to vary effective spring rate for use in diaphragm actuators
Apparatus to vary the effective spring rate of diaphragm actuators are described. An example spring assembly for use in a diaphragm actuator includes a first spring operatively coupled to a diaphragm plate and an actuator stem, and a second spring operatively coupled to the actuator stem and configured to be serially operative with the first spring. Additionally, a movable spring seat is disposed between the first and second springs.
US07744060B2 Fail-safe pneumatically actuated valve with fast time response and adjustable conductance
Apparatus and method for fail-safe high-speed-pneumatic valve is disclosed. Fail-safe dependability is provided by a spring-loaded normally-closed pneumatic actuator. When the spring-loaded actuator is pressurized, the normally closed mechanism is actuated to the valve active position. Concurrently, the pressure is directly applied to deflect a diaphragm or a bellow-assembly back to sealing position. Ultra high purity embodiments with standard dome shaped diaphragms are disclosed. Additional high conductance diaphragms and bellows embodiments are employed for higher conductance valves. Novel flow path layouts are disclosed. The valves are applicable for fast gas and fluid switching and are particularly suitable for high productivity Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) applications. Additional embodiments cover improved diaphragm and seal reliability, externally adjustable valve conductance, improved valve safety and high temperature valve seals.
US07744054B2 Device to aid the unloading of support elements
A device to aid the unloading of support elements, the support elements comprising a lower shaft and an upper shaft telescopically coupled to each other. The device includes annular first and second bodies coaxially couplable with each other. Each annular body is provided with a through-hole that allow the upper shaft to extend through the through holes. The upper shaft is also supported by the first annular body using a transversely extending member. The second annular body rests on the lower shaft. An intermediate unloading wedge is positioned between the first and the second annular bodies coupled together, and is able to slide transversally with respect thereto. The sliding of the unloading wedge causes the first annular body and the second annular body to come together or move apart in the longitudinal direction and, therefore, reduce or increase, respectively, the total length of the support element.
US07744053B2 Bottle holder
A bottle holder for holding and conveniently transporting a bottle of the character having a neck portion and an enlarged diameter body portion. The bottle holder can be conveniently affixed to the user's belt or waistband and includes a support body for supporting the bottle. The support body includes a generally U-shaped clip portion having first and second opposing sides that cooperate to form a retention channel that receives the user's belt or waistband and also includes a generally yoke shaped support portion for receiving the neck portion of the bottle. The yoke shaped portion of the body is connected to and extends from the first side of the clip portion at an acute angle slightly less than 90°. The bottle holder also includes a retaining member that is pivotally connected to the support body for movement between a first upraised position and a second lowered position wherein a portion of the retaining member circumscribes the neck portion of the bottle and secures the bottle in position within the yoke portion of the support body.
US07744050B2 Self-leveling foot for an appliance
A self-leveling foot for an appliance of the type that includes a base to be seated on a floor; a rod affixed to the base and projecting upwardly therefrom; an elastic element having a lower end seated on the base and a tubular sleeve, slidably mounted and guided around the rod, and having a lower portion seated on the upper end of the elastic element and an upper portion to be mounted under a lower frame portion of the appliance, so as to apply on the base, through the elastic element, a respective portion of the appliance weight. The foot of the present invention may further comprise a dampening means mounted between the parts of rod and tubular sleeve, so as to exert a braking force against the relative axial movement between said parts.
US07744047B2 Rotary neck cradle
A support device for supporting a musical instrument includes a base, the base includes a first side portion and a second side portion. The support device also includes a support body rotatably coupled to the base. The support body includes a first support surface and a second support surface. The first support surface defines a channel in the support body, the second support surface is substantially planar. The support body is configured to rotate between at least a first position and a second position around an axis intersecting the first side portion and the second side portion.
US07744044B2 Leaf catcher
A device that assists with the collection of leaves or debris by holding a garbage bag completely open so a user does not need to awkwardly bend down and hold open a bag while raking leaves into it. Thus, the user has both hands free to hold and use a rake or broom to sweep leaves or debris into the open bag. The bag is affixed to a frame with spring biased clips mounted in top and bottom structure of a bag receptive frame, the clips being received in cavities in the top and bottom structure so that the clips in a closed position thereof are flush with top and bottom structure surfaces adjacent thereto providing uniform surface for each of the top and bottom structure.
US07744041B2 Vertical pipe guard
A pipe support assembly which comprises a main body having a U-shaped recess therein, and a cover member for the body, the cover member having an arcuate configuration and being sized to fit between the first and second side walls, each of the cover members and body having a channel or a recess designed to receive a tie wrap to secure a pipe in position. The main body portion also has a clamping portion which comprises first and second resilient members.
US07744037B2 Calculating method for deducing possibilities of all possible scenarios of satellite members in low earth satellite constellation
A calculating method for deducing all possible scenarios of satellite members and possibilities thereof in a low earth orbiting (LEO) satellite constellation is described, which is achieved mainly by relying on the spherical geometry analysis and probabilities and statistics technologies, in an attempt to rapidly and precisely obtain the concerned scenarios and possibilities thereof observed on the earth ground. With any user-defined orbital parameters and a position of an observation station for the scenarios on the earth ground inputted, all the possible scenarios and possibilities thereof can be obtained with the calculating method.
US07744032B2 Power and imaging system for an airship
A power transmission and imaging system for an airship comprises a transmission antenna array configured to transmit an energy beam to a patch rectenna carried by the airship. Coupled to the patch rectenna is a power distribution and control network that supplies rectified power delivered by the energy beam into the proper format for delivery to a power storage system and a motor control system. The power storage system comprises one or more batteries to store the transmitted energy, while the motor control system powers various propellers, blowers, and valves maintained by the airship in order to descend the airship to the ground. The rectenna may also function as an imaging system in real-time. The image processing system uses the patch rectenna to transmit and receive signals, and in turn store and process the return signals (images).
US07744030B2 Webbing retractor
In a webbing retractor, when a V-gear rotates in a take-up direction at an angular velocity of less than a preset upper limit angular velocity VH and a braking pawl moves toward an engaging position, an anchor claw of the braking pawl meshes with an internal tooth of a braking gear, and the braking gear is connected via the braking pawl to the V-gear so as to rotate integrally in the take-up direction. In this way, a coil portion of a torsion coil spring twists in the take-up direction (diameter contracting direction) via anchor pins. Therefore, an inner diameter of the coil portion contracts, and an inner peripheral surface of the coil portion press-contacts an outer peripheral surface of a braking shaft. End locking is prevented from arising when a spool, which rotates in the take-up direction, stops.
US07744028B2 Stator for an impact crusher
A reliable, inexpensive option for the plates that function as wear parts and are mounted on an inner face of a casting wall of a stator. To achieve this the plates are designed as cast parts and are fixed to the inner face of the casting wall from an exterior of the stator. The plates are fixed by fixing bolts, which are screwed into the plates through the casting wall from the exterior. The plates have transverse threaded bores that correspond to the bolts. Respective spacer rings are pushed onto the fixing bolts secured by wedge-shaped cotters in both a positive and non-positive fit, and the wedge-shaped cotter pressing on the spacer rings that lie against the outer face of the casting wall. This invention is extremely economical and improves the operational safety in comparison to known options.
US07744027B2 Planetary ball mill
A planetary ball mill includes: a revolution turning arm turned about a revolution shaft rotated by a driving force; mill pots each supported on the revolution turning arm so as to be rotated about a rotation shaft inclined from the vertical direction toward the side of the revolution shaft; and an outer circumferential pot receiver which is disposed fixedly on the upper side of the revolution turning arm along the whole part of a circumference around the revolution shaft and with which the outer peripheral surfaces of the mill pots revolving attendantly on the turning of the revolution turning arm make contact, whereby the mill pots are put into rotation.
US07744025B2 Secondary grinding section for an orifice plate of a grinding machine
An orifice plate with an outer grinding section and an inner grinding section is disclosed. The outer grinding section is the main grinding section leading to the main material collection stream, and an additional grinding section is present in the inner section of the orifice plate to remove useable material from material swept toward the center of the plate by the action of a rotating knife assembly on the plate. The useable material obtained at the inner section is also led to the main material collection stream.
US07744022B1 Fluid dispense tips
A fluid dispense tip includes a bevel at an opening to reduce the amount of surface tension, or “land”, at the opening. The bevel is formed by grinding in a longitudinal direction such that any tooling scars resulting from the grinding operation are likewise longitudinally oriented, further reducing the amount of surface tension in the tip, thereby leading to heightened dispensing accuracy. The tip may be machined from stock as a unitary piece, to increase its lifetime, and may be formed with a bore of a relatively large diameter that is tapered down to a smaller diameter near the tip opening, to allow for delivery of fluid through the tip body at a decreased pressure. A cleaning tool may be provided for removing residual material from the inner surfaces of the tip. A removable liner sleeve may be provided within the bore to reduce the effective inner diameter of the dispense tip.
US07744018B2 High pressure hydraulic system with hose fittings for diffusing pressure buildup upon uncoupling
A power operated pressure washer having a high pressure liquid supply hose with an inlet fitting formed with an axial stem having a central liquid passageway that can be connected to a pressure washer outlet fitting by a threaded retaining ring. As a feature of this invention, the retaining ring can be unscrewed from the pressure washer outlet for permitting the dissipation and venting of high pressure buildup within the hose while the retaining ring safely retains the hose fitting on the outlet. In one embodiment, the stem has a pair of axially spaced annular sealing members adaptable for sealing engagement with relatively smaller and larger size pressure washer outlets and the stems is formed with a transverse passageway for venting liquid from the central stem passageway around one of the sealing members, as an incident to unscrewing of the retaining ring, while the other sealing member remains in sealed engagement with the pressure washer outlet fitting.
US07744017B2 Injection nozzle
An injection nozzle for an internal combustion engine comprising a nozzle body defining a seating surface and having at least one first nozzle outlet and a valve member received within the nozzle body and engageable with an external seating defined by the seating surface so as to control fuel injection through the at least one first nozzle outlet. The valve member is provided with a bore having an internal bore surface and an insert is received within the bore. The insert includes a part-spherical head which spans an internal diameter of the bore so as to maintain contact with an internal surface of the bore as the valve member moves, in use, so as to guide movement of the valve member. The part-spherical head also includes a surface which defines an internal seating for the valve member.
US07744015B2 Ultrasonic fuel injector
A fuel injector for delivering fuel to an engine in which a housing of the injector has an internal fuel chamber and at least one exhaust port in fluid communication with the fuel chamber. A valve member is moveable relative to the housing between a closed position in which fuel within the fuel chamber is inhibited against exhaustion from the housing, and an open position in which fuel is exhaustable from the housing. An ultrasonic waveguide separate from the housing and valve member is disposed at least in part within the fuel chamber to ultrasonically excite fuel within the fuel chamber prior to the fuel exiting through the at least one exhaust port in the open position of the valve member. An excitation device is operable in the open position of the valve member to ultrasonically excite the ultrasonic waveguide.
US07744010B2 Rail anchor isolator for railroad tie
The present invention provides an isolator particularly adapted for use with a rail anchor utilized in an application where railroad rail is installed on concrete ties. The isolator protects the concrete tie from contact with the rail anchor caused by longitudinal movement of the rail due to train acceleration of deceleration or expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. In one embodiment, the isolator is comprised of a structural plastic material and includes a front face section and a rear face section. The front face section and rear face section each comprise a generally rectangular structure, having a top edge, bottom edge, and side edges. Top and bottom sections join the front face section and rear face section and form part of the isolator. The rail anchor also comprises a support section that extends from an intersection of the rear face section with the bottom section. The rail isolator is designed to be embedded in a concrete railroad tie.
US07744008B2 System and method for reducing energy consumption by controlling a water heater and HVAC system via a thermostat and thermostat for use therewith
The system of the present invention provides energy saving control for a water heater via an intelligent thermostat. This intelligent thermostat provides programmatic control over the HVAC system as is conventional, and provides coordinated control over the water heater temperature set point. This control over the water heater is accomplished via a communications network between the intelligent thermostat and the water heater. In one embodiment the communications are wireless, although wired and network bus communications may also be utilized. Enhanced and coordinated control is also provided so that different operational temperature cycles can be provided to coordinate with the intelligent thermostat's programmatic control of the HVAC system. Separate programmatic control of the water heater is also provided whereby different operational temperature modes may be commanded, e.g. Wake, Sleep, and Demand modes of operation.
US07744000B2 Chip card retaining mechanism
A chip card retaining mechanism for retaining a chip card (30) mounted in a electronic device 200 is provided. The electronic device includes a housing (10) having a battery compartment (12) defined therein. The chip card retaining mechanism includes a receiving portion (14) formed on the housing for fittingly receiving the chip card therein, and a locking assembly. The receiving portion is opening in the battery compartment of the electronic device. The locking assembly includes a stop mechanism configured for preventing the chip card retreating from the receiving portion, and a latch plate (28). A first end portion of the latch plate is rotatably connected with the housing such that an opposite second end portion of the latch plate is capable of opening or closing the opening of the receiving portion.
US07743996B2 System and method for data entry
A system and method for data entry by an operator uses data containing a first component and a second component derived therefrom, wherein the second component has error detection and correction abilities therein. The second component of the entered data is used to detect and correct error in the data entered for the first component. The first and second components are preferably characters (e.g., representing GPS position information) entered via a data entry device, while the second component preferably comprises Hamming code. The detection and correction can be performed after data entry and again after signal transmission.
US07743995B2 Terminal design with shock isolation assembly
Systems and methodologies are disclosed for isolating a portable hand held electronic unit from external mechanical shocks and/or vibrations by dampening them at several levels. The system can absorb an external mechanical shock at three different levels by employing an external bumper system, elastic housing design features, and an internal frame isolation. Moreover, such isolation assembly simplifies production of the portable electronic unit by enabling a “build to order process” according to a customer's specification.
US07743993B2 Barcode scanner with linear automatic gain control (AGC), modulation transfer function detector, and selectable noise filter
According to embodiments of the present invention, a barcode scanner platform is provided in which the gain of an analog signal representative of a barcode is controlled using a control loop. In embodiments, an MTF detector generates a value (e.g., DC) representative of a low frequency portion (wide or out of optical focus elements) of the analog signal and a second value (e.g., DC) representative of a high frequency portion (narrow elements or in optical focus elements) of the analog signal. The processor uses the first and the second values and a reference amplitude to determine a gain signal. The processor provides the gain signal to an AGC circuit that provides a linear response to the gain signal using matched JFETs. A noise filter can be enabled or disabled based on the first value, the second value, and/or the barcode scanner platform read rate.
US07743991B2 Automatic image transmission of difficult to read symbols
A method of operating a bar code scanning system adapted for assembling information bearing indicia (IBI) information from partial scans of IBI data which may comprise some undecodable characters, the method comprising the steps of: converting light reflected from a target into output signals representative thereof utilizing an image sensor; illuminating the target utilizing an illumination source; directing light from the target to the image sensor array utilizing receive optics; determining if information contained in IBI within the target derived from the output signals is not decodable; transmitting an image of the IBI to a host processor if the IBI is not decoded; and housing the processor, image sensor, receive optics, illumination source and display in a common housing for hand held operation.
US07743986B2 Recording medium management system and recording medium liquidation apparatus
A slot machine issues a ticket with a ticket ID; a server manages a remaining amount in to the ticket; a ticket liquidating machine liquidates the ticket by exchanging the ticket for cash. A pouch pay terminal is held by a pouch payer and a cashier terminal is set at a cashier counter. Both the pouch pay terminal and the cashier terminal communicate with the server and can acquire remaining amount in a ticket and perform liquidation of tickets obtained form a player. The persons operating the pouch pay terminal and the cashier terminal take the liquidated tickets to the ticket liquidating machine to get cash they have already paid to the players.
US07743984B2 Systems and methods for tracking items using wirelessly-enabled devices
The present invention is generally directed to a tracking and visibility system of a kind that augments aspects of traditional tracking systems by implementing mechanisms for independently detecting and verifying the whereabouts of particular objects moving through a carrier's logistics network. These mechanisms are preferably implemented without having to alter the outward appearance or manner in which such objects would otherwise be shipped. At a high level, the present invention accomplishes this by providing a comprehensive tracking system that includes at least two levels of tracking, one of which involves physically associating a wireless device with an object to be tracked, the wireless device being configured to transmit a signal that can be used to independently detect and verify the location of the particular object as it moves through the carrier's logistics network.
US07743983B1 Method and apparatus for locating electronic shelf labels
Systems and techniques for locating designated electronic shelf labels. A locator device transmits commands to a designated label, causing a label to take on distinctive characteristics, for example showing a characteristic display. Alternatively or in addition, the locator device detects transmissions from labels within range and provides an indication, such as an audible tone or a serial number display, when an identified label is within range. A user may enter a serial number of one or more labels using a keypad, or may upload one or more serial numbers to the locator device. The user then moves with the locator device around a location where labels are in use. Depending on the design of the device, the device broadcasts commands to labels to cause the labels to take on identifiable characteristics, detects serial numbers of labels based on transmissions from labels within range, or both.
US07743973B2 Thumb-actuated candy or mint box
A novel candy or mints box has an opening near the top of the box and an underlying slide that is moveable sideways across the opening. Preferably the top portion of the box includes a flap with an opening, and the flap extends over a corresponding opening in the front side such that the openings align, and the slide lies between the front side of the box and the top flap. The slide also preferably further includes a stop member and the box has a corresponding catch member, such that the slide is always contained within the box. Advantageously, the box is formed from a single blank piece of paper or cardboard stock, and folded in a particular sequence such that the slide ends up inside the box without the need for a separate insertion step.
US07743969B2 Carton with upright handle and multi-ply reinforced top wall
A wrap-around style or end-loaded carton for enclosing articles such as cans in multiple rows is formed from a single blank of sheet material, and includes a three-ply top wall and an integrated composite handle that is centrally located so as to balance the load in the carton when the handle is raised to an upright position. The top wall includes an outer panel, and intermediate panel, and an inner top panel, each hingedly connected to another. The composite handle is struck from the outer panel and the intermediate panel and is liberated or partially detachable therefrom so as to be hingedly connected to the top wall, and rotatable to an upright position. When the handle is raised, at least a portion of each edge of the top wall is reinforced by at least one additional layer of carton material, and thus, is at least two plies thick.
US07743967B2 Chromium-free welding consumable
A chromium-free welding consumable and a method of welding stainless steel to reduce the presence of chromium emissions. The consumable is made from an alloy that reduces the emission of chromium during a welding process, and include predominantly nickel, with between approximately five and twenty five percent by weight copper, up to approximately five percent by weight of palladium, up to approximately ten percent by weight of molybdenum and up to five percent non-copper alloying ingredients. Welding consumables made from the alloy are particularly well-suited for welding austenitic stainless steels, such as type 304 stainless steel. The method involves using chromium-free weld filler material with a stainless steel base material.
US07743958B2 End-to-end anastomosis instrument and method for performing same
A surgical instrument for performing an end-to-end anastomosis of first and second luminal structures includes a housing having an actuator attached thereto and a selectively removable loading unit attached to a distal end of the housing which supports any array of surgical fasteners at a distal end thereof. The surgical fasteners are simultaneously deformable upon activation of the actuator such that a distal end of each surgical fastener secures each end of each luminal structure to complete the end-to-end anastomosis wherein the resulting eversion is exterior to the luminal structures.
US07743955B2 Combustion type power tool having fan
A combustion type power tool having a fan capable of providing a desirable turbulence in a combustion chamber. A fan is rotatably disposed in a combustion chamber and driven by a motor. The fan has fan blades each having a leading edge and a trailing edge. An angle of the leading edge relative to a rotational plane of the fan is approximately equal to an angle of the trailing edge relative to the rotational plane, whereby high degree of turbulence is generated from the position near the leading edge.
US07743954B2 Retractable clothes hanger
A clothes hanger includes a hanging rod and a linkage mechanism. The hanging rod includes a hanging unit and a guiding rod with its upper end connected to the hanging unit. The linkage mechanism includes a sliding unit, a first linkage arm, and a second linkage arm. The sliding unit is affixed in an up-down slidable manner to the guiding rod. The first linkage arm is installed at a left side of the guiding rod, and the first linkage arm has a first end connected to the sliding unit and a second end connected to a lower end of the guiding rod. The second linkage arm is installed at a right side of the guiding rod, and the second linkage arm has a first end connected to the sliding unit and a second end connected to the lower end of the guiding rod.
US07743949B2 Assembly for packaging and dispensing liquid
The present invention relates to an assembly for packaging and dispensing liquid comprising a receptacle for containing a supply of liquid and a refillable unit configured to be disposed in separable manner on the receptacle, comprising a storage chamber for containing the liquid and capable of being put into fluid communication with the receptacle in order to be filled therefrom when the refillable unit is placed on the receptacle and a pump capable of taking liquid from the receptacle when the refillable unit is placed thereon, and of taking liquid from the storage chamber when the refillable unit is separate from the receptacle, the pump having a pump chamber that is distinct from the storage chamber.
US07743943B2 Devices useful in system and method for dispensing prescriptions
An automated method for dispensing pharmaceuticals, particularly tablets and capsules, and other small discrete objects, includes: receiving prescription information, selecting a container, labeling the container, dispensing the tablets or capsules into the labeled container, applying a closure to the filled, labeled container, and offloading the container to a designated location. Preferably, the tablets are dispensed with high speed dispensing bins that employ forced air to agitate and singulate the tablets. The other functions within the system are typically carried out at stations designed to offer speed, flexibility and precision to the dispensing operation.
US07743941B2 Lid opening mechanism
The Invention relates to a lid opening mechanism (A), for opening a lid element (1) on a fist side (Y1) about a first lid rotational axis (21), or optionally on a second side (Y2) about a second lid rotational axis (22), whereby the first rotational axis (21) and the second rotational axis (22) are each formed from a front (21a) or (21b) and a rear (22a or 22b) rotational axis element. The operating devices (B1, B2) are connected to and cooperate after a fashion with a rotational axis control device (M), with a control element (150) and with operating bars (161, 162) which cooperate with the operating devices (B1, B2), such that on operating one of the operating elements (110 or 120) for activation of the first or second rotational axis (21 or 22) a control element (150) locks the other operating element (120 or 110) respectively.
US07743940B2 Double-walled container having supports for positioning the inner and outer walls
A container for cryogenic liquids comprises an inner container and an outer container which are positioned with respect to each other and are thermally decoupled from each other by a vacuum insulation layer. In order, with the lowest possible weight and lowest possible costs in series production, to achieve the best possible heat insulation, the inner container and the outer container are in each case composed of prepared fiber-reinforced elements which are in each case wrapped up together with a filament and are thereby connected to one another, and supports which are also composed of a fiber-reinforced plastic are provided on the inner container for the relative positioning of the inner container with respect to the outer container.
US07743939B2 Nestable beverage case
A nestable mid-depth beverage case has a bottom wall with upstanding side and end walls around its periphery and a plurality of container seating areas on its top surface. A continuous peripheral band forms a vertical upper wall section, and a plurality of spaced apart V-shaped columns connected between the bottom wall and the band form a lower wall section inset relative to the upper section to enable nesting of the container. Buttresses extend upwardly from the columns and across the band. The columns have flat, angled vertical surfaces facing toward adjacent seating areas to contact containers over a substantial part of their height and provide support in lateral and longitudinal directions. Each end wall has two columns and associated buttresses, and a handle with a large access opening is formed in each end wall by cutting away adjacent side edges of adjacent columns and buttresses and the bottom edge of the band.
US07743938B2 Box assembly
A box assembly includes a box unit having a box body, and a plurality of spaced apart limiting members. The box body is formed with a plurality of spaced apart positioning elements, and defines an inner space therein. The limiting members are disposed in the inner space, and are connected detachably and respectively to the positioning elements so as to be adapted to limit at least one panel thereamong.
US07743937B2 Blow molded universal lid
A lid for industrial or commercial large size solid waste containers has a ribbed single layer central portion and a peripheral edge having a hollow double wall boxed configuration. The lids have substantial symmetry so that the lids may be stacked and nested with alternate lids oriented in opposite front-to-back directions.
US07743936B2 Water heater
A water heater comprising: a case main body; a front cover for closing a front opening of the case main body; a waterproof packing member interposed between a first inner peripheral flange formed on an inner peripheral edge of the front opening of the case main body and a second inner peripheral flange formed on an inner peripheral edge of a rear end of the front cover; and a water receiver which is located below the waterproof packing member disposed in an upper region and which extends from the first inner peripheral flange of the case main body or the second inner peripheral flange of the front cover.
US07743934B2 Container assembly
A container assembly includes at least one container and a base. The container includes a hollow body and a lid. The body comprises a sidewall and a bottom, wherein the sidewall circumscribes the bottom. The body sidewall includes a shoulder circumscribing the body. At least a portion of the lid includes a transparent material. The lid is removably coupled to the body such that a cavity is defined by the body and the lid. The lid includes a base portion and a sidewall circumscribing the base portion and extending therefrom. The shoulder is for positioning the lid with respect to the body. At least one of the body and the lid is fabricated from a paper-based material. The container bottom is magnetically coupled to the base.
US07743921B2 Product display carton
A product shipping and display carton includes a display box and a shipping sleeve. The display box has a removable panel portion below a top rail defining a product viewing window in the display box. The top rail positioned to hold elongated, tubular shaped product within the display box. The product viewing window having a length that is generally smaller than a length of elongated, tubular shaped product to be contained within the display box. The top rail adapted to hold elongated, tubular shaped product within the display box and to allow a customer to remove elongated, tubular shaped product from the display box by displacing part of the elongated, tubular shaped product outwardly through the product viewing window, and displacing the elongated, tubular shaped product in a second direction that is angled to a face of the product-restraining rail until the elongated, tubular shaped product clears the product-restraining rail.
US07743919B2 Packaging
Packaging for reliably fixing an irregularly shaped ink ribbon unit includes few components, including a printing paper roll wound with printing paper, an ink ribbon unit having both a sending roll that is wound with an ink ribbon and a winding roll disposed in parallel to the sending roll, a container for holding the printing paper roll and ink ribbon unit, and a partition member that partitions the container into first and second storage regions, into which the printing paper roll and ink ribbon unit are respectively stored. The ink ribbon unit is arranged in such a manner that the direction of the shafts of the sending and winding rolls is parallel to the bottom surface of the second storage region, and the partition member extends with an inclination relative to a direction perpendicular to the bottom surface of the second storage region.
US07743916B2 Ornamental golf bag cover
A removable golf bag cover having an ornamentally-pleasing shape (e.g., that of a dog or other animal) to surround a conventional golf bag without affecting the normal use of the bag during play. The golf bag cover includes legs extending from an elongated body of the cover which surround corresponding outstretched folding legs of the golf bag. A hollow head of the golf bag cover is pivotally coupled to the elongated body of the cover by a piece of flexible material that is adapted to stretch. The hollow head is rotatable from a closed position seated on top of the golf bag, at which to surround an protect the golf clubs carried within the bag, and an open position off the bag, at which to enable a golfer to gain access to his clubs. At least one golf club carried in the bag is received inwardly of and holds the hollow head in a generally erect condition relative to the elongated body of the cover.
US07743915B2 Carton having adjustment indicia
Cartons are disclosed for packaging articles, wherein the cartons have indicia printed thereon to facilitate adjustment of the dimensions of the blanks used to form the cartons, or of the forming machinery on which such cartons may be erected.
US07743912B2 Liquid seal bulk feeder for destructive distillation of lightweight materials
A conveyor feeding system for reliably and continuously supplying particulate matter as feedstock, such as rubber tire chips, to a reactor or distillation unit. The feeding system includes a pair of inclined spiral augers having their lower ends submerged in oil or other liquid to provide a liquid seal, thereby preventing undesirable back flow of distillation gases through the feeding system. The push auger acts to push lightweight feedstock downward, submerging it through the liquid seal. The material thereafter is taken up by the partially submerged feed auger, for withdrawal up out of the liquid seal for delivery to further processing, such as a pyrolytic reactor. Buoyant material, which otherwise might float upon the liquid of the seal reservoir, accordingly may be effectively processed through the system. An inlet valve, through which feedstock is introduced into the push auger, can be opened and closed in coordination with the rotation of the push auger, so that material is fed smoothly into the liquid seal reservoir. The inlet valve also may be of a type which prevents back-flow of gas from the push auger to material inlet valve.
US07743911B2 Drawing machine and method of drawing a workpiece
In order to develop drawing machines for drawing a linear workpiece, the invention proposes a drawing machine with a caterpillar conveyor for drawing a linear workpiece through a drawing die, in which the caterpillar conveyor comprises a frame configured to be symmetrical with respect to the drawing plane.
US07743909B2 Conveying installation for transporting goods by way of a conveyor belt
A conveying installation for transporting goods has a conveyor belt that is guided over deflecting drums in a loading station and in an unloading station. The conveyor belt is mounted to the underside of supporting bars which are oriented transversely to the movement direction of the conveyor belt. Supporting rollers mounted in each case at the two lateral ends of the supporting bars roll on two pairs of supporting cables or supporting rails which are provided along the installation and are respectively assigned to the forward strand and the return strand of the conveyor belt. An assembly for cleaning the conveyor belt is formed with a scraper strip or the like which can be moved in the direction of the conveyor belt by way of a closed-loop controller, which is controlled by the position of the supporting bars. The scraper strip is brought more or less into abutment against the conveyor belt between the supporting bars, and it is raised off from the conveyor belt in the region of a supporting bar.
US07743908B2 Receive device and conveyor method
A receive device of a conveyor unit, an apparatus including the receive device and a method for transporting rod-like articles for tobacco-processing. The receive device includes a deceleration device to decelerate the rod-like articles and an acceleration device to accelerate the rod-like articles. The acceleration device is arranged downstream from the deceleration device. A conveyor speed limit device is located between the deceleration device and the acceleration device. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
US07743903B2 Panel feeding device, panel feeding method, and panel assembling device
A panel feeding device, panel feeding method, and panel assembling device are provided that are capable of stably conveying a large panel. On panel assembling where a display panel is assembled by joining substrate (7) to glass panel (5), in a panel feeding device that feeds glass panel (5) to a working position, a panel conveying means that conveys glass panel (5) is supported by a pair of placing tables (4), each moving along carrier rails, at both ends of the bottom surface, and substrate 7 bonded to glass panel (5) extending from glass panel (5) is supported by supporting members (24c) and (25c) provided extending from placing table (4). This makeup enables stably conveying a large panel.
US07743899B2 Electrohydraulic torque transfer device and control system
A power transmission device includes a rotatable input member, a rotatable output member, a friction clutch to selectively transfer torque between the input member and the output member, an actuator providing an actuating force to the friction clutch and a controller. The actuator includes an electric motor having an output shaft drivingly coupled to a gerotor. The gerotor is operable to supply pressurized fluid to a piston acting on the friction clutch. The controller controls the actuator in response to a four-wheel lock request to provide one of a minimum output torque and an output torque greater than a vehicle requested torque to operate the friction clutch in a locked mode.
US07743898B2 Clutch arrangement having a radially nested design
The invention relates to a clutch arrangement in radially nested design. Known in the prior art is a clutch arrangement which comprises a radial outer multiple disk clutch having outer disks and inner disks and a radial inner multiple disk clutch having outer disks and inner disks, where the radial outer multiple disk clutch and the radial inner multiple disk clutch have a common disk support, which supports the outer disks of the radial inner multiple disk clutch and the inner disks of the radial outer multiple disk clutch. According to the invention, a common endplate is provided for the radial inner multiple disk clutch and the radial outer multiple disk clutch. Alternatively or in addition, the invention provides that the common disk support has a hollow cylindrical section with a meander-like cross section, so that on the outer peripheral side an outer toothing is formed for the accommodation of an inner toothing of the inner disks of the radial outer multiple disk clutch and on the inner peripheral side an inner toothing is formed for the accommodation of an outer toothing of the outer disks of the radial inner multiple disk clutch.
US07743893B2 Compact integrated brake system
A mechanically applied spring release brake (50) having a single small diameter dynamic seal (46) is integrated into a wheel and tire to provide for a small package utilized in forklifts, wheel trucks and other industrial vehicles.
US07743889B2 Elevator control system which operates an elevator in an event of a fire
An elevator control system is equipped with an evacuation operation control portion. In the event of a fire, the evacuation operation control portion determines, based on information on the fire and an elevator, whether or not the evacuation operation of the elevator can be performed. When it is determined that the evacuation operation can be performed, the evacuation operation control portion outputs a command to perform the evacuation operation to an elevator control device. Further, a condition for determining whether or not the evacuation operation can be performed is set in the evacuation operation control portion.
US07743888B2 Transmission and transfer case having integrated lubrication systems
In a driveline for a motor vehicle that includes an automatic transmission having an output shaft that drives a transfer case, an oil sump located in the transfer case, a pump supplied with fluid from the first sump, delivers fluid to a lubrication circuit in the transmission, a second sump supplies fluid to the inlet of a second pump, whose output supplies a second lubrication circuit located in the transfer case. Both of the hydraulic pumps are continually driveably connected to a set of the vehicle's drive wheels.
US07743887B2 Clip for transportation of ladders and method
A clip for maintaining a first side rail of a first ladder adjacent to a second side rail of a second ladder which is in series with the first side rail. The clip includes a first portion connected to a support element and a second portion connected to the support element. The first portion, second portion and support element are one continuous piece. The first portion defines a hooking engagement with the first side rail and the second portion defines a receiving engagement with the second side rail. The first and second portion opening from opposite sides of the support element, respectively, which conform to the portion of the respective side rail that it receives for removably and frictionally holding the respective side rails in a self-gripping and form-fitting manner such that the side rails are maintained adjacent and in series to each other so that no damage is possible to the ladders by relative movement of the side rails under dynamic conditions brought about by motion during transportation. A method for securely transporting a first ladder which defines a first plane for climbing and at least a second ladder which defines a second plane for climbing.
US07743883B2 Noise eliminator for fuel cell
A noise eliminator for a fuel cell, where an outer shell has a reception section in which a sound absorption material is placed between the outer shell and an inner pipe and has a water discharge section that is positioned so as to face a lower portion in the vertical direction of the inner pipe and in which the sound absorption material is not placed between the outer shell and the inner pipe. The water discharge section receives water flowing into the outer shell and allows the water to flow to the outside of the outer shell. Although the water discharge section receives water flowing into the outer shell, the sound absorption material inside the noise eliminator does not absorb the water from the water discharge section and does not contain it because there is no sound absorption material in the water discharge section.
US07743881B2 Vibration damping device and bucket for construction machine
A vibration damping device capable of maintaining high vibration damping effect, and a bucket for a construction machine. The vibration damping device has a laminated plate (20) having at least its inner region fixed in a noise-emitting base material (11), the inner region being a region (G) other then a region which becomes a loop in a vibration mode when the base material (11) is vibrated in a vibration mode with a predetermined frequency.
US07743878B1 Folded horn enclosure with unitary pathway
A folded horn enclosure including a unitary throat and horn pathway which is optimized for ⅛th space placement when operated as a stacked pair. The enclosure uses at least 2 different flare rates and is suitable for standing vertically and horizontally, and further allowing stacking of 2 enclosures to form a full-sized corner horn.
US07743871B2 Anti-tilt apparatus and frame structure of tilting vehicle using the same
An anti-tilt apparatus is provided in the present invention, in which a frame of a vehicle is locked or released for tilt by a locking mechanism controlled according to the vehicle moving status. In addition, the present invention further provides a frame structure of a tilt vehicle wherein the anti-tilt apparatus and an independent suspended wheel set with a tiltable frame are combined together for maintaining certain comfort, good tracking capability and driving safety while the vehicle is moving and swerving. The anti-tilt apparatus of the present invention functions to lock the tiltable frame while the vehicle is operated in low speed or stop and functions to make wheels simultaneously inwardly incline for providing a tilt capability while the vehicle is swerving in high speed so as to increase higher stability and anti-turnover capability of the vehicle.
US07743869B2 Mining utility transport vehicle
A mine transport vehicle is disclosed having two main bodies, one a power and control section and the other a payload section, the two sections being connected by an articulating joint. The power and control section has seating for an operator and a passenger. The payload section has seating for four passengers as well as capacity for at least approximately 2000 pounds of equipment. The weight distribution of each section is such that the stress on the frame and articulating joint is minimized thus providing improved life of the joint.
US07743867B2 Motorcycle
An exhaust gas sensor for a motorcycle that is protected against sprayed mud and flying stones without a dedicated protective cover. The exhaust gas sensor is inclined inward to the inside of the motorcycle body relative to a vertical line passing through a sensor attachment part formed on an upper part of an exhaust pipe on the inside of a main frame. The exhaust gas sensor is positioned above a pivot shaft of a seat cushion, in front of a shock absorber, and in front of a mud flap in front of a rear wheel. The exhaust gas sensor is protected by the exhaust pipe at a lower portion of the sensor. A front portion of the exhaust gas sensor is surrounded and protected by parts around the handlebars and parts around the engine. Both sides of the exhaust gas sensor are surrounded and protected by the main frame, the engine, the parts around the engine, and various parts engaging the shock absorber. A rear portion of the exhaust gas sensor is protected by the mud flap.
US07743864B2 Tandem four-wheel vehicle
One embodiment of the invention is a multi-purpose vehicle having a frame, a suspension secured to the frame, four wheels tires secured to the suspension, and handlebars for steering the vehicle. The vehicle also includes a straddle mount seat secured to the frame with seating positions for a driver and a passenger of the vehicle. The seating position for the passenger is located rearward on the vehicle relative to the seating position of the driver. The vehicle also has foot and hand positions for the passenger. Optionally, the vehicle includes a backrest and armrests for the passenger.
US07743858B2 Unmanned robot vehicle with mobility enhancing arm
A vehicle (for example an unmanned robot vehicle) which includes a main body provided with a main locomotion mechanism for traveling over a terrain. The device is provided with at least one arm for enhanced support and maneuverability, the arm pivotally attached to the main body. The arm is controllable and capable of being rotated to a position where the arm or at least a substantial portion of the arm is placed in contact with the terrain or obstacle, so as to provide support or leverage to the main body.
US07743851B2 Method and rock drilling rig for hole drilling
The invention relates to a method and a rock drilling rig for drilling a hole in a rock. In the method the hole is drilled with a so-called top-hammer rock drilling rig including a drill rod and a cone roller bit at the end of the drill rod. During drilling with the percussion device, stress pulses of low amplitude are produced at a high frequency of at least 200 Hz. In the rock drilling rig, the cone roller bit (3) at the end of the drill rod and the percussion device are configured to feed stress pulses of low amplitude, at the frequency of at least 200 Hz, via the drill rod and the cone roller bit to the rock.
US07743849B2 Dual tractor drilling system
The invention provides a drilling system for use in a borehole through an underground formation, comprising:a drilling assembly including a drill bit for drilling through the formation and a drilling drive;conveyance means including a conveyance drive connected to the drilling assembly and operable to move the drilling assembly through the borehole,wherein the conveyance drive is operable to move the drilling assembly along the borehole into a drilling position and the drilling drive is operable to urge the drill bit into contact with the formation when drilling takes place in the drilling position.
US07743846B2 Rotary spindle for power tool and power tool incorporating such spindle
A rotary spindle 4 for a power tool such as a hammer drill is disclosed. The spindle 4 comprises a first spindle part 402 for rotation about its longitudinal an axis by means of a motor and having an inwardly directed rim 406, and a second spindle part 404 for supporting a drill bit of the hammer drill and having an outwardly directed rim 410. The second spindle part 404 extends through an aperture 408 in the first spindle part 402 and rims 406, 410 cooperate with each other to prevent removal of the second spindle part 404 from the first spindle part 402. A circlip 414 locks the first and second spindle parts 402, 404 together and maintains o-rings 412 under compression.
US07743843B1 Marker assembly for an agricultural implement
A marker assembly has a scalable frame that allows a user to set the width of the frame to provide flexibility in defining the width at which a marking furrow is made. The scalable frame includes multiple linkages interconnected to one another in a manner that allows the frame to be folded into a relatively compact configuration for storage and/or transport. An outer linkage has a telescoping member that allows a user to vary the spacing of a marking disc to vary the width at which a marking furrow is made in the ground.
US07743840B2 Lawn aerating device
In accordance with the present invention an aerating device for attachment to a self-propelled lawnmower is provided. The device comprises a frame having a proximal end, a distal end, and a pair of sides extending between the proximal end and the distal end. An axle is mounted to the frame and extends between the sides of the frame. At least one tine assembly is mounted to the axle for rotation about a tine axis extending longitudinally through the axle. A platform is secured to the frame and extends outwardly from one of the proximal and distal ends of the frame for supporting an operator.
US07743837B2 Roadway for decelerating a vehicle including an aircraft having a fire retardant material
A method of fire prevention/extinguishing for an aircraft runway is provided where the method includes: providing a supply of fire preventing/extinguishing chemical; disposing a piping system beneath a top surface of the runway and having an inlet in communication with the supply and an outlet in communication with the top surface; and delivering the fire preventing/extinguishing chemicals from the supply through the piping system and outlet to the top surface.
US07743832B2 Method of running a tubing hanger and internal tree cap simultaneously
During the completion of a subsea horizontal tree, a tubing hanger and internal tree cap are run together with the same running tool and running string. The running tool has a linking assembly that connects the tree cap to the tubing hanger during running, retrieval, or workover, so that the tree cap supports the weight of the tubing hanger and string of tubing. The linking assembly can be retrieved with the running tool or retrieved on wireline through the running string.
US07743828B2 Methods of cementing in subterranean formations using cement kiln cement kiln dust in compositions having reduced Portland cement content
The present invention includes methods of cementing in subterranean formations using cement kiln dust in compositions having reduced Portland cement content. An embodiment of a method comprises placing a sealant composition that comprises cement kiln dust and is essentially free of Portland cement in a subterranean formation; and allowing the sealant composition to set.
US07743826B2 In situ method and system for extraction of oil from shale
A system and process is disclosed for retorting oil shale and extracting shale oil and other hydrocarbons therefrom, in which a cased heat delivery well is drilled generally vertically through an overburden and then through a body of oil shale to be retorted to the bottom thereof, generally horizontally under the body of oil shale to be retorted, and then back to the earth surface. Heat energy is transmitted conductively to the body of oil shale to be retorted from a closed loop heat delivery module in the well, the module comprising a fluid transmission pipe containing a heating fluid heated to at least a retorting temperature. Heat energy is also transmitted to the body of oil shale to be retorted above the fluid transmission pipe by vapor conduits that conduct retort vapors upward through the body of oil shale to be retorted; the ascending retort vapors condense and reflux, delivering their latent heat of vaporization to the body of oil shale to be retorted, and the condensed retort liquids descend. If not recycled, the retort liquids are collected in a sump at the bottom of a production well and are transmitted to the surface for processing. The vapor conduits communicate at upper ends thereof with the production well, so that vapors that do not reflux are collected in the production well and are transmitted to the surface for processing.
US07743824B2 Method and apparatus for isolating a wellhead for fracturing
A wellhead assembly to seal to a production casing including one or more pressure-containing wellhead body members defining a vertical bore, with the lowermost of the wellhead body members sealing to the production casing. A fracturing isolation tool is sealed in the vertical bore of the wellhead body members above the production casing, and forms a pressure barrier profile in its internal bore. A removable protector sleeve is located at least partially within the fracturing isolation tool to seal, protect, isolate and cover the pressure barrier profile against a fracturing pressure and a fracturing fluid. After fracturing the protector sleeve is removed and a pressure barrier is sealed in the pressure barrier profile of the fracturing isolation tool. The invention also extends to the method of isolating the wellhead body members and to the fracturing isolation tool assembly which includes the fracturing isolation tool and the protector sleeve.
US07743823B2 Force balanced rotating pressure control device
Force balancing adjusts hydraulic fluid pressure in an upper piston area of a Rotating Pressure Control Device (RPCD) that has an inner housing rotatably engaged within an outer housing by an upper bearing and a lower bearing. The hydraulic fluid pressure is adjusted to balance net force in a upper piston area and a lower piston area. The fluid pressure adjustment creates a force differential that balances the total load transmitted through the upper bearing and the lower bearing and thereby extends the life of the sealing element and bearings. Additionally, a wear indicator signals the end of the useful life of the drill pipe sealing element.
US07743821B2 Air cooled heat exchanger with enhanced heat transfer coefficient fins
The heat exchanger includes a tube having axially spaced fins or a continuously spirally wound fin about the tube. One or more of the fins are dimpled, mechanically or molded, to provide concavities and projections on opposite sides of the fins or alternating concavities and projections on opposite side of the fins. The dimples improve the heat transfer between the fluid flowing through the tubes and the air circulating about the tubes and through the fins. The dimples create vortices and turbulent flow between the fins and effectively increase the heat transfer rate.
US07743818B2 Heat exchange module
A heat exchange module (1) includes a fan duct, an evaporator (22), a condenser (26) and an electric fan (50). The fan duct includes a lower portion (10) and an upper portion (30). The lower portion cooperates with the upper portion to define therebetween an air passage (90). The evaporator contains therein a working fluid. The condenser is in fluid communication with the evaporator. The evaporator and the condenser are received in the air passage defined by the fan duct. The working fluid turns into vapor in the evaporator upon receiving heat from a heat-generating component (70) and the vapor turns into condensate upon releasing the heat to the condenser. The electric fan is attached to the fan duct. The electric fan produces an airflow flowing through the air passage for removing the heat away from the condenser.
US07743817B2 Thermal module allowing adjustment in the height of heat sink relative to fixing rack
A thermal module includes a fixing rack and a heat sink fitted in the fixing rack. The fixing rack is provided at an inner side with at least one stopper and at least one projected portion adjacent to and vertically lower than the stopper by distance. The heat sink is provided along an outer periphery at a predetermined position with at least one vertically extended groove. By vertically turning the heat sink by 180 degrees, the heat sink may be selectively fitted in the fixing rack with an upward-facing side thereof upward abutted on the upper stopper or the lower projected portion to restrict the fixing rack from sliding downward. Meanwhile, due to the height difference between the stopper and the projected portion, a distance between the upward-facing side of the heat sink and the fixing rack is adjustable.
US07743815B2 Slats for a sun protection blind
The invention relates to roller blind slats having a profile which is shaped by flat sheet metal in a rolling step. A single-pieced roller blind body is associated with the roller blind slats. The roller blind body is formed with a slot on the underside thereof and a hooked strip is provided on the top edge thereof. The slot part is approximately 20% on the total surface of the roller blind slats.
US07743810B2 Correction system with rubber elastic tension element for a gear mechanism correction tape
A frictional clutch for a correction device includes a rotatable supply reel with a circular center opening and a rotatable take-up reel being laterally arranged spaced apart from the supply reel, the take-up reel having an outer circumferential surface onto which a correction tape is to be wound up and the supply reel having an outer circumferential surface from which the correction tape is to be wound off, wherein the outer circumferential surface of the supply reel is provided with a circumferential radial groove in which an elastic tensioning element is accommodated, the radial circumferential groove being at its bottom at least partially transected such that the elastic tensioning element projects into the center opening secantically, when it is in a stress-relieved condition.
US07743809B2 Hot-air fabric welder for waterproofing tape
A hot-air fabric welder for waterproofing tape is invented for selectively welding straight portions and arc portions. The hot-air fabric welder for waterproof tape is comprised of: a lower roller unit including a flat roller portion and a tapered roller portion mounted to the upper end of a support. The lower roller unit is divided into a flat roller body and a tapered roller body for selectively positioning into contact with the upper roller, so that the surface of the lower roller unit contacts the upper roller. A driving means is provided for rotating the lower roller unit. A pivoting means is provided for rotating the support on which the lower roller unit is mounted for selective use of the flat roller portion or the tapered roller portion. A hot-air generating unit is linked to the lower roller unit, driving unit and pivoting unit, and an upper roller is arranged above the lower roller unit.
US07743805B2 Debarking tip assembly with replaceable cutting element
Apparatuses, systems, and methods for debarking logs are shown and described. The disclosed embodiments can be used for quickly and conveniently replacing contact surfaces of swing arm assemblies. Some disclosed embodiments include a swing arm assembly having a debarker tip assembly with a plurality of replaceable cutting elements for engaging logs moving along a processing line. Side-by-side cutting elements can be made of a wear resistant material for a prolonged life. A worn cutting element can be replaced with another cutting element to ensure proper functioning of the debarker apparatus.
US07743801B2 Method and system for dispensing ice and/or a liquid
A touchless dispensing system includes a dispenser configured to dispense at least one of ice and at least one liquid. A detection device is positioned with respect to the dispenser. The detection device is configured to detect a container positioned with respect to the dispenser without contacting the container. The detection device is further configured to generate a signal confirming a position of the container with respect to the dispenser. The dispenser is activated to dispense an amount of ice and/or an amount of the at least one liquid into the container in response to the signal generated by the detection device.
US07743798B2 Liquid filling nozzle
There is provided a liquid filling nozzle 12 with at least one net-like body 23 provided at a discharge port 22 of a nozzle main body 21, in which the net-like body 23 is provided on an external side of the discharge port 22.
US07743795B2 Forming fabric having binding weft yarns
Forming fabric that includes a top layer having a plurality of top warp yarns woven with a plurality of top weft yarns. A bottom layer has a plurality of bottom warp yarns woven with a plurality of bottom weft yarns. A plurality of intrinsic binding yarns is utilized. At least one of the intrinsic binding yarns weaves with some of the top layer yarns and binds with one of the bottom layer yarns in each repeat.
US07743792B2 Hose
A hose (10) comprising a tubular body (12) of flexible material arranged between an inner and an outer helically wound wire (22, 24). The hose (10) further comprises an axial strengthening means (20) adapted to reduce deformation of the tubular body (12) when the tubular body (12) is subjected to axial tension, the axial strengthening means (20) being adapted to exert a radially inward force on at least part of the tubular body (12) when axial strengthening means (20) is subjected to axial tension.
US07743788B2 Faucet assembly with water quality indicator
A faucet assembly including a base defining a water delivery passageway, a valve member received in the base and movable between a closed position wherein flow through the water delivery passageway is blocked and an opened position wherein flow through the water delivery passageway is permitted, a magnet secured to the valve member such that, when the valve member is rotated to the opened position, the magnet is aligned with a sensor bore of the base, and when the valve member is rotated to the closed position, the magnet is unaligned with the sensor bore, a metal rod positioned in the sensor bore, and a Hall effect sensor positioned below the base in alignment with the sensor bore and adapted to switch on when the magnet is aligned with the sensor bore and switch off when the magnet is unaligned with the sensor bore.
US07743783B2 Method and apparatus for recycling process fluids
A method and apparatus for recycling a process fluid from a drain of a semiconductor process tool. The process fluid may be an acidic cobalt solution or an electroless cobalt solution used in a semiconductor process step to prevent electromigration in copper interconnects. The used process fluid is collected from the tool drain and recycled back to the tool inlet if a condition of the fluid is within a predetermined range. Otherwise, the used process fluid is drained from the system. The system may also operate in a bleed and feed mode where a portion of the used process fluid is periodically drained from the system.
US07743782B2 Wave control circuit
A wave control circuit disclosed herein may be used to control the operation of various plumbing devices and appliances. The wave control circuit uses a sensor to sense presence of objects in the vicinity of the plumbing device and appliance using the wave control circuit and a control circuit to control the operation of the plumbing device or appliance.
US07743780B1 Walker glide
The walker glide is a spherical attachment for removable installation over the lower end of a walker leg or other legged article. The glide is formed of a hollow, resilient ball and includes a plurality of leg attachment holes therethrough. No two holes are aligned directly and diametrically opposite one another. Any hole always has an unbroken ball surface directly diametrically across therefrom. This allows any given hole of the ball to be placed over the end of the leg, while assuring that the leg tip will bear against the opposite unbroken surface of the ball. When the bearing surface of the ball becomes worn, the user need only remove the ball and reorient it by installing it on the leg using another hole to provide a fresh bearing surface for the ball. While any suitable type of ball may be used, tennis balls have been found to work well.
US07743779B2 Crutch stroller
A mobility aid (FIG. 1) design for providing stabilized mobility support by the practical use of a two sided vertically supported rigid frame comprising front and rear bilaterally double support members (12), (12a), (13), (13a), (15), and (15a), and not limited to but preferably of aluminum construction to include a plurality of upper and lower substantially identical bilaterally horizontal and vertical tubular main frame members (17), (18), (19), (20), (22), (27), (28), and (29), supported on a plurality of sufficiently sized wheels (26), and (30), attached to the underside of the main frame (26), and (30), with predetermined spacing. Base members (22), (28), and (29), are sufficiently elevated-providing for unhindered foot movement during mobilization. A guide wheel assembly (23), (25), (25b), (26), and (26a), is vertically attached at a contiguously anterior junction surface of the two sided main frame assembly (20), and (23), thereby providing selective directional steering. Hand brake controls (16), secure by clamps to riser connectors (15), activate brakes (31).
US07743775B2 Multi-container device for packaging and dispensing products and method for applying make-up using such a device
Device for packaging and dispensing products having a first container (2) for a first product, at least one second container (7) for a second product, which is designed to be assembled removably to the first container, this second container having an opening to allow the second product contained in the second container to be taken up, and a product applicator (14) configured in such a way as to be assembled removably to the second container so as to close off said opening.
US07743774B2 Hair accessory
Hair accessories are provided that include first and second combs, a support member, and a plurality of hair strands coupled to the support member. In one embodiment, a connecting member connects the first and second combs and the support member is spirally wrapped around the connecting member. In another embodiment, a plurality of elastic strips connect the first and second combs, and the support member is coupled to at least one respective elastic strip. In yet another embodiment, an elastic unit connects the first and second combs, and the hair strands are operatively coupled to the elastic unit. The elastic unit includes a first base band operatively coupled to the first comb, a second base band operatively coupled to the second comb, and a plurality of elastic strips extending between the first base band and the second base band to connect the first base band and the second base band.
US07743773B2 Over-wrap for smoking article
An over-wrap for connecting a tobacco rod and a cigarette filter. The over-wrap includes a tipping wrapper and a plurality of raised ribs extending from the tipping wrapper and forming a plurality of channels between the tipping wrapper and the plug wrap. The plurality of channels allow air to flow from a tobacco rod end of the filter to a plurality of ventilation holes within a plug wrap of the filter when the over-wrap is wrapped around the filter and tobacco rod.
US07743771B2 Earplug with articulating stem and locking features
A hearing protection device is provided including a stem, a protrusion formed on the stem, an articulation point formed on the stem, and a sound attenuating element including a cavity, where the protrusion is disposed in locking engagement within the cavity to releasably attach the stem to the sound attenuating element, and where the stem is configured to at least partially articulate about the articulation point.
US07743766B2 Aerosol generating devices and methods for generating aerosols having controlled particle sizes
An aerosol generating device includes a housing, a heater and an optional mouthpiece. The heater volatilizes liquid within a flow passage and forms an aerosol in the mouthpiece. An aerosol confinement sleeve is disposed to control the size distribution of the aerosol.
US07743764B2 Aerosol inhalation systems and interface elements for use therein
According to one aspect of the present invention, an aerosol inhalation system including an accessory is defined by a first conduit member for delivering medication in the form of aerosol particles to a patient, as well as a first holding chamber for holding the aerosol particles prior to deliver to the first conduit member. The accessory includes a valve mechanism associated with the first conduit member and including a first valve assembly and a second valve assembly. The aerosol inhalation system includes at least one device in fluid communication with the first holding chamber for producing the aerosol particles. For example, the device can be either an MDI, a nebulizer or both devices can be used simultaneously. According to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the aerosol inhalation system is a closed system and is therefore capable of delivering a fixed concentration of the medication to the patient, thereby overcoming the above deficiencies that are associated with the prior art devices.
US07743762B2 Thin profile door for a cooking appliance
A cooking appliance includes an oven cavity, a trim element and a door designed to pivot about a substantially vertical axis. The door is mounted for pivotal movement relative to the oven cavity about a substantially vertical axis. The door includes a main body portion having a front surface, a rear surface and a peripheral edge portion. The peripheral edge portion includes top, bottom and opposing side edge sections, with each of the opposing side edge sections leading to an extended region that overlaps, at least in part, the trim element. The extended region includes a generally rounded portion directly adjacent to the trim element. The generally rounded portion provides clearance necessary to enable the door to shift between open and closed positions, while simultaneously allowing the use of an extremely thin or low profile door.
US07743761B2 Rock cutting and trimming device
A rock cutting and trimming device comprising a C-clamp, a hydraulic cylinder, a sleeve, a shaft, a top tooth, and a bottom tooth. The hydraulic cylinder is coupled to the shaft, the shaft fits inside of the sleeve, the sleeve is coupled to the top port of the C-clamp, the top tooth is coupled to the shaft, and the bottom tooth is coupled to the bottom port of the C-clamp. Each of the top and bottom teeth comprises a cutting edge, the cutting edge of the top tooth faces the cutting edge of the bottom tooth, the hydraulic cylinder causes the top tooth to move vertically upward and downward, and the cutting edges of the top and bottom teeth are vertically aligned so that when the top tooth is fully extended downward, the cutting edge of the top tooth is parallel to the cutting edge of the bottom tooth.
US07743760B2 Reverse energy bow
An archery bow includes a main riser frame with limbs extending therefrom. Each of the limbs has forward ends extended from the main riser frame. A bowstring has wound ends that are wound onto each of wheel cams that are attached to the limbs. The bowstring has a middle section that is not wound onto the wheel cams and that begins and ends at points on the wheel cams that are proximate to the farthest points along the wheel cams from the main riser frame. An elongate tube is mounted to the main riser frame through the central bore, and has a front handle attached to the elongate tube outer surface, and positioned between the first and second pairs of limbs. A push rod is slidably mounted at least partially inside the elongate tube, and has a rearward handle disposed outside the elongate tube rearward end.
US07743758B2 Breather structure for internal combustion engine
A breather structure for internal combustion engine, the structure making a breather chamber smaller and thus making an internal combustion engine as a whole smaller. A breather chamber and a small chamber are formed. The breather chamber includes a first side face cover. The first side face cover is joined to a case to cover a first one of the right and left side faces of the case. Inside the first side face cover, an auxiliary apparatus chamber is formed. The auxiliary apparatus chamber houses a clutch mechanism connecting or disconnecting the power transmission route. Additionally, formed inside a housing are an external communication port communicating to the outside of the housing, and the small chamber communicating to a crank chamber and to the auxiliary apparatus chamber. Moreover, the auxiliary apparatus chamber communicates to the breather chamber.
US07743757B2 System and method for exhaust gas recirculation
A system and method for controlling EGR of an internal combustion engine is presented. The system is capable of controlling EGR over a wide range of flow rates.
US07743745B2 Multipart, cooled piston for a combustion engine
Disclosed is a multipart, cooled piston for a combustion engine, comprising, in a radially outward direction, an annular cooling duct located on the bottom side that faces away from the piston head. The cooling duct is closed by a cooling duct cover which is embodied as a ring. The cooling duct cover is provided with a tongue in the radially inner zone. The tongue engages into a recess that is molded into the bottom piston part, thus preventing the cooling duct cover from rotating relative to the piston during assembly as well as during operation.
US07743738B2 Scavenging phosphorus, sulfur, and lead from combustion exhaust using tungsten compounds and lubricant
The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for delivering tungsten into a fuel combustion system or to the exhaust therefrom. By the present invention, tungsten from the lubricant or the fuel will interact with combustion products and, in particular, phosphorus, sulfur, and/or lead from the combustion products. In this manner, the tungsten scavenges or inactivates harmful materials which have migrated into the fuel or combustion products, and which can otherwise poison catalytic converters, sensors and/or automotive on-board diagnostic devices The present invention can also lead to improved durability of exhaust after treatment systems. A lubricant in accordance with the present invention is also disclosed.
US07743733B2 Offshore aquaculture system
The present invention provides for an off-shore unitary fish farming apparatus, including: a plurality of floatable fish containers aligned sequentially having attachment means for flexibly connecting the containers to maintain the containers in a predetermined relationship to one another, a dampening means attached to at least one of the containers to reduce current and wave and also deflect any floating debris away from the containers, a fish feed tank for holding, mixing and distribution of fish feed slurry to each of the plurality of fish containers, the fish tank having a securing means for attaching the dampening means to the tank; a feed dispenser for radially dispensing fish feed in the container directly beneath the water surface, anchor means to anchor the apparatus to an aquatic floor, the anchor means allowing radial movement of the tank around an anchor position and a crane mounted on the fish feed tank.
US07743731B2 Reduced contaminant gas injection system and method of using
A gas injection system includes a diffuser to distribute a process gas in a processing chamber. The gas injection system may be utilized in a polysilicon etching system involving corrosive process gases.
US07743724B1 Animal warning system for vehicles
The invention is an ultrasonic whistle that screws onto the valve stem of a vehicle tire. A variety of alternative embodiments utilize a housing that screws onto the valve stem with variations as to how air travels across the whistle. As the vehicle's tires rotate, wind passes across the whistle, which in turn produces sound that is audible to animals and in turn alerts animals of the oncoming traffic.
US07743719B2 Sectional distribution of granular product
The present invention provides an agricultural implement and a method of making an agricultural implement. The agricultural implement has a primary containment unit and a plurality of sections. At least one dense phase delivery line connects the primary containment unit to each of the sections. A transport control system allows for individual control of the dense phase transport of the granular product from the primary containment unit to each of the plurality of sections via the at least one dense phase delivery line.
US07743717B2 Apparatus for conveying solid waste to a furnace
An apparatus for conveying solid waste to a furnace includes an opening to an elongated channel into which waste material is received and an outlet open to the furnace. A reciprocating ram with a head plate located in the channel opposite the outlet forces the waste toward the outlet. The ram also has an upper shield dimensioned to be slightly greater in area than the opening such that the opening is blocked when the ram is extended. The channel also includes an actuator-impelled restrictor plate for compressing waste as it is forced through said channel into a narrower portion, and a isolation door operable to close off the channel.
US07743711B2 Deformable drive sheave
A drive sheave equipped with a deformable tire is disclosed herein. An embodiment of the drive sheave comprises a tire portion wherein the tire portion comprises an inner circumferential surface and an outer circumferential surface. The tire portion also comprises a first surface extending between the inner circumferential surface and the outer circumferential surface. In addition, the tire portion comprises a second surface extending between the inner circumferential surface and the outer circumferential surface, wherein the second surface is oppositely disposed relative to the first surface. At least one opening in the tire portion extends between the first surface and the second surface.
US07743710B2 Roller coaster maintenance vehicle
A roller coaster maintenance vehicle includes a platform with a set of wheels arranged to ride on a roller coaster track structure. The platform includes a propulsion system which allows it to traverse the track structure independent of the roller coaster propulsion system. In one embodiment, a person rides on the vehicle and controls its movement. In another embodiment the vehicle is remotely controlled. Remotely controlled vehicles preferably include one or more inspection apparatus for inspecting the track structure. Optionally, the remotely controlled vehicles also include remotely controlled repair/maintenance equipment such as a robotic arm with a power tool coupled to its free end.
US07743709B2 Sabot for elastomeric projectile
A sabot includes a base and a plurality of elongated petals extending therefrom. Each petal includes an elongated sidewall portion having an arched interior surface and an arched exterior surface each extending between a first end and an opposing second end. A floor portion inwardly projects from the interior surface of the sidewall portion at the second end thereof so as to form an inside angle between the interior surface of the sidewall portion and an interior surface of the floor portion, each floor portion being pivotally connected to the base so that the plurality of petals can selectively move between a collapsed position wherein the sidewall portions combine to formal a substantially cylindrical sidewall that bounds a chamber and an expanded position wherein the sidewall portions radially outwardly project from the base.
US07743701B2 Squeeze for screen printer
Disclosed is a squeeze for a screen printer. The present invention provides a squeeze for a screen printer, which coats a printed circuit board with an adhesive paste while moving parallel over a metal mask on the printed circuit board, the printed circuit board being open through an opening of the metal mask, the squeeze including a solvent storage unit for storing solvents; and solvent discharging holes for discharging the solvents, stored in the solvent storage unit, to an adhesive paste. Accordingly, the squeeze for a screen printer of the present invention may be useful to prevent a dog ear phenomenon, namely that an adhesive paste layer is asymmetrically formed in an indented manner, by controlling a viscosity of an adhesive paste by discharging a solvent onto an adhesive paste layer that comes in contact with the squeeze when the adhesive paste layer is formed in the printed circuit board.
US07743699B1 System for automated application of inoculants onto forage materials
An automated system and method are provided for application of inoculant products onto forage material. Real time data measurements are taken for relative humidity and moisture content of the forage material in order to timely adjust the dispense rate of the inoculant applied to the forage material. Data gathering capabilities are provided with this system controller to enable an operator to view, adjust, and record various production records, as well as detailed information as to the amounts of inoculant applied. The components associated with the system of the present invention includes an inoculant bin or container including a dispense auger which dispenses a controlled amount of inoculant which is then conveyed to the intake opening of the baling machine the forage material enters the machine. The control system includes various sensors positioned at the intake opening of the baling machine which measures moisture content, and optionally the mass or volume of the incoming forage material. The control system provides a number of user interface options for controlling the dispensing of the inoculant product, as well as capturing data relating to the operation of the baling machine and the application of the inoculant product.
US07743698B2 Fountain that flows with fluidic material
A fountain for heating and/or cooling a beverage comprises one or more heating and/or cooling elements that are configured to adjust a temperature of a beverage that circulates through the fountain. In one embodiment, the beverage fountain includes one or more heating elements located proximate to a basin, a cylinder, and/or a top reservoir of the fountain. In another embodiment, the beverage fountain includes one or more cooling elements located proximate to a basin, a cylinder, and/or a reservoir of the fountain. Alternatively, the beverage fountain may include both heating and cooling elements located proximate to a basin, a cylinder, a reservoir, and/or other locations of the fountain, wherein a selection device, such as an electrical switch or control module, may be adjusted by a user in order to select heating or cooling of the beverage.
US07743695B2 Espresso coffee maker having an espresso brew unit
In an espresso coffee maker having an espresso brew unit (1) and a coffee outflow duct (18) in fluid-conductive connection with the espresso brew unit via a crema valve (15) and having an end sided coffee outflow (19), no brewed residual coffee should remain in the coffee outflow duct nor leak out, for instance as leakage, through the coffee outflow. In order to avoid this, a return-flow suction unit (21), which is preferably independent except for a drive means, is in fluid-conductive connection with the coffee outflow duct (18) between crema valve (15) and coffee outflow (19), which is automatically activated when a brewing process is finished.
US07743693B1 Redundant latch suppressor mount
A mount designed to be integrated into a noise suppressor. The proposed apparatus encompasses an acme thread and two springs which serve as secondary latches. Offsetting the secondary spring latches in such a manner as to ensure one always fully seats into the indexing points of a flash hider mount limits the rotational movement of an installed noise suppressor which incorporates my proposed mount. Further, this method is more cost efficient than timing each flash hider with each noise suppressor mount.
US07743691B2 Workpiece feeding stopper for table saw
A workpiece feeding stopper for use in a stable saw to prevent careless feed of a workpiece having a height greater than a cutting depth of a circular saw blade includes a support arm having a rear end adapted for connection with a spreader of the table saw. A stop member is provided at a front end of the support arm and has a stop face with a bottom edge adapted for being spaced above from a worktable of the table saw by a distance slightly greater than or equal to a cutting depth of the circular saw blade and smaller than a distance between a pivot where a blade guard of the table saw and the spreader are pivotally connected to and the worktable, thereby enabling the workpiece to be completely cut without being stopped by the pivot.
US07743686B2 Air brake slack check tool
A pliers has specifically configured elongate jaws of about rectilinear construction with multiple position adjustability to variously operatively engage a plurality of slack adjustment services of diverse commercial air brakes to check the slack.
US07743681B2 Steering column assembly having an actuation mechanism for telescoping and tilting movement
A steering column assembly for a vehicle includes a support bracket and a column jacket coupled to the support bracket. A compression bracket is mounted to the column jacket. A clamping device is disposed on the support bracket and has a rake bolt extending through the support bracket and the compression bracket for applying a frictional force on the support bracket to prevent telescoping and tilting movement of the column jacket and the compression bracket relative to the support bracket. An actuation mechanism is coupled to the support bracket. The actuation mechanism rotates the rake bolt in a first direction to prevent telescoping and tilting movement of the column jacket. Likewise, the actuation mechanism rotates the rake bolt in a second direction to permit telescoping movement of the column jacket and the compression bracket relative to the actuation mechanism and the support bracket and tilting movement.
US07743677B2 Powertrain with torque converter and axially compact seven speed dual clutch transmission
A powertrain having a torque converter, friction input shifting clutches and shared driving gears has an axially compact design, packages a transmission pump between the torque converter and a clutch hub and achieves seven forward speed ratios utilizing four back-to-back synchronizers.
US07743676B2 Key testing apparatus
A key testing apparatus (100) is provided. The key testing apparatus includes a base (11) and an actuator (12). The actuator includes a testing member (17) and a mounting member (18). The mounting member includes at least one base board (181) fixed to the base, a lower board (182), a mounting board (183), and a mounting sheet (185). The lower board is adjustably attached to the base board. The mounting board is adjustably attached to the lower board. The mounting sheet is adjustably attached to the mounting board. The clamping device includes a base desk (131), a clamping platform (132), at least one first clamping board (133) and second clamping board (134). The base desk is adjustably attached to the base. The clamping platform, at least one first clamping board, and at least one second clamping board are adjustably attached to the base desk.
US07743674B2 High temperature fluid test instrument
An apparatus that can determine the water wettability of fluid at simulate downhole conditions. For example, a spacer fluid and a drilling mud mixture can be tested under a specified pressure and a specified temperature that simulate downhole conditions. Additionally, a shear rate may be applied to the fluid mixture that is substantially identical to the shear rate that will be exerted on the mixture due to downhole geometries and conditions. The apparatus may also provide the viscosity of the fluid under the designated pressure, at the specific temperature, and under the specified shear rate. The apparatus may also be used to determine the amount of spacer fluid that would need to be added to a drilling mud to improve the rheological properties of the mixture to provide adequate water wettability as well as the displacement of the mixture during the cementing process of a wellbore.
US07743666B2 Tunneling effect element and physical quantity to electrical quantity transducer
A tunneling effect element, including an insulating layer that forms a tunneling barrier, a lower electrode that is conductive and non-magnetic, and is formed on a bottom surface of said insulating layer, an upper electrode that is conductive and non-magnetic, and is formed on a top surface of said insulating layer, and a transmission member. The transmission member is made of insulating material that is formed surrounding the insulating layer and the lower and upper electrodes. The transmission member is also formed on a surface of an object to be detected, and transmits deformation of the object to be detected to the insulating layer. The tunneling effect element detects a change in stress of the object to be detected as a change in electric resistance.
US07743665B2 Test piece and apparatus for testing
A test piece for mechanical property testing, the test piece is generally elongate having two opposing surfaces. Each surface comprises at least one integral loading land. Preferably there are two lands on one surface and one or two on the other for three- or four-point bending testing.
US07743657B2 Angular velocity sensor device
An angular velocity sensor device includes a structure having an angular velocity detecting element and a vibration body formed thereon. The structure is mounted on the case and the angular velocity detecting element is isolated from external vibrations without the need for rubber and gel vibration dampening materials. Permanent magnets of the same polarity are mounted opposite one another on the structure and the case. The magnetic repulsion is generated between the structure and the case to cause the structure to be housed within the case in a levitated state.
US07743656B1 System and method for measuring flexibility
An apparatus, method and system for measuring an individual's flexibility are disclosed herein. The apparatus includes a first flexible fabric strap portion, a flexible e-textile fabric portion, a monitoring device and a second flexible fabric strap portion connected to a second end of the monitoring device. The system further includes a communication device for receiving a signal from the apparatus and a computing device for processing the signal from the apparatus.
US07743654B2 System, method and apparatus for petrophysical and geophysical measurements at the drilling bit
Measurement of petrophysical and geophysical data of formations in a wellbore using a long gauge bit having at least one sensor therewith. The at least one sensor may be installed in at least one flute of the long gauge bit and/or in the long gauge portion thereof. Data for creating images of the formations are obtained at or near the bottom of the borehole and proximate to the long gauge bit used for drilling the borehole. Orientation of the long gauge bit is also available on a real time basis. Magnetic and/or gravitational sensors may be used in determining bit orientation. The flutes of the long gauge bit and the long gauge portion thereof may have standard inserts to accommodate various types of different sensors and electronic packages therefor.
US07743653B2 Method and device for adapting tires of a means of locomotion to given travel situations
A method for adapting tires (14) of an, in particular, motor-driven means of locomotion to given travel situations, in particular of a passenger car, of a truck or the like. The shape of at least one tire (14), preferably of a plurality of tires (14) or of all the tires (14), is changed selectively, and preferably automatically, during the journey as a function of the travel situation.
US07743652B1 Tire pressure detector without the risk of causing a leaky tire
A tire pressure detector without the risk of causing a leaky tire includes a base having a forward projected and externally threaded annular wall and an annular limit wall to define an annular groove therebetween; a mating cover having an internally threaded annular wall for screwing to the externally threaded annular wall of the base with a free end of the annular wall received in the annular groove to press against an airtight seal ring set in the annular groove, such that an airtight space is defined in and between the assembled cover and base; a tire pressure detecting assembly being receiving in the airtight space; and a valve control assembly being mounted on the base to locate between the base and the mating cover. The annular limit wall prevents the cover from moving and deforming at the screwed portion to ensure good air-tightness between the cover and the base.
US07743651B2 Method for detecting malfunction of a cooling system based on detected coolant temperature
A method for detecting a malfunction of a cooling system of an internal combustion engine, comprising: detecting a coolant temperature on a side of the engine; determining a malfunction of the cooling system with the coolant temperature and the value only after a cold start of the engine.
US07743650B2 System and method for dynamometer testing of motor vehicles, including a cooling device
The present invention relates to a system for dynamometer testing of motor vehicles. The system includes a cooling device for cooling a braking device and/or a power-generating arrangement, such as the engine of a car. The system is arranged to, using the braking device, absorb power applied thereto by the power-generating arrangement. The cooling device includes a fan arrangement for producing an air stream, the air stream being intended to be directed towards the braking device and/or the power-generating arrangement and/or a heat exchanger for providing a cooling effect. The fan arrangement includes two substantially axially aligned fans, and the cooling device is arranged to rotate the fans in opposite directions relative to each other. The present invention also relates to a method.
US07743646B2 Axial flow scan testable filter system
A filter system having in-situ scan capabilities is provided. In one embodiment of the invention, the system includes a downstream probe which may be rotated to scan the field of a filter installed in the system. The probe may be utilized for leak detection, velocity measurements, efficiency testing and the like. In one embodiment, one or more probes are rotated downstream of the filter to scan the downstream face of the filter.
US07743643B2 Innovative gas monitoring with spacial and temporal analysis
The present invention relates to the monitoring of gas concentrations possible in very low ranges (i.e., low ppb and even ppt ranges) and especially use thereof in environmental monitoring, exposure assessment, bomb detection, and health studies. The invention can use a spatial and temporal assessment of gas concentrations that enables the sources of the gas in question to be located and identified which is useful in environmental and health field but can also be applied to other fields an example of which is detecting and locating explosives. This technology can uses small, light weight, and low power components that allow for the monitor to be portable and even worn on a person as a personal monitor. This technology can be used in a stationary monitors as well.
US07743632B2 Washing machine
A washing method in a steam injection type washing machine in which wash water is heated to generate high temperature and high-pressure steam while passing through the steam supply unit in the wash or rinse cycle, and the generated steam is injected into the wash tub at the top of the wash tub. Accordingly, it is possible to rapidly achieve the wetting of clothes with wash water while achieving an enhancement in sterilization and washing performances. In addition, consumption of water and electrical energy can be reduced.
US07743628B2 Method and device for non-contact moulding of fused glass gobs
The invention relates to a method and device for non-contact molding of fused glass or glass ceramic gobs by means of gas levitation, comprising the following method steps: a pre-form is generated, the pre-form is brought close to a molding tool, which may be connected to a compressed gas source on the open-pored region thereof facing the pre-form in order to generate a gas cushion between the molding tool and the pre-form and the molding tool is directly heated at least during a part of the molding phase.
US07743626B2 Multiple-bottle gel-pack
A gel-pack for chilling bottled beverages comprising a flexible plastic envelope, sealed around its perimeter, provided with a spaced array of holes therethrough whereby the gel-pack can be draped over a plurality of beverage bottles, with the necks of the bottles protruding through the holes in the gel-pack.
US07743625B2 Natural smoke/fog distribution system
A method for use with a cold fog generator and/or smoke/fog distribution system comprising the steps of: (a) injecting expanding smoke into an inlet orifice utilizing a venturi effect to foster the full expansion of smoke once inside chamber, thereby (b) introducing smoke into an expansion chamber that will complete its expansion process, (c) building air pressure within expansion chamber and thereby harnessing natural energy from expanding gases to then (d) force said smoke through an ice mass thereby (e) cooling the smoke and creating fog, then (f) forcing fog/smoke out of cfgnsfds via an exhaust duct.In another preferred method the steps are as follows: (a) injecting expanding smoke into an inlet orifice utilizing a venturi effect to foster the full expansion of smoke once inside chamber, thereby (b) introducing smoke into an expansion chamber that will complete its expansion process, (c) building air pressure within expansion chamber and thereby harnessing natural energy from expanding gases to then (d) force fog/smoke out of cfgnsfds via an exhaust duct.
US07743624B2 Beverage dispense font incorporating portable cooling device
A beverage dispense font incorporating a portable cooling device is provided wherein the portable cooling device cools an outer housing of the dispense font in order to encourage ice formation on the dispense font. Unique visual effects can be obtained with ice formation on the outer housing of the dispense font, and the portable cooling device therefore enables independent cooling of the outer housing without redesign or modification of the existing glycol cooling system used to cool the dispensed beverage.The portable cooling device can be inherently small in size due to relatively minimal cooling capacity requirements for cooling just the outer housing of the dispense font. The dispense font and portable cooling device may be moved from location to location thereby greatly enhancing the capability to provide a frozen-appearing dispense font to many locations.
US07743621B2 Multi-range composite-evaporator type cross-defrosting system
The present invention provides a multi-range composite-evaporator type cross-defrosting system for continuous heating operation under an environment temperature range from 20 degree to negative 40 degree Celsius. Said system employs a combination of two defrosting methods under different temperature and humidity conditions; the first defrosting method is used for the outdoor temperature range of 20 degree Celsius to 0 degree Celsius, the second defrosting method is used in the outdoor temperature range of 10 degree Celsius to negative 40 degree Celsius, and a control system will adjust the appropriate threshold for switching between the two defrosting methods.