Document Document Title
US07855109B2 Method for manufacturing a semiconductor device capable of preventing the generation of a bridge between a recess gate and a PLC plug
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device according to the present invention, comprising the steps of: forming a screen oxide layer over the surface of an active region of a semiconductor substrate in which an isolation structure defining the active region is formed; forming a first recess pattern in the active region and a second recess pattern in the isolation structure by etching a gate forming area in the active region and the isolation structure part extended thereto; removing the screen oxide film and simultaneously expanding the width of the second recess pattern; forming a first insulation dielectric layer over the resultant of the substrate having the second recess pattern with the expanded width so that the first insulation dielectric layer is blocked at the upper end thereof in the first recess pattern and it is deposited along the profile in the second recess pattern; forming a second insulation dielectric layer over the first insulation dielectric layer so that the second recess patter is not filled; forming a third insulation dielectric layer over the second insulation dielectric layer so that the second recess pattern is filled; and removing the third, second, and first insulation dielectric layers formed over the active region including the first recess pattern and the isolation structure between the second recess patterns.
US07855101B2 Layer transfer process and functionally enhanced integrated circuits produced thereby
A structure for a semiconductor components is provided having a device layer sandwiched on both sides by other active, passive, and interconnecting components. A wafer-level layer transfer process is used to create this planar (2D) IC structure with added functional enhancements.
US07855100B2 Integrated circuit package system with an encapsulant cavity and method of fabrication thereof
An encapsulant cavity integrated circuit package system including forming a first integrated circuit package with an inverted bottom terminal having an encapsulant cavity and an interposer, and attaching a component on the interposer in the encapsulant cavity.
US07855098B2 Method of forming, modifying, or repairing a semiconductor device using field-controlled diffusion
A technique for altering or repairing the operating state of a semiconductor device comprises field-controlled diffusion of mobile dopant atoms within the metal oxide crystal lattice. When heated (e.g., above 550 K) in the presence of an electric field (e.g., bias to ground of +/−50 V) the dopant atoms are caused to collect to form an ohmic contact, leaving a depletion region. Metal-semiconductor junction devices such as diodes, photo-diodes, photo-detectors, MESFETs, etc. may thereby be fabricated, repaired or modified.
US07855087B2 Floating sheet production apparatus and method
This sheet production apparatus comprises a vessel defining a channel configured to hold a melt. The melt is configured to flow from a first point to a second point of the channel. A cooling plate is disposed proximate the melt and is configured to form a sheet on the melt. A spillway is disposed at the second point of the channel. This spillway is configured to separate the sheet from the melt.
US07855086B2 Method for monitoring fabrication parameter
A method for monitoring fabrication parameters comprises steps of: obtaining a normal parameter variance curve and a comparing parameter variance curve; defining a plurality of normal parameter points on the normal parameter variance curve; defining a plurality of comparing parameter points on the comparing parameter variance curve; finding out the corresponding comparing parameter points nearest to the normal parameter points; calculating the distances between the normal parameter points and the corresponding comparing parameter points thereof; summing up the distances so as to receive a total distance; and determining whether or not the total distance exceeds a limit. Via this arrangement, when fabrication parameter of tool is abnormal, it can be efficiently and immediately determined.
US07855083B2 Sample processing devices
Methods and devices for thermal processing of multiple samples at the same time are disclosed. The sample processing devices provide process arrays that include conduits useful in distributing sample materials to a group pf process chambers located in fluid communication with the main conduits. The sample processing devices may include one or more of the following features in various combinations: deformable seals, process chambers connected to the main conduit by feeder conduits exiting the main conduit at offset locations, U-shaped loading chambers, and a combination of melt bonded and adhesively bonded areas.
US07855081B2 Methods of detecting RF interference in breath ethanol testing
Interference detector and methods for detecting interference in a signal are described. More specifically, in one aspect, a method for detecting interference in a signal is provided. The method comprises determining whether the signal has at least one of a time and a frequency characteristic that is outside a predefined range, and determining that an interference event has been detected if the signal has at least one of such characteristics.
US07855078B2 High resolution flow cytometer
High resolution particle differentiation process and separation system that provides enhanced resolution of particles based upon selected particle characteristics. In particular, the system may include an enhanced resolution flow cytometer. In an embodiment, the invention can include at least one fluid source conduit (24) that introduces 0 fluid source stream (24) into an enhanced resolution nozzle (25) at an angle that enhances particle resolution by the cell sensing system (13).
US07855075B2 Methods of controlling proliferation and differentiation of stem and progenitor cells
A method of ex-vivo expanding a population of stem cells, while at the same time inhibiting differentiation of the stem cells. The method comprises ex-vivo providing the stem cells with conditions for cell proliferation and with at least one copper chelator in an amount and for a time period for permitting the stem cells to proliferate and, at the same time, for reducing a capacity of the stem cells to differentiate
US07855074B2 Artificial immune system: methods for making and use
The present invention relates to methods of constructing an integrated artificial immune system that comprises appropriate in vitro cellular and tissue constructs or their equivalents to mimic the normal tissues that interact with vaccines in mammals. The artificial immune system can be used to test the efficacy of vaccine candidates in vitro and thus, is useful to accelerate vaccine development and testing drug and chemical interaction with the immune system.
US07855073B2 Cells containing a nanopatch sensor in their membrane
The present invention provides isolated cells comprising nanopatch sensors integrated into the cell membrane thereof, wherein said sensors are provided in the form of perturbation-sensitive constructs, and wherein said perturbation-sensitive constructs respond to perturbations of the cell membrane by means of a detectable change in one or more physical or chemical properties associated with said construct.
US07855072B2 System for detecting protease
Disclosed is a system for detecting a protease inside a cell. In one embodiment, the system includes a chimeric protein that comprises as covalently linked components: 1) at least one optionally masked signal protein; 2) at least one protease-specific cleavage site; and 3) at least one detectable amino acid sequence. The invention has a wide spectrum of applications including use in the detection of novel protease inhibitors inside cells and tissue.
US07855063B2 Partially deglycosylated glucocerebrosidase polypeptide and crystals thereof
A method of identifying a compound capable of correcting an impaired enzymatic activity of a mutant glucocerebrosidase molecule, the method comprising: (a) obtaining a first set of structure coordinates, the first set of structure coordinates defining a 3D structure of a glucocerebrosidase molecule capable of displaying normal enzymatic activity or a portion thereof; (b) computationally generating using the first set of structure coordinates a second set of structure coordinates, the second set of structure coordinates defining a predicted 3D structure of the mutant glucocerebrosidase molecule or a portion thereof; and (c) computationally identifying, using the second set of structure coordinates, a compound capable of interacting with the mutant glucocerebrosidase molecule in such a way as to correct the impaired enzymatic activity thereof, thereby identifying the compound capable of correcting the impaired enzymatic activity of the mutant glucocerebrosidase molecule. A glucocerebrosidase preparation comprising a population of glucocerebrosidase molecules, wherein substantially each of said glucocerebrosidase molecules: (i) has an amino acid sequence at least 95 percent homologous to an amino acid sequence set forth by SEQ ID NO: 1 or 8; (ii) is glycosylated at, or has an aspartatic acid residue at, glycosylation residue 1 of said amino acid sequence; and (iii) is independently unglycosylated at one or more glycosylation residues selected from the group consisting of glycosylation residues 2, 3 and 4 of said amino acid sequence.
US07855058B2 Human cyclin-dependent kinase (hPNQALRE)
A human gene encoding a novel cyclin-dependent kinase termed hPNQALRE and its expression products can be used to provide reagents and methods for detecting neoplasia. Compositions and methods for treating proliferative disorders and neoplasia are also provided.
US07855052B2 Sequences of hepatitis C virus genotypes and their use as therapeutic and diagnostic agents
The present application discloses and claims polynucleic acids relating to and/or containing HCV polynucleic acid sequences.
US07855051B2 Mycoplasma detection method and composition
A method of detecting the presence of mycoplasma in a sample and a mycoplasm detection kit. A sample is contacted with a first and a second oligonucleotide probe, wherein the first and second oligonucleotide probes are substantially complementary to portions of a 16S ribosomal subunit of at least one mycoplasma species. The first probe may be labeled with a capture ligand. The second probe may be labeled with a first component of a detection system.
US07855044B2 Positive resist composition and method of forming resist pattern
A positive resist composition including a resin component (A) and an acid generator component (B), the resin component (A) including a copolymer (A1) having a structural unit (a1) derived from an acrylate ester having a monocyclic or polycyclic group-containing acid dissociable, dissolution inhibiting group, a structural unit (a2) derived from an acrylate ester having a lactone-containing cyclic group, a structural unit (a3) derived from an acrylate ester having a hydroxyl group and/or cyano group-containing polycyclic group, and a structural unit (a4) represented by general formula (a4-1) shown below: wherein R represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a lower alkyl group or a halogenated lower alkyl group; R′ represents a hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group or an alkoxy group of 1 to 5 carbon atoms; and f represents 0 or 1.
US07855043B2 Silicon-containing film-forming composition, silicon-containing film, silicon-containing film-bearing substrate, and patterning method
A silicon-containing film is formed from a heat curable composition comprising (A-1) a silicon-containing compound obtained by effecting hydrolytic condensation of a hydrolyzable silicon compound in the presence of an acid catalyst and removing the acid catalyst, (A-2) a silicon-containing compound obtained by effecting hydrolytic condensation of a hydrolyzable silicon compound in the presence of a basic catalyst and removing the basic catalyst, (B) a hydroxide or organic acid salt of lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium or cesium, or a sulfonium, iodonium or ammonium compound, (C) an organic acid, and (D) an organic solvent. The silicon-containing film allows an overlying photoresist film to be patterned effectively.
US07855040B2 Method for preparing photoreceptor, photoreceptor prepared by the method, and image forming method and apparatus and process cartridge using the photoreceptor
A method for preparing a photoreceptor including forming a photosensitive layer overlying an electroconductive substrate; coating a liquid including a radically polymerizable compound to form a protective layer; irradiating the protective layer with light to crosslink the protective layer; and then contacting the protective layer with a fluid, which is selected from the group consisting of supercritical fluids and subcritical fluids and which includes a charge transport material. A photoreceptor prepared by the method. An image forming method, an image forming apparatus and a process cartridge using the photoreceptor.
US07855039B2 Photoconductors containing ketal overcoats
A photoconductor that includes, for example, a supporting substrate, a photogenerating layer, and at least one charge transport layer comprised of at least one charge transport component, and an overcoat, and where the overcoat contains at least one of ketal. In embodiments the overcoat layer may include α-hydroxyketone, α-diketone, or mixtures thereof.
US07855036B2 Sputtering target used for production of reflective mask blank for EUV lithography
To provide a sputtering target to be used for production of an EUV mask blank, capable of preventing particles by film peeling even when formation of a reflective multilayer film as a reflective layer and a Ru layer as a protective layer is carried out at a production level using actual machines for a large number of cycles. A sputtering target for forming a ruthenium (Ru) layer in a reflective layer for reflecting EUV light on a substrate, which contains Ru and at least one element selected from the group consisting of boron (B) and zirconium (Zr) in a total content of B and Zr of from 5 at % to 50 at %.
US07855034B2 Reflecting mask, apparatus for fixing the reflecting mask and method of fixing the reflecting mask
In a reflecting mask, an apparatus for fixing the reflecting mask and a method of fixing the reflecting mask, voltages are applied to elements of a conductive pattern spaced apart from each other on a rear face of the reflecting mask to fix the reflecting mask by using electrostatic forces. A flatness of the fixed reflecting mask is measured, and the electrostatic forces provided to portions of the reflecting mask are selectively adjusted in accordance with a measured result obtained from the measuring part, such that the reflecting mask is horizontally fixed and is substantially flat.
US07855033B2 Photo mask and method of fabricating array substrate for liquid crystal display device using the same
A photo-mask used for fabricating a photoresist pattern in process of fabricating an array substrate for a liquid crystal display device comprises a transmissive area having a first transmittance; a blocking area having a second transmittance; a first half-transmissive area including at least one coating layer and having a third transmittance; a second half-transmissive area including a plurality of bars and having a fourth transmittance, the bars having spaces therebetween, wherein the third and fourth transmittances are less than the first transmittance and greater than the second transmittance, respectively, and the third transmittance is greater than the fourth transmittance.
US07855032B2 Fuel cell
The present invention provides a fuel cell having an anode to oxidize liquid fuel, a cathode to reduce oxygen, and a solid polymer electrolyte membrane formed between said anode and said cathode, wherein: a porous body, which faces the porous anode, having continuous micro pores which form a liquid fuel feed channel by capillary force and continuous micro pores which do not have liquid retentivity is used; and the liquid fuel is supplied by the capillary negative pressure generated at the anode.
US07855031B2 Method of making bipolar plate with coolant channels
Bipolar plates in a fuel cell stack tend to experience lower operating temperatures near and at the ends of the stack, and these plates require lower coolant flow. But common stamping tooling can be used to make all of the plates for the stack when suitable coolant flow restrictors are stamped into each plate for lowest coolant flow. The flow restrictors are then trimmed (or their formation avoided) from those plates designated for higher coolant flow.
US07855028B2 Separator plate for molten carbonate fuel cell
Disclosed is a separator plate for a molten carbonate fuel cell, which functions to reform a fuel gas while allowing it to efficiently flow therein and thereout, thus producing hydrogen and carbon dioxide, which are then supplied into an anode, and which functions to realize the electrical connection between the anode and the cathode. In the center plate, having a central portion and peripheral portions of the separator plate, the central portion has gas flow paths, that is, guide protrusions and guide grooves, and the peripheral portions are formed into sidewall parts through a folding process, and thus the number of constituents of the separator plate is minimized, thereby reducing the area to be welded. Further, the sidewall parts are integrally structured with the center plate, thereby increasing airtightness and solving problems of corrosion which may be caused in the welded area.
US07855026B2 Fuel cell stack
The object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell stack with improved corrosion resistance of metal separators and reduced cost. To attain this object, the fuel cell stack according to the present invention has a cell stack constituted by stacking a prescribed number of unit cells obtained by sandwiching both surfaces of an electrolyte membrane between an anode and a cathode and sandwiching the outer sides thereof with a pair of metal separators, wherein the metal separator positioned on the plus side of the cell stack is subjected to surface treatment providing for relatively higher corrosion resistance than the metal separator positioned on the minus side of the cell stack. Cost reduction can be realized, while maintaining corrosion resistance comparable with that obtained in the case when all the separators are subjected to the anticorrosive surface treatment to the same degree.
US07855025B2 Anode loop pressure control in PEM fuel cell system
A method of operating a fuel cell stack is disclosed. The method includes operating the fuel cell stack in accordance with a predetermined profile of fuel gas/oxidant gas delta pressure vs. time, monitoring a fuel gas/oxidant gas delta pressure vs. time value of the fuel cell stack and adjusting pressure of the fuel gas by consuming excess quantities of the fuel gas in the fuel cell stack when the fuel gas/oxidant gas delta pressure vs. time value of the fuel cell stack exceeds the predetermined profile.
US07855024B2 Compartmentalized storage tank for electrochemical cell system
A compartmentalized storage tank is disclosed. The compartmentalized storage tank includes a housing, a first fluid storage section disposed within the housing, a second fluid storage section disposed within the housing, the first and second fluid storage sections being separated by a movable divider, and a constant force spring. The constant force spring is disposed between the housing and the movable divider to exert a constant force on the movable divider to cause a pressure P1 in the first fluid storage section to be greater than a pressure P2 in the second fluid storage section, thereby defining a pressure differential.
US07855023B2 Fuel cell, method and apparatus for manufacturing fuel cell
A fuel cell (stack or a single cell) includes a cell module to which an aging process that progresses initial creep has been applied such that creep during use is reduced compared with a cell module to which the aging process has not been applied. A manufacturing method of a fuel cell (stack or a single cell) includes an aging step for progressing through initial creep by applying at least a compression load to a cell module.
US07855018B2 Micro-electro-mechanical systems phosphoric acid fuel cell
A phosphoric acid fuel cell system comprising a porous electrolyte support, a phosphoric acid electrolyte in the porous electrolyte support, a cathode electrode contacting the phosphoric acid electrolyte, and an anode electrode contacting the phosphoric acid electrolyte.
US07855015B1 Aluminum and solid alkali peroxide galvanic cell
The present invention provides a galvanic cell having an aluminum anode and a cathode compartment design suitable for carrying out the aqueous electrochemical reaction between solid aluminum metal and aqueous peroxide ions. The galvanic cell is activated when water, aqueous hydroxide solution, or an aqueous salt solution is added to the cell. This reaction releases a significant amount of electrochemical energy from a small size (mass or volume) cell. This cell reaction and design leads to an improvement in energy released over state-of-the-art aluminum/hydrogen peroxide galvanic cells.
US07855014B2 Secondary battery
A secondary battery has a protrusion formed on a first electrode tab welded to a terminal plate of a cap assembly to increase the contact resistance between the first electrode tab and the terminal plate for easy welding.
US07855008B2 Battery holder
The invention relates to a battery holder 30 for an electronic device. In order to provide an improved possibility of exchanging a battery of an electronic device, it is proposed that the battery holder 30 comprises an outer surface 31, means 32 for receiving an exchangeable battery 20 and means 33, 34 for connecting the battery holder 30 releasably to an electronic device. The latter means enable a connection of the battery holder to the electronic device in a way that electrical contact elements 21 of a battery 20 received by said battery holder 30 come into contact with electrical contact elements of the electronic device and that the outer surface 31 of the battery holder 30 forms part of the outer surface of the electronic device. The invention relates equally to a corresponding electronic device and to a cover for such an electronic device.
US07855005B2 Apparatus and methods of determination of state of charge in a redox flow battery
Methods for determining the state of charge of an electrolyte solution in a redox battery by optical absorption spectrophotometry are disclosed. The state of charge thus obtained may serve as a gauge for the amount of electro-chemical energy left in the system.
US07855004B2 Mid-sectional fuel distributor for fuel cells
In one embodiment the present comprises an air inlet 2, a series of fuel cells 6, a new fuel inlet 14, a fuel distributor 16, a recirculation plenum 19, and an exhaust 12. Fresh fuel from the fuel distributor 16 enters the fuel cell stack in a middle-third section of the fuel cell stack, and the fresh fuel is divided into an exhaust fuel 12 flow and a recirculation fuel flow 18. The exhaust fuel flow passes along a first portion of the series of fuel cells to the exhaust, and the recirculation fuel flow passes along a second portion of the series of fuel cells to the recirculation plenum and mixes with new fuel from the new fuel inlet in the fuel distributor. The recirculation plenum is located at an opposite end of the fuel cell stack from the exhaust, and the fuel-cell stack is of a seal-less design.
US07855001B2 Thermoplastic polymer for electrically conductive thermoforming applications
This invention relates to a thermoplastic polymer composition that exhibits excellent characteristics for being thermoformed into a wide variety of packaging trays for electronics, including the disk drive and semiconductor industries. More specifically, these trays are applicable as packaging material for head suspension assembly and offer conductivities in the range of antistatic to electrostatic dissipation (ESD). For instance, the thermoplastic polymer composition of this invention offers improved stiffness, improved chemical resistance, the capable of enduring more washing cycles, the capability of being dried at higher temperatures, improved cleanliness, and better electrical conductivity that conventional PETG/IDP polymer blends. The thermoplastic polymer composition of this invention is comprised of (1) a polyethylene terephthalate glycol copolyester, (2) from 1 weight percent to 6 weight percent carbon nanotubes, (3) from 2 weight percent to 30 weight percent of a copolymer of ethylene with a higher α-olefin, wherein the copolymer is of ethylene with the higher α-olefin is grafted with maleic anhydride or glycidyl methacrylate, (4) from 1 weight percent to 10 weight percent of a functionalized rubbery polymer, (5) from 1 weight percent to 10 weight percent of an acrylic based core-shell polymer, and (6) from 0.5 weight percent to 6 weight percent of a lubricant selected from the group consisting of high density polyethylene and polyester wax, where the polyethylene terephthalate glycol copolyester makes up the balance of the composition and wherein all weight percentages are based upon the total weight of the thermoplastic polymer composition.
US07855000B2 Optical element with anti-reflection unit
An optical element includes a substrate and an anti-reflective unit provided on one surface of the substrate. The anti-reflective unit includes a first coating layer, a second coating layer, a third coating layer, a fourth coating layer, and a fifth coating layer arranged on the substrate sequentially. The thickness of each of the first coating layer, the third coating layer, and the fifth coating layer is in the approximate range from 6 to 100 nanometers, and the thickness of each of the second coating layer and the fourth coating layer is in the approximate range from 10 to 200 nanometers. The first coating layer, the third coating layer, and the fifth coating layer are made of SiO2, and the second coating layer and the fourth coating layer are made of TiO2. The optical element can provide a high rate of light transmission.
US07854997B2 Adherends with enhanced surfaces
Metallic substrates have a surface for receiving application of an adhesive that includes a precipitated coating of metallic nanoparticulates. A first portion of the nanoparticulates is adhered to the surface and a second portion is in contact with the first portion. Also provided are adhered constructs. These constructs include a first substrate with a first surface that has a metallic precipitated coating of nanoparticulates. A first portion of the nanoparticulates is adhered to the surface and a second portion contacts the first portion. The constructs include a second substrate that has a second surface; and an adhesive is applied between the first surface and the second surface.
US07854990B2 Sheet-shaped adhesive and laminate prepared by using the same
A sheet-shaped adhesive comprising ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer and organic peroxide contained therein, wherein the organic peroxide is peroxy carbonate having a formula I or II: and a laminate prepared by using the adhesive. The sheet-shaped adhesive is useful as a transparent adhesive layer used in the preparation of a film-reinforced glass and a laminated glass which are free from environmental pollution and have excellent penetration resistance.
US07854988B2 Lignocellulose-based molded product and process of making same
A lignocellulose-based molded product is made by mixing furan resin with steam-treated lignocellulose-based material, and molding the resulting mixture by applying heat and pressure.
US07854983B2 Coated sheet, method of formation thereof, and article derived therefrom
A sheet material includes a polycarbonate substrate and a protective coating containing the reaction products of an aminoplast resin, a polyol compound, and a UV-absorbing amount of a triazine compound. The sheet material exhibits an improved balance of abrasion resistance, solvent resistance, weatherability, and formability. Methods of preparing the sheet material are described.
US07854979B2 Memo pad including memo sheets that can present a three-dimensional appearance
A memo pad includes a stack of memo sheets, each memo sheet including an inscribing portion, a pair of supporting portions, a pair of adhering portions, and a pair of adhesive layers. The adhesive layers are applied to the bottom side of the adhering portions such that an upper one of the memo sheets is adhered releasably to a lower one in the stack. When a memo sheet is removed from the memo pad, and the adhesive layers are used to attach the adhering portions to a supporting surface, the supporting portions are disposed to support the inscribing portion such that the inscribing portion is raised relative to the supporting surface, thereby configuring the memo sheet to present a three-dimensional appearance.
US07854977B2 Foaming tool
The present invention aims at providing a foaming tool capable of highly efficiently producing creamy foam containing ultra fine bubbles in high proportion. The foaming tool includes a double-layered cloth body composed of vertically overlapped cloth bodies obtained by plain weaving synthetic-resin-fiber warp and wept yarns so as to cause them to alternately position up and down with weave textures of ≦300 μm length and width. The double-layered cloth body has an air layer interposed between the vertically overlapped cloth bodies. The double-layered cloth body is folded once at an appropriate center in the longitudinal direction thereof and thus joined edge portions are assembled and are stitched together to thereby provide a tab portion of gather. In such a constitution, below the tab portion, a foaming auxiliary portion produced by assembling of a cloth body having the same quality as that of the cloth described above is provided.
US07854971B2 Cellulose ester film, production method of the same, polarizing plate and liquid crystal display
A cellulose ester film comprising a cellulose ester and a compound containing: an acrylate group or a methacrylate group; and a phenolic hydroxyl group, in the molecule.
US07854964B2 Crystalline resin sandwich films
A resin composition that is storable at ambient temperatures. The resin composition forms a cured resin when exposed to a curing agent and heated to a curing temperature that is relatively close to ambient temperature. The resin composition includes a crystalline resin component that is sandwiched between two non-crystalline resin components to provide a zone that is rich in crystalline thermosetting resin. The crystalline thermosetting resin has a melting point that is above ambient temperature, but below the curing temperature. The viscosity of the resin component changes from a high viscosity state to a low viscosity state when the temperature is increased from ambient temperature to the curing temperature.
US07854962B2 Gas supply method using a gas supply system
Disclosed herein is a processing system that can supply a material gas produced inside a material reservoir tank into a processing apparatus while generating almost no pressure loss. The processing system has a processing apparatus including a gas injection injector for injecting a specific material gas into a processing vessel in order to provide specific processing to an object to be processed W, the material gas being produced from a metallic compound material M with low vapor pressure; and a gas supply system for supplying the specific material gas to the gas injector, the gas injector is a shower head portion and the gas supply system provides: a gas passage extending upwardly from the showerhead portion; a material reservoir tank attached to the upper-end portion of the gas passage for containing the metallic compound material therein; and an open/close valve for opening/closing the gas passage.
US07854961B1 Scintillation materials with reduced afterglow and method of preparation
Scintillation materials of this invention have an alkali halide host material, a (first) scintillation dopant of various types, and a variety of second dopants (co-dopants). In another embodiment, the scintillation materials of this invention have an alkali halide host material, a (first) scintillation dopant of various types, a variety of second dopants (co-dopants), and a variety of third dopants (co-dopants). Co-dopants of this invention are capable of providing a second auxiliary luminescent cation dopant, capable of introducing an anion size and electronegativity mismatch, capable of introducing a mismatch of anion charge, or introducing a mismatch of cation charge in the host material.
US07854959B2 Controlled surface chemical gradients
A simple and reproducible preparative method for the fabrication of surface-chemical gradients is described herein. Surface-chemical gradient films are prepared by using a liquid front in relative motion to the substrate (e.g. immersion by a linear-motion drive or the use of a spreading droplet) to gradually expose substrate samples to very dilute solutions of adsorbates. As demonstrated by XPS, the self-assembled monolayer gradients produced in this way display a high packing density. This method can be used in the preparation of other gradients of various chemical or biochemical functionalities in one or two dimensions. Such gradients can be used in a wide variety of applications in such diverse areas as cell motility studies, nanotribology research, and high-throughput screening.
US07854956B2 Low sodium salt compositions and methods of preparation and uses thereof
Low sodium salt compositions containing a blend of sodium chloride and one or more magnesium, sodium and potassium salts are provided. Also provided are methods for making and using the compositions. Further provided are food products containing the compositions.
US07854955B2 Corn fiber hulls as a food additive or animal feed
The present invention provides a novel animal feed or food additive that may be made from thermochemically hydrolyzed, solvent-extracted corn fiber hulls. The animal feed or food additive may be made, for instance, by thermochemically treating corn fiber hulls to hydrolyze and solubilize the hemicellulose and starch present in the corn fiber hulls to oligosaccharides. The residue may be extracted with a solvent to separate the oil from the corn fiber, leaving a solid residue that may be prepared, for instance by aggolmerating, and sold as a food additive or an animal feed.
US07854952B2 Process for preparing concentrated milk protein ingredient and processed cheese made therefrom
Process for preparing a concentrated milk protein ingredient comprising the steps of: providing a membrane retentate solution having kappa-casein milk protein, adjusting the divalent ion content of said protein solution to a predetermined level at which no gel is formed after treatment with milk clotting enzyme, adding a food grade milk clotting enzyme under conditions where kappa-casein is converted to para-kappa casein while remaining in solution, terminating the conversion by removal or inactivation of the enzyme and concentrating said solution. The resultant milk protein concentrate ingredient is used in the production of cheese.
US07854949B2 Waffle sheet
Disclosed is a waffle sheet as a long-life baked product, comprising one respective rib structure on opposite surfaces of a support layer. Said support layer has the shape of a corrugated plate (1, 10, 11, 12), e.g. with a sinusoidal or angular, trapezoidal undulation, the walls of said corrugated plate having the same thickness. Ribs (5, 5′, 6) which penetrate or bridge the wave troughs (3, 3′, 3″, 3′″) extend transversal to said undulation. The wave troughs (3, 3′, 3″, 3′″) of both surfaces or the top face and bottom face touch or penetrate an imaginary center line (4) of the cross-section of the waffle. The average wall thickness of the ribs (5, 5, 6) corresponds to the wall thickness of the corrugated plate (1, 10, 11, 12). The ribs (5, 5′, 6) extend at an angle from or perpendicular to the apex line of the waves. The ribs (6) in the wave troughs (3, 3′) located on the top face are offset by half a separation relative to the ribs (5, 5′) of the wave troughs (3, 3′″) located on the bottom face. The angles (a, a ′) of the zigzag-type undulation (14) or the radii of curvature (r, r′) can be varied according to the amount of dough used per spatial unit. Also disclosed is a baking mold (13) comprising vapor bars (15) at the periphery thereof, said vapor bars (15) being provided with vapor slots on the undulation (14) which tapers as a slot.
US07854948B2 Use of tropical root crops in dietary intervention strategies
This invention relates to an effective dietary intervention plan. In one aspect all food is withheld for a period of at least 5 days, except for tropical root crops. In another aspect the invention relates to the treatment of various symptoms, conditions or diseases such as Diarrhea, constipation, congestion, eczema, asthma, fatigue, muscle weakness, tension, and spasms, irritable bowel syndrome, swelling, anxiety, multiple chemical sensitivities, moderate to extensive and moderate to severe symptoms due to food allergies, sensitivities, and intolerances, bloating, pain, headaches, leaky gut, hyperactivity, sleeping difficulties, severe underweight, eating disorders, obsessive, compulsive disorders, panic attacks, sensory sensitivities, Alzheimer's disease, acid reflux, irritability, delayed motor skills, delayed social skills, autism, PDD, infantile spasms, seizures by withholding from the patient for a period of at least 5 days all food except for concentrated forms of concentrated tropical root crops. Preferably the patient is also removed from external environmental sources of allergens. After the initial withholding period new foods may be introduced according to a particular selection and schedule.
US07854947B2 Personal care compositions comprising plant fiber
Personal care compositions having plant fiber such as tapioca fiber, and methods of applying those formulations. The addition of fiber to personal care formulations can provide performance improvement such as cleansing, exfoliation, irritation reduction, suspending, foam enhancement, and rheological property modification.
US07854945B2 Functionalized nanotubes
Graphitic nanotubes, which includes tubular fullerenes (commonly called “buckytubes”) and fibrils, which are functionalized by chemical substitution or by adsorption of functional moieties. More specifically the invention relates to graphitic nanotubes which are uniformly or non-uniformly substituted with chemical moieties or upon which certain cyclic compounds are adsorbed and to complex structures comprised of such functionalized fibrils linked to one another. The invention also relates to methods of introducing functional groups onto the surface of such fibrils.
US07854944B2 Tissue regeneration
A method including positioning a delivery device at a location in a vessel within a mammalian body, introducing a first treatment agent including a cellular component through the delivery device, and introducing a different second treatment agent disposed in a carrier through the delivery device. A method including identifying an infarct region within myocardial tissue and a border region of perfused tissue adjacent the infarct region, introducing a treatment agent including a cellular component to the border region, and introducing a plurality of microparticles to the infarct region. A kit including a treatment agent including a cellular component in a form suitable for percutaneous delivery, and a separate amount of a plurality of microparticles in a form suitable for percutaneous delivery.
US07854941B2 Method of attaching drug compounds to non-reactive polymer surfaces
Polymers are disclosed that are chemically modified to retard bacterial growth. Such modified polymers (e.g. ePTFE and polypropylene) are produced by first creating acid groups on the polymer surface through reactions with an anhydride. The acid groups are then linked to polyethylene glycol (PEG) through esterification or other reactions such as amidation. Preferably, at least two different molecular weight PEG species are employed. The antimicrobial surface is completed by linking antibiotics (e.g. β-lactam antibiotics) to the PEG extensions. One preferred embodiment of such a modified polymer is produced using ePTFE, maleic anhydride (MA), and penicillin (PEN) to yield PEN-PEG-MA-ePTFE, which inhibits gram-positive bacteria. The PEG spacer is critical for PEN function in this context, since PEN-ePTFE is ineffective against bacterial growth. Another preferred embodiment incorporates ampicillin (AMP) and a heterobifunctional PEG, HOOC—(CH2—CH2—O)n—NH2, to yield AMP-PEG-MA-ePTFE. This latter example inhibits both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.
US07854939B2 Gel useful for the delivery of cosmetic active ingredients
A gel, for cosmetic use, composed of a mixture of a polymer which forms a gel, a surfactant, and propionyl L-carnitine glycinate hydrochloride, useful for treating disturbances of the skin such as cellulite and wrinkles is described.
US07854936B2 Anti-inflammatory hydrolysate of C. versicolor
Methods and compositions for reducing and/or inhibiting inflammation by topical application of dermatocosmetic compositions comprising effective amounts of extracts of Coriolus versicolor that have been hydrolyzed by an acid protease, preferably Rhizomucor miehei, and thereafter rendered substantially devoid of acid-protease activity.
US07854931B2 Immunizing compostion and method for inducing an immune response against the beta-secretase cleavage site of amyloid precursor protein
The present invention is directed to an immunizing composition containing an antigenic product such as a multiple antigen peptide system (MAPS) or a filamentous bacteriophage displaying an AβPP epitope spanning the β-secretase cleavage site of AβPP and a method for inducing an immune response against the β-secretase cleavage site of AβPP using this immunizing composition. The present invention is also directed to antibodies against the β-secretase cleavage site of AβPP and their use in a method for inhibiting the formation of amyloid β.
US07854926B2 Biological soil nutrient system
A biological soil nutrient system that combines beneficial soil fungi and bacteria in a growth promoting nutrient medium, embedded in an inorganic porous ceramic particle for direct delivery during soil aerification to the rhizosphere of adventitious plants, including sports turf, landscape and agricultural applications.
US07854925B2 Use of solubilized, anionic polyurethanes in skin care compositions
This patent pertains to the use of anionic polyurethanes in a solubilized state which contribute to enhanced aesthetics to skin care compositions. The polyurethanes may be used alone or in combination with another polymer, particularly acrylate and methacrylate polymers.
US07854921B2 Hair care product
An oil-in-water type hair cosmetic composition obtained by dispersing liquid droplets of a mixture of Components (A) and (B) and liquid droplets of a mixture of Components (A) and (C) in an aqueous phase containing an emulsifier.A preparation process of an oil-in-water type hair cosmetic composition, which includes the following steps: (Step 1) mixing of Components (A) and (B) (preparation of a silicone mixture (AB)), (Step 2) mixing of Components (A) and (C) (preparation of a silicone mixture (AC)), (Step 3): mixing of an emulsifier, the other components and water (preparation of a base composition), and (Step 4): addition and mixing, in the base composition, the silicone mixtures (AB) and (AC) without dissolving each other (formation of liquid droplets of the silicone mixture (AB) and liquid droplets of the silicone mixture (AC) in the aqueous phase). a: number-average polymerization degree ranging from 1,000 to 20,000 b: number-average polymerization degree ranging from 10 to 800 c: number-average polymerization degree of from 3 to 7 The hair cosmetic composition of the invention is excellent in spreadability, has a slick and smooth feel, and a soft touch upon application of it to the wet hair, can impart the hair with a sleek touch without harsh friction upon rising, and can impart the hair with an unsticky smooth touch, moisturized feel and adequate manageability after drying.
US07854915B2 Method of producing sulfuric acid and installation for carrying out the method
The invention relates to a method of producing sulfuric acid wherein an SO2-containing raw gas produced in a sulfuric-acid recovery plant is passed through at least one reactor in which a catalytic reaction of SO2 to SO3 takes place, and the SO3 thereby formed is converted into sulfuric acid. According to the invention, at least a partial stream of the gas stream leaving the sulfuric-acid recovery plant is hydrogenated with an H2-rich gas in a post-treatment stage. The H2S-containing gas stream formed by the hydrogenation is fed into the H2S gas scrubber of a coke oven plant or a petrochemical plant. The invention also relates to an installation for carrying out the method.
US07854909B2 Method and device for treating a fine-particled feedstock especially containing metal
A process for treating a finely particulate, in particular metal-containing, charge material: The charge material and a treatment gas, in particular a reduction gas, are introduced into a fluidized bed chamber of a fluidized bed reactor to form a fluidized bed. After at least partial reaction in the fluidized bed, the treatment gas is discharged from the fluidized bed and, outside the fluidized bed, is at least partially reprocessed, preferably oxidized, by an exothermic, chemical reaction with a reactant, preferably with a gaseous and/or liquid oxidizing agent. The thermal energy of this reaction is at least partially introduced into the fluidized bed chamber, in particular into the fluidized bed, or being discharged therefrom to affect the temperature of the particulate material above the bed. Also an apparatus for operating such a fluidized bed includes the chamber, lines into and out of the chamber for gas and material and a cyclone at the chamber for the material.
US07854907B2 Process for the extraction of technetium from uranium
A spent fuel reprocessing method contacts an aqueous solution containing Technetium(V) and uranyl with an acidic solution comprising hydroxylamine hydrochloride or acetohydroxamic acid to reduce Tc(V) to Tc(II, and then extracts the uranyl with an organic phase, leaving technetium(II) in aqueous solution.
US07854898B2 Multi-well platforms, caddies, lids and combinations thereof
The present invention relates to multi-well platforms, lids, caddies and any combination thereof. The multi-well platforms comprise a plurality of wells that can be of any shape and can be arranged in any ornamental pattern. The lid comprises an area corresponding to the well field. The caddy has a footprint approximately that of a standard 96-well microtiter plate. When the multi-well platform is engaged with the caddy, the wells of the well-field of the multi-well platform are preferably not obscured by the caddy when viewed from the bottom of the combination.
US07854894B2 Feed device for liquid samples
Feed devices for liquid samples serve to convey liquid samples, for example to convey a liquid sample from waste water in a waste water treatment plant so as to monitor the treatment process. Known feed devices feed continuously at relatively low speeds. Films may accrete in the feed line that hinder the feeding and may react with the liquid sample. Therefore, the feed line must be cleaned frequently. In view of this, it is the object of the invention to improve the handling and the maintenance of a feed device for liquid samples. According to the invention, this object is solved by the fact that the feed pump (16) feeds in a pulse-like manner and the feed pump (16) as well as the feed line (18) are configured such that the expansion volume of the feed line (18) during the feed pulse is at most 50% of the pulse volume. Thereby, the feed line is cleaned and kept free of accretions.
US07854888B2 Methods for determining effectiveness of waste water tank deodorizers and synthetic waste compositions for use in said methods
A method for determining the effectiveness of a waste water tank deodorizer includes the steps of (i) providing a synthetic waste water media and a hydrogen sulfide generating microorganism; (ii) introducing in any order to the synthetic waste water media the hydrogen sulfide generating microorganism and a waste water tank deodorizer to be tested, and (iii) measuring the time or delay for the generation of hydrogen sulfide to occur beginning with combining of the hydrogen sulfide generating microorganism, the waste water tank deodorizer and the synthetic waste water media. Alternatively, measurement is also disclosed involving the number of bacteria present in the waste water during the test period. The invention includes a novel synthetic waste composition for use in the above method comprising at least a peptone, an animal protein extract, urea or a urea-containing compound, a metallic salt, a fiber-containing grain product and a cellulose-containing product.
US07854887B2 Production method for metal matrix composite material
A method of producing an aluminum matrix composite material is described that comprises the steps of: mixing an aluminum powder and a ceramic powder to prepare a mixed powder; providing a lower casing made of aluminum and formed in a hollow rectangular parallelepiped shape having an open top, and a closing member made of aluminum and formed in a shape adapted to hermetically close the open top of the lower casing; packing the mixed powder into the lower casing; closing the open top of the lower casing filled with the mixed powder, by the closing member, to prepare a pre-rolling assembly having the mixed powder hermetically sealed therein; preheating the pre-rolling assembly; and rolling the preheated assembly to obtain the aluminum matrix composite material, where the aluminum matrix composite material includes a pair of metal plates having the mixed powder therebetween.
US07854882B2 Moldable and low-temperature cure high-temperature composites
A method for preparing a high-temperature heat-resistant composite material by combining a mixture of submicron alumina powder and submicron silica powder, wherein the ratio of alumina to silica is from about 4:1 to about 5:1, submicron Group II metal oxide powder, and a Group I metal silicate solution to form a slurry, wherein the weight of the Group II metal oxide powder is an amount corresponding to about 5% to about 10% of the weight of the silicate solution; contacting reinforcing high-temperature resistant fibers with the slurry to form a composite precursor composition; and curing the composition at a temperature sufficient to produce the high-temperature heat-resistant composite material capable of resisting temperatures up to about 1400° C. Composite materials prepared according to the method and articles incorporating the material are also presented.
US07854879B2 Optical element molding die, and optical element manufacturing method
It is to provide an optical element, an optical element molding die, and an optical element manufacturing method, which can easily but surely suppress generation of transcription failure of a resin material and also enables to manufacture an optical element with an excellent optical performance at a low cost while improving the yield. In an optical element formed with a resin material, a gate part is formed on a side face of an optical element main body, and a ratio of the thickness of the gate part with respect to the thickness of an optical function part of the optical element main body is set as 50% or more.
US07854877B2 Lithography meandering order
An imprint lithography method is disclosed, which includes imprinting a plurality of patterns in an imprintable medium provided on a substrate, wherein the order in which the patterns are imprinted in the imprintable medium is such that, for the majority of the patterns, two consecutively imprinted patterns are not imprinted adjacent to one another.
US07854875B2 Method of making a trim panel having a narrow transition radius and apparatus
In at least certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a trim panel and an apparatus and method of making the same. In at least one embodiment, the trim panel comprises a first portion and a second portion with a transition portion extending therebetween with the first portion and the second portion having curved portions having radii of less than 5 mm.
US07854865B2 Method of injection molding thin thermoplastic lenses
Methods are disclosed to injection mold resins, like polycarbonate, to form solid optical lenses. The lenses are ideally suited for use as very thin coating carriers. The method involves closing the mold with a clamp force less than the force exerted on the insert during injection. During injection the mold is allowed to breathe thereby overcoming many of the obstacles associated with injection molding very thin lenses. As the injection pressure subsides, the mold begins to close to perform a coining operation, resulting in a strong, high yield carrier or lens.
US07854863B2 Functional materials for use in optical systems
The present invention provides both polymer systems and electrooptic (EO) chromophores that form the components of optical devices such as optical switches and other devices useful in an optical waveguide.
US07854862B2 Multifunctional materials consisting of regioregular poly(3-alkylthiophene)s covalently attached on carbon nanotubes for photovoltaic applications
Facile ways towards the integration of the regioregular poly(3-alkylthiophene)s onto carbon nanotubes, providing multifunctional materials that combine the extraordinary properties of the carbon nanotubes with those of regioregular poly(3-alkylthiophene)s, are presented.
US07854861B2 Well formation
Composition of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are produced into inks that are dispensable via ink jet deposition processes or others. The CNT ink is dispensed into wells formed in a cathode structure. The inks include carbon nanotubes, binding materials, and possibly other nanoparticles. Such binding materials may include epoxies and silicate materials.
US07854860B2 High-stability microencapsulated hardened for epoxy resin and epoxy resin composition
A microencapsulated latent hardener for epoxy resins which comprises cores (C) and shells (S) with which the cores are covered, characterized in that the cores (C) are ones formed from, as a starking material, particles of an epoxy resin hardener (H) comprising an amine adduct (A) and a low-molecular amine compound (B) as major ingredients and that the shells (S) have on the surface thereof connecting groups (x), (y), and (z) which absorb infrared. Also provided is an epoxy resin composition containing the hardener.
US07854859B2 Nitride phosphor, method for producing this nitride phosphor, and light emitting device that uses this nitride phosphor
A red phosphor with excellent luminescent characteristics, and a light emitting device that uses this phosphor are provided. The phosphor is a nitride phosphor that is activated by europium, and absorbs light from the near ultraviolet range to the blue range to emit red light. The nitride phosphor has the following general formula, MwAlxSiyBzN((2/3)w+x+(4/3)y+z):Eu2+ where M is at least one element selected from the group consisting of Mg, Ca, Sr and Ba. In the general formula, w, x, y and z fall within the following ranges. 0.056≦w≦9, x=1, 0.056≦y≦18, and 0.0005≦z≦0.5 In addition, the mean particle diameter of the nitride phosphor is preferably not less than 2 μm and not more than 15 μm. Additionally, the light emitting device includes a light source with a first light emission spectrum that emits light from the near ultraviolet range to the blue range, and one or more kinds of phosphors that absorb at least part of the first light emission spectrum and thus emit light with a second light emission spectrum. The aforementioned phosphor can be used as the phosphors.
US07854857B2 Formulation for dust abatement and prevention of erosion
A safe, biodegradable, environmentally benign, non-toxic, water-soluble solution consisting of water, sugar, starch, sodium phosphate, and surfactant that can be applied to dust and sand particles to bind the particles and form a hardened crust. Also disclosed is the related method for abating dust and preventing erosion.
US07854856B2 Environmentally benign anti-icing or deicing fluids employing triglyceride processing by-products
Deicing compositions comprised of glycerol-containing by-products of triglyceride processing processes are disclosed.
US07854854B2 Quaternary ammonium salt, electrolyte, electrolyte solution and electrochemical device
A quaternary ammonium salt of the formula (1), electrolytic solution and electrochemical device using the salt wherein R1 is straight-chain or branched alkyl having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, R2 is straight-chain or branched alkyl having 1 to 3 carbon atoms, and X− is N(CN)2−, SCN−, NO3−, NCO− or NO2−.
US07854853B2 Nano fabrication method for glass
An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a nano fabrication method for a glass, the method including forming a molecule substituting layer on a glass substrate, patterning the molecule substituting layer correspondent to shapes to be patterned on the glass substrate, substituting crystal atoms of the glass substrate with atoms of the molecule substituting layer, removing the patterned molecule substituting layer from the glass substrate, and etching the molecule substituted portion of the glass substrate.
US07854844B2 Detection systems and methods
The application describes apparatus and methods using ultrasound transmitted through a chromatography column bed to determine the status of materials in the bed space, particularly during chromatography runs. Detected conditions include the profile of a band of eluting material—to see whether it is satisfactory—the arrival of a band of material at the column output, the fitness for use of the ed packing, the passage of different mobile phases, e.g. salt fronts, and other conditions. Aspects claimed include control processors and corresponding programmed products.
US07854843B2 Wastewater treatment method
A wastewater treatment system including a biological reactor is disclosed. At least one controlled-reaction-volume module is provided to the biological reactor. The at least one controlled-reaction-volume module includes a fixed-film media for supporting a biological growth. At least one mixer, such as, for example, a high momentum mixer, for communicate a fluid to the at least one controlled-reaction-volume module so that wastewater and the biological growth communicate to thereby treat the wastewater.
US07854842B2 Apparatus and methods for control of waste treatment processes
Waste-treatment processes are enhanced through generation and introduction of specific biological populations customized to perform or favor specific tasks either during the main process, for the formation or precipitation of certain biological nutrients, or to accomplish solids formation reduction in a post-treatment process. These bacteria may be grown from specialized mixes of activated sludge and waste influent by exposing these materials to controlled environments (e.g., in an off-line treatment area). They may then be returned to the main process to perform certain tasks such as converting particulate cBOD into soluble cBOD for utilization, to reduce high solids yield organisms by supplementing the population characteristics with low yield organism characteristics, to provide biological nutrients or oxygenation assistance, to improve nitrification/denitrification efficiency, or to disfavor filamentous biology such as Norcardia sp.
US07854841B2 Combined anaerobic process apparatus for treating organic wastes
The present invention relates to a combined anaerobic process apparatus for treating organic wastes, comprising: a first solid-liquid separator to separate organic wastes into liquid wastes and solid wastes; an acid-forming tank to decompose the liquid wastes separated through the first solid-liquid separator using acid-forming microorganisms; a USAB reactor to decompose the liquid wastes discharged from the acid-forming tank using anaerobic microorganisms; a crushing tank to crush the solid wastes separated through the first solid-liquid separator finely; a mixing tank to mix solid wastes crushed through the crushing tank with microorganisms; and a dry-anaerobic tank to dry solid wastes mixed with microorganisms through the mixing tank, in an anaerobic manner.
US07854840B2 Method for decomposing biogenic material
The invention relates to a method for decomposing biogenic material, wherein a percolator is charged with biogenic material, a percolation liquid is separated by sieving and re-sprayed again onto the biogenic material, excess percolation liquid is pumped into a buffer from where it is transported into a biogas reactor and fermented to form biogas. The method is characterized in that the purified percolation liquid is transferred as waste water to a storage buffer container from where it can be retransferred to the percolator.
US07854837B2 Filter cartridge with pressure relief valve
A filter cartridge includes a substantially cylindrical filter media and a pressure relieving structure. The filter media is adapted to allow fluid to pass from an exterior of the filter media to an interior space of the filter media. The pressure relieving structure is disposed at an upper end of the filter media, and the pressure relieving structure opens when a predetermined pressure level is established across the filter media to maintain the predetermined pressure across the filter media.
US07854833B2 Systems and methods of producing a crude product
The present invention is directed to a method for producing a crude product from a crude feed. A crude feed is contacted with a hydrogen source and a catalyst comprising a transition metal sulfide under conditions controlled such that the crude product has a residue content of at most the 30% of the residue content of the crude feed.
US07854828B2 Method and apparatus for electroplating including remotely positioned second cathode
An apparatus for electroplating a layer of metal on the surface of a wafer includes a second cathode located remotely with respect to the wafer. The remotely positioned second cathode allows modulation of current density at the wafer surface during an entire electroplating process. The second cathode diverts a portion of current flow from the near-edge region of the wafer and improves the uniformity of plated layers. The remote position of second cathode allows the insulating shields disposed in the plating bath to shape the current profile experienced by the wafer, and therefore act as a “virtual second cathode”. The second cathode may be positioned outside of the plating vessel and separated from it by a membrane.
US07854827B2 Comparative multidimensional gel electrophoresis
A device providing an arrangement for the separation of a sample mixture for analytical reasons based on multidimensional gel electrophoresis and method thereof are disclosed. The separation involves a first separation in a first dimension of the device on the basis of isoelectric points and a second separation in a second dimension of the device on the basis of molecular size. At least two gel strips for the first dimension separation step and a corresponding gel for the second dimension separation step are provided. The two gel strips are arranged on a single carrier either on the same side or on opposite sides. By having at least two gel strips arranged in such a manner at least two analytical processes can be executed in parallel on the single carrier without the use of valves.
US07854823B2 Synthesis of diamond by extraction of a pulse derived from the abrupt collapse of a magnetic field
A process for converting carbonaceous material into diamond utilizing the compressive force derived from an abruptly collapsing magnetic field.
US07854822B2 Plasticizing formulation for fluff pulp and plasticized fluff pulp products made therefrom
A plasticizing formulation for producing plasticized fluff pulp. The plasticizing formulation, which preferably is an aqueous solution, includes a primary plasticizing agent, and optionally a secondary plasticizing agent. Preferably, the primary plasticizing agent is 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol, and the secondary plasticizing agent is triacetin. When the plasticizing formulation is applied to a cellulosic fluff pulp, a plasticized fluff pulp is produced. The resultant plasticized fluff pulp may have one or more of the following: reduced Kamas energy, Mullen strength, and fiber knot and nit contents, when compared to the base cellulosic fluff pulp fiber that is not plasticized.
US07854819B2 Multilayer information recording medium and production method therefor
A method for producing a multilayer information recording medium the method including: holding a substrate; feeding a resin onto the substrate; and removing the excess resin by moving a squeegee throughout the entire surface of the substrate. The substrate may have a resin-coated region, onto which the resin is to be applied, and a non-resin-coated region, onto which the resin is not to be applied. In this case, the resin-coated region has a smaller contact angle with the resin than the non-resin-coated region. The method for producing a multilayer information recording medium may further include, prior to feeding a resin onto the substrate, subjecting a specified area of the substrate to an oil repellent treatment to increase the contact angle of the specified area with the resin.
US07854817B2 Methods and assemblies for attaching articles to surfaces
Herein are disclosed methods and assemblies for mounting an article to a surface by a double-faced adhesive. At least one spacer is used that is deflectable upon the application of sufficient force. When in a first, undeflected condition, the spacer provides sufficient space between the mounting surface and the double-faced adhesive such that the double-faced adhesive does not contact the mounting surface, thus the position of the article can be adjusted. When in a second, deflected condition, the spacer allows the double-faced adhesive to contact the mounting surface such that a bond can be established between the double-faced adhesive and the mounting surface.
US07854812B2 Process for finishing wallboard joints
A joint compound guide bead dispenser, for finishing wallboard joints and a process for finishing wallboard joints. The guide bead dispenser includes a housing containing an adhesive coated cord wound on a rotatably mounted spool. The housing has an opening through which the cord passes and a roller rotatably mounted proximate to the opening. A cutting blade is mounted on the housing proximate to the opening. A length of cord may be payed out through the opening. The cord may be adhered to wallboard, proximate to a joint, by applying pressure with the roller and cut to selected length. Joint compound may be applied to cover the joint and smoothed to a uniform feathered finish by resting a straight edged knife on the wallboard and on the guide bead while moving the knife in a joint compound applying stroke.
US07854811B1 Mouldable plastic explosives and inert simulants for mouldable plastic explosives
A solvent-free process is used to make mouldable plastic explosives or mouldable plastic explosive simulant products.
US07854810B2 Methods for manufacturing a clip and clip
The present invention relates to a method of making clips which can be used to engage body tissue for the purpose of closing wounds. Such clips are generally annular in shape and have radially inwardly extending tines. The present invention first forms a precursor which, in one embodiment, has the tines extending radially outwardly from the annular body and then forms the clip by inverting the precursor such that the tines extend radially inwardly. In an alternate embodiment, the precursor is formed with an over-sized lateral dimension and then compressed inwardly to bring the tines closer together and to reduce the lateral dimension of the precursor. It is preferred to manufacture such clips from a superelastic alloy such as nickel-titanium, in which case the inverted or compressed precursor must be heated and quenched to heat set the clip in its final shape.
US07854809B2 Heat treatment system for a composite turbine engine component
A heat treatment process for a component of a turbine engine formed from multiple materials, such as steel and nickel. The heat treatment process includes two stages: a first stage for austinitizing the steel and solutioning the nickel, and a second stage for ageing and tempering the materials. The heat treatment process may include heating a component formed from a steel portion and a nickel portion such that the steel portion austinitizes and the nickel portion undergoes solutioning, cooling the component to prevent the excessive formation of gamma prime ({grave over (y)}), and subjecting the component to a temper heat treatment during which martensite tempering occurs.
US07854808B2 Steel sheet for vitreous enameling and production method
To provide a non-aging steel sheet for vitreous enameling, the steel sheet being excellent in resistance to bubbles and black spots, without the employment of decarbonization and denitrification annealing that raises the cost of production and also without the addition of expensive elements such as Nb, Ti, etc. that raise the cost of alloys. The steel sheet comprises, in mass, to C: 0.0050% or less, Si: 0.50% or less, Mn: 0.005 to 1.0%, P: 10×(B−11/14×N) to 0.10%, S: 0.080% or less, Al: 0.050% or less, N: 0.0005 to 0.020%, B: 0.60×N to 0.020%, and O: 0.002 to 0.0800%, and the shape of B nitrides is controlled mainly by adjusting hot-rolling conditions.
US07854805B2 Plasma processing plant
A plasma processing plant for plastic bottles, having a vacuum chamber arranged inside the processing chamber and when a respective bottle opening is pressed against a valve, the valve will open and establish a connection between the interior of the bottle and the vacuum chamber, and the chambers are continuously sealed against one another in a gastight fashion. With such approach, the gas can be conducted more easily and the number of control mechanisms can be reduced.
US07854804B2 Nitride crystal, nitride crystal substrate, epilayer-containing nitride crystal substrate, semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
A nitride crystal is characterized in that, in connection with plane spacing of arbitrary specific parallel crystal lattice planes of the nitride crystal obtained from X-ray diffraction measurement performed with variation of X-ray penetration depth from a surface of the crystal while X-ray diffraction conditions of the specific parallel crystal lattice planes are satisfied, a uniform distortion at a surface layer of the crystal represented by a value of |d1-d2|/d2 obtained from the plane spacing d1 at the X-ray penetration depth of 0.3 μm and the plane spacing d2 at the X-ray penetration depth of 5 μm is equal to or lower than 2.1×10−3. The above configuration provides the nitride crystal having a crystal surface layer that is evaluated directly and reliably without breaking the crystal so that it can be used in a preferred fashion as a substrate for a semiconductor device as well as the nitride crystal substrate, an epilayer-containing nitride crystal substrate, a semiconductor device and a method of manufacturing the same.
US07854799B2 Stable non-aqueous inkjet inks
A non-aqueous inkjet ink includes a diketopyrrolo-pyrrole pigment and at least one polyalkyleneglycol dialkylether having a molecular weight of at least 250. Also, a method for manufacturing decorative laminates using the non-aqueous inkjet ink is provided.
US07854797B2 Porphyrazine coloring matter, ink, ink set, and colored product
The present invention relates to a porphyrazine coloring matter represented by the following formula (1) or a salt thereof; wherein, each of the rings A to D independently represents a benzene ring or a 6-membered nitrogen-containing heteroaromatic ring, at least one or more thereof is a benzene ring, at least one of the rest is a nitrogen-containing heteroaromatic ring, E represents alkylene, X is an anilino group having a substituent and the like, Y represents an amino group; a hydroxy group; a mono- or di-alkylamino group or a nitrogen-containing heterocyclic group which may have a substituent, excepting for the combination in which Y is an amino group or a hydroxy group and X is a substituted anilino group, b is 0 to 2.9, c is 0.1 to 3, and the sum of b and c is 1 to 3. According to the present invention, a porphyrazine coloring matter suitable for inkjet recording which has a good hue as a cyan ink, is excellent in light fastness, ozone fastness and moisture fastness, and causes no bronze phenomenon can be provided.
US07854794B2 Rotary valve element for twin bed alternative treatment systems
In a disclosed embodiment, a chemical process has a pair of beds, with each of said beds having at least one connection to receive a source of gas, and for delivering gas downstream. Each of the beds includes chemical treatment elements. The system includes a connection to a source of a gas to be treated, and a connection for receiving treated gas to be delivered to a downstream use, a connection to a source of a cleaning gas, and a connection to deliver the cleaning gas downstream. A rotary valve includes a rotary actuator for rotating a valve to selectively switch each of the beds between the several connections.
US07854792B2 Reactive gas control
Aspects include a valve comprising a flowing liquid, operable to control a flow of gas through a port. Certain aspects include reaction chambers operable to react gases, and in some aspects gases are substantially contained within an envelope comprised of a flowing liquid. Certain embodiments control gas entrance into a chamber with a valve comprised of a flowing liquid controlling gas flow through a port. Various gas scrubbing systems are described, including systems comprising reaction chambers operable to react gases that yield substantial amounts of solid reaction products. Methods for controlling gas flow are disclosed. Systems and methods include sequential steps of wet-scrubbing, reacting and further wet-scrubbing a gas stream.
US07854790B2 Method of processing volatile organic compound, adsorption and desorption apparatus, and system for processing volatile organic compound
A method of processing a volatile organic compound is provided, wherein a volatile organic compound contained in gas to be treated is adsorbed in an adsorbent; the thus-adsorbed volatile organic compound is desorbed with the aid of steam and mixed in the steam; and the steam containing the volatile organic compound is combusted. This method further includes: separating a vessel for the adsorption and desorption into an inner side room and an outer side room by means of a separation member part of which is formed of the adsorbent; thermally retaining the vessel for the adsorption and desorption; at the time of adsorption, supplying the gas to be treated to the inner side room and therefrom to the outer side room; and at the time of desorption, supplying the steam to the outer side room and therefrom to the inner side room.
US07854784B2 Calcium-silicate based slag for treatment of molten silicon
A method for making solar grade silicon from metallurgical grade silicon is accomplished by treating a calcium silicate based slag with ferrosilicon in the first vessel so as to obtain a purification of the calcium silicate based slag. In a second vessel, the purified calcium based silicate slag is used to treat metallurgical grade silicon in order to obtain a solar grade silicon. The purification of calcium silicate based slag in the first vessel is accomplished to reduce phosphorous to a level of less than 3 ppmw.
US07854783B2 Carbothermic aluminum production apparatus, systems and methods
Apparatus, systems and methods for carbothermically producing aluminum are disclosed. The systems may include a reactor and an electrical supply. The reactor may include a plurality of side-entering electrodes and a top-entering electrode. The electrical supply may be operable to supply multiphase current to the side-entering electrodes and/or the top-entering electrodes. The electrodes may be in communication with a molten bath of the reactor, and the multiphase current supplied thereto may be passed through the bath to heat the reactor. The amount of current supplied to various electrode sets may be adjusted to facilitate tailored heating of the molten bath.
US07854782B2 Vacuum cleaner
A vacuum cleaner includes a vacuum cleaner body, a cyclone unit which is mounted at the vacuum cleaner body, and separates dust from drawn air, a dust separating unit which is engaged with a lower end of the cyclone unit, said dust separating unit being configured to collect separated dust, said dust separating unit being detachable from the cyclone, and said dust separating unit comprising a compressing plate compressing the collected dust; and a driving unit which is disposed at a lower end of the dust separating unit, said driving unit being configured to ascend and descend the dust separating unit to be detachably connected to the cyclone unit and drives the compressing plate.
US07854780B2 Velocity-stack air-filter assembly
An air-filter assembly is adapted to be used with a velocity stack of a carburetor of an internal-combustion engine of an automobile. The air-filter assembly includes a generally hollow air-filter member defining an open face, a closed face, and a side connected to and extending between the open and closed faces of the air-filter member. The closed face and side define an air-inlet end, an air-discharge end disposed opposite the air-inlet end, and an air filter arranged between the air-inlet and air-discharge ends. The air-inlet end is adapted to permit air to flow therethrough from exterior the air-filter assembly. The air filter is adapted to remove impurities entrained in the airflow and permit the filtered air to flow therethrough. The air-discharge end is adapted to permit the filtered air to flow therethrough into the velocity stack. A retaining ring member is mounted about the open face and at least a portion of the side of the air-filter member and adapted to be manually mounted about a lip of an outer open end of the velocity stack to lock the air-filter assembly to the velocity stack.
US07854779B2 Dust separating apparatus for vacuum cleaner
A dust separating apparatus for a vacuum cleaner which is compact in configuration and is capable of preventing dirt from piling up on an entrance channel is provided. The dust separating apparatus includes a dust collecting receptacle adapted to collect dirt, and a cyclone unit eccentrically disposed in the dust collecting receptacle and adapted to whirl air drawn in through an inflow channel thereof, and the inflow channel may have an inclined upper surface which slopes downward toward a bottom of the dust collecting receptacle by a predetermined angle.
US07854778B2 Intake duct
An intake duct for a compressor comprises an inlet and an outlet means. The duct has a serpentine path. The outlet means comprises a first outlet and a second outlet. The duct further comprises at least one grille member configured to prevent the passage of objects over a predetermined size which is positioned in the duct out of the line of sight when viewed through the inlet. The duct is shaped such that in operation objects passing through the at least one grille member greater than a predetermined mass are directed towards the first outlet and the remainder of the objects are directed towards the second outlet. The first outlet leads overboard and/or to a trap and the second outlet leads to a compressor.
US07854777B2 Polishing compound, method for production thereof, and polishing method
A heterocyclic benzene compound such as benzotriazole, is dissolved in at least one substance selected from the group consisting of a primary alcohol having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, a glycol having from 2 to 4 carbon atoms, an ether represented by the Formula 2 (wherein m is an integer of from 1 to 4), N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, N,N-dimethylformamide, dimethyl sulfoxide, γ-butyrolactone and propylene carbonate, and an aqueous dispersion of fine oxide particles which constitute abrasive grains is mixed therewith, whereby a polishing compound is obtained. By use of this polishing compound in polishing a substrate provided with an insulating film 2 on which a wiring metal film 4 and a barrier film 3 are formed, the formation of an embedded wiring 5 is made possible with low dishing, low erosion and low scratching at a high removal rate.
US07854774B2 Fuel components, fuel compositions and methods of making and using same
A fuel composition comprises at least a C5 isoprenoid compound or its derivative and a conventional fuel additive. The C5 isoprenoid compound or its derivative can be used as a fuel component or as a fuel additive in the fuel composition. The fuel composition may further comprise a conventional fuel component selected from a diesel fuel, jet fuel, kerosene or gasoline. Methods of making and using the fuel composition are also disclosed.
US07854770B2 Detergent composition comprising a surfactant system and a pyrophosphate
A detergent composition comprising: from 0.01% to 90% by weight of a surfactant system, one or more detergency builder(s), comprising a phosphate builder, and the phosphate builder containing pyrophosphate, wherein the composition comprises at most 12% by weight of phosphate builder(s) and the phosphate builder(s) comprise(s) at least 40% by weight of pyrophosphate(s).
US07854761B2 Methods for venous valve replacement with a catheter
A venous valve apparatus, system and method for valve replacement. The valve includes a valve frame, a valve leaflet joined to the valve frame, and a support frame. The valve leaflet includes surfaces defining a reversibly sealable opening for unidirectional flow of a liquid. The support frame meets the valve frame on an axis, where the valve frame and the support frame extend from the axis in an opposing direction. The system further includes a catheter, where the valve can be reversibly joined to the catheter at a location between a proximal end and a distal end of the catheter. The system can be used to deploy the valve from the catheter at a predetermined location.
US07854758B2 Exclusion of ascending/descending aorta and/or aortic arch aneurysm
A system and method for exclusion of an aneurysm of an aortic arch region using a graft delivery system capable of maneuvering around an aortic arch, an aortic arch graft, and an occluder system for isolating an aneurysm while occluding one or more corresponding arteries, and with bypass of those arteries being performed using one or more selected bypass grafts. The graft may be branched or branchless. The graft delivery system has a flexible sheath that is manipulated manually with the aid of a guidance system. A hoist delivery system may also be provided. The occluder system may comprise independent occluders with one or more anchor members adjacent to one end. Alternatively, the occluders can be provided as part of the aortic arch graft, either as a built-in singular self-deploying occluder or as built-in multiple occluders. A kit is also provided containing a graft, stents, occluders, and optional delivery system.
US07854753B2 Photokinetic delivery of biologically active substances using pulsed incoherent light
The invention relates generally to transdermal and transmembrane delivery of biologically active substances through the skin, sub-dermal tissues, blood vessels and cellular membranes without causing damage to the cellular surface, tissue or membrane. The invention provides compositions and methods for enhanced transdermal and transmembrane delivery of biologically active substances using pulsed incoherent light. The invention further provides a device for the application of the pulsed incoherent light to cellular surfaces and membranes using those compositions and methods.
US07854745B2 Intragastric device
An implant configured for ingestion by a patient. After the implant has been swallowed by the patient and is disposed within the target location, e.g. the patient's stomach, an inflation subcomponent causes the implant to expand from a compact delivery state to an expanded, volume-occupying, deployed state. In the deployed state the implant creates a sensation of satiety in the patient stomach and thereby aids in limiting food intake and obesity. After a predetermined time a deflation subcomponent is actuated and the implant reduces in size so as to allow it to pass through the remainder of the patient's digestive track. The device may further incorporate tracking and visualization subcomponents, as well as pharmaceutical delivery subcomponents.
US07854743B2 Catheter for the delivery of therapeutic agents to tissues
A catheter for placement of an in situ implant is provided. This catheter may include a first elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, a second elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, a first sharpened distal tip disposed at the distal end of the first shaft and a second sharpened distal tip disposed at the distal end of the second shaft. The first shaft and the second shaft may also be secured to one another at the distal end of the first shaft according to the invention. Still further, according to other teachings, the first sharpened distal tip may extend beyond the second sharpened distal tip in a catheter that practices the invention.
US07854740B2 Intraluminal guidance system using bioelectric impedance
A system using bioelectric impedance to guide a flexible elongate transluminal device through an occlusion in a vessel. The device can be a guidewire or a device for performing an atherectomy, discectomy, ablation or similar technique. The device includes a first electrode disposed on a distal portion of the device. A second electrode is disposed in electric contact with the patient separate from the first electrode. An electric current is supplied between the first and second electrodes and a voltage drop is measured between the first and second electrodes. The voltage drop is converted to bioelectric impedance. Based on the impedance measurement, a clinician can determine if the device is approaching the vessel wall, permitting the clinician to redirect the device away from the vessel wall.
US07854737B2 Instrument and associated method of trailing for modular hip stems
A trial (100) for use in performing joint arthroplasty is provided. The trial (100) fits to a cavity (103) in the canal (105) of a long bone (107) and assists in the performing of a trial reduction in performing joint arthroplasty. The trial (100) includes a stem portion (102) and a neck portion (104) fixedly connected to the stem portion (102) in a plurality of selectable positions with respect to the stem portion (102).
US07854736B2 Surgical instrument and method
A surgical instrument comprises a hollow tube (18) having a cutting window (16) at the distal end portion. An inner tube (15) is disposed within the tube (18) and is mounted for rotation about its longitudinal axis. A cutting tool (17) is located at the distal end of the tube (15), and is positioned adjacent to the cutting window (16). An outer tube (14) is provided over the tube (18). A motor (5) is provided for rotating the inner tube (15), and saline is fed to the cutting window (16) via a passageway (25) between the tubes (15) and (18). The inner tube (15) has a central lumen (24) through which tissue cut by the cutting tool (17) is removed under the action of a source of suction (12). The outer surface of the tube 18 is covered with an electrically insulating layer (22) and coagulating RF signals are supplied between the tube (18) and the outer tube (14) so as to coagulate tissue at the cutting window (16). Additional apertures (40, 42; 43, 45) in the outer tube (14) and the insulating layer (22) are aligned such that a portion of the hollow tube (18) is exposed other than in the area of the cutting window (16).
US07854735B2 Energy-based medical treatment system and method
A method for medical treatment includes beginning coagulating patient tissue using an energy-based clamp coagulator, determining the clamping force, and measuring the acoustic impedance of the patient tissue. The method also includes compensating the measured acoustic impedance for clamp pressure and monitoring the coagulation using at least the compensated measured acoustic impedance. A first medical treatment system includes an energy-based clamp coagulator, an acoustic-impedance measurer, and a force measurer. A second system includes an energy-based clamp coagulator having a clamping member which includes, or is adapted to function as, an electrical-impedance-measuring electrode for measuring an electrical impedance of the clamped patient tissue. A third system includes an energy-based clamp coagulator having a clamping member which includes, or is adapted to function as, a temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of the clamped patient tissue.
US07854733B2 Phased-array for tissue treatment
Apparatus is provided for ablating tissue of a patient by applying ultrasound energy to the tissue. The apparatus is typically delivered to the targeted tissue via a catheter and includes an ultrasound array, which is adapted to be driven as a phased array to concentrate the ultrasound energy on the targeted tissue while avoiding surrounding tissue.
US07854731B2 Valved catheter
A valved catheter that allows placement and withdrawal of an accessing device or attachable unit without the risk of air embolism or blood loss. In one variation, the valved catheter includes a catheter tube having a necked portion in its proximal end that forms an integral valve, the necked portion being surrounded by a compression sleeve that biases the valve in a closed position. In another variation, the valved catheter is a dual lumen catheter with a corresponding bifurcating extension for engaging the valves in the catheter in order to establish fluid communication through the catheter.
US07854730B2 Catheter for uniform delivery of medication
A catheter is provided for uniform distribution of fluid medication within an anatomical region. One embodiment of the catheter is compromised of an elongated, proximal tube defining a lumen and an elongated, distal tube having a closed end. The distal tube is constructed from a bio-absorbable material and also defines a lumen, which communicates with the lumen of the proximal tube. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the distal tube defines a porous side wall that permits fluid within the lumen to pass through the portion of the distal tube. In another embodiment, the proximal tube and the distal tube overlap one another and are secured to one another at the overlapping surfaces.
US07854725B2 Low profile retention system
Medical devices for retaining an end of a medical tube. Each of the devices of the present invention comprises a base and at least one tab having a portion that is moveable within the base. The base comprises an upper surface, a lower surface, at least one side cavity for receiving a tab, and an opening transverse to the upper and lower surfaces. To facilitate tube retention, the tube is inserted through the opening in the base and the tab(s) is(are) moved within the cavity(ies) such that a portion of each tab contacts and retains the tube.
US07854724B2 Trocar assembly with pneumatic sealing
A trocar for use in a minimally invasive surgical procedure includes an elongated body, nozzle means and means for delivering a pressurized flow of fluid to the nozzle means. The elongated body has a generally tubular configuration with coaxially arranged inner and outer walls and longitudinally opposed proximal and distal end portions, with the inner wall defining a lumen to accommodate passage of an instrument therethrough. The nozzle means is operatively associated with the inner wall of the body for directing pressurized fluid into the lumen to develop a pressure differential in an area within a region extending from a location adjacent a distal end portion of the lumen to a location adjacent a proximal end portion of the lumen, to form a fluid seal around an instrument passing therethrough.
US07854717B1 Method and compositions for treatment of cancers
A method to treat cancer uses ultrapheresis, refined to remove compounds of less than 120,000 daltons molecular weight, followed by administration of replacement fluid, to stimulate the patient's immune system to attack solid tumors. In the preferred embodiment, the patient is ultrapheresed using a capillary tube ultrafilter having a pore size of 0.02 to 0.05 microns, with a molecular weight cutoff of 120,000 daltons, sufficient to filter one blood volume. The preferred replacement fluid is ultrapheresed normal plasma. The patient is preferably treated daily for three weeks, diagnostic tests conducted to verify that there has been shrinkage of the tumors, then the treatment regime is repeated. The treatment is preferably combined with an alternative therapy, for example, treatment with an anti-angiogenic compound, one or more cytokines such as TNF, gamma interferon, or IL-2, or a procoagulant compound. The treatment increases endogenous, local levels of cytokines, such as TNF. This provides a basis for an improved effect when combined with any treatment that enhances cytokine activity against the tumors, for example, treatments using alkylating agents, doxyrubicin, carboplatinum, cistplatimum, and taxol. Alternatively, the ultrapheresis treatment can be combined with local chemotherapy, systemic chemotherapy, and/or radiation.
US07854705B2 Ex vivo verification of biopsy tissue samples
An instrument for verification of presence of image enhancing, contrasting agent in a biopsy sample which was obtained by imaging the lesion area with an imaging modality which is sensitive to the contrasting agent. In one embodiment of the invention, an optical spectrometer is used to analyze biopsy samples for the presence of gadolinium enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging contrasting agent which typically pools in breast tumors.
US07854704B2 Systems, methods and products for diagnostic hearing assessments distributed via the use of a computer network
The systems, methods and associated devices performing diagnostic hearing tests which use a computer network to allow interaction between a test administration site and one or a plurality of remote patient sites. The test can be administered by an audiologist or clinician at a site remote from the patient, in a manner, which can allow interaction between the user and the clinician during at least a portion of the administration of the test. The diagnostic hearing tests can be performed such that they meet standardized guidelines such as ANSI requirements or certification standards and can include distortion product emission level measurements or middle ear compliance measurements.
US07854699B2 Endoscope inserting direction detecting method
An endoscope inserting direction detecting method includes receiving an endoscopic image and judging from the endoscopic image whether or not an endoscope is located too closely to an object of observation. When it is judged that the endoscope is located too closely to the object of observation, information is produced for prompting pull-back of the endoscope. When it is judged that the endoscope is not located too closely to the object of observation, a detecting algorithm is selected and applied according to the endoscopic image from among plural detecting algorithms for detecting an inserting direction of the endoscope.
US07854698B2 Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations
Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or transducer assembly through a dental implant are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon the implant to form a hearing assembly. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure.
US07854696B2 Rolling pin with adjustable offset
A rolling pin with an adjustable offset for flattening or rolling out dough at a consistent thickness. The adjustable offset rolling pin includes a rolling pin body; a removable offset system for maintaining the rolling pin body a predetermined distance above a surface; a locking system for temporarily maintaining the offset system adjacent the rolling pin body; and a triggering mechanism for disengaging the locking system during the addition or removal of the offset system. More specifically, the adjustable offset rolling pin includes a rolling pin body; a plurality of end caps partially received by the rolling pin body; a plurality of handles adapted for engagement with the end caps; a plurality of push-buttons partially received within the handles; a plurality of offset discs configured to engage the end caps; and an offset disc holder adapted to store the plurality of offset discs during non-use.
US07854691B2 Exercise apparatus
An exercise apparatus is disclosed herein, including a frame, a rotating assembly, two supporting rods, two swing arms, two links, and two pedals. The front ends of the supporting rods are connected respectively to two connecting points of the rotating assembly, and the rear end of each supporting rod moves back and forth along a corresponding track. The front ends of the links are connected respectively at two swing ends of the swing arms. Each pedal is mounted at the rear end of a corresponding link and pivotally coupled to a corresponding supporting member. The distance between the bottom of a circular path of the connecting points and the tracks is smaller than 10 cm. The length of the supporting rod is smaller than two times diameter of the circular path. The longitudinal horizontal distance between the front edge of the closed path and the rear edge of the circular path is smaller than 20 cm. The rear ends of the supporting rods are located between the front ends and rear ends of the pedals.
US07854688B2 Collapsible play structures
A collapsible play structure has a coiled wire supporting a covering which is attached to the wire to define an interior tunnel-like passageway, and at least one opening provided in the covering. A basketball goal assembly can be attached to a first end of the coiled wire and covering. In addition, openings can be provided in the covering.
US07854684B1 Wearable device
An article of clothing constructed from one or more materials includes a flexible display element attached to the one or more materials of the article of clothing and circuitry for controlling the flexible display element.
US07854682B2 Transmission shifting responsive to borderline knock limits
A method for operating an engine and transmission in a vehicle is described. The method comprises up-shifting the transmission based on whether engine knock limits spark advance at engine conditions after the up-shift. Further, the method may include accounting for differences in fuel types, and their effects on engine knock in future gears.
US07854681B2 System for controlling a machine with a continuously variable transmission
A system for controlling a machine with a continuously variable transmission includes a first control device configured to produce a first signal based on a first operator input and a second control device configured to produce a second signal based on a second operator input. The system also includes a control system configured to receive the first and second signals from the first and second control devices and generate a raw torque value based on the first and second signals. The control system is also configured to determine an output torque value based on the raw torque value and transmit the output torque value to the transmission to control the transmission.
US07854679B2 8-speed transmission with three fixed interconnections
The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes three planetary gear sets having six torque-transmitting devices and three fixed interconnections. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is selectively connected to at least one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, the transmission housing and with the input member, and are operated in combinations of three to establish eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio.
US07854678B2 Gear train of automatic transmission for vehicles
A gear train of an automatic transmission for a vehicle includes two simple planetary gear sets and one compound planetary gear set, four clutches, and three brakes and realizes ten forward speeds and one reverse speed so that power delivery performance may be improved and fuel consumption may be reduced.
US07854671B2 Sports ball
New designs for a sports ball comprising at least two polygonal panels and having an improved performance and uniformity. Each panel has doubly-curved edges that curve along and across the surface of the sphere. The panels are p-sided curved polygons, where p is an integer greater than 1. The single panels, in an imagined flattened state, have curved edges where each edge curves inwards, outwards or undulates in a wave-like manner. The edges are arranged so each individual panel is without mirror-symmetry and the edge curvatures are adjusted so the panel shape can be varied to achieve more uniform panel stiffness as well as economy in manufacturing. The ball also has a possible shape-induced spin due to the panel design and the overall rotational symmetry of the design. In various embodiments, the ball comprises at least two multi-paneled layers that are topological duals of each other, wherein each layer provides a compensatory function with respect to the other layer such that the ball has a uniformly performing surface. Applications include but are not limited to designs for soccer balls, baseballs, basketballs, tennis balls, rugby, and other sports or recreational play. The shape of the ball can be spherical, ellipsoidal or other curved convex shapes.
US07854669B2 Trajectory detection and feedback system
A disclosed device provides a trajectory detection and feedback system. The system is capable of detecting one or more moving objects in free flight, analyzing a trajectory of each object and providing immediate feedback information to a human that has launched the object into flight, and/or one or more observers in the area. The feedback information may include one or more trajectory parameters that the human may use to evaluate their skill at sending the object along a desired trajectory. In a particular embodiment, a non-intrusive machine vision system that remotely detects trajectories of moving objects may be used to evaluate trajectory parameters for a basketball shot at a basketball hoop by a player. The feedback information, such as a trajectory entry angle into the basketball hoop and/or an entry velocity into the hoop for the shot, may be output to the player in an auditory format using a sound projection device. The system may be operable to be set-up and to operate in a substantially autonomous manner. After the system has evaluated a plurality of shots by the player, the system may provide 1) a diagnosis of their shot consistency, 2) a prediction for improvement based upon improving their shot consistency and 3) a prescription of actions for improving their consistency.
US07854665B2 Golf club head
A golf club head designed to act under impact load as a bridge comprising a face; an inertial support system; a rear structure; and a force transfer system, under impact load the force transfer system, in cooperation with the inertial support system, elongating the rear structure and controlling the bending of the face, the pattern of bending of the face being a substantially bridge-like pattern of bending or a substantially modified bridge-like pattern of bending.
US07854663B2 Water amusement ride
The water amusement ride according to the invention has watercraft that are pulled through the body of water (1) on a traction cable (40). These watercraft are composed of a frame (10), pulled by the traction cable (40), on which a float (20) having a platform (24) is rotatably supported and on the underside of which is provided with a blade wheel (30). When the watercraft is moved through the body of water (1) in the direction of the arrow (A), the blade wheel (30) together with the float (20) are set in rotational motion by the resulting flow.
US07854662B2 Water slide
Water slide with a chute which opens into a discharge area and has an initial section and a discharge section opening into the discharge area, characterized in that at least one loop section is provided between the initial section and the discharge section, the loop section having an angle at circumference of at least 270° and, at least between a starting point and an apex point of the loop section, being inclined by 5° to 80° in relation to a vertical.
US07854661B2 Giant wheel
A structure of a giant wheel is disclosed. The giant wheel includes a ring steel tracks, motors, an inner wheel and an outer wheel. The ring steel track has a crossed base and stoppers positioned at four corners of the crossed base. The stopper and the base form an inner groove and an outer groove with openings. The motors are positioned at an inner side and an outer side of the ring steel track, and have latches to fit through the openings, and the latches have rollers positioned in the groove. The inner wheel has bars at two outer sides connecting to the motors positioned at an inner side of the ring steel track. The outer wheel has pillars having joint portions at a distal end positioned towards the motor, wherein the joint portions of the pillars are connected to the motor positioned at an outer side of the ring steel track.
US07854658B2 Counter track joint for large articulation angles
A constant velocity counter track joint having an outer joint part with outer ball tracks having first tracks opening toward the aperture end and second tracks opening toward the attaching end. The center line of the second tracks, departs, radially inwardly, a first reference radius centered in the point of intersection of a perpendicular line on the tangent at the center line of the ball track and the longitudinal axis. In the inner joint part, the center line of the ball tracks departs, radially inwardly, a second reference radius centered in the point of intersection of a perpendicular line on the tangent at the center line of the ball track and the longitudinal axis. In the outer joint part, the center line of the ball tracks towards the aperture end, moves radially outwardly beyond said first reference radius. In the inner joint part, the center line of the ball tracks towards the attaching end, moves radially outwardly beyond said second reference radius.
US07854653B2 System and method for playing a role-playing game
A method and apparatus for playing role-playing game is provided that involves wagering. In one example game, players subscribe to multiple game sessions and eliminate other players to become the sole survivor of the game. The players may accrue points by eliminating other players. Further, players may eliminate other players in a combat environment.
US07854650B2 Knife sharpener
A knife sharpener comprises a base, a motor, a grinding wheel assembly, a rotary shaft and a spring. The working channel between the edge of the grinding disc and the grinding awl is automatically adjustable to accommodate different blade of different thickness. When the knife sharpener performs grinding operation, the grinding wheel assembly can simultaneously grind both cutting sides of the knife. In addition, the knife can be clamped firmly through the three contacting points of the grinding disc, the grinding awl, and the cutting edge, so that the operation of knife grinding can be successfully performed.
US07854648B2 Cleaning medium and dry cleaning apparatus using the same
A cleaning medium flies with an air current in a cleaning tank to collide with an object to be cleaned so as to remove an extraneous substance attached to the object. The cleaning medium includes an outer surface that comes into contact with the object and an inner surface that remains out of contact with the object. The cleaning medium is flexible and formed in a shape that allows the air current to flow from the outside onto the inner surface of the cleaning medium.
US07854647B2 Scratch removal device and method
A polishing wheel including a lower polishing surface and defining a different color from a secondary portion of the polishing wheel, so as to indicate wear of the polishing surface. The polishing surface includes a plurality of main radial flutes extending from a central passage to an outer edge. A reduced profile for the main radial flutes is provided adjacent to the outer edge. A plurality of secondary radial flutes is provided extending from the outer edge, but not in communication with either the central passage or the main radial flutes.
US07854641B2 Hand held reversible air game callers
Wild game calls comprising combinations of main housings, mouthpieces, lids, bellows, pitch adjusters, air chambers, adjustable seals, and air-activated sound-producing members, used for attracting wild game.
US07854636B2 High power, single pole electrical connector
A high-power, single-pole electrical connector is disclosed. A nonconductive mounting base is used to attach the connector to an electrical distribution panel. The connector extending from the panel has a bolted together connection, rather than a pin-and-collet configuration, as is found in some existing connectors. In the present invention, a panel-mounted connection is secured to a working side connection by bolting the two parts together.
US07854632B2 Connecting hardware with multi-stage inductive and capacitive crosstalk compensation
A connector and method of crosstalk compensation within a connector is disclosed. The method includes determining an uncompensated crosstalk, including an uncompensated capacitive crosstalk and an uncompensated inductive crosstalk, of a wired pair in a connector. The uncompensated crosstalk includes common mode and differential mode crosstalk. The method includes applying at least one inductive element to the wired pair, where the at least one inductive element is configured and arranged to provide balanced compensation for the inductive crosstalk caused by the one or more pairs. The method further includes applying at least one capacitive element to the wired pair, where the at least one capacitive element is configured and arranged to provide balanced compensation for the capacitive crosstalk caused by the one or more wired pairs.
US07854628B2 Sealed electrical connector
This connector includes an insulative housing having a plurality of terminal accommodating chambers, a grommet formed with a plurality of cable passages, a grid having a plurality of passages in correspondence with the passages and a closing member mounted at the rear side of the grid for selectively closing the passage to a first predetermined group of chambers, said closing member including a plate, which is formed with through-holes in correspondence with a second predetermined group of chambers. The closing member further includes at least one plug projecting from the plate in correspondence with the first group of chambers, said plugs being provided to be inserted in the respective passages of the seal, and thus sealingly close said passages.
US07854624B1 Panel assembly for a connectivity management system
A panel assembly includes a panel having an opening therethrough that selectively receives either a first cassette or a second cassette, where the first and second cassettes have front and rear mating interfaces that mate with cable connectors. The first cassette has at least one of the front and rear mating interfaces being different than the front and rear mating interfaces of the second cassette, respectively. A connectivity sensor is mounted to either the first cassette or the second cassette depending on which of the first cassette and the second cassette is received in the opening of the panel. The connectivity sensor senses a connectivity status of the front mating interface of the corresponding first cassette or second cassette and generates a connectivity status signals relating to the connectivity status. An input/output connector is held by the panel. The input/output connector is electrically connected to the connectivity sensor and is configured to be electrically connected to an input/output cable of a connectivity management system that monitors the connectivity status signals of the connectivity sensor.
US07854621B2 Touch-safe socket
A touch-safe socket for electrical articles, such as bulbs having threads, is provided with a movable carriage-carrying poles which are connected to an electrical supply via a wire. The movable carriage has threads which cooperate with threads on the electrical article, and when the electrical article is screwed into the movable carriage, the movement will cause the poles to make contact with poles which are secured to a stationary plate. Further, a movable bridge having poles is arranged inside the socket, which, when the electrical article is screwed in, will be moved into the socket and also make contact with the poles on the stationary plate.
US07854612B2 Anatomical model
An anatomical model comprising: an inner lumen; and an outer lumen, wherein the inner lumen is disposed inside of the outer lumen so as to create a space therebetween; and further wherein a fluid is disposed within the space, interior to the outer lumen and exterior to the inner lumen, whereby the inner lumen can accurately simulate the mucous membrane lining a mammalian tract.
US07854611B2 Method of generating a digital supplementary device for dental implant planning
A method of generating a digital supplementary device for dental implantation by: preparing a mouth model based on the internal shape of the oral cavity of the patient; performing a 3D scan to obtain digital model of the mouth model, the digital model of the patient's oral cavity and the digital model of the tooth model; defining the digital models as the “positioning object,” “the reference object” and the “attached positioning object”; obtaining characteristic points after joining the positioning object and the attached positioning object and positioning the positioning object and the reference object based on the characteristic points; and then outputting the attached positioning object with the positioning data obtained after positioning of the attached positioning object. The output thus obtained is the desired digital supplementary device for dental implant planning.
US07854605B2 Injection moulding device comprising needle valve nozzles in a back-to-back arrangement
The present invention relates to injection molding apparatus (10) comprising a main manifold plate (16) fitted with at least several flow ducts (18), further at least two auxiliary manifold plates (22) fitted with several flow ducts (24), said auxiliary manifold plates being configured above and underneath the main manifold plate (16), the flow ducts (24) of the particular auxiliary manifold plates (22) fluidly communicating with those of the main manifold plate (16), further with needle valve nozzles (26) configured in mutually opposite and back-to-back manner and fluidly communicating with the flow ducts (24) of the auxiliary manifold plates (22), where the needle valve nozzles (26) each comprise one valve needle (28) to open/close a nozzle outlet aperture, and further pneumatically or hydraulically actuated plunger units (units (30; 71) driving the valve needles (28), said plunger units being received in at least one separate receiving plate (32; 70) configured between the auxiliary manifold plates (22), and further means cooling and/or thermally insulating the minimum of one receiving plate (32; 70).
US07854604B2 Semiconductor device fabrication method and pattern formation mold
According to the present invention, there is provided a semiconductor device fabrication method comprising, bringing a mold having a predetermined pattern into contact with at least a portion of an imprinting material formed on a substrate to be processed, and forming the pattern on the substrate to be processed by sequentially transferring the pattern for each shot, wherein one of a dicing region and a monitor pattern formation region of the substrate to be processed is coated with the imprinting material.
US07854603B2 Tire building core assembly and disassembly station
A station apparatus method within a tire curing line is provided for assembling and disassembling a toroidally shaped core configured to carry a cured tire. The core includes a plurality of core segments assembling to form a core body and extending generally radially from a central core axis within a core central axial passage. The core further includes first and second locking spindle sections connecting to opposite sides of the core body. The station apparatus includes: a base; a station locking mechanism mounted to the base and operative to lock to the lower core locking mechanism; a transport device operative to lock to the first spindle section and to lower the core in substantially a vertical core axis orientation into locked engagement with the station locking mechanism; a core segment manipulating mechanism operative to move respective core segments radially inward between a radially outward position to a radially inward segment removal position; and a tire unloading mechanism operative to support a cured tire during radial movement of the core segments inward.
US07854598B2 Fuel supply device having a heat sink support
An apparatus (20) may comprise a fuel tank (10), a cover (22), a fuel discharging unit (30), a control unit (26), and a heat sink (28). The cover (22) closes an opening (12) in an upper portion of the fuel tank (10). The fuel discharging unit (30) is disposed within the fuel tank (10), and the fuel discharging unit (30) draws fuel into the fuel tank and discharges the drawn fuel outside the fuel tank. A biasing member (25) may be disposed between the fuel discharging unit (30) and the cover (22), and bias the fuel discharging unit (30) toward the bottom surface of the fuel tank (10). The control unit (26) controls the fuel discharging unit (30). The heat sink (28) is thermally connected to the control unit (26), and dissipates heat from the control unit (26). The heat sink (28) may include an extended portion (28b) extending in an up-down direction in the fuel tank (10). The fuel discharging unit (30) may be slidably supported by the extended portion (28b).
US07854594B2 Segmented wind turbine blade
A rotor blade for a wind turbine includes a plurality of individual blade segments, with each blade segment defining an internal passage extending between the longitudinal ends of the blade segment. A rigid spar member extends longitudinally through the internal passages of the individual blade segments such that the blade segments are aligned and connected end-to-end on said spar member to define a complete rotor blade from a root to a blade tip. The spar member has a cross-sectional profile that is keyed to the cross-sectional profile of the internal passage in the blade segments. The spar member includes oppositely facing spar caps that engage against the inside surfaces of the blade segments within the internal passages.
US07854593B2 Airfoil for a helicopter rotor blade
An airfoil family for a helicopter rotor blade, designated SC362XX. SC362XX essentially removes the large lower surface suction peak associated with ‘drag creep’ at moderate lift coefficients while reducing the peak Mach number and shock strength at high lift/Mach number conditions. Another optional airfoil family for use at inboard regions of the helicopter rotor, which is designated SC3252XX airfoil family, is a relatively thicker airfoil section that includes a significant increase in thickness forward of the 30% x/c location to provide a relatively thick and rigid inboard section. The lift coefficient at which the drag divergence Mach number was optimized is the same in both families thereby readily providing application to a single rotor blade.
US07854589B2 Wind turbine, a method for damping edgewise oscillations in one or more blades of a wind turbine by changing the blade pitch and use hereof
The invention relates to a wind turbine comprising a rotor including one or more pitchable blades, and detection means for detecting edgewise oscillations in one or more of said blades. The wind turbine is characterized in that the wind turbine comprises control means for changing the pitch angle of one or more of the blades if the detection means detects edgewise oscillations in one or more of the blades, hereby damping or eliminating the edgewise oscillations. The invention further relates to a method for damping edgewise oscillations in one or more blades of a wind turbine and use hereof.
US07854586B2 Inlet guide vane inner air seal surge retaining mechanism
An inner air seal carrier for use in a gas turbine engine having an inlet guide vane surge retainer comprises a body, a stationary sealing element and an outcropping. The body secures around an inlet guide vane inner diameter shroud. The stationary sealing element is disposed on a radially inward face of the body for engaging with a rotatable sealing element of a compressor rotor. The outcropping is positioned on the radially inward face of the body forward of the stationary sealing element for engaging with the surge retainer.
US07854581B2 Bookbinding apparatus, bookbinding system, and bookbinding method
A bookbinding apparatus provided with an accumulating portion, which accumulates sheets into a sheet bundle, a bundle position correcting device, which corrects an adhesive application position of the sheet bundle, an adhesive applying portion, which applies an adhesive to the sheet bundle, and a bookbinding device, which cases the sheet bundle having the adhesive applied thereto in a cover for casing—in a book.
US07854580B2 Stud fastener and stabilising device
The invention relates to a stabilising device (120) for an assembly which includes two shape memory alloy wires (104, 106) adapted to operate in conjunction. The stabilising device (120) includes a rocker plate (108) for attachment to each of the shape memory alloy wires; the rocker plate (108) is adapted to pivot when one shape memory alloy wire (104 or 106) is subjected to a stress greater than that to which the other shape memory alloy wire (106 or 104) is subjected, in order to reduce the stress on the first-mentioned shape memory alloy wire. The invention further relates to a fastener (60) including a stud (54) having a locking cavity (56), an aperture (58) adapted to receive the stud (54), a locking means (teeth) (62) adapted to engage the locking cavity (56), a shuttle (66) rotatable by a rotating means including material adapted to contract when activated and a plug (87) slidable within the shuttle (66) to close off the aperture (58) when not occupied by the stud (54). The shuttle (66) is rotatable by the rotating means between a locking position, in which the locking means (teeth) (62) engages the locking cavity (56), and an unlocking position in which the locking means (teeth) (62) does not engage the locking cavity (56). The plug (87) can help to prevent contamination of the fastener (60).
US07854579B2 Air cargo rollout stop
A cargo rollout stop includes a base having a first end and a second end. A first guide head is movably mounted to the base proximate to the first end, and a second guide head is movably mounted to the base proximate to the second end. The guide heads each are movable between a raised blocking position and a lowered non-blocking position. A blocking member is movably mounted to the base, and is disposed between the guide heads. The blocking member includes a first portion engaged with the first guide head, and a second portion engaged with the second guide head, and is movable between a first position and a second position. The first and second portions prevent substantial downward movement of the guide heads when the guide heads are in their raised blocking positions and the blocking member is in its first position. The guide heads are restrained in their lowered non-blocking positions by the blocking member when the blocking member is in its second position.
US07854578B2 Universal apparatus for the inspection, transportation, and storage of large shell structures
An apparatus for holding an aerospace structure, having an edge and a surface, includes a base. Coupled to the base is an edge support adapted to releasably engage the edge of the structure. Also coupled to the base is a stanchion. Moveably coupled to the stanchion is a surface support adapted to support the surface of the structure when the edge of the structure is retained by the edge support.
US07854574B2 Gabions
The invention provides a gabion which may be used to protect military or civilian installations from weapons assault or from elemental forces, such as flood waters, lava flows, avalanches, soil instability, slope erosion and the like, the gabion comprising side walls connected together at spaced intervals by partition walls, the side walls comprising at least one substantially closed side wall element panel, which acts in use of the gabion to prevent a gabion fill material from falling through the side wall, the said action of the substantially closed side wall element panel being effective without the aid of a gabion lining material.
US07854573B2 Landscaping products including continuous chamber mass confinement cells and methods of use thereof
The present invention relates to environment resistant landscaping products, such as retaining wall and earth retention products, edgers, paving stones and the like, that provide a natural earthen appearance, such as rock, stone, sand, soil, clay, wood, trees and foliage, water, or any other natural earthen appearance. The present invention also includes a mass confinement cell that may be used in retaining walls and earth retention systems that has a natural earthen appearance and is resistant to damage and wear caused by the environment. The mass confinement cells are generally light-weight and include a continuous chamber that at least partially aligns with confinement cells positioned above and below, thereby allowing the intermingling of fill material between adjacent cells. The mass confinement cells are capable of accepting and retaining any type of filling material. The filling material provides weight, stability and security to a retaining wall constructed of such mass confinement cells.
US07854570B2 Pontoonless tension leg platform
A pontoonless tension leg platform (TLP) has a plurality of buoyant columns connected by an above-water deck support structure. The design eliminates the need for subsea pontoons extending between the surface-piercing columns. In certain embodiments, the buoyancy of the columns is increased by the addition of subsea sections of increased diameter (and/or cross-sectional area) to provide the buoyancy furnished by the pontoons of the TLPs of the prior art. A pontoonless TLP has a smaller subsea projected area in both the horizontal and vertical planes than a conventional multi-column TLP of equivalent load-bearing capacity having pontoons between the columns. This reduction in surface area produces a corresponding reduction in the platform's response to ocean currents and wave action and consequently allows the use of smaller and/or less costly mooring systems. Moreover, the smaller vertical projected area results in a shorter natural period which enables a pontoonless TLP according to the invention to be used in water depths where conventional TLPs cannot be used due to their longer natural periods. The absence of pontoons in a multi-column TLP also has the added benefit of providing an unobstructed path for risers to connect with the deck of the platform.
US07854569B1 Underwater unmanned vehicle recovery system and method
In various embodiments, an apparatus for use in the recovery of unmanned underwater vehicles includes a recovery vehicle configured to be coupled to a winch via a tether. The recovery vehicle includes one or more sensors for locating the unmanned underwater vehicle, a first mechanical linking device for coupling the recovery vehicle to the unmanned underwater vehicle, and a plurality of steering mechanisms for actively guiding the unmanned underwater vehicle in such a way as to allow the first mechanical linking device to capture the unmanned underwater vehicle by locking onto a second mechanical linking device of the unmanned underwater vehicle.
US07854563B2 Joint system
A joint system enables pivotable coupling between a first frame member and a second frame member. The joint system includes a mounting ball assembly affixable to the first frame member, and a connector engageable with the mounting ball assembly at one end and affixable to the second frame at an opposite end. The connector is constructed such that it is movable on the mounting ball assembly in a folding plane and through a clearance amount in a clearance plane substantially perpendicular to the folding plane. A continuous passage is defined through the mounting ball assembly and the connector.
US07854559B2 Pen with double pen barrel
A pen with double pen barrels is revealed. The pen with double pen barrels includes two pen barrels connected in parallel, a pen refill in each pen barrel, and a driving member disposed between the two pen barrels. When one of the pen barrels is pressed and moved downward, a pen refill extends out of a front end of the pen barrel, located to be in writing state. Then by releasing a stopper of the pen barrel, the pen barrel moves upward and the pen refill retracts to be in storage state. Thus the pen barrel and the pen refill extends and contracts synchronously. Moreover, interests in use of the pen are increased.
US07854557B2 Vane driving device
A vane driving device includes: two boards each having an opening and defining a blade chamber therebetween; a blade changing an area of the opening and housed in the blade chamber; a drive source for driving the blade, the drive source including: a coil winded around a stator and exciting a stator; a rotor rotatably supported by a rotary shaft, rotatable in conjunction with the rotary shaft, and magnetized to have different polarities in a circumferential direction; and a rotor pinion meshing a driven member, and integrally formed in the rotary shaft; and a printed substrate electrically connected to the coil. The two boards define a drive source chamber housing the drive source therebetween. At least one of the two boards has an opening for escaping the coil outwardly from the drive source chamber. The printed substrate is arranged on a outer wall surface opposite to the drive source chamber.
US07854554B1 Fiber optic transceiver within a connector assembly
A connector assembly that integrates an optical fiber connector with a fiber optic transceiver into one assembly. The optical fiber connector is provided with end float for optical connection to an optical back panel. Some components of the fiber optic transceiver are mounted on the optical fiber connector and float with the connector. Other components of the fiber optic transceiver are mounted in static positions on a circuit card assembly that is part of the connector assembly. A flexible circuit electrically connects the transceiver components mounted on the optical fiber connector with the static transceiver components. The connector assembly eliminates the use of a fiber pigtail, improves the ease of mounting and removal of the fiber optic transceiver from the host board, consolidates the transceiver circuitry into one assembly, and allows reduction of the host board footprint and/or provides additional space on the host board for mounting other components.
US07854549B2 Systems and methods for dissipating heat generated during an electrical measurement
Systems and methods for dissipating heat generated during an electrical function are disclosed. In particular, the disclosed systems and methods can be used for dissipating heat generated during low impedance measurement on a multimeter. In some embodiments, the multimeter can include a first thermistor coupled in series with a resistor in a measurement path, a second thermistor, and a switch coupled to the measurement path and the second thermistor for selectively including the second thermistor in the measurement path during a low impedance measurement.
US07854548B2 Integrated total air temperature probe and electronics
A total air temperature sensor includes a probe secured to a first side of a vehicle surface. The probe includes an air inlet and a temperature sensing element. Air flows into the air inlet and passes by the temperature sensing element. The temperature sensing element produces a temperature sensing element electrical signal as a function of a temperature of the air. The total air temperature sensor also includes an electronics package secured to a second side of the vehicle surface. Electronics in the electronics package receive the temperature sensing element electrical signal from the temperature sensing element and determine a total air temperature as a function of the temperature sensing element electrical signal.
US07854546B2 Wristwatch gear and method for manufacturing wristwatch gear
The center wheel and pinion has a center shaft provided with a center pinion that is formed from a crystalline metal, and a center tooth part composed of a metallic glass alloy that is integrally formed with the center shaft. The center shaft has a center pinion and other external peripheral regions that are formed by cutting the external periphery of a cylindrical member provided with a support hole. The external periphery of the coupling part to which the center tooth part is coupled is formed in a quadrangular shape. The center tooth part composed of a metallic glass alloy has a tooth continuously formed at the disc-shaped external periphery, and a center position that is integrally formed surrounding the entire external periphery of the quadrangular-shaped coupling part of the center shaft.
US07854544B2 Correction apparatus and clock device using the same
A clock device is provided for generating a real-time clock. The clock device includes a frequency generator, a measuring module, a setting module and a timing module. The frequency generator generates a frequency signal. The measuring module is coupled to the frequency generator for measuring the frequency signal and generating a measuring frequency value. The setting module is coupled to the measuring module for generating an error setting value corresponding to the measuring frequency value. The timing module is coupled to the frequency generator and the setting module for compensating the frequency signal according to the error setting value and generating the real-time clock.
US07854543B2 Motorized bone cement mixing and delivery system that automatically transfers bone cement between the mixer and the delivery device and that automatically terminates the mixing and transfer processes
A bone cement mixing and delivery system is provided in which separate components of bone cement are mixed together in a mixer to form a bone cement mixture. The mixer includes a paddle for mixing the components in a mixing chamber and a piston that pushes the mixing cement into an attached delivery device. The system further includes a switch that disconnects the drive assembly that actuates the paddle and piston from its power source. The switch is automatically tripped by a follower that moves upon actuation of the drive assembly. Once the cement is mixed and transferred to the delivery device, the follower trips the switch to automatically deactivate the drive assembly.
US07854542B2 Batch mixer and mixing rotor used in the same
A plurality of mixing rotors that are housed in a chamber having a cocoon-shaped cross section in a tangential non-intermeshing state, where a plurality of long wings and short wings are provided on a wing portion of the mixing rotors. The long wings and the short wings severally have a plurality of different sizes of tip clearances, a twist angle of the long wings is changed in the axis direction, and makes mixing efficiency and dispersion efficiency compatible. Further, cooling medium paths are provided severally in the chamber and the mixing rotors to suppress excessive increase of the temperature of mixing materials. According to a batch mixer using the mixing rotors, it is possible to control quality reduction of the mixing materials caused by heat generation, and to improve the productivity by increasing the number of the wings without diminishing inherent processing performance of the mixer.
US07854540B2 Optical plate and backlight module using same
An exemplary optical plate includes a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The first surface defines a plurality of substantially parallel elongated arc-shaped grooves therein. A plurality of substantially parallel elongated arc-shaped protrusions is formed on the second surface. An extending direction of the elongated arc-shaped grooves are substantially parallel to an extending direction of the elongated arc-shaped protrusions.
US07854536B2 LED devices for offset wide beam generation
A light source is combined with an optic and a reflector. Light incident onto to the reflector is reflected with a single reflection. The reflector occupies a portion of a solid angle around the light source to the exclusion of the optic at least with respect to any optical function. The reflector directly receives a second portion of light. The optic occupies substantially all of the remaining portion of the predetermined solid angle to directly receive a first portion of light from the light source. A reflected beam from the reflector is reflected into a predetermined reflection pattern. The inner and/or outer surface of the optic is shaped to refract or direct light which is directly transmitted into the optic from the light source from a first portion of light and/or reflected into the optic from the reflector from the reflected beam into a predetermined beam.
US07854533B2 Light source and backlight module with the same
The invention disclosed a light source, comprising a light tube and a plurality of prism members disposed on an outer surface of the light tube for reducing amount of external lights entering the light tube. According to the invention, the prism members disposed on the outer surface of the light tube can not only focus the light emitting from the light tube, but also increase the possibility of total reflection of the incident light.
US07854523B2 Optical relay for compact head up display
An optical relay (500) includes a glare trap (512) that in one embodiment has one or more surfaces configured to reflect light impinging the surface (550) at an angle less than a first angle (722) relative to a normal line (710), and to transmit light impinging the surface (550) at an angle greater than a second angle (723) relative to the normal line (710). In other embodiments, the glare trap (512) reflects light impinging at an angle greater than a first angle and transmit light impinging at an angle that is less than a second angle. The separation between the first angle (722) and second angle (723) can be on the order of 20 degrees or more, but this angle can be reduced or eliminated when polarized light is used within the optical relay (500).
US07854521B2 Projector
There is provided a projector having a point light source disposed to an edge of an optical fiber for transmitting exciting light and including a fluorescent illuminant for emitting fluorescence by being exited by the exiting light, a light collecting optical system for collecting the fluorescence emitted from the point light source, a reflective display device for reflecting the fluorescence collected by the light collecting optical system and overlapping the fluorescence with an image signal, an outgoing aperture for stopping down the fluorescence overlapped with the image signal by the reflective display device, wherein the outgoing aperture and the point light source are disposed side by side in the vicinity of the front focusing surface of the light collecting optical system. With this arrangement, a bright projected image can be obtained while disposing the outgoing aperture and the point light source sufficiently near to each other, reducing aberration, and reducing the diameter of a collecting lens so that the overall size of the projector can be reduced.
US07854520B2 Projector device
The present invention discloses a projector device comprising: a housing body having a first insertion slot formed in a wall portion thereof; a control substrate; a metal-made shield frame arranged and fixed within the housing body and fixed to the housing body for allowing the control substrate; a reinforcing bracket for reinforcing the first insertion slot; the reinforcing bracket including a reinforcing surface and an extension surface extending to be perpendicular to the reinforcing surface; the reinforcing surface having a second insertion slot; a positioning section provided on an inner surface of the wall portion of the housing body for causing the reinforcing bracket to be positioned with respect to the housing body with the second insertion slot of the reinforcing bracket being aligned with the first insertion slot; and a screw for causing the extension surface positioned by the positioning section to be coupled to the shield frame.
US07854519B2 Illuminating device and projector that increase light utilization efficiency
An illuminating device includes a first light source unit emitting illumination beams with a first optical axis; a second light source unit; and two reflecting elements arranged on both sides of an optical path of the first light source unit. The reflecting element arranged on the side of the second light source unit reflects the illumination beams emitted from a substantially half region on one side in an aperture plane of the parabolic reflector of the second light source unit, towards the direction along the first optical axis. The reflecting element arranged opposite to the second light source unit reflects the illumination beams emitted from a substantially half region on the other side in the aperture plane of the parabolic reflector of the second light source unit, towards the direction along the first optical axis.
US07854516B2 Illumination apparatus that uses four color component light and a projection display apparatus
An illumination apparatus includes: a first dichroic mirror; a second dichroic mirror which separates the combined light into a red component light R and the green component light G; and a polarization adjuster provided on an optical path of the combined light between the dichroic mirrors. The polarization adjuster adjusts a polarization direction of a yellow component light Ye in the combined light. A second dichroic mirror separates the combined light into the red component light R on which a part of or all of the yellow component light Ye is superimposed and the green component light G on which the rest of the yellow component light Ye is superimposed.
US07854509B2 Vision screener
An article and method for screening vision are described that does not require verbal input from a test person or the test person to maintain a fixed position during the screening. The article includes an image capture device, at least one test light, a processing unit that includes an interpretive program, and a display. The method comprises capturing an image of a person's eyes, verifying the image, studying the image, evaluating the image, and displaying the results. Conveniently, the article and method require no special training by an operator.
US07854507B1 Eyeglass device with a detachable lens unit
An eyeglass device with a detachable lens unit has a frame and a lens unit. The frame has a first end and a second end in width each connecting to a foot, and has an intermediate between the first and second ends extending out a connecting base with a recess. The lens unit comprises two lenses and a connecting piece between the two lenses to snugly engage with the recess of the frame. Thereby, the lens unit and the frame are combined together and positioned and thus the attachment or detachment of the eyeglass device is convenient.
US07854498B2 Piezoelectric actuator
A piezoelectric actuator includes a vibration plate, a first piezoelectric layer formed on one surface of the vibration plate, a second piezoelectric layer stacked on a surface of the first piezoelectric layer, a plurality of individual electrodes arranged on a surface of the second piezoelectric layer in a predetermined direction, a first common electrode having a plurality of first electrodes formed between the first piezoelectric layer and the second piezoelectric layer, and which are arranged in the predetermined direction to face the individual electrodes respectively, and a first wire electrically connecting all of the first electrodes, and a second common electrode having a plurality of second electrodes formed between the vibration plate and the first piezoelectric layer, and which are arranged in the predetermined direction to face the individual electrodes respectively, and a second wire electrically connecting all of the second electrodes.
US07854491B2 Printer having driven printhead sealing arrangement
A printer is provided having a printhead, an arm supporting a sealing arrangement for sealing the printhead, and a clutch for selectively coupling the arm to a driven print media roller to move the sealing arrangement into and out of sealing engagement with the printhead.
US07854487B2 Image forming method and apparatus
The image forming method for forming an image on a recording medium, wherein the image is divided into a plurality of regions, the method comprising: a droplet deposition rate calculation step; a dot arrangement specification step of specifying a dot arrangement pattern from the droplet deposition rate; and a droplet deposition control step of controlling droplet deposition operation in such a manner that the dot arrangement pattern specified in the dot arrangement specification step is achieved, wherein, in at least one of the plurality of the regions where the droplet deposition rate is lower than a maximum droplet deposition rate and is higher than a prescribed reference value, a dot line in a main scanning direction substantially perpendicular to the relative conveyance direction is formed in which the dots are continuously aligned so as to mutually overlap by a prescribed overlap ratio, in accordance with the droplet deposition rate.
US07854486B2 Container equipped on vehicle
A container includes a drawer that can be held at an intermediately open position and can be easily moved to the fully open position. A container includes a drawer for accommodating a small article, an accommodation case for accommodating the drawer for horizontal sliding movement, and an intermediately open stopping mechanism for stopping the drawer at an intermediate position once when the drawer is pulled out toward the passenger side. The intermediately open stopping mechanism includes an arm member provided on the drawer and having a pin-like projection at a tip end thereof, and a groove group provided and extending on the accommodation case for guiding the pin-like projection. The groove group includes a plurality of guide grooves including a blind alley portion for stopping the pin-like projection at the intermediately open position once.
US07854485B2 Closing and opening device for drawers
Closing and opening device for drawer pull-out guides (10) with a guide rail (12) to be fixed on a carcass wall of a piece of furniture and a running rail (14) which is mounted so as to be displaceable relative to the guide rail—optionally with a central rail (11) interposed—and is to be fixed on the drawer. On a latch housing (22) disposed on one of the two aforementioned outer rails there is provided a movable catch component (24) which is pretensioned by a spring arrangement in a bistable manner into two end positions spaced from one another in the direction of movement of the drawer, and the catch component has a seat (36) for a dog (26) which is provided on the other rail and which moves into the seat during the relative displacement of the rails as the closed position is approached and pivots the pretensioned movable catch component (24) and thereby unlocks it from the associated end position. The catch component is moved under the action of the spring tension into the other end position and by way of the dog (26) held in the seat (36) it entrains the rail associated therewith in the direction of retraction of the drawer. An opening and closing device (20) which acts on the catch component (24) on the one hand and on or in the catch housing (22) on the other hand and which, when a pushing in movement in the direction of closing the drawer is exerted on the drawer which is retained in the closing position by the closing and opening device, displaces the catch component (24) and by way of the dog (26) engaging in the seat (36) of the catch component it displaces the running rail (14) and thus a drawer held on the running rail by a predetermined amount in the direction of opening the drawer.
US07854481B2 Methods and apparatus for assembling a wheel chair
A wheelchair back assembly mounts to a pair of spaced apart laterally-aligned support posts of a wheelchair back frame. The back assembly includes a relatively rigid shell member, and a mounting system for coupling the shell member to the wheelchair back frame. The mounting system includes at least a first mounting bracket assembly, a second mounting bracket assembly, and a lateral member that is configured to be coupled to the first and second mounting bracket assemblies. The first mounting bracket assembly is configured to couple to a first of the wheelchair back frame support posts, and the second mounting bracket assembly is configured to couple to the second of the wheelchair back frame support posts. The lateral member is selectively operable to uncouple the shell member from the wheelchair back frame.
US07854480B2 Seat suspension system
The present invention relates to a suspension system for a vehicle seat. The system comprises a top portion (9) and a first part (1) having a base portion (2), means (3b, 20) to receive the top portion and means (3, 4) to allow movement of the base portion (2) and top portion (9) towards and away from each other. The system further comprises a second part consisting of a spring element (10, 14) adapted in use to control movement of the base portion (2) and top portion (9) towards and away from each other. The top portion (9) and the second part (10, 14) are, in addition, releasably connected (13, 11a, 20) to the first part (1). This suspension system allows for flexibility in the manufacturing process and the replacement of parts.
US07854479B2 Overmolded lumbar support apparatus and method
The invention relates to a thin profile adjustable lumbar support system, particularly for use in automotive seat backs and other equipment used for sitting and reclining. The lumbar support system is assembled utilizing injection molding and overmolding technology to form some components and connect other components.
US07854478B2 Vehicle seat
The invention relates to a vehicle (1), particularly a motor vehicle (1), comprising a vehicle seat (2), wherein the vehicle (1) comprises an actuator (25) for generating a load reducing movement of the vehicle seat (2) in case of a rear collision and a control means (10) for actuating the actuator (25) when a first threshold value relating to the amount of the rear collision is exceeded and a second threshold value relating to the amount of the rear collision is not exceeded.
US07854474B2 Reinforcing brace
A reinforcing brace is disclosed. The reinforcing brace supports a collar of a fastener. In addition, the reinforcing brace is configured to strengthen the connection between a frame rail and a cross member. By aligning side walls of the reinforcing brace with walls of the cross member, the reinforcing brace can continue the walls of the cross member through the frame rail to strengthen the connection between the frame rail and the cross member.
US07854471B2 Construction machine
Handrail mounts are provided in a bottom portion of a cast upper frame, and lower ends of side supports of a handrail are attached to the above handrail mounts. A base plate for attaching a floor plate is hanged and fixed between the side supports at a higher position than the attachment position, and a front end part of the floor plate is attached to the above base plate.
US07854465B2 Tarp enclosure system
A retractable tarpaulin cover system includes a tarp cover, plural spaced substantially U-shaped bows supporting and connected to the tarp cover, movable carriages operably connected to lower ends of each bow, a tensioning mechanism which moves an end one of said bows toward an endmost position thereof to tension the tarp cover in an expanded position of the cover, and a tension distributing mechanism which distributes the tension of the tarp cover between the end bow and another of said bows adjacent to said end bow. The tension distributing mechanism includes a collapsible brace interconnected between the end and adjacent bows.
US07854458B2 Tonneau cover
A tonneau cover assembly for a truck having a bed and a pair of upstanding sidewalls generally includes a panel having a perimeter conforming to a perimeter of the bed and a mechanism for enabling movement of the panel between the first position abutting the bed and a second position generally level with tops of the upstanding sidewalls.
US07854456B2 Dual rod gripper
A gripper assembly has an extended position and a retracted position. The gripper assembly includes a first jaw and a second jaw that are each coupled for movement of a range of motion. The range of motion of each of the first jaw and the second jaw is independently adjustable from the range of motion of the other of the first jaw and the second jaw.
US07854455B2 Animal feces collection and disposal apparatus
An animal waste collection system (10) designed for sanitary use consists of a hollow shaft (14), handle (12), light (70), a pair of resilient, curved arms (22, 24) and a plurality if self sealing bags (40). The operator of the device (10) initially loads a plastic bag (40) onto arms (22, 24) before walking the dog. When the animal shows signs of excreting, the bag (40) is placed under the rear of the animal to intercept the feces. Once the animal is finished excreting, the operator partially retracts the arms (22, 24), closing the bag (40), and walks to a disposal receptacle where the arms (22, 24) are then fully retracted and the sealed bag (40) is released.
US07854452B2 Engagement fitting and manufacturing method of engagement fitting
An engagement fitting comprises a hook that is integrally formed from a metal rod member. The rod member is bent into a generally U-shaped configuration. Bases then can be bent at approximately right angles at base ends of a pair of legs of the generally U-shaped hook. The bases extend to opposite sides from one another across a plane that is generally defined by the U-shaped configuration. The base is formed at least partially flat and can be provided with attachments such that the engagement fitting can be mounted on other members.
US07854447B2 Interior panel assembly and airbag device
An interior panel assembly and an airbag device are provided that are equipped with structure for preventing an interior panel and a backing plate from becoming detached from each other. In one form, when an inflator discharges gas, movable door-frame members are moved (lifted) upward by being pushed upward by an inflating airbag. An instrument panel ruptures along a peripheral tear line, causing a door portion to be cut and separated from the surrounding instrument panel. Grooves serving as rupturable sections extend along joint sections between backing plates and leg plates of the movable door-frame members. When the backing plates of the movable door-frame members open outward together with the door portion, the grooves rupture to cause the backing plates to become partially separated from the leg plates. At the sections of the backing plates partially separated from the leg plates, the backing plates become substantially flat as a result of the partial separation from the leg plates.
US07854446B2 Airbag device
There is provided an airbag device being excellent in performance of protection of an occupant wherein a folded airbag (10) undergoes sequential and orderly expansion starting from a region where the expansion ought to be started. It is characterized in that a gas rectification member (12′) for rectifying and guiding a gas generated from an inflator (30) up to the vicinity of a part of the airbag (10), inflating in the initial expansion thereof, is provided substantially at the central part of the airbag (10).
US07854441B2 Bicycle drop out
A bicycle drop out comprising a seat stay mount having a first receiving portion, a chain stay mount having a second receiving portion, a back plate releasably connected to the seat stay mount and the chain stay mount, the back plate comprising a first member for engaging the first receiving portion and a second member for engaging the second receiving portion, the back plate comprising a third slot for receiving an axle, the slot cooperatively disposed between the seat stay mount and the chain stay mount, and the seat stay mount and the chain stay mount having a gap therebetween for receiving a belt.
US07854440B2 Bicycle adapted to different forms of cycling
A bicycle adaptable to different forms of cycling. The bicycle includes a frame modification of the location of the crankshaft unit in the frame. The bicycle frame includes a crankset box forming a main housing. The crankset box is positioned at the junction of first and second rods. A detachable body member is mounted in the main housing, and includes a special housing that may be centered or off center relative to the base of the detachable body member.
US07854429B2 Apparatus for transferring sheet
The present invention is directed to providing an apparatus capable of transferring a sheet while reducing wear and using a relatively small driving force. The present invention is also directed to providing an apparatus capable of effectively obtaining a vacuum suction force with a simple structure. An apparatus 1 for transferring a sheet according to the present invention comprises a conveyer belt 30 provided with a plurality of vacuum suction holes 30c for allowing the belt member to vacuum-suck a sheet using an evacuation mechanism 12, a belt support member 8 having a plurality of evacuation passages 8c communicated with the vacuum suction holes, and a sheet support member 4 adapted to support the sheet in such a manner as to define an interspace between an uppermost region of an outer peripheral surface of the conveyer belt and a bottom surface of the sheet when the evacuation mechanism is in a deactivated state, whereby, when the evacuation mechanism is in an activated state, an air in the interspace S between the conveyer belt and the sheet D is evacuated from the vacuum suction holes and through the evacuation passages, so that the conveyer belt is displaced upwardly by a resulting vacuum suction force to transfer the sheet while vacuum-sucking the sheet.
US07854428B2 Rotary die cut stacking system having optical beam generator to facilitate the positioning of layboy arms
A rotary die cut stacking system for use with a rotary die cutter having a rotary die configured to output die-cut sheets of material, the system including a stacker and a layboy for carrying die-cut sheets of material in a first direction from the die cutter to the stacker, wherein, the layboy has upper arms and lower arms defining a nip region therebetween for receiving the die-cut sheets, at least some of the upper arms and at least some of the lower arms being moveable transversely to the first direction, the layboy including at least one optical beam generator configured to direct an optical beam against a portion of the rotary die cutter so that a position of the arms relative to the rotary die can be determined based on the location of the optical beam on the portion of the rotary die cutter.
US07854425B2 Belleville spring guide system
Apparatus and method are provided for decreasing frictional effects in stacks of Belleville springs and limiting deflection of the springs. In one embodiment, carriers for springs overlap and minimize the effects of lateral forces that are developed as springs in a stack are loaded. Carriers may be used on mandrel guides, in cylindrical guides or without a guide. In other embodiments, maximum load and defection of springs may be provided by the spring carriers.
US07854424B1 Sectional fence assembly
A sectional fence assembly having a coupling device with a loop, disposed at an angle relative to the body of the fence section is disposed on one side of the fence section body and a hook is disposed on the opposing side of the fence section body. A plurality of such fence sections may be coupled in series.
US07854422B2 Swivel device and display apparatus equipped with the same
A swivel device for a display apparatus includes: a swivel mechanism to which a lead wire is connected; a swivel member that is capable of being turned by the swivel mechanism; a swivel mechanism housing portion that houses the swivel mechanism that is disposed so as to overlap the swivel member; a fixing member that fixes the swivel mechanism housing portion; and an attachment member that is attached to the swivel mechanism housing portion, and the swivel mechanism housing portion is provided with a first engaging portion for positioning the attachment member, and the attachment member is provided with a second engaging portion that engages the first engaging portion and has a draw out portion for drawing out the lead wire from the swivel mechanism housing portion.
US07854420B2 Mounting clip and system for attaching objects to a computer monitor
Embodiments of mounting clips are described. One such embodiment of a mounting clip for attaching an object, device, or portion of a device to a computer monitor comprises a main body. At least one hook-shaped rib is coupled to the main body. The at least one rib is removably insertable within an opening in the computer monitor. A foot, coupled to the main body, contacts an exterior surface of the computer monitor while the at least one rib is inserted within the opening. A holder receptacle is coupled to the main body and provides a mating point for coupling an object to the mounting clip.
US07854419B2 Adjustable mounting bracket for roller blind
The present invention is an adjustable mounting bracket for mounting a roller blind to a surface such that the roller blind can be quickly leveled. The bracket includes first and second plates, the first plate having apertures to permit the first plate to be mounted to the surface. The second plate has a mounting fixture formed thereon for mounting to the roller blind. To permit the second plate to move relative to the first plate, the second plate is provided with an elongated groove formed thereon, the second plate being movably mounted to the first member by a mounting element fixed to the first plate and passing through the groove. The mounting element and groove are dimensioned and configured to permit the second plate to slide between a first and a second position. The position of the second plate relative to the first plate is adjusted by an adjustable moving mechanism which is configured to precisely position the second plate between its first and second positions. The bracket further includes a visual indicator for visually indicating the relative position of the second plate relative to the first plate.
US07854408B2 Double spread-head carousel winder
A carousel coiler with two coilers, which are mounted in a rotatable rotor, are rotatably driven independently of each other, are intended for the successive, continuous winding of metal strip and each have spray heads, which comprise a number of segments that can be moved in a spreading manner, are supported on axially displaceable wedge-shaped directing surfaces and on which the coilers can be cyclically moved in each case from a starting position into a strip-coil transfer position by turning of the rotor, is to be developed in such a way that a pivot-into-place outside bearing becomes superfluous, that the coil or the coil to be wound is always supported on both sides in every position, and that the carousel coiler can be used both for winding up and unwinding coils. For this purpose, it is proposed that the rotor comprises two rotor discs (2, 2′), which are opposite each other and connected to each other by at least one hollow cross-member (3) and that the rotor carries at least two double spray-head coilers.
US07854405B2 Document disposal apparatus
There is provided a document destruction apparatus including: a destruction section that destroys documents; a conveyance section that conveys documents to the destruction section a page at a time; a reading section that is disposed partway along the conveyance section and that, from a document to which identification information for identifying the document has been applied to each page at at least one of a conveyance direction leading end side and trailing end side, reads the identification information at each page; and an alteration section that, in a case in which the identification information has been read at the conveyance direction leading end side by the reading section, alters a conveyance direction of the page that has been read such that the page will be conveyed from the conveyance direction trailing end side.
US07854402B1 Hydraulic system valving
A mine dusting machine having a specialized scoop constructed with a floor, opposite sides and ends and adapted for carrying substantially free-flowing particulate material, a powered ram on the scoop for pushing the material therein toward the front end of the scoop, a hydraulic motor powered auger conveyor mounted on the scoop adjacent said front end for transporting the material toward opposite sides of the scoop, separate material flingers mounted on said front end at least adjacent each of the sides and being hydraulically motor powered to receive the material transported thereto by the conveyor and then dispersing the material with considerable force in a generally arcuate pattern in a mine, wherein the motors are hydraulically connected in series to a pressurized hydraulic feed line and wherein each motor has a case drain port, a hydraulic return line connecting the last flinger motor of the series to a PTO, a primary check valve in the return line for preventing reverse flow therein, a motor case drain line connected into each case drain port of the series and connected into the return line upstream of the primary check valve, and a secondary check valve in the drain line intermediate its conjunction with the return line and the last of the flinger motors of the series for preventing over pressurization of the motor cases in the event of an operator caused accidental momentary reverse “HP” flow thru the primary, check valve which has become partially blocked open by dirt particles or the like in the hydraulic fluid.
US07854398B2 Hand held pressure washer
A portable pressure washer includes a housing having a front end and a rear end defining a longitudinal axis. A handle has a first end extending from a rear portion of the housing and a second end terminating in a barrel. A first nozzle and a second aperture extend from the barrel. A fluid pump and a motor disposed are disposed within the housing, which includes a fluid inlet in fluid communication with the first nozzle and the second aperture.
US07854397B2 Long throw shotcrete nozzle
An improved apparatus for the gunning of a material is provided having a nozzle with an inner passage defined by an inner tubular member having an inlet end into which a wetted material is to be introduced and an outlet end from which the material is to be sprayed. An outer tubular member is disposed around the inner tubular member defining an outer passage between the inner and outer tubular members. A compressed gas is passed through the outer passage and impinged on the wetted material exiting the inner passage to better control the spray pattern of the wetted material. The inner tubular member extends out beyond the outlet end of the outer tubular member and the inner surface of the outer tubular member and the outer surface of the inner tubular member near the outlet end are chamfered to provide an optimal attitude for the impinging air.
US07854396B2 Sprayer for a gardening purpose
A sprayer includes a base, a container, a drive device, a pumping device, and an outlet pipe. The drive device includes a drive shaft and a drive handle. The pumping device includes a pressure tank, a pressure release valve, a piston cylinder, a barrel, a piston, a piston rod, two guard brackets and a crank. The container is provided with a plurality of fixing plates secured in the fixing brackets of the base so that the container is combined with the base solidly and stably to enhance the strength of the sprayer. The piston rod is encompassed and protected by the barrel, and the crank is encompassed between and protected by the two guard brackets, so that the piston rod and the crank are operated exactly and stably.
US07854391B2 Flow regulating articles and methods of manufacture
A flow regulating article is provided. The flow regulating article, in an exemplary embodiment, includes a patterned structure. The patterned structure includes a shape memory alloy capable of changing shape at predetermined temperatures.
US07854384B2 Digital image capture and processing engine employing optical waveguide technology for collecting and guiding LED-based illumination during object illumination and image capture modes of operation
Digital image capture and processing engine of modular design and employing an optical waveguide structure for collecting and guiding LED-based illumination during object illumination and imaging operations. The digital image capture and processing engine also includes apparatus for automatically controlling the duration of illumination produced from LED illumination arrays during object illumination and imaging operations. Such automatic illumination control involves measuring the amount of illumination to which the object be imaged has been exposed, and controlling the duration of illumination produced from the LED illumination arrays based on such measurements during each object illumination and imaging operation. By virtue of the present invention, the digital image capture and processing engine ensures the reliable formation and detection of high quality images in diverse application environments in the digital image capture and processing engine can be used.
US07854380B1 High-speed and high-volume verification, manufacturing/packaging, and delivery of purchase cards
A method for delivering a plurality of purchase cards includes obtaining the various purchase cards from various retailers and loading the various purchase cards into multiple purchase card feeders, wherein one or more of the multiple purchase card feeders is associated with the various purchase cards from each of the various retailers, verifying the various purchase cards associated with a user to obtain verified purchase cards, where verifying occurs while each of the various purchase cards are located on a conveyor leading from the multiple purchase card feeders to a carrier sheet, placing the verified purchase cards from the various retailers on the carrier sheet, where the carrier sheet corresponds to the user receiving the verified purchase cards, and shipping the verified purchase cards to the user.
US07854373B2 Packing box for headphones
A packing box for headphones has a body. The body has an inner chamber, at least one opening, at least one lid and a window. The opening is defined through the body and communicates with the inner chamber. The lid covers the at least one opening. The window is defined through the body, communicates with the inner chamber and has at least one curved edge. The curved edge displays operational characteristics of the headphones. Potential buyers can quickly discern the operational characteristics of the headphones from the curved edge of the window. Therefore, the correct headphones for buyers' particular needs can be selected quickly and accurately.
US07854369B2 Integrated envelope and repositionable note
An envelope includes a front wall and an overlying back wall. The front wall and the back wall are connected around mutual edges to form an enclosed pouch. One of the front wall and the back wall includes a message portion separable from remaining portions of the one of the front wall and the back wall. A release sheet is secured to an inside surface of the one of the front wall and the back wall overlying the message portion. The message portion comprises areas of removable adhesive or multiple reuse adhesive and is secured to the release sheet by the multiple reuse adhesive to form a repositionable note once removed from the one of the front wall and the back wall.
US07854365B2 Direct die attach utilizing heated bond head
A method is provided for bonding a die comprising a solder layer which has a melting point Tm. A bond head is heated to a bond head setting temperature T1, which is higher than Tm, and a substrate is heated to a substrate setting temperature T2, which is lower than Tm. The bond head then picks up the die and heats the die towards temperature T1 so as to melt the solder layer. The solder layer of the die is pressed onto the substrate so as to bond the die to the substrate, and thereafter the bond head is separated from the die so that the solder layer is cooled towards T2 and solidifies.
US07854364B2 Golf club head having a composite crown
The present invention resides in a golf club head having a high COR that is durable and has desirable acoustic qualities. The club head includes a body portion, a striking face and a crown forming a hollow cavity of at least 150 cc in volume. The crown is secured to the body portion, enclosing an upper opening. A surface veil may also be provided about a junction of the crown and body. The crown has a maximum thickness no greater than about 2 mm. The density of the crown is less than the density of the body portion. The golf club head has a maximum coefficient of restitution of at least 0.80.
US07854361B2 Method and facility for assembling components of a vehicle body
The assembly of body components using a geometry box (1) and clamping frames (7, 8) is described. At least for the larger components (9, 10), in particular the side wall parts of the body, a multipart clamping frame (8a, 8b) is used. The component (9, 10) is grasped and fed to the geometry box (1) using one clamping frame part, while the other clamping frame part is fed empty. Using both clamping frame parts, the component (9, 10) is then fixed precisely in position using positioning and fixing units acting between the geometry box (1) and the clamping frame (7, 8) in such a way that the components (6, 9, 10) to be connected to one another may be connected to one another, in particular welded.
US07854355B2 Prodigio pump
A pump for dispensing a liquid contained in a bottle including a shrunk-fit section including an orifice for communicating with the liquid, a pushbutton including an orifice for ejecting the liquid, a dosing sleeve integrating a needle for plugging the ejection orifice and a device for bi-directional movement of the needle, a dosing piston including a channel equipped with a closing valve for the orifice, the piston being mounted in translation, in a leak-tight manner, inside the shrunk-fit section, between an open position and a closed position of the orifice, by means of the valve, an actuating member integral with the device for moving the needle and slidably mounted inside the dosing piston, by pressing on the pushbutton, the sliding assembly being set up to actuate the moving device and to position the valve in closed position so as to enable ejection of the liquid from the dosing chamber.
US07854351B2 Intercalated locking ring
The invention concerns a device for locking an axially mobile actuating and freely rotating head of a pump whereof the body is mounted on the neck of a reservoir of liquid product via a connecting socket. The invention is characterized in that it comprises an intercalated ring mounted on top of the pump body and whereof the inner side wall is provided with at least one longitudinal guiding groove capable of receiving, through rotation of the head, at least one rib bone by an inner coaxial sleeve integral with the head.
US07854347B2 Manual gas inflator
A manual gas inflator incorporating a cylinder status indication mechanism that is independent from the cylinder piercer. Prior to detonation, an indicator post abuts a sensor protrusion which positions a green surface of the indicator within the inflator window to indicate that the attached cartridge is ready for use. The jerking of a lanyard assembly causes the piercer to break the cylinder seal to allow gas to escape out of the cylinder and into a manifold secured to the inflator and also causes the indicator post to break the sensor protrusion from the cylinder. As the protrusion is broken, a second red surface of the indicator is viewable through the inflator window to indicate that the cylinder has been used and unavailable for inflation purposes.
US07854341B2 Paint tray system
A paint tray system has a paint tray with an upper circumferential land having an upwardly projecting dowel at each corner. A paint tray liner has a medial portion substantially conforming to an inside surface of the paint tray and a peripheral liner lip extending over the land. The liner lip has four corner holes receiving the four corner dowels. A paint tray lid has a peripheral lid lip extending over the land, the lid lip having four corner holes receiving the four corner dowels.
US07854340B1 Stackable storage containers with connecting latches
A modular storage container for articles according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a floor panel, a plurality of stackable side walls constructed and arranged to be connectable to the floor panel, a plurality of stackable end walls constructed and arranged to be connectable to the floor panel, and a plurality of stackable corner members constructed and arranged to be connectable adjacent one edge to a side wall and adjacent an opposite edge to an end wall, wherein each side wall and each end wall defining a wall end opening and each corner member having a mounting hole surrounded by a cylindrical boss, each cylindrical boss being constructed and arranged to fit within a corresponding wall end opening.
US07854338B2 Water tank and method for manufacturing a water tank
A water tank T of plastic material which is joined by using at least two open and identical tank parts 1 and a joining plane 2, the tank parts having respective opening structures R with a flattened inner opening edge, a sealing channel 26 being open towards the joining plane, and an outer flattened opening edge, the inner and outer opening edges within the opening edge structure are situated in each tank part 1, 35 in the joining plane 2, the opening edge at the same time defining inner and outer fitting surfaces 16, 17, respectively with a width exceeding the thickness X of the tank part wall 30 and the sealing channel wall 34 by at least about the half, such that the water tank T selectively can be manufactured from the same tank parts 1, 35 either monolithically by welding the fitting surfaces 16, 17 without sealing means in-between to each other or separable by clamping the opening edge structures R from the outer side with sealing means 33 provided between both tank parts 1, 35.
US07854335B2 Hanging module for holding workpieces
A hanging module (100) for holding workpieces (80) thereon includes a pole (30), a plurality of resilient members (20) attached on the pole, and a plurality of retaining members (10) attached on the pole. The resilient members are slidable relative to the pole. Each retaining member is provided apart from each other with at least one resilient member located in-between.
US07854327B2 Loading tray and thin plate container
A loading tray 13 supports at least one thin plate safely and reliably. It comprises a first loading portion 18, provided on one side thereof, on which at least one thin plate is loaded; a second loading portion 19, provided on the other side thereof, fitted to the first loading portion 18 of adjacent loading tray 13 to form a housing space sealed off from the external environment, for sandwiching the thin plate within the housing space, and for loading the thin plate on the loading tray when the loading tray is placed upside-down; a hook 30, provided on one side thereof, for coupling with an adjacent loading tray 13; and a hook locking mechanism 31, provided on the other side thereof, for coupling with the hook 30 of an adjacent loading tray 13. As many loading trays 13 as the number of the thin plate is stacked to constitute a thin plate container 11. The thin plate container 11 can support the thin plate from both upper and lower sides.
US07854326B1 Medicine storage apparatus
The medicine storage apparatus provides portable medication storage, identification, and dispensing. Each pie-shaped module is removable from the circular bottom of the revolving member. A domed handle provides easy carry capability. As each module is removable, a user can optionally take each module to a professional for filling with medication. Medications are placed in color-differentiated modules. Each module timer is set as needed. A user can thereby be notified by an alarm when medication time has arrived. Further, the various module colors can indicate the number of times daily a medication is needed. The lid of each module substantially comprises the module top, providing easy access while not encouraging spillage. And, the indicia panel of each module provides sufficient space for labeling, instructions, and other needed information, including Braille indicia.
US07854325B2 Childproof package
A childproof package includes a package housing, two guide recesses, which are formed in an area of an inside surface of the package housing, and a sliding element for a package content. The sliding element has two projections on its top or bottom surface, which are guided in the guide recesses. Further, the childproof package has a spring element arranged between the package housing and the sliding element. The projections can be latched by the elastic force of the spring element in notches, which extend from the guide recesses and branch off from it, and can be released against the elastic force of the spring element so that the projections are returned to the guide recesses.
US07854315B2 Conveyor plate with integrated roller
A conveyor support plate includes an upper transport surface configured to receive objects arranged for travel on a conveyor system and a lower surface arranged opposite the upper transport surface. A pair of transversely extending walls and a pair of side walls connect the upper transport surface and the lower surface. A plurality of cavities are formed in the lower surface between the pair of transversely extending walls and the pair of side walls that terminate below the upper transport surface. The cavities are configured to receive a roller that extends through the lower surface to support the support plate during travel on the convey system.
US07854310B2 Parking meter
A parking meter assembly (10) including a base (11) that is to be fixed to or embedded in a ground surface, typically adjacent the curb that which a car is to be parked. The assembly (10) also includes a parking meter (13) having a front face (17) that includes a coin slot (25) a card slot (20) and a control panel (21). The parking meter (13) further includes a rear face (27) having a window aperture (28) that provides for the transmission of light to a solar panel (29) behind the aperture (28).
US07854307B2 Electromagnetically actuated viscous clutch
A valve assembly (106) for an electromagnetically actuated viscous clutch (100) includes a cover plate (140) defining a seating portion configured to selectively cover an opening (138) from a reservoir (112), a flexible mounting plate (142), and an armature (144) that is movable in response to applied magnetic flux to move the cover plate (140) relative to the opening (138) from the reservoir (112). The armature (144) includes a base portion (146) connected to the cover plate (140) and the mounting plate (142), and a finger (148) extending from the base portion (146). The finger (148) and the base portion (146) define a path for conducting magnetic flux.
US07854306B2 Clutch assembly with an oil pump clutch housing and a carrier engaged with a clutch pack outer circumference
The present invention broadly comprises a ring carrier with a wall arranged to engage at least a portion of an outer circumference of a clutch pack for a clutch assembly for a vehicle and a clutch housing with a wall arranged to engage at least a portion of an inner circumference of the clutch pack. The wall for the housing includes at least one opening and the clutch housing is arranged to pump fluid through the opening in the wall independent of the rotation of an output hub for the carrier. The clutch housing can be configured as an inner clutch housing. The clutch housing includes a connecter portion arranged to transfer engine torque to the cylindrical wall from an outer housing of the clutch assembly connected to an engine crankshaft. The present invention also includes a clutch assembly with the ring carrier and clutch housing.
US07854304B2 Method and device for power supply to an electric motor vehicle
Method of producing a plasma conductor in air with the aid of a femtosecond high-frequency pulsing and high-repetition rate laser. The plasma is used for transmitting a current between an electric or catenary wire supplying a vehicle such as a train and an electric contact, for example a pantograph arm disposed on a moving vehicle and connected to a power distribution system thereof. The plasma is in contact with the electric or catenary wire and with an electric contact.
US07854303B2 Friction lining
A method for producing a friction lining. The friction lining is wound in three layers with different winding ratios.
US07854302B2 Apparatus for mounting a hub brake to a bicycle frame
A bicycle brake apparatus comprises a securing bracket with an axle opening dimensioned to receive a bicycle wheel hub axle therethrough, a braked member that has a braking surface and is adapted to rotate with a bicycle wheel hub rotatably supported by the hub axle, a braking member adapted to contact the braking surface, and an operating unit that selectively causes the braking member to contact the braking surface. A locking unit is structured for attachment to the securing bracket, wherein the locking unit extends in an axial direction of the hub axle and is dimensioned to nonrotatably engage the bicycle frame radially inwardly of a rotating portion of the brake apparatus.
US07854301B2 Fixing and combining device for the brake disc of a remote-controlled model car
A fixing and combining device for the brake disc of a remote-controlled model car includes a connecting cup and a brake disc. The connecting cup has one side provided with a cup-shaped transmission member having two opposite sides of its circumferential wall respectively cut with an engage notch for receiving transmission rod therein. The brake disc is bored with a center hole matching with the transmission member and having the opposite sides of its inner annular edge formed with at least two combining projections to be respectively combined with the inner sides of the two engage notches of the connecting cup after the transmission member is inserted through the center hole of the brake disc. Thus, the brake disc can be tightly fixed between the engage notches of the connecting cup and the transmission rod by the combining projections.
US07854300B2 Hall display device for elevator
An elevator hall display device. A destination floor registration device includes destination buttons and assigned car display panels. An elevator group supervisory controller includes a hall destination call registration section that registers a hall destination call corresponding to an operation of a destination button, an assigned car decision section that decides an assigned car to respond to the hall destination call, an assigned car display mode controller that sets a display mode of the assigned car, and an assigned car display that makes the assigned car displayed on an assigned car display panel in the set display mode. The assigned car display mode controller sets the assigned car display to a first display mode until a predetermined time elapses from start of display of the assigned car on the assigned car display panel, and sets the display of the assigned car to a second display mode after the predetermined time elapses.
US07854298B2 Acoustic septum cap honeycomb
An acoustic structure that includes a honeycomb having cells in which septum caps are located. The septum caps are formed from sheets of acoustic material and include a resonator portion and a flange portion. The flange portion has an anchoring surface that provides frictional engagement of the septum caps to the honeycomb cells when the caps are inserted into the honeycomb during fabrication of the acoustic structure. An adhesive is applied to the anchoring surface of the septum caps after the caps have been inserted into the honeycomb cells to provide a permanent bond.
US07854297B2 Muffler and related systems
Mufflers are provided for a vehicle exhaust system having a combustion chamber and an exhaust pipe. The vehicle exhaust system is configured to reduce the noise of combustion gasses generated in the combustion chamber. An exemplary muffler includes a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being configured for mounting the muffler to the exhaust pipe leading to the engine, the distal end being configured to allow the combustion gasses to pass therethrough, and at least one vortex chamber disposed between the proximal end and the distal end. The at least one vortex chamber includes a circular peripheral wall for inducing a vortex on a portion of the combustion gasses expelled from the combustion chamber during high-pressure pulsations created by the operation of a vehicle engine. The vortex impedes flow of the combustion gasses from the pipe such that acoustic energy associated with the expulsion of the combustion gasses is dissipated.
US07854293B2 Steering operated by linear electric device
A riding mower assembly may include a mower frame, first and second wheels, and a steering assembly. The steering assembly may include a steering frame member fixed to the mower frame, a first steering arm rotatably coupled to a first end of the steering frame member and having the first wheel coupled thereto, a second steering arm rotatably coupled to a second end of the steering frame member and having the second wheel coupled thereto, an actuation mechanism, and a cross-member. The actuation mechanism may include a first end coupled to the steering frame member and a second end coupled to the first steering arm. The actuation mechanism may include a motor having an actuation arm extending therefrom that rotates the first steering arm. The cross-member may have a first end coupled to the first steering arm and a second end coupled to the second steering arm.
US07854289B2 Arrangement of a front hood having an adjusting lever on a vehicle
The invention relates to a front hood arrangement on a vehicle, comprising a hinge mechanism that is located in the rear relative to the direction of travel and is embodied as a quadruple joint with a long and a short pull rod. The hinge mechanism allows the front hood to be swiveled during normal opening and closing while allowing the same to be raised in the rear zone during a collision of the vehicle. Such a hinge mechanism is provided with a spring element which actuates an adjusting lever during a collision while the adjusting lever acts directly upon the front hood and rests thereupon either directly or via intermediate elements. The joints of the quadruple joint located at the front hood end are hingedly fixed to a swiveling lever. In the neutral position, one end of the swiveling lever is removably fastened to the front hood while the other end thereof can be swiveled relative to the front hood about a pivot joint that is disposed in the area where the adjusting lever is associated with the front hood. The adjusting lever, which is guided by the pull rods of the quadruple joint and the swiveling lever that detaches from the front hood at one end, lifts the front hood relative to the neutral state in the event of a collision.
US07854287B2 Motorcycle air suspension system
A suspension system for use with a motorcycle includes a device for producing a supply of pressurized air. The suspension system is operably disposed between a frame member and a swing arm of the motorcycle. The suspension system comprises a double-acting pneumatic cylinder.
US07854285B1 Suspension architecture for a snowmobile
The present invention relates to rear suspension systems for snowmobiles have endless belt assemblies. Specifically, the present invention relates to rear suspension architecture for coupled rear suspension systems for snowmobiles and belt tensioning assemblies.
US07854280B2 Preassembly unit for the drive of an industrial truck
A preassembly unit for the drive of an industrial truck, with a fifth wheel on which the driving wheel is rotatably mounted around a horizontal axis and which on its part is rotatably mounted in a bearing member around a vertical axis, a drive motor arranged on the fifth wheel, which is coupled with a driving shaft of the driving wheel via a gearbox, optionally a steering motor on the bearing member in order to turn the fifth wheel in the bearing member around the vertical axis, a parallel rod assembly between the bearing member and a frame of the industrial truck, which permits an essentially vertical movement of the preassembly unit in relation to the frame, and a spring arrangement between the bearing member and a frame-fixed section, wherein at least one upper drag rod of the parallel rod assembly is articulated on the lower end of a separate attachment section, which forms an interface with a counter-attachment position on the frame by attachment positions, and that at least one spring acts between a shoulder of the bearing member and an abutment of the attachment portion below the attachment positions.
US07854279B2 Driving force control device
A driving force control device for an electric vehicle in which a left wheel is driven by a left in-wheel motor and a right wheel is driven by a right in-wheel motor includes a driving force difference setting section. The driving force difference setting section is configured to set a driving force difference between a driving force outputted from the left in-wheel motor and a driving force outputted from the right in-wheel motor when a lateral acceleration is detected acting on the vehicle, the driving force difference being set to generate a restoring moment against the vehicle corresponding to the lateral acceleration.
US07854277B2 Wellbore fluid comprising a base fluid and a particulate bridging agent
Wellbore fluid containing a base fluid and a particulate bridging agent comprised of melamine. A method is also described of forming a removable filter cake on the walls of a wellbore that penetrates a porous and permeable rock formation by placing in the wellbore a wellbore fluid containing a base fluid and melamine, and permitting the melamine to deposit from the wellbore fluid onto or into the walls of the wellbore to form the filter cake, whereby fluid loss to the formation through the removable filter cake is reduced.
US07854275B2 Spring-operated anti-stall tool
An anti-stall tool in an oil well drilling assembly that controls reciprocation of the drill bit by a controller that alters weight-on-bit (WOB) depending upon measured downhole pressure or torque. The downhole controller keeps the drill bit rotating by maintaining WOB during normal drilling operations, increasing WOB if sensed working pressure indicates that drill bit loading or torque is undesirably low, and reversing WOB by applying a spring force for retracting the drill bit if excessive working pressure or torque is sensed.
US07854267B2 Methods and systems to activate downhole tools with light
The present invention comprises a system and methods to actuate downhole tools by transmitting an optical signal through an optical fiber to the downhole tool. The optical signal can comprise a specific optical signal frequency, signal, wavelength or intensity. The downhole tool can comprise packers, perforating guns, flow control valves, such as sleeve valves and ball valves, samplers, sensors, pumps, screens (such as to expand), chemical cutters, plugs, detonators, or nipples.
US07854261B2 Method and an apparatus for separation and injection of water from a water- and hydrocarbon-containing outflow down in a production well
A method and apparatus of separating, in a production well, water from a water- and hydrocarbon-containing production flow emanating from at least one surrounding production formation; and also of injecting, in the production well, a resulting water-containing liquid into at least one surrounding disposal formation, whilst a resulting hydrocarbon-containing liquid is produced out of the production well. The water-containing liquid is separated from the production flow by using at least one water separation device being exposed to a pressure difference (P1-P2) that sucks water from the production flow and through the water separation device. Said water-containing liquid is thus provided. The water separation device may, for example, comprise at least one hydrophilic and water-permeable material. The pressure difference (P1-P2) may be provided through suitable adjustment of a gas pressure (P3) in a first gas column at a downstream side of the water separation device. The gas within the gas column may be supplied from a gas source at the surface, a gas source in a subsurface formation and/or gas being separated from the well flow.
US07854260B2 Steam driven turbine drive
A downhole arrangement including an outer housing, an inner housing disposed within the outer housing and defining with the outer housing a chamber, a turbine disposed within the chamber, and one or more nozzles disposed at the chamber capable of exhausting steam into the chamber. A method for moving a target fluid within a wellbore.
US07854256B2 Plug bypass valves and heat exchangers
A bypass valve for a heat exchanger including a plurality of parallel tubular members comprises a housing having a hollow plug portion adjacent to an actuator portion. The actuator comprises a reciprocating plunger extending into the plug portion and a solenoid having a central actuator shaft attached to the plunger, wherein the actuator shaft extends upon energization of the solenoid so that the plunger prevents bypass flow through the valve. The valve also comprises a temperature sensor for sensing a temperature of the fluid flowing through the heat exchanger, the temperature sensor being electrically coupled to the solenoid through one or more conductors, wherein the temperature sensor is located at the first end of the actuator shaft and the conductors extend through the hollow interior of the actuator shaft to the second end thereof.
US07854250B2 Control valve body of automatic transmission and manufacturing method therefor
By pouring, by means of pressure, melted liquid of magnesium or magnesium alloy into a hollow portion which is formed using a casting mold, a valve body where a channel groove for hydraulic oil for use in a speed change operation of the automatic transmission is formed. In the above, the channel grove for the hydraulic oil is formed due to a convex portion which is formed on the mold so as to project into the hollow portion. As the magnesium has small heat capacity, variation of the temperature of the mold during the cooling and heating cycle can be suppressed. Moreover, as the magnesium melted liquid has no reactivity with respect to the casting mold, the convex portion is not deteriorated. This allows employment of a mold having a thinner convex portion formed thereon, and therefore formation of a valve body having a narrower channel groove.
US07854248B2 Vision panel for movable partition, movable partitions and related methods
Apparatuses and methods are provided for visual inspection across a barrier such as a fire door. In one embodiment of the present invention, a first movable partition is disposed adjacent, and laterally spaced from, a second movable partition. A first vision panel is disposed in the first partition and a second vision panel is disposed in the second partition in substantial alignment with the first vision panel. The position of the first vision panel is substantially constrained with respect to the position of the second vision panel along a first longitudinal direction. The first vision panel and the second vision panel are enabled to exhibit a desired amount of lateral displacement relative to each other.
US07854247B2 Ultrasonic vibration bonding resonator
An ultrasonic vibration bonding resonator includes a resonance body, bonding working portions having a bonding working face and provided at a point of maximum oscillation on upper and lower surfaces of the resonance body and support portions provided at two points of minimum oscillation apart from the bonding working portions to opposite sides in a direction of ultrasonic vibration as projecting from front and back surfaces of the resonance body. It includes a resonance body, tool-attaching portions provided at a point of maximum oscillation on upper and lower surfaces of the resonance body, a bonding working portion having a bonding working face and attached to one of the tool-attaching portions, and support portions provided at two points of minimum oscillation apart from the bonding working portion to opposite sides in a direction of ultrasonic vibration as projecting from front and back surfaces of the resonance body.
US07854246B2 Method and device for forming a weld joint
The invention refers to a method and a device for forming a weld joint at the connecting surfaces between two parts. At the connecting surfaces a heatable element is provided, during warm-up the two parts approach each other, and the heatable element is also moved or positioned depending on the movement or position of the parts.
US07854243B2 Inflatable pneumatic bag and the manufacture method thereof
An inflatable pneumatic bag is disclosed. An inflatable pneumatic bag includes a pneumatic hole disposed at one end of a pneumatic channel. Air, which is applied to the pneumatic hole, moves along the pneumatic channel, then through air ingress holes covered with inner layers which are removed by the expansion of the outer layers to fill all the air tubes. When the air tube is filled with air, one or more inner layers cover and then close the air ingress hole to overcome reverse air flow. Then, a curve-shaped air passage in the air tube narrows to further prevent air escape. With the inner layer, effectively overcoming reverse air flow, and the air passage, further preventing air escape, the inflatable pneumatic bag filled with air may last for a substantial long period of time.
US07854238B2 Conduit trap and condensation recovery device
The present invention provides a conduit trap, which can also operate as condensation recovery device when installed in a refrigeration system drainage line. The conduit trap is generally a hollow body defining a fluid path that includes an upper conduit 20, having a waste outlet 30 and optionally a condensation collection outlet 32. A lower conduit 22 extends downwardly from the upper conduit and has a narrowing that creates an inner sealing region for receiving a sealing means, such as float 50. Condensation can be directed from the refrigeration system through the conduit trap for recovery or for disposal without exposing the refrigeration drainage line and occupied space in which the refrigeration unit is located to sewer gasses even in dry weather when a gravity based, fluid-filled trap would fail.
US07854237B2 Fetal monitoring transducer aligning device
To better position an ultrasonic transducer typically used in non-invasive fetal monitoring during labor, the present invention consists of a transducer-aligning device having a plurality of selectively fillable chambers, each chamber having a resiliently deformable side-wall. A fluid, such as air, can be selectively pumped or released into any combination of the chambers. When coupled to an ultrasonic transducer, the selective use of air pressure in the bladder more precisely aligns and positions the fetal monitor transducer to improve imaging. In a second embodiment, the present invention includes a solid wedge-shaped protrusion extending below the bottom surface of the housing and adapted to rotate about 360-degrees to enable a care-giver to selectively position the wedge and thus align the associated transducer for optimal readings of fetal heart rate.
US07854234B2 Method of setting up, caring for and later removing a temporary rasta hairstyle
A method of setting up, caring for and later removing a temporary rasta hairstyle is described. This method includes one or more of the following steps: applying a roughness-increasing substance to the hair to roughen the hair, applying an adherence-increasing substance to the hair to increase adherence of hairs to each other, and subsequently setting up the temporary rasta hairstyle by intertwining hair strandwise. The cleaning of the temporary rasta hairstyle occurs preferably using a concave sponge, without disturbing the temporary rasta hairstyle. To again remove the temporary rasta hairstyle a composition that increases the combability is applied to the hair and the rasta strands are opened and unwound or untwisted. Multi-component kits and compositions for performing the method are also described.
US07854231B1 Arm retention system for physical therapy
Retention systems, methods, and components for controlling body movement are shown and described. Retention systems can be used to reduce, limit, or substantially eliminate unwanted body movement, such as arm movement. The disclosed systems can be quickly and conveniently positioned on a user's arm to keep the arms against or near the torso of the wear. The retention system can be worn when performing normal everyday activities.
US07854227B2 Nasal devices
A nasal delivery device and method are provided for delivering substance to a nasal airway of a subject, in particular one of a liquid, as a suspension or solution, or a powder containing a medicament, especially systemic or topical pharmaceuticals, or a vaccine to the nasal airway of a subject. The delivery device is characterized by: a nosepiece for fitting to a nostril of a subject; a delivery unit including a substance supply unit and a nozzle unit including at least one nozzle fluidly connected to the substance supply unit for generating an aerosol spray for delivery to a nasal airway of the subject; and an aerosol interactor operable to interact with an aerosol spray as generated by the at least one nozzle.
US07854220B1 Stretchable tension paintball agitator with deflecting arms and displacement tips
A spring tensioned paintball agitator using a stretchable tension device providing increased maintenance and replacement access. A base frame and a finger frame are provided defining a movement limit device to prevent overextension of the spring while maintaining a minimum spring position. The agitator includes vertical ball displacement tips for increasing ball agitation inside the hopper and contact finger having a variable contact face for ball position control.
US07854219B2 Portable gas powered internal combustion engine arrangement
A gas powered internal combustion engine in which the gas is provided from pressurized liquid gas in an LPG container and in which the LPG container is rigidly mounted adjacent to the internal combustion engine at a preselected angle to be in conductive heat transfer relationship to the internal combustion engine and in vibration receiving relationship to the internal combustion engine whereby the liquified gas in the LPG container is heated and the effective surface area thereof is increased.
US07854216B2 General purpose internal combustion engine
In a general-purpose internal combustion engine having a throttle valve and a choke valve each installed in an air intake passage connected to a combustion chamber, air sucked in flowing through the air intake passage and mixing with fuel supplied by a carburetor to generate an air-fuel mixture that enters the combustion chamber of a cylinder and is ignited to drive a piston to rotate a crankshaft to be connected to a load such as a generator, there are provided an electric motor (actuator), a throttle valve opening/closing mechanism connected to the motor to open/close the throttle valve and a choke valve opening/closing mechanism connected to the throttle valve opening/closing mechanism to open/close the choke valve in response to operation of the throttle valve opening/closing mechanism, thereby enabling to move a choke valve without need to install an additional actuator.
US07854215B2 Valve train with overload features
A valve train for use in an engine is provided. The valve train includes a rocker arm assembly having a valve side arm and a cam side arm. A valve is coupled to the engine and is in contact with the valve side arm. A pushrod is reciprocatable by a camshaft and is in contact with the cam side arm. An overload feature is located on at least one of the rocker arm assembly or the pushrod. The overload feature has a reduced cross-sectional area calibrated to activate at a predefined load.
US07854214B2 Pet grooming tool with pivot head and rotatable blade
The pet grooming tool includes a handle and a head. The head consists of a lower head portion and an upper head portion. A toothed uni-directional blade is mounted on and extends from the lower head portion. The head portions are rotatably connected so that the tool can be used in either direction. The head is pivotally connected to the handle such that the angle between the blade and the handle can be adjusted.
US07854212B2 Paint shield for roof structure
A self-retained paint shield configured to shield an exterior roof structure while spray painting exterior side walls of a home or building. The paint shield includes a shield portion and an exterior-roof attachment portion. The shield portion is configured to shield at least a portion of the roof structure from paint spray. The exterior-roof attachment portion is connected to the shield portion and includes two upwardly extending attachment side walls extending at a lower end from each other. With this arrangement, the exterior-roof attachment portion is configured to attach to the end of the roof structure in a self-retained manner while the shield portion shields at least a portion of the roof structure from paint spray.
US07854211B2 Portable boat in nesting sections, with waterproof fabric cover incorporating a stabilizing keel
The present invention introduces a small boat (kayak or hybrid kayak-canoe) made in a plurality of nesting sections. It is covered with a waterproof fabric cover, incorporating a stabilizing and flexible keel sewn into it. The boat also has a releasably attachable and flexible coaming.
US07854206B2 Seed meter
A seed meter has a housing forming a seed-holding supply chamber and an outlet chamber and a thin feed wheel rotatable in the housing about an axis and formed centered on the axis with an annular array of radially outwardly open and axially throughgoing seats each dimensioned to hold a respective seed. Structure in the housing is positioned to prevent seeds from moving radially outward from the respective seats in the supply chamber but not in the outlet chamber. A pressure differential is applied across the wheel to move seeds in the supply chamber into the seats so that the seeds are expelled from the seats in the outlet chamber. The seeds are fed, one at a time into a seed conduit and/or to a conveyor for transfer to the seed conduit or to the down pipes of the seed coulters.
US07854203B2 Electrical energy capture system with circuitry for blocking flow of undesirable electrical currents therein
An electrical energy capture system, as may be carried on a hybrid energy, electro-motive, self-powered traction vehicle, is provided. The system may be used for storing electrical power generated on the vehicle and for discharging the stored electrical power for use on the vehicle. The system includes circuitry connected to a plurality of electrical energy storage devices connected in parallel circuit to one another. The circuitry may be configured to establish a respective circuit path for charging and discharging electrical energy from each energy storage device with respect to a DC bus. The circuitry is further configured to block a flow of electrical current from any one of the storage devices to any of the other storage devices, thereby avoiding flow of currents that could otherwise circulate among the electrical energy storage devices due to electrical imbalances that may occur in one or more of the electrical energy storage devices.
US07854202B2 Overhead transport service vehicle and method
A overhead transport service vehicle system includes a carriage frame structured and arranged to carry a user. A hoisting mechanism utilizes at least one lifting device for lifting and lowering the carriage frame and at least one moving device for causing movement of the hoisting mechanism along one of a track or rail. A control controls at least one of the at least one lifting device and the at least one moving device.
US07854200B2 Hold down device for material placed on platen of digital printing machine
A device is provided for holding down textile material (on which images or text are to be printed) on the platen of a digital printing machine. The device includes facing flexible rubber pads or seals mounted on the periphery of the platen. The seals have opposed gripping surfaces which touch or have a selected limited spacing there between. The textile material is pushed and tucked in between the seals. The seals grip and hold the material in position, to provide a smooth material surface on which the ink is applied. After the printing operation, the textile material is pulled out from the seal grip.
US07854194B2 Juicer speed control
A variable speed selector for a juicer is user operable for selecting a speed from a speed range. The speed range is divisible into sub-ranges. A display area is adapted to depict the selected sub-range. The display area further comprises a list of vegetables or fruit. The display area also comprises a moving indicator that moves according to the selected speed, and appears adjacent to the fruit or vegetable for which the selected speed is optimal.
US07854191B2 Three-piece oil ring and combination of the three-piece oil ring and piston
A three-piece oil ring and a combination of the three-piece oil ring and a piston, those capable of realizing improved sealing property and reduction in lubrication oil consumption with avoiding generation of sticking even at low tension and thin width of the ring. The three-piece oil ring includes a spacer expander 10 and two side rails. The spacer expander has a radially inner end portion provided with seating tabs 13 protruding in an axial direction and having radially outer inclined surfaces for urging inner peripheral surfaces of the first and second side rails. The spacer expander has a radially outer end portion provided with side rail support portions 14 projecting in the axial direction for supporting axial end faces of the first and second side rails. A seating tab angle of the outer inclined surface relative to an axis is in a range of 10 to 20 degrees, and a ratio of 2X/Y is in a range of from 0.04 to 0.15 where 2X is a total projecting length of the side rail support portions in the axial direction, and Y is a distance between distal end faces of the seating tabs in the axial direction.
US07854190B2 Boron carbide component and methods for the manufacture thereof
A boron carbide body having a graphite content in which the central portion of the body includes more graphite that the region surrounding the central portion and adjacent the exterior surface thereof, and a method for fabricating the boron carbide body.
US07854187B2 Rotary worktable positioning structure for miter saw
A rotary worktable positioning structure used in a miter saw is disclosed to include a first positioning unit controllable by biasing a handle to lock the worktable to the machine base or to unlock the worktable for free rotation, and a second positioning unit controllable by rotating a switching wheel to move a lock pin into one of a number of locating holes on the periphery of the machine base and to further lock the worktable in one of a number of predetermined cutting angles.
US07854181B2 Manual transmission shifter
An automobile manual transmission shifter is provided that includes a shifter central shaft means for dampening at least part of the vibration transmitted from the manual automobile transmission, and an adjustable swivel shifter handle means for maintaining a continuous perpendicular gripping position while allowing rotatational adjustment of the swivel shifter handle means about the shifter central shaft means. Some embodiments may not include the vibration dampening means.
US07854178B2 Straddle-type four wheeled vehicle
A straddle-type four wheeled vehicle according to the present invention includes: a gear-type transmission capable of switching forward/backward traveling gears; a change drum, which is disposed substantially in parallel to a crankshaft of an engine and is turned at every predetermined angle to thus change the gear of the gear-type transmission; and a reverse lock device. The reverse lock device has: a stopper rotated integrally with the change drum; a reverse lock pin disposed substantially perpendicularly to an axial direction of the change drum and capable of moving in a direction of a pin length between a lock position, at which the reverse lock pin is locked to the stopper so as to prevent the change drum from being rotated to a backward traveling position, and an unlock position, at which the reverse lock pin is unlocked from the stopper; and an unlocking transmission mechanism for moving the reverse lock pin to the unlock position.
US07854175B2 Apparatus for measuring the velocity of a fluid flow
An apparatus for measuring the velocity of a fluid flow provides electrical charge carriers that are emitted into the fluid flow from an emitter electrode, and wherein an electrical signal caused by this is measured at a sensor electrode. The projection of the envelope of the cross-sectional area of that part of the sensor electrode which projects into the fluid flow into the cross-sectional plane of the fluid flow is small in comparison with the cross-sectional area of the fluid flow at this point, if present at all. The measured current of the sensor electrode is used to serve as a characterizing feature of the velocity of the fluid flow in accordance with a defined allocation function. The measurement method has virtually no delay and can be used in a high temperature and velocity range.
US07854170B2 Capacitance sensing circuit for membrane pressure sensor
A capacitance sensing circuit for a membrane pressure sensor is provided. The sensing circuit has a controller, two switches in signal communication with the controller, a charge amplifier and a charge injector. The charge amplifier is connected to the switches via a sensor capacitor Cs and a reference capacitor Cr. The sensor and reference capacitors are arranged in parallel with one another and a parasitic capacitance Cp to ground. The charge injector and amplifier are arranged in parallel connection between the capacitors and the controller. The controller is configured to determine a charge imbalance indicative of a pressure difference between membranes of the pressure sensor.
US07854169B2 Sensor device and rolling bearing with sensor
A sensor device includes: a detected part D having a movable element 5 and a fixed element 3 contacting each other in which a contact area of the both elements changes corresponding to an external load; a contact area detection sensor 2, provided to the fixed element 3, for detecting the contact area of the detected part D; and processing means for calculating the external load from an sensor output by using the correlation between the external load and the contact area.
US07854165B2 Plastic water meter with metal threads
Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to flow meters and more particularly to improved plastic water flow meters for commercial or residential use. In various embodiments, a plastic water meter is provided that may include metal threads for connecting the water meter to a water system. In particular, the plastic water meter may include at least one spud that is shaped to receive and engage a plastic spud insert, in which the plastic spud insert may include a metal ring with a threaded outer surface. The plastic spud insert may include an annular lip portion extending outwardly to discourage removal of the metal ring when the spud insert is engaged with the water meter. Furthermore, the plastic spud insert and the inner surface of the metal ring may have complementary circumferential profiles to discourage relative rotation between the metal ring and the spud insert.
US07854163B2 Wheel identifying apparatus and tire inflation pressure detecting apparatus with function of wheel identification
A wheel identifying apparatus includes first and second triggering devices located on the body of a vehicle, a plurality of transceivers each of which is located on one of the running and spare wheels of the vehicle, and a receiver and a wheel identifier both of which are located on the body of the vehicle. The first and second triggering devices continuously transmit first and second trigger signals, respectively. Each of the transceivers monitors the strength of either the first or second trigger signal thereat for a given length of time, and transmits a signal indicating variation in the monitored strength. The receiver receives and provides to the wheel identifier all the signals transmitted by the transceivers. The wheel identifier identifies, for each of the signals, the wheel on which the transceiver having transmitted the signal is located through a comparison between the variations indicated by the signals.
US07854159B2 Sensor and methods for measuring of concentrations of components in a liquid
A sensor for measuring the concentration of components in a liquid, exhibiting a base body with a deformation body, and a hollow chamber. The hollow chamber is on the one side deformable through the deformation body and on the other side rigidly closed. The hollow chamber is completely filled with a swellable polymeric network, which network exhibits a volume phase transition at a certain concentration of components in the liquid. The liquid can have contact to the polymeric network through at least one opening in at least one of the rigid delimiting sides of the hollow chamber. A mechano electrical transducer detects the deflection of the deformation body. The sensor exhibits a servo device (8) working on the deformation body (3), wherein the servo device (8) can be controlled through a control member with a comparator unit (9) such that the deflection of the deformation body (3) is compensated, wherein the corresponding control signal for the servo device (8) represents the measurement value for the concentration of components in the liquid (1).
US07854158B2 Systems and methods for measurement and analysis of pipeline contaminants
A system for measurement and analysis of pipeline contaminants is provided. The system includes a first assembly for engaging a pipeline from which a first fluid flow sample may be isokinetically collected for measurement of aerosol contaminants. The system also includes a second assembly for engaging the pipeline from which a second fluid flow sample may be collected for chromatographic analysis of the aerosol contaminants. The system may further include a third assembly for engaging the pipeline from which a fluid flow sample may be obtained for measurement of solid contaminants. Information on aerosol contaminants and solid contaminants can subsequently be used to select an appropriate extraction technology to control the presence of aerosol and solid contaminants within the pipeline. Information from the chromatographic analysis, on the other hand, may be used to identify the origin of the aerosol contaminants, so that corrective measures can be implemented to minimize the presence of aerosol contaminants within the pipeline. A method for measurement and analysis of pipeline contaminants is also provided.
US07854157B2 Method of elongating optical fiber base material, and apparatus for elongating the same
The method, in which base material ingot 1 is heated and softened in an electric furnace 3, drawn with a pair of pinch roller 6 and 6, and elongated to make base material rod 7 having a smaller diameter than the ingot, features: forming either a roller groove 11 having a curvature radius which is larger than the outer diameter of the base material rod 7 or a V-shaped roller groove 11 having the cross section consisting of straight lines on the surface of the pinch roller 6 made of metal; nipping with the facing roller grooves 11 and 11 respectively formed on the surfaces of a pair of said pinch rollers 6 and 6; and drawing said base material rod.
US07854156B2 Closing device and closing method
A closing device 100 which presses a die 2 against a rotating pipe body 1 such that an open end portion of the pipe body 1 is plastically closed by the die 2 includes a cored bar 3 inserted into the pipe body 1 to close the open end portion of the pipe body 1 on the opposite side of the die 2, and a reactive force applying mechanism 43, 60 which allows the cored bar 3 to retreat and applies a reactive force to the retreating cored bar 3 when the cored bar 3 receives a predetermined load or more during processing of the pipe body 1 by the die 2.
US07854155B2 Method and rolling mill for improving the running-out of a rolled metal strip whose trailing end is moving at rolling speed
A method for improving the running-out of a metal rolled strip (1), the rolled trailing strip end (1a) of which exits out of a respectively last roll stand (2) of a multistand rolling mill (3) at a rolling speed, wherein during rolling between two consecutive roll stands (F1, F2, F3 . . . Fn) the strip tension (a) is adjusted to stabilize the strip position, provides that shortly before the rolled trailing strip end (1a) exits the developing rolling force differences are measured separately for each roll stand (F1, F2, F3 . . . Fn), that from this the pivot value (16) and the pivot direction are derived for forming a corrective value for the adjustment of the rolls (10, 11) and that the adjustment is corrected.
US07854152B2 Steam generator for washing machine
A steam generator for a washing machine comprises: a hermetic container provided with a water supply port for supplying water and a steam exhaustion port for exhausting steam; a heater arranged in the hermetic container for heating water supplied into the hermetic container; and a drain unit for draining residual water inside of the hermetic container outwardly. According to this, residual water inside of the steam generator is outwardly exhausted thus to maintain cleanness of the steam generator. Also, the drain unit using a siphon principle is installed thus to naturally exhaust residual water inside of the steam generator without an additional valve device, thereby reducing a fabrication cost.
US07854151B2 Needle for knitting sueded fabrics
A knitting needle for knitted sueded fabric is provided. The needle includes a shank, a hook, a latch, and an abrasive surface. The abrasive surface is defined on at least one of the shank, the hook, and the latch.
US07854150B2 Device and method for drawing optical fibers
A device for making up a plurality of synchronously produced individual optical fibers includes a drawing installation for drawing the fibers and a take-up winder for winding up the fibers on a take-up spool. The drawing installation provides an identical and constant drawing rate for each of the fibers. The take-up winder has a compensating device to compensate for differences in speed of the fibers between the drawing installation and the take-up spool. Fluctuations of the fiber diameter during production of the fibers are avoided and the fibers are passed at a substantially constant rate to the take-up winder. A fiber bundle can be made up without influencing the drawing rate, thereby also avoiding reactions on the melting process when drawing the fibers from a heated preform. A method for making up a plurality of synchronously produced individual optical fibers is also provided.
US07854148B2 Device and method for manufacturing an optical preform
The present invention relates to a device for manufacturing an optical preform by means of an internal vapour deposition process, said device comprising an energy source and a substrate tube, which substrate tube comprises a supply side for supplying glass-forming precursors and a discharge side for discharging constituents that have rot been deposited on the interior of the substrate tube, said energy source being movable along the length of the substrate tube between a point of reversal at the supply side and a point of reversal at the discharge side.
US07854146B2 Method for production of an optical component from quartz glass
The production of an optical component from quartz glass by elongation of a coaxial arrangement of a core rod and a hollow cylinder is known. The arrangement is thus introduced into a heating zone, such that the lower end begins to partly soften and the component drawn from the softened part. According to the invention, a pseudo-continuous method for the formation of the restriction in the inner passage of the hollow cylinder on which the core rod is supported, is disclosed, whereby an upper hollow cylinder is fused end on with a lower hollow cylinder to form an axial composite cylinder, a core rod is introduced into the lower hollow cylinder and the axial cylinder composite partly softened and elongated to form the optical component. A drawing bulb extending to the upper hollow cylinder forms, within which the inner passage at least partly collapses with formation of the restriction and the upper cylinder is then separated off from the drawn optical component at a separating plane and then elongated together with a core rod to form an optical component.
US07854142B2 Dual air conditioner system shared capacitors
An air conditioner having two compressors enables, when one compressor is started, the phase advance capacitor for the other compressor to be temporarily separated and used in parallel with the phase advance capacitor for the one compressor. These compressors can have an increased starting torque without using a starting capacitor.
US07854141B1 Energy conservation in a self-contained air-conditioning unit
A self-contained air-conditioning unit is modified to effect conservation of energy during operation of the unit. Refrigerant is moved along a refrigerant circuit for circulation through a compressor, a condenser and an evaporator within a housing which includes a base. The evaporator is raised above the base a distance sufficient to enable collection of condensate from the evaporator and transfer of the collected condensate by gravity to a condensate reservoir tray located adjacent the base. A heat exchange conduit is inserted into the refrigerant circuit, between the compressor and the condenser, and is placed in the condensate reservoir tray so as to be immersed in the condensate transferred to the condensate reservoir tray for enabling transfer of heat from the heat exchange conduit to condensate in the condensate reservoir tray during operation of the air-conditioning unit, thereby reducing the amount of energy needed to operate the unit.
US07854139B2 Vehicular air conditioning control operating apparatus
The invention can securely carry out an operation by a reduced number of the parts. The invention is provided with a base member having a gear lever arranged portion and a pinion member arranged portion, and provided with a communication hole communicating with the gear lever arranged portion in a closed wall portion of the pinion member arranged portion, a gear lever rotatably arranged in a bearing portion, having a gear portion and driving an output member (a control wire) based on a rotation, a pinion member rotatably arranged in the pinion member arranged portion and having a pinion portion engaging with the gear portion via the communication hole, a holder having a retention portion retaining the pinion member in one end, and having a fixing portion fixing to the base member in the other end, and an operation knob arranged so as to be outside fitted to the pinion member and integrally rotating the pinion member.
US07854138B2 Method for controlling multi-unit air conditioning system
A method for controlling a multi-unit air conditioning system adapted to cool or heat room spaces while passing a refrigerant in one direction or in a reverse direction is disclosed. In the method, which is applied to a multi-unit air conditioning system including at least three compressors, when a compressor re-operation is repeatedly carried out after all of the compressors have been turned off, to turn on again at least one of the compressors, repetition of the compressor re-operation is carried out for a predetermined number of different orders in such a manner that at least one of the compressors is turned on first in an associated order of the repeated compressor re-operation.
US07854137B2 Variable speed compressor motor control for low speed operation
A variable speed drive is provided for a compressor in a refrigerant system. When a low load situation has been determined by the refrigerant system controls, the variable speed drive moves the compressor to a lower speed mode of operation. In this case, if a speed is so low that it cannot ensure adequate oil lubrication of the compressor elements, then the motor speed is periodically increased to a level that will ensure proper lubrication. In this manner, a variable speed drive compressor can be operated at an extremely low speed to precisely match load demand on a refrigerant system. The invention can be extended beyond refrigerant system applications and to any oil-lubricated compressors whose lubrication is speed dependant.
US07854136B2 Automated drive for fan and refrigerant system
A refrigerant system is provided with a variable speed drive for at least one of its fluid-moving devices, wherein the variable speed drive is provided by an automated mechanical drive. In the disclosed embodiment, one of the pulleys for driving the fluid-moving device has a variable diameter to vary the speed at which the fluid-moving device is driven. The pulley may include two plates that are biased in one direction by a spring or permanent magnet force, and in an opposed direction by a hydraulic or electro-magnetic force. A control adjusts the amount of hydraulic or electro-magnetic force delivered to the plates to achieve a desired speed for the fluid-moving device.
US07854128B2 Vacuum pump damping adapter
The invention concerns a damping adapter (3) insertable in a suction duct between a service chamber (2) and a vacuum pump (1). The adapter (3) consists of a tubular duct wall (6) in the form of a flexible bellows surrounded by a damping sleeve (7) supported on two end flanges (4, 5). The flexible bellows' plys (6a, 6b) receive a passive damping elastomer (8a) on their outer faces, engaged between the successive plys (6a, 6b). This considerably reduces the transmitting of vibrations from the vacuum pump (1) to the service chamber (2), enabling applications in the microscopy field in particular.
US07854127B2 Smart wireless engine sensor
Sensors are mounted to an engine to detect engine conditions and send information to an engine controller or other engine component through a wireless connection. Ports are located on the engine controller. An antenna assembly is plugged into one of the ports and wirelessly receives the signal from the sensor. Another antenna assembly transmits a signal from the engine controller to an external component. A processor within the antenna assemblies monitors and adjusts the signals to correct for signal interference.
US07854126B2 Annular combustion chamber with a removable end wall
A one-piece combustion chamber having an end wall subdivided into sectors. The combustion chamber comprises a chamber end wall interconnecting the inner and outer walls, and it includes windows closed by removable walls, each carrying a plurality of injector systems.
US07854120B2 Fuel manifold with reduced losses
A fuel conveying member of a gas turbine engine fuel system conducting pressurized fluid flow is provided. The fuel conveying member comprises a body defining an L-shaped fuel flow passage therein, the L-shaped passage including an elbow. The elbow portion provides a substantially smooth fluid-dynamic transition between portions of the passage upstream and downstream thereof.
US07854118B2 Supercharged internal combustion engine
A supercharged internal combustion engine system wherein the supercharger assembly includes an ejector pump driven by high-pressure air for pumping intake air into engine combustion chamber. Included are means for sensing engine power demand and controlling the supercharging action. A compressor and an air tank for providing high-pressure air for driving the ejector pump are also disclosed. During periods of natural aspiration the ejector pump can be by-passed to reduce flow impedance. The ejector pump can use a driving nozzle with a fixed throat or a variable throat, or a lobed nozzle. Effective supercharging is achieved even at low engine speeds. One of the objects of the invention is to obtain more power from small displacement ICE and thus providing automotive vehicles with sufficient acceleration in addition to good fuel economy.
US07854114B2 Increasing exhaust temperature for aftertreatment operation
One embodiment of the present invention includes an internal combustion engine system designed to increase exhaust temperature when operating with a low mechanical load—such as idle operation. This increased exhaust temperature is provided to operate aftertreatment equipment. Exhaust temperature is raised by operating a portion of the engine pistons in a brake mode to increase loading on a remainder of the pistons operating in a combustion mode to drive the engine. Fuel provided to pistons operating in the combustion mode is regulated to maintain speed of the engine within a desired idle speed range.
US07854109B2 Steerable multi-linked device having a modular link assembly
A steerable multi-linked device. The device includes a first multi-linked mechanism and a second multi-linked mechanism. At least one of the first and second multi-linked mechanisms is steerable and includes a modular link assembly at an end thereof. The modular link assembly includes a base, and a tip removably connected to the base.
US07854108B2 Agricultural robot system and method
An agricultural robot system and method of harvesting, pruning, culling, weeding, measuring and managing of agricultural crops. Uses autonomous and semi-autonomous robot(s) comprising machine-vision using cameras that identify and locate the fruit on each tree, points on a vine to prune, etc., or may be utilized in measuring agricultural parameters or aid in managing agricultural resources. The cameras may be coupled with an arm or other implement to allow views from inside the plant when performing the desired agricultural function. A robot moves through a field first to “map” the plant locations, number and size of fruit and approximate positions of fruit or map the cordons and canes of grape vines. Once the map is complete, a robot or server can create an action plan that a robot may implement. An action plan may comprise operations and data specifying the agricultural function to perform.
US07854107B2 Substantially closed system for safely disposing potentially hazardous material
The present invention discloses a solution for disposing waste having potentially hazardous airborne emissions. The solution can include a step of receiving waste through an aperture of a disposal unit exhibiting a closed environment. The received waste can be placed within an air tight disposal container. An opening of the disposal container can be sealed to separate the disposal container from the remainder of the substantially closed environment. Air included in the remainder of the substantially closed environment can be captured and placed in a holding unit. The captured air can be ejected from the holding unit into the air tight disposal container. The disposal container containing the received waste and the ejected air can be sealed. The disposal unit can be thereafter opened so that the sealed disposal container is able to be discarded.
US07854099B2 System for attaching prefabricated architectural panels
A system for attaching architectural panels to the outer surface of a residential or commercial building includes a vertically disposed stiffener attached to a panel and also to the outer surface of the building. The stiffener interlocks with a base clip which is attached to an adjacent upper panel. A vertically disposed bracket and a clip are each attached to opposite edges of the panel. The vertically disposed bracket and the clip engage a second clip and a second bracket, respectively, in an adjacent panel in order to attach the panel to the outer surface of the building.
US07854098B2 Softwood-ceiling / hardwood-floor structure comprised of a single set of bonded boards
A structure comprising a softwood-ceiling/hardwood-floor formed of a single set of adjacent boards. Each of the boards including a hardwood layer bonded to a softwood layer, the board having a first edge and a second edge, the first edge having a tongue, the second edge having a groove, the first edge having a first chamfer on the softwood layer, the second edge having a second chamfer on the softwood layer. All boards securely attached to carrying beams that span the walls between two levels within a building.
US07854097B2 Simulated divided light products and processes and systems for making such products
Disclosed are simulated divided light products and processes and systems for making the such products. One product discloses simulated divided light bars that are designed such that the end of the bar may be fitted into a notched sash to provide for the automated method for manufacture of a simulated divided light window or door.
US07854095B2 Electric tile modules
The electrically connectable tile module includes a porous substrate having a top side, a bottom side, and at least two side edges. At least one connector is integrated into the porous substrate allowing adjoining electrically connectable tile modules to be electrically connected to the porous substrate. At least one electrical element is disposed over the top side of the porous substrate and electrically connected to the at least one connector.
US07854094B2 Invisible division bar modular assembly
A surround molding module incorporates an invisible division bar assembly. The invisible division bar assembly includes a support or glass encapsulation that does not extend outwardly beyond the plane of the exterior surface of fixed and movable windows of the vehicle. It provides a butt joint between these window edges. The support also carries a guide member that guides a guide leg extending outwardly from the movable window. An effective window guide tracking system is provided that has reduced wind noise and a flush window appearance with no off-set.
US07854090B2 Method of hormesis for seaweed through irradiation
Through a low-dose irradiation, a seaweed's growth becomes fast and its production is improved as well. By doing so, a material for biomass energy is provided.
US07854085B1 Gun barrel attachment
A tubular or cylindrical member attached to the discharge end of a gun barrel or to any item attached to the discharge end of a gun barrel, e.g. a muzzle brake, silencer, etc., and typically includes a leading edge having a series of distinct, sharp, knife-like edges and a corresponding series of recesses oriented along the axis of the attachment, the recesses typically being between the sharp edges.
US07854076B2 Sports shoe and method of its manufacture
A sports shoe is proposed which comprises an upper and a sole, the latter having its bottom side provided with a pattern of traction assisting means for penetrating the surface of a lawn or hard court, in which the walking sole is directly bonded to the interior of the upper by injection-molding for reducing the weight and simultaneously maintaining the mechanical strength and flexibility, and only the traction assisting means project towards outside through the upper. For producing the sports shoe, there is proposed a method in which the upper is formed such that it extends across the entire sole surface area, and the upper material is provided in the region of the sole surface area with through holes in the form of a pattern which corresponds to the desired pattern of the traction assisting means, and in which the sole is directly bonded to the upper material by means of the injection-molding method in such a manner that the traction assisting means are also formed in this process and project through the through holes of the upper material towards outside.
US07854075B2 Orthotic device for open shoes
An orthotic device is designed to be reused and reapplied in open shoes include an adhesive layer which securely, but temporarily, bonds the insole to a shoe. In some embodiments, the insole both supports and cushions a foot. In other embodiments, the insole solely cushions the foot. The supporting insoles include an arch support and a heel lift. The cushioning insoles include a flat sole pad, a contoured sole pad, a ball of foot pad and a heel spur pad. In some embodiments, a textile covering is included over the insole.
US07854073B1 Quilt template
A quilt template is disclosed for producing a plurality of quilt pieces. The quilt template comprises a template plate for positioning over a first and second layer material. A marking groove traverses the template plate and receives a writing instrument. A first cutting groove traverses the template plate and receives the cutting instrument for cutting the first and second layer of material. A second cutting groove traverses the template plate and receives the cutting instrument for cutting the first and second layer of material. The marking groove is positioned between the first cutting groove and the second cutting groove. The marking groove and the first cutting groove define a first quilt pattern on the template plate. The marking groove and the second cutting groove define a second quilt pattern on the template plate.
US07854070B1 Framing square
A square with longitudinal slots in the angular arms, a rule having a longitudinal slot, and two clamping screws for securing the rule in various angular positions on the arms of the square, so that the scale may be shifted on the square to establish a number of angles, and be maintained at its adjusted position. Spirit levels are provided on each of the square arms and on the rule. The square arms and rule are thick thereby providing saw guides. The square arms are each marked with measuring scales as well as with markers for twelve inch or sixteen inch center layouts. The rule is marked with a plurality of degrees for common pitch lines and hip and valley pitch lines.
US07854063B2 Method of manufacture a connector with outer conductor axial compression connection
An electrical connector for a coaxial cable with a solid outer conductor, the connector in combination with a cable and a method for manufacturing. The electrical connector having a connector body with a bore between a connector end and a cable end. The bore having an inner diameter shoulder at the cable end. A cylindrical sleeve positioned in the bore abutting the inner diameter shoulder. An annular groove open to the cable end, between the cylindrical sleeve and the cable end of the connector body. The annular groove dimensioned to receive an end of the solid outer conductor.
US07854058B2 Method of making high voltage operating rod sensor
Methods for making and using vacuum switching devices are disclosed. A vacuum switching device has an operating rod for actuating a movable electrical contact within the device. The operating rod may be a hollow epoxy glass tube with an electrical sensor disposed within it, and there may be an elastomeric polymer filling compound disposed within the tube and encasing the sensor. The operating rod may be attached to the movable electrical contact on one end by a steel end-fitting that has been press-fit into the tube and secured with at least one cross pin. In this way, a very secure electromechanical connection may be made between the operating rod and the rest of the vacuum switching device, and the sensor is protected from shock associated with the operation of the device. Moreover, the vacuum switching device is compact and easy to construct.
US07854057B2 Method of facilitating superconducting tape manufacturing
A method of facilitating superconducting tape manufacturing is provided that includes forming a long-length superconducting tape having a layered structure, comprising a substrate having a dimension ratio not less than about 100, a buffer layer overlying the substrate, and a high temperature superconducting layer overlying the buffer layer. The method further includes characterizing the superconducting tape to create a data set having a plurality of values that are a function of length of the superconducting tape and distributing both the superconducting tape and the data set.
US07854052B2 Part positioning device
A part positioning device (41) provided with support pins (48) which support a magnetic tape recording/reproducing device (1), a measuring device (51) which measures the height and inclination of a top end face (3a) of a reel (3) of the recording/reproducing device (1) and turning operation devices (54) which turn adjusting screws (7) which adjust the height and inclination of the reel (3). The turning operation device (54) includes an engaging part (55) which engages/disengages with/from an engagement groove (8) formed vertically in the adjusting screw (7), a turning operation part (57) which is turned by manual operation, and a turning transmission shaft (59) which is bendable to transmit the turning of the turning operation part (57) to the engaging part (55). The engaging part (55) is disposed at a position facing the underside of the adjusting screw (7) and moved vertically with respect to the engagement groove (8) by manually pushing or pulling the turning operation part (57) in the horizontal direction (C, D). The turning operation part (57) is disposed on the front side where the operator performs operation.
US07854050B2 Method of manufacturing a surface acoustic wave device
A surface acoustic wave device is enable to prevent electrode erosion, without any specific environmental process. The surface acoustic wave device includes a piezoelectric substrate, an electrode for the formation of surface acoustic wave, being formed on the piezoelectric substrate, on the piezoelectric substrate, a frame-shaped layer surrounding the electrode for the formation of surface acoustic wave, and a lid body formed on the frame-shaped layer by bonding, so as to form a hollow portion between the lid body and the electrode for the formation of surface acoustic wave. The frame-shaped layer and the lid body include photosensitive resin, and the lid body includes a through hole, and the through hole is sealed with a halogen-free thermosetting resin.
US07854048B2 Handicraft assisting tool
A handicraft assisting tool is used for stitching a fabric having a first face and second face into a pouch. This handicraft assisting tool has a first plate and a second plate that collaborates with the first plate. The first plate has a plurality of rhombic unit pieces of the same size arranged in a row, and an inner face abutting on the first face of the fabric. The second plate has a plurality of rhombic unit pieces of the same size arranged in a row, and an inner face abutting on the second face of the fabric. Each of the unit pieces of the first and second plates is of the same size. The first plate and the second plate are each provided with folding operation instructions for folding these plates along a diagonal line of each unit piece and a borderline between adjacent unit pieces.
US07854047B2 Casket having memorabilia compartment
A casket memorabilia compartment assembly adapted to couple to a casket to provide display and/or storage of pictures memorializing the deceased. The memorabilia compartment assembly comprises a panel mountable to the casket for swinging displacement between an inner hanging position within the casket and an outer hanging without the casket. The panel includes a display side exposed when in the outer hanging position. The display side includes a compartment for the display and/or storage of pictures. The outer surface of the compartment is transparent so as to view the pictures within the compartment. The memorabilia compartment assembly can be incorporated, into a big body and/or throw used during viewing of the deceased.
US07854042B2 Bundling device
A reusable bundling device for wrapping and securing bundles of cable, rope, hose, electrical cords and other elongated members. The bundling device includes a flexible strap having one surface covered with hook members and an opposed second surface covered with a plurality of loop members. The hook members are releasably engagable with the loop members to encircle and retain the bundle. The first end of the flexible strap is removably attachable to a portion of the cord. Further, the bundling device is color coded to facilitate the identification of useful information pertaining to the cord and to rematch the strap once removed from the cord.
US07854041B2 Hinge mechanism for electronic device
A hinge for an electronic device, such as mobile radio terminal, is a two-part hinge with a top tube on a top half of the device, a bottom tube on a bottom half of the device, and a hinge assembly in the top tube and the bottom tube. The top tube and the bottom tube together extend across substantially all of a hinge connection width, and may extend across substantially all of a device width of the electronic device. The hinge assembly extends across at least most of the hinge connection width, such as extending across at least 90% of the hinge connection width. The hinge assembly includes a flexible film ribbon connector for making electrical connections between the top part and the bottom part of the electronic device. The flexible film is wrapped around a shaft of the hinge assembly.
US07854037B2 Paint pad with adjustable handle
A paint pad with adjustable handle belong to painting tool field, includes a handle; a pad unite that includes a pad support body and a pad holder plate, the pad holder plate is connected to the bottom of the pad support body; wherein the pad support body has a handle groove on the top; a orientation part is under the groove, its up surface has a plurality of orientation teeth; the handle with plurality of adjusting teeth at the end of handle is located in the groove; a knob on the top of the pad support body can adjust the relationship between the orientation teeth and adjusting teeth. The conventional paint pad is fallible and instable for keeping stable angle between the handle and pad unite, it influences the painting route and uniformity, and reduces painting quality. The paint pad of the present invention allows the handle to have up & down vertically pivotal movement but not left & right swing; though the knob to adjust the engaging force between teeth, therefore, keep the right needed angle for stable operation. The new paint pad possesses advantages of easy in changing working situation, comfortable holding, big amount of absorbing paint, speedy painting, high quality in painting of corner wall areas and area with different colors and exchangeable of paint pad.
US07854035B2 Dual-sided flip mop
The present invention features a cleaning implement, such as a mop, that may be used for cleaning a floor. The mop of the invention typically includes a mop head and a handle pivotally connected to the mop head. The mop head also includes means for securing a mop media, typically a flexible disposable cleaning sheet, to the mop head. The mop may be passed over the floor with one side of the cleaning sheet presented for cleaning the floor. The mop head may then be inverted with the other side of the cleaning sheet presented for further cleaning of the floor.
US07854030B2 Utility tub with removable rack
A utility tub is provided with a sink area having support surfaces for removably supporting a tray. The tray may hold items that are drying. In addition, the utility tub may be provided with an enlarged area for supporting other items, and various accessories such as a towel rack or towel pegs.
US07854029B2 Water drain assembly
A water drain assembly includes an embedding ring and a seal washer, such that when a force is applied to press onto a water drain body, the deformation of hooks disposed at a lower edge of the embedding ring latches the edge of a drain through hole to abut the water drain body and fix the water drain body in position, and a rubber seal ring and a pressing member are installed into an internal hole of the water drain body, and a jam-on member is pressed into the internal hole of the water drain body, so as to press the pressing member down to a predetermined position to deform the seal ring, and achieve a tight pressing relation with a drainage pipe inserted therein to achieve a seal waterproof relation between the drainage pipe and the water drain body, and complete the overall installation of the water drain.
US07854028B1 Disposable toilet seat cover apparatus
A disposable toilet seat cover apparatus is for use on the existing seat of a toilet. The apparatus is provided in a textured biodegradable water soluble material and resists slippage on the seat. A pull tab provides for the gas chamber within the valve assembly of the initially compactly folded apparatus to release a compressed gas to fill the seat cover/cushion. After use, the apparatus' biodegradable makeup provides for either discarding in a trash bin or for deposit into the bowl water, where the apparatus quickly deflates and dissolves. Any of the apparatus not immediately dissolved in the bowl water is easily flushed.
US07854023B2 Helmet and method of removing the same
A helmet that can be removed from the head of a helmet wearer who wears the helmet, with a comparatively small force, and simply and quickly including preliminary operation for removal. A recess-projection fitting mechanism to attach a blockish inside pad to a head protecting cap portion includes a male hook on a blockish inside pad side, and a female hook on a head protecting cap portion side. The interrupt portion of a pad takeout member including a pulling means can interrupt between the male hook and female hook to disengage their recess-projection fitting, and can catch on the male hook, and the male hook can be pulled out to outside the head protecting cap portion at least halfway.
US07854022B2 Garments having seamless edge bands and processes for making same
A garment having a fabric layer and an edge band is provided. The edge band and the fabric layer each include a sonically weldable material. The garment has a sonic edge weld securing the edge band to the fabric layer along a cut edge of the garment and an adhesive securing the edge band to the fabric layer. During manufacture, the edge band is placed on the fabric layer, sonic energy is applied so that the fabric layer and the edge band are simultaneously trimmed along a cut edge and welded to one another along the cut edge, and an adhesive between the fabric layer and the edge band is activated to adhere the edge band to the fabric layer.
US07854021B2 Attachable and detachable pocket cover
An attachable and detachable cover for a pocket having an inner area. The cover may include a first portion disposed external to the pocket, generally conforming to a contour of the pocket, and removably secured to the pocket. The first portion may include a decorative element. In addition, the decorative cover may include a second portion disposed within the inner area of the pocket. The second portion may cause the cover to be retained by the pocket. Further, the cover may include a third portion connecting the first portion and the second portion.
US07856658B2 Method and system for incorporating trusted metadata in a computing environment
A method and system for incorporating trusted metadata in a computing environment is described. One illustrative embodiment is a system comprising at least one functional module configured to query a personalized database of trusted metadata including at least one report from an informer network that includes the computer user and at least one informer, each informer in the informer network being trusted by the computer user either directly or indirectly, each indirectly trusted informer being trusted directly by at least one other informer in the informer network, each of the at least one report including a subjective assertion regarding the quality of an item or an expression of a degree of trust in an informer; and at least one functional module configured to perform a task in the computing environment based at least in part on results of a query of the personalized database of trusted metadata.
US07856657B2 Secure access of resources at shared appliances
An exemplary method for providing secure access to resources at shared appliances comprises obtaining an instruction from a first user to send a resource to a secure repository, the resource being associated with a first identifier, receiving a second identifier from a shared appliance, determining a pseudo identity associated with the shared appliance based on the second identifier, granting to the shared appliance permissions associated with the pseudo identity, including a permission to retrieve the resource from the secure repository, receiving the first identifier from a second user at the shared appliance, and enabling the shared appliance to provide the resource to the second user at the shared appliance.
US07856656B1 Method and system for detecting masquerading wireless devices in local area computer networks
Methods and systems for detecting a masquerading wireless device in a local area network are provided. The method includes receiving a first packet and a second packet. Preferably, the first packet includes a first identity information and a first time information, and the second packet includes a second identity information and a second time information. The method can compute, using the first time information, a first approximation to a starting time of a wireless device associated with the first identity information. The method can also compute, using the second time information, a second approximation to a starting time of a wireless device associated with the second identity information. The method further includes determining whether a masquerading wireless device is present in the local area network based on at least the first and second approximations.
US07856654B2 System and method for network permissions evaluation
The invention is a system and method for delegating security permission evaluation from a client computer to remote network service (e.g., a security server). The centralization of permission evaluation allows performance enhancements using rules compilation and better manageability. An application on a client machine may request a permission to access a resource at runtime and provide evidence data to a security server. The permission evaluation (the decision) is executed by the network service and enforced locally on the client machine. When the application runs on top of a virtual machine, its security manager may be used to hide all of the client-side processes, and thus providing the extra information to the network service in order to locally enforce the results.
US07856652B2 Access control management method, access control management system and terminal device with access control management function
An environment information distribution unit transmits a policy ID for specifying an access policy to be applied to a terminal device. An environment information reception unit notifies an access policy application management unit of a policy ID specified based on information received from the environment information distribution unit. The access policy application management unit specifies a relevant access policy from an access policy storage region which stores at least one access policy based on a notified policy ID to notify an access control management unit in an OS of information designating the access policy. The access control management unit determines whether to allow or not to allow a request from a subject to access an object based on a specified access policy.
US07856644B2 System and method of selective advertising on a TV channel
A method and system for providing selective advertising on a television channel is accomplished by downloading appropriate advertisements from an advertising server to a subscriber's set top box over an out-of-band channel. The set top box monitors for download triggers to provide advertisements to the subscriber's set top box and advertising triggers to insert advertisements when an advertising opportunity occurs. The advertisements can be downloaded in advance of any advertising triggers to a local storage means associated with the set top box, if available.
US07856640B2 Web client endpoint emulator
A web services endpoint emulator for testing and developing web server client program, which generates emulator service classes according to service descriptor files, the classes being contained in a web container accessible by a web server; receives by the web server a request from a client process via an emulator interface; parses the request and any associated parameters; retrieves endpoint service descriptor files according to the parsed request and parameters; executes by a web server a service response script while evaluating the retrieved endpoint service descriptor files to generate a response; and sends from the web server the generated response to the client process via the emulator interface.
US07856638B2 Electric device having a status notification feature of notifying status information to a registered external device and control method of the device
In correspondence with a registration request from an external device, notification setting to notify an external device of status information in an electric device is registered and a period in which the notification setting is valid is decided. In accordance with occurrence of event, the status information is notified to the external device for which the notification setting is registered. Upon expiration of the decided period, the notification setting is invalidated.
US07856637B1 Runtime emulating static thread local storage of portable executable software code
A Windows™ process loader is emulated for dynamic TLS data allocation during respective application runtime. A total required TLS data block size is initially calculated and corresponding data block duplicates are created preferably after initializing of the application. An event notification system such as a hooking system intercepts DLL loading and freeing activity as well as thread creation and exiting and provides event notifications for dynamic allocation of corresponding TLS data block duplicates.
US07856635B2 Dynamic address windowing on a PCI bus
A multi-tasking operating system and method updates PCI address values in an extension register to ensure that various threads utilize the correct values when accessing peripheral PCI devices. When application program threads require access to a PCI device, the operating system writes the high order bits of the PCI device address to two places: (1) the extension register of the PCI host bridge to allow immediate addressing of the PCI device, and (2) separate memory locations associated with the threads. When a context switch occurs from a first thread to a second thread, the operating system retrieves the stored value from the memory location associated with the second thread and writes the value to the extension register. In this manner, when the second thread requires access to its PCI device, the proper address value is already located in the extension register.
US07856630B2 System, method and program to manage program updates
System, method and program for installing a first operating system, including a first hardware abstraction layer and other operating system functions, into a client computer. An image of the other operating system functions and a second hardware abstraction layer is loaded into the client computer. The second hardware abstraction layer is functionally interrelated with the second hardware abstraction layer in the image. There is automatic detection that the second hardware abstraction layer loaded into the client computer is incompatible with the client computer. In response, the second hardware abstraction layer with the first hardware abstraction layer is automatically replaced in the client computer. Subsequently, the first operating system including the first hardware abstraction layer and the other operating systems functions is booted up in the client computer. In one example, the operating system is Windows XP, the first hardware abstraction layer is adapted for an ACPI PIC type client computer, and the second hardware abstraction layer is adapted for an ACPI APIC type client computer.
US07856628B2 Method for simplifying compiler-generated software code
A computer implemented method, system, and computer usable program code for simplifying compiler-generated software code by creating a stub routine for checking storage contiguity. A stub routine is generated for a subroutine. The stub routine is used to determine whether data is contiguous for the subroutine. A subroutine call in the code is replaced with a stub routine call for the stub routine. The subroutine call has at least one argument. The stub routine call includes each argument for the subroutine call. The code is executed. The stub routine is called by the stub routine call to determine whether data is contiguous for the subroutine.
US07856626B2 Method of refactoring methods within an application
A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for refactoring methods of an application. A rating for a method within the application is identified to form a rated method. The rated method is placed in a grouping based on the rating identified for the method. A data processing system is designated to process the grouping.
US07856625B2 Program conversion device and method
A program conversion device for converting a program source is provided. The program conversion device comprises: a section and index acquisition device for acquiring a section code for indicating a section embedded in the program and performance index information embedded in the program in association with the section code; a task code conversion device for separating the acquired section code into task codes and adding a code to indicate the beginning of the task and a code to indicate the end of the task; and a task index attachment device for attaching a performance index, to input to the scheduler, to the task.
US07856623B2 Method and system for providing an enumeration assistant
A method and system are provided for creating an enumerated variable via an enumeration assistant interactive tool. A graphical user interface is provided to a programmer. Response to a request to create the enumerated variable received through a graphical user interface, the enumeration assistant determines parameters of the enumerated variable. The enumeration assistant creates development objects for the enumerated variable as a function of the parameters. The enumeration assistant stores the development objects in a program memory.
US07856621B2 Method for synchronization of concurrently modified interdependent semi-derived artifacts
Described is a method for synchronizing concurrently modified interdependent semi-derived artifacts. For example, one artifact can be a software model file and the other artifact can be a code file. A temporary artifact is generated and includes all the elements of a last synchronized version of the first artifact and all the elements of a latest version of the second artifact transformed as the first artifact. The temporary artifact and the latest version of the first artifact are merged to create a synchronized version of the first artifact. A synchronized version of the second artifact is generated and includes all the elements of the latest version of the second artifact and all the elements of the elements of the synchronized version of the first artifact transformed as the second artifact.
US07856617B2 Method, system and computer program product for creating software for processing an insurance claim
A method, system and computer program product are provided for creating software that can be used when processing insurance claims. In particular, the software generated is capable of recognizing and flagging certain situations or sets of conditions when they arise in an insurance claim that is being processed. These situations or sets of conditions, as well as the type of flag, or “edit,” that should be posted when each occurs, are defined in a decision table from which the software is automatically generated. A method of processing an insurance claim using the automatically generated software is also provided.
US07856613B1 Method for self-aligned doubled patterning lithography
Various embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for semiconductor device fabrication and generation of photomasks for patterning a target layout of line features and large features. Embodiments of the invention are directed towards systems and methods using self-aligned double pattern to define the target layout of line features and large features.
US07856612B1 Lithography mask design through mask functional optimization and spatial frequency analysis
In an electronic design automation technique for optical proximity correction, a mask is represented by a function with an exact analytical form over a mask region. Using the physics of optical projection, a solution based on a spatial frequency analysis is determined. Spatial frequencies above a cutoff are determined by the optical system do not contribute to the projected image. Spatial frequencies below this cutoff affect the print (and the mask), while those above the cutoff only affect the mask. Frequency components in the function below this cutoff frequency may be removed, which will help to reduce computational complexity.
US07856610B2 Method and apparatus for semiconductor integrated circuit
A design method for a semiconductor integrated circuit includes a first step (S13) of grouping pins that configure a same net into a plurality of groups; a second step (S14) of defining sub-trunk wirings mutually connecting the pins that belong to a same group; a third step (S16) of defining a main trunk wiring substantially parallel to the sub-trunk wirings; and a fourth step (S17) of defining a lead-in wiring connecting at least the main trunk wiring and the sub-trunk wirings. Thus, a plurality of pins are grouped, and the groups are mutually connected by the sub-trunk wirings, making it possible to decrease the number of the lead-in wirings. Thereby, even when the number of nets is large relative to the area of a layout region, a probability of occurrence of nets where automatic wiring is impossible can be greatly reduced.
US07856607B2 System and method for generating at-speed structural tests to improve process and environmental parameter space coverage
A system for enhancing the practicability of at-speed structural testing (ASST). In one embodiment, the system includes first means for performing statistical timing analysis on a design of logic circuitry. A second means performs a criticality analysis on the logic circuitry as a function of the statistical timing analysis so as to determine a criticality probability for each node of the logic circuitry. A third means selects nodes of the logic circuitry as a function of the criticality analysis. A fourth means selects timing paths as a function of the criticality probabilities of the selected nodes. A fifth means generates an ASST pattern for each of the selected timing paths. A sixth mean is provided to perform ASST on a fabricated instantiation of the design at functional speed using the generated ASST pattern.
US07856606B2 Apparatus, method and program product for suppressing waviness of features to be printed using photolithographic systems
A method for minimizing rippling of features when imaged on a surface of a substrate using a mask. The method includes the steps of determining a deviation between a first representation of the design and a second representation of an image of the design at each of a plurality of evaluation points for each section of a plurality of sections of the design; determining an amount of modification of the design at each section based on an evaluation of the plurality of evaluation points; and modifying the design at each section by the amount determined in the previous step.
US07856605B2 Method, system, and graphical user interface for positioning an insertion marker in a touch screen display
An insertion marker that is displayed on a touch screen may be moved by a user via an insertion marker placement aid. The insertion marker placement aid is displayed on the touch screen after a contact with the touch screen is detected. The insertion marker placement aid provides visual feedback to the user, indicating that the insertion marker is subject to repositioning by the user. When the contact is moved across the touch screen, the insertion marker and the insertion marker placement aid is moved in accordance with the movement of the contact. When the contact is broken (i.e., no longer detected), the insertion marker placement aid is removed from display and the insertion marker comes to rest.
US07856603B2 Graphical user interface
An apparatus for selection of characters to be displayed on a display screen. Has input actuators with associated fields containing graphical symbols representing the characters. The user is guided during selection of a character via the display. The selection procedure is sufficiently simple to allow a user to memorise the steps needed in order to select a specific character. Uses a limited number of actuators, and a character is selected using a sequence of actuations. Actuations may e.g. be keystrokes or movement by tactile pointing means on a touch sensitive device. Preferably, a character is selected by drawing one or two linear segments on a touch sensitive device. The displayed graphical symbols are preferably rearranged upon actuation. Suitable for use in electronic devices, in particular hand held devices having a small display screen, such as communication equipment, such as portable phones, e.g. mobile phones, or computers.
US07856595B2 Structured document compressing apparatus and method, record medium in which a structured document compressing program is stored, structured document decompressing apparatus and method, record medium in which a structured document decompressing program is stored, and structured document processing system
Structured documents can be compressed without impairing visual recognizability of data structure or flexibility/expandability of structured documents. This invention provides a tag list generating unit for generating a single tag list in which tags in a structured document are listed in the order of appearance, a structured document compressing unit for generating a compressed document in which tags in each of the structured documents are replaced with predetermined delimiter codes, and an outputting unit for outputting the single tag list generated by the tag list generating unit along with a plurality of compressed documents generated from a plurality of structured documents by the structured document compressing unit, in correspondence with one another. This invention is applied to XML and SGML structured documents, and is effective, for example, when a number of slips having the same format are compressed/decompressed.
US07856594B2 Related web contents synchronization and presentation system and method
A system including a site specifying portion for receiving an identifier of a base site that becomes the basis of a displayed presentation and receives an identifier of a compared site displayed in a language different from that of the base site, a base page specifying portion that specifies a base page from the base site, a language converting portion that consolidates words of different languages into a single language, an aggregated word information producing portion that produces information for comparing the base page, a related page specifying portion that specifies a related page similar to the base page from among each compared page based on the word information of the base page and the word information of each compared page, and a display controlling portion that presents the related page together with the base page on the same display screen.
US07856586B2 Method and system for providing short block length low density parity check (LDPC) codes in support of broadband satellite applications
An approach is provided for encoding short frame length Low Density Parity Check (LDPC) codes. An encoder generates a LDPC code having an outer Bose Chaudhuri Hocquenghem (BCH) code. Structure is imposed on the LDPC codes by restricting portion part of the parity check matrix to be lower triangular and/or satisfying other requirements such that the communication between bit nodes and check nodes of the decoder is simplified. Further, a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) encoder is supplied to encode the input signal according to a CRC code. This approach has particular application in digital video broadcast services over satellite.
US07856584B2 Unequal error protection apparatus, systems, and methods
Apparatus and systems, as well as methods and articles, encode a data word into an unequal error protection (UEP) codeword and transmit first and second portions of the UEP codeword associated with first and second protection levels across first and second sub-channel subsets associated with first and second error probabilities and a multi-channel communications link, respectively.
US07856580B2 Testing mobile wireless devices during device production
A system and method of testing a wireless communication device during device production comprises designating as a data log buffer when the device is being produced, at least part of random access memory (RAM) of the device that is allocated for virtual machine and/or application usage when the device is operational; and testing the device and storing test log data in the buffer. After testing, the data can be obtained from the buffer and processed using a debugging and log analysis tool.
US07856579B2 Network for permutation or de-permutation utilized by channel coding algorithm
A network for channel coding permutation and de-permutation comprises: a first side and a second side, each of which has at least one terminal. The network further comprises: two or more columns of nodes located between the first and second sides. A first column of the columns interfaces the first side, and a second column of the columns interfaces the second side. Each of the columns comprises at least one node. Each node of the columns is connected to a first number of nodes of each of adjacent columns next to the columns. The first number is identical for all the nodes in the network. The nodes which are selected as switches are concurrently controlled to perform switching operations. A method of operating said network comprises the following steps: determining a direction that a data flow flowing from the first side to the second side; determining control elements of control signals; associating each of the control elements to one of the switching operations of the nodes which are selected as switches; providing a control sequence composed of the control signals; providing a data flow to be manipulated; reading at least one control element of the control signals; performing a switching operation of the switching operations for the nodes depending on the at least one control element of the control signals which is read; and transmitting at least one part of the data flow through paths established by the switching operations of the nodes.
US07856577B2 Command language for memory testing
A memory testing system for testing a plurality of memory locations in an electronic memory device is provided. The system includes a programmable memory device integrated into the electronic memory device capable of receiving and storing a compiled memory testing program. A processor is in communication with the programmable memory device to read and execute instructions from the compiled testing program stored in the programmable memory device and a command interpreter is configured to receive data from the processor related to commands to be executed during memory testing.
US07856573B2 WPAR halted attack introspection stack execution detection
Responding to an event at a server that supports workload partitions. An event is detected. The event is an activity that can degrade an ability of the server to function according to an intended purpose. The event is triggered by a communication from a client to the server. Responsive to detecting the event, a connection of the client to the server is temporarily suspended. A first workload partition is created. The connection is re-established between the client and the server. Responsive to re-establishing the connection, all data is routed from the client to the first workload partition. In an illustrative example, the event is allowed to continue on the first workload partition while forensic data is collected on the event.
US07856572B2 Information processing device, program thereof, modular type system operation management system, and component selection method
An information processing device includes: storage means containing component information on the components constituting a system having a predetermined function; and processing means for calculating a combination of components necessary for constituting a system required for a service according to the component information, calculating risk information as information on the risk that a physical failure affects the service request for the combination of the components and/or fragment information as information on the deflection degree of the use condition of the components, and ranking the selected component combinations according to a predetermined policy, calculated list information and/or the fragment information.
US07856570B1 Method and apparatus for shaping electronic pulses
A method and system for shaping an electronic pulse with a two-pulse response. An input node receives an initial electronic pulse and splits the electronic pulse into a first path and a second path. An output node combines together the first path and the second path into an output path, and transmits a shaped electronic pulse, matched to an output impedance. An Ethernet chip generates two pulses and transmits the pulses along a first path and a second path respectively. A power combiner/splitter combines together the pulses along the first path and the second path into an output path, and transmits a shaped electronic pulse, matched to an output impedance.
US07856567B2 Electronic device with serial ATA interface and power saving method for serial ATA buses
In an electronic device with a serial ATA interface, upon detection of the issue or reception of a preset command, a confirmation device, such as a CPU, confirms the completion of execution of the command. Upon confirming the completion of execution of the command, a controller, which may also be the CPU, controls shifting of the serial ATA interface to a power saving mode.
US07856565B2 Electronic device with serial ATA interface and power saving method for serial ATA buses
In an electronic device with a serial ATA interface, upon detection of the issue or reception of a preset command, a confirmation device, such as a CPU, confirms the completion of execution of the command. Upon confirming the completion of execution of the command, a controller, which may also be the CPU, controls shifting of the serial ATA interface to a power saving mode.
US07856558B2 Biometric verification and duress detection system and method
A multi-stage verification system including a first and second identification device to verify the identity of the user and to determine if the user is under duress. When a user approaches an entrance to a building, a first identifier is detected by the first identification device, the identifier is compared to a pre-stored identifier. If there is a match, the user inputs at least one biometric input into the second identification device. The biometric input is compares with pre-stored information in two different databases, a biometric template database and a duress indicator database. If there is a match with the duress indicator database, a silent alarm signal is transmitted to a central monitoring station and the security system is disarmed. If there is a match with the biometric template database, the security system is controlled in the intended manner.
US07856554B2 Method of authenticating an object
A method of authenticating an object comprising an identifier is provided. The method comprises the steps of: (i) reading the identifier using a data reader to generate identity data; (ii) sending an authentication request from the data reader to a computer system, the request comprising the identity data; (iii) receiving, in the data reader, an authentication message from the computer system, the authentication message comprising an indication of authenticity, a description of an object associated with the identity data and a digital signature of the authentication message; (iv) verifying the digital signature; and (v) conveying the description of the object to a user if the signature is valid.
US07856551B2 Dynamically discovering a system topology
In one embodiment, the present invention includes a method for dynamically discovering a topology of a system having a plurality of point-to-point (PTP) links via a routine that communicates a link exchanged parameter with at least one component coupled to a system bootstrap processor (SBSP), sets a minimal set of routing infrastructure information based on the communication, and determines presence of a neighboring component to a target component based on a communication from the SBSP to the target component using the minimal set of routing infrastructure information. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US07856547B1 Fast stub and frame technology for virtual machine optimization
A method and system for handling of potential unsafe instructions and/or for handling transfers of control in a Virtual Machine, that includes generating a frame composed of pages of analyzed code based on original guest code; identifying instructions within the frame that transfer control (or are otherwise unsafe); replacing instructions that transfer the control with an interrupt that transfers control to a stub in non-privileged code; wherein the stub checks whether the control transfer (or instruction) is safe or unsafe, and (i) for unsafe control transfers/unsafe instructions, switches the context to Virtual Machine Monitor; and (ii) for safe control transfers, executes the control transfer in non-privileged mode. The instructions that transfer control can include any of JMP, CALL, RET and RET(n). The instructions that transfer control can also include interrupts.
US07856546B2 Configurable processor module accelerator using a programmable logic device
A configurable processor module accelerator using a programmable logic device is described. According to one embodiment, the accelerator module includes a circuit board having coupled thereto a first programmable logic device, a controller, and a first memory. The first programmable logic device has access to a bitstream which is stored in the first memory. Access to the bitstream by the first programmable logic device is controlled by the controller. The bitstream is capable of being instantiated in the first programmable logic device using programmable logic thereof to provide at least a transport interface for communication between the first programmable logic device and one or more other devices associated with the motherboard using the microprocessor interface.
US07856545B2 FPGA co-processor for accelerated computation
A co-processor module for accelerating computational performance includes a Field Programmable Gate Array (“FPGA”) and a Programmable Logic Device (“PLD”) coupled to the FPGA and configured to control start-up configuration of the FPGA. A non-volatile memory is coupled to the PLD and configured to store a start-up bitstream for the start-up configuration of the FPGA. A mechanical and electrical interface is for being plugged into a microprocessor socket of a motherboard for direct communication with at least one microprocessor capable of being coupled to the motherboard. After completion of a start-up cycle, the FPGA is configured for direct communication with the at least one microprocessor via a microprocessor bus to which the microprocessor socket is coupled.
US07856544B2 Stream processing in super node clusters of processors assigned with stream computation graph kernels and coupled by stream traffic optical links
A method for implementing a stream processing computer architecture includes creating a stream computer processing (SCP) system by forming a super node cluster of processors representing physical computation nodes (“nodes”), communicatively coupling the processors via a local interconnection means (“interconnect”), and communicatively coupling the cluster to an optical circuit switch (OCS), via optical external links (“links”). The OCS is communicatively coupled to another cluster of processors via the links. The method also includes generating a stream computation graph including kernels and data streams, and mapping the graph to the SCP system, which includes assigning the kernels to the clusters and respective nodes, assigning data stream traffic between the kernels to the interconnection when the data stream is between nodes in the same cluster, and assigning traffic between the kernels to the links when the data stream is between nodes in different clusters. The method also includes configuring the OCSs to provide connectivity between mapped clusters.
US07856543B2 Data processing architectures for packet handling wherein batches of data packets of unpredictable size are distributed across processing elements arranged in a SIMD array operable to process different respective packet protocols at once while executing a single common instruction stream
A data processing architecture comprising: an input device for receiving an incoming stream of data packets; and a plurality of processing elements which are operable to process data received thereby; wherein the input device is operable to distribute data packets in whole or in part to the processing elements in dependence upon the data processing bandwidth of the processing elements.
US07856541B2 Latency aligned volume provisioning methods for interconnected multiple storage controller configuration
A system is composed of multiple storage control modules, which are connected to each other via interconnects. The aforesaid interconnects connecting the storage control modules may cause certain extra latency. Each storage control module may have data preservation module, which can preserve data stored by host computers. The system incorporates a latency table and provides a volume according to the latency table in accordance with a request from a host computer or an administrator. The latency table is dynamically created or statically stored in the inventive system.
US07856539B2 Method regarding a data log related to a programmable logic controller (PLC)
Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a method for utilizing a memory cartridge connected to a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). The memory cartridge can comprise a plurality of memory segments. The method can comprise a plurality of activities comprising: providing a default identifying stamp for records in a data log file, a structure for the data log file stored separately from the data log file in the memory cartridge, and obtaining a request to provide the data log file.
US07856538B2 Methods, systems and computer readable medium for detecting memory overflow conditions
Representative is a computer-implemented method of detecting a buffer overflow condition. In accordance with the method, a destination address for a computer process' desired right operation is received and a determination is made as to whether the destination address is within an illegitimate writable memory segment within the process' virtual address space (VAS). If so, the process is preferably alerted of the potential buffer overflow condition. A determination may also be made as to whether the destination address is legitimate, in which case the process may be informed of the memory segment which corresponds to the destination address.
US07856535B2 Adaptive snoop-and-forward mechanisms for multiprocessor systems
In a network-based cache-coherent multiprocessor system, when a node receives a cache request, the node can perform an intra-node cache snoop operation and forward the cache request to a subsequent node in the network. A snoop-and-forward prediction mechanism can be used to predict whether lazy forwarding or eager forwarding is used in processing the incoming cache request. With lazy forwarding, the node cannot forward the cache request to the subsequent node until the corresponding intra-node cache snoop operation is completed. With eager forwarding, the node can forward the cache request to the subsequent node immediately, before the corresponding intra-node cache snoop operation is completed. Furthermore, the snoop-and-forward prediction mechanism can be enhanced seamlessly with an appropriate snoop filter to avoid unnecessary intra-node cache snoop operations.
US07856533B2 Probabilistic method for performing memory prefetching
A method for preforming memory prefetching is disclosed. A stream length histogram (SLH) is initially generated based on a stream of Read and Write requests intended for a system memory. A determination is then made whether or not to issue a prefetch command after a Read request based on information within the generated SLH. In a determination that a prefetch command should be issued, prefetch command to be sent to the system memory is issued along with other commands.
US07856531B2 Adaptive cache sizing by utilizing regenerative entries
A runtime code manipulation system is provided that supports code transformations on a program while it executes. The runtime code manipulation system uses code caching technology to provide efficient and comprehensive manipulation of an application running on an operating system and hardware. The code cache includes a system for automatically keeping the code cache at an appropriate size for the current working set of an application running.
US07856527B2 Raid system and data transfer method in raid system
There is provided a novel storage system in which the number of signal lines will not increase even if the number of storage devices to be connected in a RAID system increases, and a novel data transfer method to enable a high-speed data transfer even when the transfer rate of the IDE device side is low. A RAID system (10) which is a storage system in which a RAID controller (11) connected to an ATA host and a plurality of IDE devices (12A to 12D, and 22A to 22D) are connected by an IDE bus, characterized in that at least two or more IDE devices are connected to one channel of the IDE bus and said RAID controller and each of said IDE devices are connected by a common data bus and a common address bus within the same channel.
US07856525B2 Content addressed storage device configured to maintain content address mapping
A content addressed storage device configured to maintain content address mapping is disclosed. A data object to be stored on the content addressed storage device and a local data object identifier by which the data object is known to the sending source are received from a sending source. A content address to be associated with the data object on the content addressed storage device is determined based at least in part on the contents of the data object. The data object is stored on the content addressed storage device in a storage location associated with the content address. A mapping that associates the local data object identifier with the content address is maintained on the content addressed storage device.
US07856524B2 Transposing of bits in input data to form a comparand within a content addressable memory
An apparatus and method of transposing one or more bits in input data relative to other bits of the input data to form a comparand for searching in a content addressable memory. The comparand may have one or more bits rearranged from their order appearing in the input data such that one or more bits from a first segment of the input data are replaced with, or substituted by, one or more bits from a second segment of the input data.
US07856520B2 Control bus for connection of electronic devices
A method and apparatus for a control bus for connection of electronic devices. An embodiment of a method includes coupling a transmitting device to a receiving device, including connecting a control bus between the transmitting device and the receiving device, with the control bus being a bi-directional, single-line bus. The method further includes obtaining control of the control bus for either the transmitting device or the receiving device, with the device obtaining control becoming an initiator and the other device becoming a follower. One or more control signals are converted to one or more data packets, with each of the one or more control signals representing one of multiple different types of control signals. The generated data packets are transmitted from the initiator to the follower via the control bus.
US07856519B2 Solid-state storage device with wireless host interface
A solid-state memory storage device and method for using the device includes storing data wirelessly transmitted from a host and wirelessly transmitting the data to the host. The storage device has an RF module which demodulates an ultra-wideband write signal received wirelessly from a host and outputs a wireless protocol write signal. A wireless protocol controller has a protocol conversion layer which converts the wireless protocol write signal into a USB protocol write signal. A microcontroller has function extraction layer for extracting a write command from the USB protocol write signal and, in response to the write command, controls the writing of data extracted from the USB protocol write signal to the solid-state memory to store the data in the solid-state memory. The microcontroller also reads the data stored in the solid-state memory in response to a read command received from the host and outputs a USB protocol read signal to the wireless protocol controller. The protocol conversion layer also translates the USB protocol read signal into a wireless protocol read signal. The RF module also modulates the wireless protocol read signal and outputs an ultra-wideband signal for wireless transmission to the host.
US07856514B2 Storage system and method for connecting additional storage apparatus
In a network regulated so that the unique identification information for a basic storage apparatus and that of each of a plurality of additional storage apparatuses do not overlap, the storage apparatuses can be connected to the network without being assigned unique identification information. The basic storage apparatus judges, when an additional storage apparatus is powered-on, whether or not an initial value is set in an identification information setting unit in the additional storage apparatus, the identification information setting unit being where unique identification information in the network is set. If it is judged that an initial value is set in the identification information setting unit, the basic storage apparatus enters a first mode in which it creates unique identification information, replaces the initial value with the created identification information, and recognizes the created identification information as unique identification information in the network. If it is judged that a value other than the initial value is set in the identification information setting unit, the basic storage apparatus recognizes that value as unique identification information in the network.
US07856513B2 Recording/reproducing apparatus
A device, including a first storage unit configured to store a first plurality of files and a first management data corresponding to the first files; a connector configured to connect to an external storage device, the external storage being configured to store a second plurality of files and second management data corresponding to the second files; a controller configured to generate new management data by merging the first management data and the second management data, and to store the new management data in a memory; and a display unit configured to display contents of the first and second plurality of files based on the new management data without indicating to the user where the respective files are stored.
US07856510B1 Context switched route lookup key engine
A key engine that performs route lookups for a plurality of keys may include a data processing portion configured to process one data item at a time and to request data when needed. A buffer may be configured to store a partial result from the data processing portion. A controller may be configured to load the partial result from the data processing portion into the buffer. The controller also may be configured to input another data item into the data processing portion for processing while requested data is obtained for a prior data item. A number of these key engines may be used by a routing unit to perform a large number of route lookups at the same time.
US07856503B2 Method and apparatus for dynamic content generation
One embodiment of the present method and apparatus for synthesizing a data stream includes retrieving meta data from at least one decision tree, the decision tree comprising a plurality of interconnected nodes, and generating the data stream in accordance with the meta data.
US07856501B2 Network traffic prioritization
Prioritizing network traffic among two or more distinct channels of communication within a single application in a node configured to communicate with one or more other nodes over a network is disclosed. For a particular time quantum, a bandwidth quantum may be distributed amongst two or more communication channels according to priorities associated with those channels.
US07856494B2 Detecting and interdicting fraudulent activity on a network
Described are computer-based methods and apparatuses, including computer program products, for detecting and interdicting fraudulent activity on a network. An user utilizes a transmitting device to transmit user requests that are split between a plurality of data centers for processing. The user requests are captured at the data centers. The user requests are unified into an user session. The user session can be analyzed for fraud detection, marketing analysis, network intrusion detection, customer service analysis, and/or performance analysis. If fraudulent activity is detected, then the user can be interdicted to prevent further fraudulent activity.
US07856493B1 Method and apparatus providing device-initiated network management
A method is disclosed for managing a network entity that is initiated by the network entity, the method comprising the computer-implemented steps performed at the network entity of monitoring the network entity; periodically evaluating one or more specified conditions at the managed network entity; when one or more of the specified conditions are satisfied, then gathering specified information from the managed network entity, preparing a message that includes the specified information and the specified conditions that were satisfied, and sending the message to a management point.
US07856488B2 Electronic device profile migration
A network comprising a first electronic device associated with a first profile that uniquely identifies the first electronic device on the network. The network also comprises a second electronic device coupled to the first electronic device. The first profile is migrated to the second electronic device such that the first electronic device is no longer associated with the first profile and such that the first profile uniquely identifies the second electronic device on the network.
US07856486B2 Method and system for implementing a global lookup in a global ecosystem of interrelated services
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a global enterprise lookup (enterprise repository) is disclosed for providing a client with a mechanism for locating a needed service without knowing where that service is currently running in the enterprise. Whenever a service is launched in a container, that service registers itself with its domain registrar in order to make itself visible to the client in its own local domain but is visible only in the domain in which the service is running. A service must be registered with an enterprise level registry, the global enterprise lookup, to be visible throughout the enterprise. Clients needing a particular service that is not listed in the local registrar as running locally are directed to a global enterprise lookup (which may be implemented as a service for finding an enterprise repository) for the location of a global enterprise lookup within the enterprise. Additionally, the global enterprise lookup also manages VM container leases. When a service is launched, it acquires an enterprise lease with a local registrar. It must periodically renew the enterprise lease with the registrar to maintain its listing in the global enterprise lookup. If a service does not renew its lease within the time period of the lease, it is de-listed from the global enterprise lookup. If renewals are handled by the local domain registrars through replication and the like, the registrar may notify the global enterprise lookup of an enterprise lease renewal. Alternatively, specialized enterprise leasing services may be employed for tracking individual leases for services and notify the global enterprise lookup whenever an enterprise lease expires. Still alternatively, the enterprise employs a series of enterprise registrar services that trawl local registrars for registrations of services and registers the service with the enterprise repository.
US07856482B2 Method and system for correlating transactions and messages
A method is presented for correlating related transactions, such as a parent transaction that invokes a child transaction within a distributed data processing system, using a particular format for the correlation tokens. Each transaction is associated with a correlation token containing a hierarchical, three-layer identifier that includes a local transaction identifier and a local system identifier, which are associated with the local system of the child transaction, along with a root transaction identifier, a root system identifier, and a registry identifier. The local transaction identifier is unique within the local system, and the local system identifier is unique within a registry that contains a set of system identifiers. The registry is associated with a domain in which the local systems operate, and multiple domains exist within a transaction space of entities that use these correlation tokens. Correlation token pairs are analyzed to construct a call graph of related transactions.
US07856479B2 Method and apparatus for filtering email
A method and apparatus for filtering messages comprising determining a first semantic anchor corresponding to a first group of messages, for example, legitimate messages and a second semantic anchor corresponding to a second group of messages, for example, unsolicited messages. Determining a vector corresponding to an incoming message; comparing the vector corresponding to the incoming message with at least one of the first semantic anchor and the second semantic anchor to obtain a first comparison value and a second comparison value; and filtering the incoming message based on the first comparison value and the second comparison value.
US07856475B1 Method and system for facilitating communication between users
The invention relates to a method for facilitating communication between users. The method involves capturing a dialogue between the users; analyzing the dialogue to determine a usage pattern; selecting a communication tool, based on the usage pattern, that is suitable for a communication subsequent to the dialogue; informing the plurality of users of the communication tool suitable for the communication subsequent to the dialogue; and generating a summary of the communication subsequent to the dialogue.
US07856473B2 Teleconference system, teleconference support method, and computer program
In a shared workspace, a session for managing connection of conference systems, a file used in a conference and created as a record of the conference, reference information to a resource relevant to the conference, and history information of file access made by conference participants are managed. The conference participant can operate a GUI, thereby connecting to the conference system without being aware of the call address of each conference system and easily accessing information in the files relevant to the conference and the like from the conference system.
US07856472B2 Instantaneous symbol lookup
A computer program assists in the completion of text input provided by a user. For example, the computer program may maintain a list of n-tuples (where n>1), each of which includes n text strings. For example, each n-tuple may include a stock ticker symbol and the name of a company having that stock ticker symbol. As the user types each character, the program determines whether the text typed by the user so far matches any of the text strings in the n-tuples. The program provides the user with an indication of whether any matches have been found, such as by displaying a list of the n-tuples having text matching the text typed by the user so far. The program then allows the user to select one of the matching n-tuples. The program uses text (such as a stock ticker symbol) from the user's selection to complete the text input.
US07856470B2 Accepting an invitation sent to multiple computer systems
A method and system for accepting invitations sent to multiple endpoints for an instant messaging participant is provided. The acceptance system allows multiple endpoints of a participant to be registered at the same time with an instant messaging service. The endpoint of the inviting participant sends an invitation to the instant messaging service indicating that the receiving participant is to be invited to establish a conversation with the inviting participant. When the instant messaging service receives the invitation, it detects that the receiving participant has multiple endpoints registered and forwards the invitation to each registered endpoint. When an endpoint receives the invitation request, it displays an information window asking whether the receiving participant wants to accept the invitation. Upon acceptance, the endpoint sends an acceptance to the endpoint of the inviting participant to establish the conversation between that endpoint and the endpoint of the inviting participant.
US07856469B2 Searchable instant messaging chat repositories using topic and identifier metadata
A system and method for storing IM text in a repository where it can be searched by topic or participant based filters is disclosed. The repository may be a centralized database on the server side or it may be distributed in the client environment. The system comprises an IM Topic (IMT) program, an IM Filter (IMF) program, an IM save program (IMS), and an IM automatic alert (IMAL) program. The IMT program assigns topic tags to turns and topic shifts in the IM conversation. The IMF program searches the repository based on user selection of filters as well as full text search. There may be any number of topic tags. The IMS program automatically scans IM transcripts for topic tags and identifiers and saves transcripts or transcript segments that match pre-selected topic tags or identifiers to the repository. The IMAL program sends notifications and/or exports transcripts or transcript segments to pre-designated addresses when a match is made between a topic or identifier in a transcript and a pre-selected topic or identifier.
US07856467B2 Integrated circuit including at least one configurable logic cell capable of multiplication
The present invention provides an integrated circuit including at least one configurable logic cell capable of multiplication comprising an addition means for adding a first input and a partial product; a first multiplexing means for receiving a first output of said addition means at its first input and said partial product at its second input with its select line being controlled by second input, said first multiplexing means providing a first output; and a second multiplexing means for receiving a second output of said addition means at its first input and said second input at its second input with its select line being coupled to said second input, said second multiplexing means providing a second output.
US07856466B2 Information processing apparatus and method for solving simultaneous linear equations
First, calculations to solve a given set of simultaneous linear equations are performed using a conjugate gradient method and it is determined, each time the calculations are iterated, whether or not the calculations diverge. If it is determined that the calculations diverge, the initial value of a variable is set to the minimum value and calculations to solve the set of simultaneous linear equations are performed using a conjugate residual method. This allows the set of simultaneous linear equations to be solved even if it is not known whether or not its coefficient matrix is regular.
US07856465B2 Combined fast fourier transforms and matrix operations
Embodiments of a hardware accelerator having a circuit configurable to perform a plurality of matrix operations and Fast Fourier Transforms (FFT) are presented herein.
US07856464B2 Decimation filter
A system and method for decimating a digital signal is disclosed. The system includes an input to receive digital data, a control input to receive a desired decimation rate, and an integrator stage responsive to the input. The system also includes a variable rate down sampling module responsive to the integrator stage and a differentiator stage responsive to the variable rate down sampling module. The down sampling module has a decimation rate that is dynamically adjustable based on the desired decimation rate.
US07856457B1 Uniquely identifying an object before it is stored in a database
Systems and techniques to identify records corresponding to a database system before they are stored in the database. In general, in one implementation, the technique includes: generating a mapping that may be usable to identify a record in a database by reference to a database key. The database key may have a corresponding record in the database and the database key can be a unique value based on information independent of both the content and organization of a record. The technique can include generating a second mapping usable to identify records in the database by reference to a second type of database key. The second type of database key may correspond to a record in the database and the second type of database key can be a unique value.
US07856455B2 System, method and program product for generating triggers for a relational database
System, method and program product for generating a trigger program that updates an entry in a dependent column in a table in response to a request to update a corresponding entry in a parent column in the table. A trigger program template is provided. The trigger program template includes program steps which indicate a type of update to an entry in an unspecified parent column which triggers an update to a corresponding entry in an unspecified dependent column. The trigger program template also indicates a type of the unspecified dependent column to update upon the update to the entry in the unspecified parent column. The table is automatically scanned to identify one or more dependent columns of the type. In response to identification of the one or more dependent columns of the type, a name of a parent column, corresponding to the one or more dependent columns, is inserted in the trigger program template steps to identify the corresponding parent column as the unspecified parent column and identify the one or more dependent columns as the unspecified dependent columns. Names of the one or more dependent columns comprise the name of the specified parent column and respective suffixes indicating the types of the dependent columns.
US07856451B2 Selective file erasure using metadata modifications
A process that ensures the virtual destruction of data files a user wishes to erase from a storage medium, such as a hard drive, flash drive, or removable disk. This approach is appropriate for managing custom distributions from a large file sets as it is roughly linear in compute complexity to the number of files erased but is capped when many files are batch erased.
US07856449B1 Methods and apparatus for determining social relevance in near constant time
A computer system includes a database configured to store a plurality of social network relationships, a graphing system coupled to a database, wherein the graphing system includes a processor and random access memory, wherein the random access memory is configured to store at least a portion of the plurality of social network relationships from the database, wherein the processor is configured to determine a social map for a user in response to at least the portion of the plurality of social network relationships in the random access memory, and wherein the random access memory is configured to store the social map for the user, and a server coupled to the database and the graphing system, wherein the server is configured to receive an indication of the user, and wherein the server is configured to provide the indication of the user to the graphing system.
US07856448B2 Access control decision method and system
An access control method and system. The method includes enabling, by a computing system for a requester, access to the computing system. The computing system comprises group based access control data and computing resource data organized based on an XML schema that comprises a recursive format used to support a plurality of branch levels in a resource tree. The computing system associates first group data of the group based access control data with the requester. The computing system receives a request from the requester to access the computing resource data. The computing system determines an access control decision associated with the request to access the computing resource data. The computing system presents the access control decision to the requester.
US07856447B2 Method for authorising users to perform a search
A method of authorizing users to perform a search using a computer system. The method includes providing a user with a search request form having coded data indicative of an authorization parameter. The computer system receives indicating data from a sensing device which is indicative of the authorization parameter, movement of the sensing device and an identifier. The computer system determines the authorization parameter and movement of the sensing device using the indicating data, and then authorizes the user using the determined movement, the authorization parameter and the identifier, before performing a search in response to a successful authorization.
US07856445B2 System and method of delivering RSS content based advertising
A system and method is disclosed for presenting relevant advertising to user search queries. The RSS content is processed as part of a search query. The results of the query are further selectively processed to identify concepts/topics therein. The resulting web page topics/concepts can then be mapped to advertisements (or keywords) based on correlating topics/concepts which are in common. Thus the ads can be selected by reference to an underlying content presented in RSS feeds.
US07856442B2 Method and system for communicating local content over a network
A communications system for communicating local content over a network includes storing a plurality of primary local content entries on a local content provider computer system, storing an account total for each of a plurality of customers, storing a plurality of added local content entries relating to the customers on a local content provider computer system, transmitting at least a subset of the matched entries from the local content provider computer system over a network to a partner computer system, each matched entry that is transmitted including data from a respective one of the primary local content entries, and depending upon the account total of each customer corresponding to each entry, added content from the respective added local content entry and updating a selected account total of a selected customer for a charge based on a transaction at the partner computer system, the transaction involving extraction and transmission of a selected entry corresponding to the selected customer due to a search request being received from a remote computer system at the partner computer system.
US07856440B2 Method and system for separating content identifiers from content reconstitution information in virtual machine images
A method for performing software operations on virtual machine images, includes: receiving a virtual machine image that includes a mapping from a first file name to first file content; reformatting the virtual machine image by: creating a store that contains the first file content and that associates a content descriptor with the first file content, wherein the first file content can be reconstructed by using the content descriptor; and decoupling the mapping by creating an image manifest that maps the first file name to the content descriptor; and performing a software operation on the virtual machine image using the reformatted virtual machine image.
US07856433B2 Dynamic bid pricing for sponsored search
A method for an online sponsored search system includes storing a database of items. At least some of the items include a keyword and a money amount associated with a respective advertiser. The method further includes receiving information about current user preferences within the online sponsored search system. When the received user information relates to a keyword of an item, the method includes automatically adjusting the money amount of the item based on the received user interest information. In response to a received user query, the method includes identifying items relating to the received user search query and generating a search result list including the related items. The method then includes ordering the related items according to the adjusted money amounts associated with the matching items. In response to the designation of a Web page to receive sponsored advertisements, the method includes identifying items relating to the subject matter of one or more portions of the Web page. In this instance, the method then includes determining which items are to be shown and their placement on the Web page according to the adjusted money amounts associated with the related items.
US07856431B2 Reporting on facts relative to a specified dimensional coordinate constraint
A received report query specifies a dimension coordinate constraint and an associated grain for the dimension coordinate constraint. At least one query is generated to the dimensionally-modeled fact collection. A result of providing the at least one query to the dimensionally-modeled fact collection is processed. The processed result includes an indication of every dimension coordinate satisfying the dimension coordinate constraint and having a particular value at the associated grain, and the processed result further includes facts of the dimensionally-modeled fact collection that are specified by at least one other dimension coordinate indicated by the processed result having the particular value at the associated grain and not satisfying the dimension coordinate constraint.
US07856430B1 Method for generating increased numbers of leads via the internet
A method for generating increased numbers of leads, such as sales leads for data items such as part numbers, ISBN numbers, automotive part numbers, electronic part numbers, phone numbers, zip codes, drivers license numbers, document numbers, keywords, etc., via the Internet. The method includes receiving data items, such as part numbers, from two or more subscribers and/or authorized users; generating an index of non-duplicative data items, such as part numbers, from the received data items or part numbers; listing each of the non-duplicative data items or part numbers as a data item hyperlink or a part number hyperlink on Web page; and generating a Web page for any activated data item hyperlink or activated part number hyperlink, wherein the generated Web page includes one or more components each of which incorporates the part number from the activated data item hyperlink or activated part number hyperlink and is selected from the group consisting of a title, a URL, a meta-tag and a text entry. Each generated Web page also preferably has a URL that has been rewritten as a static URL. The preferred method may also include including a prompt for issuing a request for quotation or an order relating to the data item or part number in each generated Web page; and sending an issued request for quotation or order relating to a particular part number to each of the plurality of subscribers and/or authorized users from whom that part number was received.
US07856424B2 User interface for backup management
Systems and methods for providing a user interface including earlier versions of data. In one implementation, computer program product is provided. The computer program product generates a user interface. The user interface includes a view display area for presenting a current view and a history view display area for presenting a history view associated with the current view. The history view includes one or more first visual representations of corresponding earlier versions of the current view. The user interface also includes an input control for initiating a restoration of the current view according to at least a portion of an earlier version of the one or more earlier versions.
US07856423B1 System and method for generating a crash consistent persistent consistency point image set
A system and method for generating persistent consistency point images (PCPIs) is provided. A first set of statistics is obtained for a plurality of data containers. The PCPIs are generated for each of the plurality of data containers after the first set of statistics is obtained. A second set of statistics is obtained for the plurality of data containers after the PCPIs are generated. It is determined that modifying operations were performed to a data container while generating the PCPIs if the first and the second set of statistics are not equal, and it is determined that no modifying operations were performed to the data container while generating the PCPIs if the first and the second set of statistics are equal. The PCPIs are stored on a storage device in response to determining that no modifying operations were performed to the data container while generating the PCPIs.
US07856422B2 Apparatus, and associated method, for synchronizing databases connected by way of a radio air interface
A synchronization process, and associated apparatus, for placing database copies in match with one another by way of communications effectuated upon an air interface of a radio communication system. Hash functions are performed at a mobile node and at a network part upon mobile and network copies of database information. Comparison of the hash information formed therefrom provides a preliminary indication of whether the databases are in match with one another. If a determination is made that the databases are out of match, the data is compared, and the data is placed in match with one another responsive to such additional comparisons.
US07856415B2 System and method for mapping events into a data structure
Translating asynchronous system events into a data structure involves translating the conditional text elements and the dynamic data fields of an event into the predetermined format of a data structure. The conditional text elements and dynamic data fields of the event are parsed until a leaf node is reached for each element or field of the event. The format of the data structure may be maintained in a file that is stored separately from the resulting data structure.
US07856411B2 Social network aware pattern detection
Enabling dynamic, computer-driven, context-based detection of social network patterns within an input graph representing a social network. A Social Network Aware Pattern Detection (SNAP) system and method utilizes a highly-scalable, computationally efficient integration of social network analysis (SNA) and graph pattern matching. Social network interaction data is provided as an input graph having nodes and edges. The graph illustrates the connections and/or interactions between people, objects, events, and activities, and matches the interactions to a context. A sample graph pattern of interest is identified and/or defined by the user of the application. With this sample graph pattern and the input graph, a computational analysis is completed to (1) determine when a match of the sample graph pattern is found, and more importantly, (2) assign a weight (or score) to the particular match, according to a pre-defined criteria or context.
US07856404B2 Playlist burning in rights-management context
A method is provided for a computing device to copy (burn) a playlist of tracks to a portable medium, where each track corresponds to a piece of digital content. At least one of the pieces of content is rights-management (RM) protected and accordingly is burned to the portable medium only in accordance with a corresponding digital license.
US07856403B2 Check processing and categorizing system
A method for processing checks includes capturing check data from a check with a capture device of a check processing system, where the check data includes payee information. A category of the check is identified based at least in part on the payee information. A user account is updated with the category and at least a portion of the check data. A first edit to the check data is received from a user. A handwriting profile of the user is updated based on the first received edit. The handwriting profile is used to improve the accuracy of subsequently captured check data.
US07856401B2 Self-service terminal
A self-service terminal for reading wireless tags incorporated into media items is described. The terminal comprises a media acceptor for receiving media items, such as banknotes incorporating an RFID tag, and a wireless tag reader for reading received media items incorporating wireless tags. The terminal may also include a wireless tag reader for reading wireless tags in media items that are being transported to determine if multiple superimposed media items are present. The terminal may include a wireless tag reader for reading wireless tags in media items presented as a bunch, and subsequently retracted, to determine if any of the presented media items had been removed.
US07856391B2 Stock purchase indices
A method and system for determining investor participation driven stock purchase indices. Raw customer trading data is received from an accounting system. The raw customer trading data is then aggregated to generate daily transaction total counts for all stocks (that is, total shares bought and sold, total market value, etc.) as well as daily transaction total counts for each individual stock. Aggregation of the raw customer data also addresses customer privacy concerns. The aggregated data is processed to produce moving averages, stock purchase indices, and stock rankings. The stock purchase indices are based on a diffusion index technique of segregating buyers from sellers, and with these relative counts, measures the breadth of investor purchasing participation. The stock purchase indices are then displayed to a graphical user interface. The display includes stock buy and sell ranking lists.
US07856390B2 System, report, and method for generating natural language news-based stories
The present invention generally relates to a system, report, and method for automatically generating a series of natural language news-based stories to be presented via a digital interface or printed publication to a portfolio user. The disclosure relates to a filter for selection of a handful of relevant and desired financial instruments for a specific use. These financial instruments, based on different selections from a portfolio manager via a management tool, are then used to either produce either a strategies page where a list of useful covered call trades and hedged trades are displayed in the form of a table or natural language news-based stories relating to a selected list of financial instruments found in a portfolio.
US07856388B1 Financial reporting and auditing agent with net knowledge for extensible business reporting language
A system and method utilizes intelligent agents for searching, analyzing, and reporting business, financial, or non-financial information available through communication networks, particularly the Internet, regardless of inconsistencies in formats and granularity of that information. This information may then be used by users for financial and non-financial information for business decisions, developing risk profiles and credit worthiness. The intelligent agent may search Internet resources for business information of companies upon a user's request. The intelligent agent parses the retrieved information consisted with series of texts and identifies tables containing various financial statements. Each extracted table may be parsed into line items and every line item may be identified by matching to the appropriate XBRL taxonomy. Finally, the intelligent agent tags the information using XBRL taxonomy and generates financial statements in XBRL. The intelligent agent may be utilized to search through the internet for financial and non-financial information for business decisions, developing risk profiles and credit worthiness.
US07856387B1 Method for facilitating a purchase transaction using an account associated with a media account
A computer implemented method for facilitating a purchase transaction includes enabling a deposit account of an accountholder to be associated with another account of the accountholder that is provided by a provider of media to the accountholder. The account provided by the media provider corresponds to provision of media to the accountholder or is a financial account that is associated with a media account of the accountholder. Information indicative of the account provided by the provider of media is received during a purchase transaction. The purchase transaction is settled using funds from the deposit account.
US07856386B2 Host exchange in bill paying services
An account exchange system is provided by a data aggregation service enabled for gathering data for a subscriber from a data repository of a first financial institution, using account exchange software operating on a server coupled to the data aggregation service. Initiated by a subscriber the account exchange software causes an account to be terminated at the first financial institution and a new account to be opened at a second financial institution, using data from the first financial institution, and processing the data to be compatible with data requirements at the second financial institution.
US07856385B2 System and method for management and processing of bankruptcy claims and payments
A system and method provides electronic management and processing of bankruptcy-related claims and payments. The method includes receiving loan servicer data from a loan servicer portfolio. The method also includes receiving trustee data from a repository of trustee information. The method includes comparing one or more data fields related to the claims from the service provider data to corresponding one or more data fields related to the claims from the trustee data and assigning a score to the comparison results for the data fields related to the claims based on one or more business rules. The method includes calculating the total score for the comparison results for the claims, designating the claim as being valid if the total score for the claim is greater or equal to a predetermined value, and designating the claim as being invalid if the total score for the claim is less than a predetermined value.
US07856384B1 Systems and methods for providing security in international money exchanges
Disclosed are systems and methods for effecting international online financial transactions between individuals or between individuals and entities such as banks, merchants and other companies. In one embodiment, one aspect of the invention is to provide an authentication system and security monitoring system to detect and prevent fraud. User usage patterns may also be identified and a user risk profile developed. In another embodiment, transactional amount limits may be updated based on the user risk profile. In addition, the user risk profile may be updated based on credit and debt information for the user.
US07856381B2 Musical contents storage system having server computer and electronic musical devices
A musical contents system comprises a contents providing server comprising a connecting unit that connects to a communication network, and a contents storage unit that stores musical contents in a storage area corresponding to a user of an electronic musical device; and an electronic musical device comprising a connecting unit that connects to the contents providing server via the communication network, an accessing unit that accesses to the contents storage unit via the communication network, and a contents operating unit that performs an operation to the musical contents stored in the contents storage area corresponding to the user. The musical contents purchased or created by the user can be stored in a data center; therefore, convenience of using the musical contents is improved and the cost is decreased or cut off.
US07856377B2 Geographic loyalty system and method
The invention facilitates a loyalty system which is associated with pre-determined geographic locations and/or services and goods offered in a specific geographic area. The system is configured with one product platform with a modularized approach to facilitate the development of market specific rewards and communication materials. The loyalty points may be earned within a specific geographic location, then redeemed in one geographic location, a subset of locations or without restrictions. Similarly, the loyalty points may be earned in one geographic location, a subset of locations or without restrictions, then redeemed only in a specific geographic location. The geographic features of the system may be implemented using existing data that is associated with geographic areas such as, for example, zip codes, retailer identification codes, service establishment codes and/or the like. The geographic area information may be associated with the consumer, merchant, processing system and/or any other part of the overall system.
US07856367B2 Workers compensation management and quality control
A system and method, via an internet website, has been developed for the efficient implementation of workers' compensation cost containment practices, more particularly relating to indemnity (lost wages) and medical costs of workers' compensation claims. The site analyzes information about the user's current workers' compensation injury handling practices and provides quantified results and customized recommendations. The system provides the tools necessary to implement the recommendations suggested.
US07856359B2 System and method for airline purchasing program management
A method and system for air carrier contract management and optimization is disclosed. In particular, a system is described that facilitates travel contract optimization by generating contract terms and conditions desirable for optimizing client expenditure. Once the contract terms and conditions are determined, a yield management system facilitates compliance with contract terms and conditions by generating and providing selling instructions to booking systems to facilitate compliance with contract terms by travelers. Booking activity is provided back to yield management system to update contract compliance system and to revise selling instructions accordingly.
US07856356B2 Speech recognition system for mobile terminal
A speech recognition system for a mobile terminal includes an acoustic variation channel unit and a pronunciation channel unit. The acoustic variation channel unit transforms a speech signal into feature parameters and Viterbi-decodes the speech signal to produce a varied phoneme sequence by using the feature parameters and predetermined models. Further, the pronunciation variation channel unit Viterbi-decodes the varied phoneme sequence to produce a word phoneme sequence by using the varied phoneme sequence and a preset DHMM (Discrete Hidden Markov Model) based context-dependent error model.
US07856354B2 Voice/music determining apparatus, voice/music determination method, and voice/music determination program
According to one embodiment, various characteristic parameters for determining whether an input audio signal is a voice signal or a music signal are calculated and the calculated characteristic parameters are compared with a threshold value for voice determination and a threshold value for music determination. A voice characteristic score is provided to a characteristic parameter indicating voice and a music characteristic score is provided to a characteristic parameter indicating music. Then, based on a difference between a sum total of voice characteristic scores and a sum total of music characteristic scores, it is determined whether the input audio signal is a voice signal or a music signal.
US07856353B2 Method for processing speech signal data with reverberation filtering
Method for processing speech signal data. A speech signal is divided into frames. Each frame is characterized by a frame number T representing a unique interval of time. Each speech signal is characterized by a power spectrum with respect to frame T and frequency band ω. A speech segment and a reverberation segment of the speech signal is determined. L filter coefficients W(k) (k=1, 2, . . . , L) respectively corresponding to L frames immediately preceding frame T are computed such that the L filter coefficients minimize a function Φ that is a linear combination of sum of squares of a residual speech power in the reverberation segment and a sum of squares of a subtracted speech power in the speech segment. The computed L filter coefficients are stored within storage media of the computing apparatus.
US07856348B2 System and method for generation of synthetic parallel application kernels using tracing information
A method and apparatus may automatically generate a synthetic kernel application for use in optimizing applications on a parallel computing system using protocols such as MPI. The method and system may collect trace communication data from nodes within the parallel computing system running a given application. This trace communication data, which may include function calls and arguments, data size and type, and origin and destination nodes, may be used to calculate processor load along a time axis for each node. A synthetic kernel generator may generate instructions simulating processor load using this communication data. The synthetic kernel generator may also generate instructions to recreate the pattern of node communication with meaningless data, based on the trace communication data. Both types of instructions may then be automatically compiled to form a single synthetic kernel which simulates the behavior of the original application. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US07856345B2 Method for building and managing a web site
A method for managing and/or producing an output, the method comprising the steps of providing one or more layouts, each layout being divided into a number of zones, the one or more layouts in combination at least substantially covering the output; providing a number of rendering elements, each being adapted to perform a function and/or an action; assigning one or more relations and/or one or more orderings between the rendering elements and the zones; processing the zones of the one or more layouts according to the one or more relations and/or the one or more orderings, and by means of the rendering elements; providing, for each of the zones, an output based on the rendering elements and the one or more relations and/or orderings; and collecting the output of each of the zones into a final output.
US07856344B2 Method for transforming overlapping paths in a logical model to their physical equivalent based on transformation rules and limited traceability
A method for transforming paths in a logical model to their physical equivalent in a physical model is provided. A logical model is retrieved. All entities in the logical model are mapped. All paths connecting the entities of the logical model are mapped. Tables are created that correspond to the entities in the logical model for traceability. Columns are created that correspond to attributes of the paths in the logical model for traceability. A reduced logical model is created by reducing overlapping paths in the logical model. Virtual logic paths are created where an entity is rolled up, is rolled down, or participates in a many-to-many relationship in the reduced logical model. The reduced logical model is transformed into a physical model.
US07856338B2 Apparatus and method for detecting a reversion of direction of a relative movement
An apparatus for detecting a reversion of direction of a relative movement between a periodic scale for defining a periodic field and a field sensor. The field sensor outputs first and second sensor signals. The first sensor signal is advanced from the second sensor signal if the periodic field moves in a first direction. The second sensor signal is advanced from the first sensor signal if the periodic field moves in a second direction. A determiner determines the difference between the first sensor signal and a signal corresponding to a temporal change of the second sensor signal or between the second sensor signal and a signal corresponding to a temporal change of the first sensor signal.
US07856333B2 Method for commissioning actuators
The disclosure relates to a method for commissioning pneumatically operated actuators that are controlled by a positioner. To determine the drive type, a constant flow of pneumatic fluid is applied to the actuator during commissioning while a drive-specific characteristic curve of the fed back position is recorded over time. Then the measured characteristic curve is compared with a given specimen characteristic curve. The drive type is inferred from the level of difference or agreement between the drive-specific characteristic curve and the specimen characteristic curve.
US07856332B2 Real time system for monitoring the commonality, sensitivity, and repeatability of test probes
A system and a method for effectively determining the measurement sensitivity, repeatability, and probe commonality to assist a test engineer determine if the tester meets the specified resolution at every test. A statistical measurement of inherent tester specifications are provided with the added accumulation of the probe contact resistance during the probing process. It further provides a feedback to the test probe card noise level while testing is in progress. Moreover, the system and the method determine the test probing integrity in-situ when testing integrated circuit chips or wafers, dynamically detecting probing errors, and modifying data associated with defective test probes.
US07856330B2 Measuring apparatus, testing apparatus, and electronic device
A measuring apparatus measures a signal-under-test having a signal level that changes at predetermined bit time intervals. A strobe timing generator sequentially generates strobes at even time intervals. A level comparator detects a level of the signal at a timing at which each strobe is sequentially provided. A capture memory stores a signal level output from the comparator. A signal processor calculates a measurement of the signal based on a data series including data taken at even time intervals, each larger than a bit time interval of the signal.
US07856326B2 Methods and systems for providing a nutraceutical program specific to an individual animal
The present invention relates to methods and systems for providing an animal with a nutraceutical program that is specifically tailored to address the deficiencies and/or needs of the particular animal. Blood is drawn from the animal and analyzed at a lab to obtain blood test results. The blood test results are scored to obtain at least one blood test score for at least one corresponding blood parameter. If the at least one blood test score falls within a normal range but outside of an optimal range, one or more nutraceuticals needed to bring the animal within the optimal range for the at least one corresponding blood parameter are identified. A prescribed dosage amount is then calculated for at least one of the one or more identified nutraceuticals for the animal. The calculation of the prescribed dosage amount is based on at least the blood test score for the corresponding blood parameter and a deviation of the blood test score from the optimal range.
US07856321B2 Modeling biological effects of molecules using molecular property models
Method, apparatus, and article of manufacture for modeling the biological effects of a molecule are disclosed. A machine learning application may be configured to process a set of training examples regarding a biological property of interest. Once trained, the machine learning application may be configured to generate a prediction regarding a property of interest for a test molecule. Embodiments of the invention provide a meta-model configured to generate a biological effect prediction for a molecule based on the predictions generated for the test molecule by a plurality of molecular property models.
US07856318B2 Method of classifying gene expression strength in lung cancer tissues
The present invention provides a method of confirming the gene expression, useful in the decision of a five year survival rate of a patient with lung cancer and the use of a DNA probe kit in the method.A method useful in the decision of a survival rate of a patient with non-small cell lung cancer comprising confirming the expression strength of at least one gene selected from the group consisting ofin lung cancer tissues isolated from the patient.
US07856315B2 Method and system for enabling an off board navigation solution
The present invention is directed to a method and system for providing off-board navigational information from a network server to a mobile communication device, such as a cellular phone. Specifically, upon receiving from the mobile communication device the real time location of the mobile communication device and a location or identification of a destination, the network server transmits to the mobile communication device routing information as well as audible navigation voice prompts. In accordance with the preferred embodiment, the routing information includes maneuver information for traveling from the real location of the mobile communication device to the destination, and the audible navigation voice prompts provide data for generating audible turn-by-turn instructions for traveling from the real time location of the mobile communication device to the destination.
US07856313B2 Electronic device, display processing method and program
An electronic device, a display processing method and a program for displaying a direction and distance of a moving body outside of a displayed range of a map, seen from a certain position on the map and a moving direction of the moving body at a time, are provided. A calculation portion calculates a distance from a current position of a portable device 3 to the destination based on the current position information and position information of the destination included in map data; a moving direction specifying portion specifies a current moving direction of the portable device; a display processing portion determines a position, size and direction of an arrow on the map based on the current position information of the portable device, position information of the destination, a distance between the destination and the current position, and the moving direction and generates a map image to be displayed.
US07856311B2 Information providing device
An information providing system that provides information to a traveling user, includes a visit history record unit which detects that the user visits a place which is away from a user's living area in order to generate a travel history, and records, as a visit history, the travel history together with a visit area which represents the visited place. Moreover, the information providing system includes a visit history database, a facility information database which provides the user with the information regarding the visit area recorded in the visit history database, and a facility information search unit.
US07856309B2 Cold start emission reduction strategy for coordinated torque control systems
A cold-start control system for an internal combustion engine includes a heat estimation module, a torque request module and a propulsion torque determination module. The heat estimation module determines an exhaust system temperature and estimates heat required to heat an exhaust system to a predetermined temperature. The torque request module generates a torque request based on the estimated heat. The propulsion torque determination module determines a desired engine torque based on the torque request.
US07856308B2 Knock detection apparatus for internal combustion engine
A knock detection apparatus for an internal combustion engine can accurately detect the occurrence of a knock without an influence of a noise component even if the noise component having the same frequency as a knock vibration superposes on an ionic current signal. The apparatus includes an ionic current detection section, a knock signal detection section for detecting a knock signal based on an ionic current, a crank angle sensor for detecting a crank angle corresponding to a rotational position of the engine, a window setting section for setting a noise detection window, a noise component detection section for detecting a noise component in the window, and a knock determination section for determining the occurrence of a knock based on a relation between the noise component and the knock signal. The window setting section sets the window after a predetermined crank angle corresponding to an end of a combustion stroke of the engine.
US07856303B2 Method of determining wheel slippage and engaging a differential lock in a work vehicle
A method of determining wheel slippage in a work vehicle includes the steps of: sensing an absolute ground speed of the work vehicle; calculating a ground speed of the work vehicle using at least one drive train component; comparing the absolute ground speed with the calculated ground speed; generating a scaling factor based upon the comparison; and adjusting the calculated ground speed using the scaling factor. The method may also include the steps of scaling the absolute ground speed to a threshold value; comparing the calculated ground speed with the threshold value; and engaging a differential lock if the calculated ground speed is greater than the threshold value.
US07856299B2 Checking of repairs for electronic vehicle systems
The solution is arrived at with a computer-based diagnostic tester which can exchange information with the control devices installed in the motor vehicle using a diagnostic program via a diagnostic interface and via data lines. The motor vehicle-mounted control devices have program routines for self-diagnostics of the control devices and are capable of storing identified faults in the form of fault codes in reserved memory areas. The diagnostic program which is implemented in the diagnostic tester reads the fault codes out from the reserved memory areas, interprets the fault codes and displays them on a display together with the interpretations. In order to check to what extent repairs which have been performed have been successfully concluded, status polling is carried out using the diagnostic program implemented in the diagnostic tester. During this status polling, the status information of all the fault codes known in the system is interrogated and evaluated. In the process, all the fault codes whose fault setting conditions have either been tested positively or whose test requirements were not present in order to be able to carry out a test are displayed. A method for improved checking of repairs is also presented with the diagnostic tester.
US07856296B2 Model train control system
A system which operates a digitally controlled model railroad transmitting a first command from a first client program to a resident external controlling interface through a first communications transport. A second command is transmitted from a second client program to the resident external controlling interface through a second communications transport. The first command and the second command are received by the resident external controlling interface which queues the first and second commands. The resident external controlling interface sends third and fourth commands representative of the first and second commands, respectively, to a digital command station for execution on the digitally controlled model railroad.
US07856293B2 Method and device for measuring the orientation of an aircraft nose landing gear
A device including an inertial reference station for measuring an aircraft heading. An inertial reference unit which is mountable on a wheel of a nose landing gear by a fixing system, and is used for measuring the heading of said landing gear in a non-steering position. A data processing unit includes a comparison unit for carrying out a comparison between the measured heading of the nose landing gear and the measured aircraft heading in such a way that the orientation of the nose landing gear is calculated with respect to the aircraft body.
US07856291B2 Cleaning robot and method for controlling the same
A cleaning robot may be provided having a case and a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly may include a sensor hole having a first opening provided at an outer surface of the case and a second opening provided inwardly of the first opening, with respect to a center of the case. Additionally, the sensor assembly may include a sensor element configured to receive a signal and the sensor element may be provided inwardly of the first opening.
US07856289B2 Method and apparatus for conserving power consumed by a vending machine utilizing audio signal detection
A vending machine that dispenses items for use with a power source. Power control circuitry is electrically coupled between the power source and one or more vending components of the vending machine. A controller is adapted to manage the supply of electrical power to such components by transitioning between a normal-operation mode and at least one power-conserving mode. An audio signal detector is provided that generates at least one dispensing event signal that represents the occurrence of one or more sound-based dispensing events. The controller transitions between the power-conserving mode(s) and the normal-operation mode based upon the at least one dispensing event signal from the audio signal detector, and possibly other data signals supplied to the controller.
US07856286B2 Processing of shape data of a dental prosthesis
The invention relates to the processing of data regarding the three dimensional shape of a dental prosthesis, having two prosthesis sections and a connector section, wherein the connector section is connected to the two prosthesis sections and is less stable than the two prosthesis sections. The method includes the steps of (a) determining a stability parameter and a stability criterion for the connector section, (b) calculating the actual value for the stability parameter from the data, (c) checking the connector section to determine whether the actual value fulfills the stability criterion, and if not, generating a warning signal is to the user.
US07856285B2 System and method for generating instructions for customization
A method of creating a triangulated surfaces for generating machine readable instructions for customization is provided. The method comprises selecting text or symbols. The text or symbols are spaced. The text or symbols are mapped between first and second curves. Triangulated surfaces are generated from the mapped text or symbols. The triangulated surfaces are converted to machine readable instructions.
US07856282B2 Hydraulic system with coordinated multiple axis control of a machine member
A member of a machine, such as a boom on construction equipment for example, is pivoted by a first actuator and has a length that is alterable by a second actuator. A control method allows an operator of the machine to command a point on the member to move along a straight line path. The operator command specifies velocities along two orthogonal axes and those velocities are transformed into an angular velocity and a length velocity for the member. The angular velocity and a length velocity then are converted into individual velocities for the first and second actuators. Each actuator is operated at its respective velocity to achieve the commanded movement of the member.
US07856277B1 Neural stimulation lead fixation
An implantable lead having at least one electrode contact at or near its distal end prevents undesirable movement of the electrode contact from its initial implant location. One embodiment relates to a spinal cord stimulation (SCS) lead. A first injectable material is injected into the dura space to mechanically position the electrode array with respect to the spinal cord. Conjunctively for use with adhesives, or alternatively for use instead of the adhesives, a balloon may be positioned on the electrode lead array. The balloon is filled with air, liquid or a compliant material. When inflated, the balloon stabilizes the lead with respect to the spinal cord and holds the lead in place. An elastic aspect of the balloon serves as a contained relief valve to limit the pressure the balloon may place on the surrounding tissues when the epidural space is constrained.
US07856276B2 Remote support system for programming active implantable medical devices such as cardiac pacemakers, defibrillators, cardiovertors or multisite devices
A remote support system for programming active implantable medical devices such as cardiac pacemakers, defibrillators, cardioverters or multisite devices. A station is equipped with a programmer that is able to read, by telemetry, information stored in an implantable device, and transmit over a telephone line the information thus read, namely patient data and/or internal parameters for operating the programmer or programming parameters of the implant. A remote analysis station is configured to receive the information sent on the telephone line and display and/or analyze the transmitted information. The programmer includes an input to collect a voice signal and a multiplexor so that the data and/or parameters and the voice signal collected, are simultaneously delivered at the multiplexor output in real-time as a multiplexed signal that, in turn, is applied to a tele-transmission circuit (e.g., a modem). The analysis station includes a circuit to restore the audio and a demultiplexor to both receive the signal on the telephone line and deliver to the separate output channels the data and/or parameters and the aforementioned voice signal. The data and/or parameters delivered by the multiplexor are applied to a display and/or an analysis circuit to analyze the patient data, and the voice signal is applied to a restitution circuit to provide an audio signal, enabling bidirectional real-time voice communications over the same transmission line carrying the patient data.
US07856271B2 Detecting atrial evoked response
A method for sensing cardiac activity in an atrium of a patient's heart includes delivering a pulse to the atrium using an electrode configuration that includes at least a cathode electrode; sensing cardiac activity in the atrium using a unipolar electrode configuration to provide a sensed signal wherein the unipolar electrode configuration does not include the cathode electrode; determining the duration during which the voltage of the sensed signal falls below a threshold voltage; and comparing the determined duration to a parameter to determine whether the pulse caused an atrial evoked response.
US07856269B2 System and method for determining phsyiologic events during pacing mode operation
An implantable medical device operates according to a ventricular pacing protocol (VPP) that precludes ventricular pacing in any cardiac cycle where a sensed ventricular event has occurred in the preceding cycle. Improved ventricular sensing, detection and classification is provided.
US07856267B2 Apparatus and method for pacing mode switching during atrial tachyarrhythmias
A method for operating a cardiac pacemaker in which the mode of operation of the pacemaker is altered in response to detecting an episode of atrial tachycardia. In accordance with the invention, the pacemaker's pacing mode is altered in a manner that attempts to maintain hemodynamic stability during the atrial tachycardia. Such a mode switch is particularly applicable to pacemaker patients suffering from some degree of congestive heart failure.
US07856256B2 Foldable portable terminal device
A foldable portable terminal device provided with a first housing includes a display unit, a speaker and a speaker sound hole, a second housing, and a hinge unit that couples the housings rotatably around two directions that perpendicularly intersect with each other. The device is configured such that coupling of the first housing and the hinge unit is coupled to a second rotary shaft of the hinge unit at a position closer to a surface having the speaker sound hole than a midpoint in a cross-section in a thickness direction of the first housing, and that a gap formed in a folded state in which the first housing is overlaid on the second housing with a surface having the speaker sound hole facing inside is greater than a gap formed in the folded state with the surface having the speaker sound hole facing outside.