| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US07909112B2 |
Compact mobile fire attack vehicle mountable to an emergency vehicle
A compact mobile fire attack vehicle detachably mounted to an emergency vehicle. The compact mobile fire attack vehicle is intended to be mountable to the rear end of a fire truck. In response to an emergency call, the mobile fire attack vehicle can be quickly disengaged and deployed to the fire. Likewise, after the emergency has been mitigated, the mobile fire attack vehicle can be quickly and conveniently be re-mounted to the fire truck. |
| US07909111B1 |
Outdoor fire prevention system and associated method
An outdoor fire prevention system preferably includes an existing roof structure with a plurality of first and second groups of water discharging assemblies. The system may also include a mechanism for automatically distributing water to a target group of water discharging assemblies by selecting assemblies from each of the first and second groups when sensors, located in the roof, indicate that the roof surface temperature, of a target region of is elevated above a maximum threshold temperature. The outdoor fire prevention system may further include a controller that is connected to a primary water shutoff valve in fluid communication with the automatic water distributing mechanism which automatically controls the amount of water transmitted to the system. The outdoor fire prevention system may also include a primary conduit in fluid communication with the primary water shutoff valve and traveling downstream therefrom, directing water where needed. |
| US07909110B2 |
Anchoring and sealing system for cased hole wells
An apparatus includes a casing and a sealing element that is retained in the casing. The sealing element has an unset state in which the sealing element has a first radial thickness and a set state in which the sealing element has a second radial thickness that is greater than the first radial thickness to form a seal between the casing and an inner tubular member. |
| US07909108B2 |
System and method for servicing a wellbore
A wellbore servicing system, comprising a plurality of sleeve systems disposed in a wellbore, each sleeve system comprising a seat and a dart configured to selectively seal against the seat to the exclusion of other seats, the seats each comprising an upper seat landing surface and the darts each comprising a dart landing surface, wherein the darts each comprise a dart landing surface that is configured to complement an upper seat landing surface of the seat to which the dart is configured to selectively seal against. |
| US07909106B2 |
Method for spooled tubing operations
A spooled tubing unit is provided which permits simultaneous translation and rotation of continuous tubing to drill or conduct other downhole operations in a borehole in subterranean formations. |
| US07909105B2 |
Independent wellhead drilling adapter
An assembly for connecting a drilling adapter to a wellhead comprising external threads on an end portion thereof. |
| US07909097B2 |
Well liner segments for in situ petroleum upgrading and recovery, and method of in situ upgrading and recovery
A well liner segment for use in hydrocarbon recovery processes. An elongate, typically cylindrical outer liner member, and an inner elongate liner member concentrically located therewithin is provided. Hydrocarbon upgrading catalyst is provided in the interstitial space between the two members. The outer liner members may be threadably coupled together. A slidable seal is provided between the outer liner and the inner liner to accommodated differential thermal growth between the two liners. A process for use of well liner segments having hydrocarbon upgrader catalyst pre-installed therein, is also provided, as is a method for manufacture of a well liner segment. |
| US07909093B2 |
In situ combustion as adjacent formation heat source
Methods and apparatus relate to in situ combustion. Configurations of injection and production wells facilitate the in situ combustion. A first production well disposed in a first oil bearing reservoir is spaced from a second production well disposed in a second oil bearing reservoir separated from the first oil bearing reservoir by a stratum having lower permeability than the first and second oil bearing reservoirs. The stratum isolates one of the first and second production wells from one of the first and second oil bearing reservoirs. In situ combustion through the first oil bearing reservoir generates heat that irradiates into the second oil bearing reservoir to enable producing hydrocarbon with the second production well. |
| US07909089B2 |
Downhole jet pump
One embodiment of a downhole jet pump 10 includes an exterior pump housing 12, power fluid jet nozzle 30, mixing tube 32, and a carrier 40 including a plurality of venturi ports 38. A nose piece 48 is provided fluidly downstream from the mixing tube 32. A diffuser 46 is downstream from the nose piece, and preferably forms a unitary body from the lower end of the nose piece to the side port of the pump housing. An inlet valve 100 passes formation fluid into the pump housing and to the venturi ports. |
| US07909083B2 |
Method of fastening a flexible sheet-like structure on a winding shaft, and roller blind
A method of fastening a flexible sheet-like structure on a tubular winding shaft including: introducing, in a circumference of the tubular winding shaft, at least one aperture which passes through a wall of the winding shaft, a width of the aperture being greater than the thickness of the flexible sheet-like structure, cutting into the flexible sheet-like structure to produce at least one angleable tab, and inserting the tab into the aperture of the winding shaft. Additionally, a roller blind includes a winding shaft and a flexible sheet-like structure fastened thereon. |
| US07909080B2 |
Fixing apparatus and method for attaching an annular transponder unit to tire
Apparatus and method in the use thereof attaches an annular transponder unit to an annular tire surface, the transponder unit being of a type having a sensor housing coupled to an annular antenna. The apparatus includes a rotary turntable for supportably rotating a tire having an annular tire surface in an accessible disposition and an arm proximately disposed to the turntable and having end-of-arm tooling for attaching the transponder unit section by section to the annular tire surface as the tire is rotated. The tooling includes a gripping mechanism engaging the sensor housing and placing the sensor housing at a preselected location on the annular tire surface and a guide mechanism engaging the annular antenna and positioning the annular antenna section by section along the annular tire surface as the tire is rotated. An adhesive material applicator nozzle is disposed between the guide mechanism and the gripping means for application of the adhesive material between the annular antenna and the annular tire surface as the tire is rotated. A pre-staging station supporting the transponder unit may further be utilized, the arm moving between the pre-staging station and the turntable and the gripping mechanism engaging the sensor housing at the pre-staging station to transport the transponder unit from the pre-staging station to the turntable. |
| US07909077B2 |
Heavy duty tire
A heavy duty tire comprises a bead filler disposed in each bead portion (4). The bead filler (8) comprises: a main layer (13) having a complex elastic modulus E*2 of from 2.0 to 6.0 Mpa; and a fastening layer (12) having a complex elastic modulus E*1 of from 20 to 70 Mpa. The fastening layer comprises a base portion (12B) and an axially inner portion (12A) to have a L-shaped cross section. The height Ha of the axially inner portion (12A) is 35 to 100 mm and not more than the height Hb of the main layer (13), and the radial height Hb is 40 to 100 mm, each from the bead base line. The thickness of the axially inner portion (12A) gradually decreases towards the radially outside so that, when measured along a straight line X1 drawn perpendicularly to the axially outer surface of the bead filler from a point P1 thereon at a distance of 25 mm radially outward from the bead base line: the thickness Tb from the axially outer surface of the bead filler to the interface between the axially inner portion (12A) and the main layer is 7.0 to 13.0 mm; the thickness Ta from the interface to the axially inner surface of the axially inner portion (12A) is 1.0 to 4.0 mm; and the ratio Ta/Tb is 0.1 to 0.35. |
| US07909070B2 |
Device for filling an aerosol container with a liquid, filling arrangement able to accommodate such a device, and an aerosol container equipped with such a filling device
A device for filling an aerosol container with a liquid using in particular a filling arrangement equipped with a pusher element, includes a cup that is designed to accommodate the liquid for filling the aerosol container, this cup being provided on its bottom with an injection opening that can be adapted to the valve of the aerosol container, a piston head acting by pushing on the filling liquid contained in the cup for transferring it from the cup to the container. The piston head has the form of a scraper in continuous contact with the inside wall of the cup during the transfer operation, this piston head being shaped to work with the cup after transfer to keep the piston head within the cup to form an airtight wall that retains the residual liquid that has not been transferred within the cup. |
| US07909066B2 |
Method for weaving layered beaded fabric and beaded fabric woven by the method
Two layered beads (B) arranged between two neighboring warps (tx-1) and (tx) are woven by inserting a weft (yx) through center holes (2) of the beads in (B) in a forward direction or in a backward direction and turning the weft (yx), around one of the warps (t). A two layered beaded fabric is obtained by repeating the movements of the weft (yx). A three layered beaded fabric can be obtained in the same manner as the two layered beaded fabric. |
| US07909065B2 |
Pre-tensioned sealing means arrangement
The present invention regards a barrier plug system (3) for sealing off a pipe (1), comprising a plug body, a first and a second end plate surface (11, 31) arranged on opposite sides of the plug body and at least one circumferential sealing means (6) and means (8) for setting the plug system (3). The plug body comprises at least two separate plug body elements (10, 30) movable relative each other and the at least one sealing means (6) is arranged abutting two opposite annular pressing surfaces (12, 32) formed by the plug body, which are moved towards each other during setting of the plug system (3). The pressing surfaces (12, 32) are limited in the movement against each other by stop means and pre-tensioned to move toward each other by at least one tensioning device (7). |
| US07909064B2 |
Hydraulic isolating manifold
An isolating manifold fluidly connected between a hydraulic valve and a hydraulic manifold operates to automatically isolate the valve from the hydraulic manifold as the valve is removed from the manifold, without requiring any particular blocking and bleeding procedures to be implemented on the valve or the manifold prior to the removal process. The isolating manifold includes an adaptor removably mounted onto a base with various pressure, control and tank fluid channels disposed in alignment through the adaptor and base portions to allow fluid to flow through each of the channels between the hydraulic manifold and the valve. During operation, the valve is mounted onto the adaptor while the base is mounted onto the hydraulic manifold. The valve may be removed from the hydraulic manifold by removing the adaptor from the base, during which process, the isolating manifold operates automatically to block the pressure and control ports of the hydraulic manifold and to bleed pressurized fluid from the pressure and control channels of the valve to a tank channel so as to automatically isolate the valve from the hydraulic manifold as the valve is removed from the hydraulic manifold. |
| US07909062B2 |
Temperature control faucet with an improved structure
The present invention relates to a temperature control faucet with an improved structure in the valve technical field. The temperature control faucet addresses the defects existing in the prior art of inconvenient control and narrow range of use. The temperature control faucet of the invention comprises a valve body which has two inflow conduits and an outflow conduit, and a temperature control valve set in the valve body. The temperature control valve is arranged at the convergence of cold water and hot water of the inflow conduits within the cavity of the valve body. The temperature control valve is linked with a turn handle out of the valve body. A flow valve is provided at one end of the outflow conduit of the valve body to control the flow rate. The temperate and the flow rate could be separately controlled by the temperature control faucet with an improved structure of the invention. Therefore, the faucet is conveniently used, and has a small volume and a wide range of use. |
| US07909058B2 |
Valve-intensive button for adjusting height of cushion seat for vehicle
The present invention relates to a manipulation button 40 for adjusting the height of a cushion seat for a vehicle that is capable of absorbing the shocks applied to a driver sitting on the cushion seat while the vehicle is being driven on a relatively rough road, and more particularly, to a button for adjusting the height of a cushion seat for a vehicle that is capable of adjusting the height of the cushion seat according to a driver's physical conditions and his desired driving posture, wherein a plurality of pneumatic valves having flow channels formed therein are intensively configured with one another in such a manner as to be operated by means of the seesaw type button 41, thereby effectively performing the ascending and descending motions of the cushion seat in a simple manner. |
| US07909055B2 |
Valve provided with a passage for conveying a medium and an installation provided with such a valve
A valve provided with a passage for conveying a medium, the passage having at least a first closable aperture, and with a closing device that is suitable for closing at least the first aperture. The valve is provided with a holder element that is movably included in a holder element house chamber of the holder element house. The closing device is capable of being supported by the holder element or forms an integrated part of the holder element, and the closing device is controllable by the medium. The holder element is controllable, only by the medium, for releasing at least the first aperture by means of the closing device. |
| US07909051B2 |
Rotary clothes line cover
According to the present invention, there is provided a cover (11) for an outdoor clothes airer (10) having at least three radially-extending arms (2) supporting an array of clothes lines (7), the cover comprising a sheet (3) of waterproof material which is resistant to ultra-violet rays and dimensioned to extend radially beyond the ends of said radial arms above the clothes lines, arranged to drain outwards, and provided with a central supporting means (16) and a peripheral tensioning means (5) such as a drawstring or plurality thereof for securing the sheet to the airer and a circumferential skirt (6) of an air permeable netting material finished with a weighted hem (9). Access to the laundry contained within the invention is easily achieved by lifting a side or sides of the circumferential skirt and laying it or them on top of the cover sheet, after which the laundry may be laced within the skirt of removed therefrom and the skirt may be let down again. |
| US07909048B2 |
Pneumatic umbrella
An umbrella with pneumatic activation, specifically a portable, foldable umbrella, for the protection of persons from the rain and sun, and to be employed in fixed installations of one or more umbrellas as well, to protect crops, objects, or surfaces that require controlled protection, outdoor tables, beaches, and patios as principal examples of operation and use with individual or centralized control. When connected together, a group of umbrellas are controlled with a unified command, or through an automated system with temperature and water sensors. An automatic compressor could be provided to activate and deactivate the system, and it also could be activated within a closed circuit with a pressurized air storage chamber. A pneumatic umbrella that, in addition to the handle, or base, has a complete pneumatic circuit with entry and exit of air, equipment for pumping the air, a valve controlling the flow of air to either open or close the umbrella through internal conduits which are connected to extendable stems and are held together by a threaded system. |
| US07909042B2 |
Lice and nit removal comb with square shaped metal teeth
A metal-toothed comb is provided having elongated identical teeth each with a square cross-section along substantially the entire length, elongated edges of each tooth being slightly rounded, free ends of each of the teeth being slightly rounded, whereby the teeth are successively positioned juxtaposed in a common plane, with elongated edges of each tooth opposing one another, and the distance between the teeth being a constant 0.004 inch along the entire length of the gap therebetween, except for a relatively small portion proximate the distal ends of each tooth, which are tapered down to a rounded tip. |
| US07909036B2 |
Adjustable head holder for use with CT scanner
A head holder made of radiolucent material is attached near an end of a table to support a head of a patient during a CT scan. The head holder includes a base portion that supports the shoulders and upper back of the patient and a head rest that supports a patient's head. The head holder is moveable relative to the table in a direction that is generally parallel to a length of the table. A position of the head rest is adjustable in a vertical direction relative to the base portion. The radiolucent material of the head holder does not affect the quality of a resulting CT scan. |
| US07909027B2 |
Ultrasonic fuel/power enhancer
An ultrasonic fuel/power enhancer for producing sound and ultrasound at different wind speeds and conditions is provided. The enhancer is mountable in an air intake of a vehicle with the vehicle having a predetermined number of cylinders and each cylinder having a combustion chamber. The enhancer comprises at least one band and at least one tubular whistle. A whistle connection mechanism is wrapped around the whistle with the whistle connection mechanism having at least one band receiving aperture and the band insertable through one of the band receiving apertures. At least one stabilizing tab is mounted to the whistle connection mechanism wherein the whistle is shaped and designed to produce sonic and ultrasonic sounds thereby atomizing gas droplets being supplied to the combustion chamber of each cylinder. |
| US07909026B2 |
Servo-actuated supercharger operating mechanism
The present invention provides a servo actuated operating mechanism for a coacting lobed rotor positive displacement supercharger combining a low cost and capacity electromagnetic clutch with a small oil pump internal to the supercharger unit. The oil pump supplies on demand oil pressure from oil in a hydraulic clutch housing or the supercharger timing gear case and acts as a servomechanism to actuate an internal hydraulic clutch. The hydraulic clutch can be engaged over a much wider range of speeds and loads than is possible with an electromagnetic clutch alone. The electro-hydraulic servomechanism provides improved highway fuel economy relative to an electromagnetic clutch as the engagement speed could be moved to a higher rotational speed (rpm). The internal hydraulic system makes higher supercharger engagement speeds possible with a hydraulic system, but without the assembly and leak issues associated with externally plumbed engine oil system actuated clutches. |
| US07909015B2 |
Apparatus and method for engine braking
Apparatus and method are disclosed for converting an internal combustion engine from a normal engine operation (20) to an engine braking (or retarding) operation (10). The engine has an exhaust valve train containing two exhaust valves (300), a valve bridge (400) and an exhaust valve lifter (200). The apparatus has an actuation means (100) including a hydraulic system integrated into the exhaust valve train. The hydraulic system contains a braking piston (160) slidably disposed in the valve bridge between an inoperative position (0) and an operative position (1). In the inoperative position, the braking piston is retracted and the actuation means disengaged from the normal engine operation. In the operative position, the hydraulic piston is extended and the actuation means opens one of the two exhaust valves (300a) for the engine braking operation. The apparatus also includes engine brake reset means (150) for modifying the valve lift profile generated by the enlarged normal cam lobe (220) when the small braking cam lobes (232) and (233) are integrated into the normal exhaust cam (230). The apparatus also has a control means (50) for moving the actuation means between the inoperative position and the operative position. |
| US07909009B2 |
Cable retainer for an internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine has a cylinder which has a cylinder longitudinal axis. The internal combustion engine has at least one cooling fin. In order to route the cable in a defined fashion so that the internal combustion engine can be arranged even in a constricted installation space, a cable retainer is provided which is arranged on at least one cooling fin of the internal combustion engine and which retains at least one cable. A cable retainer for securing at least one cable to an internal combustion engine has at least one receptacle for at least one cable and at least one means for positioning the cable retainer on the internal combustion engine. |
| US07909008B2 |
Variable valve timing system and method for controlling the same
In an intake valve phase control after an engine stop command is issued, a stop-time phase is used as a target value. In the intake valve phase control, when the mode changeover condition is not satisfied, and an electric motor that serves as an actuator is not in a locked-state, the highest-speed mode, in which the amount of electric power supplied to the electric motor is fixed to the maximum value, is selected to reliably change the intake valve phase by a required amount. Then, the intake valve phase comes close to the stop-time phase and the mode changeover condition is satisfied, the control mode is changed from the highest-speed mode to the normal mode to set the control phase to the stop-time phase with higher accuracy, and the feedback control over the intake valve phase is executed. |
| US07909004B2 |
Cam-lock leash
A leash assembly includes a housing having a hand grip. A leash forming part of the assembly includes a first end and a second end that defines a leash handle. An intermediate section of the leash is extendable and retractable through the housing. The assembly also includes features for allowing travel of the leash in a first direction through the housing in response to a user pulling on the leash handle, and simultaneously preventing travel of the leash in an opposite second direction through the housing. Another feature of the assembly allows selective disengagement of the leash so that it may travel in the opposite second direction through the housing. |
| US07909002B2 |
Avian hut
An avian hut includes a plurality of walls, each wall having an upper edge and a lower edge and coupled to at least one other of the plurality of walls, the plurality of walls together defining an avian hut interior and an avian hut exterior, the lower edges together defining an opening open to the environment, and at least one of the plurality of walls defining a notch shaped to accept a perch secured to an interior of a bird enclosure thereby allowing the perch to extend from the exterior of the avian hut into the interior of the avian hut. A securing device is operable to removably secure the plurality of walls within a bird cage and the notch above the perch. |
| US07908999B2 |
Teat rubber
A teat rubber for use on a milking cup of a milking apparatus, is made up of a head part having provided thereon a sealing lip that forms an insertion opening for a teat, a holding edge for grasping a milking cup sleeve, a suction connecting piece connected to the head part as well as a planar teat bearing section which is formed on the sealing lip provided on the head part and which defines the insertion opening, characterized in that the teat rubber has an adhesion element that improves the adhesion between the teat and the teat rubber without affecting the milking process. |
| US07908993B2 |
Film forming apparatus, film forming method and method for manufacturing piezoelectric actuator
A film forming apparatus including a film forming chamber which forms a film, a jetting mechanism which jets aerosol containing material particles onto a substrate in the film forming chamber, a measuring chamber communicating with the film forming chamber, a measuring mechanism which measures a thickness of the film in the measuring chamber, a pressure adjusting mechanism which controls an internal pressure of the film forming chamber and the measuring chamber, a conveyor which transports the substrate between the film forming chamber and the measuring chamber, and a blocking section which blocks a communication between the film forming chamber and the measuring chamber. Accordingly, inside of the measuring chamber is maintained clean without being polluted with the aerosol, and the measurement precision can be maintained. In the film forming process, the film thickness can be easily and precisely measured, and fed back to the film forming condition. |
| US07908992B2 |
System and method for dusting soft capsules
A capsule dusting system is designed to expose capsules to a dusting agent in a controlled manner. The system incorporates a tumbling basket positioned within an enclosure. The tumbling basket is loaded with capsules and is rotatably connected to a drive shaft. A dust injection system meters the dusting agent into the dust injection system. The dust injection system may include a dusting injector that translates between two positions. At one position, the dusting injector is loaded with dusting agent by a powder supply system. At the other position, the dusting injector is positioned to inject the dusting agent into the tumbling basket. A gas is fluidly connected to the dusting injector to cause the dusting agent to disperse into the tumbling basket. The enclosure contains the dusting agent within the system to reduce the environmental, health, and safety hazards associated with airborne particulates. |
| US07908991B2 |
Air powered signaling system
A portable air horn apparatus includes a housing, an air horn assembly for generating a warning sound, a switch for activating the air horn assembly and a power source. A microprocessor is provided in communication with the switch, the air horn assembly and the power source. The microprocessor includes at least one port for receiving an electronic component and is capable of automatically loading and executing software of the electronic component. |
| US07908988B1 |
Method and apparatus for salvaging underwater objects
A method and apparatus for removing debris from an ocean floor or seabed employs a subsea debris basket. The basket eliminates the absolute necessity of a cargo barge or any other supporting vessel that might be required to remain in a field until the objects on the ocean floor can be lifted. The present invention provides a non-weather sensitive solution. The present invention affords the safe operation in that all lifting and lowering is performed in a subsea environment next to the ocean floor or seabed. The present invention enables operation to be completed with the use of an ROV or remotely operated vehicle. The present invention provides improved offshore efficiency, less time being required to recover debris from the seabed to the underwater salvage basket or debris basket. The present invention enables the possibility of use of an A-frame or simple crane to lower debris into a subsea basket. The basket can be reused or redeployed in the field if desired. The basket may also be “reefed” in place to address the stability concerns of small debris and to minimize transit time of debris to a reef site. |
| US07908982B2 |
Subsurface soil injection apparatus with improved delivery device
An apparatus is provided for introducing a discrete, predetermined amount of material into soil at a plurality of predetermined points in the soil which includes a container for holding the material to be introduced into the soil, and tubing in fluid communication with the container at a first end thereof. At least one electrically controlled injector is provided in fluid communication with a second end of the tubing. Also, at least one shank is provided, which includes a base, and an injector mounting member attached to a surface of the base that is adapted for detachably mounting the electrically controlled injector onto the base. In addition, a controller is provided for activating the electrically controlled injector to introduce the material into the soil. Accordingly, enhanced control of the injection of the material into soil is achieved, and maintenance can be performed easily. |
| US07908979B2 |
Pallet having load bearing capabilities on which articles may be placed for storage and/or transportation
A pallet includes a platform, having a substantially rectangular shape and is generally flat, an upper side face and an opposing underside face, and a plurality of supports that depend from said underside face. The supports are arranged in rows that extend both transversely and longitudinally across the surface of the underside face. The supports and the underside face are preferably covered by a generally rectangular shaped bottom sheet made, for example, of high impact polystyrene (HIPS) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). A top sheet covers at least some of the upper side face. The supports are interconnected by a plurality of bridges that are spaced from the underside of the platform and which are adapted to provide support for the pallet when at least some of said bridges rest upon frame members of a rack. |
| US07908977B2 |
Cooler table
A cooler table comprising a storage compartment formed with a top edge, and a tabletop. The tabletop is manipulable between a closed position in which it closes the top edge, and a table position in which it is mounted on a post extending from the storage compartment serving as a table while allowing access to the storage compartment. |
| US07908976B2 |
Railway vehicle and device for accessing said vehicle
A railway vehicle including an access platform which extends between two lateral faces, at least one of the faces having a lateral access door. The access platform is adjacent a passenger area and includes a plate which is movable vertically so as to allow passengers with reduced mobility to access/leave the access platform from/to a railway platform of a given height when the movable plate is placed in a given embarkation/disembarkation position. Also included is a moving floor allowing persons with reduced mobility to move between said passenger area and said movable plate whatever the embarkation/disembarkation position thereof. The moving floor is located and always remains in an interior of the vehicle along with the passenger area and the movable plate between which the moving floor is located. |
| US07908965B2 |
Underlay substrate for printing a printed circuit on a substrate
A plurality of through holes having an equal size are formed in an underlay substrate. Positions of the plurality of through holes are suitably set according to the shape of a substrate sheet. Specifically, an equal number of through holes are formed in each of end blank corresponding regions that, when the substrate sheet and the underlay substrate are overlapped with each other, overlap with end blank regions of the substrate sheet, of the underlay substrate. In addition, the through holes are formed at equal spacing in portions excluding the end blank corresponding regions in a blank corresponding region, which overlaps with a blank region of the substrate sheet, of the underlay substrate. |
| US07908964B2 |
Screen printing apparatus and screen printing method
The clearance ‘d’ between a substrate 3 and a mask 2 can be reduced at the time of the position recognition by horizontally offsetting two recognition devices 53,54 for recognizing the substrate 3 and the mask 2. Therefore, since the ascending stroke of the substrate 3 can be shortened at the time of the position alignment to contact the rear face of the substrate 3 with the rear face of the mask 2, the position misalignment of the substrate in the horizontal direction caused by the raising is suppressed. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the reduction of the position alignment accuracy with the mask 2. |
| US07908962B2 |
Compressor
A compressor is provided that includes a supplementary torque providing part that reduces a speed of a piston compression of refrigerant and increases the speed of the piston in drawing of the refrigerant. This structure reduces a compression rate of the refrigerant in compression relatively, and increases a re-expansion rate, to maximize suction efficiency. |
| US07908960B2 |
Return to neutral mechanism for hydraulic pump
A return to neutral mechanism includes a hub, a lever and a biasing member. The hub is configured to connect fast to a control rod of an associated hydraulic pump. The lever connects to the hub and includes a location configured to connect to an associated linkage that is connected to an associated steering mechanism. The biasing member connects to the lever for biasing the lever and the control rod toward a neutral position. |
| US07908957B1 |
Synchronized weapon and ammunition container apparatus
A synchronized ammunition container apparatus and system is provided with a weapon, rotating automatic arm, ammunition container, and rotatable turret base that allows an anti-aircraft weapon, to traverse, depress and elevate in order to engage a rapid, head-on, fly-over target. The synchronized ammunition container apparatus synchronizes the movement and position of the rotating automatic single arm, ammunition container and rotatable turret base to insure that the ammunition belt will not twist, tangle or break when the weapon follows a rapid, head-on, fly-over target. The synchronized ammunition container system and apparatus gives the user increased flexibility for multiple deployment locations and engaging multiple targets from different directions. Other embodiments include a synchronized anti-aircraft ammunition container and combining the apparatus and anti-aircraft weapon into an integrated anti-aircraft defense system with the synchronized ammunition container. |
| US07908956B2 |
Machine for alternating tubular and flat braid sections
A braider has a track for guiding 4N bobbin carriers and 4N horngears, where N is an integer greater than one. The horngears each have four horns for forming at least two paths. The bobbin carriers are positioned on the horngears in a tubular braiding mode with the track and horngears configured to provide two paths intersecting each other, to form a tubular braid section. The bobbin carriers are positioned on the horngears in a flat braiding mode, with the track and horngears configured so that there are N separate closed paths that do not intersect each other, to form a flat braid section. The braider is switched between the tubular and flat braiding modes while N of the horngears are free of contact with the bobbin carriers, to form a continuous braid having at least one tubular braid section and at least one flat braid section. |
| US07908937B2 |
Method to detect and characterize contaminants in pipes and ducts with interactive tracers
A method and an apparatus for detecting, locating, and quantifying contamination in a fluid flow system like a pipe or duct. This characterization technique uses a conservative and one or more interactive tracers that are injected into the fluid flow system and then monitored at another location in the system. Detection, location, and quantification are accomplished by analysis of the characteristic features of measured curves of tracer concentration. |
| US07908936B2 |
System and method for generating a gas sample of known and adjustable relative humidity
A system and method for providing a destination point with a gas having a selectable known humidity. A gas having an initial relative humidity is alternately directed in accordance with a duty cycle along a wet path effective for humidifying the gas to provide a wet gas, and a dry path effective for either maintaining the initial relative humidity of the gas or dehumidifying the gas to provide a dry gas. The wet and dry gas is blended to produce a blended gas having a selected relative humidity based upon the selected duty cycle. |
| US07908935B2 |
Feces collection container
The inventors perfected the present invention upon finding that a conventional fecal sampling stick is given a hollow structure that has openings a certain distant apart, permitting in aspiration through the capillary tube phenomenon. That is, the present invention is a feces collection container for collecting faeces as an analyte, which comprises a fecal sampling stick which has a holding part (11) at a base, a fecal sampling part (12) at a tip and is formed a hollow passage with openings at the tip and on the base side a predetermined distance from the tip. |
| US07908931B1 |
Non invasive flow rate measuring system and method
A system and method for measuring the flow rate of a liquid in a tube non-invasively has a heating element that generates energy that is applied to the liquid to produce a heat marker that is detected by a temperature sensor located at a known distance from the heating element and the flow rate is calculated from measuring the travel time of the heat marker from the heating element to the sensor. A second temperature sensor measures the ambient temperature of the liquid before the heat marker is produced and detection of the heat marker is made on the basis of the difference between the ambient temperatures and the temperature of the heat marker. |
| US07908925B2 |
Resonance response testing on a bearing
An apparatus and associated method is provided for holding an inner race of a bearing stationary with respect to rotational movement while leaving a hub that is fixed in rotation with an outer race of the bearing unencumbered. The hub is excited by contactingly engaging it with a predetermined mechanical force. The resonance response of the hub to the excitation is determined and used to characterize the bearing qualitatively. |
| US07908922B2 |
Silicon integrated angular rate sensor
A motion sensor in the form of an angular rate sensor and a method of making a sensor are provided and includes a support substrate and a silicon sensing ring supported by the substrate and having a flexive resonance. Drive electrodes apply electrostatic force on the ring to cause the ring to resonate. Sensing electrodes sense a change in capacitance indicative of vibration modes of resonance of the ring so as to sense motion. A plurality of silicon support rings connect the substrate to the ring. The support rings are located at an angle to substantially match a modulus of elasticity of the silicon, such as about 22.5 degrees and 67.5 degrees, with respect to the crystalline orientation of the silicon. |
| US07908921B2 |
Barometric-pressure-sensor device with altimeter function and altimeter-setting function
A barometric-pressure-sensor device for a portable electronic device, having a pressure sensor of a MEMS type designed to supply a barometric-pressure measurement, and with a processing circuit coupled to the pressure sensor that is designed to supply an altitude measurement as a function of the barometric-pressure measurement. The pressure sensor and the processing circuit are integrated in a single chip, and the processing circuit is a dedicated circuit of a purely hardware type. The processing circuit executes altimeter-setting operations through a plurality of reference registers containing respective pressure references. |
| US07908920B2 |
Velocity-of-propagation fluid level measurement method
An apparatus for determining a level of a liquid in a tank is provided. The apparatus comprises a probe and electronics. The probe passes into the tank and is immersed in the liquid. The probe includes a fiducial in spaced relation with a distal end. The electronics are operably coupled to the probe. The electronics include a signal generator propagating a signal along the probe and a signal receiver receiving the signal propagated along the probe. The electronics determine a velocity of propagation and/or an amount of time for the signal to travel between the fiducial and the distal end. The level of the liquid in the tank is then determined using the velocity of propagation and/or amount of time. |
| US07908919B2 |
Level meter employing the radar principle
A level meter, employing the radar principle for measuring the fill level of a medium in a container, includes a signal transmitter serving to transmit an electromagnetic signal, an electric conductor system for conducting the electromagnetic signal into the container and returning reflected components of the electromagnetic signal from the container, and a signal receiver serving to receive the reflected components of the electromagnetic signal. An electric conductor system is provided at its upper end with a suspension by which it is attached to a device on the container. A tensile-load testing device is placed between the suspension and at least a part of the electric conductor system, featuring a break point for the electromagnetic signal, with the distance between the break point and the signal transmitter or the signal receiver varying as a function of the tensile load bearing on the conductor system. This permits easy monitoring of the tensile forces to which the conductor system and the suspension are exposed, so that any damage to these devices as a result of excessive loads can be prevented. |
| US07908913B2 |
Solenoid diagnostic systems for cylinder deactivation control
A solenoid diagnostic system includes a pressure monitoring module that determines a first pressure in an intake cam phaser for an intake camshaft and a second pressure in an exhaust cam phaser for an exhaust camshaft associated with a cylinder. A fuel injection monitoring module determines a fuel injection status associated with the cylinder. A fault determination module diagnoses a fault in a solenoid associated with the cylinder based on the first pressure, the second pressure, and the fuel injection status. |
| US07908911B2 |
Fuel usage monitoring system for a service pack
A fuel usage monitoring system, in certain aspects, may be configured to determine the fuel usage rate of a work vehicle service pack engine using control signals relating to operating parameters of the service pack engine and associated equipment. In certain embodiments, the control signals may relate to operating parameters of the engine, a fuel injection pump associated with the engine, a governor associated with the fuel injection pump, a fuel reservoir associated with the engine, and other components associated with the engine. In particular, the control signals may relate a position of a control rack of the fuel injection pump. The control signals may be correlated with fuel usage rates prior to operation of the fuel usage monitoring system. In addition, the correlations may vary as certain parameters of the engine, such as operating speed, vary. The correlations may be implemented as algorithms within software of the fuel usage monitoring system. |
| US07908907B1 |
Method of matching golfer skills with golf ball performance
A method of matching a golfer's skills to a particular brand of golf balls by first testing a golfer's skills using a golf launch monitor, the data derived from this test being entered into an extensive computerized system of research databases. Further test results are taken for putting comparisons between all brands within the system. A final category known as “the feel index” is also tested and entered into the computer database. Based upon the results and golfer preference towards distance, accuracy, putting and feel, the top brand is selected for that person. This brand is then subjected to a series of air cannon tests to determine the performance characteristics of each ball. The balls are then subdivided into groups and performance rated for consistency. |
| US07908901B2 |
Cooling apparatus for microwave chromatography
A cooling apparatus for a radiant energy heated oven is disclosed, where the cooling apparatus cools the oven by directing a flow of coolant through a chamber in thermal communication with the oven resulting in sub-ambient cooling, sub-ambient holds, and in chromatography instruments, higher sample throughput by reducing cycle time or column cool down time. |
| US07908899B2 |
Slide lock
Improved slide lock apparatus used in bending apparatus to bend stock to an acute angle. A hydraulic cylinder with a ram extendable under hydraulic pressure provides the bending power. The ram automatically retracts a slide from an first outward location when hydraulic pressure is removed to a second inward location for two separate bends to achieve an acute angle bend. This improved slide lock prevents any possible injury to the operator by covering a stop arranged to prevent the slide from moving outward a greater distance then the first outward location. |
| US07908894B2 |
Device and process for indigo dyeing
Device (100) and dyeing process in continuous with indigo for warp yarn chains (3) and/or fabrics, equipped with a first hermetically sealed dyeing compartment (1), suitable for containing the dye bath, and a hermetically sealed fixing/dehydration compartment (2) of the yarn (3). The two dyeing (1) and fixing/dehydration (2) compartments comprise an inert environment and are functionally and hermetically connected with each other and there are means (4) for introducing nitrogen and/or deoxygenated air inside the same compartments; inside the compartment (2) there is at least one means (5) for directly heating and/or dehydrating the yarn (3). |
| US07908889B2 |
Forming a tubular knit fabric for a paint roller cover
A method and apparatus are provided for forming a tubular-shaped knitted covering for a paint roller, or the like, having a pile extending from an outer surface of the covering, through use of a dial needle knitting arrangement. A cylinder needle knitting arrangement may be utilized in conjunction with the dial needle knitting arrangement for forming a tubular-shaped knitted covering for a paint roller having a pile formed from a combination of sliver and yarn fibers in successive courses of the tubular-shaped knitted covering. |
| US07908884B2 |
Method for bonding two plates
Three bonding materials are provided on a first plate. The first bonding material is located between the second and third bonding materials. The first bonding material is thicker than the other bonding materials. A second plate is provided on the first bonding material. All of the plates and the bonding materials are heated to the softening point of the first bonding material. A load is exerted on the first bonding material to reduce the thickness of the first bonding material to that of the second and third bonding materials and transfer the load to the second and third bonding materials from the first bonding material. The temperature is raised to and kept at the crystallization point of the first bonding material. The temperature is raised to the wetting point of the second and third bonding materials. |
| US07908875B2 |
Monitoring system
A monitoring system is provided that is capable of determining when the temperature of at least one point along a refrigeration unit is not within a standard temperature range known for the operation of the refrigeration unit at the at least one point. In particular, the monitoring system is capable of alerting a technician or operator if, after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed after the refrigeration unit is expected to start, the temperature of the at least one point along the refrigeration unit is not within the standard temperature range known for operation of the refrigeration unit when the compressor is running. The predetermined elapsed time may be of a length of time necessary to allow for the refrigeration unit to complete a defrost and/or delog cycle and recover from such cycle. The monitoring of the at least one point along the system may be accomplished by the monitoring of a thermocouple. Further, the monitoring system may include sensors to monitor (i) when the door of the refrigeration compartment of the refrigeration unit is, or has been, open, as well as (ii) the temperature in the refrigeration compartment. In this regard, the monitoring system may alert a technician or operator when the temperature in the refrigerator is not optimal, taking into consideration whether the door of the refrigeration compartment has been, or is, open or closed and, optionally, also taken into consideration whether the refrigeration unit is operating properly. |
| US07908866B2 |
Gas turbine combustor
An object of the present invention is to provide a gas turbine combustor with improved fatigue resistance of a combustor. It is possible to intentionally reduce a stiffness of each of flanges of upper and lower walls of an end portion (outlet) of the tail pipe of the gas turbine combustor. It is possible to reduce a stiff difference between the upper and lower walls of the end portion (outlet) of the tail pipe section and side walls. Thus, it is possible to reduce compulsion deformation caused due to thermal stress generated in the end portion (outlet) of the tail pipe section on the operation of the conventional gas turbine combustor, and to reduce high stress easy to generate in the side plate. As a result, the gas turbine combustor with high fatigue resistance can be realized. |
| US07908865B2 |
Device for injecting a mixture of air and fuel, and combustion chamber and turbomachine provided with such a device
A device for injecting a mixture of air and fuel into a combustion chamber of a turbomachine is disclosed. The injection device includes a novel sliding bushing and a novel annular cup for retaining the sliding bushing, making it possible to improve the air feed of the injection device. |
| US07908861B2 |
Heat energy supply system and method, and reconstruction method of the system
A heat energy supply system and method capable of drastically increasing energy efficiency and energy supply efficiency, as well as a reconstruction method of the heat energy supply system. The heat energy supply system comprises a boiler for heating a heat medium and producing steam including water and other vapors, a heat pump including a steam turbine driven by the steam supplied from the boiler and a heat exchanger for heating the heat medium by employing waste heat or heat obtained from environment, thereby producing the steam at a setting temperature, and a steam supply line for supplying the steam discharged from the steam turbine and the steam heated by the heat exchanger to a heat utilization facility. |
| US07908856B2 |
In-line stirling energy system
A high efficiency generator is provided using a Stirling engine to amplify an acoustic wave by heating the gas in the engine in a forward mode. The engine is coupled to an alternator to convert heat input to the engine into electricity. A plurality of the engines and respective alternators can be coupled to operate in a timed sequence to produce multi-phase electricity without the need for conversion. The engine system may be operated in a reverse mode as a refrigerator/heat pump. |
| US07908853B2 |
Hydraulic balancing for steering management
A method of allocating hydraulic fluid between two or more actuators in a machine processes a first command intended to provide a first requested fluid flow to a steering actuator for steering the machine, and a second command intended to provide a second requested fluid flow to a non-steeling actuator, such as a lift or tilt actuator. The system modifies the first and second commands to produce modified first and second commands corresponding to modified first and second fluid flows, such that the sum of the adjusted first and second fluid flows is less than or equal to a currently available flow and the modified first fluid flow meets or exceeds the lesser of the first requested fluid flow and a threshold curve that is a function of a machine variable such as engine speed or other variable or parameter. |
| US07908850B1 |
Actuator assembly
A drive apparatus having an actuator assembly mounted on a control device is disclosed. The drive apparatus comprises an input, a variable drive system, a control device, and an actuator assembly. The drive apparatus is mounted on a vehicle that comprises an operating system. A prime mover drives the input, which subsequently drives one or more axle shafts. The variable drive system is capable of operation in forward and reverse directions. The control device determines the direction of operation and speed of the variable drive system. The actuator assembly is mounted to a component of the control device. The actuator assembly determines the state of operation of the output device with respect to the forward or reverse operation of the variable drive system. |
| US07908845B2 |
Mixing apparatus for an exhaust after-treatment system
A mixing apparatus mountable within a generally cylindrical passage defined by an exhaust gas conduit of an exhaust gas after-treatment system is provided. The passage includes an outer region and an inner region operable to convey an exhaust stream and a liquid stream, such as a urea stream. The mixing apparatus includes a retainer ring operable to retain the mixing apparatus within the passage. A first plurality of fins extends from the retainer ring and is operable to impart a rotational velocity component in a first direction to the exhaust stream and urea stream in the outer region of the passage. A second plurality of fins extends from the retainer ring and is operable to impart a rotational velocity component in a second direction, opposite the first direction, to the exhaust stream and urea stream in the inner region of the passage. |
| US07908844B2 |
Exhaust purification device of internal combustion engine
In an internal combustion engine, a first exhaust passage and second exhaust passage branched from an exhaust passage are provided. An NOx storing reduction catalyst and a particulate filter are arranged in each exhaust passage. For example, when NOx should be released from the NOx storing reduction catalyst in the first exhaust passage, fuel is added from a fuel addition valve in the state with exhaust gas allowed to flow into only the first exhaust passage, while when the added fuel sticks to the NOx storing reduction catalyst, the first exhaust control valve is temporarily closed and the exhaust gas is made a rich air-fuel ratio. |
| US07908842B2 |
Method for operating a gas turbine, method of operation of a combined cycle power plant, and combined cycle power plant
In a method for operating a gas turbine (GT) with sequential combustion, which has at least one compressor (12, 13), a first combustion chamber (14) with a first turbine (15) which is connected downstream, and a second combustion chamber (16) with a second turbine (17) which is connected downstream, the at least one compressor (12, 13) draws in air and compresses it. The compressed air is fed to the first combustion chamber (14) for combusting a first fuel, and the gas which issues from the first turbine (15) is fed to the second combustion chamber (16) for combusting a second fuel. Increased flexibility and safety in operation is achieved by different fuels being used as first and second fuel. |
| US07908838B2 |
Agricultural harvesting machine with front attachment support
A self-propelled agricultural harvesting machine includes an agricultural front attachment which is supported via at least one carrier wheel which is in contact with a ground, at least one height-adjustable pick-up housing for adapting the agricultural front attachment and a control device controlling a ground pressure of the at least one carrier wheel on the ground that results when the front attachment assumes a non-working position. |
| US07908837B2 |
Grass collector mounting system
A riding mower carries a grass collector at the rear of the mower frame. A mounting system for the grass collector comprises a mount that pivotally couples the lower portion of the grass collector to the mower frame. The pivotal mount comprises a pair of hooks each of which is inserted onto a pivot rod. In addition, the mounting system comprises a quick connect fastening system that includes a pair of spring biased retaining pins that can be latched in a retracted, non-operative position or unlatched so that the spring bias on the pins is able to move the pins into an extended, operative position. In the extended, operative position of the retaining pins, the pins fasten or secure the grass collector to the mower frame in a substantially upright, operative position of the grass collector. |
| US07908836B1 |
Draper header with multiple sided cut crop barrier interface between the cutter bar and draper canvas
The draper canvas of the header includes a strip of a resilient material that stands outwardly and forwardly of a front edge thereof and has an outer barrier surface, an inner barrier surface, and a front barrier surface received and contained in structure of a cutter bar and a front draper support plate having a plurality of barrier elements in face-to-face closely spaced relation with the barrier surfaces to form a multiple sided barrier interface between the cutter bar and draper fabric for excluding cut crop from the interior of the header. The strip runs within the container structure with minimal contact to reduce friction and wear. |
| US07908835B2 |
Grain reaper
A reaper of grains is for reaping bean grains that is classified as a trailer. More specifically, a bean reaper for carrying out two different operations, the first one of which is gathering various plants, such as bean plants, peanuts and other grains, which have been previously plucked and aligned, whereas the second function of which is to perform a whole cleaning process by separating the grains (seeds) from the remaining unwanted parts. |
| US07908834B2 |
Grass cutting unit
A grass cutting unit (1) includes a frame (2) and, provided in connection with the frame: a cutter (3) for cutting grass and support elements (4; 41, 42) for supporting the cutting unit (1) against the ground, particularly when cutting grass. The cutting unit (1) is provided with a cutting height setting device. In a most preferred embodiment of the invention, the cutting height setting device includes two lead screws (7; 71, 72; 73, 74) that are connected to the ends of both support reels (4; 41, 42), and the corresponding nut elements are connected to the frame; by rotating the lead screws by driving motors, advantageously electric motors (6; 61, 62), each support reel can be moved essentially in the vertical direction, and simultaneously the cutting height can be adjusted within the desired limits. |
| US07908831B1 |
Stretch wrap rope converter and wrapping system
A stretch wrap rope converter and wrapping system includes: a.) a wrapping apparatus having: (i) a frame for movement of a carriage; (ii) the carriage moveably mounted to the frame and adapted to hold at least one rotatable roll of stretchable film material thereon and being adapted to generate two separate streams of film therefrom; (iii) drive mechanism connected to the carriage; (iv) a stretch wrap rope converter functionally connected to the carriage so as to receive the first stream of film and the second stream of film, the converter having a first orifice for diminishing the first film to create a first rope, and having a second orifice for diminishing the second film to create a second rope, and having rope rotation mechanism so as to rotate the first orifice and the second orifice through an arc in either a reciprocal fashion and/or a circular fashion to cause the first rope and the second rope to move toward, cross and then away from one another; b.) wrapping target rotation mechanism adapted to rotate either the wrapping apparatus and a wrapping target so the first rope and the second rope engage the wrapping target during rotation. |
| US07908828B2 |
Storage case having a media retention device
A case for holding a DVD or other device may include a flexible clip arm for, e.g., retaining printed information about the DVD, holding the DVD, and/or locking one or more DVDs in place. An apparatus includes a body configured to retain a first disc. The apparatus further includes a retention device coupled to the body and configured to apply pressure to material disposed between the retention device and the body and thereby to assist in retaining the material between the retention device and the body. A method includes inserting a first disc into a container configured to retain the first disc. The method further includes securing material within the container using a retention device coupled to the container and configured to apply pressure to the material and thereby to assist in retaining the material within the container. Other implementations focus on holding or locking a DVD, or other device. |
| US07908822B2 |
Computer controlled automatic wrapping material dispensing system for a round baler
A wrapping material dispensing system for a round baler which automatically and precisely controls the tension in the wrapping material by controlling the braking force applied to the rotation of a wrapping material roll according to a braking profile. The profile is a function of the discrete phases of wrapping the material about the bale, and at least one characteristic of the wrapping material on the wrapping material roll. |
| US07908821B2 |
Post wrap device
Embodiments are described of devices for concealing and/or protecting a portion of a member, such as the base of a post, which devices can be easily applied to the member at any time. These embodiments include a plurality of components adjustably connected to one another so as to provide a snug fit of the device against the member to be protected, regardless of initial variations from the expected dimensions of the member. Further device embodiments are self-adjusting to provide a snug fit regardless of subsequent changes in the dimension of the member over time. |
| US07908818B2 |
Methods of manufacturing acoustical sound proofing materials with optimized fracture characteristics
Laminated structures for use in building construction are fabricated by a manufacturing process such that the laminating steps to not require elevated drying temperatures or an extended dwell time at any point. The process employs stock materials that simultaneously reduce cost and improve performance. This is accomplished using a specially formulated viscoelastic glue and ambient temperature drying apparatus. As a result, the production capacity of the manufacturing facility, cost of goods, and delivered performance are greatly improved over existing methods. |
| US07908816B2 |
Device for connecting building boards, especially floor panels
Disclosed is a device for connecting and locking building boards comprising a top face (10) and a bottom face (11), especially floor panels (1, 2) that are provided with a core made of a wood material as well as a groove (3, 4; 5, 6; 18, 19) on two opposite lateral edges (I, II). Said building boards further comprise an insert (7; 8; 9) that is used for locking and can be inserted into the groove (3 or 4; 5, 6; 18, or 19) of one of the lateral edges (I, II). The boards (1, 2) are connected by displacing the boards in an essentially horizontal direction (Q) towards each other. The inventive device is characterized in that the insert (7; 8; 9; 17) is provided with at least one springy lip (7a, 8a; 9a; 17a) which extends towards the top face (10) or the bottom face (11). |
| US07908815B2 |
Mechanical locking of floor panels with a flexible bristle tongue
Floor panels are provided with a mechanical locking system including a displaceable tongue in a displacement groove. The tongue is molded and provided with bendable protrusions. |
| US07908813B2 |
Ceiling panel
A ceiling panel is provided for use in a grid-type suspended ceiling, wherein the grid includes a plurality of spaced grid runners. The ceiling panel comprises a tile base with perimeter segments and perimeter profiles along at least a portion of at least two of the perimeter segments. Each profile is supportable by the grid runners during suspension. A facing material is secured across the perimeter segments, and extends beyond the perimeter profiles in order to at least partially conceal two of the grid runners when the tile is suspended from the two grid runners and viewed from below. |
| US07908803B2 |
Portable hurricane and security window barrier
An apparatus for covering an opening of a building comprising a plurality of rectangular panels. The panels are sized such that when they are stacked for storage, the panels nest together. |
| US07908802B2 |
System for constructing tread surfaces
The present invention relates to a system for constructing tread surfaces comprising polygonal elements (1) where each element has a top surface and a number of substantially straight side edges arranged perpendicular to the top surface along the periphery of said top surface and that all side edges (2) are provided with a number of receiving openings (3) each opening adapted to receive and maintain a connector member, and that said elements (1), furthermore, along one or more of said side edges (4) are provided with one or more integrated and protruding connector members (5) which each are adapted to fit into said receiving openings (3). |
| US07908798B2 |
Device for closing a frame having a panel articulated on the frame
A device for closing a frame, which has a panel mounted removably on and articulated on the frame includes a hook that has, at an end part, a heel that can stop against a surface of the articulation edge of the frame to immobilize the panel in a secure open upright position, generally perpendicular to the frame. The invention can be applied to roads. |
| US07908794B2 |
Wheeled flowerpot assembly
A flower pot assembly including at least one axle and two wheels near a lower region of a pot-shaped element. The axle is located from the bottom of the pot by a distance greater than the radius of the wheels such that the wheels are not in contact with the surface on which the assembly rests. Tipping of the flowerpot assembly brings the wheels into contact with the surface, and further tipping frees the bottom of the pot from contact with the surface. In this attitude, the assembly may be readily wheeled to a new location. A vertical handle, preferably detachable, is attached to a side above the axle to facilitate tipping and moving. The element may be cylindrical, conical, rectangular, or any other convenient shape. Preferably, the element is tapered to facilitate stacking of pots without wheels for shipping and storage. |
| US07908792B2 |
Edging attachment for illuminated border
A lawn decoration comprising edging and a clip connected to the edging, the clip including a rope light accepting portion. |
| US07908791B1 |
Fumigation apparatus
A fumigation apparatus including a conventional shipping container (10), a partition (14) dividing the container into a fumigation chamber and a control room (12), means (24) arranged to supply gas into the fumigation chamber (16), control means (26) located in the control room arranged to control the flow of gas into the fumigation chamber (16) and extraction means (36, 38, 40, 42, 44) arranged to remove gas from the fumigation chamber as controlled from the system control box (26). |
| US07908790B2 |
Mouse and rodent trap
A rodent trap includes a base, a hoop pivoting relative to the base having a first and a second position, a bias arrangement, a retaining bar pivoting relative to the base and having a setting and a releasing position, a release arrangement comprising an over-center pivotally mounted keeper having first and second positions, the retaining bar including a locking lip to retain the hoop in a first set position when the retaining bar is in the setting position, the release arrangement for mounting a bait and release the retaining bar when subject to an upward force on the bait, the retaining bar automatically set to the setting position by drawing the hoop down onto the retaining bar against the bias and the retaining bar engaging a retaining lip of the release arrangement. |
| US07908787B2 |
Artificial fishing lure with mechanical hook assembly
An artificial fishing lure includes a base assembly, a spring-biased hook assembly, a movable hook-setting post, a fixed retention member, and a pivoted actuation lever. The base assembly has spaced apart leading and trailing ends. The hook assembly is carried by the base assembly, and is adapted for sudden movement from a loaded condition to a released condition. The hook assembly has a proximal end and a pointed distal end adapted for piercing a fish. The hook-setting post is located adjacent the leading end of the base assembly, and is adapted for temporarily engaging the proximal end of the hook assembly in the loaded condition. The fixed retention member is located adjacent the trailing end of said base assembly, and is adapted for cooperating with the hook-setting post to temporarily hold the hook assembly in the loaded condition. The actuation lever is connected to the hook-setting post, and is adapted for moving the hook-setting post away from the hook assembly when actuated. The hook-setting post then disengages the proximal end of the hook assembly, and thereby releases the hook assembly for sudden rearward movement outwardly from the retention member from the loaded condition to the released condition. |
| US07908782B1 |
Pivot mount for firearm sighting devices
A pivot mount base is assembled to or removed from the sight mounting rail of a firearm by a lever actuated cam energized rail clamping mechanism. The pivot mount base supports and provides for rotational and linear movement of a pivot shaft. A pivot shaft locator pin extending transversely through the pivot shaft is adapted to be selectively received in position controlling relation by pairs of aligned shaft location receptacles defined by the pivot mount base. A sight support device is fixed to the pivot shaft and serves to retain a firearm sighting device. The sight support device and sighting device are moveable between an operative position where the sighting device can be used to sight the firearm on a target and an inoperative position where the sighting device is positioned laterally offset from its operative position. The sight support device is pivotally mounted by the pivot shaft and is spring energized to secure the sighting device against inadvertent movement and noise at its operative and inoperative positions. |
| US07908780B2 |
Ammunition magazine
The present invention is an ammunition magazine, preferably made of a glass fiber reinforced polymer, utilizing a structurally enhancing ridge, angular guide rails and a follower made to interface with said guide rails to reduce wobble. The preferred embodiment also features a protective cover that distributes forces from the spring to more structurally sound areas of the magazine, thus reducing feed end splay, and an ammunition indication system comprised of at least one window and a noticeable marker on the follower spring. The follower and magazine casing are also designed to interface to prevent the follower from popping out of the feed end and the floor plate of the magazine utilizes a locking plate and sliding relationship between the floor plate, locking plate and magazine to secure the floor plate onto the magazine casing. The cover features built in tools for, among other things, unloading and disassembling the magazine. |
| US07908776B2 |
Garment care system
A garment care system includes a steam generator having a steam outlet, and a handset having a steam inlet arranged for coupling to the steam outlet, an opening for releasing steam and a steam control unit for controlling a valve for controlling the release of steam. The steam control unit includes a selector unit having at least two selection options, and a steam release switch connected to the selector unit and arranged for starting or stopping the release of steam in dependence on the selected option. |
| US07908774B2 |
Insole for a shoe and accessories therefor
An insole (102) for a shoe is provided, having a display surface (116), preferably disposed on an insert, for the display of information when the insole is in place in a shoe. A shoe (10), for example a sports shoe, is also provided having a receiver disposed on its external surface. The receiver retains an insert having a display surface, visible when the shoe is being worn and adapted for the display of information. The display surface may carry a brand or other design and/or emit light or sound by means of a suitable emission device. An accessory for a shoe comprises a mount for securing to a shoe, the mount having a display surface adapted to be visible when the shoe is being worn. The mount preferably holds an insert of the kind mentioned above. |
| US07908764B1 |
Hyperbaric centrifuge system
A centrifugal bowl separator, including a bowl, a source of pressurized gas in selective flow communication with the bowl and operable to selectively supply pressurized gas to an interior portion of the bowl, and first and second pressure seals selectively established to provide a zone within a portion of the bowl such that when the pressurized gas is introduced, pressure within the portion of the bowl increases for enhanced removal of moisture and drying of solids within the portion of the bowl. |
| US07908761B2 |
Shake jig for installing shake siding
A method and system for installing shakes on a building comprising a ledger board and a shake jig for assisting with installation of shakes. The shake jig comprising a base member supporting an adjustable member with a releasably fastener facilitating releaseable retention of the adjustable member in a desired relative position with respect to the base member. The base member has a shake shelf for abutting against a surface of a shake to prevent further insertion of the base member, between an installed topmost shake and an at least partially overlapped shake, and facilitate desired alignment of the shake jig with respect to the installed topmost shake. The adjustable member has a ledger shelf for engaging with the ledger board and retaining the ledger board in a desired horizontal orientation with respect to the shake shelf and assisting with installation of shakes. |
| US07908756B2 |
Integrated calibration sphere and calibration step fixture for improved coordinate measurement machine calibration
A method and apparatus for mounting a calibration sphere to a calibration fixture for Coordinate Measurement Machine (CMM) calibration and qualification is described, decreasing the time required for such qualification, thus allowing the CMM to be used more productively. A number of embodiments are disclosed that allow for new and retrofit manufacture to perform as integrated calibration sphere and calibration fixture devices. This invention renders unnecessary the removal of a calibration sphere prior to CMM measurement of calibration features on calibration fixtures, thereby greatly reducing the time spent qualifying a CMM. |
| US07908753B2 |
Hands-free level
A hands-free level for gauging structural-member orientation. The level includes an elongate frame with two side-faces and at least one main reference surface extending therealong and having a mainwidth, a level indicator secured to the frame, and a support arm to facilitate holding of the reference surface against the stud. The support arm has a proximal end and extends to a free distal end which includes an end member. The proximal end is pivotably secured to the frame about a pivot axis such that the distal end and end member are movable between a storage position along one of the side-faces and a use position beyond the reference surface and stud. A coil spring is about the pivot axis biases the distal end and end member to the storage position. The end member extends from the distal end and terminates in a stud-engaging portion. When the reference surface is against a stud surface, the stud-engaging portion engages the stud for hands-free holding of the level thereagainst. |
| US07908749B2 |
Sharpener for stick-shaped cosmetic material
A sharpener for a stick-shaped cosmetic material comprises guide rails (3h) disposed in a longitudinal direction over a sliding surface (3d), and a continuous surface (3g) at an upper side of both surfaces. The sliding surface (3d) is formed in an acute inner angle shape as seen in the longitudinal direction for sliding a leading end portion of the cosmetic material thereon. The continuous surface (3g) constitutes an upper side of a blade with a cutting edge (3e) facing to a rear end edge of the sliding surface (3d) at a position slightly higher than the sliding surface (3d). A leading end portion of a stick-shaped cosmetic material feeding container (100) is guided by the guide rails (3h), thereby preventing the container (100) from being shaken. |
| US07908748B2 |
Rack and pinion type steering device and method of manufacturing the same
A rack and pinion type steering device capable of reducing contact surface pressure, suppressing the wear of contact surfaces, and preventing a rack guide movable amount from being excessively increased by increasing the contact area of the outer peripheral surface of roller on the outer peripheral surface of a rack shaft in a rack guide, and method of manufacturing the steering gear. |
| US07908747B2 |
Method for assembling testing equipment for semiconductor substrate
Upon an assembly of a probe head unit, the relative positions of the probe pins 28ai to those of the electrode group 24E in the pitch-changing substrate 24 are determined by making the positions of the through-holes 26A, 26B, 26C and 26D in the contact block 26 to coincide with the positioning marks 24MA, 24MB, 24MC and 24MD in the pitch-changing substrate 24. |
| US07908745B2 |
Method of manufacturing multi-layer printed circuit board
An intermediate layer 38 is provided on a die pad 22 of an IC chip 20 and integrated into a multilayer printed circuit board 10. Due to this, it is possible to electrically connect the IC chip 20 to the multilayer printed circuit board 10 without using lead members and a sealing resin. Also, by providing the intermediate layer 38 made of copper on an aluminum pad 24, it is possible to prevent a resin residue on the pad 24 and to improve connection characteristics between the die pad 24 and a via hole 60 and reliability. |
| US07908741B2 |
Hydraulic compression tool for installing a coaxial cable connector
A hydraulic compression tool for securing a compression type cable connector to a prepared end of a coaxial cable. The tool can include a hydraulic assembly having an axially extendable ram, and a connector frame detachably attached to the hydraulic assembly. The connector frame can include a cable cradle configured to accommodate cables of various sizes and a sleeve for engaging a cable connector. The connector frame can further include a sliding guide structure attached to the cable cradle. The sliding guide structure can include a sliding bar and one or more sliding guides. The sleeve can be attached to the sliding bar. The sleeve can be configured to accommodate connectors of various sizes. Activating the hydraulic assembly can cause the ram to extend, which in turn can cause the sliding bar to move along the longitudinal axis of the cable connector compressing the compression member and connector body into operative engagement with the cable. |
| US07908738B2 |
Apparatus for manufacturing a wireless communication device
A method for manufacturing antenna elements for use with wireless communication devices comprises a number of cutting techniques that allow the size of the antenna elements to be adjusted. Rollers cut the tabs that form the antenna elements. In a first embodiment, a plurality of rollers are used, each one effecting a different cut whose position may be phased so as to shorten or lengthen the antenna element. In a second embodiment, the rollers are independently positionable to shorten or lengthen the antenna element. |
| US07908737B2 |
Production method of fluid dynamic-pressure bearing in spindle motor
A gas is fed, so as to cause a gas flow to occur from a lower opening of a bearing hole of a sleeve 6 in an outward direction of an annular portion 12a of a rotor hub 12 via a radial gap 50 and an upper opening of the bearing hole, thereby lifting a rotor section 10. In a condition where the rotor section 10 is lifted, the magnitude of run-out synchronized with the rotation of the rotor section 10 is measured by using a displacement gauge 40. Then, based on the magnitude of run-out synchronized with the rotation, the run-out of the rotor section 10 is adjusted. |
| US07908733B2 |
Method for manufacturing injection hole member
A lead hole is formed in a base material of an injection hole member with a straight punch, and then, a taper hole is formed in the base material by widening the lead hole with a taper punch. An intersection line between a virtual plane perpendicular to a central axis of the lead hole and an inner peripheral surface of the lead hole is elliptic in shape, whose major axis is directed along an intersection line between a virtual plane, which includes the central axis of the lead hole and a thickness direction axis of the base material, and the virtual plane perpendicular to the central axis of the lead hole. An intersection line between a virtual plane perpendicular to a central axis of the taper punch and an outer peripheral surface of the taper punch is round in shape. |
| US07908725B1 |
Apparatus and method for installing environmental septic pipe
An apparatus and method for aligning septic system pipe in a leach field is disclosed. The apparatus includes a plurality of curvilinear members each of which has portions that correspond to the outer circumference of a septic pipe to temporarily secure the pipe in a pre-designated position relative to other adjacent pipes. The curvilinear members can be fixed or variably positioned on an elongate beam that connects and sets the distances between adjacent curvilinear members. The use of multiple apparatuses enables the user to set the relative distances between septic pipes in a leach field with labor-reduced efficiency. A method for aligning pipe with the apparatus is also disclosed. |
| US07908723B1 |
Bar clip applicator
A reinforcement bar clip applicator includes an applicator body having a handle and a receiver tip. The receiver tip is adapted to receive reinforcement bar clips made of two opposing clasp assemblies. With the second clasp assembly of the bar clip removably affixed to the receiver tip, the assembly forms a bar clip application system adapted to allow the user to remotely attach the first clasp assembly of the bar clip to a reinforcement bar. |
| US07908717B2 |
Fastener for components of a motor vehicle
A fastener for components of a motor vehicle includes a tubular rivet, with a rivet head and a shank, wherein the shank has at least two longitudinal slits, between which lugs which can deflect in an elastically rebounding manner. The fastener includes a support bearing with a tubular mounting into which the shank of the rivet for the holding of at least a component between rivet head and support bearing can be inserted. Corresponding engagement elements are formed on the outer circumference of the shank and on the inner circumference of the mounting which, in a fixing position of the rivet in the mounting are engaged so that the rivet is held against slipping out of the mounting. The fastener includes a pin which can be inserted in the tubular rivet and which in a securing position in the rivet blocks a deflection of the lugs so that disengagement of the engagement elements is prevented. |
| US07908716B2 |
Tensioning device
A tensioning device includes a pair of opposing first surfaces defining a first wedge opening. The first surfaces are fixed relative to each other. The first wedge opening is shaped to releasably secure a first portion of a cord. A pair of opposing second surfaces defines a second wedge opening. The second surfaces are fixed relative to each other. The second wedge opening is spaced apart from the first wedge opening. The second wedge opening is shaped to releasably secure a second portion of the cord. A cord block defines a support surface spaced from the first and second wedge openings. The support surface is positioned to slidably support the cord between the first and second wedge openings. |
| US07908713B2 |
Operating knob
An operating knob to be attached to a supporting member includes an operating part and a connector. The connector is attached to the operating part and includes a fitting cylindrical portion, a stopper disposed at an inner circumferential side of the fitting cylindrical portion to protrude on a radial inside, and housing portion. When the operating part is applied with a load greater than or equal to a predetermined value from an exterior in a direction toward the supporting member in a state where a fitting portion of the supporting member is fitted into the fitting cylindrical portion, the stopper is bent from the radial inside to a direction approximately parallel to the rotation axis so as to be housed in the housing portion and the fitting cylindrical portion moves toward the supporting member along an outer circumference of the fitting portion. |
| US07908710B2 |
Device for articulating a cover or lid to a frame in particular of a manhole
A device for articulating a stopper or lid to a frame, in particular of a man hole. The male articulating member may optionally be mounted either removably in its housing of the frame to enable the stopper to be extracted from the frame in its upright position or secured in its housing such that the stopper is not detachable from the frame. |
| US07908706B2 |
Upright vacuum cleaner with cyclonic air path
A vacuum cleaner dirt container having a chamber with an upper opening, and a removable filter element. The filter element has an upper portion with an opening and a peripheral edge that engages an upper edge of the chamber. A filter portion extends from the upper portion, and a handle extends across the opening. The filter portion extends into the chamber when the filter element is mounted thereto. Also provided is an upright vacuum cleaner with a base unit, body unit , and dirt chamber removably mounted to the body unit. A combined filter and lid is mounted to the dirt chamber, and includes a filter member, and a mounting ring extending from the filter member to a sidewall of the dirt chamber to hold the filtration device at a fixed location away from the chamber sidewall. Also provided is a cyclone lid having an annular wall, filter, and handle. |
| US07908699B2 |
Oral care implement
An oral care implement with a handle includes a head with a tissue cleanser. The tissue cleanser may be a pad composed of an elastomeric material. The pad is disposed on the head on a surface opposite the tooth cleaning elements. The tissue cleanser may include a plurality of nubs extending for cleaning between the papillae of the tongue. The tissue cleanser may include a plurality of conically shaped nubs. A tissue cleanser can be used to reduce oral malodor problems and remove oral epithelial cells. |
| US07908697B2 |
Motorised pool-cleaning device comprising cantilevered motor movement transmission means
A motorised pool-cleaning device (1) includes: a suction element (30); a rotary element (4) for moving the device, which define first (2) and second (3) bearing axles; a support (18) consisting of (i) a first central part (24) and (ii) first (25) and second (26) side covers which are connected to either side of the first central part, such as to form the chassis of the motorised device, and which support the rotary movement element (4); and a drive element (16, 17) for rotating the rotary movement element (4), which are disposed on the first and second side covers in a cantilevered manner. |
| US07908696B2 |
Swimming pool cleaning device
A swimming pool cleaning assembly that has at least one ultrasonic generator, a swimming pool cleaning machine including a support frame, a housing shell provided with a bottom wall and arranged around the support frame, a driver located in the housing shell, advancer supported by the frame and arranged to be place, in use, on a surface to be cleaned of a swimming pool and driven, at least one water suction opening provided in the bottom surface of the housing shell, which is designed to be put in fluid communication with water suction, driver being tightly sealed in the housing shell and electrically connectable to the supply, the ultrasonic generator being arranged at the bottom wall facing, in use, the surface to be cleaned. |
| US07908694B1 |
Mattress cover apparatus with integrated seals
A sealed mattress cover assembly (100) is fabricated having a plurality of seal assemblies (110) disposed upon a mattress cover (102). The mattress cover (102) is formed having a top sheet (103) a bottom sheet (104) and a side sheet (105) extending between the two. An opening (closed via a cover closure (106)) is incorporated within the mattress cover (102) allowing the cover to be placed over the mattress. The seal assemblies (110) are formed having an outer frame (112), an inner frame (120) and a seal membrane (114) sandwiched between the two frame members. A seal aperture (116) is formed in the center of the seal membrane (114). Functionality interfacing conduits (108) are placed through the seal aperture (116), allowing the seal membrane (114) to form a seal about the exterior of the conduits (108). |
| US07908689B2 |
Hide away bed rail
A bed rail having an operating position at one of the sides of a bed and a stored position between a mattress and box spring of the bed. To take down the bed rail, a guard frame portion is disengaged from a base frame portion, then the guard frame portion is pivoted and slid into the base frame portion. To set up the bed rail, the guard frame portion can be slid out of the base frame portion, pivoted relative to the base frame portion, then engaged to the base frame portion and into the operating position at a side of the bed. |
| US07908685B2 |
Water trap for sanitary appliances
A water trap for sanitary appliances of the kind having an inlet (5) and an outlet (12) and including a housing (1) with an upper portion (4) provided with the inlet opening (5) adapted to receive the outlet pipe (6) of the sanitary appliance, a central portion (3) adapted to be connected to the upper portion (4), provided with a cylindrical passing through space (10), the outlet opening (12) connected to an evacuation pipe (13) situated in a lower extension of the central portion (3) and a valve housing (11), situated in the upper part, incorporating an air admittance valve (8) located above the outlet opening (12) and leaving between its lower part and the upper surface of the outlet opening (12) an air admittance area (17); a lower portion (2) connected to the central portion (3) and in which the main part of the water trap or seal is formed by use of a separation wall (20) extending from the central portion (3) into the lower portion (2). |
| US07908684B2 |
Spas and bathing systems with upgradeable and interchangeable jet stations
A bathing system with a molded shell has hollows in the shell. A canister installed in each hollow with jets mounted upon the front jet plate of the canister. The canister is of simple construction that is mounted in a hollow and is removable and interchangeable for easy upgrading and repair of the bathing system. |
| US07908683B1 |
Bath accessory holder and scoop
A bath accessory collection, holder, and storage device includes a base, and a scoop, removably couplable to the base, having a drain for draining liquid therefrom. A handle is attached to the scoop, which is used to wield the scoop. A hanger is carried by one of the base and the scoop, which is used to suspend at least one bath accessory thereon. In another embodiment, there is a clamp carried by one of the base and the scoop, which is capable of grippingly holding at least one bath accessory. The base is furnished with a shelf for receiving and supporting bath accessories thereon. An engagement element is carried by one of the base and the scoop, and a detachably engagable complemental engagement element carried by the other of the base and the scoop. Preferably, the device presents the appearance of an object or thing designed to promote interest in the device by children and for encouraging use of the device when the scoop is attached to the base. |
| US07908681B2 |
Plungers and devices for storing plumbing tools
A plunger that operates by a piston to drive a purging flow at relatively high pressure is disclosed. The plunger includes features so that the exterior of the plunger remains in a dry and sanitary condition. An optional storage unit is also disclosed where the storage unit includes at least one UV element. Where the UV element decreases the amount of pathogens on the plumbing tool. |
| US07908678B2 |
Sport helmet with adjustable liner
A protective sport helmet having an interior liner capable of conforming to the head of the wearer in the fore and aft direction and/or the side-to-side direction is disclosed. The sport helmet can comprise a protective outer shell and an inner energy-absorbing liner. The liner can comprise a top portion and a base portion flexibly connected therebetween to adjust the fit of the helmet to the head of a wearer in the fore and aft direction. The liner can comprise a side liner portion and the outer shell can comprise a slider mechanism for engaging the side liner portion to adjust the fit of the helmet to the head of the wearer in the side-to-side direction. The liner can comprise a plurality of grooves to transfer energy across the liner material. |
| US07908668B2 |
Safety eyewear
The disclosure relates to safety eyewear disposed in a safety helmet and including a transparent panel for positioning in front of the eyes of the wearer. At each side of the panel, arms are provided which, at their ends are pivotally connected, on the one hand to the panel and, on the other hand, to the helmet. The arms also each have an interjacent joint at a point between their respective ends.The disclosure also relates to a safety helmet provided with safety eyewear in accordance with the foregoing. |