最新美国发明专利第2010-11-23期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

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US07838003B2	BASB205 polypeptides and polynucleotides from Haemophilus influenzae The invention provides BASB205 polypeptides and polynucleotides encoding BASB205 polypeptides and methods for producing such polypeptides by recombinant techniques. Also provided are diagnostic, prophylactic and therapeutic uses.
US07838000B2	Inhibition of pathogenic agents including α6β1 integrin receptor or α6β4 integrin receptor at a surface Disclosed are treatment agents and methods of treatment utilizing the agents directed toward diseases in which the disease causing pathogen includes α6β1 integrin receptors and/or α6β4 integrin receptors on the surface of the pathogen. In one embodiment, the disease can be breast cancer. The therapeutic agents disclosed include a polypeptide comprising at least a portion of the G domain of the laminin-5 α3 chain that has been shown to bind α6β1 integrin receptors and α6β4 integrin receptors. In one embodiment, the therapeutic agents can be fused or chimeric materials in which the laminin-5 α3 chain polypeptide has been chemically bound to another material that can be useful in the destruction or neutralization of the pathogen.
US07837999B2	Method of increasing muscle mass with IGF-1 fusion polypeptides A fusion protein comprising at least one IGF1 variant component and a fusion component (F), and, optionally, a signal sequence, exhibiting improved stability relative to the native IGF1 or IGF2 polypeptide. The fusion component (F) may be a multimerizing component, a targeting ligand, or another active or therapeutic compound. IGF1 variants were shown to have improved ability to induce skeletal muscle hypertrophy relative to native IGF1.
US07837993B2	Methods and compositions for regeneration of aged skeletal muscle tissues The regenerative potential of aged stem cells is enhanced by activation of the Notch signaling pathway and/or inhibition of TGF-β signaling pathway. Stem cells in aged tissues are capable of proliferation and tissue regeneration, but in their native setting are not provided with the appropriate signals to do so. By administering tissue regenerating agents, organ stem/progenitor cells are provided with the appropriate signals to regenerate the corresponding differentiated tissues.
US07837989B2	Method for preventing or treating the development of respiratory allergies The present invention is directed to a novel method for preventing or treating the development of respiratory allergies. The method comprises prenatal and/or postnatal administration of a therapeutically effective amount of LGG.
US07837988B2	Sustained release microbial insect control composition and means Effective sustained release of microbial pesticides in aquatic environments can be achieved by the combination of buoyant particles with a particulate microbial active ingredient. The resulting materials in the form of a particulate have combined density of less than one. The materials are then dispersed into gypsum slurry that is poured into briquette molds, or made into granules or pellets of various sizes, to form a solid, sinking, pest control composition. Once applied in aquatic field sites, the surface of the matrix slowly dissolves, releasing many minute buoyant pesticide laden particles to the water surface over the life of the product. Once at the surface, the particulate microbial pesticide(s) release from the buoyant particles and are distributed throughout the water column to be ingested by susceptible immature filter feeding mosquitoes and pestiferous flies.
US07837986B2	Protein-based polymer tissue adhesives for medical use Tissue adhesives formed by crosslinking albumin and/or gelatin with certain polyamines and/or polycarboxylates using a water-soluble carbodiimide are disclosed. The use of the tissue adhesives for medical and veterinary applications such as topical wound closure; and surgical procedures, such as intestinal anastomosis, vascular anastomosis, tissue repair, and ophthalmic procedures; drug delivery; anti-adhesive applications; and as a bulking agent to treat urinary incontinence are described.
US07837979B2	Synthesis of ITQ-12 A process for synthesizing the porous crystalline material ITQ-12 is disclosed and employs an organic directing agent having the formula: where n is an integer from 1 to 3 and Q− is an anion. The resultant ITQ-12 is useful in as a catalyst in chemical conversion reactions and as an adsorbent for gas separation.
US07837977B2	Preparation of titanosilicate zeolite TS-1 A method is disclosed for preparing crystalline titanosilicate zeolite TS-1 from a reaction mixture containing only sufficient water to produce zeolite TS-1. In one embodiment, the reaction mixture is self-supporting and may be shaped if desired. In the method, the reaction mixture is heated at crystallization conditions and in the absence of an added external liquid phase, so that excess liquid need not be removed from the crystallized product.
US07837976B2	Activated aluminum hydride hydrogen storage compositions and uses thereof In one aspect, the invention relates to activated aluminum hydride hydrogen storage compositions containing aluminum hydride in the presence of, or absence of, hydrogen desorption stimulants. The invention particularly relates to such compositions having one or more hydrogen desorption stimulants selected from metal hydrides and metal aluminum hydrides. In another aspect, the invention relates to methods for generating hydrogen from such hydrogen storage compositions.
US07837975B2	High purity, high pressure hydrogen production with in-situ CO2 and sulfur capture in a single stage reactor A process for producing hydrogen, comprising the steps of: (a) gasifying a fuel into a raw synthesis gas comprising CO, hydrogen, steam and sulfur and halide contaminants in the form of H2S, COS and HX, where X is a halide; (b) passing the raw synthesis gas through a water gas shift reactor (WGSR) into which CaO and steam are injected, the CaO reacting with the shifted gas to remove CO2, sulfur and halides in a solid-phase calcium-containing product comprising CaCO3, CaS and CaX2; (c) separating the solid-phase calcium-containing product from an enriched gaseous hydrogen product; and (d) regenerating the CaO by calcining the solid-phase calcium-containing product at a condition selected from the group consisting of: in the presence of steam, in the presence of CO2, in the presence of synthesis gas, in the presence of H2 and O2, under partial vacuum, and combinations thereof. The CaO may have a surface area of at least 12.0 m2/g and a pore volume of at least 0.015 cm3/g, the CaO having a sorption capacity of at least about 70 grams of CO2 per kilogram of CaO.
US07837974B2	Method for heating and partial oxidation of a steam/natural gas mixture after a primary reformer By means of a method and a system for heating and partial oxidation of not separately pre-heated, pre-reformed steam/natural gas mixture for an NH3 synthesis gas, whereby energy is supplied to the gas stream (raw synthesis gas), in the direction of flow, after a primary reformer, a solution is to be created, with which soot formation is to be prevented as much as possible, whereby the possibility of the addition of variable amounts, for example of N2 and O2 or mixtures thereof, is also supposed to be possible.This is achieved, according to the method, in that the energy is supplied directly after the primary reformer, by way of at least one pore burner positioned in the gas discharge line of the primary reformer.
US07837973B2	Hydrogen production method A hydrogen production method that integrates a catalytic steam reformer and a gasifier. Hydrogen is generated in a catalytic steam reformer at a high production rate or design capacity. The catalytic steam reformer is then turned down to a fraction of design capacity while a gasifier produces the needed hydrogen. During the turned down state of the catalytic steam reformer, more of a hydrogen-containing stream formed from gasifier effluent is fed to the catalytic steam reformer as a feed thereby reducing the flow rate of feedstock required for the catalytic steam reformer in the turned down state. Optionally, hydrogen mixtures from the catalytic steam reformer and gasifier are fed to one or more adsorbers for hydrogen purification and adsorber effluent is fired as fuel in the steam reformer furnace to provide a majority of the heat needed for the reforming reaction.
US07837971B2	Sulfur refining process A process comprising contacting a solvent with a sulfur stream comprising sulfur and a contaminant, separating the sulfur from at least some of the contaminant and at least some of the solvent, thereby producing a decontaminated sulfur stream, contacting the decontaminated sulfur with a washing agent, and separating the sulfur from at least some of the washing agent, thereby producing a purified sulfur stream comprising elemental sulfur.
US07837969B2	Method of making large-volume CaF2 single crystals for optical elements with an optic axis parallel to the (100)-or (110)-crystal axis and CaF2 single crystal made thereby The method of making a single crystal, especially a CaF2 single crystal, includes tempering, in which the crystal is heated at <18 K/h to a temperature of 1000° C. to 1350° C. and held at this temperature for at least 65 hours with maximum temperature differences within the crystal of <0.2 K. Subsequently the crystal is cooled with a cooling rate of at maximum 0.5 K/h above a limiting temperature between 900° C. to 600° C. and then further below this limiting temperature at maximum 3 K/h. The obtained CaF2 crystals have refractive index uniformity <0.025×10−6 (RMS) in a (111)-, (100)- or (110)-direction and a stress birefringence of less than 2.5 nm/cm (PV) and/or a stress birefringence of less than 1 nm/cm (RMS) in the (100)- or (110)-direction. In the (111)-direction the stress birefringence is <0.5 nm/cm (PV) and/or the stress birefringence is <0.15 nm/cm (RMS).
US07837968B2	Carbon nanosphere with at least one opening, method for preparing the same, carbon nanosphere-impregnated catalyst using the carbon nanosphere, and fuel cell using the catalyst A carbon nanosphere has at least one opening. The carbon nanosphere is obtained by preparing a carbon nanosphere and treating it with an acid to form the opening. The carbon nanosphere with at least one opening has higher utilization of a surface area and electrical conductivity and lower mass transfer resistance than a conventional carbon nanotube, thus allowing for higher current density and cell voltage with a smaller amount of metal catalyst per unit area of a fuel cell electrode.
US07837964B2	Method for removing sulfur compounds from gases containing hydrocarbons The present invention relates to processes for removing sulfur compounds from hydrocarbonaceous gases by using catalysts, with the exception of activated carbons and zeolites, which comprise copper, silver, zinc, molybdenum, iron, cobalt, nickel or mixtures thereof at temperatures of from (−50) to 150° C. and a pressure of from 0.1 to 10 bar.
US07837956B2	Gas generation apparatus In order to provide a gas generation apparatus such as a hydrogen gas generation apparatus for a fuel cell or an oxygen gas generation apparatus used in medical sites and at the time of disasters in which a solid gas generating agent such as metal is brought into contact with a reaction liquid to generate hydrogen gas or oxygen gas, a gas generation apparatus A having a solid gas generating agent and a reaction liquid in which the solid gas generating agent and the reaction liquid are stored respectively in separate storing vessels 21, 31 and in which the reaction liquid is supplied into the gas generating agent-storing vessel to generate gas by capillary-active connection of the respective storing vessels assumes a constitution in which capillary-active connection is shut off when a pressure of the gas is raised. In the above gas generation apparatus, generation of the gas can automatically be controlled by a simple mechanism when the gas is not consumed, and therefore generation of excessive gas can be controlled.
US07837954B2	Tube bundle reactors with pressure fluid cooling A set of prefabricated tube bundle reactor subassemblies is proposed which are adapted to be assembled at a construction site to provide a tube bundle reactor for carrying out catalytic gas and/or liquid phase reactions. In accordance with the invention, the reactor shell and the reactor heads, on the one hand, and the tube bundle and the tube sheets, on the other hand, form separate subassemblies, more specifically at least one shell/head subassembly, at least one head subassembly, and at least one tube bundle subassembly. The subassemblies comprise means for vertically supporting the tube bundle subassembly and for pressure tightly connecting the shell/head subassembly to the tube sheets without requiring heat treatment during assembly of the subassemblies. Likewise proposed are a tube bundle reactor for carrying out catalytic gas and/or liquid phase reactions and an arrangement of the kind of tube bundle reactors mentioned.
US07837951B2	Modular ozone generator with an air diffuser An ozone generator for providing ozone enriched air that comprises a body for defining a chamber for air flow therethrough and an ultraviolet lamp disposed in said chamber for irradiating the air passing through said chamber to convert oxygen molecules to ozone molecules. The device further comprises an air inlet for introducing air and a diffuser for diffusing the introduced air about said lamp. The diffuser has an annular flange with a plurality of apertures therein, said annular flange extending inwardly from a cylindrical portion encircling the annular flange, the cylindrical portion abutting and extending from the annular wall. The device further comprises an air outlet for discharging ozone enriched air.
US07837946B2	Microfluidic device and methods of using same A variety of elastomeric-based microfluidic devices and methods for using and manufacturing such devices are provided. Certain of the devices have arrays of reaction sites to facilitate high throughput analyzes. Some devices also include reaction sites located at the end of blind channels at which reagents have been previously deposited during manufacture. The reagents become suspended once sample is introduced into the reaction site. The devices can be utilized with a variety of heating devices and thus can be used in a variety of analyzes requiring temperature control, including thermocycling applications such as nucleic acid amplification reactions, genotyping and gene expression analyzes.
US07837942B2	Allergy test chamber The invention relates to an allergy test chamber comprising at least one inlet for supplying allergen-free air, especially fresh air, into the chamber. Said chamber is characterised in that the at least one inlet (23) for allergen-free air is provided with an air flow distribution device (26, 27), and in that the allergy test chamber (20) also comprises at least one inlet (25) for allergen test particles, such as plant pollen or mite faeces, and at least one outlet (24) for removing air loaded with allergen test particles from the chamber by means of suction. Said outlet (24) is arranged at a distance from the inlets (23, 25) for allergen-free air and allergen test particles. Said air movement principle i.e. introducing air into the chamber, mixing it with a defined quantity of allergens, and removing by suction the allergen-loaded air to another area of the chamber, enables uniformity of the distribution of the allergen particles in the test chamber to be significantly improved, compared with known allergy test chambers wherein allergen-loaded air is circulated in the test chamber.
US07837940B2	Analyzer, reagent-containing assembly, and reagent suctioning method An analyzer comprising: an assembly holder for holding a reagent-containing assembly comprising an opening and a lid member for opening and closing the opening; an opening-closing section for opening and closing the opening by linearly moving the lid member in a reciprocating manner to substantially horizontal directions; a reagent suctioning section for suctioning reagent by inserting a pipette into the reagent-containing assembly through the opening; and an analyzing section for analyzing an analyzing specimen comprising a sample and the reagent is disclosed. A reagent-containing assembly and reagent suctioning method are also disclosed.
US07837934B2	Packaging solutions Packaging systems for storing ophthalmic devices such as contact lenses and to methods for packaging such ophthalmic devices with solutions to improve the comfort of the lenses during wear are disclosed. A packaging system includes an ophthalmic device stored in an aqueous packaging solution comprising a substantially water-soluble silicone-containing surfactant. Such solutions are retained on the surface of an unused lens for extended periods of time, resulting in surface modification that persists in the eye, which may provide significant improvement in the wetting properties of fresh contact lenses used for the first time and, moreover, even several hours after lens insertion, preventing dryness and improving lubricity.
US07837929B2	Methods of making molybdenum titanium sputtering plates and targets Molybdenum titanium sputter targets are provided. In one aspect, the targets are substantially free of the β(Ti, Mo) alloy phase. In another aspect, the targets are substantially comprised of single phase β(Ti, Mo) alloy. In both aspects, particulate emission during sputtering is reduced. Methods of preparing the targets, methods of bonding targets together to produce large area sputter targets, and films produced by the targets, are also provided.
US07837925B2	Method for laser drilling a component made of a ceramic matrix composite, the method including a step of trepanning and a step of removing slag by enlarging the laser beam, hold obtained by this method, component made of a ceramic matrix composite containing it, and turbojet comprising such a component A method of drilling holes in a component made of a ceramic matrix composite with a laser beam. The method includes: a percussion first step during which an initial hole having an initial diameter and a hole axis is drilled; a trepanning second step during which an intermediate hole, coaxial with the initial hole and having a larger diameter than that of the initial hole, is drilled by shifting the laser beam and then making it rotate about the hole axis; and a third step during which the focal point of the laser beam is moved along the hole axis and then pulses are triggered, to obtain a final hole.
US07837920B2	Forming method using pressing and injection-molding multifunction die, forming apparatus provided with pressing and injection-molding multifunction die, and metal-resin molded product formed by the method or the apparatus A forming method using a pressing and injection-molding multifunction die for forming a metal-resin molded product by integrating metal with resin, includes: forming a resin-molded portion on the metal; and performing, after the resin-molded portion is formed on the metal, at least one of a pressing process and an injection-molding process on the metal in the state in which the metal-resin molded product is supported by only the resin.
US07837919B2	System, method, apparatus, and applications for open cell woven structural supports An open cell or highly porous woven composite truss utilizes fibers of carbon, glass, ceramic, or the like that are woven together in a loom. The warps or tow are woven with the wefts, while the fibers are impregnated with resin. The resin impregnation step may be performed before or after the weaving step. The truss is then cured on the loom and later may be machined as needed. A rigid foam material may be used to stabilize the shape of the truss prior to curing and while machining. The foam may be later chemically dissolved or otherwise disposed of.
US07837918B2	Method of forming a coating layer on the surface of a molded product within a mold An in-mold coating method providing a mold having a specifically formed auxiliary cavity and an in-mold coating formation method which employs said mold, so that it is possible to prevent a coating material from leaking out of the mold, thereby shortening the molding formation cycle, and making it possible to manufacture a molded product having a stabilized quality. In addition, by using a mold having a specifically shaped sub-cavity, there is provided a still further in-mold coating formation method which can keep mold temperature at a relatively low value, cause the coating material to cure at a predetermined temperature and within a predetermined time period thereby shortening the molding formation cycle, improving the productivity, improving the physical properties of a coating layer, thus obtaining a good molded product.
US07837916B2	Method for manufacturing silicate-containing fiber A method for manufacturing silicate-containing fiber, wherein silicon dioxide is added to viscose manufactured of cellulose, and the formed mixture of viscose and silicon dioxide is directed via nozzles to a regeneration solution, to which silicate is added.
US07837915B2	Injection molding process, resin molded product and mold The invention provides an injection molding process, in which a gate is cut off within a mold in resin molding to obtain a good gate-cut surface, as well as a resin molded product and a resin molding mold. In the injection molding process, a cutting pin, which is connected to a cutting pin working plate provided in parallel with a driving device or an ejector plate provided in a mold, slides on a mold parting line between a fixed-side block, on which corner cutting or a R shape is provided at the approach port, and a movable-side block opposed to the fixed-side block. The wall thickness of a compression shape portion opposed to the cutting pin is larger than that of a gate and a product shape portion. The cutting pin compresses a resin in this portion toward the product shape portion at predetermined timing to cut off the gate portion and integrate the resin with the product shape.
US07837914B2	Process of producing a composite component and intermediate product thereof A preform architecture and process for producing composite materials, and particularly CMC components. The process entails producing a composite component having a matrix material reinforced with a three-dimensional preform. The process includes producing first and second sets of tows containing filaments. Each tow of the first set has a predetermined cross-sectional shape and is embedded within a temporary matrix material formed of a material that is not the matrix material or a precursor of the matrix material. The preform is then fabricated from the first and second sets of tows, in which the second set of tows are transverse to the first set of tows, adjacent tows of the second set are spaced apart to define interstitial regions therebetween, and the cross-sectional shapes of the first set of tows are substantially congruent to the cross-sectional shapes of the interstitial regions so as to substantially fill the interstitial regions.
US07837912B2	Methods of forming a layered article A method of forming a layered article, the method comprises thermoforming a substrate sheet to form a shaped substrate, wherein the shaped substrate is a fiber-reinforced plastic material having a void content sufficient to allow a vacuum to be applied through the shaped substrate; pulling a vacuum through the shaped substrate; and pulling a film layer onto a surface of the shaped substrate to form the layered article.
US07837911B2	Methods of forming a layered article A method of forming a layered article, the method comprises thermoforming a substrate sheet to form a shaped substrate, wherein the shaped substrate is a fiber-reinforced plastic material having a void content sufficient to allow a vacuum to be applied through the shaped substrate; pulling a vacuum through the shaped substrate; and pulling a film layer onto a surface of the shaped substrate to form the layered article.
US07837908B2	Mold cleaning sheet and method of producing semiconductor devices using the same A cleaning sheet (29) is formed with a trough-hole (29a) at a portion corresponding to a cavity of a mold along with a slit (29b) or a flow cavity cut (29c) at every corner at an outer periphery of the through-hole (29a) and is placed between a first mold half and a second mold half of the mold to clean the inside of the mold, thereby improving the cleaning effect of the mold.
US07837903B2	Polythiophenes and electronic devices comprising the same Disclosed are semiconducting polythiophenes comprising a repeating unit of Formula (A) or a copolythiophene of Formula (B): wherein A and B are each alkyl having from 1 to about 25 carbon atoms; and a, b, c, d, e, f, g, x, and y are as defined herein. These polythiophenes have high mobility and are soluble in common organic solvents, so that chlorinated solvents do not need to be used. They are useful for depositing semiconducting layers, particularly in organic thin-film transistors.
US07837902B2	Compositions of electrically conductive polymers and non-polymeric fluorinated organic acids Compositions are provided comprising at least one conductive polymer and at least one non-polymeric fluorinated organic acid, salt or ester, wherein the conductive polymer is selected from a polythiophene, a polypyrrole, a polyaniline, and combinations thereof. Electronic devices and applications having at least one layer comprising such compositions are further provided.
US07837900B2	Electrode material, method of manufacturing the electrode material, electrode, and nonaqueous electrolyte battery An electrode material includes an alloy having a Gd3Ni8Sn16 type crystal structure.
US07837894B2	Refrigerant compositions Refrigerant composition are disclosed which comprises: (a) pentafluoroethane, trifluoromethoxydifluoromethane or hexafluorocyclopropane, or a mixture of two or more thereof, in an amount of at least 75% based on the weight of the composition, (b) 1,1,1,2- or 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane, trifluoromethoxypentafluoroethane, 1,1,1,2,3,3-heptafluoropropane or a mixture of two or more thereof, in an amount of from 10 to 20% by weight based on the weight of the composition and (c) an ethylenically unsaturated or saturated hydrocarbon, optionally containing one or more oxygen atoms, with a boiling point from −50° C. to +35° C., or a mixture thereof in an amount from 1% to 4% by weight based on the weight of the composition the weight ratio of component (a):component (b) being at least 4:1.
US07837893B2	Oxide-type, magnetic material and its production method, and sintered ferrite magnet and its production method A sintered ferrite magnet having an M-type ferrite structure and comprising Ca, an R element which is at least one rare earth element indispensably including La, Ba, Fe and Co as indispensable elements, which is represented by Ca1-x-yRxBayFe2n-zCoz, wherein (1-x-y), x, y, z and n are numbers representing the amounts of Ca, the R element, Ba and Co and a molar ratio, meeting 0.2≦x≦0.65, 0.001≦y≦0.2, 0.03≦z≦0.65, and 4≦n≦7.
US07837892B2	Rubber compound containing nanoscale, magnetic fillers Rubber compound containing at least one nanoscale, magnetic filler and at least one non-magnetic filler. Vulcanizable mixture containing the rubber compound and at least one crosslinking agent and/or vulcanization accelerator. Molding obtainable from the vulcanizable mixture by heat treatment or action of an electrical, magnetic or electromagnetic alternating field.
US07837887B2	Method of forming an ink supply channel A method of forming an ink supply channel for an inkjet printhead comprises the steps of: (i) providing a wafer having a frontside and a backside; (ii) etching a plurality of frontside trenches into the frontside; (iii) filling each of the trenches with a photoresist plug; (iv) forming nozzle structures on the frontside using MEMS fabrication processes; (v) etching a backside trench from the backside, the backside trench meeting with one or more of the plugs; (vi) removing a portion of each photoresist plug via the backside trench by subjecting the backside to a biased oxygen plasma etch, thereby exposing sidewall features in the backside trench; (vii) modifying the exposed sidewall features; and (viii) removing the photoresist plugs to form the ink supply channel. The ink supply channel connects the backside to the frontside.
US07837885B2	Air bearing design with a flatter pitch profile for reducing particle TAs An embodiment of the present invention is an ABS design with a pitch ladder feature. This embodiment has an air flow squeezing channel which consists of one airflow blocker and three etching steps. The airflow blocker can be used to limit the incoming air flow from the leading edge of the ABS. Additionally, the embodiment contains an air channel that reduces altitude sensitivity by channeling air at the inner diameter into a sub-ambient pressure cavity.
US07837883B2	Biocides and apparatus There are provided methods for controlling microbial or bioflim growth, comprising mixing a hypochlorite oxidant and at least one nitrogen-containing compound or salt thereof selected from a particular group of nitrogen-containing compounds and salts to form a biocide, and applying the biocide. Apparatus for practicing the methods are also provided.
US07837881B2	Method and device for chromatographic purification A process for continuous purification of a multi-component mixture by means of individual chromatographic columns though which the mixture is fed by means of at least one solvent. The multi-component mixture comprises at least light impurities, an intermediate product, and heavy impurities. The columns are grouped into at least four sections (α, β, γ, δ) and the fourth section contains three sub-sections (δr, δf, δg). The process operates, alternatingly, in a batch-mode position and in an interconnected-mode position. After or within a switch time, the columns are moved in their function in a counter direction to the general direction of flow of the solvent. The combination of batch chromatography with elements of simulated moving bed techniques, or rather, countercurrent-principles, allows for the separation of a true multi-component mixture, even if one of the products is only present in a small amount, comparatively.
US07837878B2	Method and system for colloid exchange therapy The present invention relates to a method and system for using a hemofilter to treat IMRD, hepatic failure, exogenous intoxication and other conditions associated with toxins in a patient's blood. One treatment includes the use of a very large pore hemofilter to remove target complex molecules and/or target molecules from a patient's blood and to infuse a replacement fluid into the patient's blood to maintain a prescribed albumin concentration in the patient's blood.
US07837876B2	Water purifying apparatuses A filter cartridge including a housing having a water inlet and outlet, a valve disposed in the housing and defining transversally aligned inlet and outlet passageways, and having a first key formation that vertically depends from the valve, a cartridge having transversely separated inlet and outlet ports transversely aligned relative to a longitudinal axis of the cartridge, each of the ports engageable in a corresponding one of the passageways, and a complementary key formation for engaging the first key formation for ensuring proper engagement of the ports in the passageways where the ports and the key formation project from a common plane. The valve is rotatable in the housing between an open position in which feed water passes through the inlet passageway and into the cartridge, and treated water flows to the outlet passageway, and a closed position in which water is prevented from flowing to and from the valve.
US07837874B2	Treatment system for ships' ballast water A water treatment system to be installed in a tanker or other cargo ship for destruction of aquatic organisms and microorganisms that may be contained in the water, usually seawater, being pumped into the ship's ballast tank or tanks. Included is a ballast pump having an intake conduit for drawing water from the sea, and a delivery conduit for delivering the water under pressure to the ballast tank. The delivery conduit has mounted therein a slitted or otherwise open-worked screen for mechanically killing the aquatic lifeforms contained in the water by shearing action. For chemical treatment, on the other hand, part of the water being delivered by the ballast pump is bypassed into an ozone impregnator thereby to be impregnated with ozone from an ozonizer. A bypass pump repressurizes the ozone-impregnated water for returning the same into the delivery conduit.
US07837872B2	Adsorbent, adsorption apparatus, and method for manufacturing the adsorption apparatus An adsorption apparatus comprising a column filled with an adsorbent, wherein the surface of the adsorbent and its vicinity mainly comprise an apatite which is represented by the formula (Ca1-aMa)10(PO4)6((OH)1-bXb)2, where the M represents at least one kind of rare earth metal elements, the X represents at least one kind of halogen elements, 0
US07837867B2	Disinfectant system for use with residential aerobic wastewater treatment plants A system for introducing a liquid disinfectant into treated wastewater comprising a source of liquid disinfectant, a sensor to detect flow or level of treated wastewater from a wastewater treatment system, a selectively operable valve to allow the liquid disinfectant to flow via gravity into the treated wastewater and a controller operatively connected to the sensor to open the valve in response to sensed, increased flow or level of the treated wastewater in a receiver for the wastewater above a sensed, predetermined point.
US07837864B2	Process for extracting bitumen using light oil An integrated process for extracting and refining bitumen comprises hydroconverting bitumen in a reactor to provide valuable products and light oil by-product; separating the light oil by-product from the valuable products; transporting the light oil to oil sands reserves; producing steam in steam generators at the oil sands reserves using a portion of the light oil transported to the oil sands reserves; extracting bitumen from the oil sands reserves using steam produced in the steam generators; blending bitumen extracted from the oil sands reserves and a portion of the light oil transported to the oil sands reserves to form a transport blend; and transporting the transport blend to the reactor.
US07837859B2	Process and apparatus for upgrading steam cracked tar using steam A process and apparatus are provided for upgrading steam cracked tars. The invention also relates to a steam cracking process and apparatus for reducing the yields of tars produced from steam cracking while increasing yields of higher value products, heating, in the presence of steam, cooled steam cracker tar containing asphaltenes, to a temperature, e.g., above about 300° C., which is sufficient to convert at least a portion of the steam cracked tar to lower boiling molecules. The resulting heat and steam-treated tar can be separated into gas oil, fuel oil and tar streams.
US07837856B2	Reactor for carrying out a continuous oxydehydrogenation and process A reactor for carrying out a continuous oxydehydrogenation of a feed gas stream of saturated hydrocarbons after premixing with an oxygen-comprising gas stream over a moving catalyst bed which is introduced in the longitudinal direction of their reactor between two concentric cylindrical holding devices so as to leave a central interior space and an intermediate space between the moving catalyst bed and the interior wall of the reactor to give a reaction gas mixture, wherein the reactor has two or more reactor sections which are separated from one another by disk-shaped deflection plates arranged alternately in the central interior space and divided in subregions by annular deflection plates arranged in the intermediate space between the moving catalyst bed and the interior wall of the reactor, in each case with a mixing-in device which is located upstream of the moving catalyst bed in the flow direction of the reaction gas mixture and comprises the following elements: two or three rows arranged behind one another of tubes which have turbulence generators on their outside and constrict the flow cross section for the feed gas stream to from ½ to 1/10 of the free flow cross section, with the oxygen-comprising gas stream being passed through the interior spaces of the tubes and being injected via openings in the tubes into the feed gas stream, and a perforated plate upstream of the tubes and a perforated plate downstream of the tubes, is proposed.
US07837855B2	High-solvency-dispersive-power (HSDP) crude oil blending for fouling mitigation and on-line cleaning A high solvency dispersive power (HSDP) crude oil is added to a blend of incompatible and/or near-incompatible oils to proactively address the potential for fouling heat exchange equipment. The HSDP component dissolves asphaltene precipitates and maintains suspension of inorganic particulates before coking affects heat exchange surfaces. HSDP co-blending for fouling mitigation and on-line cleaning can be affected using different concentrations of top-performing and moderate-performing HSDP crude oils.
US07837851B2	In-situ profile measurement in an electroplating process A method and apparatus for measuring differential voltages in an electrolyte of an electrochemical plating cell. Current densities are calculated from the measured differential voltages and correlated to thickness values of plated materials. A real time thickness profile may be generated from the thickness values.
US07837848B2	Bidimensional separation by means of capillary electrophoresis carried out in a single capillary A method for separating the constituents of a mixture M by electrophoresis in a single capillary includes (A) separating compounds of the mixture M in a single capillary according to the capillary electrophoresis technique; (B) isolating a fraction F of the compounds thus separated by evacuating part of the compounds having the highest migration speeds from the capillary and/or evacuating part of the compounds having the lowest migration speeds from the capillary; (C) introducing a separating medium MS having a higher migration speed than the compounds of the isolated fraction F into the capillary containing the isolated fraction F, and (D) the compounds contained in fraction F are separated in the new electrophoretic conditions thus obtained.
US07837841B2	Apparatuses for electrochemical deposition, conductive layer, and fabrication methods thereof Electrochemical plating (ECP) apparatuses with auxiliary cathodes to create uniform electric flux density. An ECP apparatus for electrochemical deposition includes an electrochemical cell with an electrolyte bath for electrochemically depositing a metal on a substrate. A main cathode and an anode are disposed in the electrolyte bath to provide a main electrical field. A substrate holder assembly holds a semiconductor wafer connecting the cathode. An auxiliary cathode is disposed outside the electrochemical cell to provide an auxiliary electrical field such that a flux line density at the center region of the substrate holder assembly substantially equals that at the circumference of the substrate holder assembly.
US07837840B2	Surface treatment apparatus for small object A plating process apparatus (1) for small objects, including a treatment cell (2) formed by combining a base plate (23), a bottom plate (24), an electrode ring (21) and a cover (25) using bolts (26), energizes a plating solution within the treatment cell (2) while bringing the small objects (100) into contact with the electrode ring (21) and circulating the plating solution (4) from the inside of the treatment cell (2) to the outside thereof through a flow-out means by rotating the treatment cell (2) with a vertical rotation shaft (3), thereby plating the small objects (100). The apparatus (1) is characterized in that the flow-out means is a gap channel formed between adjacent sheet members (61) by sandwiching the sheet members (61), each having a dimension smaller than a minimum dimension of each small object (100), between the bottom plate (24) and the electrode ring (21) circumferentially at appropriate intervals.
US07837837B2	Magnetic head having high conductivity lead structures seeded by epitaxially matched seed layer and fabrication method therefor The present invention is directed towards increasing the conductivity of the electrical lead material in the read head portion of a magnetic head, such that thinner electrical leads can be fabricated while the current carrying capacity of the leads is maintained. This increase in electrical lead conductivity is accomplished by fabricating the electrical lead upon an epitaxially matched seed layer, such that the crystalline microstructure of the electrical lead material has fewer grain boundaries, whereby the electrical conductivity of the lead material is increased. In a preferred embodiment, the electrical lead material is comprised of Rh, which has an FCC crystal structure, and the seed layer is comprised of a metal, or metal alloy having a BCC crystal structure with unit cell lattice constant dimensions that satisfy the relationship that abcc is approximately equal to 0.816afcc. In various embodiments, the seed layer is comprised of VMo or VW.
US07837834B2	Method and device for the continuous cooking of pulp The continuous digester system has an inlet defined therein for the feed of a chips suspension and an outlet for the output of a cooked suspension of pulp. The suspension of chips is fed in to the inlet through a line at the beginning of the cook, where the chips suspension has a volume of starting cooking fluid that establishes a fluid/wood ratio that is greater than 3.5. A final cooking fluid is present during the cook for the major part of the cook and is withdrawn through a withdrawal strainer only during the final 15 minutes of the cook. The final cooking fluid ensures a fluid/wood ratio that is greater than 3.5 in association with the withdrawal. The withdrawn final cooking fluid during the final 15 minutes of the cook consists of spent black liquor that maintains a residual alkali level that lies under 15 g/l.
US07837829B2	Low-blister paper coating slips An aqueous dispersion of a polymer, obtainable by emulsion polymerization of compounds (monomers) having unsaturated radicals in the presence of at least two different polymerization regulators A) and B), wherein A) is a compound selected from α-methylstyrene dimer and hydrocarbons which form a pentadienyl or 1-phenylallyl radical on abstraction of a hydrogen atom and B) is a compound having a mercapto group, the amount of B) being more than 2 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of monomers.
US07837823B2	Multi-layer, light markable media and method and apparatus for using same A multi-layer laminate media is provided on which information may be applied in machine or human readable form on a visible front surface by the output of one or more lasers, or other high intensity light source. In a preferred embodiment, the media has three layers including a substrate, a thermochromic layer and a light absorbent layer such as carbon black located intermediate the media substrate and the thermochromic layer. The light absorbent layer is adapted to absorb light from the light source and convert the absorbed light into heat. The heat is immediately conducted into selected portions of the thermochromic layer which is in thermal contact with the light absorbent layer, causing portions of the thermochromic layer to change visual appearance such as color to create the desired mark. The invention includes a method and apparatus for using the media in conjunction with labeling produce items.
US07837819B2	Method of manufacturing membrane-electrode assembly for fuel cell The present invention provides a method of manufacturing a membrane-electrode assembly for a fuel cell, in which a binder is spray-coated on a surface of a polymer film, a catalyst slurry is bar-coated on a surface of an electrolyte membrane, bonded on the binder, to form a catalyst electrode layer, a bonded assembly of the electrolyte membrane and the catalyst electrode layer is separated from the polymer film, after a drying process, to obtain a 2-layer MEA, and the thus obtained 2-layer MEAs are used to form a 3-layer MEA or a 5-layer MEA by a hot pressing process. Accordingly, the present methods solve the problems associated with prior art that the loss of catalyst is considerable, since the catalyst slurry is directly spray-coated on the membrane, and the catalyst electrode layer in a solid phase is hot-pressed on both surfaces of the membrane.
US07837816B2	Method and device for the construction of a radial tire A method for building a radial tire on a tire-building machine that has an expandable carcass drum with a cylindrical external circumference and two bellows supports with inflatable bellows. A tire inner liner and a carcass ply have projections and project beyond the edges of the carcass drum are laid and spliced on the carcass drum. The bead cores with core profiles are positioned and the projections of the carcass ply are turned up around the outsides of the bead cores by the inflation of the bellows. Expandable bellows supports are provided that are expanded for the placing and splicing of tire components so that the external surfaces of the bellows together with the external surface of the expanded carcass drum form at least essentially a uniform cylindrical load-bearing surface.
US07837814B2	Fine-fibers-dispersed nonwoven fabric, process and apparatus for manufacturing same, and sheet material containing same Disclosed is a fine-fibers-dispersed nonwoven fabric comprising dispersed fine fibers having a fiber diameter of 4 μm or less and a fiber length of 3 mm or less, wherein an adhesion rate of substances adhered to the nonwoven fabric is 0.5 mass % or less. Further, a process and an apparatus for manufacturing the fine-fibers-dispersed nonwoven fabric, as well as a sheet material comprising the fine-fibers-dispersed nonwoven fabric are also disclosed.
US07837813B1	Stimulated emission release of chemical energy stored in stone-wales defect pairs in carbon nanostructures Stone Wales defect pairs in a carbon nanostructure are used to store energy. Energy is released by a chain reaction of phonons disrupting the defect pairs to generate more phonons until the lattice returns to its original hexagonal form and the energy is released in the form of lattice vibrations. Devices may be configured as a battery to release electrical energy in a controlled manner or as an explosive to release energy in an uncontrolled manner.
US07837812B2	Metastable beta-titanium alloys and methods of processing the same by direct aging Metastable beta titanium alloys and methods of processing metastable β-titanium alloys are disclosed. For example, certain non-limiting embodiments relate to metastable β-titanium alloys, such as binary β-titanium alloys comprising greater than 10 weight percent molybdenum, having tensile strengths of at least 150 ksi and elongations of at least 12 percent. Other non-limiting embodiments relate to methods of processing metastable β-titanium alloys, and more specifically, methods of processing binary β-titanium alloys comprising greater than 10 weight percent molybdenum, wherein the method comprises hot working and direct aging the metastable β-titanium alloy at a temperature below the β-transus temperature of the metastable β-titanium alloy for a time sufficient to form α-phase precipitates in the metastable β-titanium alloy. Articles of manufacture comprising binary β-titanium alloys according to various non-limiting embodiments disclosed herein are also disclosed.
US07837803B2	Device and method for wet treating disc-shaped articles In a spin-chuck with plural collector levels, a separate exhaust controller is provided for each level. This permits selectively varying gas flow conditions among the collector levels, so that the ambient pressure at one level does not adversely affect device performance in an adjacent level.
US07837801B2	Apparatus and method for cleaning an optical fiber An apparatus and method for cleaning an optical fiber supported by a fiber optic connector. The cleaning apparatus may include a housing, a cleaning tip supported by the housing and a cleaning wipe advanceable along at least a portion of the cleaning tip to clean an optical fiber when the cleaning wipe engages the optical fiber. The apparatus may include one or more automated features which may enhance the effectiveness of the apparatus. The apparatus may include a fluid dispenser to wet at least a portion of the cleaning wipe with a cleaning fluid. The apparatus may be configured to automatically control the force exerted by the cleaning tip against the optical fiber and/or to automatically control tension in the cleaning wipe. Aspects of the invention are directed to a method of cleaning an end face of an optical fiber by advancing a wet portion of a cleaning wipe across the end face, and thereafter advancing a dry portion of the cleaning wipe across the end face. A cleaning wipe may also be provided with at least one fluid barrier to prevent fluid flow between two adjacent portions of the cleaning wipe.
US07837799B2	Arrangement for transporting a flat substrate in a vacuum chamber An arrangement for transporting a flat substrate through a coating installation, wherein the coating installation comprises, e.g., several and different sputter cathodes, to which the flat substrate, for example a glass pane, is transported one after the other in vacuo. So that no abrasion is generated between glass pane and contact, the glass pane is kept spaced apart from the contact by means of gas pressure. The gas pressure is herein built up through relatively few and small holes in a gas channel. Since during flooding of the coating installation to atmospheric pressure or during evacuation, due to the small holes, no fast pressure equalization between gas channel and the remaining coating installation is possible, the gas channel is decoupled in terms of gas from the remaining coating installation and provided with a separate gas line, via which gas can be introduced into the gas channel or pumped out of it.
US07837798B2	Semiconductor processing apparatus with a heat resistant hermetically sealed substrate support An apparatus for manufacturing a semiconductor or liquid crystal is provided with a reaction chamber housing a ceramic holder with an embedded resistive heating element, and a cylindrical support member one end of which supports the ceramic holder and the other end of which side is fixed to the reaction chamber. One end of the cylindrical support member is hermetically bonded to the ceramic holder; and a partition plate and sealing material hermetically seal the other end of which side. Embodiments include partitioning the space within the cylindrical support member with the ceramic holder, and the partition plate and depressurizing to vacuum or to a reduced pressure atmosphere of an inert gas. Advantageously the cylindrical support member can easily be hermetically sealed, corrosion and oxidation of electrode terminals exposed on the rear surface of the ceramic holder prevented, the thermal uniformity and thermal efficiency of the holder improved, and the length of the cylindrical support member reduced, thereby reducing the size of the reaction chamber.
US07837797B2	Systems and methods for forming niobium and/or vanadium containing layers using atomic layer deposition A method of forming (and an apparatus for forming) a metal containing layer on a substrate, particularly a semiconductor substrate or substrate assembly for use in manufacturing a semiconductor or memory device structure, using one or more precursor compounds that include niobium and/or vanadium and using an atomic layer deposition process including a plurality of deposition cycles.
US07837796B2	Process chamber, inline coating installation and method for treating a substrate A process chamber 1 for PECVD (Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition) coating of a substrate includes an electrode, which is integrated in a contact frame, which is firmly connected to the recipient. A movable carrier in the process chamber carries at least one substrate. The carrier is transported by means of a driven roller positioner into the process chamber or out of the process chamber along a transport route defined by the movement. As soon as the carrier inside the recipient has reached a certain position, the lower roller positioner is uncoupled from carrier by lowering by means of a lifting device. In this regard, the carrier detaches itself from the upper roller positioner. Then, the carrier is accepted by a transfer device (not shown) and brought from the transport position laterally into a treatment position in contact with the contact frame. In this way, reliable contact is produced between the electrode and a counter-electrode provided in carrier. At the same time, other carriers, in so far as the contact frame is removed laterally far enough from the transport route, during the coating of the carrier, can be moved past this.
US07837793B2	Method of manufacturing diamond substrates A tiled array of diamond plates, which is suitable for wafer scale processing, for example, in the manufacture of electronic or other device structures on the diamond plates. The diamond plates are fixed to a support layer, preferably a polycrystalline diamond support layer, in a substantially planar arrangement such that at least one of the major surfaces of the respective fixed diamond plates defines a fabrication surface that is exposed for further processing. The support layer may be a backing layer, in which case only one of the major faces of the diamond substrate is exposed for further processing, or may extend between respective diamond substrates such that both major surfaces are exposed for further processing.
US07837788B2	Fiber reinforced cement composition and products and manufacturing process This invention is a fiber reinforced cement composition comprising the following raw materials: a hydraulic inorganic material, a siliceous material, and a woody reinforcement wherein the siliceous material is a mixture of an average particle size of not less than 15 um and not more than 50 um which is burned ash of coal and/or rhyolite and an average particle size of not less than 1 um and not more than 15 um which is burned ash of coal and/or rhyolite.
US07837786B2	Compositions of cellular materials that contain anhydrite and methods for its preparation The present invention describes improved cellular compositions that contain anhydrite that reaches high compression resistance values, of the order of 110 to 138 Kg/cm2, as well as methods of obtaining of these. The obtained cellular materials with the compositions of the invention can be used like constructive structural materials, and without they present the problems commonly associate to the anhydrous calcium sulphate presence in similar materials.
US07837785B2	Process for the preparation of pigment granules and the use thereof The present invention relates to pigment granules and to a process for the preparation thereof and their use.
US07837780B2	Green color filter element A green color filter having a green filter layer comprising a bridged aluminum phthalocyanine pigment and a second pigment having its maximum absorption at a wavelength from 400 to 500 nm.
US07837771B2	Rotary cylinder dual diverter valve A rotary cylinder valve comprises a valve body, a valve cylinder rotationally mounted within the valve body, and first, second, third and fourth valve seats coupled to the valve body. The valve cylinder has a first position in which dual independent flow paths connect the first valve seat with the second valve seat, and connect the third valve seat with the fourth valve seat. The valve cylinder is rotatable to a second position in which the dual independent flow paths connect the first valve seat with the fourth valve seat, and connect the third valve seat with the second valve seat. The valve seats form seals against the valve cylinder, such that no flow path connects the first valve seat with the third valve seat.
US07837769B2	Method and apparatus for degassing fluid in enclosed containers Disclosed is a compressed air powered vacuum mechanism and method for enabling a user to lower atmospheric pressure in enclosed containers and thereby remove carbon dioxide and other entrained gasses from fluids, in this instance wine, in multiple enclosed containers. In a short time, the resulting wine will improve in taste and aroma and clarity, an improvement normally associated with wine that has been naturally aged for many months. A compressed air driven vacuum generator reduces the atmospheric pressure above the wine. When the atmospheric pressure is low enough the entrained gasses will quickly boil off the enclosed wine at room temperatures, disassociating from the fluid, without harming the wine. There are instances in the processing of wine and in keeping containers of food and drink fresh, where following the removing of gasses from the enclosed containers that the vacuum must be retained. This is optionally accomplished with a vacuum retaining on/off mechanism.
US07837767B2	Processes for removing organic components from gases containing hydrogen chloride Processes comprising: providing a crude gas stream having a temperature not exceeding 40° C., the crude gas stream comprising hydrogen chloride and at least one organic impurity; condensing at least a portion of the at least one organic impurity from the crude gas stream at a temperature not exceeding 0° C. to form a prepurified gas stream and a condensate comprising condensed organic impurity; subjecting at least a portion of the prepurified gas stream to adsorption on an adsorption medium to provide a purified gas stream; and separating the condensate into at least a head gas stream comprising residual hydrogen chloride and a sump stream comprising at least a portion of the condensed organic impurity.
US07837766B2	Systems and methods for reducing off-gassed ozone Systems and methods for producing an ozone destructor are disclosed herein. Generally, these systems and methods include an ozone destructor that has a housing defining an air passage duct. In some cases, this air passage duct includes a first chamber and a second chamber that are arranged so that air is able to flow into the first chamber, through the second chamber, and out of the destructor. In some cases, an air drying mechanism is disposed in the first and/or the second chamber. Additionally, in some cases, the ozone destructor further includes multiple mechanisms that reduce ozone to oxygen. In light of these features, the ozone destructor is capable of incrementally drying and reducing air and ozone, respectively, as they pass through the first chamber and the second chamber.
US07837765B2	Systems and methods for supplying auxiliary fuel streams during intermittent byproduct discharge from pressure swing adsorption assemblies Pressure swing adsorption (PSA) assemblies and hydrogen-producing fuel processing assemblies and/or fuel cell systems including the same. The PSA assemblies include, or are utilized with, combustion fuel stream supply systems that are adapted to regulate the flow of a byproduct stream from the PSA assembly for delivery to a heating assembly for use as a combustible fuel stream, such as to maintain at least a hydrogen-producing region of the fuel processing system at a hydrogen-producing temperature or range of temperatures. In some embodiments, the combustion fuel stream supply system is configured to ensure that the supply of combustible fuel from the PSA assembly to the heating assembly contains at least a sufficient fuel value, such as to maintain at least the hydrogen-producing region at or within a predetermined hydrogen-producing temperature or range of temperatures.
US07837759B2	Low temperature industrial process This invention relates to a method for producing titanium by reaction of titanium tetrachloride with magnesium in a reactor, wherein the temperature in the reactor is above the melting point of magnesium and below the melting point of magnesium chloride, wherein the reaction results in formation of particles comprising titanium, and wherein the particles are removed from the reactor and processed in order to recover the titanium.
US07837756B2	Filter with ePTFE and method of forming A filter media product and method of making the same wherein the filter media is pleatable and has at least one support scrim comprised of a melt bonded non-woven material or a fuse bonded non-woven material bonded to a layer of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene. The filter media may have a single support scrim with one or more layers and optionally may have a support scrim on both an upstream and downstream surface where both or neither support scrim is multilayered. The filter media may have an efficiency greater than, equal to, or less than HEPA.
US07837754B2	Multi-element filter arrangement and methods A filter element includes a first, outer tubular construction of filter media defining a first open filter interior; a second, inner tuber construction of filter media defining a second open filter interior; the second construction of filter media being located within the first open filter interior and being radially spaced from the first construction of filter media; and the second open filter interior defines an unfiltered fluid channel. A plastic inner liner is within the first open filter interior to support the first construction of filter media. A plastic outer liner is within the first open filter interior to support the second construction of filter media. A filtered fluid channel is defined between the inner liner and the outer liner. A brace arrangement is between the first and second tubular constructions. The brace arrangement can include a spring, a plurality of gussets, or a solid spacer.
US07837753B2	Systems for filtering particles from an airflow Systems for filtering particles from an airflow are provided. In an embodiment, by way of example only, the system includes a chamber, an airflow and particle inlet, a concentrator, a first outlet, and a second outlet. The airflow and particle inlet is adapted to direct at least a portion of the airflow and the particles into the chamber. The concentrator is adapted to concentrate the particles from the airflow and particle inlet into a space within the chamber. The first outlet is in flow communication with the concentrator and adapted to allow the concentrated particles to exit the system, while minimizing an amount of air exiting therefrom. The second outlet is in flow communication with the chamber and is adapted to allow substantially all of the airflow to exit therethrough.
US07837749B2	System and method for monitoring impact machinery A system (10) for monitoring an operating condition of an electrostatic precipitator rapper system (12) includes a rapper (24) configured to mechanically actuate to disengage pollutants from a plate of the electrostatic precipitator (12). The system also includes a sensor (38, 40) configured to obtain and transmit signals representative of vibration, motion, or current behavior of the rapper; and a processor (52) configured to receive the signals from the sensor and to detect whether the rapper is mechanically actuated.
US07837747B2	Single phase hydrous hydrocarbon-based fuel, methods for producing the same and compositions for use in such method This invention disclosure describes a conditioned single phase hydrocarbon-based fuel, a method for producing such fuel and components useful in such method. The described conditioned hydrocarbon-based fuel is a single phase hydrous fuel with improved performance, handling and storage characteristics. A method is also is also provided for producing the conditioned hydrocarbon-based fuel using a semi-solid activator. The resulting conditioned hydrocarbon-based fuel has a volume greater than the unmodified hydrocarbon-based fuel, a BTU content greater than the BTU content of the unmodified hydrocarbon-based fuel, less particulate emissions and less non-particulate emissions than the unmodified hydrocarbon-based fuel, and a water content less than the water content of the unmodified hydrocarbon-based fuel.
US07837741B2	Dry cleaning method The present invention provides a safe method for cleaning fabric articles, comprising the step of treating the fabric articles with a working cyclosiloxane dry cleaning solvent to remove contaminants from the articles, wherein the working solvent is contacted and mixed with a solidifying catalyst in case of an increased temperature event. The present invention also provides a dry cleaning system suitable for carrying out the method of the invention. Since said method has improved safety, it is very suitable for in-home use.
US07837739B2	Interpositional biarticular disk implant An interpositional biarticular disk implant (11) having a circular peripheral rim, a generally toroidal axial center opening (13) and convex upper and lower surfaces (15, 17) is implanted between resected concave surfaces of the metacarpal base and the trapezium or other carpal bone in a CMC joint replacement. The disk (11) is anchored in operative position through the use of a flexible cord, such as a harvested tendon that passes through the center opening (13) and through osseous passageways created in the two facing bones.
US07837738B2	Joint prosthesis and use of screw tool for positioning members thereof A joint prosthesis has two prosthesis members (2, 3) and each prosthesis member (2, 3) includes a first and a second screw-like member (4, 5) adapted to be screwed onto a respective bone (39, 41, 42). One prosthesis member (2) includes a member (6) having a socket and the other prosthesis member (3) a member (7) having a head. The socket member (6) has a mounting pin (22) insertable into a first hole (10) in the first screw-like member (4) and the head member (7) has a mounting pin (27) insertable into a first hole (11) in the second screw-like member (5). In the first as well as in the second screw-like member (4, 5) there is provided at least one inner second hole (30 and 33 respectively) designed to permit insertion thereinto of a rod (31) of a screw tool (32) in order to secure by screwing the first and second screw-like member (4, 5) respectively, at the respective bone (39, 41, 42). The second hole (30 and 33 respectively) is provided in a bottom (17 and 19 respectively) of the first hole (10 and 11 respectively).
US07837736B2	Minimally invasive surgical systems and methods A method is provided for performing a total knee arthroplasty. The method includes making a primary incision near a knee joint of a patient and resecting medial and lateral condyles of the femur of the leg to create at least one femoral cut surface. The resecting step is performed without dislocating the knee joint. The method also includes balancing various ligament tensions to obtain desired tension and moving a femoral component of a total knee implant through the primary incision. The method further includes positioning the femoral component with respect to the at least one femoral cut surface.
US07837735B2	Devices and methods for facilitating controlled bone growth or repair Bone implantable devices and methodologies permit careful application of biologically active substances and management of bone growth processes. The device includes a body defining a carrier receiving area for locating adjacent bone. Carrier material is located in the carrier receiving area. Substance is delivered onto carrier material through a port. A pathway delivers substance from the carrier receiving area to the bone surface. The body may be in the form of a spinal fusion cage, facet fusion screw, artificial joint, bone fixation plate, interbody graft, IM nail, hip stem, or other bone-to-bone appliances or bone-to-device appliances. In use, carrier is installed in the carrier receiving area of the device. The device is then implanted adjacent a bone. The substance is applied to the carrier for subsequent delivery to the bone. By doping carrier material after device implantation, inadvertent contact of the substance with non-target bone is more easily eliminated.
US07837734B2	System and method for replacing degenerated spinal disks A system and method for replacing degenerated spinal disks in accordance with the present invention can substitute for interbody fusion techniques by replacing degenerated spinal disks with artificial spinal disks. In one embodiment, the system can comprise one or more artificial spinal disks, each comprising an upper and lower housing, a first spacer and a second spacer partially enclosed by a cavity formed by the housings, and a shaft with a spring positioned between the first spacer and the second spacer such that the spacers are urged apart.
US07837727B2	Minimally invasive heart valve replacement A replacement valve for implantation centrally within the orifice of a malfunctioning native heart valve. The valve is designed for minimally invasive entry through an intercostal opening in the chest of a patient and an opening in the apex of the human heart. The replacement valve includes either a separate anchor (11, 87, 111) or a combined anchor (67) that folds around the malfunctioning native valve leaflets, sandwiching them in a manner so as to securely anchor the replacement valve in a precise, desired location.
US07837725B2	Apparatus and method for deploying self-expanding stents An assembly for delivering a stent to an intraluminal location comprising a catheter having an inner member and an outer member, a stent positioned between the inner member and the outer member at the catheter distal end, and a cutter/slider/deployment mechanism slidable secured to the catheter proximal end. A user may vary the length of the catheter by slidably advancing the cutter/slider/deployment mechanism along the catheter, whereby excess portions of the catheter are cut away. When the desired length is achieved, the user can secure the cutter/slider/deployment mechanism to the catheter to prevent further slidable advancement. The user may also vary the configuration of the catheter handle by adding or removing a removable platform from the handle. Upon stent deployment, the stent is released from the outer member, and the stent will expand as desired.
US07837716B2	Threadform for medical implant closure A thread is located on a cylindrical closure for an open headed medical implant. The thread has a leading surface and a trailing surface that both slope rearwardly from an interior edge to an exterior edge thereof.
US07837707B2	Internal procedure for closing sinus membrane perforations An internal sinus procedure for patching a perforation in patient's sinus membrane comprising the steps of (i) creating an opening in the sinus floor of a patient to expose the portion of the sinus membrane including the perforation, (ii) inserting a quantity of a sinus membrane patching material through the opening to a location adjacent the sinus perforation and (iii) laterally expanding and forcing the patching material against the sinus membrane to seal the perforation.
US07837705B2	Tissue puncture closure system with retractable sheath Methods and apparatus are disclosed for sealing a puncture or incision formed percutaneously in tissue separating two internal portions of the body of a living being with an anchor, a sealing plug and a filament connecting the anchor and sealing plug. The methods and apparatus provide for automatic tamping and/or cinching of the sealing plug when the apparatus is withdrawn from the puncture site. The automatic tamping and/or cinching may be facilitated by retracting a procedure sheath without moving the sealing plug or a tamping assembly.
US07837702B2	Interventional catheter for retrograde use having embolic protection capability and methods of use Interventional catheters are disclosed for use in performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in vessels that are accessed retrograde to blood flow. The catheters include an elongated shaft slidably disposed within a sheath, a distal region having an end effector and a filter disposed proximal to the end effector to capture emboli liberated during the diagnostic or therapeutic procedure. The filter includes a plurality of struts that cooperate with an exterior surface of the catheter to define a reservoir to retain captured emboli, the reservoir configured so that advancement of the sheath contracts the filter without squeezing or dislodging captured emboli beyond a distal end of the filter.
US07837700B2	Drive apparatus The invention relates to shielded reciprocating surgical file system for precisely removing bone and/or other tissue material. The system allows a user to maneuver the system and navigate into hard to access sites under a direct vision mechanism included in the system. A transmission mechanism converts rotary motion from a motor into reciprocating motion and provides it to the surgical file for precision bone and/or tissue removal. A pulsatile pump mechanism is operatively coupled with the transmission mechanism and provides irrigating fluid to the surgical site.
US07837697B2	Device and method for anastomosis A device for forming an anastomosis of blood vessels or ducts comprises: first and second engagement structures (7, 10; 35) for respectively engaging a first end portion (2) of a blood vessel (1) or of a prosthesis and a second end or side portion (4, 4′) of the blood vessel (1) or prosthesis; and a mechanism (14, 14′) for reciprocally connecting the first and second engagement structures. The first engagement structure (7, 10) comprise one or more piercing elements (6) adapted to only partially penetrate the side wall of the blood vessel (1) so as to avoid direct contact between the elements (6) and the blood inside the vessel or prosthesis.
US07837692B2	Catheter with an expandable end portion A catheter (2) is used in medical applications, for example for the retrieval of a sample from a patient or the insertion or retrieval of medical devices such as filters, stents (3) to and from the patient. The catheter (2) includes an expandable tip (6) at a leading portion of a catheter tube portion (5). This expandable tip (6) can retrieve or deliver samples, medical devices, etc. (3), which are slightly larger than the dimensions of a main catheter tube (5) inserted into the patient. The expandable tip (6) can also include extension members (10) which provide axial support to the expandable tip (6) but which still allow expansion in the radial direction.
US07837691B2	Dynamic knee balancer with opposing adjustment mechanism A device for performing a surgical procedure on a knee comprises a femoral assembly comprising a stationary femoral member attachable to the distal femur, an adjustable femoral member movably coupled with the stationary member to adjust tension in at least one ligament of or adjacent the knee and an adjustment mechanism coupled to the assembly. The adjustable member includes at least one positioning feature that moves relative to the distal femur as the adjustable member is adjusted and identifies at least one position on the distal femur. The adjustable member is movably couplable with a tibial member engaged with a proximal tibia to allow the knee to be moved through a range of motion without removing the femoral and tibial members. The mechanism includes an actuator positioned proximate a medial or lateral portion of the adjustable member. The actuator is configured to adjust an opposite portion of the adjustable member.
US07837690B2	Method and apparatus for less invasive knee resection Various tools and portions are used to perform a resection of a portion of the anatomy for preparation of the implants of a prosthetic. Various saw blades having selected geometries and shapes can be used to assist in the resection of an anatomy to provide for implantation of a prosthetic. In addition, a cutting block assembly is provided wherein a cutting block is translatably mounted on a rail. The rail is fixed relative a portion of the anatomy. Therefore, once the rail is fixed, the cutting block can move to a selected position and held there without moving the rail.
US07837684B2	Composite structures and methods for ablating tissue to form complex lesion patterns in the treatment of cardiac conditions and the like A method of ablating tissue in the heart to treat atrial fibrillation introduces into a selected atrium an energy emitting element. The method exposes the element to a region of the atrial wall and applies ablating energy to the element to thermally destroy tissue. The method forms a convoluted lesion pattern comprising elongated straight lesions and elongated curvilinear lesions. The lesion pattern directs electrical impulses within the atrial myocardium along a path that activates the atrial myocardium while interrupting reentry circuits that, if not interrupted, would cause fibrillation. The method emulates the surgical maze procedure, but lends itself to catheter-based procedures that do not require open heart surgical techniques. A composite structure for performing the method is formed using a template that displays in planar view a desired lesion pattern for the tissue. An array of spaced apart element is laid on the template. Guided by the template, energy emitting and non-energy emitting zones are formed on the elements. By overlaying the elements, the composite structure is formed, which can be introduced into the body to ablate tissue using catheter-based, vascular access techniques.
US07837682B2	Device and method for positioning of a therapeutic device A system comprises a first signal handling unit sized and shaped for insertion to a reference distance within a first body cavity and a probe sized and shaped for insertion into a second body cavity the probe including an energy emitting head and a second signal handling unit, wherein one of the first and second signal handling units comprises a transmitter and the other of the first and second signal handling units comprises one of a receiver adapted to receive signals from the transmitter and a signal reflecting element, wherein, when the other of the first and second signal handling units comprises a signal reflecting element, the one of the first and second signal handling units comprises a receiver in combination with a controller operatively connected to the receiver, the controller generating an output varying as a distance between the first and second signal handling units varies. In addition, a system comprises a probe sized and shaped for insertion in a first body cavity and a measuring element extending from the probe to contact tissue adjacent to an opening to a second body cavity, the measuring element being movably coupled to the probe to vary a depth to which the probe may be inserted into the first body cavity before the measuring element contacts the tissue adjacent to the opening of the second body cavity.
US07837681B2	Structures for supporting multiple electrode elements A catheter assembly comprises a first branch body having a first axis, a second branch body extending in a non-parallel relationship with respect to the first axis, and at least one electrode carried by the second branch body. In use, the first branch body can be located within a pulmonary vein within the left atrium, while the electrode carried by the second branch body is located in contact with endocardial tissue outside the pulmonary vein. Ablation energy can be transmitted from the electrode to contacted endocardial tissue while the first branch body is located within the pulmonary vein.
US07837678B2	Systems for treating a hollow anatomical structure A working end of a catheter includes at least one therapeutic element, such as a resistive heating element, usable to deliver energy for ligating, or reducing the diameter of, a hollow anatomical structure. In certain examples, the catheter includes a lumen to accommodate a guide wire or to allow fluid delivery. In certain embodiments, a balloon is inflated to place resistive element(s) into apposition with a hollow anatomical structure and to occlude the structure. Indexing devices and methods are also disclosed for successively treating portions of the hollow anatomical structure. In certain examples, marks along the catheter shaft provide visual verification to the physician of the relative position of the therapeutic element of the catheter. Embodiments of indexing devices may include pairs of rings and/or hinged arms that move a catheter a desired indexed position between successive treatments.
US07837677B2	Systems for treating a hollow anatomical structure A working end of a catheter includes at least one therapeutic element, such as a resistive heating element, usable to deliver energy for ligating, or reducing the diameter of, a hollow anatomical structure. In certain examples, the catheter includes a lumen to accommodate a guide wire or to allow fluid delivery. In certain embodiments, a balloon is inflated to place resistive element(s) into apposition with a hollow anatomical structure and to occlude the structure. Indexing devices and methods are also disclosed for successively treating portions of the hollow anatomical structure. In certain examples, marks along the catheter shaft provide visual verification to the physician of the relative position of the therapeutic element of the catheter. Embodiments of indexing devices may include pairs of rings and/or hinged arms that move a catheter a desired indexed position between successive treatments.
US07837676B2	Cardiac ablation devices A cardiac ablation device treats atrial fibrillation by directing and focusing ultrasonic waves into a ring-like ablation region (A). The device desirably is steerable and can be moved between a normal disposition, in which the ablation region lies parallel to the wall of the heart for ablating a loop-like lesion, and a canted disposition, in which the ring-like focal region is tilted relative to the wall of the heart, to ablate only a short, substantially linear lesion. The ablation device desirably includes a balloon reflector structure (18, 1310) and an ultrasonic emitter assembly (23, 1326), and can be steered and positioned without reference to engagement between the device and the pulmonary vein or ostium. A contrast medium (C) can be injected through the ablation device to facilitate imaging, so that the device can be positioned based on observation of the images.
US07837672B2	Adjustable double balloon catheter with a through lumen for stone management A method for removing an object from a body lumen includes dispensing fluid into the body lumen, and causing the dispensed fluid to propel the object along the body lumen. A device for removing an object from a body lumen includes a fluid dispenser for dispensing fluid into the body lumen, and a pump in fluid communication with the dispenser.
US07837671B2	Slittable and peelable sheaths and methods for making and using them A sheath for delivering a lead or other device into a body lumen is adapted to be removed from around the delivered lead or device via a longitudinally extending feature. This feature of the sheath may be a ripcord, a seam or interlocking features the releasably engage one another.
US07837666B2	Systems and methods for delivery of peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions The invention provides container systems, kits and methods for peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions. Such a system, for example, includes a first compartment that contains a PD osmotic agent and a second compartment that contains a PD buffer agent. The compartments maintain their respective contents separately from one another for purposes of transport, storage and/or sterilization. However, the compartments are fluidly couplable, so that their respective contents can be combined with one another, e.g., following sterilization of the agents and prior to their introduction into the patient's abdomen. The invention provides, in other aspects, such systems, kits and methods that provide protective structure which inhibits breaking of a seal prior between the second compartment and an outlet of the system, prior to breaking of a seal between the first and second compartments.
US07837663B2	Odor controlling article including a visual indicating device for monitoring odor absorption The present invention relates to a visual indicating device and an article for controlling odors, in particular foot, garbage, basement, cooking, pet, tobacco, feces and urine odors. The article comprises a visual indicating agent that is color sensitive to the odor, and optionally, an odor absorbing agent. The visual indicating agent changes color when the article has been exposed to a sufficient amount of odor to saturate the article. The indicating agent may be applied in differing concentrations to two or more zones so as to indicate to a user of the article how much of the odor absorbing capacity has been used, or conversely, how much of the odor absorbing capacity remains. Suitable visual indicating agents that change color in response to odors are also described. The article for controlling odors may be a disposable odor absorbing sheet, air freshening product, diaper, undergarment pad, face mask, air filtration device, sanitary napkin, tampon, panty shield or incontinence pad.
US07837661B2	Device for providing anti-reflux in a body fluid collection and/or sampling system, and method of manufacturing such a device The device (1) for providing anti-reflux has a valve element (9) formed from a sheet-shaped material blank. The valve element includes a connecting portion and a flap portion. Retaining means (10a,10b) for retaining the valve element are integral with the device. The connecting portion includes engagement means formed integrally with the valve element for engagement with the retaining means, the valve element projecting a coherent plane.
US07837654B2	Precision sensing and treatment delivery device for promoting healing in living tissue A microneedle insertable in a target cell tissue, including a manipulative end maintained exterior of cell tissue and an insertion end positionable in or adjacent of target cell tissue. A plurality of microtubes are bundled to pass through the needle body and extend to respective distal ends grouped proximally interior of the insertion end. A sensing fiber is extendable from means for sensing for passage through the needle body to a distal end capable of sensing cell tissue parameters. The insertion end and the bundled microtube and sensing fiber distal ends are positionable in or adjacent of cell tissue thereby providing rapid evaluation of cell parameters by optic fiber sensing, fiber sampling of cell parameters, and precise delivery of therapeutic fluids or additional treatment measures. A method is also disclosed of precisely positioning a microneedle having a plurality of microtubes and sensing fibers therein for evaluating and treating cell tissue.
US07837653B2	Fluid delivery apparatus with vial fill A compact fluid dispenser for use in controllably dispensing fluid medicaments, such as antibiotics, analgesics, and the like medicinal agents from the reservoir of the device. Uniquely, the dispenser includes a novel bellows-type reservoir and vial fill means for filling the bellows-type reservoir with the medicament to be dispensed. The dispenser also includes a novel stored energy source in the form of a constant force spring which controllably urges the medicinal fluid from the device reservoir. Additionally, the apparatus of the invention includes a novel adjustable flow rate control assembly that is disposed intermediate the fluid reservoir outlet and the outlet port of the device for precisely controlling the rate of fluid flow from the outlet port toward the patient. The rate control assembly includes a rate selector member for selecting the desired rate of fluid flow toward the patient and a cooperatively associated flow control plate having a plurality of fluidic micro-channels which controls the rate of fluid flow toward the selector member. The rate control plate uniquely includes a priming feature for priming the various fluid passageways of the device and purging the fluid passageways of gases that may be contained therein prior to the delivery of the medicinal fluids to the administration line of the device.
US07837649B1	Nasal clip for aromatic substances The present invention provides a nasal clip including two parts which are both injection molded. The first part, the base with a holster cavity for the second piece, the scent bar, which is impregnated with an aromatic substance such as essential oils, or aromatic medications. The purpose of the holster cavity is to keep the scent bar away from the skin, since the oils can irritate the skin if in direct contact. The base is fashioned in a way with various openings in order to emit as much aroma as possible. The scent bar is formed of a porous material, such as a poly-olefin plastic that undergoes a process of impregnation on saturation with the aromatic substance. The concentration of each type of aromatic substance will determine the length of time the scent bar will be soaked with may range from as little as a few hours to as much as a week. The nature of the poly-olefin plastic is to naturally absorb up to 30% of the aromatic substance.
US07837647B2	Medication delivery system and monitor Systems and methods for the delivery and monitoring of a medication, such as insulin, to a recipient are provided. An exemplary feature-rich system comprises an infusion pump with a control system for controlling medication delivery by the infusion pump and a bolus estimator for estimating an appropriate amount of medication for delivery by the control system with the infusion pump. Estimating the appropriate amount of medication for delivery is based upon one or more settings which each vary according to a setting profile. In other embodiments, the control system comprises a suspend function for temporarily suspending medication delivery by the infusion pump, an alarm profile function for programming a variable alarm volume of the alarm and a simplified menu for controlling the dual wave bolus delivery function.
US07837643B2	Methods and devices for placing a gastrointestinal sleeve Methods and systems for delivering or placing a gastrointestinal implant device into a mammal. The gastrointestinal implant device can be used to limit absorption of food products in specific parts of the digestive system and can include a gastrointestinal sleeve having an anchor portion and a barrier or sleeve portion. The methods include endoluminal delivery of the device.
US07837641B2	Hand orthosis A hand orthosis assembly comprising a substantially rigid splint member having an inner wrist portion configured to receive a person's inner wrist and an arcuate palm portion extending from the wrist portion to receive the person's cupped hand. The arcuate palm portion may defining a cavity adapted to releasably retain a tool or recreational device, or an interchangeable insert releasably retained within the cavity, for generally gripping a tool or recreational device for functional use. The assembly may additionally include two or more protrusions extending from an outer perimeter of the arcuate portion for maintaining the persons' fingers in generally correct alignment. The assembly may also include a hook portion extending from the arcuate palm portion, having an assisting member extending therefrom for handling objects. The assisting member may be magnetic or affixed to magnetic material.
US07837640B2	Dynamic body protector The present invention provides a novel means of joint and body protection using engineered textiles to provide dynamic kinematic control within the device itself and for the underlying body part. The apparatus may be used in apparel or orthosis wherein a textile is organized about the proximal and distal aspects of a joint or body part and uses the mechanical and material characteristics of the engineered textile to dynamically control the kinetics of the body part and more specifically to prevent the body part from reaching extremes in range of motion. The engineered textiles can be designed to provide non-uniform increases in stiffness in any direction. The engineered textile may incorporate strain or strain rate dependant materials in which case stiffness properties would vary non-uniformly with velocity and/or acceleration within the device allowing for protection from blunt trauma, blast, or ballistic events anywhere on the body. A further aspect of the present invention is to provide a novel means of dynamically fitting and anchoring apparel, orthosis, body protection devices or other objects that need to be securely fixed to the body anatomy during joint flexion or extension, by using motion at a body joint to actuate a closure mechanism and bracing system that actively closes upon the body anatomy surrounding the joint and transfers loads created during dynamic restraint of the joint to anchor zones on the body.
US07837636B2	Transmission device and chest compression device using same A transmission device transforms an alternate rotational movement of an alternately rotating element into a linear reciprocating movement. The device includes a linear reciprocating element connected to the rotating element, and a first pivoting element having a first fixed pivot point connected to the linear reciprocating element. The transmission device includes a second pivoting element connected to the first pivoting element. A ball member, which may be connected to a CPR piston, is attached to the second pivoting element. A third pivoting element having a second fixed pivot point is connected to the second pivoting element.
US07837633B2	Lancing device and multi-lancet cartridge A medical lancing device including a replaceable multi-lancet cartridge. The lancing device includes a drive mechanism, an activation mechanism, and an advancing mechanism. The advancing mechanism includes a linear-pull slide that is moved in and out to operate an indexing ratchet mechanism, a cam-guided charger mechanism, and a cam-guided lancet cap displacement mechanism. The indexing ratchet mechanism sequentially advances the lancets in the cartridge to an active position. The cam-guided charger mechanism charges the drive mechanism and separates the cap from the active lancet. And the cam-guided cap displacement mechanism moves the separated cap from the lancing stroke path of the active lancet. The activation mechanism then releases the charged active lancet to traverse the unobstructed lancing stroke path to pierce the subject's skin at a desired lancing site.
US07837630B2	Fluid control element for biopsy apparatus A fluid control element having a flexible member that is adapted for selective deformation when an element inserted therein. The flexible member includes at least one incision or opening that defines at least one cusp that selectively opens when the element is inserted therein. The incision or opening is biased into a normally and substantially closed position such that fluids are substantially prevented from flowing through the fluid control element.
US07837627B1	Sheath apparatus for guiding needles for use with a medical ultrasound transceiver An apparatus and method for guiding a needle where a structure is disposed on an exterior of a sterile sheath to aid in guiding the needle with respect to the transceiver, which transceiver is not yet inserted into the sterile sheath. In one case, the needle guide is attached to the exterior of the sheath; in another, a needle guide adapter is attached to the exterior of the sheath; in still another, an adhesive is attached on the inside of the sheath to assist in attachment with the transceiver. In still another, a temporary adhesive cover is attached to the internal adhesive and is removable upon full insertion of the transceiver into the sheath.
US07837623B2	Non-invasive method of obtaining a pre-determined acoustic wave field in an essentially uniform medium which is concealed by a bone barrier, imaging method and device for carrying out said methods A non-invasive method of obtaining a target soundwave field in the brain by means of an array of transducers positioned outside the skull, the method comprising a training stage during which, on the basis of a three-dimensional image giving the porosity of the skull at all points, digital simulation is used to determine individual sound signals to be emitted by the transducers in order to obtain the target soundwave field in the brain. After the training stage, the array of transducers is used to locate the position of the array of transducers relative to the skull by echography and to ensure that the array of transducers is accurately positioned.
US07837621B2	Computer-aided bone distraction Systems and methods of generating updated surgical plans are described herein. In one embodiment, a method of generating an updated surgical plan can include generating a three dimensional (3D) model of a bone, generating a surgical plan based on the 3D model, in which the surgical plan can include: locations on the bone upon which to dispose a fixator and settings of struts of the fixator, disposing the fixator on the bone based on the surgical plan, and, based on data associated with the placement of the fixator disposed on the bone, generating an updated surgical plan including updated settings for the struts.
US07837618B2	Endoscope control system In an endoscope control system, endoscope devices capture an image of each inspection site, write endoscope information in a title and/or a text of an electronic mail, and transmit the captured image in the electronic mail which has a captured image management computer of a management center as its distribution destination. The captured image management computer of the management center receives the captured images from the endoscope devices in the electronic mails, and manages them collectively.
US07837609B2	Centrifuge with removable core for scalable centrifugation The present invention relates to a centrifuge apparatus. The centrifuge apparatus is operable at certain predetermined parameters depending upon a product to be separated and is useable with a plurality of rotor assemblies. For example, a first rotor assembly of said plurality of rotor assemblies includes a first core having a first core configuration which is contained within a rotor housing of the first rotor assembly to define a first volume capacity such that the product passing through the first rotor assembly having the first volume capacity during rotation of the first rotor assembly in the centrifuge apparatus achieves a first particle separation of the product. A second rotor assembly of said plurality of rotor assemblies includes a second core having a second core configuration which is contained with a rotor housing of the second rotor assembly to define a second volume capacity of such that product passing through the second rotor assembly having the second volume capacity during rotation of the second rotor assembly in the centrifuge apparatus achieves a second particle separation of the product. It is observed that the second particle separation is a linear change with respect to the first particle separation.
US07837606B2	Method for the production of bags A process for manufacturing a bag from a polymer and/or metal film material provides a bag that has four outer walls connected by four seams and that has a sealed lower end.The bag-forming material is fed in the form of a film web that is wound up on a roll to an unwinding station of a bottom forming device that separates the unwound film web into film segments, connects the film segments, and seals at least one end of the connected segments to form the bag.
US07837605B2	Ankle-clamping device for an inversion table An ankle-clamping device for an inversion table includes a clamp holder, a motor mounted on the clamp holder, a worm shaft rotated by the motor, and a clamping roller unit that includes a worm gear connected rotatably to the clamp holder and meshing with the worm shaft, a lever having one end connected to and rotatable along with the worm gear, a pair of fixed clamping rollers fixed to the clamp holder, and a pair of movable clamping rollers fixed to the lever. The movable clamping rollers are movable toward or away from the fixed clamping rollers to cooperatively clamp therebetween or to permit release of the user's ankles from therebetween, respectively.
US07837603B1	Portable exercise wheel An exercise wheel having a central shaft with counter locking handles is described. The device is adapted to enable rapid assembly and disassembly of the exercise wheel for and compactness. The device takes up the least amount of space as possible to carry on a person or in a small container, such as a gym bag, brief case, and the like.To this effect, the device contemplates at least one wheel mounted on an elongated, rigid, shaft adapted to extend through a central opening in the wheel to allow the wheel to rotate on the shaft. The shaft is adapted to receive a removable handle at each opposite ends of the shaft. The handles are configured to engage the shaft and lock in place while permitting the wheel to rotate on the shaft.
US07837600B1	Flexible shroud for exercise equipment A flexible shroud is used to cover weights and hide pulleys and cables on exercise machines. The flexible shroud can be a coarse mesh or screen for see through areas, cloth such as canvas or other fabrics, or other flexible sound absorbing materials. The material may be supported around or between a framework of ribs, poles, or metal screen and takes the shape of the framework. The material may also be supported only at the top and bottom of a weight stack or structure by a rigid template from which the material takes shape. The top or bottom support may be adjusted to stretch the fabric taut so it takes shape better and tightens to provide a better safety shield. The material may be attached to the supports or framework by snaps, hook and loop material, or other removable fasteners.
US07837598B1	Exercise bar with adjustable angle handles An exercise bar includes a pair of handles having proximal ends with at least one fulcrum hole extending through the proximal end of each thereof. A center plate has a periphery and a pair of pivot holes therethrough. One of a pair of pivot pins is inserted through each of the fulcrum hole and a pivot hole to connect the handles to the center plate. Locating means extending through the center plate are spaced about the periphery thereof. Movable locking elements in the form of locking pins or clevis type pins are inserted into selected ones of the locating means to retain the handles at selected angular positions relative to the center plate.
US07837595B2	Controller for an exercise bicycle A controller is disclosed, especially but not exclusively, for use in combination with an exercise apparatus. The controller comprises in one arrangement a handlebar assembly and one or more input devices, of at least one of the input device being responsive to movement of the handlebars. The controller may include a support such as a handlebar stem, and may provide output signals to a microprocessor in turn to control operation of a programme running on the microprocessor.
US07837593B2	Method and system for using mechanical power to operate a hybrid electric vehicle An automotive transmission transitions from a drive gear to a neutral gear when an engine is shutdown. During a rolling pull-up, a crankshaft of the engine will be spun up to a desired speed and the transmission will transition from the neutral gear to an appropriate gear based on a shift schedule. A target transmission input speed is commanded to be a synchronous speed plus an offset to smoothly transition out of electric axle drive propulsion.
US07837583B2	Silent chain In a silent chain, link plates having two different back heights are arranged so that V-shaped oil guiding walls, opening in the direction of chain travel, are formed on the back of the chain that comes into sliding contact with the shoe of a chain guide.
US07837580B2	Lighted nock for archery arrow An archery arrow carries a light transmitting nock plus a light assembly, which comprises a light source positioned so that the light source is visible through the nock, a switch having normally open electrical contacts, and closable upon momentary contact with a magnetic field, and circuitry interconnecting a battery, the switch, and the light source for permitting illumination of the light source when the magnetic field is sensed. By this invention, the light assembly may be free of a housing and occupies a first bore of the nock and a second bore of the arrow shaft rearward end. A unique system for retaining a battery and protecting against high G force, plus a focused beam LED are other optional, advantageous features.
US07837577B2	Golf club head with metal injection molded sole A wood-type golf club head (20) with a main body (22) and a metal injection molded sole portion (26) is disclosed herein. The main body (26) has a face portion (30), a crown portion (24) a ribbon portion (28) and a bottom opening (31). The metal injection molded sole portion (26) is preferably brazed to the main body (22). The metal injection molded sole portion (26) preferably has a mass ranging from 45 grams to 110 grams. The metal injection molded sole portion (26) is preferably from 50 weight percent to 35 weight percent of the total mass of the wood-type golf club head (20).
US07837571B2	Device for displaying information, in particular for bowling alleys A device for displaying information, in particular for bowling alleys, comprises first detector mechanism, to detect an arrangement pattern of one or more bowling pins and generate a corresponding main detection signal, incorporating an identification code, and a control unit, connected to the first detector mechanism, for receiving the main detection signal at input; the control unit is set up in such a way that at output it transmits at least one animation according to the identification code incorporated in the main detection signal. The device is also equipped with a display element, connected to the control unit, for receiving the animation at input and allowing it to be displayed.
US07837569B2	Manual swing drive mechanism This invention relates to a manual swing drive mechanism to be mounted on a swing in order to transmit the swinging movement to a person who cannot do it alone, notably a child. Through a hand operated rocking arm, the assisting person transmits a swinging movement to a swaying member which transfers a pendulum swinging movement to the seat lines of the swing through a set of elongated swinging arms fixed perpendicularly to the swaying member. The functionality of the invention could be expanded into a multi-swing drive mechanism thus allowing one or several assisting persons to transmit a swinging movement to a group of two or more assisted persons.
US07837566B2	Passenger restraint system A passenger restraint system for a vehicle having a plurality of seats, each seat having a seatbelt, a retractor from which the seatbelt is extendable, and a receiver used to latch the seatbelt. Each retractor includes a first pneumatic locking element and a second pneumatic locking element for limiting movement of the seatbelt and each receiver includes a receiver pneumatic locking element for locking the seatbelt within the receiver. A controller controls the operation of a plurality of first valves for supplying air to the first pneumatic locking element of a corresponding one of the plurality of retractors, a second valve for supplying air to each of the second pneumatic locking element of the plurality of retractors, and a plurality of third valves for supplying air to the receiver pneumatic locking element of a corresponding one of the plurality of receivers. Control decisions may be made based upon feedback received from sensors within the receiver that sense a state of the seatbelt with respect to the receiver.
US07837563B2	Power transmission device In a power transmission device 41, a tapered inner circumferential surface 79 increasing its diameter toward a rotating shaft body 47 is formed in a hub 75, and a tapered outer circumferential surface 83 increasing its diameter toward the rotating shaft body 47 is formed in a tubular member 81 and press-fitted to the tapered inner circumferential surface of the hub 75 so that, when an excessive load is applied between a rotating body 45 and a pulley 69, the hub 75 rotates with respect to the rotating shaft 45 and the tubular member 81 is withdrawn from the tapered inner circumferential surface 77 of the hub 75 and power transmission between the rotating shaft 45 and the pulley 69 is interrupted. Therefore, variation of working torque can be reduced.
US07837562B2	Display panel for a gaming apparatus A gaming apparatus may include a housing, a display unit capable of generating video images, a value input device, a controller operatively coupled to the display unit and the value input device, and a panel at least partially overlaying the display unit. The housing may include a first opening and a second opening. The display unit may be positioned relative to the housing so that a first portion of the display unit is visible through the first opening and the second portion of the display unit is visible through the second opening. The controller may comprise a processor and a memory, and may be programmed to allow a person to make a wager, to cause a first video image to be generated on the first portion of the display unit and a second video image to be generated on the second portion of the display unit, and to determine a value payout associated with an outcome of the game.
US07837561B2	Ubiquitous unified player identity tracking system Systems and method for providing a single sign in a gaming console that associates online activity that is out-of-game/cross game, and/or online activity that is in-game, and/or activity that is offline and in-game with that account. While online, a service tracks activity of gamers and provides usage statistics in a profile. While offline, the game console tracks the player's activity via a mechanism to collect detailed information about a specific player's in-game statistics and accomplishments. The offline activity is cached and uploaded when the console connects to the online service. Players can accumulate achievements offline that are credited towards online activities.
US07837556B2	Decoupling of the graphical presentation of a game from the presentation logic A disclosed gaming machine is designed to execute a modular gaming software architecture. A plurality of gaming software modules may be loaded into RAM on the gaming machine and executed to play a game of chance. Many of the gaming software modules are designed to communicate via application program interfaces so that the logic in many of the gaming software modules may be designed independently of each other. In particular, the modular gaming software architecture allows presentation state logic to be decoupled from implementations of presentation components, such as graphical, audio and gaming device components, used in a presentation of the game of chance on a gaming machine.
US07837555B2	Apparatus and method for awarding a prize Apparatus (1) and associated methods are disclosed for determining the award of a plurality of prizes having respective prize values. The apparatus includes memory (2) for storing data indicative of a current prize value; an input device (3) being responsive to input signals from a respective plurality of gaming terminals (4) for providing an increment signal; a controller (5) for defining a prize value between upper and lower prize values and for incrementing an accumulated value toward the current prize value in response to the increment signal; a comparator (7) being responsive to the current prize value and the accumulated value for determining if the current prize value is to be awarded and, if so, generating an award signal that actuates the controller (5) to define a second prize value. Methods are disclosed in which, upon payment of a prize, the accumulated value is reset to the prize value or the upper or lower prize value and in which subsequent prize values are selected between a preceding prize value and either the upper prize value or the lower prize value.
US07837554B2	Gaming device having a multiple selection and award distribution bonus scheme A gaming device having a multiple selection and award distribution bonus scheme. A selection is chosen from a group of selections. The game determines awards for distribution to the selection. Once determined, the awards are distributed to the selection and a player is provided with the awards. The game preferably utilizes a number of award pools in order to determine the award distribution. This award pool determination is based on, for example, a number of probability tables associated with the award pools.
US07837553B2	Method of play of a slot machine game with sequential eligibility for a bonus event The present invention provides methods for a player to become sequentially eligible for a bonus event based upon the appearance of predetermined symbols in designated locations of the symbol matrix during the play of one or more rounds of a slot machine game. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a specific predetermined symbol must appear in each of the columns comprising the symbol matrix during the play of one or more free spins of the slot machine game to initiate a bonus event.
US07837551B2	Gaming machine capable with free game play A gaming machine comprises: a display device for displaying symbols variably and statically on a display screen; a contact input device to be operated; a storage device for storing winning combinations of symbols; and a processor being operable to: conduct another internal lottery to determine a combination of symbols to be displayed statically; determine whether the determined combination matches one of the predetermined winning combinations; provide a payout corresponding thereto when the statically displayed combination is determined to match the one; shift a game to a feature game when the statically displayed combination is determined to include a trigger symbol; urge a game player to operate the contact input device to trigger the internal lottery in the feature game; and provide a point to one of a plurality of feature levels in the feature game such that an accumulated points may reach a predetermined number of points.
US07837550B2	Method and device for conducting a game of chance One or more player Bingo cards are generated using a universe of Bingo indicia, optionally with player input. In an optional embodiment, the player may select all or a portion of the Bingo indicia on a player Bingo card, or regenerate a player Bingo card. A selection set of pairs are generated, each pair consisting of a Bingo indicium and a playing card. The pairs of the selection set are compared to the player Bingo cards and, on each player Bingo card, locations matching the Bingo indicium of a pair are replaced with the corresponding playing card of the pair. The player is rewarded if a pattern on the player Bingo card matches a winning Bingo pattern. The player is also rewarded for having a poker hand formed from the playing cards along predetermined poker patters on the player Bingo card match a winning poker hand.
US07837549B2	System and method for automated play of lottery games A method according to one embodiment of the present invention provides for receiving data indicating a request by a player for an automated session, in which the automated session comprises a plurality of lottery outcomes. The method further provides for determining at least one parameter associated with the automated session and for determining at least one lottery outcome. The method also includes providing the at least one lottery outcome based on the at least one parameter.
US07837547B2	Gaming device having a wagering game wherein a wager amount is automatically determined based on a quantity of player selections A number matching game which can be employed in both a gaming device and in live gaming at a casino is disclosed. The player picks one or more number spots from a number pool. The gaming device or house draws randomly at least one number from the same pool. An award is provided to the player based on an amount of matches between the player selected number(s) (the spots) and the game drawn number(s). In one embodiment, the amount of the player's wager is a function of the number of spots the player selects. For example, an additional credit may be automatically wagered for each spot selected over a predefined threshold. In addition, the award provided to the player may be less than the amount wagered.
US07837546B2	Gaming machine with win change symbol A gaming machine (10) has a display (14) and a game controller arranged to control images displayed on the display (14). The game controller is arranged to play a game (16) wherein at least one random event is caused to be displayed on the display (14). If a predefined winning event occurs, the machine (10) awards a prize. When a special symbol is carried by a symbol-carrying element into a display position on the display (14), the special symbol does at least one of altering the prize awarded for a winning result and altering a defined set of winning combinations.
US07837544B2	Speed-dependent suggested driving lines In a video game or simulator, suggested speed indicators are computed along a suggested driving line on a path (e.g., a race track) and displayed in a simple, progressive, and user-friendly format. The displayed speed indicators are based on a racer's current speed and target speeds attributed to individual locations along the suggested driving line on the path. The speed indicators provide a dynamic indication of where and how the player should slow down or speed up relative to their current speed as their racer travels along the path. The speed indicators are displayed (e.g., using color to represent different magnitudes of suggested acceleration and deceleration) along the suggested driving line in front of the racer so that the player can anticipate braking and acceleration actions as the path and the racer's speed change.
US07837535B2	Superfinishing stone and superfinishing process using the same A superfinishing stone 2 is slid on a rotating subject surface 7 as pressed against the subject surface 7 and is held in contact against the subject surface 7 as vibrated thereon in a different direction from the sliding direction. The superfinishing stone includes plural stone portions 3, 4 divided by a split surface 6 inclined to both the sliding direction and the vibrating direction and mutually independently movable along the split surface 6 and in the pressing direction.
US07837533B2	Apparatus for processing and measuring workpieces which are provided with cutting teeth The present invention relates to an apparatus (10) for processing and measuring workpieces, in particular plate-shaped or cylindrical workpieces, which are provided with cutting teeth (S), with a machine base (12), a processing and measuring device (14) which can be moved relative to the machine base (12), and a workpiece positioning device (16) which can be moved relative to the machine base (12), wherein the processing and measuring device (14) has a pivoting head (26) which can be moved relative to the machine base (12) such that it can pivot about a pivot axis (E1), wherein a processing tool (28) and a measuring probe (30) are provided on the pivoting head (26). In this case provision is made for the processing tool (28) to project from one side of the pivoting head (26) and for the measuring probe (30) to project from the side of the pivoting head (26) which is opposite with respect to the pivot axis (E1).
US07837522B1	Electrical contacts with solder members and methods of attaching solder members to electrical contacts An electrical contact including a head, a tail including an opposing pair of major surfaces and a hole, a body connected at one end thereof to the head and at another end thereof to the tail, a peg arranged adjacent to the hole and to extend perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to one of the opposing pair of major surfaces and including at least one beveled side, and a solder member attached to the tail such that the peg creates and fits in a protrusion in a surface of the solder member when the solder member is attached to the tail, such that a portion of the solder member extends into the hole, and such that the solder member engages the at least one beveled side of the peg.
US07837517B2	Test terminal connector A test terminal connector for use in selectively interconnecting electrical leads of a railway circuit is provided and includes a mounting block; a first and a second terminal supported in and extending from the mounting block; a test strap supported on and extending between the first and second terminal; at least one fastening element selectively connectable to the first and second terminals; and a dielectric spacer disposed between the test strap and an electrical lead of the railway circuit. The test strap is constructed of an electrically conductive material, and each fastening element is constructed of the same material as the test strap.
US07837516B2	Cable connector assembly with a unitary connector molded with another connector A cable connector assembly (200) includes an electrical connector (100), a cable (91) connected with the electrical connector and an insulated cover (92) over-molded on an electrical connection between the electrical connector and the cable. The electrical connector includes a first connector (1) and a second connector (2), each of the first connector and the second connector have a contact, a middle tube enclosing the contact and an outer tube enclosing the middle tube. A first insulated housing (70) is defined between the outer tube and the middle tube of the first connector, and a second insulated housing (80) is defined between the outer tube and the middle tube of the second connector, the first insulated housing is unitarily molded with the second insulated housing. The insulated cover comprises a pair of receiving channels (921, 922).
US07837515B2	Combined-type connector The combined type connector includes a base connector housing and a detachable connector housing. The base connector housing includes a first main body, a boss groove provided on a first outer surface of the first main body, a first guide part provided on the first outer surface; and a first stopping part provided on the first outer surface. The detachable connector housing includes a second main body, a boss provided on a second outer surface of the second main body, a second guide part provided on the second outer surface and a second stopping part provided on the second outer surface. The base connector housing and the detachable connector housing are connected by engaging the boss with the boss groove and pivoting the detachable connector housing about the boss from a first position to a second position so that the first guide part slides along the second guide part and the first stopping part and the second stopping part are engaged so as to stop the detachable connector pivoting at the second position.
US07837510B1	Electrical connector with improved contact arrangement An electrical connector includes an insulative housing extending in a front-to-back direction and including a rear base portion and a front tongue portion, and first and second sets of contacts held in the insulative housing. The first set of contacts includes at least one pair of differential contacts for transmitting high-speed signals. Each first contact includes a nonelastic first mating portion occupying a front section of the tongue portion. Each of the second set of contacts includes an elastic second mating portion located behind the nonelastic first mating portion along the front-to-back direction. The first and second sets of contacts are assembled to the insulative housing along opposite directions. The first and second body portions are provided with interference sections thereon to interferentially engage with the insulative housing. The first mating portion of each first contact is provided with interference sections to engage with the tongue portion of the insulative housing.
US07837508B1	Recessed light extension socket A standard ceiling recessed lighting fixture can be modified to a low-slung AC or DC light fixture with a screw-in extension rod. The extension rod with bulb can be used to light a restaurant table or a pool table or a workbench and the like. A series of extension rods can be screwed together for a desired length. Rigid and flexible extension rods are disclosed. A dome light and ceiling fan mounting bracket for a recessed lighting fixture are disclosed.
US07837506B1	Electrical connector An electrical connector includes an inner shell which defines a receiving recess and has a base board, an insulating body which defines a receiving chamber with a front end being opened freely for receiving the inner shell therein, a plurality of terminals insert-molded in the insulating body and exposed to the receiving recess, and an outer shell which encloses the insulating body and has a base plate. A connecting slot is opened in and penetrates through a rear wall of the receiving chamber. A rear edge of the base board is provided with a contact slice passing through the connecting slot and then bent against the rear wall. A rear edge of the base plate is bent downward and then arched forward to form a contact tail which is located behind the rear wall and electrically abuts against the contact slice to achieve a ground function of the inner shell.
US07837503B2	Method and apparatus to provide electromagnetic interference shielding of optical-electrical module A pluggable optical/electrical module is disclosed. One or more features operate to decrease electromagnetic interference are implemented, which features include deforming the portions that mate together to form the housing, placing elbow deformities on extending fingers to more properly seal the housing convex shape to housing to seal gaps between multiple sections, and placing an EMI insulating material within an opening that is formed for the latch that locks the module in place in a chassis.
US07837502B2	Multi-shot coaxial connector and method of manufacture A coaxial cable connector formed via multi-shot injection molding has a body formed by multiple injection molding layers of different injection moldable materials about a central inner contact to form an integral connector body. The connector body is provided with a coaxial dielectric spacer of dielectric polymer surrounding the inner contact; a coaxial inner body of injection molded metal composition surrounding an outer diameter of the dielectric spacer; and an outer body of polymer surrounding the inner body. Interlock features provide axial and/or rotational interlock between the layers of the connector.
US07837500B2	Fixture for mounting an electrical connector The present invention relates to a fixture capable of fixing a USB connector on a housing. The fixture comprises a housing connection surface, a top surface, a first lateral surface, and a second lateral surface, wherein the housing connection surface is capable of being fixed on the housing; the top surface is connected to the housing connection surface where both surfaces are substantially perpendicular to each other, and the top surface comprises a first constraining unit capable of contacting a protection part of the USB connector to constrain movement of the USB connector along a first direction; the first lateral surface is connected to the top surface to constrain movement of the USB connector; and the second lateral surface is connected to the top surface to constrain movement of the USB connector.
US07837490B2	Seal member for waterproof connector To provide a seal member for a waterproof connector which will not be deteriorated in waterproof performance even when wires swing, and is suited for use even in the type of connector in which an inner housing is swingable as in a floating connector, a seal member for a waterproof connector is mounted at rear ends of terminal receiving chambers of the waterproof connector, and has wire-sealing passage holes in which wires connected to respective terminals can be fitted, respectively. Lip portions are formed on an outer peripheral portion of the seal member over an entire periphery thereof, and also lip portions are formed on front and rear sides of the seal member spaced from each other in an inserting direction, and these lip portions can be compressed and deformed between the seal member and the terminal receiving chambers.
US07837488B2	Electrical card connector with improved detecting switch An electrical card connector for receiving a card comprising: an insulative Housing (1) defining a card receiving space (15), and comprising a plurality of side Portions (11, 12, 13); a plurality of contacts (5) received in the housing; and a detecting switch(3) mounted on one of the side portions (13) of the housing, and comprising a first contact (31) and a second contact (32), the second contact forming an engaging portion extending into the receiving space; and the first contact and the second contact being closed after the card being inserted into the receiving space in a vertical direction.
US07837487B2	Card socket assembly A card socket assembly used to mount a data card includes a body member, and a controlling member. The body member defines a battery receiving space and a card slot adjacent to the battery receiving space. The card slot is used to receive the data card. The controlling member is used to abut against the data card, thus ejecting the data card out of the card slot.
US07837486B2	Ejection device for a connector An ejection device is manufactured independently from but implemented with a subscriber identification module (SIM) connector comprising an insulative housing and a tray having a SIM card mounted therein and has a bracket, a push button, a link and an ejection lever. The push button is mounted slidably on the bracket. The link is mounted slidably on the bracket and is connected with the push button. The ejection lever is mounted pivotally to the bracket, is connected with the link and selectively pushes the SIM card out of the tray. The ejection device may be pre-fabricated or formed with the connector so can be easily retrofitted to current designs or added simply to any SIM card connector and greatly facilitates SIM card removal while benefiting from reduced production costs from simplification and greater economies of scale.
US07837484B2	Cover mechanism and electronic device using same A cover mechanism for an electronic device includes a base member and a cover combination. The base member defines a hole. The cover combination includes a cover member and at least one elastic member. One end of the at least one elastic member is attached to the cover member, another end of the at least one elastic member is attached to the base member. The cover member is slidably assembled into the base member, and the at least one elastic member provides an elastic force to allow the cover member to releasably cover the hole.
US07837483B2	Flush/recessable junction device A recessable junction device includes a body having at least one track, the at least one track having a plurality of locking regions, and at least one receptacle configured to connect with a power source or signal source, or both a power and a signal source, the at least one receptacle slidably mounted within the body by engagement with the at least one track. The junction device further includes a locking lever having a first unlocked and extended position to allow grasping of the locking lever to move the at least one receptacle relative to the body and a second locked position that prevents movement of the at least one receptacle relative to the body in each of the plurality of locking regions.
US07837481B1	Socket for an integrated circuit and a method of providing a connection in a socket A socket for an integrated circuit is disclosed. The socket comprises a main body portion having a plurality of holes extending between a top surface and a bottom surface; an overlay positioned adjacent to the main body portion and having a plurality of holes corresponding to the plurality of holes of the main body portion, wherein the overlay comprises a plurality of conductors between holes; and a plurality of contact elements positioned in predetermined holes of the main body portion. A method of providing a connection in a socket is also disclosed.
US07837479B1	Mezzanine connector assembly having coated contacts A mezzanine connector assembly is configured to electrically interconnect first and second circuit boards. The connector assembly includes a mounting body, a mating body, contacts and dielectric layers. The mounting body is configured to be mounted to the first circuit board. The mating body is disposed opposite of the mounting body and is configured to mate with the second circuit board. The mating body is separated from the mounting body by a separation gap along a vertical direction. The contacts extend between the mounting body and the mating body along the vertical direction. The contacts are configured to be coupled with the first and second circuit boards to electrically join the first and second circuit boards. The dielectric layers discretely surround corresponding ones of the contacts in the separation gap between the mounting body and the mating body. The dielectric layers are separated from one another by an air gap in the separation gap.
US07837476B2	Miniature electrical ball and tube socket assembly with self-capturing multiple-contact-point coupling A socket assembly formed of hollow tubes for connecting an array of terminals off opposing electronic structures with both axial and lateral resilience, wherein the resilience is achieved through angular cuts in the tubes.
US07837472B1	Neurocognitive and psychomotor performance assessment and rehabilitation system A computerized Neuropsychological/NeuroCognitive and Psychomotor Performance Assessment and Rehabilitation system is designed for use on handheld computer systems. Components of the system include an executive program, test modules, interpretive and report modules, and supporting utilities. The system provides point-of-use interpretations and result reports. The system is designed for use in clinical settings, occupational medicine, and research. Medical applications include use as a diagnostic, evaluation, and treatment instrument. In industrial settings it can be used as a fitness/readiness for work assessment. The assessment and rehabilitation system also contains modules for use in forensic mental competency, mental and emotional status examinations.
US07837471B2	Dental filling materials and methods of use A dental filling material comprising an inner core and outer layer of material disposed and surrounding the inner core, both the inner core and outer layer of material each containing a thermoplastic polymer. The thermoplastic polymer may be biodegradable. A bioactive substance may also be included in the filling material. The thermoplastic polymer acts as a matrix for the bioactive substance. The composition may include other polymeric resins, fillers, plasticizers and other additives typically used in dental materials. The filling material is used for the filing of root canals.
US07837469B2	System for determining final position of teeth An apparatus and method define a fit a set of upper and lower teeth in a masticatory system of a patient by generating a computer representation of the masticatory system of the patient; and determining an occlusion from the computer representation of the masticatory system using one or more keys.
US07837468B2	Long-arm type upright molar tooth spring A long-arm type upright molar tooth spring includes a lingual groove rest, for resting the spring at a lingual groove of a first molar tooth; a loop, for surrounding and fixing the periphery of the second molar tooth; a buccal bracket rest, for resting the spring at a buccal bracket of the first molar tooth; a reactivating area, being an area between the first molar tooth and the second premolar tooth; a lever, for applying a force onto the second molar tooth; and an arc, extended from an adjacent wall between an engaging surface of the first molar tooth and an engaging surface of the second molar tooth, and fixed at a root of the second molar tooth.
US07837465B2	Orthodontic expansion screw An orthodontic expansion screw having two bodies whose distance from each other can be changed by means of a spindle that engages both bodies. The spindle includes an actuation part for effecting a torque for readjusting the spindle, and a straight-line guide for engaging both bodies and guiding the bodies along two guide axes that are parallel to each other while preventing a relative rotation of the bodies when their distance from each other is being changed. A friction brake is provided that presses onto the actuation part of the spindle and thus generates a frictional force that renders a rotation of the spindle in both directions of rotation more difficult in order to prevent inadvertent readjustment of the spindle.
US07837464B2	Determining bracket locations on electronic models of teeth Locating desired placement locations of brackets for a patient's teeth includes obtaining an array of data points from a cast of the teeth and generating a virtual model from the array of scanned data points. Individual teeth from the virtual model can be manually severed or “cut” and manually dragged from a start position to a finished position to determine a treatment plan. The orthodontist virtually marks the position on the virtual model where a physical bracket is desired. Brackets can then be automatically placed onto a cast of the teeth at corresponding positions.
US07837462B2	Combustion method and apparatus A burner has a port facing into a combustion chamber along an axis. A secondary fuel injector structure has secondary fuel injection ports that face into the combustion chamber at locations spaced radially outward from the burner port. A tertiary fuel injector structure has tertiary fuel injection ports that face into the combustion chamber in directions perpendicular to the axis at locations spaced axially downstream from the secondary fuel injection ports.
US07837460B2	Molding method and molding apparatus of mold product having thin film at inner surface A molding apparatus is configured by a first, a second sliding die, a first, a second fixed die, and a sliding film forming chamber. The first, the second sliding dies are moved in directions reverse to each other to take a primary molding position, a film forming position and a secondary molding position. The sliding film forming chamber includes a first, a second masking plate and are arranged to be remote from the first, the second fixed dies. Further, the sliding film forming chamber is slid in an up and down direction. The first, the second sliding dies are respectively formed with recess portions and cores, the first, the second fixed dies are respectively formed with cores and recess portions.
US07837459B2	Method for fabricating dual damascene structures using photo-imprint lithography, methods for fabricating imprint lithography molds for dual damascene structures, materials for imprintable dielectrics and equipment for photo-imprint lithography used in dual damascene patterning The process of producing a dual damascene structure used for the interconnect architecture of semiconductor chips. More specifically the use of imprint lithography to fabricate dual damascene structures in a dielectric and the fabrication of dual damascene structured molds.
US07837458B2	Device for a layer-wise manufacturing of a three-dimensional object A device (1) for manufacturing a three-dimensional object by a layer-wise solidification of a building material at positions in the respective layers that correspond to the object is provided. The device has a machine frame (2, 3, 4, 5) and support legs (51) that are mounted at the machine frame and by which the device (1) is supported on a substrate. The support legs (51) are arranged such that a three-point support of the device (1) at the substrate is given and at least two support legs (51) are mounted at the machine frame such that they are adjustable in height.
US07837452B2	Scroll compressor including deflection compensation for non-orbiting scroll A scroll compressor an orbiting scroll member including a second end plate, a second wrap extending from the second end plate and meshingly engaged with the first wrap to form a suction pocket in fluid communication with a suction pressure region of the compressor, intermediate compression pockets, and a discharge pocket in fluid communication with the discharge passage. An auxiliary passage is in fluid communication with one of the intermediate compression pockets to provide pressurized fluid to the chamber to deflect the first end plate and the first wrap axially toward the orbiting scroll member.
US07837450B2	Water well pump A water well pump is shown which uses regenerative turbine technology. A submersible electric motor has an output shaft which drives multi-stage regenerative turbine stages of the pump. The various stages are made up of turbine impellers separated by intermediate plates. The turbine impellers have peripheral vanes which cooperate with surrounding scraper rings to form flow channels through the regenerative section of the pump and impart energy to the water passing through the pump. The pump can be powered by a low energy source, such as a solar panel.
US07837445B2	Airfoil shape for a turbine nozzle An article of manufacture having a nominal profile substantially in accordance with Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z set forth TABLE I. The X and Y values are distances in inches, which when connected by smooth continuing arcs define airfoil profile sections at each distance Z in inches The X, Y and Z distances may be scalable as a function of the same constant or number to provide a scaled up or scaled down airfoil section for the nozzle. The nominal airfoil given by the X, Y and Z distances lies within an envelope of +0.130 inch to −0.030 inch.
US07837444B2	Vane arrangement and a method of making vane arrangement Within gas turbine engines 10 it is necessary to provide fixed vanes which comprise an aerofoil in the gas flow through the gas turbine engine 10. These vanes are subject to significant stressing. Therefore it is generally necessary to secure the vane at one end 103 through an appropriate bond such as brazing while at another end a friction damping response is achieved. By providing an anti-bonding layer it is possible to prevent a mechanical bond being formed at the friction damping end 105. Furthermore, a tight fit can be emphasized by residual bonding material remaining after an attempted bonding process upon the anti-bonding layer.
US07837443B2	Wind turbine comprising enclosure structure formed as a Faraday cage The invention relates to a wind turbine comprising a rotating part including a rotor with at least one blade and a wind turbine hub with at least one enclosure structure or similar wall structure, and a stationary part including a nacelle with at least one enclosure structure or similar wall structure. At least one of said parts comprises a conductive film layer of said enclosure structure with connection to a ground potential, where said film layer forms a shield enclosing said part or parts and protects against electromagnetic fields. The invention also relates to a method to manufacture said enclosure structure.
US07837441B2	Impingement skin core cooling for gas turbine engine blade Turbine components, and in particular turbine blades, are provided with impingement cooling channels. Air is delivered along central channels, and the central channels deliver the air through crossover holes to core channels adjacent both a pressure wall and a suction wall. The air passing through the crossover holes impacts against a wall of the core channels.
US07837437B2	Turbine nozzle segment and repair method A method of repairing a turbine nozzle segment having at least one vane disposed between outer and inner bands. The method includes using an salvageable part, such as honeycomb backing strip remnant, from a nozzle segment that is unrepairable, and joining the honeycomb backing strip to a replacement casting. The replacement casting includes a tenon formed on the inner band that mates with a mortise formed on the back side of the honeycomb backing strip. A nozzle segment and nozzle segment casting used in connection with the method is also disclosed.
US07837436B2	Method and apparatus for regulating fluid flow through a turbine engine A method for regulating fluid flow through a gas turbine engine is provided. The method includes coupling an outer fairing to a radially outer duct wall and coupling an inner fairing to a radially inner duct wall. An annular valve is coupled between the radially outer and the radially inner duct walls such that an outer bypass flow area is at least partially defined between the annular valve and the outer fairing, and such that an inner bypass flow area is at least partially defined between the annular valve and the inner fairing. The annular valve is selectively positioned between a first operational position and a second operational position, such that at least one of the outer bypass and the inner bypass flow areas is varied during a transition from a first turbine operation to a second turbine operation.
US07837434B2	Power tool A hand-guided power tool has a housing having a first housing part and a second housing part. A grip unit has at least one handle for guiding the power tool and forms the first housing part. A motor unit is arranged in the second housing part and has a drive motor. The grip unit and the motor unit are connected to one another by at least one antivibration element. The at least one antivibration element has a first end secured to the first housing part and a second end secured to the second housing part. The first housing part has at least one receptacle extending from an exterior of the first housing part into a housing interior of the housing. The at least one antivibration element has a longitudinal extension and is surrounded over at least a portion of the longitudinal extension by the at least one receptacle.
US07837429B2	Predictive model based control system for heavy duty gas turbines A system for controlling the clearance between a turbine blade and the turbine casing that includes an impingement cooling manifold attached to a turbine casing, a temperature sensing device for determining the temperature of the turbine casing, a blower, a control system logic for determining the setting temperature of the casing, and a controller for controlling the blower, wherein the blower forces air onto the impingement cooling manifold to cool the casing towards the setting temperature and control the clearance.
US07837423B2	Sludge diverter for use with silo sliding frame A silo for storing viscous material such as sludge, the silo comprising a floor and a perimeter wall connected to the floor, is disclosed. The silo further comprises a moveable frame adjacent to the floor wherein the frame defines an area less than the area of the floor, and an opening in the floor. A crosspiece having opposite ends mounted to generally opposing portions of the perimeter wall is provided within the silo adjacent to the moveable frame. The crosspiece contains a surface facing the floor and is positioned adjacent to the frame. The crosspiece further comprises one or more diverter portions connected to the crosspiece which extend from the floor facing surface of the crosspiece towards the floor.
US07837419B2	Methods involving marking molds An exemplary method for marking molds, the method comprising, configuring a milling machine to operate with a diamond coated bit having an angle of approximately 60 degrees, and engraving a unique identifier on a bottom surface of a borosilicate glass injection molded soldering mold with the milling machine.
US07837415B2	Retaining wall and blocks for the formation thereof A block having at least one front face, at least one back face, sides connecting the front and back faces, a top surface, a bottom surface and at least one cavity passing through the entire height of the block from the top surface to the bottom surface, wherein the cavity is positioned so that the centre of mass of the block lies closer to the back face than does the geometric centre of the block.
US07837405B2	Disposable clip for coupling binding elements and combination of binding elements with disposable coupling clip The invention includes a combination of coupling clip structure and a plurality of binding elements for binding stacks of perforated sheets for delivery to an automated machine. The combination comprises at least two binding elements, and at least one coupling clip discrete from said at least two binding elements. At least one of the coupling clip or the binding element(s) comprises at least one recess, at least a portion of at least one said binding element being disposed in said recess in the coupling clip and/or at least a portion of the coupling clip being disposed in said recess in the binding element, the coupling clip coupling the at least two binding elements together in a predetermined adjacent spatial relationship. The coupling clip may be separated from the binding elements by the automated machine. The invention further includes a method of coupling a plurality of binding elements together with at least one coupling clip for delivery to an automated machine.
US07837402B2	Fluid reservoir wiper assembly A bottle assembly has a bottle for storing a fluid, such as a cosmetic fluid. An applicator for applying the fluid is configured to be insertable and removable from the bottle along a path. A sealing body is configured to seal the bottle. The sealing body has a channel width movable between a first width and a second width. The first width is large enough to accommodate the applicator and the second width is smaller than the first width. The channel is resiliently biased toward the second width.
US07837399B2	Electromagnetic interference containment structures In one example embodiment, an optoelectronic module comprises a body, a signal ground, and an OSA. The body is connected to chassis ground and defines a cavity within which one or more components are disposed. The optical subassembly is disposed in the body cavity, has one or more components connected to signal ground, and comprises a header assembly, a housing, and one or more containment structures. The header assembly houses one or more components that generate EMI emissions and includes an optical aperture. The housing includes a port and a barrel. The port defines a fiber receptacle and the barrel defines a cavity that at least partially receives the header assembly. The containment structure(s) at least partially contain the EMI emissions within the OSA.
US07837396B2	Attachment of a connector to a fiber optic cable This disclosure describes techniques for attaching a connector to a fiber optic cable. As described herein, lengthwise slits are made into the jacket and the buffer tube of a fiber optic cable, thereby exposing interior segments of the optical fibers of the fiber optic cable. A loop is then made in the fiber optic cable at the slits. The ends of the optical fibers can then telescopically slide out the end of the fiber optic cable. When this happens, the exposed interior segments of the optical fibers slide out of the buffer tube and the jacket through the slits, forming a smaller loop within the loop. A connector may then be attached to the exposed ends of the optical fibers. When the fiber optic cable is unlooped, the exposed interior segments of the optical fibers slide back into the buffer tube and jacket. The jacket may then be resealed.
US07837395B2	Optical fiber adapter with shutter member An optical fiber adapter is provided. The adapter includes a plurality of walls which defines an accommodation room adapted for being coupled with an optical fiber connector. A protrusion in the accommodation room is disposed on one of the walls. The adapter further includes a shutter member having a first parallel portion, a second parallel portion substantially parallel to the first parallel portion and a connecting portion connecting the first and second parallel portions. The first and second parallel portions and the connecting portion together define a clamping portion. The clamping portion clamps the protrusion. An elastic shutter plate extends from the first parallel portion and into the accommodation room.
US07837393B2	Self-aligning roller bearing and method of processing the same A self-aligning roller bearing is provided which includes an inner ring having a double-row raceway, an outer ring having a double-row integral and spherical raceway, a plurality of rollers incorporated between the inner ring raceway and the outer ring raceway on a double-row basis, and a retainer for rotatably retaining the rollers. Processing marks crossing each other are formed on a raceway surface of the spherical raceway of the outer ring. The processing marks are cut substantially straightly at a predetermined crossing angle to the circumferential direction of the raceway surface. The surface roughness of the raceway surface is substantially constant in the axial direction and the circumferential direction thereof at least in a part in contact with the roller.
US07837390B2	Hydrodynamic bearing, motor including the same, and recording and reproducing apparatus A hydrodynamic bearing, a motor including the same, and a recording and reproducing apparatus which can improve vibration resistance property and suppress noises even in a situation where vibration is expected are provided. Radial hydrodynamic grooves formed on an inner peripheral surface of a sleeve have a shape which satisfy the relational expression L2
US07837389B2	Rolling element chain system for a linear guideway A rolling element chain system for a linear guideway comprises a slide rail, a slide block, a plurality of rolling elements and a rolling element chain. The circulating path of the slide block is interiorly provided with a guiding groove with a width C, and the rolling elements roll within the circulating path and are confined by the rolling element chain. The rolling element chain has a plurality of spacers for separating the rolling elements from one another and linking portions with a thickness t for linking the rolling elements with one another. The spacer at each end of the rolling element chain has a retaining capacity B for holding the corresponding rolling element. The above structure satisfies the relation: C
US07837386B2	Aseptic spoutless pouch and method for packaging food products The present invention relates to an aseptic pouch (1) for packaging food products, comprising two walls which are bonded together so as to define an internal space (2) which is sterilized and hermetically closed. The pouch (1) further comprises at least one sealing (7; 12) which joins together said walls, extending between opposite sides (5, 6) of the pouch, (1) and defines a neck portion (8) of said internal space (2) and two border portions (9) external to said internal space. Said neck portion (8) is suitable for providing, after opening of the pouch (1), an access to said internal space (2) and said border portions (9) are suitable for providing grips for handling said pouch. The invention also relates to a method for packaging a food product in said aseptic pouch (1).
US07837384B2	Process-invariant low-quiescent temperature detection circuit In one embodiment, an integrated circuit is provided for detecting when a temperature reaches a specified value. The circuit includes a differential circuit block having first and second transistors. A control terminal of the first transistor is coupled to a first voltage source, and a control terminal of the second transistor is coupled to a second voltage source. The second transistor has an area larger than the first transistor. The differential circuit block compares a first current flowing into the first transistor and a second current flowing into the second transistor. The differential circuit block outputs a signal to indicate that the specified temperature has been reached when the first current equals the second current according to specified values of the first voltage source, the second voltage source, and the ratio of the areas of the first and second transistors. A single-ended circuit block amplifies the output signal of the differential circuit block to a predetermined amplitude.
US07837382B2	Fixed-point cell, fixed-point temperature realizing apparatus, and method of thermometer calibration A fixed-point cell is provided which can provide a fixed-point in a wide temperature range by changing the fixed-point material. During the use of the fixed-point cell, the fixed-point material can be prevented from being contaminated, and the crucible of the cell can be prevented from being cracked. The fixed-point cell includes: the crucible composed of carbon; the fixed-point material enclosed in the crucible and composed of one of a metal, a eutectic of a metal and carbon, and a eutectic of a metal carbide and carbon; and a woven fabric of graphite fibers containing 10 ppm or lower of impurities and interposed between the crucible and the fixed-point material.
US07837381B2	Mechanical winding device for wristwatches and wristwatch for such a winding device Automatic mechanical winding device for the driving spring of a mechanical clockwork of a wristwatch with an eccentric mass that can be swiveled on a joint, said mass having a center of mass that is radially offset from the axis of the joint, with gear means for converting the swivel or rotary motion of the eccentric mass into a motion that winds the driving spring.
US07837376B2	Image display apparatus An image display apparatus comprising a light guide plate, a light-emitting diode (LED), a first transparent substrate and a second transparent substrate is provided. Light generated from the LED is guided into the light guide plate through the edge thereof, and outwardly projected through the two opposite surfaces of the light guide plate. Thus, a pattern being disposed in front of the first transparent substrate or the second transparent substrate would be lighted up.
US07837374B2	Light-emitting device This application relates to a light-emitting device comprising a light channel having an upper surface, a lower surface opposite to the upper surface, an inner surface intersecting with each of the upper and lower surface by different angles, and an escape surface; and a light-emitting element having a bottom surface substantially parallel to the inner surface and emitting light traveling inside the light channel toward the escape surface. In an embodiment, the escape surface of the light-emitting device is an inclined plane with lens array thereon.
US07837369B2	Light-emitting device, image-printing device, and manufacturing method of sealing member A light-emitting device includes a plurality of light-emitting elements, an element substrate on which the plurality of light-emitting elements are disposed, a plate-shaped sealing member having a lens array in which a plurality of lenses is arranged and sealing the plurality of light-emitting elements together with the element substrate, and a spacer disposed between the element substrate and the plate-shaped sealing member for maintaining a distance between the light-emitting elements and the lenses, in which the spacer is provided with a plurality of sealing cavities, at least one lens of the plurality of lenses is disposed so as to overlap each of the sealing cavities, and the light-emitting elements are disposed in each of the sealing cavities so as to overlap the corresponding lenses.
US07837368B2	Vehicular lamp A vehicular lamp includes a plurality of light sources; a lamp chamber for housing the plurality of light sources; and a bounding member for bounding the plurality of light sources in the lamp chamber. The bounding member includes a sheet-like material integrally formed into a predetermined shape so that one or more bounding walls are provided between or among the plurality of light sources. A vehicular lamp includes a plurality of lamp units; a lamp chamber for housing the plurality of lamp units; and a bounding member for bounding the plurality of lamp units in the lamp chamber. The bounding member includes a sheet-like material integrally formed into a predetermined shape so that one or more bounding walls are provided between or among the plurality of lamp units.
US07837366B2	Ambient lighting module An ambient light control module and method of operating an ambient light control module selectively actuates light modules to provide a desired light color and intensity. The disclosed ambient light control module selectively actuates light modules that are controllable to provide desired colors. The light control module produces uniform signals across the several light modules such that each separate light module will emit the same color. The disclosed example light control module includes a microcontroller with a plurality of output channels including output compare channels and pulse width modulated channels. The output channels are matched to a common clock so that a uniform signal is emitted from any channel to provide the desired uniformity between lighting modules.
US07837365B1	Removable boat trailer light Small boats operated for pleasure are typically transported to the water on a boat trailer, where the boat trailer is backed into the water and the boat is floated off the boat trailer. A removable boat trailer tail light lighting system and method is disclosed that preserves the integrity of the tail light when the rear of a boat trailer is immersed in the water during launching of the transported boat. The invention is in two parts, with metallic plates affixed to the boat trailer, each metallic plate having a mounting frame with three rims that accommodate a magnetic metallic plate backing on the trailer tail light. The trailer tail light is removed prior to the trailer entering the water and re-inserted into the mounting frames on exit from the water.
US07837357B2	Combined illumination and imaging system An illumination system has a light source, an optical train, and a wavelength beam splitter. The optical train focuses light from the light source into a defined geometrical pattern on a surface. The wavelength beam splitter transmits light of a first wavelength and redirects light of a second wavelength. One of these wavelengths is included by the light from the light source, while the other is an emission wavelength generated by thermal excitation of the surface by the focused geometrical pattern.
US07837352B2	Light source for illuminating an electronics rack to facilitate servicing thereof An apparatus is provided for facilitating servicing of an electronics rack. The apparatus includes a light source, which includes a plurality of light-emitting diodes. The plurality of light-emitting diodes are secured to the electronics rack or a floor tile disposed adjacent to the electronics rack, and are configured to illuminate at least a lower portion of the electronics rack at either the air inlet or air outlet side of the rack. A power supply is also provided for selectively supplying power to the plurality of light-emitting diodes. In one implementation, the light source includes an elongate light bar, which is configured to mount to either the inlet door or outlet door of the electronics rack, and the plurality of light-emitting diodes are secured to an elongate housing structure which pivotally couples to a base plate for adjustment of a direction of illumination by the light-emitting diodes.
US07837349B2	Near field lens A lens has a main body for use with at least one light source. The main body has a light-emitting face, a light-collecting face disposed opposite the light-emitting face, and a plurality of focal points, the latter of which form a focal ring. A central axis extends through the light-collecting face and the light-emitting face. The main body is substantially radially symmetrical about the central axis and the focal ring extends around the central axis of the main body of the lens.
US07837347B2	Reversible light reflector The present invention provides a luminaire comprising a lamp housing having an upper surface and at least one opposed pair of lamp holders extending downwardly from opposing ends of said housing. The housing includes a plurality of apertures in the upper surface thereof to permit transmission of light therethrough and a reversible reflector capable of being secured to said housing in a plurality of positions having a plurality of apertures therein wherein in a first position the apertures in said reflector are aligned with the apertures in said housing to permit light transmission therethrough and wherein in a second position the apertures in said housing are covered by said reflector to prohibit light transmission therethrough.
US07837343B2	Illuminating device and display device An illuminating device includes a light-condensing sheet, a light-emitting portion, and a control unit. The light-condensing sheet includes a plurality of lenses each with a light-condensing function ranged on a light transmittance substrate. The light-emitting portion is opposed to the light-condensing sheet and includes light-emitting areas with respective dimensions. The control unit switches a luminous state of the light-emitting area to a non-luminous state or vice versa. A display device is provided with the illuminating device described above.
US07837340B2	Telescope multiple discrete segment primary mirror A method and apparatus is configured for reflecting a beam of light incident at a primary mirror by rotating a first mirror segment to align a selected facet of the mirror segment to be generally orthogonal to the principal axis. The first mirror segment is translated in a motion parallel to the principal axis to a first position such that the mirrored segment at a facet comprising a mirror is brought into alignment with at least one second mirrored segment to form at a facet a first parabolic mirror. The incident beam of light is then reflected by collimating the first parabolic mirror by rotation and translation of the first mirror segment to strike a first secondary element.
US07837338B2	Mirror mounting assembly A mirror mounting assembly for mounting a mirror on a vehicle bulkhead. The assembly includes a mirror element and a main support arm having a first end and a second end. The mirror element is connected to the first end of the main support arm. The second end of the main support arm is mountable to the vehicle. A pair of brackets are configured to conform to an engine bay side wall of the vehicle. Each bracket has a center portion and two laterally extending flanges that extend at an angle from the center portion in opposite directions. One of the flanges of each bracket is connectable to the bulkhead of the vehicle in the engine bay. A first additional support arm has a first end connected to a first one of the brackets and a second end connected to the main support arm. A second additional support arm has a first end connected to the main support arm and a second end connectable to the vehicle. Finally, a third additional support arm has a first end connected to the main support arm and a second end connectable to the vehicle.
US07837336B2	Projection device and color wheel for use therewith A projection device comprises a color wheel module, wherein, the color wheel can be detached from the color wheel module. The color wheel module can be detached from the body of the projection device, so that users can conveniently change, clean or maintain the color wheel as desired.
US07837334B2	Projector and display device A projector includes a transmissive heat exchange element having a transparent thermoelectric conversion layer consisting mainly of an oxide and an electrode for supplying the transparent thermoelectric conversion layer with a current, and an optical element, and cooling or heating of the optical element is performed using the transmissive heat exchange element.
US07837331B2	Illuminator and projector with increased illumination efficiency An illuminator includes a light source that outputs light, a polarization separation device that separates the light outputted from the light source into polarization components of the first and second oscillation directions, the polarization components having mutually orthogonal polarizations, and a polarization conversion device that converts the polarization component of the second oscillation direction divided by the polarization separation device to the polarization component of the first oscillation direction. The polarization component of the first oscillation direction divided by the polarization separation device and the polarization component of the first oscillation direction converted by the polarization conversion device are incident on an incident surface of an illumination target from different directions from each other.
US07837329B2	Fundus camera A fundus camera favorably performing focusing on a fundus of an examinee's eye without a black dot plate in a target projection optical system comprises an illumination optical system comprising a light source and an objective lens, a photographing optical system comprising a focusing lens movable in the optical axis direction and a diopter correction lens to correct a diopter of severe ametropia, a first moving mechanism comprising a first driving unit moving the focusing lens, a focus detection optical system comprising a projection optical system comprising a light source and a photo-receiving optical system comprising a photodetector, a second moving mechanism comprising a second driving unit moving a part of the detection optical system including at least one of the projection light source and the photodetector in the optical axis direction, a monitor, and a control unit controlling the second unit in conjunction with movement of the focusing lens.
US07837328B2	Optical image-measuring device Light is split into a signal light LS directed toward the fundus oculi Ef and a reference light LR directed toward a reference mirror 174, and interference light LC generated by superimposing the signal light LS passing through the fundus oculi Ef and the reference light LR passing through the reference mirror 174 using a spectrometer 180 is detected to form tomographic images. A reference mirror drive mechanism 243 shifts the reference mirror 174 toward the optical path direction of the reference light LR and an information storage part 225 storing the reference mirror 174 position information based on previous tomographic images. The controlling part 210 controls the reference mirror drive mechanism 243 so that the reference mirror 174 shifts into a position based on reference mirror position information stored in the information storage part 225.
US07837324B2	Ophthalmic lens comprising a layer having a variable refractive index An ophthalmic lens (10) comprises an optical component (1) and a layer (2) placed on a face of the optical component (1a). The layer (2) has a variable refractive index and is structured so that a second order derivative of the index with regard to a linear spatial coordinate along the face of the optical component (1a) is greater than a fixed threshold. The layer (2) makes it possible to alter the optical power and astigmatism of the lens (10) with regard to corresponding values only relative to the optical component (1). In the event that the ophthalmic lens (10) is a progressive lens, the layer (2) makes it possible to change an addition, a length of progression and/or a design of the progressive lens.
US07837323B2	Colored contact lens with a more natural appearance A colored contact lens having a non-opaque pupil section, an iris section surrounding the pupil section, and a colored, opaque intermittent pattern made up of a plurality of elements located over the entire iris section that leaves a substantial portion within the interstices of the pattern non-opaque, the pattern covering an effective amount of the iris section to change the apparent color of the iris, the pattern having a plurality of portions, each of the portions being a different shade from each other portion, each of the portions overlapping each other portion at a plurality of points, where at least one of the plurality of portions contains a selected design.
US07837322B2	Printing apparatus having decurling function A printing apparatus is provided with a circulation route through which a print sheet can be circulated a minimum number of times to avoid the overall print process time from being elongated. The circulation route includes an ordinary transportation route CR which transports a print sheet for printing and discharging through a discharge route, and a switchback route SR which is connected to the ordinary transportation route CR as a branch, such that the print sheet can be circulated a plural number of times. The printing apparatus is provided further with a print coverage detecting unit 332c for calculating the print coverage of each print sheet, a circulation repeat number determination unit 332b for determining the number of circulations for each print sheet in accordance with the print coverage, a paper discharge control unit 334a for selectively discharging each print sheet in accordance with the number of circulations.
US07837318B2	Photo-curable ink-jet ink compositions, systems, and methods The present invention is drawn to photo-curable ink-jet ink compositions, systems, and methods. One exemplary ink-jet ink composition includes a liquid vehicle, a milled pigment which has been milled in a milling solvent having minimal to no gas solvency for the milled pigment, and a photo initiator. In this embodiment, the composition can be ink-jettable at frequencies of at least 29 KHz without requiring degassing during printing.
US07837313B2	Method of reconfiguring ink sticks A solid ink stick comprises an ink stick body formed of a phase change ink material. The ink stick body has a plurality of exterior surfaces arranged in a first ink stick body configuration. At least one simulation surface is formed in the ink stick body. The at least one simulation surface simulates a second ink stick body configuration. The simulation surface is functionally significant though may not extend around the full perimeter of the ink stick body or to the full plurality of exterior surfaces.
US07837312B2	Liquid cartridge and method for manufacturing the same A liquid cartridge has a container main body detachably mounted to a cartridge mounting section of a liquid consuming apparatus. The container main body includes a case main body having a liquid reservoir and a cover that covers one side of the case main body; a board mounting section provided on an outer side of the container main body, for mounting a circuit board having an information storage element, the board mounting section having a pair of board fixing bosses to be fitted in the mounting holes of the circuit board to locate the circuit board, and four guide walls provided on the peripheral four sides of the circuit board located by the pair of board fixing bosses. The three guide walls of the four guide walls that constitute the board mounting section form a substantially U-shaped opening that is open to the cover on the outer side of the case main body, and the other guide wall is at a rim of the cover. The center wall of the three guide walls facing the guide wall on the cover side has a pair of notches at both ends. The pair of board fixing bosses is disposed at the positions on the outer surface of the case main body facing the pair of notches.
US07837310B2	Fluid deposition device A fluid deposition device including a platen and a cartridge mount assembly is described. The platen is configured to support a substrate upon which a fluid will be deposited. The cartridge mount assembly includes a receptacle configured to receive a print cartridge and multiple electrical contacts configured to mate with corresponding electrical contacts on the print cartridge. In one implementation, the cartridge mount assembly further includes a vacuum connector configured to mate with a vacuum inlet included on the print cartridge. When the print cartridge is received in the receptacle, the print cartridge can form connections with the electrical contacts and with the vacuum connector of the receptacle at substantially the same time.
US07837306B2	Valve unit with pressure regulating valve assembled in laminate body A valve unit includes a valve portion arranged in a laminate body operable to open and close a flow passage; a drive portion that generates drive force for driving the valve portion; and a transmission portion arranged between the valve portion and the drive portion for transmitting the drive force of the drive portion to the valve portion. The laminate body includes: a first plate member including the drive portion; and a second plate member including a hole functioning as part of the flow passage; and a third plate member arranged above the second plate member and including a plate spring so as to urge the valve portion to a closing position. The valve portion pivots and inclines about a position in contact with the plate spring based on the drive force from the drive portion.
US07837301B2	Printed board for ink jet head When the driving printed wires from the drive IC are passed between the terminal lands and connected to respective terminal lands, and the printed wires of a number greater than the number of printed wires that can be passed between the terminal lands are required, the driving printed wires from the drive IC are led on the outer side of the columns of the plurality of terminal lands and connected to respective terminal lands.
US07837300B2	Liquid jet head, manufacturing method of the liquid jet head, image forming device, nozzle member of the liquid jet head, repellent ink film forming method, cartridge, and liquid jet recording device A liquid jet head includes a nozzle forming member having a water repellent layer formed on a liquid drop jet side surface of a nozzle base having a nozzle hole configured to jet a liquid drop of recording liquid; wherein the water repellent layer is made of silicon resin; an oxide layer is not provided between the liquid drop jet side surface of the nozzle base and the water repellent layer; and the oxide layer is provided on a nozzle hole internal wall surface of the nozzle base.
US07837298B2	Print head mounting assembly and method for mounting a print head onto a carriage framework A print head mounting assembly and a method of mounting and positioning a print head on a print head carriage framework suitable for mounting in a printing system includes a print head positioning device for receiving a print head, and a print head mounting tile having a mounting surface for mounting the print head positioning device. The print head mounting tile is adjustably mounted on the print head carriage framework such that it provides a mounting surface for the print head positioning device that is level with a reference printing surface, when the print head carriage framework is mounted in the printing system. The print head positioning device is adjustably mounted on the print head mounting tile such that the print head, being received in the print head positioning device, is accurately positioned on the mounting surface of the print head mounting tile.
US07837295B2	Measuring method and arrangement to determine the play of an ink jet cartridge pivot unit A measuring arrangement and measurement method determine the play of a cartridge pivot unit of an inkjet printing system that has at least one stop for the cartridge pivot unit. The cartridge pivot unit is driven by a first motor via a gear train and is equipped with a first movement sensor to establish a movement of the cartridge pivot unit upon leaving the stop. The cartridge pivot unit moves only when the play of the gear train is overcome. The stop for the cartridge pivot unit is formed by a mobile cleaning and sealing station. A counter is provided to count pulses, the count being representative of the play of the gear train of the cartridge pivot unit counting begins with leaving the mobile stop and continues until the movement of the cartridge pivot unit upon leaving the stop again ensues in conformity with the actuation by the first motor.
US07837294B2	Fluid ejection apparatus A fluid ejection apparatus includes a fluid ejection head comprising a nozzle through which fluid is ejected, a fluid supply passage through which fluid is supplied to the fluid ejection head, a suction device configured to draw fluid from the nozzle, and a movable member positioned within a predetermined portion of the fluid supply passage. The movable member has openings formed therethrough, and is configured to hold air bubbles therein. The movable member is further configured to move between a first position and a second position downstream of the first position in a fluid flowing direction. When the movable member is in the second position, the movable member partitions the predetermined portion of the fluid supply passage into a first space upstream of the movable member and a second space downstream of the movable member. Moreover, when the suction device transitions from an inactive state to an active state to draw fluid from the nozzle, the movable member moves from the first position to the second position and remains in the second position until the suction device transitions from the active state to the inactive state.
US07837293B2	Suction device and liquid droplet ejection apparatus having the same, as well as electro-optical apparatus and manufacturing method thereof Provided herein is a suction device that is provided in an inkjet liquid droplet ejection apparatus and sucks functional liquid while contacting with nozzle surfaces of the functional liquid droplet ejection heads. The suction device has a plurality of head caps, a suction channel having a plurality of individual channels, a plurality of channel opening/closing unit that is disposed on the individual channels and opens and closes the respective individual channels, a waste liquid tank, an ejector, a pressure adjustment unit that adjusts pressure of the compressed air at the primary side of the ejector, and a control unit that controls the pressure adjustment unit. The control unit controls the pressure adjustment unit according to the number of open-channel opening/closing units opened out of the plurality of channel opening/closing units such that a suction pressure is constant in the plurality of head caps.
US07837290B2	Continuous web printing system alignment method A method of aligning a printhead is described herein. The method includes accelerating a media along a process path, controlling a first printhead to form a first mark upon the accelerating media, detecting the first mark on the accelerating media, comparing a first mark detection data with first printhead desired alignment data, determining a first correction based upon the comparison of the first mark detection data, and modifying an alignment of the first printhead based upon the determined first correction.
US07837288B2	Inkjet printhead and a method of inkjet printing An inkjet printhead includes a plurality of firing cells, each adapted to generate an ink droplet. The firing cells are arranged to form a plurality of matrices. A control circuit selectively activates the firing cells. The control circuit includes a first dynamic memory register for storing main printing data defining which firing cells have to be activated in a first printing operation. A second dynamic memory register stores auxiliary printing data defining which firing cells have to be activated in a second printing operation. A processing unit is operatively associated with the first and second memory registers to transfer the auxiliary printing data into the first memory register, thereby defining which firing cells have to be activated in the second printing operation. A firing unit sends a single firing signal common to all the matrices for each printing operation. Also disclosed is a method of inkjet printing.
US07837287B2	Segmented receiver table and throw distance calibration for a digital printer A receiver table (1) is provided for holding a receiver in a digital printer using a shuttle (2) carrying the printheads (3), e.g. an ink-jet printer, which is divided in small table segments (5) of which height and orientation can be adjusted. By adjusting the segments (5) the table (1) can be deformed to obtain a constant receiver-printhead distance even if the guidance of the shuttle (2) has deviations or exhibits bending during shuttling. Table segments (5) are preferably mounted on a deformable table support (13). The receiver-printhead “throw distance” can be calibrated by measuring the distance profile and adjusting adjustments screws or bolts to align the table segments (5) to the ideal printing distance.
US07837286B2	Guide unit for positioning trays in edible ink printer An apparatus for printing a visual image on food items (20) has a printing station provided with a printer (12) connected to the computer and having software for directly printing the image on the exposed surface of the food item. The printing station includes a frame, at least one tray receiving the food item and displaceably supported on the frame, a printer head and a guide mechanism operative to linearly displace the tray so that a distance between the printer head and the exposed surface of the food item remains uniform as the tray is displaced along the travel direction.
US07837273B1	Seat suspension A seat suspension that includes at least one beam spring that extends across a seat pan. In one preferred embodiment, a pair of such springs is carried by the pan. The springs preferably differ in compliance from one another and from a mesh load supporting grid that is connected to each spring. One such arrangement produces a suspension of progressive construction that enables the seat to handle a wide range of shocks, bumps, jolts, and vibration of varying frequencies and magnitudes.
US07837271B2	Vehicle seat assembly having layered seating system A vehicle seat cushion composite is provided with a structural layer adapted to be mounted within a vehicle to provide support to an occupant. The structural layer has at least two edge regions provided proximate two edges of the structural layer and an inner region at least partially bound within the at least two edge regions. The at least two edge regions have a plurality of concave channels. A cushion layer is adjacent to the structural layer and has a plurality of concave projections sized to be received within the plurality of concave channels of the structural layer for minimizing lateral movement of the cushion layer relative to the structural layer proximate the edge regions.
US07837269B2	Armrest, in particular for an office chair An armrest, in particular for an office chair, preferably has a height-adjustable armrest column and an arm support positioned on the armrest column. In order to improve the operation of an armrest of this type, it is recommended that a multi-function bearing head disposed on the armrest column be fitted, with a rotational, longitudinal and lateral adjustment mechanism for the arm support.
US07837266B2	Transmission device for a vehicle seat In the case of a transmission device (5) for a vehicle seat (1), in particular a motor vehicle seat, with at least one hub (7, 27, 27′, 27″) and a shaft (10) which interact in a form-fitting manner in order to transmit a torque, wherein the shaft (10) has a profile with m teeth (12) and the hub (7, 27, 27′, 27″) has a profile with a central opening with n receptacles (15, 15′), and wherein each receptacle (15, 15′) is designed for interaction with a tooth (12), the hub (7, 27, 27′, 27″) has n=2m receptacles (15, 15′) or n=2m−1 receptacles (15, 15′).
US07837264B2	Children's safety seat with guide and tension device Children's safety seat comprises—a seat body comprising a sitting section and a back section, wherein the back section and the sitting section has an inner surface for the support of a child and an outer surface whereto a seat belt, is to be arranged, a base onto which the seat body is arranged, a carrying handle pivotally connected to the safety seat wherein the outer surface of the back section is provided with a guide for the seat belt, wherein the guide comprises at least a first guide portion providing for the seat belt to essentially follow the curvature of the outer surface of the back section, at least a second guide portion providing for the seat belt to be arranged angular to the outer surface of the back section. The carrying handle is provided with at least one tension device preferably for the first portion of a seat belt wherein the carrying handle in a first position places the tension device in a position wherein access is provided for the seat belt to be attached to or released from the tension device, and wherein the carrying handle in a second position places the tension device in a position wherein the seat belt is tensioned by the tension devices a belt receiving structure for a seat belt which belt receiving structure is arranged between the base and the seat body and comprises a belt twisting portion, which seat belt is twisted by the belt twisting portion and arranged to be passing between the belt receiving structure and the seat body and between the belt receiving structure and the base.
US07837262B2	Seating and lying arrangement A seating and lying arrangement for the passenger region of aircraft. The arrangement can be brought into a seating state and a lying state. In the seating state, the arrangement has a seating surface and a backrest. In the lying state, the arrangement provides a lying surface. The arrangement comprises a seating device and a lying device which is separate therefrom. In the seating state, the lying device is arranged next to the seating device. In the lying state, the lying device is arranged above the seating device. A change can be made between the seating state and the lying state of the arrangement.
US07837257B2	Clip assembly—roof ditch molding The present invention is a clip assembly for positioning a trim strip in a first direction and a second direction having a body portion, at least one centering wing connected to the body portion, and at least one flange connected to the body portion, with the flange connectable to a trim strip. The present invention also includes a fastener connectable to a vehicle such that when the fastener is connected to the vehicle, the centering wing locates the clip assembly and the trim strip in the first direction, and the flange connects the clip assembly to the trim strip.
US07837252B2	Power back door for vehicle An opening, through which a connection section between a drive arm and a rod of a power back door enters and exits, is covered with cover members to improve external appearance, and interference between the connection section and the cover members is eliminated when the connection section passes through the opening to prevent abnormal noise and damage to the cover members during the passage of the connection section. A pair of cover members 6a and 6b are provided along right and left vertical edges of a vertically long opening 50 that is formed in a side edge defining a door opening 1, through which a connection section S between a drive arm 3 and a rod 4 of a power back door for automatically driving a back door 2 adapted to close and open the door opening 1 can enter and exit, such that lip-shaped end edges thereof face and contact each other. The cover members 6a and 6b are gradually expanded in width so that they have a greater width on the lower side thereof, and a contacting position is shifted downwardly and inwardly of the opening 50, thereby forming an entrance/exit opening 64 surrounded by lower edges of expanded sections of the cover members 6a and 6b, through which the connection section S enters and exits.
US07837242B1	Deadbolt security device This is a device, which will be inserted over the doorknob and behind a deadbolt. It will prevent a deadbolt from turning in the event that someone with a key tries to enter the home or business while the space is being occupied. This device is not meant to function as a security device but only to insure greater privacy for a homeowner or business owner.
US07837240B2	Display and its locking mechanism A display includes a main frame, a support base, and a locking mechanism. The support base including a first locking member is selectively connected to the main frame. The locking mechanism selectively connected to the first locking member of the support base includes a base, a plate, a pivot, and a second locking member. The base with a hole is movably disposed on the main frame. The plate is connected to the base, and is neighboring the hole. The pivot including a raised edge is disposed on the main frame, through the hole, and is near the plate. The second locking member is connected to the base for selectively engaging with the first locking member. When the raised edge abuts against the plate, the base is moved towards the first direction, and the second locking member is detached from the first locking member.
US07837238B2	Pipe grip ring A grip element comprising a wedge-like structure supporting a metal plate, the exposed outer surface thereof being provided with an array of large and small gripping teeth. The large teeth project from the surface of said metal plate further than said small teeth. The invention further provides a grip element having a floor. The grip elements may be disposed around a ring for the purpose of pipe gripping. The ring is particularly useful in a pipe coupling to grip metal and plastic pipes.
US07837235B2	Device for clamping a fluidic component A fluidic component is arranged in an elastomeric shaped part, the contour of which is matched to the outer contour of the component and to the inner contour of a holder. The elastomeric shaped part is chamfered towards the fluidic component on its pressure side. When the holder is assembled, the elastomeric shaped part is deformed by a projection provided on a mating part and is put under uniformly distributed internal tension, after which the elastomeric shaped part surrounds the fluidic component to its full height.
US07837234B2	Pipe joint unit and method of manufacturing the same A pipe joint unit includes a first pipe member with a male joint, a second pipe member with a female joint, and a pipe joint member coupling the first pipe member and the second pipe member. The male joint is received in the female joint such that an outer peripheral surface of the male joint is opposed to an inner peripheral surface of the female joint. The pipe joint member includes an engagement part that is elastically displaceable in the radial direction, and engages with the first and second pipe members. The male joint and the female joint have rotation restricting parts on the outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface, respectively, for restricting relative rotation of the first and second pipe members.
US07837232B2	Protective ski appliance A hand held protective ski appliance including a ski no longer than 18″ inches long and including a handle extensive with the direction of the ski and spaced therefrom about 3″ inches.
US07837227B2	Air-bag housing An air-bag housing comprising a rectangular frame (1) defining an opening and having a mounting arrangement in the form of flanges (7) to mount the frame in position within a motor vehicle. The frame supports a housing-forming element (21) formed, for example, of fabric. This forms a housing having walls (71, 72) and a floor. The walls (71, 72) are formed seamlessly by folding the fabric in half about a fold-line, and tucking one end of the fold-line into the other end of the fold-line, and inserting the frame between the pieces of fabric to lie adjacent the fold-line. The floor is formed by a plurality of floor-forming tabs (25, 26, 35, 36 etc) carried by the fabric forming the side-walls of the housing. The tabs are folded inwardly to at least partly overlie each other and are secured in position to form the floor of the housing by studs (15, 16, 17, 18) provided on the inflator which pass through co-aligned apertures (27, 30, 38, 39) in the floor-forming tabs (25, 26, 35, 36 etc).
US07837223B2	Inflatable cushioning device Inflatable devices principally for vehicle occupant protection are addressed. Included among the devices are curtains or other cushions (18) with braided portions (42) along their lower edges (30) designed to form semi-rigid members when deployed. Unlike commercially-available vehicle curtains, inflation occurs from the bottom (where the semi-rigid member is formed) upward. The devices additionally optionally may include inflatable nodes (46) within the curtains (18) or otherwise extending from the cushions.
US07837215B2	Polyurea coated trailer The present invention relates to polyurea composition coated trailers and methods of making the same. In an embodiment, the present invention is directed to a trailer comprising a frame having a front side and a back side, at least one axle coupled to the frame, a plurality of wheels coupled to the at least one axle, and a polyurea coating, wherein the polyurea coating encapsulates at least a portion of the frame. In an embodiment, the present invention is directed to a method for protecting a metal trailer from corrosion comprising cleaning the surfaces of a metal trailer and applying a layer of a polyurea composition to the surfaces of the metal trailer.
US07837210B2	Wheelchair drive system with lever propulsion and a hub-contained transmission A drive mechanism for a lever propulsion wheelchair includes at least one clutch and at least one gear set contained within a central hub housing operatively coupled to the drive surface of the main wheel being driven. In the preferred embodiment, there are additional clutches and gear sets contained within the hub housing and coaxial to the wheel. By locating the transmission components within the hub housing and providing the coaxial arrangement, various user capabilities may be enabled without a significant increase in wheelchair width, as compared to the width of conventional pushrim propulsion wheelchairs. Transmission components are cooperatively arranged to provide capabilities that may include forward, rearward and neutral “gears,” braking, anti-rollback, and quick-release removal.
US07837207B2	Chassis adjustment system A machine, such as a mobile asset, vehicle, or agricultural vehicle, includes a chassis, an adjustment system, and a wheel. The adjustment system replaces a conventional non-extendable leg connected between the chassis and the wheel of the machine. The adjustment system can extend and withdraw in length, such that the height of the machine can vary as needed.
US07837202B2	Stabilizer control device A stabilizer control device for a vehicle includes a first and second stabilizer bars, a housing fixed to an end portion of the second stabilizer bar so as to arrange an end portion of the first stabilizer bar adjacent to the end portion of the second stabilizer bar, a rotational torque reducing mechanism having an input portion fixed to the first stabilizer bar and the housing and reducing a relative rotational torque between the housing and the first stabilizer bar and outputting, a hollow member including the first stabilizer bar so as to rotatably support the first stabilizer bar within the housing and fixed with an output portion of the rotational torque reducing mechanism so as to rotatably support the output portion within the housing, and a clutch mechanism arranged between the hollow member and the housing for engaging and disengaging therebetween.
US07837197B2	Game apparatus An apparatus for playing a game comprising a playing surface 4.2) having a first area (14) and a second area (17), a projectile (24), at least two propulsion devices (8). First and second sets of playing pieces {12,16) are provided, each playing piece having a lower peg portion, and a substrate (18) overlaying and spaced above the playing surface and extending across both the first and second areas of the playing surface. In a game, the playing pieces are located on the substrate above the first area of the playing surface, with their peg portions extending below the substrate, and each propulsion device is capable of propelling the projectile such that the projectile can impact with a peg portion of a playing piece and thereby dislodge the playing piece.
US07837195B2	Angled pressure roll used with vacuum belts An apparatus comprises a belt and a pressure roll contacting the belt. The pressure roll comprises at least two roll segments connected to a common axle and contacting the belt. The roll segments are offset from one another along the belt.
US07837192B2	Apparatus for aligning sheets through the use of stops disposed on a cylinder An apparatus for continuous alignment of sheets which are fed to a processing machine, includes an alignment cylinder on which stops for the sheets are disposed. The stops are pivoted out of the periphery of the alignment cylinder and moved on a translational movement path during an alignment phase.
US07837189B2	Elastomer gripping belt loop for a disc stacker system According to aspects of the embodiments, there is provided a printing system the use of an elastomer belt that would flex during media insertion, yet would be positioned and constructed such to prevent the media from escaping the pinch created by the gripper belt. The gripping force, created by the elastomer belt, increases if the sheet attempts to be removed via the orientation and mechanical advantage of the belt construction. This system also incorporates a feature to reduce the gripper belt holding force by means of a mechanical linkage actuated by a counter weighted, cam system or possibly an electromechanical device. The elastomer belt would eliminate any marks or scuffs on the media when it is removed from the disk stacker.
US07837186B2	Sheet finishing apparatus and control method A sheet finishing apparatus includes an inlet roller to receive a sheet conveyed from an image forming apparatus, a sheet introduction unit to guide the sheet received by the inlet roller to a finishing unit, a sheet ejection unit to guide the sheet subjected to the finishing by the finishing unit to an ejection port and to eject from the ejection port, a storage tray to receive the ejected sheet, a drive unit including plural motors to drive respective devices, and a control unit to control operations of the plural motors. In a trial operation of the sheet finishing apparatus, the control unit controls the plural motors, and shifts the timings and performs driving to prevent plural motors with sound pressure levels not less than a previously set reference level from being simultaneously operated.
US07837185B2	Jig for producing capacitors, apparatus for producing capacitors and method for producing capacitors The invention provides (1) a jig for producing capacitors, which stabilizes multiple long plates in order to simultaneously form dielectric layers on a plurality of conductors connected to the long plates and subsequently simultaneously form semiconductor layers thereon, wherein two edge-receiving portions to receive and fix the edges of each plate are electrically insulated from each other, (2) an apparatus comprising the jig for producing capacitors, having feeding terminals for forming dielectric layer and for forming semiconductor layer and long plates comprising a mechanism connecting multiple conductors, and a method for producing capacitors. According to the invention, capacitors each having semiconductor layer as one electrode, narrow in variation of capacitance, and excellent in the ESR value, can be produced at a time.
US07837183B2	Viscous fluid-filled damper Provided is a container body including a flexible portion made of a rubber-like elastic material and an annular connection portion made of a hard material in the shape of a substantially flat plate and having an upper surface to which the flexible portion is firmly fixed and a lower surface to which the lid body is firmly fixed. The flexible portion is provided, on a firm fixation region thereof that is firmly fixed to the annular connection portion, with a collar joint portion protruding widely in the direction of a plane of the annular connection portion. Therefore, the container body and the lid body are firmly coupled to each other, and the viscous fluid-filled damper can be reduced in height.
US07837176B2	Dual chamber orifice fitting plate support Methods and apparatus for positioning an orifice plate within a body having a straight flowbore. One embodiment includes a carrier supporting the orifice plate and a drive member operable to engage the carrier and move the carrier along a first axis perpendicular to the flowbore. The drive member is also operable to limit the movement of the carrier along a second axis perpendicular to the flowbore and perpendicular to the first axis. A pin is operable to engage the carrier so as to limit movement along the first axis.
US07837172B2	Electrical fixture mounting assembly An electrical fixture mounting assembly is provided for quickly and easily mounting an electrical fixture to a bracket and brace assembly. The electrical fixture mounting assembly includes an electrical box, a brace assembly for attaching to a support structure and a bracket for attaching the electrical box to the brace. The brace assembly is typically and adjustable member that extends between ceiling joists located above an aperture in a ceiling. The bracket is connected to the brace by a snap fit. The bracket includes retention fingers that are resilient to snap onto the brace and prevent movement of the bracket with respect to the brace during installation of the electrical box. The bracket includes tabs with threaded apertures for receiving mounting screws. The electrical box includes circular apertures and at least one keyhole shaped slot aligned with the threaded apertures in the flanges of the bracket. At least one threaded screw is attached to the flange of the bracket which is then inserted through the keyhole shaped slot. The electrical box is then rotated slightly with respect to the bracket to temporarily secure the electrical box to the bracket and align all of the apertures in the electrical box with the threaded apertures and the bracket. The screws are then inserted through the bottom of the electrical box and tightened to secure the electrical box to the bracket. The flanges on the bracket are oriented and include cut-out portions to enable access to knockouts in the bottom wall of the electrical box.
US07837171B1	Purse hanger with extendible shelf The invention is a purse hanger with an extendible shelf, balance arms, and a key ring. The purse hanger engages tables and other relatively flat surfaces, including tables with flat sides.
US07837169B2	Vibration damping mounting for a brush cutter A mounting for connecting an operating head, that generates vibrations when in use, to a vehicle in a manner to minimize the transmission of vibrations from the head to the vehicle. The mounting comprising a number of female connector device on one of the head and the vehicle and a similar number of male connecting device on the other of the head and vehicle, the male connecting device each carrying a resilient sleeve. The male connecting device are inserted into the female connecting device and a bolt is passed through each female connecting device and each resilient sleeve associated with it to join the head to the vehicle.
US07837166B2	Monitor clamping device A monitor clamping device includes a first board having multiple first hooks and a second board having multiple second hooks, the monitor is clamped between the first and second hooks. Multiple first slots are defined in the second board and multiple first guide plates are connected to the first board. The first guide plates movably extend through the first slots. Multiple second guide plates are connected to the second board and engaged with the first guide plates when the first guide plates are moved to a lower end of the first slots. A resilient unit is connected between the first and second board so as to adjust the distance between the first and second hooks. The monitor clamping device can clamp different size monitors.
US07837165B2	Article mounting apparatus Article mounting apparatus is provided for mounting an article such as a plant container to a support such as a lamp post. The apparatus includes a first bracket for mounting to a support, and a second bracket associated with the article. The first and second brackets are arranged to be mountable together to an engaged position by mutual relative movement in a first direction, and movable from the engaged position to a locked position by mutual relative movement in a second direction, the second direction being different to the first direction. The first and second brackets are arranged so that in the locked position, mutually relative movement of the brackets in a direction substantially opposite to the first direction is substantially prevented.
US07837164B1	Tarpaulin clamping assembly and associated method A two-piece clamping system for creating a reinforced attachment point for tarpaulins or the like includes a “Y”-shaped bottom clamp with retaining slots on its bifurcated end, a securing groove within its body, and an extending tab with a grommet to receive a carabiner or hook for attaching the clamp to a support structure. An upper clamp portion includes two legs for retaining the tarpaulin within the slots on the bottom clamp. A mechanical fastener such as a screw and wing nut secure the tarpaulin's grommet within both halves of the clamping system thereby providing a quick and easy method for attaching a reinforcing clamping system to tarpaulins.
US07837162B2	Suction cup with solar cell A suction cup has a cup portion and a head attached to the cup portion. A solar cell is positioned within the head or the cup portion. The solar cell can be placed in a cavity in the head or cup portion or may be molded or formed into the suction cup. The contacts of the solar cell may be positioned so that an object can be hung on the suction cup and be powered by the solar cell. One can also provide a sensor and transmitter or alarm in or on the suction cup and connected to the solar cell such that when the suction cup is moved an alarm will sound.
US07837161B2	Furniture-foot assemblies A foot assembly is adapted to be removably attached to the elbow of a sled-type leg of a piece of furniture that is adapted to be supported upon a surface. The furniture-foot assembly includes a body defining a hollow interior adapted to removably receive the elbow of the leg and a bottom exterior portion. A glide is adapted to be removably mounted to the bottom exterior portion of the body and supported upon the surface for gliding movement of the furniture-foot assembly relative to the surface.
US07837159B2	Positioning mechanism and display device using the same A positioning mechanism and a display device using the same are provided. The positioning mechanism comprises a fixed frame, a first buckling element, a second buckling element and a rotary component. The first buckling element is fixed to a first position of the fixed frame. The second buckling element is fixed to a second position of the fixed frame. The rotary component having a positioning pin is connected to an object and is pivoted to the fixed frame, such that the object and the rotary component are synchronously rotated with respect to the fixed frame. The object is in a first positioning state and a second positioning state when the positioning pin is buckled to the first buckling element and the second buckling element respectively.
US07837147B2	Systems and methods for reducing noise in aircraft fuselages and other structures Systems and methods for reducing noise in aircraft fuselages and other structures are described herein. A noise reduction system configured in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes an auxetic core, a damping layer, and a constraining layer. In this embodiment, the auxetic core is supported by a structural member, and the damping layer is sandwiched between the auxetic core and the constraining layer. A method for manufacturing a structural assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the invention includes forming a stiffener by positioning a first ply of composite material against a first tool surface, positioning damping material against the first ply, and positioning a second ply of composite material against the damping material to sandwich the damping material between the first and second plies. The method can further include forming a skin by positioning a third ply of composite material against a second tool surface offset from the first tool surface, and attaching the stiffener to the skin by co-curing the first, second and third plies of composite material.
US07837144B2	Fluid-driven artificial muscles as mechanisms for controlled actuation A fluid contact surface actuation system for a vehicle, including a first fluid contact surface constructed and arranged to act against a first fluid passing over the first fluid contact surface; and a first fluid actuator coupled to the first fluid contact surface to move the first fluid contact surface between a first position and a second position to enable control of the vehicle in a predetermined manner, the first fluid actuator having a first resilient bladder that receives a second fluid such that pressure of the second fluid moves the first bladder between a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration.
US07837142B2	Supersonic aircraft jet engine Jet engine inlet structure of a supersonic aircraft comprising the structure having an inlet ramp and an cowl lip spaced outwardly of the ramp so that entering air flows between the ramp and lip, the lip and ramp configured to produce a first oblique shock that extends outwardly from a forward portion of the ramp to pass ahead of the lip, and a terminal shock that extends outwardly from a rearward portion of the ramp to one of the following x0) a region just ahead of the lip x1) substantially to said lip. A non-uniform shock system is created that generates a central region of nearly isentropic compression and relatively ram recovery and an outer region of reduced ram recovery but entailing reduced cowl angle and drag. Translating cowl structure and also nozzle integration with the fuselage contour to reduce boat tail drag are also provided.
US07837140B2	Automatic film changer for a film wrapping machine A new and improved film wrapping machine includes a new and improved film changer, operatively associated with the film wrapping machine, for automatically exchanging rolls of wrapping film, wherein a depleted roll of wrapping film, or a roll of wrapping film that has experienced a breakage in the wrapping film, can be automatically removed from the film roll mounting and dispensing carriage assembly, and wherein further, a fresh roll of wrapping film can be positionally exchanged for the depleted roll of wrapping film, or for the roll of wrapping film that has experienced the breakage.
US07837135B2	Application element for a rotary sprayer and associated operating method The invention relates to an application element (1) for a rotary sprayer, in particular in the form of a bell-shaped plate or a rotary disc, with an overflow surface (8) which, during the coating operation, rotates together with the application element (1) and is overflowed by a coating agent to be applied, and with a surface layer which is located on the overflow surface (8) and on which a thin coating agent film forms with a certain film thickness during operation, wherein boundary surface friction acts between the coating agent film and the surface layer. It is proposed that the surface layer reduces the boundary surface friction between the coating agent film and the overflow surface (8). Furthermore, the invention comprises an associated operating method.
US07837133B2	Composite shower head The present invention provides a composite shower head typically comprised of a hand-hold shower head and a fixed shower head, wherein said hand-hold shower head has a retaining pass corresponding to the fixed shower head; said fixed shower head can be held in the retaining pass of said hand-hold shower head; a locking device is built on for locking the hand-hold shower head with the fixed shower head together. The composite shower head combining the fixed shower head and the hand-hold shower head together into one assembled body simplifies the shower site, and facilitates to use, meanwhile meets to economic style of modern people.
US07837131B2	Modular automatic spray gun manifold A modular automatic spray gun manifold is provided. The manifold includes a plurality of spray gun modules arranged in an array in laterally spaced relation from each other. A junction element is arranged at an upstream end of the manifold for introducing fluid into the manifold. A first support assembly is arranged between the junction element and a first spray gun module in the spray gun module array for supporting the first spray gun module relative to the junction element. The first support assembly includes a plurality of fluid conduits for supplying fluid to the first spray gun module. One or more second support assemblies with one second support assembly are arranged between each adjacent pair of spray gun modules in the array of spray gun modules for supporting the adjacent pair of spray gun modules relative to each other. Each second support assembly includes a plurality of fluid conduits for communicating fluid between the adjacent spray gun modules such that fluid introduced into the manifold through the junction element is communicated to each spray gun module. The first support assembly and each second support assembly include an interior space through which their respective plurality of fluid conduits extend and a heat transfer fluid inlet for communicating a hot heat transfer fluid into the interior space of the respective support assembly.
US07837130B1	Overspray eradicator Overspray eradicator. A portable spray and overspray capture system including a portable vacuum filtration and spray gun air power supply unit including an air pressurization system, a vacuum creation system, a high efficiency particulate air filter, and an organic vapor filter, the portable vacuum filtration and spray gun air power supply unit in pressurized air communication with, and vacuum communication with, a visibility sparing spray shroud, the shroud including a spray gun or a spray gun fitting, a vacuum fitting and a plurality of extensions each with an aperture allowing fluid communication between the interior of the shroud and the exterior of the shroud the shroud having internal fluid passages to allow fluid communication between each of the extensions and the vacuum fitting.
US07837129B2	Metering device A metering device for dispensing a medium to an environment is provided. The metering device includes a housing, a shallow metering chamber within the housing which is of planar design and is essentially closed off from the environment by wall sections, a first media inlet which is connected to the metering chamber and can be connected to a media reservoir, and a vibration mechanism which is arranged in such a manner that vibrations generated by the vibration mechanism cause pulsing changes in volume of an internal volume of the metering chamber. A wall section which is designed as an outlet wall section has metering openings so that the metering chamber is connected to the environment. The vibration mechanism forms a vibration wall section so that the metering chamber is delimited.
US07837128B2	Multiple thermostats for air conditioning system with time setting feature An air conditioning (HVAC) system for a residential dwelling or other building with enclosed spaces includes multiple thermostats hard wire interconnected or communicating via radio frequency transceivers. The thermostats each include control circuits for adjusting the setpoint temperature at any one thermostat and displaying the set temperature at all thermostats, setting the time at any one thermostat and displaying the time at all thermostats, controlling the thermostat temperature setting from a selected one of the thermostats and providing a setpoint for control of the air conditioning system based on an average temperature sensed by all of the thermostats. A method for correctly setting a thermostat time display to one of Daylight Saving Time or Standard Time and displaying an icon identifying one or the other is disclosed.
US07837126B2	Method and system for cooling a wind turbine structure A control method and associated component configuration provide cooling for components within a wind turbine structure, such as a tower or nacelle. A recirculating airstream of internal air is established in the structure. For a defined set of operational conditions of the wind turbine that affect a required cooling capacity within the structure, the recirculating airstream is controllably augmented with external air to increase cooling capacity of the recirculating airstream. The amount of external air introduced into the structure is balanced with the amount of relatively hotter internal air within the structure so as to achieve a desired balance of temperature and relative humidity within the structure.
US07837122B2	Method of manufacturing a substrate for a mini-UICC smart card with an associated plug-in UICC adapter, and a resulting substrate A method of producing a smart card having a reduced format in relation to a second standard format and an adapter with the second format, which is associated with the smart card. A card body has a zone for the extraction of the smart card and a zone for the extraction of the adapter. At least the smart card is extracted from the support. The smart card is extracted from a zone located outside the peripheral outline of the adapter extraction zone. The invention also relates to the support thus obtained.
US07837121B2	Secure credit card adapter A secure card adapter provides for writing of highly secure, single transaction information on a machine-readable medium of a card structure in accordance with a format that may be downloaded from an external data source. The card structure may be, for example, an existing access authorization card or an existing credit card containing account-specific information which can be read and stored in memory of the secure card adapter. Once such account-specific information is read from an existing access authorization or credit card, secure transaction information can be written, together with the account specific information in accordance with the downloaded format information on another card structure to provide a universal access authorization and/or credit card. Thus the secure card adapter provides an enhanced degree of security through an existing or transitional communication infrastructure.
US07837120B1	Modular memory card and method of making same In accordance with the present invention, there is provided multiple embodiments of a memory card, each embodiment including a module comprising at least a printed circuit board having an electronic circuit device mounted thereto. The module is inserted into a complementary cavity formed within a case of the memory card, such case generally defining the outer appearance of the memory card. The module is secured within the cavity of the case through the use of an adhesive. In each embodiment of the present invention, the module is uniquely configured to prevent adhesive leakage from within the corresponding cavity of the case of the memory card when the module is secured within the cavity.
US07837117B2	Embedded optical signatures in documents A method of embedding an optical signature in a document and document produced therefrom. The optical signature uses an invisible optical pattern or covering that can reflect light in non-visible wavelengths, such as light in infrared, or fluoresces when exposed to a particular wavelength of light, such as ultra-violet light. The invisible optical pattern can be a covering over another optical pattern, or a base pattern upon which a second optical pattern is embedded.
US07837114B2	Image forming method and system Print jobs having a mixture of first image sheets and second image sheets are sorted to a first image forming device and a second image forming device. After image formation is performed on sheets by the respective image forming devices, radio frequency IC tags (RFID tags) are affixed to the sheets, in which attribute information including post-processing information and page identification information is written. Sheet bundles produced by the respective image forming devices are separately set to a post-processing device. The post-processing device reads out the attribute information stored in the radio frequency IC tags, and the sheets are selectively fed from the respective sheet bundles while conforming to the page order. Thereafter, the post processing is performed.
US07837110B1	Magnetic stripe reader having digital peak detector A point of sale terminal includes a microcontroller integrated circuit. In one aspect, a regulator within the IC receives power from a supply voltage terminal and/or a battery terminal. If the regulator does not receive adequate power from either terminal, then energy stored on-chip in a capacitor is used to erase secure memory. In another aspect, pulses of current are made to pulse through conductors of a conductive mesh. A tamper condition is detected if an improper voltage is detected on the IC terminal through which the pulse is conducted. In another aspect, each vendor signs his/her firmware with his own vendor ID. A bootloader uses the vendor ID to lookup a public key that is then used to verify a private key supplied by the firmware to be executed. In another aspect, a magnetic card reader includes a digital peak detector circuit involving programmable positive and negative thresholds.
US07837109B2	Processing method and apparatus for recording media having printed magnetic ink characters In a method of processing recording media containing magnetic ink characters, the media is transported at a first speed along a transportation path to which a magnetic head is disposed. Character recognition is performed by analyzing signals outputted from the magnetic head in comparison with stored signal patterns. Until it is decided whether the characters are correct or can be recognized, transportation of the media is stopped or temporarily slowed to a significantly lower second speed downstream of the magnetic head. A processing apparatus includes appropriate components and functionality for carrying out such a method. In some embodiments, the analysis and comparison includes determining whether the check is inverted or upside down.
US07837106B2	System for collecting and automatically checking ordered articles This invention relates to a mobile device for collecting and validating collected articles, each equipped with a transponder and including rollers for moving along a runway in a predetermined path, a horizontal beam for receiving the articles collected during this displacement one by one, a radio-frequency interrogator for obtaining identifying information on each of the articles collected by the device and a comparator for comparing the identifying information obtained with references relative to a determined order for articles and thus for validating the collected articles as they are collected along the runway.
US07837104B2	Monitor with interchangeable base and monitor mount for point-of-sale applications A point-of-sale system includes a monitor and interchangeable bases. The monitor is attached to the interchangeable base using a Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) mount. The system may also include a monitor support disposed between the monitor and the interchangeable base, in which case the monitor is attached to the monitor support using the VESA mount, and the monitor support is attached to the interchangeable base. A housing may be used to enclose the VESA mount and the monitor support. A method of displaying point-of-sale information includes providing a monitor and adapting a plurality of interchangeable bases to attach to the monitor using a Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) mount. The method may also include disposing a monitor support between the monitor and the interchangeable base, attaching the monitor to the monitor support using the VESA mount, and attaching the monitor support to the interchangeable base.
US07837097B2	Method of authorizing automated banking machine use responsive to user data read from data bearing records An automated banking machine operates responsive to data read from data bearing records such as user cards to cause financial transfers. A transaction data object software component operating in a computer of the machine accumulates data as the transaction proceeds. Customer identifying data read by the machine and data corresponding to user inputs can be included in the transaction data object software component. The component can be passed form the machine to a server for determination of the customer being authorized to use the machine to perform a transaction. Upon approval, the server includes authorization data in the component which is then returned to the banking machine. The banking machine also includes in the component, data corresponding to operation of transaction function devices, such as a receipt printer and a currency dispenser. The automated banking machine can also pass the component having the transaction information included therein from the machine in providing an account of the transaction.
US07837095B2	Secure bag assembly for a lockable removable cassette A method and apparatus are provided relating to a secure bag assembly to secure cash in transit (“CIT”). In some implementations, the secure bag assembly is installed in a lockable, removable cassette that is fitted to a bill validator. The cassette and bill validator can be installed in an enclosure like those found in retail kiosks, self-checkout terminals, retail safes or gaming machines. In such an implementation, bank notes are deposited in the bill validator and once identified and validated, are securely stacked in the bag assembly within the cassette. The bag assembly can be used for capacities of one banknote up to the maximum capacity allowed by the cassette. The bag assembly is secured in place when installed and is sealed automatically upon removal from the cassette.
US07837087B2	Method for applying braze end isolation layer for generator armature winding bar A method of forming a brazed joint between an armature bar and a hydraulic header clip including the steps of: locating ends of a plurality of hollow strands and a plurality of solid strands within a cavity in an end fitting such that free ends of said hollow strands extend axially beyond free ends of said solid strands; and pre-placing an essentially phosphorous-free silver braze alloy around and between said ends of said hollow strands and said solid strands such that said braze alloy extends axially beyond the free ends of said solid strands.
US07837086B2	System, method, and apparatus for forming ballistic armor from ceramic and shape memory metallic alloy materials A ballistic armor uses shape memory alloys and novel joining techniques to form a solution from a combination of shape memory metallic alloys (SMA) and ceramic materials. The SMA allows a high amount of strain to be recovered through a low temperature heat treatment. The amount of strain recoverable is much higher than that available through conventional thermal expansion mismatch solutions. Solid state or low temperature bonding methods are used to join the dissimilar materials. This joining technique avoids introducing excessive heat that would cause the SMA to transform before the armor system is assembled.
US07837085B1	Hermetic seal A seal design provides positive compression to produce a hermetic seal around a feedthrough pin in a hermetically sealed device, including an implantable medical device. One embodiment of the seal design uses a plurality of “micro-flanges” placed along the length of a feedthrough pin, which micro-flanges grabs and compresses the insulator material to form a hermetic seal. Because the seal design produces positive compression of the insulator, the seal is relatively insensitive to changes in temperature and to differences in thermal expansion coefficients (“TCEs”) between the metal feedthrough and the insulator. It is therefore possible to use a wider variety of materials for the insulator and the feedthrough with the described sealing design, while achieving a superior hermetic seal.
US07837080B2	Surgical stapling instrument with device for indicating when the instrument has cut through tissue Circular stapling instruments for cutting and applying one or more surgical staples to tissue are disclosed. The instruments include various forms of feedback systems designed to provide at least one mode of feedback to the surgeon when the knife has cut through tissue clamped between a staple cartridge and an anvil portion.
US07837079B2	Surgical stapling instruments including a cartridge having multiple staple sizes A surgical stapling apparatus includes a staple cartridge and an anvil member. The staple cartridge includes a plurality of surgical fasteners disposed in rows of retention slots. The staple cartridge may have an annular or linear configuration of retention slots. The tissue contacting surface of the staple cartridge may be tapered or stepped. The anvil member has a tissue contacting surface that includes a number of pockets arranged for substantially aligning with the retention slots. In addition, the tissue contacting surface of the anvil member may complement the tissue contacting surface of the staple cartridge.
US07837072B2	Flush mounted spigot assembly A spigot assembly for use in a fermentation vessel, such as the type used in wine making, is provided. The spigot assembly is of a multiple part construction such that it substantially avoids entrapment of either sediment or air in or on the assembly as the spigot operates to remove liquid from the vessel.
US07837071B2	Valve device of an application device for applying fluid to a substrate, and applicator A valve device of an application device for applying fluid to a substrate comprises a valve body, a valve housing with inner chamber and valve seat, a supply fluid chamber, an electromagnetic valve actuating device with valve piston and an adjusting piston. The valve nozzle is detachably mounted on the nozzle side of the valve device. The valve device has a nozzle plate which closes the valve body at the bottom on the nozzle side, with mounting opening for the valve piston. The valve housing is designed in the form of a nozzle orifice which is a closure member that can be fitted on the mounting opening from below and removed. The valve nozzle forms part of the valve housing. The valve piston is exposed through the mounting opening of the nozzle plate for removal and fitting when the closure member is removed. The valve device is provided with at least one rectilinear fluid duct that connects the supply fluid chamber to the valve seat. The valve piston and part of the adjusting piston together form a wall of the straight fluid duct which, when the nozzle orifice closure member is removed, is exposed for cleaning through the mounting opening. An application device comprises the valve devices arranged in a row.
US07837064B1	Fluid dispensing device A fluid dispensing device includes a barrel having a hollow interior, an inlet opening at one end and an open second end. A plunger is slidably received within the hollow interior of the barrel through the open second end and has an outlet passage extending through its length to an outlet outside of the barrel. An inlet valve is disposed at the inlet opening of the barrel and an outlet valve is carried within the outlet passage of the plunger. A closure is secured to the barrel over the open end of the barrel and over the plunger, with the closure urging the plunger into the barrel against the inlet valve such that the plunger engages the inlet valve and holds the inlet valve closed. Opening of the closure permits the plunger to be withdrawn from the barrel to draw fluid into the barrel through the inlet opening and the inlet valve. Return of the plunger into the barrel closes the inlet valve and forces the fluid in the barrel through the outlet passage and the outlet valve in the plunger.
US07837061B2	Methods and apparatus for dispensing solid pharmaceutical articles An apparatus for dispensing pharmaceutical articles includes a housing and a gas source to provide a positive pressure supply gas flow. The housing defines a hopper chamber to hold the articles, a dispensing channel fluidly connected to the hopper chamber, a drive jet outlet, and an agitation outlet. The dispensing channel has an inlet and an outlet and defines a flow path therebetween. The gas source is fluidly connected to each of the drive jet outlet and the agitation outlet to provide: a pressurized drive jet gas flow through the drive jet outlet to convey articles through the dispensing channel along the flow path; and a pressurized agitation gas flow through the agitation outlet to agitate articles in the hopper chamber.
US07837057B2	Dispenser for individual folded webs A dispenser for individual webs from a stack of such individual webs. The dispenser includes an outer housing defining an interior space; stacking elements mounted within the outer housing for holding a stack of individual folded webs within the interior space; a dispensing face defined in the outer housing proximate to an end of the stacking elements; a stack of individual folded webs, and at least one edge of a dispensing opening which contacts the stack of individual folded webs so that a portion of individually folded webs is exposed by the dispensing opening. In addition, a cross-section through dispensing face has a curved shape with an inflection point.
US07837054B2	Tank seal The present invention is directed to a seal system for sealing a storage tank such as a liquid or air storage tank. In accordance with the preferred embodiment, the seal system includes a radial valve body that is disposed within a circular spring energizer, together which are disposed within a boss member. The spring energizer and the boss member are separated by a non-bonded liner. Various radial seal members are placed within the inner surface of the boss member to ensure the seal, and the seal system is installable to the top portion of a liner of a storage tank.
US07837047B2	Joint arrangement A joint arrangement for connecting a drawbar to a carriage includes a push/pull device for the transmission of pushing and pulling forces arranged at the carriage end of the drawbar. The push/pull device comprises a mid-piece connected to the carriage side end of the drawbar, extending the drawbar in the longitudinal direction thereof which extends through an opening provided in the baseplate. A front spring plate and a rear spring plate are provided on the mid-piece with a front spring element between the front spring plate and the baseplate in the drawbar longitudinal direction and a corresponding rear spring element is provided between the baseplate and the rear spring plate. The front spring element and the rear spring element enclose the mid-piece of the push/pull device with a positive fit in order to guide and support the mid-piece of the push/pull device in the most effective manner possible within the baseplate and are themselves supported in the vertical direction on the baseplate and in particular on a recess region provided in the baseplate.
US07837037B2	Two stacking position square container A two stacking position square container is provided having an upper stacking position and a lower stacking position. The upper stacking position is provided by inserting a bottom of an identical body into a square opening to provide lateral stability and engaging supports on a bottom exterior profile with supports on a top interior profile. A lower stacking position is provided by inserting the bottom of the identical body into the square opening to provide lateral stability and engaging the supports on the bottom exterior profile with recesses on the top interior profile and the supports on the upper interior profile with recesses on the bottom interior profile. The body is symmetrical about both an x axis and a y axis. A 90 degree relative rotation about a z axis being used to change between the upper stacking position and the lower stacking position.
US07837035B2	Packaging device for medical apparatus The invention relates to a disposable packaging device (1) including a wall (2) for accommodating a medical article (100) for use in conjunction with a medical machine (200), the medical article (100) including mounting means (101), the medical machine (200) including mounting means (201) for engagement with the mounting means of the medical article (101), the packaging device including:—a passage opening (20) defined in the wall (2) and having a configuration such that the mounting means (101) of the packaged article can be engaged with the mounting means of the machine (201);—a preferential rupture zone (30) produced on the wall 2 to allow predetermined rupture of the wall (2).
US07837034B2	Temporary medical instrument holder box with lateral instrument holder aperture A temporary instrument holder having one or more lateral surface instrument holder apertures configured to receive needles therein. The lateral surface instrument holder aperture is provided in addition to a top surface instrument holder portion and is positioned in the side of the temporary instrument holder allowing sharp implements to be inserted into the lateral surface instrument holder aperture to minimize tipping of the temporary instrument holder. A portion of the implement positioned in the lateral instrument holder aperture can rest on the support surface on which the temporary instrument holder is positioned. A boundary septum is provided between the lateral surface instrument holder aperture and the instrument holder portion on the top surface to prevent passage of the needle apparatus from the need stop portion to the lateral surface instrument holder aperture to prevent an inadvertent stick or puncture the skin of a practitioner.
US07837028B2	Radius chain modular conveyor A radius chain conveyor structure and method for traveling along curved paths in both left and right directions and having the capability to carry very small and delicate articles.
US07837027B2	Workpiece transporting apparatus and electronic component transporting apparatus An electronic component conveying apparatus is provided in which an electronic component is accommodated in a through-hole of a conveyer table and is conveyed. The electronic component can be reliably picked up from the through-hole using a compressed gas in a short time. In addition, undesired exhaust of the electronic component due to a residual compressed air can be prevented, and the conveying efficiency can be increased. In an workpiece conveying apparatus, a first surface of a conveyer table includes a pressure relief groove that extends from a location at which the pressure relief groove overlaps with an exhaust hole in a direction crossing a conveying direction and communicates with a suction recess portion when the conveyer table is rotationally driven. Alternatively, the first surface includes a pressure relief hole for relieving pressure to the atmosphere.
US07837026B2	Equipment for processing containers filled with liquid or powder products Containers (2) to be filled with liquid or powder products are processed by equipment (1) comprising at least one carousel (5) mounted on a floor-standing base frame (10) and set in rotation about a vertical axis (X) by drive components (9) housed internally of the frame (10); the carousel (5) is equipped with a number of peripheral stations (6), each accommodating a single container (2), and is positioned directly above a tank (20) with an open top (27) proportioned and contoured in such a way that washing liquids sprayed onto the carousel (5) in the course of during cleaning operations can be collected and carried away from the equipment.
US07837021B2	Passenger conveyor Obtained is a passenger conveyor that, in the case of the elongation of a step chain of the passenger conveyor, causes a hydraulic cylinder to move a lower-part step chain wheel, thereby absorbing a slack in the step chain and tensioning the step chain with any push-out force. In a passenger conveyor provided with a step chain tensioning device that, in the case of the elongation of a step chain, causes a lower-part step chain wheel to move, thereby absorbing a slack in the step chain and tensioning the step chain with any tensioning force, the step chain tensioning device includes a tensioning device section, which has a hydraulic cylinder and pushes out the lower-part step chain wheel with a push-out force of the hydraulic cylinder on a side where the step chain is tensioned, and a pressure device section, which has a pressure piston to which a load by a weight is applied and causes the hydraulic cylinder of the tensioning device section to constantly give any tension to the step chain via a hydraulic oil due to the pressure of the pressure piston.
US07837018B2	Lock-up damper There is provided a lock-up damper that affords greater design latitude. A lock-up damper 7 comprises a pair of input rotors 71 that rotate integrally, an intermediate plate 73, a turbine hub 43, an output rotor 72, a plurality of first springs 74, and a plurality of second springs 75. The turbine hub 43 is disposed so as to be capable of rotating within a specific angle range with respect to the intermediate plate 73, and is able to come into contact in the rotational direction with the intermediate plate 73. A pair of the output rotors 72 are disposed to the inside in the radial direction of the pair of input rotors 71, and are fixed to the turbine hub 43.
US07837013B2	Image monitoring device for elevator with image recording An image monitoring apparatus for an elevator includes an image recording section configured to record a sequence of images of an interior of a car photographed by a camera, with a delay between the recording of successive images in the sequence. The apparatus also includes a detecting section configured to detect, based on an image in the sequence of images of the interior of the car, a violent behavior of a passenger in the car, and a display unit arranged in the interior of the car and configured to display the sequence of images of the interior of the car when the violent behavior of the passenger in the car is detected. The image recording section is further configured to reduce the delay between the recording of the successive images in the sequence of images when the violent behavior of the passenger in the car is detected.
US07837009B2	Nonwoven material for acoustic insulation, and process for manufacture An improved acoustically and thermally insulating fire-retardant composite material suitable for use in structures such as buildings, appliances, and the interior passenger compartments and exterior components of automotive vehicles is provided. The material is comprised of at least one airlaid fibrous layer of controlled density and composition and incorporating suitable binding agents and additives as needed to meet expectations for noise abatement, fire-retardancy, and mildew resistance. Separately, an airlaid structure which provides a reduced, controlled airflow therethrough useful for acoustic insulation is provided, and which includes a woven or nonwoven scrim. A process for the production of the fire retardant nonwoven material is also provided.
US07837008B1	Passive acoustic barrier A capsule contains fluid and a solid inertial mass that is free to move within the capsule. The capsule is embedded in a foam panel. A plurality of such foam panels are attached to the internal wall of a launch vehicle fairing. This device augments acoustic energy dissipation with damping the resonant frequency of the fairing to reduce the amount of energy that is transmitted into the acoustic volume contained within the wall. Incorporating a plurality of capsules respectively tuned to many frequencies provides broadband structural attenuation. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, and is intended to allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
US07837006B1	Enhanced spectrum acoustic energy projection system The sound generating and transmitting apparatus is based on a radiator including at least a first, and possibly two or more, shaped reflecting surface(s) having a forward radiant axis. Each of the shaped reflecting surfaces defines sets of equivalent acoustic input locations, with each set being a ring of non-zero circumference centered on the forward radiant axis. The sound source is a distributed, functionally continuous sound source adapted to exploit this feature. In its preferred form the sound source is a sort of closed line array of loudspeakers providing a torodial shaped acoustic source to direct at the hyperbolic cone, the transducers being disposed in a circle with all of the loudspeakers oriented inwardly toward or outwardly from the forward radiant axis.
US07837005B2	Mushroom-shaped push-in foam eartip for use with high-fidelity insert earphones Certain embodiments of the invention may be found in a push-in eartip assembly. The push-in eartip assembly may include a mushroom-shaped foam tip. The push-in eartip assembly may also include a hollow tube extending through the center of the mushroom-shaped foam tip. An inner diameter of the hollow tube may be constant and an outer diameter of the hollow tube may be tapered. In certain embodiments, the push-in eartip assembly may further include an adhesive for bonding the mushroom-shaped foam tip to an outer surface of the hollow tube. In certain embodiments, the hollow tube may extend through a center hole in the mushroom-shaped foam tip that extends from the top to the base of the mushroom-shaped foam tip.
US07837004B2	Steering assisting system for vehicle A steering assisting system has a variable transfer ratio steering apparatus and an electric power steering apparatus. The variable transfer ratio steering apparatus has an electric motor for a rotation transfer ratio varying operation. When a predetermined failure occurs in the electric power steering apparatus, the motor is driven to assist the steering operation of the steering wheel. Therefore, without providing the electric power steering apparatus in two sets, the power-assisting torque generation can be continued even when the electric power steering apparatus fails to generate the power-assisting torque.
US07836997B2	Passenger's weight measurement device for vehicle seat and attachment structure of load sensor A lower rail is fixed to a vehicle floor, and an upper rail 4 is movable in a rear and front direction with respect to the lower rail. A load sensor is fixed to an upper surface of the upper rail 4. A rectangular frame is attached onto the load sensor, a rod of the load sensor sequentially penetrates a web of the rectangular frame and a spring holder upward, and a coil spring 44 is wound around the rod. A nut is screwed to the rod, and the nut tightens a bottom of a cup portion of the spring holder. The coil spring 44 is sandwiched between a flange of the spring holder and the web and is compressed by tightening the nut.
US07836994B2	Seat belt retractor and seat belt apparatus The disclosed seat belt retractor and seat belt apparatus may comprise: an electric motor; a spool that is capable of winding and unwinding a seat belt for occupant restraint in association with the driving of the electric motor; and a controller for controlling the electric motor. A starting condition can be defined by the state of the seat belt relative to a vehicle occupant and the state of a vehicle door corresponding to the seat belt and, in cases where a starting condition is satisfied, the controller can be configured to control the electric motor to rotate in the belt winding direction such that the motor output of the electric motor is varied according to a satisfaction pattern of the starting condition.
US07836978B2	Cutting elements for casing component drill out and subterranean drilling, earth boring drag bits and tools including same and methods of use A drill bit or milling tool includes a bit body on which a plurality of cutting elements are disposed. At least some of the plurality of cutting elements include a diamond table and a superabrasive material non-reactive with iron-based materials disposed over at least a portion of an exterior surface of the diamond table. The diamond table is suitable for drilling through a subterranean formation and the non-reactive superabrasive material is suitable for drilling through a casing or casing-associated component comprising an iron-based material and disposed within the subterranean formation. The diamond table may comprise a PDC and the non-reactive superabrasive material may comprise cubic boron nitride.
US07836972B2	Mobile soil sampling device with vacuum collector A mobile soil sampling device is mounted on the side of a vehicle such as an ATV or UTV and includes an upstanding frame member which is vertically movable with respect to the vehicle by means of a parallel arm linkage and actuator. A vertically disposed and rotatable auger is mounted on the frame member and is moved upwardly and downwardly with respect thereto through the use of a motor and pinion gear with the pinion gear engaging a gear rack on the frame member. The auger is rotated so as to dig into the ground to the desired depth with the soil sample being conveyed upwardly into a vacuum collection chamber with the soil sample being conveyed to a vacuum chamber mounted on the vehicle. A sample collection device is mounted beneath the vacuum chamber for receiving the desired soil samples. An auger flute cleaning apparatus is mounted on the device to remove soil from the flutes of the auger as the auger is raised from a soil penetration position. The soil removed from the auger by the flute cleaning apparatus drops downwardly into the collection chamber.
US07836963B2	Compact self contained removable firefighting unit A system which is sufficiently compact and portable to be moved via skid support platform to a multi-wheel diesel-powered host containing active pump and roll capability with front and rear active hydraulics, such as a Bobcat Toolcat Turbo 5600. The system contains a water tank, generally 150 gallons, as well as built in foam tank. The system is wholly powered by the hydraulic system of the host vehicle powering a hydraulic motor on the system. The system hydraulic motor turns a serpentine belt at sufficient RPM's to power a water pump, air compressor and the compressed air foam system (CAFS) module. Using solely the power provided by the hydraulic motor, water is drawn from the tank, either used alone or mixed with foam at the percentage inputted by the user. Compressed air is added and the air alone, water alone or water/foam mixture is routed via adjustable valve to either the 1 inch firefighters hose or the rigid waterway ending in an adjustable, movable nozzle attached to the cab roof of the host.
US07836961B2	Integrated hydraulic setting and hydrostatic setting mechanism A tool includes an integrated hydraulic setting and hydrostatic setting mechanism that has a first part responsive to hydraulic pressure applied through a conduit, and a second part responsive to hydrostatic pressure. An activatable element can be activated by the integrated hydraulic setting and hydrostatic setting mechanism.
US07836960B2	Method for running a continuous communication line through a packer Techniques are provided for sealing a communication line within a device positioned in a wellbore. The communication line may be continuous and extends through a pass-through arranged generally longitudinally through the device. Swellable sealing material is positioned about and/or over the communication line which is placed in the pass-through of the device to form and maintain a secure seal once the device is submerged in a fluid that causes the swellable sealing material to expand.
US07836959B2	Providing a sensor array To assemble a sensor array having plural sections, the sections of the sensor array are sealably attached, where the sections include sensors and cable segments. An inert gas is flowed through at least one inner fluid path inside the sensor array when the sections of the sensor array are being sealably attached.
US07836957B2	In situ conversion of subsurface hydrocarbon deposits to synthesis gas A method for producing synthesis gas from underground hydrocarbon deposits is described. Oxygen and water are reacted with the hydrocarbon deposit under conditions conducive to the production of carbon monoxide and hydrogen. The method is applicable to oil reservoirs from which conventional production means are unable to recover additional oil practically, to viscous oil deposits from which production is limited, and to shale oil deposits.
US07836953B2	Carbonaceous extenders for flexible cement A flexible cement stable at high temperatures contains an extender that is a finely ground bituminous coal and/or a finely ground coke prepared from coal and/or liquid hydrocarbons. Preferred cokes are made from bituminous coals and from petroleum, heavy oil, and oil from tar sands, oil shales or oil sands. The coke is present in an amount up to 100 percent by weight of cement and the particle size is preferably from 1 to 1000 microns. The coke is also effective as an extender, and the slurries and set cements have low specific gravity.
US07836948B2	Flow hydraulic amplification for a pulsing, fracturing, and drilling (PFD) device A device and method and/or system for generating pulses to improve drilling rates, the ability to drill straighter and farther by increasing fracturing or injection efficiencies in a geological formation that may contain desirable hydrocarbons. This system can be used in other types of drilling or fracturing operations, whether to unclog arteries or to open formations for underground storage in conjunction with pulsing/fracturing and create large pulses downhole for seismic purposes. The system and method comprises several pulse generating devices longitudinally and axially positioned within upper, middle, lower, and outer annular drill collar flow channels or packer isolation mechanisms such that the PFD medium flows through the various annular drill collar flow channels and the PFD medium is guided into one or more sets of selectively reversible flow connecting channels, wherein the connecting channels are connected to guide pole channel allowing for controlling pulsing within the geological formation.
US07836946B2	Rotating control head radial seal protection and leak detection systems A system and method for reducing wear to radial seals in a rotating control device. The seals may be cooled by a thermal transfer fluid circulating through a passageway making more than one pass. Also, the differential pressure between multiple seals may be regulated and lowered, thereby increasing seal life.
US07836943B2	Normal-flow heat exchanger A heat exchanger includes a heat transfer surface to transfer heat to or from a working fluid, a manifold region with a plurality of internal walls defining a plurality of inlet and outlet passages, and a heat transfer region disposed between the manifold region and the heat transfer surface.The internal walls are substantially normal to the heat transfer surface for directing working fluid in a normal direction, and include a plurality of alternating inflow and outflow portions in fluid communication with corresponding inlet passages and outlet passages. Adjacent inflow and outflow portions are in fluid communication with each other.A heat transfer structure is disposed in each of the plurality of inflow portions and extend between the internal walls of the inflow portion, the heat transfer structure being in thermal communication with the heat transfer surface to transfer heat between the working fluid and the heat transfer surface.
US07836941B2	Mitigation of in-tube fouling in heat exchangers using controlled mechanical vibration Fouling of heat exchange surfaces is mitigated by a process in which a mechanical force is applied to a fixed heat exchanger to excite a vibration in the heat exchange surface and produce shear waves in the fluid adjacent the heat exchange surface. The mechanical force is applied by a dynamic actuator coupled to a controller to produce vibration at a controlled frequency and amplitude output that minimizes adverse effects to the heat exchange structure. The dynamic actuator may be coupled to the heat exchanger in place and operated while the heat exchanger is on line.
US07836940B2	Microchannel cooling device for small heat sources According to the invention, an apparatus for transferring heat with a target is disclosed. The apparatus may include a body which defines a surface, inlet port, inlet manifold passages, heat transfer passages, outlet manifold passages, and outlet port. The surface may couple the target with the body. The inlet port may be configured to receive and direct a fluid into inlet manifold passages. The inlet manifold passages may be configured to receive and direct the fluid to the heat transfer passages. The heat transfer passages may be configured to receive and direct the fluid in a direction substantially parallel to the surface and substantially perpendicular the input manifold passages. The outlet manifold passages may be configured to receive and direct the fluid to an outlet port. The outlet port may be configured to receive and output the fluid.
US07836938B2	Insert with tabs and damped products and methods of making the same One embodiment includes an insert including a body portion; a plurality of tabs extending from the body portion, wherein the tabs are tapered; and wherein the insert is constructed and arranged to provide damping.
US07836932B2	Taping head Taping heads having an applying arm connected to a buffing arm are described. The taping heads include at least one buffing cam and buffing cam guide are described. Taping heads having two buffing cams and two buffing cam guides are also described.
US07836924B2	Methods for enhancing hardness and dimensional stability of a wood element and wood product having enhanced hardness The present disclosure includes methods for enhancing hardness and dimensional stability of a wood element. In one embodiment, the method includes placing the wood element in a compression assembly set to a compression temperature between about 365° F. and about 410° F., heating and compressing the wood element without exceeding the species' threshold pressure value to produce a compressed wood product, heating the compressed wood product to a post-compression temperature between about 275° F. and about 350° F., and holding the compressed wood product at the post-compression temperature for about 30 to about 48 hours. The disclosure also includes a wood product having enhanced hardness.
US07836923B2	Ring slicer with easily removable knife and knife assembly A ring slicer with easily removable knife and knife assembly. According to one aspect of the invention, a ring assembly comprises two end plates for rotation about an axis of rotation. Each of the knife assemblies comprises an elongate knife having a cutting edge extending along an elongate axis, a base, and a clamp for clamping the knife to the base. The knife assemblies are adapted for installation between the end plates such that the shoulder portions of at least two shoulder bolts extend through one of the end plates into the base.
US07836921B2	Powder filling apparatus, powder filling method and process cartridge A powder filling apparatus and a powder filling method which enable powder to be densely filled in a short period of time is to be provided. This is a powder filling apparatus having a pressure hopper wherein the pressure hopper has a discharger for discharging powder and a gas inlet positioned above at least the surface of a powder layer formed by the powder in the pressure hopper; the powder layer is so formed as to blockade the discharger in the pressure hopper; in the powder filling apparatus, the inside of the pressure hopper is pressurized by leading in gas through the gas inlet in a state in which the discharger is closed, and the powder layer so formed as to blockade the discharger is discharged by opening the discharger after the pressurization thereby to utilize that pressure to load the powder into the filling container.
US07836917B1	Weaving connectors for three dimensional textile products Creating textile product by utilizing a three dimensional Cartesian coordinate system as the infrastructure for weaving simultaneous independent fabric layers in conjunction with weaving connectors between and among the layers.
US07836909B2	Rotatable wedge valve mechanism and method for manufacture A rotatable wedge valve mechanism has a valve body or valve cartridge defining a valve chamber and flow ports in fluid communication with the valve chamber. A valve seat is located within the valve chamber in registry with one of the flow ports. A non-rotatable core member having a convex external surface portion is supported within said valve chamber. A wedge member is mounted for rotation within the valve chamber and has a range of rotary motion between open and closed positions of said valve and a non-uniform wall thickness throughout said range of rotary motion. An actuator upon rotary movement achieves opening and closing rotation of said wedge member. A method is provided for machining concave and convex wedge member surfaces from selected center-points to achieve relative thicknesses of wall sections of the wedge member.
US07836907B2	Craft dome The quickly erectable dome shelter includes an extendible perimeter truss assembly with link members connected between adjacent legs, a central truss assembly of link members, and a roof framework, including pairs of curved upper and lower peak truss members, that is movable between a lowered, collapsed configuration and a raised, upwardly arching position. The shelter also includes telescoping peak pole members coupled to the central truss assembly of link members and the roof framework, and may also include telescoping peak truss brace members connected between a peak truss member and a link member of the perimeter assembly of link members.
US07836904B1	Walking cane apparatus The walking cane apparatus securely carries a portable device within or without a case. Any appropriate portable device may be transported, including but not limited to such items as a cell phone, a blood pressure monitor, a media player, and a blood sugar monitor, to name but a few. The device is removably carried so that changing of devices and instant removal are easily accomplished. Devices are disposed in an easily accessible position on the apparatus staff, proximal to the handle. By positioning the carry of portable devices strategically, apparatus use in assisting an individual's mobility is not encumbered. The cane apparatus also carries a portable device attractively.
US07836903B2	Dual folded umbrella A beach umbrella with improved sturdiness, durability and ability to keep the shading size maximized, but weight of the structure to the minimum is disclosed. The umbrella may include a poll member, an upper ring member at substantially the top of the poll member, a slider member which is movable along the poll member, a interior rod frame stretching member to pivot with respect to the upper ring member, a support rod frame member to pivot with respect to the slider member and a transfer rod frame member to pivot with respect to the support rod frame member.
US07836902B2	Sunshade having base A sunshade includes a coupling seat mounted to a top face of a base. A gear is rotatably received in the coupling seat and includes a plurality of positioning grooves spaced in a circumferential direction. A supporting rod for supporting a canopy is fixed to the gear. An operative member includes an end pivotably coupled to the coupling seat. A pawl extends from the end of the operative member. The other end of the operative member is operable to move the operative member between a coupling position releasably engaged in one of the positioning grooves of the gear to fix the gear relative to the coupling seat and a release position disengaged from the positioning grooves with the supporting rod and the gear rotatable relative to the base about a vertical axis perpendicular to the circumferential direction, allowing adjustment of an angular position of the canopy relative to the base.
US07836901B2	Method and apparatus for wafer cleaning An apparatus for wet processing individual wafers comprising; a means for holding the wafer; a means for providing acoustic energy to a non-device side of the wafer; and a means for flowing a fluid onto a device side of the wafer.
US07836900B2	Substrate processing system, substrate processing method, recording medium and software A substrate processing system 1 comprises: a processing tank 3 for processing substrates W with a processing liquid; a drying unit 6 disposed above the processing tank 3; and a carrying mechanism 8 for carrying the substrates W between the processing tank 3 and the drying unit 6. A processing gas supply line 21 for supplying a processing gas into the drying unit 6 and inert gas supply lines 24 and 25 for supplying an inert gas into the drying unit 6 are connected to the drying unit 6. A first discharge line for discharging an atmosphere purged from the drying unit 6 and a second discharge line 27 for forcibly exhausting the drying unit 6 are connected to the drying unit 6.
US07836897B2	Cigarette having configured lighting end The lighting end or tip of the smoking article is configured in such a manner that the entire front or upstream face thereof does not lie in a plane that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the smoking article. For example, at least a portion of the front face of the smoking article lies in a plane (e.g., a generally flat plane) that is positioned about 40° to about 50° relative to the longitudinal axis of that smoking article. As such, the overall nature or character of the mainstream aerosol generated by a smoking article can be altered. This shape may include an ellipse, or may include a first section in a plane not perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and a second section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Alternatively, the face of the lighting end may have a shape such that its surface area is greater than the cross-sectional area of the smoking article.
US07836893B2	Method for stabilizing delivered laser energy Systems and methods provide for stabilizing the amount of laser energy delivered to a target from a laser device. Generally, delivered laser energy is measured over multiple laser pulses or over time in the case of a constant wave laser. A decrease is then calculated in the delivered energy, the decrease being caused by accumulation of one or more substances, such as ozone, along the laser beam delivery path due to passage of the laser beam along the path. Using this calculated decrease, a laser device may be adjusted to compensate for the decrease in delivered energy due to the accumulated substance(s), thus stabilizing the amount of energy delivered to the target.
US07836891B2	Reversible orthosis This orthopedic orthosis, includes a textile article with first and second faces; the orthosis can be fitted in place such that either the first and second faces can equally well contact a patient limb. The orthosis has at least one fastening tab including an active face with fastening elements that may cooperate with first or second securing means arranged respectively on the first the second faces of the textile article, and an inactive face opposite the active face, said fastening tab being fixed non-removably via its inactive face on a zone contiguous to an edge of the textile article, so as to be able to pivot about an axis substantially parallel to this edge, between a first position, in which the active face catches by contact on the first securing means, and a second position, in which the active face catches by contact on the second securing means.
US07836890B2	Systems for immobilization of a patient for diagnosis and treatment of breast tissue A breast-board system, components and methods of use therefore. A generally U-shaped wrist support with a flattened bottom and rounded post like tops that may be used as either a cupping-support or as a grasping-post is mounted on a post atop a tiltable breast-board. A second support having a generally U-shaped cross section mounted on a supporting framework extends from a base, which is rotatably mounted to the tiltable breast-board near the edge thereof. The base includes a portion extending over the edge of the breast-board, and, a slidable locking mechanism on the bottom surface, which may be retracted to slide the mechanism out of a recess located on the breast-board. The support may then be rotated to a desired position and the slidable locking mechanism actuated to engage with a desired recess on the breast-board.
US07836886B2	Breathing mask and regulator for aircraft The auxiliary breathing flow channel apparatus for an oxygen mask for pilots and crew of an airplane includes a flow control device with closed and open positions to regulate flow through an auxiliary channel. A pressure sensor such as an aneroid capsule automatically closes the auxiliary channel upon a decrease in cabin pressure. A handle also allows a user to manually move the flow regulating means to a closed position.
US07836883B2	Methods for treating rhinitis and conjunctivitis Apparatus, methods, and kits for treating symptoms associated with common ailments, such as headaches, rhinitis, asthma, epilepsy, nervous disorders and the like, are provided. The apparatus comprises dispensers for carbon dioxide and other therapeutic gases. The methods comprise delivering small volumes of these gases to patients in a manner where the gas infuses into a body region in order to bathe the mucous membranes therein. It has been found that even very short exposure of patients to small volumes and high concentrations of such gases can provide significant relief from symptoms.
US07836882B1	Electronic anesthesia delivery apparatus An electronic anesthesia delivery apparatus having a chassis including a first anesthetic agent chamber and a second anesthetic agent chamber, each of the first and second chambers including an anesthetic agent therein. At least one electronically controlled valve is in fluid communication with each of the first agent chamber and the second agent chamber and an oxygen source. The oxygen source is in fluid communication with each of the at least one electronically controlled valves. A touchscreen graphic display having controls corresponding to each of the at least one electronically controlled valves for controlling flow rate and concentration of anesthesia.
US07836879B2	Tracker drive system and solar energy collection system A tracker drive system is provided for rotatably driving one or more objects, for example solar panels or other equipment. The system comprises a torque element mounted for rotation about a generally horizontal axis, wherein the torque element can support one or more objects for rotation therewith about the generally horizontal axis; a lever arm connected with the torque element, the lever arm being movable to rotate the torque element; a movable drive member that is drivable by a drive mechanism; and a dynamic coupler coupling the drive member with the lever arm such that the lever arm is drivable by the drive member to rotate the torque element.
US07836876B2	Device for transporting and storing cooked food and one-course meals An apparatus for transporting and storing cooked food and one-course meals includes a box-shaped, upright container with wheels and at least one pivoting front door. The container can be closed by the front door in an air-tight manner. The container has at least one air valve toward the outside that can be closed and opened, in addition to a device for measuring and storing and displaying the temperature and pressure inside the closed container, so that temperature and pressure can be read from outside of the container. Data can be read by a personal computer and presented in the form of diagrams, as a function of time, over a period of at least 14 days. The cooked food is, initially, cooled at a temperature of between 2° C. and 4° C., and is then exposed to a vacuum for enabling the cooked food to be kept fresh for up to 14 days.
US07836875B2	Speed cooking oven with gas flow control A speed cooking oven is disclosed comprising a cooking cavity, a controller, thermal heating source, blower assembly, air directing means and a vent assembly. Hot air is circulated by the blower motor assembly into the oven cavity where the hot air is directed in a manner wherein a conflicting, colliding turbulent gas flow is directed at a food product providing for the rapid cooking of food products.
US07836874B2	Multi rack speed cooking oven A speed cooking oven is disclosed comprising a cooking cavity, a controller, thermal heating source, blower assembly, air directing means and a vent assembly. Hot air is circulated by the blower motor assembly into the oven cavity where the hot air is directed in a manner wherein a conflicting, colliding turbulent gas flow is directed at a food product providing for the rapid cooking of food products.
US07836873B2	Bolt with reduced impact to incoming projectile An improved bolt construction for use in a paintball marker assembly is provided. The improved bolt assembly is generally formed to include a cut-out in the top surface thereof along its leading edge. The cut-out has a size and shape that functions in an manner that prevents the bolt from clipping or otherwise damaging a second incoming paintball projectile as the bolt reciprocates forward to ready a first paintball that is already loaded into the breech in preparation for launch. As the bolt is moved forward to push the first paintball into a position that is ready for launch, the leading edge of the cutout passes beneath the second paintball such that the top surface of the cutout impacts the bottom of the second paintball to push the second paintball upwardly as it advances, thereby clearing it from the breech and preventing the bolt from clipping the second paintball.
US07836872B2	Pneumatic toy gun A pneumatic toy gun with a hammer assembly disposed inside a barrel is provided. The hammer assembly includes a first hammer and a second hammer, wherein the first hammer is disposed in front of the second hammer and the second hammer includes a notch. A first elastic element pushes the rear end of the first hammer and a second elastic element pushes the rear end of the second hammer. A first tackling block is disposed below the hammer assembly and rotatable around the pivot. The rear end of the first tackling block is stuck into the notch of the second hammer. A second tackling block is disposed adjacent to the first tackling block and includes a trough allowing the pivot to be disposed in. The rear end of the second tackling block is stuck into the notch of the second hammer. A third elastic element pushes the underneath of the rear half portion of the first tackling block. A fourth elastic element pushes the underneath of the rear half portion of the second tackling block. A rotor is disposed in front of the first tackling block. A switch includes a hook and a flange. The switch can be changed between a mode of repeater and a mode of single-shoot.
US07836866B2	Method for controlling cylinder deactivation A method of controlling a cylinder deactivation system is disclosed. Information from one or more sensors is received by a control unit. The control unit compares the current values of a parameter with one or more prohibited ranges in order to determine if cylinder deactivation should be prohibited. The one or more prohibited ranges are discrete ranges, each with a lower limit and an upper limit.
US07836857B2	Hydraulic circuit, particularly for camshaft adjusters, and corresponding control element The invention relates to a valve and suitable hydraulic circuit, especially for camshaft adjusters of an internal combustion engine. The hydraulic circuit comprises a number of check valves or two-way valves operating as check valves, in order to provide a rapid camshaft adjuster with a high regulating quality.
US07836853B2	Aquarium bottom surface substrate The present invention relates to a novel aquarium bottom surface substrate consisting of a biocompatible polymeric material with a granular aquarium substrate embedded into the polymer. In an embodiment of the invention there is also a means for attaching aquarium decorations to the aquarium bottom surface substrate to keep them firmly in position during use of the aquarium.
US07836851B2	Formula and method for treating water in fish tanks A formula and method for treating water used to hold captive fish in tanks includes isoeugenol, sodium chloride, potassium chloride and soluble dextrose. Also included are an ammonia remover, a chlorine remover, a bacterial and fungal spore remover, an anti-columnaris and saprolegnia agent, a disinfectant, a slime-coating protecting agent, a chelating agent and a surface foam remover.
US07836846B2	Paint dosage device and system An insulation cover for a high voltage paint dosing apparatus, the apparatus comprising a docking head arranged to receive at least one dosing cylinder filled with paint for dosing to an applicator or gun. The docking head is arranged substantially-surrounded by the insulation cover and whereby the external surface of the insulation cover is partly covered by a conductive or non-insulating layer. A system comprising the paint dosing apparatus with the insulation cover is also described.
US07836844B2	Method for protecting against corrosion and scale deposit and for restoring tubes of heat-exchanging equipment and device for carrying out said method The inventive method for protecting from corrosion and scale deposit and restoring tubes of heat-exchanging equipment consists in applying a polymeric coating on the internal surface of tubes by gradually and rotationally moving an excessive volume of polymeric material therealong and in hardening said material. A polymeric compound having an at-rest viscosity ranging from 1000 to 1200 poises and a thixotropic viscosity reduction during the displacement thereof is used as a polymeric material. The inventive device for carrying out said method comprises a loading chamber (2), a connecting washer (12), a unit for progressively displacing the polymeric material provided with spaced rigid washers (4,5,6) fixed to a metallic rod (7), an elastic screw (8) having a conical shape whereby the conicity thereof ranges from 5 to 10° on the side which is opposite in relation to the connecting washer. Said elastic screw is arranged in such a way that it is enable to perform the gradual rotation, the rotation displacement being performed at a linear speed of 0.4-1.0 m/sec and the gradual displacement being performed at a speed of 1-0.49 m/sec.
US07836842B2	Coating apparatus Provided is a coating apparatus, which has satisfactory operability at a time of installing or exchanging a spray nozzle, is not complicated in structure, and is advantageous in terms of layout. A rotary drum (2) is rotated around an axis (A) inclined with respect to a horizontal line, and has an opening (5) at one end on an inclination upper side. A spray nozzle unit (10) is removably attached to a swing arm (34), and the swing arm (34) can swing with respect to a swing axis (34c). Owing to the swing operation of the swing arm (34), the swing nozzle unit (10) can be moved between the inside and the outside of the rotary drum (2).
US07836839B2	Sewn glove and method of manufacturing the same A method of manufacturing a sewn glove having no seam at a crotch portion thereof by sewing a first sheath member cut for a palm portion of the sewn glove with a second sheath member cut for a back portion of the sewn glove includes: cutting a sheath member to have a crotch pre-form section; modifying the crotch pre-form section of the sheath member into a three-dimensional crotch form section having a crotch form face and a cut line; and sewing the first sheath member, which is cut from the sheath member having the three-dimensional crotch form section to include the three-dimensional crotch form section, with the second sheath member cut for the back portion of the sewn glove.
US07836834B2	Worktable comprising a multidirectional coupling The worktable comprises a work platform and a multidirectional coupling for operatively attaching the work platform to an external structure. The multidirectional coupling comprises a first linear assembly comprising a first translation member and a second translation member engaging the first translation member and linearly movable relative to and along the first translation member between first and second limit positions and according to a first translation axis. The multidirectional coupling also includes a second linear assembly comprising a third translation member and a fourth translation member engaging the third translation member and linearly movable relative to and along the third translation member between third and fourth limit positions and according to a second translation axis that is transversal to the first translation axis. The multidirectional coupling further includes a swivel assembly comprising a first swivel member and a second swivel member engaging the first swivel member and rotatable relative to the first swivel member about a swiveling axis that is transversal to both the first and the second translation axes. The work platform is allowed to be displaced along the first and second translation axes and rotated about the swiveling axis at any position of the work platform when the multidirectional coupling operatively attaches the work platform to the external structure.
US07836829B2	Rail-bound vehicle for an amusement park ride The invention relates to a rail-bound vehicle for an amusement park ride. The vehicle has an upper part 10 with vehicle seats 12, as well as a carriage 20 whose running wheels 22 and lateral wheels 23 run on rail-tubes, as do its lift-off rollers 24. The upper part 10 can rotate freely around a vertical axis 16 relative to the carriage 20. A brake disk 14′ made of a metallic material is provided on the underside of the upper part 10. Permanent magnets 31 connected to the rail system are assigned to this brake disk 14′. The brake disk 14, upon passing these permanent magnets 31, enters the latter's magnet field, with the result that the upper part 10 of the vehicle is braked and set into rotational motion due to the continued linear movement of the carriage 20.
US07836828B2	Shotgun cartridge for shotgun shooting and method in shotgun shooting The invention relates to a shotgun cartridge for shotgun shooting. The shotgun cartridge includes a case and a case head in it, in the vicinity of a primer arranged in which, a propelling charge is arranged. Inside the case is a shot wad with shot pellets arranged inside it, which are arranged on the opposite side of the propelling charge to the primer, and between the propelling charge and the shot pellets is a gas wad. In addition, the shotgun cartridge includes a indicator piece, arranged inside the shot wad, on the shot pellets side of the gas wad, in which there is a space for a indicator agent. The indicator piece is arranged to be ejected from the case when the shotgun cartridge is fired by igniting the propelling charge with the primer. The outer diameter of the indicator piece essentially corresponds to the inner diameter of the shot wad, and the indicator piece is arranged against the end wall of the shot wad with the shot pellets lying freely against the indicator piece. In addition, the indicator agent is a fine-particle incombustible substance, which is arranged loosely in the space.
US07836827B2	Method of operating a supercavitating projectile based on time constraints A method for operating a thrust-generating supercavitating projectile involves launching the projectile in water from rest at the maximum available thrust, maintaining that thrust until supercavitating movement begins, and then reducing thrust to a near-minimum amount that is required to maintain supercavitating movement of the projectile.
US07836826B2	Dampening water regulating scale, and dampening water control method A dampening water regulating scale P includes first detecting patches PY1, PM1, PC1 and PK1, and second detecting patches PY2, PM2, PC2 and PK2. The first detecting patches PY1, PM1, PC1 and PK1 are formed of line patches having the number of lines at 400 lines per inch and a duty ratio at 67%. The second detecting patches PY2, PM2, PC2 and PK2 are formed of dot patches having the number of lines at 150 and a dot percentage at 80%.
US07836819B2	Beverage extraction assembly for extracting a beverage from a particulate substance contained in a cartridge A cartridge for extracting a beverage from a particulate substance contained therein by means of water under pressure, the cartridge comprising: a main body comprising a cup portion and a lid portion, the cup portion comprising a base, a sidewall and a rim opposed to the base, the lid portion being fixedly attached to the rim of the cup portion so as to define an internal volume of the cartridge, the internal volume of the cartridge housing the particulate substance comprised within filtering means for retaining the particulate substance and for percolating fluid substances therethrough, the lid portion comprising a lid port defining a first passage for percolation fluid substances, the base of the cup portion comprising a cup port defining a second passage for percolation fluid substances, wherein the base comprises a plurality of ridges directly formed thereon and protruding towards the internal volume of the cartridge, so as to support the filtering means and the particulate substance and to define a fine canalization between the filtering means and the cup port.
US07836815B2	Lubricant-cooled and wristpin lubricating piston A piston for an internal combustion engine, the engine having a connecting rod coupled to a wristpin, the wristpin being connected to the piston for pivotal movement about an axis, the piston comprising: a top portion and a generally cylindrically-shaped wall portion extending from the top portion, the top and wall portions defining a skirt cavity, the top portion having thereon a downwardly extending projection with a downwardly facing bearing surface for the wristpin, the bearing surface extending in the direction of the axis and defining a portion of a cylinder centered on the axis, and the projection having opposite sides facing the skirt cavity; at least one lubricant passage extending through the projection from one of the opposite sides and over the bearing surface to the other of the opposite sides; and a lubricant opening communicating between the lubricant passage and the bearing surface to supply lubricant to the bearing surface and to the wristpin.
US07836813B2	Self-locking braking device for rotary shafts, and relevant applications A self-locking braking device, for rotary shafts connectable to external loads, comprises braking means which can be operated to lock, respectively to release the rotation of a drive shaft; the braking means consist of a rigid braking disk, rotating with the drive shaft, and slidingly supported in an axial direction between two clutch members, one of which is secured to a support body for the drive shaft, while the other clutch member is supported by a plate which is elastically biased against the braking disk and operatively connected to a pneumatic cylinder for releasing the brake.
US07836806B2	Positive-angled light beam rotary saw cut alignment device A cut alignment device for a rotary saw having a motor which spins a cutting unit which includes a rotary shaft driven by the motor, a circular blade having a central aperture through which the shaft fits, and a structural housing. The cut alignment device includes the structural housing defining two or more internal compartments, a battery power source carried within the structural housing, and a beam light source, operatively connected to this power source, and also located within the structural housing. The light source projects a light beam from the cutting unit directed slightly away from the plane of the rotary cutting tool or saw blade such that it never intersects the plane of the blade, to assist the operator in cutting accurately.
US07836805B2	Cam follower plate A cam follower plate used in a product processing line such as a pizza making assembly line. The cam follower plate includes a panel of synthetic resin having side grooves to engage rails of the assembly line, a forward located slot surrounded by a wall, the slot having a predefined geometry such that the slot wall is engaged by a cam roller to impart motion to the panel, and a rearward located row of holes for receiving a pin carrying connector to facilitate the connection of the driven panel to other elements of the assembly line.
US07836804B2	Woodworking machines with overmolded arbors Power equipment with various safety systems is disclosed. Table saws with safety systems and/or blade retraction are disclosed. Over-molded arbors are disclosed, including arbors with prepreg over-molding. An electrically non-conductive material may be disposed to electrically insulate the arbor. The electrically non-conductive material may be made from fiber organized into a pattern.
US07836802B2	Centrifugal electric impact wrench Disclosed is a centrifugal impact wrench using an electric driving motor, which is rotated by electricity supplied from an electric power source, as a power source. The electric impact wrench includes: a sun gear 21 coupled to a rotation shaft 11 of the electric driving motor 10 and rotating; a plurality of planetary gears 22 including first gear 22a engaged with the sun gear 21 and rotating, and second gear 22b having a smaller diameter than the first gear 22a; an output gear 23 engaged with the second gear 22b of the planetary gear 22 and rotating; an inertia wheel 50 rotated by rotation force transmitted from the output gear 23; a spindle 70 rotatably connected to a front portion of the inertia wheel 50 and provided with a connector 71 at a side of the spindle 50; and a blow body 60 hitting the connector 71 when centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the inertia wheel 50 increases over a predetermined extent, and returning to an initial position by means of a return spring 67 when the centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the inertia wheel 50 is reduced below a predetermined extent.
US07836801B2	Screwdriver bit set with identification functions The present invention provides a screwdriver bit set with identification functions. Each bit body in the set has an insertion end, an actuating end and a neck portion. An aluminum alloy identification ring includes a trepan boring for assembly onto the neck portion of the bit body. The aluminum alloy identification ring also has an outer ring surface protruding from the neck portion of the bit body. An anodized protective film is formed on the surface of the aluminum alloy identification ring. The protective film presents bright color and a corrosion-resistant property, helping to prevent discoloring and provide durable identification effects with improved applicability.
US07836793B2	Container closure sound-outputting and disconnecting article and method An article for enabling disconnection of a closure from a container, and the output of sound thereupon. The article includes a closure capture enabling element, for enabling capture of the closure, and a handle, connected to the closure capture enabling element, for enabling movement of the closure capture enabling element for capture, disconnection, and removal of the closure thereby relative to the container. It also includes a sound outputting circuit, for enabling sound to be outputted upon capture and movement of the closure in a direction for enabling disconnection of the closure from the container, and a sound outputting actuation enabling element, for enabling actuation of the sound outputting element.
US07836791B2	Knob attached to distal end of lever A knob is attached to a distal end of a lever and has an approximately cylindrical knob body, a cap attached to a distal end of the knob body, and a metal-plated operating member attached to a side face of the knob body. The knob body has a pair of guiding protrusions that define a slit extending in an axial direction of the lever. The operating member includes a rib formed integrally therewith and a flange coupled to the rib approximately perpendicularly thereto. The flange is wider in width than the slit and engages the guiding protrusions due to insertion of the rib into the slit according to insertion of the operating member into the knob body in the axial direction.
US07836790B2	Tilt steering column assembly for a vehicle A tilt steering column assembly having a first housing defining at least one orifice disposed along a central axis and a second housing defining at least one hole disposed along the central axis is disclosed. A pin includes a body having a first end and a second end facing the first end to define a seam. A first tab extends outwardly from a segment of the first end and a second tab extends outwardly from a segment of the second end. The first tab abuts the second tab to define a portion of the seam with a remainder of the first and second ends being spaced from each other to define a gap and a remaining portion of the seam for providing a proper fit of the pin within the orifice and the hole by compensating for varying dimensions of at least one of the orifice and the hole.
US07836788B2	Articulated manipulator An articulated manipulation device for increasing work volume that includes six links and corresponding joints. A first link connects to a base for rotation about a rotational axis aligned with the axis of the first link. A diagonal joint connects the first and second links, the second and third links, the third and fourth links and the fifth and sixth links. A coaxial joint connects the fourth and fifth links. The joints and links are configured to permit parallel and perpendicular axial rotation according to the specific arrangement of the links and angles of rotational inclination. The articulated manipulator has a large work volume.
US07836787B2	Shift system for boat propulsion unit A shift system for a boat propulsion unit is provided comprising a remote control operation device having a remote control shift lever for shifting from a distance. A boat propulsion unit has a shift device for shifting and a shift actuator for actuating the shift device. A controller controls the actuation of the shift actuator according to the operation amount of the remote control shift lever, as the remote control shift lever is operated from a neutral position within a specified range of shift region. The controller controls the actuation amount of the shift actuator per unit operation amount of the remote control shift lever to be different in part of the shift region.
US07836784B2	Motor-operated valve diagnosing device To provide a motor-operated valve diagnosing device capable of making a highly accurate diagnosis at a low cost. In a motor-operated valve diagnosing device for diagnosing a motor-operated valve having a motor-operated valve having a valve element driving part for opening and closing a valve element, and a spring cartridge which expands and contracts in proportion to a reaction force exerted thereon from the valve element driving part, a spring compression mechanism or a worm displacement measuring means is configured to be attached to the valve element driving part via an adapter. With this configuration, the spring compression mechanism and so on can be easily attached to and removed from the valve element driving part. In addition, since the spring compression mechanism and so on can be attached to the valve element driving part without any alternation of the valve element driving part, the spring compression mechanism can be shared by two or more motor-operated valves, and reduction of expense for a diagnosis of a motor-operated valve and improvement in accuracy of diagnosis can be achieved.
US07836783B2	Force measuring device A device for measuring mechanical forces comprising a sensor adapted to measure difference of stresses in two orthogonal measuring directions. The device comprises at least one force receiving element adapted to receive the forces to be measured, and the sensor is adapted to measure the forces applied to the force receiving element. The device further comprises a converter of a tubular shape, adapted to transfer the forces from the force receiving element to the sensor and to convert the forces received by the receiving element into forces suitable for the sensor, the force receiving element comprises a flange extending outward in a radial direction from the converter, and the force receiving element and the sensor are mounted at a distance from each other along the longitudinal axis of the converter.
US07836778B2	Method of and apparatus for measuring the tension of a filter screen in a filter frame The inventions relates to an apparatus, in particular for a screen-printing machine, for measuring tension in a printing screen in a frame, characterized in that a holder for the frame (1) has holder bars (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d) each formed of a plurality of sections (3a1, 3a2, . . . , or 3b1, 3b.2, . . . , or 3c1, 3c2, . . . , 3d1, 3d2, . . . , ) each provided with a respective sensor (6) for measuring tension. The invention furthermore relates to a method, in particular for a screen-printing machine, for measuring tension in a screen in a screen frame, characterized in that a screen (2a) mounted in a frame (1) is mounted in a holder (3) having holder bars (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d) each formed by a plurality of sections (3a1, 3a2, . . . , or 3b1, 3b.2, . . . , or 3c1, 3c2, . . . , 3d1, 3d2, . . . ) each provided with a respective sensor (6) that measure forces between the respective section (3a1, 3a2, . . . , or 3b1, 3b.2, . . . , or 3c1, 3c2, . . . , 3d1, 3d2, . . . ) and the frame (1).
US07836775B2	Yarn tensiometer Tensiometer for measuring the force imparted by a yarn on a bending element which is secured in a fixation, having a unitary oscillation-damping element made of an intrinsically damping material like rubber or an elastomer, the unitary damping element including a base body secured to the bending element and at least one oscillation body which can oscillate, at least substantially in the direction of the deflection of the bending element, in relation to the base body and to the bending element, and further having an energy dissipation zone between the base body and the oscillation body.
US07836774B2	Strain detector having a column-shaped strain generator It is aimed to provide a strain detector having a fewer number of mounting parts and high operation efficiency and usability. The strain detector is provided with a cylindrical strain generator to be strained upon receiving a load, a resistor element which is arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the strain generator and whose resistance varies depending on the amount of strain, a signal processing circuit connected with the resistor element and screw portions arranged above and below the strain generator to sandwich the strain generator. The strain generator and the screw portions are integrated.
US07836772B2	Method and apparatus for tracking a rotating blade tip for blade vibration monitor measurements A method and apparatus for monitoring vibrations in a blade structure of a turbine including generating signals from a probe located adjacent to a radial outer edge of the blade structure to provide signals corresponding to vibrations at predetermined locations along the tips of the blades. A leading edge of a blade tip is detected during a blade tracking operation, and a known location along the length of the blade tips is monitored during a vibration measurement operation. The measurement operation may be performed simultaneously with the tracking operation to provide measurements as the axial location of the blades change during transitional modes of operation of the turbine.
US07836771B2	Method and system for an ultra low power dosimeter Certain embodiments of the invention may be found in an ultra low power dosimeter assembly. The ultra low power dosimeter assembly may include a low power voltage source and a table circuit. The table circuit may be adapted to convert an input voltage to a second voltage level. The second voltage level may correspond to noise dose. The ultra low power dosimeter assembly may also include a switch adapted to trigger a control circuit. The control circuit may provide progressive attenuation of an output signal as the second voltage level increases. In certain embodiments, the control circuit may also be adapted to send one or more warning signals to a user of the ultra low power dosimeter. The one or more warning signals may be sent when the control circuit determines the second voltage level has reached one or more pre-determined threshold voltage levels.
US07836766B2	Method of acquiring an ultrasound image The present invention relates to a method of acquiring an ultrasound image in an ultrasound imaging system having an array transducer, comprising: a) setting an image point at a predetermined depth on an ultrasound image acquired based on a reference speed of sound for a target object; b) setting a range of speed of sound with reference to the reference speed; c) setting a plurality of speeds of sound in a predetermined interval within the range of speed of sound; d) acquiring ultrasound images at each speed of sound; e) calculating an amplitude of an image point set at a predetermined depth of each ultrasound image; f) determining a real speed of sound in the target object based on the calculated amplitude; and g) acquiring an ultrasound image based on the determined real speed of sound in the target object.
US07836764B2	Electrical device with covering The invention relates to a device comprising a sensor chip and a structure housing the sensor chip. The structure is covered by a mold compound and is fabricated from a ceramic or a glass material.
US07836759B2	Fluid flow measuring device and method of manufacturing thereof In a borehole logging tool, the flow of conductive fluid into or out of a wellbore at the wellbore wall is detected and measured with a sensor loop proximate the borehole inner wall. The sensor loop includes a series of contiguous sensors that act as electromagnetic flowmeters and provide fluid measurements covering the entire circumference of the sensor loop. The sensor loop includes an elastic element that forces the sensor loop outward to maintain pressure along the sensor loop circumference against the interior borehole wall. The sensor loop is designed to lie at a non-perpendicular angle to the wellbore axis, and mechanical arms press the top and bottom of the loop against the borehole inner wall.
US07836758B2	Deterioration diagnosis system for an air-fuel ratio sensor A deterioration diagnosis system for an air fuel sensor mounted to an exhaust pipe of an internal combustion engine. The air fuel sensor determines a mixture ratio of air and fuel fed into the internal combustion engine. In the system, an inclination of an output signal of the air-fuel ratio sensor is calculated; variance of the inclination is calculated; deterioration of the air-fuel ratio sensor is determined based on the variance of the inclination.
US07836757B2	Phase feedback AFM and control method therefor A phase feedback AFM (atomic force microscope) and method for the phase feedback AFM. A cantilever is driven to oscillate at a constant frequency close to the resonance frequency of the cantilever by a driving signal. The distance between the probe and the sample is controlled such that the phase difference between the driving signal and a cantilever deflection signal indicating deflections of the cantilever is kept constant. The phase feedback AFM has an amplifier-controller for receiving the cantilever deflection signal, the output from an oscillator for driving the cantilever into oscillation, and a signal representing a reference amplitude of oscillation of the cantilever. The phase feedback AFM further includes a feedback circuit which receives the output from the amplifier-controller which controls the cantilever deflection signal to a preset amplitude.
US07836756B2	Fuel composition sensing systems and methods using EMF wave propagation A flex fuel sensor is deployed in conjunction with the fuel transfer line (e.g. around a plastic fuel line) or at the bottom/side of a fuel tank. An RF signal of a constant frequency may be generated across a resonant circuit, which comprises of an inductor and a PCB trace capacitor, capacitor plates, semi cylindrical capacitor plates, or the like. Electromagnetic radiation is propagated into the passing fuel in the transfer pipe. The conductivity and dielectric properties of the fuel change the capacitance of the trace capacitor/capacitor plates. These changes are proportional to ethanol/alcohol content of the fuel and are preferably detected by a microcontroller, or the like, and then transmitted to a flex fuel vehicle Engine Management System.
US07836753B2	Knock sensor A knock sensor includes a resin mold having a first cylindrical resin mold section that encloses a base, annular constituent parts and a pressing member of the knock sensor; and a connector section that protrudes from a side of the first mold section and is integrally injection-molded at one time with the first mold section; wherein an injection gate for resin mold is located on the first resin mold circumference excluding portions thereof opposing the connector section, and forms a predetermined angle (45° to 120°) with respect to the center line connecting the center of the connector section with that of a through-hole of the base.
US07836752B2	Magnetic gas sensor and methods using antiferromagnetic hematite nanoparticles A nanoscale antiferromagnetic gas sensing apparatus and methods of measuring gas using the apparatus are described. The use of the magnetic properties of an antiferromagnetic material as gas sensing parameters explores the concept of magnetic gas sensing. According to a preferred embodiment, a nanoscale magnetic hydrogen sensor apparatus is developed based on varying of the saturation magnetization and remanence of nanoscale antiferromagnetic hematite with hydrogen flow. For example, the saturation magnetization and remanence of nanoscale hematite has been shown to increase one to two orders of magnitude in the presence of flowing hydrogen gas at concentrations in the 1-10% range and at 575 K, indicating that a magnetic hydrogen sensor using hematite material may be practical and useful for detecting hydrogen in various environments such as those wherein production, storage, transportation, and/or vehicle use of hydrogen is being conducted.
US07836750B2	Gas detection system and method An example of a gas detection system includes a gas chromatograph oven, a gas detector, a sample gas moving device, and a flow detector. An example of a method for detecting gas includes flowing a sample gas from the oven, determining whether the flow rate equals or is less than a minimum, and determining whether the concentration of a first gas of the sample gas, such as a combustible gas, equals or exceeds a maximum. If either the flow rate or the concentration indicates an error condition or is out of bounds, an alarm response is initiated. The alarm response may include shutting off the flow of the first gas to the oven, and flowing a second gas, such as a safe gas, to the oven.
US07836747B2	Standard moisture correction for fiber testing A method for standardizing a reading taken on a fiber sample, including the steps of measuring a moisture content of the fiber sample, taking the reading on the fiber sample, and correcting the reading to a standardized reading that adjusts for a difference between the reading at the measured moisture content of the fiber sample and a standardized reading at about 7.5% moisture content.
US07836745B2	Method for cold forging high strength fastener with austenitic 300 series material The present invention pertains to a method for cold forging high strength fastener with austenitic 300 series material comprising the procedures of initially preparing a raw austenitic shaft and then proceeding through a cold forging method to reduce its diameter for thereafter generating a preliminary shank, which can undertake above ½ force more than the raw shaft; further passing through the following formations of the head, the drilling portion and threads in sequence to build an integral fastener. Thus, the entire cold forging facilitates to fabricate the fastener with high strength and hardness by lower manufacturing cost and with effective corrosion resistance, so as to firmly drill the fastener into objects and increase the screwing security.
US07836740B2	Axle straightening press The axle straightening press has a female jaw and a male jaw each with a rectangular shape, a mating surface, and a transverse half channel. The dowels of the male jaw fit into holes in the female jaw upon a diagonal line on the mating surface. Preferably, the press has two identical jaws, inverted, and closed upon each other. Each jaw has a generally rectangular shape with a mating surface, a dowel, a transverse half channel, and a hole. The half channel is less than one tenth the thickness of said jaw and has flared ends for shaping the head of an axle into a cone. A Cub Scout places an axle in the channel between the jaws and strikes the press with a hammer. Removing the axle from the press, the Cub Scout places a wheel on the axle, and installs the axle upon a model car.
US07836739B2	Rekeyable lock cylinder structure A rekeyable lock cylinder structure comprises a shell, a plug assembly and a plurality of pin groups. The shell has a hollow cylindrical portion and defines a central axis. The plug assembly is disposed within the hollow cylindrical portion of the shell and comprises a plug body and a sliding block. The plug body has a front section, a driving portion, a middle section connecting the front section and the driving portion, a coupling cavity recessed from the front section and the middle section and a plurality of lower pin holes formed in the middle section and communicating with the coupling cavity. The sliding block, which is disposed at the coupling cavity of the plug body and able to move parallel to the central axis of the shell, has a plurality of pin-sliding grooves and a keyhole communicating with the pin-sliding grooves. Each pin group at least comprises a lower pin that includes an upper locking piece, a lower locking piece able to engage with the upper locking piece and a resilient member disposed between the upper locking piece and the lower locking piece. The lower pin is moveably disposed within at least one lower pin hole of the plug body and at least one pin-sliding groove of the sliding block.
US07836736B2	Lock mechanism A lock mechanism to lock two parts relative to each other. The lock mechanism comprises a base plate (30) attachable to one said parts with a pivot pin (26) connected thereto, a keep (38) being defined in the pivot pin. A lock body (24) is also provided and this defines a channel (33) within which the pivot pin locates for rotation of the lock body relative to the pivot pin. A locking arrangement (36) is located within the lock body, and includes a movable bolt (37), which in extended and retracted positions engages with or disengages from the keep (38) to prevent or allow rotation of the lock body relative to the pivot pin. A latch plate (40) may be provided on the other part to cooperate with the lock body. This allows a wide variety of different parts to be secured relative to each other in such a way that they are securely held.
US07836735B2	Drawer lock set A drawer lock set includes a body with a tubular member and a block extends radially from an inner periphery of the tubular member. A cylinder and a core are received in the tubular member. The core includes a driving piece extending from a distal end thereof and is capable of driving a transmission member which is able to rotate a driving member. The driving member includes a protrusion which is slidably engaged with a groove defined in the dead bolt. The cylinder includes a first notch and a second notch in an outer periphery thereof and a 90-degree angular distance is defined between the first and second notches. The block is engaged with one of the first and second notches so as to set the position of the operational direction of the dead bolt with only one part replaced.
US07836722B2	Containers and packagings for regulating heat transfer A food container includes an upper wall, a lower wall, and a side wall extending between the upper wall and the lower wall. At least one of the upper wall, the lower wall, and the side wall includes a plurality of microcapsules containing a phase change material. The phase change material has a latent heat in the range of 40 J/g to 400 J/g and a transition temperature in the range of 0° C. to 100° C. The phase change material provides thermal regulation based on at least one of absorption and release of the latent heat at the transition temperature.
US07836721B2	Cooling system A cooling system (10) comprises a first (40) and a second (50) cold storage tank, a first refrigerator (41) cooling water in the first cold storage tank (40), a first thermal load (92) disposed in a first circulating passage (43) extending from the lower to the upper part of the first cold storage (40), a second thermal load (93) warmer than the first thermal load (92) disposed in a second circulating passage (44a) also extending from the lower to the upper part of the first cold storage tank, a second cold storage tank (50) disposed in the second circulating passage, a second refrigerator (51) cooling water fed from the upper part of the second cold storage (50), wherein a cooling output temperature of the second refrigerator (51) is set to be higher than that of the first refrigerator (41).
US07836720B2	Door for refrigerator having a fixing member for a water pipe Disclosed related to a door for a refrigerator may include an outer door forming the front exterior; a cap decoration formed at the upper and lower sides of the outer door; a water pipe drawn into the door through the cap decoration and through which water flows; and a fixing member on which a depression part fixing the water pipe is formed.
US07836717B2	Method and system of temperature-control for electronic component A method and a system of temperature-control for an electronic component are provided, in which a plurality of temperature sensors is disposed in each area of the electronic component. The temperature-control method includes obtaining a plurality of sensed temperature values; looking up a temperature-control table recording the relationship between a temperature-control threshold and a temperature-control operation set for each area; selecting the temperature-control operation corresponding to sensed temperature values greater than the temperature-control thresholds depending on the temperature-control table; and starting the temperature-control operation to make the sensed temperature values being lower than or equal to the temperature-control thresholds.
US07836715B2	Air conditioner control logic for compressor noise and torque management An air conditioner has a controller that controls the operation of a refrigerant circuit that has a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve or orifice tube, and an evaporator. The condenser receives a compressed refrigerant from the compressor and condenses the refrigerant to either a liquid phase or a saturated liquid-vapor phase. The condensed refrigerant is then passed through the expansion valve or orifice tube to expand the refrigerant and to delivery the refrigerant to the evaporator. When the compressor is first started, various sounds and vibrations are created that may be unpleasant to humans. Also, if the engine is cold, then the compressor may have liquid refrigerant that can increase the torque needed to start the compressor. The controller pulses the compressor between ON and OFF operating states to reduce or eliminate these sounds and/or manage the start up torque of the compressor.
US07836714B2	Thermal storage tank/base A fluid compression system includes a compressor that is operable to produce a flow of compressed fluid and a coolant compressor that is operable to produce a flow of coolant. A base includes at least one polymer wall that at least partially defines a reservoir space. The base supports the compressor and the coolant compressor. A first tube is at least partially positioned within the reservoir space and is in fluid communication with the compressor to receive the flow of compressed air and a second tube is at least partially positioned within the reservoir space and is in fluid communication with the coolant compressor to receive the flow of coolant.
US07836709B2	Refrigerator, monitoring system having refrigerator and control method thereof A refrigerator for monitoring the status of another space by means of a display device mounted to the refrigerator, a monitoring system having the refrigerator and a control method thereof. The refrigerator includes a body which is formed with a storage chamber, a door for opening and closing the storage chamber, and a display device which is mounted to a front side of the door, the display device having a receiving part for receiving a monitoring image signal from a predetermined outside signal supply source, an image signal processing part for processing the received monitoring image signal, a display part for displaying the monitoring image signal and a control part for controlling the image signal processing part so that the received monitoring image signal is displayed on the display part.
US07836708B2	Apparatus and method for identifying a filter assembly A water filter identification system for a refrigerator including a refrigeration compartment includes a manifold assembly positioned within the refrigeration compartment and operatively coupled to a water dispensing system, and a monitoring device positioned with respect to the manifold assembly. The system also includes a filter assembly including a filter housing removably mounted to the manifold assembly and at least one indicator coupled to the filter housing. The at least one indicator is in signal communication with the monitoring device for facilitating identification of the filter assembly.
US07836706B2	Thermal management system for evaporative spray cooling A thermal management system configured to maximize the potential of single and multiple atomizers to effectively cool microprocessors and other electronic devices. The thermal management system, which may be a heat spreader, provides surfaces that are disposed to increase the effectiveness of impinging coolant droplets, provide additional heat transfer area in some embodiments, and permit the efficient, customized and disparate thermal management of a recipient object of the thermal management.
US07836704B2	Compact thermal exchange unit of thermo-electric cooling mode using heat pipe The present invention relates to a thermal exchange device using heat pipes to effectively discharge heat from inside of an open-air communication system. The present invention provides a plurality of heat pipes directly inserted between the plates of the thermo-electric cooling unit for accommodating a plurality of fins thereon. According to the structure suggested by the invention, since the heat pipes can be placed laterally with the thermo-electric cooling unit, the size of the overall communication system can be reduced with the same discharge capability.
US07836695B2	Solar energy system A solar energy system includes a plurality of concentrating dishes and a plurality of heated air collectors. Each collector receives directed rays of sunlight from one of the concentrating dishes. A heated air distribution assembly collects air heated in the collectors. A thermal storage assembly is operably connected to the heated air distribution assembly and has a plurality of thermal storage elements. A steam generator is operably connected to the heated air distribution assembly and the thermal storage assembly. A steam turbine is operably connected to the steam generator.
US07836694B2	Air bearing turbo cooling air flow regulating device A cooling air flow regulating device for controlling the flow of cooling air to an air bearing may comprise a housing with a piston and a spring disposed within. When the pressure of the cooling air is high, the piston is forced out of the path of the cooling air and into an open position. As the pressure of the cooling air decreases, the spring forces the piston back into the path of the cooling air, effectively blocking the flow of cooling air to the air bearing. The cooling air flow regulating device of the present invention may be useful for controlling the cooling of air bearings in turbochargers of turbocharged engine, where at low engine speed, cooling air is not required for air bearings. Methods for using the cooling air flow regulating device of the present invention are also provided.
US07836691B2	Heat engine A high-temperature side power piston (37) and a low-temperature side power piston (39), respectively demarcating a high-temperature space (45) and a low-temperature space (47), brings about volumetric changes of working gases in each of the high-temperature space (45) and the low-temperature space (47). At the same time, the power pistons are configured to transmit motive energy on receipt of pressure changes of working gases. A displacer (203) movably housed in a displacer cylinder (201) transfers the working gases between the high-temperature space (45) and the low-temperature space (47) without causing a pressure difference.
US07836688B2	Exhaust system The present invention relates to an exhaust system for an internal combustion engine, in particular in a motor vehicle, having an SCR module containing at least one SCR catalyst element in an SCR housing connected to an exhaust line and having a PF module containing at least one particulate filter element in a PF housing connected to the exhaust line upstream from the SCR housing.
US07836682B2	Methods and apparatus for operating a pulse detonation engine A method for operating a pulse detonation engine, wherein the method includes channeling air flow from a pulse detonation combustor into a flow mixer having an inlet portion, an outlet portion, and a body portion extending therebetween. The method also includes channeling ambient air past the flow mixer and mixing the air flow discharged from the pulse detonation combustor with the ambient air flow such that a combined flow is generated from the flow mixer that has less flow variations than the air flow discharged from the pulse detonation combustor.
US07836676B2	Fuel metering valve back-up position control system A system allows a user to manually manipulate fuel flow to a gas turbine engine during a loss of power to the fuel supply system fuel metering unit. The fuel metering unit includes a fuel metering valve, a metering valve actuator, a fail-fixed valve, a flow increase valve, and a flow decrease valve. The fuel metering unit is configured such that, upon electrical power interruption to the metering valve actuator, the fail-fixed valve shifts and provides a hydraulic lock on the fuel metering valve, to thereby maintain its position. The flow increase and flow decrease valves are powered from a power source that is independent of that used to power the fuel metering unit and, when appropriately energized will allow movement of the fuel metering valve.
US07836671B2	Flexible draper and cutter bar with tilt arm for cutterbar drive A harvesting machine includes a harvesting header with a header frame, a cutterbar assembly attached to the header frame along the length thereof and configured to cut a crop, and a draper assembly positioned behind the cutterbar assembly and operable to receive severed crop material from the cutterbar assembly. The draper assembly includes a center draper that delivers crop material to a feeder house of the harvesting machine and oppositely spaced side drapers that deliver crop material to the center draper. The harvesting header is operable to flex and thereby follow an uneven terrain. The draper assembly includes a draper belt carried by pivotable support arms. The cutterbar drive includes a forward gearbox drivingly connected to the cutterbar assembly and supported on an outer support arm.
US07836669B1	Lid applying apparatus and method with lid orienting device An apparatus and method for applying threaded lids to threaded necks of containers, wherein a lid orienting device is disposed in the transport path of the lid for engaging a leading side surface of a projection on the lid to cause the lid, as it moves past the lid orienting device, to rotate to a prescribed angular position relative to the transport path. The thread or threads of the lid then will be positioned in a known orientation when engaged by the lid applying head at the lid transfer station so that the lid applying head can orient the lid in a known positional relationship to the thread or threads of the threaded neck of the container to protect against cross-threading of the lid when screwed onto the threaded neck.
US07836666B2	Method for bagging material The present invention provides an apparatus for bagging material into a film. The film has at least two overlapping sheets and at least one open edge. The apparatus a pair of spaced apart carriages and a pair of clamp assemblies movably mounted to a respective carriage. The clamp assemblies are pivotally movable relative to the respective carriage and vertically moveable along the length of the respective carriage. The clamp assemblies engage the film and open the film by separating the overlapping sheets. The clamp assemblies are moved downwardly along the length of the respective carriages so as to provide for the opened film to progressively bag material positioned thereunder. The clamp assembly includes a clamp having a pair of clamping members which are configured to grip a portion of the overlapping sheets for separation thereof. A method for bagging material into a film is also disclosed.
US07836665B2	Method of transporting preformed flower pot covers The present invention is directed to a method of transporting and packaging a plurality of preformed flower pot covers. Each preformed flower pot cover is formed from a flexible sheet of material which is of a shape and size to receive a flower pot. Each preformed flower pot cover has a base with a closed lower end and an open upper end with an object opening extending therethrough for receiving the flower pot and further having a decorative skirt extending angularly upwardly and outwardly from the upper end of the base. The method of the present invention includes the step of providing a portable platform configured to stabilize, receive, support and protect a plurality of stacked preformed flower pot covers. The platform with the preformed flower pot covers can then be wrapped to further stabilize the stacks of preformed flower pot covers so that the platform can be transported to a predetermined destination.
US07836664B2	Unit for fitting screw caps to the necks of respective containers Screw caps (2) are fitted to the necks of respective containers (3) by a unit comprising a carousel equipped with a platform on which the containers are placed, a frame positioned above the platform, and a drive system by which the platform and the frame are set in rotation about a main vertical axis. The unit comprises at least one screw capping device (7) associated with the rotating frame of the carousel, located above a respective container (3) and equipped with a gripping mechanism (9) lockable onto the cap (2) of the container, also a first motion-inducing linkage (25) by which the gripping mechanism (9) is caused to rotate about an axis (Y) parallel to the main vertical axis, and a second motion-inducing linkage (37) by which the gripping mechanism (9) is moved toward or away from the respective cap (2). The screw capping device (7) is packaged internally of a box-like body (10) associated removably with the rotating frame and housing the gripping mechanism (9).
US07836661B2	Method of camouflaging a structure against a background having a generally uniform composition A method of camouflaging a structure against a background having a generally uniform composition of hue, saturation and brightness. In one embodiment, spaced regions on the exterior of a structure are colored with differing colors and regions between the spaced regions are colored with a gradient of the differing colors so as to create a gradual color transition between the spaced regions. In another embodiment, at least one reflector and, optionally at least one color filter, are located on a structure to reflect light in the foreground to a vantage point, and optionally filter such light, so as to effect a blending of at least a portion of the structure into the background when viewed from the vantage point.
US07836659B1	Method of repairing concrete floors and system for same A floor plug (40) is disclosed having an upper portion (41) with a top plate (44) and a neck (48), a lower portion (42) with a bottom plate (51), and post (32) which coupled the two portions together and draws them towards each other sandwiching the floor therebetween. The upper portion is positioned within the bore hole (20) and the lower portion is coupled to the post so as to be threadably drawn against the underside of the floor. Once the adhesive has cured a viscous smoothing compound or concrete floor leveler is poured over the floor plug upper portion and surrounding concrete floor area. If necessary, the concrete floor leveler material is smoothed to provide a generally smooth or level surface.
US07836655B2	Bamboo flooring planks with glueless locking system The present invention provides a 100% bamboo plank with an interlocking system and associated manufacturing methods. In one embodiment, the 100% bamboo plank comprises first, second, and third layers of 100% bamboo, wherein the layers are laminated together. The layers are independently preconditioned to control moisture content therein. Each layer can be preconditioned by alternately elevating and lowering the moisture content in a plurality of sequential cycles before the layers are laminated together. The middle layer is oriented so its grain is substantially perpendicular to the edges of the plank. The plank had joinery portions formed along the edges, and joinery includes an asymmetric upper joinery member and lower joinery member arrangement for, and at least a portion of the upper joinery member and lower joinery member portions are formed in the second layer.
US07836653B1	Air conditioner cover The present invention discloses an air conditioner cover having at least two posts, a plurality of slats, and a plurality of obstructions used to properly distance the slats from the ground. The air conditioner cover also has connectors disposed between said posts and said slats in some embodiments. The air conditioner cover is designed to surround an air conditioner unit in order to hide it from sight and to protect the air conditioner unit from various types of damage. The present invention is specifically designed to ensure appropriate ventilation, as the uniquely shaped slats have in order to provide a spacing gap for ventilation purposes, while still providing a barrier to the air conditioner unit.
US07836652B2	System and method for sealing joints between exterior wall panels Buildings and walls are commonly constructed with exterior walls composed of specially treated engineered wood panels, cement panels, fiber cement panels, glass-matt-faced gypsum panels, and gypsum/cellulose sheathing panels. The spaces or edges between these exterior panels are sealed using the disclosed dual-tape-core joint treatment system and method of the present invention. After curing, a color matching acrylic-epoxy scratch coat or elastomeric primer followed by a textured finish coat is sprayed, brushed or rolled on the exterior panels.
US07836646B2	Wall construction of architectural structure A wall structure of an architecture is provided, which comprises an outer wall having resistance against earthquakes and wind and an inner wall relatively inferior in the earthquake-resistance and so forth, so that the outer and inner walls are properly combined to share design loads. The wall structure includes the outer wall (2) of bricklaying structure in which bricks (A˜D) and metal plates (51) are stacked. Fasteners (60,62,63,70) extending through the bolt holes (7) of the bricks are tightened, and the vertically adjacent bricks are integrally connected with each other under prestress of the fasteners. The inner wall (3) is constructed inside of the outer wall, and the shear reinforcement member (10,20) connects the inner and outer walls with each other. The inner wall is constructed by a dry type of construction method, which can support a permanent vertical load such as a roof load. A temporary horizontal load acting on the inner wall, such as a seismic force, is transmitted to the outer wall by the shear reinforcement member.
US07836643B2	Window The invention relates to a window (11, 11a), which can be opened in an outward manner, comprising a casement (13) and stepped glazing (15) which is received in the casement (13). The stepped glazing (15) comprises at least two window panes (19, 23) which are arranged at a distance from each other, said window panes being an inner pane and an outer pane. The casement (13) is essentially formed by an L-shaped casement profile (25) having a first and a second extremity (27, 29). The inner window pane (19) is arranged on the side of the first extremity (27) of the casement profile (25) which is oriented towards the glazing and is rigidly connected thereto by means of a first adhesive connection (33). The outer window pane (23) of the stepped glazing is rigidly connected to the front side (31) of the casement profile (25) which is oriented in an outward manner by means of a second adhesive connection (35). The layer thickness of the second adhesive connection (35) is greater than the first adhesive connection (33). The first adhesive connection (33) is achieved in an advantageous manner by an adhesive strip and the second by a liquid adhesive material.
US07836642B2	Roof edge windscreen An assembly attached to the roof perimeter to mitigate wind-generated vortices and uplift loads on the roof perimeter area of a building, applicable for both new constructions and retrofits of existing buildings. The assembly comprises an overhung screen portion preferably having face perforation and outer edge serration for equalizing pressure and disorganizing shear layer vorticity, and thus disrupting vortex formation. A roof edge windscreen is generally mounted onto an existing fascia or bargeboard. As an option appropriate for new constructions, it can also be mounted directly onto a framing member in place of fascia or bargeboard.
US07836634B2	Window regulator rail assembly and method of mounting a window regulator rail A window regulator rail, in particular for a motor vehicle, includes a mounting portion and a fastening bolt. The fastening bolt includes an attachment collar and first and second fastening portions that are arranged on opposite sides of the attachment collar. The fastening bolt is releasably and adjustably attached to the mounting portion of the window regulator rail in a predefined position by the first fastening portion. On the second fastening portion, a fastening member is arranged in a mounting position. The fastening bolt allows adjustment of the window regulator rail as needed.
US07836632B2	Plant-cultivating container and plant-cultivating method There are provided a plant-cultivating container and a plant-cultivating method which facilitate “water control”, which is particularly important in view of the control of the gaseous environment in soil and the soil moisture environment. In the above-mentioned plant-cultivating container, a selective moisture vapor-permeable portion which prevents water from passing through it, but which allows water vapor to pass through is provided as at least a portion of the container having a receiving portion for receiving a plant body. Water per se cannot pass into the container through the selective moisture vapor-permeable portion, but water vapor can selectively pass into the container. As a result, the relative humidity in the container to a can be increased degree which contribute to the growth of the plant disposed in the container, and the frequency of supply and/or the amount of water per se provided to a plant by a measure such as irrigation can be, at least, reduced markedly.
US07836625B2	Low profile mount and foregrip for firearm Embodiments include a method and apparatus for mounting one or more accessories to a rail of a firearm. A mounting member may be utilized for attaching the one or more accessories to the rail. Embodiments further include a method and apparatus for protecting a user from a discharging portion of a firearm. Some embodiments include a foregrip having a gripping portion and a guarding portion which may be used for protecting the user. In some embodiments, the guarding portion has a larger outer diameter than the gripping portion so that the guarding portion acts as a stop for the user's body parts.
US07836623B2	Rotary positioning structure for a frame A rotary positioning structure is disclosed for a frame. The frame comprises a housing and a spindle hole disposed on the rear of the housing. The rotary positioning structure comprises elastic members and a rotary stand. Each of the elastic members comprises a tenon and the elastic members are arranged on a circular path surrounding the spindle hole. The rotary stand comprises a rotary shaft and a groove. When the rotary shaft is inserted into the spindle hole, the groove engages with the tenon so that the housing is supported in a first upright position by the rotary stand; also after said rotary shaft is inserted into said spindle hole and then the rotary stand is pivoted on the rotary shaft, the groove engages with another tenon of the elastic members so that the housing is supported in a second upright position by the rotary stand.
US07836620B2	Animated media and methods of construction Animated printed media (e.g., greeting cards, books, etc.) are disclosed herein. An animated printed medium according to one embodiment includes two pages that define a pocket therebetween. At least one of the pages has a window with a plurality of spaced apart transparent sections, and a pushsleeve is coupled to an element that is rotatable relative to the two pages. The pushsleeve extends in the pocket and has a coded image positioned to move beneath the window. A fold line is between the pushsleeve and the element to allow the pushsleeve to rotate relative to the element. The pushsleeve is movable between a first position where the element is between the fold line and the window and a second position where the fold line is between the element and the window. Movement of the pushsleeve between the first and second positions causes the coded image to move beneath the window.
US07836618B1	License plate security frame A license plate security frame comprises a solid inner back plate that is secured to a vehicle and a outer front rim hinged to it that traps the license plate and covers the mounting screws. Hinges at the bottom allow the inner back plate and outer front rim to open like a clamshell, and a cylinder lock mounted at the top to the outer front rim engages a lock pin mounted to the inner back plate. Clear corner covers are included to protect any stickers on the caged-in license plate, and are attached inside the outer front rim in the appropriate corners. The main surface of the license plate including the license numbers and their background are exposed through the middle of the outer front rim.
US07836612B2	Ski boot A ski boot is provided that includes an outer shell, an inner liner disposed within the outer shell and a functional shoe insertable into and removable from the inner liner by means of a rearforward to forward manner.
US07836611B2	Ski boot attachment A combination that preferably includes at least a main body portion, a heel portion hinged to the main body portion, and a toe portion in sliding engagement with the main body portion, which collectively forms a ski boot attachment by steps for assembling a ski boot attachment is disclosed. The ski boot attachment preferably assembled by steps that include at least installing a spring mount within a component cavity of a main chassis, positioning a release spring within the component cavity, placing an extension control member within the component cavity in abutting contact with the release spring, compressing the release spring with the extension control member, sliding a slide member into the component cavity into sliding contact with the extension control member, attaching a main spring to the spring mount and the slide member, and securing a chassis cover to the main chassis.
US07836608B2	Article of footwear formed of multiple links An article of footwear includes a frame having a plurality of elongate members formed of a first polymer. A plurality of links is formed of a second polymer, with a portion of each link co-molded about a portion of at least one elongate member, and at least one link movable with respect to a corresponding elongate member.
US07836605B2	Pneumatically controlled coupling assembly A headstack locator assembly for locating and fixing a headstack on a spinstand and which mitigates the aforementioned prior art limitations. The headstack locator assembly includes a headstack locator received on a fixed locator. The headstack locator connects to a headstack, while the fixed locator is permanently secured to a spinstand. A vacuum is used to clamp the headstack locator to the fixed locator for testing of the headstack. Upon test completion, the headstack locator is released from the fixed locator by applying positive air pressure to the assembly. More generally, an apparatus and methods for generally locating and reversibly, pneumatically coupling various elements to each other.
US07836603B2	Headstack locator assembly for testing magnetic heads A headstack locator assembly for locating and fixing a headstack on a spinstand and which mitigates the aforementioned prior art limitations. The headstack locator assembly includes a headstack locator received on a fixed locator. The headstack locator connects to a headstack, while the fixed locator is permanently secured to a spinstand. A vacuum is used to clamp the headstack locator to the fixed locator for testing of the headstack. Upon test completion, the headstack locator is released from the fixed locator by applying positive air pressure to the assembly.
US07836599B2	Ink jet head and method of manufacturing thereof When all metal plates for forming a passage unit of an ink jet head are bonded together by metal bonding, a top metal plate will warp, and an actuator unit cannot be fitted in a uniform manner to this warped top metal plate, and if the actuator units are not fitted in a uniform manner to the top metal plate, a uniform amount of ink cannot be discharged from nozzles of the ink jet head. To deal with this, metal diffusion bonding of the metal plates is performed without the top metal plate being included therein, and the top metal plate is then caused to adhere by means of adhesive. There is thus no warping of the top metal plate, and consequently the actuator units can be fitted in a uniform manner to the top metal plate.
US07836594B2	Method for restoring airfoil tip contour A blade is repaired by utilizing a super abrasive machining quill and/or wheel to form the contour and restore the height of the blade. By utilizing super abrasive machining, the contour and height can be quickly returned to desired dimensions by removing unwanted added material.
US07836593B2	Cold spray method for producing gas turbine blade tip A quantity of particles (28) may be cold-sprayed toward the distal surface (22) of a turbine blade (6) at a temperature below a melting point of the particles at a velocity sufficiently high to cause at least a portion of the particles to adhere to the surface to form squealer ridge (24) with a desired cutting profile. The cutting profile may be defined by a face (52) and a land (54) disposed at a relief angle (38) relative to a direction of motion (58) of a cutting edge (48). The ridge may be built by multiple passes of a cold spray gun depositing sequential layers (30, 32, 34) of varying widths. An in-service blade having worn distal surface may be repaired using this technique.
US07836590B2	Manufacturing method for printed circuit board A manufacturing method for a printed circuit board is disclosed. The method includes: forming a first circuit pattern on a metal layer of a conductive carrier, which has the metal layer stacked on one side, pressing the conductive carrier and a first insulation layer together with the first circuit pattern facing the first insulation layer, forming a via by selectively removing the conductive carrier, and removing the metal layer. Using this method, a high-density thin package can be manufactured with increased reliability, and the productivity of the manufacturing process can also be improved.
US07836579B2	Method to protect a GMR head from electrostatic damage during the manufacturing process A simple method is provided for protecting slider mounted read/write transducers from electrostatic discharge damage during the manufacture of disk drives. The method involves placing a ball of conducting thermoplastic resin, such as a gold or silver epoxy, between the terminal pads of the transducer and using the ball to shunt the pads to read-head shields and the slider substrate and thence to ground. The epoxy ball is easily applied and easily removed and can be used at different stages in the manufacturing process.
US07836577B2	Method for making an antenna structure A method for making a feed structure for an antenna may include providing a polarizer body having a polarizer sidewall extending longitudinally between spaced apart ends. A portion of the polarizer sidewall is deformed to provide at least one polarizing structure that extends radially inwardly along an interior of the polarizer sidewall relative to adjacent portions of the polarizer sidewall. The method thus can be utilized to produce an antenna structure.
US07836575B2	Method for permanent magnet protection A method for manufacturing of a permanent magnet pole piece comprising at least one magnet which is fixed to a base plate, a protective cover and a filling mass is provided, comprising the steps of fixing of the protective cover to the base plate so that it covers the magnet and so that the protective cover and the base plate are hermetically sealed jointed, evacuating of the interior cavity between the protective cover and the base plate through an opening, injecting of the filling mass through an opening into the interior cavity between the protective cover and the base plate and curing of the filling mass.
US07836574B2	Method of manufacturing vibrating micromechanical structures A method for fabrication of single crystal silicon micromechanical resonators using a two-wafer process, including either a Silicon-on-insulator (SOI) or insulating base and resonator wafers, wherein resonator anchors, a capacitive air gap, isolation trenches, and alignment marks are micromachined in an active layer of the base wafer; the active layer of the resonator wafer is bonded directly to the active layer of the base wafer; the handle and dielectric layers of the resonator wafer are removed; viewing windows are opened in the active layer of the resonator wafer; masking the single crystal silicon semiconductor material active layer of the resonator wafer with photoresist material; a single crystal silicon resonator is machined in the active layer of the resonator wafer using silicon dry etch micromachining technology; and the photoresist material is subsequently dry stripped.
US07836562B2	Locking clip for a billboard sign tensioning system A clip for use in a cable tensioning system, comprising (i) a base plate comprising a generally flat base member having a top surface having a plurality of surface irregularities, a bottom surface, a front edge and a rear edge, and a pair of opposing tensioning arms extending from the top surface; and, (ii) a top plate comprising a top surface, a bottom surface, a front edge and a rear edge, a lip protruding from a top surface thereof having a channel defined therein, wherein the top plate is adapted to secure an edge of a substantially flat medium between the base plate and the top plate when the top plate and the bottom plate are in an engaged relationship, and wherein the channel can receive a portion of a cable.
US07836559B2	Teething holder A teething holder for use with a child's teething item, and more particularly a teething device having a flexible and elastic loop, a lock for releaseably locking the loop around a teething object, such as a biscuit, and an attachment element, for attaching the teething device, such as to a baby's bib or chair.
US07836557B2	Ergonomic garden trowel Handles allow hand tools, implements or other utensils to operate within their arc of natural use, motion and attack without requiring extension, flexion, radial deviation, or ulnar deviation of the wrist from the neutral plane of the forearm. The preferred embodiments further include a grip shaped to increase the effectiveness of the tool and minimize antagonism between muscles and tendons of the wrist, forearm and upper arm, while maximizing the effectiveness of the gripping force delivered to it by the user. Maintaining the wrist and forearm in a neutral position increases a tool user's potential strength by increasing the synergy between large muscles of the forearm and upper arm and shoulders. It also decreases compression of the tendons and nerves in the carpal tunnel and between the wrist and forearm. Grips according to the invention preferably conform in shape, diameter and dimensions to the physical architecture of the hand such that grip tension and compression of the tendons in the wrist and forearm is optimized, minimizing the compressive force on the small muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the fingers, hand, wrist, and forearm, while maximizing the contributive effectiveness of the larger muscles of the forearm, upper arm and shoulder.
US07836554B2	Double hinge assembly and electronic device using the same An exemplary double hinge assembly includes a first hinge assembly, a second hinge assembly, a guide rail, a sliding member, a first bracket, a second bracket. The sliding member is slidably positioned on the guide rail. The first hinge assembly includes a first rotatable pivot shaft. The second hinge assembly includes a second rotatable pivot shaft. The first bracket is fixed to the first rotatable pivot shaft, and the guide rail rotatably connects to the first rotatable pivot shaft. The second bracket is fixed to the second rotatable pivot shaft, and the sliding member rotatably connects to the second rotatable pivot shaft. A rotating axis of the first rotatable pivot shaft is substantially parallel to a rotating axis of the second rotatable pivot shaft. In addition, an electronic device using the double hinge assembly is also provided.
US07836550B2	Damping hinge device A damping hinge device includes a hinge and a damper. The damper is arranged coaxially with the hinge and has a damping shell, a damping body, a plurality of rotating slices, a plurality of limiting slices, an outer gasket and a pushing body. The damping shell has a cylinder-shaped shell body, a top cover is formed in the top of the shell body. The damping body is accepted in the damping shell and has a basic portion and a column portion extending from one end of the basic portion. The rotating slices are accepted in the damping shell and fixed around the column portion. The limiting slices are fixed in the damping shell and rotatably around the column portion of the damping body, the limiting pieces and the rotating pieces are staggeredly arranged. Damping oil is filled between the adjacent limiting slices and the rotating slices. The outer gasket is disposed on the basic portion of the damping body and pressed against the shell body.
US07836543B2	Method and apparatus for producing humanly-perceptable indicator of electrochemical properties of an output cleaning liquid A surface cleaning apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a mobile body configured to travel over a surface, a cleaning device carried by the mobile body, a liquid flow path, and an electrolyzing device in the liquid flow path. An indicator provides a humanly-perceptible indication of an electrical operating characteristic of the electrolyzing device.
US07836538B2	Cleaning apparatus with reciprocating brush head A cleaning apparatus includes an elongated housing bounding a chamber with a motor disposed therein. A drive shaft is at least partially disposed within the chamber of the housing, the drive shaft being coupled with the motor such that during selective operation of the motor the drive shaft is rotated. A head assembly includes an elongated head housing having a head drive shaft and a brush head mounted thereon. The head assembly is adapted to be selectively coupled with the body assembly so that the body drive shaft is coupled with the head drive shaft.
US07836535B2	Dishwasher and a method for controlling the same The present invention relates to dishwashers, and more particularly, to a dishwasher and a method for controlling the same, which can measure turbidity of the washing water, and control operation of the dishwasher with reference to the turbidity detected thus, to prevent wasting of water, and optimize a washing time period.The dishwasher includes a sump for holding washing water, a washing pump for pumping the washing water to provide a portion of the washing water to dishes to be washed through a main flow passage, and a turbidity sensing means for sensing turbidity of the washing water, wherein the turbidity sensing means is positioned at a sampling flow passage through which the other portion of the washing water passes.The method for controlling a dishwasher includes the steps of putting a washing pump into operation, detecting turbidity of the washing water, adjusting a washing time period preset at a control unit according to the turbidity detected thus, and operating the washing pump according to the washing time period adjusted thus.
US07836534B2	Multi-purpose hand held tool A multi-purpose hand tool is provided which allows an individual to perform several tasks and reduces the need for additional tools. Specifically, the tool includes a hammer and a claw with an extension providing additional leverage to the claw for prying objects apart and for pulling nails. Additionally, the hand held tool provides a ring and catches useful for pulling fence wiring such as barbed wire during the installation of a fence.
US07836533B2	Diaper changing apparatus and methods of changing a baby's diaper Apparatus for changing a baby including a disposable changing pad component, a changing platform component and a combination of a changing pad component and platform component. The disposable changing pad component includes a water impermeable layer and a fabric layer and at least one movement resistance aid to anchor the pad in place. The changing platform component includes a generally smooth region for receiving a baby and at least one changing pad retainer for holding the changing pad.
US07836525B2	Comfort seat and commode device for a wheel chair and the like A Comfort Seat and Commode Device that is adaptable for incorporation into a wheel chair, an ordinary arm chair or couch or bed, a hospital bed, or any other means of convalescence or permanent occupation by the disabled, is herein disclosed. The device's framework supports a seat portion that is capable of rotating to provide an opening through which a patient or disabled person may eliminate waste. The rotatable seat is located in-line vertically with a waste bin and cover that comprise the commode. An actuation means is provided, which, in response to a command by the user, simultaneously opens the waste bin cover, rotates the seat, and elevates the waste bin to permit use of the device. A means of providing squirting action of a cleaning solution to cleanse the user after elimination, as well as a drying system, may also be incorporated into the device.
US07836524B2	Equestrian riding garment A lower body equestrian garment is provided. Sections of gripping, protective fabric are provided on the inner portions of the legs extending from inner thigh to ankle. The gripping/protective fabric has flared sections near the bottom, and slots for receiving and retaining spurs worn by the rider. Zippers are provided on the outer legs allowing quick removal of the lower body garment to improve comfort of the rider when not riding. An adjustable waistband is provided to allow the lower body garment to be adaptable to the differently sized individuals.
US07836517B2	Face guard for a hockey helmet The invention provides a face guard for a hockey helmet. The face guard comprises a contour wire and a plurality of wires made of stainless steel. The plurality of wires are arranged as a curved grid having a concave side for facing a face of a wearer, the plurality of wires comprising first, second, third and fourth vertical wires intersecting first and second horizontal wires, each of the first, second, third and fourth vertical wires and first and second horizontal wires having a portion to be at least partially located within a field of view of the eyes of the wearer, each of the first, second, third and fourth vertical wires and first and second horizontal wires having an inner surface facing the face of the wearer and an outer surface opposing the inner surface, wherein the inner surface is mat and the outer surface is shiny. Each of the first, second, third and fourth vertical wires and first and second horizontal wires may have an elliptical cross-section with a major axis and a minor axis, the major axis being oriented to generally converge towards the eyes of the wearer, wherein a ratio of the minor axis to the major axis is between 0.4 and 0.8, and wherein the face guard weighs between 170 grams and 220 grams.

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