最新美国发明专利第2011-01-11期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

Document	Document Title
US07867758B2	Bioluminogenic assay system for measuring beta-lactamase activity A bioluminogenic assay system including: providing a bioluminogenic substrate incorporating a beta-lactam antibiotic, a bioluminescence initiating compound, and a chemical linkage joining the beta-lactam antibiotic to the bioluminescence initiating compound; exposing the bioluminogenic substrate to a beta-lactamase enzyme that catalyzes the release of the bioluminescence initiating compound from the bioluminogenic substrate; co-exposing the bioluminogenic substrate to a bioluminescence indicator reaction that employs the bioluminescence initiating compound as a substrate; and detecting a light from the bioluminescence indicator reaction as a measure of the activity of the beta-lactamase enzyme.
US07867756B2	Specimen analyzing implement A sample analysis device is provided in which a target component to be analyzed is prevented from being contaminated by a sample itself, which can be formed in an appropriate size, and which has excellent operability. In a sample analysis device 1 in which a sample is to be held in a porous sheet 13, supporting films 11 and 12 are stuck on front and rear faces of the porous sheet 13, respectively, and a sample supply hole 14 is formed in a part of the supporting films.
US07867751B2	Plasmid DNA isolation The invention provides apparatus, reagents, and methods for rapidly isolating plasmid DNA from a bacterial alkaline lysate.
US07867750B2	Method for anaerobic degradation of fuel oxygenates and similar compounds The present invention relates to a method for remediating fuel oxygenate-contaminated soil, sediment or groundwater comprising combining at least one natural microorganism source with at least one methoxylated phenolic compound under anaerobic conditions. The invention also relates to a method for increasing the rate of remediation of fuel oxygenate-contaminated soil.
US07867748B2	Immobilized microbial nitrilase for production of glycolic acid The present invention is directed to a process for improving the specific activity of a dehydrated enzyme catalyst having nitrilase activity for hydrolysis of glycolonitrile to glycolic acid upon rehydration. In particular, a process is provided comprising pretreating an enzyme catalyst having nitrilase activity with glutaraldehyde, immobilizing the gutaraldehyde-preteated enzyme catalyst and chemically cross-linking the enzyme catalyst prior to dehydration. Upon rehydration, the enzyme catalyst exhibits improved specific nitrilase activity as compared to enzyme catalysts having nitrilase activity that are dehydrated and rehydrated without the processing described herein.
US07867742B2	Glucose dehydrogenase and method for producing the dehydrogenase A glucose dehydrogenase having high substrate specificity can be produced at a low cost by culturing a microorganism belonging to the genus Burkholderia. The glucose dehydrogenase is isolated from the medium and/or cells of the microorganism. The glucose dehydrogenase isolated from the genus Burkholderia is not affected by oxygen dissolved in a measurement sample and, in particular, has superior thermal stability.
US07867741B2	Polypeptides having an activity in the MTBE degradation path and uses thereof The invention concerns an isolated or purified polypeptide having an activity in the MTBE degradation path, and/or at least one of the catabolic intermediates of MTBE, preferably selected from the group consisting of tert-butyl alcohol (TBA), 2-methyl 1,2-propanediol (2-M1, 2-PD), hydroxyisobutyraldehyde, hydroxyiso-butyric acid (HIBA), said polypeptide being selected from the group consisting of: a) a polypeptide comprising a sequence of amino acids selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:2, SEQ ID NO:4, SEQ ID NO:6, SEQ ID NO:8 or SEQ ID NO:10; b) a polypeptide comprising a sequence of amino acids having at least 70% identity, preferably 75%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 98% or 99% with the sequence of amino acids of a polypeptide as defined in a); a polypeptide as defined in a) or b) whereof the sequence of amino acids comprises a substitution, deletion, insertion, addition or mutation of one or several amino acids over its entire length.
US07867740B2	Thermotoga maritima mannitol dehydrogenase Nucleic acids encoding Thermotoga maritima mannitol dehydrogenase and the Thermotoga maritima mannitol dehydrogenase polypeptide are disclosed. Further provided are an electrochemical bioreactor system and a bioreactor electrode that can be used to convert glucose or fructose to mannitol.
US07867737B2	Process for enzymatically converting glycolonitrile to glycolic acid A process is provided to improve the specific activity of an enzyme catalyst having nitrilase activity when converting glycolonitrile to glycolic acid under aqueous reaction conditions. Inclusion of an effective amount of at least one amine protectant improves the specific activity and catalytic productivity of the enzyme catalyst.
US07867735B2	L-glutamic acid producing bacterium and a method for production of L-glutamic acid A method for producing L-glutamic acid by culturing a coryneform bacterium which has L-glutamic acid producing ability and which has been modified so that expression of the fasR gene is enhanced in a medium to produce and accumulate L-glutamic acid in the medium or cells, and collecting L-glutamic acid from the medium or cells.
US07867726B2	Compositions comprising a dehalogenase substrate and a fluorescent label and methods of use A mutant hydrolase optionally fused to a protein of interest is provided. The mutant hydrolase is capable of forming a bond with a substrate for the corresponding nonmutant (wild-type) hydrolase which is more stable than the bond formed between the wild-type hydrolase and the substrate. Substrates for hydrolases comprising one or more functional groups are also provided, as well as methods of using the mutant hydrolase and the substrates of the invention. Also provided is a fusion protein capable of forming a stable bond with a substrate and cells which express the fusion protein.
US07867721B2	In vitro method for identifying a compound using an eukaryotic mechanosensory transduction channel The present invention provides, for the first time, nucleic acids encoding a eukaryotic mechanosensory transduction channel (MSC) protein. The proteins encoded by these nucleic acids form channels that can directly detect mechanical stimuli and convert them into electrical signals. These nucleic acids and the proteins they encode can be used as probes for sensory cells in animals, and can be used to diagnose and treat any of a number of human conditions involving inherited, casual, or environmentally-induced loss of mechanosensory transduction activity.
US07867720B2	Food sensitivity testing in animals Diagnosing an immunologic food sensitivity or intolerance in companion animals comprises collecting a sample; screening the sample to detect the presence of an antibody to a particular food ingredient or composition. The sample can be serum, saliva or other bodily fluid to detect the presence of an IgA, IgM or IgG antibody or immune complex to a particular food ingredient or composition. The food ingredient for which sensitivity or intolerance is tested is contained in at least one of a preprocessed food composition, balanced diet or recipe. Offending ingredient(s) in a preprocessed food composition, balanced diet or recipe is determined. An assessment is made as to whether it is possible to use a different preprocessed food composition, balanced diet or recipe, or whether a special diet needs to be formulated without the offending ingredient(s).
US07867718B2	Methods for determining conformational changes and self-assembly of proteins The invention relates to methods for measuring conformational changes and self-assembly/aggregation of proteins, especially the formation of amyloid fibrils, using conjugated polyelectrolytes. The conjugate polyelectrolyte is exposed to the protein whereby the conjugated polyelectrolyte and the protein of interest interact, and a change of a property of the polyelectrolyte in response to conformational changes of the protein is observed. The detected change is used to determine different conformations of the protein, especially the formation of amyloid fibrils.
US07867709B2	Method for detecting cancer and method for suppressing cancer An object of the present invention is to provide a method for detecting cancer through identification of genes exhibiting characteristic behavior in the cases of cancer such as anaplastic thyroid cancer. The present invention provides a method for detecting cancer which comprises detecting canceration of a specimen using the amplification of a gene of the p12 region of chromosome 8 in the specimen as an indicator.
US07867705B2	Frizzled proteins and detection and treatment of cancer The present specification provides, inter alia, methods of using Wnt and FZD proteins, genes, FZD and Wnt-specific antibodies and probes in diagnosis and treatment of cancer and for screening test compounds for an ability to treat cancer. Also disclosed are compounds useful for treating cancer such as liver cancer.
US07867700B2	Porous substrate plates and the use thereof A substrate plate or device adapted for use with biological or chemical assays is disclosed. The device may take the form of a multi-well plate having a three-dimensional, porous layer as part of a support surface within each well for immobilizing probe species. The porous layer is characterized as having a plurality of interconnected voids defined by a matrix of contiguous solid material. A method and its variants are also described.
US07867691B2	Heated water spray processor Excellent development of planographic printing plates can be achieved by exposing an imaged, negative working, photopolymerizable coating to a high pressure stream of essentially heated but otherwise untreated tap water, whereby the water completely removes only the less cohesive and adhesive (e.g., partially polymerized) regions to the substrate, thereby directly producing a printing plate having an image pattern of highly cohesive and adhesive, oleophilic regions of the coating and hydrophilic regions of the substrate. The coating removal mechanism appears to be due entirely to ablation. The process variables of spray pressure, spray volumetric flow rate, and water temperature can be traded off to achieve one or more targets for plate quality, energy conservation, production rate, and equipment availability.
US07867685B2	Image forming method and apparatus An image forming method, including charging a photoreceptor with a charger contacting thereto; irradiating the photoreceptor to form an electrostatic latent image thereon; developing the electrostatic latent image with a toner to form a toner image on the photoreceptor; transferring the toner image onto a recording material directly or through an intermediate transferer; and fixing the toner image on the recording material, wherein the toner includes a binder resin; a colorant; a composition having a low softening point; and an external additive, and wherein a surface resistivity Rse [Ω] of the charger and a volume resistivity Rsw [Ω·cm] of the composition having a low softening point satisfy the following relationship: 0.8×10−1Rse
US07867681B2	Electrostatic image developing toner, electrostatic image developer, toner cartridge, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus An embodiment of the present invention provides an electrostatic image developing toner including a binder resin containing amorphous polyester resin containing a tin-containing catalyst and crystalline polyester resin containing a titanium-containing catalyst, and a colorant and a releasing agent, an electrostatic image developer using the same, a toner cartridge, a process cartridge, and an image forming apparatus.
US07867677B2	Imaging member having first and second charge transport layers Provided is an imaging member such as photoreceptor comprising a substrate, a charge generation layer, a first charge transport layer, a second charge transport layer, and an optional overcoat layer. The first charge transport layer is formed from a first CTL formulation comprising an aromatic monoamine and a first polymeric film forming binder material. The second charge transport layer is formed from a second CTL formulation comprising aromatic diamine and a second polymeric film forming binder material. The imaging member has gained improved properties such as removal of anti-curl layer, desirable structural flatness, electrical properties, mechanical robustness, flexibility, longevity, and copy image qualities over extended use, among others.
US07867676B2	Copper containing hole blocking layer photoconductors A photoconductor that includes, for example, a substrate; an undercoat layer thereover wherein the undercoat layer contains a metal oxide, and a copper containing compound; a photogenerating layer; and at least one charge transport layer.
US07867675B2	Nitrogen heterocyclics in photoconductor charge transport layer 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 a nitrogen heterocyclic component such as a triazine.
US07867673B2	Substrate-processing apparatus, substrate-processing method, substrate-processing program, and computer-readable recording medium recorded with such program A pattern forming system 1 includes a checking apparatus 400, a storage device 502, and a control section 500. The checking apparatus 400 is configured to measure and check a state of a resist pattern formed on a substrate W after a developing process and output a first check result thus obtained, and to measure and check a state of a pattern formed on the substrate after an etching process and output a second check result thus obtained. The storage device 502 stores a correlation formula obtained from the first check result and the second check result. The control section 500 is configured to use the correlation formula to obtain a target value of the state of the pattern after the developing process from a target value of the state of the pattern after the etching process, and to use a difference between the target value of the state of the pattern after the developing process and the first check result to set a condition for the first heat process and/or the second heat process.
US07867672B2	Reimageable paper protected against UV light An image forming medium includes a substrate; an imaging layer including an imaging material coated on said substrate, wherein the imaging material exhibits a reversible transition between a colorless state and a colored state; and a protective layer over the imaging layer, the protection layer including dipolar molecules that can be reversibly switch between a UV light transmission state and a UV light absorption state, wherein the dipolar molecules in their random orientation absorb in substantially the same spectral region as the imaging material in its un-imaged state, and wherein the imaging layer is imageable by ultraviolet light when the dipolar molecules are in the UV light transmission state, but the imaging layer is substantially not imageable by ultraviolet light when the dipolar molecules are in the UV light absorption state.
US07867671B2	Photo-mask having phase and non-phase shifter parts for patterning an insulated gate transistor A photo-mask that includes a first light shielding region which is narrow and elongated, and a second light shielding region which is wider and more elongated than the first light shielding region and is away from the first light shielding region. A phase shifter part and a non-phase shifter part are provided adjacently to both sides of the first light shielding region. Two phase shifter parts or two non-phase shifter parts are respectively provided adjacently to both sides of the second light shielding part.
US07867670B2	Fuel tank and fuel cell system including the same A fuel cell system for generating electrical energy by a chemical reaction between a fuel and an oxidizing agent. In exemplary embodiments of the present invention, by using a hydrophobic porous membrane, an alkaline material such as sodium that is generated together with hydrogen gas in a hydrolysis reaction of a metal hydride compound can be eliminated effectively.
US07867663B2	Heat exchanging system of battery pack using thermoelectric element Disclosed herein is a heat exchange system for battery packs, which controls the temperature of a medium- or large-sized battery pack including a plurality of unit cells such that the battery pack can be operated under the optimum operating conditions. The heat exchange system includes an air inlet port and an air outlet port formed at one side of a housing surrounding the outer surface of the battery pack so as to form a predetermined flow channel, through which air flows, a driving fan mounted in the flow channel for driving the air to flow through the flow channel, and a Peltier element mounted at the air inlet port for controlling the temperature of air introduced into the air inlet port. In the heat exchange system according to the present invention, the thermoelectric element is mounted inside the air inlet port, through which air for cooling the battery pack is introduced into the heat exchange system. Consequently, the present invention has the effect of easily controlling the optimum operating temperature of the battery pack, reducing influences caused by external conditions, and decreasing noise and vibration.
US07867660B2	Fuel cell and method of producing the same In the fuel cell including a membrane electrode assembly, the diffusion layer of the membrane electrode assembly includes an electrode part having one surface in contact with the electrode catalytic layer and the other surface facing the separator and a non-electric-power generating part around the electrode part having one surface in contact with the solid polymer electrolytic membrane and the other surface facing the separator. The non-electric-power generating part includes a hydrophilic part near an outlet of the fluid passage of the reaction gas, and a hydrophobic layer formed on the hydrophilic part and exposed to the fluid passage to discharge water generated in generating an electric power.
US07867656B2	Fuel cell separator and method for manufacturing the same The present invention provides a fuel cell separator formed of a continuous carbon-fiber composite, and a method for manufacturing the same.
US07867653B2	Alkaline storage battery system An alkaline storage battery system according to an aspect of the present invention, with which a partial charging-discharging is performed, includes an alkaline storage battery 10 including an electrode group having a nickel positive electrode 11, a hydrogen storage alloy negative electrode 12, a separator 13; an alkaline electrolyte; and an outer can 14 accommodating the electrode group and the alkaline electrolyte, and further includes a partial charge-discharge control unit for controlling charging-discharging of the battery 10. In addition, zinc (Zn) is added to nickel hydroxide that is a main positive electrode active material in the nickel positive electrode 11 with an addition amount of 5% by mass or less with respect to the mass of nickel in the positive electrode active material. The concentration of the alkaline electrolyte is 6.5 mol/L or less and the content of lithium in the alkaline electrolyte is 0.3 mol/L or more.
US07867650B2	Laminate type battery and method for manufacturing the same A laminate type battery comprises a substrate, a power generating element which has at least one single cell made by a positive electrode layer, an electrolyte layer and a negative electrode layer which are sandwiched by collecting layers from both sides thereof, and an electric circuit portion having electrode terminals which connect the collecting layers to an external device and circuitries which connect the collecting layers and the electrode terminals. In the battery, the power generating element and the electric circuit portion are formed by stacking a plurality of layers on the substrate, and each of the layers is configured such that the power generating element and the electric circuit portion are formed by stacking the layers.
US07867646B2	Thermostat with opening portion for accessing batteries field A thermostat is provided with a closure member that encloses at least one battery received within the thermostat housing. The thermostat includes a thermostat housing having at least one compartment in the housing adapted to receive at least one battery therein, and a retaining portion. The thermostat further includes a closure member pivotally secured to the thermostat housing, which is slidable relative to the thermostat housing between an open position in which the closure member freely pivots relative to the housing to permit access to the at least one compartment for replacement of a battery therein, and a latched position in which a latching portion on the closure member slidably engages the retaining portion on the thermostat housing to secure the closure member in a latched position.
US07867643B2	Battery module including a battery management system controlling secondary batteries containing protective circuits A battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of unit batteries, each including a protective circuit for protecting the unit battery, and a battery management system electrically connected to the unit battery. Each unit battery further includes a molding part for covering the protective circuit, and a positive terminal and a negative terminal to be connected to each of the protective circuit, and which protrude outward from each molding part. A secondary battery according to another embodiment of the present invention includes an electrode group having a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode, a case for accommodating the electrode group, a cap assembly for sealing the case, a protective circuit electrically connected to the positive electrode and the negative electrode, a molding part for covering the protective circuit, and a positive terminal and a negative terminal electrically connected to the protective circuit.
US07867641B2	Solar energy power supply system A solar energy power supply system includes a solar battery, an electrolyte supply device, an electrolyte recycling device, a hydrogen recycling device, a fuel cell, a heating device and a power management device. Electric power generation is accomplished by first activating the electrolyte supply device to inject electrolyte into the solar battery. The electrolyte is a compound of water and a photo catalyst. The solar battery receives light or heat to generate electric power. Water vapor and hydrogen are generated and recycled through the electrolyte recycling device and the hydrogen recycling device. When the light or heat is not available the recycled hydrogen gas is delivered to the fuel cell to continuously generate the electric power or the heating device provides heat to the solar battery to continuously generate electric power. Electric current generated by the solar battery and fuel cell is controlled by the power management device to comply with electric power specification for final usage.
US07867639B2	Alpha voltaic batteries and methods thereof An alpha voltaic battery includes at least one layer of a semiconductor material comprising at least one p/n junction, at least one absorption and conversion layer on the at least one layer of semiconductor layer, and at least one alpha particle emitter. The absorption and conversion layer prevents at least a portion of alpha particles from the alpha particle emitter from damaging the p/n junction in the layer of semiconductor material. The absorption and conversion layer also converts at least a portion of energy from the alpha particles into electron-hole pairs for collection by the one p/n junction in the layer of semiconductor material.
US07867637B2	Low coupling oxide media (LCOM) A low-coupling perpendicular magnetic recording media comprising a magnetic storage layer and at least one low saturation magnetization layer. The magnetic storage layer has a saturation magnetization between about 400-900 emu/cm3 and the at least one low saturation magnetization layer has a saturation magnetization below that of the magnetic storage layer.
US07867636B2	Transparent conductive film and method for manufacturing the same A ZnO-based transparent conductive film is produced by growing ZnO doped with a group III element oxide on a substrate and has a region with a crystal structure in which a c-axis grows along a plurality of different directions. The transparent conductive film produced by growing ZnO doped with a group III element oxide on a substrate has a ZnO (002) rocking curve full width at half maximum of about 13.5° or more. ZnO is doped with a group III element oxide so that the ratio of the group III element oxide in the transparent conductive film is about 7% to about 40% by weight. The transparent conductive film is formed on the substrate with a SiNx thin film provided therebetween. The transparent conductive film is formed on the substrate by a thin film formation method with a bias voltage applied to the substrate.
US07867633B2	Coatings for glass molding dies and forming tools The invention provides coatings to achieve the best accommodation of chemical, physical, and mechanical properties desired in high performance and reliable glass molding and forming tools. The substrate material can be any ordinary die or tool material such as cast iron, stainless steel, platinum, tungsten carbide and silicon. A simple coating architecture consisting of a titanium adhesion layer and a Ni—Al—N or Ti—B—C—N working layer is provided. A NiAl working layer can meet the requirements of wear resistance in which abrasive and/or erosive wear is relatively low, while a Ti—B—C—N working layer is sufficient for processes operating at relatively low temperature or in vacuum or a protective environment. The coating architectures, from the coating/substrate interface to the outer most surface of the coating include an inner adhesion layer, an outer working layer and, optionally, one or more functionally graded material layers. The invention also provides methods of making these coatings.
US07867629B2	Nitrogenous heterocyclic derivative and organic electroluminescent element employing the same A specific derivative of heterocyclic compound having nitrogen atom and an organic electroluminescence device comprising the compound. An organic electroluminescence device comprising at least one of organic compound layers including a light emitting layer sandwiched between an anode and a cathode, wherein said at least one of the organic compound layers comprises the derivative of the heterocyclic compound having nitrogen atom as a sole component or as mixed component. The organic electroluminescence device achieves elevation of luminance and excellent efficiency of light emission, and also achieves long lifetime by an improvement of an electrode adhesion.
US07867628B2	Brazed articles A brazing material for brazing tungsten/carbide/cobalt substrates (e.g., wear pads) to substrates comprising titanium or alloys thereof (e.g., fan or compressor blades). The brazing material includes gold, nickel, silver, aluminum, and copper present in respective amounts to provide a post-braze hardness of between 450 and 600 KHN to thereby increase the impact resistance of the braze joint. The substrates may be brazed by induction heating at temperatures less than about 1800° F. (982° C.).
US07867614B2	Method for producing nanocomposite additives with improved delamination in polymers A process for modification, in particular for surface modification of an organophilic clay material, encompassing the following steps: a) provision of a dry, pulverulent, organophilic clay material (component a); b) provision of at least one additive (component b) for modification of component a); c) intensive mixing of components a) and b) in a high-shear mixing assembly, where no water or solvent is added or used for addition of component b).
US07867608B2	Electrically gradated carbon foam Electrically gradated carbon foam materials that have changing or differing electrical properties through the thickness of the carbon foam material and methods for making these electrically gradated carbon foam materials are described herein. In some embodiments, the electrically gradated carbon foam materials exhibit increasing electrical resistivity through the thickness of the carbon foam material such that the electrical resistivity near a second surface of the carbon foam is at least 2 times greater than the electrical resistivity near a first surface of the carbon foam. These electrically gradated carbon foam materials may be used as radar absorbers, as well as in electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding schemes.
US07867607B2	Polyolefin fiber and method of producing the same A polyolefin fiber includes 0.2 to 5.0 wt % of hydrophilic additive, and 0.05 to 3.00 wt % of titanium dioxide (TiO2). The polyolefin fiber may further include 0.2 to 1.0 wt % of spin finish provided on a surface thereof. The polyolefin fiber is spun to have a circular section, a modified cross-section including an X-shaped section, a Y-shaped section, a deltaic section, an oval section, a diamond section, a bladebone-shaped section, and a combined section thereof, or a combined section of the circular section and the modified cross-section. A method of producing a polyolefin fiber includes (a) melt extruding a composition which contains 93 to 99 wt % of polyolefin resin, 0.2 to 5.0 wt % of hydrophilic additive, and 0.05 to 3.00 wt % of any one titanium dioxide (TiO2) of rutile titanium dioxide, anatase titanium dioxide, and brookite titanium dioxide at 240 to 300° C. and performing winding at a spin speed of 500 to 2,000 mpm to produce a undrawn yarn, and (b) drawing the undrawn yarn at a draw ratio of 1.0 to 5.0, crimping the drawn yarn to 5.5 to 9.0 ea/cm by using a crimper, attaching 0.2 to 1.0 wt % of spin finish to a surface of the fiber by spraying or dipping, heat setting the spin finish at 100 to 130° C. for 3 to 10 min, and cutting the resulting polyolefin fiber to predetermined lengths.
US07867602B2	Scratch-resistant optical film The invention pertains to an optical film comprising a reflective substrate, characterized in that at least one of the surfaces of the substrate has a scratch-resistant layer which possesses anti-static properties, wherein the scratch-resistant layer has a surface resistivity in the range from 108 to 1012Ω/□, and a pencil hardness of 3H or more as measured according to JIS K5400 standard method.The optical film of the invention has a low volume shrinkage, does not warp, and possesses excellent anti-static properties and high hardness properties.
US07867600B2	Deodorant suede-tone-leather-like sheet A suede-type leather-like sheet having excellent appearance and exhibiting an excellent deodorizing effect and a soft feel in combination without agglomeration of napped fibers or deterioration in the appearance (whitening) due to the deodorant is provided. The deodorant suede-type leather-like sheet comprises a fiber-entangled fabric comprising a microfine fiber and a particulate deodorant, wherein the surface area of the microfine fiber per the unit volume of the fiber-entangled fabric is 3×103 to 9×104 cm2/cm3, and at least a portion of the deodorant having an average diameter of primary particles of 0.1 μm or smaller is present on the surface of the microfine fiber.
US07867597B2	Construction board with carbonate A construction board is formed from a composition comprising one or more of the following ingredients: magnesium oxide, magnesium chloride, a binding agent (e.g., perlite), wood shavings, recycled board scraps, and water. The construction board further includes fiberglass and polyester paper sheets on opposite sides of the construction board. A method of fabricating the construction board is also disclosed to include mixing magnesium chloride with water to form a solution, mixing the solution with magnesium oxide, perlite and a binding agent to form a paste, and pouring the paste onto a mold to form a construction board. The paste is poured onto a mold which is then passed through a series of rollers to spread out the paste evenly across the mold and to form the paste into the desired thickness. The resulting construction board is fire and water resistant and much more durable than conventional Sheetrock® brand plaster wallboard.
US07867590B2	Signaling blank label A label including a main section forming a blank label section and including a fluorescent signal section on the blank label section. The label is adapted to have an indicium subsequently printed on the blank label section by a printing device without the fluorescent signal section substantially interfering with reading of the indicium on the label.
US07867587B2	Low temperature molding process for making solid biodegradable articles The present invention is directed toward a process for making solid biodegradable articles from wheat gluten. Hydrated wheat gluten is provided in the form of a cohesive, elastic dough. The cohesive, elastic dough comprises at least 8% by weight wheat gluten and wherein the wheat gluten comprises a protein having a primary structure. The cohesive, elastic dough is formed into a shaped article and placed in an environment sufficient to remove excess water from the shaped article without modifying the primary structure of the wheat gluten protein, such that a solid biodegradable article results. The solid biodegradable articles of the present invention comprise at least 8% by weight wheat gluten.
US07867581B2	Retardation film and liquid crystal display device using the same A retardation film, formed by stretching a film including a norbornene-based, ring-opening polymer containing a structural unit (A) represented by a formula (1), has high transparency, excellent wavelength dispersion characteristics in a single layer, is capable of providing specific retardation to broadband light, is extremely adhesive to other materials, is capable of attaining optical characteristics that are unique among negative birefringence characteristics, and is capable of providing a reverse dispersion of birefringence wavelength dispersion characteristics. The present invention also provides a liquid crystal display device using the foregoing film.
US07867573B2	Method of aqueous coating of plastic sheet surface for vehicle interior equipment The present invention relates to methods of forming an aqueous coating on a plastic sheet surface for vehicle interior equipment, comprising the steps of: coating the plastic sheet with a primary composition, the primary composition comprising chlorinated aqueous olefin resin; baking the resulting plastic sheet; coating the baked sheet with a secondary composition, the secondary composition comprising aliphatic urethane; and baking the resulting plastic sheet.
US07867572B2	Method for making a lithographic printing plate precursor A method for making a lithographic printing plate precursor includes the steps of coating a composition having a pH≦5 on a support having a hydrophilic surface or which is provided with a hydrophilic layer, the composition including hydrophobic thermoplastic polymer particles stabilized with an anionic dispersant, a hydrophilic binder and colloidal silica, characterized in that the silica carries a negative charge; and drying the coated composition.
US07867571B2	Textile surface The aim of the invention is to produce a textile surface (1), one side of which exhibits hydrophilic properties and the other side hydrophobic properties, whose overall cross-section is hydrophilic. To achieve this, a paste (11) consisting of a viscous emulsion or dispersion of paraffin, polysiloxane and/or fluorine compounds is applied to one side. The layer that has been formed by the first paste (11) is then stabilized by means of a drying process (4) and a second paste (12), consisting of a hydrophilic polymer is subsequently applied to the other side of the textile surface (1), said paste being stabilized by an additional drying process (5). Said steps provide a textile surface (1), which can be produced simply and cost-effectively, is extremely comfortable to wear and which ensures that moisture is immediately absorbed on the hydrophilic side, dispersed over a large area and rapidly removed, whereas the hydrophobic side of said textile surface (1) repels water.
US07867570B2	Method of producing a coating having metal coordinating and film-forming materials Film-forming materials include nonionic metal coordinating structures. Nonionic metal coordinating structures can coordinate metals, such as metal catalysts and metal substrates. Example film-forming materials can be the product of a poly-functional epoxide and a nucleophilic ligand having a nonionic metal coordinating structure, or the product of a poly-functional alcohol and an electrophilic ligand having a nonionic metal coordinating structure. Coating compositions can include the film-forming material and a crosslinker. The coating compositions can be used to coat a substrate, such as a metal substrate. Applied coating layers on substrates can be cured to form coating films.
US07867562B2	Method of controlling coating edge thickness in a web process One method for controlling edge thickness includes applying a coating to a moving substrate, thereby forming a film having a cross direction and a machine direction and one or more edges. The method also includes modifying a thickness of a first portion of the coating along one of the edges of the film, thereby forming a film having a substantially predetermined profile in the cross direction. A method of making a polymeric sheet includes applying a polymer to a moving substrate, thereby forming a sheet having a cross direction and a machine direction. This method further includes removing a first portion of the polymer from a first edge of the sheet, thereby the sheet having a substantially predetermined profile in the cross direction.
US07867561B2	Circuit pattern forming method and circuit pattern forming device A circuit pattern forming method includes a first ejection step of ejecting large droplets of a circuit pattern forming liquid onto a substrate, by causing a liquid ejection head to scan the substrate, to form first dots of the liquid on the substrate with gaps between the first dots, a second ejection step of ejecting, from the liquid ejection head, before the first dots formed on the substrate solidify, and while the liquid ejection head is caused to scan the substrate in the first ejection step, a small droplet, which is smaller in size than the large droplets, to form a second dot of the liquid between the first dots of the liquid on the substrate and, thereby to form a liquid circuit pattern by mixing the first dots and the second dot together, and a fixing step of solidifying the liquid circuit pattern to form a circuit pattern on the substrate.
US07867559B2	Photoresist coating liquid supplying apparatus, and photoresist coating liquid supplying method and photoresist coating apparatus using such photoresist coating liquid supplying apparatus This invention provides a photoresist coating liquid supplying apparatus and a photoresist coating liquid supplying method, for supplying a photoresist coating liquid having a low particle content to a photoresist coating apparatus, and a photoresist coating apparatus using such a photoresist coating liquid supplying apparatus, which can realize coating without causing significant defects in a cost-effective manner.The photoresist coating liquid supplying apparatus comprises a buffer vessel for a photoresist coating liquid, a circulation filtering apparatus for drawing a part of the coating liquid from the buffer vessel, filtering the coating liquid, and then returning the filtered coating liquid to the buffer vessel, and a pipe for supplying the coating liquid from the buffer vessel or the circulation apparatus to a coating apparatus. The photoresist coating liquid supplying method uses the photoresist coating liquid supplying apparatus. The photoresist coating apparatus comprises a combination of the coating liquid supplying apparatus with a slit coating apparatus.
US07867555B2	Dispersion-coated powder coloring system A method for coloring powders using a stable colorant dispersion is provided. The method includes mixing a base powder and a stable colorant dispersion. A colored powder composition baying a core particle and a partial shell about the core particle is provided.
US07867551B2	Processing method for group IBIIIAVIA semiconductor layer growth A method of forming a doped Group IBIIIAVIA absorber layer for solar cells by reacting a partially reacted precursor layer with a dopant structure. The precursor layer including Group IB, Group IIIA and Group VIA materials such as Cu, Ga, In and Se are deposited on a base and partially reacted. After the dopant structure is formed on the partially reacted precursor layer, the dopant structure and partially reacted precursor layer is fully reacted. The dopant structure includes a dopant material such as Na.
US07867550B2	Fabrication processes for electrodes for electrochemical devices, and electrochemical device fabrication process According to the present invention, when the electrode for electrochemical devices is fabricated, the treating method for removing off a binder solvent adsorbed to pores in an electrode-constituting activated charcoal or the like, using carbon dioxide in a supercritical state, is used or a method wherein the supercritical-state treating method is modified using a low-boiling solvent is used, whereby the electrostatic capacity of the carbonaceous material as the active substance and the reliability of the electro-chemical device can be improved.
US07867546B2	Low-calorie food and beverages A non-fat or low-fat food and beverage product having low calories is provided. The product offers a flavor, body and fat's texture. The food and beverage product includes a fat-like texture substance containing inulin as a main ingredient and polyglutamic acid.
US07867539B2	Device for the thermal treatment of unshelled eggs The invention is relating to device for the controlled heating and cooling and conservation of eggs (18) that is provided with an oven space (13) with a carrier plate (7) with holders for the positioning of the eggs (18) substantially upright and a spray device (12) for the cooling of same with a coolant, and which is further provided with a heating element (11) for the generation of steam, whereby means (14) are provided that allow said steam to be subjected to a forced flow whereby this steam flows over the eggs (18) in order to heat the eggs, whereby said carrier plate (7) has openings (16) such that at least part of said steam is guided along the side of the eggs (18) to the underside of the carrier plate (7) so that the underside of the eggs (18) is heated.
US07867538B2	Processes of improving the quality of oil and products produced therefrom Oil of improved quality is produced by treating the oil with an active substance capable of reducing the anisidine value of the oil. Food products comprising the oil of improved quality are also disclosed.
US07867537B2	Production of snacks having an expanded, crispy, chip-like textured coating A savory or sweet snack having an expanded, crispy, chip-like textured, substantially uniform, homogeneous, cellular coating is obtained by tumbling an edible core material, such as nuts or dried fruit, and alternately applying an aqueous component and a preblended dry mixture on the tumbling edible core material to form a dough coating on the edible core material. The dough-coated core material may be heated by frying or baking to substantially reduce the moisture content of the dough, and to substantially expand the dough. The thick, expanded coating has a substantial amount of wheat yet it possesses a crispy, crunchy texture of a chip, rather than a leavened, mealy or flaky texture. Use of a pregelatinized waxy starch, which is not chemically modified, provides crispness and a high degree of expansion Use of a pure, raw potato starch which is not chemically modified promotes crunchiness and a chip-like texture and reduces oil pick-up or absorption during frying. The tumbling is preferably performed in a continuous belt coating device to achieve high production rates and uniform coating of individual core material pieces without agglomeration or sticking of pieces to each other.
US07867535B2	Process for producing baked potato slices with expanded texture A method is disclosed for producing a baked snack chip made from a raw potato slice. The snack chip has a light, crispy, expanded texture similar to the texture of a fried potato chip. It is formed by compressing and heating a partially dried potato slice and then expanding the potato slice. Alternatively, the expanded potato slice is compressed again.
US07867529B2	Method for reducing acrylamide in foods, foods having reduced levels of acrylamide and article of commerce A method for the reduction of acrylamide in food products, food products having reduced levels of acrylamide, and an article of commerce. In one aspect, the method comprises reducing the level of asparagine in a food material before final heating (e.g., cooking). In another aspect, the method comprises adding to a food material an enzyme capable of hydrolyzing the amide group of free asparagine. In yet another aspect, an article of commerce communicates to the consumer that a food product has reduced or low levels of acrylamide or asparagine.
US07867525B2	Powder or extracts of plant leaves with anti-obesity effects and anti-obesity food comprising them Disclosed are powders or extracts of plant leaves with anti-obesity effects and anti-obesity foods comprising them, and more particularly, anti-obesity food compositions comprising powders or extracts of one or more selected from group consisting of persimmon (Diospyros KakI Thunb.) leaves, buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) leaves, Chinese matrimony vine (Lycium chinense) leaves, endive (Cichorium endivia) leaves, and ginseng (Panax ginseng). Also disclosed are compositions comprising plant extracts or powders to reduce the weight of animals or humans, and more particularly, boiling water extracts of persimmon leaves, buckwheat leaves and Chinese matrimony vine leaves and persimmon leaf powder, buckwheat leaf powder and Chinese matrimony vine leaf powder were prepared and administered to animals or humans to confirm the effects of reduction of their weight and then health foods comprising the extracts or powders are produced.
US07867523B2	Pharmaceutical composition A pharmaceutical composition for the treatment of colds and influenza. The pharmaceutical composition is a mixture of: acetaminophen, diphenhydramine, dextromethorphan, arabinogalactan, vitamin C, zinc, olive leaf extract, resveratrol and elderberry extract.
US07867522B2	Method of wound/burn healing using copper-zinc compositions Composition and methods for alleviating or eliminating wounds and/burns by providing an effective amount of one or more copper, zinc and copper-zinc compositions are disclosed. Treatment is accomplished through the use of topical compositions containing one or more copper or zinc salts and/or copper-zinc compounds or complexes, particularly copper-zinc malonate active ingredient.
US07867519B2	Method for the acceleration or deceleration of angiogenesis using fibrin matrix formed from increased or decreased HMW/LMW fibrinogen ratio A method for modifying the properties of a fibrin matrix relative to growth and ingrowth of cells, wherein for forming the fibrin matrix a fibrinogen is used consisting of a selected fibrinogen variant or a fibrinogen enriched or depleted in a selected fibrinogen variant. In particular, the use of high-molecular weight (HMW) fibrinogen leads to a fibrin having accelerated angiogenesis properties, while the use of low-molecular weight (LMW and/or LMW′) fibrinogen leads to fibrin having decelerated angiogenesis properties. The use of HMW fibrinogen when setting up angiogenesis tests results in that the tests require less time. Fibrin sealants on the basis of HMW fibrinogen can be used for burns, to promote wound healing or to inhibit scar tissue. Fibrin sealants on the basis of LMW or LMW′ fibrinogen are useful to inhibit adhesions and tumor growth, for instance after surgical operations.
US07867513B2	Soft capsule It is an object of the present invention to provide a capsule anti-sticking agent which can provide excellent anti-sticking effect on a soft capsule without impairing various properties such as water activity, disintegration property and safety, a coated soft capsule of high quality which is coated with the capsule anti-sticking agent and excels in anti-sticking effect, and an efficient method for manufacturing the coated soft capsule.The present invention includes a capsule anti-sticking agent containing an enzymatically decomposed lecithin, a coated soft capsule wherein a surface is coated with the capsule anti-sticking agent, and a method for manufacturing the coated soft capsule in which a surface of a soft capsule is coated with the capsule anti-sticking agent.
US07867512B2	Cross-linked polymersomes and related encapsulating membranes The present invention provides biocompatible vesicles comprising semi-permeable, thin-walled encapsulating membranes which are formed in an aqueous solution, and which comprise one or more synthetic super-amphiphilic molecules. When at least one super-amphiphile molecule is a block copolymer, the resulting synthetic vesicle is termed a “polymersome.” The synthetic, reactive nature of the amphiphilic composition enables extensive, covalent cross-linking of the membrane, while maintaining semi-permeability. Cross-linking of the polymer building-block components provides mechanical control and long-term stability to the vesicle, thereby also providing a means of controlling the encapsulation or release of materials from the vesicle by modifying the composition of the membrane. Thus, the encapsulating membranes of the present invention are particularly suited for the reliable, durable and controlled transport, delivery and storage of materials.
US07867509B2	Fast dissolving orally consumable films Physiologically acceptable films, including edible films, are disclosed. The films include a water soluble film-forming polymer such as pullulan. Edible films are disclosed that include pullulan and antimicrobially effective amounts of the essential oils thymol, methyl salicylate, eucalyptol and menthol. The edible films are effective at killing the plaque-producing germs that cause dental plaque, gingivitis and bad breath. The film can also contain pharmaceutically active agents. Methods for producing the films are also disclosed.
US07867506B2	Composition for a clear cosmetic stick The present invention includes a clear cosmetic stick that has a clarity that is stable over a temperature of 5 to 45 degrees Centigrade for a time period of at least about twelve months. The clear cosmetic stick includes one or more of a branched chain fatty acid surfactant and a straight-chain fatty alcohol surfactant.
US07867504B2	Film-forming cosmetic composition A composition comprising, in a physiologically acceptable medium, at least one film-forming polymer and at least one thermal transition agent which undergoes a change of state at a transition temperature Tt chosen within a temperature range from 25° C. to 80° C., the at least one thermal transition agent being insoluble in water maintained at a temperature below the transition temperature, Tt, the at least one film-forming polymer and the at least one thermal transition agent are present in an amount which is sufficient so that the composition is capable of forming a film at the temperature of a keratinous material to which the composition is applied, wherein the film has a resistance (Rc) to hot water (40° C.) of less than or equal to 15 minutes and a resistance (Rf) to cold water (20° C.) such that Rf−Rc≧8 minutes. The invention also relates to a cosmetic care or make-up process for a keratinous material. The composition makes it possible to obtain a film which is resistant to cold water and which can be removed simply with hot water.
US07867502B1	Tuberculosis vaccine and diagnostics based on the Mycobacterium tuberculosis sat-6 gene family This invention relates to a polypeptide fragment which comprises an amino acid sequence encoded by a member of the esat-6 gene. A member of the esat-6 gene family is defined as gene encoding a small protein and that two such genes are arranged next to each other on the genome and that at least one of the gene products has an amino acid sequence identity to either Rv3874, Rv3875, or Rv0288 of at least 15%.
US07867500B2	Cofactor that modulates steroid receptor activities The invention provides a new glucocorticoid receptor coactivator named STAMP (Steroid receptor coactivator-1 and Transcription intermediary factor-2 Associated Modulatory Protein) that can modulate transcription of glucocorticoid-, progesterone-, mineralocorticoid- and androgen-responsive genes. The invention also provides antibodies that can bind STAMP and modulate its activity. In addition, the invention provides antisense, ribozyme and siRNA STAMP nucleic acids that can modulate the expression of STAMP. Also provided are compositions and methods for modulating glucocorticoid-responsive gene expression and for treating a variety of diseases and conditions.
US07867496B2	Use of TGF-β antagonists to limit nephrotoxicity of immunosuppressive agents The disclosure relates to methods of ameliorating nephrotoxic side effects of immunosuppressive agents whose immunosuppressive activity is mediated via upregulation of TGF-β such as, for example, cyclosporine (CsA). The disclosure provides treatment modalities for use in patients that require immunosuppression, e.g., patients at risk of transplant rejection or having an autoimmune disease. In the methods of the invention, a TGF-β antagonist, e.g., an anti-TGF-β antibody, is administered to a patient treated with an immunosuppressive agent. Such a TGF-β antagonist is administered in a therapeutically effective amount sufficient to alleviate the nephrotoxic effects of the immunosuppressive agent without substantially interfering with immunosuppressive activity of the agent.
US07867494B2	Anti-IgE antibodies The present invention relates to novel human antibodies specifically directed against human immunoglobulin E (anti-IgE). The present invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions and methods for treating asthma, in particular allergic asthma, as well as other IgE-mediated disorders including allergic rhinitis and food allergies.
US07867493B2	PRLR-specific antibody and uses thereof PRLR-specific antibodies are provided, along with pharmaceutical compositions containing such antibody, kits containing a pharmaceutical composition, and methods of preventing and treating cancer.
US07867492B2	Compounds for hedgehog pathway blockade in proliferative disorders, including hematopoietic malignancies Elevated Hedgehog (Hh) pathway activity, including ligand stimulated Hh pathway activity, was detected in hematopoietic malignancy cells, and determined to be associated with growth and proliferation of the malignancy cells. Accordingly, methods are provided for treating a hematopoietic cell malignancy associated with elevated Hh pathway activity by reducing or inhibiting the Hh pathway activity. Also provided are methods of determining the responsiveness of a hematopoietic cell malignancy to treatment with an Hh pathway antagonist.
US07867491B2	Immunoglobulin fusion proteins Disclosed are fusion proteins comprising a biologically active molecule and an immunoglobulin (Ig) Fc domain which is linked to the biologically active molecule. The Fc domain is a hybrid human Fc domain of (i) IgG1, IgG2 or IgG4 or (ii) IgG4 and IgD. The hybrid Fc is useful as a carrier of biologically active molecules.
US07867488B2	Use of dendritic cells (DCs) expressing interleukin 12 (IL-12) The present invention discloses the use of active dendritic cells (DCs) releasing interleukin 12 (IL-12) which are loaded with an antigen against a specific pathogen or a specific tumor and, due to the treatment with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), release IL-12, for the preparation of a medicament for treating a patient having an infection with said specific pathogen or for treating a patient having said specific tumor.
US07867487B2	Method for treating inflammation associated with amyloid deposits and brain inflammation involving activated microglia Filamentous bacteriophage which does not display an antibody or a non-filamentous bacteriophage antigen on its surface is used to inhibit or treat brain inflammation associated with amyloid deposits and/or involving activated microglia, to inhibit the formation of amyloid deposits, and to disaggregate pre-formed amyloid deposits.
US07867486B2	Method for preventing or treating the development of respiratory allergies The present invention is directed to a novel method for preventing or treating the development of respiratory allergies. The method comprises prenatal and/or postnatal administration of a therapeutically effective amount of LGG.
US07867480B1	Non-invasive vaccination through the skin The present invention relates to novel vaccines for the non-invasive, transcutaneous administration of antigens associated with ultradeformable carriers, for the purpose of prophylactic or therapeutic vaccination. The vaccines comprise (a) a transdermal carrier which is a penetrant, (b) a compound which specifically releases or specifically induces cytokine or anticytokine activity or exerts such an activity itself, (c) an antigen, an allergen, a mixture of antigens andlor a mixture of allergens, and (d) a chemical irritant. The invention further relates to methods for the vaccination of mammals for obtaining a protective or therapeutic immune response.
US07867476B2	Method and materials for use in diagnosing viral myocarditis The invention consists of assay methods, assay kits and antibodies for detecting the polypeptide fragments of dystrophin protein cleavage by enteroviral protease 2A as a result of an enteroviral infection in the heart. The presence of dystrophin cleavage products in the myocytes or blood of a subject is diagnostic for enteroviral infection and myocarditis resulting therefrom.
US07867474B2	Crystalline aluminosilicates: UZM-13, UZM-17, UZM-19 and UZM-25 A series of crystalline layered and microporous compositions have been prepared. Compositions that have a layered structure and are identified as UZM-13, UZM-17 and UZM-19. Upon calcination at a temperature of about 400° C. to about 600° C., these compositions form a microporous crystalline zeolite with a three dimensional framework which has been identified as UZM-25. A process for preparing all these compositions and processes for using these compositions are also disclosed.
US07867472B2	Insulating target material, method of manufacturing insulating target material, conductive complex oxide film, and device An insulating target material for obtaining a conductive complex oxide film represented by a general formula ABO3. The insulating target material includes: an oxide of an element A; an oxide of an element B; an oxide of an element X; and at least one of an Si compound and a Ge compound, the element A being at least one element selected from La, Ca, Sr, Mn, Ba, and Re, the element B being at least one element selected from Ti, V, Sr, Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Ru, Ir, Pb, and Nd, and the element X being at least one element selected from Nb, Ta, and V.
US07867471B2	Process for preparing advanced ceramic powders using onium dicarboxylates A process of producing a ceramic powder including providing a plurality of precursor materials in solution, wherein each of the plurality of precursor materials in solution further comprises at least one constituent ionic species of a ceramic powder, combining the plurality of precursor materials in solution with an onium dicarboxylate precipitant solution to cause co-precipitation of the ceramic powder precursor in a combined solution; and separating the ceramic powder precursor from the combined solution. The process may further include calcining the ceramic powder precursor.
US07867466B2	Thermally conductive, electrically insulating material and production method thereof Means for a thermally conductive and electrically insulating material 1 containing an AlN crystal 150 mainly comprising AlN, and a production method thereof. In production, a molten aluminum layer is formed on an AlN substrate 11 with at least its surface comprising AlN in an atmosphere of a non-oxidizing gas, and the molten aluminum layer is then heated in an atmosphere of N2 gas to form an AlN crystal 150 which mainly comprises an AlN layer 125. The means are also a thermally conductive and electrically insulating material having an AlN crystal and an Al gradient layer, and a production method thereof. In production, a heating step of forming a molten aluminum layer 15 on the AlN layer 125 and heating it in an atmosphere of N2 gas is repeated at least twice or more. At this time, the amount of the N2 gas dissolved in the molten aluminum layer is decreased as the heating step is repeated.
US07867462B2	Coal combustion systems with emissions control and fly ash beneficiation and methods thereof A method and system for controlling emissions with ammonia recovery and fly ash beneficiation in accordance with the present invention includes introducing ammonia to react with at least a portion of sulfur trioxides in an exhaust emission and result in at least one or more ammoniated compounds. At a least a portion of fly ash particles and the ammoniated compounds in the exhaust emission are precipitated and at least the precipitated fly ash particles are beneficiated. At least a portion of the beneficiated fly ash particles which are heated are mixed with the precipitated ammoniated compounds to recover at least a portion of the ammonia. The recovered ammonia is reused in introducing ammonia to react with at least a portion of sulfur trioxides.
US07867461B2	Method for preparing of cerium oxide powder for chemical mechanical polishing and method for preparing of chemical mechanical polishing slurry using the same The present invention relates to a method of preparing a cerium oxide powder for a CMP slurry and a method of preparing a CMP slurry using the same, and more particularly, to a method of preparing a cerium oxide powder for a CMP slurry and a method of preparing a CMP slurry using the same in which the specific surface area of the powder is increased by preparing a cerium precursor, and then decomposing and calcinating the prepared cerium precursor. The pore distribution is controlled to increase the chemical contact area between a polished film and a polishing material, thereby reducing polishing time while the physical strength of powder is decreased, which remarkably reduces scratches on a polished film.
US07867459B2	Compact, tiered sulfur recovery unit A compact, tiered sulfur recovery unit having a burner, a combustion chamber, a reaction chamber, a waste heat boiler and a steam drum. The waste heat boiler is mounted above the reaction chamber, and the steam drum is mounted above the waste heat boiler, resulting in a three-tiered, compact design, requiring only a single platform for space. The reaction chamber comprises a horizontal body and an upright plenum. The reaction chamber includes an inlet for receipt of acid gas (H2S). One end of the horizontal body of the reaction chamber is fluidly attached to the combustion chamber, while the other end of the horizontal body of the reaction chamber is fluidly attached to a lower end of the upright plenum of the reaction chamber. An upper end of the upright plenum of the reaction chamber is fluidly attached to the waste heat boiler. The waste heat boiler includes an outlet for the release of SO2 for downstream sulfur blowdown to produce additional elemental sulfur. The waste heat boiler is fluidly attached to the steam drum.
US07867457B2	Plasma reactor for the production of hydrogen-rich gas A plasma reactor (10) is provided. The plasma reactor (10) includes a reaction chamber (12) formed by a wall (13). Proximate to the first end of the reaction chamber, the plasma reactor includes a feed gas inlet (14) for creating a reverse vortex gas flow (16) in the reaction chamber. The plasma reactor (10) also includes an anode and a cathode connected to a power source for generation of an electric arc for plasma generation in said reaction chamber. The plasma reactor (10) may optionally include a movable electrode adapted for movement from a first, ignition position to a second, operational position in the reaction chamber. Also provided is a method of converting light hydrocarbons to hydrogen-rich gas, using the plasma reactor of the invention.
US07867456B2	Honeycomb structure, method of manufacturing the structure, and exhaust emission control system A honeycomb structure 1 having an outer wall 7, partition walls 2 disposed inside the outer wall, and a plurality of cells 3 partitioned from one another by the partition wall 2 and extending in the axial direction, each cell having a generally rectangular cross-section shape in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction. The honeycomb structure 1 is characterized in that the honeycomb structure 1 is provided with a reinforced part 72 on a part of the outer wall 7. The honeycomb structure may exhibit excellent mechanical strength and low pressure loss.
US07867450B2	Liquid droplet ejecting head, inspection device, and method of using inspection device A liquid droplet ejecting head includes a nozzle unit having a nozzle capable of ejecting liquid droplets and a pressure generating passage communicating with the nozzle. A driving unit includes a nozzle unit mounting portion and an actuator. The nozzle unit is detachably mounted on the nozzle unit mounting portion, and the actuator changes an inner volume of the pressure generating passage of the nozzle unit in order to eject the liquid droplets from the nozzle of the nozzle unit mounted on the nozzle unit mounting portion.
US07867448B2	Optical sensor and optical process for the characterization of a chemical and/or bio-chemical substance The optical sensor contains an optical waveguide (1) with a substrate (104), waveguiding material (105), a cover medium (106) and a waveguide grating structure (101-103). By means of a light source (2), light can be emitted to the waveguide grating structure (101-103) from the substrate side and/or from the cover medium side. (101-103). With means of detection (11), at least two differing light proportions (7-10) radiated from the waveguide (1) can be detected. For carrying out a measurement, the waveguide can be immovably fixed relative to the light source (2) and the means of detection (11). The waveguide grating structure (101-103) itself consists of one or several waveguide grating structure units (101-103), which if so required can be equipped with (bio-)chemo-sensitive layers. The sensor permits the generation of absolute measuring signals.
US07867446B2	Analyte meter protectors and methods Analyte meter protectors, meters that include the same, and methods.
US07867441B2	Low to moderate temperature nanolaminate heater A low to moderate temperature heat source comprising a high temperature energy source modified to output low to moderate temperatures wherein the high temperature energy source modified to output low to moderate temperatures is positioned between two thin pieces to form a close contact sheath. In one embodiment the high temperature energy source modified to output low to moderate temperatures is a nanolaminate multilayer foil of reactive materials that produces a heating level of less than 200° C.
US07867440B2	Method and installation for decontaminating preform necks The invention concerns decontamination of the neck of thermoplastic performs (4) designed for making containers through a blow forming or extrusion blow molding process, when feeding (in A) the performs (4) sequentially into a unit (B) for manufacturing containers, which consists in passing the neck of the performs (4) through a mist (in 9) of a decontaminating product, then in subjecting the neck of the performs (4) wetted by the decontaminating products to the action of an ultraviolet radiation (in 7) for a least a predetermined minimum time interval.
US07867433B2	Polyolefin-based crosslinked articles Methods for making a crosslinked elastomeric composition and articles made of the same are provided. In at least one specific embodiment, an elastomeric composition comprising at least one propylene-based polymer is blended with at least one component selected from the group consisting of multifunctional acrylates, multifunctional methacrylates, functionalized polybutadiene resins, functionalized cyanurate, and allyl isocyanurate; and blended with at least one component selected from the group consisting of hindered phenols, phosphites, and hindered amines. The propylene-based polymer can include propylene derived units and one or more dienes, and have a triad tacticity of from 50% to 99% and a heat of fusion of less than 80 J/g. The blended composition can then be extruded and crosslinked. The extruded polymer can be crosslinked using electron beam radiation having an e-beam dose of about 100 KGy or less. The crosslinked polymers are particularly useful for making fibers and films.
US07867430B2	Injection mold and injection molding method using the same Provided is an injection mold which can reduce the amount of resin that is separated from injection-molded parts and then thrown away. The injection mold includes for an embodiment an extension cylinder coupled to an upper clamp plate and having a nozzle at an end thereof; a nozzle positioner disposed under the nozzle, the nozzle positioner having a nozzle insertion groove adapted to receive the nozzle; a gate-lock-pin holder disposed under the extension cylinder and the nozzle positioner, comprising a gate lock pin which has a first end coupled to a gate molded part and a second end coupled to the gate-lock-pin holder, and adapted to separate the gate molded part from an injection-molded part; a gate stripper plate disposed under the gate-lock-pin holder and adapted to separate the gate molded part from the nozzle; and a cavity plate and a core plate disposed under the gate stripper plate and having a cavity which is shaped like the injection-molded part.
US07867429B2	Process and device for bending a sheet of synthetic material filled with alumina trihydrate A process is provided for bending a board in synthetic material filled with more than 20% by weight of alumina trihydrate in a methyl methacrylate matrix: a section of the board is heated so that it can be bent; the section to be bent is bent while holding the convex upper surface of the board such that it does not become elongated. Also provided are a device for implementing such a process, and a bent board obtained by such a process.
US07867424B2	Method for the production of a steering wheel having a multi-colored foam surrounding A method for the production of a steering wheel with a multi-colored foam surrounding includes the following steps: formation of a first foam surrounding (12) by surrounding a steering wheel skeleton in a first mold with a first foam, the first foam in solidified state having a first color; covering of particular regions of the first foam surrounding (12); and formation of a second foam surrounding (14) by introducing a second foam into a second mold, the second foam in solidified state having a second color different from the first color.
US07867422B2	Biological polymeric compositions and methods related thereto Embodiments of the present invention relate to a method of making a biopolymeric material comprising contacting a biopolymer and a binder sufficient to form a mixture, heating the mixture and profile extruding the mixture sufficient to create a biopolymeric material. Embodiments also relate to a method of making a biopolymeric material comprising contacting a biopolymer and a reactive composite sufficient to form a mixture, heating the mixture and profile extruding the mixture sufficient to create a biopolymeric material.
US07867417B2	Membrane post treatment Hydrophilic porous polymeric membranes with high permeabilities, and processes for the preparation thereof are disclosed. Membranes may be prepared by including a preferably hydrophilic cross-linkable component such as PVP (either by inclusion into the polymer dope prior to casting, or coating or quenching cast membranes); and treating the polymeric microfiltration or ultrafiltration membrane with a crosslinking agent to cross-link said cross-linkable component. Preferred cross-linking agents include Fenton's reagent.
US07867415B2	Die clamping method Used in a method of this invention is a die clamping unit, which comprises a tie bar movably attached to a stationary platen, a halfnut positioning servomotor which advances and retreats to the tie bar, a halfnut which is provided on a movable platen and fixes the movable platen and the tie bar together by engaging the tie bar, an engaging mechanism which engages the halfnut with the tie bar, a hydraulic die clamping cylinder which presses the stationary platen and the movable platen, and a control device which controls the halfnut positioning servomotor and the hydraulic cylinder. The control device drives the halfnut positioning servomotor to remove a clearance between the halfnut and an engaging groove of the tie bar before a die clamping process carried out by the hydraulic cylinder.
US07867412B2	Composition and method for suppressing water evaporation and heat loss A composition for retarding water loss and/or heat loss from a body of water comprises a polyoxyethylene ether having the general structure of R—(OCH2CH2)nOH where R is an alkyl group or mixture of alkyl groups, and n is the average number of ethylene oxide units in the polyethylene glycol segment, wherein R is lauryl alcohol and n is 2. The composition can be delivered as a neat liquid, solution, or dispersion in a solvent or carrier, without additional dispersants or spreading agents, and without hazardous or flammable solvents. Embodiments may include a thickening agent to stabilize the dispersion until use. Preservatives, colorants and fragrance can be added. The range for delivery of the composition in dilution is from about 0.1% to about 90% by weight in one embodiment, and from about 0.5% to about 50% by weight, and from about 1% to about 20% by weight in other embodiments.
US07867409B2	Control of ion angular distribution function at wafer surface A manufacturing method and apparatus for IC fabrication controls the ion angular distribution at the surface of a wafer with electrodes in a wafer support that produce electric fields parallel to the wafer surface without disturbing plasma parameters beyond the wafer surface. The ion angular distribution function (IADF) at the wafer surface is controlled for better feature coverage or etching. Grid structure is built into the substrate holder within the coating at the top of the holder. The grid components are electrically biased to provide electric fields that combine with the sheath field to distribute the ion incidence angles from the plasma sheath onto the wafer. The grid can be dynamically biased or phased to control uniformity of the effects.
US07867407B2	Method of manufacturing an ink-jet recording head An ink-jet recording head has a plate-shaped member including a first layer with a partition wall formed by a first etching process and defining a pressure chamber, an ink inlet passage and a common ink storage chamber, a second layer with a land formed by a second etching process so as to correspond to the pressure chamber, and an intermediate layer sandwiched between the first and the second layers. The recording head also has a pressure producing device disposed with its extremity in contact with the land, and a nozzle plate with a nozzle hole bonded to the front surface of the plate-shaped member. An ink particle is jetted through the nozzle hole when the pressure in the pressure chamber is changed by the pressure producing device.
US07867406B2	Patterned magnetic media having an exchange bridge structure connecting islands Patterned magnetic recording media and associated methods of fabrication are described. The patterned magnetic recording media includes a perpendicular magnetic recording layer that is patterned into a plurality of discrete magnetic islands. The patterned magnetic recording media also includes an exchange bridge structure formed from magnetic material that connects the islands of the perpendicular magnetic recording layer. Connecting the islands with magnetic material increases exchange coupling between the islands, which makes the islands more magnetically stable.
US07867405B2	Process for producing microfluidic arrangements from a plate-shaped composite structure A process for producing a multiplicity of microfluidic arrangements from a plate-shaped composite structure and an atomiser which is provided with such nozzle arrangements is proposed. Each arrangement has a groove structure which forms flow channels and the dimensions of which are in the micrometer range. The lines for optional subsequent mechanical separation of bridging groove structures are joined to each other and are partly or completely filled with a filling medium before mechanical machining. The medium is selected so that it is not removed from the groove structures either by the mechanical machining or by aids used during mechanical machining. Afterwards, however, the filling medium is removed from the groove structures by suitable measures. The groove structures are thereby prevented from becoming blocked due to mechanical contaminants.
US07867396B2	Water treatment apparatus, method and system A modular water treatment apparatus is disclosed having a plurality of cells each respectively arranged in use for housing a treatment bed and a plurality of spacers located between respective adjacent cells. In use the spacers are for providing an air gap between the cells. The cells and spacers are stackable to provide a multiple stage treatment apparatus in which water to be treated percolates through the respective treatment beds located in the cells.
US07867395B2	Valveless intake screen airburst system A method and apparatus for a backwash system for cleaning an underwater intake filter assembly is disclosed. The backwash system includes an underwater tank coupled on one end to a source of compressed fluid and on the other end to the intake screen assembly. The backwash system includes a U-shaped release conduit that is adapted to release a predetermined quantity of fluid to the intake screen in order to clean the filter assembly of waterborne debris.
US07867390B1	Floating weed and debris removal system and associated method An automated water discharging system for prohibiting buoyant debris from reaching and engaging an existing support structure that is partially submerged in an existing body of water may include a mechanism for extracting and channeling water from beneath a water line to above a water line of the existing body of water. Additionally, a mechanism for distributing water from above the water line to a plurality of third locations may be included by creating an artificial current flowing away from the existing support structure. A plurality of conduits and a power-actuated pump may direct the water and debris from one location to the next. Discharge nozzles may discharge the water at an angle defined downwardly towards the water line to thereby create the artificial current leading away from the existing support structure. A controller may be included to adjust the flow rate of the nozzles and the corresponding artificial current.
US07867388B2	Contaminated fluid recovery apparatus A contaminated fluid recovery apparatus includes a sludge removal mechanism having a dirty tank, a conveyor, and a magnetic drum which is arranged in the fluid circulating section. The contaminated fluid recovery apparatus is provided with an overflow tank. The overflow tank has a function to keep a fluid surface of the dirty tank in a position higher than the fluid circulating section and the magnetic drum. The magnetic drum is located horizontally between a lower portion and an upper portion of the conveyor. The conveyor scrapes out chips deposited on a bottom portion of the dirty tank toward an exit section. A scraping member, which is in contact with the magnetic drum, drops sludge attracted to the magnetic drum toward the lower portion of the conveyor.
US07867387B2	Standpipe with flow restriction valve, and filter cartridge A “no filter, no run” filtration system that is designed to verify that a filter cartridge is present to safe-guard against damage to fuel injectors, associated fuel components, etc. and engine malfunctions. Fuel flow to the engine is prevented altogether or permitted in an amount insufficient to allow engine operation if a filter cartridge is not installed, and an appropriately designed filter cartridge is required to be used in order to permit sufficient fuel flow for engine operation. In one embodiment, a flow restriction valve is provided that includes a ball.
US07867386B2	Protein separator for aquaria It is proposed to avoid an excessive formation of foam in the collection vessel of a protein separator by throttling the feed of air to a foam generator according to the foam generation rate in the separator. The foam generation rate in the separator can be measured by the amount of phase water that is separated in a second separator, which is located between the foam collection vessel and a first separator, in which second separator the mixture generated by the foam generator is freed from liquid constituents.
US07867385B2	Separating compositions and methods of use Compositions and methods are provided for separating bitumen from oil sands in an efficient and environmentally acceptable manner, and for recovering residual bitumen from existing tailings ponds.
US07867381B2	Process for removal of nitrogen and poly-nuclear aromatics from FCC feedstocks A feedstream to an FCC unit is treated to remove or reduce the content of polynuclear aromatics and nitrogen-containing compounds by contacting the feedstream with an adsorbent compound selected from attapulgus clay, alumina, silica gel and activated carbon in a fixed bed or slurry column and separating the treated feedstream that is lower in the undesired compounds from the adsorbent material. The adsorbent can be mixed with a solvent for the undesired compounds and stripped for re-use.
US07867379B2	Production of an upgraded stream from steam cracker tar by ultrafiltration This invention relates to a process of producing an upgraded product stream from steam cracker tar feedstream suitable for use in refinery or chemical plant processes or for utilization in fuel oil sales or blending. This process utilizes an ultrafiltration process for separating the steam cracker tar constituents resulting in a high recovery, low-energy process with improved separation and product properties.
US07867378B2	Process for converting ethanol and hydrocarbons in a fluidized catalytic cracking unit A method is described for co-processing of ethanol and hydrocarbons from petroleum refining, which are introduced separately in two reaction zones of a reactor of a fluidized catalytic cracking unit. The process combines conversion of ethanol into ethene and conversion of hydrocarbons into other lighter hydrocarbon fractions, to produce ethene in quantities of 15 to 90 wt % in the fuel gas fraction obtained during the process.
US07867377B2	Fuel composition A composition having a density at 15° C. of between 820 and 845 kg/m3 and a cetane number of equal or greater than 40, which composition has been obtained by blending the following components: (a) a cracked gas oil, (b) a mineral derived gas oil other than (a), and (c) a Fischer-Tropsch derived kerosene fraction; and the use of this composition as an automotive gas oil fuel composition.
US07867376B2	Treatment of hydrocarbon fluids with ozone A method of treating a hydrocarbon fluid that includes contacting the hydrocarbon fluid with an effective amount of ozone. A method for separating contaminants from a contaminated material includes supplying the contaminated material to a processing chamber, moving the contaminated material through the processing chamber, heating the contaminated material by externally heating the processing chamber so as to volatilize the contaminants in the contaminated material, removing vapor resulting from the heating, wherein the vapor comprises the volatilized contaminants, collecting, condensing, and recovering the volatilized contaminants, and contacting the volatilized contaminants with an effective amount of ozone.
US07867373B2	Method and apparatus for the production of aluminum Disclosed is a method for the continuous production of aluminum from alumina including a first step of converting alumina (Al2O3) into aluminum sulfide (Al2S3) and a second step of separation of aluminum from aluminum sulfide in a separating reactor. Wherein in the first step in a conversion reactor alumina is dissolved in a molten salt to form a melt and a sulfur containing gas is fed through the melt whereby the sulfur containing gas acts as a reagent to convert at least part of the alumina into aluminum sulfide and at least part of the melt is used in the second step. Further the invention relates to an apparatus for operating the method.
US07867370B2	Gas sensor element A gas sensor element has a solid electrolyte body of oxygen ionic conductivity, a target gas electrode and a reference gas electrode formed on both surfaces of the solid electrolyte body, respectively, a porous diffusion resistance layer, and a catalyst support trap layer. The porous diffusion resistance layer covers the target gas electrode and through which target gases to be measured are passing. The catalyst support trap layer is formed on the outer surface of the porous diffusion resistance layer and supports noble metal catalyst. In the gas sensor element, the noble metal catalyst is made of platinum, rhodium, palladium supported in the catalyst support trap layer. In particular, an addition amount of palladium in the total amount of the noble metal catalyst is within a range of 2 to 65 wt %.
US07867366B1	Coaxial plasma arc vapor deposition apparatus and method An apparatus for the deposition of a variable thickness coating onto the inside of a cylindrical tube comprises a variable pressure gas, an cathode coaxially positioned within the cylinder, and a voltage source applied between the cathode and cylindrical tube, which functions as an anode. A radial plasma arc is generated between the anode and cathode at a starting point on the cylinder, and the plasma arc travels down the central axis of the cylinder, providing a helical deposition region on the inside of the cylinder. Selection of the combination of cathode material and gas enable the plasma to generate ionic material which is deposited on the anodic cylinder in the region of the plasma. By varying the pressure of variable pressure gas for each helical path, it is possible to vary the composition of this deposition film.
US07867365B2	Ethanol distillation with distillers soluble solids recovery apparatus The present invention relates to a system for producing ethanol from an organic source and that operates to purify and dry ethanol from a beer source. The system for producing substantially anhydrous ethanol comprises: (a) a first distillation stripping column; (b) a second distillation rectifying column having a higher operating temperature than said stripping column; (c) a molecular sieve dehydration means in fluid communication with said rectifying column. Heat from the overhead of the second distillation rectifying column and the molecular sieve dehydration are used to heat the first distillation stripping column.
US07867363B2	Continuous digester system In a continuous digester system the digester system is greatly simplified by using a single vertical atmospheric vessel, replacing the conventional chip bin, steaming vessel, chip chute, high pressure pumping or sluice feeders, impregnation vessels and top separator. Chips are simply fed to the top of the atmospheric vessel, and a chip level is established in the vessel. Treatment liquids are added to the vessel such that a total liquid volume (Z1+Z2) with a liquid level (LIQ LEV) is established under the chip level (CH LEV). Impregnation stage and subsequent cooking stages are implemented in the atmospheric vessel at successively increasing temperature and depths into the total liquid volume, thus preventing boiling in the stages and preferably reducing steam blow trough of the chip surface in the top of the vessel.
US07867361B2	Soft tissue paper having a polyhydroxy compound applied onto a surface thereof A tissue paper product having at least one ply, wherein only one outer surface of said tissue paper product has a polyhydroxy compound applied thereto by slot extrusion, said polyhydroxy compound providing said tissue paper product with a Wet Burst greater than about 90 g, a Dynamic Coefficient of Friction less than about 0.9, and a Bending Flexibility less than about 0.1 gf cm2/cm.
US07867351B2	Method for forming porous PTFE layer A method forming a porous PTFE layer includes steps of: combining one or at least two unburned porous PTFE films and a support body that can withstand a heating condition in the following process (a rod or plate shaped support body made of mesh or the like is preferable) by using a predetermined means in such a manner that a slip can be prevented in a heating treatment in the following process; and heating the matter resulted from the above process at a temperature of at least 150° C. and less than the melting point of the PTFE film for the range of 5-120 minutes (preferably at a temperature in the range of the melting point of a thermoplastic resin fiber to 320° C. for the range of 10-60 minutes in the case in which the thermoplastic resin fiber or the like is used in the process.
US07867350B2	Enhanced thickness fabric and method of making same The present invention provides thickened fabrics and reinforcements for use as a spacer or reinforcement for a matrix system. The fabric includes in a first embodiment a woven fabric comprising weft and warp yarns containing glass fibers. A portion of the weft yarns are undulated, resulting in an increased thickness for the fabric. The fabric is coated with a polymeric resin or bonding agent, for substantially binding the weft yarns in the undulated condition. This invention also includes methods for making such fabric by increasing the thickness of a woven or non-woven material by such methods as applying tension during weaving operations, or using unbalanced yarns.
US07867345B2	Manufacturing method of thin component, bearing ring, thrust needle roller bearing, manufacturing method of rolling bearing ring, rolling bearing ring, and rolling bearing A manufacturing method of a thin component is characterized by heating a thin component, and thereafter, while sizing with molds and using molds as cooling media, performing one of quenching and isothermal transformation processes on thin component. Thus, a manufacturing method of a thin component without warping or deformation in heat treatment with even and high hardness, a bearing ring, a thrust needle roller bearing, a manufacturing method of a rolling bearing ring, a rolling bearing ring, and a rolling bearing can be obtained.
US07867334B2	Silicon casting apparatus and method of producing silicon ingot A silicon casting apparatus for producing polycrystal silicon ingot by heating a silicon melt (8) held in a mold (4) from above by a heater (3) and cooling it from below while changing the heat exchange area of a heat exchange region (HE), defined between a pedestal (5) having the mold (4) placed thereon and a bottom cooling member (6), in such a manner as to keep pace with the rise of the solid-liquid interface of the silicon melt (8), thereby causing unidirectional solidification upward along the mold (4); and a method of producing polycrystal silicon ingot using such apparatus. According to this production method, the temperature gradient given to the silicon melt (8) can be maintained at constant by adjusting the heat exchange area, so that polycrystal silicon ingot having good characteristics can be produced with good reproducibility.
US07867329B2	Dental cement system, a powdered material and a hydration liquid therefor, and ceramic material formed therefrom A dental cement system, including an aqueous hydration liquid and a powdered material that essentially consists of an inorganic cement system, which powdered material has the capacity to form a complex, chemically bonded material with inorganic as well as organic phases with properties suitable for cementation of implant to another implant and/or to tooth or bone tissue.
US07867328B2	Inkjet ink compositions and methods of making the same An inkjet ink composition includes water and effective amounts of one or more of: derivatized 2-pyrrolidinones; glycerol polyoxyethyl ethers; diols; or combinations thereof. The inkjet ink composition also includes an effective amount of functionalized nanocrystals.
US07867324B2	Fuel system and method of reducing emission A fuel system includes a fuel deoxygenator for removing oxygen from a liquid fuel. A vaporizer is in fluid communication with the fuel deoxygenator. The vaporizer vaporizes at least a portion of the liquid fuel to produce vaporized fuel. At least a portion of the vaporized fuel pre-mixes with oxidizer to reduce formation of undesirable emissions.
US07867322B2	Use of SO2 from flue gas for acid wash of ammonia A gas cleaning system, which is operative for cleaning a process gas containing carbon dioxide and sulphur dioxide, comprises a combined cooling and cleaning system (16), and a CO2-absorber. The combined cooling and cleaning system (16) comprises a first gas-liquid contacting device (50) located upstream of the CO2-absorber and operative for cooling the process gas by means of a cooling liquid, and for absorbing into the cooling liquid sulphur dioxide of the process gas, such that a cooling liquid containing sulphate is obtained. The combined cooling and cleaning system (16) further comprises a second gas-liquid contacting device (94) located downstream of the CO2-absorber and operative for removing ammonia from the process gas, which has been treated in the CO2-absorber, by means of bringing the process gas containing ammonia into contact with the cooling liquid containing sulphate.
US07867320B2	Multi-port indexing drum valve for VPSA The present invention relates to a dual feed and dual vacuum four bed VPSA process for selectively adsorbing a component from a feed stream, e.g., nitrogen from air, to produce an oxygen-enriched gas stream using a multi-port indexing drum valve, a system comprising a multi-port indexing drum valve and method for operating such a system.
US07867316B2	Method of manufacturing metal nanoparticles The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing metal nanoparticles including: preparing a first solution including a metal precursor and a non-polar solvent; preparing a second solution with adding a capping molecule presented by the following Formula 1 into the first solution; and stirring the second solution with applying heat, wherein R1 and R2 are independently —COOH, —NH2 or —CH3 but R1 and R2 cannot be —COOH at the same time, and x and y is independently an integer from 3 to 20 respectively and x+y is 20 to 40.
US07867308B2	Cyclonic array such as for a vacuum cleaner A cyclonic cleaning stage for a, e.g., surface cleaning apparatus is provided. The cyclonic cleaning stage comprises a plurality of cyclones, which are integrally molded as a single body. Each cyclone has a cyclone body having an upper end, a lower end, a cyclone inlet, and a cyclone outlet. Each cyclone inlet has a top. A separately molded upper cover is mounted to the top of the single body at the upper ends. A separately molded lower cover is mounted on the single body at the lower ends of the cyclones.
US07867304B2	Method for cleaning the filters of a vacuum cleaner and vacuum cleaner for carrying out said method The invention relates to a method for cleaning the filter of a vacuum cleaner which has a dirt collecting container with a suction inlet, to which a suction tube is connected, the dirt collecting container being connected to at least one suction unit via at least one filter and at least one suction line, and at least one closing valve closing an external air inlet, via which the suction line is connected to an external air supply, in which method, for cleaning the filter, the closing valve is opened and the side of the filter that is oriented away from the dirt collecting container is impinged upon by external air. To develop the method further in such a way that all the filters present can be flowed through by suction air during suction operation, but suction operation does not have to be noticeably interrupted for filter cleaning, it is proposed according to the invention that, by opening the closing valve, the negative pressure that forms within the suction tube at a distance of 3 cm from the suction inlet, on connecting a standard suction tube, is lowered for at least 10 ms and at most 150 ms to values of less than 40% of the value forming when the closing valves are closed. The invention also relates to a vacuum cleaner for carrying out the method.
US07867303B2	Cerium oxide abrasive and method of polishing substrates A cerium oxide abrasive slurry having, dispersed in a medium, cerium oxide particles whose primary particles have a median diameter of from 30 nm to 250 nm, a maximum particle diameter of 600 nm or smaller, and a specific surface area of from 7 to 45 m.2/g, and slurry particles have a median diameter of from 150 nm to 600 nm. The cerium oxide particles have structural parameter Y, representing an isotropic microstrain obtained by an X-ray Rietveld method (with RIETAN-94), of from 0.01 to 0.70, and structural parameter X, representing a primary particle diameter obtained by an X-ray Rietveld method (with RIETAN-94), of from 0.08 to 0.3. The cerium oxide abrasive slurry is made by a method of obtaining particles by firing at a temperature of from 600° C. to 900° C. and then pulverizing, then dispersing the resulting cerium oxide particles in a medium.
US07867301B2	Pre-reformer A pre-reformer comprises a non-electrically conducting gas tight duct and an electrically conducting wire arranged in the duct. The electrically conducting wire is electrically isolated from the duct. The duct has an inlet for receiving a hydrocarbon fuel at a first end and an outlet for supplying a pre-reformed hydrocarbon fuel at a second end. At least the inner surface of the duct is chemically inert with respect to the hydrocarbon fuel. An electrical power supply is electrically connected to the electrically conducting wire and a control means controls the supply of electrical current through the electrically conducting wire to provide thermal decomposition of higher hydrocarbons in the hydrocarbon fuel. The performer reduces coking in associated fuel cells and other parts of a fuel cell system.
US07867294B2	Triazine compounds for removing acids and water from nonaqueous electrolytes for electrochemical cells A process is provided to produce non-aqueous electrolytic solution for use in batteries having low acid content and low water content. The invention involves removing acids and water from non-aqueous electrolytic solutions typically found in lithium or lithium-ion batteries by using nitrogen-containing compounds such as triazines. After treatment by a triazine such as melamine, the concentrations of acids and water in the electrolytic solutions are substantially decreased. The present invention provides a process to prepare extremely pure electrolytic solutions having low (<20 ppm) concentrations of both water and acids.
US07867291B2	Laser-welded solid electrolytic capacitor A solid electrolytic capacitor that is capable of withstanding laser welding without a significant deterioration in its electrical performance is provided. The capacitor contains an anode body, dielectric layer overlying the anode body, and a solid organic electrolyte layer overlying the dielectric layer. Furthermore, the capacitor of the present invention also employs a light reflective layer that overlies the solid organic electrolyte layer. The present inventors have discovered that such a light reflective layer may help reflect any light that inadvertently travels toward the capacitor element during laser welding. This results in reduced contact of the solid organic electrolyte with the laser and thus minimizes defects in the electrolyte that would have otherwise been formed by carbonization. The resultant laser-welded capacitor is therefore characterized by such performance characteristics as relatively low ESR and low leakage currents.
US07867282B2	Modular implant system and method with diaphyseal implant and adapter A modular implant system includes a set of anatomically-designed diaphyseal fitting and filling modular implant components and adapters for connection to another implant component such as a modular articular component, a segmental component or an intercalary component. The other end of each diaphyseal component is a tapered porous surface. The tapered porous surface is received with a tapered bore in the bone diaphysis that is prepared to match the size and shape of the tapered porous surface. The diaphyseal implant is easy to insert and remove, does not bind before fully seating, and is designed to prevent stress shielding. The diaphyseal sleeve eliminates the long lever arm created when fixation occurs only at the tip of the stem, and should therefore eliminate related stem loosening.
US07867281B2	Metallic bearings for joint replacement An orthopedic prosthesis comprising a first component having a soft metal bearing surface and a second component having a hard metal bearing surface, in particular a hip prosthesis comprising a spherical bearing member, a femoral stem, and a modular neck configured for interposition between the spherical bearing member and the stem, together with an acetabular implant having a concave bearing surface configured for articulation with the spherical bearing member. One of the spherical bearing member and the concave bearing surface comprises a soft metal bearing surface, the soft metal bearing surface having a hardness of at least about 20 Rc, while the other one of the spherical bearing member and the concave bearing surface comprises a hard metal bearing surface, the hard metal bearing surface having a hardness greater than the soft metal bearing surface by at least about 15 Rc.
US07867280B2	Methods for mounting and using tethered joint bearing implants A method includes the acts of sliding a first end of a flexible first line through a channel in a first bone anchor. A portion of the first line is connected to an implant having a top articular surface and an opposing bone apposition surface. The first line extending between the implant and the first bone anchor is then tensioned. While the tensioning force is maintained on the first line, the first line is secured to the first bone anchor.
US07867278B2	Intervertebral disc anulus implant Systems for minimally invasive disc augmentation include an anulus augmentation implant suited for minimally invasive deployment. A nucleus augmentation component may be included. The anulus augmentation implant shields weakened regions of the anulus fibrosis and/or resists escape of natural nucleus pulposus and/or the augmentation component. Methods and deployment devices are also disclosed. Several embodiments cause or allow fibrous or bony ingrowth in or around the augmentation.
US07867276B2	Dynamic intervertebral implant The implant includes two side walls resting against the vertebral end-plates and an intermediate wall joining the supporting walls. The implant can be deformed for insertion between the vertebrae to be treated to restore the attenuated mobility of the vertebrae, and includes mounting elements mounting on the vertebrae. The side walls have a curved shape, whose convexity is oriented towards the outside of the implant; the intermediate wall has a curved shape, whose convexity is oriented towards the outside of the implant such that it does not form any pronounced angles with the supporting side walls. The supporting side walls and the intermediate wall, have a partially oval shape; and the mounting elements are configured such that the implant can be mounted on the vertebrae.
US07867275B2	Coated implantable medical device method A coated implantable medical device 10 includes a structure 12 adapted for introduction into the vascular system, esophagus, trachea, colon, biliary tract, or urinary tract; at least one coating layer 16 posited on one surface of the structure; and at least one layer 18 of a bioactive material posited on at least a portion of the coating layer 16, wherein the coating layer 16 provides for the controlled release of the bioactive material from the coating layer. In addition, at least one porous layer 20 can be posited over the bioactive material layer 18, wherein the porous layer includes a polymer and provides for the controlled release of the bioactive material therethrough. Preferably, the structure 12 is a coronary stent. The porous layer 20 includes a polymer applied preferably by vapor or plasma deposition and provides for a controlled release of the bioactive material. It is particularly preferred that the polymer is a polyamide, parylene or a parylene derivative, which is deposited without solvents, heat or catalysts, and merely by condensation of a monomer vapor.
US07867274B2	Valve apparatus, system and method A venous valve with a frame and a cover on the frame for unidirectional flow of a liquid through the valve.
US07867273B2	Endoprostheses for peripheral arteries and other body vessels An endoprostheses for implanting in a body lumen, such as a coronary artery, peripheral artery, or other body lumen includes a plurality of elongate strut members spaced apart and extending along a longitudinal axis, each elongate strut member having a plurality of alternating peaks and valley. At least one flexible connecting link connects each elongate strut member to an adjacent elongate strut member. The elongate strut members and connecting links forming a generally tubular stent body having a first delivery diameter and a second implanted diameter. The positioning of the connecting links along the stent body produces desired stent performance characteristics.
US07867269B2	Flared stent and method for use A tubular stent that uniformly scaffolds vessel tissue within a region that significantly changes diameter or transverse dimension. The invention may be practiced in lumens that taper in either retrograde or antegrade directions, and the transverse dimensional change may be relatively linear or flared. A catheter for delivering the stent of the invention may include a balloon having a comparably flared shape and an inverse conical distal end. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).
US07867265B2	Bone clamp A bone clamp moving bone segments relative to each other. The clamp comprises a first and second branch and a bridge connecting the first and second branch. The bone clamp may have a first, undeformed state, where the branches may be angled or substantially parallel with respect to each other. The bone clamp may have a second, deformed state, where the branches may be moved from the first state. The bone clamp may be deformed using an instrument such as pliers. When the bone clamp is in the deformed state, the branches may be inserted into bone segments. Thereafter, the instrument may be disengage from the bone clamp and the clamp may return to its undeformed state. While returning to the first, undeformed, state the bone clamp may apply compressive or distraction forces on the bone segments, thereby moving the bone segments relative to each other.
US07867263B2	Implantable bone plate system and related method for spinal repair A system for performing surgical repair of the spine includes a distractor and a permanently implanted bone plate system. A surgical repair methodology is also disclosed that employs an implanted bone plate system with a substantially void internal volume which is attached to adjacent vertebrae subsequent to the distraction and/or adjustment of curvature of the vertebrae and prior to the excision of disc and/or end plate tissue through the bone plate. The device further facilitates the subsequent delivery of an interbody repair device for the purpose of either fusion or dynamic stabilization, such as by disc arthroplasty. The plate may be permanently implanted, such as when a fusion between the attached vertebral bodies is desired, but it need not be permanently implanted.
US07867262B2	Surgical fixing device for two bone parts A surgical fixing device for the fixing of adjacent bone parts is provided. A first engaging element is provided for engaging the underside of the two bone parts and a second engaging element is provided for engaging the upper side of the bone parts. A tensioning device connects the two engaging elements to each other through an interspace between the bone parts and permanently fixes the two engaging elements with respect to each other in a tensioned manner when they engage the underside and the upper side of the bone parts. To make it easier to apply the fixing device, at least one elastic tensioning element is provided which displaces a supporting surface applied to the upper side of the bone parts toward the first engaging element, so that the supporting surface and the first engaging element can be moved away from each other against the force of the elastic tensioning element.
US07867261B2	Bone plate with variable torsional stiffness at fixed angle holes A bone plate includes at least one torsional modification feature (TMF). Each TMF is structured to decrease the torsional rigidity of the plate relative to longitudinally opposite portions, but may be modified to increase the torsional rigidity thereat. Each TMF is defined by beams contiguous with the lateral sides of the plate, and an opening extending laterally therebetween. In a preferred embodiment, opposed projections extend into the opening to define threaded discontinuous wall portions for receiving an insert, such as a set screw. In one embodiment, bioabsorbable and/or bioactive inserts may be used to temporarily increase the torsional rigidity of the plate during initial fixation and thereafter have reduced torsional rigidity to mimic normal callus. The plate is preferably used with fixed angle fasteners that may be subject to high torsional loads post-operatively.
US07867259B2	Instruments and methods for stabilization of bony structures The present invention relates to methods and instruments for placing a brace or connecting element into an animal subject for engagement with anchors secured in the animal subject. The installation instrument includes anchor extensions coupled to the anchors. The instrument is movable with respect to the anchors to position the connecting element in a position more proximate the anchors.
US07867256B2	Device for dynamic stabilization of bones or bone fragments A device for dynamic stabilization of bones or bone fragments comprising at least one anchor member for attachment to vertebrae having an opening configured to receive a longitudinal member; and the longitudinal member being viscoelastically deformable and having a predetermined bending resilience.
US07867254B2	Surgical clip A surgical clip having a sliding state and a crimped state is adapted for use in a surgical procedure initially to slide along suture ends to an operative position and ultimately to crimp the suture ends at the operative position. A substrate, bendable between the sliding state and the crimped state carries at least one coating having either lubricious or traction enhancing properties. A second coating can be added to form a coating laminate with the outer coating having lubricious properties facilitating the sliding state and the inner coating having traction enhancing properties facilitating the crimped state.
US07867252B2	Hernia mesh tacks There are disclosed various embodiments of surgical tacks for use in surgical procedures. The tacks generally include a head and a barrel portion extending distally from the head. Preferably the head and the barrel portion define a throughbore for receipt of a drive instrument. A thread on the head is provided to engage threads in the installation tool. A tissue thread is provided on the barrel portion to engage tissue. Distal and proximal surfaces of the tissue thread may be oriented at various angles relative to the barrel portion. There is also disclosed an insertion instrument to insert one or more tacks as well as a method of use. There is further disclosed a model device for use in explaining the operation of the instrument.
US07867249B2	Clip applier and methods of use An apparatus for delivering a closure element into an opening formed in a blood vessel or other body lumen and methods for manufacturing and using same. The apparatus is configured to retain the closure element such that the closure element is disposed substantially within the apparatus. The apparatus also can engage, and position the closure element substantially adjacent to, the blood vessel wall adjacent to the opening. During deployment of the closure element, the apparatus expands the closure element beyond a natural cross-section of the closure element such that the closure element, when deployed, is configured to engage a significant amount of the blood vessel wall and/or tissue. Engaging the blood vessel wall and/or tissue, the closure element is further configured to return to the natural cross-section, thereby drawing the engaged blood vessel wall and/or tissue substantially closed and/or sealed, such that hemostasis within the opening is enhanced.
US07867247B2	Methods for embolic protection during treatment of a stenotic lesion in a body vessel A method for embolic protection during treatment of a stenotic lesion in a body vessel is provided. The method comprises disposing an embolic protection device in an undeployed state in the body vessel. The device comprises a basket with a set of struts extending from a distal end to a proximal end of the basket, the struts being arranged to define an opening at the distal end, the basket having an expanded state and a collapsed state. A core wire with a distal end and a proximal end is able to reciprocate through the opening at the distal end of the basket. A filter bag is attached only at the distal end of the core wire, the filter bag being located distally to the distal end of the basket when in the collapsed state. The method further comprises moving the core wire relative to the basket to expand the basket and the filter bag in a deployed state downstream from the stenotic lesion to capture emboli during treatment of the stenotic lesion.
US07867245B2	Venous filters Venous filters having at least two struts (110) each having a connected end and a non-connected end, wherein each of the struts includes a strut portion and an anchor portion (116), and wherein the strut portion and the anchor portion are attached via an electrolytically active thread (221, 222); and a head (118) that connects the connected ends of the struts, wherein the strut portion can be separated from the anchor portion at least in part by the application of an electrical current. The invention also includes a venous filter having at least two struts, wherein each of the struts includes a temperature sensitive portion and an anchor portion; wherein the anchor portion is separated from the temperature sensitive portion at least in part by changing the temperature around at least the temperature sensitive portion. Also included is a venous filter having a web (650) of dissolvable material; and at least two anchors (618), wherein the at least two anchors are configured to retain the web within a mammalian blood vessel.
US07867244B2	Lancing devices having lancet ejection assembly A lancing device is provided for use with a removable lancet. The lancing device includes a housing and a lancet carrier slidably disposed within the housing and adapted to receive the lancet. A user-actuated ejection slide is mounted to the housing to eject the lancet from the lancet carrier. A locking member is pivotally mounted to the housing. As the ejection slide moves forward, it rotates the locking member to block forward movement of the lancet carrier during ejection. The locking member is configured so that substantially all of the force exerted on it by the lancet carrier is transmitted to the housing via the pivotal mounting.
US07867243B2	Tissue grasping and clipping/stapling device A tissue grasping and clipping/stapling device includes a grasping jaw assembly for grasping tissue, and a fastener delivery and forming assembly adapted for applying a fastener to tissue grasped with the jaw assembly. The jaw assembly has a spring loaded closing mechanism to secure different thicknesses of tissue and the fastener feeding and applying mechanism is adaptable to different extents of closing of the jaw assembly. The device is particularly well suited for miniature clipping/stapling such as anastomosis of coronary blood vessels and the like.
US07867237B2	Arthroplasty revision device and method A surgical instrument for revising/removing an artificial disc or removing/replacing a core of an artificial disc includes a pair of tips, each tip having a pair of tines and a stop defining a proximal end of each tine. The stop of at least one tip is abutted against an interior surface of an implanted endplate of an artificial disc, whereby tines of the tip can support the artificial disc. The tip is separated from another, opposing tip, whereby opposing implanted endplates, each of which is supported by pairs of tines of a tip, are separated, thereby distracting vertebrae between which the endplates are implanted. Upon distracting the disc space, the core can be revised or removed from between the endplates of the artificial disc. Following core removal, the endplates of the artificial disc are revised (repositioned), removed or replaced.
US07867236B2	Instruments and methods for preparing a joint articulation surface for an implant A method includes resecting a portion of an articulation surface of a bone at a joint. A guide template is positioned on the resected articulation surface. The guide template at least partially bounds an opening that is disposed over the resected articulation surface. A portion of the resected articulation surface of the bone bounded within the opening of the guide template is then removed through the opening of the guide template.
US07867233B2	Transpedicular intervertebral disk access methods and devices Methods and devices for treating diseases and conditions that change the spacial relationship between the vertebral bodies and the intervertebral disks, or that cause instability of the vertebral column, or both, and a method and devices that allow the surgeon to access the intervertebral space to restore a more normal three-dimensional configuration of the space, with or without additionally fusing two adjacent vertebrae.
US07867232B2	Fixation technology The invention relates to a method for the repair of damaged tissue present at or on the surface of bone in an animal, the method comprising forming a narrow groove around at least part of said damaged tissue, which groove extends into the bone below the damaged tissue, replacing the tissue around which the groove extends by at least one layer of biocompatible replacement material, and anchoring the material to the bone by the use of retaining means extending from the material into the groove; instruments for use in the repair of damaged tissue and kits comprising said instruments.
US07867231B2	Femoral intramedullary rod system A femoral intramedullary rod system capable of treating a variety of femoral bone fractures using a uniform intramedullary rod design. The system generally comprising an intramedullary rod defining an opening having an upper surface and a transverse member including a bone engaging portion and a connection portion defining a thru-hole with the nail sized to pass therethrough. A pin is selectively coupled to the transverse member to rigidly assemble the transverse member to the nail when the nail is passed through the thru-hole and the pin is received within the opening. In an alternative design, an epiphyseal stabilizer is joined to the nail by a locking member.
US07867230B2	Bipolar forceps This invention provides bipolar forceps that are used for coagulation, dissection or similar surgical manipulation by the application of a high-frequency current in a surgical operation, which suppresses attachment and sticking of burned protein to arm tip end portions irrespective of the properties of the metal material forming the arms. The bipolar forceps according to the present invention have on each of opposed surfaces 1a of the tip end portions 1 of a pair of arms a composite plating film 3 composed of a noble metal material 3a and nonconductive fine particles 3b, and a laminate plating film 4 of a noble metal material formed on the composite plating film 3.
US07867220B2	Catheter assembly with catheter handle and container A catheter assembly including a catheter handle and a catheter assembly with a catheter element and a container for accommodation of the catheter element. In a first compact configuration, the catheter element and the catheter handle are separated to reduce the length of the catheter assembly. The catheter element is in the container and the catheter handle is attached on the outside of the container assembly. The catheter handle can be detached and interlocked with the catheter element to constitute, in a second configuration, a catheter device.
US07867216B2	Emboli protection device and related methods of use An evacuation sheath assembly and method of treating occluded vessels which reduces the risk of distal embolization during vascular interventions is provided. A method of treating a lesion within a blood vessel, e.g., a coronary artery, includes advancing a sheath into the blood vessel, the sheath having a lumen extending to a port at a distal end of the sheath and further having an occlusive member within a distal region of the sheath. The occlusive member is then positioned within the blood vessel proximal to the lesion. Subsequently, the occlusive member is deployed, thereby stopping antegrade flow across the lesion. A contrast agent can then be infused through a port in the sheath. A dilation balloon is then advanced across the lesion. Suction is then applied to the lumen to induce retrograde flow across the lesion after dilating the lesion.
US07867215B2	Method and device for fluid transfer in an infusion system A fluid transfer device for use in an infusion system having a first end and a second end for coupling to an injection port of the infusion system. The device further includes at least a first member, a hollow needle attached to the first member, and a second member telescopically displaceable in relation to the first member, allowing the hollow needle to penetrate a flexible barrier member sealing the injection port thereby creating a fluid passage into the infusion system. The first end has a connecting portion for attachment to a drug bottle containing a fixed dose of a medical substance, and the second end has a flexible membrane able to be pressed against the flexible barrier member with a pressure sufficient to create a double-membrane sealing around the hollow needle.
US07867213B2	Disposable diaper in particular for incontinent care A disposable diaper (2), in particular, for incontinent care, comprises a belt (10) having belt sections (101, 102), wherein at least one of the belt sections (101, 102) comprises a separating means (T, L) with which at least one terminal section (1011, 1021) may be separated to match the length of the belt to various hip sizes.
US07867209B2	Tampon pledget for increased bypass leakage protection There is provided a tampon pledget that includes one or more enhanced features that result in the pledget exhibiting increased bypass leakage prevention. These enhanced features may include, but are not limited to, geometry, absorption, and any combinations thereof. There is also provided one or more methods for constructing a tampon pledget having increased bypass leakage protection.
US07867206B2	Vacuum therapy and cleansing dressing for wounds A bandage for use with a vacuum source includes a wound dressing member to be placed in contact with a wound surface and a suction port associated with the wound dressing member. The member is configured with spacers contacting the wound surface to define suction space between the member and the wound surface. The member also includes holes in communication with the suction space. Passageways of the bandage are provided between the suction port and the holes.
US07867202B2	Threaded rod and dose setting mechanism for an injection device A threaded rod for an injection device, wherein the rod includes a thread on an external surface, the thread supporting or carrying, at least partially, engaging elements and/or teeth. In one embodiment, the present invention encompasses a dosing mechanism for an injection device, including a rotational defining element which enables a threaded rod to be rotated in one direction, rotation being blocked or prevented in the counter direction by at least one blocking element which co-operates with a thread of the threaded rod, wherein the thread carries, supports or has associated teeth and/or engaging elements. In one embodiment, the present invention encompasses an injection device including at least one engaging element which co-operates with a blocking element associated with a threaded rod, whereby the threaded rod is rotatable in one direction in relation to the injection device, rotation in the opposite direction being prevented.
US07867197B2	Single-dose syringe driver Various methods and devices for driving fluid from a syringe are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a syringe driver is provided having a frame that is adapted to seat a syringe, a driver that is slidably disposed within the frame and that is adapted to seat a plunger of a syringe, and a puller that is slidably disposed within the frame and that has a latch formed thereon for mating to an engagement element on the frame. The device can also include a force-delivery element, such as a constant force spring, that is coupled to and extends between the driver and the puller. In use, the puller is movable between a first position, in which the force-delivery element is in a resting position, and a second position, in which the latch on the puller mates to the engagement element on the frame to expand the force-delivery element thereby causing the force-delivery element to pull the driver and drive a plunger into a barrel of a syringe seated within the frame to deliver fluid from the syringe to a patient at a constant rate.
US07867195B2	Partial aortic occlusion devices and methods for cerebral perfusion augmentation Methods are provided for partial aortic obstruction for cerebral perfusion augmentation in patients suffering from global or focal cerebral ischemia. Alternatively, the methods can be used to partially obstruct aortic blood flow to condition the spinal cord to secrete neuroprotective agents prior to abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Partial obstruction of a vessel can be accomplished by a device comprising an elongate catheter and a distally mounted expandable member. The expandable member may comprise one or two balloons. Other medical devices, such as an angioplasty, stent, or atherectomy catheter, can be inserted distal the expandable member to provide therapeutic intervention.
US07867190B2	Covered suction device A suction device which can protected before and after use. The suction device includes an elongated suction tube having a suction tip at one end. A retractable, protective sheath is connected to the tube and extends over the exposed length of the suction tube. A tip protector extends from the free end of the sheath, and includes an interference structure in the form of a plurality of spaced ribs protruding inwardly to engage and grip the suction tip. A hollow sheath housing is secured to the free end and a sheath inserter is secured to the suction tube proximate the connection end, with the sheath housing and the sheath inserter being shaped to insert the retractable sheath in the hollow sheath housing when the sheath is in a retracted position. The tip protector and the sheath housing can be portions of a unitary structure.
US07867189B2	System including machine interface for pumping cassette-based therapies A dialysis machine includes: a hardware unit including at least one pump actuator, at least one valve actuator and a cassette interface, the cassette interface including: (i) a plate that abuts the cassette; (ii) at least one pump aperture defined by the plate; (iii) at least one pump head moveable out of and retractable into the at least one pump aperture to operate a pumping portion of the cassette; (iv) at least one valve aperture defined by the plate; (v) at least one valve apparatus moveable out of and retractable into the at least one valve aperture to operate a valve portion of the cassette; (vi) at least one sensor aperture defined by the plate; and (vii) at least one sensor located in the least one sensor aperture, the at least one sensor operable with a sensor portion of the cassette.
US07867188B2	System and disposable for direct heating for infusate and intravenous fluids and a method therefor A disposable warmer cartridge is used to heat fluids to be infused to the patient to prevent hypothermia in the patient. The cartridge has in its chamber a pair of spaced in parallel electrodes that have substantially the same dimension. When RF power is fed to the electrodes, an alternating electric field is generated between the electrodes to directly heat the fluid that is in the chamber. The heating of the fluid is achieved in a substantially instantaneous manner by controlling the energization of the electrodes through the distributed impedance of the electric field between the electrodes. Heat is readily controlled by modulating the RF power fed to the electrodes. Feedback to control the temperature of the fluid in the cartridge may be provided by non-contact and direct contact sensor(s).
US07867186B2	Devices and methods for treatment of ocular disorders Intraocular implants and delivery instruments are disclosed for treating ophthalmic conditions and ocular disorders, such as glaucoma. The implants are configured to extend between the anterior chamber of the eye and a fluid outflow path or physiologic outflow pathway, such as Schlemm's canal, of the eye for enhancing outflow of aqueous from the anterior chamber so as to reduce intraocular pressure. The implants can have features for anchoring the implant into Schlemm's canal as well as preventing the walls of Schlemm's canal from closing the outlet of the implants. The delivery instruments can be steerable so as to make implantation easier. Additionally, the instruments can be configured to hold a plurality of implants so that multiple implants can be implanted through one incision without removing the instrument from the incision between serial implantations.
US07867181B2	Neck support A neck support/brace for protecting a neck has a flexible collar with a top wall, bottom wall, sidewalls and sectional walls disposed therebetween that form compartments therein. A plurality of cells are disposed within the compartment. Each of the fluid cells have a valve element disposed therein. When the pressure acting upon the cells is below a threshold pressure, fluid or air flows through the valve element to allow movement of the neck. Alternatively when the pressure on the cells is above the threshold pressure the valve element closes preventing fluid or air flow out of the fluid cell thus causing the cell to stay inflated and provide resistance to a neck movement.
US07867178B2	Apparatus for generating shock waves with piezoelectric fibers integrated in a composite Apparatus for Generating Shock Waves directed at an area of a human or animal body to be treated using piezoelectric fibers, for generating shock waves. The piezofibers integrated in a composite material are controlled for this, and together with a control unit they form the shock-wave generating part.
US07867177B2	Method for the identification, diagnosis and treatment of somatic dysfunctions A method for etiologic diagnosis of somatic dysfunctions of a patient and a therapeutic method for correction of said somatic dysfunctions, comprising the steps of identifying the presence of at least one body asymmetry or anomalous spatial arrangement while the patient is looking ahead in an erect position with relaxed shoulders; identifying at least one dynamic muscle which shows hyper-tonicity with respect to a corresponding contralateral muscle while the patient is in said position; identifying at least one peripheral receptor related to said muscular hyper-tonicity; and performing an exteroceptive, pressoceptive, and/or proprioceptive stimulation of at least one peripheral receptor identified as related to patient's somatic dysfunctions.
US07867174B2	Systems and methods for obtaining analytes from a body A method may include collecting at least one analyte from within a body, ejecting the collected at least one analyte from the body through at least one dermal layer of the body, and receiving the ejected at least one analyte outside the body. A system may include a means for collecting at least one analyte from within a body, a means for ejecting the collected at least one analyte from the body through at least one dermal layer of the body, and a means for receiving the ejected at least one analyte outside the body.
US07867171B2	Management of gastro-intestinal disorders Methods of determining gastro-intestinal conditions by performing a succession of breath tests or others tests, particularly for determining the gastric emptying or gastric accomodation condition of a subject. Methods of performing successive gastric emptying tests with different test meals are also presented, enabling the gastric accommodation to be determined. The effects of different test means on the results is presented. Novel substrates for use in such tests are suggested, including the use of micro-encapsulation. Breath tests for the detection of bacterial overgrowth, lactose intolerance and combinations thereof are presented.
US07867166B2	Statistical estimation of ultrasonic propagation parameters for aberration correction In estimation of an aberration in propagation of an ultrasonic wave from an aperture through an aberration path, the aperture is modeled as a plurality of sources and receivers. The frequency-domain magnitude of the aberration is estimated by normalizing the scattered signal power spectrum. The frequency-domain phase of the aberration is estimated by a recursion using cross spectra of signals at neighboring receivers.
US07867159B2	Centrifuge system utilizing disposable components and automated processing of blood to collect platelet rich plasma A centrifugal method, and corresponding system, for processing blood to collect platelet rich plasma. A separation chamber is filled with blood from a fill syringe by rotating the separation chamber at a fill rotation rate and pumping the blood from the fill syringe. A soft spin is used to initially separate red blood cells from platelets by spinning the separation chamber at a soft spin rate. A percentage of the blood is drawn from the separation chamber back into the fill syringe to remove separated red blood cells. A second portion of the separated blood is drawn from the separation chamber until a red blood cell/platelet interface is detected. A hard spin is performed by spinning the separation chamber at a higher rate and connecting tubing is cleared of red blood cells by drawing a predetermined clearing volume. The platelet rich plasma is then collected in the collection syringe.
US07867158B2	Device for separating impurities from the lubricating oil of an internal combustion engine The invention relates to a device for separating impurities from the lubricating oil of an internal combustion engine. The device comprises a filter insert on the bottom and a centrifuge thereabove that is provided with a rotor which is driven by means of penetrating lubricating oil. The filter insert and the centrifuge are disposed on top of each other in a common two piece housing that is closed during operation of the device and encompasses a removable top screw cap and a fixed bottom housing part. A removable intermediate lid is positioned between the filter insert and the centrifuge within the housing. The centrifuge, the intermediate lid, and the filter insert can be removed from the housing in the open state thereof. Furthermore, the screw cap and the intermediate lid of the device are provided with detachable connecting members which engage with each other and transmit axial tractive forces or axial tractive and compressive forces.
US07867157B2	Folding machine with a rotary stand The folding machine has a cross fold module which includes a cross-fold folding blade (18), a sheet-supporting device (38) which is arranged below the cross-fold folding blade (18) and on which an incoming sheet comes to rest, and a roller frame (27) which is arranged below the sheet-supporting device (38) and into which a sheet is introduced by the cross-fold folding blade (18). A three-fold module (22) with a three-fold folding blade (24) arranged perpendicularly with respect to the cross-fold folding blade (18) is arranged downstream of the roller frame (27). The three-fold module (22) and the roller frame (27) are arranged on a rotary stand (20) which is rotatable through at least 180 about a vertical axis (28).
US07867153B2	Gymnastic machine A gymnastic machine (1) includes a first frame (10), a first support member (22) carried by the first frame (10) by means of a guiding device (20) to be movable along at least one given direction (D), the first support member (22) being shaped to be interfaced with a first body region of a user and a bearing member (30) being rotatably supported by the first frame (10) around an axis (32) transverse to the given direction (D), the bearing member (30) being shaped to be interfaced to a second body region.
US07867152B1	Multi-axis, multi-planar multi-exercise collapsible exercise device A collapsible device includes extendable hydraulic cylinders mounted on a base by swivel joints and which are amenable to use with a plurality of different grips whereby the device is amenable to a wide variety of exercises.
US07867150B2	Resistance apparatus of a pendulum mechanism of an exercise equipment A resistance apparatus of a pendulum mechanism of an exercise equipment, wherein the pendulum of the pendulum mechanism creates an expected coupled swing action responsive to the reciprocating movement done by a certain exercise equipment when subject to the action of a force, thereby providing a proper inertia movement and a gravity load action. A resistance adjuster having a telescopic rod is pivotally coupled between the pendulum and the base frame of the exercise equipment for providing a proper exercise resistance.
US07867147B2	Positioning apparatus for foldable running machine A positioning apparatus for a foldable running machine includes a base, a running platform, and a folding assembly. The running platform is pivotally connected to the base. The folding assembly is connected to the running platform and includes at least one slide guide rail, at least one cylinder, and at least one rod. The cylinder is slidably coupled to the slide guide rail, wherein both the cylinder and the slide guide rail are parallel to the extending direction of the running platform. The rod is pivotally connected to the cylinder and pivotally connected to the base.
US07867143B2	Climbing tree The invention is related to climbing trees. Climbing trees are used for a variety of purposes—cats and other pets and small or slightly older children can derive a lot of pleasure from activities in a climbing tree. Using a specially designed bracket the shape of the climbing tree can be expanded and changed in an almost unlimited range of combinations. The climbing tree can be adapted to the physical aspects of its surroundings. These make the climbing tree exceedingly useful and practical. The new invention consists of different types of brackets to be secured to the columns and where the brackets are the link to new imaginative additions to the climbing tree. The invention can fulfil claims in which the column can have any shape imaginable—e.g. square, triangular—such that the brackets are simply physically shaped to suit that of the column.
US07867142B2	Method and apparatus for managing exercise state of user A method and system for providing a sound source suitable for an exercise state of a user by recognizing the exercise state of the user by measuring heart rate and exercise speed of the user. The method includes: determining a standard heart rate; measuring a heart rate of a user; measuring an exercise speed of the user; comparing the measured heart rate and the standard heart rate; when a difference between the both heart rates is more than a predetermined value, generating compensated exercise speed information based on the difference and the measured exercise speed; and replaying a sound source according to the compensated exercise speed information. According to the exercise state management method, heart rate suitable for the type, intensity, or time of exercise selected by the user and a sound source suitable for exercise speed are provided, thereby improving satisfaction and effectiveness of the exercise.
US07867138B2	Method of controlling a vehicle transmission A method of controlling a vehicle transmission, the vehicle transmission including a power shift gearbox, the power shift gearbox having a power shift input shaft, a power shift output shaft, power shift input gearing and power shift output gearing, and a plurality of power shift clutches to drivingly connect the power shift input gearing and the power shift output gearing, and a master clutch operable to connect the power shift input shaft to a prime mover, the method comprising the steps of, disengaging the master clutch, and engaging at least two of the power shift clutches.
US07867137B2	Method for the operation of a drivetrain A method for operating a motor vehicle drivetrain with at least an automatic transmission and a drive motor. The automatic transmission includes at least five shift elements to transmit torque and/or power. In each of the forward and reverse gears, at least three shift elements are engaged and the remaining shift elements are disengaged. Two consecutive gearshifts are carried out through selection of the five shift elements. During a first gearshift, implemented as a multiple gearshift, a subsequent second gearshift, implemented as either a single or multiple gearshift, is prepared. During the first gearshift, a first shift element is disengaged, a second shift element is engaged, a third shift element is prepared for disengagement in a subsequent second gearshift and a fourth shift element is prepared for engagement. Further, during the first gearshift and the subsequent second gearshift, a fifth shift element is retained in at least a substantially engaged state.
US07867134B2	Control method for improving fuel efficiency of hybrid electric vehicle The present invention provides a control method for a hybrid electric vehicle According to a control method of the present invention, the fuel efficiency is improved by extending a fuel cut operation in a wider transmission range and the impact caused by the extended fuel cut operation is reduced by reaction control of a motor operating in the opposite direction to engine torque.
US07867122B2	Power transmission system with continuously variable speed control The present invention is directed toward an apparatus for continuous speed variation of an output member with respect to a primary input member. In particular, the present invention provides a device having an output that rotates at reduced speed and increased torque relative to its prime input through the low friction, rolling engagement of its members, or alternatively, at increased speed and reduced torque for overdrive applications. Furthermore, the speed of the output member may be varied continuously and infinitely between the apparatus's lowest and highest ratio via a secondary input member and its low friction, rolling engagement with the device's members.
US07867117B2	In-line belt driven tille drive clutch A clutching mechanism (20) for a cultivating tiller. The tiller has an engine (16) mounted on a frame (12) with a rotatable output shaft (40), a rotatable working shaft (22), and a transmission (18) operatively connecting to the working shaft, the transmission having a rotatable transmission shaft (42) coaxially aligned with the output shaft of the engine. The clutching mechanism includes an upper half pulley (52) attached to the output shaft, and a lower half pulley (54) attached to the transmission shaft, wherein the upper half pulley and lower half pulley are coaxially positioned in a facing but non-contacting relationship such that the upper half pulley is able to freely rotate with respect to the lower half pulley. The clutching mechanism also includes a belt (62) positioned between the upper half pulley and the lower half pulley, and a tensioning assembly (70) configured to selectively tension the belt so that the belt transmits rotation of the upper half pulley to the lower half pulley.
US07867116B2	Game ball lacing A game ball including a casing and a lacing. The casing has a laced region. The lacing is coupled to the laced region of the casing. The lacing has an exposed surface comprised of an outer material that is compressible, resilient, and tactile. The outer material has a modulus of elasticity of between 14 and 170 kg/cm2 and a tensile strength between 100 and 650 kg/cm2. At least a portion of the lacing can have an exposed pebbled surface.
US07867102B2	Golf swing training and exercise system, device and kit A golf swing training and exercise system includes an optically reflective device, a golf device, a pair of light source devices, and a resistance device. The golf device has a center section that is placed on the back of a user during a golf swing training and exercise routine, two end sections extending outwardly from the center section, and a pair of intermediate sections that are disposed between and interconnect the center section and the respective end sections to one another and on which the user's hands or forearms are placed during the golf swing training and exercise routine. The light source devices are connected to respective distal ends of the end sections for projecting light beams on a reflective surface of the optically reflective device during a golf swing training and exercise routine. The resistance device is removably connected to the golf device to apply a resistance in at least one direction of movement of the golf device during the golf swing training and exercise routine.
US07867101B2	Family combined ball pool structure A family combined ball pool structure is provided. The ball pool structure is formed by stacking a fence frame, an inflatable pad and an inflatable wall. The fence frame is an enclosed cloth screen frame having a bottom layer and a circumference side. The bottom and circumference side inside the fence frame are formed by the inflatable pad and the inflatable wall, respectively. Therefore, a child is placed in a safe space formed by the inflatable pad and the inflatable wall, which form a safe and fall-proof family ball pool with the enclosure of the fence frame.
US07867097B2	Flexible bushing system A flexible bushing arrangement (30; 30′) has an inner bushing (32; 32′), an outer bushing (34; 34′) which surrounds the inner bushing and delimits an annular space (36; 36′, 36″) therewith, and a resilient connecting body (38; 38) which is arranged in the annular space (36; 36′, 36″) and connects the two bushings (32, 34; 32′, 34′) to each other. In end regions of the annular space (36; 36′, 36″) spacers (40, 42; 40′, 42′) are arranged which allow only limited radial relative movements of the two bushings (32, 34; 32′, 34′) in relation to each other. Each of the spacers (40, 42; 40′, 42′) is constructed in one piece with one of the bushings (32, 34; 32′, 34′) and is arranged in such a way that it may only act on the other bushing (34, 32; 34′, 32′) via the connecting body (38, 38′). Each of the spacers (40, 42) is constructed in the manner of a toothed ring.
US07867095B2	Candle radio Systems and methods for providing communications using the candle of a gaming machine are disclosed. A candle radio includes an antenna and transceiver within a housing, as well as one or more light sources and a mounting mechanism configured to mount the candle radio to a respective gaming machine or terminal. The transceiver and antenna are adapted to facilitate radio communications with at least one external transponder/transceiver, which can include wireless system access points and/or additional candle radios associated with other gaming machines. The antenna can be located at the top of the candle radio, while the transceiver can be located within a base at the bottom. An input connector on the transceiver facilitates communications with the gaming machine MGC. The candle radio can be adapted to split radio communications into portions and retransmit one or more portions of a communication, which may be done at differing radio frequencies.
US07867088B2	Interactive game system using game data encoded within a video signal An interactive game system includes a specially prepared DVD game disk with video images such as of a game show, and game data and instructions encoded within the VBI data on the disk. A game control unit receives all of the video signals recorded on from the DVD including both video images and the VBI data, extracts the VBI data, and uses the VBI data in conjunction with a plurality of handheld player inputs to allow users to select and answer game questions. The game control unit keeps track of whether the player inputs were correct or incorrect, the players' cumulative scores in accordance with their answers, and displays the players cumulative scores as video overlay on top of the recorded video images to be sent to a video display such as a standard television set. The game control unit controls chapter selection on the user's particular DVD player model via a programmable wireless transmitter, and performs other logic, video, and audio generating and processing functions to allow a highly interactive game playing experience for multiple players.
US07867083B2	Methods and apparatus for limiting access to games using biometric data In a method of operating an authentication server, where the authentication server operatively coupled to a network, a request to determine whether a person is allowed to play a game on a gaming system may be received from a computer via the network. The request may include biometric data associated with the person. The received biometric data may be compared with data in a database that includes biometric data of persons allowed to play games on the gaming system. It may be determined whether the person is allowed to play a game on the gaming system based on the comparison of the received biometric data with the data in the database. A message may be transmitted to the computer via the network that indicates whether the person is allowed to play a game on the gaming system. Additionally, it may be determined whether a gaming unit on which the person desires to play a game is in a permitted location for playing the game. A message may be transmitted to the computer via the network that indicates whether the gaming unit on which the person desires to play a game is in a permitted location.
US07867081B2	System for join-up incentive messaging and bonusing Uncarded play can be monitored by a gaming device or network to target incentives aimed at achieving player tracking system enrollment. A player is permitted to begin gaming device play. The player's play is monitored for triggering events suggesting a player's value to the casino and prompting notification of join-up incentives to the player. The player can be solicited to enroll and can be awarded join-up incentives following enrollment.
US07867078B2	Method and system for providing a feature game using a comparison parameter In the application, embodiments for providing an interdependent combination of a primary game and a bonus feature are described. According to one embodiment of the invention, a method comprises the steps of conducting the primary game, conducting the bonus feature upon fulfillment of a triggering criterion, resuming conduct of the primary game upon fulfillment of primary-game ticket criterion with a bonus-feature resuming criterion being established during the conduct of the bonus feature, and resuming conduct of the bonus feature upon fulfillment of the bonus-feature resuming criterion. Between the times the primary game and the bonus feature are resumed, data relative to the bonus feature are maintained to permit resuming of the bonus feature in the state is was left. Embodiments of gaming machines, gaming devices, and game servers involved in providing embodiments of the invention are also described.
US07867071B1	Corn cob collection device with stowable conveyor system having positive de-husking capability with automatic door system A cob collection device for use with a corn harvester, includes a conveyor system including a portion for positively removing or cleaning attached husks from the cobs after removal of corn therefrom by the harvester, the conveyor system including an upwardly inclined conveyor portion operably movable in cooperation with the collection device for distributing delivery of cobs thereto, the cob collection device having a wall portion including an aperture for receiving the inclined conveyor portion, and a door for closing the aperture when the conveyor is removed, allowing unloading of the collection device, and stowage of the conveyor in a compacted manner to facilitate travel under bridges, utility wires, doorways and the like.
US07867069B2	Method of cutting beef chuck roll and beef products produced by the method A method of cutting a beef chuck roll to provide a plurality of higher value beef products includes the steps of: cutting the chuck roll along at least three cut lines to separate the chuck roll into four primary muscles, a first or eye muscle, a second or rhomboideus muscle, a third or splenius muscle and a fourth or serratus ventralis muscle; and trimming each of the four primary muscles to remove excess fat, seams, silver and other undesirable components. Some of the primary muscles are tenderized and marketed as boneless chuck roast products. Some of the primary muscles are cut across the grain into boneless chuck steaks.
US07867065B2	Hand-held power tool The present invention is based on a hand-held power tool with a housing (12), an oscillating body (18) provided for oscillation relative to the housing (12), and connecting means (22) which fasten the oscillating body (18) to the housing (12).It is provided that the connecting means (22) include a receiving part (26) which can be installed in the housing (12) and an oscillating element (28) which is separate from the receiving part (26) and is provided for deformation.
US07867063B2	Substrate holding apparatus and polishing apparatus A substrate holding apparatus is for holding a substrate such as a semiconductor wafer in a polishing apparatus for polishing the substrate to a flat finish. The substrate holding apparatus comprises a vertically movable member, and an elastic member for defining a chamber. The elastic member comprises a contact portion which is brought into contact with the substrate, and a circumferential wall extending upwardly from the contact portion and connected to the vertically movable member. The circumferential wall has a stretchable and contractible portion which is stretchable and contractible vertically.
US07867061B2	Texturizing surfaces Methods for applying surface texture to the exterior of bodily implants, as well as implants made by the methods described.
US07867060B2	Retainer ring used for polishing a structure for manufacturing magnetic head, and polishing method using the same Disclosed is a polishing method for polishing a surface of a structure for magnetic-head manufacture by CMP in the process of manufacturing a magnetic head using a ceramic substrate made of a ceramic material containing AlTiC, the structure including the ceramic substrate and one or more layers formed thereon, and having the surface to be polished. The polishing method uses a retainer ring made of a ceramic material containing AlTiC.
US07867055B2	Sounding toy In order to provide a never boring toy which moves to the singing voice or accompaniment music and which people can enjoy karaoke, the present invention provides a sounding toy having a driving mechanism which has a sound synthesizing device and loudspeakers which are integrated with the toy in the interior thereof and a sound mixing circuit provided in the sound synthesizing device, the loudspeaker and a handy microphone are connectable to the sound synthesizing device, wherein in the sound mixing circuit, an analog signal inputted from a microphone terminal and an analog signal inputted from the audio terminal are superimposed in a mixer circuit and are amplified from the loudspeaker put into foot parts of the toy through a main amplifier, and then a driver applies a voltage to a power source of the driving mechanism and the toy is operated by the driving mechanism.
US07867052B2	Method of manufacturing support member A method of high precisely manufacturing, for an electron beam displaying apparatus, a support member which is equipped with an electrode on the surface thereof is provided. In this method, an electrode region is formed on the surface of a base material, the surface of the base material is ground by using a grinding stone having a convex portion, and at the same time a fringe portion of the electrode region is ground to form an electrode.
US07867045B2	Electrical connectors and assemblies having socket members An electrical connector is provided and includes a housing that has a mating face configured to engage a mating connector. The electrical connector also includes a plurality of conductors that extend through the housing and a plurality of socket members that project from the mating face. Each socket member is electrically coupled to one of the conductors and includes a shaft that is configured to be inserted into a cavity of the mating connector. The shaft forms a passage that is configured to receive an associated mating contact held within the cavity for establishing an electrical connection.
US07867042B2	Connector assembly with a low profile terminal position assurance member An electrical connector assembly is described which has an electrical connector housing and a TPA. The electrical connector housing has terminal receiving cavities with openings which access the cavities. Latching projections are located within the openings. A TPA is insertable into the electrical connector housing and has latching which cooperates with the latching projections.
US07867041B1	System and method for a terminal assembly The present disclosure provides a mounting base, a buss bar with slots and a slotted extension therebetween, and a terminal lug coupled to the buss bar, the terminal lug being adapted to couple directly a conductor to the buss bar at the slotted extension without intermediate interfaces between the conductor and the buss bar. The terminal lug includes a bottom dimensioned to fit on the underside of the slotted extension, and sides dimensioned to fit inside the slots. The terminal lug is restrained from sliding off the slotted extension by being disposed in a lug clearance recess formed in the mounting base that is at a lower elevation than a buss bar support surface. Thus, the system and method provides a direct connection between the conductor and the buss bar, while retaining the terminal lug to the buss bar before the terminal lug is tightened to the buss bar.
US07867039B2	Bulb socket Provided is a bulb socket. The bulb socket includes a housing formed as a single piece using a single mold assembly, a couple of lamp holders, a double contact terminal, and a single contact terminal.
US07867035B2	Modular outlet In conjunction with a wiring in a house carrying data network signal, a modular outlet (100) includes a base module (100a) and interface module (100b). The base module connects to the wiring and is attached to the surface of a building. The interface module provides a data unit connection. The interface module is mechanically attached to the base module and electrically connected thereto. The wiring may also carry basic service signal such as telephone, electrical power and cable television (CATV). In such a case, the outlet provides the relevant connectivity either as part of the base module or as part of the interface module. Both proprietary and industry standard interfaces can be used to interconnect the module. Furthermore, a standard computer expansion card (such as PCI, PCMCIA and alike) may be used as interface module.
US07867033B2	Branch connector A branch connector located at a position where a branch line is connectedly branched from a main line constituting a communication circuit, comprising: inside a connector housing thereof, one or a plurality of bus bars each having a joint part long and narrow and a plurality of electric wire connection terminal parts projected by spacing said electric wire connection terminal parts at a certain interval from said joint part in a longitudinal direction thereof; a plurality of cylindrical insulation parts each having a hollow portion through which one of said electric wire connection terminal parts is inserted; and a plurality of filter materials each of which is made of a conductive magnetic material and fitted on one of said cylindrical insulation parts to prevent each of said filter materials and said corresponding electric wire connection terminal part from contacting each other.
US07867030B2	Electronic module comprising a shielded connector fixed to an integrated circuit card by means of a lug for fixing the shielding The invention concerns an electronic module for converting electrical voltage that is intended to supply a light source, which comprises: a horizontal printed circuit card; at least one top connector fixed to the top face of the printed circuit card; an electromagnetic shielding jacket fixed to the connector; characterised in that the jacket comprises a bottom fixing lug that extends horizontally so as to be pressed on the top face of the printed circuit card, the connector being fixed to the card by means of the fixing lug.
US07867028B2	Remote detection of partially seated electrical terminal An electrical connector assembly is described which comprises an insulative housing comprised of at least one terminal receiving cavity, having a terminal opening and a mating terminal opening. A primary latch is positioned in the cavity provides a space between the primary latch and a base wall and an insulative contact extends laterally of the primary latch and is profiled to deflect the primary latch towards the base wall upon deflection of the insulative contact. An electrical terminal is positioned in the at least one cavity; and a terminal position assurance member is insertable below the primary latch and within the space. When the electrical terminal is fully positioned, the space is sufficient to accept the terminal position assurance member, and when the terminal is not fully inserted, the insulative contact is deflected by the electrical terminal, and the space is insufficient to accept the electrical terminal.
US07867026B1	Board mounted electrical connector having a dual core conductor The present invention is directed to an electrical connector having a body, three connector ends and a plurality of electrically conductive elements passing through the body. The electrically conductive elements are spaced-apart from a central axis of one of the connector ends and collinear with one of the two remaining conductor ends. Specifically, the body extends from a first aperture, terminating in two spaced-apart termini, each of which includes an aperture, defining second and third apertures. A first volume extends between the first and second apertures, and a second volume extends between the first and third apertures. A first subset of a plurality of spaced-apart electrically conductive elements extends through the first volume. A second subset of the plurality of spaced-apart electrically conductive elements extends through the second volume.
US07867023B2	Electrical connector having positioning peg and assembly having same The present disclosure relates to electrical connectors and to header systems having such connectors. In one embodiment an electrical connector also known as a header can have two aligning and locating pegs for cooperating with alignment holes of the housing of a control module to accurately and precisely position header in a respective bay of the control module. The pegs of each header can have either unique cross-sectional shapes which can be reflected in respective alignment holes of housing, or can be uniquely positioned on the header which positioning is matched on the holes of the housing to permit each header to be accurately and precisely seated along the x-axis and the y-axis in only one bay and in only a desired front back orientation, or both. In this fashion, the terminals of the header, including its pins, are in position to engage openings in a PCB or other connector. The pegs can also include ribs to capture the housing and prevent vertical or z-axis movement of the header relative to the housing. Retaining the desired vertical position can result in precise placement of the terminals along the z-axis for engagement with respective PCB. Each header can include a trough system to receive overflow of adhesive used to secure the header to the housing.
US07867021B1	Vehicle power connection device for accessories A vehicle power connection device that branches a single pair of connections to a vehicle's battery to provide power to a plurality of accessories. The device having a housing being made of an insulating material and possessing a plurality of pairs of power output sockets, each pair having both a positive member and a negative member in close proximity to each other. Each of the power wires of the accessories are individually secured into the sockets of the housing, in a manner so as to shield the un-insulated portion of the inserted wire from accidental contact with another electrically conducting member of the vehicle. The device also having a circuit protection mechanism to stop electrical communication between the vehicle and the accessory load if a circuit fault condition occurs. Various embodiments of the above are disclosed.
US07867017B1	Connector insertion sensing structure A connector insertion sensing structure includes an electrically insulative housing having an insertion hole for the insertion of an external modular plug and a vertical front mounting groove located on the front wall at one lateral side of the insertion, a metal sensing terminal mounted in the vertical front mounting groove and having a contact portion suspending in the insertion hole and a bottom bonding tip for bonding to an external circuit board, and a metal shield surrounding the electrically insulative housing and having a metal actuation terminal backwardly extended from the front panel thereof and suspending in the insertion hole and movable by an inserted external modular plug to press a pressure tip thereof on the contact portion of the metal terminal in producing a signal indicative of the insertion of the external modular plug.
US07867013B2	In-line splice connector An in-line splice connector comprises a connector body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end and having a generally elongated cavity region formed between the first and second ends to house at least a first insulation displacement connector (IDC) element. The in-line splice connector also includes a first cap and a second cap, each cap including a wire guide to receive and guide a wire to the IDC element. The first cap is pivotally mounted at the first end of the connector body to receive a first wire and the second cap is pivotally mounted at the second end of the connector body to receive a second wire. A closing of the first and second caps actuates a splice of the first and second wires.
US07867009B2	Socket with plug retention structure A socket with a plug retention structure which includes an upper housing, a lower housing, at least two flexible pieces, and a control unit. The lower housing includes at least two insertion holes. The interior of the lower housing defines an accommodating space. Two flexible pieces are placed in the accommodating space associated with the lower housing. Each of the two flexible pieces has a fulcrum and at least one flexible plate. One end of the flexible plate is connected to the fulcrum, and the other end of the flexible plate forms an abutting portion. The abutting portions of the two flexible pieces correspond to the two insertion holes. The control unit is movably placed in the accommodating space associated with the upper housing. The control unit is configured to selectively press the flexible plates.
US07867006B2	Land grid array socket having simplified fastening device bent by metallic stripe A land grid array (LGA) connector includes an insulative housing, a number of contacts received in the insultive housing, a stiffener disposed around the insulative housing, a metallic clip rotatably mounted to the stiffener, and a lever rotatably mounted to the stiffener to lock the metallic clip to the stiffener. The insulative housing defines a substantially rectangular cavity in a middle thereof adapted for receiving an electronic package therein. The metallic clip is disposed against the housing to press the electronic package upon the contacts. The metallic clip is configured by a single strip with a predetermined arrangement and then formed through bending.
US07867000B1	Stack height tolerance compensating busbar structure An electrical connector assembly is disclosed, the assembly having an electrical connector and a plurality of contacts coupled to a plurality of fixed bodies by plurality of fasteners adapted to facilitate relative movement of the electrical connector and the contacts relative to the fixed bodies while maintain an electrical communication.
US07866995B1	Electrical connector A connector includes a housing, a pair of headers, a pair of crank levers, a pair of ejectors, and a pair of clip arms. When a printed substrate is inserted into the housing, the pair of crank levers is caused to pivot so as to raise the pair of ejectors. Then, by moving the pair of clip arms from a third groove to a second groove at which the width is narrower, a pair of projections fits a pair of locking holes so as to sandwich both sides of the printed substrate. The connector can securely lock the printed substrate since the header prevents widening of the distance of the pair of projections even in a case in which a force aimed to detach the printed substrate from the housing works is acting thereon.
US07866994B1	Card connector The card connector includes an insulating housing, a plurality of terminals received by the insulating housing, an ejector mechanism having a slider disposed at a side of the insulating housing, a lock member fixed on the slider, having a retention arm, a free end of the retention arm formed a projection for inserting into the gap of the inserted electronic card, a top side of the retention arm having a portion adjacent to the hook projecting upwards to form a lock piece and a shielding shell. The shielding shell has a guide groove which includes a slot extending frontward and rearward, a front end of an outer side of the slot being enlarged outwards to form a trough, wherein the lock piece is restrained in a rear end of the slot opposite to the trough and can move outwards in the trough of the guiding groove.
US07866993B2	Connector The present invention provides a connector capable of preventing contacts from being touched by fingers or things through an opening of a connector housing, and of thereby improving connection reliability. A plug connector comprising a connector housing and PCB having contacts contained in the connector housing with a contacting surface exposed at one end and which functions as an interface capable of transmitting electric signal or light signal by being fitted to a receptacle connector to connect respective contacts to each other, characterized in that a shutter is provided as a part of a bottom wall of the connector housing to be freely opened or closed at a position covering the contacts formed in PCB, and that, before fitting of the connector, the shutter is in a closed state, and during and after fitting of the connector, the shutter is in a opened state.
US07866991B2	Electronic device An electronic device includes a housing having a sidewall, a socket assembled in the housing, and a protection cover slidably assembled on the sidewall of the housing. The sidewall of the housing defines a sliding slot and a socket hole. The socket is exposed by the socket hole. The protection cover includes a main body, a latching portion and a sliding block connecting the main body and the latching portion. The main body and the latching portion are respectively positioned on opposite sides of the sidewall. The sliding block is slidably engaged in the sliding slot, thus enabling the main body to slide between a first and a second positions to expose or cover the socket.
US07866989B1	Electrical connector seated in printed circuit board An electrical connector assembly includes an insulating housing and a plurality of terminals. The housing defines a base portion, a tongue portion extending forward from the base portion and a pair of mounting portions respectively defined at longitudinal ends of the base portion. The tongue portion defines a plurality of passageways for receiving the terminals respectively. The base portion has a top face being lower than a top face of the mounting portion.
US07866987B2	Burn-in test socket having spring-biased latches facilitating electrical interconnection between chips and socket when actuated An electrical connector includes an insulative housing (1) defining a pair of guiding recesses (14), a connecting member (2) mounted in the insulative housing for connecting with a chip, a number of resilient members (4) received in the guiding recesses, a pair of latches (3) each having a pivot (34) mounted in the insulative housing and supported by the resilient members, and an actuator (3) mounted on the insulative housing and formed with a number of latching portions (63) in contact with the latch. The actuator is moveable along an up-to-down direction to drive the latch pivotable about the pivot between a locked position and an unlocked position.
US07866985B2	CPU socket assembly with package retention mechanism A CPU socket assembly includes a CPU socket and a pick up cap mounted to the CPU socket. The CPU socket has an insulative housing with a receiving space, a number of electrical contacts secured to the insulative housing with contact portions disposed in the receiving space; and a retention piece attached to the insulative housing. The retention piece has a pressing section covering part of the receiving space to retaining a package in the CPU socket.
US07866981B2	Implant arrangement An anchoring arrangement is provided for anchoring a dental prosthesis to a patient. The arrangement can comprise an implant, a sleeve, and a fastening screw. The implant can comprise a coronal portion and an apical portion. The apical portion can be configured to extend from within a jaw bone and into a zygoma. The coronal portion can include a substantially planar surface extending transversely relative to a longitudinal axis of the apical portion and a threaded aperture. The threaded aperture can extend from the substantially planar surface into the implant transversely relative to the longitudinal axis of the apical end of the implant. The sleeve can comprise an end portion configured to mate with the substantially planar surface of the implant. The fastening screw can be disposed through the sleeve and fastened to the threaded aperture.
US07866980B2	Manufacturing of a dental implant superstructure Dental implant drill holes and the shape of a dental implant superstructure are chosen by creating a computer model giving jawbone structural details, gum surface shape information and proposed teeth or dental prosthesis shape information. The computer model shows the bone structure, gum surface and teeth images properly referenced to one another so that implant drill hole positions can be selected taking into consideration proper positioning within the bone as well as proper positioning with respect to the dental prosthesis. Similarly, manufacture of the dental implant superstructures used for fixed dental prosthesis or overdentures can be designed based on knowledge of the actual implant positions referenced to an image of the gum surface and proposed dental prosthesis.
US07866977B2	Rotary tubular kiln for the production of activated charcoal The subject of the invention is a rotary tube (1), in particular for a rotary tubular kiln for the production of activated charcoal, according to the invention the rotary tube (1) being provided on its outside with at least one reinforcing element (8) for stabilizing the rotary tube (1) in the operating state. As a result, the rotary tube (1) exposed under operating conditions to high temperatures and consequently easily deformable is stabilized in its cross section and/or in its longitudinal direction, depending on the arrangement of the reinforcing element. In particular, the rotary tube (1), for example when it is used for the production of activated charcoal, with the accompanying high operating temperatures, is equipped with efficient resistance to pronounced pressure fluctuations occurring due to the method employed and is therefore also suitable, in particular, for carrying out processes under reduced or increased pressure.
US07866973B2	Die for forming extrudates of viscoelastic materials The invention relates to a die assembly(1) for forming extrudates of viscoelastic masses, e.g. polymers, dough masses etc, comprising several similar parallel die channels (2), each extending through the die assembly (1) in the axial transport direction (F) of the mass. According to the invention, a respective partition (5), which runs parallel with the axial transport direction (F) and is equipped with a cutting edge (5a) on its upstream end, is provided on the upstream end of the die body (1) between two adjacent inlet openings (3).
US07866969B2	Manufacture of composites by a flexible injection process using a double or multiple cavity mold The present invention generally relates to a mold assembly (32, 34) and a method of using the mold for the manufacture of composite parts which, more particularly, are generated from a strengthener in a generally solid phase and a matrix in a generally liquid phase. Various types of molds and processes may be used in order to impregnate a strengthener with a matrix such that a composite part may be manufactured, but the efficiency rate and the duration of the manufacturing process significantly varies depending on the chosen type of mold and process. The present invention relates to a mold assembly and to the manufacture of composites by using the mold assembly which includes the injection of the matrix in the mold assembly containing the strengthener and a deformable member (36) which favors the impregnation of the matrix toward the strengthener.
US07866966B2	Optimized helix angle rotors for Roots-style supercharger A method of designing rotors for a Roots blower comprising a housing having cylindrical chambers, the housing defining an outlet port (19). The blower includes meshed, lobed rotors (37,39) disposed in the chambers, each rotor including a plurality N of lobes (47,49), each lobe having first (47a,49a) and second (47b,49b) axially facing end surfaces. Each lobe has its axially facing surfaces defining a twist angle (TA), and each lobe defines a helix angle (HA). The method of designing the rotor comprises determining a maximum ideal twist angle (TAM) for the lobe as a function of the number N of lobes on the rotor, and then determining a helix angle (HA) for each lobe as a function of the maximum ideal twist angle (TAM) and an axial length (L) between the end surfaces of the lobe. A rotor designed in accordance with this method is also provided.
US07866963B2	Variable delivery vane oil pump, in particular for oil A variable delivery vane pump, in particular for oil, is provided with a stator (10) eccentrically mounted about a rotor (9), which is adapted to turn about one own longitudinal axis (6), and presents a plurality of grooves (15) radially outwardly opened and slidingly engaged, each, by a respective vane (17) the vanes (17) being arranged essentially in contact with the stator (10) by interposing at least one sliding element (19; 27) extending about the axis (6) according to an angle smaller than 360°.
US07866953B2	Fluid pump A fluid pump for moving a fluid from a first fluid source of the fluid in a low pressure state to a second fluid source of the fluid in a high pressure state, includes a chamber; a partitioning member displaceable in the chamber and dividing the chamber into first and second sub-chambers of varying volumes; the first sub-chamber having an opening controllably communicable with either the second fluid source or a third fluid source; the second sub-chamber having inlet and outlet openings controllably communicable with the first and second fluid sources, respectively; and a cooling element for cooling a fluid in the first sub-chamber.
US07866947B2	Turbine blade trip strip orientation A turbine component includes a coolant passage and a plurality of trip members that extend within the coolant passage. Each of the plurality of trip members includes an orientation relative to an expected flow direction through the coolant passage. At least three of the trip members have orientations that are different from each other. For example, the orientations of the trip members progressively transition along the length of the coolant passage.
US07866942B2	Dry running flexible impeller pump and method of manufacture This invention relates to a Dry Running Flexible Impeller Pump and Method of Manufacture that is specifically designed to provide a flexible impeller pump that is capable of being run dry for extended periods of time without damaging the impeller. The pump's housing and end plates are coated with a low friction industrial coating to limit the heat of friction created by the flexible impeller while in use. Additionally the flexible impeller is cast from a pre-molding silicone substrate that contains no mold release and is cast in a mold that is treated with a low friction industrial coating and is cast without mold release. Once the flexible impeller is removed from the mold it is cleaned with alcohol, baked in a vacuum at a temperature of at least 100° C., and then coated with a Paralene N coating by vacuum deposition.
US07866939B2	Liner for a gas turbine engine casing A turbofan gas turbine engine (10) comprises a fan rotor (32) carrying a plurality of radially extending fan blades (34). A fan blade containment assembly (38) surrounds the fan blades (34) and the fan blade containment assembly (38) comprises a generally cylindrical, or frustoconical, metal casing (40). The casing (40) comprises an annular member (54) positioned axially upstream of the tip (37) of the fan blade (34). The annular member (54) extends in a radially inwardly and axially downstream direction from the metal casing (40) towards the tip (37) of the fan blade. A set of cassettes (120) carries fan blade track panels (71B, 71C, 71D). The cassettes (120) are secured to the metal casing (40) by axially extending members (124, 128) on the upstream and downstream ends (122, 126) of the cassettes (120) which locate on the annular member (54) and are secured to inserts (136) on the inner face of the casing (40).
US07866938B2	Vertical axis windmill with guiding devices The instant invention deals with the solution to technical flaws of existing vertical axis windmills in which the wind strikes simultaneously on inward and outward facing sides of rotor blades which reduce efficiency. Hence, this invention, i.e., the vertical axis windmill with wind guiding device, includes vertical plates which are fixed from the bottom of a base structure to the top of a rotor in an annular array. In between any two vertical plates, inclined plates are fixed from the bottom of the base structure to the top of the base structure. These plates are tilted towards the concave side of the rotor blades. The vertical and inclined plates are fixed in angular and radial directions so that whenever the wind blows from any direction, it gets compressed and then is diverted towards the wind receiving blades. Also the vertical plates protect the convex side of the rotor blades from wind while diverting the wind towards the wind receiving blades.
US07866937B2	Method of pumping gaseous matter via a supersonic centrifugal pump A method of pumping gaseous matter comprises a step of providing a pump rotor, intake port, exhaust port, and gas passageway. The gas passageway operatively connects the intake port to the exhaust port. The exhaust port is radially farther from the rotor's center axis than is the intake port. The method also includes a step of providing a stator and a step of rotationally driving the pump rotor relative to the stator in a manner causing gaseous matter to enter the gas passageway of the pump rotor via the intake port, to gain energy, and to move radially away from the center axis and out of the exhaust port. The gaseous matter has a supersonic velocity relative to the stator upon exiting the exhaust port. The method can be used to evacuate or compress gaseous matter.
US07866935B1	Manually operated coupler A coupler for use with an excavator provides a hook with a mouth which receives a cross bar of an implement such as a bucket at an upper end. Towards a bottom end the coupler receives an extension through an opening. The extension is then retained by a pin through a bore in the extension and a bore in a body of the coupler. The mouth of the hook is provided with at least one wear pad which preferably extends along a substantial width of the mouth and is provided with adjustment members which can extend the wear pad into the mouth incrementally and/or to be tensioned against a cross bar with a selected amount of tension.
US07866934B2	Apparatus and method for removably attaching a loading device to a vehicle A loading device can be mounted quickly and easily to a roll-off vehicle by mounting a yoke assembly to the frame of the roll-off vehicle. The yoke assembly includes a pair of attaching potions which extend from the vehicle, and each of the attaching portions is provided with an opening. A pair of hydraulically actuated hooks are pivotally mounted on the loading device. The loading device is pulled onto the roll-off vehicle so that the hooks are adjacent the attaching portions of the yoke assembly. The hooks are then pivoted to extend through the openings in the attaching portions so that the hooks are secured to the attaching portions.
US07866930B2	Bolt In a bolt of the present invention, a guide portion having a small diameter is formed at the distal end of a shaft portion and ridge having an inverted direction screw configuration relative to the ridge formed on a constant diameter portion is formed. When the bolt is inserted obliquely into a nut and the ridge gets into engagement with a female screw portion of the nut, an effect of floating the bolt is generated, and the bolt cannot be driven into the nut unless it is set in an appropriate tightening posture. Consequently, biting and seizing of the bolt to the nut can be prevented securely. If the ridge is formed into a double threaded screw having an inverted direction screw configuration, the effect can be further intensified.
US07866926B2	Cargo retention device A retainer for a vehicle cargo area that is bounded in part by a floor and a door moveable between open and closed positions includes a retaining member spanning at least a portion of the cargo area, a pivot feature operably associated with the retaining member, and a retaining feature that yieldably retains the retaining member in its second position to facilitate retaining cargo within the cargo area. The retaining member pivots about the pivot feature relative to the cargo area between a first position and a second position wherein the retaining member is inclined relative to the floor of the cargo area. When the door is open the retainer is normally in its second position to facilitate retaining cargo within the cargo area.
US07866925B1	Assembly for securing cargo upon a load bed An assembly for securing cargo, the assembly incorporating a load bed having oppositely positioned paired sides; at least a first pair of arms, each arm having a proximal end and a distal end; arm attaching joints interconnecting the load bed and the proximal ends of the arms, the arm attachments oppositely positioning the arms at one of the load bed's oppositely positioned paired sides; a tie having a pair of ends; tie attaching connections interconnecting the tie's ends and the arms' distal ends so that the load bed, the arms, and the tie border a first cargo securing space; and telescoping quill and shaft combinations connected operatively to the arms, the telescoping quill and shaft combinations being adapted for alternatively distally expanding and proximally contracting the first cargo securing space.
US07866924B2	Clamping mechanism for cutting insert A clamping mechanism for a cutting insert that clamps the cutting insert in an insert mounting seat having a pair of contacting surfaces facing each other. Contacting surfaces of the insert mounting seat are provided with a pair of inclined planes inclined so as to be formed in a convex V-shape in the cross-section along the contacting direction, and the contact surfaces of the cutting insert are formed in a concave V-shape which has a pair of convex surfaces with roundness to be concave toward the inclined planes, and the pair of inclined planes and the pair of convex surfaces come in contact with each other at a pair of contacting positions, which have an interval therebetween in the width direction orthogonal to the contacting direction.
US07866916B2	Methods for deicing roads Roadways are deiced or ice formation on roadways is prevented by applying salt compositions derived from waste water streams from water softening operations.
US07866914B2	Flexible marker device A flexible marker device comprises a marker body having a bottom end and a top end, and a base for supporting the marker body. The base has an aperture in a center portion thereof and a groove extending about the aperture in an upper surface of the base. The bottom end of the marker body is at least partially disposed within the groove. A cured material, preferably polyurethane, is disposed in the groove to thereby secure the marker body to the base.
US07866913B2	Water-ballasted protection barrier A water-ballasted barrier system incorporates a concave reflective design, wherein outer walls of the barrier segment are configured in a concave manner. The concave section is designed to prevent the tire of a vehicle, impacting the barrier, from climbing up the side of the barrier segment, by pocketing the tire in the curved center portion of the barrier wall. Adjacent barrier segments are attached together using an interlocking knuckle design, having a lug pin connection system. In some embodiments, wire rope cable is internally molded into each barrier segment to strengthen the barrier system.
US07866912B2	Energy absorbing bollard system An energy absorbing system. The energy absorbing system includes a supporting member, a barrier pivotable between a first angular position and a second angular position, where the barrier becomes mechanically coupled to the supporting member when arranged at a predetermined angular position, and an energy absorber mechanically coupled to the supporting member, where the energy absorber absorbs energy when the supporting member travels from a first position to a second position.
US07866906B2	Packaging and applicator device for applying a cosmetic or another care product A device may include an applicator including an applicator element that is at least partially elastically deformable and a receptacle configured to contain a substance to be applied and configured to house the applicator element when not in use. The receptacle may include an opening through which the applicator element passes while the applicator element is being removed from the receptacle. The applicator element may include at least one inner cavity that is defined, at least in part, between at least two branches that are at least partially flocked. An outside cross-section of the applicator element may be large enough for the applicator element to deform while passing through the opening of the receptacle, the deformation resulting in a shape of the cavity being modified.
US07866901B2	Lens barrel and image-pickup apparatus A lens barrel capable of being reduced in length in a collapsed position. Barrier members have an opening/closing operation plane that openably/closably covers the front face of an image-taking lens. A barrier drive mechanism causes the barrier members to perform opening/closing operation. A lens holding member has a holding portion that holds the image-taking lens and a guide portion that guides the image-taking lens in the optical axis direction. A lens drive mechanism causes the lens holding member to move forward or backward in the optical axis direction. A stroke area of the guide portion of the lens holding member is set to overlap the opening/closing operation plane of the barrier members in the optical axis direction.
US07866897B2	Apparatus and method of coupling a fiber optic device to a laser The present application is directed to a various embodiments of a system for coupling at least one fiber optic device to a laser and include at least one fiber coupler device having a body defining at least one coupling chamber in communication an inlet and an outlet, the coupling chamber sized to receive at least one fiber optic device therein, at least one light stripping element positioned within the coupling chamber, and a housing assembly configured to couple the laser to the fiber coupler device.
US07866896B2	Electrical to optical and optical to electrical connector system A connector module for interfacing electrical or optical connectors to electrical systems such as an audio/visual signal processing board. The module includes a housing defining at least first and second faces, at least the second face being less than about one square inch in area. There is a first electrical or optical connector at the first face, and a second electrical connector at the second face, in which the second electrical connector is a pin connector.
US07866890B2	Spindle motor having a fluid dynamic bearing system The invention relates to a spindle motor having a fluid dynamic bearing system that comprises a base (10), a stationary shaft (14) connected to the base, a hub (16) rotatably supported with respect to the shaft and two bearing plates (24, 44) that are disposed at a mutual spacing about the shaft and connected to the hub. A bushing (22) is provided that is disposed between the bearing plates and separated from them by a gap (30, 50) at least partly filled with a bearing fluid. There are two stopper plates (26, 46) that are fixedly connected to the shaft, each abutting one side of each bearing plate and separated from the bearing plate by a bearing gap (28, 48) filled with bearing fluid. This results in two independent fluid dynamic bearing systems, each of which is disposed about a bearing plate. The motor is driven by an electromagnetic drive system.
US07866887B2	Linear guide rail for a linear guide system provided with a coolant slot The invention relates to a linear guiding rail for a linear guiding system, comprising at least one guiding wagon being movable along the linear guiding rail by means of unrolling members, characterized in that at least one coolant groove extending at least along a partial length of the linear guiding rail is formed in the region of the linear guiding rail.
US07866884B2	X-ray CT apparatus, method of aligning phantom, and phantom retaining tool The present invention comprises a top plate 31 for placing a cylindrical phantom 100, an X-ray tube 22 that generates X-rays, an X-ray detector 23 that detects X-rays transmitted through the phantom 100 placed on a top plate 31, a supporting body drive part 25 that rotates the X-ray tube 22 and X-ray detector 23, a tomographic image data generating part 60 that generates tomographic image data on the phantom 100 based on a results of detecting X-rays by the X-ray detector 23, a calculation processing part 80 that calculates displacement of the cylinder axis J of the phantom 100 relative to the center of rotation (center of scan) by the supporting body drive part 25, based on the tomographic image data, and the angle of gradient of the cylinder axis J relative to the normal direction (direction of slice) of the rotation plane of said rotation, and a monitor 5 that displays the calculated results.
US07866881B2	Dry polymer hydration apparatus and methods of use Disclosed are apparatus and methods for preparing wellbore viscous treatment gels from dry polymer and water. The apparatus includes an eductor which slurries dry polymer with water, at least two input tubes, wherein one input tube is connected with the eductor, and another to a water source. The apparatus also includes a mixing chimney connected to the input tubes. The mixing chimney includes a lower input section with inlets connected to the input tubes wherein a jet of metered dilution water is applied at high pressure to the incoming polymer-water slurry stream. This mixture is then accelerated in a circular, and preferably upward, motion where it is sheared against the wall of a central section of the chimney, without the use of an impeller. The chimney further includes an output section that comprising holes circumferentially located, through which the mixture passes from the central section and into a hydration tank. The mixture exiting the chimney is polymer-water gel which is essentially fully mixed and de-aerated, and at least partially hydrated.
US07866878B2	Method for resonant-vibratory mixing A method for mixing fluids and/or solids in a manner that can be varied from maintaining the integrity of fragile molecular and biological materials in the mixing vessel to homogenizing heavy aggregate material by supplying large amounts of energy. Variation in the manner of mixing is accomplished using an electronic controller to generate signals to control the frequency and amplitude of the motor(s), which drive an unbalanced shaft assembly to produce a linear vibratory motion. The motor may be a stepper motor, a linear motor or a DC continuous motor. By placing a sensor on the mixing vessel platform to provide feedback control of the mixing motor, the characteristics of agitation in the fluid or solid can be adjusted to optimize the degree of mixing and produce a high quality mixant.
US07866877B2	Method and apparatus for mixing dough The invention provides an apparatus and method for improved mixing of yeast-raised and yeast-raised type dough. The device and method keep the dough cool by an improved structure and method for circulating coolant around a jacketed bowl, and by circulating cooled air through the spinning agitator roller bars. Better aeration of the dough and faster mixing time are achieved along with full water and flour absorption, and reduced operating temperatures by controlling placing of the agitator driveshaft in a carefully defined region. Finally, the invention provides a wiper for wiping the lip of the bowl to keep it clean of dough and to insure a proper seal along the bowl lip when a resilient, expandable bowl seal is used, and it provides a pneumatic seal for securely sealing the mix ingredients in the bowl during mixing.
US07866876B2	Device for degassing and filtering plastic melts The invention relates to a device for the extrusion of thermoplastic synthetic material featuring an extruder screw (2) which is mounted on a housing (1) including a plasticizing section (P) at the inlet side, a degassing section which is mounted upstream on a discharge section (A) and a conveying outlet (3) operating in the opposite direction which is located between the plasticizing section (P) and the degassing section (E). A flow channel (5) that contains a melt filter (4) is bridged over by at least one of the conveying outlets (3) in the opposite direction. To create favorable production conditions, the extruder screw (2) forms a similar conveying outlet (7) operating in the same direction between the conveying outlet (3) in the opposite direction and the downstream port (6) of the flow channel (5). The housing (1) has at least one degassing vent (8) at the transition area of the conveying outlet (3) operating in the opposite direction and the conveying outlet (7) operating in the same direction.
US07866875B2	Concrete agitating drum driving device A variable capacity hydraulic pump (10) drives a concrete agitating drum (1) via a hydraulic motor (81). A hydraulic actuator (14) regulates a discharge flow rate of the hydraulic pump (10) depending on an actuator driving pressure. A load sensing valve (40) generates the actuator driving pressure by reducing a discharge pressure of the hydraulic pump (10) according to a differential pressure between the discharge pressure and a load pressure acting on the hydraulic motor (81). A shut-off valve (20) shuts off supply of the pressurized oil discharged from the hydraulic pump (10) to the hydraulic motor (81). Due to this action, when the differential pressure increases beyond a predetermined differential pressure, an unload valve (30) drains the discharged oil, thereby preventing the hydraulic pump (10) from generating noise due to an excessive increase in the discharge pressure.
US07866872B2	Light guide plate, light guide plate unit, and planar lighting device The light guide plate includes a light exit plane, two light entrance planes, two symmetrical inclined rear planes increasingly distanced from the light exit plane from the two light entrance planes toward a center of the light exit plane, a curved portion joining the two inclined rear planes and scattering particles for scattering light travelling inside the light guide plate. The light guide plate satisfies given ranges set for a length between the two light entrance planes, a thickness of each of the two light entrance planes, a thickness at the center of the curved portion, a radius of curvature thereof, tapers of the inclined rear planes, and a particle diameter and a density of the scattering particles, and conditions that a light use efficiency be 55% or greater and that a middle-high ratio represented by the brightness distribution at the light exit plane be greater than 0% and not greater than 25%.
US07866867B2	Backlighting optical fiber, and a LCD backlight module and display device formed therefrom A backlighting optical fiber consists essentially of an optical fiber with an axially recess disposed along the inner wall; a reflector set into said axially recess, said reflector includes a reflecting surface disposed on the inner side of said reflector, to reflect the incident light toward the opposite direction of said reflector and emitting outwardly. A backlight module formed therefrom comprises a plurality of said optical fibers parallel arranged on a plane surface of a substrate and a LCD display device includes said backlight module and a LCD display.
US07866866B2	Fiber optical display systems and related methods, systems, and computer program products A key system includes a display surface, a light source, and a plurality of optical fibers having first and second ends and a longitudinal sheath. The plurality of optical fibers are connected to the light source at the first ends thereof and configured to transmit light from the light source to the display surface.
US07866863B2	Vehicle lamp A vehicle headlamp has a segment light source, and a reflector configured to forward reflect light from the segment light source. The segment light source is arranged such that a first predetermined point located at a front end edge of the segment light source is located on a first reference axis. A reflecting surface of the reflector is split into a plurality of reflection regions. At least one of the plurality of reflection regions is constituted as a fan-like reflection region surrounded by a first straight line extending obliquely downward from the first reference axis, and a second straight line extending immediately downward from the first reference axis. The fan-like reflection region is constituted with a curved surface that deflects, diffuses, or reflects the light from the segment light source in a direction orthogonal to the first straight line.
US07866862B2	Vehicular lamp A vehicular lamp forms a low-beam distribution pattern by combining light radiated from a first unit and a second unit. A brightness decreasing element is provided on a reflective surface of a first main reflector in a sub-unit of the first unit. Thus, for the low-beam distribution pattern formed by the first unit and the second unit, among a peripheral end portion of a cut-off line forming pattern formed by the sub unit, a low luminance portion with a partially reduced brightness is formed at the border of both right and left end sides that upwardly overlap with a portion of a diffusion area forming pattern.
US07866860B2	Handle assembly with controlled light distribution A handle assembly includes a bezel having a handle cavity defined by a cavity wall and an open front providing access to the handle cavity. The bezel has a slot through the cavity wall and a lamp assembly is mounted to the bezel proximate the slot. The lamp assembly includes a housing and a light pipe held by the housing, where the light pipe includes a first leg extending along a primary axis and a second leg extending along a secondary axis generally perpendicular with respect to the primary axis. The second leg has a lens along an inner surface of the second leg, wherein light is directed through the light pipe along the primary axis to a primary reflective surface provided at the intersection of the first and second legs. The primary reflective surface directs light along the second leg toward the lens.
US07866859B2	Illuminated display device for vehicle A display device for a vehicle has a first display unit constructed of a liquid crystal display for displaying first information and a second display unit including a display portion for displaying second information. The second information is illuminated by receiving light emitted from a light source and displayed at an intensity higher than an intensity of a background area that is illuminated by receiving light emitted from another light source. An optical coloring member is disposed such that an illuminating color and a brightness of the background area of the second display unit are substantially equal to those of a background area of the first information of the liquid crystal display.
US07866853B2	Light-emitting element mounting substrate and manufacturing method thereof, light-emitting element module and manufacturing method thereof, display device, lighting device, and traffic light The present invention provides a light-emitting element mounting substrate which includes: a core metal provided with a reflective cup which reflects light emitted from a mounted light-emitting element in a prescribed direction; and an enamel layer having a thickness within a range of 50 μm to 200 μm, and provided on a surface of the core metal. The present invention also provides a light-emitting element module in which a light-emitting element is provided on this light-emitting element mounting substrate, and in which the light-emitting element is sealed with a transparent sealing resin.
US07866850B2	Light fixture assembly and LED assembly A removable light fixture assembly is provided. The light fixture assembly includes an LED lighting element and a compression element. Operation of the compression element from a first position to a second position generates a compression force which reduces thermal impedance between the LED assembly and a thermally-conductive housing.
US07866848B2	Illumination system capable of automatically adjusting illumination direction according to human body's signal An illumination system comprises an illumination assembly, a human body's signal detecting unit, a processing unit and an illumination direction adjustment unit. The illumination assembly projects an illumination light beam along an illumination direction; the human body's signal detecting unit detects at least one human body's signal released from at least one user to accordingly generate an intensity signal; the processing unit receives the intensity signal and transmits an illumination direction adjustment signal according to the intensity signal; and the illumination direction adjustment unit receives the illumination direction adjustment signal to automatically adjust the illumination direction.
US07866847B2	LED lamp An LED lamp includes a frame having a bottom surface, a plurality of heat sinks, and a plurality of LED modules. Each of the heat sinks has an engaging surface defined at an acute angle with respect to the bottom surface of the frame. Each of the LED modules is attached on the engaging surface of the heat sink. The heat sinks are rotatable relative to the frame to adjust the angle of the engaging surface of the heat sinks with respect to the bottom surface of the frame, providing variable area and intensity of illumination.
US07866844B2	Emission device, surface light source device and display A light flux control member has a back face provided with a first recess portion and ventilation grooves. Output light of the light emitting element arranged as to correspond to the first recess portion enters into the light flux control member via the first recess portion and ventilation grooves being emitted from a light control emission face of the light flux control member after inner-propagation. Refraction of incident light to second recess portions formed in the ventilation grooves hardly generate inner-propagation light which has travelling directions near to a direction of reference optical axis L. This avoids emission from the light control emission face from providing a ring-like bright part. In addition, heat emitted from the light emitting element can be released at a high efficiency because a space in the first recess portion communicates with the outside of the light flux control member.
US07866840B2	Flashlight as tool handle A flashlight and tool combination comprises a flashlight having a body, an illumination member, a power source and a switch for switching the illumination member on and off. The flashlight body has on one portion thereof a tool connector. The combination further comprises a tool assembly comprising a tool component and a connector component, the connector component being received by the connector member on the body of the flashlight. A fastener for releasably securing the connector component to the connector member is provided.
US07866834B2	Input device The image sensor 15 of the information processing apparatus 1 can capture the retroreflective sheet 17 subjected to infrared light emitted from the infrared emitting diodes 11 since the retroreflective sheet 17 is exposed when the open-close portion 19 is opened. Therefore, it is possible to detect the input device 3. On the other hand, when the open-close portion 19 is closed, the image sensor 15 can not capture the retroreflective sheet 17 since the reflective sheet 17 is not exposed. Therefore, the input device is not detected.
US07866829B2	Optical diaphragm, projector, correction parameter calibrator, and correction parameter calibrating method An optical diaphragm for adjusting an amount of an incident light beam, includes: light shielding vanes that are configured movably, and move to change an opening area enabling a passage of the light beam, thereby adjusting the amount of the light beam; an electromagnetic actuator including a coil through which a current passes, and a permanent magnet that generates a magnetic flux, moves with respect to the coil by an electromagnetic force due to an interaction between the current passing through the coil and the magnetic flux, and is connected to the light shielding vanes to move the light shielding vanes; and a position detector including: a magnetic element that outputs a predetermined voltage in accordance with intensity of a magnetic field from the permanent magnet; and an output characteristics corrector that obtains a predetermined correction parameter, and corrects output characteristics of the magnetic element based on the correction parameter.
US07866824B2	Sealed lamp device and projector A sealed lamp device may include a discharge lamp burner; a concave mirror opened to a front direction and reflecting radiation light of the discharge lamp burner to the opened side, an optical axis of the concave mirror being aligned with an optical axis of the discharge lamp burner; a hollow casing structure having an opening section in a front side, to which the concave mirror opened out; and a front plate closing the opening section of the hollow casing structure and emitting the radiation light. The hollow casing structure may be made wider than an opening width of the concave mirror, so as to increase a sealed volume occupied by the discharge lamp burner.
US07866823B2	Image projection apparatus An image projection apparatus is disclosed which is capable of correcting defocusing due to changes of the temperature of a projection lens, which are caused by various factors. The image projection apparatus includes an image-forming element which is illuminated with light from a light source, a projection lens which includes a focus lens and projects light from the image-forming element onto a projection surface, plural temperature detectors which are provided at positions different from each other in the image projection apparatus. The apparatus further includes a controller which controls the position of the focus lens on the basis of the detection results by the plural temperature detectors.
US07866822B2	Video projector using coherent light source In the video projector of the present invention, a fiber part of a fiber laser is disposed so as to draw a circulating orbit of more than one circulation along the inner wall of the projector housing. Further, an FBG which is part of the fiber laser is fixed so that its shape is not changed. Furthermore, a pump LD part of the fiber laser is disposed apart from the SHG element. As a result, the video projector can be miniaturized, and the portability and installment of the video projector are facilitated. Further, the output stabilization of the fiber laser can be realized by preventing a shape change of the FBG. Furthermore, by disposing the SHG element apart from the pump LD part which forms a heat source, the temperature change of the SHG element is suppressed and the wavelength conversion efficiency by the SHG element is enhanced.
US07866812B1	Optical inserts for goggles or facemasks An optical insert is disclosed for use in a pair of goggles, behind a facemask, or behind other eyewear. The insert is held in place by forces from the goggles, facemask, or other eyewear. These forces include forces directed generally inward against the left and right ends of the insert and a force directed backward against a middle portion of the insert.
US07866811B2	Print media Print media and systems for preparing a fused ink-jet image are disclosed. One exemplary print medium, among others, includes a substrate, a porous ink-receiving layer disposed on the substrate, and a porous surface layer disposed on the porous ink-receiving layer. The porous surface layer includes polymer particles and a non-ionic stabilizing surfactant.
US07866808B2	Ink set for ink-jet recording and method for producing tetracomposite black image An ink set for ink-jet recording includes a dye yellow ink, a dye magenta ink, a dye cyan ink, and a dye black ink, wherein regarding a reduction rate in OD value between before and after a predetermined lightfastness test of each patch in the case where a patch of each ink is subjected to the lightfastness test, the order of levels of reduction rates in OD values of a yellow component, a magenta component, and a cyan component in a dye black ink patch is reverse to the order of levels of reduction rates in OD values of a yellow component in the dye yellow ink patch, a magenta component in the dye magenta ink patch, and a cyan component in the dye cyan ink patch.
US07866805B2	Introducing liquid for ink jet head, ink jet head, and ink jet recording apparatus An introducing liquid for an ink jet head in the invention is used to fill the ink jet head before introducing ink into the ink jet head. The introducing liquid has a surface tension satisfying the following equation (1), and a contact angle of not more than 25 degrees with respect to an ink passage member of the ink jet head to be applied. An ink jet head of the invention is to be filled with the introducing liquid. 6mN/m<(St10−St1000)<16mN/m (1) where St10 is a surface tension in a lifetime of 10 msec, and St1000 is a surface tension in a lifetime of 1000 msec.
US07866798B2	Head cartridge, printhead, and substrate having downsized level conversion elements that suppress power consumption The following arrangement is added to a head substrate including a plurality of electrothermal transducers, a plurality of switching elements which drive the plurality of electrothermal transducers, and a logic circuit which drives the plurality of switching elements. That is, the head substrate includes a plurality of level converters which correspond to the respective switching elements, and apply a voltage obtained by boosting a logic voltage. Further, the head substrate includes a bias circuit which applies a bias voltage lower than the boosted voltage to the plurality of level converters.
US07866793B2	Printhead assembly for re-directing ink droplets A printhead assembly includes a printhead, in turn, including a plurality of ink ejection nozzles. A nozzle guard is formed from hydrophobic photoresist and is mounted to the printhead. The nozzle guard defines a plurality of channels located in register with respective nozzles so that droplets of ink from the nozzles can be bounced off internal walls of the channels during printing.
US07866790B2	Maintenance device for liquid ejection head and liquid ejection apparatus A maintenance device for use in a liquid ejection apparatus including a liquid ejection head with a nozzle forming surface provided with nozzle for ejecting a liquid. The maintenance device maintains the liquid ejection head and includes a wiper and an urging member. The wiper includes a wiper member formed from an elastic material. The wiper is movable in a wiping direction that is parallel to the nozzle forming surface in a state in which the wiper member is in contact with the nozzle forming surface to wipe the nozzle forming surface.
US07866786B2	Liquid ejecting method, liquid ejecting apparatus, and storage medium having program stored thereon A liquid ejecting method according to the present invention includes the following: varying dots that are to constitute a dot row that is to be formed with a first nozzle row and a second nozzle row, according to a usage rate of each of the first and second nozzle rows when forming that dot row, the first nozzle row including a plurality of first nozzles lined up in a transport direction, the second nozzle row including a plurality of second nozzles in the transport direction, the first nozzles of the first nozzle row forming dots on a medium by ejecting liquid while moving in a movement direction, the second nozzles of the second nozzle row forming dots on the medium by ejecting liquid while moving in the movement direction, the dot row that has been formed on the medium being composed of a plurality of the dots to be lined up on the medium in the movement direction; and forming a plurality of the dot rows in the transport direction by alternately repeating a transport operation of transporting the medium in the transport direction and a dot forming operation of forming a dot on the medium by ejecting liquid from the first nozzles and the second nozzles while the first and second nozzles moving in the movement direction, at least one of the dot rows that have been formed by the first and second nozzles being composed of the dots that are varied according to the usage rate of each of the first nozzle row and the second nozzle row.
US07866784B2	Diagnostic probe assembly for printhead integrated circuitry The invention provides for a diagnostic probe assembly for a tester which is used to diagnose printhead integrated circuits. The probe assembly includes a support assembly and a controller board mounted on the support assembly and having a processor configured to generate test signals for testing a printhead integrated circuit. A routing board is in operative signal communication with the controller board and is configured to multiplex the generated test signals for respective dies of the printhead integrated circuits. The probe assembly also includes a probe interface in signal communication with the routing board and configured for relaying the multiplexed test signals to and from the respective dies.
US07866783B2	Inkjet recording apparatus An inkjet recording apparatus which discharges ink onto a recording medium to form an image, the inkjet recording apparatus including: a recording head having a nozzle for discharging ink; a conveying belt for supporting a recording medium and conveying the recording medium to a position facing the nozzle; a cleaning roller for cleaning the conveying belt; a cleaning liquid storage section for storing cleaning liquid to be applied to the cleaning roller; a contamination detector for detecting a density of contamination of the cleaning liquid stored in the cleaning liquid storage section; a liquid supplying section for controlling supply of cleaning liquid to the cleaning liquid storage section in accordance with a density of contamination detected by the contamination detector; and a liquid draining section for draining at least a part of the cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid storage section.
US07866780B2	Liquid droplet ejecting apparatus A liquid droplet ejecting apparatus, comprising: a plurality of liquid droplet ejecting heads arranged in parallel to each other, and the liquid droplet ejecting heads having the same liquid droplet ejectable width, and at least one of the liquid droplet ejecting heads being shifted in a widthwise direction of the liquid droplet ejectable width with respect to other liquid droplet ejecting heads, the liquid droplet ejecting apparatus having the following relationship: an image quality assured width
US07866779B2	Defective nozzle replacement in a printer Printing is performed at a full resolution using a first set of nozzles and a second set of nozzles arranged on a printhead. Printing is performed at less than the full resolution using the first set of nozzles less any nozzles in the first set of nozzles that have been determined to be defective. The second set of nozzles is not used for printing at less than the full resolution except for a subset of nozzles in the second set of nozzles that are used to replace nozzles from the first set of nozzles that have been determined to be defective.
US07866777B2	Liquid ejecting apparatus and method for controlling same A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a liquid ejecting head having a pressure chamber communicating with a nozzle opening and a pressure generator capable of causing pressure fluctuation to liquid in the pressure chamber, the liquid ejecting head causing pressure fluctuation to the liquid in the pressure chamber by driving the pressure generator, and discharging the liquid from the nozzle opening due to the pressure fluctuation, and a driver that supplies a discharge pulse to the pressure generator to drive the pressure generator. The discharge pulse that the driver generates includes a preliminary contracting element that contracts the pressure chamber without discharging a liquid droplet, a holding element that maintains the voltage at the end of the preliminary contracting element for a predetermined amount of time, a preliminary expanding element that changes the voltage so as to expand the pressure chamber to pull in the meniscus, and a discharging element that changes the voltage so as to contract the expanded pressure chamber to discharge a liquid droplet. The duration of the preliminary contracting element is set to the natural vibration period Tc of the pressure chamber or more, and the duration from the beginning of the preliminary contracting element to the end of the holding element is set to three times the natural vibration period Tc.
US07866775B2	Printing system, inkjet printer, and printing method A printing system includes an inkjet head and a decompressor. The inkjet head has nozzles to eject ink to a medium. The decompressor is configured to reduce pressure of at least an area between the medium and said nozzles of said inkjet head to a value lower than an atmospheric pressure of 1 atm. The ink contains as a main component at least one of a monomer and an oligomer, and is curable by polymerization of the main component. A saturated vapor pressure of the main component of said ink is 10 mmHg or less.
US07866770B2	Cabinet assembly A cabinet assembly includes a base, a top board, two side panels and a rear board, the two side panels each have connection plates on four corners and the connection plates are inserted into slots defined in the front end and the rear end of the top board and the base. The rear panel includes tow boards which are engaged with each other at their two respective inner sides thereof by engaging a side flange on one board with an engaging groove in the other board. One of the two boards includes an insertion at a lower end thereof and the insertion is inserted into a recess defined in a top of the rear end of the base. The top end, the lower end and the outer side of each of the boards of the rear panel are respectively connected to the top board, the base and the side panels by engagement of flanges and engaging grooves.
US07866769B2	Storage and organization system and components thereof A storage system includes a shell having a plurality of walls and a plurality of rails. The plurality of walls are coupled to one another to form a storage chamber therebetween and to define a plurality of intersection edges. Each of the plurality of intersection edges is formed at a corresponding boundary of two adjacent ones of the plurality of walls. The plurality of rails each extend outwardly from a corresponding one of the plurality of intersection edges with an angled orientation relative to each of the two adjacent ones of the plurality of walls. A cross-sectional thickness of each of the plurality of rails increases as each of the plurality of rails extends away from one of the plurality of intersection edges. Related storage and organization systems, pillows, accessories and methods are also disclosed and provide additional advantages.
US07866765B2	Spring brake accumulator cylinder For the assembly of a spring-type brake cylinder, a rear cylinder is provided with a preloaded spring, with a rear piston and with an intermediate flange. Then, a front cylinder, in which a front piston with an actuating rod for a brake element of the braking system is movably arranged, is fixed to the rear cylinder, so that the rear cylinder and the front cylinder are in contact with one another by means of a sliding rod passing through the intermediate flange. As a result, the front piston is displaceable by the rear piston.
US07866763B2	Automatic parking brake device An automatic parking brake system is provided in which a parking piston that enables a parking brake state to be obtained by forward movement in response to a parking control fluid pressure acting on a rear face of the parking piston is slidably fitted into a casing, and a lock mechanism is provided within the casing in back of the parking piston to automatically lock in response to forward movement of the parking piston in order to mechanically lock the parking piston at a forward position and unlock in response to a parking release control fluid pressure acting on the lock mechanism, the parking control fluid pressure and the parking release control fluid pressure being obtained by a fluid pressure control mechanism for controlling a fluid pressure generated by a fluid pressure source. This enables an automatic parking brake state to be obtained by a simple structure without consuming power.
US07866759B2	Tubular axle housing with varying wall thickness A method for manufacturing a one-piece axle tube housing with localized sections of increased wall thickness includes providing a tube blank, inserting a mandrel having a reduced diameter profile, passing the tube through an extrusion die to conform the tube to the shape of the mandrel; and extraction of the mandrel from the tube to cause outward deformation of the tube at specific locations. A further reducing step may be used to form the final desired profile, including reduced inner and outer diameters along sections of the axle tube housing.
US07866758B2	Manufacturing method for multi-color extruded acrylic cosmetic brushes and brush handles Provided is a method for manufacturing a multi-colored acrylic cosmetic brush handle comprising supplying two or more differently colored resins to an extrusion/injection machine, providing the machine with an open multi-chamber tool, extruding the two or more resins through the tool by multiple injection nozzles to form a multi-colored rod, cutting the rod to a desired length; and polishing the outer surface of the rod; and the multi-color cosmetic brush handle produced thereby. Also provided is a method of producing a cosmetic brush including the cosmetic brush handle of the present invention, and the multi-color cosmetic brush produced thereby.
US07866754B2	Headrests for vehicle seats A headrest for a vehicle seat has a tubular stay to be attached to a seatback and a connector to be connected to an end of the stay. The stay includes a shaft hole, an attachment hole, and a notched surface. The attachment hole penetrates from an outer surface of the stay to the shaft hole in the radial direction. The notched surface is circumferentially adjacent to the attachment hole and is substantially orthogonal to the attachment hole. The connector includes a cantilevered locking strip to be inserted into the shaft hole while being resiliently deformed. The locking strip includes a projection. The projection fits in the attachment hole by being resiliently restored. And the projection includes an extending portion being wider than the circumferential width of the attaching hole and extending over the notched surface by being resiliently restored.
US07866753B2	Vehicle seat reclining device In a vehicle seat reclining device, within a predetermined angle range, the movement of every pawl in a direction towards engagement with an internal toothed portion is surely restricted to avoid any undesired contact between the pawls and the internal toothed portion. A transmitting structure for transmitting and converting the rotational action of the cam to the movement actions of the main pawl and the sub pawl as provided. Further provided are first and second restricting structures holding the main pawl under disengagement state between the external toothed portion and the internal toothed portion within the predetermined angle range. Within a predetermined frontward tilting angle range, the sub pawl is retained to be in disengagement state between the external toothed portion of the sub pawl and the internal toothed portion by the transmitting structure and the second restricting structure.
US07866752B1	Vehicle seat, air passenger seat in particular The invention relates to a vehicle seat, particularly an air passenger seat, comprising the following: a seat frame (10) having a number of seat dividers (12, 14, 16, 18); a number of seat backs, each being coupled to the seat frame between two seat dividers and whose position can be adjusted relative to the seat dividers by means of an adjusting device, and; a number of seat parts, which are each fastened to the seat frame between the seat dividers (12, 14, 16, 18) and of which at least one can be pivoted into an approximately vertical position. The invention is characterized in that the adjusting device has a lever device (28) and a spring element (38) for the seat back belonging to the pivotal seat part, and they are situated on one of the seat dividers, which limit the pivotal seat part, whereby being located on the side oriented toward the seat part. In addition, the lever device (28) is pivotally connected to the seat divider, a first lever arm (36) of the lever device is connected to the spring element (38), and a second lever arm (32) of the lever device is connected to the seat back.
US07866749B2	Adjustment device for a reclining chair A tilting device for a reclining chair including a support base that can be affixed to at least one pedestal, a mounting body for the back of a seat which is articulated on said support base rotatably around a first axis essentially orthogonal to said pedestal, a mounting plate for the seat of said surface of said seat which has its front end and back end rotatably articulated around a respective hinge axis generally parallel to said first axis respectively to said support base and to said mounting body, elastic means of thrust acting along a direction generally orthogonal to said first axis and having a first end acting on said support base and a second end acting on said mounting body and blocking means of said mounting body in at least two different angles relative to said support base and acting in opposition to said elastic means of thrust, said mounting plate assuming two corresponding different angles.
US07866747B2	Theater seat providing multi-dimensional sense A theater seat providing a multi-dimensional sense is provided which allows the audience to directly or indirectly sense various special effects to be absorbed in a movie by stimulating the audience's five senses and presenting environmental conditions substantially similar to the movie. The theater seat providing a multi-dimensional sense includes: a seat having a seat section, a backrest, and a headrest; a motion unit allowing the seat to move vertically, horizontally, and anteroposteriorly; a vibration unit applying local vibrations to a user's hips, femoral region, and back and waist; a speaker transmitting sounds to the user; an actuator stimulating the user's back and waist; an ejection device ejecting a predetermined special effect material to the user; and a controller controlling operations of the motion unit, the vibration unit, the speaker, the actuator, and the ejection device.
US07866745B2	Vehicle seat A head rest rear portion is supported to a seat back. A head rest front portion is movable forward and backward between a full-close position that is brought into contact with or close to the head rest rear portion and a full-open position that is a predetermined distance away from the head rest rear portion. A drive mechanism moves the head rest front portion. A detection sensor provided in the head rest front portion includes an electrode having a head portion detecting antenna electrode for detecting a head portion of an occupant at a time when the head rest front portion moves in the full-open position direction, and a finger detecting antenna electrode for detecting a finger of the occupant in a rear seat or the like at a time when the head rest front portion moves in the full-close position direction.
US07866744B2	Chronometer and triathlon bicycle saddle construction A chronometer and triathlon bicycle saddle construction having a bodywork supported by a frame to be coupled to a supporting tubular element of a bicycle, the bodywork having an enlarged bearing region operating for supporting the ischiatic tuberosities of a bicycle user, where the enlarged bearing region substantially corresponds to a middle central zone of the saddle bodywork, the saddle construction further having a water-bottle supporting element at the rear part of the saddle and integral with the saddle bodywork.
US07866742B2	Furniture member head support system A head rest adjustment system for a furniture member includes a back support member rotatable with respect to a base member. A head rest assembly is connected to the back support member. An adjustment lever rotates the head rest assembly. An actuation link is connected at a first end to the head rest assembly and at a second end to the adjustment lever. Rotating the adjustment lever displaces the actuation link to rotate the head rest assembly to a plurality of support positions. A back support member axis of rotation is spatially separated from an adjustment lever axis of rotation. Rotating the back support member with respect to the base member can independently operate to displace the actuation link to rotate the head rest assembly without rotation of the adjustment lever.
US07866731B2	Power sliding door having a linear drive mechanism A power operator assembly is provided for moving a sliding door between a sliding door of a motor vehicle between a closed position and an open position. The power operator assembly includes a guide rail fixedly secured to the motor vehicle and defining a rail length. A slide mechanism slidingly engages the guide rail. A drive is fixedly secured to the guide rail for selectively moving the slide mechanism along the guide rail in either direction. First and second cables each extend between the sliding door and the slide mechanism for moving the sliding door as the slide mechanism is driven along the guide rail. A compound pulley set is operatively connected to the drive and receives the first and second cables for powered movement of the sliding door a multiplied distance greater than the rail length as the slide mechanism is driven along the guide rail.
US07866730B2	Thermoformed twinsheet molded vehicle door system The present invention is a twinsheet door which includes a first door portion and a second door portion connected to the first door portion. The twinsheet door of the present invention is manufactured using a thermoforming process, during which a vacuum shapes the first door portion and the second door portion such that one or more closed sections are created when the first door portion is thermally bonded to the second door portion and simultaneously a vacuum is applied to form the first door portion and said second door portion. The closed section formed between the first door portion and second door portion provides additional strength and rigidity to the twinsheet door. Additionally, the forming of the closed section between the first door portion and the second door portion and the bonding between the first door portion and second door portion is achieved during a single manufacturing process.
US07866724B2	Visor for a vehicle A visor for a vehicle includes a core portion configured to interface with a pivot rod to allow the visor to be moved between a storage position and a use position. A single core portion includes structure configured to receive a slideable spring assembly for mounting the visor core to the pivot rod in an extendable and retractable manner. The visor core structure is also configured to receive a fixed spring assembly to mount the visor core to the pivot rod in a non-extendable and non-retractable manner.
US07866722B2	Console box It is to provide a console box, in which a ventilation duct is integrated with the console box without using a slide core, thus suppressing the increase of costs and preventing dew formation in a box body. A vertical wall protrudes downwards from the lower plate of the box body in such a way as to extend in the longitudinal direction of the console box, and a horizontal wall is integrally provided on a lower end of the vertical wall in such a way as to protrude to at least one of left and right sides and extend in the longitudinal direction of the console box. A ventilation duct is defined by the lower plate, the vertical wall, the horizontal wall, and each of the side panels. The console box includes the box body and a pair of left and right side panels, thus allowing the ventilation duct to be easily integrated with the lower portion of the box body without using the slide core. Also, dew is not formed on a wall surface of a storage space.
US07866721B2	Oilfield elevator An oilfield elevator including a locking mechanism operable by axial movement of the elevator's first body segment relative to its second body segment to control pivotal rotation about a hinge between the body segments; and an actuation lever positioned between the first body segment and the second body segment, the actuation lever including a protrusion thereon and being moveable to drive the protrusion against the first body segment to drive the first body segment axially relative to the second body segment.
US07866719B1	Apparatus and method for collection, storage, and access of baseball-like objects An apparatus to aid and simplify collection of substantially non-deformable balls scattered across a field or small area, and to provide a place for easy storage and retrieval. The apparatus utilizes stretchable and resilient members located in a ball intake area to transfer the substantially non-deformable balls from the ground or surface, into the apparatus. This disclosure describes methods, specific devices, and mechanisms embodying the present invention and useful in the collection or storage of baseball-like objects, and which provides easy access to stored baseball-like objects.
US07866717B2	Portable waste packaging device A device for collecting and packaging solid waste or toxic material is provided. A first arm and a second arm are coupled with a lever, wherein at least one arm is slidably coupled with the lever. A bag may be positioned in an open position when the first arm is located distally from the second arm, and the bag may be closed by an operator manipulating the arms towards each other. The device may include a motor or a spring or springs to drive the arms towards or away from each other. A plate, a pole and a handle may be coupled with the arms. The plate may be positioned relative to the arms to stabilize the waste or toxic material for insertion into the bag. The bag may include an adhesive, paper, plastic, recycled plastic, cellulose in combination or singularity.
US07866715B2	Protective vehicle cover A rear bumper protective device that is fitted atop a bumper of a vehicle. The rear bumper protective device including a base layer of flexible material having a top portion, side portions, and a bottom portion, the base layer having a construction and thickness capable of reducing damage to a rear portion of a vehicle, and being of sufficient dimensions to at least partially cover a rear portion of a vehicle when fitted atop the bumper of the vehicle. The bumper protection device further including one or more stabilizing blocks protruding from the top portion of the base layer, the stabilizing blocks positioned substantially colinearly with a contour edge of the top portion.
US07866709B2	Crosstalk device for an exhaust system A crosstalk device for coupling of two exhaust lines of an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine through which exhaust can flow in parallel has a housing having two inlets and two outlets that are connected so they communicate through an interior space of the housing and by which the two exhaust lines can be connected to the crosstalk device. The crosstalk device has an inexpensive design and high stability because its housing is assembled from two half-shells whose parting plane extends across the main direction of flow of the crosstalk device.
US07866699B2	Steering-column assembly A steering assembly has a bracket fixed to a vehicle and a bracket carriage displaceably arranged on the bracket. The assembly can be reliably collapsed in the event of an accident and is simple and cost-effective to manufacture. The bracket carriage is attached to the bracket by way of an attachment embodied in one piece with the bracket and/or the bracket carriage.
US07866697B2	Releasable holding mechanism and method of use The invention relates to a releasable holding mechanism which may be used to hold and release a roll bar in a roll over protection system. The roll bar is often made part of the seat structure of vehicle, or a part of the chassis of the vehicle. The releasable holding mechanism will be fastened rigidly or slightly loose to the roll bar frame, seat frame or the chassis of the vehicle. Between the roll bar and the releasable holding mechanism there will be a connection element that is rigidly or slightly loosely fastened to the roll bar. The arrangement of fastening the connection element rigidly or slightly loosely depends on the tolerances for positioning the actuator towards the roll bar. The connection element is locked or released by the releasable holding mechanism. The releasable holding mechanism is locked/-engaged when the roll bar is pushed downwards whereby the connection element is forced into the releasable holding mechanism. The releasable holding mechanism is to release the connecting element when a signal is sent to the release element of the holding mechanism. The releasable holding mechanism can be activated by one short duration pulse, for instance a pulse from an electronic control unit for activation of airbags in a vehicle. The system can be activated with low energy demands.
US07866693B2	Airbag and airbag system An airbag includes a front portion having an upper part for receiving a head of the occupant, a middle part and a lower part. The upper part has an upwardly protruding curved edge without a linear portion, and two laterally protruding upper curved edges. The middle part has two laterally inwardly curved middle side edges extending smoothly from the laterally protruding upper curved edges. The lower part haw two laterally inwardly and downwardly curved lower side edges, and a downwardly protruding curved edge without a linear portion. The lower part has a lateral width greater than that of the upper and middle parts to thereby form laterally projecting portions for receiving occupant's arms. The downwardly extending curved edge at the lower part has a curvature greater than that of the upwardly extending curved edge at the upper part.
US07866691B2	Occupant classifying device for vehicle seat An occupant classifying device for a vehicle seat includes an occupant classifying apparatus for classifying an occupant type on the basis of a seating load applied to the vehicle seat, a first load sensor provided at a rear portion of the vehicle seat in order to measure a rear load that is a part of the seating load, a second load sensor provided at a front portion of the vehicle seat in order to measure a front load that is a part of the seating load, a rear load ratio calculating apparatus for calculating a rear load ratio indicating a ratio of the rear load in the seating load on the basis of the measured rear and front loads and a securing determining apparatus determining whether or not a child restraint system is secured to the vehicle seat on the basis of the calculated rear load ratio.
US07866686B2	Collapsible wheelbarrow A collapsible wheelbarrow includes a rigid front bracket, a wheel rotatably secured to the front bracket, and first and second handle arms pivotably attached to the front bracket. The first and second handle arms are laterally pivotable about first and second pivot axes respectively. The first and second pivot axes are each spaced apart from the axis of rotation of the wheel. Preferably a clamping device removably applies a clamping force between the first and second handle arms and clamps a rigid tray between the first and second handle arms. The tray is preferably interconnected with the first and second handle arms to permit relative movement in a lateral direction and to prevent relative movement in a forward rearward direction. Preferably, the front bracket has spaced apart upper and lower walls and the first and second handle arms extend between the upper and lower walls.
US07866685B2	Golf cart collapsible device A golf cart collapsible device includes a frame folding articulation, a linking mechanism, a four-bar linkages mechanism, a front wheel, two rear wheels and a locking mechanism. Thus, the front wheel and the rear wheels are folded and expanded simultaneously by driving the upper frame, so that the golf cart is folded and expanded easily, quickly and conveniently. In addition, the front wheel and the rear wheels can be folded and expanded simultaneously, so that the user needs not to hunker or bend his/her body to fold and expand the front wheel individually, thereby greatly facilitating the user folding and expanding the golf cart.
US07866682B2	Pivot assembly for tandem suspension A pivot assembly for a tandem suspension is provided which includes a balancer and an elastomeric assembly operable to allow the balancer to rotate about a vehicle chassis. In addition, an elastomeric assembly for a suspension system is provided which includes an elastomeric element provided with a slot for allowing a deformation in response to a tension load imparted by a balancer, and a groove for preventing bulging in response to a compression load imparted by the balancer. A balancer for a vehicle suspension is also provided which includes first and second plates, an open area formed between the plates, an engaging member provided within the open area and first and second pins which define an axis of rotation about which the balancer is rotatable. A kit for the pivot assembly is also provided.
US07866680B2	Steering lock indicator for self-steering axle A land vehicle includes a wheeled axle that is operable to be selectively self-steering. The axle includes a ground wheel that is operable to be selectively locked into a straight-ahead position so that self-steering is restricted. The land vehicle also includes a wheel lockout indicator system that is operable to sense when the ground wheel is locked in the straight-ahead position and can alert an operator by confirming that the ground wheel has been locked in the straight-ahead position.
US07866679B1	Trash can cart apparatus The trash can cart apparatus provides a frame which selectively encloses two separate trash cans, allowing a user to use different sizes of trash cans, selectively. Each individually pivoted keeper is u-shaped and selectively covers each can. Each keeper further comprises a screen to prevent access to trash can lids, especially by animals, each keeper positionably lockable, and requiring the latch mechanism to be manually released prior to pivot. Each can if fully secured by frame and keepers only. The multiple lower laterals provide that any can is supported by at least two laterals. The apparatus needs only two wheels. The wheels are positioned at the lower front and the pivoting handle at the upper front. A user need only grasp the handle to pivot the mass of the apparatus, along with any trash cans.
US07866677B1	Rollator having a user-adjustable track width A rollator having a variable track width that can be adjusted across a range of widths for use in operation by pivoting a pair of support members, wherein the alignment of the wheels is maintained in the direction of travel during operation across the range of track widths.
US07866674B2	Electrically heated ice skates An ice skate assembly for attachment to a boot has a skate blade and a blade heating arrangement mounted within a blade support. The blade is heated by resistive heating wire attached along a groove on each side of the blade. The blade is mounted in the support by an over-molded plastic strip which engages into a slot in the support as a wedged fit. A control circuit board is encapsulated on the top edge of the blade and connects to a battery pack is carried in the rear tower of the support. The blade is attached to the support by a screw for pulling the blade longitudinally of the blade and to draw an inclined wedge member formed by the over-molding into its receptacle.
US07866672B2	Skate propulsion mechanisms Skate propulsion mechanisms are provided. In some embodiments, skate propulsion mechanisms comprise: a base plate; a drive wheel couple to the base plate; a shoe plate to which a user's foot can be coupled, which shoe plate can be moved relative to the base plate in response to movements in the user's foot; and a drive mechanism, coupling the shoe plate, the base plate, and the drive wheel, that propels the drive wheel when the user's foot is moved in a first direction and that permits the drivel wheel to operate in a free wheel mode when the user's foot is stationary.
US07866667B2	Card dispenser and storage and method for dispensing and storing cards A dispenser and storage system for cards allows a user to store, dispense, hold, and play a game of cards even when the dealer must hold the deck in one hand or in a windy environment. The system includes a container adapted to store at least one card, a cutout, a slot adapted to dispense at least one card, and a flap. The container may include a clip for holding cards and carrying the container. A process for storing and dispensing cards is also described.
US07866655B2	Image forming apparatus An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus main body provided with an opening, an image forming unit attachable to and detachable from the apparatus main body via the opening, a cover supported pivotally on the apparatus main body so as to cover the opening, and a sheet feeding unit disposed below the opening. The sheet feeding unit includes a sheet storing portion that is supported pivotally on the apparatus main body for stacking sheets thereon, a sheet feeding roller that feeds a sheet toward inside the apparatus main body, and a housing that supports the sheet feeding roller thereon in a rotatable manner. The cover has a housing supporting portion that abuts on the housing from above the housing when the cover is in a closed state.
US07866652B2	Sheet processing apparatus A sheet processing apparatus includes an aligning member and a shift conveying unit. The aligning member is movable in a width direction perpendicular to a sheet conveying direction and presses a sheet stack loaded on a sheet processing tray so as to align the sheet stack in the width direction. The unit is provided on the upstream side of the tray and conveys a sheet, shifting the sheet in the width direction. Being shifted by the unit, sheets are loaded at first and second loading positions on the tray. When sheets are loaded at the first loading position, the aligning member is moved to a first standby position corresponding to the first loading position in advance. When sheets are loaded at the second loading position, the aligning member is moved in advance to a second standby position corresponding to the second loading position.
US07866646B2	Sheet post-processing apparatus with protection cover A sheet post-processing apparatus of the invention includes a sheet guiding unit configured to have plural components including paper carrying components be attached thereto, a tray onto which a sheet of paper is discharged, and a protection cover attached to the sheet guiding unit at a portion in close proximity to the tray side. A protection cover has a cover main body, a screw attachment portion, a screw cover that covers the screw attached to the screw attachment portion, and a slit used for the tip end of the screw cover to be inserted into the cover main body to be fixed thereto.
US07866644B2	Sheet folding apparatus, sheet folding unit and image forming apparatus A sheet folding apparatus, including: a stacker configured to stack a plurality of sheets; a first folding roller configured to rotate around a first axis; a second folding roller configured to rotate around a second axis which is parallel with the first axis and biased to the first folding roller separably to make a nip together with the first folding roller therebetween; a blade unit configured to push a surface of the plurality of sheets, stacked by the stacker, into the nip; a stationary support configured to support the blade unit linearly movable to avoid deviating from a common tangential direction of the first folding roller and the second folding roller at the nip to a first folding roller side; and a movable support relatively movable against the blade unit, configured to bias the blade unit to the first folding roller side deviatably from the common tangential direction to a second folding roller side.
US07866640B2	Bush A bush includes an inner cylinder, an outer cylinder, a cylindrical elastic member interposed between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder, a flange formed on one edge of the outer cylinder, and an elastic brim extending from the cylindrical elastic member. The flange engages with one end face of the cylindrical member, and the elastic brim covers an end face of the flange. The flange includes a thick portion that protrudes toward the elastic brim side.
US07866634B2	Systems and methods for controlling rope A device for controlling movement of a rope comprises a main part and a bar part. The main part defines a central opening, first and second side portions, first and second end portions, at least one projection portion extending from each end portion, and a friction surface formed at junctures of each end portion and the at least one projection portion adjacent thereto. The bar part is movably attached to the first side portion. The bar part is displaced to allow a portion of the rope to be arranged within the central opening and at least partly around the bar part. The bar part is displaced such that the main part and the bar part define first and second opening portions of the central opening and the portion of the rope extends through the first and second opening portions and at least partly around the bar part.
US07866628B2	Pipe coupling A pipe coupling member has a tubular body (20) and a valve unit (22) slidably set in the through-hole of the tubular body. The valve unit has a valve holder (26) and a rotary valve member (30) supported by the valve holder so as to be rotatable about a pivot axis perpendicular to the axis of the through-hole. The valve holder comprises a valve seat portion (26-1) and a valve support portion (26-2) that are separately disposed in series in the axial direction or the direction of the axis of the though hole. The valve support portion rotatably supports the rotary valve member. When the valve holder moves axially in the through-hole, the rotary valve member is rotated by a cam mechanism (32) and displaced between a closed rotational position and an open rotational position while its spherical outer peripheral surface sliding relative to an annular valve seat of the valve seat portion. When in the closed rotational position, the rotary valve member sealingly engages all around the annular valve seat to close the fluid path. A spring member (28) urges the valve support portion to urge the valve holder toward the closed rotational position. When the coupling member is decoupled, the rotary valve member therein is surely placed in the closed rotational position.
US07866625B2	Solenoid valve for brake system A solenoid valve for a brake system, which has a simplified configuration and can be easily manufactured with reduced manufacturing costs. The solenoid valve includes valve seat member integrally formed with a seat portion having a first orifice, an opening/closing member slidably installed in the valve seat member, the opening/closing member having an inner passage formed through the opening/closing member, an outer passage formed at an outer surface of the opening/closing member, a second orifice formed at one end of the opening/closing member, the second orifice having a smaller diameter than that of the first orifice, and a first opening/closing portion formed at the other end of the opening/closing member to open or close the first orifice, an opening spring to move the opening/closing member, for opening of the first orifice, a sleeve having a first end coupled to an outer surface of the valve seat member and a flange formed at the first end so as to be fixed to a modulator block, a valve core coupled to a second end of the sleeve, opposite to the first end of the sleeve, an armature slidably mounted in the sleeve, the armature having a second opening/closing portion to open or close the second orifice, and a restoring spring to press the armature toward the second orifice.
US07866624B2	Heat sensitive release valve for cryogenic tank A heatable cryo-valve for a cryogenic tank storing liquid hydrogen. In one embodiment, the cryo-valve includes a valve plate mounted to a valve body by a spring. The spring forces the valve plate against a valve seat to prevent hydrogen from flowing through the cryo-valve when the valve is in a closed position. A resistive heating device is position proximate the valve plate. An electrical current applied to the heating device causes the device to expand, which pushes the device against the valve plate and against the bias of the spring to move the valve plate off of the valve seat and allow hydrogen to flow therethrough. The cryo-valve can be designed so that the heating device does not come in direct contact with the liquid hydrogen.
US07866614B2	Apparatus for setting the spacing of a free standing range from a floor An apparatus for setting the spacing of a free standing range relative to a floor includes a base component for contacting the floor, a threaded element, and a winding follower. The winding follower extends into the helical recess of the threaded element such that the winding follower travels progressively further along the helical recess of the threaded element. A blocking member engages the winding follower during travel of the winding follower along the helical recess of the threaded element to resist a disengagement movement.
US07866613B2	Apparatus for mounting a wheelchair arm pad The claimed invention provides an apparatus and system for mounting a wheelchair arm pad to a wheelchair that provides a high degree of support and adjustability such that it can be used with wheelchairs from a wide variety of different manufacturers. In order to provide this custom fit, the claimed invention provides for a single point mounting system having elevation, articulation, depth, and width adjustability.
US07866612B2	Clamp for use in wire harness A clamp (10) has a plate (12) with a harness-mounting part (11) to be fastened to a wire harness. Two spaced-apart stems (14) project from the plate (12). A spanning part (14) connects confronting portions of the stems (15) to form a cavity (18). A vane support (17) projects out from the end of each stem (15) and a vane (16) projects down and out from a tip of each vane support (17). A vehicle body-locking part (16a) formed at a tip of each vane (16). The spanning part (14) twists towards the cavity (18) when the wire harness is pulled in a withdrawal direction from the vehicle body to unlock the vehicle body-locking parts (16a) of the vanes (16) from the locking hole.
US07866611B2	Cable mounting bracket A bracket for mounting a cable to a surface is presented. The bracket restricts lateral and longitudinal movement of a cable while enabling rotational movement. The bracket may be mounted to a first surface so that the cable may be inserted into a second surface. The bracket generally includes a mounting portion, first and second flanges, and an arm. To reduce longitudinal movement of the cable, the cable is inserted through the first flange and fixedly coupled to a ferrule, which is coupled between the second flange and the notch of the arm. To restrict lateral movement of the cable, a first flange includes a tab that when in a raised position, enables the cable to be inserted through the first flange. After which, the tab is lowered to reduce the size of the aperture. The bracket may also include a cap that is fixedly removable from the cable.
US07866605B2	Energy absorbing impact band and method An energy absorbing apparatus and system for leading edge structures includes an impact member, such as a “bird-band”, of a plastically deformable material of a predetermined configuration positioned with the structure in an area of the leading edge of the structure to absorb energy of an impact of a projectile with the leading edge of the structure, and to redistribute the energy of the impact to the structure, and can break up the projectile, and can increase the impact area. The structure can have one or more sheet members, such as a single sheet, or an inner face sheet and an outer face sheet with a core positioned between the inner face sheet and the outer face sheet. One or more impact members of the plastically deformable material can be positioned with one or more of the single sheet, the inner face sheet, the outer face sheet or the core.
US07866604B2	Aircraft including an air conditioning system An aircraft recovers the energy of conditioned air as it passes from a conditioned zone to outside the aircraft and uses the recovered energy to air condition the aircraft.
US07866603B2	Methods and apparatus for an aircraft lavoratory A handicapped-accessible aircraft lavatory includes a wheelchair region, a toilet assembly adjacent to and oriented at a non-zero angle with respect to the wheelchair region, and a sink assembly adjacent to the toilet assembly. The sink assembly includes a basin positioned at a predetermined height and a predetermined lateral distance with respect to the toilet seat, wherein the predetermined height and the predetermined distance are selected such that the sink assembly is within arms-reach of a passenger (e.g., a 95th percentile male passenger) sitting on the toilet seat. Additional amenities such as mirrors, toilet paper, tissues, and the like may also be similarly positioned.
US07866599B2	Integrated inward turning inlets and nozzles for hypersonic air vehicles A hypersonic waverider aircraft is disclosed that includes a first engine and an inlet including a throat. The inlet is configured to generate three-dimensional flow compression during hypersonic flight with a weak shock wave that begins at the leading edge surfaces of the inlet and coalesces ahead of the throat, and a weak shock wave that begins at the point of coalescence of the weak shock wave and extends to the throat. The inlet includes a v-shaped lip open to freestream airflow in one side of the inlet.
US07866597B2	Reinforcing bar binding machine, wire reel, wire, and method of determining kind of wire A reinforcement binding machine (1), comprising a wire reel storage part (3) having a rotation detection lever (8) and a photo sensor (7). When a wire reel is rotated in starting binding, the rotation detection lever is turned on and off by a projected part formed on the side face of the wire reel to detect the rotation, and the photo sensor detects a reflection mark on the wire reel to discriminate the type of the wire by a mark number so as to control torsional torque, etc. Since wire information is detected in binding operation when the wire reel is rotated at a high speed not in initialization operation (in setting the wire) when the wire reel is rotated at a low speed, the swing amount of the rotation detection lever is large and, accordingly, the wire information can be securely detected.
US07866596B2	Recording-paper-roll supporting device and printer A recording-paper-roll supporting device includes first and second members. The first member includes an insertion portion, a supporting portion at an end of the insertion portion, and a support shaft at an end of the supporting portion. The supporting portion includes an outer peripheral surface, insertion-portion-side cam surfaces at different phases and heights, a collar portion, support-shaft-side cam surfaces at different phases and heights, and a cut section. The second member includes a cylindrical portion, a flange portion, a cam follower, and an engaging claw. When the outer peripheral surface is inserted along the inner peripheral surface and the cam follower and the engaging claw are selectively engaged with the insertion-portion-side cam surfaces and the support-shaft-side cam surfaces, the engaging claw is elastically deformed and generates a reactive force which presses the cam follower so that the second member is positioned on the supporting portion.
US07866594B2	Flexible conduit dispensing device Coiled cross-linked plastic conduits such as PEX water tubing commonly used by plumping contractors may be effectively unwound and strung at a construction site using a unique conduit dispensing device of this invention. The dispensing device includes a container for housing the coiled PEX conduit and a reel for unwinding the coiled PEX conduit from the container. The dispensing device may be equipped with a suspending mount which when mounted at a dispensing position allows a single worker to more effectively install the conduit at the work site.
US07866590B2	Winding frame with monitored secondary travel A winder including a frame including at least one spindle configured to support at least one cake, the spindle able to rotate about a first axis approximately perpendicular to the diameter of the cake, and at least one crosswinding device configured to deposit at least one strand on the spindle with a first traversing movement. The strand is further deposited on the spindle by a follower with a second traversing movement. The follower includes a control device for controlling the second traversing movement.
US07866586B2	Wire guide insert and method for drum package payoff Arrangements and methods for welding wire payoff sources. A tapered core and base plate, optionally along with a wire guide insert, are configured with a payout drum package and a cover containing a welding wire stack such that the welding wire may be payed off smoothly from the wire stack during an arc welding operation, without the welding wire flipping or tangling.
US07866581B2	Method of manufacturing toner A process for preparing a toner including the step of pulverizing a resin composition with a jet type pulverizer comprising a venturi nozzle and an impact member arranged so as to face the venturi nozzle, wherein r2/r1 is 0.3 or less, wherein r1 is a radius of the largest circle R1 among the circles formed with 3 points including any given 2 points located on the outer circumference of the impact side of the above impact member, and one point located on a line connecting the 2 points in the shortest distance on the impact side; and r2 is a radius of the largest circle R2 among the circles formed with 3 points including 2 points located on an outer circumference of the impact side, intersecting with a line perpendicularly at a given point with the line connecting the 3 points forming the circle R1, and one point located on a line connecting the 2 points in the shortest distance on the impact side; and a pulverization member and a jet type pulverizer, each being used in the process.
US07866579B2	Spreader A spreader (100) for spreading material, which in one embodiment comprises an upper bracket (120), a shaft (140), a return spring (160), a lower bracket (180), first and second sets of chain links (200a and 200b), and a spreader plate (220). The upper and lower brackets (120 and 180) are preferably aligned in the same vertical plane. The first and second chain links (200a and 200b) are located on opposite sides of the spreader (100) and on either side of the shaft (140). Upon rotation of the spreader (100) the first and second sets of chain links (200a and 200b) experience a centrifugal force sufficient to cause the spreader plate (220) to move down the shaft (140) and upon ceasing rotation the spreader plate (220) returns to a default position proximate to the top of the shaft (140).
US07866577B2	Fuel injection valve A fuel injection valve includes a housing, a stator, a movable core, a coil, a nozzle hole, a valve member, and at least one communicating passage. The housing receives the stator and movable core. An end face of the movable core has a non-contact surface and a contact surface. The non-contact surface and the stator define a space when the contact surface contacts the stator. The valve member is slidably received in a bore of the movable core. The valve member has a stopper engageable with the movable core such that the valve member is axially movable together with the movable core. The at least one communicating passage connects the space with a corresponding one of a first fuel passage and a second fuel passage of the housing.
US07866573B2	Ergonomic spray gun A fluid control spray gun stops, starts and controls flow of fluids through a nozzle. The gun has a fluid entry port; a trigger that controls fluid flow by movement of a pin; a handle that moves the trigger; a fulcrum point on the handle; three floating pins comprising in order a first floating pin, a second floating pin and a third floating pin, the three floating pins being present in an upper region of the handle; a hand grip portion in the handle; the upper region of the handle allowing engagement between the first floating pin and the trigger; and the upper region of the handle having a forward end allowing engagement of the third floating pin with a stabilizing element.
US07866572B2	Bubble-generating structure, and showerhead that includes that structure Using a simple structure, a new function is added to a liquid such as tap water by taking a gas into the liquid. The bubble-generating structure of the present invention includes (1) a water-discharging nozzle, which is provided inside a pipe, (2) a receiving member, which is situated a specified distance from the water-discharging nozzle and which includes a flow path for passing liquid emitted from the water-discharging nozzle, and (3) an air hole provided in such a way as to take air into a space between the water-discharging nozzle and the receiving member. By taking in air due to a suction force that is generated when the liquid passes along the flow path, bubbles are generated in the liquid. When such a structure for generating bubbles in the liquid is included in a showerhead, a person taking a shower using the showerhead can have a healthy and comfortable feeling while showering.
US07866569B2	Railroad cross tie and method of manufacture A railroad cross tie having an inner core with at least one longitudinally extending metallic reinforcing member and an outer casing. The cross tie includes first and second end caps. The first end cap is disposed proximate a first end of the inner core and the second end cap is disposed proximate a second opposite end. One embodiment of the cross tie includes an expansion gap longitudinally disposed between the first and second end caps. Longitudinal dimensions of the expansion gap varies in response to differential thermal expansion between the inner core and the outer casing. In other embodiments, the end caps are mechanically interlocked with the inner core and the outer casing overlays a portion of the end caps. The disclosed structures securely and reliably attach the end caps to the cross tie. A method of manufacturing cross ties is also disclosed.
US07866567B2	Adapter for contact and contactless smart cards A portable adapter for using a contact smart card with a contactless smart card reader and a contactless smart card with a contact smart card reader. The adaptor is provided with a casing that is configured to engage a contact smart card or a contactless smart card, and is provided with an exterior portion that physically cooperates via a contact pad with a contact smart card reader. The adapter is provided with an interface passing signals between a contactless smart card and a contact smart card reader, and an interface for passing signals between a contact smart card and a contactless smart card reader.
US07866566B2	Method for operating a tachograph and tachograph for carrying out the method In a method for transferring data from a tachograph (1) onto a smartcard (3), the smartcard (3) is moved out of and back into the tachograph (1) by an electromotive drive (8) as a function of stipulated conditions. In the process, spring contacts (6) of the tachograph (1) rub over contact areas (5) of the smartcard (3) and remove any dirt which may be present. The conditions for starting the electromotive drive (8) and the intended operation of the electromotive drive (8) are stored in a memory (10) of an electronic control device (9).
US07866565B2	Apparatus for producing RFID labels, cartridge for including at least a RFID tag, and RFID label manufacturing system An apparatus for producing RFID labels includes a feeding roller drive shaft configured to feed a base tape provided with a plurality of types of RFID circuit elements having an IC circuit part storing information and a tag antenna and corresponding to each of a plurality of types of communication frequency, and an antenna configured to perform information transmission and reception using the plurality of types of communication frequencies with respect to the plurality of types of the RFID circuit elements of a tag label tape with print being fed, and when a RFID label production command for producing a RFID label is input from an operation terminal, a central control part control in coordination so that the plurality of types of RFID labels using the plurality of types of RFID circuit elements, respectively, corresponding to the command is produced in a lump sum.
US07866564B2	Dual card system A dual card system for use in a communication terminal is disclosed. The dual card system includes a slave card and a master card. The master card is provided with a network security function and is connected between the communication terminal and the slave card, and has a processor for controlling the slave card.
US07866563B2	Token with electronic device, method of making thereof, and apparatus for making thereof Token including a token body obtained by at least one injection of material around an insert including a contactless identification device attached to a rigid plate sandwiched between two layers of injected material, the rigid plate including at least one through-hole. The invention also concerns the method of manufacturing such a token, including placing the insert in a mold, injecting a plastic material around the insert to form at least a portion of the core of the token, and at least one injection of plastic material around the assembly formed by the insert and the portion of the core obtained after the first injection of plastic material.
US07866562B2	Fixed write-protect seamless memory card In an embodiment of the present invention, a memory card includes a bottom plastic piece having a plurality of lateral sides, one of which includes a notch, and a cavity interposed along the lateral sides. A printed circuit board (PCB) assembly, including memory, is positioned in the cavity. A fin-structure is created as part of the manufacturing process of the bottom plastic piece of the card. The memory card is configured to function in a read-write mode when the fin-structure is present, and in a write-protect mode when the fins are snapped off, and the notch is exposed. Alternatively, a plug device can be insertably positioned into the notch, causing the memory card to function in a read-write mode when the plug device is positioned into the notch, and in a write-protect mode when the plug device is removed and the notch is exposed.
US07866560B2	Recovering communication transaction control between independent domains of an integrated circuit Within an integrated circuit (2) independently controllable domains (4, 6, 8, 10, 5 12, 14) may be unable to complete pending transactions taking place between domains. Each domain is provided with a state machine (20, 22) which is responsive to the state of the state machine within the other domain and when this indicates that the other domain is not communicating triggers modified behavior. This can provide that the predetermined transaction protocol is not broken and/or complete a partially completed transaction when the domain concerned has recovered from an error or other event which disrupted the communication.
US07866558B2	Laser scanner A laser scanning system and method for scanning symbology targets such as barcodes. The scanning system in one embodiment includes at least one laser source and a pair of wobbling mirrors generally disposed towards opposite ends of a centrally-positioned rotatable mirrored spinner. In one embodiment, the central spinner is double-sided having reflecting surfaces on opposites sides thereof. Laser beams projected onto each wobbling mirrors are in turn redirected onto each reflecting surface of the double-sided rotating spinner which produces a pair of rotating scanning beams for reading a symbology target.
US07866553B2	IPOS transaction terminal Apparatus and methods for transaction processing. The apparatus may be a transaction terminal including a keypad, a circuit for interacting with the transaction customer and a link communicatively connecting the keypad and the customer-interaction circuit. The cashier may interact with the keypad, while the customer (and not the cashier) may interact with the customer-interaction circuit. The link may communicate a dollar amount for the transaction between the keypad and the customer-interaction circuit. Accessories for the keypad may include a check reader, a display or a receipt printer. Accessories for the customer-interaction circuit may include a smart-card reader, a magnetic-strip reader and biometric readers. The customer-interaction circuit may include a port for connection to a remote service provider. That port may be the only remote-access port in the transaction terminal. The customer-interaction circuit may include a virtual keypad, and the circuit itself maybe programmed to capture a personal identifier number by means of that virtual keypad. The customer-interaction circuit may include virtual paper, and the circuit itself may be programmed to capture a signature by means of the virtual paper. A cash register at the POS location with the transaction terminal may not be communicatively coupled to the transaction terminal.
US07866552B2	Method and system using a bitmap for passing contactless payment card transaction variables in standardized data formats An electronic payment system is configured to process both proximity payment card type and magnetic stripe card type transactions. The magnetic stripe card transaction data is communicated between cards, readers, and transactions authorizing or approving parties in common industry ISO 7811 standard data structures or tracks. The proximity payment card transaction data such a dynamic authentication codes are placed in unused space in the same standard formatted data structures. The availability of unused space varies with card issuer or vendor. An issuer-specific bitmap provides an index to the available space in discretionary data fields in magnetic stripe tracks. The bitmap also is stored in the card's discretionary data field.
US07866550B2	Transaction card with sound and transformative playback feature A transaction card includes an audio circuit, housing and an account identifier. The audio circuit includes memory configured to store an audio file having audio properties. The audio circuit is configured to transform at least one audio property of the audio file such that upon playback of the audio file, the audio file sounds different than when the audio file was initially stored to the memory. The housing substantially encloses the audio circuit, and the account identifier links the transaction card to an account or record. The account identifier is machine readable. Other cards, products, assemblies and methods of using such cards, products and assemblies are also disclosed.
US07866546B1	Automated checkout unit and method of use thereof The present invention is a checkout module for use in a retail checkout lane and methods of using the checkout module. The module needs only a power source and a network source. In another embodiment, the checkout module is designed to be used in a self-checkout mode or an assisted checkout mode and is further designed to be easily rotated to convert the checkout lane into a fully attended lane. The present invention may be used to quickly convert a conventional, attended checkout into an automated checkout, which may use one or more employees to assist with bagging the purchased items.
US07866543B2	Security and privacy enforcement for discovery services in a network of electronic product code information repositories Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for managing security and privacy associations between an electronic product code value and an address of a repository containing information about an item represented by the electronic product code. A security certificate is issued to each of one or more parties that are authorized to use the repository. In response to a party among the one or more parties sensing the electronic product code, a record is created in the repository. The record represents the sensing of the electronic product code and includes a security certificate belonging to the party that sensed the electronic product code.
US07866541B2	Fish cooler with counting means A receptacle for receiving, counting and temporarily storing game, such as fish, has an opening or passageway into the interior of the receptacle. The opening or passageway is normally covered by a closure member or door which is selectively slidable between a normally closed position and an open position. Each time the door or closure member is substantially open, a counter will be indexed to indicate that a piece of game has been placed in the receptacle.
US07866540B2	Shock and vibration absorbing device and method A resilient device for absorbing at least one of shock and vibration includes a first portion, and a second portion which extends outwardly from the first portion and curves in a first direction away from the first portion and then recurves in a second direction towards the first portion. The method includes the step of securing the first portion to one of a first member and a second member disposed in spaced relationship to the first member and the step of abuttingly engaging the second portion to an opposed one of the first member and the second member wherein the second member is capable of withstanding application of at least one of shock and vibration and the resilient member temporarily changes its original shape for absorbing such at least one of shock and vibration.
US07866539B2	Container for transporting cooled goods The invention refers to a container for transporting cooled goods, comprising an inner container for receiving the cooled goods and an outer container surrounding the inner container. The inner container contains a thermally insulating material and has an outer surface on which outer ribs are arranged. The outer ribs generate spaces between the inner container and the outer container. The outer container has a plurality of ventilation holes for ventilating the spaces.
US07866538B2	Container box An apparatus includes container. The container includes a polygonal bottom panel comprising of N sides, N sidewalls and N flaps. Each flap is located between two adjacent sidewalls. The flaps are capable of unfolding to increase the volume of the container. N is a positive integer greater than two.
US07866537B1	Easy-open wrapper A wrapper used to enclose various things that are generally flat or can be flattened. The wrapper consists of two planar sheets that are essentially identical in shape and peripherally sealed to one another. The wrapper has a v-shaped indentation on its top, which makes the wrapper easy to open by holding the wrapper at both ends near the top and gently pulling both ends away from one another until the wrapper tears into two pieces beginning at the indentation and continuing in the general direction of the bottom of said wrapper.
US07866534B2	Conductor ball mounting apparatus, conductor ball mounting method, mask used for mounting conductor ball, and mask manufacturing method There is provided a conductive ball mounting apparatus. The conductive ball mounting apparatus includes: a conductive ball mounting mask disposed to oppose a substrate having a plurality of pads coated with an adhesive flux, the conductive ball mounting mask having a plurality of ball mounting through holes for mounting each of conductive balls on each of the plurality of pads, the plurality of ball mounting through holes being arranged to oppose to the plurality of pads; and a conductive ball supplying unit for moving or removing the conductive balls on the conductive ball mounting mask by sucking an air on an upper surface side of the conductive ball mounting mask. The conductive ball mounting mask includes through portions formed to block passing of the conductive balls.
US07866532B1	Friction stir welding apparatus, system and method A method of performing friction stir welding is provided herein. More specifically, traditional friction stir welding requires a rotatable head that is forced against a plurality of work pieces to bond the same. The rotational and normal forces generated by the friction stir welding tool are generally reacted by a backing plate, anvil, mandrel or other mechanisms, such hardware are subject to the applied forces and are often supported with additional internal supports. Conversely, a method of performing a friction stir weld is described that omits the need for such a backing member and internal supports as it is performed using a self reacting pin tool.
US07866527B2	Surgical stapling apparatus with interlockable firing system A surgical stapling apparatus. Various embodiments include a handle assembly that has a movable handle that is movable through actuation strokes relative to a stationary handle housing. An actuation is shaft supported at least in part within the stationary handle housing and is movable in response to manipulation of the movable handle. Various embodiments further include a firing lock out assembly that is configured to selectively prevent longitudinal movement of the actuation shaft in a distal direction. A firing release trigger is supported on the movable handle for travel therewith and is configured to interface with the firing lockout assembly to selectively release the firing lockout assembly to permit the actuation shaft to move longitudinally in the distal direction upon manipulation of the movable handle.
US07866526B2	Apparatus for applying surgical fasteners to body tissue An apparatus for endoscopic application of surgical staples adapted to attach surgical mesh to body tissue includes a frame and an elongated endoscopic section connected to the frame-and extending distally therefrom. A staple storage cartridge is removably supported on a pivotal support system at the distal end portion of the endoscopic section. An elongated pusher system is provided for individually advancing at least one staple at a time distally. The pusher system includes a trigger system to actuate the pusher. The trigger system is provided with perceptible tactile sensing means to indicate when the legs of the staple being advanced are exposed so as to be visible to the user for positioning and orientation purposes.
US07866522B2	Stapling device Disclosed in a stapling device that is sound, safe, convenient and not easy to get lost and that is applicable to staples of multiple specifications. A casing has a rear end to which an adjustor is set. The adjustor has a fitting portion that is comprised of two or more than two fitting blocks each having an engaging face that is spaced from a central axis of the adjustor by a different distance. A rear end of the casing is provided with a depress-to-fix member corresponding to the adjustor. The depress-to-fix member forms a fitting slot. This arrangement allows selective change engagement between the fitting slot and different fitting blocks thereby changing the set position of a rear guide plate and realizing change of gap size of a staple outlet opening for being applicable to staples of different specifications.
US07866516B2	Roof rack for a vehicle The invention relates to a roof rack (1) for a vehicle having at least one tubular rail (2) extending essentially at a distance from the roof of the vehicle and at least two supports (5) at the ends of the rail to attach the roof rack (1) to the vehicle roof, where the rail (2) is shaped in its end areas (3) to have a curve (4) and in the area of each curve (4) is held from below by the support (5) which can be attached to the rail (2), the underside (11) of said support—when viewed in cross-section—forming a flat supporting surface (12) for a matching surface (13) on the rail (2).
US07866515B1	Paddle platform A paddle for securing at least one holster or accessory carrier at a desired attitude, the paddle including an attachment plate, a first arcuate slot defined through the attachment plate, a second arcuate slot defined through the attachment plate, a compound slot defined through the attachment plate below the first and second slots, wherein fastening means are capable of engaging points of attachment defined on a holster or accessory carrier, and wherein a relative angle of the holster or accessory carrier to the attachment plate is adjustable by coordinated adjustment of the fastening means within each of the first arcuate slot, the second arcuate slot, and the compound slot.
US07866514B1	Container and device for production of such container A container has a hollow receptacle element (10) for holding a medium to be dispensed, and a dispensing opening (12) communicating with a hollow chamber (14) of a sealing element (18). The sealing element (18) is detachable by a point of separation (20). To reduce the free volume of the hollow chamber (14), opposite wall components (22) of the sealing element (18) are displaced into the hollow chamber (14). The dispensing medium stored in the receptacle element (10) is prevented from being able to unintentionally penetrate into the hollow chamber (14) where it would no longer being available for a removal process. The invention also relates to a device for production of such a container.
US07866513B2	Liquid product dispensing and receiving device A device for dispensing and receiving a liquid or semi-liquid product via a metering chamber of a pump body. The device includes a piston which is fixably mounted in the pump body and is provided with an end sealingly engaged into the chamber. The piston end is provided with an elastically deformable membrane put thereon. The membrane includes a transversal wall forming an input check valve which is provided with a central supply orifice sealingly closable by a protruded element forming the check valve seat on the end of the piston. The membrane includes a fixing cylindrical skirt which is provided with at least one sealing peripheral lip slidingly contacting the internal wall of the chamber. The skirt forms a valve when it is deformed by contact with a projection bearing by the internal wall of the chamber in such a way that the air compressed by the piston is released into the chamber by the pump priming.
US07866510B2	Device for dispensing a fluid from the hollow space of a container Disclosed is a device for dispensing a fluid, in particular a carbonated beverage, from a storage chamber of a container towards the outside via at least one closeable discharge port, comprising a pressure reservoir which is separated from the storage chamber and in which a pressurized propellant is accommodated, and which can be connected to the storage chamber via a pressure regulation mechanism. The pressure regulation mechanism includes an axially moveable regulating element that is impinged upon by means of a spring in the direction of an open position in which propellant is discharged from the pressure reservoir into the storage chamber. The ambient pressure to which the container is exposed acts upon the regulating element in the direction of the open position, and the internal pressure inside the storage chamber of the container acts upon the regulating element in the direction of the closed position.
US07866507B2	Cleaning wipe container including a transferable label A cleaning wipes container having one or more panels and a lid that covers an opening. The opening provides access to an interior storage space defined by the one or more panels. The interior storage space is configured to receive a wipes cartridge. The container also has a viewing area on at least a portion of one panel. The viewing area provides a target surface to join a transferable label. The transferable label includes indicia that relate to a characteristic of a type of cleaning wipes in the wipes cartridge. The indicia are viewable from outside the container.
US07866501B2	Tubular rivet connection for components of metal, plastic or wood, especially for assembling transport and storage containers for liquids and flowable material A tubular rivet connection is provided for assembling a transport and storage container that has a support frame, an inner plastic container with a filling socket and a discharge socket, and an exterior jacket. The support frame for the inner container has corner and center legs mounted on a base frame. The top of the support frame and the exterior jacket are attached to the corner legs and center legs by the tubular rivet connection that has a tubular rivet stem connected to a first component; the tubular rivet stem is formed as a monolithic part of the first component or is a separate part welded to the first component. A second component to be riveted to the first component has a rivet hole. A free end of the tubular rivet stem that projects past the second component after insertion into the rivet hole is deformed to a driven head.
US07866494B1	Closet A portable and multi-purpose T-shaped closet and coat rack includes a foldable flat base made of four equal plates which are joined together by hinges beneath the plates. A removable hollow cylinder which is a stabilizer/coin holder/piggy bank is mounted over the base. The stabilizer has a mass of at least three kilograms when filled with coins, sand, marbles or like materials. A single post directed vertically and divided into three separate sections allowing different height adjustments is mounted on the base. Two of the segments of the post are equipped with a motion control apparatus to neutralize to the arms' motions. A special bi-functional cap completes the erecting of the post and comprises of two opposite threaded extensions which are designed to receive the arms of the unit. Two removable and identical, trombone-shaped arms mounted on either sides of the cap constitute the racks for the hanging of garments. Two security extensions secure the bases of the arms with the post on either side. Four freely rotating cups located at the top of the base are used to secure the stabilizer and the base into one compact unit. Two freely rotating cups attach the arms to the cap of the unit.
US07866487B2	Aromatic polyamide porous film, process for producing the same and secondary battery The problem addressed by this invention is to provide an aromatic polyamide porous film excellent in the capability of being thinned and capable of easily exhibiting stable porosity properties even if it is used for a long period of time at high temperature. This invention can be achieved by an aromatic polyamide porous film that contains an aromatic polyamide as a main component and is such that when an atomic force microscope is used to measure a range of S μm2 at least on one surface, the sectional area S(10) μm2 obtained at a depth of 10 nm from the surface and the sectional area S(20) μm2 obtained at a depth of 20 nm from the surface satisfy the following formulae simultaneously. 0.01≦S(10)/S≦0.3 5≦S(20)/S(10)≦20
US07866486B2	Composite ceramic hollow fibres method for production and use thereof Composites comprising at least one hollow fiber of oxygen-transporting ceramic material, which is a ceramic material which conducts oxygen anions and electrons or a combination of ceramic material which conducts oxygen anions and a ceramic or nonceramic material which conducts electrons, with the outer surface of the hollow fiber being in contact with the outer surface of the same hollow fiber or another hollow fiber and the contact points being joined by sintering, are described.Further composites comprise at least one hollow fiber of oxygen-transporting ceramic material which is a ceramic material which conducts oxygen anions and electrons or a combination of ceramic material which conducts oxygen anions and ceramic or nonceramic material which conducts electrons and a connection element for the introduction or discharge of fluids at at least one end face, with hollow fibers and connection element being joined.The composites can be used for isolating oxygen from oxygen-containing gas mixtures or for carrying out oxidation reactions.
US07866484B2	Sorting device and method The invention relates to a sorting device and method for sorting granulated mass containing varied materials, such as granulated mass containing varied materials, such as granulated electronic scrap. According to the invention, the sorting device comprises a planar, elongated trough conveyor (1) having at least a first elongated and vertical edge (2, 3, 4); a feeding device (5) for feeding the mass into the first end (6) of the trough conveyor; a vibrator (9) provided with a motor (7) and an eccentric (8), whose rotation axis (10) is disposed in a plane deviating from the plane defined by the trough conveyor so that the mass proceeds obliquely forwards in the trough conveyor towards the first edge and second end (11); a first suction device (12) for removing the lightest surface portion of the mass near the edge, a guide (13) which is oblique with respect to the edge for bringing apart the mass flow from the edge; as well as a mechanical separator member (14) for dividing the mass flow into two parts.
US07866482B2	Molded end cap for oilfield screens A filter screen to be used in conjunction with a shale shaker in removing solid matter from drilling fluids includes a filter plate having a plurality of perforations, a plurality of hold-down apertures, and a pair of end caps attached to the filter plate, wherein each end cap is configured to isolate the hold down apertures from the plurality of perforations.
US07866480B2	Front opening substrate container with bottom plate A substrate container and a bottom plate are connected with a mechanism for adjusting the distance between the container and bottom plate, by, e.g., a threaded connection between two members of the connector mechanism. Also provided are a duck-billed valve for venting the container and a dampener for minimizing damage due to shocks.
US07866479B2	Spring type paper cushion A spring type paper cushion having a columnar body, at least four cushioning recesses, at least four projections and a receiving portion. The columnar body has a columnar wall and an axis. The cushioning recesses and the projections are formed on the columnar wall. The projections are respectively located between two of the cushioning recesses. The receiving portion is recessed into the columnar wall and is located at one of the cushioning recesses. The receiving portion has two receiving mountain-fold lines, two slits and a bottom. The slits are cut so that the two receiving mountain-fold lines can be folded allowing the bottom to sink into the body.
US07866477B2	Oral care Q2 kits An oral care kit for a defined oral care treatment cycle is provided herein. The oral care kit utilizes a substantially rectangular box having oral care packs positioned therein. The oral care packs contain oral care devices useful for administering oral care treatment during a 24 hour oral care treatment cycle.
US07866472B2	Greeting device A combined greeting and gift set comprising a greetings scroll (10) carrying printed matter and having a region for the insertion of a personal message by the user, means (14) to maintain the scroll in its rolled/up condition, a container (18) for housing the scroll and at least one gift (22), the container being at least partially transparent to enable the scroll (10) and gift (22) to be seen from the outside of the container (18) and having access means (32d, 32e) enabling the scroll (10) to be selectively removed and returned to the container (18) without disturbing the gift or gifts (22).
US07866471B2	Medical system with skin applicator A medical system 10 may include a fluid basin 100, a medical skin applicator, an aspirator instrument, gauze pads 400, sponges 500 and medicinal container 600. Each may be stored within the fluid basin 100 during transport of the medical system 10.
US07866470B2	Carry case for a portable analyte measuring device A carry case is provided for a portable analyte measuring device, the carry case having opposing sides delimiting an interior space that is closed at one end and provided with an opening at the other end. According to certain embodiments of the present invention, the carry case is provided with an interior flap that is fastened at a distance from the closed end at one of the opposing sides and that can be swung from a first position in which a first side of the flap faces one of the opposing sides to a second position, in which the flap divides the interior space of the carry case and faces with the first flap side the closed end of the interior space.
US07866467B2	Digital media envelope sleeve with identification markings An improved digital media enclosure having two primary components, a sleeve into which the digital media is placed, and an envelope into which the sleeve is placed. At least one surface of the sleeve is printed with a plurality of identification markings on at least one of the sleeve's outer surfaces. The identification markings are each positioned at a first radial distance from a center of the sleeve in regularly angled intervals around the center. The envelope includes a pocket into which the sleeve fits. There is an opening in the envelope pocket located at substantially the first radial distance from the planar center of the sleeve pocket. The opening is also positioned at a same angle as the identification markings, such that any of the identification markings will show through the opening when the sleeve is placed in the sleeve pocket in any of its possible orientations.
US07866466B2	Slide and shell container A slide and shell container, which finds particular application as a pack for elongate smoking articles such as cigarettes, and which includes an outer shell having a first access opening; and an inner slide having a second access opening. The inner slide is mounted within the outer shell for slidable movement relative thereto between a closed position, in which the second access opening is occluded by the outer shell and the interior of the inner slide is inaccessible, and an open position, in which the second access opening is substantially aligned with the first access opening such that the interior of the inner slide is accessible through the first and second access openings.
US07866464B2	Thin-section conveyor apparatus, thin-section scooping tool, and method for transporting thin sections A thin-section conveyor apparatus for transporting thin sections that have been prepared by thinly cutting an embedded block, which transports the thin sections to a liquid bath by mounting them on the upper plane of a conveyor belt having a longitudinal linear body extended along the direction of transportation and a transverse linear body disposed perpendicular to the longitudinal linear body, provided that the density of the transverse linear body for the part on which the thin sections are to be mounted is lower than that of the transverse linear body of the other places. It provides thin sections almost free of entraining bubbles. A thin-section scooping tool and a method for transporting thin sections are also proposed.
US07866463B2	Belt conveyor comprising support stations spaced at a distance from one another The invention relates to a belt conveyor including a longitudinal conveyor belt and a plurality of stations for supporting the conveyor belt distributed longitudinally along the conveyor belt. The conveyor belt includes a matrix made of a resilient material and a frame embedded in the matrix, and at least some support stations each including a support member for supporting the belt and a framework supported on the ground. The support member is fixed on the framework at a height greater than two meters relative to the ground. The support stations are spaced far apart from one another. The conveyor does not comprise a device for supporting the belt between stations.
US07866461B2	Roller actuating device for machines used for processing metal products Roller actuating device for flattening machines used for metal products in the shape of sheet metal, strips or the like, also used with similar machines for other applications, comprising a device for transmitting motion to driven rolls (8), extremely functional and capable of transmitting higher torques as well as their independent control. Such device overcomes the frequent problems concerning the space available for installing gimbal adapters. This can be achieved by using adapters (4) provided with teeth which, with the same flange diameter, are able to provide higher torques, and in any case, can be used in any applications in which it is necessary to have reduced operating angles of the adapters.
US07866460B2	Transport device, especially for transporting flat substrates through a coating installation The transport device especially for transporting flat substrates through a coating installation comprises a plurality of transporting rolls, which are arranged transversely in relation to the transporting direction, and supporting rolls are also provided.
US07866457B2	Conveyor belt cleaner scraper blade with sensor and control system therefor A conveyor belt cleaner scraper blade for cleaning the surface of a conveyor belt and a method of manufacture of the scraper blade. The scraper blade includes a body having a base member adapted to be attached to a cross shaft of a conveyor belt cleaner and a scraping member which extends outwardly from the base member to a scraping tip. The scraper blade includes one or more electrical sensors that are embedded in an insert member. The insert member and the sensors are molded and embedded within the body of the scraper blade. Each of the sensors is adapted to provide an electrical output signal representing a physical condition of the scraper blade sensed by the sensor. A variety of sensor embodiments are described, as well as two embodiments of control and monitoring systems for use in conjunction with the various blade and sensor combinations.
US07866455B2	Clutch, motor device, and vehicle door opening and closing apparatus When a drive shaft is in a non-drive state, a second drive rotor is in a non-engaged state with a driven rotor with respect to its own rotating direction. When the drive shaft is in a drive state, a rotating force of a first drive rotor is transmitted to the second drive rotor through an urging member. As a result, a power transmitting member revolves, and a centrifugal force arranges the power transmitting member at a second clamping position. The second drive rotor receives a reaction force from a driven rotor via the power transmitting member. As a result, the second drive rotor is relatively rotated in an opposite direction to a rotating direction of the first drive rotor with respect to the first drive rotor, against an urging force of the urging member. As a result, the first drive rotor is engaged with the driven rotor with respect to its own rotating direction. Accordingly, the clutch is stably operated.
US07866454B2	Torque converter A torque converter includes at least two thrust bearings disposed on respective axially-opposite sides of a radially-inward portion of a stator. The stator includes a non-rotatable member, a rotatable member, and a one-way clutch. The rotatable member has a cylindrical portion having an inner peripheral surface interlocked with the one-way clutch, and an extension portion which extends from an approximately axially-central region of the cylindrical portion in a radially-outward direction relative to the cylindrical portion, and has an axial thickness less than that of the cylindrical portion. The thrust bearings are disposed to clamp the extension portion from respective axially-opposite sides of the extension portion at respective positions located radially outwardly relative to the cylindrical portion, so as to facilitate reduction in axial dimension of the torque converter.
US07866453B2	Swivelable trunk wheel assembly The present invention discloses a swivelable trunk wheel assembly, which comprises: a wheel frame, a guide hole, a hollow pivotal shaft, a push rod, a press block, a sleeve pipe, two wheels and two rivets. The sleeve pipe adopts a metallic pipe having a better rigidity, and the inner surface of the sleeve pipe is a smooth surface. Further, the rivets and the sleeve pipe are arranged in the same axis. Thus, the wheels can rotate smoothly without stagnancy. Therefore, the swivelable trunk wheel assembly of the present invention has a better wear resistance and a longer service life. Besides, the present invention uses the push rod to drive the press block to rub the friction portion, and the friction can provide a braking effect on the wheels.
US07866449B2	Magnetic rail brake device The invention relates to a magnetic rail brake device of a railway vehicle, including a magnetic base or carrier element, and a magnetic coil which can be connected to a voltage source by means of a connecting mechanism that is on the base or carrier element and is provided with at least two electrical terminals. An end face of the connecting mechanism is disposed within an imaginary enveloping area of the base or carrier element.
US07866446B2	Method and device for reducing the energy consumption of an elevator installation A device for reducing the energy consumption is used in an elevator installation which can be alternatively brought into an operating mode and a standby mode wherein in the standby mode the elevator installation is separated from a main energy source and connected with an auxiliary energy source, by means of which basic functions of the elevator installation are maintained so as to enable later entry into the operating mode. The device includes a detecting unit in order to detect a use criterion describing the current use status of the elevator installation. Moreover, a power-saving unit with a microprocessor is provided in order to bring the elevator installation from the operating mode to the standby mode in the case of non-fulfillment of the use criterion and fulfillment of standby criteria and to bring it from the standby mode to the operating mode in the case of non-fulfillment of the standby criteria.
US07866444B2	Cascading oil flow bearing lubrication device A bearing lubrication system includes a stationary output shaft carrier housed within a gear housing wherein the output shaft resides partially within the carrier and upper and lower bearings support the shaft. The carrier includes first and second arcuately extending troughs for catching lubricating fluid slung by an oil slinger. The first trough is in fluid communication with the shaft and with the upper bearing which pumps fluid through the bearing and into an upper passageway which terminates in an opening which supplies fluid to a second trough which, in turn, supplies fluid to the second bearing which, in turn, supplies fluid to the annular pool formed on the upper portion of the gear affixed to the output shaft. The annular pool is formed by a cylindrically shaped dike secured to the upper portion of the gear. Overflow from the pool lubricates the gear and returns oil to the reservoir.
US07866442B2	Muffler and vehicle equipped with muffler A muffler that inhibits reduction in engine performance and reduces exhaust noise volume includes a front chamber and an expansion chamber with a partition therebetween. A conduit passes through the expansion chamber. An upstream end of the conduit passes through the partition and opens in the front chamber. A partition wall is provided in a central section of the conduit. An outflow section upstream from the partition wall has a side surface in which outflow holes are formed that allow exhaust gas to flow out to the expansion chamber. An inflow section downstream from the partition wall has a side surface formed with inflow holes that allow exhaust gas to flow in from the expansion chamber.
US07866438B2	Method and apparatus for a loudspeaker assembly A method and apparatus for providing a loudspeaker assembly is provided. In accordance with at least one embodiment, a method is provided for mounting a loudspeaker driver in a loudspeaker driver aperture defined in a ground plane and installing a grille in relation to the ground plane such that a distance between the grille and the ground plane decreases as the distance from the loudspeaker driver increases. In accordance with at least one embodiment, apparatus is provided comprising a ground plane, a loudspeaker driver mounted in a loudspeaker driver aperture of the ground plane, and a grille positioned relative to the ground plane such that a distance between the grille and the ground plane decreases with increasing distance from the loudspeaker driver.
US07866437B2	Stethoscope with one-handed operation A stethoscope with a figure-eight configuration designed for one-handed operation and further comprising improvement to the headpiece resonance chamber. The ear tubes of the stethoscope are roughly S-shaped and together form a figure eight design. The lower portion of each ear tube is connected by a resistant force mechanism that maintains the stethoscope in the closed configuration. By applying one-handed compressive force to the resistant force mechanism attached to the lower portion of the stethoscope's figure-eight construction, the earpieces are separated and the stethoscope adopts the open configuration. Both the headpiece and the diaphragm are interchangeable to allow a variety of different shapes and sizes.
US07866436B2	Steering apparatus for motor vehicle A planet gear mechanism 19 interposed between a steering 2 and steerable wheels 4L and 4R is interposed. A torque controlling motor 25 for controlling a torque acting on the steering 2 and a transmission-rate varying motor 20 for driving the planet gear mechanism 19 are arranged coaxially (on an axial A) with the planet gear mechanism 19. This eliminates the need for arranging each motor 20 and 25 on the both ends of the axis A to face each other, and also reduces a space occupied by the motors 20 and 25 with respect to a radial direction of the axis A. As a result, reduction in the size of an apparatus can be achieved.
US07866430B2	Vehicle with two parallel wheels A vehicle with two parallel wheels according to the invention has split steps (2L, 2R), a vehicle body, a pair of wheels (4L, 4R) coaxially parallelly arranged, a pair of wheel drive units for independently driving the wheels (4L, 4R), and a pair of step run-on assisting mechanisms (8L, 8R) arranged corresponding to the wheels (4L, 4R) and changing the degree of dependency of step run-on operation. The step run-on assisting mechanisms (8L, 8R) each have an assisting turning member (15) having a circular arc support surface with a curvature radius greater than the radius of the wheel (4L, 4R) and having its turning center in front, in the travel direction, of the rotation center of the wheel, a link member (16) rotatably supporting the assisting turning member (15), and a damper (25, 26) for changing, according to the speed at which the assisting turning member (15) collides with a step, force retaining one end of the link member (16).
US07866429B2	Traveling apparatus A coaxial two-wheeled vehicle includes a plurality of wheels disposed in parallel, a vehicle body, at least one of a step plate and a seat, an operating member, and a mechanism. The vehicle body supports plurality of wheels rotatably. The step plate is coupled to the vehicle body to carry a driver in an upright attitude. The seat is coupled to the vehicle body to seat the driver. The operating member is coupled to the vehicle body and operated by the driver for inputting driver's operation including an accelerating operation and a decelerating operation. The mechanism is configured to move at least one of the step plate and the seat in a front-rear direction of the vehicle body in accordance with an operation of the operating member.
US07866428B1	Two person golf cart The golf cart has a main frame supported by driven rear wheels. A front axle with steered front wheels is pivotally attached to the main frame. A rear seat is pivotally attached to the main frame. The rear seat is pivotable to positions in which a physically challenged golfer can swing a club while supported by the rear seat and hit a ball on the left side, the right side or to the rear of the cart. A front seat is on a front seat post clamped to the frame. A tiller is pivotally attached to the front post. A drive sprocket is fixed to the tiller. A driven sprocket is journaled on the post. A roller chain is trained around the drive sprocket and the driven sprocket. A tie rod control arm is fixed to the driven sprocket and connected to the steered front wheels by tie rods.
US07866427B2	Vehicle multi-stage integrated brake assist for a collision preparation system A motor vehicle multi-stage integrated brake assist (MSIBA) system, which can provide at least one brake assist level of a plurality of predetermined levels of brake assist (i.e., deceleration) less than or greater than the required amount of braking (i.e., deceleration) calculated by the MSIBA to avoid a collision with an obstacle at the time the driver initiates braking, but allows the driver to increase or remove the provided predetermined level of brake assist.
US07866425B2	Hybrid electric propulsion system and method A hybrid prolusion system comprising a first energy storage unit operable to supply power to a traction drive motor. A second energy storage unit is coupled with the first energy storage unit to provide additional power on demand to the traction drive motor. An auxiliary power unit (APU) is used to charge the first battery to maintain a desired voltage across the first energy storage unit.
US07866423B2	Low floor drive unit assembly for an electrically driven vehicle An automotive vehicle drive unit assembly which is located near the sides of a vehicle includes a first driving axle shaft, a second driving axle shaft, a first gear box, a second gear box, a first electric motor, and a second electric motor. The first driving axle shaft drives a first wheel hub of the vehicle and the second driving axle shaft drives a second wheel hub. Together the first and second driving axle shafts define an axis of rotation about which the first and second wheel hubs rotate. The first gear set drives the first wheel and the second gear set drives the second wheel. A first electric motor is mounted in an angular relationship relative to the axis of rotation and drives the first gear set. A second electric motor is mounted in an angular relationship relative to the axis of rotation and drives the second gear set. A plurality of electric motors can be used to drive each wheel hub.
US07866421B2	Automated remote carriage for tightening generator wedges A remote-controlled dynamoelectric machine maintenance vehicle that can fit and travel within the air gap between a stator and rotor of a dynamoelectric machine. The maintenance vehicle has an effectuator that can remotely attach to an adjustable wedge within a coil slot of the stator and tighten the wedge in position and then move on to repeat the process until all the wedges on the stator are secured.
US07866420B1	Track tensioning system for a tracked vehicle A tensioning system for an endless track of a crawler-type vehicle includes an actuator, such as a dual-acting hydraulic cylinder and piston, which is coupled to a roller to translate the roller into and out of engagement with the endless track to tension or slack the endless track, respectively. The tensioning system has a mechanical stop that limits retraction of the actuator, and thus limits how much slack can be created in the endless track. The actuator automatically adds tension to the endless track when an undertensioned condition is present and automatically removes tension from the endless track when an overtensioned condition is present. To add additional slack to the endless track for removing the endless track for service, repair, or replacement, the mechanical stop may be removed which allows additional retraction of the actuator and thus disengagement of the roller from the endless track.
US07866418B2	Rotary drill bit including polycrystalline diamond cutting elements Embodiments of the invention relate to polycrystalline diamond (“PCD”) exhibiting enhanced diamond-to-diamond bonding. In an embodiment, PCD includes a plurality of diamond grains defining a plurality of interstitial regions. A metal-solvent catalyst occupies at least a portion of the plurality of interstitial regions. The plurality of diamond grains and the metal-solvent catalyst collectively exhibit a coercivity of about 115 Oersteads (“Oe”) or more and a specific magnetic saturation of about 15 Gauss·cm3/grams (“G·cm3/g”) or less. Other embodiments are directed to polycrystalline diamond compacts (“PDCs”) employing such PCD, methods of forming PCD and PDCs, and various applications for such PCD and PDCs in rotary drill bits, bearing apparatuses, and wire-drawing dies.
US07866416B2	Clutch for a jack element A downhole tool string, comprising a tool string bore and a drill bit located at the bottom of the tool string. The drill bit comprises a body intermediate a shank and a working surface. The working surface may comprise a substantially coaxial rotationally isolated jack element with a portion of the jack element extending out of an opening formed in the working surface to engage a subterranean formation. The tool string may comprise a driving mechanism adapted to rotate the jack. The clutch assembly disposed within the tool string bore may comprise a first end in communication with the jack element and second end in communication with the driving mechanism.
US07866402B2	Circulation control valve and associated method A circulation control valve. A method of controlling circulation flow between an interior flow passage of a tubular string and an annulus external to the tubular string in a subterranean well includes the steps of: interconnecting a valve in the tubular string, the valve including at least one opening for providing fluid communication between the interior flow passage and the annulus; applying an increased pressure to the interior flow passage while fluid communication through the opening between the interior flow passage and the annulus is prevented, thereby permitting fluid communication through the opening between the interior flow passage and the annulus; and then applying another increased pressure to the interior flow passage while fluid communication through the opening between the interior flow passage and the annulus is permitted, thereby preventing fluid communication through the opening between the interior flow passage and the annulus.
US07866401B2	Safety valve for use in an injection well The present invention provides for a valve to allow injection of fluids into a well or other subterranean facility. The valve comprises a housing and a flow tube assembly disposed in the housing. A restrictor is joined with the flow tube to restrict flow through the flow tube. A seal element also is positioned to selectively prevent production or upward flow of fluids through the valve upon halting injection operations.
US07866400B2	Phase-controlled well flow control and associated methods Phase-controlled well flow control. A well system includes a flow control device which regulates flow of a fluid in the well system, the flow control device being responsive to both pressure and temperature in the well system to regulate flow of the fluid. A flow control device includes a flow regulator for regulating flow of a fluid through the flow control device, and an actuator which is operative to actuate the flow regulator in response to a predetermined relationship between a phase of the fluid and both pressure and temperature exposed to the actuator. A method of controlling a phase change of a fluid in a well system includes the steps of: flowing the fluid through a flow control device in the well system; and adjusting the flow control device in response to both pressure and temperature in the well system.
US07866397B2	Activating mechanism for controlling the operation of a downhole tool An activating mechanism for controlling the operation of a downhole tool in a drill string and which is intended to be housed in a portion of the drill string upstream of the downhole tool, in which: the activating mechanism has a first mode in which it allows through-flow of drilling fluid to the downhole tool and a second mode in which through-flow of fluid is blocked; and the activating mechanism has a number of through-flow ports permitting through-flow of drilling fluid in said first mode of the mechanism and which are capable of being blocked by launching a number of flow blocking activator balls down the drill string and which each are of such size and shape that they can block access to said through-flow ports in order to activate the mechanism to the second mode and thereby adjust the downhole tool from one mode of operation to another.
US07866396B2	Systems and methods for completing a multiple zone well A system for use in a wellbore having a plurality of well zones includes a tubing disposed in the wellbore; and a plurality of valves connected to the tubing, wherein each of the plurality of valves comprises at least one port for communication between the tubing and one of the plurality of well zones, wherein each of the plurality of valves further comprises a sleeve moveable by an actuating device between an open position, wherein the at least one port is open, and a closed position, wherein the at least one port is closed, wherein the actuating device comprises a head part and a tail part, the head part having a disk-like or partial spherical structure having a diameter slightly smaller than an internal diameter of the tubing and the tail part having at least one fin arranged substantially perpendicular to the disk-like or partial spherical structure.
US07866394B2	Compositions and methods of cementing in subterranean formations using a swelling agent to inhibit the influx of water into a cement slurry Methods of cementing in subterranean formations, cement compositions, and methods for making the compositions are provided. A cement slurry is passed into a subterranean formation, and a swelling agent is passed into the subterranean formation to reduce an amount of water flowing into the cement slurry. The swelling agent may be combined with a carrier fluid before being displaced into the subterranean formation. Alternatively, the swelling agent may be pre-mixed with the cement slurry to form a new cement composition, followed by displacing the cement composition into the subterranean formation. The swelling agent is present in an amount effective to, upon absorption of water and swelling to form a gel mass, substantially block the flow path of the water into the cement composition or reduce losses to low pore pressure intervals, thereby preventing the integrity of the cement composition from being compromised or lost to voidage, fractures, fissures, etc.
US07866393B2	Swellable elastomers and associated methods Methods are provided that include a method of reducing fluid loss in a subterranean formation comprising placing a lost circulation composition comprising a base fluid and a swellable elastomer in at least a portion of a subterranean formation comprising a lost circulation zone; allowing the swellable elastomer to at least partially swell upon contact with a fluid; and allowing the lost circulation composition to at least partially reduce the loss of fluid to the subterranean formation. Additional methods are also provided.
US07866390B2	Casing make-up and running tool adapted for fluid and cement control The apparatus of the present invention provides a top drive supported tool for making up and running casing strings into a borehole. The tool comprises a fill-up and circulation assembly and a launcher assembly that is adapted to cooperate with a connectable cement wiper plug assembly for launching wiper plugs that control cement placement in the annulus between a casing string and a borehole containing the casing string. The tool of the present invention shortens or eliminates delays in well operations, thereby improving integrity of cement liners formed by placing cement slurry in a targeted interval.
US07866377B2	Method of using minimal surfaces and minimal skeletons to make heat exchanger components A method of using a minimal surface or a minimal skeleton to make a heat exchanger component is provided. The method comprises the steps of generating a stereolithography file from design data, slicing the stereolithography file into two-dimensional patterns, repeating the two-dimensional patterns sequentially to produce a three-dimensional minimal surface component or minimal skeleton component, and depositing at least one layer of a material having a high thermal conductivity onto a top surface of a base, wherein the deposited material forms either a three-dimensional minimal surface component or a three-dimensional minimal skeleton component. Also provided are the heat exchanger components made by the embodiments of the method using either minimal surfaces or minimal skeletons.
US07866374B2	Heat pipe with capillary wick A heat pipe includes a cylinder-shaped casing (100) containing a working fluid therein and a capillary wick (200) arranged on an inner wall of the casing. The capillary wick encloses a vapor passage (300) in a center of the casing. The capillary wick includes a plurality of shaped foils stacked on the inner wall of the casing along a radial direction thereof. The foils are sintered to the inner wall of the casing and define a multi-channel structure for the working fluid to flow from a condensing section to an evaporating section of the heat pipe.
US07866367B2	Control device for slat blinds A control device for blinds includes a transmission unit, a scrolling unit and a tilting unit, the transmission unit includes a case in which a coil spring and a gear unit are received. The coil spring is connected between the gear unit and the case. The scrolling unit includes two scrolling rods which are rotated with a transmission rod. Each scrolling rod has a lift cord wrapped thereon and extending through slats of the blinds. The tilting unit includes two tilt members connected to two respective end sections of the two scrolling rods. Two tilt cords have two respective positioning members which are clamped in two clamp grooves of the two tilt members and the tilt cords extend through the slats. The gears in the gear unit can be adjusted so as to cooperate with slats of different weights.
US07866366B2	Flexible furniture system An article of flexible furniture having a core formed from a plurality of laminar panels of a flaccid material and each panel having a pair of oppositely directed major faces, adjacent faces of said panels being inter-connected to provide a cellular structure upon movement of abutting faces away firm each other, a pair of supports at opposite ends of said core and connected to respective ones of said faces, said supports being self-supporting to provide rigidity to said core whereby said supports may be moved apart to expand said cellular and extend the length of said partition.
US07866361B2	Device for the manufacture of absorbent products A device for the manufacture of an absorbent product including a rotatable slitting tool having an extent in a radial direction and an extent in an axial direction perpendicular to the radial direction, the slitting tool being divided in the axial direction into two lateral parts and lying between them a central part. The central part has a circular cross section in the radial direction, and the lateral parts include, in the axial direction, intermittent protuberances projecting from the central part. The protuberances are the same distance from the center of the slitting tool as the circular cross section. The central part between the protuberances, in the direction of curvature of the envelope surface, forms a plurality of cutting edges, each of which has a width which, at a given pressure, permits slitting of a layer of material intended for the absorbent product, and the protuberances form supporting surfaces between the cutting edges.
US07866360B2	Hot air nozzle A hot air welding nozzle for a hot air welding device for welding overlapping webs of sealing material. The hot air welding nozzle includes a connection for a hot air supply, a top and a bottom heat plate forming an air space, and at least one rear outlet between the top and bottom heat plate on a facing side that is oriented in a direction opposite to the moving direction of the hot air welding device, with at least one front outlet relative to the moving direction of the hot air welding device, and with air guides that extend beyond the facing sides of the heat plates, at least on the inner side.
US07866357B2	Method of filling a reservoir by means of a cartridge-reservoir and associated cartridge A method for filling a reservoir on board a motor vehicle by a reserve cartridge. The reservoir includes a filler pipe, including a device for sealed attachment of the cartridge to the pipe. The cartridge includes a latching device configured to allow the fluid to flow from the reserve cartridge into the reservoir filler pipe only when the cartridge is attached in a sealed manner to the device on the pipe. The reserve cartridge is attached in a sealed manner to the pipe attachment device and the reserve cartridge latching device is unlatched so that the fluid can flow from the reserve cartridge into the filler pipe.
US07866350B1	Forming fabric for the production of a fibrous web material A forming fabric for the forming of a fibrous web thereon, the fabric including a plurality of cross machine direction (CD) yarns and a plurality of machine direction (MD) yarns woven in a repeating pattern. The plurality of CD yarns includes a set of top CD yarns and a set of bottom CD yarns and a set of binder CD yarns. The plurality of MD yarns includes a set of top MD yarns and a set of bottom MD yarns. The top MD yarns being on a paper side of the fabric. The bottom MD yarns being on a wear side of the fabric. The repeating pattern of the CD yarns and the MD yarns include an arrangement of the bottom CD yarns each floating under only six adjacent bottom MD yarns and then between some of said top MD yarns and only two adjacent bottom MD yarns.
US07866349B2	Heddle frame with reinforcing profile for a weaving machine Heddle frame having a transverse beam (2, 3) comprising a transverse profile (22, 63) and a reinforcing profile (20, 21, 52, 57, 58, 61, 62) which are glued to one another, the transverse beam (2, 3) having an undulating adhesive surface (46, 47, 48, 51, 55, 56, 59, 60) which can interact with an adhesive (42) which extends between the transverse profile (22, 63) and the reinforcing profile (20, 21, 52, 57, 58, 61, 62) in order to glue the transverse profile (22, 63) and the reinforcing profile (20, 21, 52, 57, 58, 61, 62) to one another. Transverse beam for a heddle frame and method for producing a heddle frame.
US07866343B2	Faucet A faucet includes a first valve plate comprising a base material and a strengthening layer provided above the base material. An amorphous diamond material is provided above the strengthening layer. The amorphous diamond material has a coefficient of friction that is lower than that of diamond-like carbon and has a hardness that is greater than that of diamond-like carbon.
US07866340B2	Universal pressure reducer for self-contained breathing apparatus A universal pressure reducer is provided for a self-contained breathing apparatus. The universal pressure reducer includes an inlet, a reducer module in fluid communication with the inlet, a pneumatic alarm mechanism, and a pneumatic transfer valve assembly that controls the actuation of the alarm mechanism by controlling the flow of pressurized air thereto. The transfer valve assembly is arranged to actuate the alarm mechanism when the pressure of air entering the reducer through the inlet drops to a predetermined trigger level. The predetermined trigger level is automatically selected based on a rated capacity of a pressure vessel to which the inlet is connected through a cylinder valve.
US07866337B2	Chemically inert flow controller with non-contaminating body A flow controller including a unitary controller body with a chemically inert fluid conduit having an insertable constriction or orifice disposed within the conduit having a reduced cross-sectional area to thereby restrict the flow of fluid within the conduit allowing for reliable flow measurement. An integrated circuit or controller may be coupled to the control valve and also coupled to the pressure sensors by a lead structure including signal conductors surrounded by a Faraday cage, and a chemically inert housing coupled to the unitary controller body enclosing the control valve and the pressure sensors.
US07866336B1	Mechanical emergency liquid shut-off device A mechanical emergency liquid shut-off device which comprises a liquid sensing unit placed upon a floor of a room. A pair of pulley assemblies are mounted in a spaced apart relationship to a ceiling of the room. A liquid flow pipe having a shut-off valve is located within the ceiling of the room. A spool has a shaft rotatably connected to the shut-off valve in the liquid flow pipe. A first cable has a first end coupled to the liquid sensing unit, wherein the first cable extends through the pulley assemblies. A second cable has a first end wound upon the spool, wherein the second cable extends through the pulley assemblies. A ballast weight has a second end of the first cable and a second end of the second cable affixed thereto. When the liquid sensing unit detects liquid coming into the room from a leak in the liquid flow pipe, it will allow the first cable to move about the pulley assemblies making the ballast weight drop down and pull the second cable causing the first end of the second cable on the spool to unwind rotating the spool and the shaft, thereby closing the shut-off valve and stopping the liquid leak in the liquid flow pipe.
US07866326B2	Hair treatment A hair coloring apparatus comprises upper and lower hinged body parts closable about a lock of hair (58). Within the body parts is contained a drive mechanism and a color applicator (32) so that, when applied to a user's hair and closed, the apparatus moves progressively down a lock of hair (58) applying hair treatment material as it moves.
US07866309B2	Single-chamber type firing mechanism of paintball gun A firing assembly of a paintball gun includes a piston, a spring, and a valve installed in a chamber in a frame of the paintball gun. The piston is a bar-like member having front member, a connection member, and a rear member. The connection member is smaller than the front member and the rear member to form a space thereunder. The valve is in the space to divide the space into a front room and a rear room. The spring urges the piston forward to have the rear member pressing an actuator of the valve that a high pressure gas will escape out of the valve to spurt out of the apertures via the rear room, the channels, and the front room. The high pressure also pressurizes the rear member to move the piston backward and compress the spring.
US07866307B2	Selectable dual trigger mechanism for a paintball marker A method of firing a paintball marker and dual trigger mechanism for a paintball marker are disclosed. The dual switch includes a first and a second trigger position sensors configured and arranged to detect the position of said trigger. A circuit is operatively connected to the first and second trigger position sensors and the projectile firing mechanism of the paintball marker. The circuit is configured to initiate a firing operation with said projectile firing mechanism when the first and second trigger position sensors indicate that the trigger has been depressed. The method includes the steps of detecting the position of the trigger with the first trigger position sensor and the second trigger position sensor and initiating a firing operation when the first and second trigger position sensors indicate that the trigger has been depressed.
US07866305B2	Flow channel, heat exchanger, exhaust gas recirculation system, charge air supply system, use of a heat exchanger A flow channel for a heat exchanger for exchanging heat between a first fluid and a second fluid, the flow channel having, perpendicular to a flow channel axis, a cross-section that can be traversed, the flow channel providing for an improved transfer of heat with an acceptable drop of pressure and a reduced risk of blocking. The flow channel has a hydraulic diameter, defined as quadruple the ratio between the surface of the cross-section that is traversed and the perimeter that can be moistened by the fluid, of between 1.5 mm and 6 mm. Also a heat exchanger having a plurality of flow channels of this type, through which the first fluid flows and fluidically connected by a fluid connection. Also a charge-air system and an exhaust gas recycling system having such flow channels.
US07866304B2	Engine fuel boil off management system An engine assembly may include a crankcase ventilation assembly having a fuel separator assembly. The fuel separator assembly may include a condensing unit and a vaporizing unit. The condensing unit may include a gas region and a liquid retaining region. A gas inlet may be in fluid communication with the gas region and a gas flow from the engine block including fuel vapor. The condensing unit may convert the fuel vapor to liquid fuel. The first gas outlet may be in fluid communication with an engine air inlet and provide a remainder of the gas flow thereto. The fluid region may store and provide the liquid fuel to the vaporizing unit through a liquid inlet. The vaporizing unit may convert the liquid fuel to fuel vapor and a second gas outlet may provide the fuel vapor to the air inlet.
US07866299B2	Idling state stabilizing device for engine An idling state stabilizing device for an engine is disclosed that can decrease the torque that is necessary for rotation of a magneto by decreasing an output current, without setting an engine speed high, even though the engine is in the idling state, can stabilize the engine rotation, and accordingly can improve fuel economy, and further can reduce noises. A current value output from a generator when an engine is in an idling state is set as an output current value in a power generation control device. The power generation control device determines that the engine is in the idling state when the engine speed becomes equal to or less than an idling state rotational speed, detects the maximum engine speed and the minimum engine speed during a predetermined time period when the engine is in the idling state, calculates an engine speed fluctuation amount of the engine by subtracting the minimum engine speed from the maximum engine speed, and controls the current value output from the generator to be a low output current value which is lower than the previous output current value when the engine speed fluctuation amount is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount.
US07866297B2	Rotary heat engine A rotary internal combustion engine has two opposing rotary discs. Each rotary disc has a half-cylindrical chamber located around its perimeter. An outer casing encompasses both rotary discs. Intake and exhaust ports and necessary engine controls are formed in said outer casing. Pistons formed in each said disc. Half of said piston is connected permanently to one said rotary disc the other half of said piston slides in the half cylindrical chamber of the opposing said rotary disc. The pistons and cylindrical chambers develop varying volumes in each chamber, depending on the position of each disc and respective piston. These varying volumes perform different cycles common to four stroke piston engines. Mechanical devises allow the discs to rotate in only one direction. Mechanical devises allow the disc to engage output shaft in only one direction. From output shaft work can be derived.
US07866296B2	Rotary piston machine with an oval rotary piston An internal combustion engine having at least one working chamber limited by a piston and means for fuel injection, wherein said fuel injection means are arranged in a separate ignition chamber communicating with said working chamber, and means for tuning said ignition chamber and fuel injected by said fuel injection means such that substantially only burnt, expanding combustion gas enters the working chamber.
US07866293B2	Concentric camshaft with improved torque resistance An engine assembly may include an engine structure and a camshaft supported on the engine structure. The camshaft may include a first shaft, a first lobe member fixed to the first shaft and including a bore and first and second lobe portions that are axially spaced from one another and fixed to one another. The bore may include a first radial inner surface at the first lobe portion and a second radial inner surface at the second lobe portion.
US07866291B2	Camshaft phaser for internal combustion engine A camshaft phaser for an internal combustion engine includes a driven hub attached to a camshaft, and a drive sprocket journaled to the driven hub. A locking device uses a pin receptacle having a locking bore and an engagement ramp which is contiguous with the locking bore to allow a locking pin to extend partially from its housing pin bore before the locking pin is registered with the locking bore.
US07866287B2	Pump system and decoupler for supplying pressurized hydraulic fluid to a hydraulically actuated valvetrain A pump system for supplying pressurized hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic valve actuation system for operating engine valves of an internal combustion engine comprises a substantially conventional main pump, driven by the engine, which supplies the necessary volume of pressurized hydraulic fluid when the engine is running. The system comprises a booster pump that supplies in conjunction with the main pump the necessary volume of hydraulic fluid during starting/cranking of the engine. The main pump is preferably designed and constructed for operating efficiency during engine operating conditions while the booster pump is preferably designed and constructed for operating efficiency during cranking/starting of the engine.
US07866283B2	Heating appliance A domestic combined heat and power system comprising a Stirling engine and water heater in the form of a supplementary burner. The exhaust gas from the Stirling engine is used to preheat combustible gas entering the Stirling engine and subsequently used to heat the water. The water heater has a helical water duct towards the periphery of a housing. Separate parts of this duct are heated, in series, by the exhaust gas from the Stirling engine and the supplementary burner firing radially outwardly through the helical duct.
US07866282B2	Animal restraint apparatus and related methods A process and apparatus for restraining an animal involves urging a spool containing a flexible tension link connectable to the animal, to retract the flexible tension link into a housing to which the spool is mounted. Movement of the spool in a direction associated with retraction of the flexible tension link disengages a brake urged into braking engagement with the spool, and causes the brake to engage with a lock operably configured to lock the brake in an unengaged position. The flexible tension link is permitted to be dispensed from the spool when the brake is in the unengaged position, and a hand operated actuator on the housing can release the lock to permit the brake to engage the spool to stop dispensing the flexible tension link in response to actuation of the hand operated actuator. The process further involves enabling a spool-operated actuator to release the lock to permit the brake to engage the spool to stop dispensing the flexible tension link. A spool-operated actuator can alternatively release the lock to permit the brake to engage the spool to stop dispensing the flexible tension link when at least one of a plurality of discrete pre-determined lengths of flexible tension link have been dispensed from the spool.
US07866278B2	Thin-film deposition system A thin-film deposition system has a vacuum chamber and a plasma generator. The plasma generator includes a case, a cathode disposed in the case, an anode assembly disposed at an end of the case, a discharge power supply for applying a discharge voltage between the cathode and the anode assembly, and a gas supply means for supplying a discharge gas into the case. Electrons within a first plasma produced in the case are extracted into the vacuum chamber according to the discharge voltage. An evaporated material in a gaseous state inside the vacuum chamber is irradiated with electrons emitted from the plasma generator to produce a second plasma. The potential at the anode assembly is controlled by anode potential-controlling means such that the electrons within the second plasma are directed at the plasma generator and the ions within the second plasma are directed at the substrate.
US07866277B1	Apparatus and method for lining large diameter pipe with environmentally compatible impervious membrane A method and apparatus is disclosed for remotely and robotically installing an organic, monolithic, structural and non structural, circumferential and partial radius membranes in conduits, pipelines or passageways. The included apparatus has the mechanical function to manually or automatically center the liner dissipation device in any geometrical shape. The included apparatus possesses the remote controlled capability to manipulate centrifugal dissipation of the liner to afford consistent thickness on any shaped profile or flat surface of the pipe wall surface. The apparatus includes a manual or automatic mechanical scissoring device for elevation changes and a manual or automatic rotational table for shaft alignment. The apparatus includes a means of automated self alignment by way of proximity sensors. The pendulum oscillation bracketing incorporates a fluid driven motor assembly communicating with a bored shaft and integrates as many as two offset dissipation devices. The included apparatus has both fluid and electrical rotary unions to transmit fluids and current from fixed ports to a rotating shaft assembly. The included apparatus has a mechanical function facilitating cutting and retrieval of cured spray build up on the spray orifice. This method and apparatus will allow for continuous lining applications of any thickness in one pass, in conduits and passageways employing multi component liquid polymers with rapid mechanical properties formation.
US07866276B2	Spiderweb maker The present invention is a spiderweb maker gun comprising a body having a handle, a trigger, and a discharge nozzle. A source of pressurized air is supplied to an air inlet which is secured to the handle of the gun and which is controlled by an adjustable air valve. The discharge side of the air valve has an air conduit extending therefrom which has an air discharge end or nozzle positioned below the glue discharge nozzle so that pressurized air is directed into the stream of hot glue falling or dropping from the glue discharge nozzle. The pressurized air blows the hot glue in a stream towards the area where the spiderweb is to be created with the glue drying and cooling as it is being blown from the gun. The gun is selectively moved while the stream of hot glue is being blown therefrom to create the spiderweb pattern.
US07866268B2	Height adjustable leg assembly A multi-configurable furniture assembly including height adjustable legs, a height adjustable pedestal support structure, a variable height foot support for cabinets and shelves and a panel wall assembly where each of the separate assemblies have finished and high quality appearances after a configuration is constructed.
US07866266B2	Magnetic levitation train provided with a compressed air supply unit A magnetic levitation railways has at least one vehicle, a compressed air supply unit provided in the vehicle and at least one consumer connection line, the compressed air supply unit has at least two compressed air lines laid in the vehicle and connected to at least one compressed air source each, and the consumer connection line can be connected to one another of the compressed air lines.
US07866265B1	Flare apparatus A flare apparatus constructed of a flare case with a primer functionally coupled to a propellant charge. Loaded within the flare case is a flare cup, having within, a starter composition, a flare composition, and a flash charge. The flare composition is functionally coupled to the flare starter composition, and the flash charge is functionally coupled to the flare composition. Upon primer activation the propellant charge is ignited. Flame and hot gasses from the propellant charge propel the flare cup out of the flare case and downrange while also igniting the flare starter composition within the flare cup. The flare starter composition ignites the flare composition, which produces a visual artifact and subsequently ignites the flash charge which produces a visual and audible artifact at or near the end of its flight.
US07866263B2	Glass-metal feedthrough, a method of fabricating it, and an electro-pyrotechnic initiator including it A glass-metal feed-through transmits an electrical signal from one face to another face that is opposite. The feed-through includes a glass plug, two metal pins passing through the plug, and a metal part surrounding the plug. The feed-through includes an electrically-conductive link between a first of the pins and the part. The link includes a brazing preform secured to the first pin and to the part.
US07866262B2	Image responsive pivoting pressure roll According to an aspect of the present disclosure; a method of processing a substrate media having an image injected thereon is provided and includes the step of passing the substrate media through a nip defined between a heated fuser drum and a pressure roll. A fixer subsystem, for use in a system for printing on a substrate media, where the subsystem includes a rotatable, heatable fuser drum defining an axis of rotation; and a rotatable pressure roll operatively associated with the fuser drum and defining an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the fuser drum. The pressure roll is rotatable about the axis of rotation of the fuser drum to vary a length of contact of substrate media and image with fuser drum.
US07866261B2	Metal stencil foil attachment to screen mesh Methods and apparatuses for attaching metal stencil foils to screen mesh using thermoplastic materials. Mechanical, rather than adhesive, attachment of metal stencil foils to screen mesh is accomplished by melting thermoplastic material so as to encapsulate portions of metal stencil foils and screen mesh resulting in faster, less expensive, and more durable bonding.
US07866260B1	Deformable pads for rotary pad printing, apparatus and method A rotary pad for pad printing comprises a cylinder (100′) or a belt (1105). The pad can be either flat or crowned in its relaxed condition. An ink applicator (405, etc.) applies an ink image (701) to the pad for subsequent transfer to a receiving object (425, etc.). If not initially flat, the pad can be flattened during application of the ink image, then forced to bulge for transfer to a receiving object. The pad can be flattened or caused to bulge by rollers (400, etc.) or by vacuum or pneumatic pressure. In one embodiment, an ink image is temporarily applied to the outer surface (510) of a flat cylindrical pad, then as the pad rotates, the sides of the pad are squeezed by rollers (520, 525), forcing the pad to bulge during transfer of the ink image to a receiving object (600). In another embodiment, a crowned pad (100′) is flattened while accepting an ink image, then allowed to resume its original crowned shape for transfer to a receiving object (425).
US07866258B2	Apparatus for controlling the composition of gases within a container The invention relates to an apparatus for controlling the composition of gases within a cargo container. The apparatus includes at least one sensor, at least one controller and at least one gas permeable membrane being adapted to facilitate the passage there through of different molecules at different rates. Said membrane defining a first region and a second region, the first region being for holding cargo and the second region defining a gas buffer region, said at least one inlet and/or outlet being in communication with said buffer region. The invention further relates to a container.
US07866257B2	Cooking utensil for frying taco shells A cooking utensil for frying a tortilla into a taco shell comprises a shell section having first and second U-shaped shell members and a handle assembly that linearly biases the second shell member into nested relation with the first shell member. A brace member attaches to the first shell member. The first end of an outer tubular shaft attaches a first handle member and its second end slidably attaches to the brace member. An inner shaft having a first end attached to a second handle member and a second end pivotally attached to the second shell member is slidably disposed in the outer shaft. The first handle member has a cavity that receives the second handle member, which is biased outwardly from the cavity by a spring. A user supplied anti-biasing force separates the first and second shell members for insertion of the tortilla and removal of the taco shell.
US07866252B2	Gasket, cover with gasket, and pneumatic cylinder with cover and gasket A gasket includes a damping buffer (1) for a piston (2) that can be charged with a pressure medium and that can be moved back and forth axially in a cylinder pipe (3) and includes at least one static seal (4) for sealing the cylinder pipe (3) vis-à-vis a cover (5) connected to the face of the cylinder pipe (3) and a dynamic seal (6) having at least one dynamically loaded sealing lip (7) that, during the proper use of the gasket, can be laid against the surface (8) to be sealed of a damping journal (9) that is connected to and axially movable back and forth with the piston (2) and that has at least one flow-guiding connection opening (10) that connects the axial faces (11, 12) of the gasket.
US07866251B2	Power plant A power plant produces power by using high pressure gas to push a piston. The power plant uses a supply device to provide the high pressure gas to a cylinder and controls an admission valve and an exhaust valve to admit and exhaust the high pressure gas for pushing the piston and rotating a crank member to produce power.
US07866243B2	Slicer A food slicer having a blade is disclosed having a runway for supporting food prior to cutting by the blade and a landing for supporting the blade and the food after being cut. The runway and landing are adjustable for selecting a thickness of a food slice. The runway and landing are simultaneously adjusted, by a single mechanism, so that the blade and runway are maintained generally parallel with respect to each other. The adjusting mechanism includes a plurality of rotatable cam portions that engage with respective portions on the runway and landing so that each of the runway and landing may be oppositely pivoted around an end to maintain the parallel relationship. The food slicer also includes on-board storage for inserts, such as julienning or cubing inserts. The storage is located on a bottom of the runway, which is pivoted upward for storage.
US07866241B2	Cutter for cutting a coiled band A cutter for cutting a coiled band includes a main body, and a cutting base installed on the main body, having a rectangular frame and a cutting groove formed in the long bottom side of the frame. Respectively fixed at one side and two ends of the cutting base is a sliding plate that has a sliding rail pivotally connected with two ends of a pressing rod respectively, so as to let the front end of the coiled band pass under the pressing rod to run out of the frame while having the pressing rod lifted up. Then, the pressing rod is released to press on the coiled band so as to let a knife unit pivotally connected with the main body flatly and securely cut the coiled band. The cutter is convenient and safe to use, with a cut band being flat and straight.
US07866238B2	Sawing apparatus for cutting rolls of web material A sawing apparatus is implemented to cut rolls out of an elongated log. An in-feed conveyor pushes the log, and a braking system stops the log at a controlled position. A clamping system then holds the log in place while a saw blade travels to cut a roll out of the log. While the log is being cut, a bending pressure is applied on the log. The roll then is unloaded onto a discharge conveyor.
US07866235B2	Multi-angle tool handle A multi-angle tool handle including a handle device, a connecting device and a locking unit adapted for connecting an interconnecting element to the handle device. The locking unit is moveable between a first position and a second position. When the locking unit is in the first position, the interconnecting element is able to pivot and slide with respect to the handle device. And when the locking unit is in the second position, the interconnecting element is fixed with respect to the handle device in position.
US07866233B2	Magnetic fastener holder Described herein is technology for, among other things, a tool for assisting the attachment or removal of a first fastener and a second fastener to or from a structure. The tool includes a lower portion adapted to magnetically attach to a surface of the structure. The tool also includes an upper portion configured to be spaced a distance from the surface of the structure when the lower portion is magnetically attached to the surface of the structure. The upper portion also includes a holder extending therefrom and adapted to hold the first fastener. The holder is biased to urge the first fastener in a direction of the surface of the structure.

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