| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US07748344B2 |
Segmented resonant antenna for radio frequency inductively coupled plasmas
An ion shower system is disclosed and comprises a plasma source operable to generate source gas ions within a chamber. The plasma source further comprises a plurality of conductor segments and a plurality of capacitors, wherein the conductor segments are serially connected through the plurality of capacitors. The plasma source further comprises an antenna drive circuit coupled to the plurality of conductor segments that provides power to the conductor segments and capacitors at a predetermined frequency. The ion shower system also comprises a source gas inlet that provides a source gas to the chamber. The conductor segments, capacitors and antenna drive circuit cooperatively provide energy to charged particles in the chamber, thereby energizing the charged particles and generating a plasma comprising source gas ions and electrons within the chamber due to ionizing collisions between the energized charged particles and the source gas. |
| US07748343B2 |
Electrohydrodynamic spraying system
An electrohydrodynamic spray apparatus includes a liquid inlet and a spray nozzle in fluid communication with the liquid inlet, where the spray nozzle has an opening downstream of the liquid inlet. An inner electrode is situated at least partially inside the spray nozzle. An outer electrode is situated external to the spray nozzle and within about 100 mm of the opening of the nozzle. The electrohydrodynamic spray apparatus can be combined with a substrate to form an electrohydrodynamic spray system. The electrohydrodynamic spray apparatus or system can be used to form nanostructures such as nanodrops, nanoparticles and thin films. |
| US07748340B1 |
Officiating flag apparatus
The officiating flag apparatus is partly an air pump having a pump with removably attachable air fitting. An air gauge is disposed on and in communication with the pump. An officiating flag is attached to the pump, thereby combining a pump, an air pressure gauge, and an officiating flag in one apparatus. |
| US07748338B2 |
Method of intercepting and yawing a sailing vessel
A method for intercepting and yawing an errant sailing vessel is disclosed, wherein the vessel might have been hijacked or malfunctioned and in danger of colliding with an object. The method comprises dispatching a pair of watercraft to approach said sailing vessel, providing a tow rope to be secured at one end to first watercraft and the other end to second watercraft. The tow rope is brought to extend between the first and second watercrafts over the hull of said sailing vessel. The first watercraft is then secured to one side of said sailing vessel's hull, while second watercraft pulls the tow rope away from the direction of sailing on the other side of said vessel's hull. In an alternative embodiment, the tow rope end held by the first watercraft may be secured directly to the vessel's hull, thus freeing the first watercraft to evacuate crew from the vessel to a safer distance. |
| US07748335B1 |
Method and apparatus for wake free marine craft
The hull design for this invention includes a sharp bow, deep V concave shape (“VC”) monohull with a reverse curvature running from a flat straight keel to the upper rail and also encompassing the entire hull length from the bow to the stern. The pointed bow with a bow rudder and a deep flat keel results in a smooth hull for guiding a water column free of a wave and water turbulence to the stern. A mainsail mast and a mizzen shroud slide transversely within limits to promote sail proximity and to achieve increased speed via an improved draft. The mizzen foresail is tacked by moving the mast windward; detaching the mizzen shroud; moving it forward to perform a tacking maneuver, and then moving it aft to a leeward position in relation to the mainsail; and re-attaching the mizzen mast to the moveable traveler. |
| US07748334B2 |
Personal watercraft with pivotable platform
A personal watercraft is disclosed, having a straddle-type seat disposed on a deck. The seat has a seat profile. A storage compartment is disposed rearwardly of the seat. A rear platform is pivotally connected to a rear portion of the watercraft. The rear platform is pivotable between a raised position and a lowered position. The rear platform permits access to the storage compartment when in the raised position, and sealingly closes the storage compartment when in the lowered position. The rear platform is lower than the seat profile when the rear platform is in the lowered position. A personal watercraft having left and right storage compartments and a rear channel defined therebetween, in which the rear platform extends laterally above the rear channel when in the lowered position is also disclosed. A personal watercraft with a rear platform having heel rests with angled portions is also disclosed. |
| US07748332B2 |
Automatic device and method for orienting textile items on blocks
An automatic device (1) for orienting tubular textile items (3) on blocks (2), comprising a block (2) for receiving the textile item (3) having a reference (4) with respect to which the item (3) is to be oriented for reaching a pre-established operating position with respect to the block (2), orientation means (9) for shifting the item (3) on the block (2) for bringing it in the pre-established operating position, a detection element (13) for determining the initial position of the reference (4) when the textile item (3) is loaded onto the block (2), with respect to the pre-established operating position, and processing means connected to the detection element (13) and acting upon the orientation means (9) for orienting the textile item (3) and bringing it in the pre-established operating position. |
| US07748331B2 |
Subsurface soil injection method
A method for the subsurface application of fertilizers, biologicals, fumigants, non-fumigant pesticides or other chemicals to soil with reduced application rates. Discrete amounts of the materials are injected into the soil at numerous sites along a path during a pass through the soil. At the injection sites, the materials form diffusion patterns which may touch or overlapping with diffusion patterns of adjacent soil injections. The application of materials to soil in this manner maintains optimum efficacy with the use of the least amount of materials necessary per acre of soil. |
| US07748325B2 |
Firearms projectile
A projectile structured to be discharged from a firearm comprising a body including a nose portion and a tail portion separable from one another when the projectile strikes a target. The body further includes an interface disposed intermediate opposite ends of the body of the projectile and structured to removably interconnect the nose and tail portions. Separation of the nose and tail portions such as when striking a soft tissue or like material target is caused by the tumbling of the projectile and the cooperative structuring of the interface to facilitate separation of the nose and tail portions. Further, the interface is disposed, dimensioned and structured to define the primary area of contact of the projectile body with the rifling or interior surface of the barrel of the firearm. At least one additional embodiment of the projectile comprises one of the nose or tail portions, preferably the tail portion structured to contain a supplemental payload which is carried to the target upon discharge of the firearm. |
| US07748323B2 |
Semiconductor bridge device and igniter including semiconductor bridge circuit device
There is provided a semiconductor bridge device wherein a reaction time for generating sparks is short and a spark generating amount is large. This semiconductor bridge device comprises a substrate, a pair of land portions, a bridge portion electrically connecting between the pair of the land portions, and an electrode pad arranged on each upper surface in the pair of the land portions and emitting sparks at the bridge portion through an electric current passed between the electrode pads, in which the pair of the land portions and the bridge portion consist of a laminate formed by alternately laminating a metal layer and a metal oxide layer plural times, and an outermost layer in the laminate is a metal layer, and a metal oxide having a decomposition temperature of higher than 1500° C. is used in the metal oxide layer. |
| US07748322B1 |
Plastic encapsulated energetic material initiation device
An initiator with a housing formed of plastic and a chip assembly for initiating at least one of a combustion event, a deflagration event and a detonation event. The chip assembly includes an electrically-actuated chip and a pair of electric leads that extend through the housing and are configured to couple the electrically-actuated chip to a fireset circuit. The electrically-actuated chip is partially encapsulated in the housing. A method for forming an initiator is also provided. |
| US07748321B2 |
Method for producing a high-resolution surface pattern
The invention concerns a process for producing a high-resolution surface pattern on a substrate and a multi-layer body produced by means of that process and an apparatus for carrying out the process. A printing substance is applied in pattern form to the substrate by means of a printing process. For fine structuring of the surface pattern, prior to application of the printing substance, a microscopic surface structure with a plurality of grooves is replicated into the surface of the substrate. The fine structuring of the surface pattern is determined by the respective locally applied application amount of printing substance and the respective local relief parameters of the microscopic surface structure in particular orientation direction and profile shape. |
| US07748317B2 |
Automatic handling and transportation device for a printer housing
The invention relates to an automatic handling and transportation device for a printer housing. The device comprises a basic mobile unit movable on a first route and at least one handling unit mounted on the basic mobile unit. The handling unit includes a support for guiding and supporting housings born on a second route parallel to a housing-bearing assembly on a printing machine, able to be aligned with the same and an grasping/holding device, adapted to hold a housing and move it on the second route between a transferral position in which the grasping/holding device interacts with the housing installed on the housing-bearing assembly, and a transportation position in which the housing, held by the grasping/holding device is on the support, and vice-versa. |
| US07748315B2 |
System and method for packaging cotton sliver
A can-free system for handling fiber sliver includes a sliver delivery device which deposits fiber sliver in the form of a free-standing sliver pile in a depositing area. A sliver receiving device is disposed in the depositing area to receive and collect the free-standing fiber sliver pile delivered by the delivery device. A packaging apparatus compresses the collected free-standing fiber sliver pile applies one or more straps to the compressed free-standing sliver pile. |
| US07748314B2 |
Fermentation apparatus for customizing fermentation level and method thereof
The present invention relates to a fermentation apparatus comprising a storage compartment which is formed with an accommodating space for storing food and at least one of a heating part and a cooling part to ferment the food in the storage compartment, further comprising a sensor to sense a fermentation level of the food; an input part comprising a memory button allowing to memorize the fermentation level in a state that the food is fermented to an extent that a user wants to memorize; and a controller to control operation of at least one of the heating part and the cooling part, and store a fermentation value from the sensor as a custom fermentation value if the memory button is selected. Thus, the present invention provides a fermentation apparatus for customizing a fermentation level and a method thereof, which memorizes a desired fermentation level and repeatedly provides food at a desired fermentation level by selecting a memorized fermentation level. |
| US07748313B2 |
Continuous flow pressurized cooker/blancher
A continuous flow pressurized cooker/blancher cooks a food product by continuously transporting the product on a conveyor system and by forcing steam through or over the surface of the food product. The food product to be cooked may be, but is not limited to, seafood and preferably crustaceans. The cooker/blancher includes an exterior pressurized housing, an infeed weigh hopper, an infeed and an outfeed transfer device, and an internal conveyor system. Each transfer device comprises an internal and an external transfer chamber. A pressure assembly forces steam into the exterior pressurized housing while the transfer device is adapted to maintain a selected pressurized environment. |
| US07748312B2 |
Extrusion process, apparatus and product
A process for the manufacture of cooked cereals or dry pet food by preparing a mixture of water and a dry premix mainly comprising cereal flour or semolina, and pressing the mixture, with the aid of a gear pump, firstly through a heat exchanger wherein it is cooked and then through an extrusion die to form an extruded product. Also, an apparatus for carrying out the process and a product obtainable by the process. |
| US07748309B2 |
Axle locking cylinder structure for heavy construction equipment
An axle locking cylinder structure is capable of enabling an operator of heavy construction equipment to stably carry out an axle locking operation since a sudden variation of the flow rate is prevented in the axle locking cylinder by draining a highly-pressurized flow rate slowly at the release of axle locking and supplying a flow rate quickly at the drive of axle locking. A highly-pressurized hydraulic fluid can be steadily drained from a cylinder chamber since an opening region between a poppet valve and a pilot flow path is enlarged so as to open the pilot flow path connected to the cylinder chamber during a relatively long time. A cylinder rod can be quickly expanded according to the manipulation of an axle locking switch by compensating a flow rate supplied to a cylinder chamber when the cylinder rod is expanded. |
| US07748306B1 |
Method for attaching a compensator assembly to a firearm
A method for releasably attaching a compensator assembly adjacent a muzzle end of a barrel of a firearm. The compensator assembly includes an attachment means on its rear end. The barrel has a firing axis and includes a threaded end opposite the muzzle end and defines a recess formed adjacent the muzzle end. The firearm itself has a frame defining a threaded aperture. The method includes moving the attachment means into engagement with the recess; tensioning the attachment means within the recess in a direction substantially parallel to the firing axis; inserting a mating tool into the muzzle end of the barrel; rotating the barrel via the mating tool, thereby causing the threaded end of the barrel to threadedly engage with the threaded aperture; and halting the rotation of the barrel via the mating tool when a predetermined torque is achieved. |
| US07748305B2 |
Egg slicing apparatus
The present invention is a handheld apparatus which slices the white portion of a boiled egg in a manner allowing the egg to then be processed into and used as a deviled egg. Specifically, the apparatus slices the egg white by mating two cutting edges, each having a mating concave portion, slidably engaged to move in a vertical direction toward each other thereby slicing the egg white lengthwise into two equal halves while the egg yolk remains stationary in the concave portion and is not sliced. |
| US07748301B2 |
Machine-tool revolver unit
A machine-tool turret-type unit includes a turret disk that is free to rotate about a rotational axis, and a housing on which to mount the turret disk is provided. The housing includes at least one securing device to be secured to the securing section of the machine tool. The securing device includes at least one securing surface to rest against the securing section of the machine tool. The rotational axis lies within a first plane defined by the securing surface(s). |
| US07748300B2 |
Pliers
Pliers, with two arms that are joined together via an articulation pin. One of the arms has a protuberance with a lateral channel that extends via one of the orifices, a pusher being located in the channel and having an inner channel that accommodates a spring that acts between the pusher and the arm. The articulation pin is joined by means of screwing to the pusher in the region of the lateral channel, a toothed claw being arranged coaxially therebetween with mechanical continuity. The pusher is continued as an extension located on the walls of the other orifice in the work position. Applicable to hand tools. |
| US07748297B2 |
Cam operated jaw force intensifier for gripping a cylindrical member
An apparatus to be used in a gripping assembly for gripping a cylindrical member is disclosed. The apparatus includes a jaw body, a gripping insert, and a rotatable camming member disposed between the jaw body and gripping insert. The rotatable camming member rotates in response to the applied clamping and rotational forces of the gripping assembly and operates to intensify the force provided by the jaw to the gripping insert which is engaged with a cylindrical member. |
| US07748292B2 |
Bearing system and balancer
A bearing system can reduce the relative velocity between a bearing member and a rotation shaft and a rotating member to decrease a load on the bearing member although the rotation shaft and the rotating member rotate in opposite directions with the bearing member therebetween. The bearing system includes a case and a rotation shaft supported by the case. A rotating member is disposed coaxially outside the rotation shaft and rotates in the direction opposite to that of the rotation shaft. A housing is interposed between the rotation shaft and the rotating member and is fixed to the case. A bearing member that rotatably supports the rotating member is interposed between the housing and the rotating member. |
| US07748290B2 |
Parking lever system for vehicle
A parking lever includes a base plate, a parking lever rotatably mounted to the base plate and having a parking brake cable connected thereto, a ratchet disposed on the base plate, a pawl lever rotatably mounted to the parking lever, a button mounted to the parking lever, a rod operably connecting the button to the pawl lever, and a stopper mounted to the parking lever. The lever is moveable from a released state to a parking state in which the pawl lever is engaged with the ratchet. In one embodiment, the parking lever is not released by operation of only the button to prevent accidental release of the parking brake. |
| US07748282B1 |
Aviation fuel sampler device and method
An aircraft fuel contaminant tester has an upper transparent chamber for viewing a first sample of aviation fuel, a lower chamber, a fuel cell drain valve actuating device for loading the upper transparent chamber. A thumb actuated valve halts flow of fuel from the upper chamber into the lower chamber until actuated by the pilot after viewing contaminated fuel in the upper transparent chamber. The larger lower chamber permits several samples of fuel to be repeatedly drained from the fuel tank and examined merely by manually actuating the valve without the undesired discarding of any fuel. When the fuel in the last batch of sampled fuel, viewed in the upper chamber, is free of contaminants, the inspection process ends and the tester is inverted, draining the sampled fuel from both chambers, usually at one time only, to eliminate the repeated discarding of the fuel from the commonly used sampler cup. |
| US07748281B2 |
Dispensing apparatus, dispensing method, and analyzer
A dispensing apparatus includes a syringe which has a piston and sucks and discharges a liquid; and a storage unit which stores therein a reference driving profile indicating a reference of a driving position and a driving time at starting the piston. The apparatus also includes a position detector which detects an actual driving position of the piston; a timer which measures an actual driving time of the piston; and a driving controller which controls driving of the piston based on the reference driving profile, the driving controller creating an actual driving profile based on the actual driving position and the actual driving time of the piston, and the driving controller comparing the reference driving profile with the actual driving profile to determine based on a result of the comparing whether the dispensing is proper or not. |
| US07748280B2 |
Sidestream gas sampling system with closed sample circuit
The invention provides a sidestream gas sampling apparatus having a gas sampling circuit and a set of reusable elements. The gas sampling circuit carries the gas sample from a main flow of gas, through a sample analysis area, and vents the gas sample to an analyzed gas destination. The reusable components provide motive forces to remove the gas sample through the gas sampling circuit and provide analysis components for the gas sampling apparatus while not making contact with the gas sample. As such, the reusable components do not become contaminated by the gas sample and do not have to be cleaned or sterilized between applications. |
| US07748274B2 |
Document inspection system
Document inspection system comprising a transport system for transporting documents along a transport path (12) through an inspection station. At least one ultrasonic inspection apparatus at the inspection station, the apparatus including ultrasonic transmitting and receiving transducers (42,44) arranged on opposite sides of the transport path, and a processing system for monitoring ultrasonic signals received by the receiving transducer. An ultrasonic absorbing material (300) is provided around the transducers and facing the transport path for absorbing ultrasound reflected by a document. Document guide apparatus (312,314), having a lower coefficient of friction than the absorbing material, extends partially over the absorbing material (300) so as to prevent documents contacting the absorbing material in use while leaving the absorbing material exposed to the transport path at least adjacent the transducers. |
| US07748273B2 |
Interactive ultrasound-based depth measurement for medical applications
A device for determining the internal structure of a bone along a path directed into the bone (or other tissue) is disclosed. The device comprises a nozzle fluidically connected to a liquid reservoir for providing a liquid jet directed at the bone in the direction of the path; an ultrasonic transducer for generating ultrasonic waves through the liquid jet and for detecting echoes of the ultrasonic waves caused by changes in the acoustical impedance in the bone characterizing changes in the structure of the bone along the path; and an analyzer for interpreting the echoes into meaningful information relating to the location of the structural changes along the path. |
| US07748272B2 |
MEMS sensor suite on a chip
The MEMS Sensor Suite on a Chip provides the capability, monolithically integrated onto one MEMS chip, to sense temperature, humidity, and two axes of acceleration. The device incorporates a MEMS accelerometer, a MEMS humidity sensor, and a MEMS temperature sensor on one chip. These individual devices incorporate proof masses, suspensions, humidity sensitive capacitors, and temperature sensitive resistors (thermistors) all fabricated in a common fabrication process that allows them to be integrated onto one micromachined chip. The device can be fabricated in a simple micromachining process that allows its size to be miniaturized for embedded and portable applications. During operation, the sensor suite chip monitors temperature levels, humidity levels, and acceleration levels in two axes. External circuitry allows sensor readout, range selection, and signal processing. |
| US07748270B2 |
Liquid level indicator
A liquid level indicator (1) is provided for sealing engagement with an opening of a receptacle. A float (8) is used which rests at the liquid level and which is connected to a float rod (7), which in turn is pivotally connected to fixed (5) and slidable rod (6). Upon changing liquid levels, the float (8) and, accordingly, the slidable rod (6) move and the position of the slidable rod with respect to a marked transparent cup (11) disposed outside of the receptacle, indicates the liquid level. The transparent cup (11) covers the portion of the indicator outside of the receptacle and serves to provide a fluid- and air-tight seal between the interior and exterior of the receptacle when the indicator is in place. In one embodiment the liquid level indicator may be used with oil tanks. A transparent cup (11) for use with existing devices is also taught. |
| US07748269B2 |
Low liquid level detecting device and method
The invention discloses a low liquid level detecting device comprising a float sensor and a casing. The casing has first to third chambers formed between an upper wall and a bottom wall. The top portion of the first chamber is formed with a top opening. The bottom portion of the first chamber is fluid communicated with the bottom portion of the second chamber. The top portion of the second chamber is fluid communicated with the top portion of the third chamber. The bottom portion of the third chamber is formed with a bottom opening. A float sensor is mounted inside the third chamber. A drain hole is formed through the bottom part of a chamber wall surrounding the third chamber. A method for detecting a low liquid level using the above low liquid level detecting device is also disclosed. |
| US07748268B2 |
Thermal flow meter
A thermal mass flow controller or mass flow meter having a novel sensor housing that reduces heat conduction from the housing mounting plate or base to the sensor itself. The housing also greatly minimizes the thermal gradient that can result from the uneven application of heat to the housing base. This reduction is accomplished in part by the use of one or more thermal isolation slots to isolate the upper portion of the housing (which holds the sensor) from the lower portion of the housing. Heat transfer to the sensor housing is also minimized by raising the middle portion of the bottom of the housing so that thermal contact is made between the base and the housing only at the two ends of the housing. |
| US07748266B2 |
Device for analyzing at least one gas contained in a liquid, in particular a drilling fluid
A device includes an analyzer (53) and a sampling apparatus (51) for taking a sample of at least one fraction of the gas that has at least one porous membrane element (55). The porous membrane element (55) has a support (63) and a first surface (57) which is in contact with liquid circulating in duct (13) and a second surface (59) which opens out into a duct (61) which is connected to the analyzer (53). The hardness of the first surface (57) is more than 1400 Vickers (kgf/mm2), ranging more particularly between 1400 and 1900 Vickers (kgf/mm2). The device can be used to analyze the gaseous content of oil well boring sludge. |
| US07748264B2 |
Measurement of pavement unevenness
Measuring the unevenness of a pavement surface. A frame carrying an array of sensors is transported above the pavement surface. At a first position, the distance of each sensor is measured from respective first points on the pavement surface. The measurements are repeated for subsequent positions. Calculations from the measurements determine any change in tilt. The measurements and calculations are used to derive a measure of the unevenness of the pavement surface. |
| US07748263B2 |
Spring system for a vehicle wheel suspension system
A vehicle wheel suspension system is provided, having a first spring element clamped between the vehicle body and a wheel and a second spring element clamped between the body and the wheel in parallel to the first spring element by application of a tensile force by a tensioning element. The second spring element is not active without application of the tensile force. A pressure addition spring element is also provided which, in the case of large spring excursions, acts as an end stop. The pressure addition spring element is not activated by of the tensile force for activating the second spring element. The spring rate of the second spring element is preferably lower than that of the first spring element. Additional spring elements of different wheels or axles can be activated by a common mechanical tensioning element which can shorten or lengthen several tension devices connected with the spring elements. |
| US07748261B2 |
Torque estimation device for internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine torque estimation device that accurately estimates the torque of an internal combustion engine without being affected by engine speed changes. A reference signal, which is output at predetermined rotation angle intervals of a crankshaft for the engine, is acquired. In accordance with the reference signal, the amount of change in the rotation speed of the crankshaft is acquired as a rotational fluctuation. A filtering process is performed on the rotational fluctuation in synchronism with reference signal output timing to extract a frequency component synchronized with a combustion cycle of the engine. The torque of the engine is estimated in accordance with the extracted frequency component. |
| US07748260B2 |
Thermal mechanical drive actuator, thermal probe and method of thermally driving a probe
A drive actuator for a measurement instrument having a probe, the drive actuator including a heating element in a thermally conductive relationship with the probe such that application of electric current to the heating element modifies a characteristic of the probe. The probe device includes a probe including a cantilever having a lever made of a material having a selected thermal expansivity and a drive actuator in operable cooperation with the cantilever lever made of a material having a thermal expansivity different than the thermal expansivity of the material of which the cantilever lever is made. |
| US07748256B2 |
Nondestructive testing of torsional vibration dampers
A system for determining acceptability of torsional dampers for service in a machine system includes a fixture, an ultrasonic scanner and an indicating device configured to indicate at least one of acceptability and unacceptability of a torsional damper based upon receipt of a signal from the scanner. A nondestructive testing method for a torsional vibration damper includes scanning a torsional vibration damper with ultrasonic energy, and determining a test value for the damper indicative of a viscosity of fluid sealed within a housing of the damper based on receiving transmitted ultrasonic energy. Receipt of ultrasonic energy may be used to determine the flow rate of fluid within the damper by indicating a time for fluid to flow to fill a void within the damper. The system and method may be implemented in a remanufacturing or salvaging process for torsional vibration dampers. |
| US07748253B2 |
Vent and soil flux measurement system
A method and apparatus are provided for maintaining pressure inside a closed chamber equal to the changing outside pressure, detecting leaks in the plumbing (i.e., air handling system) of a trace gas flux measurement system, and estimating the kinetic volume, e.g., of such a system. |
| US07748252B2 |
Phantom device
A phantom device for mimicking anatomical structures, comprising: at least one electronic device layer comprising segmented areas of liquid crystals for forming a graphic layout of an anatomical structure; the segments comprising dyes of various absorbing characteristics for mimicking anatomical structures such as blood vessels; the areas further comprising electrically controllable optical diffuser and/or absorber elements for varying the absorption in the segments so as to mimic dynamical properties of said anatomical structure. |
| US07748251B2 |
Circuit configuration and method for ascertaining tilt errors in connection with a position-measuring device
In a circuit configuration for ascertaining tilt errors in connection with a position-measuring device, the position-measuring device includes at least one incremental track on a measuring graduation that is able to be read by a scanner, which is movable relative to the measuring graduation in a measuring direction, and the scanner is guided along the measuring graduation and the scanner is rotated with respect to the measuring graduation by an angle of misalignment that is changeable during the relative movement. Perpendicular to the measuring direction, the scanner has a first scanning region and a second scanning region, whereby upon reading the at least one incremental track, at least one first position signal is able to be generated by the first scanning region and at least one second position signal is able to be generated by the second scanning region. The at least one first position signal and the at least one second position signal are supplied to an arithmetic unit in which, from the at least one first position signal and from the at least one second position signal, at least one tilt-error signal is able to be generated by addition and/or subtraction operations, the amplitude of the tilt-error signal being determined by an angle of tilt and being a measure for the angle of misalignment. |
| US07748248B2 |
Stent crimping mechanisms
A system for reducing the diameter of a stent comprises a stent contracting assembly. The assembly comprises a plurality of blades, which define a diameter reduction chamber. The chamber has an open diameter configuration and a closed diameter configuration. The plurality of blades comprises active blades and floating blades, wherein each active blade is engaged to an actuation mechanism. The actuation mechanism is constructed and arranged to move each active blade from the open diameter configuration to the closed diameter configuration. Each floating blade is moved from the open diameter configuration to the closed diameter configuration only as a result of the movement of the active blades. |
| US07748244B2 |
Deadbolt lock assembly
A lock assembly for use with a bolt movable from a retracted position to an extended position. The lock assembly includes an exterior assembly and an interior assembly having an interior actuator manually operable to move the bolt between the retracted position and the extended position. The exterior assembly includes an exterior actuator manually operable to cause the bolt to move from the retracted position to the extended position and inoperable to move the bolt from the extended position to the retracted position. |
| US07748243B2 |
Washing machine
A washing machine is provided. The washing machine includes a cabinet cover and a drain passage forming portion formed on the cabinet cover. |
| US07748242B2 |
Drum type washing machine
A drum type washing machine includes a water tub, a drum mounted in the water tub so as to be rotatable a wash operation and a dehydration operation are carried out, the drum including an end plate, a drum support provided on the end plate of the drum and including a mount portion on which a shaft supporting the drum is mounted thereon, and a cover covering the mount portion of the drum support so that the mount portion is rendered substantially planar. |
| US07748238B2 |
Neck ring cooling
A system for directing cooling air onto a neck ring in a glassware molding machine that includes at least one air plenum stationarily disposed at a blank mold station and having an internal cavity for receiving cooling air flowing laterally inwardly toward the axis and at least one outlet opening adjacent to the axis, a plunger wear plate disposed overlying at least a portion of the air plenum, and having an array of axially oriented openings for receiving air directed from the air plenum, a plurality of openings in the neck ring arm for receiving air from the openings in the plunger wear plate across a gap between the neck ring arm and the plunger wear plate when the neck ring arm overlies the plunger wear plate, and a plurality of air passages in the neck ring for receiving air from the neck ring arm openings. |
| US07748235B1 |
Ice chest cooler and temporary air conditioner
A portable cooling apparatus and associated method include an ice chest having an inner cavity defined by one or more side walls extending upwardly from a floor forming a lower end of the ice chest and having a lid positioned at an upper end of the ice chest so as to close access to the inner cavity; a manifold removably positioned on the floor of the inner cavity of the ice chest, the manifold having an inlet and an outlet extending through the one or more side walls to outside the ice chest; and an electric fan associated with the manifold outlet for drawing air from the inlet through the manifold so as to blow air through the outlet. |
| US07748231B2 |
Ice-cube complete filling detector and refrigerator comprising the same
An ice-cube complete filling detector and a refrigerator comprising the same comprise a cam, an arm lever rotated by the cam, a detector driving gear rotated by the arm lever, a detector driven gear rotated by the detector driving gear, and an ice-cube detection lever connected to the detector driven gear, so that the detector driven gear is rotated via gear engagement by the detector driving gear and the detector driven gear, and the ice-cube detection lever can be rotated in a large range of about 180 degrees, thereby ensuring high accuracy of detection. |
| US07748230B2 |
Refrigerator with ice making device
A refrigerator includes an ice container storing the ice made in an ice making device and including an opening through which the ice is discharged and a carrying shaft carrying the stored ice to the opening; an outlet, into which ice carried through the opening is supplied, discharging the ice to an outside of the refrigerator; and a three rotating blades coupled with the carrying shaft and carrying the ice discharged from the opening to the outlet, wherein the outlet is arranged to deviate from an ice discharging axis of the opening. |
| US07748229B2 |
Liquid cooling system
In some embodiments, a cooling device may be mounted to a portion of a chassis of an electronic system, wherein the cooling device may be releasably and pivotably attached to the chassis in at least an open position to permit access to components within the electronic system and a closed position to permit installation of a cover on the chassis. Other embodiments are disclosed and claimed. |
| US07748224B2 |
Air-conditioning assembly
A temperature sensing assembly for monitoring a temperature of a pipe in a system. The temperature sensing assembly includes an insulator body having a first end, a second end, an outer surface, and an inner surface. The outer and inner surfaces extend between the first and second ends. The inner surface is configured to receive a portion of the pipe. A temperature sensor is disposed adjacent the inner surface and is configured to directly contact the pipe when the pipe is received by the inner surface. |
| US07748220B2 |
Method and device for converting heat into mechanical work
A novel method converts heat into mechanical work. In a cyclic process, a working medium is compressed while giving off heat and it is subsequently brought in thermal contact with the surroundings via a first heat exchanger. Then it is expanded while obtaining mechanical work, whereupon the cyclic process is run through once more. A high degree of efficiency is achieved by virtue of the fact that the working medium, after expansion, is guided through another heat exchanger, which is situated inside a rapidly rotating rotor and which, on the exterior thereof, is surrounded by at least one substantially annular gas space from whose exterior heat is dissipated. There is also disclosed a device for carrying out the novel method. |
| US07748216B2 |
Internal combustion engine
A turbine of a turbocharger is disposed on an exhaust passage. An air-fuel ratio sensor is disposed downstream of and in proximity to the turbine. An element of the air-fuel ratio sensor is positioned on or near the axis of an exhaust port of the turbine. A whirling flow of an exhaust gas in the same direction as a turbine wheel rotates is produced immediately after the exhaust port of the turbine, so that the whirling flow of the exhaust gas can centrifuge condensed water in the exhaust gas. The exhaust gas contacts the element near the axis of the exhaust port where there is substantially no condensed water, thus preventing the element from being wetted with water or cracked. |
| US07748214B2 |
Exhaust gas purification system for hybrid vehicle
An exhaust gas purification system for a hybrid vehicle is disclosed. An internal combustion engine and an electric motor are each arranged for providing power output for the vehicle. An exhaust gas purification device is provided in an exhaust gas passage of the engine to treat exhaust gas components contained in the exhaust gas from the engine. A controller is arranged and configured to selectively perform a regeneration operation of the exhaust gas purification device to burn and remove deposits accumulated in the exhaust gas purification device. The controller is further arranged and configured to control the internal combustion engine and the electric motor such that the exhaust gas purification device is restrained from reaching an excessive temperature during the regeneration operation of the exhaust gas purification device. |
| US07748212B2 |
Exhaust aftertreatment system with flow distribution
An exhaust aftertreatment system has a side inlet flow diffuser and provides even flow exhaust distribution to an aftertreatment element. |
| US07748211B2 |
Vapor cooling of detonation engines
An engine cooling system includes a combustion chamber assembly configured to generate detonation waves and a first vapor cooling assembly. The combustion chamber assembly defines a flowpath between an inner liner and an outer liner. The first vapor cooling assembly includes a vaporization section located adjacent to the flowpath and a condenser section spaced from the flowpath, and is configured to transport thermal energy from the vaporization section to the condenser section through cyclical evaporation and condensation of a working medium sealed within the first vapor cooling assembly. |
| US07748208B2 |
Compact recirculating lubrication system for a miniature gas turbine engine
A recirculating bearing lubrication system for a gas turbine engine that comprises a housing for the engine that serves as a primary static structural support, a rotor shaft for mounting rotational components of the engine, at least two bearings for supporting the rotor shaft within the housing and an air intake for supplying engine air comprises a generally annular lubricant source mounted about the engine intake to cool lubricant for the bearings; a solenoid that seals the lubricant from air contamination during storage of the engine and unseals it upon starting the engine; a lubricant pump that circulates the lubricant; at least one lubricant spray jet that receives circulating lubricant and sprays lubricant onto the bearings; and a sump for collecting excess lubricant sprayed on the bearings. |
| US07748201B2 |
Form-and-seal unit for a machine for packaging pourable food products
A form-and-seal unit for producing aseptic sealed packages from a tube of packaging material filled with a pourable food product. The unit comprises a fixed structure and two forming assemblies which interact alternately and cyclically with the tube of packaging material, and have respective pairs of jaws movable between an open position and a closed position in which they grip the packaging material tube between respective sealing means, and respective forming flaps selectable from different types of forming flaps for producing different types of packages, and having respective half shell forming portions which surround the tube of packaging material to determine the volume and shape of the packages. The approach movement of the forming flaps towards the packaging material tube is controlled by a fixed cam mechanism having different work profiles selectively engaged by cam-follower rollers of the forming flaps depending on the type of forming flaps used. |
| US07748200B2 |
Top-fill, reclosable stand-up package with slider device and tamper-evident structure and method of manufacturing same
A reclosable, tamper-proof, fillable package includes a first side panel and a second side panel joined to each other along a pair of spaced side seals. A bottom wall extends between the first and second side panels with the bottom wall and the first and second side panels defining a package interior. A tamper-evident structure having opposite sides connected to each other extends above a combined zipper closure and slider device, and is connected to the zipper closure. Only one side of the tamper-evident structure is initially connected to one of the first and second side panels so that a fill opening adapted to receive a product is created between the other side of the tamper-evident structure and the other of the first and second side panels. |
| US07748193B2 |
Pumping tower support system and method of use
A support system is provided for supportably securing a vertically movable support structure having a boom attached thereto to a floor structure of a building. The support structure extends through an opening formed in the floor structure. The support system includes a set of support brackets pivotably mounted relative to vertical support members of the support structure. The support brackets are supportably engageable with a portion of the support structure and a first floor structure in a first supporting position. The support brackets are freely swingable and movably engageable with a second floor structure as the support structure is moved relative to the second floor structure enabling the support brackets to be supportably engageable with the portion of the support structure and the second floor structure in a second supporting position. |
| US07748191B2 |
Cladding apparatus and methods
There is provided a roof cladding consisting of elements (10) of recycled plastics, material comprising a body portion (11), a batten engagement portion (12) located at the leading edge (14) of the body portion (11) and a batten back stop (13) being a transverse rib located on the underside of the body portion (11) at a spacing from the batten engagement means (12) determined by the pitch or spacing of the roofing battens (15). The batten engagement portion (12) comprises a downward depending web (16) adapted to bear on the up-slope face of the roofing batten (15), and a lower web (17) extending therefrom to lay adjacent the under surface of the batten (15) in use. The edge of the lower web (17) toward the leading edge (14) is provided with a locking lug (20) in the form of a ridge adapted to pass the batten (15) against the resilient bias of the downward depending web (16) and the lower web (17), to engage the leading face of the roof batten (15). The clearance between the body portion (11) and the lower web (17) is such that the space accommodates the trailing edge (21) of an adjacent roofing element (10) to trap the trailing edge (21) between the underside of the body portion (11) and the batten (15). Further installed security is provided by the backstop (13) engaging the upper leading edge of the adjacent batten (15). |
| US07748190B1 |
Cleat
A cleat for tying together two or more structural elements in either one or both of a horizontal and a vertical plane. The cleat comprises a first set of protrusions located on a first half of a plate, and a second set of protrusions located on a second half of the plate, wherein the first set of protrusions are mirror images of the second set of protrusions. Additionally, both the first and second set of protrusions are arranged in rows, wherein each successive row comprises protrusions having a height less than the height of the protrusions located in the immediately preceding row. Furthermore, the protrusions in the various rows are staggered in position relative to the protrusions located in the other rows. |
| US07748189B2 |
Tile and tack therefor
A tile having a self-interlocking mechanism urges rain water running on the surface of the tile to run downward thus making it for rain water to leak less through a joint. The tile includes a tile base, an underlap portion on each of an upper side area and one of a left-hand side area and a right-hand side area of the tile base, and an overlap portion on each of a lower side area and the other of the left-hand side area and the right-hand side area of the tile base. The tile may be arranged horizontally and vertically in a plain in a self-interlocking manner. The tile includes a tilt portion tapered thinner toward the lower end of the tile base. |
| US07748185B2 |
Muntin grids for transparencies and transparencies having muntin grids
A grid simulating muntins for a multi-sheet unit includes a plurality of interconnected vertical and horizontal elongated members. The ends of the elongated members are shaped to engage interior surface of a spacer frame to position the grid within the spacer frame. Shaping the ends of the elongated members eliminates the need for muntin clips. |
| US07748182B2 |
Modular wall system incorporating z-strips
A modular wall system is described that includes a plurality of wall panels, a horizontal main bracket having a length; and a plurality of wall panel brackets. Each wall panel bracket is configured for attachment to a corresponding one of the wall panels. Each wall panel bracket is configured to engage the horizontal main bracket so as to hang the corresponding the wall panel while allowing movement of the wall panels in substantially horizontal directions. |
| US07748175B2 |
Method of manufacturing and installing a low profile mounting system
The specification and drawing figures describe and show a low profile mounting system that includes a at least one rail. A plurality of tracks is formed in the rail with opposing jaws. The opposing jaws define a slot. The opposing jaws are disposed in the rail asymmetrically to the longitudinal axis of the rail. At least one ledge monolithically extends from the rail for holding an object such as a solar panel. A coupler is provided for demountably connecting a solar panel to the rail. A cleat also is provided for attaching the system to a surface. A connector connects the rail to the cleat. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure, but this abstract is not to be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of any claim. |
| US07748174B2 |
Exterior siding mounting brackets with a water diversion device
An exterior siding mounting bracket is secured to a substructure and projects over siding that covers the substructure. The bracket comprises a base member attached to the substructure and has at least one elongated wall projecting laterally outward from the substructure. A trim member has an outer flange with the siding disposed between the substructure and the outer flange. First and second side partitions project laterally inward with respect to the substructure and from the outer flange for snap fitting to the at least one elongated wall. A water diversion device has a trough located above the first and second side partitions supported by the outer flange and projecting laterally toward the substructure for receiving and diverting water run-off away from the substructure. At least one drainage tube of the water diversion device projects unitarily downward from the trough. |
| US07748159B1 |
Device for trapping flies
A device for trapping flies which comprises an elongated housing. A mechanism is for mounting the housing horizontally on an inside lower portion of a window pane adjacent to a window sill. Another mechanism for holding flies is carried within said housing. The flies, when attracted to light coming through the window pane, will hit the window pane and drop down to stick to the holding mechanism. A cover on the housing is to conceal the flies stuck to the holding mechanism. |
| US07748158B2 |
Box for storing fishing flies
A box for storing fishing flies including a cover assembly having two dish-like cover portions, each having a continuous distal edge portion; and a hinge affording pivotal movement of the cover portions between an open position and a closed position with the distal edge portions of the cover portions opposed to and closely spaced from each other. A fly retaining assembly included in the box comprises a support plate that extends between the distal edge portions of the cover portions in their closed position, can be engaged by flies, can pivot relative to the hinge independent of the cover portions, and can be removed from between the cover portions when they are open. A layer of over molded sealing material provided on the support plate is in sealing engagement with the edge portions of the adjacent cover portions when they are in their closed position. |
| US07748157B1 |
Fishing jig
A fishing jig has a first teardrop-shaped body portion with a generally flat bottom that is curved upwardly toward its peripheral edges. A second semi-hourglass-shaped rudder portion is attached to one end of the body portion by a necked-down region. A hook extends from an eyelet positioned at the center of gravity of the body portion out through the tail and curls over the centerline of the rudder portion. The jig has shown remarkable capacity to imitate the movement of a minnow in both the retrieval and settling directions. |
| US07748154B2 |
Quick coupling particularly for the stock of a portable weapon
A quick coupling for the stock of a portable weapon, automatically provides the stock with a specific drop and cast upon its coupling by means of an interchangeable plate which can be replaced easily. The characteristics and the number of plates available are such as to meet the variation requirements made by the various users. The new quick coupling has considerable advantages in terms of constructive technical simplicity, ease of drop and cast adjustment, quick disassembly and maintenance of the weapon. |
| US07748151B2 |
Stabilized A-frame sign stand
An improved A-frame sign stand is disclosed. The sign stand includes front and rear panels hingedly attached. A support rod is removably attachable to the panels and prevents both separation and buckling of the panels. The support rod can be placed into various storage positions. In one such position, the rod may be used as a handle. In another embodiment, the rod can be pivoted upward and stored on an inner surface of the panel. |
| US07748150B2 |
Bicycle-used identification device
A bicycle is provided with an identification device. The identification device includes a base, an identity plate and two fasteners. The base is formed on the bicycle. The fasteners are used to attach the identity plate to the base so that the identity plate cannot be removed from the base. |
| US07748149B1 |
Illuminated dispenser and display for advertisements
An illuminated dispenser and display apparatus for advertisements provides a solar powered display box for real estate flyers or brochures. The box includes a back panel, two side panels, a transparent front panel, a bottom, and a hinged lid or top panel so that a person can lift the lid open and remove a brochure. An internal bright white LED illuminates the front panel and the contents of the box. Power is supplied by an internal rechargeable battery, recharged by a solar panel mounted on the top of the hinged lid. A photo sensor activates the LED during low light conditions. An optional feature provides the inside wall of the back panel with one or a plurality of shelves or detents to accommodate information-bearing cards, such as business cards. |
| US07748144B2 |
Vehicle shaped footwear
Children's footwear configured to have the appearance of a motor vehicle. The footwear has a light emitting device, a sound emitting device, and a remote transmitter for controlling the light emitting device and the sound emitting device. The footwear may come in a variety of motor vehicle appearances. |
| US07748143B2 |
Bottom assembly for an article of footwear
An article of footwear having an upper and an outer bottom assembly, the outer bottom assembly having an outsole and, in the heel zone, an elastically deformable element that extends downward from the lower end of the upper to the medial, lateral edges, respectively, of the outsole. |
| US07748140B2 |
Therapeutic footwear and method of using same
Therapeutic footwear includes upper and lower portions formed of resilient material sized and shaped to fit beneath and above a foot of a user. The upper portion is hingedly attached to the lower portion. A removable pouch is formed of flexible, permeable material and sized and shaped to fit beneath the foot above the lower portion. The pouch contains at least one of aromatherapy and thermal reservoir materials. A cavity is located between the upper portion and the lower portion and is sized and shaped to receive the removable pouch. Stitching through the removable pouch at least partially divides the compartment into at least two subspaces to control movement of the contents. When the removable pouch is heated or cooled and placed in the cavity, the footwear will heat or cool while providing aromatherapy benefits. The footwear includes an outer sole formed of resilient material and suitable for outdoor use. |
| US07748139B2 |
Laundry dryer and drum supporting assembly thereof
A laundry dryer includes a dry drum in which laundry is loaded, a lower housing coupled to a rear wall of the dry drum by a rivet, an upper housing seated on the upper housing, and a journal bearing including a bearing inserted between the upper and lower housings and a shaft coupled to the bearing. |
| US07748138B2 |
Particle removal method for a substrate transfer mechanism and apparatus
A substrate transfer mechanism for transferring a substrate includes a mounting table on which the substrate is mounted; an arm member connected to the mounting table and moving it. The substrate transfer mechanism further includes a temperature control unit for controlling temperature of the mounting table, wherein the temperature control unit forms a temperature gradient in the mounting table. The temperature control unit includes a detector for detecting temperature in an environment or a chamber in which the substrate transfer mechanism is installed a heater for heating the mounting table and a controller for controlling an operation of the heater based on the temperature in the environment or the chamber detected by the detector. |
| US07748133B2 |
Workpiece inspecting device
An exemplary workpiece inspecting device includes a base, a slider, a handle, a number of magnets, a number of probes and a measuring block. The slider is slidably mounted on the base and supports the handle thereon. The magnets are respectively embedded into the base for attracting and fixing a workpiece on the base. The probes are separately disposed on both the base and the slider for inspecting the perforations defined on a workpiece. The measuring block is attached on the slider for sliding and inspecting a thickness of the workpiece during the movement of the slider. |
| US07748132B1 |
Tile tee system
A substrate has front and rear faces, short first and second end edges, long side edges and interior and exterior side edges. First and second setting slides have front and rear faces, short end edges, long side edges and interior and exterior side edges. A measuring slide has front and rear faces, short first and second end edges and long side edges. Couplers adjustably interconnect the measuring slide to the substrate. The side edges of the measuring slide are provided parallel with the end edges of the substrate. The two setting slides are adjustably interconnected to the substrate. The side edges of the setting slides are provided parallel with the side edges of the substrate. |
| US07748131B2 |
Method of inspecting gears during their manufacture
The invention relates to a method of inspecting gears during their manufacture in the gear cutting machine, wherein the respective workpiece is traveled to by the tool at specific reference points to determine any deviations. The setting of the tool can be corrected by means of these deviations via a control loop. |
| US07748128B2 |
Slab doctor level
An instrument for ascertaining whether a surface is horizontal, vertical, or at a 45* angle, consisting essentially of an encased, liquid-filled tube containing an air bubble that moves to a center window when the instrument is set on an even plane. Also called a spirit level. A box level including an elongate body, plumb and level vials, and spaced handholds having outer edges together defining first and second parallel application planes beyond first and second face planes of the elongate body. |
| US07748126B2 |
Laser straight liner
The utility model relates to a kind of laser straight liner, including a foundation and a base, wherein said foundation is provided with batteries and said base is provided with at least one laser projection module. Said base and said foundation are connected in the way that is 360 degrees rotatable. One side of said foundation that faces said base is provided with the anode and cathode conduction rings that can connect batteries, and one side of said base that faces said foundation is provided with two contact pieces that can connect various laser projection modules and also can touch the anode and cathode conduction rings, thus realizing the conduction-wire-free connection between said laser projection modules and said batteries. This utility model makes said laser projection modules freely rotatable on said foundation, and thus the rotated angle during marking can be accurately controlled, ingenious and reasonable in design and convenient in operation. The lower-end transparent shell of cavity is provided with a cross scale, and the crossing point of said cross scale can be superposed with the intersection projection of the counter-extension lines of the laser beams emitted by various said laser projection modules, thus ensuring a accurate positioning. |
| US07748122B2 |
Knife blade opening mechanism
A folding knife incorporates an opening assist mechanism that functions to drive the blade from the closed to the open position. A pair of torsion springs held axially on the blade axis pin and within a pair of bushings are stationary relative to the knife handle. One leg of each spring is fixed to a bushing. The opposite leg of the spring rides in a pocket formed in the surface on the blade axially around the opening through which the blade axis pin is inserted. As the blade rotates from the closed position toward the open position, the legs of the springs rotate through and cooperate with structures formed on the bushings to transfer the spring pressure instantly to the blade to drive the blade open. |
| US07748121B2 |
Razor blade and support assembly
A razor blade and support assembly is provided which flexes in response to shaving forces near slots in the blade support. A razor cartridge includes one or more of the aforementioned razor blade and support assemblies positioned in a housing. The razor cartridge may be permanently or removably coupled to a handle to provide a shaving razor. |
| US07748120B2 |
Apparatus and method of fabricating a door
A method for fabricating a door having a window, the door having a first door skin and a second door skin, the method including the following steps in the order named: forming a first door light opening perimeter having a first plurality of tabs arranged about the first door light opening perimeter, wherein the first door light opening perimeter defines a first door light portion; forming a second door light opening perimeter having a second plurality of tabs arranged about the second door light opening perimeter, wherein the second door light opening perimeter defines a second door light portion; positioning the first door skin on a first press; positioning an insert in aligned registration with the first plurality of tabs; positioning the second door skin over the insert, wherein the second plurality of tabs are in aligned registration with the insert, and the first door light opening perimeter is aligned with the second door light opening perimeter; applying pressure with the first press to secure the first and second door skins with the insert; injecting a foam into a first cavity formed between the first skin outside the first door light portion, the second door skin outside the second door light portion and the insert; and, removing the first and second door light portions. |
| US07748119B2 |
Method for manufacturing composite components
Methods and systems for manufacturing composite components, including asymmetric composite components, are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method of forming a composite component includes providing a forming tool having a base portion and at least one retaining portion; forming an uncured composite component on the forming tool; curing the composite component; performing a manufacturing operation on the cured composite component engaged with the forming tool; and after performing the manufacturing operation on the cured composite component, removing the cured composite component from the forming tool. In further embodiments, the forming tool may have a plurality of reference apertures disposed therethrough for performing drilling operations on the cured composite component. |
| US07748115B2 |
Method of forming a circuit board
A method of forming a circuit board, the method comprising mounting at least one passive component on a first surface of a first laminate material; interconnecting the passive component to contact traces and vias of the first laminate material; and attaching a second laminate material to the first surface of the first laminate material utilizing a lamination process, the second laminate material sheet having at least one of a recess, a through-hole or both formed therein for accommodating the passive component in the second laminate. |
| US07748114B2 |
Method of forming conductive pattern
The present invention discloses a method of forming a conductive pattern including the steps of a) printing a conductive pattern onto a surface of a base material having a liquid repellent property, b) providing a lyophilic property to a predetermined area of the surface of the base material which area does not have the conductive pattern printed thereon, and c) forming an insulating layer that covers the conductive pattern. |
| US07748107B2 |
Bar mounted tool adaptor
A tool mount assembly includes drop down connections to aid in mounting of a tool to a moving base and a fail-safe tool mounting system for preventing installation of a tool in an undesired or incorrect manner. A plurality of tool mount rails are received within mounts and are uniquely tailored to assure proper placement of tools such as grippers or vacuum cups at desired locations specific to the application requirements. |
| US07748101B2 |
Method and apparatus for forming a metallic container
A method of forming a metallic container includes the steps of providing body and lid portions, placing the body and lid portions together, keeping portions of the body and lid portions in contact with one another, and reciprocally rotating the lid portion with respect to the body portion, thereby generating frictional heat and forming a friction weld therebetween. An apparatus for attaching the lid and body portions of a metallic container includes a base to support the body, a support assembly to support a flange of the body, and a sonitrode for contacting a flange of the lid, wherein the flanges of the lid and body are held together between the support assembly and the sonitrode. A motor reciprocally rotates the sonitrode relative to the support assembly, thereby moving the flanges relative one another to generate frictional heat and create a friction weld therebetween. |
| US07748099B2 |
Method for creating cargo container with U-shaped panels
A cargo container that includes a U-shaped panel, and/or an L-shaped panel is disclosed. The cargo container has a top, bottom, and two sides, each U-shaped and/or L-shaped panels forms part of the top and a side, or the bottom and a side. The cargo container may further include doors with hinges and/or doors that slide. Landing gear may support the container when not in transit. The U-shaped and/or L-shaped panels may be inhomogeneous in size and thickness to reinforce the areas of highest stress concentration such as the container edges or the attachment location of the landing gear. The cargo container may also have a bottom floor with a greater thickness than each of the significantly parallel sides, or a bottom floor with parallel or interconnected support protrusions. The U-shaped and/or L-shaped panels may include internal support structures. Also disclosed is a method of manufacturing U-shaped and/or L-shaped panels. |
| US07748098B2 |
Method of testing a seal
The present invention is for a method of testing a seal on a collapsible tube dispensing orifice during the manufacturing process in an assembly line. Air pressure is applied within the tube wall, at a station in the line, on one side of the seal, and the pressure is monitored on the other side of the seal within a reciprocating cover, for any increase in pressure which would indicate a leak in the seal. |
| US07748097B1 |
Fastener insertion apparatus
Fastener insertion apparatus comprises a nose having a fastener delivery passage and side entry port. Fasteners such as rivets are supplied to the nose via a fastener supply passage and a fastener feeder assembly. A punch reciprocally disposed for movement in the delivery passage drives a fastener disposed in the delivery passage out of the passage and into a workpiece. The feeder assembly comprises a gate that is movable between retracted and advanced positions. In the retracted position it is clear of the supply passage and the delivery passage so as to permit movement of a fastener from the supply passage to the delivery passage. In the advanced position it at least partially closes the supply passage so as to prevent movement of a fastener and it projects into the delivery passage through the entry port so as to retain a fastener, if present, in the delivery passage. Sensors are provided to detect the position of the gate. The invention permits different size rivets to be supplied to the same tool and reduces the rivet cycle time. The apparatus can also be used in a clinching operation with or without a fastener. |
| US07748092B2 |
Apparatus for crimping chemical-fibre filaments and control methods thereof
Crimping machine for chemical-fiber filaments with crimping chamber having an oscillating upper plate loaded with a closure force for imparting a pressure on the tow which passes through the crimping chamber, wherein the plates of the crimping chamber are mounted on respective supports through two or more linear guides provided with a roller or ball recirculation system. The longitudinal operating position is determined by two pairs of hydraulic cylinders, having an axis parallel to the linear guides, which maintain the plates, or a portion thereof, pushed against respective fixed abutments without the use of further mechanical or oleodynamic blocking elements. Load cells are arranged between the abutments and the plates, for detecting the variations of the tightening force during machine operation, the variations, representative of the variable longitudinal force imparted by the filaments of the tow being processed on the plates, are used for monitoring the quality of the crimp obtained. |
| US07748090B2 |
Breathable fasteners
The present invention concerns breathable fasteners for use with hook fastener systems. The breathable fastening system comprises a first breathable mechanical fastener surface, which is generally a loop or fibrous type surface that can optionally be joined to a breathable backing loop, and a recon large area breathable hook type fastener. The hook type fastener generally has an integral film backing which film backing has a porosity of from 0.0001 to 0.005 cm3, a backing thickness of from 25 to 200 μm, a stiffness of from 10 to 2000 Gurley units and a hook or projection containing surface area of at least 10 cm2. |
| US07748079B2 |
Cyclone separator with fine particle separation member
A cyclone separator assembly comprises a cyclone separator that removes large particles of dirt from a working airstream as it flows through the cyclone separator, and the separated large particles of dirt are deposited into a dirt cup. The cyclone separator assembly further includes a fine particle separation member comprising a plurality of apertures for separating fine particles of dirt from air in the cyclone separator or the dirt cup. |
| US07748075B2 |
Wiper system with wash and wipe mode
In a low speed wiping mode, reciprocal wiping movement of a wiper is executed at a first wiping speed without spraying the washer fluid from washer nozzles. In a high speed wiping mode, reciprocal wiping movement of the wiper is executed at a second wiping speed that is higher than the first wiping speed without spraying the washer fluid from the washer nozzles. In a wash and wipe mode, washer fluid is sprayed from the washer nozzles over the windshield, and reciprocal wiping movement of the wiper is executed a plurality of times. A wiping speed of the wiper in the wash and wipe mode in at least one of a running state and a stopped state of the vehicle is set to be lower than the first wiping speed of the wiper that is set for the low speed wiping mode. |
| US07748072B2 |
Toothbrush
A toothbrush includes a head assembly with bristles, a base assembly, and a connector which connects the two. A battery and light assembly are disposed in the connector and base assembly, and a power button switch turns the power to a light source “ON/OFF”. The base assembly includes a transparent lens portion at the distal end, through which a light beam from the light source shines when the switch is turned ON. The light beam can project a picture or icon on a slide through the lens portion onto a remote surface. The slide can be permanently fixed in the base assembly or interchangeable. A timer is connected to the batteries, light source, and switch, and allows the light source to turn on for a predetermined period of time. Alternatively, the base assembly contains at least one indicator light which indicates how long the light source has been ON. |
| US07748066B2 |
Mattress center ridge compensator
A mattress includes reduced-firmness materials along a central region thereof in order to mitigate the occurrence of a central ridge following repeated use of the mattress as a sleeping surface. An associated box spring may also, or instead, present a central region with reduced firmness. An adjustable member may be employed to controllably compensate for the development of a central ridge. |
| US07748063B2 |
Baby soothing device
A baby soothing device includes a holding structure, a supporting frame, a sliding shaft, and a driving device. The holding structure is used for holding a baby. The supporting frame is used for supporting the holding structure on a surface. The sliding shaft has an end connected to the holding structure. The driving device is disposed between the sliding shaft and the supporting frame. The driving device is used for driving the sliding shaft to move upward and downward relative to the supporting frame. |
| US07748062B2 |
Body transfer system and method
A body transfer system, includes a housing having a substantially planar top portion configured to support a body and having a substantially planar bottom portion; a bottom translation mechanism disposed at the bottom portion and configured to translate the system across a first surface upon which a body rests; and a top translation mechanism disposed at the top portion and configured to burrow the system between the first surface and the body as the bottom translation mechanism translates the first surface. A method of transferring a body is also included. |
| US07748061B2 |
Sleep sofa wherein seat and back cushions provide bedding surface
A sleep sofa includes a main frame, a seat unit, a back unit and a supporting linkage assembly that can move the back unit along an arc to the front of the seat unit when the sleep sofa is converted to a bed state, the supporting linkage simultaneously lifting the rear side of the seat unit, which is mounted in the main frame to slope downwardly from horizontal at about a 5° angle, up to horizontal. Once positioned in front of the seat unit, the back unit can be pushed downwardly so as to rotate into a locked parallel orientation with the seat unit. The seat cushion of the seat unit and the back cushion of the back unit form the bedding surface. Pushing a back release tube will unlock the back unit to allow it to be returned to a sitting positioning above the seat unit (tilted rearwardly to define an angle of about 115° with the seat unit). During its arc movement over the seat unit, the back unit will rotate around pivots on the side backs thereof. |
| US07748056B2 |
Garment having improved contact areas
A garment which resists sliding of protective pads during use includes a fabric with high-friction areas. The high-friction areas include numerous gripping members made of a second material with high-friction and adapted to exert a frictional force on, for example, a protective pad. |